First Fic - Mending Fences (AU)

[SlayerTazz]

Ashley if I give you update-y goodness now its that much longer you are going to have to wait...I won't have time to write more before the Dr gets ahold of me...PLUS it my turn on the group story...want me to neglect that?!?!?!

~Branny

In my world there are people in chains, and we can ride them like ponies. ~ VampWillow in Dopplegangland

Passion is the source of our finest moments. The joy of love...the clarity of hatred...and the ecstasy of grief.

[MissQuirky]

Well if ya didn't have to leave the update in such a cliffhanger i wouldn't be all and all beggy- thats close enough to a word! I can't help it if i LOVE this fic and thats yer fault 4 makin it sooooo damn good!



And i know the dr.s trip is on its way but u have Kat to help ya w/ that mess! And i also know yer next on the list 4 the group fic- which better be good! I already know it will be tho! So No don't neglect it! I just want my update-y goodness!!



~Ashley~

Willow: We can come by between classes. Usually I use that time to copy over my class notes with a system of different colored pens. But it's been pointed out to me that that's, you know... insane.
Tara: I said quirky.

[kathy94]

Quote:

---

Gulp......Huh?



And Wednesday?



Put down your girl and get back to the keyboard.



Really.

---

I'm NOT liking this idea at all

Quote:

---

Well if ya didn't have to leave the update in such a cliffhanger i wouldn't be all and all beggy- thats close enough to a word! I can't help it if i LOVE this fic and thats yer fault 4 makin it sooooo damn good!

---

Ashley - Calm down woman!! Wednesday isn't that far away. Trust me it will be here soon.

Quote:

---

Branny maybe this would be the time to use ducky doo!

---

And if you use ducky doo you might not get any more updates. I know how to distract my girl quite well. I could make it so she doesn't post for a long long long time.



P.S.

I know normally I would be harassing Branny with you but she needed a little support and I'll always be there for her. Don't hate me.

"Can you just be kissing me now?" Tara- Entropy

"She's my everything"
Willow-Tough Love

[MissQuirky]

Quote:

---

Ashley - Calm down woman!! Wednesday isn't that far away. Trust me it will be here soon.

---

Wednesday is far enough! OK OK I'll calm down A LIL!! I think i can manage to wait! Maybe!!

Quote:

---

And if you use ducky doo you might not get any more updates. I know how to distract my girl quite well. I could make it so she doesn't post for a long long long time.

---

U WOULDN'T!! I don't like that AT ALL!! OK NO Ducky doo if YOU stay away from distracting Branny!! DEAL?!?!

Quote:

---

P.S.

I know normally I would be harassing Branny with you but she needed a little support and I'll always be there for her. Don't hate me

---

OK i don't hate ya much! I'm j/k- I could never hate u! And i agree Branny needed some support, me bein all so yer off the hook but ya can't make this an on-going thing here, we're on a team so we have to do the harassing together, get me!



~Ashley~

Willow: We can come by between classes. Usually I use that time to copy over my class notes with a system of different colored pens. But it's been pointed out to me that that's, you know... insane.
Tara: I said quirky.

[kathy94]

Quote:

---

U WOULDN'T!! I don't like that AT ALL!! OK NO Ducky doo if YOU stay away from distracting Branny!! DEAL?!?!

---

Ashley, you've got yourself a deal



Oh and I promise I'll continue to harass my gorgeous girlfriend with you. Couldn't break up the team!!!

"Can you just be kissing me now?" Tara- Entropy

"She's my everything"
Willow-Tough Love

[MissQuirky]

Quote:

---

Ashley, you've got yourself a deal

---

Well goodie!! NO Branny distractions 4 u and NO ducky doo 4 me!

Quote:

---

Oh and I promise I'll continue to harass my gorgeous girlfriend with you. Couldn't break up the team!!!

---

Goodie again! And NO breaking up the team, sorry Branny but we're alwayz gonna be here!!

Willow: We can come by between classes. Usually I use that time to copy over my class notes with a system of different colored pens. But it's been pointed out to me that that's, you know... insane.
Tara: I said quirky.

[barnabasvamp]

Ashley, sweetie....

I'm still here to help harass for Updat-y goodness, but I will try to contain myself as you have been good enough to work out a deal with Kat for no Branny distractions.



But..............Wednesday is soooooo far away.

Send up a flare if you find youself in need of help, and I'll be there with fangs showing! (We need an emoticon for a vampire

"In front of total strangers won't you kiss me, Flowers for no reason but you miss me - OOH, I wanna be in love"

Melissa Etheridge-Skin

[SlayerTazz]

Quote:

---

Oh and I promise I'll continue to harass my gorgeous girlfriend with you.

---

Um, sweetie - you got another gf I need to know about?? Where's the love?? Is it Thursday yet?

~Branny

In my world there are people in chains, and we can ride them like ponies. ~ VampWillow in Dopplegangland

Passion is the source of our finest moments. The joy of love...the clarity of hatred...and the ecstasy of grief.

[MissQuirky]

Quote:

---

Ashley, sweetie....

I'm still here to help harass for Updat-y goodness, but I will try to contain myself as you have been good enough to work out a deal with Kat for no Branny distractions.

---

Hey BV!! I did the best i could, the deal is pretty good! I really don't think Kat will be able to keep herself from distracting Branny 4 too long or until Thurs. But a deal is a deal so she better try!

Quote:

---

But..............Wednesday is soooooo far away.

Send up a flare if you find youself in need of help, and I'll be there with fangs showing! (We need an emoticon for a vampire

---

I know it is far, i tried to tell em! And thanx, now i know who to call when i'm in need of help! Yes a vampire emoticon would be nice!



~Ashley~

Willow: We can come by between classes. Usually I use that time to copy over my class notes with a system of different colored pens. But it's been pointed out to me that that's, you know... insane.
Tara: I said quirky.

[SlayerTazz]

Quote:

---

I really don't think Kat will be able to keep herself from distracting Branny 4 too long or until Thurs.

---

Ashley,

Branny isn't going to LET Kat keep herself from dristracting for too long.



One smile from her and I'm going anyway. LOL sorry TMI I'm sure...but what a distraction.

~Branny

In my world there are people in chains, and we can ride them like ponies. ~ VampWillow in Dopplegangland

Passion is the source of our finest moments. The joy of love...the clarity of hatred...and the ecstasy of grief.

[MissQuirky]

Quote:

---

Ashley,

Branny isn't going to LET Kat keep herself from dristracting for too long.

---

Yer ya know that! Well of course yer not gonna let her... its what u want! But she just better do her best and resist u and yer ways 4 now! I still need update-y goodness and as long as i need that there will be NO distractions!! IT'S THE DEAL!!

Quote:

---

One smile from her and I'm going anyway. LOL sorry TMI I'm sure...but what a distraction.

---

Yes i'm sure thats a distraction but it better not get in the way of my update-y goodness, Missy!!

Willow: We can come by between classes. Usually I use that time to copy over my class notes with a system of different colored pens. But it's been pointed out to me that that's, you know... insane.
Tara: I said quirky.

[kathy94]

Quote:

---

Hey BV!! I did the best i could, the deal is pretty good! I really don't think Kat will be able to keep herself from distracting Branny 4 too long or until Thurs. But a deal is a deal so she better try!

---

Really Ashley I will try!!! I can't help it that she's so irresistible though. I promise not to distract her until Thurs, but Thurs - Sun she's all mine so no update until next week. Branny's going to need her rest after this test on Friday.

Quote:

---

One smile from her and I'm going anyway. LOL sorry TMI I'm sure...but what a distraction.

---

Awww you're too sweet!!! Love you!!!

"Can you just be kissing me now?" Tara- Entropy

"She's my everything"
Willow-Tough Love

[MissQuirky]

Quote:

---

Really Ashley I will try!!! I can't help it that she's so irresistible though. I promise not to distract her until Thurs, but Thurs - Sun she's all mine so no update until next week. Branny's going to need her rest after this test on Friday.

---

Well all i got to say is since we aren't getting any update-y goodness after Wed. until the next week this better be one hellava update! And the next one better be worth the loooong wait too!



~Ashley~

Willow: We can come by between classes. Usually I use that time to copy over my class notes with a system of different colored pens. But it's been pointed out to me that that's, you know... insane.
Tara: I said quirky.

[kathy94]

Quote:

---

Well all i got to say is since we aren't getting any update-y goodness after Wed. until the next week this better be one hellava update! And the next one better be worth the loooong wait too!

---

Ashley, anything written by Branny is always worth the wait!!! She will not disappoint you!!!



**whispers softly** but keep up the good work with the harassment!!

"Can you just be kissing me now?" Tara- Entropy

"She's my everything"
Willow-Tough Love

[spazz07]

Ashley, maybe if we both sing the ducky doo song we could break her. Being an offical test reader for Branny the next part is some of the most amazing writing you are going to see and i dont think its fair that Branny is holding back on everyone here. Kat, while your with Branny you better make sure she has some major upydates for us when she gets better



Cheers

Nath

Isn't it funny how you feel your most tired five minutes before you have to get up.

[MissQuirky]

Quote:

---

Ashley, anything written by Branny is always worth the wait!!! She will not disappoint you!!!



**whispers softly** but keep up the good work with the harassment!!

---

I know anything written by Branny is alwayz worth the wait! So i know i won't be disappointed! As 4 the harassing i guess i'm a natural!

Quote:

---

Ashley, maybe if we both sing the ducky doo song we could break her. Being an offical test reader for Branny the next part is some of the most amazing writing you are going to see and i dont think its fair that Branny is holding back on everyone here. Kat, while your with Branny you better make sure she has some major upydates for us when she gets better

---

Hey Nath!! Singing Ducky doo w/ u would be fun! Well if u say its amazing i know it is but hello Branny writing has been nothing but amazing so far, i can't to c what she has in store 4 us! And Kathy i agree u better work Branny into givin us update-y goodness cos that would make me really happy! And i'm sure she'll do anything 4 u!!



~Ashley~

Willow: We can come by between classes. Usually I use that time to copy over my class notes with a system of different colored pens. But it's been pointed out to me that that's, you know... insane.
Tara: I said quirky.

[SlayerTazz]

Quote:

---

And Kathy i agree u better work Branny into givin us update-y goodness cos that would make me really happy! And i'm sure she'll do anything 4 u!!

---

Ashley,

There is NOTHING I wouldn't do for her...I promised you an update on Wed and you will have it. On Thursday night my laptop gets a much needed break until Sunday. No geek-y goodness for me while I have my beautiful gf to keep me um company. I'll get you another update as soon as I can next week though. I like you happy (and NO DUCKY DOO - you made a deal). As for Nath - maybe he'll just have to stop getting those advanced previews if he can't behave.



Ok, back to daydreaming about my love...miss you baby

~Branny

In my world there are people in chains, and we can ride them like ponies. ~ VampWillow in Dopplegangland

Passion is the source of our finest moments. The joy of love...the clarity of hatred...and the ecstasy of grief.

[barnabasvamp]

Quote:

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

Well all i got to say is since we aren't getting any update-y goodness after Wed. until the next week this better be one hellava update! And the next one better be worth the loooong wait too!

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

Well, I'm with Ashley on this one!!



We all know that Branny udate-y goodness is always worth waiting for, but the wait has been, and will be sooo long, we will accept only the best.



We know that Kathy will take REAL good care of you, quality time is always a must!

"In front of total strangers won't you kiss me, Flowers for no reason but you miss me - OOH, I wanna be in love"

Melissa Etheridge-Skin

Edited by: barnabasvamp  at: 10/1/02 11:24:02 am

[SlayerTazz]

Quote:

---

We know that Kathy will take REAL good care of you, quality time is always a must!

---

Thanks BV, and I know she will to - got the worlds best gf. .



The post will be LATE tonight so people will have something to read in the morning tomorrow.

~Branny

In my world there are people in chains, and we can ride them like ponies. ~ VampWillow in Dopplegangland

Passion is the source of our finest moments. The joy of love...the clarity of hatred...and the ecstasy of grief.

[kathy94]

Quote:

---

Ashley, maybe if we both sing the ducky doo song we could break her. Being an offical test reader for Branny the next part is some of the most amazing writing you are going to see and i dont think its fair that Branny is holding back on everyone here. Kat, while your with Branny you better make sure she has some major upydates for us when she gets better :P

---

Nath!? Man!? You're teasing people by telling them how amazing the next part is. (Even though it is)



Guys I can't promise that Branny will write anything while I'm there. She says we're not allowed on the computer all weekend, but when I leave I'll make sure she is writing. That is if she feels up to it after being at the dr.



AND there will be no singing of the ducky doo song. Ashley and I had a deal.

Quote:

---

We know that Kathy will take REAL good care of you, quality time is always a must!

---

Of course I'll take real good care of her!!! You all have my word on that. I'll give her everything she needs





Branny, I'm not the world's best gf - That would be you sweetie!!!

"Can you just be kissing me now?" Tara- Entropy

"She's my everything"
Willow-Tough Love

[barnabasvamp]

Are You Kidding?????? Now that we know it will be late tonight, a few of us beggars may be waiting patiently. Then we can re-read it later so there are no withdrawal symptoms until you feel up to writing more

"In front of total strangers won't you kiss me, Flowers for no reason but you miss me - OOH, I wanna be in love"

Melissa Etheridge-Skin

[MissQuirky]

Quote:

---

AND there will be no singing of the ducky doo song. Ashley and I had a deal.

---

Yes we did have a deal, so Nath sorry buddy! NO ducky doo!

Quote:

---

Are You Kidding?????? Now that we know it will be late tonight, a few of us beggars may be waiting patiently. Then we can re-read it later so there are no withdrawal symptoms until you feel up to writing more

---

I Know i'll be here waitin 4 my update-y goodness!!



~Ashley~

Willow: We can come by between classes. Usually I use that time to copy over my class notes with a system of different colored pens. But it's been pointed out to me that that's, you know... insane.
Tara: I said quirky.

[SlayerTazz]

**CLIFFHANGER ALERT ** CLIFFHANGER ALERT**



Willntlover: Sorry for the cliffhanger...you didn't sound whiney - I didn't realize it was a cliffhanger until AFTER my sweet gf pointed it out to me. Sorry. This next part is a cliffhanger though - sorry!!



BV: Tara's question was about them taking it slow and not wanting to mess it up...yeah I can totally understand the distraction value though - Kat does that to me all the time.



Ashley: I never try to kill loyal fans - especially those that keep me laughing like you do! Ethan needs to bleed you are correct and as I said before I would put that on the request list for you. As for the snuggles - hey I'm a snuggler so anytime I can slip that in - its there.



Ashley Wed is finally getting here but dammit I want THURSDAY!! <-- isn't he cute?!?!?



Kat: I love you baby - and you know how things turn out - but after this next post -- nobody knows...wait I don't either, oops that isn't going to work. lol And its almost THURSDAY - YAY!!



The Rose24: Sorry for the evil cliffhanger - my bad didn't even realize that I had done it until Kat pointed it out. This next part is a cliffhanger so you are now warned.



Nath: no more sneaky peaks for you if your going to hint and tease the kittens.



Celia: No heart attacks - and no you aren't in that age range dammit cuz I'm not that much younger than you!! And thank you for the thuddie from 13 - I try!!



mollyig: Snuggles and discovery channel - perfect match. I'll let you in on a secret - unlike the show - Xander will NOT be saving the day here.



Urn of Osiris: I am NOT putting down the girl...not now never never!! I'm glad you liked the update thought.





Ok – there is a cliffhanger of sorts at the end of this – SORRY and I know its totally of me since I’m not going to be able to update this until Sunday or Monday at the earliest. My deepest apologies!!



Title: Mending Fences

Author: SlayerTazz

E-mail: tazz72@yahoo.com

Feedback: Yes, please!

Distribution: Sure, just let me know.

Spoilers: Up to and including Season 6, this is mostly AU though.

Pairing: W/T

Rating: PG-13. Some chapters may increase in rating. Fair warning will be given.

Disclaimers: Joss and Co. own all. I'm just borrowing them for the time being...

Summary: Willow and Tara have broken up, Tara has moved back to the dorms - she's living in the room that we first saw her in (its AU, and I liked her original room), and Spike is remotely still one of the "good" guys.



Notes: All character thoughts/dreams are in italics.

**CLIFFHANGER ALERT ** CLIFFHANGER ALERT**

**CLIFFHANGER ALERT ** CLIFFHANGER ALERT**



Mending Fences



Part 15





Buffy, Dawn, and Giles arrived at the house without incident. Giles was a bit stressed by Buffy’s driving, but that was normal. Upon entering the house Giles was greeted with hugs from the redhead and blonde who had been cuddling on the couch when he came in.



“Willow, Tara, I’ve missed you both so much,” Giles said.



“We’ve missed you too,” answered Willow as she took his bags from him. Tara just offered him a soft smile, that he gladly returned.



“H-how was y-your flight,” said Tara as everyone moved into the living room. Giles sat in the chair while Willow and Tara cuddled on the couch, Dawn grabbed a seat in the rocking chair as Buffy took the last of the space on the couch.



“The flight was long, but good. I think I may have to start traveling by private charter more often,” laughed Giles.



“So, you have an idea as to what Ethan is up to,” Willow blurted out.



“Nice tact Willow, I think you’ve been spending too much time with Anya,” laughed Buffy grateful the question was out there finally.



“Sorry, I’m just nervous and nor really happy with knowing that Ethan wants me to do magic again and that I according to the dream don’t care.” Willow said as Tara tightened her grip on the redhead for reassurance.



“We all are Will, but Giles is here and he’s going to help,” Buffy said reaching over and giving Willows hand a small squeeze.



“Well as soon as Anya and Xander get here we’ll go over what I’ve found and what I’m expecting to happen,” said Giles glancing at his watch.



Xander burst through the front door out of breath and stared at the group while he tried to catch his breath to speak.



“Bloody hell Xander,” Giles screamed startled by the entrance.



“So-rry,” Xander panted.



“Xander, what is wrong and where is Anya,” Buffy asked.



“Something…took…her.”



“What do you mean something took her?” asked Dawn.



“Xander sit down and tell us what is going on,” Giles ordered. Everyone felt at ease with Giles there, he would take charge and all would be ok. Giles had become the father none of them had ever had, and he knew it as well as them. It was a bond they all cherished greatly.



“I went to the Magic Box after I got done at the site, figured Anya and I could walk back here together. When I got close, there was pretty much nobody near the store, which was bizzaro since the rest of the street was packed. I started to run and saw the front window was broken and the door was open, when I got inside the place was trashed. I called for Anya, but she wasn’t there…” Xander stopped and surveyed the group, they were all intently listening to him. “So as I was looking around there was this hooded thing sitting on the counter and he said ‘soon it will all be over’ I tried to get him to explain, but all he did was say it again and pounce on me. I think he broke some stuff in me too.” Upon hearing that Willow jumped up and hurried over to check her lifelong friend out.



“Ok, we’ll figure this out, but first we need to make sure you’re ok,” said Buffy as Willow continued her investigation of Xander’s wounds. After and extensive work over from the redhead she concluded that Xander had a couple broken ribs and several deep bruises, but he was going to be ok. Xander refused to go to the hospital to verify that there wasn’t anything more serious.



Once Xander was taken care of everyone turned their attention over to Giles. He retrieved a few books from his luggage and a small box. Sitting back down, he started to clean his glasses as all eyes were fixated on his every move.



“Alright. I was doing some research and I am 98% certain I know what Ethan is up to and I think I may have a way for us to thwart is plans,” started Giles. “Willow, you are a key part to this. I know you’ve been filled in on that already – but I needed to stress that. I think that Ethan is going to try to bring forth an Jackal Demon. Don’t ask let me finish,” said Giles halting questions before they began. “The Jackal Demon is a rather evil demon. I have only heard one of one coming to pass in this world and it managed to destroy roughly two thirds of the country before it was stopped. I’m hoping that we can get through this and stop him before he releases this demon.”



“Giles, he has Anya, why does he want her – she isn’t going to be any help to him…” said Xander.



“I know Xander, and we’ll get her back safe. You have to believe that. I think he’s just trying to get a bargaining tool or something to distract us.”



“Well its working pretty damn well,” Xander snapped as Willow put her hand on his shoulder and tried to instill some comfort into him.



“Well I have to say that I’ve known Ethan for a long time and he’s stooped pretty low, but I’ve always been able to stop him and I don’t intend on this being the first time that I don’t.” stated Giles.



“Giles,” Buffy said raising her hand. “Do I get to beat him bloody this time? Cuz the last couple times he’s been around I haven’t gotten the chance and I really think I deserve the opportunity to do that.”



“Yes, Buffy this time you will get that opportunity,” replied Giles with a proud fatherly tone.



“Thank you.”



“Ok, here is my plan. Willow, you are needed to make this whole thing work…well we’re going to do a little switch courtesy of Faith.” At the mention of the dark haired Slayers name everyone tensed up.



“Excuse me?” questioned Willow with a defensive tone.



“Well, it was her that gave me the idea.” Giles said hoping to reassure everyone’s fears. “We are going to switch your body with Tara’s. That way it will look like you but there won’t be the power and connection that Ethan needs.” As Giles said that Willow and Tara locked eyes, both fearing for the others safety and both being relieved that the other was going to be directly involved.



“So, when he tries to do whatever it is he’s planning it won’t work because it’ll be Tara and not me,” smiled the redhead.



“Exactly,” Giles said in a very confident tone. “While he is distracted with getting the spell for the Jackal Demon to work, we’ll have Xander going in to get Anya, I’ll need Buffy to help me capture Ethan, and Dawn, you are going to be needed to keep Willow in Tara’s body safe.” Giles knew that Willow would be safe in the teens protection. “Buffy, do you think that we can get Spike to help us with keep the other Sunnydale inhabitants out of our hair?”



“I got your back,” Spike said as he came up from the basement.



“How do you keep getting into my house and into my basement?” Buffy said annoyed.



“Now if I told you, you’d find a way to stop me and that wouldn’t be any fun. Welcome back Giles.”



“Spike, thank you. How long have you been here and how much have you heard?” asked Giles.



“Oh, I’ve been here the whole time just listening at the door waiting for the best time to come up and make my entrance.”



“Argh, if we didn’t need your help you’d be filling my dust buster right now,” said the disgusted Slayer.



“Hey, not to seem petty, but can we get past the sexual tension between you two and get back to getting my fiancé back?” Xander snapped



“Ewww, you mentioned Spike and I in the same sentence with sexual tension – I think I’m going to be sick,” Buffy said scrunching her face up and holding her stomach.



“Don’t flatter yourself Slayer, I think you may need a sandwich or two, you’re starting to look a tad thin,” Spike said back.



“Ok, if you two are finished can we get back to things here,” Giles interrupted.



“Sorry,” Spike and Buffy said glaring at one another and then looking up to the Watcher.



“Ok, now Willow you and Dawn will stay here and as we leave I’ll have Tara do a protection spell on the house so that nobody will know that you are hear as your essence will be here. I am hoping that Ethan doesn’t check for that because there is no way for us to fake that and have Tara appear to have your essence. Tara you are going to have to do some general magic. I know you are not as strong as Willow, but I don’t doubt that with your heritage that you are plenty strong to pull off the shows that we need you to.”



“I’ll do whatever is needed, just as long as it keeps Willow and everyone safe,” Tara said as she pulled Willow close to her and looked at each person in the room and back to the man standing in front of the group.



“Very well. I think we should all just relax for tonight and we’ll start tomorrow getting ready. If my calculations are correct, tomorrow Ethan will make his move to capture Willow and start her journey toward bringing forth the Jackal Demon.



“Yeah and how are we supposed to relax Giles. Ethan has Anya and god only knows what he is doing to her.”



“Xander, you and Anya have a strong connection, if anything were wrong with her you’d know it – just as if anything were to happen to Willow I’d know it,” said Tara hoping to give Xander a bit of comfort, but figuring it wasn’t going to be much.



“You’re right Tara,” replied Xander with a soft smile.



The rest of the night the group spent together talking and watching TV. Spike went out on patrol and to see if he could pick up any further information that may lead them to Ethan. As the night went on and people got tired they all headed to their rooms. Buffy gave Giles her room, she crashed on an air mattress in the living room by Xander, Dawn made her way to her room and Tara and Willow went to their room.



Willow lay awake for a long time running through her head everything that was going on and what could go wrong. She felt Tara snuggle up behind her and drape her arm over her. Entwining her fingers with Tara’s, Willow vowed that nothing was going to happen to her family – not if she had anything to do with it.



**********



Anya found herself chained in a small cell in the corner of a large room. She looked around – the ceilings were high, the room felt cold. She was at the far end and she could see a wall plastered with what looked like pictures, but from the distance it was hard for her to tell, it was also very dark. She continued to survey the room when she saw a figure walk through the door.



“Ah, Anya – so glad to see you have decided to join us back in the world of the living. For a minute there I thought I might have to find a new bargaining chip,” said the figure as it walked towards her.



“I’m guessing you’re this Ethan guy I’ve been hearing about,” snapped Anya.



“Ah, so they did remember me. I’m sure you’ve heard all sorts of nasty stuff about me – and you know, its all probably true and then some,” laughed Ethan.



“After eleven hundred years as a vengeance demon – anything they would have and could have told me about you really wouldn’t have phased me so get over yourself.”



“Oh I see why Ripper likes you – you have spunk.”



“Let me out of these chains and I’ll be happy to show you how much spunk I have,” Anya said with a great deal of venom in her voice.



“Now, that wouldn’t get either of us what we want now would it,” chuckled Ethan as he took a step or two back away from her.



“Oh but it’d be fun,” mumbled Anya under her breath.



“Well I just wanted to be a gracious host and say hello. I will have my servants bring you some food and something to drink. I would hate to appear rude as you are technically my guest.”



With that Ethan left the room and Anya was again left to herself. She scanned the room – the door appeared to be the only way in or out, there were no windows or vents anywhere that she could see.



**********



The next day everyone was mostly in a daze going through their own preparation and just absorbing everything. Willow and Tara spent a lot of time just the two of them – both reassuring the other that it was all going to be ok. Finally Giles told them it was time to do the spell, he gathered everyone into the living room. After the spell was completed, Willow and Tara looked around both attuning their bodies to the new scenery.



As they went over the plan again for the last time everyone made sure there were no loopholes that Ethan could exploit. After the last review, Willow and Dawn got comfy in the house, Spike left to go do patrol, Xander, Buffy, Giles, and Tara cast the protection spell on the house and left to complete their part. They split up, Giles and Tara walking to the Magic Box to “get supplies” hoping that Ethan would capture Tara and take her to begin his plan. While they were doing that Xander and Buffy used some information Spike had gotten the prior night to try to locate where Ethan was hold up and where he had Anya. They knew that they were going to have to be very careful as underestimating Ethan usually had dire consequences.



**********



Dawn and Willow had made themselves comfy in the living room. Dawn was watching TV while Willow was working hard at something on her laptop. Dawn wanted to ask what it was, but she knew that at these times it was best to leave Willow alone.



Staring at the screen – a blank Word document was open, Willow’s mind was racing at everything she wanted to key, say, and do. Willow figured the best thing to do was to just let it out – let her fingers type what it is they want. After she got it out she could always edit it, so she let her fingers go.



Dear Xander,

We’ve know each other for most of our lives, you and I have been through a lot together. If you are reading this then I had to do something drastic to save you all.



I love you so much, you are so important in my life. Because of that I need you to look after Tara, she may not understand why I am doing what I’m doing, but with you there I know she’ll be looked after and taken care of. I know the that Scooby’s aren’t just a group but a family so you need to take care of the family. You always said you didn’t bring much to this fight, but you bring what is most important – you bring heart and that is what keeps us all going. Keep if the fight and don’t ever lose your heart – its what makes you the man we all love and need.



I will always love you and cherish our time spent together.

Willow



*****



Dear Buffy,

How do I start this…you are the sister I never had, the best friend I’m grateful to have had. You didn’t care that I was the unpopular one in High School, you didn’t care when they teased you because you hung out with the geek. In college when Oz left you were there for me – I know I wasn’t the greatest to be around, but you stuck by me…when I told you about Tara, you could have freaked, you could have ditched our friendship – but instead you supported me and her. You have always looked out for me and there is no way to thank you for that.



I do have a favor to ask, Buffy I need you to protect Tara and look after her. She is my everything and I don’t ever want anything to happen to her. I have asked Xander to look after her too – but when it comes to protecting people you are the only one I would ever trust with the most important person in my world. Please, keep her safe.



I love you and thank you for everything,

Willow



****



Dear Dawnie,

You are like my little sister. I couldn’t love you more if you were actually my true blood. You always made me feel like I was truly part of a family and I don’t know what to say to that other than Thank you!!



You make Tara feel comfortable and that has meant so much to me. I’m hoping that you will continue to do that without my being here. She loves you as I do – please keep her safe and show her the love that a true family has to offer. You guys are a family – don’t ever let that go.



I love you,

Willow



****



Giles,

You are the father that I didn’t really have growing up. Thank you for always offering me your unconditional love and support. You never asked for more than I could give and you never let me get down on myself when I couldn’t do something. I’m eternally grateful for that.



As my surrogate father I need to ask something of you that I can’t ask of my other family. I need you too look after Tara…I know that I wouldn’t be able to survive without her, but I need you and everyone to help her survive without me. You know what she means to me, you know how hard this is for me – I know you won’t let me down, you never have.



I love you,

Willow



****



Spike,

You may act like you don’t care, and that I know is false. Look after everyone but most importantly, look after Tara. She is going to need someone strong to pull her through, you care about her I know that – so I am expecting this of you because I know you would die before you let anything happen to her.



Thanks for everything,

Willow



****



Anya,

I know we were never close, I never truly understood you – and I’m not sure you truly understood me. We do share 2 things in common. You love Xander as do I just in a different way, you love Tara and so do I just in different ways. You have always made her feel like she is part of the group even before the others truly accepted her, for that I am truly grateful. Please look after her and keep her safe, she is going to need your strength and support. Xander will need you too, but I know I don’t have to ask you to be there for him.



Love,

Willow



****



Willow stopped and glanced over what she had written…she knew that there was just one more letter to write. Looking over at Dawn she felt her heart start to ache…how was she going to write this. She took a deep breath, closed her eyes and let her fingers go.



****



My dearest love Tara,

How do I write this, how do I put my feelings into words. You are my everything, my air, my water, my heart, my soul, my reason for living, my reason for existing. I am nothing without you – I was nothing before you came into my life and once you graced my life I felt my soul complete. I never knew what I was missing in my life before I met you – and after I met you I look back at my life and wonder how I existed.



I know that reading this you are wondering how I could do what I did having such strong feelings for you, well baby that is what gave me the strength. I needed to protect you and what makes me who I am. My family (Buffy, Dawn, Xander, Giles, even Spike and Anya) they helped support me and keep me alive, but you are what made me truly alive.



I couldn’t love you the way I do and let anything happen to you, I have done what needed to be done to protect you, to protect our family, and to ensure that everything that was important to me is safe. I have asked everyone to look after you and I want you to look after everyone. I know that family was something you weren’t used to, but you are a part of the Scooby family and that is lifelong. I know for a long time you didn’t feel apart of the family, but I hope you know that you are not just because of me, but because of who you are.



My love you are the most amazing woman. I would have given anything to have been there to see the woman that you are to become. You have the strength and compassion that this world needs. Your beauty is something that is beyond my words to describe. You taught me the deepness that love could reach, you taught me how to face my fears and come out a better person. You never let an obstacle stop you and now I’m not going to let one stop me. My love for you is so great that I would rather die than know that you were harmed because of me.



I love you so much my sweet, I will be waiting for you – my love only grows for you with every passing day. Its never ending and ever-changing in its depth and amazement.



With all I am, I love you.

Willow



****



Willow reread her letter as a single tear rolled down her face. She rose from the couch and went and printed out the letters and put them each in an envelop and labeled each one with their names. Just in case she wanted everything covered.



Willow joined Dawn back in the living room, this time without her laptop, they sat and watch TV in silence.



**********



TBC…







Ok, I can't promise when the next one will be as the Dr will determine that... man that he is...I am aiming for early in the week though. Sorry everyone!!

~Branny

In my world there are people in chains, and we can ride them like ponies. ~ VampWillow in Dopplegangland

Passion is the source of our finest moments. The joy of love...the clarity of hatred...and the ecstasy of grief.

Edited by: SlayerTazz  at: 10/1/02 9:44:51 pm

[MissQuirky]

Branny!! Ya know i LOVED it!! I don't even know where to begin- I Loved it so!



I think the letters at the end r what got to me most of all! They were soooo sad but yet touching, so much emotion put into them. But there not goin to be used, RIGHT?!?! U wouldn't dare let Willow die!! That would be just pure i would be VERY VERY !! But i know she's not goin anywhere cos yer nice and wouldn't let that happen!!



I really really want Buffy to kick Ethan's ass!! (Just had to try one of em out!) BADDLY!! So yer gonna have to add me again to the request list! He really deserves it, Branny!!



And i think i'll cut ya a lil slack 4 the next update-y goodness! Mainly cos u and Kat r meeting Thurs. and u will definitely need some alone time and not have to worry bout writing soo much! U also have to deal w/ the dr. so i will try and be patient 4 the update!! I'm not promising anything tho cos the rest of my week might go ALL wrong and i'll need somethin to cheer me up and Branny update-y goodness ALWAYZ helps!



So i'm an 4 the rest of the week! Waiting till Sunday or Monday patiently!

~Ashley~

Willow: We can come by between classes. Usually I use that time to copy over my class notes with a system of different colored pens. But it's been pointed out to me that that's, you know... insane.
Tara: I said quirky.

[The Rose24]

Phew!!! Looks like things are coming to a head.



I especially love the letters Willow wrote. They made me cry.



I am sitting on pins and needles waiting for your conclusion.

Tara: My heart doesn't stutter.

Tara: Willow, I got so lost.
Willow: I found you. I will always find you.

Willow: Hi, um Tara. I was wondering maybe you want to go out some time for coffee? food? Kisses and gay love?

[spazz07]

See Branny, with writing like that it was just so unfair to hold out, i'm sorry i wont let it happen again, i'll even update my fic tonight if you dont get mad at me. Like i said b4 that was one of the most touching scenes i've ever scene written in regards to the letters and you could totally understand Willow doing something selfless like that if it meant saving the people she loved, so admirable. Totally loved it and i hope the doc bes gentle with ya Take care and be well soon, and well like your not going to but have fun with Kat when she gets there



Cheers

Nath

Isn't it funny how you feel your most tired five minutes before you have to get up.

[mollyig]

The Scoobs relieved that Giles is there to take charge of the situation. His plan is certainly very imaginative.



Willow's letter writing has me all worried, what is that girl up to? I know she has the best intentions, but - yikes!

Adding up the total of a love that's true, multiply life by the power of two
Indigo Girls

[kathy94]

Wonderful update!!! The letters were very touching. You always do such a great job writing how the characters feels. I hope Willow doesn't do something really dumb and gets hurt.

Quote:

---

Yes we did have a deal, so Nath sorry buddy! NO ducky doo!

---

Thank you Ashley!!!

Quote:

---

BV: Tara's question was about them taking it slow and not wanting to mess it up...yeah I can totally understand the distraction value though - Kat does that to me all the time.

---

Sweetie, you do the same to me!

Quote:

---

And its almost THURSDAY - YAY!!

---

YAY!!! I can't wait!!! I love you!!



Kat

"Can you just be kissing me now?" Tara- Entropy

"She's my everything"
Willow-Tough Love

[barnabasvamp]

Branny;

Great as usual.. The letters were so touching, and brought out the essence of each relationship Willow had with each person. Made me cry again!



Branny and Kat- you 2 are just too sweet. Here's to Thursday-love and be loved.



Ashley;

I'm with you....Such a good update gets a well deserved break for Branny and Kat. Perhaps we should try to get the e-mail address of the doctor and make sure he knows how important Branny is to all of us! (He would probably be afraid to take care of another kitten for a long time )



P.S. Ashley- love the dude with the hammer!

"In front of total strangers won't you kiss me, Flowers for no reason but you miss me - OOH, I wanna be in love"

Melissa Etheridge-Skin

Edited by: barnabasvamp  at: 10/2/02 3:47:50 am

[Urn of Osiris]

Branny Great update.

Quote:

---

“Argh, if we didn’t need your help you’d be filling my dust buster right now,” said the disgusted Slayer.

---

Oh this really is an image that I'd like to see.



I loved the letters. Something Willow would take the time to do. Very touching. Tara's made my heart all snuggly.



OK so I've got a suggestion. How about instead of puttin your girl down, you pull her into your hot little lap and get some writing done. Oh wait that might not be the way to go if you actually want to get something written. hmmm....um...okay maybe I'll just be patient. Yea I can do patient.



Really I can

Urn of Osiris
_________________**

"Ninety-nine percent of the failures come from people who have the habit of making excuses."
— George Washington Carver "Bite me Harris." Anya Beneath you
Voice your opinion about Tara http://www.petitiononline.com/Tara/petition.html