Fic: Alternatives

[SpiritOfTara]

C'mon guys.. where'd you go??

There are a heck of alot of amazons to keep amused all at once...



btw, can i be included in this contest, even though i kinda know what's gonna happen..?



Oh, and Ruth!



~April

Hey," Tara said, "my father's a controlling fruity nut bar who made me believe most of my life that my mom and I were monsters. But I'm not gonna let him decide what I am" --"Monster Island"



I'mmm not as stupid as i look! -- Piper, Taboo

Amber the Amazon

[NewRuthRising]

Sure why not? It seems you're the only person actually trying to get the damn stuff off...and they're leaving pretty quickly...quick, April, catch them in a net!



Oh, and many snuggles.





Ruth

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

Because you can't help respecting anyone who can spell TUESDAY, even if he doesn't spell it right; but spelling isn't everything. There are days when spelling Tuesday simply doesn't count.-The House at Pooh Corner.

[SpiritOfTara]

*runs around with large net..* hehehehe...



Psssst, it's the end of the week tonight...



~April

Hey," Tara said, "my father's a controlling fruity nut bar who made me believe most of my life that my mom and I were monsters. But I'm not gonna let him decide what I am" --"Monster Island"



I'mmm not as stupid as i look! -- Piper, Taboo

Amber the Amazon

[NewRuthRising]

Very true. April wins. So here's what happens. *whispers*



2



Crazy smilies for my girl!



Ruth

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

Because you can't help respecting anyone who can spell TUESDAY, even if he doesn't spell it right; but spelling isn't everything. There are days when spelling Tuesday simply doesn't count.-The House at Pooh Corner.

[SpiritOfTara]

tsk, tsk.. i still see no update..

lol



well.. still you anyhow..





~April

Hey," Tara said, "my father's a controlling fruity nut bar who made me believe most of my life that my mom and I were monsters. But I'm not gonna let him decide what I am" --"Monster Island"



I'mmm not as stupid as i look! -- Piper, Taboo

Amber the Amazon

Edited by: SpiritOfTara  at: 5/14/04 3:14 pm

[NewRuthRising]

Well, everybody seems to have forgotten about it, so I don't know how badly to treat Luc. No-one will tell me. you too!



Ruth

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

Because you can't help respecting anyone who can spell TUESDAY, even if he doesn't spell it right; but spelling isn't everything. There are days when spelling Tuesday simply doesn't count.-The House at Pooh Corner.

[NewRuthRising]

Hey folks! Exams are upon us English students, so I probably won't post for a bit. Unless April sits me in front of her computer and makes me when I go down there..... April?

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

"You're my extra flamey candle in the middle of the night

i'm gonna make sure that nothing- nothing, will blow the candle out"

-My Girl April.

[SpiritOfTara]

*faints* ... you changed your sig....



Yes, v possible that i might make you write the next update! Among other things...



Good luck with the phsyc exam



See you soon!



April

Hey," Tara said, "my father's a controlling fruity nut bar who made me believe most of my life that my mom and I were monsters. But I'm not gonna let him decide what I am" --"Monster Island"



I'mmm not as stupid as i look! -- Piper, Taboo

Amber the Amazon

Edited by: SpiritOfTara  at: 5/22/04 8:39 am

[NewRuthRising]

Hello chaps and chapesses. My last exam is the 16th (Drama written if anyone's interested) so I PROMISE i will write an update then. Does anyone wanna volunteer to be my beta beforehand? Please? Anyone?



Love you April!



Ruth

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

"You're my extra flamey candle in the middle of the night

i'm gonna make sure that nothing- nothing, will blow the candle out"

-My Girl April.

[WinterSun01]

(<-- hehe, banana!)



Update sooooooon! Yay!





Love you too babe!

"I just want to say that life is entirely too short. Carpe Diem is the word. You gotta do what's in your heart. You gotta live your dreams." ~Amber Benson

Edited by: WinterSun01 at: 6/10/04 1:39 pm

[NewRuthRising]

Okay folks, here's a tiny preview of the coming chapter which hopefully will be posted later today!



Alternatives



Chapter 18b

Rating: PG13 for violence

Spoilers: All of season 6

Disclaimer: I own nothing but that which I create. All else belongs to people who can sue/excommunicate/execute me if I don’t write this.

Disclaimer #2: I am going to mess about with the ideas of religion in this fic, this is not intended to offend anyone, or contradict anyone’s beliefs, but it’s necessary for the story. I apologise in advance for any offence taken.

Summary: The gang in Kel’s home

Feedback: Send all constructive comments to rmmik@hotmail.com (please put something like “Re: your fic” in the subject, otherwise I’ll bin it). Send all abuse to someone else.

Authors note: It’s getting to be a wild ride, but bear with it, things are explained. Sorry bout the wait.







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



Kel strode forward across the clearing, walking along a stony path until the whole valley was in view. The Scoobs stopped and gaped.



Down lush green slopes, sheep milled about, grazing. What were obviously farms were dotted about, with dry stone walling separating the fields. Large paddocks on each side contained at least twenty horses each, and cattle grazed on flattened-out fields nearby. In the centre of the valley a village, nestled into the farmland. In the centre was what looked like a cathedral, surrounded by about thirty houses. Outside of these were what could only be described as training grounds; as they watched a group of young men went through a practice routine with staffs, then paired off to spar. In another paddock a middle-aged man could be seen with a beautiful black stallion, leading it to the stables next door. It looked like something out of a fairy tale.



“Wow!” Dawn said. The others could only nod in agreement.



“Come on,” Kel said, “There’s some people who want to meet you.”





Ruth

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

"You're my extra flamey candle in the middle of the night

i'm gonna make sure that nothing- nothing, will blow the candle out"

-My Girl April.

[WinterSun01]

Yikes, when you said tiny, you weren't kiddin were ya? lol



Edited cuz i didn't actually finish typing... lol



Looking forward to the next update

Unless... you're mean and update tomorrow... then i can't read it till monday. Hmm..







~April

"I just want to say that life is entirely too short. Carpe Diem is the word. You gotta do what's in your heart. You gotta live your dreams." ~Amber Benson

Edited by: WinterSun01 at: 6/17/04 1:13 pm

[NewRuthRising]

Just for you babe, the full update will be up in about half an hour.





Ruth



Hey, where's everyone else gone? no kittens



<---- hee hee dancing smilies

[NewRuthRising]

Et voila:



Alternatives



Chapter 18b

Rating: PG13 for violence

Spoilers: All of season 6

Disclaimer: I own nothing but that which I create. All else belongs to people who can sue/excommunicate/execute me if I don’t write this.

Disclaimer #2: I am going to mess about with the ideas of religion in this fic, this is not intended to offend anyone, or contradict anyone’s beliefs, but it’s necessary for the story. I apologise in advance for any offence taken.

Summary: The gang in Kel’s home

Feedback: Send all constructive comments to rmmik@hotmail.com (please put something like “Re: your fic” in the subject, otherwise I’ll bin it). Send all abuse to someone else.

Authors note: It’s getting to be a wild ride, but bear with it, things are explained. Sorry bout the wait.







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



Kel strode forward across the clearing, walking along a stony path until the whole valley was in view. The Scoobs stopped and gaped.



Down lush green slopes, sheep milled about, grazing. What were obviously farms were dotted about, with dry stone walling separating the fields. Large paddocks on each side contained at least twenty horses each, and cattle grazed on flattened-out fields nearby. In the centre of the valley a village, nestled into the farmland. In the centre was what looked like a cathedral, surrounded by about thirty houses. Outside of these were what could only be described as training grounds; as they watched a group of young men went through a practice routine with staffs, then paired off to spar. Nearby what was obviously a brewery sat next to a pub. In another paddock a middle-aged man could be seen with a beautiful black stallion, leading it to the stables next door. A group of toddlers ran round a play park, chasing a puppy. It looked like something out of a fairy tale.



“Wow!” Dawn said. The others could only nod in agreement.



“Come on,” Kel said, “There’s some people who want to meet you.”



They made their way down towards the town. About half way down, baby Willow began to squirm in Tara’s arms. When that didn’t get the attention she wanted, she began to cry. Loudly.



“What’s the matter honey?” Tara whispered, rocking and shushing the infant.



“I think she’s hungry,” she decided. “Can we hurry?”



“Sure,” Kel replied, and sped up.



They passed through a courtyard in front of the cathedral door which contained a huge bell on a sturdy oak frame. Just as Willow opened her mouth to ask about it, the door opened.



An old woman came out, leaning heavily on a knarled and twisted walking stick, to grin at the newcomers. Kel bowed deeply and spoke respectfully.



“Blessings, grandmother. How have you been?”



Willow saw Tara stare at the woman, then gaped as she walked over and knelt, kissing the old woman’s hand.



“Lady,” She murmured.



“Oh, get up dearie,” the woman chuckled. “I’m far too old to stand on ceremony.”



Tara stood, watching the woman almost reverently as she chuckled again.



“The baby’s hungry then? Come inside and get some food in you.”



Willow walked quickly over to Tara.



“What was that about?”



“Willow, look.”



Tara took Willow’s hand and suddenly she could see every mystical energy force in the area. She looked at the woman and gasped. She literally pulsed with divine energy, and power rolled off her in waves.



“Whoa,” Willow said, backing up.



“Sweet mother goddess, you’re…amazing!”



The woman chuckled again.



“Thank you dearie, but you’re about to drop your son. Let’s go in, shall we?”



The witches filed past, followed by Buffy.



“Slayer?”



Buffy turned to face her, the nape of her neck tingling.



“Welcome.”



Buffy nodded slowly and walked past. Xander followed quickly, avoiding the woman’s eye. Anya met her eye and nodded in respect, followed by Giles, who stopped to talk with her.



“Welcome home, Rupert,” she said.



“It’s not for long,” he warned.



She didn’t argue.



“Your room is as it was, the others are preparing rooms for the Slayer and her kin.”



“Thank you,” he bowed slightly, turning to go.



“Rupert, it’s alright to be afraid.”



He didn’t reply.







As they entered what had looked like a cathedral from the outside, it was clear that it had once been a place of worship, but had been converted into a home. They had come into a general living area, with six large overstuffed couches, two cribs, a large noticeboard on the wall and a table with drinks and snacks laid out. The Scoobies all had the impression that they were in a castle, in fact Dawn half expected King Arthur to jump out of a corner and start a duel.



Half an hour later, they were sat comfortably, both babies had been fed and changed, but baby Willow would not stop crying. Willow was putting baby Alex down in a crib, as apparently he could sleep through his sister’s grouching. She sank into a chair.



Tara paced back and forth, humming softly, but nothing would calm the grumpy baby. Finally she sighed and went over to Willow.



“Here, you try.”



Having been placed in Willow’s lap, the baby stopped crying immediately. Mother and daughter stared at each other with identical surprised expressions. Tara moved around behind Willow, and content that both her mothers were nearby, Willow Junior promptly fell asleep, smiling. Kel rolled her eyes.



“Well look at that, the Grump and the Runt, both asleep, and all it took was a little togetherness.”



“I warned you not to call the babies that, Kel,” Tara murmured, taking the baby to the other cot.



“Yeah, but I have to wind you up somehow, don’t I?”



Luc came through the door leading a cow.



“Don’t tease the witches, Kel. We’re out of lamb as well, Cain’s bringing one in.”



Cain promptly followed his father in, carrying a lamb that bleated softly.



“You’re gonna kill them?” Dawn asked, eyes wide.



“Well, yes. That’s what they’re for. Food.” Luc responded.



“Don’t worry,” Kel assured them, “They know what’s happening, we never hurt them, and they go to a better place. Trust me.”



“There’s a heaven for cows and sheep?” Buffy asked, frowning slightly.



“There’s a heaven for everything these days. We cater to every taste,” Luc responded.









Two hours later, the Scoobs were seated at a huge table, covered with dishes. It seemed like every resident of the village had come to say hello, and the Scoobs had been overwhelmed with greetings and welcomes. Now there were at least 80 people at one table, chatting happily. Kel sat at the head, with Giles on her right and Luc on her left. She stood.



“Okay, the formalities. Shall we say grace?” There was a murmur of assent.



“Okay, thanks to the animals and vegetables that agreed to let us eat them, thanks to the farmers that collected them, the cooks that cooked ‘em, everyone here for the company, and of course thanks to God for making it all possible. Let’s eat!”



It was possibly the strangest grace any of the Scoobs had ever heard, but they took it in stride. Making small talk between courses, they discovered that the residents of Kel’s home town were friendly and intelligent. Buffy discussed weapons with a huge man called Dave who forged swords as a hobby, while Willow and Tara talked quietly with the old woman who everybody called Grandmother. Dawn chatted with some of the boys who had being sparring earlier, and Anya was deep in conversation with Luc’s wife. Xander got into a friendly argument with a carpenter called Andy. Giles talked with the man who had been training the stallion.



Well, it’s going okay Kel sent to Luc



For now, he replied, concentrating on his Yorkshire pudding.



Cheer up, Luc. It could be worse. They could all be dead by now.



True. Is there more gravy?



Kel rolled her eyes.







Tara and Willow made their way to the room they had been given. Checking on the kids, Willow said



“It’s not easy, is it? They’re a handful.”



Tara tensed.



“Mmm,” she said, keeping her tone neutral.



“I wouldn’t give them up for anything, though,” Willow continued, almost to herself.



“I was surprised, but I already love them so much.” Her eyes softened as she watched her children.



“It won’t be easy, I mean, I don’t know anything about being a mom, but I can’t wait to find out.”



She turned and was shocked to see Tara with tears in her eyes.



“What’s wrong? What is it?” Willow said, worried.



“I was scared you’d be…I don’t know, resentful. That you wouldn’t want them.”



“Oh, sweetie, I love them.” She smiled. “And I love you.”



Tara smiled and hugged Willow tightly. After a moment she extracted herself and went into the en suite bathroom. Willow was changing into her pajamas when Tara came out, holding a bright blue object with a puzzled look on her face.



“Willow, what’s this?” She asked.



Willow frowned. “It’s a toothbrush.”



“A what?”



Willow stared.



“A toothbrush. You know…a toothbrush.”



Tara looked at her blankly.



“How do you use it?”



“You don’t remember how to clean you teeth?” Willow asked.



“Well, sweetie, the last few years it’s been more about keeping your teeth than cleaning them.”



Willow was astounded. For the most part she had been able to pretend that Tara’s visit to Hell had been nothing more than a bad dream, after all, Tara hadn’t been affected that badly once she returned, or so she had thought, but this drove it home in a way nothing else could. Something so mundane and everyday as a toothbrush had Tara baffled.



“Here, let me show you.” She said, hoping Tara didn’t hear the tremor in her voice.





Next morning, Eliza found her looking for Buffy’s room.



“It’s the next floor up,” she paused. “What’s wrong?”



Willow explained about the toothbrush incident. To her surprise, Eliza laughed.



“Oh honey, that’s nothing. My husband’s down there so long most of the times he comes back he’s forgotten how to speak English. He spends an hour with Grandmother every time, making sure he remembers how to function up here, before he’ll even come near me. Tara’s adjusting by herself. She’s doing great, trust me.”



Strangely, Willow felt better. By the time she found Buffy and they made their way to the living room for breakfast, all the tension she had felt was gone. She hugged Tara and kissed the babies before helping herself to cornflakes. One by one the Scoobs came down to eat, with the exception of Giles who made tea. They were playing with the babies when Kel came in, gratefully took a cup of tea from Giles and sat down.



“Right,” she said. “Here’s what happens now.”







Ruth

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

"You're my extra flamey candle in the middle of the night

i'm gonna make sure that nothing- nothing, will blow the candle out"

-My Girl April.

Edited by: NewRuthRising at: 6/17/04 2:29 pm

[WinterSun01]

Hey babe



This update was great!



“Thank you dearie, but you’re about to drop your son. Let’s go in, shall we?”

hehehe



"Luc came through the door leading a cow."

....as you do



"True. Is there more gravy?"

hehe, and ooh, yum, yorkshire puds- they have good taste! lol



And the whole toohtbrush scene- very cool



Loking forward to the next update







~April

"I just want to say that life is entirely too short. Carpe Diem is the word. You gotta do what's in your heart. You gotta live your dreams." ~Amber Benson

[NewRuthRising]

So, has everyone gotten totally bored of this? If so, i'll stop. And before you complain, April, you already know what's happening!



Ruth

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

"You're my extra flamey candle in the middle of the night

i'm gonna make sure that nothing- nothing, will blow the candle out"

-My Girl April.

"Me? Quirky?" "You. Quirky."

[WinterSun01]

Me? complain?! NEVER!





Love you babe



ETA: and

I just want to say that life is entirely too short. Carpe Diem is the word. You gotta do what's in your heart. You gotta live your dreams." ~Amber Benson

Edited by: WinterSun01 at: 7/21/04 1:54 pm

[behindhereyes]

Please Please continue with this story. I need to know what happens. This story is so layered, it's fantastic .





behindhereyes

Kim

"To the world, you may be one person; but to one person, you may be the world"

[robotguru]

I've just found this fic and i like it so...so...you better carry on Tease.

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



There can be no rainbow without rain, you cannot know true happiness until you know sadness first.

[NewRuthRising]

Howdy folks, i'm still around. The next chapter is being written, but I'm having to balance it with two plays and a novel, plus my usual final-year-of-school work (ugh ugh ugh)



It's coming, don't worry.



Bye for now folks!

(I love April)

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

"You're my extra flamey candle in the middle of the night

i'm gonna make sure that nothing- nothing, will blow the candle out" - My Girl April.

"Me? Quirky?" "You. Quirky."

[NewRuthRising]

Howdy folks. It's been a while, but here's the next bit. Happy new year to all kittens! Wish me luck in school nex wed (*$%&!£$%*!£$^%&!£^&!£$%&!£$^!&£$)*mutter mutter*

P.S. This woulda been longer but its midnight here and im a very tired kitten.





Alternatives



Chapter 18c

Rating: PG13 for violence

Spoilers: All of season 6

Disclaimer: I own nothing but that which I create. All else belongs to people who can sue/excommunicate/execute me if I don’t write this.

Disclaimer #2: I am going to mess about with the ideas of religion in this fic, this is not intended to offend anyone, or contradict anyone’s beliefs, but it’s necessary for the story. I apologise in advance for any offence taken.

Summary: The gang in Kel’s home

Feedback: Send all constructive comments to rmmik@hotmail.com (please put something like “Re: your fic” in the subject, otherwise I’ll bin it). Send all abuse to someone else.

Authors note: It’s getting to be a wild ride, but bear with it, things are explained. Sorry bout the wait.







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



“You lot are staying here till I can be sure that being in Sunnydale won’t get you all killed. While you’re here we’re putting you through basic training. That means you can’t fight with a weapon until you can make it. Which means the only things you’re qualified to train with are…stakes. Never mind.” Kel paused, thinking. “Willow and Tara will be in training with Grandmother. Buffy, Xander and Giles, you’ll be with Dave. Dawn, you’ll be with the other kids in school. Don’t worry,” Kel said, seeing Dawn’s pout, “That includes an hour of unarmed combat everyday.”



“Whoa!” Buffy said. “Dawn does not do combat!”



“Okay, we’ll just put her aside. That way, the next time this place is attacked by the Watchers or the various bounty hunters that come this way, she can calmly stand at the side and be hacked to bits while everyone else is defending themselves. Chill out, Slayer. She’ll be in the same programme as Cain and Sophie. They don’t touch any weapons till much later in the course Do you think I’d let them do anything too dangerous?”



Buffy looked sceptical, but nodded. Dawn beamed.



“Right,” Kel said, looking around the group, “If there are no questions, I’m off.” She turned to leave.



“Wait,” Dawn called. “What will you be doing?”



Kel rolled her eyes.



“Luc and I will be farming. The horses hate drawing ploughs, and we won’t use machines, so we get to be oxen for the day. Actually, Dawn, the schoolrooms are on my way. I’ll take you.”



Kel drained her tea, set the cup on the table and stood. The cup shimmered away into nothingness, but as Kel turned to leave, it flew through the kitchen door towards her nose, stopping in midair.



Luc stormed through the door, arms covered in soapy water.



“Kel, I’m not washing your cup. Do it yourself!”



“But you’re already doing the washing up. That’s just silly.”



Giles sighed in reflex. The two of them had had this argument every Thursday since they day they started doing chores. It seemed that growing up had not stopped them.



“Come on, Luc, it’s just a cup, and I’m already late to ploughing.”



“So am I! Do it yourself.”



“I have to show Dawn around. You just have to wash up.”



The cup flew towards Luc, stopped suddenly, reversed, and stopped again. Tara, watching intently, was fascinated by the flow of mystical energy between the two siblings. Underneath the magic being used to push the cup back and forth was something different that pulsed between them.



It’s a game, she realised. They’re playing with each other. They enjoy it.



From across the room, Grandmother, who had been watching silently, cleared her throat. Both Kel and Luc immediately spun to face her, bowing reverently. The cup dropped to the floor, only to stop a centimetre from shattering. It meandered towards Grandmother, taking a detour via the teapot , which filled the cup without being touched. Tara, who was used to such casual power from Kel, was unnerved to see it in a human. Grandmother wasn’t even watching the cup, instead focusing on the blushing immortals.



“I believe,” she said dryly, “You both have places to be.”



Luc disappeared into the kitchen. Kel fled through one of the nine doors that led off the main hall. It took Dawn a moment to remember she was supposed to follow, and she left quickly, not wanting to be lost in the vast building that was Kel’s home.

Kel was waiting for her at the end of the corridor, still blushing faintly, and they began to walk in silence. Dawn was slightly awed by her companion, although seeing her dressed down had taken the edge of fear off. Remembering the hurried explanations back in Sunnydale and on the bus, a thousand questions ran through her mind. Kel was an angel, fallen or otherwise. God was real. Jesus was real. This woman had seen the whole of human history. A sudden thought flashed through Dawn’s mind and she opened her mouth to speak.



“Yes,” Kel said, cutting across her.



“Yes what?” Dawn asked.



“Yes, I knew you when you were the Key.”



“How did you….you read minds?” Dawn was vaguely offended.



Kel sighed. “I try not to. But sometimes I can’t help it, especially with strong emotions. You humans practically have transparent skulls.”



“So, you knew me….back then?”



“Yes.”



Kel didn’t offer any more information, and Dawn wasn’t sure she wanted to ask. As they came around a corner, a group of small children, no older than nine or ten, blocked their path. They were carrying shatterproof plastic rulers and a couple were snapping them against their thighs in a menacing way.



“Kel…”



It was Cain, Luc’s son. He was clearly the ringleader, despite being the smallest child present.



“Yes?” Inquired Kel, an amused look on her face.



“You promised us a talk a week ago.”



“Well, I’m a little busy right now…”



The children began to advance, rulers at the ready. Cain slapped Kel on the calf with his. Judging from the noise, it stung.



“But of course, since I promised, I’d be happy to.”



Cain turned to Dawn.



“Sometimes you just have to remind the grownups who’s in charge.” He grinned.



Kel glanced at him, smirking, then turned to Dawn.



“Dawn, you can join in if you like. Or there’s a group going for a game of footba- soccer, I believe.”



“What’s the talk on?” Dawn asked.



“Errrrr….” Kel said. Cain rolled his eyes.



“The theory of subatomic particles and how they relate to interdimensional travel.”



“Run, while you still can,” Kel advised Dawn, grinning.



“If you don’t mind, I’d like to explore.”



“Certainly. Try not to touch anything old, and give Luc a kick if you see him.” Kel was now being dragged into a nearby room. Dawn stayed to see Kel sit in a circle with the children and begin to speak.



“Alright, brats, here we go. As you know, subatomic particles are the basics of matters, the building blocks for everything that exists. Since this dimension exists, and other dimensions exist, the link between them must be subatomics. It follows then that manipulating these particles will create a doorway between dimensions. That’s the easy bit. Targeting your destination is the tricky bit….”



Dawn stopped listening. Picking a direction at random, she began to explore the grounds.







Back in the main hall, the Scoobs were polishing off their breakfasts, chatting idly, and generally trying to avoid thinking about the past few weeks. Once they had all finished, their plates simply vanished. A moment later, they reappeared. Luc came out of the kitchen, the same bashful look on his face as he spoke.



“Oops. I forgot, I’m not supposed to perform Miraculous Acts of Washing Up in front of the Americans.”



“No, you aren’t.” Grandmother said, an eyebrow raised at his sarcasm. “We’re meant to be easing them in to life here, remember?”



“Sorry.” Luc mumbled, and collected up the plates by hand. Willow couldn’t help but notice that they were clean before he reached the kitchen.



Tara rose from beside her and walked across the room to the crib to inspect the infants.



“You two hungry?” Alex blew a raspberry. “I’ll take that as a yes. Be right back, guys.” Casting a smile at Willow, she left



Giles, Buffy, Willow, Anya and Xander sat in silence for a moment, staring at the table. Unable to contain himself for long, Xander spoke.



“So, G-man, how ‘bout a tour?”



Giles’ voice took on a pained tone.



“Xander, how many times must I ask you not to call me that?”



Grandmother chuckled. “Oh Rupert, I’d think you’d enjoy such a…merciful nickname. After all, mine was much worse. Surely ‘G-man’ is better than-“



“Please, Grandmother,” Giles said, the tone now even more pained, “Spare me.”



Grandmother’s chuckles became positively wicked.



“Oh all right. But only because I want to savour the moment.”



Giles sighed deeply and turned to Xander.



“Very well, a tour. Join us, Grandmother?”



“No thank you, Rupert. I have things to attend to.” The older woman stood with a grace that belied her years and left quickly.



Giles led the four Scoobs through the heavy oak door they had entered through the night before, and once again passed the huge bell.



“Giles-“ Buffy began but he cut her off.



“Ask Kel. It isn’t my place.”



Buffy frowned at his cryptic behaviour, but fell silent. She noticed Anya stare at the bell, a slight frown crossing her features, before moving off.



The group explored the village throughout the morning, meeting the residents and asking questions. The path they followed took them close to the forest. Giles stopped.



“This is a dangerous area. Do not go in without informing Kel or Luc. If you cannot do so, get one of the villagers to come with you. Under no circumstances will you enter here alone. I dare not do so myself. Understood?”



They nodded, struck by his intense manner. Carrying on, the path took them past the farmland, where the sight of Kel and Luc pulling ploughs was funny enough for them to stop and watch along with Dawn, Cain and Sophie. When the two had finished, Luc trudged away toward a nearby house and Kel came over to meet them. Hearing the mocking cheers from her daughter and nephew, Kel glanced over. The fence the two children were sitting on leaned abruptly to one side and they toppled into the dirt, laughing. The fence righted itself and the children ran off, waving. Buffy addressed Dawn.



“Aren’t you meant to be in school?”



Dawn crossed her arms. “They finish at noon anyway. I was hanging out with Sophie and Cain.”



Buffy paused. “Okay.”



Dawn was taken aback, having expected an argument. Her track record with school attendance wasn’t exactly stellar. Buffy, however, seemed slightly distracted, so Dawn left well enough alone.



“Hey,” Kel grinned, “How goes the tour?”



“This place is amazing!” Xander said. “That carpenter guy – Jake? He knows stuff my site manager doesn’t have a clue about.”



“He’s having lunch in the hall right now,” Kel said, “Along with just about everyone in the village.” She sighed melodramatically. “These people, they have their own homes but still they come and leech off me.” She huffed and sighed again for good measure. Unable to keep up the pretence, she grinned again.



“I’m kinda hungry too,” Dawn said.



“Me too,” Willow agreed.



“Just follow the path, it goes back to the house.”



Having noticed their hunger, Willow, Dawn and Xander set off quickly. After a moment, Giles and Anya followed. Buffy and Kel stood in silence for a moment.



“Kel, I wanted to ask about that bell in the square. Giles said you would explain.”



Kel’s grin faded, and she sighed. Meeting Buffy’s eyes, she made a slight hand gesture. Suddenly, the ground under their feet changed, and they were standing by the great bell.



“This bell is enchanted.” Kel said, and her voice had become rich with unidentifiable emotion.



“Every time someone in my immediate family dies, it rings to tell me. It has rung five times.”



“Who-“ Buffy began, but stopped, aware she was treading on dangerous ground.



“My mother, my brother and sister. You. Twice.”



Buffy was silent, shocked. After a moment her voice returned.



“Me?”



“My father considers you his daughter, Buffy. For my…for me, that makes you family.” She paused. “There’s something else you should see”





They came to the edge of the forest, and stopped. Kel turned and faced Buffy, her expression solemn.



“I was told not to show you this, but it is important.”



Buffy nodded, unsure of what to say. Kel led her into the forest.





The sun was bright, and the canopy created by the tress was thick and lush, turning the air green. The dirt was soft and dry underfoot, the many trees close enough together to provide shelter but far enough apart to leave space. Following some unseen trail, Kel led Buffy to a clearing. The earth here seemed richer, the air sweeter. There was a sense of divinity about the whole area. In the centre of the clearing, a stone mausoleum stood. Against the background of fertile earth and luxuriant plantlife, it was a cold, grey, dead thing, but Buffy had the sense of it being a proud monument, a guardian enduring the harsh press of time that would last long after the surrounding area was ground to dust. The mausoleum itself was huge, big enough to be a small house, and it’s intricate cold iron doors bore a crest and a shield, and the declaration ‘Sic Transit Gloria Mundi’. As they approached, the doors opened with a groan, and Buffy couldn’t help but think it was a dignified sound, that everything about this place was centred around deep respect for the occupants of this stately tomb. She entered in silence. Kel followed



The air was not stale, as she would have expected, simply still. There was peace in the air, and the Slayer felt a wonderful calm enter her soul. Kel stepped forward, the rough-hewn stone beneath her feet softening her footfalls. In the centre of the crypt was a large altar. A dark cloth lay across the top, flowing to the floor and pooling at it’s base. As they approached, the floor beneath them changed to plain earth, and the Slayer noted the pattern of footprints, the force with which each mark had been stamped into the ground.



“Someone fought here.” She stated, somewhat disturbed that violence had occurred in what she could only describe as a sanctuary.



“I did. It was empty then.” Kel said softly. “Look again.”



What Buffy had thought was a cloth on the altar was a bloodstain. The Slayer turned quickly to face Kel.



“Human blood?” She asked.



Kel nodded, meeting the Slayer’s gaze.



“My brother’s. This is where he died. This is where I killed him.”









Ruth

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

"You're my extra flamey candle in the middle of the night

i'm gonna make sure that nothing- nothing, will blow the candle out" - My Girl April.

"Me? Quirky?" "You. Quirky."

[barnabasvamp]

I just couldn't believe my eyes when I saw your name in the update thread!



Enjoyed the update. More before too long?



BV

It's the passion in a kiss that gives to it its sweetness; it is the affection in a kiss that sanctifies it.

[NewRuthRising]

Yup, here I am again. No more real buggering life to get in the way!!!! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

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

"You're my extra flamey candle in the middle of the night

i'm gonna make sure that nothing- nothing, will blow the candle out" - My Girl April.

"Me? Quirky?" "You. Quirky."

[behindhereyes]

I was thrilled to see an update for this !! Luc, and Kel... even with everything that has been made clear about them... I can't help but wonder about all that isn't known to us yet. This story really makes me think... this isn't fluff... it's wonderful smart .





behindhereyes

Kim

[NewRuthRising]

So much for no more real life eh? Never mind, more is on the way, promise. Much love to all Kitten-y types.



Ruth

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

"You're my extra flamey candle in the middle of the night

i'm gonna make sure that nothing- nothing, will blow the candle out" - My Girl April.

"Me? Quirky?" "You. Quirky."

[NewRuthRising]

, , and abound here. Kleenex at the ready, folks!



Alternatives



Chapter 18d

Rating: PG13 for violence

Spoilers: All of season 6, most of Angel.

Disclaimer: I own nothing but that which I create. All else belongs to people who can sue/excommunicate/execute me if I don’t write this.

Disclaimer #2: I am going to mess about with the ideas of religion in this fic, this is not intended to offend anyone, or contradict anyone’s beliefs, but it’s necessary for the story. I apologise in advance for any offence taken.

Feedback: Send all constructive comments to rmmik@hotmail.com (please put something like “Re: your fic” in the subject, otherwise I’ll bin it). Send all abuse to someone else.

Authors note: This chapter is a bit of an emotional one. Kleenex alert people!





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



Spike paced impatiently about the Magic Box, trying to collect his thoughts. Three weeks had passed since the incident at the Hellmouth, and he had been avoiding all contact with the Slayer and her bunch. If he was honest, watching them mope around after Blondie was sucked into Kashmir would have usually been fun, but from what he had pieced together as they had walked back to town that night, Buffy had been attacked by the Lady, then she had gone after Tara in Kashmir, of all places. It took him three weeks to work up the nerve to come back, and when he had, the place was deserted, but the scent of blood and powerful magic remained, as well as some scents he couldn’t identify. He had sat still, thinking, all night, and the sun was beginning to rise. He needed help, but he wasn’t looking forward to asking. Rising swiftly, he crossed the floor, picked up the phone and dialled the number before the temptation to just get the hell out of town overwhelmed him.



Ring.



Ring.



Ring.



Click.



“Angel Investigations, we help the hopeless!”



“Cordelia? Put Angel on, luv.”



“Spike?” On the other end of the line, Cordelia’s eyes narrowed. For one thing, Spike had never used her name, nor had she heard that particular tone of voice from the vampire before.



“What do you want, Bleach-Boy?”



Spike swore, loudly.



“Just put him on the bloody phone, you stupid bint!”





Cordelia met Angel’s eyes across the room. He raised an eyebrow.



“The ever-charming Spike is on the phone. He wants to talk to you.”



“Spike?” Angel’s eyes narrowed. “Why?”



“Why?” Cordelia relayed into the receiver.



Even Wesley, from where he had been conversing with Angel, could hear the tirade coming from the phone. Cordelia held out the receiver, a wry expression on his face. Angel crossed the room and took it from her.



“Be quiet, Spike,” he said.





Back in Sunnydale, Spike quieted, fuming. This was too important to let his stuff about Angel interfere.





“Now,” Angel said in that infuriatingly calm tone of his, “what’s the matter?”



“I’ll tell you what the fucking matter is, mate. Red’s bird went and got herself dragged into Hell, and not just any old Hell either, no, it had to be bloody Kashmir, now they’ve all gone and bloody well disappeared!”



“Spike,” Angel said, feeling his dead heart grow even colder at the mention of Kashmir, “what did you do to them?”



“Nothing you prat! I haven’t even been here!”



”What did you do to them?" Angel roared. “You put an innocent in Kashmir? I’m gonna come down there and rip your sorry hide apart!”





Wesley’s jaw dropped. The Watchers knew a little about Kashmir, but it was reputedly harder to get to even than the Kor’Toth dimension that Holtz took Conner to.



Cordelia had never heard of Kashmir, so her first thought was some kind of fashion emergency, but she doubted Angel would kill Spike for that. Actually, Angel would kill Spike given any reason, but she doubted a cashmere-related incident would have him this angry.



Angel continued to rant into the phone.





“Angel? Angel! ANGEL!” Spike said, trying to get his attention. He sighed and played his last card.



“Sire,” he called.





Angel stopped dead.





“Sire?” Spike called again. “This is important. She was here.”



“She?” Angel asked, dreading the answer.



“The Lady.”



“She took Buffy and the others?”



“I think so. Like I said, I haven’t been here.”



“You hid?”



“Yeah.”



“Smart boy.”





Cordy and Wesley marvelled at the change in tone as Angel went from fury to amazement to what sounded remarkably like fear in the space of a few seconds. Then Cordy gasped as a vision hit her, so intense she stumbled.



“Holtz!” She exclaimed. “He’s coming. Connor too. We have to get out of here.”



Angel spoke into the receiver.



“Spike, I’m on my way. Don’t draw attention to yourself.”



“No fear, mate.” An uncertain tone crept into his voice.



“Hurry, Sire.”



Angel growled softly and hung up.



“Let’s go,” he said.



“Go?” A deep voice came from the hotel doors where Holtz stood with Connor, or Stephen, or whatever he was calling himself these days.



“Go where?”



“Holtz,” Angel said, quietly, arms spread in a peaceful gesture. “This isn’t the time. I have to deal with the Lady.”



“The Lady? The Daywalker has summoned you?”



“No. I’m going to stop her.”



“Angel,” Wesley piped up. “This Lady, she is the Daywalker spoken of in Watcher legend? The Queen of the vampires?”



“Yes. Spike said she came to Sunnydale, one of them was sent to Kashmir and the rest are missing. We have to go.”





A brilliant white light flashed through the lobby, and when it cleared, the hotel was empty.







{{It was midnight, and Kel wasn’t sleeping. Why this worried her she was unsure, since she was a twelve year old angel who only got a full night’s sleep about once a month, if that. Nevertheless, she worried. Her worry increased when Luc came into her room, not seeming as tired as a ten year old should have been at midnight. In fact he seemed keyed up, like the previous night, when he had taken her outside and showed her the silent owl sweeping through the night, explaining that she was that owl, silent, beautiful and deadly, and that he was glad she was keeping him safe. Sure enough, Luc grabbed her hand and pulled her out of bed, urging her quietly so as not to wake Grandmother, who always seemed to know when they were up to something.



Luc took her outside again, and they sat for what probably seemed to him to be hours, even though it was only 17 minutes, her brother’s eyes straining in the night, until finally, he pointed.



A rabbit came slowly out from it’s warren, watching this way and that, finally allowing the infants behind her to romp on the grass. Surprisingly , there were only three. Luc leaned into her, the cold reaching through his thin nightshirt. She held him close.



“See the mother rabbit?” He asked. Kel nodded. “That’s you.” He proclaimed, smiling.



“It took me a while to figure this one out. I thought we were the babies and Mama was the mother, but you’re definitely her. We’re the babies, me, Jo and Mama. See how you protect us?”



Kel’s heart lurched. Something was terribly wrong, but Luc did not feel her sudden terror and continued speaking.



“I like how you protect Mama as well as me and Jo. You’re the best big sister ever.”



“Luc, did you see this in a dream?”



“No, I saw it in the still waters.”



“There’s a couple of pills and a glass of water on the kitchen counter,” Kel said, even as she created them. “Take them before you go to bed.”



“Why, Kel?” Luc asked, trusting his sister, but curious, as all ten-year-olds were.



“I just…I don’t want you to dream tonight. Okay?”



“Okay.” He said cheerfully, kissed her on the cheek and walked indoors. Kel felt him take the suppressant she had made for him, go up to bed and drift off. She sat still a while longer, watching the rabbits. She watched, unsurprised, as the owl from the previous night swooped silently past her shoulder. The mother rabbit saw it, a second too late. Even as she reared up to protect her young, the owl raked her back with it’s claws, leaving deep, bloody gashes. The young, unaware of the danger, were swiftly killed. The owl landed, shielding it’s prey from other’s with it’s wing and began to eat. The mother rabbit twitched helplessly as it’s life fled from it’s mangled body. Kel turned away and went indoors, a knot of dread forming in her chest.}}





Buffy steadied herself as the memory left her. Walking slowly forward, beyond the bloodstained altar, she saw five raised slabs that supported sarcophagi made of frosted crystal or glass. Buffy couldn’t help but be reminded of Snow White. Two of the coffins was empty, almost as if they were waiting. Inscribed at the foot of each coffin was a name. With a jolt, she read the name on the nearest one; Lucifer O’Ciannon. Suddenly afraid of what she would see, Buffy looked cautiously inside.



It was Lucifer, but not as she knew him. There was no hint of arrogance or sarcasm about the peaceful features of the body before her. He was young, still a man-child really, and there was something about him, some innocence, that made Buffy’s heart ache.



“How old was he?” She asked softly.



“Sixteen,” Kel replied, her voice low. “He was an innocent. He had a destiny. I fulfilled it.”



Buffy’s vision clouded as she slid into another of Kel’s memories.





{{Luc was relaxing against the side of the mausoleum. He realised that many humans would find this an inappropriate spot to relax in, but it was peaceful and familiar. He felt at home there. His throat began to itch, so he got up to retrieve the water bottle he kept inside, out of the sun. He walked into the crypt, stretching, letting the door shut behind him. Something alerted him and he froze, senses searching for the intruder in his private space.



Kel stepped out of the shadows by the door. Luc sighed in relief, then wondered why he had been worried, He was always safe at home, and especially here.



“Hey Kel, what’s up? Wanna talk?”



Kel seemed different, closed off somehow. Luc assumed she wanted to get something off her chest.



“Luc, you remember the nights when you showed me the owl and the rabbits?”



“Of course. Why? What’s wrong? Can I help?”



Kel’s lips formed a humourless smile, his enthusiasm was bittersweet to her.



“Luc, the owl killed the rabbit.”



Luc was shocked by the harshness of her voice, the malice.



“Kel, what’s wrong? C’mon, Big Sister, let me help you.”



Kel laughed, softly. A chill went up Luc’s back as he watched first one tear, then another, fall from Kel’s blank eyes.



“You want to help me, Luc?”



“Of course!” He took a step closer, then froze as the knife in Kel’s hand caught the light and flashed at him.



“Okay, Little Brother, if you want to help me, then don’t fight me.”



“Kel, what…” He trailed off as she raised the knife with a hand that trembled and advanced on him. He took a step back, his back hitting the altar.



“Luc, please, don’t run. Don’t fight,” Kel begged, her voice cracking as sobs began to wrack her body.



“Kel, c’mon, you’re scaring me.”



“I’m the owl, right? Well the owl killed the rabbit. I have to kill you, Luc. I have to kill you.”



Luc watched his sister. If she were trying to scare him, she wouldn’t be this upset. She was really going to kill him. He dashed behind the altar, assuming a defensive stance that he knew was useless, but maybe would snap Kel out of it long enough for him to find out why she thought she had to kill him.



As Kel advanced on her brother, she couldn’t help but be proud of him. He was obviously still trying to reach her, but he was ready to defend himself as well. The reason for his retreat became clear as he armed himself with a blade not dissimilar from hers. No longer trying to stop the anguish that filled her, she pleaded with him once more.



“Please Luc, don’t fight. It won’t hurt. I promise you that much.”



Seeing he wasn’t going to talk his sister out of this, Luc took his only other option. He attacked, trying to disarm and restrain his sister. He remained calm, testing her weaknesses, realising his main weapon was his voice. He pleaded with her constantly, begging, reasoning and questioning, but when all was said and done, it was a 16 year old boy with a knife against an angel on an assassination mission. The fight became more physical, and Luc held up well, but soon tired.



Kel was working solely on reflex. Block, punch, block, kick, slash. Luc got one good hit in and ripped open her top, exposing the handprint seared over her heart. She watched his face register what that meant, that she was here on the command of the Authority, and that even if he won this fight, he would die anyway. He faltered slightly and Kel drew herself in close, slipping her blade between his ribs, feeling the cold metal penetrate his heart. He gasped, and his eyes grew wider as they met hers. She finally let down her shields and let him see her regret, her sorrow, her guilt. His gaze locked onto hers as understanding crept onto his youthful features.



“I love you, Big Sister,” he whispered.



“I know, Little Brother.” She smiled, and the tears began to fall again.



Her grip on the knife shifted, and she gave the handle a twist of exactly ninety degrees. Luc let out a breath of air sharply. His last. Kel lowered his body until it was supported by the altar, watching his eyes grow dull and empty.



Lifting his legs so he was reclining fully on the altar, Kel finally released the knife. Stumbling back, she left the crypt and dropped to her knees in clearing.



“Are you satisfied?” She breathed to no-one. “He trusted me. No more. Enough. Be satisfied.”



She is not finished, they responded. She knows this. There is more to deal with.



“I killed him,” Kel whispered, staring at her bloody hands. “I actually killed him.”



She dropped her hands and closed her eyes. After a moment, her breathing evened out. The blood on her hands and clothes vanished, the tears and rips from the fight mended. The mark on her chest burned, reminding her to finish her duty. She straightened, and left the clearing without a glance back.}}





Buffy shook the remainder of the vision from her head, and looked down once more at the coffin. Luc’s sixteen year old corpse bore none of the scarring that came from living in Hell, even if you were in charge. The only scar on him was over his heart, the scar that killed him. It was shaped like a figure of eight with flat sides, or an hourglass with rounded bottoms. The second seemed more appropriate somehow. Kel stood in silence beside her for a moment, then spoke.



“We have to go. More guests have arrived, and they’re probably making a fuss.”



“Kel,” Buffy said, and was suddenly unsure.



“I know, Slayer. We’ll talk soon, I promise.”



Together they left the tomb and the clearing, and Buffy marvelled that the area not lost it’s sense of peace. Lost in thought, she followed Kel back towards the village.





Ruth

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

"You're my extra flamey candle in the middle of the night

i'm gonna make sure that nothing- nothing, will blow the candle out" - My Girl April.

"Me? Quirky?" "You. Quirky."

[NewRuthRising]

Hey folks. Just checking in. Update soon.

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

"You're my extra flamey candle in the middle of the night

i'm gonna make sure that nothing- nothing, will blow the candle out" - My Girl April.

"Me? Quirky?" "You. Quirky."

[NewRuthRising]

Writing on a train is not fun. Editing and posting soon. Hopefully chapter will be up by Friday. Check out my avatar! That's my girl April! (If it works, that is)

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

"You're my extra flamey candle in the middle of the night

i'm gonna make sure that nothing- nothing, will blow the candle out" - My Girl April.

"Me? Quirky?" "You. Quirky."

Edited by: NewRuthRising at: 2/7/05 1:32 pm

[NewRuthRising]

Hey folks I know I promised you a chapter but it turns out I have to write a monologue for my drama school audition so it'll be a while. Much love and apologies.



Ruth



I love you, April.

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

"You're my extra flamey candle in the middle of the night

i'm gonna make sure that nothing- nothing, will blow the candle out" - My Girl April.

"Me? Quirky?" "You. Quirky."

[NewRuthRising]

Hi guys!

Lovin' the new board! To celebrate, have a jaw-dropping cliffhanger!:P


Alternatives

Chapter 19
Rating: PG13 for violence
Spoilers: All of it. Even the crappy bits.
Disclaimer: I own nothing but that which I create. All else belongs to people who can sue/excommunicate/execute me if I don’t write this.
Disclaimer #2: I am going to mess about with the ideas of religion in this fic, this is not intended to offend anyone, or contradict anyone’s beliefs, but it’s necessary for the story. I apologise in advance for any offence taken.
Feedback: Say something! Anything! Please!


Together, Buffy and Kel walked back through the forest toward the village. Clearing the treeline, Kel turned right and started down a gravel path.

“Hey Kel,” Buffy called, “where you going? This way’s quicker.” She pointed left. Kel quirked her head to the side, a small grin appearing on her face to chase away the last of the sadness that lingered there.

“You’re quite right,” she said, her tone indecipherable.

“Lead on.”



In the main hall, Willow, Tara, Anya and Dawn were finishing lunch with Grandmother. As Tara rose to take her plate out to the kitchen, Buffy and Kel came through the south doorway, looking thoughtful.

“Hey guys,” Buffy greeted quietly.

Kel stopped, tilting her head to the side as though straining to hear something. After a moment, she sighed and rolled her eyes.

“Honestly, I can’t leave you people alone for a minute can I?”

She waved a hand loosely in the direction of the kitchen. There was a flash of light and suddenly Spike was standing directly in front of Tara, the Angel Investigations crew behind him, all looking astounded.

“Hello, Daniel,” came Kel’s voice from behind her, and she turned to find another man she didn’t know and a boy about Dawn’s age.

“Katherine?” The older man asked, as astonished as anyone else. Only the boy seemed unperturbed, scowling at everyone, finally focusing on Angel.

“Not exactly,” Kel replied. Behind Tara, Spike dropped to his knees, eyes fixed on the floor. Kel turned to face him.

“So, William,” she drawled, “you finally decide to show me proper respect after that little display at the Hellmouth?”

Spike considered several answers, all varying degrees of groveling, but realised that wouldn’t improve his chances of surviving the next minute or so.

“Yes, My Lady,” he said formally.

“Good,” Kel favoured him with an indulgent look before her gaze became hard again.

“Although I see Angel is still on his feet.”

The attention of everyone in the room immediately fixed on the dark vampire, who was even paler than usual. His eyes were wide and shaded golden in fear, and they remained fixed on Kel as she advanced toward him. Sweat formed on his brow and he began to tremble visibly.

“Angel?” Cordelia asked.

“Oh, he can’t hear you, Cordy,” Kel spoke lightly, without taking her eyes off her quarry. Tara suddenly realised that a hint of Gaelic had begun to creep into her accent.

“Angel here’s just all whipped ‘cause of the time I tortured him until he went insane.”

Kel’s predatory look transformed into a wild grin that was eerily reminiscent of Giles’ ‘Ripper’ look.

“Do you remember, Angel?” She said, her tone silky as she stepped into his personal space and began to circle him.

“I wore the scent of you flesh burning, like a perfume.”

“At least until I made her take a shower,” Grandmother interjected in a tone of pure venom.

“Angel,” Wesley said, his voice gruffer than the Scoobs remembered, “who is this woman?”

Angel whimpered slightly, shaking his head slowly from side to side. Bloody tears began to pool in the corners of his eyes and he blinked fiercely.

Kel turned to the rugged former Watcher.

“I am the Daywalker, Empress of the Vampire Nation and sworn enemy of the Watcher’s Council, so stay quiet Wesley, or I might notice you. I’m talking to the Corrupted here.”

Wes took an involuntary step back as his Watcher training took over, but he shook his head as though to clear it, stepped forward once more and activated the device on his wrist, causing a sword to unfold into his grip. Getting between Angel and Kel, he took a defensive position. Kel smirked at him.

“Buffy,” Wes called, never taking his eyes off the Vampiress.

“Has she hurt you? Any of you?”

“No,” Buffy replied, astounded at how competent Wesley had become.

“Actually, Buffy, I have,” Kel said, still smirking at Angel and Wes.

“You have?” Buffy responded.

“You’ve forgotten? I broke two of your fingers, fractured three ribs, dislocated a shoulder and generally hit you a lot. I know that’s normal for a Slayer but really, it wasn’t even a month ago. You should remember these things. Oh! I once ran Tara through with a sword, too.”

“What?” Willow yelled.

“Sweetie, calm down,” Tara soothed, “ I’d taken off her hand, she didn’t have much choice. Plus she healed me as soon as she knocked me out.”

“But…still…” Willow floundered.

“Enough!” Wes yelled. He pointed his sword at Kel, switching to an offensive position.

“You, Vampiress, will be cast out! In the name of the Watcher’s Council and the line of Slayers I banish you from this place, I sent you back to-“

“Oh please, Wesley,” Kel interrupted. “The Watcher’s Council fired you because you were a pathetic excuse for a man whose Slayer went psycho. Butching up a bit and getting a neat scar across the jugular doesn’t change that. You’re still the boy who wet his bed till he was fifteen. And as for banishment, if you don’t want me here, tough. I live here. Now shut up.”

Wesley turned red and fell silent. Kel turned to face Holtz.

“So, this is the boy you kidnapped. Good choice. Really.”

“You aren’t human. You’re a vampire.” Holtz said slowly.

“Mostly,” Kel shrugged. “Don’t worry, sweeting, you are always safe with me. Besides, I hate Angelus as much as you do.”

“Father, who is this?” Connor demanded.

“Katherine Scott,” He replied.

“Actually, my name is Kel.”

Holtz glanced at her, and then turned back to Connor.

“She nursed me as a child. Then, when my parents died, she taught me about vampires and how to fight them.”

“Yes,” Kel said, her voice taking on a stern tone Holtz hadn’t heard since he was a child. He felt a sudden urge to stand up straighter.

“And it seems you’ve forgotten the first rule of the hunt. Remind me please, young man, what is it?”

“Justice and vengeance in equal measure, but never confuse the two,” he recited.

“Or?” Kel prompted sternly.

“Or both become meaningless.”

“So, when you kidnapped Angel’s son-“

“I’m not his son!”

Kel turned her stern gaze onto Connor.

“It isn’t polite to interrupt your elders, Connor.”

“My name is Steven!”

“Your name is Connor, boy. Now shut up and let the grown-ups talk. Really dear," she said to Holtz, "it’s all very well and good teaching him to kill things, but where are his manners?”

Connor’s face curled into a sneer and he charged at Kel, yelling. Drawing his fist back, he met Kel’s eyes. She raised an eyebrow. Connor froze, mid-punch. His hand dropped and he backed away, eyes wide.

“Impetuous little thing, isn’t he?” Kel said to no one in particular, and then returned her attention to her vampire-hunter protégé.

“Sweeting, I’m afraid I have no further need of you. Cease your campaign against the Corrupted and his friends, and go find somewhere nice to live. That business about being entombed for centuries has made you a very sick man. You’ll be dead within the year.”

She waved a hand. Holtz vanished.

“As for the boy, perhaps he would benefit from a lesson in manners.”

“What did you do to my father?” Connor snarled.

Kel glanced at Angel, who was still cowering behind Wesley. Kel noticed the former Watcher was so caught up in the drama being played out that he had lost his offensive position. She noted dispassionately the exact time it would take to kill him and Angel in his current state of distraction, and turned back to Connor.

“Your father? I tormented him mercilessly in a specially created hell dimension until his mind broke and he became nothing more than a wild animal. Holtz I sent to Miami. He’ll like it there.”

“Angel is not my father! Stop saying that!” Connor yelled, becoming frantic.

“Yes he is,” Kel replied calmly. “Holtz had you kidnapped as a baby and took you to the Qor’Toth in order to exact revenge for Angelus’ murder of his family. Angel and his friends tried to save you. In fact, the Watcher over there was so determined to keep you safe, he had his throat cut before he’d give you up.” She turned back to Wesley, who finally brought himself back into position.

“You are a noble one, aren’t you?” She mocked.

“I don’t believe you,” Connor screamed, his voice cracking.

“I don’t care,” Kel said, her tone light. Connor yelled incoherently and rushed her again, swinging his fists. Kel caught his upper arms and pinned them to his sides, the brought her knees up between his legs hard enough to lift him several inches off the ground. Connor shrieked and passed out. Kel let him slump to the floor and turned to face the Angel gang once again.

“Believe me,” she said, taking in the sympathetic winces on the men’s faces and the horror on Fred and Cordy’s, “that’ll save you a lot of trouble in the long run. Oh, that reminds me. Cordy, come here please.”

Wesley and Gunn jumped to her defence.

“Look lady, I don’t know who you are or what’s going on, but back off.” Gunn warned.

“Ah, chivalry. So rare these days.” Kel sighed. “You have my word that I won’t hurt her.”

Wesley and Gunn didn’t bother to respond. Kel sighed again.

“Fine.” She spread her arms. “Take your best shot.”

Gunn hesitated. Wesley didn’t. His sword arced through the air and swept Kel’s head from her shoulders in one clean blow. She burst into dust, and her ashes began to settle on the ground. Utter silence descended on the room.

“Well,” Wesley said, breathing deeply, “that’s that.”


Ruth