A Taste For the Undead (AU)

[justin]

I'm really enjoying this story. It's an interesting take on S3

So Willow copied out the whole book of ascension? As Faith says that must have taken some time.

I can see a problem with the idea of splitting the book up. People with the later sections might have trouble understanding it if it reffers back to earlier pages.

[Harlequin]

Thanks for the comments and the interest

Chapter 16
Angelus stood and faced the seven leaders of various vampire clans standing in front of him. Spike was positioned behind and to his right while Willow was to his left. The clan leaders had been quiet upon entering with the exception of exchanging greetings. None of them had any idea that the position of power had been drastically altered by Mayor Wilkins but they were about to find that out. Straight ahead of Angelus stood a long ebony table with roughly fifty chairs situated. Angelus extended an arm towards the table where the Clan leaders began seating themselves. Angelus looked back at both Willow and Spike who remained focused on the guests. Angelus stepped forward but did not take a seat.

"As you can tell, things are a little bit different now. Normally, you guys could come to Sunnydale and raise hell without any worry which normally I'd say, 'I hope you raise Hell and it brings down this town' but that's not the case anymore. It is, but you guys aren't going to be planning it," Angelus began as a few murmurs of annoyance flitted about the room. Spike and Willow began to walk around behind the backs of the Clan leaders, casually surveying them as Angelus continued his spiel.

"See, there's new jurisdiction in Sunnydale. Spike, Willow, and yours truly are officially the head Clan of Sunnydale. Anything that happens basically goes through us," Angelus said with a smirk as one Clan leader growled.

"Why should we listen to you rat? All of us are older than you or anybody else in your 'Clan'," he rasped as Angelus nodded his head with a frown.

"The Mayor informed us that we run Sunnydale, just for the vampire Clans of course. Demons themselves can come in and do whatever they please. You guys, are under our control whether you like it or not. I really don't care if you like us, so long as you follow our rules. The rules are quite simple. Number one; There will be no killing of children period. That means anybody under the age of eighteen," Angelus began as grumbles of displeasure instantly arose.

"Bullshit, I'm not following that rule. What're you gonna do? Kill me?" laughed a Clan member as Willow silently crept up behind him. Angelus sighed as Willow looked at him gleefully, like a kid waiting to open a Christmas present.

"Have it your way then," remarked Angelus as Willow grinned. She quickly grabbed the head, twisting it and breaking its neck. It poofed into dust as the other Clan leaders looked in surprise at the redhead and then towards Angelus with slight fear.

"It's really fucking simple fellas. You follow the rules, you don't get killed. Now onto rule number two. Limit the body counts or at least bury the bodies or something. The Mayor doesn't need the bad PR, especially since this is an Election year and he has a minor bit of business to attend to. I'm sure you've heard of it. Ascension anyone?" asked Angelus as six vampire heads instantly swung towards one another to make sure they heard right.

"A-Ascension? Christ..." muttered a Clan leader as Spike smirked.

"Christ has nothing on Wilkins. Near as I can tell, Christ was a vampire himself...although he could heal," said Spike, suddenly lost in thought as Willow smiled.

"Now that we are all aware of the stakes, no pun intended, let's get onto the final rule. I know that five of you guys have Clans outside of this place. Some in San Diego, LA, San Francisco, so on and so forth. I'm not letting just any vampire with a chip on his shoulder waltzing in. Not this year and not with this much going on. You guys, if you want access to the Sunnydale population, will need to fight it out. You'll be placed in an underground pit roughly the size of this room. You'll fight to the death and whomever emerges victorious, gets to come to a Hellmouth. Is everybody clear on the rules now?" Angelus asked as only silence met him. He nodded his head. Spike and Willow walked back but Willow paused, smirking at Angelus. Spike eyed her as Angelus watched her curiously. Willow shrugged her shoulders and promptly dusted another Clan leader by twisting his head and snapping his neck. Angelus closed his eyes as Willow surveyed the other Clan leaders. They all instantaneously got up and half ran, half scrambled out of the room. Spike was grinning, always a fan of carnage as Angelus just glared.

"What the hell was that?" he asked as Willow was busy wiping her hands clean of the dust.

"He was mumbling about finding access on his own. That and he wasn't looking at me nicely," she whispered with a sly grin as Angelus just rolled his eyes and threw up his hands.

"Whatever, let's go," he commanded before turning and exiting the room. Spike sidled up to Willow.

"Nice show luv, next time though you might want to do something fancier. I recommend a few drops of holy water...tortures the bugger without killing him," he whispered before walking away. Willow smiled, pleased at the images that the words created.

*****

The library doors swung open as Giles and Wesley both glanced up. They had borrowed a white board after the teenagers had left and had many notes scribbled upon it. Most of it was still a work in progress however and they needed what the others had found in order to figure what was going on. Buffy, Xander, Faith, and Tara entered. They looked exhausted. thought Giles with a touch of admiration.

"H-Hello. Pleasure to see you guys back and ready to go," said Wesley with a slight pump of his fist. Buffy and Faith gave him a duel look of 'what a dork' as Xander ignored him. Tara smiled at him before sitting down though as Wesley sighed.

"Right..." he muttered to himself as Giles cracked a grin.

"Erm, did you guys find anything of importance?" he asked, eyes and ears instantly alert as Xander yawned.

"Next time you want to do a study session Giles, I recommend starting earlier in the day," remarked Xander as Giles shot him a look.

"All I was able to find was that The Mayor needed to ingest something. The Box of Havenot or the Box of Ravblock, I really hope you're understanding this because I don't think I can read it again," moaned Buffy, rubbing her temples for extra emphasis. Giles' eyes shown with a glimmer of hope as he quickly rifled over the pages of his collection.

"I believe I know what you're talking about...where is it...ah! here! The Box of Gavrock yes?" he asked Buffy as she looked back at him.

"You're the research guy and expert on paranormal Giles. I'm Buffy, she of the barely passing English with a D," she mumbled as Faith and Tara shot each other a smirk.

"Erm, I couldn't find anything detailing the exact erm, details of this Box of Gavrock but odds are that it'll be of vital importance," he said as Faith snorted.

"I never would've known it'd be of vital importance Giles. We're teenagers, some of us may be failing or almost failing English but we aren't slow on the uptake," quipped Faith as Giles just took off his glasses and rubbed them.

"I did find out that The Mayor will transform. He'll be a d-demon, however I think there was something different about it but I couldn't find out what it was," Tara said as Wesley perked his head up.

"A demon? Did it happen to mention what kind?" he asked as Tara shook her head.

"No, however it said demon like it was different. Like it was different from the ones we face everyday here in Sunnydale," she replied as Giles and Wesley looked at each other confused.

"Different huh? Well uh, I'll try to find out what that may mean. Faith, did you find anything interesting?" Wesley asked as Faith shot him a smirk.

"Sorry Watcher of mine, didn't find anything useful. The usual blah blah of Ascension occurs, Hell opens up, demons come out, world suffers, etc." she said as Giles looked at her in surprise.

"The Hellmouth, it's going to open," he remarked as Xander and Buffy looked up.

"Again?" they both asked as Giles smiled but nodded his head. Faith and Tara looked at both of them with confusion.

"Oh, hehe, we've had our fair share of Hellmouth openings. The Master rose and it was opened and a couple other instances. It's really fun, so fun that we should try to open the Hellmouth every week," he said in slight disgust as Tara and Faith nodded their head.

"So, where is this Hellmouth?" asked Faith. She knew that they lived on top of a Hellmouth but never knew the exact location.

"Under our feet...literally," said Buffy as Wesley gasped, pushing away from the table and subsequently falling off his chair and onto the floor. Tara smiled as Faith, Buffy, and Xander laughed.

"Nice one Wesley. So, the Hellmouth is beneath the library?" Faith asked as Tara began to look concerned.

"Yes, it's below us. So if it opens, it's best to make sure that we're either outside the room...of course, we'll be at Graduation. Dear God, if the Hellmouth opens at Graduation then there'll be no way to close it," he said to himself as Buffy raised her hand.

"Hey, Slayer. I'm pretty sure making Mayor dead is gonna close the Hellmouth," she said as Giles shook his head.

"It's not like The Master Buffy. He needed to open the Hellmouth first before coming up. The Mayor is already here, he doesn't need to open the Hellmouth to come up. He will open the Hellmouth and killing him won't close it," he responded as Buffy frowned.

"Damn..." she muttered before glancing at her watch. "Shit, guys we're late!" she cried as the teens quickly assembled their backpacks and made a mad dash towards the doors. Giles and Wesley looked at each other, Wesley having pulled his chair up and sat down again.

"Does Sunnydale usually have this much to worry about at once?" Wesley asked as Giles just shot him a look.

TBC: Grrrr Arrrgh

[Harlequin]

Chapter 17
Giles leaned back, resting his head against the headboard of his bed. He had been poring over thirty pages while Wesley, seated out on his couch was busy running over roughly fifty pages of text. Neither had come up with anything more then they had learned earlier in the morning. Giles looked around him at the bedroom he was still getting adjusted to. He had moved, trying to forget that incident, one that would forever be ingrained. Giles sighed, closing his eyes before opening them and letting out a startled yell as Wesley shouted his name in earnest.

"Giles! I found something!" Wesley called as Giles scrambled off the bed, scooping up the sheets and dashing towards the man's voice. He skidded to a stop as he found Wesley, standing with a grin on his face and shaking a piece of paper like he won a trip to meet the Queen herself.

"It's a demon Giles," Wesley stated as if it would be obvious. Giles just looked back confused.

"We already knew he was transforming into a demon Wesley," he countered as Wesley shook his head.

"No you louse. He'll be transforming into a demon. A true, natural walking on Hell demon. What we've seen up here are evidently uh...tainted hybrids. These demons are basically lesser breeds of demons," Wesley tried to explain as Giles found himself falling behind. He actually felt like...Buffy. Giles shuddered at the comparison.

"So the demons we've faced up here are different? How much different?" he asked as Wesley walked up to him.

"For one thing, size. Demons, the natural ones at least, are bigger. I'm not talking eight or nine feet Bigfoots here; I'm talking fifty to a hundred feet. Also, they are nastier. Kind of obvious if they've been situated in Hell for so long, you need to develop a mean streak. I'm still not sure which demon The Mayor is planning to invoke however whichever one he chooses...we're in trouble," commented Wesley as Giles let out a giggle of hysteria but soon collected himself.

"Sorry, it's not often you hear of a true demon walking Earth," Giles said as Wesley nodded his head in understanding.

"We'll need firepower. We can't afford to change Willow back prior to the Ascension," Wesley said as Giles looked at him with a glare.

"Are you asking me to compromise Willow?" he asked as Wesley backed up a couple steps.

"No, what I'm saying Giles is that Willow won't do us any good as a human. We need her as a vampire. I'm not saying to abandon the plan of restoring her humanity...I'm merely implying that if we do find a solution, to not be rash," he said as Giles growled but remained where he stood.

"Keep researching, see if anything else comes up. I'll inform the gang tomorrow morning when we convene in the library," Giles said before turning and heading back to the library.

*****

Tara woke up instantly, eyes flitting to the balcony. Faith was asleep in the room down at the end of the hall as Tara turned on the light. The knocking she had heard at the door instantly stopped as the figure covered its face to deflect the light. Tara cautiously opened the balcony doors as she wasn't sure whether to feel happy or scared.

"Turn off the light please, hurts our eyes," the redheaded vampire commented, arms still covering her face as Tara nodded and quickly dashed to turn the lights off. Willow lowered her arm and grinned. She looked around her and sighed.

"So...gonna leave me standing here?" Willow asked as Tara blushed.

"C-come...hold on," she said as she went to her closet. She opened it and pulled out a stake as Willow rolled her eyes.

"Okay. C-come in," Tara said, stake poised in hand as Willow casually stepped in and closed the doors. She turned and smirked at Tara.

"I'm sensing a lack of trust Tara. Don't worry, didn't come here to play...though you in that nightgown is awfully enticing," growled Willow as Tara gripped the stake harder.

"Seems like the Books of Ascension have been quite useful to the gang. Good to know because I slaved for a good seven hours copying them. I finished and came to the library quick as I could, not a fun experience trying to dance from the sunlight let me tell you. Giles so...so owes me," she remarked as she sat down on the bed and leaned back with a grin.

"W-what do you want?" Tara asked as Willow smiled sexily.

"Just wanted to chat, see how you lived. Maybe get comfortable in certain ways that most vampires can't get," whispered Willow as Tara lowered her stake and cautiously approached.

"Aren't you hungry?" Tara asked as Willow smirked.

"Already fed. Don't worry they were scum. I caught them breaking into a building, figured I would do the world service," she replied nonchalantly before grinning. "Let's see..." murmured Willow as she lifted herself from the bed and made a beeline for the dresser drawer. She began opening each drawer until she found what she wanted. Tara's face grew blush red, the blonde feeling like she'd die from embarrassment.

"Black..." said Willow, raising her eyebrows and tossing them at the blonde. Willow walked up to her as Tara gasped in surprise but didn't raise her stake. Willow leaned forward, their bodies inches away.

"Want a taste?" she whispered as Tara's breath began to quicken with their close proximity.

"Y-yes," Tara groaned as Willow pulled back and smiled. Willow wrapped her hand around Tara, pressing softly on the back of the blonde. She guided her as the two leaned closer, mouths apart and eyes closed. The soft contact broken, the barest of kisses occurring as Willow broke it off with a gleam. Tara whimpered at the loss of contact and opened her eyes.

"Shhh" said Willow as she leaned towards Tara, their lips brushing at first before crushing together. Tara opened her mouth as Willow did the same. Both girls sought exploration and were given access. Tara moaned deep in her throat as Willow instantly pulled her mouth away as Tara moaned, on the verge of begging for more. Tara opened her eyes, confused and looking at Willow. Willow however was focused on the person behind Tara's back. Tara whirled around and screamed in surprise. Willow clamped a hand over the blonde's mouth to keep the parents from waking up. Willow released her hand as Tara's face was now crimson. Faith just smirked from her position of leaning in the doorway.

"Was it good?" she asked as Willow smirked. Tara was still in shock and couldn't respond, let alone get a coherent thought together in her head.

"I enjoyed it. See you around Faith...you too Kitty," Willow said as she grinned, casually opening the balcony doors and leaping off, landing with a thud on the ground before dashing across the grass and out of view.

"So..." said Faith, arms still folded as Tara grabbed a pillow from her bed and threw it at the Slayer. Faith laughed and headed back to her room. Tara sighed, walked over and retrieved her pillow. She flopped down on the bed. she thought, drifting off to sleep.

*****

Joyce looked down at the bloody clothes and sighed. She rested her hands on the washer and glanced up, knowing that she had to find out what her daughter was doing. She had been washing her clothing of blood for nearly three years now. Buffy would be coming home around midnight or later with no plausible explanation. Joyce slammed her hands on the washer cover. she thought just as she heard the front door slam closed. Joyce instantly came out of the laundry room and found Buffy standing there, looking exhausted as she probably often did. Joyce quickly glanced at the clock. It read 11:03 PM and it was thursday...a school night.

"Buffy...we have to talk. Now," said Joyce as sternly as she could muster. She pointed to the living room as Buffy groaned, knowing this would be another fun mother/daughter experience. Buffy sat on the couch as Joyce remained standing, arms crossed against her chest.

"What's going on?" she asked as Buffy looked down at her hands before looking up.

"Nothing?" said Buffy, knowing it wouldn't work. Joyce glared as Buffy sighed in defeat.

"Buffy, I've been washing your clothes for three years. I've rinsed out blood more times then I can count. You've been coming home at all hours of the night...and next morning. You heal faster then anybody I've ever known! What.is.going.on?" she asked as Buffy began to stare intently at her hands.

"You're right. You deserve to know. Mom...I-I'm the Slayer," Buffy stated, glancing up at her mother with apprehension. Joyce looked back at her confused.

"What is a Slayer?" she asked, taking a seat next to Buffy.

"A Slayer fights the demons, vampires, undead things. Basically, we're the protectors of the world. One in all the world is chosen as the Slayer. She alone must fight against the vampires, demons, yadda yadda," Buffy explained as Joyce was trying to digest this.

"They don't exist Buffy," Joyce said with sympathy as Buffy snorted.

"Well, try telling that to a vampire about to suck your blood and drain you," Buffy replied casually. Joyce just grimaced as Buffy frowned.

"H-have you tried not being a Slayer?" Joyce asked as Buffy rolled her eyes.

"Believe me, tried quitting two years ago, no dice. Only way a new Slayer is called is if the previous one dies...oh boy," said Buffy as Joyce glared at her.

"Please tell me you didn't," Joyce asked, desperately pleading that the answer was no.

"It was only for a minute...maybe two. Xander revived me with CPR. Kendra was called to replace me," Buffy said as Joyce nodded, mind reeling.

"Where is Kendra?" she asked as Buffy's eyes cast downward.

"Dead...Faith was called recently to replace her," Buffy whispered as Joyce stood up and began pacing.

"Does anybody else know you're the Slayer?" she asked.

"There are several who do. Xander, Willow, Faith, Tara who's a friend of Faith's, as well as Giles and Wesley," Buffy said as Joyce looked at her, perplexed.

"The librarian?" she asked as Buffy nodded her head.

"He's my Watcher. Watchers are assigned to Slayers to guide them, watch over them, basically to prepare them for the fight against evil. Wesley is Faith's Watcher," Buffy explained as Joyce nodded her head, still trying to catch up.

"The guy who showed up here with the briefcase?" she asked as Buffy blushed.

"Yeah, that guy," she replied.

"We kind of have a lot going on at the moment Mom. I can't believe I'm saying this...," Buffy said as she closed her eyes. "Show up at the library tomorrow morning before classes start. Giles and Wesley can fill you in on what's going on as well as the past history far better then I could. I really need sleep and I'm sure you do to," Buffy said as Joyce nodded her head.

"Okay, just promise me that you won't get yourself killed anytime soon," requested Joyce as Buffy smiled and hugged her mother tight.

"I promise," Buffy said releasing the hug. Joyce watched her daughter ascend the stairs to her room. she thought before heading to the stairs.

TBC: Grrr Arrrgh

[Arielle]

Mmm. some keep going! I love this fic!

[willowtree114]

GRRRR, Faith had to interrupt the willow & tara smoochs didn't she, lol , keep up the good work, *sits and waits for update *

[Harlequin]

Chapter 18
Buffy smiled at her mother and rested a hand on her shoulder for reassurance. Buffy could tell that her mother was extremely nervous about the impending meeting. Buffy also knew that the others, especially Giles and Wesley, would be in for a shock as she was doing this with no warning.

"Okay. Remember, Giles and Wesley will fill you in detailwise on the backstory and stuff. Giles loves doing it so it shouldn't bother him," said Buffy as Joyce nodded her head while wringing her hands together. The mother and daughter duo walked into the library as Giles looked up and began choking on his cup of tea. Joyce blushed as Cordelia was busy patting Giles hard on the back.

"Joy...Buffy...huh?" asked Xander, unsure of why Buffy's mother was here and unsure of how he should act. Buffy smiled and took a seat next to Faith and Tara.

"It's okay Xander. Giles, I told her about...me and us," Buffy said as Joyce frowned in confusion.

"You two are dating?" she asked as Buffy went scarlet while Giles, recovering from his choking spell nearly began choking again.

"Mother! No, we aren't dating. I meant us as in the group," said Buffy in shock and disgust as Joyce blushed again and pretended to look at the computer.

"Erm Joyce, how much do you know?" Giles asked as the group looked at her. Joyce frowned, not really enjoying being the central focus point.

"My daughter is a Slayer, Faith is a Slayer, this evidently is the Scooby Gang, you and I presume Wesley are Watchers and stuff is currently going on that I'm not privy to," she commented before looking around confused.

"Where's Willow?" she asked as Buffy and Xander gave each other pained looks. Giles lowered his eyes to the table in discomfort before looking at Joyce.

"Willow was kidnapped by a vampire named Spike. She was in turn, changed to a vampire herself. Recently, she returned to us and has been aiding us in our current predicament," Giles explained as Joyce looked perplexed and eyed Buffy.

"Willow was a sweet girl. As a vampire though...doesn't she pose a danger?" Joyce asked as Buffy looked back at her with a grimace.

"Not all vampires are dangerous. Granted, most are but there are a few that have contributed to society. We're working on trying to get Willow back to her human self," Buffy explained. Wesley stood up instantly.

"Oh, we have big news. A little backstory for you Joyce. The Mayor will be Ascending on Graduation Day...meaning he'll alter his appearance and bring forth Hell. That last bit seems to be attempted commonly here in Sunnydale since this school stands atop a Hellmouth. He has aided help from three vampires who are somewhat ruthless. Spike, Angelus...and Willow however we believe that Willow is helping us in exchange for a way to turn back," Wesley explained as Joyce nodded her head in a daze. She was busy trying to sort through the new information launched upon her.

"So what's the big news?" asked Xander, busy biting into a donut.

"We've learned that Wilkins will be transforming into a demon. I'm not talking about a demon that you two normally fight. I'm talking a straight from hell demon. Larger and much, much nastier," remarked Giles as Buffy and Faith shared a glance.

"How much bigger are we talking?" asked Faith as Wesley shrugged his shoulders.

"It is dependant on the demon of course. Most demons here range from roughly six to nine feet. This demon could be anywhere from twenty to one hundred feet," Wesley said as the group went into stunned silence.

"I had a question. Now I understand that you Mr. Giles and you Mr. Price was it? You two are Watchers. Are you appointed?" Joyce asked as Giles gave a thin smile.

"The Watchers Council appoints us Watchers to Slayers. We are to guide them in their route to fight evil. We are also to administer a few tests on our Slayers," said Giles with a grimace. He loved Buffy with all his heart, she was a daughter to him and Faith was growing on him as well. What he was about to do, he knew could get him fired but he didn't have the heart to not warn them at least.

"What are you doing?" growled Wesley as Giles shot him a glare. Buffy and Faith looked back at Giles, concerned.

"Giles?" asked Buffy softly as the Watcher looked at her.

"We will administer a test called the Cruciementum. This test renders the Slayers weakened, what many would call your normal everyday humans," Giles explained as the teens looked at him in shock.

"What?" snarled Buffy, clearly not liking that this idea was to be kept hidden from them.

"Buffy, believe me, I never would have gone through with this if I wasn't forced to. Quentin Travers however has left me no choice and has threatened deportation," Giles pleaded as Buffy just shook her head in shock.

"So quit," responded Faith, arms crossed and a scowl on her face.

"I'm afraid it's not that simple Faith," responded Giles in exasperation.

"Fine Giles, I'll make it that simple. I quit the Watchers Council. They will officially hold no power over me. They certainly haven't taken a proactive interest in my job here," said Buffy as Giles and Wesley looked at her in shock. Tara, Xander, Joyce, and even Cordelia wore smiles.

"I quit too," replied Faith, arms still crossed.

"Y-you can't quit. I'm your Watcher and what I say goes," spluttered Wesley as Faith snorted.

"I really want to see you try and stop me Wes," said Faith with a smirk. Giles sighed and got up, entering his office and retrieving the phone. He brought it out and set it down on the desk. He picked up the phone but was stopped, ice rippling down his back.

"Who are we calling at this hour Rupert?" called a voice from the front of the library. Wesley and Giles looked up, both men blanching.

"Let me introduce myself. Quentin Travers, head of the Watchers Council," said Quentin, walking forward and setting his briefcase down on the floor as Joyce and the Scooby Gang looked at him in shock.

*****

"Finally...the Box of Gavrock," murmured Mayor Wilkins with a grin as Willow was seated on the edge of the desk swinging her legs. Spike and Angelus were seated in chairs opposite as the room was bathed in darkness.

"The desk dear," Wilkins said as Willow frowned and hopped off. She walked up, leaning forward next to Wilkins.

"Can we open it?" she asked with a grin as Wilkins shook his head.

"Not yet Willow. Two more days before I become one more step closer," Wilkins said.

"So, you called us here to look at a box? Next time Dick, just tell me over the phone so I can grab a box and pretend I'm here with you," grumbled Spike, not happy at having to drag himself here in the daylight.

"We still need a dead Slayer," remarked Wilkins with a glare as Spike just muttered under his breath.

"We're working on it Wilkins. Just give us a day," snarled Angelus as Wilkins frowned.

"A day is what you have gentlemen. I'm getting annoyed. It seems that the last time you two ran into them...you didn't do as much damage as I figured you two would cause," said Wilkins as Spike slouched further into his seat, not appreciating the scolding while Angelus scowled.

"We'll get the job done on somebody. If it's a Slayer, great. If we have to settle for somebody else, that may be even better," growled Angelus as Wilkins smiled.

"As long as you do something to one of their gang. They've caused enough disturbances this year to make me very weary and pissed off. I don't think I need to remind you of your little loss either. Instead of sitting here talking, go out and make me proud," said Wilkins as Angelus nodded his head and stood up. Spike snarled at Wilkins, hands clenched into fists but followed Angelus out the door. Willow smiled, sauntering past Allen. She blew a kiss to him as Allen shuddered. Willow exited the room as Wilkins looked up with a wide grin.

"Two more days Allen, and I can begin my feast," he said with a smirk.

TBC: Grrr Arrrgh

[Washi]

Just popped in to let you know I'm really enjoying this fic. Keep up the great work!

[negraoreo]

I just finished reading the two latest updates...damn me for not reading them sooner...anyways, this fic keeps getting better and bettter please update soon. I can't wait to read more.

=========================
"Love is just that precious that it's worth the pain it causes."

[Harlequin]

Note: If you wish to use this story on your site or host it elsewhere, by all means go ahead so long as credit is given to me. Also include the disclaimers and such featured when the first chapter was put up if done.

Chapter 19
Buffy began to rise to her feet but Giles stalled her with a raise of his hand. Faith let out a growl of warning as roughly fifteen men clad in black business suits and serious expressions entered the library and stood patiently behind Quentin. Quentin gave the group a tight-lipped smile.

“Now,” he stated as the backup instantly descended on the table and seized every member of the Scooby Gang. Everybody struggled, attempting to free themselves as Giles was enraged. Faith and Buffy were struggling the most, both Slayers growing angrier at their lack of success. Quentin lifted his briefcase up and placed it on the desk, opening it. What was revealed were two syringes and two vials of liquid. He pulled out one syringe, filling it with liquid and making sure there were no air bubbles before stalking towards Faith.

“You’ll both feel a slight pinch at first but it lasts three seconds at most. What will happen is that your Slayer powers will be rendered…well; let’s just say that you’ll be incumbent. Don’t worry dears, only for a few days. This is to see if your Watchers have been training you properly,” Quentin explained, pressing the needle into Faith’s arm. Faith let out a whine of pain and protest as Quentin pushed the plunger down, the liquid entering Faith’s bloodstream. Quentin smiled, retrieving the other syringe and liquid.

“You’re bloody mad Quentin. What you’re doing could get them killed!” shouted Giles as Quentin smirked at him.

“Come now Giles. You’ve Watched numerous Slayers before and even administered this test on them. Don’t tell me you’ve grown attached?” asked Quentin with a smile. He leaned over Buffy who growled but could not do anything else. She let out a gasp of pain as the needle broke her skin and the liquid entered. Quentin backed up and closed the briefcase. He smiled, nodding his head as the Scooby Gang was released from their holds and the men backed away. Xander, Giles, and Wesley tried to lunge at Quentin simultaneously but were instantly restrained.

“You prick!” shouted Xander as Quentin sighed.

“Remember, this will only be for three days. I am aware of what is going on at the moment which is why I wish both Buffy and Faith good luck,” Quentin replied. He turned and began towards the library doors when they were shoved open. Quentin gasped in surprise as Willow stood there, snarling and her skin fairly blistered. Spike followed suit, blanket draping over him as Angelus also entered in similar fashion. Both men threw their blankets to the ground and grinned at the gathering. Willow looked at everybody, confused and still pissed off at being left to suffer from the sunlight by her Master and her Sire. She was in a foul mood and wanted somebody to feel it.

“Hmm,” muttered Quentin, backing up a couple steps. Faith climbed onto the table and dashed up into the stacks, leaping up by the windowsill and closing the blinds so the library was dark and devoid of any sunlight. She hopped down with a smirk as Buffy, Xander, Cordelia, and Joyce looked at her confused. She just arched an eyebrow and charged, sending one goon toppling to the ground. Soon, bodies were flying everywhere as Angelus grinned, stalking towards Quentin. Spike and Willow dove into the fray.

“Been a long time Quentin. Last time I saw you, you were threatening to take away my soul. As you can see, I’ve already done that so I no longer need your help,” Angelus said with a growl as he leaped onto Quentin, driving the Englishman to the ground and driving his fangs into his throat. Angelus lifted his head, getting tackled by two of the goons. Spike stood up, blood on his lips as well as he looked around trying to spot his next victim.

“Mmm…secretary,” smirked Spike. Spike spun Tara around and grinned, backhand sending the blonde to the floor. Most of the goons had been dispatched, the few remaining were busy being ganged up. Willow lifted her head and snarled, catching the incoming right wrist and promptly breaking the neck of her attacker. Xander and Cordelia were busy assisting Joyce while the Watchers and Slayers were taking on three goons of their own.

“Back off Spike,” Willow called out as he looked up at her in surprise. He had Tara in his arms, she was limp and he guessed it was a concussion. He grinned.

“Or what luv? Angelus and I want torture, she’ll suffice,” he remarked, as Angelus was busy fighting with his own goon by the weapons cage.

“Not her,” Willow commanded, lithely walking down the steps and facing her Sire. He glared at her.

“Tough luv. I’m not about to risk having either Slayer kill me, especially given the current state of affairs. You think you can stop me?” he asked with a laugh as Willow snarled, fists clenched at her side. Spike snorted and dropped the blonde to the ground in a less than caring matter. Willow’s eyes blazed as the final goon was dispatched. The Scooby Gang were up in the stacks watching this confrontation. Angelus stayed back, ready to jump in but wanting to see what would go down first.

“Tara,” Willow growled. Spike smirked before letting out a shout of surprise as Willow dove, sending the vampire to the ground. Willow rained down punches but was grabbed and thrown off by Angelus. Willow smashed into the weapons cage upside down and landed unceremoniously on her head. Angelus pulled Spike to his feet, before picking up Tara and slinging her over his shoulder. The two vampires made a very hasty retreat as Willow groaned and sat up, shaking the cobwebs. Vampire or not, that hurt. She glanced up to see the retreating bodies. She let out a low snarl as a goon lying near her began to stir. She instantly pounced on him, sinking her fangs in and ripping at his throat. Blood was gushing onto the floor like a fountain as she pulled away, resting against the base of the stairs by the cage with head in her hands. Faith and Buffy approached cautiously, followed by the rest.

“Willow?” asked Joyce, surprised at seeing the redhead in her vampiric state. Willow shifted back to human guise and wiped away the blood. Red tears shone on her cheeks as she tried to muster a smile.

“Hi Buffy’s Mom. Sorry you had to see that,” Willow said as the Gang neared closer until they were almost upon the vampire. “Fuck!” shouted Willow, enraged at what had occurred. She had shown Spike and Angelus she liked Tara, she was pretty much out of the Clan, and was probably now low on Wilkins’ friends list. Buffy cautiously sat down next to the redhead, sensing the anger and trying to figure out some way to ease it. Buffy rested a hand on Willow’s shoulder. Willow flinched but didn’t shrug it off either.

“That was my moment. I had her saved and I blew the opportunity. Not to mention I’ve also ruined any avenue that I had regarding my Clan and my job,” Willow bemoaned as Buffy looked up at Faith.

“We’ll get her back. It just might take longer then we’re used to,” Buffy whispered as Willow turned her head to stare at her.

“Quentin Travers, dead guy right there, decided it would be fun to make Faith and I into humans,” Buffy explained, pointing at Quentin as Willow closed her eyes.

“Permanently?” she asked as Giles stepped forward. Willow looked up as Giles’ features softened, his Willow shining through now. A girl lost, unsure of what direction to take, and needing his guidance.

“Only for three days. Until then however, Buffy and Faith will have to be on constant alert. Word will likely spread quickly amongst the undead,” he warned both Slayers as Willow began to giggle, burying her head in her hands as her giggles turned into quiet sobs. She sniffled and raised her head to the Gang.

“Nice timing. Guess who has the Box of Gavrock? Angelus and Spike are out to kill. We can’t risk waiting for Buffy and Faith to return to…okay, not normal but their Slayer selves. I’ve seen them Giles, this isn’t going to be a simple maim and torture deal. This is, well…” Willow said, nodding towards the dead goon lying to her left side as the Gang took a step back.

“We’ll gather weapons here. Wesley, I want you to look after Joyce, Xander, and Cordelia. Buffy, you, Faith, and Willow accompany me. We’ll try and raid erm, your usual haunts and see if anything comes up,” Giles directed as everybody instantly went to their roles. Faith slammed a palm into the cage as Buffy got up to comfort the distressed Slayer. Faith had been trying to be strong but it was hard.

“I’ll die again before you do baby,” Willow whispered to herself as she stood up, marching towards where Giles stood. Joyce observed with slight unease that Willow was now pissed off. She had unfortunately seen the attack on the goon and knew that was Willow venting on spur of the moment but now? Willow was a controlled raging animal. She had seen Buffy at night in this stage but not at this level of anger. Willow, if a human could look scarier than the Devil, had just fulfilled that look. Joyce thought as she turned towards Wesley.

TBC: Grrr Arrgh

[ShyTemptress]

more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more! more!

Just wanted to swing by and let you know that I love this story and I really want more, as you can probably tell. I love the slow moving pace of Willow and tara. I mean I'm all for the UGH, but this way its so much sweeter.

Kristen

[negraoreo]

WOW....Angelus and Spike are soooo gonna get their asses kicked by Willow. I loved this update!! I could really feel what Willow was going through after Angelus and Spike took Tara. The giggling fit and the sobbing really got to me and I loved what she said at the end--"“I’ll die again before you do baby."---sigh.... please keep writing and update soon.

[willowtree114]

great update! can't wait to see what willow dose to Angelus and Spike,


~Angel~

[Harlequin]

Thanks for the feedback! Hope this story continues to meet your expectations, or exceed them.

Warning: Fairly graphic violence ahead.

Chapter 20
Tara groaned, opening her eyes to meet blackness. She shook her head and tried to scream but she realized it was muffled. she thought as she struggled against the chains binding her wrists above her head and the ones binding her ankles. She could feel the cold slab of granite pressed against her skin. She tried to breathe through her nose and calm herself down as she heard two pairs of footsteps coming from her right.

Spike grinned at the sight before him. Blonde bitch tied up with nowhere to go. Bra and panties were the only things covering her…beside the blindfold and gag of course. Spike liked a good torture as much as the next undead bloke but wanted to get this done fast. He could tell that his Sire wanted to play though and chose to go with it. Smarting off to Angelus, while fun wasn’t smart in their current predicament. Odds were that the Scoobies were making another save the damsel in distress act. Spike thought, letting out a slight growl at his Childe.

“We could’ve picked somebody more valuable Spike. Giles, Buffy, or Faith,” Angelus said, casually striding to the whimpering blonde. He raised a hand and traced his finger down her cheek. Tara whimpered, turning her face away.

“Hey, I saw that she was the easiest one to access mate. I wasn’t about to get myself killed trying to kidnap somebody important from their gang,” Spike remarked, walking up until he was right behind Angelus.

“Did you forget that Faith was the one who staked Drusilla?” asked Angelus as Spike snarled and spun his Sire around.

“Fuck you Angelus. We have the next best thing. Tara here is a friend of Faith’s. Rough up the bitch and Faith will suffer. Isn’t that what you’re all about anyway? This whole torturing friends and family first routine? Bloody pillock,” Spike stated as Tara again struggled against her chains. Spike looked up at her before delivering a hard backhand to the blonde, snapping her head back.

“Normally I’d be for torture but remember what Wilkins said. He wants somebody dead,” Angelus reminded Spike as Spike snorted.

“What do you call what we just did? I’d like to think that was a nice spree,” Spike grumbled, slapping the blonde hard and again sending her head snapping back. Spike grinned, enjoying this.

“They were all members of the Watchers Council. Odds are, they’ll try and hunt us down now as a result of our actions. Wilkins wanted somebody in the Scooby Gang to die. Looks like Tara here is the lucky winner,” Angelus replied. He vamped out and smiled, leaning forward next to Tara’s ear.

“Don’t worry. All your sins will be forgotten in heaven. Just be glad you won’t be here for judgement day. You’ll miss a helluva kicker,” Angelus said, biting down into Tara’s shoulder. Tara gasped and tried to scream but her voice was muffled. Blood cascaded down her back and arm as Angelus sucked hungrily. He lifted his head and grinned, wiping the blood away. “We won’t kill you yet. We’ll make you suffer first,” he commented as he turned towards Spike.

“Let’s get our instruments Spike. I feel the need for a song to spice up the evening,” Angelus said with a smirk. Spike grinned and headed towards the back room. He yanked the door open and pulled out a tray of various instruments of torture. He looked around the room and smiled, grabbing a chainsaw and several nails. He carried them out and placed them on the ground as tears slid down the blonde’s face.

“No crying now luv. That just spoils the fun you know? Save the tears…and your screams for when the real pain comes which should be any second,” Spike said as Tara screamed, struggling against her chains but not having any success at escaping. Her scream for help instantly turned to screams of pain as Spike smiled, holding up a nail and hammer.

*****

Willow growled, following Faith, Buffy, and Giles. They had hit three haunts and none of them revealed the blonde secretary that had stolen Willow’s unbeaten heart. She was still plenty pissed off but she also began to worry more. she thought as she trudged along behind the group, lost in her thoughts when she froze.

“Wait,” she commented, eyes swiveling over the area they were stopped in. The trio ahead stopped and turned towards her. Faith took a step forward, knowing Tara was in danger and wanting to save her best friend.

“Where?” she asked as Willow held up a finger to silence her.

“She smells…of fear, suffering. I can’t pinpoint it. I can’t fucking…wait, wait. There,” Willow said. She instantly made a beeline, letting her nose lead the way. she thought, any other time and it would make her smirk at her humor but now she was just glad it had come to use. Faith and Buffy were on her heels while Giles kept up as well as he could. They had run for what felt like hours but was probably more like ten minutes when Willow slowed. She gazed up at the building, an old mansion that was currently evacuated…by the living.

“Come on,” she ordered, opening the door and stepping in followed by the two Slayers and Watcher.

*****

Angelus lowered the torch and smiled. She was a tough bitch but he and Spike could both sense that she was going to give in at any moment. Her breathing had become rasped; voice barely even whimpering and her cries of anguish were now coming out in whispers. He was proud of what they had accomplished. Her blood was drying from his taste. She had nails driven through both hands and a broken ankle, Spike’s doing with a sledgehammer. The blonde also had several abrasions on her face from various backhands and a few burn marks throughout her torso. What to do about the legs though…

Spike walked back in, grinning. He held up a tattoo needle and looked at Angelus.

“Time to work the legs Spike,” Angelus said with a smirk. Spike strode forward and knelt down on both knees, eye level with the blonde’s thighs.

“Do you believe in Christ luv? I never was much the religious man but I have a feeling that we’d best just leave a reminder anyway. It’ll hurt us probably, but it’ll hurt you a lot more,” Spike said as he brought the needle closer to the blonde’s skin. She had gone pale a half hour ago and her heart was beating much slower. Spike was curious if the secretary could hold on. He smiled as she let out another hoarse scream as the needle dug into her skin. He paused, needle still in place.

“Better yet, let’s leave her a reminder,” Spike said. He smiled, working his craftsmanship, as the blonde screamed, eyes no longer able to shed tears. Spike smiled and leaned back, gazing at the S insignia now carved into Tara. Blood was seeping down her legs and he did all he could not to latch on and drain. He shifted over to her left leg, now working on an A. He grinned even wider, the screams somehow still intense despite her weakened state. Spike finished and stood up.

“What do you think Mate?” Spike asked his Sire as Angelus nodded his head.

“Should leave not only an impression on her but the Scooby Gang will have a constant reminder of us,” Angelus said with a smirk.

“We should kill her now…but I really want to continue this. She can’t last more can she?” Spike asked as Angelus grinned.

“She’s a tough one, no doubt about that. Willow chose a good mate, shame she never sealed the deal,” Angelus said.

BANG!

The door flew open, falling against the steps. Spike and Angelus looked up, both men masking their surprise. Tara moaned at the loud sound, wondering if she was hallucinating already when she heard a voice.

“Die,” commented Willow, eyes blazing red upon seeing Tara in her state. Unbridled rage coursed through her, heaven help Spike and Angelus.

TBC: Grrr Arrrgh

[negraoreo]

HOLY SHIT!!!! ... OMG poor Tara!! ... AAAAHHHHH!!! Stupid cliffhanger! ... Please please please DO NOT leave out any details when Willow finally kicks Angelus' and Spike's asses straight to hell. I SOOO cannot wait for the next update. Hopefully, it'll be soon. I can't wait to find out what happens next.

[Washi]

Angelus and Spike are twisted bastards. They will pay. Excellent writing! Truly great stuff!
I love angst, and I shall be waiting for your update (im)patiently

[willowtree114]

OMG...poor Tara. i sooo can't wait to see what Willow dose to them, please update soon!



~Angel~

[Harlequin]

Note: Credit Babelfish for the translation. If anybody taking the language notices any mistakes, by all means let me know so I can fix it. Hope you enjoy Willow's revenge

Chapter 21
Spike smirked. “Well, seems Red here wants a little revenge huh?” taunted Spike before letting out a gasp. Willow grinned, now standing on the railing staring down ten feet at her intended victims. She floated out into the air and held out both arms, promptly lifting Spike and Angelus into the air. She turned her head back towards Giles and the two stunned Slayers.

“Get Tara out of here,” Willow commanded. She looked down at the blonde and snarled, her pain making her blood boil. Willow closed her eyes, silently mouthing before a gurney appeared next to Tara. Buffy and Faith quickly descended the stairs, carefully placing the blonde onto the gurney. Buffy looked up at Willow.

“Go,” stated Willow, turning her gaze back to the two vampires suspended in the air. Buffy and Faith carried Tara up the stairs slowly. Willow smiled, waiting for the door to close before locking it mentally.

“Let’s start shall we,” said Willow with a smirk. She thrust her right arm down, sending Angelus crashing into the pavement floor and down a good two feet. Willow looked down at the injured vampire, thrusting her arm towards the wall where Tara had just been.

“You like tying things up,” Willow said, promptly placing Angelus into the chains that had held her girl prisoner. Willow smiled, another chain rising into the air in front of the vampire before darting forward around his neck and locking into the wall.

“Now, you can’t escape puppy. As for you,” snarled Willow, her eyes dancing over Spike’s body. With a simple nod of her head, Spike’s shirt was off and fluttering to the ground. She stared down at the instrument tray and lifted a sword into the air. She conjured up a bottle of holy water and spilled it onto the tip of the sword, making sure it was coated before bringing it up to the vampire’s back.

“Please,” begged Spike as Willow smirked.

“Not so tough are you William? You like insignias so I figured I would thank you for the impression you left on my baby by leaving one on you,” Willow growled. The sword swept forward, Spike gasping and soon howling in pain. Willow smiled, her index finger tracing the insignia in the air. When finished, she floated the sword down and glared at Angelus.

“Your turn,” she said. The sword dug into Angelus’ chest, slowly carving out a W and a T. Willow smirked at the pain etched in Angelus’ eyes before moving the sword back to the tray.

“I’m thinking light will help. Have to be careful though don’t want to hurt myself. Let’s see…” muttered Willow in deep thought before smiling widely at Spike. The vampire lifted his head, anguish in every fiber of his being.

“Bingo,” she murmured. She closed her eyes, setting up a field around her, crackling energy everywhere. A tiny ball of sunlight, the size of an orange danced in front of Spike. The vampire gasped, trying to get out of the way but having no success. The ball continued dancing, floating down to Angelus and inflicting the same pain before vanishing with a poof. Both vampires now had burn marks, skin looking red and angry.

“That’s for sending me in the sunlight and covering yourselves up,” she muttered. Willow smiled, glancing at the spot next to Angelus. She glared at Spike, thrusting her arm at the wall. The vampire smashed into it, promptly getting chained into place in the same manner as his Sire and Master. Willow floated down, evil gleaming in her eyes.

“Head of the Clan huh? Let’s see…what will make you bark huh?” Willow asked, neither vampire responding. Willow eyed the palm of her right hand, a box of matches appearing out of nowhere.

“Granted, just a practicing witch. I’ve learned a few tricks though boys, thanks to Giles’ Dark Arts collection,” said Willow, lighting up two matches and holding them against the throats of both Angelus and Spike. Both vampires groaned, struggling to get away. Angelus let out a cry of pain as Willow smiled. “Keep screaming,” she taunted, extinguishing both matches before looking back at the instrument tray.

Willow picked up a hammer, twirling it in her hand. She glanced at the nails but shook her head, turning back to the vampires. She walked over to Spike, grabbing his left hand and placing it against the wall. Spike like a protesting groan but Willow shushed him. She smiled, placing a pinky against the wall and bringing the hammer down hard. Spike let out a scream as Willow smirked. She continued with each finger on his left hand, repeating the process on his right hand. She moved to Angelus and smiled, eyeing him over.

“Lift your hand for mommy,” she whispered, grabbing his hand and pinning it to the wall before repeating the process. Both vampires were clearly in pain, suffering and Willow wasn’t done yet. She had one more trick up her sleeve.

“It seems…that normal restoration requires an Orb of Thesula and translated text. Personally, I’m not big on that whole deal. Neither of you are going to die, since that would be too good for you. Angelus, your soul made you into a pathetic lusting fool. I think you both need a refresher course on how many people you’ve killed. They have many words for you two. I’m debating whether to grant you two your souls completely…or do something else in mind. What do you think?” she asked, grabbing Angelus by his chin and forcing his eyes to meet hers. She stood there, waiting for an answer but none came. She snorted in disgust and frustration.

“Fine, have it your way. Hope you boys appreciate Spanish,” she snarled, stepping backwards and floating into the air. She closed her eyes, arms aimed at both vampires chained to the wall.

Deje a estos vampiros saber su último le dan su historia de este último del día él que juzgo sus almas me conceda

(Let these vampires know their past
Give them their history from this day last
To them I deem their souls be granted)

Willow opened her eyes, smiling wickedly at the two vampires. Angelus looked up, fear in his eyes.

“What…” he whispered, gasping at the quick realization.

“Hope you boys enjoy this present. By the way…as for my other gift,” Willow said with a smirk. She turned, sweeping her arm over empty garage. People began to appear, instantaneous. Most of them weren’t recognizable, until one stepped forward.

“It’s been a while Angelus. I hope you haven’t forgotten me,” said Jenny Calendar with a slight smile. Angelus lifted tortured eyes towards Willow.

“Your victims. You and Spike. They want words with you. I’m charitable so I’m giving them their deserved opportunity. Have fun,” growled Willow, casually walking by Spike and up the steps. She reached the door and grabbed the blanket lying on the ground. She threw it over herself and opened the door, smiling. She stepped out, closing it shut as Jenny sauntered up to Angelus.

“We have a lot to talk about,” she said in a stern voice; smile tugging at her lips as Spike looked up with a gasp.

“Dru?” he whimpered as Drusilla stood before him.

“You didn’t kill me Spike…but you didn’t save me either,” she murmured, tracing a finger down his cheek.

TBC: Grrrr Arrrgh

[willowtree114]

OMG! i had to read it twice cuz it was so good. i hope Tara going to be ok too,


~Angel~

[isfreaky]

Hey

THANK YOU!!! that was awesome!
I hoped that angelus &spike would be tortured but that was a thing of beauty
Just when I thought it wouldnt get any better and then BANG! all there victims appeared

I look forward to seeing what else you have installed for us

Your Humble Reader
Anna

[willohand]

Truly awesome.Oh but Tara...

[negraoreo]

HELLS YEAH!!! I loved this part. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you, for this great update. Spike and Angelus' punishment was better than I would have imagined. Everything was very creative, especially breakin their fingers one by one with a hammer. I LOVED IT!! And giving back their souls is the best torture for them. It had me saying "oooooooh!" Willow was awesome and I loved the last part with Jenny and Dru. It was really good stuff. I re-read it twice cuz it was so good! What's gonna happen to them now? And I hope Tara gets better real soon. I've been waiting for some more smoochies between her and Willlow. Can't wait for the next update.
- Negraoreo

[Harlequin]

OMG! Thanks for the feedback, makes me feel all warm and fuzzy Much, much appreciated. I was a little scared that I had gone over the edge but glad it was worth it. Some of you read it twice...that's as high a compliment as I could ever imagine. I got you to post too Anna, hah!

Chapter 22
Willow sighed, leaning backwards in the chair. Wilkins looked up, hands clasped together as Allen stood in the back, gazing out the window.

“Shame you missed my ceremony Willow. I’m sure you had bigger reasons though,” Wilkins said, eyes watching the redheaded vampire. Willow looked at him, weary from the activity of the day.

“Spike and Angelus are facing their past. I’m sure you’ve heard why,” Willow replied, glancing back at Allen who quickly darted his eyes to the floor. She returned her gaze to Wilkins who chuckled.

“I’m aware of your feelings towards my blonde secretary Willow. However, my Ascension is in a month. I wanted you all along, that is true, however Spike and Angelus would have been integral to my dominance. I’ve also learned from Allen that you gave both of them their souls. That displeases me,” said Wilkins as Willow rolled her eyes.

“I don’t care what pleases you Wilkins. I no longer give a damn about you or Spike or Angelus. I hope your Ascension gets shot down. The second Tara was harmed, my priorities concerning you went out the window,” Willow shot back, glaring. Wilkins looked like he had been slapped and swallowed, giving a tight-lipped smile back to the vampire.

“Think about what you’re saying now dear. You are after all, my number one confidante at night at least. I’m sorry about what happened to Tara, but don’t be blinded by pure lust. You don’t have feelings for the girl. You should be focused on your task at hand. Namely, making sure my Ascension goes through without a hitch,” said Wilkins tersely. Willow stood up and smiled, leaning forward and pressing both palms onto the desk.

“What do you know about feelings Mr. Compassion? It’s always been about you with your year for election, your Ascension, your time to run Sunnydale, and raise hell. My priorities seem to differ from yours. Since that is the case, you can keep Mr. Trick and Allen as your lackeys. Me? I’m going where I’m needed. Oh…and when Ascension day comes, I’ll be right there to kick your ass,” growled Willow. She stood back and turned as Wilkins laughed. He flicked his wrist, Allen charging forward. Willow instantly stopped his progress, thrusting her hand around his throat.

“Please…” drawled Willow, tossing Allen back against the wall. Wilkins smiled and stood up, hand now bearing a gun.

“Come now Willow. You actually thought I’d entrust Allen to bring you down? Send a message to your precious Scooby Gang. When I Ascend, you’ll wish you all died sooner. Maybe you could help your friends out with that. Tell your girlfriend I hope she gets better…then I can eat her,” Wilkins snapped, instantly pulling the trigger. Bullets began firing, Willow scrambling towards the door and opening it, slamming it shut and dashing down the hallway. Willow shoved the front door open, stumbling out into the street. She looked down, blood seeping over fingers from gunshot wounds to her stomach and shoulder.

“Damn…” she gasped, stumbling in the direction of Sunnydale High School.

*****

Spike growled, kicking several cans in front of him. He was still bruised and battered from Willows’ assault earlier but his pride wouldn’t let him check out. He stopped and paused, eyes focused on a petite redhead.

“If only it were the sodding bitch,” he growled, casually walking forward. His skin still sported blisters from the ball of sunlight and he couldn’t move his hands much considering Willow broke his fingers. He smiled to himself though as he neared the redhead from behind. He vamped out and bent forward, teeth about to sink in when a figure caught his attention.

“The hell?” he mumbled to himself, the redhead turning, letting out a scream and instantly dashing away. A Chinese girl stood in front of him shaking her head. She tilted her head, exposing the signature marks that only a vampire could leave. She pointed at him and vanished into a wisp of smoke. Spike took a step back in surprise.

“Oh…hell. Now they’re invading my chance to feed. You bloody bitch!” shouted Spike into the air, several faces staring at him, several screams or gasps heard, and several sets of stampeding feet followed.

*****

Giles looked up at his collection of books. He had just come back from the hospital where Tara and the rest of the gang were. He wanted to make sure that nothing had occurred in their absence. He turned his head when the now familiar sound of two doors slamming open rang out through the room.

“Willow! What-“ but his voice died instantly when he saw the blood seeping from the vampires’ body. She looked up and tried to smile but didn’t accomplish the feat that well.

“Just dropping in. Wilkins says hi,” Willow muttered, waving to her gunshot wounds. Giles led the vampire to the table, quickly setting her down in a seat and rushing to his office to retrieve the adequate medical kit. He carried it out and knelt down, quickly dressing the wounds as Willow hissed at the pain and discomfort.

“Sorry,” Giles said as Willow nodded her head.

“I left Wilkins. Quit basically. I decided you guys were more important and he took action,” Willow whispered, trying not to talk a lot so Giles could help her. Giles smiled, the thanks evident in his eyes. Willow smiled, soon hissing again as Giles continued to clean her wounds.

“Again, sorry. Everybody’s with Tara at the hospital but she has a ways to go. She’s been conscious, amazingly, for most the afternoon and evening but was asleep when I left,” Giles said, finishing the wound on Willows’ shoulder.

“You would’ve been proud of what I did. Okay, maybe not considering the dark magicks I utilized to reach my objectives but I’m sure Faith would’ve been happy,” Willow said as Giles looked up at her.

“Willow…” he began in a stern voice as the vampire looked away. Giles was surprised, this act of guilt not common among vampires he had read about.

“I had to extract revenge Giles. What they did to her…okay, I was exploring the dark arts for fun prior and post death but there was no other way I could’ve done what I did earlier if I didn’t have that access. Remember when you attacked Angelus?” stated Willow, trying to get through to the Watcher. Giles closed his eyes, images of his revenge gone awry playing in his head. He sighed and stood up.

“The dark magicks are dark for a reason. You mustn’t continue to meddle in them. Even as a vampire, you could be susceptible to other worldly entities trying to access your body and who knows what else. I’ve had friends driven insane by their use and I myself regret ever touching it. I understand your reasoning wholeheartedly believe me I do. What you did was very dangerous regardless of the fact that you are a vampire and was foolhardy at best,” Giles said, in lecture mode. Willow turned her head, swallowed, and turned back to him, red tears shimmering. Giles sighed and knelt back down, embracing the vampire in a tight hug. Willow pulled back, wiping away her tears and a grateful smile on her face. Giles stood up and extended his hand.

“Let’s see your girlfriend,” said Giles as Willow accepted his hand and let him lead the duo out of the library.

TBC: Grrrr Arrrgh

[negraoreo]

Aaaaaaaaaaaawwww!!! I loved Willow and Gile's interaction at the end. I can't wait for the next update where Willow hopefully sees Tara at the hospital. What happened with Angel? Is he all broody? Will him and Spike help out the Scoobies? I'm lovin' this story!

[ringwaldoeuvre]

I really like where you've taken this story. The action is very clear and the plot is intriguing to boot. The characters are genuine and true to canon, yet are dynamic and engaging. Plus, I'm generally a sucker for all things Mayor-related. Oh, how I love that man-snake. I will continue to look forward to updates.

~ringwaldoeuvre (Mary)

[Harlequin]

Thanks for the comments. Glad to see that you thought the characters stayed true to canon but were still engaging Mary.

Chapter 23
Willow stepped out of the elevator and carefully walked towards her group of friends settled in chairs outside a room hidden by blinds. Willow offered a weak smile as Buffy, Xander, and Faith stood up to give the vampire a hug. Faiths’ hug lingered, before releasing.

“Thanks…for what you did,” she said with a soft smile as Willow nodded her head.

“They had it coming. Nobody hurts the ones I love and gets away with it,” Willow replied as Faith offered a hand, leading Willow to a chair and letting the redhead sit. Faith remained standing for a few moments, gazing at the blinds before sitting down herself.

Giles sat down next to Joyce as they clasped hands together. Xander leaned forward.

“Tara’s sleeping. She was given some drugs to help ease the pain and they helped knock her out. So, come on Will, details,” Xander said, ears perked as Willow looked at Giles with a slight bit of worry before returning her gaze to Buffy, Xander, and Faith. Willow began talking, recounting from when she threw the door open to the moment she left. She was glad vampires didn’t have to breathe because it was a longwinded speech, even by her babble mode standards. Xander leaned back as Faith and Buffy both looked deep in thought. Giles had left about mid-way, when Willow had mentioned restoring the souls. Willow could tell the Watcher wasn’t happy hearing her use of dark magic, which made her feel guilty now.

“Man…I so wish I had been there. Tara took priority, don’t get me wrong Red, but just to see them suffering,” Faith commented as Xander and Buffy nodded their hands in agreement.

“Here’s a question Will. They have their souls back and a big hooray from me but…why don’t they just do whatever Angel did and get rid of their souls?” Xander asked as Buffy closed her eyes. She was tormented as to what she was feeling. On the one hand, she had the love of her life back. On the other though…what he did to Tara, even if he was Angelus…how could she love him again? Especially considering Faith and Willow’s relationship to the blonde. Willow merely shrugged her shoulders in response to Xander’s question.

*****

Spike shoved the door open, clearly not happy at the events of the evening. He’d tried twice to kill people and both times a damn victim appeared. Spike fished his pocket, pulling a cigarette out and lighting it up as he stepped down the stairs. Angelus was seated in a chair, not looking any better which made Spike feel a little better.

“Do whatever you did before and get rid of our souls,” Spike snarled. He was angry at Willow but giving him his soul was the straw breaking his back.

“I can’t,” came Angelus’ reply as Spike glared at him.

“Why not? Did you know I saw the Chinese bird? Remember her? I killed her during the Boxer Rebellion. Don’t think I have to remind you that she was a Slayer too. Anyways, I’m trying to feed off this redhead and the bird shows up and fusses it all up!” shouted Spike, throwing his cigarette lighter against the wall in his agitation.

“You don’t think you’re the only one facing your past do you? I can’t stay here Spike. That soul thing was a one time favor that I was saving for desperate times,” Angelus said as Spike snorted.

“These are desperate times mate!” Spike snapped as Angelus stood up.

“I can’t be here like this and not with my feelings. I love Buffy and my soul no longer has the happiness clause but she deserves better,” Angelus said as Spike glared at him, sizing him up with his eyes.

“Forget the sodding Slayer! I don’t like the fact that I have my bloody soul. Can’t kill anything anymore, makes it boring. That and they continually foil my plans. You know, I have half a mind to go to England now,” remarked Spike as Angelus looked at him.

“Are you serious?” asked Angelus as Spike looked back at him with surprise.

“What?” asked Spike with a laugh. “You thought I was serious? I’m not leaving this town until I get this damn soul out,” growled Spike as Angelus nodded his head.

“I’m leaving. I’m thinking of heading to the east coast. Away from Sunnydale and Buffy and starting a new life,” stated Angelus as Spike felt his jaw drop. His Sire was leaving him here alone? Against two Slayers and a vampire?

“You bloody ponce…you aren’t leaving me here alone to defend myself. I’m going with you then. I’m sick of the Slayer and the Scooby Gang meddling in my affairs. Besides, I’ve been meaning to check out New York and Boston again,” drawled Spike with a smile.

*****

Willow sat down, taking care not to disturb the IV bag or any of the tubes. She smiled, feeling tears streaking her face as she took a hand in her own. She wasn’t surprised to find it clammy. Willow removed a wisp of hair and leaned down, kissing Tara on the forehead. Tara slowly opened her eyes, cracking a weak smile at Willow.

“Hey,” she murmured as Willows’ smile widened.

“Hey baby. You’re safe now. I won’t let anybody hurt you again,” Willow said, a bit too seriously as she felt Tara’s hand tighten hers just a bit.

“I trust you,” said Tara, her breathing shallow.

“And I love you, more then you’ll ever know in your lifetime,” said Willow with a smile as she leaned down, kissing Tara softly on the mouth. Willow pulled away as Tara let out a slight groan at the loss of contact.

“I love you too. I heard you got revenge,” she said with a slightly strained smile. Willow smiled.

“Don’t strain yourself kitty. That tale is not appropriate for bedtime. I’ll tell it to you when we’re alone, in bed, away from a hospital. I think I scared Giles a bit so it seems a quick talk is in effect,” Willow said, turning her eyes away towards the blinds hiding friends. Tara reached a hand up, caressing the cold cheek of her lover.

“Thank you. What you did, that showed your love,” said Tara as Willow felt a couple tears slip. She wiped them away with her sleeve.

“I can show my love other ways too. You’ll see later. Get your rest, I’ll be back tomorrow night. Sunlight tends to be unkind,” said Willow, bending down and giving Tara a quick kiss on the lips before standing up. Tara smiled, turning her head and closing her eyes as Willow opened the door and stepped back into the hallway. Giles had returned, seemingly more calm as Joyce took his hand in hers again. Buffy noticed this but didn’t say anything though Willow could see that Buffy was a bit grossed out at the possibility of her mother and Watcher being in love. Willow smirked to herself as she walked back.

“Are you mad Giles?” asked Willow, sitting down as the Watcher smiled and shook his head.

“I already gave you the stern talking to. You did what you felt you must and we’re very grateful,” Giles said as Buffy leaned back, still tormented at her feelings. She sighed.

“Buff, you okay?” asked Faith as Buffy turned her head and smiled.

“Just a bit…conflicted,” she replied as Willow and Xander both understood the depth of the comment.

“You can’t be-“ started Xander but a glare from Willow silenced him.

“I know Xander, believe me. I think of him and I’m in love with him and nothing can change that. When I see Tara though and see what Angelus did…I can’t be with him again,” said Buffy, tears welling in her eyes as Willow leaned forward, hugging her best friend. Buffy sobbed quietly as Xander and Faith glanced at the blinds, Tara deep in sleep of redheads and vampires.

TBC: Grrr Arrrgh

[willowtree114]

great update i thought it was so sweet when willow said

“And I love you, more then you’ll ever know in your lifetime,”

awwww, can't wait for next update


~Angel~

[ShyTemptress]

-Grabs a voo-doo doll of Spike and give it to her dog and watches her tear him apart. Then takes chewed up Spike voo-doo doll and get's little matches and burns it into little ashes. Next, takes ashes and throws them on the ground and stomps on them-

Sorry. I'm just kinda put out at the moment. I really do hate Angel. I men I have never liked him, but I won't put him through the treatment. He's still a butthead who should be staked. I can't wait to see what happens next. Don't take too long, please.

Kristen

[chronicfuture]

I'm surprised there hasn't been an update on this story. At the begginning updates were very continous but it's been a month. This is one of the fics that'll either get updater later on in the year or will be forgotten and i'll have to dream about how the rest will go i'm hoping it's not the latter. After a month and 7-8 days pretty please when you can update.