I'm worried about Willow though! I hope she's gonna be okay.
-----------------------------------------
Willow! Check you out! Witch-fu. -BUFFY
by ForeverPiper » Tue Feb 12, 2002 3:48 am
-----------------------------------------
Willow! Check you out! Witch-fu. -BUFFY
by jomarch » Tue Feb 12, 2002 4:21 am
by Thanatopsis » Wed Feb 13, 2002 2:42 pm
Though Nail!?! The people in the computer lab thought I was insane when I started laughing out loud.
Not so patiently waiting for more.
T
by canadian kitty » Wed Feb 13, 2002 3:52 pm
Next time I'll remember that.
I'm off to see "Rare Birds" tonight but if i'm back in time I'll post the next part. If not I'll try for tomorrow night. If you kitties need something to tide you over may i suggest wiccachica's fic. I'm still laughing over the aerodynamics of twinkies line. Sheer brilliance that.
by Garner » Wed Feb 13, 2002 4:13 pm
by canadian kitty » Thu Feb 14, 2002 6:56 pm
Last night I saw Rare Birds. Set in Newfoundland it's the story of a restaurateur whose restaurant, sitting in a secluded little cove, isn't exactly brimming with business. So him and his best friend concoct a scheme to atract patrons by claiming to have seen a rare bird in the cove. Hilarity ensues.
It's well written and well paced, with minimal interference from regular Hollywood trappings. The characters are memorable and you never know what's coming next.
Or it could just be me. But bless them, those Newfies are just funny.
Ok, now that I'm done with my film reviewer audition, on with the fic.
As always thank you for your feedback. I'm glad you liked the Nail bit. It was one of my favorite parts to write. And now to Part...ummmm what part is it? 11 i think. Enjoy.
Title: Reunited
Rating: PG
Couples: W/T
Spoilers: Oh yeah, right up to Gone. If you're trying to stay clean then flee! Flee now!
Notes: Willow and Tara are the main focus of this story, however I tried to write it as I thought it might play out on the show (Pffff! Listen to me. As if this piece of crud will ever even remotely resemble the brilliant plot twists Josh has planned for us this season) so all main characters have their scenes. Think of it as a W/T centric episode with all those annoying filler scenes revolving around the other, less important characters, as sandwich breaks.
Archiving: Umm, ok. But asked first.
Feedback: Sure. Take special care to point out all the plot holes and dumbass mistakes. Although I think Rane has saved me from most of the impending embarrassment.
Copyright: In the fantasy world in which I spend most of my time BTVS, all its characters, spin-offs, comic books, animated series, merchandise, etc, are mine all mine. But in the real world, a place I rarely visit, they belong to some guy called Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy.
Summary: I am way too long-winded to sum up this story in a few lines.
Thanks: I humbly bow to my magnificent beta reader Rane, without whom this story would certainly never have been written, let alone posted. Oh great Weevil Faerie Otter Princess I know you and Ruth share a miraculous love but, marry me?
Post 11
Rack leaned against the fireplace trying to warm himself by the fire. 'Damn house is too cold,' he grumbled looking over at Doc and the Sub'ordii demon. 'Doesn't seem to be bothering the demons.' His eyes flickered over to Amy standing by the hall entrance. She had been watching him but looked away when his eyes met hers. Rack smiled menacingly and then turned back to Doc. Once Amy was sure Rack was absorbed in observing him she slipped quietly down the hall.
Rack watched as Doc placed a long, thin, black robe over his clothes and then dipped his hands repeatedly in a large silver bowl containing water and herbs sitting on the table next to him. "That part of the spell?" asked Rack.
"Hmmm," Doc looked up at Rack. "Oh this," he looked back at the bowl, "No. I just like the smell of jasmine. Lifts the spirit you know. Care to try some?"
"No thanks." Rack replied, barely concealing his disgust. Dealing with Doc was beginning to annoy him. 'Nutcase. Just do your damn spell and give me the power you promised so I can get to hell away from you' he thought. "So is this going to take long? He inquired. "I got places to be."
"Not long now, not long now," murmured Doc rhythmically. He spoke in a demon tongue to the Sub'ordii who then brought him a towel to dry his hands. "Patience Mr. Rack," he turned to look at Rack, "unless of course you feel what I'm offering you isn't worth the wait. I'd understand if you decided you would rather spend the rest of your life relying on others to sustain your power instead of being able to do without them."
Rack stared angrily at Doc as he tried to control his temper. His hand drifted up to his neck as he recalled what had happened the last time he had lost it in front of Doc. He decided to change the subject.
"So, how's this going to work anyway?" Probed Rack. Doc hadn't explained very much about what exactly he had wanted with the other witches or Strawberry. And Rack didn't really care. But he was getting bored with all this waiting. "What are you going to do with all those vials?"
Doc tilted his head to the side, seemingly considering something before he explained. "I going to place the energy they hold into the amulet."
Rack scoffed. "You're going to try and put all that energy into one little amulet?" A snort of laugher escaped his lips. "You're crazy. Even if the amulet wasn't broken it couldn't hold all that power."
"But it can." Doc assured him calmly. "When I perform the spell the two pieces will be joined back together again. The amulet will be able to hold that power and more."
Rack was puzzled. "So what do you need Strawberry for? Too help you repair the amulet or transfer the energy from the vials?"
"Neither." Doc moved to a mirror in the corner of the room and began fussing with the collar of his robe.
"Then why do you need her to cast a spell?" Rack said in an exasperated tone. His interest in the conversation was quickly waning and he was starting to regret his initial curiosity.
"Because I want her power as well. Once I put the amulet on she will cast the spell, linking her to the amulet, and her power will be mine." Finished with his collar he turned to look at Rack. "Because you lost control of her I couldn't drain her power and temporarily hold it in a vial like I did with the other witches you brought me." His tone held a hint of annoyance and Rack flinched slightly. Not liking the turn the conversation had taken Rack decided to change the subject.
"Sounds like you're looking to do some major spells. Putting that amulet back together isn't gonna to be easy." Rack looked smugly at Doc, sure he had revealed a snag in Doc's plan.
"But it is." Counter Doc confidently. "You see the two pieces want to be reunited.Ó
Rack arched his eyebrow in confusion. "What the hell's that supposed to mean?"
Doc smirked at Rack before he continued. "The two halves can exist without the other. Each half is unique, special in its own way but without the other it can never be complete. Their natural state is to be together and the two halves will struggle to unite even if it seems impossible." Doc smoothed down his robe and looked up at Rack. "I'm simply providing a catalyst for the rejoining, they'll do the rest." He adjusted the robe's collar once more and took a cleansing breath. "Shall we?" he asked as he gestured towards the hall.
Rack started towards the hall entrance. "One more thing Mr. Rack" came Doc's voice from behind him. Rack looked back over his shoulder and raised an eyebrow. "Once I put on the amulet you will not be able to use magic without the amulet taking your powers. If our little witch should refuse to cast the spell you will have to use other methods to, encourage her."
Rack smiled as he withdrew a long sharp knife from beneath his jacket, raising it so the bladed reflected the flames from the fire. "Not a problem." He chuckled evilly as he headed down the hall.
******
Willow sat hunched against the corner of her cell. She felt like crap. Her body ached and her head still pounded. She wanted nothing more than to be at home, curled up in her warm bed with Tara. 'Well it's not like that's gonna happen' she snorted. 'Even if I wasn't locked up in a cell, probably destine to be sacrificed or something, I wouldn't be on the receiving end of any Tarasnuggles, that's for sure.' Her self-berating was interrupted by a loud grunt. She looked up at the Sub'ordii demon standing against the wall not far from her cell. After Doc had threatened her he had turned and walked away towards the hallway, signaling for Rack and the others to follow him. But Willow's hopes of being left alone to attempt another escape had been dashed when one of the Sub'ordii demons had not followed, but instead positioned itself along the wall between her cell and the hall entrance.
Willow wondered what had caused it to grunt and then saw Amy step into the room and approach her cell. As Amy drew closer another grunt emanated from the demon. Amy, startled, took a step back and looked up at the demon with frightened eyes. "I, I just came to talk with her." she said as she held her hands up in the air to indicate she was no threat. She didn't think the demon understood human languages, at least not English. The man called Doc had always spoken to them in a language she didn't recognize. The Sub'ordii grunted again but it made no threatening moves towards Amy. Amy stepped past the demon and up to the bars of the cell to looked at Willow.
"Are, are you ok?" She asked timidly, her eyes darting guiltily away from Willow's face.
"Do I look ok?!" Willow shouted hostilely. The demon growled and turned its head to stare menacingly at Willow. Willow quickly lowered her voice as she continued but she could not keep the anger out of her tone. "Amy, what's going on? Why are you helping them hurt me?"
Amy's hands played nervously with the bars as she looked back at Willow. "I'm sorry Willow," her voice no more than a whisper, "it's like I tried to tell you before, I didn't know anything about this. Honestly. Rack just wanted you back and he wouldn't see me when I needed him too, and my skin was crawling and I just... I just needed to make it stop." She ended on a pleading note, hoping Willow would understand. Amy felt awful about all that had happened. Things had spiraled out of control. She didn't want Willow to get hurt but was powerless to do anything about it. Rack would hurt her if she tried.
Willow stared at Amy, her face softening slightly. She understood what it was like; she remembered. All the nights she had lain awake, shaking, her skin tingling so much it had been painful. She had wanted to make it stop too; had wanted to let Rack make it stop. But she'd had thoughts of Tara and her love for the blond to stop her from giving in, to make her strong. Who had Amy had to help her?
"I understand, really I do." She said as she attempted to stand. Surprisingly her legs did not buckle and the thumping in her head did not increase its tempo. "But whatever it is they're planning, you can't let it happen. Tell me what's going on." Willow took a shaky step towards Amy. " What are they going to do with the necklace? And what's in those vials."
Amy shook her head. "I, I think it's some kind of energy in the vials. I'm not sure about the necklace." She shook her head, confused. "I don't know what they're planning. I don't think Rack knows either. Not all of it. Doc's in charge. I think Rack's even scared of him." A voice was heard coming from the hall and Amy looked nervously back over her shoulder at the hallway. "I shouldn't be here," she panicked, "Rack will be mad." She started to turn and leave but Willow reached through the bars and grab Amy's hand. The demon growled and stepped forward. Willow quickly retracted her hands and smiled apologetically at the demon. "Right," she laughed nervously, "I'll just keep my hands to myself then." The SubÕordii glared for a few moments but when Amy added her weak smile to Willow's it seemed satisfied and stepped back.
"Amy please," she said desperately. "You have to help me. Go get Buffy."
"I, I can't," the distress in Amy's voice increased. She looked down at the piece of paper lodged in between two bars. "Just do what they ask." Her eyes met Willow's as she pleaded. "Do the spell Willow and then maybe they'll let you go."
Willow's expression saddened. "No. I won't do any spell for them Amy." she said with resolve. "No matter what they do to me." She grasped the bars with both hands and brought her face closer to them, closing the distance between her and Amy. "Please Amy. Help me."
Amy stared at Willow. She opened her mouth to speak but then closed it. 'What do I do? I'll be in trouble if I help her. Rack will be mad. But she's still my friend and things are getting out of control.' Amy's mind was swirling with thoughts and emotions. She hadn't meant to put Willow in so much danger. She had just wanted things to go back to the way they had been before Willow had stopped seeing Rack; before Rack had become angry with her. But Willow being here now was her fault. If she hadn't helped Rack none of this would be happening. This wasn't right. She had to fix it. 'I need to get her out of this. I need to help her.'
"Amy! What to hell do you think your doing!" yelled Rack as he came into the room with Doc and the other Sub'ordii demon. Doc, who was now dressed in a flowing black robe, stood and watched with an amused expression on his face as Rack walked swiftly over and grabbed Amy roughly by the arm, yanking her around to face him. Willow took a startled step back, locking pleading eyes with Amy one more time before she was whirled towards Rack. "Nothing!" trembled Amy. "I, I was just trying to convince her to do the spell!"
"Leave the 'convincing' to the experts." He barked as she shoved her towards the Sub'ordii that had been guarding Willow. "Stand over there and stay out of the way."
"Maybe I should go." Amy suggested as she moved towards the hall, deliberately glancing at Willow as she spoke "You know, just so I'm not in your way." Amy hoped Willow understood that she would not desert her. A flicker of hope bubble up through Willow but was quickly extinguished as she watched Doc step up behind Amy.
Amy jumped slightly when she felt a hand on her shoulder. She turned to find Doc smiling at her pleasantly. "No need to rush off," Doc glanced over Amy's shoulder at the Sub'ordii, "you may be useful." The demon grabbed Amy from behind, holding her firmly. A frightened Amy looked over at Willow. Willow looked back. This was not good.
******
Anya peered cautiously through the mansion's window, her eyes sweeping the darkened room within for any signs of life. She wobbled slightly, catching herself with the window frame. "Hold still!' she whispered sharply, glancing down at Buffy on whose shoulders she was standing. "Don't you let me fall. The premiums on my health insurance are already high enough."
"Well hurry up," hissed Buffy. "And get your foot off my hair!"
"Do you see anything?" Asked Tara, her voice full of hope. "Do you see Willow?"
Anya looked down at Tara and shook her head. "Sorry." Then she looked back into the room. "I don't see anyone. It looks deserted."
"Then get off my shoulders." Said Buffy as she began to squat down so Anya could jump off. She halted when Anya whispered anxiously. "Wait!" Buffy stood up, returning Anya to the window. "What?" Asked Buffy. A few moments passed without Anya saying anything. "Anya what do you see!" demanded Buffy quietly.
"That is a really nice coffee table. I wonder where he got it?" mused Anya. Buffy huffed and stepped back, unceremoniously dropping Anya to the ground. "Oww!" Anya shot the Slayer a look and pick herself up of the ground, rubbing her backside.
"You can shop for furniture after we save Willow and kill Doc." Said Buffy. At the sound of approaching footsteps all three of them crouched down low to the ground. Spike and Xander rounded the corner and made their way to the girls.
"Did you see anything?" Asked Buffy.
Xander shook his head. "One of the window's on the lower level is open on the other side but all the windows are dark. We didn't see anything creeping in any of the rooms we could reach."
"Yeah," Spike added. "But that end of the house," he pointed to his left, "is rounded and doesn't have any windows. I went back towards the road a bit to catch a glimpse of the roof and I think there's a skylight."
Buffy took in the information and made here plan. "Ok," She looked at the gang. "Xander, Anya, Tara, you three get ready and wait by the open window while Spike and I check out the skylight. Let's go."
While Xander grabbed the weapons bag from the ground Tara checked the spell ingredients for the hundredth time. As she looked into the pouch Tara felt a hand on her shoulder and turned to see Buffy looking at her with concern. "Remember," she said firmly, "Don't cast the spell unless Anya is with you to take of the amulet after. Just in case you can't, ok?
Tara smiled lightly. "I won't. I promise." Buffy nodded her head in satisfaction and she and Spike departed for the roof. Tara, Xander and Anya set out for the window.
TBC....
[This message has been edited by canadian kitty (edited February 14, 2002).]
by mollyig » Fri Feb 15, 2002 1:48 am
You're not just talking 'bout the necklace here - lovely stuff!
------------------
"It took a long time to become the thing i am to you,
and you won't tear it apart without a fight, without a heart"
Become You - Indigo Girls
by Scout » Fri Feb 15, 2002 6:48 am
by Jessie » Fri Feb 15, 2002 11:39 am
I'm really liking where this is heading. More please?
------------------
"And how long have you known your girlfriend's Tinkerbell?"
by Rosenberg » Fri Feb 15, 2002 7:44 pm
by canadian kitty » Mon Feb 18, 2002 5:27 pm
There's a bit o violence in this part so i've upped the rating a tad (I never really know how those work anyway). I don't think it's too much but if you're squimish about these things then may i suggest you employ your scary movie filter of choice: hand, pillow, holey quilt. What ever you prefer. as always enjoy.
Title: Reunited
Rating: PG-13
Couples: W/T
Spoilers: Oh yeah, right up to Gone. If you're trying to stay clean then flee! Flee now!
Notes: Willow and Tara are the main focus of this story, however I tried to write it as I thought it might play out on the show (Pffff! Listen to me. As if this piece of crud will ever even remotely resemble the brilliant plot twists Josh has planned for us this season) so all main characters have their scenes. Think of it as a W/T centric episode with all those annoying filler scenes revolving around the other, less important characters, as sandwich breaks.
Archiving: Umm, ok. But asked first.
Feedback: Sure. Take special care to point out all the plot holes and dumbass mistakes. Although I think Rane has saved me from most of the impending embarrassment.
Copyright: In the fantasy world in which I spend most of my time BTVS, all its characters, spin-offs, comic books, animated series, merchandise, etc, are mine all mine. But in the real world, a place I rarely visit, they belong to some guy called Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy.
Summary: I am way too long-winded to sum up this story in a few lines.
Thanks: I humbly bow to my magnificent beta reader Rane, without whom this story would certainly never have been written, let alone posted. Oh great Weevil Faerie Otter Princess I know you and Ruth share a miraculous love but, marry me?
Part 12
Willow watched with growing fear as Doc stood at the altar and began to chant in a language she thought might be Etruscan. It was hard to tell. Academic scholars were still trying to decipher it. And even Giles, with his expertise in languages and his contacts at the Council, hadn't been able to translate most of the original Etruscan tomes he had.
Amy stood against the wall near the overturned table and chairs, watched carefully by one of the Sub'ordii demons, while Rack and the other demon stood to the left of the altar, their backs to Willow. Willow had felt sure that Amy had decided to help her and that her attempt to leave had been in order to get help from Buffy. But Doc had stopped her and Willow knew now that there would be no outside help. She would have to do this herself.
As she searched her brain for options her eyes fell on the folded paper still resting between the bars of her cell. She hadn't dared touch it even though she was somewhat curious as to what spell Doc wanted her to cast. No, she didn't need the added temptation. But even as she looked at it a whispering voice echoed at the back of her mind. 'Amy was right,' it murmured, 'do the spell, give them what they want, what you want. It will be easy; it will save you.' Willow closed her eyes and willed the voice to be still. She couldn't use magik. She wouldn't. Her use of magik had hurt so many people she loved.
'I hurt Dawn. She used to look up to me and now she barely even speaks to me.' Thought Willow sadly. ' And Buffy. God. You can't do much worst than drag your best friend out of heaven.'
But she had done worse. She had violated Tara's mind for her own benefit. Bringing Buffy back had been selfish, but not wholly. She had acted on the belief that Buffy was trapped in a hell dimension, suffering eternal torment. Willow had wanted to save Dawn, Tara, the others, and herself, from the pain Buffy's death had caused them. But what she had done to Tara was different. It had been self-serving. 'I didn't think about what was best for her, what she wanted.' Willow's brow furrowed sadly. 'I only thought about myself and how I could make things easier for me.' She had violated the mind of someone she loved; someone who had trusted her absolutely. And as if that wasn't enough she had done it knowing full well what Tara had gone through with Glory.
After all she had done Willow accepted that she would never get back the life she had before. She didn't think she deserved to anyway. With all those she loved gone all she had was herself. To give into the magik would mean losing that too. And she wouldn't give up that one last thing. She had to have something to hold on too.
She was roused from her thoughts by Doc's voice rising to a feverish tempo as he chanted. The two pieces of the amulet, lying beside each other on the altar, glowed brightly and began to rise of the altar and move towards each other. As they touched a brilliant flash of light emanated from them, causing everyone in the room to shield their eyes. When Willow lowered her arm she saw Doc reach down to the altar and lift up the amulet, the two pieces now joined together as one.
"At last." Doc whispered in rapture. He slipped the amulet's long chain over his neck. Without missing a beat he quickly began to chant again, this time using a different phrase. At the end of each verse he removed a cap from a single vial. As the vial was opened the swirling cloud within shot through the opening, hovered momentarily in the air before it rushed towards the amulet and disappeared within the gem. Each time the amulet absorbed a cloud of energy Doc stumble back slightly. When the last vial was empty Doc turned to Rack, nodding slightly. Rack signaled to the Sub'ordii demon beside him and it quickly approached Willow's cell.
Willow's stomach tightened with fear as the cell door was opened and the demon grabbed her arm. It dragged her from the cell and hauled her towards Doc and the altar. When they were a few feet from him the demon released her. Fear swirled in her as she stood in front of Doc, but she clamped down on it, refusing to let it control her.
Doc's eyes were jet-black as he stared at Willow. "Your turn."
Rack stepped up behind Willow grasping both her arms and bringing them around to her back. Willow cried out as he purposely squeezed her wrists roughly, twisting one till she was sure it would snap. Doc took a step towards her. "I hope you spent your time wisely and memorized the spell."
Willow stared back at Doc. "I'm not doing your spell." She said steadily. Pain rushed through her as Rack again twisted her wrist. She bit down hard on her lip to prevent herself from crying out and could taste blood as a result. Doc glanced at Rack and the pain lessened as he released his grip. Doc tilted his head and smiled. "The spell please." He said calmly.
"No." came Willow's firm reply as she braced herself.
As soon as the word left her mouth she heard her wrist bones crack. The pain was so sudden and intense that her legs buckled and she fell to her knees. Rack, releasing her arms, let her fall. "Don't!" shouted Amy as she started to rush towards Willow. But the Sub'ordii demon grabbed her, pinning AmyÕs arms to her sides.
Rack grabbed Willow and lifted her roughly from the floor, again holding her arms behind her back by the wrists. He pressed himself up close behind her and withdrew his knife from under his jacket. Black spots danced in front of Willow's eyes. Her wrist was definitely broken and Rack holding it like he was ensured that the pain did not dissipate. Rack leaned his head forward until his mouth brushed Willow's ear. "Don't black out yet Strawberry, we're just getting started."
Rack brought the knife up in front of Willow. Using its point he traced a line down her peasant top, slowly dragging it between her breasts down to her belly button. "Do the spell." He whispered menacingly in her ear. Willow closed her eyes and shook her head. "No." she said in a pained voice. Rack's lips twisted into a grin. "I was hoping you'd say that."
Rack slowly ran the blade of the knife along Willows stomach, cutting through her top and into her skin. "Stop it!" shouted Amy as she tried to squirm out of the Sub'ordii's grasp. But the demon held her firmly.
The cut was not deep, only just a sliver. Rack wanted to play. "How about now? He mocked. Willow stifled a sob and shook her head. As he drew his knife back again Doc's voice penetrated Willow's pain. "That will be enough Mr. Rack."
"But" Rack started, glancing up at Doc and seeing the threatening look in his eyes. Rack scowled and release Willow who fell to the ground. Doc knelt down in front of her and lifted WillowÕs chin with his index finger. He wiped the blood from her bottom lip with his thumb and then withdrew his hand. "I don't want to hurt you," he signed as he rose. "But your standing in the way of me getting back what's rightfully mine," Doc lightly touched his fingertips together as he circled the altar. "Cast the spell and you can go free."
Willow looked up at Doc from where she sat on the floor cradling her broken wrist. The knife cut on her stomach stung and she could feel little rivulets of blood seeping from it. She was finding it hard to focus and had to fight against the urge to lie down on the stone floor and sleep. She took a deep breath and then replied. "You're lying. You're not going to let me go. I'm not doing your spell," she tilted her head in Racks direction, "I don't care what you have him do to me."
A small smile crept onto Doc's face as he returned to stand in front of Willow. "It's not him you have to worry about anymore." He said evenly as he raised his hand towards Willow. "Hey, wanna see a trick?"
TBC.......
Grrr. I can't post it in one piece so the next part will follow.
[This message has been edited by canadian kitty (edited February 18, 2002).]
by Tiggrscorpio » Mon Feb 18, 2002 6:24 pm
------------------
She's my everything!
by Scout » Mon Feb 18, 2002 7:23 pm
But I loved this installment - very exciting. And poor Will - hurry Tara, hurry!
by xita » Mon Feb 18, 2002 10:13 pm
by LeatherQueen » Mon Feb 18, 2002 11:59 pm
And yay on Willow for refusing to do any spells.
------------------
"Honey, I'm the original one-eyed chicklet in the kingdom of the blind." -Glory
by jomarch » Tue Feb 19, 2002 1:43 am
by Kel » Tue Feb 19, 2002 2:05 am
and me too for a kicks ass Tara scene
Kel
by ForeverPiper » Tue Feb 19, 2002 5:00 am
by Garner » Tue Feb 19, 2002 3:12 pm
On the other hand, the section with Amy and Willow worked very well and we should remember that Amy and Willow were friends at one point and that is a history that might be overlooked, good job there. It occurs to me that the one way to get Willow to cast the spell would be to threaten to torture Amy while she watches. That should do the trick pretty easily.
I will look forward to seeing where you go with the rest,
Garner
by canadian kitty » Tue Feb 19, 2002 6:04 pm
I hope this part fulfils your desires for painful deaths. Such blood thirsty kitties.
Thanks again for your comments and support. Enjoy.
Title: Reunited
Rating: PG-13
Couples: W/T
Spoilers: Oh yeah, right up to Gone. If you're trying to stay clean then flee! Flee now!
Notes: Willow and Tara are the main focus of this story, however I tried to write it as I thought it might play out on the show (Pffff! Listen to me. As if this piece of crud will ever even remotely resemble the brilliant plot twists Josh has planned for us this season) so all main characters have their scenes. Think of it as a W/T centric episode with all those annoying filler scenes revolving around the other, less important characters, as sandwich breaks.
Archiving: Umm, ok. But asked first.
Feedback: Sure. Take special care to point out all the plot holes and dumbass mistakes. Although I think Rane has saved me from most of the impending embarrassment.
Copyright: In the fantasy world in which I spend most of my time BTVS, all its characters, spin-offs, comic books, animated series, merchandise, etc, are mine all mine. But in the real world, a place I rarely visit, they belong to some guy called Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy.
Summary: I am way too long-winded to sum up this story in a few lines.
Thanks: I humbly bow to my magnificent beta reader Rane, without whom this story would certainly never have been written, let alone posted. Oh great Weevil Faerie Otter Princess I know you and Ruth share a miraculous love but, marry me?
Post 13
Buffy climbed over the lip of the roof, followed quickly by Spike. They stood quietly as they took in their surroundings. The roof was flat and empty except for a large glass dome skylight protruding from its center. Without a word they cautiously approached the skylight and peered down into the room. It was difficult to see through the dirty glass and SpikeÕs attempt to clean some of the dirt off with the sleeve of his jacket only managed to smear it more.
Buffy placed her face close to the glass and squinted. The figures appeared somewhat blurred but she could make out Willow sitting on the floor in front of a stone altar. Kneeling in front of her was Doc. He seemed to be speaking to Willow as he rose and circled the altar. Buffy's eyes wander further afield and she noticed Rack, Amy and two Sub'ordii demons standing around the room. One of the demons seemed to be restraining Amy.
"Looks like the gangs all here." Quipped Spike dryly as he looked down into the room.
"I see one door there," she pointed, "and a hallway."
"Yeah. So what's the plan of attack?".
"Go get the others. You and Tara take the hallway. Xander and Anya the door." She instructed. "And until we know otherwise Amy's one of the bad guys."
"What about you."
"I'll meet you in the middle," Buffy's fingers fiddled with the skylight's latch, testing its creak factor. "Hurry."
"Right." Spike ran to the edge and quickly disappeared from Buffy's view. The Slayer turned to look down into the room at Willow. "Hold on Will." She whispered.
*****
Tendrils of red energy shot out from Doc's palm and enveloped Willow. She cried out in pain as the energy hit her. Her nerve endings screamed as they were overloaded and Willow slumped to the floor as her body twitched and shook.
****
Buffy's hand snapped back from the latch she had been quietly opening when she saw the energy hit her best friend. "Willow!" she yelled as she jumped feet first through the skylight.
*****
Willow was sure she was dying. The energy hummed in her ears and blackness clawed its way across her vision. Her muscles would no longer listen to her minds commands to be still but twitched uncontrollably. The pain was searing and she couldn't stand it any longer. She just wanted to let go. 'Tara, I'm so sorry.' She thought as she began to let herself slip away. Suddenly her mind registered the sound of glass shattering. At least she thought it was glass. It had been muffled by the hum of magik around her. Then just as suddenly her body was released from the energy that had encased her. Her muscles twitched once more and then relaxed.
*****
Buffy crashed through the glass dome, landing skillfully in the middle of the stone altar. Doc, startled by the interruption, released Willow and swiveled to regard the intruder. Buffy quickly assumed a defensive posture and looked squarely at Doc. "Didn't I push you off a tower?" she quipped wryly. The little demon raised an eyebrow. "Didn't you jump off one?" he countered.
Before Buffy could respond Rack came charging at her, his knife held high. She swiftly kicked him in the face, sending him flying. She looked back at Doc in time to see him flinging a ball of energy at her. The ball struck the altar as Buffy back flipped into the air. A piece of stone caught her in the right leg unbalancing her landing and causing her to fall to the floor. Doc stepped forward readying another energy ball when the wooden door across the room flew open revealing Anya carrying a sword and Xander an axe. He turned towards them and released the sphere. Xander grabbed Anya and dove behind the overturned wardrobe. The energy struck the wooden wardrobe and one end of it burst into flames. They scampered away from the fire only to come face to face with a Sub'ordii demon.
****
The demon holding Amy threw her aside, smashing her into the wall where she slumped to the ground and lay still. It rushed to attack the intruders only to be tackled by Spike who had just emerged from the hallway with Tara. Tara's eyes darted around the room until they came to rest on Willow's crumpled form lying on the floor. "Willow!" she screamed as she rushed towards the redhead.
*****
Xander swung his axe at the demon as it swung its hand, claws fully extended, at Anya. The blade of the axe connected with the demons claws and severed them at the fingers. It howled in pain and grabbed Xander by the front of his shirt, lifting him into the air. Anya hacked away at its scaly back trying to penetrate its tough skin. "What is it with you demons and your need to hurt my fiancŽ!" she yelled.
*****
Tara dropped to her knees as she reached Willow. She rolled the redhead onto her back and cradled her head in her lap. Willow's eyes were closed and blood dripped from her mouth and nose. "Will? God please Willow say something!" The panic in her voice rose when Willow did not respond. "You have to be alright. I'm here." A sob broke from Tara as she leaned down to gently kissed Willow's forehead, her lips lingering on the hackerÕs skin. Suddenly she felt the brow furrow under her lips. "Willow?" She quickly drew back to look at Willow's face.
'I definitely must be dieing', thought Willow, 'I'm starting to hallucinate. I'm hearing Tara's voice and feeling her kiss me. But that kiss felt so real, so gentle, just like Tara. But it couldn't really be her could it?' Willow fought to gain control of her facial muscles. "Tara?" she finally croaked as her eyelids fluttered in an attempt to open.
"Willow," Tara sighed in relief. "It's ok. You're going to be ok now."
"Tara?" Willow repeated as her eyes finally opened enough for her to see that it was indeed Tara holding her. "Is it really you?" she asked, still not believing what her eyes were telling her.
"Yes, Willow, it's me and Buffy and everyone else. We're here to save you." Tears ran down Tara's face. "Now lie still, while I take a look at you." TaraÕs hand gently grazed over the gash along WillowÕs hairline as her eyes drifted down her body. She took note of the odd angle Willow's hand was resting at and concluded that her wrist must be broken. She could see blood seeping from a cut across her stomach and lifted the shirt to get a better look. The cut was not deep but it would likely need a few stitches. As she drew back the shirt further she noticed several burns on Willow's torso. She held back another sob as she thought of the pain her love must be in. Her examination was cut short by Willow trying to speak to her.
"Tara," Willow swallowed hard trying to suck in air.
"Shhh Willow." Tara ran her hand through red hair. "We can talk later."
"No," she looked up at Tara. "I need to tell you," tears formed in the corners of her eyes, "at the cemetery, that wasn't me. I, I wasn't-"
"Willow shh, I know. We all know Rack was there."
"You do?" Willow's voice was barely a whisper now. She paused for a moment, taking in a deep breath and then let the words gush from her lips. "I'm so sorry , for everything. I really am." She winced from the pain so much talking was causing but continued. "And I'm sorry I was going to leave. You were right. I should have stayed and tried to win you back, tried to make things right. I was being a coward."
"Willow it's ok. I know." Tara's fingers caressed Willow's cheek softly. "Everything's going to be fine now."
*****
Buffy, having recovered while Doc was distracted sprang over the broken pieces of the altar to land in front of him. He turned to look at her just as she delivered a series of punches to his stomach, causing him to stagger backwards. "This time I'm gonna make sure I kill you." she said as she kicked him in the face lifting him into the air. As he soared backwards into the pile of chairs against the wall, the amulet flew up over his head and fell to the floor, skidding away from him. "No!" he shouted as he was entangled in chair legs.
Buffy watched as the amulet slide across the floor, coming to rest not far from where Tara held Willow. "Tara!" she yelled. As the blond looked up at her Buffy pointed to the amulet. "Do the spell!" Suddenly she felt something strike her in the side, knocking her to the floor. She regained her feet in time to see Doc's tongue slipping back into his mouth. She looked down at her shirt to find it covered in slim. "Ewww! I just had this shirt dry cleaned!" Fuming, she launched herself at the demon.
*****
Tara gently shifted Willow's head out of her lap and placed it on the floor. "Don't leave me." whispered Willow.
Tara's heart ached. She didn't want to leave Willow when she obviously needed help. But the spell had to be done. She bent down and kissed Willow's pale cheek. "I have to. But I'll be back." She whispered, looking into green eyes. Willow reached over and tried to grasp Tara's hand but found herself unable to make her hand curl around the blonde's. Tara saw Willow's difficulty and gently grasped the injured redhead's hand. "Promise?" Willow asked. Tara smiled lovingly. "I promise."
With one last gentle squeeze Tara released WillowÕs hand and ran over to the amulet. Picking it up she looked over to where Xander and Anya were getting the upper hand on their demon. "Anya!" Anya glanced over at Tara and nodded. She looked at Xander who was smashing the blunt end of his axe into the demons face. "Will you be ok?" she asked, concerned over leaving him alone to fight the demon. "Yeah. Go. I've got it on the ropes." Anya nodded and ran towards Tara who was already pouring out the ingredients from the pouch around her in a circle.
"Do you need any help?", she asked as she reached Tara.
"No I-", Tara raised her head to look at the ex-demon and her eyes widened. "Anya look out!" But her warning came to late. A chair leg connected with the side of Anya's head. Her sword flew out of her hand and skidded away. Rack leered at Tara as Anya slumped to the floor.
****
Spike wasn't fairing well. He had foolishly brought no weapon and was losing his hand-to-hand fight with the demon. 'These buggers are bloody well tough' he thought as he repeatedly pounded his fists into the demonÕs chest with only moderate success. He kicked the demon hard and it stumbled back away from him. "What I wouldn't do for a sword!" he muttered to himself. At that moment Anya's sword slide past him, coming to a stop in front of the cell. Spike arched an eyebrow and then lunged for the sword.
****
"Well, well. Look what I got here. Strawberry's little plaything." Rack's smile widened as he stepped towards Tara. "Whoa, you got a little power yourself don't you? I can feel it," he licked his lips, "I think I'll have to have myself a little taste of what Strawberry found so irresistible."
"Stay back." Warned Tara fiercely.
Rack chuckled. "Oh, I like my women fighsty." Rack lunged at her, bringing his palm up and laying it flat against Tara's chest. There was a burst of white light around Tara and Rack's eyes widened in surprise as the energy blew him backwards.
****
As Spike bent down to retrieve the sword Rack flew overhead, smashing into the cell and slumping to the ground. Startled, Spike glanced in the direction Rack had come from and found Tara trying to revive an unconscious Anya, a white glow fading from around her. "I guess she was doing more in the back than mixing spell ingredients." He muttered to himself. Further musing was cut short as Spike heard a loud growl behind him. He immediately rolled away from the noise and jumped to his feet, holding his sword aloft. He smirked at the demon. "Rules of the game just change mate."
*****
Tara checked Anya's pulse and pupils. Anya would probably be fine but she wouldn't wake up. Tara quickly looked around the room for anyone else to help her but found them all busy fighting. She looked over at Willow who seemed to be drifting in and out of consciousness and then realized that she would have to do the spell without a safety net. Fear rose up within her as her mind was bombarded with memories of what it had been like for her when Glory had taken her mind. She had told Willow and the Scoobies that it had been awful but she had given them no specifics, not even Willow. It had been too painful for her to think about, let alone describe to others. Instead she had tried to bury those memories at the back of her mind where they would not disturb her. But now, at the thought of experiencing it all again, the memories flooded back to her.
Tara's grip on the amulet in her hand tightened as she took a deep breath. She looked once more at Willow and her resolve hardened. Tara pored out the rest of the spells ingredients, completing the circle and then slipped the amulet's chain over her head.
****
Willow willed the fog to clear from her vision. As it receded she saw Tara standing in the middle of a sacred circle not far from her. She watched in horror as the blond raised the amulet in the air and placed the chain over her neck. "Tara don't!" she tried to yell but it came out only as a whisper. "Tara take it off!" she cried softly. "It's cursed!" But the blond showed no signs that she had heard Willow's pleas. "Tara!"
*****
As Tara slipped the amulet on she could feel it's power flow through her. She had never experienced anything like it. Suddenly voices cried out in her head. There were many of them, all screaming in pain. A vision of the city of Veii sprang up before Tara's eyes. She could see the people running for their lives as the city collapsed around them. She could hear their screams and smell the burning of flesh as flames engulfed the city. Her knees began to buckle as her senses were overloaded but then she heard her name being called faintly in a voice she knew well. Tara shook her head and blinked. The vision disappeared and she saw Willow staring at her from the ground. Tara smiled sadly and began to chant.
*****
Buffy deliver a blow to Doc's stomach. He stumbled sideways slightly but recovered quickly. He backhanded the Slayer with more force than his stature would have indicated and quickly grabbed her by the shirt, intending to push her backwards. But Buffy skillfully broke his grip, delivered two punches to his face and shoved him to the ground. Doc's tongue lashed out at her but she ducked just in time and it connected with the wall. The tongue was retracted and redeployed in one swift motion.
This time however Buffy grabbed the end with both hands, holding it in a steel Slayer grip. "Is this it? Is this all you got? You loose your little necklace and your only weapon is a slimy tongue?" Buffy arched both eyebrows quizzically. "Cause if it is I'm all kinds of disappointed." Buffy jerked the tongue hard to the left causing Doc to be thrown into the wall. She jerked it back in the other direction, this time letting go, and watched as he sailed through the air hitting the far wall with a satisfying crunch. Buffy wiped her hands roughly on her pants. ÒMight as well make a matching setÓ she sighed as she took in her appearance. She sprinted towards Doc to continue her pummeling.
****
As Tara chanted she could feel the amulet resting against her chest begin to heat. She focused on her words and increased the tempo of her chant, wanting to complete the spell as quickly as possible. Suddenly another vision appeared. Tara saw Rack delivering a witch to Doc. She watched as the witch was placed before a small vial and asked to cast a spell, handed to her by the demon. The girl hesitated but was encouraged by Rack who placed a hand on her back, causing the witch to smile in pleasure as his magik swirled into her. As she recited the spell red energy began to shoot out from her fingers into the vial. Then it began to pour from her mouth, eyes and ears. The girlÕs face twisted in horror and pain as her energy was bled from her. Finally the transfer was complete and the girl slumped to the floor dead. Tara watched as the process was repeated over and over again. Her mind spun and her chant faltered. It was becoming difficult to concentrate. Why was she chanting anyway? She felt the heat from the amulet increase and could smell the fabric of her shirt burning. The smell cleared her head slightly and brought her back to the room as the vision faded. She took a breath and resumed the spell.
****
Willow could see that Tara was struggling to complete the spell. 'The amulets hurting her.' Thought Willow. 'I have to get it off her. I can't let her do this. I don't care what happens. I won't lose her again.' Willow began to drag her uncooperative body towards Tara.
****
Xander grabbed the axe handle with both hands and swung it in a wide arch with all his might. It connected with the demonÕs midsection and was imbedded up to the handle in demon flesh. The Sub'ordii grunted once and tumbled to the ground. Xander kicked it to ensure it was dead and then grinned satisfactorily. He grabbed the axe handle casually as he stepped away from the carcass only to have his body jerked back when the axe refused to release itself from the demon. He pulled harder on the handle but the axe still did not move. "I must be stronger than I thought," snorted Xander proudly as he looked around to see if anyone else had noticed his accomplishment. The small smile on his face quickly fell away as he saw Anya lying on the ground and Rack picking himself up of the floor and charging towards and oblivious Tara. His hands abandoned the axe as he raced to intercept Rack.
*****
Doc stumbled up from the ground, turning to see the Slayer bearing down on him. His mouth opened to deliver another saliva covered attack but Buffy was quicker, smacking the side of his head with a round house kick. Doc swayed to the left but he kept his feet and grabbed Buffy's wrist as she swung at him. He smashed his forehead into hers and grinned as she stumbled back under the blow.
*****
Xander closed on Rack at full speed. Just as he came within reach Rack noticed his approach and stopped suddenly, causing Xander to lurch past him. A kick to his back sent him flailing to the ground. As he tried to lift himself up Rack delivered several blows to the back of his head, dropping him back to the stone floor, where he lay still. As Rack refocused on Tara he caught a glint of metal out of the corner of his eye. He glanced at the ground to his right and saw his knife lying there; it's blade shining in the candlelight. He went to retrieve his possession and then turned his attention back to the object of his rage. A cruel snarl issued from his lips as he rushed towards the blonde.
*****
Willow inched closer to Tara at a painfully slow pace. She was close enough now to see the beads of perspiration trickling down Tara's face as she continued to cast the spell. The blond was swaying slightly from the effort and Willow feared she would not make it in time to save her. She paused to rest. Her body was soaked with sweat from the exertion and it screamed at her to stop. She rested her cheek on the cool stone floor for a moment. But only for a moment. She had to save Tara. As she raised her head to continue her journey her heart stopped at what she saw. Rack was rushing at Tara, his eyes filled with rage and a knife raised, ready to strike, in his hand. Tara, her eyes closed as she concentrated on the spell, was oblivious to his approach. "Tara!" screamed Willow, her voice finally managing to be more than a whisper.
Tara's eyes snapped open and saw Rack running towards her wielding a knife. But she couldn't stop to defend herself; she had to finish the spell. Again her tempo increased. Rack reached Tara and drew back the knife to stab her. But just as he thrust his hand forward the last word of the spell fell from Tara's lips. Immediately the amulet glowed brightly, causing Rack to halt his attack and shield his eyes. The amulet shook violently on its chain and then a loud crack was heard as part of the amulet broke away and fell to the floor. The energy contained in the gem burst forth in a large circular stream, blasting straight through Rack's chest as his face contorted in surprise and pain. Tara watched amazed as Rack's body disintegrated before her and then she dropped to her knees in exhaustion.
Willow watched Rack disappear and Tara fall to her knees. As Tara leaned forward, placing her hands against the floor to steady herself Willow saw what was left of the amulet dangling from the chain around her neck. "Tara! Take of the necklace!" she yelled but the blonde only blinked slowly and sunk the rest of the way to the floor. With strength she didn't think she still possessed Willow crawled towards her as fast as she could. Tara lay on her side, a distant look starting to form in her eyes. A look Willow knew all too well. Increasing her efforts she finally reached the blonde. Her body groaned in pain as Willow reached out with her good hand and ripped the amulet from around Tara's neck, tossing it away.
"Tara? Tara are you ok?" Her hand ran slowly through blond hair as she lay beside her and stared into the blonde's eyes. "Tara say something. Please." But the azure eyes in front of her looked vacantly into space. "No! Tara please come back to me. Please!" Willow demanded. In desperation she closed her eyes and leaned her head forward, touching her lips to Tara's as salty tears fell down her face. 'I've lost her' was the only thought in Willow's mind as she tenderly kissed Tara.
A kiss that was suddenly being returned. Willow's eyes blinked open to see aware blue ones looking back at her. Willow broke the kiss. "Tara," she gasped, "You're alright.Ó Relief began to flood through her but fear still gripped her heart. ÒYou are aren't you?" A weak but glowing smile spread across Tara's face. "I'm fine thanks to you." Her hand came up to caress Willow's cheek. The redhead closed her eyes at the touch. 'Tara's safe. She's ok' thought Willow happily as she smiled. Unbidden the pain that she had suppressed in order to help Tara rushed back, overwhelming her. Tara watched as the smile faded slowly from Willow's face and the redhead became still. "Will?"
******
Spike rammed his sword through the demon's chest for the third time. "Would you just die!" he huffed as he withdrew the blade and prepared to thrust again. But before he could ram the sword forward the demon dropped to the floor, emitting a low slurping sound before it stopped moving.
*******
Doc caught the SlayerÕs foot as she swung it through the air at him and shoved her backwards. As she tumbled to the floor along side the prone Sub'ordii demon a loud crack sounded through the room. Doc turned towards the sound and when he saw what had produced it he let out a blood-curdling shriek. Buffy glanced over at the axe sticking out of the demon's chest and swiftly ripped it from it's bloody sheath as she flipped to her feet. "Aww. Looks like your necklace is broken," she taunted as she swung the axe back behind her head. Doc turned to face her. "It didn't really go with your eyes anyway." Buffy swung the axe powerfully through the air, it's blade passing through Doc's neck, severing his head cleanly from his body.
********
Xander shook his head slowly and grabbed at his back as he lifted himself off the floor. He looked over to see Anya clutching her head and trying to lift herself off the floor. Xander hurried to her side. "An, are you ok?" He slowly helped her sit up. "No. I have a concussion. Another concussion. I would just like to state right now that I am not, I repeat not, filling Giles role as the concussion receiver."
*****
Buffy rushed over to where a distraught Tara was shaking an unconscious Willow. "Willow! Please wake up!" Tara sobbed, but the redhead did not respond. Buffy dropped down to her knees beside Tara and gently grabbed her hands, removing them from Willow's shoulders. Tara struggled against the Slayer's grip. "No! She has to wake up." Tara's body shook with anguish and she looked pleadingly at Buffy. "Tara, just calm down." Buffy released her grip and check Willow's pulse. It was there but barely. She glanced up to see Xander and Anya walking towards them. "Xander get an ambulance now!" Xander bolted for the door, nearly bowling over Spike on his way out. Anya knelt down next to Buffy. "Is she going to be ok?" she asked softly, her voice filled with more emotion than she would ever admit too. Tara brushed Willow's hair back from her forehead and stroked the top of her head. " She'll be fine. Everything's fine." she said in an almost trance like tone. "She'll be ok." Anya glanced at Buffy, the look on the Slayer's face telling her Buffy wasn't quite as sure of the outcome as Tara.
TBC.....
[This message has been edited by canadian kitty (edited February 19, 2002).]
by Scout » Tue Feb 19, 2002 7:20 pm
And so much W/T goodness – so great on a night when we don’t have a new eppie. Although my heart stopped when Will saw the distant look in Tara’s eyes. Bad memories. Fortunately, the outcome was much better this time.
Much thanks for the update and I’m looking forward to the ending!
by tiger17 » Tue Feb 19, 2002 8:00 pm
by Mini-ALF » Tue Feb 19, 2002 9:11 pm
Michelle
by Pixie » Tue Feb 19, 2002 9:50 pm
by Bobo's Mom » Tue Feb 19, 2002 10:00 pm
I'm really enjoying this story. Keep up the good work. One small note, however. You are good at writing action. If you edit this in the future, consider expanding some of your discriptions, length be damned. Like a good action scene in the movies, I wanted this to go on and on!
Looking foreward to the next update -
BM
------------------
TARA: Willow and I always know how to find each other!
ANYA: With yoga?
****************
BUFFYBOT: That'll put marzipan in your pie plate, bingo!
by canadian kitty » Wed Feb 20, 2002 4:50 am
and Bob's Mom, the original version was actually longer but i was worried that my muse was getting carried away a bit so i chopped it back. I guess that will teach me to go agains the muse. Her instincts are better than mine.
Thanks all!
by willterra » Thu Feb 21, 2002 11:04 am
Gem
by canadian kitty » Thu Feb 21, 2002 6:51 pm
Take note that this part contains some medical jargon and such. Now if I took a pin head and divided it into quarters the amount of medical knowledge I possess still wouldn't fill one of those pieces. So, like the good little scientist that i am (bleh) I searched the internet and did a little research so that i wouldn't look like a complete dumbass. Be gentle.
Title: Reunited
Rating: PG-13
Couples: W/T
Spoilers: Oh yeah, right up to Gone. If you're trying to stay clean then flee! Flee now!
Notes: Willow and Tara are the main focus of this story, however I tried to write it as I thought it might play out on the show (Pffff! Listen to me. As if this piece of crud will ever even remotely resemble the brilliant plot twists Josh has planned for us this season) so all main characters have their scenes. Think of it as a W/T centric episode with all those annoying filler scenes revolving around the other, less important characters, as sandwich breaks.
Archiving: Umm, ok. But asked first.
Feedback: Sure. Take special care to point out all the plot holes and dumbass mistakes. Although I think Rane has saved me from most of the impending embarrassment.
Copyright: In the fantasy world in which I spend most of my time BTVS, all its characters, spin-offs, comic books, animated series, merchandise, etc, are mine all mine. But in the real world, a place I rarely visit, they belong to some guy called Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy.
Summary: I am way too long-winded to sum up this story in a few lines.
Thanks: I humbly bow to my magnificent beta reader Rane, without whom this story would certainly never have been written, let alone posted. Oh great Weevil Faerie Otter Princess I know you and Ruth share a miraculous love but, marry me?
Part 14
The second hand ticked slowly around the clock's face, taunting Tara as she sat listlessly on the hospital waiting room couch. It had been over two hours since she and Buffy had burst through the emergency room doors, trailing behind the stretcher carrying an unconscious Willow. Doctors and nurses had swarmed around Willow collecting medical information from the paramedics and shouting out orders. As Willow had been whisked through the trauma room doors Tara had rushed forward to follow, unwilling to leave her side, but an intern had blocked the entrance, gently restraining her until Buffy had pulled Tara into a hug and guided her to the couch.
Tara continued to stare at the clock through red, swollen eyes. She had stopped crying an hour ago, her body simply running out of tears. The spell had taken a lot out of her and she was dead tired. She pinched the bridge of her nose, closing her eyes as she tried to will away her pounding headache. 'What's taking them so long?' Tara glanced down the hall at the doors Willow had disappeared through earlier. 'She has to be ok. She has to be.' Tara rubbed her eyes with the sleeve of her shirt and looked at the wet spot the action had produced. 'Guess I'm not as out of tears as I thought.' Light footsteps behind her signaled the return of Buffy. The Slayer stepped up to the couch an extended a coffee carrying hand, offering the cup but the offer was declined.
Buffy frowned. "Come on Tara. You look ready to drop. You'll be no good to Will if you can't keep your eyes open." Buffy shoved the coffee cup closer to Tara but still she did not take the beverage. "Don't make me force you to drink this," Buffy said sternly, "Cause I will. Just ask Willow." She smiled pleadingly, hoping the blonde wouldn't call her bluff.
Tara smiled softly, knowing full well Buffy had no intention of forcing her to do anything. She took the hot coffee from her as the Slayer sat down on the couch next to her. "Thank you."
"Score another point for Slayer resolve." Buffy joked, trying to lighten the atmosphere a bit. Tara smiled weakly at the joke but it didn't reach her eyes. Buffy reached over and placed a hand on her knee, giving it a gentle squeeze. "She'll be ok. Will's tough." Tara smiled gratefully at Buffy and took a sip of her coffee. Silence decended upon the room as both women struggled to find something to occupy their minds.
ÒGood coffeeÓ offered Tara, swirling the black liquid around in her cup. ÒHow did you know I liked it black?Ó
A fond smile spread over the SlayerÕs face. ÒWillow and I went for coffee the other day and, well, you know Will, sheÕs always got a Tara related fact for every situation.Ó
ÒOh.Ó Tara looked down into the plastic container, her hair dropping forward to conceal part of her face. Buffy mentally kicked herself. Non-Willow thoughts moron! She glanced guiltily around the room, racking her brain for a topic of conversation.
ÒSoooÉÓ Think damn you. Talk about the weather; her shoes, which are kind of nice actually. Say something. Speak! ÒUmmmÉ oh! WhatÕs with the glowy?Ó
TaraÕs brow wrinkled as she looked over at Buffy. ÒWhat?Ó
ÒThe white flashy and glowy thing you had going back at DocÕs. I kind of caught the show out of the corner of my eye in between slime attacks. You certainly gave Rack quite the surprise.Ó
ÒOh, that.Ó The blonde paused to take a sip of coffee. ÒI did a protection spell on myself back at the Magic Box.Ó
Buffy arched an eyebrow. ÒWasnÕt that kind of a risk? What with the amulet and all. I mean if Doc had still been wearing it you could have been killed.Ó
ÒWell technically I had cast the spell at the shop so I wasnÕt actively casting in the presence of the amulet and Anya said..Ó Buffy looked skeptically at Tara. ÒOk, so it was kind of risky but-Ò.
"Buffy!" came Dawn's voice from down the hall as the teen rushed towards them. Buffy stood up as Dawn reached her and gave her sister a big hug. After a few moments Dawn pulled out of the hug and looked down at Tara who still sat on the couch. Without a word the teen dropped down in front of the blond and wrapped her arms lovingly around Tara. "Dawnie" whispered Tara as she returned the embrace. Dawn pulled back slightly but did not end the hug. "Is Willow alright?" she asked hopefully. Tara reached up and pushed a few strands of hair behind her ear. "We haven't heard anything yet but I'm sure she is fine."
"What happened?" asked Dawn as she stood up beside Buffy. "Xander wasn't big with the details on the way over. He said something about Rack and, and Doc," Dawn shivered slightly at the mention of Doc as she remembered her last encounter with the little demon, "and that magik amulet." Dawn paused and quickly looked back and forth between her sister and Tara, "Willow didn't hurt herself did she? Did she use magik?" That thought was upsetting. Willow had been doing well and although things were still a bit rocky between them, Dawn had been looking forward to the return of the redhead she admired so much.
"No Dawnie," said Tara soothingly, " She didn't use any magik. Doc and Rack wanted her to cast a spell for them and she wouldn't," Tara's voice was clear and her eyes shone proudly for a moment and then her voice dropped to a whisper, "So they... they hurt her." Tara shifted uncomfortably and looked down at the couch. Dawn glanced fearfully at Buffy. "But it's not that bad right?"
Buffy reached over and flipped Dawn's hair back over her shoulder. "It will be ok." she said as she continued to play with her sister's hair. Deciding a change in conversation was in order Buffy inquired. "Where is Xander anyway?"
"He's parking the car. He said he was going to check on Anya first and then come here."
"How is Anya?" asked Tara, thankful for the brief distraction.
Dawn let out a little snort of laughter. "Fine. I could hear her yelling at the doctor when I passed outpatients on my way here. She was telling them that there was no way in-" Dawn glanced at Buffy, quickly deciding for her own sake to provide the G rated version of Anya's outburst, "this world," Buffy and Tara smirked, knowing full well that wasn't what Anya had said, "that she was going to stay overnight for observation unless they guaranteed she would be released tomorrow in time to open the shop at nine."
"Anya caring more about money than her own health? Yup, she's fine." Quipped Buffy as she sat back down beside Tara. "What about Amy?"
"Oh yeah," Dawn rolled her eyes in disgust, "Spike called to say he took rat girl to her house. She didn't want to go to the hospital. He said he would keep an eye on her for the night, make sure she doesn't sneak off or anything. What's her deal anyway?"
"I don't know." Buffy replied honestly. "I think maybe she was-"
The sound of doors opening caused Buffy to stopped speaking and all three of them glanced up to see a doctor carrying a clipboard step into the waiting room. Tara and Buffy immediately recognized him as one of the doctors that had left with Willow earlier and both quickly stood. He looked up from his clipboard at the room's three occupants. "Are you the ones who brought in Ms. Rosenberg?" he asked politely.
Tara stepped forward quickly. "How is she? Can I see her?" she asked urgently.
The doctor smiled sympathetically and held the clipboard to his chest. "I'm Dr. Myers. Are you family?"
"N-no. I'm," Tara paused for a moment, not sure how to respond. "I'm her girlfriend."
"Oh", said Dr. Myers. To his credit he managed to keep most of the surprise out of his voice. "Are you Tara?"
Tara nodded, a puzzled look on her face. "Yes, but how did you... is she awake?" she asked hopefully.
"Well I'm really only supposed to discuss a patient's condition with their immediate family but-"
"But we are her family!' shouted Dawn, "I mean she lives with all of us and we know her way better than her parents do! They don't even pay attention to her, they never did and-"
Buffy placed a calming hand on Dawn's shoulder. "Dawn." She said firmly, silencing her sister. She looked squarely at the doctor. "We are her family", she stated calmly but forcefully, "Maybe not in the genetic sense but we're as close as you're going to get right now. Her parents are out of the country and I haven't been able to contact them yet."
"Please. I need to know if she is alright." Pleaded Tara.
Dr. Myers waved his hands slowly in the air, hoping to signal his surrender. "Calm down. If you had let me finish I was going to tell you that under the circumstances I'll share Ms. Rosenberg's condition with you." He looked at Tara as he continued. "I know who you are because Willow regained consciousness for a few moments and asked for you."
Tara's heart leap with joy upon hearing that Willow had awoken but then her brain processed the doctor's full statement. "Wait. What do you mean for a few moments?"
Dr. Myers brow furrowed and he smiled weakly. "Let's take a seat." He gestured to the couch and chairs.
But Tara stood her ground. "No. I need you to tell me now how Willow is." She demanded.
Dr. Myers sighed. "And I will but I think you should sit down. You look ready to collapse. After we're done here I want you to let me take a look at you. Now sit."
Buffy placed a hand on Tara's shoulder. "Come on" she whispered lightly and moved her back to the couch.
Once they were all settled the doctor began. "First off I can tell you that Willow is going to be fine. She has already been moved to her room." Sighs of relief sounded in the room and Tara sunk back against Buffy's shoulder as she blissfully absorbed the doctor's statement. 'She's ok. She's ok. Thank god she's ok.' Tears of joy and relief threatened to spill down her cheeks but she held them in check, wanting to concentrate on what Dr. Myers was saying.
"The paramedics said that you told them she was struck by lightning, is that right?" Dr. Myers looked at the three faces in front of him for conformation.
Buffy quickly nodded. "Yes that's right. It, um, happened very suddenly. " Buffy lied. They couldn't have very well told the paramedics that Willow was attacked and magically fried by a demon so when they had arrived Buffy had blurted out the first thing that had come to her mind.
Dr. Myers nodded and glanced down at his clipboard. "Yes well that's consistent with her injuries." Buffy inwardly sighed in relief. "But what about the broken wrist and the concussion?"
"Oh," interjected Tara, "I think that happened when she fell. She landed quite hard." Tara gripped the front of her shirt, drawing the material up closer to her chin in the event that any tell tale spots appeared.
"Hmm" murmured the doctor as he wrote something on the chart. " And the cut?"
"Glass." Blurted Buffy. " Glass, from the window, through which the lightning came. Lots and lots of glass."
Dr. Myers raised an eyebrow but said nothing as he continued to scribble his notes.
"Please," Said Tara, "could you just tell us how she is?"
"Sorry," Dr Myers looked guiltily at Tara and then cleared his throat. "Willow was hit with an awful lot of energy. Had the charge been much higher or longer it would have caused ventricular fibrillation and she would have been electrocuted." Tara's chest tightened as she realized how close she had come to losing Willow.
Dr. Myers caught the pained expression on Tara's face and quickly continued. "But she wasn't, "he smiled, " Her CT scan and ECG came back clean so there shouldn't be any worries there. However she has elevated muscle enzymes indicating significant muscle injury. And, of course, she has several burns over her body, but none of them are serious enough to worry about infection. I know this may seem ridiculous of me to say given all that she had been through but she really is very lucky."
"But she's going to be alright, right?" asked Dawn, her eyes still holding some apprehension.
Dr. Myers smiled. "Yes. It will probably be at least several days before she is recovered enough to leave the hospital and even then she will have to take it easy for quite some time."
"Can I see her?" Tara rose and looked down at the doctor with pleading eyes.
"Of course. But maybe just one at a time." He rose to stand by Tara. "I'll take you to her room." He gestured towards the hall, indicating they should follow him. After several turns they came to a halt in front of a private room with large observation windows. The window's blinds had been shut tight and the room's door was closed. Dr. Myers paused at the door and turned to regard the small group. "Just so you know, she is still in quite a bit of pain so we've had to medicate here rather heavily. She may not wake for some time." He opened the door and stood aside so Tara could enter. Once she was in the room he quietly closed the door and looked at Buffy and Dawn. "Let me show you two where this wings waiting room is."
*****
Tara stood transfixed, her eyes filling with tears as she took in the sight of Willow's fragile form sleeping in the bed before her. She blinked the tears away and approached the bed quietly as if fearful that any sudden noises might shatter the precious redhead. Moonlight filtered through the slats of the outside window's blind, striking Willows hair and face in thin lines. The silvery light added a cold hue to Willow's already pale skin. Tara slowly pulled a high chair from the corner and placed it next to the bed. She sank into it and reached out to touch Willow's unbandaged hand. She was relieved to find it warm to the touch. Encouraged, she grazed the back of her other hand over Willow's cheek and then traced the edges of the bandage covering part of Willow's forehead. "Oh Willow" she managed to utter before she broke down, lying her head on the bed next to her love as sobs racked her body.
*****
"So Anya's staying the night then?" asked Dawn as she munched her chocolate bar.
"Yeah," replied Xander, equally enjoying his bar of chocolaty goodness. "I talked her out of the written contract for early morning release. She accepted a verbal contract but only after half the floor's staff agreed to be witnesses."
Buffy came down the hall and stopped in front of Dawn and Xander. "Ok, let's get you home," she looked at Dawn as she picked up the teenagers jacket and handed it to her.
"But I want to see Willow." Said Dawn. "I thought the doctor said we could see her."
"He did but I just checked and Tara's still in there. She's kind of asleep." Buffy smiled as she remembered how she had peeked into Willow's room to see if Tara was ok only to find her asleep in a chair, her head resting on the bed and her arms draped possessively over Willow. "I spoke to Dr. Myers and he has agreed to let Tara stay over night on a cot in Willow's room. We'll come back first thing tomorrow ok?"
"Fine." Dawn said, giving in but not pleased about it. "But first thing, even before coffee."
"Ok. But without coffee I claim no responsibility for my actions during the day." Buffy smiled as she grabbed her own jacket. "Can you give us a ride tomorrow Xander?"
"Yeah, if you want to get up pre-bird." Xander smirked as he escorted Buffy and Dawn to his car. "Anya made me promise to be here at 7am. Two verbal contracts in one night. She was on a role."
*****
Tara's eyes slowly flittered open. She was momentarily confused by the pale beige wall that greeted her until her mind registered where she was and why. Panicking she quickly sat up in the small cot and twisted around to look at Willow. Her heartbeat returned to normal when she saw the redhead sleeping peacefully in the hospital bed. Tara stood and stretched. She winced a bit as her muscles protested, her body still feeling the effects of the spell. She glanced at the clock as she walked over and sat down in the chair by Willow's bed. 'Wow. 6am. So much for the ability of caffeine to keep you going.'
Tara looked lovingly down at Willow and was pleased to see that her cheeks had regained some of their color. She brushed her hand over one cheek and then up into Willow's red hair, running her fingers through it's length and then bringing them down to her forehead to start the process all over again. She stroked Willow's hair lightly, careful not to wake her. But the truth was she was dying to see those emerald green eyes. She knew Willow was ok. The steady rhythm of her breathing and pulse, the color in her cheeks, and the doctor's words attested to that. Still, Tara needed to see that sparkle only Willow's eyes held in order for it to be confirmed.
'Besides, we have a lot to talk about and I can't very well talk to her when she's sleeping,' Her fingers slipped from the red hair to gently brush across Willow's lips. 'Not that I'm going to bombard her with things when she wakes up. No she needs her rest and she's going to get it. Full Tara pampering until she's well.' Tara tilted her head slightly and slipped her fingers back into Willow's hair. 'Still I want to tell her how proud I am of her and how much I love her and, and that I want another chance with her.' She smiled to herself at this last thought. What Willow had done last night, the determination she had shown in resisting Doc and Racks' demands to cast a spell despite all the pain it had caused her was proof enough for Tara that Willow truly wanted to give up dark magik. She knew that there were still obstacles to overcome and that patching up their relationship would take time but she no longer doubted Willow's determination to leave dark magik behind and that meant there was a chance for them. A good chance.
Tara sighed contently as she envisioned the various ways in which they could rebuild their relationship. They had never really properly dated the first time around so the possible scenarios were endless. Tara was so caught up in her Willow-related thoughts that she didn't notice the two sparkling eyes observing her from the bed.
"Someone looks happy" whispered Willow. She had been trying for a playful tone but hadn't quite pulled it off, her vocal range still not fully returned.
Tara quickly looked down at Willow, the last of her fears lifting from her as she stared into green eyes. "Willow! You're awake. Thank god." Tara cupped the redhead's face with her hand as tears filled her eyes. "Are you ok? How do you feel? Are you in pain? Did I wake you?" Questions spilled from her mouth as she looked at Willow with concern.
Willow moved her uninjured hand towards Tara, who quickly clasped it in her own. "I'm fine. I mean I hurt and everything but I guess that just means I'm alive."
Tara squeezed Willow's hand gently and choked back a sob. "I was so scared," she whispered, "I thought I'd lost you."
"Me too. I almost let go." Willow admitted. "But then you came for me." Willow's brow furrowed and her eyes filled with sadness. "Why did you come Tara? After all that I've done to you, all the pain I've caused you. I didn't deserve to be saved."
"Stop it." Tara said fiercely. "You know that's not true. What you did tonight, I'm so proud of you. You were strong even when you thought you had nothing left to lose."
"But I did. I had myself to lose. Again. And I didn't want that." Willow blinked away the tears forming in her eyes, "Oh Tara I'm so sorry."
"For what?" Tara asked, perplexed at the reason for Willow's sudden apology.
"I put you in danger again. You could have been...hurt. If it hadn't been for me you wouldn't have had to put on that amulet. You risked so much Tara. I-"
"Shhh", Tara placed a delicate finger on Willow's lips. "We don't need to talk about this now. You need your rest and we'll have plenty of time to talk things out later."
"Really?" Willow couldn't keep the hopeful tone out of her voice.
Tara smiled down at Willow, noticing the hope and apprehension in her eyes. "Yes really." She bent down and gently brushed her lips across Willow's. It was the briefest of touches but both women felt the spark pass between them. Willow smirked as Tara pulled back. "I guess some charges are better than others."
"Yes they are." Tara chuckled, returning the smirk.
But her face became serious when she saw Willow yawn. "Now you should go back to sleep, you need your rest." She rose out of the chair but was prevented from standing up by Willow's refusal to release her hand.
"Tara don't go." Willow softy whispered in a child like voice.
Tara's lean in nearer to the redhead she adored and soothingly stroked her cheek. "Willow, I'm not leaving. I just wanted to let the doctor know you're awake. I promise I'll be right back." She bent down and placed a kiss on the redhead's forehead. She started to pull away again but still met with resistance.
"Tara." Willow's voice was now heavy with sleep.
"Yes"
"If you give me another chance I won't screw up, I promise", Willow's eyes drifted shut, "I wont let you go again." She murmured as sleep claimed her.
Tara gently laid Willow's hand on the bed and brushed a stray strand of hair out of the redhead's face. "I know." She whispered as she quietly slipped from the room, a brilliant smile on her face.
The End.
Once again I'd just like to thank you all for your comments and suggestions. As this was my first fanfic I had no idea how it would be recieved. I mainly write screenplay type stories and this was quite a departure for me. It's difficult to play with someone elses characters especially when those characters are so loved by so many. I hope I have done them justice.
I had planned an epilogue of sorts but then work came crashing in. But I am satisfied with the ending as is. I hope you are too.
Thank you for all your kindness.
[This message has been edited by canadian kitty (edited February 21, 2002).]
by bearskeeper » Thu Feb 21, 2002 8:33 pm
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"Yes. And then I'm going to marry Bob Dole and raise penguins in Guam" - Buffy
"Who's gonna stake me?"
"I'll do it...What, you thought I was just gonna let that lie there?" Spike/Buffy
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