Waiting for Dani - Complete 06/11/07

[grimlock72]

Your question about Tara asking her father is fascinating. In my original story idea, that was my intention. I had planned that there would be so document that was necessary to actually free the servant and that he would possess these (perhaps in their equivalent of a safe or something) and that she would approach him for the documents.

I'm glad you didn't go with that. In my (probably twisted) mind that deflects some of the responsibility from Tara back to her father. It would also kind of 'force' her to go see her father, while I'd prefer her to go based on her own thinking, not guide/shielded by some protocol.

I still say Tara would be wise to ask for advice. I have a feeling T'dre will provide some if she asks for it or not

As for their reconciliation, I'll be happy if they're together on equal terms and willing to work to something together. I don't expect four years or so of history to just go away. Dani will have re-learn speaking freely to Tara and Tara will have to learn to trust Dani is speaking her own mind, for starters. That's going to take time.

Then there is the tiiiiiny issue of Tara forgiving herself, good thing we have a sequel coming up

[JustSkipIt]

I’ll respond to these two comments and then post the next part.

Cam – Glad you liked the “Faith intervention” (although that sounds like something very different doesn’t it? Like when your friends sit down to talk about either your Faith and how they want you to change or your lack thereof and the same...)

I therefore put it to you that, although you claim the dagger has no hidden significance, Tara will use it to render the binding contract null and void by cutting off her own marked hand! Yes, I have figured you out, Debra. Really, I'm a little disappointed. It's all so obvious.

Lol. Do you watch 24? Have you seen season 3? And then if so, I highly recommend reading the TwoP recap of the 24th hour for that season. Having seen the episode it’s quite hysterical. I have to imagine that the recapper (sorry recapper, I can’t remember who recaps 24) had a riot writing it. Lol!

grimlock72 – I totally agree with you about deflecting the responsibility. A big part of the reason I discarded the idea also was that I felt that it would be a very good opportunity for him (or someone else) to talk some sense into her. It was imperative that she take this action on her own without intervention and quickly enough to not really reason through it.

That said, would Tara have been well served to ask for advice? Damn straight as my mother used to say. From T’dre or someone! She could have used a sympathetic ear or shoulder or anything but she didn’t do it.

I agree with you about the years of history. Even if they make it through this in a relationship, they have to learn to relate to each other in a different way. I would imagine it will be a long time before Dani doesn’t automatically wake earlier and prepare the clothes and jump up to get a snack for both of them, etc.

Yes: Tara needs to forgive herself.

[center][/center]


Story Title – Waiting for Dani

Chapter – 16B – The Boots Arrive

Author – JustSkipIt

Pairing –W/T

Feedback – Yes, please

Spoilers – None

Rating – PG

Disclaimer – Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy own Willow and Tara and the Buffyverse. I’m not saying this universe is totally original but I didn’t steal it from any author or creator that I know of. No copyright infringement is meant by this fic and I will not make any money from it.

Additional and permanent disclaimer – Yadda yadda. Yadda Yadda. Not comfortable. Power imbalance. Etc.


Gods! Now that girl is pounding on the door. “I’ve told you that I will eat when I am hungry!” I lack patience and she will lack more than that if she does not leave me in peace. The door opens and I swivel angrily toward it. That is absolute insubordination.

“You’ve told me no such damn thing, Tara Maclay!” Both the sight and sound of Faith striding through the door and slamming it shut behind her are a shock to me. I roll my eyes at her and turn back toward the window but she crosses the room in four strides and grasps my shoulders. “Dawn is downstairs comforting Merie who looks like she’s fought three demons and a cougar tonight. Then she will bring you something to drink.” She softens her tone. “When was the last time you ate?”

I can not look at her. “I ate breakfast.”

She gets up to answer a knock at the door and brings a tray to set on the table next to me, lifting a cup of warm goat milk to my lips. I try to shake my head but she grasps it in her hands and all but forces me to drink. “There. Now, where is Dani?”

I take the cup from her and set it on the table. “Dani is gone, Faith. Now if you will go as well, I can continue sitting here. I’m quite busy.”

She raises a hand and I am shocked as she slaps me on the back of the head. “You’re quite busy? You’re quite an idiot you mean.”

I turn my head to look at her incredulously. “I am the Lady of your Estate.”

Faith shows the apparent range of her respect for my position as she sits down and begins to pull off her boots. “Well then, you’re quite an idiot, My Lady.”

Finally my sister has my attention. I take a drink of the milk and glare at her. “You may check insulting your superior off your list for the day. Now why else are you here?”

She barely considers me as she inspects her feet. “We had to ride like the wind to arrive so early today with no notice. Melanie will be all out of sorts with my sudden departure but Master Stefan’s note left me little choice but to come.”

“Master Stefan was to exercise discretion in completing the task I assigned him.”

She crosses the room to use the wash basin on near the armoire. “He used his discretion to send me this note.” She hands me a small scroll.

[blockquote]Faith Dearest,

Please attend Lady Maclay. She is not well and I fear makes ill plans. I have been sent to retrieve Miss T’dre and bring her to the village. This can not bode well.

Yours in all things as this,
Master Stefan Finn[/blockquote]

I crumple the scroll in my hand. “He should not have contacted you.” The goat milk is good after this many hours without food but the taste is bitter. Perhaps Merie warmed it too much?

--

I wake many hours later for the sun appears to be high in the sky judging by the light in my rooms. “Faith drugged me.”

Dawn bows before shrugging in a motion I know she learned from her Mistress. “She felt you needed the rest. I will fetch her now.”

She steps from the room and in moments Faith enters. She looks quite a bit more clean and refreshed and this time extends her mark toward me, waits to see mine, and bows before me. “Lady Tara.”

“Miss Faith.”

She takes the seat Dawn had occupied and hands me a cup of kaffee and a small plate of dinner which I accept from her, taking a sip. “Is this one drugged as well?”

She smiles. “No, My Lady. I am sorry but you were not going to listen to reason in that state.”

I take a few bites of the meat. “I understand.” I took another sip of kaffee. “You are too late to stop me.”

“Stop you from… freeing Dani? From crushing her heart and ruining her life and prospects?”

“Ruining? Crushing? Are you knackered?” I shake my head. “You can not know what I’ve done.”

Faith stands and slips onto the bed to take my hand in hers. “Please tell me, Tara. What is troubling you so?”

“You wouldn’t understand.”

“Try me.” I look at her and she continues. “Nothing can make me stop loving you. You are my Lady but first you are my sister. So tell me what you’ve done or what you believe you’ve done.”

I take more bites of the dinner, finally placing slices of the meat between the roll to form a sandwich as I consider her words. I set the plate away from me and then the cup and then begin my confession. “I have… I have used Dani terribly, Faith. Used her as she should never have been used.”

“How is that?”

I look away, out the window although the brightness of the sunlight burns at my eyes. “I have shared… have taken… marks-rights with her.”

Nothing could have prepared me for my sister’s laughter. “Marks-rights?”

My magic begins to bubble quite near the surface in my indignation at Faith’s laughter, her seeming dismissal of the sins I have committed and I take a deep breath and invoke an incantation to pull them back. “Yes, marks-rights. I have violated her. Have taken her trust and pride and given her no choice in the matter.” I feel particularly crude and continue. “Many times. Many. Many. Times.”

Faith pulls back slightly but I can not tell if she is shocked at my words or shocked at my tone. “I believe you’ve … what did you call it? Violated her many many times but that’s not marks-rights, Tara.” She seems to be grinning at finding out that her Lady is so perverse.

I hold up my hand as if instructing a child. “Five marks, Faith. To match the five on her hip. I’ve taken marks-rights as surely as Lord Finn would.”

Faith chuckles. “Lord Finn would take marks rights more surely than you, My Lady. For your marks don’t carry the rights.” I shake my head and she continues. “Were you not schooled? Your marks don’t match her hip – right hand to right hip? – unless you’ve invented some new position I’ve never heard of.”

I consider this for a moment and admit that she’s probably right about the placement of the marks. “Nonetheless, I am her Mistress and she is bound to me. She can’t resist me or my wishes so my power over her is as good as marks-rights.” I can feel the tears of shame pooling hot in my eyes. “She…”

Rather than laughing my sister takes my hands in hers. “I do not think she would want to resist you, Tara.”

“What has she said?” Oh god. Did Faith already know about our relationship?

“She’s said nothing. She is the very soul of discretion but no one could mistake the love you two share. I’ve been praying that you were acting upon it for fear that you might spontaneously combust if not.”

A laugh escapes my mouth. “What?”

“Do you think this is the first time this has happened, My Lady?” She looks at me quite like I am the idiot she accused earlier. “How could it? All these hundreds and thousands of Mistresses and their servants, raised together, living together, dressing and bathing together? And all those Lords and Masters not willing to give up their magic users. There’s going to be frustration. Creator, I’ve… well never mind. We’re not talking about me.”

“This isn’t frustration.”

“Of course not, Tara. And do you think this is the first time love has happened?” She tipped up my chin with her fingertips. “You love her do you not?”

I smile in spite of myself. “More than my very soul and with every beat of my heart.”

Another chuckle. “Perhaps you should have spent a little less time in poetry study and more in common sense.” I shoot her a look and she holds up her palms in a playful sign of surrender. “Do you seriously think you are the first Mistress to love her servant? That she is the first to love you so? You don’t even listen to your own parents’s legend.”

“What?”

“When and how was Desiderata freed?”

“How is this even vaguely relevant?” I am tiring of this line of questioning.

“I repeat my question. When and how was Desiderate freed?”

I roll my eyes. “Desiderata was freed in heartbreak the day after I was born. What is your point?” It takes me a moment to grasp what she is suggesting. “You can’t be serious, Faith. Desiderata and my mother were … lovers? And Father was what?”

Faith again shakes her head at my apparent ignorance. “Yes, they were lovers as you put it. You forget that Delam knew them from childhood.” She sees the shock and hurt in my eyes. “Lady T’rese loved Father. I know that but they married him also because he was acceptable to Desiderata.”

“I’m having a little trouble grasping that my mother and her servant were lovers and that they married Father.” I shake my head. “And Melanie and Delam?”

Faith smiled. “I knew you would ask that. I don’t believe so and I feel quite sure Delam would have said something if so. Actually, I don’t think she’s particularly interested in any… I just thought the two of you would find a suitable husband eventually.” She shivers involuntarily. “Just not that creepy Master Angel.”

“Still, that is entirely irrelevant, Faith.” I was losing my patience with my sister treating me as a child and acting as if I had done nothing wrong. She should be shouting at me, be shaking me, and instead she was trying to tell me that what I had done was fine, was in fact usual? “I don’t think you are seeing the point. She could not resist me. Whether I had marks-rights over her doesn’t matter for I hold her bond. Held her bond. She’s been doing… this to please me rather than herself and I can’t take that!” My voice is quite high and I feel rather that I am screetching, not sounding like a lady at all.

Faith can see that I am upset and again takes my hands and begins to rub the skin. “Dear Tara, you may be right that she has been acting from the bond but she may also want your relationship just as you do.”

I think about this for a moment or two. “I hope and pray you are right, Faith. But can she have the ability to say yes if she doesn’t have the ability to say no?”

“And now? Now she has this ability, yes?” I nod my head. “But Tara. My Lady. Can you imagine how she feels?”

I look at my sister in total confusion. To what is she alluding? I explain as if she were simple. “Servants are not often freed while their masters or mistresses are alive. When this is done, both the master and servant will feel a relief followed by exhaustion. For the master, this usually lasts a few hours, for the servant a few days. Both are dependent partially on the strength of the bond and the rank of the pair.”

Faith rolls her eyes at me and looks as if she wants to strike something. “I’m glad to know that Tadre lent you a scroll so that you could give me the studied answer.”

“Your tone serves you ill, sister.”

“Your stubbornness serves you equally ill, sister.”

I fix Faith with a stern look (which given that my last statement had no effect on her attitude seems questionable but I can not give up my training and breeding so easily). But something has worked for she softens her gaze on me. “With all due respect, Lady Tara, I am trying to ask you to imagine Dani’s current position.” I look at her stupidly. “If she loves you, as I believe, you have sent her from you. Forced her to give up the binding, no doubt without asking her wishes.”

“She could not have given her wishes had I asked.” I feel ashamed to admit that Faith is right but I also know that Dani would have said what she believed I wanted.

Faith nods her head. “Nonetheless, she loves you. You have returned from a grand event you did not allow her to attend. The next day you order her separated from you and unbound without adequate explanation. Am I correct so far?”

I nod my head as I take in what my sister has said so far.

“You have fired her from the only job she has ever held. Removed her from her only family and left her stranded in the village weakened for days with no indication that you love her.”

My reply is swift and angry, demonstrating how spot-on Faith’s accusations have been. “I have shown her my love too many times in too many years.”

Faith brushes my hair from in front of my face. “I have no doubt that you have shown her only love all these years, My Lady. But I am asking you to imagine her feelings right now.” The import of what Faith is saying begins to hit me and I ball up the bedclothes in a fist. “She does not know why you have discarded her and she is shamed to have been released from her bond. She can not be bound again…”

“And should not be!”

“Certainly. But tell me what you feel she should do now.” I scrunch up my face at her question, trying to understand it. “What job could she take now that she will be known as the servant who was released from her bond without explanation?”

“She could be… she … I would hire her as a tutor or steward… She…” I think for a moment. “Oh Creator….” It hits me how Dani is feeling. I did not even tell her that I wanted more than anything for her to return to me freely. I’ve just left her in the village alone, exhausted and weakened, with no indication of what she has done or reason for her dismissal.

I stand from the bed and feel the world tilt beneath my feet. My eyes are blurry with the tears which have somehow pooled there. I spin around and feel Faith steady me. “Tara? Are you with me?”

“I… I must. We need to … I mean. She’s all alone. What does she feel? We must go to the village.” I speak so frantically but I can’t even tell if Faith can understand my words.

“I don’t think you’ll need to.”

I wasn’t even aware that Dawn was in the room but there’s that silence with which our servants move once again. I look to see her standing by the window, the same window at which I sat so recently, pointing to something in the courtyard. Faith leads me to the window and I see the most beautiful and heartbreaking sight of my life. Dani is slumped, nearly unconscious, like a child in Stefan’s lap while Xander rides next to them on Hope.

My love has returned but I know not to what end.

[tazraven]

Dibs!

ETA: Alright, so this is it. The home stretch. Oddly enough, I don’t have a lot to say in this chapter. It’s very straight forward, so there’s not too much for me to pick at.

She raises a hand and I am shocked as she slaps me on the back of the head. “You’re quite busy? You’re quite an idiot you mean.”

I turn my head to look at her incredulously. “I am the Lady of your Estate.”

Faith shows the apparent range of her respect for my position as she sits down and begins to pull off her boots. “Well then, you’re quite an idiot, My Lady.”

Finally my sister has my attention. I take a drink of the milk and glare at her. “You may check insulting your superior off your list for the day. Now why else are you here?”

You had me laughing so much here. First, Faith does the thing I’ve been wanting to do for almost the entire story, and then we get snarky Tara. I love it.

“Were you not schooled? Your marks don’t match her hip – right hand to right hip? – unless you’ve invented some new position I’ve never heard of.”

Ok, how weird is it that I never even thought about that? Here I was, ranting and raving about how Tara was taking advantage of Dani with magic and all the while never even realized they didn’t fit. Unless Tara was standing behind Dani. Do they have to be face to face for mark rights? Eh, doesn’t really matter anyways. Point is, I don’t think it works that way.

“I… I must. We need to … I mean. She’s all alone. What does she feel? We must go to the village.” I speak so frantically but I can’t even tell if Faith can understand my words.

“I don’t think you’ll need to.”

Faith leads me to the window and I see the most beautiful and heartbreaking sight of my life. Dani is slumped, nearly unconscious, like a child in Stefan’s lap while Xander rides next to them on Hope.

Ok, so the waiting for Dani is over. Tara feels like shit about what she did, Dani obviously feels like crap as she’s slumped over in the backyard, and everyone else seems to want to slap Tara on the back of the head. I think we’re in a good place for the reconciliation and inevitable togetherness. I guess my only question is will we get a flashback for the scene in which Tara freed Dani?

In answer to your very very genuine question about whether or not my scenario would work for me, I have to say that after this chapter, it would. Faith talked some sense into Tara and made me believe right along with her. The only thing that remains is for Dani to tell Tara her true feelings, and not some slave b.s. All in all, a very good chapter that didn’t end with me wanting to slap Tara, but maybe that’s because Faith was kind enough to do it for me.

~Sara

[dlline]

Deb! You're killing me here.

She raises a hand and I am shocked as she slaps me on the back of the head.

I'll be back to finish this later when I'm not laughing so hard.

Ok, I know it took a couple of days, but I'm back, unfortunately without the time to break things down a lot. Poor, poor Dani, broken and confused. That hurts to see. I'm glad Faith was able to talk some sense (sort of) into Tara, and the backstory of Tara's mother was very enlightening. I think that said more to Tara than anything else, and I'm assuming that was your intent, so good job. I know you expressed some concerns to me regarding the anticlimactic nature of the potential reconciliation, but I will say here that, personally, I'm glad to see Tara's awakening realization that things weren't as one-sided as she led herself to believe. It's also funny to me that I wondered about Tara's marks-rights with Dani, and that now Tara is calling it that and Faith is telling her that it's bullshit. That is cool!

Again, great update. I know we're headed into the home stretch here and the KB Happy Ending™ is on the way. Like you told me toward the end of my story, your ending would be much better if there was some uncertaintly about the fate of our girls, but I do really like the way you're working with this. Well done!

Diane

[wolfkin]

*sigh* I'm gonna go bang my head on the wall til the next part gets here, cause I hate cliffhangers! Well, unless I wrote'em

Seriously, did I miss where Dani was freed? I don't remember that

Wolfkin

[WolfDragonGod]

as good as always it was so good its baout time they both start to realize

[db]

yes!

It's the Faith intervention I have sooooo been yearning for. Yay Faith! I wanna squeeze her!

Thank god she arrived and took over - 'cause Tara has lost it.

Tara severed the marks with no explanation and *left* Dani in the village just "hoping" that Dani would come back to her of her own free will ?!

*slaps Tara in the back of her head too*

Tara, Tara, Tara. I know, I know, thou art heartbroken and feel that thou art a cad and a wretch blah de blah.... Get up and go comfort Dani for the love of god and get yer head out of your ass!

Willow's going to kick her into gear... I just know it ('cause I don't think this is Dani any more)

.... and I love this story!

I love it because you surprise me every. single. update.

I never imagined any of this... and it all makes sense and and and *swoon* this story is the best

db

[spells42]

Deb
Well, thank goodness Faith arrived and someone (finally!) talked to Tara on a woman to woman level, not just as to Lady of the Estate. She needed that smack on the head too.

So she's released Dani's bonds, without explanation, then abandoned her in the village (did she even organise her rooms or food?), and 'hoped' she'd come tell her she (Dani) loved her (Tara)? Yep, seems like a good plan... not.

It's like colour blindness, or deafness to a certain pitch: Tara's ability to empathise has areas where it just doesn't work. It's quite incredible, but given their society and her upbringing, believable. Hopefully she'll get better at it, if and when Dani forgives her.

I hope Dani gives her what for first tho'.

BTW, I feel kind of cheated at not having 'seen' the scene in the village. Do we get that, maybe in the sequel from Dani's POV???? please??

I'm on tenterhooks to see the next update.
Anne

[Sleepyhead]

Hi, I don't actually have anything useful or interesting to say, but you mentioned before that you were sad there weren't more people reading this story. So I thought I'd just pop in and say that I'm reading (and consequently loving) this fic and that I'm eagerly awaiting the next chapter. (My nerdy way of saying good job.)

[JujuDeRoussie]

Hello

This is jus fabulous ^^
Faith does the right thing in talking like that to Tara.

I can't wait for the next chapter...

I really enjoyed the few last chapters.

I am sorry I am not writing a really feedback, but I can't think of saying something, just I like them

Thank you so much!

Julia

[grimlock72]

Hmm.. I'm not so sure about this.. Faith and Tara are assuming different things about Dani. The Faith line of thinking is probably more what readers of this here forum will like, but it's awfully convenient thinking. Without actually talking to Dani (now there's a concept) we wont know which of the two is correct.

I don't see the big deal about calling it 'mark-rights' or 'having sex because the bonded one can't say no' really. Same idea, different name.

I'm wondering about the free-ing itself. Now if Tara had said to Dani 'I am going to free to you' obviously Dani would have asked 'why?' Since that idea seems new to Tara I believe Dani didn't get the chance to ask anything (bitter goatmilk perhaps?). Which is pretty much the exact opposite of 'caring for'. Sooner or later Tara is going to have to talk to and with Dani about some things.

We don't know the details but I'll assume Stefan did indeed breng T'dre to the village. Surely she wouldn't have agreed to do such a free-ing on a drugged Dani? Still, if Dani was fully aware she would have asked questions.. she would have been very sad, possibly scared and of course confused. Tara doesn't seem to realise until Faith points that out, which leads to no-good-can-come-of-this drugged-Dani scenario. Which obviously would make things worse.

Could be I'm reading to much into that... I tend to do that at times

Poor Dani; she worked so hard and was so loyal to her Lady. What did she get for all her work and dedication? She was fired without any explanation given. She must think she did something wrong, something so bad her Lady didn't consider it worthy to tell her. Thinking about that makes me very sad . That's for Dani, now where is my clue x 4 for Tara..ah.. though I doubt it will help.

Also not sure if I want Tara's staff to bring Dani back to her (as they appearantly have done) or not. Why is Dani back? The estate can probably provide better care and Dani has lots of friends there. Or did she want to go back and talk to Tara? Her condition seems too bad to want anything like that at this time though.

It is incredible that Faith has to explain to Tara how Dani now feels. Some bond they (Tara/Dani) had, Tara didn't pick up much from it did she? Weird kind of love that must have been. Aaaanyway, avoiding some bitterness here... Tara obviously needed some talking too. It remains to be seen if it works in letting her have a 'grey' opinion as opposed to switch between black and white (all Faith did was switch/talk it back to 'white').

Is Tara perhaps afraid to really talk WITH Dani ??? There's no protocol to guide her through that conversation.

There is no way to know if Dani truly loved Tara when she was bound to her. The silly magic influences her very mind which makes it impossible to seperate the Dani-thoughts from the servant-thoughts. Faith very brazenly declares that it happens a lot that servants and mistresses have an affair of sorts. That doesn't mean that there is truly love between them. It just means they have an affair/relation in which the mistress sees no harm.

Well Tara *does* see harm, a bit too much perhaps. But she at least acknowledges the risk inherent of such a relation within a bonding (confusing wording, sorry). Whatever Faith may say, there IS a risk there, clearly.

I sure as hell hope Dani doesn't just wake up to declare her eternal love to Tara and them riding happily into the sunset Much to easy .

[TinyAnt]

I just thought I'd drop by to say I'm still reading your story, and it's still the update I expect the most. I just got a little busy with college. Plus, I think my commenting skills have been surpassed here! You know, foreing language and all that... I don't think I'd add much of value. But, like sleepyhead said, just so you don't think noone's reading... there's many of us silent ones.
I'll really miss seeing updates for this story when it's done, as well as it's characters and this rich universe you've created.
I hope you keep writing for a very long time...

-Ana.

[JustSkipIt]

Sara – Definitely the home stretch and I can understand you having little to say.

You had me laughing so much here. First, Faith does the thing I’ve been wanting to do for almost the entire story, and then we get snarky Tara. I love it.

Thanks. Yeah, I’ve had that outlined from the beginning and I knew that people would be very amused.

I think that I’ve never been as clear about the outline of the marks matching on the hand-to-hip so I’m not shocked that you never noticed it. In my mind it was very clear but I couldn’t really emphasize it as I wanted.

Do they have to be face to face for mark rights? Eh, doesn’t really matter anyways. Point is, I don’t think it works that way.

For actual marks-rights the marks would have to literally fit. Not necessarily that the hand is the same size but he would have to be able to place his mark over hers for them to activate. In this case, however, I do contend that Tara’s magic and the magic of their Mistress/Servant bond is primary anyway and the marks don’t actually matter in that way.

Ok, so the waiting for Dani is over. Tara feels like shit about what she did, Dani obviously feels like crap as she’s slumped over in the backyard, and everyone else seems to want to slap Tara on the back of the head. I think we’re in a good place for the reconciliation and inevitable togetherness. I guess my only question is will we get a flashback for the scene in which Tara freed Dani?

Yes, the waiting is over. In answer to your question, I don’t think so. We will have some ruminating by Tara on the scene but not a flashback.

I’m glad to hear that you would accept the outcome of a scenario such as you described. Yes, we still need to hear from Dani and I believe we need some further realization and growth on Tara’s part.

All in all, a very good chapter that didn’t end with me wanting to slap Tara, but maybe that’s because Faith was kind enough to do it for me.

Lol. Thanks.

Diane – Hey there again. I’m glad everyone enjoyed Faith’s actions. As I said above, I’ve had that outlined all along so every time someone has suggested it, it has cracked me up.

Yes, Dani is quite confused but she has two things to rely on: her brilliant mind and her faith in her love. Keep in mind that while Dani has been relatively close-mouthed about her feelings about Tara, Tara has not. Assuming that Dani believes her, she knows that Tara loves her. If we believe that she is less of a git than Tara, she will have that as a beacon to hold onto.

I agree that Tara took a lot of comfort in knowing about her mother and Desiderata. Lol about Faith telling Tara it’s bullshit.

[quoteAgain, great update. I know we're headed into the home stretch here and the KB Happy Ending™ is on the way. Like you told me toward the end of my story, your ending would be much better if there was some uncertaintly about the fate of our girls, but I do really like the way you're working with this. Well done! [/quote]Thanks. Yes, it’s kind of hard sometimes to feel like there’s enough suspense but the how can be a question mark too. Right?

Thanks.

wolfkin – Sorry for the cliffhanger. I’m working on the next part as we speak (so to speak). Shouldn’t be too long.

Seriously, did I miss where Dani was freed? I don't remember that

No. You didn’t miss it. The present in the form of Faith’s visit caught up with the past in the form of Tara’s narrative. I wanted to leave the actual scene in the village to your imagination. There will be references but I want the reader to fill in the blanks. Again, it’s the flawed narrator.

Thanks.

WolfDragonGod – Thanks so much. Yes, they are finally moving to a conclusion.

db – I’m glad you enjoyed the Faith intervention.

Yay Faith! I wanna squeeze her!

God, don’t we all…

Tara severed the marks with no explanation and *left* Dani in the village just "hoping" that Dani would come back to her of her own free will ?!

I’m not sure that I would say that is the truth nor did Tara admit to it. Tara will ruminate on it in the next part and we’ll get more clarification. But she did not tell Dani to come back. More on that too…

*slaps Tara in the back of her head too*

Tara, Tara, Tara. I know, I know, thou art heartbroken and feel that thou art a cad and a wretch blah de blah.... Get up and go comfort Dani for the love of god and get yer head out of your ass!

Lol. Coming up…

Your guess is correct. This is no longer Dani although none of them know who it is just yet. Just for a clarification since I did not mention it earlier, Tara knows that the bond has been severed because she can feel it (or can not feel it).

Thanks for your wonderful praise.

Anne – Yes, Faith’s arrival was just in time. She’s talked a little bit of sense into Tara and she did it with courage to confront her superior in such a way. She rocks (in case I have never mentioned that before…).

So she's released Dani's bonds, without explanation, then abandoned her in the village (did she even organise her rooms or food?), and 'hoped' she'd come tell her she (Dani) loved her (Tara)? Yep, seems like a good plan... not.

Actually. She didn’t do it without explanation nor “abandon” her in the village. Yes, she did organize her rooms and food as well as the same for Tadre. There will be more on this in the next chapter.

I agree that Tara has a sort of color blindness but I think that in general she’s in pretty good shape.

Re: the scene in the village. We’ll have reference to in both the next update and in the sequel but I do not believe there will be a full flash back to it. Suffice it to say there was much confusion and hurt on Dani’s part and pain and suffering on Tara’s part.

Thanks.

Sleepyhead – Hi and welcome. Heck, I’m just happy to hear that you’re reading the story and enjoying it! Thanks.

Julia – Thanks so much. Yes, I’m happy that Faith arrived. Thanks for your comments.

grimlock72 – Wow, what a great set of comments and questions. I love your feedback. Have I mentioned that lately?

You make a fantastic point about the contrast between Faith and Tara. I hadn’t thought of it like that but yes, Faith assumes the best while Tara the worst but neither has confirmation from Dani.

I don't see the big deal about calling it 'mark-rights' or 'having sex because the bonded one can't say no' really. Same idea, different name.

Yes, yes, yes. In this specific case they are slightly different but they have the same outcome. Either way, it’s a person who is stripped of her complete free will.

Everyone is very curious about the freeing and about how much Tara said to Dani. I haven’t written that scene but it’s in my head so I’ll describe it a bit. Tara would have explained to Dani that she loved and valued her but that she was freeing her because she couldn’t stand the idea of owning someone she cared for so much. No she wouldn’t have asked Dani’s opinion because the fact is that Dani would have been incapable of giving it. And this she would have told Dani also. She would not have told Dani that she wanted her to return, fearing that Dani’s lifetime of training would make her comply even once freed. Tara also set up both Dani and Tadre in rooms in the tavern/inn taking care of their horses, accommodations, food, etc.

Yes, Stefan brought T’dre to the village and no, Dani was not drugged. She would have no need to be although she was given herbs by the local healer for the actual marking/freeing. I would love to say that Tara stayed for that but she did not. She was too heartbroken and involved in herself and believing that the moment the bond was broken Dani would want her gone.

Poor Dani; she worked so hard and was so loyal to her Lady. What did she get for all her work and dedication? She was fired without any explanation given. She must think she did something wrong, something so bad her Lady didn't consider it worthy to tell her. Thinking about that makes me very sad cry cry cry .

Agreed. Poor Dani. She doesn’t really understand why she’s been freed but she does have confidence that Tara does love her.

As far as Tara’s staff bringing Dani home, I can assure you that they are only doing what Dani has indicated rather than retaining Dani for Tara. At this point, Stefan is somewhat put out with Tara and Xander (who is not on Tara’s staff) is downright pissed.

The estate can probably provide better care and Dani has lots of friends there. Or did she want to go back and talk to Tara? Her condition seems too bad to want anything like that at this time though.

Certainly the Estate is the most comfortable place for Dani if Dani wants to be there.

Yes, I agree that it’s strange that Tara couldn’t tell how Dani feels but in her defense, the bond is very powerful and if Dani had been acting, it would have seemed the same (or so she believes). I love your wording that all Faith did was switch the idea from black to white.

Is Tara perhaps afraid to really talk WITH Dani ??? There's no protocol to guide her through that conversation.

It would seem so but at the same time, this will be the first time that she will have the opportunity to truly hear the truth from Dani since their bonding.

There is no way to know if Dani truly loved Tara when she was bound to her. The silly magic influences her very mind which makes it impossible to seperate the Dani-thoughts from the servant-thoughts. Faith very brazenly declares that it happens a lot that servants and mistresses have an affair of sorts. That doesn't mean that there is truly love between them. It just means they have an affair/relation in which the mistress sees no harm.

So very well put! Exactly.

Well Tara *does* see harm, a bit too much perhaps. But she at least acknowledges the risk inherent of such a relation within a bonding (confusing wording, sorry). Whatever Faith may say, there IS a risk there, clearly.

Now I’m just quoting and quoting your feedback. Perhaps I can hire you to respond to feedback from now on…

We’ll see what happens as far as an easy ending. Of course, there is only one chapter left (one or two updates, not sure) so that may be telling.

TinyAnt – Hello there. I’m glad to hear you’re still reading and enjoying. Don’t worry about the busy. You’re commenting skills are always greatly appreciated. Thanks so much.

[grimlock72]

Everyone is very curious about the freeing and about how much Tara said to Dani. I haven’t written that scene but it’s in my head so I’ll describe it a bit. Tara would have explained to Dani that she loved and valued her but that she was freeing her because she couldn’t stand the idea of owning someone she cared for so much. No she wouldn’t have asked Dani’s opinion because the fact is that Dani would have been incapable of giving it. And this she would have told Dani also.

"I am going to free you of this bond, and because of said bond you can't protest against being freed" ?? Sounds weird Besides, I have trouble imagining Dani NOT protesting or asking questions at the very least. She can't have been all happy and smiles at that announcement. Either Dani is loyal to the very (bitter) end or Tara is VERRRRY ignorant (perhaps a tiny bit on purpose??). For some reason I get the impression Tara is/was avoiding a confrontation so I figured she would avoid one before the 'free-ing' (it remains to be seen if Dani views it as being 'freed' btw.)

Now why am I reminded of a scene from the movie "Misery".. goes something like "trust me... it's for the best" then the axe falls. Good thing no axe was involved here, nor any drugging.

We’ll see what happens as far as an easy ending. Of course, there is only one chapter left (one or two updates, not sure) so that may be telling.

Well with the length of some of your updates...
(and we don't know how much time those last updates will span)

Btw. did Tara ever think of what would happen to Dani say a week after being freed? Would she just be able to find a job, be able to feed herself, be happy at all?? Despite Tara's good intentions I think this decision (while ultimately a good one) was rushed a bit.

Edited to add: one thing I'm also wondering about is Dani's feeling self-worth. She has been raised all her life to be a servant to the Maclay Estate and specifically Tara. How does she view life and her place in it now that she clearly can't do/be that anymore?

[Auriam]

I feel really stupid cause i didn't have the time to read the last 4 chap ! ! ! ! (you know work, paper, exam....) Now i just finish the last one WOW i mean WOOOOW
Thank you for you great story wanna more ! ! !

[EmeraldArcher]

JustSkipIt,

I have just finished catching up with this story and wanted to tell you how much I am enjoying it. I have read some of the posted responses, and I have to say that I, also, have had the odd feelings about the power balance between Tara and Dani. It is a very difficult thing to write about a master/servant relationship, especially when it is spelled out so thoroughly how the servant is bound and cannot refuse a master in anything. It is clear that Tara and Dani love each other, but there is that nagging in the back of my mind. I understand Tara wanting to free Dani so their relationship can be on equal footing, but I wanted Tara to tell Dani the reason for her rejection and dismissal; it was very hard to read. I look forward to seeing what has happened to Dani - is it magical? is it physical? Thanks for writing and sharing, and I wll try to leave better feedback as soon as I can.

EA

[JustSkipIt]

grimlock72 – Yes, I agree with you about Dani’s weird feelings about being freed. Surely this would have upset her and she would have been bound (no pun intended) to protest. I don’t think that Tara was ignorant at all but I believe that she would have known why Dani would protest and would have left her there regardless.

Eek. That scene. Very scary. No axe or drugging.

Your point about the length of update is a good one. It’s possible that the last chapter will be two updates. I’m not sure and I’m working on writing it now. I’ve been writing a few other stories but I’m back to this one because I really want to complete it.

Btw. did Tara ever think of what would happen to Dani say a week after being freed? Would she just be able to find a job, be able to feed herself, be happy at all?? Despite Tara's good intentions I think this decision (while ultimately a good one) was rushed a bit.

No. Absolutely not.

Your questions about Dani’s self-worth are excellent. Some of that will be revealed her and the rest in the sequel. As always, thanks for your excellent comments.

Auriam[/b – Not stupid. I’m glad that you got here. Thanks.

[b]EmeraldArcher – Hello and if I haven’t said it before, welcome. Yes, the power imbalance is the major point of the story. Yes, Tara and Dani certainly love each other but the power imbalance remains. And yes, Tara should have told Dani exactly why she did it and I’m not saying that she didn’t. We’ll see.

I look forward to seeing what has happened to Dani - is it magical? is it physical?

It is physical and emotional and mental caused by magical. She has been freed from the bond and it has drained her energy. When a servant is freed (which rarely happens while the Master/Mistress is alive), it will greatly drain his/her energy. The stronger the bond and more powerful the Master, the more energy drain there will be.

Thank you for your comments. BTW: Love your Dorothy Parker quote.

Thanks.

[JustSkipIt]

[center][/center]


Story Title – Waiting for Dani

Chapter – 17 – The end of Waiting or Dani’s Return

Author – JustSkipIt

Pairing –W/T

Feedback – Yes, please

Spoilers – None

Rating – R

Disclaimer – Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy own Willow and Tara and the Buffyverse. I’m not saying this universe is totally original but I didn’t steal it from any author or creator that I know of. No copyright infringement is meant by this fic and I will not make any money from it.

Announcement and answers to expected FAQs – My wife, Rachel, is pregnant again! We’re overjoyed. She’s eleven weeks along (due date January 03). Asher is very excited about it. We don’t know whether it’s a boy or a girl and will probably not find out until s/he is born. Rachel has terrible morning sickness (again) and is very tired. We’re optimistic that she will feel better after the end of the first trimester. For now, we are calling the baby “Lucky” because we were very lucky to get pregnant so quickly. Please feel free to PM or e-mail me if you have questions or requests for advice.

I rushed toward the door, not caring for my appearance or lack of footwear. I yanked it open and rushed down the stairs, passing through the kitchen which I knew from Dani’s research was the quickest route through the house, and out into the courtyard. Faith and Dawn were fast behind me and we reached the riders even as Stefan was helping Dani from his horse and into Xander’s arms.

As he dismounted Stefan extended his mark toward me and greeted me with a bow. I can’t say that it was the warmest greeting I’ve ever received but it was respectful enough given my recent behavior. I returned his only summarily and reached for Dani who slumped weakly against Xander’s chest. “Dani? Dani?” I brushed my fingertips against her cheek, knowing that tears flowed down my own.

Dani, for her part struggled to lift her head weakly and look at me through unfocused eyes. She seemed to want to smile and lifted the corners of her mouth only the slightest bit before slumping back towards Xander who lifted her completely from her feet. “Lady Tara, she must rest. May we bring her inside?”

His concern for her was both touching and embarrassing as I should have been ushering them inside from the moment we realized their approach. “Yes, come. In m-my rooms.” I hesitated a moment before directing them toward my rooms for this had been the very scene of the crime, as it were, but they were the most plush and comfortable. When she was recovered, she could leave them at her earliest but for now, I just wanted to make her comfortable.

We made quite a parade, tracking mud and muck onto the kitchen floors as we passed through and to the back stairs, myself in the lead and Xander immediately behind me. I charged through the door to my rooms which had been left open in our rush to the courtyard and pulled back the covers, fluffing the pillow and smoothing the sheets as best I could. Dawn immediately rushed around the other side and did the same on that side of the bed.

“H-here, please Xander. Please…” He set Dani down as gently as he could and I felt a burning moment of jealousy as he placed a kiss on her forehead. He leaned forward and whispered in her ear and I thought I heard him say something “you … wished…” I averted my eyes for she was whispering something to him and I did not want to intrude on their private moment. Then he stepped back and bowed to her for the full three seconds.

I could barely hear her voice but she whispered my name and I rushed the step forward to kneel on the ground by her. I had to lean in and put my ear right by her mouth to hear her even a little. “…my mark. Please…” She weakly lifted and then dropped her left hand, wrapped in gauze on the bed and I looked at it dumbly.

Then I heard Stefan behind me. “Lady Tara.” I turned to look at him. “She was quite insistent that you be the first to see her mark. She said you would understand her new name.” He held out a small vial. “T’dre sends these herbs.”

I took the herbs from him as if in a daze and looked at Dani. She seemed on the verge of losing consciousness. I uncapped the lid. “Do you want these?” She shook her head and I leaned forward and put the vial in the palm of her other hand. “If you change your mind, you have them.”

She nodded and closed her eyes for a moment as if trying to gather her strength and courage. “My mark…” She crossed her hand over to rest it in front of me. “Please…”

I was aware of the others gathering closer as I began to carefully unwrap the bandages. The pain must have been quite bad for as I unwrapped them she took a small sip of the herbs, wincing at the bitterness. Finally I reached the last layer of bandage and peeled it back. It seemed the entirety of our group was holding our breath and then we released a collective gasp as her mark was revealed.

Weak as she was, Dani’s smile was clearly directed at the beauty of T’dre’s artistry. For there in the midst of her reddened palm was the simplicity of the free-servant’s bond. A single “W.” I blinked my eyes as I took in the markings around the letter, realizing the extent to which Tadre had taken on this assignment and made it her own. I was transfixed by the sight of Dani’s hand. Or no longer Dani and I didn’t know her name. I did not know the name of my love and this struck me as strange beyond measure. I looked at her through blurred tears and saw her watching me intently as she could. Her eyelids drooped and her last word before succumbing to her exhaustion filled me with hope as none other could have.

Willow.

I turned to Stefan but he was already handing me the jar of ointment for her palm and this I brushed on lightly to ease her pain and keep away infection before tucking her hand under the covers, in fact pulling the covers up around her to make her as comfortable as possible.

I could not say how many minutes I sat there just staring at her, every so often reaching out to brush my fingertips through her hair and then stopping myself before I heard Faith’s voice behind me. “Lady Tara. We must talk.”

“I can’t leave her.” My voice broke as I spoke. I had sent her away once and she had returned to me. I would wait to find out the meaning of her chosen name or to be admonished for my terrible behavior. Either way, I would beg her forgiveness the moment she was well enough to hear my plea.

I glanced at Stefan and Faith amassed behind me. “Please, Tara. Dawn can sit with her if you can just step into your office with us.” She waved her hand at the doorway to the anteroom which I used as a small office.

I looked at Dawn. “You will come get me if she even moves?”

“Yes, Lady Tara.”

I turned and led the others from the room. Before going I started to lean down to kiss my love’s forehead but I arrested my movement as I realized how inappropriate it would be. We reached the office and pulled the door partially closed. I was able to see into the bedroom by standing facing the doorway and my audience stood to the side to allow my vision. Faith glanced into the room again. “Is the bond broken?”

I nodded my head. I had known that the bond was broken as I reached the Estate the day before but this confrontation had proven it beyond a doubt. I could feel no trace of the magic which had bound us for three years. “It is broken.”

Faith blew out a breath. “Good. I was concerned for Tadre’s work after seeing what she has done.” She shook her head. “How she could make such a mistake... Is she well?” She turned to Stefan. “Did she seem well?”

Stefan also shook his head. “She seemed entirely well and is quite comfortable at the inn. I had no idea that she was lacking…”

I continued to watch the two of them. Perhaps it was my exhaustion or the herbs my sister had given me the night before but I failed to understand immediately the reason for their consternation.

“My Lady,” Faith finally said quite directly. “Tadre has given Dan… Willow the marks of a magic user.”

“A first generation magic user,” Stefan clarified.

I nodded my head as I finally understood their concern. Well, it would be public now. “T’dre did not make a mistake.” I watched through the doorway. Willow slept peacefully and Dawn was quite vigilant.

“But her marks…”

“Faith, Stefan,” I glanced back and forth between them. “Willow is a magic user. I do not know how this is possible but you can trust me that it is.”

Faith seemed almost angry with this revelation but she did not allow it to show greatly. “How long have you known this?”

“I am sorry, sister, to have never told you this. I have known since we were children.”

Faith was silent for a long time as Stefan watched her. Finally she spoke. “You must have been very afraid, My Lady.”

I considered my words carefully. “I became less afraid as time went on and we both grew into our power. But still, we did not want it known. T’dre only knows because Dani invoked a spell during her marking.”

Faith nodded her head. “This means… there is more to D’Shel’s story than we have been led to believe.”

I smiled at her understatement. “Very much more it would seem.” I glanced back into the room. “I must sit with her.” I bowed quickly and they did the same.

Dawn waited until I had tapped her shoulder and then stood to allow me to sit in the chair by the bed. “May I get you anything, Lady Tara? Something to eat or drink?”

I acquiesced, feeling hunger pangs and asked her to bring me a sandwich and drink and she did so quickly. I thanked her profusely and dismissed her with the promise that I would call for her if I needed her.

She seemed to hesitate for a moment before speaking. “Would you … would you pass on my congratulations to Willow?”

It was an interesting request but I realized that Willow was certainly due congratulations. “I will surely do so, Dawn. Thank you.”

She bowed and left and I turned my full attention to watching Willow sleep. I dared not touch her, even to brush a wisp of hair from her forehead but I was captivated by her beauty. Could it be possible that this would be the last time I would see her? If she woke and cursed my very name and being, I would plead nothing but beg her forgiveness on my knees.

The sun moved across the sky and the shadows played on the floor of the room and still I sat by the bed. My days, currently, seem to be filled with nothing but sitting and waiting. Dawn came to check on me frequently and bring me drinks or spell me for a necessary break but mostly I sat. Willow stirred once or twice, once looking at me with glazed eyes and asking for more herbs which I handed her eagerly.

And I thought of Faith’s words and of the way I had left Dani in the village.

[blockquote]Dani was quiet as we rode. At her waist was the fine dagger I had brought from the wedding and she looked beautiful for how could she ever not?

“Might I ask what errand we take, My Lady?”

I thought about this for a few moments. “I believe it would be better that we wait until we arrive. I promise I will explain when we reach the tavern.”

My love nodded and did not inquire further and we reached the tavern in silence. The innkeeper directed us to the rooms I had reserved for Tadre and she answered when we knocked at her door. She was quite eager to greet us both formally and informally. I could see that her marking instruments and supplies were prepared and she asked to speak to me privately.

“Lady Tara. Are you sure about this?”

I nodded my head. “Yes, Miss T’dre. I must free her.”

She looked across the room toward my love. “Have you told her?”

“I will do so now.” I bowed and then hugged her. “There is none other I would trust with such an important marking as this.”

She bowed in return and I crossed to Dani asking her to enter the other room of the suite with me. She watched me carefully and spoke before I could begin. “Please do not do this, My Lady.”

So she had guessed the reason for our journey. I took her hands in my own and attempted to speak quickly for tears were forming in my eyes as they had already pooled in hers. “Dani. I … love you as I never have loved another nor will. I … “ I took a long break as her eyes were locked on mine. “I… I… Do you know how I love you?”

Dani squinted. “Yes, My Lady.”

I could hardly speak. “I … T’dre is here at my request to give you your freed servant’s bond.”

Dani shook her head. “My Lady. Tara. I … I can not…” She took a few shuddering breaths. When she spoke again she struggled with her words. “I do … this is not … you need a servant…” Her tears were falling quickly and it was obvious that she could not speak further.

I was losing my own composure. “I… you have lodging here for as long as you may need.”

“Please… My Lady. Tara. Please.”

I took her hand again and held it close as tears poured from both our eyes. I kissed her palm gently, my words no more than a whisper. “I love you.”

I left the tavern with Dani’s tearful words in my ears. “Please… please… Tara? Tara?”

I reached my horse and stood for a few minutes to try and recover my composure somewhat. I knew that Dani felt confused and obligated to attempt to argue against my decision for how could she not? The bond caused her pleas. Once it was broken, she could feel the relief and freedom.

I had just reached the Estate when the bond was broken. Merie helped me to my room for which I rewarded her with my anger. I took to the chair and began to wait. [/blockquote]

As the night and next morning stretched on, Willow stirred a few times. I gave her small bites of food, drink, or herbs as she requested and assisted her with her necessary as she required. She was not capable of carrying on much more conversation than pointing at the tankard or whispering thank you. A few times I tried to apologize, plead, confess my love but her eyes glazed over quickly and she took sleep again before answering.

At mid-morning, I took Faith and Dawn’s urging to sleep for a short while. I lay down in the suite and was asleep in moments with their assurance that they would wake me if Willow woke for more than a word.

==

I slept deeply and woke to quiet. Dawn was with Willow and she assured me that the few times the redhead had awoken, she had only asked for something to drink. Dawn begged my forgiveness if she was inappropriate but advised that I perhaps take a short time to freshen up. I began to plead but finally took her advice and did so as quickly as I could. I returned to the room to see Willow in the same position she had been in when I left. Dawn asked if she could serve me any further and I dismissed her gratefully.

And what of Willow? She was beautiful in her sleep as I had always known. I ran my fingers across the back of her hand and was surprised as it turned to grasp mine. It could have been only her sleep or her lifelong training but again, my heart leapt with the possibility that it was more.

Nearing late afternoon, Willow woke more and more frequently and remained awake for longer periods of time, even asking me for reports on the condition of the Estate. I had to sheepishly admit that I knew virtually nothing of the condition of the Estate having spent the last few days in this room and before that in travel. She didn’t admonish me regarding my lack of knowledge but moved to other topics.

Noting that she had been awake for more than ten minutes at a stretch, I asked if she would like to bathe quickly adding that Dawn was available. Surely she wouldn’t feel comfortable allowing me to assist her. She was quiet for a long minute before responding please, that would be quite appreciated.

Faith’s servant appeared almost before I could open the door and seemed to anticipate my request. I am quite sure she was bothered by my repeated admonitions to be careful of Willow’s tender mark but she hid it well, promising that she would be gentle. As Dawn drew the bath, I returned to the bed and told Willow that I would return as soon as they were done and asked was there anything else I could bring her.

Her eyes lost their vacant look for long enough to ask me for a few cherry tarts and I restrained myself from commenting that she was my predictable girl. Instead, I bowed and promised to return with a plate of her favorite treat. My trip downstairs afforded me the opportunity to apologize to Merie for my heinous treatment of her. She seemed to take my words well and I hinted that perhaps there would be need for she and Lory to conduct some business in village overnight the next week. Given the speed with which she fetched Willow’s tarts, I think we can assume that she either loved Dani quite dearly (without doubt) or appreciated my offer or, I think, both.

I returned to the room with two plates of tarts and offered one to Dawn who was quite grateful and asked if she could serve me otherwise. I replied that it would not be necessary and she assured me yet again that she would be close by.

Willow was propped up against the pillows, looking more refreshed than when I had left. “You have my tarts.” She seemed to have a gleam in her eye and I could not tell her purpose. I handed her the plate and retook my chair.

The time seemed opportune. She was awake and seemed lucid. I had not seen her take any herbs in a few hours. I wanted to take her hand but it seemed inappropriate and I wrung my hands as I began to speak. “Dan… Willow. I’m sorry that make take me a little while to… I must beg your f-f-forgiveness for…” My voice shook as I spoke.

I was surprised as she interrupted me. Obviously she was freed from the bond for no servant would interrupt me no matter how my voice shook or how much I stuttered. “Lady Tara.” She took a deep breath and then smiled disbelievingly. “I can say whatever I want. I have one question for you.”

“Yes?”

She did not ask her question right off. “I was heartbroken. Truly heartbroken when you left me in the village.”

“I am so sorry. Willow I…”

She held up her hand to stop my speech. “No. Let me continue. I could not understand why you would leave me that way and order me freed. I was sure that you loved me. That you love me?” She looked at me for long enough that I nodded head vigorously and she seemed to relax a bit. “Yet you left me with T’dre and … I … I could not understand how you would do this and say that you loved me.” She pushed the plate away from herself and I took it and set it on the floor at the foot of the bed. “It has now been days and I’ve slept fitfully and dreamt only of sorrow. Tara, did… did you… did you free me to see if I would return to you?” As she spoke she took my hand in hers and her grip tightened as she waited for my response.

“No, Willow.” I could see the sorrow returning to her eyes as I spoke. “I freed you so that you would never again have to do anything you did not wish in your own heart.” I smiled lovingly at her and hoped that this would be the answer she hoped for. “But I prayed that you would return to me.”

She tried to speak for a few seconds, her mouth seeming to fail to form the words. Finally she reached up and grasped the back of my head pulling me close to kiss me hungrily. Her kiss was somewhat more sloppy and unfocused than I was used to which I attributed to the herbs and her exhaustion.

I was crying when we broke the kiss and stroked her cheeks with my fingertips. “You actually love me?”

She smiled at me as if considering a child. “You could not tell by the way …” I will not repeat her words but suffice it to say she referred rather explicitly to some of our private activities.

I blushed. “Well, um, I … um… I feared it was the bond.”

Again she seemed to regard me as a child. She brushed my cheek with her hand. “My Lady, the first time I made love to you was before I was bound or have you forgotten?”

I blushed. It seemed I would do nothing more than blush. “Not your lady any longer and I have forgotten nothing of any second we’ve ever spent together including that glorious and unexpected night.”

She pulled me onto the bed finally but I fear that movement hurt her badly for she inhaled sharply. “I must take herbs again momentarily but …” she blinked slowly. “I am so grateful to you for my freedom for although it leaves me without my life’s purpose, it also relieves me of never knowing whether the love I felt for you was true or a product of that bond.” She lifted my mark to her lips. “You are my lady, always.” And then her eyelids fluttered and she was unconscious sitting up in bed. I lowered her against the pillow

She loved me. Loves me. Oh Goddess. I still felt that I owed her so much but prayed for as long at it took to repay her. I crawled up onto the bed and lay behind her. Even as she slept, she reached behind her back to take my arm and pull it around her waist and I began to cry tears of relief as I held her as tightly as I could.

Some time later I woke to the warmth of my love wrapped in my arms. She had turned to face me and began to kiss me deeply. "Love me, Tara."

I broke the kiss to answer her. "Yes, dear. I love you more than anything."

She giggled and proved that she was feeling more clear than earlier. "It was imperative, not interrogative, My Lady. Love Me."

And I did.

Her hands were at my hems and mine at her sash and our clothes seemed to almost evaporate so quickly had we divested each other. And then we were no longer two bodies, four hands, two lips, but one being. We were merged and together and could not be closer. Gone were the sparks of contact between my mark and her center or my tongue on her mark but we could not have been closer. When we peaked, it was together and one of the only times I could remember that.

And now we lie here, she in my arms and mine wrapped around her. With each waking it seems we have questions and answers for the other. I asked her why she waited so long to tell me she loved me and she laughed, admitting that she did not want to get in the way of my required marriage. Later she teased me that Lord Finn could at least have given her a magic user given that he had no daughters and I shot back that I felt sure the countryside was littered with his issue already, depriving her of a magic user.

I know not what lies before us. How will we be accepted and how will I bear my heir? What will my father say? And does my love's destiny lie only here or elsewhere? I know this: no matter where her destiny lies, I have waited long enough and will be with her always.

[Kaia]

Dibs!!

As I said before, I am so happy for you, Rachel and Asher. Congratulations on the new addition to the family, Debra! And I really hope Rachel starts feeling better soon.
P and I are going to start trying eventually, so I'll probably bother you with questions in the future. On the same note, if you ever have any medical questions i'd be happy to help you...I am an OB resident after all, might as well put myself to good use, lol.

Topic: What a tremendous present you have given us. The conclusion to an extraordinarily original tale marked with the struggles of two women growing up, facing the world, being in love.

You're such a talented writer. I hate to see this story come to and end, I like everyone says, I will be waiting for the sequel. Anything you write is a real treat.

Thanks again for sharing this magical world with us. I will be forever grateful.

K.

PS: Is it a bad time to mention Menorah Tales and update in the same sentence?

[PancakesinBellies]

First off, congratulations Deb! I know you and Rachel must be very excited and I wish only the best for your whole family.

Secondly, what a wonderfully fitting ending. It warms the cockles of my heart and makes me all mushy inside. I have really enjoyed this story. Thank you so much for taking the time to share it with us.

PS-How about an epilogue?

[Shaucker]

Aw, what a sweet, fitting way to end. And much congratulations on the new baby!
Is there going to be an epilogue that answers the questions of acceptance and future (not to mention Dani/Willow's full parentage)?
Also, now that you're done with this, are you planning on finishing Menorah Tales?

[Sandman78]

Congratulations on the new baby!!

I was very happy that there was no major angst in the last chapter..thank you.
I love sappy happy endings...but PancakesinBellies has a good point about an epilogue. I would love to see where
Willow and Tara go from here. I guess the word I'm looking for is closure , you left the story pretty much open for more.
Again, Thank You for another wonderful read, I enjoyed every word and moment of Tara and Dani/Willows journey.
Just wanted you to know I think you're an amazing writer...now I'm off to read Menorah Tales.

[hondos]

WOOOHOOO How wonderful for you and Rachel.And how very lucky lucky is to have you.No one can write about and describe love in such a first hand detail as you do and not just be overflowing with the stuff.Im just thrilled for you all.
Now the story. I loved this story from start to end. So much detail and thought and so very original.Im fascinated at how easily you wrote of this whole sort of mythology thing here able to work in the history of it while still moving the story forward.I think you should still think about publishing this story.Just brilliant.Cant wait for the sequel.
Rose

[JujuDeRoussie]

Hello

Once again, congratulations for the baby. Hope your wife's sickness will go away fast enough and with the end of the first semester.

Now about the last update... wonderful

There isn't so much to say. Well written, and happy ending... so just great

Thank you for your the whole story.

Julia

[Fin]

Hi There and congrads on your good news
You sound very busy with your RL but always manage to update and complete your wonderful fics so bravo to you
I was very pleased to see the final chapter tonight as have been waiting for it eagerly. I really liked the happy ending, in particularly the part-

“No, Willow.” I could see the sorrow returning to her eyes as I spoke. “I freed you so that you would never again have to do anything you did not wish in your own heart.” I smiled lovingly at her and hoped that this would be the answer she hoped for. “But I prayed that you would return to me.”

I liked how you ended the tale leaving room for a sequel which could delve into how Tara and Willow live as a couple now that they are both equals and how they will be received by family ect...

A lovelly tale you have weaved again,
thanks for sharing your talents,
Cheers
Fin

[db]

First of all - CONGRATULATIONS! I do a twirly twirly dance in your honor! Yay for the Whole Skipit Family t

Second of all:

*swoon*

Debra. I have loved this story from the beginning, and you kept wondering if the ending would be right... so I guess I was a little nervous to read it... but it was perfect. Just the right amount of angst mixed in with hope and love.

Willow getting the marks of a magic user was a total surprise to me -- and of course Tadre would do so -- I love that woman (*gives her a bit smooch*). It certainly solves a conundrum regarding the public story of the whys and wherefores of Willow's freedom. Plus, ok, I knew she'd take the name Willow -- but I loved all the background you put into the name.

Thank you thank you for letting Willow speak her mind and feel joy in it. Thank you for allowing room for Willow to have questioned whether some of her feelings were from the bond, and give an explination about why she witheld her confession of love.

God I love this story -- and I especailly loved its end!

It was perfect. And I loved it and that is all

db

[WolfDragonGod]

wow just wow i have loved the story since the start and i still do love it and i can't wait to see if there might be a sequeal to it where they have kids or not i just want to tell you great job and good luck with everything else in life.

[dlline]

Wow! No more hypotheticals. Cool. Congrats!

Great update.... nice way to end a great story. I know you were incredibly concerned that the ending would be anticlimatic, but I think you dealt with the KB requirements quite nicely. I mean, we all knew that Willow was coming back, but it was nice to see how you managed her return, including the magic user marks.

Great story, well done, and for the first time in this entire tale, I don't find myself wanting to smack Tara in the back of the head. I guess that's the best ending we all could hope for. Good luck with your new story, and special kudos to Rachel, Ash, and Lucky. Talk to you soon.

Diane

[The Rose24]

Hi,

I have not commented in a while, but I have read your entire story and have thouroughly enjoyed it.

In Tara's defense, I understand she is not sure if Willow really loves her. Tara is extremely worried she is taking advantage of Willow because technically Willow is not supposed to say no to Tara. It is really easy to get mixed signals. Though I think Tara should have spoken to Willow before she frees her and could have avoided all of the drama. Couldn't Tara have asked Willow to speak freely and talk about what is on her mind?

[Second Fig]

Be still my beating heart!
The ending was wonderful, generally I am one of those people who like to have things nice and tidy at the end but I finished the last paragraph with a sense of hope and anticipation for their future (and your sequel, Carly Simon is running through my mind, an-tic-ipation.).
That was pure genius by the way in how you changed Dani to Willow. The conversation at the end was markedly different than their interactions before and it felt more like the Willow we are familiar with. You resolved my doubts about Tara taking away the choice from Willow in the decision to remove the bond. The easy conversation and Willows change validated Tara’s decision because if they had discussed it Willow might have refused and she seems to realize that about herself. They still have a few issues but for now all they needed was a little lov’in.
The supporting characters really came through and well supported them. Dawn, Xander and especially Faith, I think you need to slip in her lessons on communication.
You answered a few questions that were in the back of my mind and presented more that hints at a sequel that will be just as amazing.