Thirteen Steps - 11 - Vanishing
by Valyssia
Were Horses
[reviews]
Withering my intuition leaving all these opportunities behind.
Feed my will to feel this moment urging me to cross the line.
Reaching out to embrace the random.
Reaching out to embrace whatever may come.
"I'll 'ave nuther..." Xander drawled, thickly through the alcohol induced blur. Holding two fingers up to illustrate the point, he added, "Betta make it a double." Some date, he mused wryly, accepting the drink.
"That's it buddy...last call," the bartender remarked in a gruff voice.
Girls! Xander snorted at the thought. I go out with one...few dates and they get all freaked 'cause they know there's lots I'm not tellin'. Then come the questions. Yeah...I can so answer... Then I make with the answers and 'course they can't handle it. Demons and vampires real...? I've gotta be nuts, right? Then the drinkin'...an' the bad country music... That's it...I'm givin' up...it's just a vicious cycle. He tossed the shot back motioning to the barkeep for another.
The bartender rolled his eyes. "I said last call buddy. I'm cuttin' ya off."
"Juss one more," Xander pleaded, muzzily. Life is so screwed up... I wish they'd juss go back like they were before... At least with the rejection...I still had my friends. Then...I'd kill Spike...stop the stupidity before I got rollin'. That is if Buffy didn't beat me to it.
The bartender raised and eyebrow, appearing annoyed. "Look, we closed ten minutes ago, pal. Ya've been here since 5... Wish I could help."
"Wissshhh..." Xander snorted. "Know what I wish...? I wish that Buffy wuz't a crazy ass demon... I wish...things were like they were. I wish..." Stopping to belch loudly, he put his palms on the bar to try and steady himself, looking embarrassed. Obviously working with all his remaining facilities to continue, he spoke in a slurred, deliberate voice, "Scuse...meh... Dunno... But I'd like ta think if I could juss tell a real Buffy...one not of the walkin' corsssse v-variedy...how I feel...dat things'd get betta..." He watched in horror, through thickly lidded eyes as the bartender's face shifted. Blinking heavily to clear the image, he heard the word, "Done."
"Hey yur a venj...a vengeath demon... Thought you guys were all chicks..." Xander blinked in confusion, shocked at what he'd just done. I gotta go...gotta see... Oh, they're gonna kill me.
The demon winked. "Yeah lotsa folks think that. Sorry buddy, we're not all dames... Gotta cover the bases, don't ya know. Now let me call ya a cab." He replied, cackling with amusement.
Xander stood up, immediately staggered and fell to his knees. What'd I do? Oh, that was stupid...stupid Xander! I gotta go... He tried to pull himself up and fell again.
***********
Buffy walked past a monument, appraising the scene in front of her. Oh this is delicious, she considered. "Would you like a teddy bear little girl?" the vampire inquired, her tone was filled with maliciousness and mirth. She circled slowly in toward her target. A young blond woman, in a ruffled, light blue nightgown lay sleeping or unconscious on a freshly filled grave. Approaching behind the new headstone, she leaned over it, placing her elbows on the rough stone surface to peer down at her victim. She was just about to say, "boo!" when she reeled at the sight.
Buffy opened her eyes, looking up she felt as though she was gazing into some bizarre inverted mirror. Why are my eyes golden? The question left her mind as she reacted to the sound of cracking bone and the feeling that her chest was on fire.
"Demon!" the vampire Buffy spat, watching her other self crash into a tombstone. Only something evil could have eyes like that. I don't give a crap if she does smell human. It's a trick!
***********
Willow snapped awake in a state of confusion and panic. She could feel the warmth that remained on the bedclothes where her partner had lain next to her. Getting up she considered, I'm just being silly...she's just in the bathroom or sumpthin. No big...she'll... But I didn't feel her move... She stretched her mind, searching, hoping... No Buffy. Reaching out she touched the minds in the castle. Still no Buffy... She sprang out of bed, flipping on lights as she went. No Buffy... Bernadine and Tamara were still where they ought to be. The witch stood staring at the MV Augusta. Maybe she did run away. I can't believe I was so stupid! She ran to the garage to check for Gabriel. Shit! All the bikes are here... No Buffy!
Panicking, Willow grasped for some solution. A locator spell, maybe? But she knew the truth... Silly girl, you are a locator spell, a harsh voice mocked inside her head. The witch shuddered at the sound. No one can form a portal...she's just not here!
She's gone...nowhere... Willow considered this, reaching, stretching, searching, she came to one heart-wrenching conclusion, Buffy Anne Summers does not exist in this reality. The witch started to weep. No! Not again!
Outside, the sky seemed to boil, filling with ominous black clouds, the wind blew violently and thunder crashed in the distance.
Willow's eyes grew dark as her body lifted from the floor. That's right, child, all that remains is the vengeance, cooed the voice.
The witch's body disintegrated into a black vapor that looked like swarming insects. Flashes of electricity arced from the mist as it passed between the doors of the house and drifted purposefully off into the night.
***********
D'Hoffryn laughed, extreme amusement filled his voice as he spoke, "Oh, now this is gonna be interesting. Our Miss Rosenburg... Yes, the girl's decidedly a firebrand."
************
Elizabeth Hartness awoke from a sound sleep, surveying the room around her. A single name echoed in her thoughts, Willow. She rose from her bed, dragging an old housecoat over her form and a pair of worn slippers onto her feet. Opening the cabin door, she disappeared into the night.
************
The vampire Buffy's features shifted as the demon commanded her, Kill! Drink!
The Slayer rose to her feet. Clutching her side, she squared off with the vampire. Shit that hurt! This is no ordinary vampire...was that me? Not exactly ready to fight either...I need to get outta here! Springing backwards as the vampire approached, she turned a summersault in midair and landed deftly on the top of the crypt behind her. Bouncing to the ground, she started to run.
That's right, run girl...I like it when they run. It's almost as good as when they cry, the vampire Buffy considered wryly as she broke into a full sprint, pursuing her prey. No way she's human... I'd be crushing her bones by now...even if she were a slayer. She snatched a small, ancient gravestone out of the earth as she passed it, slinging it at her intended victim's legs.
Buffy felt something hard and cold make contact, snapping, tearing... She sprawled onto her face within reach of the cemetery wall. I can't...need to run... Ignoring the sharp pain she leapt for the fence. The Slayer caught the iron spikes in her grasp, pushing off desperately, and then rolling out into the roadway at the other side. Panic struck her as she saw the truck pass over. Well at least my aim's still good...or was that just lucky? No arguments here...I'll take either. She turned her head to look at the oncoming cars. With her last ounce of strength she dove for the sidewalk, landing at the feet of a young man.
Connor looked down at the woman who fell in front of him. Buffy? He tensed ready to fight. Movement in the graveyard distracted him. He peered into the night and made out the form of the vampire Buffy pacing the edge of the cemetery. Looking down again, he snatched up the body at his feet and ran, feeling for a pulse as he went. Human? What the...?
Buffy felt her self being lifted from the ground. Her body ached. What the hell was that thing? Was that me? Resigning herself to whatever fate remained; she slipped away, draped over Connor's shoulder.
************
Miss Hartness slid into position in the circle, taking the hands of the girls to either side. "Willow Rosenburg," she said in a harsh tone.
The circle sounded like a chorus, "We know."
A look of severe displeasure crossed the old witch's face as she commanded, "Willow Danielle Rosenburg, come to me now young lady!" Her voice echoed out, magickally amplified to carry over the ether.
*************
D'Hoffryn snickered, peering intently into the steaming pool at his feet. "Can I get some popcorn in here?" he queried in a gleeful tone.
*************
"And you found her just like this?" Giles inquired, stooping down to look at the woman lying prone and unconscious on the couch.
Connor raised an eyebrow, giving Giles an annoyed look. "Exactly like this."
"...And she's human?" Giles asked in a flat voice meant to conceal his confusion. He knew it might aggravate the boy further, but understanding took precedence. Looking over the back of the couch at Buffy' face he studied the details. It has to be her, but how?
Appearing very irritated, Connor replied, "Yes... Look...we've been over this once. Story's not gonna change if you ask me again." He stalked out of the room.
Sitting on the couch next to Buffy, Willow took her wrist and felt for a pulse. "She's alive Giles. I'm not sure... Well...how?" She looked down at the face of her friend wearing an expression of mixed wonder and relief. "Giles, would you mind getting a blanket and the first aid kit? She feels cold and well...I'd like to stay with her."
"Not at all," Giles responded automatically, appearing lost in his musings. He wandered off to meet the request.
Buffy's vision was blurred as she cracked her eyes. Managing to make out Willow's face through the haze, she whispered, "Oh thank God! Will, I just had the worst dream ever." Sitting up quickly, she winced at her aching ribs. Not a dream. What the hell? Not so much for the caring, she pulled the redhead into a tight embrace.
Kennedy crept downstairs, taking in the scene. She wasn't in bed. That's been happening a lot here lately. She watched, anger building as Willow sat on the couch holding some partially obscured blond woman. Is that Buffy's voice? It can't be...I mean...monster, right?
Though she was a bit confused and stunned for the exchange, Willow simply resigned herself to enjoy the moment. I can't remember the last time Buffy hugged me. Was it the day we reduced our home to a crater? No idea, but I was pretty sure it'd never happen again so...
Giles wandered back into the room with the requested items still unsure exactly how to cope with the night's events.
Relaxing her hold slightly, Buffy looked into Willow's eyes and gave her a soft, tender kiss. Pulling back quickly as the unrest and confusion came sharply into focus. Alright...this is seriously of the bad. Where am I? She looked around to survey the room. Wait! I know this place...
Willow stared at the Slayer, completely stunned as a result of the display. She found herself unable to speak. What in the frilly hell was that? I mean...nice and all, but... What's wrong with her eyes?
Ignoring the pain, Buffy sprang off the couch, landing ready for a fight. "I've got no clue what you people are playin' at, but this...definitely not funny. Where the hell am I?"
*************
Willow sat on a rocky outcropping on the coast of Scotland. Rain poured from the sky, washing away tears, she was drenched and shivering. She could hear the demanding cries of her old teacher, but wasn't certain she cared to answer. Figures they'd smack me down. Damned hard to even move...or think with a whole coven working against you. At least I managed to make it to a pretty spot before I passed out. She sat admiring the view, and considering her next move, despite the severe physical discomfort.
I need to get a grip...need a plan. Buffy's been snatched from this world, abducted... I have to find her. I suppose I could just start randomly cracking the barriers between worlds. Might be fun...well maybe not...but it's what they expect. A deep scowl covered her face, making her appear years older than she was. There's no return trip from that. Crap! Suppose it's time to play rational girl and face the music. The witch rolled her eyes as she projected a single word, yes. The phrase, "Come to me now," rang in her mind as the portal opened beside her. She stepped through preparing for the worst.
**************
"Ahhh...well...pity...but you'll have that. Damned meddling witches," D'Hoffryn reflected, shaking his head. "Show's not over yet though." He grabbed a handful of popcorn from the bowl next to him and shoved it into his mouth, peering intently into the pool.
**************
Confused and shocked, Willow sat with her mouth agape staring at Buffy. My goddess... She even moves like her... How in the...? She has a pulse and her skin was warm...well...that was...wow...way too... Is this a trick?
"What are we playin' at? What are you playin' at bitch?" Kennedy snarled, leaping from the staircase to face the Slayer.
Giles and Willow both looked mortified as Kennedy rounded on Buffy.
"Kennedy, no!" Willow commanded in a sharp tone. She's gonna get herself killed.
"Anyone ever tell you it's impolite to answer a question with a question, Kennedy? That's your name, right? I didn't just drop into bizarre-o-world...well, maybe I did, but the name thing...I'm right...right?" Buffy queried, looking the other slayer up and down with complete contempt. "You first! Where am I?" she snapped.
Kennedy took in the appearance of mixed confusion and rage on Buffy's face and answered the directive reflexively, "Los Angeles."
"You might wanna back off, Kennedy. I know somewhere in that prep school education of yours they told you about hospitals. Get outta my face or we'll be moving to the practical part of that lesson," Buffy retorted, eyeing the other slayer.
Her rage returning, Kennedy spat, "You didn't answer me." She attempted to contact the Slayer with a kick to the chest.
Buffy evaded the clumsy blow, allowing Kennedy to crash into the wall for her effort. "And I don't plan to. Sit down or I'll sit you down," her features darkened as she spoke.
"Hold up...a moment people... Fighting...not an answer... Kennedy sit!" Willow ordered, appearing shaken. "Over there...not on the couch." She pointed to the chairs.
Kennedy moved to the side a few paces and leaned against the wall, still giving Buffy a dirty look.
"Buffy, we won't harm you. Please come lie back down and we'll figure this out." Willow cautiously approached the Slayer, offering a hand. "Kennedy, I'm serious...leave or sit. Your choice...but make it soon."
Kennedy turned and made her way back up the stairs. "You guys are on your own. Hope she sucks you dry."
*************
D'Hoffryn smirked, taking a sip off his Big Gulp and scooping up more popcorn. "Anytime now...this is gonna get fun."
**************
Miss Hartness left the circle, rounding on Willow. A look of rage covered the old witch's features as she commanded, "Sit!"
Willow sighed; her manner spoke of boredom as she moved over to the table in the corner of the room, taking a seat in front of Mr. Giles. Her posture went rigid, as she glared at the old watcher. She wore an expression that appeared chiseled, hard, resolved.
Miss Hartness took the chair to her left, beginning to speak before she was fully seated. "What exactly did you mean to do, silly girl?"
Willow continued to glower at Giles, unmoving, arms folded across her chest. She allowed them to stew for several moments using the time to shut her self off from them, erecting barriers to keep them at bay. "If you must know, I was going to see a demon about a girl," she finally replied in a low growl.
Giles appeared taken aback. "You were doing what?" My god, she sounds like bloody awful William, errr...Spike.
"You people need to pay more attention. Buffy's missing, and I'm sitting here like some chastened child. Let me go! Stop working against me!" Willow fumed, staring fixedly at Giles.
"What exactly do you mean by missing? We registered that you were on the move and very upset. Nothing about Buffy," Giles queried, looking considerably paler for the effort.
Willow rolled her eyes, appearing extremely annoyed. "Gods! Do I need to buy you people Cliff notes? Look it up, Rupert. Can't exactly register anything about someone who's not here. Now can I go?"
Miss Hartness made a gesture to the circle before she spoke. "What did you mean to do? I need an answer before I can allow you to leave."
"Well I sorta thought I'd start with Beljoxa's Eye. Seemed the thing... Got a question about a mystical event...pretty much your demon... Only difference...I'm not some washed up librarian. So I thought I'd start the questioning by removing a couple of eyes from his...well...eye thingy... Whatever...not the point... Point is...get there without the stupid double cryptic talk he's famous for. I don't have time for that...and this? You people are on my last nerve! Let me go!" Willow babbled, the hint of a snarl in her voice betrayed the usual amusement brought on by the action. Instead it left her seeming further vexed for the effort.
Miss Hartness nodded to the circle, turning toward Giles she offered, "She's right... Buffy Anne Summers does not exist in this realm."
Willow shot to her feet, the sharp movement resulted in the chair she was occupying landing on its back. Appearing furious, she spat, "Have you people not been listening? I just said that. Now let me go. I have to find her." Her eyes remained fixed on Giles.
Giles raised his hand, looking years older than when the conversation started. "Very well, Willow. Find her, please."
"We'll do what we can to aid you from here," Miss Hartness offered, motioning the circle to work.
"We need a plan," Giles began in a low voice as he watched Willow sweep through the portal.
**************
Watching Kennedy leave, Buffy took the witch's hand and returned to the couch. She's not my Will, but she feels like her. That's enough...for the moment at least. Lots more fear and loneliness, though... Lying back, she held out her arm as instructed and let Willow clean the wounds. She felt Giles move forward to place the blanket over her. What a totally crappy place this is...alternate dimension? Must be it. Making eye contact with the witch, she gave her a pensive glance. "Okay...I gotta ask... You people know what shrimp are, right?" Her expression broke into a soft grin.
A warm, amused smile washed over Willow's features.
Yup, a bit like my Will. That's enough for now, the Slayer considered.
"Yes, Buffy...we have shrimp. Can I ask you what's up with your eyes?" Willow queried, continuing to attend to the various abrasions and cuts. "Okay so...guess I can, but..." she added nervously.
"Long story, Wills. I'm totally human, if that's what you're thinkin'...or at least as human as I ever was," Buffy confirmed in a voice so soft it was nearly whisper.
Giles took a seat near the two girls. After a short time, he finally spoke, "I believe we can assume you mean us no harm. You appear as confused as we are. What can you tell us about your experiences tonight? Perhaps we can piece something together."
"Not a whole lot... I went to sleep...woke up in a graveyard. Totally creepy... Then this uber-bitch vampire jumped me... Strangest thing is she... Well...this is gonna make you think I've lost it..."
"It was you, Buffy...or I mean the you that's you... here... Does that make sense? Gosh, I hope so," Willow stammered, trying to intuitively answer the question.
"Oh...Kay..." Buffy closed her eyes, taking in all of the details. Me as a vampire, scary, that... Well I need to get home. Willow...my Willow...scarier that... She'll totally lose it... After the week we've had... She shuddered, considering the possibilities.
This'll prolly freak this Willow out worse...but... "Goddess Hera... Unbind the thoughts of my love," the Slayer whispered, concentrating on the witch. Willow?
Willow jumped off the couch, staring at Buffy in shock and confusion.
"Are you okay, Willow?" Giles queried.
S'okay Wills... It's me... I won't hurt you. Come back. Buffy reached out, claiming the witch's hand, attempting to comfort her.
"I'm fine, Giles," Willow replied, retaking her seat on the couch. When...how?
Look Wills...you mighta noticed...there's a few differences between... I just wanted to say I'm sorry. You should go try to fix whatever you have with Kennedy. Make the happiness you can where you are. My Willow taught me that...should relate well... Don't worry about me. I'll be fine. Buffy gave the witch a compassionate gaze.
"May I suggest we find a room for our guest?" Giles inquired. "I think we could all do with some sleep."
But Buffy, you've got no clue what it's been like here. And you now... Willow appeared to be fighting to hold back tears.
"Sounds like a plan, but fair warning...the Willow from my world's lookin' for me. I know she is. I may not be here for long," Buffy said firmly. I can feel it. She gently increased the pressure she was applying to the witch's hand in an effort to reassure her.
"I can handle the room thing, Giles. Why don't you go to bed?" Willow offered. "Come with me, Buffy." She rose to her feet.
"Right...Good night to you both then," Giles replied as he turned to make his way up the stairs.
Willow helped Buffy to a spare room just down the hall from hers. "May I come in for a little bit? I mean...ummm..."
"You prolly shouldn't... Kennedy and all...it's your life though..." Buffy wrapped the blanket around her shoulders. Limping over to the bed, she lay down, leaving the witch to make up her mind.
Willow entered, taking a seat in the chair. "Kennedy will get over it. We've been through...well maybe not worse, but... I'm more curious about you. Magick? How?"
"You... Well, my Will to be more specific," Buffy replied, studying in the confused look on the witch's face. She rolled into her good side, taking her head in her hand.
Willow seemed as though she wanted to speak, but couldn't find the words.
"Look Wills... I'd rather not talk about me. Tell me about you," Buffy offered in a gentle voice. She muttered, "Let the spell be ended," and gave the witch an attentive gaze. God I sound like Tam now...scary...
"Me? Not much to tell... Things have been a total mess since Sunnydale. Buffy was fatally wounded in the fight to close the Hellmouth. Angel was destroyed by the amulet Wolfram & Hart gave him to help us with. After the fight Spike turned Buffy rather than watch her die. Guess that's not how it went for you?" Willow responded, appearing curious.
Buffy shrugged. "Nah... I was hurt pretty bad, but nuthin' fatal. Could've figured that yourself, huh? Spike wore the amulet and died in the Hellmouth, but he came back. Weirdest thing...the lawyers brought him back."
"Yeah...they brought Angel back. Trouble is they forgot a part. I've been trying to ensoul him and Buffy ever since...it's hard though. Buffy doesn't want it and she's got lots of control. Angelus is protected by Wolfram & Hart and the Circle of the Black Thorn so he's pretty much untouchable." Willow shifted in the chair, holding her hand out. "Please...I know it's like really forward, but...I-I just miss..." she stuttered sheepishly.
Buffy took her hand, giving it a light squeeze. "So do Angel and Buffy run together? I mean you'd think, right?"
"They hate each other. After the change Buffy left with Spike in the middle of the night. That didn't last long though. In fact, it went really badly for Spike. About five days after they ran there was a bucket in the garden here. It was really awful...looked to me like she took the full five days to kill him. Funny thing...vampires turn to dust when you stake 'em, but none of the parts you cut off 'em do." Willow watched as a look of disgust crept over the Slayer's face. "Oh...sorry... I'm guessing you didn't wanna know that, did you?"
"Not so much... So do I...I mean the other me...feed on humans?" Buffy asked, appearing pensive. Dunno if I wanna know, but...
"Ummm...well... Not really, but yeah... See thing is...she pretty much just hunts demons and vamps, but well..." Willow seemed very agitated, withdrawing her hand and crossing her arms.
"Well, I guess that's good, but why so nervous?" Buffy queried, furrowing her brow and giving the witch a curious gaze.
"Well...it's just that she has a pretty broad definition of demon. She thinks that anything touched by a demon is bad too."
"Oh...Kay... Not following..." Buffy appeared confused as she watched the witch fidget anxiously. A look of comprehension finally settled over her face. "Oh Jesus, Wills. You mean she kills slayers?"
"Yeah..." Willow mumbled apprehensively, staring at her feet. "I managed to block the doors to this place and we've been trying to locate as many as we can, but it's been horrible. At least she does sorta keep the regular demons and vamps down... Well, when she's not killin' the good guys. It's not quite as bad as the Bringers were, but between Wolfram & Hart, The Circle and Buffy...my spell was sorta a death sentence. She likes the leavin' trophies too...so..."
Buffy shuddered. "Oh god, Wills..." The witch continued to peer at the floor, but it soon became obvious to that she was sobbing. Moving to Willow's feet, she wrapped her into a tight hug, caressing her back. She let her cry until the shuddering stopped. Cupping the witch's face in her hands, she turned her gaze upward. "I'm sorry, Wills. I dunno what to say. Why doesn't Angelus deal with her if she's killing demons? Doesn't make sense..."
Willow sniffled, trying to compose herself and resist falling into the Slayer's arms again. She felt Buffy release her and watched as she moved back to the bed. "I'm not sure exactly. I mean...demons don't really have the whole loyalty thing I guess, and well... From what I've seen of Angelus...her killing slayers prolly makes him happy."
"Suppose you're right. As long as she doesn't get in his way...he'd be all about just enjoying the show." Buffy turned on her side again and cupped her cheek in her palm.
Willow wiped her eyes on her sleeve and stood up. "So, yeah...that's about it," she confirmed, pausing a moment to brush her hair out of her eyes. "Now, can I get you something?"
"Actually, if you could spare some sweats and a t-shirt I'd be lots happier. I'd like a shower...and well...be not quite so...well... I haven't got a whole lot on," Buffy reflected self consciously as she peered sympathetically up at the witch. "So I guess that whole making happiness thing...not so much." I thought things were bad for me. Seeing Will...any Will in this much pain... I can't...
"Not so much is right," Willow replied, turning to leave. "I'll be right back with shower stuff and some clothes."
**************
Willow floated resolutely down an alley. A current of air seemed to follow her, stirring up a cloud of dust in her path. Random spikes of current arced from her body connecting with the nearest metal objects. I'm not even sure where they sent me. Suppose I could figure it out if I cared. Doesn't matter...demon first...questions later...
I can't believe they were so worried about me getting upset that they missed the obvious. Watchers? Giles has changed, and not for the better. Oh...well...they're on the right page now...likely trying to figure how to keep the team together without its mascot. I miss Buffy...hope she's okay. As she neared the next intersection a power transformer exploded overhead. She seemed not to notice.
Scanning the next narrow alley, the witch spied what she was looking for. A head poked up from a pile of garbage, looking around nervously. Funny ears, spines, bad complexion, poor hygiene... You'll do. The demon attempted to break into a loping run, dragging one foot as if lame. The effort came to an abrupt halt when the creature rose off the ground as if some unseen force had lifted it by its right ankle. It lolled in midair, fighting to free itself as the witch approached.
"Need to see Beljoxa's Eye...open the gateway..." Willow paused to consider the arrogant look the creature was giving her. "Now would be good," the witch commanded dismissively.
The demon dangled nervously, making eye contact with the witch. Wasn't like he had a choice, he found himself at eye level with the bitch...errr...witch. "And if I don't?" he asked defiantly.
"I'm gonna hazard a guess that your insides are prolly more appealing than your outsides. Up for testing that theory?" Willow opened a small incision in the demon's cheek to make her point perfectly clear. Green blood dripped from the open wound.
"Right...no need to get testy, miss," the demon replied uneasily, placing a gnarled finger to the open cut he wiped the blood and licked it off. A glowing gate opened up in front of the witch.
Willow made a face. "Ewww... I suppose it's pointless for me to tell you how just gross that is?" she remarked, dropping the demon on his head as she entered the portal.
Willow peered into the dark void trying to get her bearings. "Beljoxa's Eye?"
"Here," returned an emotionless, masculine voice.
"Ahhh...there you are. Nice place...bit Spartan," the witch commented, turning toward the sound of the voice and finally drifting up to the demon. She looked over the demon who was basically an eyeball covered in pinkish skin with other eyes protruding through the surface. Yup, just as pretty as the picture...pretty much ancient... "I'm looking for Buffy Anne Summers, the Vampire Slayer. Wonder if you might know her location?"
"The Slayer resides in parallel, human, dimensional grid 435E91A, subsection 43A. What you perceive as Los Angeles."
Willow considered this for a moment. Well LA at least...there should be an Angel there to make sure she's okay. "That's not really all that helpful. I knew this was gonna be a pain. Look get useful or...I'm gonna get miffed. How do I get to her?"
"You cannot. You are human. Despite your powers you do not possess the ability to travel between parallel realms."
"Well, she's human. How'd she get there?" the witch queried, appearing annoyed.
"Her transference came about as the result of human folly and desire."
"Desire you say?" The witch pondered this for a moment. "You mean like a wish?"
"Yes."
"Thank you... You've been most accommodating."
**************
Willow quietly opened the door to the room she shared with Kennedy, hoping she was asleep. Of course not...that'd be too damned easy, she thought to herself as she took in Kennedy's glare.
"So, I see you didn't end up soup of the day. Mind explaining yourself?" Kennedy snapped.
"Not now, Kennedy...just back off, please. This is already too seriously weird without you wiggin' out. In case you missed it...this Buffy's human. Not big on the details are you? Let me take some stuff to her...then we'll talk, k?" Willow retorted, fishing through an old trunk. I think I kept a few of Buffy's things...seemed stupidly sentimental at the time, but well...useful now.
"Talk now, or I may not be here when you get back," Kennedy said firmly. Human my ass...I saw how that thing moved...and the eyes? Yeah...chalked full of humanity...brimming...overflowing... She hissed at the thought.
Willow rolled her eyes. "Suit yourself. If you can't give me five minutes now...not sure it's worth all the bullshit." The witch left the room with a pile of clothing and toiletries for Buffy.
**************
Willow looked around the alley. Well this is as good a place as any. "D'hoffryn! Look... I don't have your stupid talisman anymore...sorta got eaten by the Hellmouth... God, I hate Latin," she grumbled. "Beatum sit in nomine D'Hoffrynis. Fiat hoc spatium porta ad mundum Arashmaharris."
In a bright flash of light, D'hoffryn appeared, facing the witch. "Language Miss Rosenburg. Nice jammies... Though, I'm not so sure pink's your color. What can I do for you?" he offered with an amused smile.
"Buffy Summers, I want her back," Willow replied in a firm voice, looking down at herself. Guess I am a bit of a mess, she considered, starting to blush.
"You and the rest of your world...not that they understand that yet... It doesn't work that way and you know it," D'Hoffryn jibed, his smile turned wolfish.
"Explain..." Willow inquired, furrowing her brow.
D'Hoffryn responded in his usual amiable tone, "I require a trade."
"A trade?"
"Yes, you Miss Rosenburg," D'Hoffryn responded in a chipper tone, eyeing her as if she were a prize.
"Me?" Willow queried nervously, not quite believe what she'd heard.
"Indeed... You've been coming up in the world...very self-assured. You would be an adequate exchange for what you ask." D'Hoffryn walked around the witch as if to assess the merchandise.
"Stop that! I thought you wanted the soul of a vengeance demon?" Willow turned to face the demon as he came to a halt. "No!" she said resolutely.
"Not this time. Is that your final answer?" D'Hoffryn asked, slowly making one final lap around the witch.
"Knock it off! I said absolutely...not gonna change my mind... NO!" Willow babbled, attempting to turn as the demon moved.
"Good day to you then," D'hoffryn concluded, vanishing with a flourish of light and smoke.
"Shit!" Willow spat. Well I guess I need to figure out where the hell I am. Mumbling something to herself, the witch exploded into a swirling black cloud.
**************
Willow returned to the room, knocking and letting herself in. She placed the clothing and toiletries on the chair. She watched as Buffy examined her wounds and felt her ribs. She's right...not so much on, the witch considered guiltily. Goddess, she's beautiful. I'd sorta forgotten. "So, how'd it happen?" she whispered, staring intently at the Slayer.
"Whatcha mean, Will?" Buffy queried, looking up to meet the witch's gaze. She pulled the short gown back down over her thighs with only a mild degree of modesty. Whoops...oh well...at least I'm almost healed. Like this new healing thing. That'll be hard to give up. At least I got to test it finally. Something that can hurt me...check... Be careful what you ask for...double check...
Blushing, Willow clarified, "You and me... I mean the other me."
"Oh...well... The usual way, Will. Hope you don't need diagrams and directions now...'cause I'd be all kinda disappointed," Buffy teased, appearing entirely too amused.
Willow rolled her eyes and shook her head. "Sounds like something you'd say to Xander. No, I mean...well you know what I mean."
Buffy got up, brushing past the witch; she picked up the pile of shower stuff. "You just sorta made me see... Or the other you did," she offered as she moved gracefully to the bathroom, closing the door behind her.
Willow sighed deeply. This is gonna kill me, she considered as she flopped back into the chair like she'd been deflated. One thing's for sure...I could give a damn less about Kennedy. She's been a pain in the ass anyway. Something about constant defeat...Buffy was right about the prep school thing. Not winnin' is something she never knew until she joined up with the Scoobies... Now, nuthin' but... Can't blame her, but I don't have to put up with it either. Speaking of Scoobies...I hope Xander's okay.
**************
Xander stirred awake, laying half on the floor of a car. He looked around anxiously, working to right himself with effort as he was still pretty much drunk. "What...where..." he said, trying to take in his surrounding through unfocused eyes. A sudden wave of nausea hit him and he braced to control it.
"Been tryin' ta get that outta ya fer hours, buddy. Where to? The meter's runnin'," the cabbie shot back, appearing amused. "This gonna be cash or plastic? Fare's already over 350. You get sick in my car and it'll be a nuther 50."
"Shit!" Xander rubbed his eyes, trying hard to focus on the meter display. "Can we stop by an ATM? Errrr...The Hyperion Arms over..."
"I know where it is kid," the cabbie cut him off, chuckling to himself as he spoke. "Swear, buddy...I tried... You were totally gone and tossin ya on the curb in this town is a death sentence. Ya should be thankin' me."
"Yeah...thanks," Xander replied, with a gulp. Well at least he didn't throw me out. Sounds like he mighta considered it... "Stop the car!" he barked as a second wave of nausea threatened to over take him.
**************
Buffy poked her head out of the bathroom, a sunny smile covered her features as she met Willow's gaze. "Thought you'd be asleep...it's almost light out. Think I wanna go outside. Come with?" she said, offering with witch her hand. "You lead..."
Opening the door, Willow looked around. No one up yet... She set off for one of the empty rooms with an east facing balcony.
As they moved along at a brisk pace, Buffy whispered the words to once again make her thoughts known. Look Wills... I really don't wanna run into any more people than I have to. Explainin' the sitch is so not how I wanna spend my day. You handle it, kay? Say whatever... I need five things from ya.
Willow opened the door to the vacant room and pulled the Slayer inside. Passing through, she slid the door to the terrace back and stepped out. Whatcha need? I'll do my best.
Buffy followed the witch, stretching as the light hit her body. God, I miss Southern California, she reflected with a soft sigh. Basking for a moment in the warm sunshine, she leaned over the railing, placing her forearms against it.
Moving to join the Slayer, Willow absently put her arm around her waist. Where do you live?
Scotland...it rains all the time and it's cold as hell in the winter. I hate it. Bad for the riding, but I love that...in spite of the shivering. Buffy turned away from the sun, pulling herself up to sit on the railing.
Like bicycles? Willow lowered her arm to her side.
Nah...they're boring. I learned to ride motorcycles while I was there. A wolfish grin washed over Buffy's face in response to the look of shock the witch was giving her. It's not like Sunnydale. We live in the middle of nowhere and bein' trapped...so not my thing. Well...you know... That and you...well the other you... Those are the two good things. The rest has been hell.
"Whatcha need, Buffy?" Willow redirected in a small voice.
Oh, yeah... Sorry, I was sorta enjoyin' this. Back to work. A weapon...nothin' light or smallish... I tend to turn 'em into scrap. A way to hide said weapon...long coat or somethin'... A pair of cosmetic contacts in my natural color or close... I need to look like your Buffy. Now...well...not so much...the eyes are a deal breaker. And a heavy canvas bag, a laundry bag or somethin'...big one...like those military duffle things, with the draw string. Buffy stretched again, testing her ribs.
Kay...think I can manage all that. What's the last thing?
"I need you to kiss me like you've wanted to for years. See 'cause since I kissed you...well...you've spent like half your time making those puppy eyes... Yeah those... Those things are dangerous...my Will seems to get just about anything she wants with those," Buffy babbled softly, smirking as she watched Willow move in front of her. "And the other half lookin' like you were floggin' yourself."
"What about your Willow?" the witch whispered, meeting Buffy's gaze.
Somehow...I think she'd understand. Buffy drew the witch up into a gentle embrace, returning the slow, passionate kiss.
*************
D'Hoffryn put his hand to his chest and sighed. "Ahhhh...young love... Such marvelous fuel for the vengeance...might even get two for the price of one witch outta this deal."
**************
"That's right, Giles...I need a vengeance demon," Willow replied, pacing her office floor impatiently. I'm gonna throw the phone if he doesn't pull his head outta his ass soon. "Look, you either know a place where they hang or you don't. Again no time for games...just do us both a favor and answer. "
"Right...I believe I know of a place in London," Giles confirmed.
Willow rolled her eyes. "Well, I'm all set. Have the witches send me a portal at the end of the drive. I'll be there in two minutes," she commanded, hanging up the phone and resisting the urge to slam it against the floor. Dropping it back into its cradle, she set off at a brisk pace toward the door.
**************
Reluctantly, Willow withdrew from the embrace. This is a dream. She pinched herself and said, "Ouch," in a small voice.
"It's not a dream, Wills," Buffy confirmed, gently caressing the witch's arm where she'd pinched it. "Not even close. And stop hurting yourself."
Willow turned her gaze down to watch the Slayer's hand as it gently moved over her arm. "Tell me you're not gonna go off and do somethin' dumb."
"I'm not gonna do somethin' dumb," Buffy parroted as her expression changed to a mischievous smirk.
"Buffy," Willow chided, looking up to meet the Slayer's stare. "Whatcha plannin'?"
Buffy rolled her eyes. "I'm gonna go get Angelus."
Willow's mouth dropped open. "Buffy, that's suicide!"
"Move back, Wills," Buffy instructed, carefully pushing the witch away. "What floor we on anyway?" she asked as she flipped backwards over the railing.
Willow ran to the railing, appearing horrified as she replied, "Ummm....third." She watched the Slayer turn twice in midair and land on her outstretched arms. Rolling into a somersault, she was back on her feet running though the parking lot faster than the witch could follow.
Buffy stopped abruptly, giving Willow a moment to locate her before she called out, "You mean like that was suicide?" Taking off in a hard run, she leapt onto the balcony below the witch and flung herself up and out, grabbing the railing above.
Willow watched in disbelief as the Slayer pulled herself effortlessly back up onto the railing, reclaiming her perch. She submitted, still dumbfounded, as Buffy drew her into a gentle hug.
"I'll give you a minute to process before I ask that again," the Slayer whispered. "I'm not your Buffy, Wills," she added in the same subtle voice after a short pause. She finally reached out to carefully caress the shocked look away.
Willow shook herself off. "Guess I should go shopping, huh?"
"Maybe... I need some food. Wanna hit a coffee shop or somethin' on the way?" Buffy inquired cheerfully as she followed the witch out of the room. Noticing the glances she was getting the Slayer added, "Well, don't think you're leavin' me here."