Part One(a) ~ Part One(b) ~ Part Two(a) ~ Part Two(b) ~ Newer Parts
Mine
Written by Ginger
Friday Night
Maggie Walsh was not pleased. The Slayer posed a growing threat to their work. The girl was undisciplined, to say the least; a security risk being more precise. There was so much power in that tiny girl. So much untapped potential; if only it could be channelled into something useful, to her.
There were possibilities though. When she last spoke to them, they explained it. If she could study her, harness some of that mythical power, the scales could be tipped to their advantage. It was hard to believe that that until now she had scoffed at the so-called Legends that the HST's would rant about in their cells, particularly Hostile 17. Maggie snorted disgustedly, now that was an embarrassment. How he had managed to escape continually was beyond her. Finn would have to step up on this one.
Riley.
shrugged dismissively. One way or another, Finn would fall into line, like he always did.
Maggie reached across the desk and punched in a long series of numbers into the phone.
*****
“I am wiped!” Buffy said throwing herself on her dorm room bed, “I don't even want to think about this psych paper that's due Monday”
Willow smiled indulgently from her desk, “Riley a bit much for even your Super Slayerness? Where were you last night? Hey! Ow!” She turned and tossed back the pillow Buffy had just thrown from the other side of the room.
“What? Inquiring minds cannot know now?”
“We were patrolling Will. God, gutter mind!” Buffy shot a look of indignation at her best friend, “What's the new with you? How's Tara?”
Willow smiled innocently, “No details to share with me? Must not have been that memorable then,” she ducked in mock fear as Buffy raised another pillow, “Okay, I give! I give! Tara's good, we're studying up on Ague weed. I came back here to check some of my books. It might be useful if we can find the right spell for it”
“A glue weed?”
“No, Ague. It can be used to confuse one's enemies. Could be really useful when you're out-numbered,” Willow explained patiently.
“Well, glued, confused; either would be helpful!” Buffy smiled, “Are you two still in that Wicca group?”
“No. A little too much bake sale for us. They never do anything, Buffy. All talk of women empowerment, no action. It's so junior high.”
“Look at your bad-ass Wicca self Willow!” Buffy smiled at the red-headed witch, “And not too long ago it was pencil floating.” They were interrupted by the sound of Buffy's beeper going off. Buffy sighed and got up off the bed, “Duty beeps, Will. I'll see you later?”
Willow sighed. Riley seemed nice enough, but this whole Initiative deal gave her the willies; something was not right about them. Besides, it had been leaving her and the rest of the Scoobies kind of out of the picture as of late. Supportive best friend mode, she told herself sternly, “Wanna meet later at Giles'? We're going to try out the new spells and stuff there. Giles says he needs to 'approve' before the field test, you'd think he'd have a little more faith in me.”
Buffy laughed, “You know he does Will, but that's our Giles, uber caution man. Hopefully this won't take all night.” She winked mischievously at her friend, who rolled her eyes in reply.
“The gang's meeting around nine. I'll walk out with you; I'm meeting Tara at the Magic Box for some supplies.” Willow grabbed her books and followed Buffy to the door.
*****
Riley glanced around the room as he walked in. No one else was there. Not the usual, normally they were all paged in. Puzzled, he paced to the front of the room, but turned as he heard rapidly approaching footsteps in the hallway.
Maggie peered around the corner, “Riley, good. I need you down in the infirmary. Dr Adlai will see you there.”
Dr. Adlai, he's new? Riley wondered briefly, “Trouble?”
“No, it's a routine check-up. I'll be down shortly.” Maggie stated, “I have things I need to discuss with you.”
“Yes ma'am,”
Maggie eyes narrowed as she watched Riley leave the room and disappear. Riley was the easy one, as long as Holland had delivered as promised. Technology could only take him so far, now the rest was up to Adlai and team. The next phase was going to prove to be more challenging and require more finesse. Maggie felt confident that she would be able to outmanoeuvre her. The girl was sharp, but Maggie held the cards. And this was one hand that was going to play her way.
“Professor Walsh!” She turned at the sound of her name.
“Buffy, finally. Come, we have a lot to accomplish and a short time with which to do it. There are several tests we need to run….Buffy, are you coming?” Maggie turned to see the blonde girl just standing in the hallway.
“Tests? I thought we were finished with those,” the Slayer said with a note of suspicion in her voice.
Maggie laughed, “As well as our boys performed, they did not test your true capabilities, Buffy. Those tests weeks ago showed nothing of what your true abilities are I am guessing and I'd like to know more. With your permission, of course, we will be taking some blood samples, and then I'd like you to try out the monitors we use on the field teams. I hardly think it would hinder you. Just a few sensors, to monitor blood pressure, heart rate, things like that. I'd like you to wear them during one of your patrols.”
“I get beeped to play lab rat,” Buffy grumbled under her breath, “Well, let's get this done.” She smiled resignedly. She hurried to catch up to the Professor.
Perhaps this was going to be easier than she thought, Maggie smiled inwardly.
*****
Riley entered the infirmary and was greeted by a pretty brunette nurse; he'd never seen her before. He glanced down at her and smiled.
“Here to see…” he was cut off.
“Dr. Adlai. I know. This way please, Agent Finn.” the nurse said brusquely, walking towards one of the exam rooms. Riley shrugged and sighed following her. “Clothes off, Agent Finn. Into this gown and lay on the table. I'll be right back with something to help you relax.”
“Help me relax? What do I need to be relaxed for? I thought this was a routine check up?” Riley was beginning to feel slightly uncomfortable.
“Several of these tests are quite lengthy and do tend to cause some discomfort. It's best that we give you a mild sedative. Now move soldier! The doctor does not have all day.” The nurse exited the room abruptly, shutting the door behind her.
Riley had never had reason to doubt Professor Walsh or the rest of the Initiative. Not big on asking questions, he was the one who followed orders. But the small part of him that had been growing since meeting Buffy was seriously considering beginning to ask a lot of questions. He still got undressed as ordered and lay on the cold table. His questions could wait, for now.
The nurse came back into the room several minutes later. After swabbing his arm to clean it, she produced a large needle. Riley had a passing thought that at least the needle would not be going in his ass. He was feeling rather exposed in the flimsy gown.
“You may feel a slight pinch Agent Finn, nothing more,” the brunette nurse's face loomed above him, expressionless.
Riley felt the needle enter his arm. The nurse's face appeared above him again. She smiled, patted his arm and checked his vitals once more. Riley tried to speak, but found his mind floating elsewhere. The room began to blur and he felt himself slip away, but he no longer cared. Miranda smiled, he was going to be out for awhile. She had given him a mystically-enhanced form of Phenobarbital. And by the time he woke he'd be feeling like a brand-new man.
Thursday Night
Angel lay in bed starring futilely at the ceiling. Sleep was not appearing to be an option available anytime soon. Frustrated, he slipped across the crimson satin sheets and reached for a book that lay on the nightstand. Not that it would soothe him to sleep, but he needed to stay focused on something else. Other than the urge to drag Wesley out of bed to further the research the ex-Watcher had been working on. But Wesley and Cordelia had only left a few short hours ago and being human, they did require sleep more than he did. Even though; he half-smiled at the thought; Cordy had spent the latter part of the evening with drool on her chin and the resounding sound of her snores filling the office. Of course it was much to Wesley's dismay, as he complained that she sounded like a herd of stampeding cattle and it made it all but impossible to concentrate.
Angel allowed himself a full grin as the picture of Wesley vainly attempting to wake Cordy; whose only response was, “It's under 'M'” flitted through his head. He wondered briefly how the Sunnydale team would look at Cordelia now. Slowly, she was becoming, well, a person. It was a far cry from the selfish, spoiled brat, Queen C; who ruled the halls of Sunnydale High with designer clothes and an abusive tongue. She was growing up. True, she still had her moments, but the brunette had softened; especially since Doyle's death and her subsequent inheritance of his visions.
And Wesley- rogue demon hunter, Angel suppressed the urge to burst out laughing every time that was mentioned. The ex-Watcher had grown too. Still an invaluable resource when it came to research; Wes had found his niche at Angel Investigations. He was also beginning to assist Angel more in the field. Angel highly doubted that even the Council would believe it possible that Wesley would ever be able to hold his own in hand-to-hand combat. Wes was improving though, he no longer; what was it Buffy had once said about him?
Buffy. Angel closed his eyes, dropping the book. He had been trying not to think of her tonight. She was always there, always on his mind. It was useless to try and convince himself otherwise. He had told Wesley and Cordy that he wanted his curse researched, that there had to be a way to anchor his soul; to prevent Angelus from emerging again. While this reason was true, it wasn't entirely complete. He suspected they knew as much as well, especially from the way Wes' eyebrows raised and how he caught Cordy watching him speculatively over the past few months. Angel chose to ignore it for the most part. The words of the Mohra demon haunted him.
“Together you were powerful. Alone you are dead.”
The memory of the day that was still such a mixture of bliss and desolation that it haunted Angel's every waking moment. Although he was now capable of helping Buffy in the battles to come; what if there was more to what Mohra had said? Together was a powerful word; had the Powers That Be intended for him to still be fighting at Buffy's side? Had he abandoned her in Sunnydale? Was L.A. where he was destined to be?
Wes and Cordy could speculate all they wanted as long as he got the results he wanted. And what he wanted was Buffy. Completely and utterly. He wondered why the Powers were content to have him as a human, no longer a Warrior for their cause, and it had taken his request to be returned to his vampire self. Would they object to his vampire self having some happiness along the way, had he atoned enough to deserve just this? He would risk anything; dare anything for the woman he loved. It had taken a long time for him to understand and admit this.
*Too long soul boy!*
The voice that was his alter-ego, Angelus growled an unbidden answer inside his head.
*I knew we needed her a long time ago.*
Angel sighed and pushed the demon further to the back of his mind. The demon wanted Buffy as badly as he did. Not entirely for destruction purposes anymore it seemed. Angelus was always there, ever present. Angelus had developed an obsession with Buffy early on that escalated with his re-emergence after he and Buffy made love the first time. Angel remembered the endless lewd commentary that he had been forced to listen to from the moment he met Buffy. It seemed that out of the hate emerged a grudging respect with the way Buffy had dispatched him to hell; even though he had been given his soul again. Angelus had always been sure that Buffy could not kill him, had counted upon it, in fact. Angel knew the demon had toyed with the idea of turning Buffy eventually as the ultimate punishment. He also shared Angel's memories of their day and not with disgust surprisingly.
The demon had spent most of the time since he left Sunnydale, howling objections. He echoed Angel's sentiments in wanting his mate. Angel remembered the day they had made Buffy their mate. Drugged and near death, Buffy had forced him to drink; had brought Angelus to the forefront. Angelus had not hesitated, accepting Buffy's offered gift of life greedily. The eroticism of drinking Buffy's blood was not an experience that the demon objected to. In fact, the demon had revelled in it. In the beginning Angel was too weak to hold back the demon, control it, but he had found he had not needed to as Buffy's blood cured him.
The one thought that had been in their minds was, “Mine.” And without conscience they had marked Buffy as their mate; forever.
Angel knew that Giles had explained to Buffy what the mark had meant; but with the knowledge that Angel would be leaving, had down-played it to Angelus' perversion in marking a Slayer as such. However with Angel, he had not beaten around the bush. He had been furious that Angel would mark her this way when he had no intention of staying. Vampire mating was rare, but it created a bond that lasted forever. Separation could and often did result in severe emotional problems.
Angel cringed inwardly. Buffy's choices were proof that she was affected by the separation. He was aware of the Parker incident and he was less than impressed with the latest selection, Riley. Something about that boy smelled wrong, and Angel's instincts were rarely wrong.
*Kill them for touching what's mine!*
Angel had to admit that his thought and feelings on the subject of another man touching his mate were much along the same lines, although perhaps, not the killing part. Perhaps.
Sighing, he shifted the pillows to a more comfortable position, the slippery sheets pooling about his naked hips and tried to allow his mind to drift to more pleasant memories. Although Angelus revelled in death and destruction, it was not something Angel preferred to dwell on. There was so little on the Kalderash people, it was taking so long to dig up the tiniest bit of information; most of which led nowhere. Buffy's face drifted before him. He smiled, that was better.
The moment their lips touched, it was like a floodgate opened. Pent-up emotions over time burst through. He devoured her mouth hungrily; his kisses demanding and passionate and she matched his passion. The next thing he knew, his kitchen table was cleared as he placed her upon it. He felt his cock straining and ground his pelvis against hers and was rewarded by a half strangled moan.
“Angel…” Buffy gasped, as his lips traveled from her lips to her cheeks and made his way to her tiny ear. His hands began roaming her body, remembering every curve, every dip. He nipped his way down her neck, coming to rest on his mark.
“Mine.” He growled possessively, biting down softly. Buffy's only response was to press herself to him even closer, holding his head to her. Although he did not have his vampire sense, he could still smell her, her unique fragrance that was only her. He could drown in her forever.
He pulled away to stare down at her, his mate. Passion-filled green eyes gazed back at him and he could feel himself swell even further. Reaching out he traced a finger over her face, brushing her lips, smiling when she nipped at his fingers. Traveling downward, he brushed the side of one of her breasts; impatient with the clothing that separated their skin. He tugged the shirt up over her head and was delighted to discover that the flimsy black camisole came with it as well. He bent his head and captured one nipple in his mouth while his hand sought the other; teasing it to a firm peak.
Buffy's hands threaded themselves through his hair, grasping and tugging, as she arched into his hand and mouth. He felt her hands leave his head and begin tugging on his own shirt, trying to pull him up. He had to feel their skin touching, and pulled his shirt off; pulling her to him, their tongues met fiercely duelling as his hands grasped at her round ass, winding their way up into her golden locks. He needed her so badly, how could he have ever given this up, even for a moment.
Buffy's hands came to rest upon the front of his pants, unbuttoning them and tugging on his zipper. He gasped as her small hand grasped his cock firmly and began to stroke it. He thrust himself into her hand, throwing back his head as the sensations coursed through him. If she didn't stop, he'd cum in her hand like a school boy. Pulling away with effort, he stripped himself of his pants and boxers and swept her up into his arms. He didn't know how but, he made it to the bedroom and laid her on the bed. He stripped her pants away and gazed lustfully at the lacy black thong that barely covered anything. There was definitely something to be said for the underwear of today, he thought thankfully.
With a wicked gleam in his eyes he bent down and tugged it to one side, as he ran his tongue along the outer folds of her femininity; at her gasp and the lift of her hips he delved deeper. He found her clit and flicked his tongue across it lightly, while his fingers sought her out and thrust into her, she howled in pleasure and ground herself into his face. Barely pausing, he ripped the flimsy thong from his lover. He drew her clit into his mouth and suckled, thrusting into her tight sheath with increasing speed.
“Angel, Angel, Angel, Angelllllll.”
She chanted his name as though it were a prayer that only he could answer, becoming more insistent and high pitched as he moved his hand faster, feeling her soft wetness and then he bit down gently.
Buffy wailed into her climax and he tasted her joy, drinking down her pleasure. How he had longed to do this for so long. He moved to cover her as she came down from her peak and was surprised when she threw him over onto his back. His surprise was doubled as he felt her mouth enclose him.
“Ah….Buffy…” he moaned loudly, as she licked the sensitive underside of his cock.
His hands came down gently on her head, tangling in her long blonde locks. The sensations coursing through him magnified as she grasped him with one hand and the other hand reached up to caress his balls. It felt so damn good; he wanted it to last forever. He felt her mouth enclose just the head, circling with her tongue, running it rapidly up and down; as her hand massaged him firmly. She began to take more of him in her mouth and he thought he would explode. Her head bobbed up and down on him, faster and faster, taking more and more of his large cock in.
“God baby, you suck me so good. Ah, yeah….Buffy!” He pushed her away gently before he came. He did not want this to end before it really had a chance to get started.
Buffy looked up at him, her eyes hazy and glazed with passion. “Angel?”
“I need you baby. Let me come in you. I need to feel you around me,” Gently he pushed her back onto his black satin sheets, and followed her with butterfly kisses from her thighs to her face.
“I love you.” He whispered against her ear as she wrapped her lean legs around his hips, urging him to claim her.
“I love you, only you.” Came her answer.
Brushing the back of his hand across her cheek, he entered her slowly, watching her eyes as he eased in, inch by inch, until he was deeply embedded in her hot sheath.
Oh god she was so tight! So warm, so wet; so his. He was home, where he belonged. He knew that without a shadow of a doubt. He stayed as he was for a moment luxuriating in her warm welcome. Then he began to move slowly, his thrusts shallow. Buffy groaned as he bent down to capture her already passion-bruised lips. He felt her hands roaming his back, pulling him closer and he began thrusting into her deeper. She met him thrust for thrust, rotating her hips, her breath matching his shallow pants.
His lips traveled down the slender column of her throat to his mark and he laved it with his tongue as she clung to him. He felt her begin her climb to her next peak and although he wanted it never to end, he was suddenly unable to wait any longer. He could feel the pressure building and he wanted more than anything to come with her, to let go as she spun out of control.
Cradling her to him, he sped up his thrusts, angling them so he would brush against her clit with each stroke. He could feel her body tense with her approaching orgasm and urged her towards it.
“Buffy, come baby. Oh god I missed you. Come for me. I want to feel you come.” He whispered sensually against her ear.
Buffy gasped at his words, “Harder! ANGEL!!!!!”
He lost control as she hit her peak and thrust wildly, determined to join her. And suddenly, he was there. The waves of pleasure broke over him with an intensity not known in his long lifetime.
Buffy, Buffy, Buffy….
“BUFFY!” His hand pumped furiously as his body jerked with the force of his orgasm. Stroking himself for a few moments longer to draw out the final pleasure, he sighed, and got out of bed to go have a shower.
Padding quietly across his bedroom floor, he glanced back at his bed. She was not there. No matter how vivid the memories were they could not begin to compare to the reality. But for now they were all he had.
But he wanted more.
Buffy rubbed her arm, flexing it. Big tough Slayer and she didn't like needles. She thought ruefully that she should have reconsidered tops, the barely there pale purple halter left too much as a target for those needles. Funny how she never considered that when it came to slaying things.
“Almost done here Buffy,” Maggie smiled as she handed the 6 vials of blood to a bored looking assistant, who left the room quickly his lab coat flapping.
“Almost? There's more needles?” Buffy groaned, “What on earth do you need all this for, haven't you gotten enough from me?”
“No, no more needles. The rest of the tests are, well physical. We just need to put these sensors on you, and then you can have a go at the gym. We want to check your reflexes and responses.”
“Since I am being such a good sport about all this, y'know Mr. Pointy is the only sharp object I usually let near me, and usually I am the one inflicting the damage, what are you going to do with all those tubes?” Buffy was curious, science was not her forte but the whys were interesting.
“Standard testing Buffy. We will be checking your red and white blood cell counts. Things like that. Basically, we want to see what if any difference is detectable between you and well, normal people. Shall we?” Maggie held up the sensors.
Normal people. Buffy sighed. I wish I was just a normal person sometimes. But maybe she could learn more about herself and her powers in this process. She wondered if the Watcher's Council had ever run tests like this on their Slayers. Giles had never mentioned anything but, well, since quitting the Council, they weren't exactly forthcoming with their information.
“Sensor me up, Professor.”
“This won't take long, Buffy. We'll just attach these and then we're off to the gym. You can do your workout there, or whatever it is you do with Giles.” Maggie busied herself attaching the sensors, while studying Buffy under veiled lashes. “You seemed nervous, I take it your 'Watcher' never performed tests on you before?”
“The last 'test' as you call it was, not happy fun time.” Buffy paused, “It almost got me and my mom killed.”
“What kind of test was that??” Maggie asked probingly. Holland had sent her the file they had available on Buffy, shortly after their phone call, so she was well aware of the test Buffy spoke of. It would not do, however, to appear knowledgeable in any way. Blindsiding Buffy later would be that much easier this way. If she could get Buffy to reveal more of what happened it could prove to be invaluable. As accurate as the file was, Maggie was sure it didn't describe everything, patting the last sensor into place she stood, “I'm ready for the gym if you are.”
“Sure, “Buffy appeared to be lost in thought, but she fell in step with Maggie as the woman led the way, “That was crazy, Giles was kicked off the Council for it, but…” Buffy went on to explain the whole situation and Maggie listened carefully, offering comforting murmurs and comments as needed.
There was obviously a close bond between Buffy and this Giles, between Buffy and all her friends for that matter. Quite possibly, this could be a large factor in what had allowed this girl to live through what she had. The Cruciamentum test had proved Buffy's mettle. It was a good thing that Holland's team had acquired the Council's mix of sedatives that had been used to drug Buffy and had enhanced and altered them into several different blends that when administered, would produce a variety of effects. Once the plan was set in motion, something had to be given to her to keep her under control.
Her friends could pose a larger problem than had originally been determined though. The questions that would arise with Buffy's disappearance would not be easy to deflect, but there should be adequate time to prepare for those. Maggie paused at the doors to the gym, “Go ahead, Buffy, I have some things I need to take care of. The rest of the team will monitor you and we'll discuss your results later.”
Buffy glanced up at Maggie, “So will we be patrolling tonight with these later?”
“If you are feeling up to it, it would be most useful. Perhaps if Riley is finished with his duties, he can join you.”
“Where is Riley?”
“Down in the infirmary, getting a check-up done. He should be done shortly, I'll send him up to you, and I need to go there anyways.”
Buffy pushed the door to the gym open and glanced back over her shoulder, “No hurry, I feel the need to burn off some steam. I'll see ya later.”
The door swung shut behind the Slayer and Maggie breathed a sigh of relief. Things were going well, almost too well. Better not get cocky she thought. She glanced at her watch, Riley should be done soon. The room behind her was suddenly flooded with the sounds of loud music, as she walked towards the elevator. Apparently loud music was essential to training.
The elevator doors slid silently open and Maggie entered lost in her own thoughts, pressing the number. She was shocked out of her reverie by a smooth voice behind her.
“Everything is going well I presume?”
Maggie stiffened and spun around, then seeing who it was relaxed, “Holland! Yes, yes right on schedule, I was just going to check on Agent Finn and…what are you doing here?”
“We have considerable interest in this project and its outcome, why wouldn't I be here?”
“Of course, you just startled me. Since you are here then, shall we go see how Riley progressed?”
“Yes, I'm quite eager to see how Dr. Adlai has done with your protégé. The enhancements will no doubt prove astonishing. And Miss Summers is…?”
“We've just finished a series of tests, we should be getting the preliminary results from her blood work shortly. I just sent her to the gym to perform a workout of sorts, while we monitor her.”
“Have you completely read her file? Are you prepared? There is much at stake here Margaret, one slip and you will find yourself in a precarious situation.”
The implied was obvious. Holland was there to share in her success, not in a failure; that she would face alone. Steeling herself mentally, she told herself firmly that failure was not an option. She had come too far in the past few years to back down now when the prize was so close. Finn was the culmination of her dedication and determination. Forcefully inserting Buffy into this equation Maggie knew would prove to be either the crowning jewel of her success, or the collapse of a dream.
Maggie prayed it would be the former and not the latter of the two.
*****
Riley groaned and fluttered his eyes.
“He's coming around.”
“Excellent. It seems the Professor did not disappoint, he was an excellent candidate. Everything seems to be in order here, so I'll leave you to tend him. I need to see the shaman before he leaves.”
“Yes Dr. Adlai. Should I begin preliminary testing once he comes out or do you want me to wait until Professor Walsh returns?”
“Wait. I'm quite sure she will want to see the results first hand, in any case, I will most likely be back before she returns.”
A moan from the table distracted them and their eyes met briefly as Miranda turned to take care of her charge and the doctor left quietly. Miranda glanced down compassionately at the dark haired man. Weird science got to her at times like these. If the job didn't pay so exorbitantly she would have quit a long time ago. From what this young man had just had done, she was beginning to think it couldn't ever pay enough. A small normal hospital was starting to sound pretty good to her. For the next twenty minutes she sat quietly, monitoring his vitals, when she noticed he was coming further along she stood.
“Agent Finn, can you hear me?” she touched his shoulder. His eyes fluttered open, then down again. Good, he was almost awake. She shook him a little, “Riley, you need to wake up now.”
Riley heard the voice calling to him to wake up and made an effort to struggle towards consciousness. Focus he thought, concentrate soldier.
Miranda saw his body stiffen and then his eyes snapped open. His hand darted out and caught her wrist, painfully.
“Where am I?”
Miranda twisted, trying to free herself from his grasp, “The infirmary Agent Finn, remember? You had an appointment with Dr. Adlai?”
Riley's eyes were icy and he narrowed them as he sat up, still gripping her wrist tightly. “I haven't seen any damn doctor, where is he?”
Miranda was beginning to feel panicked and squirmed further. His only response was to grasp more tightly, a whimper of pain escaped her mouth. He's going to break my wrist! Just then the door opened, and Riley turned towards it tensing. Professor Walsh and Holland Manners entered the room, taking in the picture that was before them.
“Stand down soldier!” Maggie uttered sharply. Much to Miranda's relief, he responded immediately and dropped her arm. “You are excused Nurse. We will no longer require your assistance.”
Miranda did not need to be told twice, and fled the room clutching her rapidly swelling hand.
“Well Maggie it seems Agent Finn has come through just nicely, just as I thought.” Holland's gaze swept over the young man who sat stiffly on the table. Riley returned his gaze just as intently.
“Shall we get started then?”
“By all means.”
“Agent Finn, I need your complete and undivided attention. We have a mission to discuss. It is an extremely delicate situation and it requires you to follow orders to the letter. Are we clear?”
“Yes ma'am.”
“Good. Let's begin then.”
Maggie began to speak as Holland leaned negligently against the wall, observing. Riley gazed intently at the Professor as she went through the finer points, no flinch or emotions showed on his face; in fact it was devoid of all emotion.
“Are there any questions soldier?”
“Why would there be ma'am? Seems pretty cut and dry to me. I'll have her contained by 23:00.”
Maggie breathed a mental sigh of relief; the operation was a success, so far. How emotionless and conscience free he was, was about to be tested.
Angel paced back and forth in front of Wesley's desk like a trapped panther. Wes looked up at his boss and sighed.
“Angel, you are not helping matters any with your incessant pacing. I think we may be onto something here, but I need time. These passages are proving to be quite difficult to translate.”
The dark haired vampire stopped in mid-pace, “I need something to do Wes. This is the closest we've come to finding anything on the Kalderash people and their ways in months. I can feel how close we are.”
Wes smiled in understanding. Angel had been patient for a long time. But if this was going to be done it was going to be done correctly. They couldn't afford any mistakes; Angelus was too dear a price to pay for an error.
“Wesley, I've checked all those sites you suggested.” Cordelia interrupted coming into the room and flopping herself down on a couch. The two men turned towards her expectantly and she rolled her eyes, “What else? A big order of zero with a side of nothing, unless you want to count my carpal tunnel syndrome that is.”
“I suppose most of them were a long shot, considering we had been through most of them already. Did you cross-reference the material with known Curses?” Wes ran his hands through his hair and stretched. Even though they had not come in until noon, it was almost 8:30 and he had hardly moved from the chair.
“Of course I did!” the brunette replied indignantly, “I have done my fair share of research before you know and…”
“Yes and your musical self was most helpful last night.” He cut her off smoothly with a twinkle in his eyes, “Why don't we order in something and keep going. I shouldn't be too much longer with this passage.”
“Angel!!! Are you going to just let him talk to me like this??” she turned to the vampire who was watching the exchange bemusedly.
“Well you were quite loud last night. I'll do the order, Chinese fine?”
“Whatever,” Cordy waived her hands at him dismissively,” I need a break!”
Angel had just reached for the phone to dial the number to his team's favourite Chinese take-out when Wesley leapt from his chair, “Of course! I was looking at this from the entirely wrong angle!”
The phone forgotten, Angel watched as Wes rushed across the room and grabbed a dusty tome, feeling excitement hard upon him, “Wesley?” he asked cautiously.
“It's here, I know it is. Damn! Cordy do you remember the section on multiple personalities, divisions of self and curses?”
“Sort of Wes, we didn't really go into that one much. Remember you said that it…”
“Never mind what I said, it was in Keizer's section. There!” Wesley found what he was looking for and slammed the book down on the desk with a bang, smiling proudly.
Angel leaned over the desk, aware that Cordy had joined him. His eyes skimmed over the text quickly, and then he looked up at Wes in disbelief, “This is how we anchor my soul?”
“What, I can't see!” Cordy complained, reaching for the book as Wes snatched from her grasp.
“Yes,” Wesley stated simply.
“How is this going to anchor my soul Wes? All I see here is some lunatic's ravings about controlling the cursed one.”
“Precisely. We have been going about this the wrong way. I, quite frankly, am not an expert in the dark arts. In order to do what you originally asked, it would take a witch of substantial power, and I am not in contact with anyone with that sort of power, and it may be sometime before we can locate such a person. This would be one moment, I wish I still had the Council's resources. Since we cannot do so the only recourse then is to have you master the control aspect.”
Angel felt the flame of hope that was flickering out sputter to life dimly, “And how, precisely, am I supposed to do that?”
“We cannot rid you of the demon, but we can give you control over him. Thusly, Angelus and you will continue to share the same body, but you will be in the driver's seat so to speak, permanently.”
Cordy piped up, “What about Willow? Couldn't she do this? I mean, she was able to re-curse Angel once before.”
“I've thought of this possibility before, Cordelia. Although Willow's magick abilities have increased exponentially, if she should fail, I would not want her involved. Dealing with a person's soul is touchy, and when it comes to Angel's soul the cost of a mistake, I am sure you will agree is high. You and I have both been aware of Angel's desire to anchor his soul and agreed we would take on the risks it may include, although I am sure Willow would agree, I think it best not to endanger any more people. No, I think this is the best way.”
“What are the risks?” Angel had to know.
*Control me? I think not, you can't even control yourself you pussy!* Angelus snarled in his head. Angel pushed the demon further back. This might work fool and then we'll have what we both want. *Buffy* Angelus was content to watch for the time being, although for how long that would last was anyone's guess. The demon had to know he would not be allowed free reign ever again, but he wasn't fighting this new idea of Wes' very hard. Probably because in the end, he would have what he wanted, this was ultimately, Buffy.
“There is some risk, but it should be minimal. It appears to be quite simple. Most of the supplies are right here, white candles, salt…yes. Casting of a sacred circle and then the spell. I won't need long to prepare, we can do this tonight.”
“Sounds great,” Cordy said walking over to the weapons cabinet and grabbing an axe and a crossbow faced them, “And just in case it doesn't, I'll be ready. No offence, boss.”
Angel felt excitement ripple over him. He could be on his way to Sunnydale tonight. But what if…he pushed the thoughts away. Buffy was worth every risk.
“Let's do it Wes.”
“Fine, we'll reconvene here in an half an hour, I should be ready then. Cordelia, perhaps you can be of some assistance…”
“What can I do?” Angel cut in.
“Nothing really, perhaps meditate, becoming calm will help the spell go more smoothly. Really Angel, there's not much more you can do. I will have the altar set up and the supplies, and I will be doing some meditation myself.”
Calm? Wesley has been hit one too many times in the head! This was going to be the longest half hour of his entire life!
*****
Walking back into his office, Angel noticed that the furniture had been cleared. A large circle of salt was on the floor with four large pillar candles at points that would mark north, south, east and west. In the center, was an altar laid out on a small wooden table. One small statuette adorned the table of three faces of a woman, maiden, mother and crone. The three aspects of the Goddess, he mused, probably Hecate. Two small white candles were beside the statue and a censer already lit was filling the room with the pungent aroma of incense, sage he thought. Other objects laid out included a small black cauldron, two small dishes; one containing salt and the other water, and an ornate looking blade or athame. It appeared as though Wes had gone the whole nine yards. He wondered briefly how it was that Wes had managed to have most of this 'on hand', but shrugged it off to Wes' days as a Watcher requiring him to be prepared for almost any situation.
Wesley came up behind him with book in hand and Cordy close behind him, “Shall we then?”
Angel spun around startled; it wasn't often that he was surprised. He also noticed with some relief that Wes was not opting for the tradition of performing the ritual sky clad. He had figured that Wes was so by the book when it came to this ritual, they'd both be bare-ass in the circle. Nudity was not an issue for Angel, but the thought of being completely naked while calling on such a powerful and unforgiving force as Hecate made him uncomfortable.
“Anything I should know?” he queried.
“Be honest. Hecate,” Wes said confirming Angel's suspicions “will be more responsive to honesty and pure intent. She will not take kindly to being deceived. Be prepared to be completely honest, nothing held back. That is essential for this ritual to work.”
“I'll keep that in mind.” Wes watched as the vampire's brow furrowed.
Wes knew that Angel was not comfortable sharing his feelings, let alone being completely and soul-baringly honest. However, he had no doubt that he would do this. As much of a private person that Angel was, his pain and heart's desire were not as secret and solitary as he thought they were.
Since joining Angel and Cordelia, Wes had found a place where he belonged and was needed and welcomed. Who would have thought that he would find his place beside a vampire? He shook himself mentally, aware that the others were watching and waiting for him.
“We enter from the east Angel. Be careful not to step on the circle, and do not leave until the ritual is complete. Cordelia, no matter what happens- do not break this circle. This is of vital importance. The magicks need to be contained within and breaking the circle will cause the powers to escape.”
Cordy opened her mouth to object, and then shut it abruptly. Wes would be alone in the circle with Angel. Should something go wrong, it would be up to her to escape and alert the others. For they knew that surely Angelus would head straight for Sunnydale, straight to the one person who could possibly stop him strangely enough, Wes had explained the 'mate' thingy to her but it made little sense to her. She couldn't understand why Angelus would feel anything for Buffy, other than the usual urge to destroy the Slayer. The crossbow and cross she wielded would be ultimately ineffectual against Angelus; she didn't have 1/10th Buffy's strength and power. She sent a silent prayer to the PTB to help them and for God's sake - don't send her a vision now. She settled unobtrusively in a corner and watched as the two men entered the circle, and Wes directed Angel to stand in the center.
Wes picked up the athame, looked at Angel who nodded and began casting the circle. Kissing the blade he then held it high above him.
“Hail Goddess! Here do I build a temple of life in which to honor you. Assist me as I lay down the foundation stones on which I will build my cone of power.” Lowering his blade and starting at the east point of the circle, Wes took a deep breath and concentrated and began a slow circle.
Angel felt the hairs on his arms stand up and his skin tingle, the energies were gathering. As Wes made his way around and back to the east point, he heard Cordy gasp faintly and looked around. The circle was faintly glowing, a pure white, the circle of salt seemed less distinguishable as such. He turned his attention back to the ex-Watcher.
Wes stood again before the east corner and bent to light the pillar.
“Here is light at the east, where the life-giving sun rises each day. Here is erected the Watchtower of Air; standing guard over this temple of the goddess.”
South, “Here is light at the south, where fires rise up to warm an illuminate the earth. Her is erected the Watchtower of Fire, standing guard over this temple of the goddess.
West, “Here is the light at the west, where waters move gently to give the moisture of life to the earth. Here is erected the Watchtower of Water, standing guard over this temple of the goddess.”
North, “Here is the light at the north, where the earth forms a solid foundation for all life. Here is erected the Watchtower of Earth, standing guard over this temple of the goddess.”
At the altar now, Wes moved to light the altar candles, and Angel felt him being drawn inward. Could this work? Calling upon Hecate was tricky, especially considering she was not often called upon by men. He might need more than the clothes on his back to protect him if she became angered at Wes' evocation of her. Wes had to know the dangers in even attempting this spell, not only to Angel but him as well. Although the spell seemed simple enough, often enough things could and did go wrong. If they did, he hoped that Cordy would be able to get out of there in time. The demon was strangely quiet throughout the past while and Angel wondered at his alter egos silent co-operation. It couldn't be good, Angelus was waiting and biding his time, but for what? Was Angelus counting on the merge to be able to come forth, and more frequently?
*Anything other than sit here in your head dog. At least when I was in the driver's seat you were nowhere present. To sit in the background and listen to your endless sappy prattle about our mate, when we could have done something long ago is torture enough. You could have done something a long time ago, but you chose to leave what was ours behind. It's about damn fucking time you got off your ass and did something.*
And you, Angelus what do you get out of this?
The demon paused and Angel sensed a softening that was not often present in the demon.
*We will have her.*
Angel felt something akin to shock at the demon's softly spoken statement. He got a sense finally of what the demon's feelings for their mate were. And as much as the demon was capable, he loved Buffy.
“Angel.”
He looked up to see Wes standing before him. Angel looked around him and noticed that the circle glowed with an almost blinding light. Why had he not noticed this before?
“Close your eyes and concentrate. Before we evoke Hecate, we need to be focused. I can sense your unease. It has no place here if you want her to heed us.”
Angel smiled wryly, “I can't help it Wes, so many thoughts going through my head at once.”
“I know. Try this with me; it should be fairly easy for you.” Wes smiled comfortingly at the vampire.
See yourself
See your Loved Ones
See yourself in Perfect Calm
See the Eyes deep within
See the Past
See the Future
See the Present
See beyond Knowledge
Forget
Angel felt himself coming together and strangely at peace, the demon as well. He could feel the energy pulsing in the air. Throbbing throughout, as Wesley hands touched his; they continued the chant and the energy pulsed between them. And he felt Wes drop his hands and he opened his eyes. Wes then approached the altar with his armed raised.
Hecate, Hecate, Hecate, Hecate!
Goddess of the marsh and the heathland,
Goddess of the sacred crossroads.
Crone Goddess of Wisdom
Bringer of death, scavenger of souls
Queen of the Night, Lady of the Underworld,
I call upon you!
Sweet mystery, dark knowledge
Hidden wisdom
Bringer of chaos and madness
We seek to enter your world---to know you.
Show us your darkened face,
Your blood wise mystery
Lead us into the shadows
Into the darkest night!
Angel felt a shift in energy, and glanced around the circle. At first he could only see Cordy faintly standing outside the circle grasping the crossbow in her arms; then he felt a shift. Behind him. Angel turned to see an old woman with an owl perched on her arm in the circle with them. Clutching a staff of yew with crystals perched on top and feathers surrounding it she approached. Angel knew it was Hecate, it was time. He glanced behind him to see if Wes had seen the Goddess' approach. Wes was still at the altar.
Hecate hear our call!
One of your children comes before you
In Truth and Pure Intent
He seeks the Knowledge
He seeks the Power
He seeks a Fusion of selves
Hecate Goddess of Wisdom
Goddess of the Crossroads
Hear our call!
“He cannot see or hear me vampire, and I would have it as such.” Angel quickly turned back to the woman who stood in front of him, she lifted her arm as she spoke and the owl settled on his shoulder. Angel stared in her eyes and was caught in the deep pools of wisdom that seemed to shine before him. “For what purpose do you call me?”
Angel was not expecting such a direct approach but spoke quickly and simply, “I need your help Goddess.”
“You are not one of my faithful, why should I help you?”
Angel smiled in spite of himself, he had expected some recriminations from the Goddess in this aspect, “I know, but you are most powerful, most wise and I could go to no other. I seek balance and control of self.”
“That can be found within Angel, why do you seek me?”
“You know my name; you must know something of my situation.”
“You are not unknown, you and your other self.”
“That's what I mean.” Angel ran his fingers through his hair and decided to be direct and blunt, “I need to make sure that Angelus can not come forth to wreak his havoc again against others and those I love. I know he is part of me…”
“Do you? Have you accepted the demon as part of you?” she tilted her head and looked at him, “Or have you repressed him so that he would eventually destroy you and others in fury and hate?”
“I have repressed him out of fear Hecate.”
“Fear destroys Angel. Even your demon knows this and has used it to his advantage.” She lifted a gnarled hand and pressed it to his chest, “Yet he has accepted you. He is willing. Do you know why?”
“Buffy?”
“Yes your love is not unknown. The Powers watch over you and your beloved Angel never doubt that.”
“I want to be with her, in every sense of the word, Hecate. How do I do that? The curse dictates that one moment of happiness will take my soul.”
“Your soul can only be taken if you allow it. No one can decide the fate of a soul; your actions will dictate your soul.”
“What do I do then?” Angel felt as though Hecate was talking in circles, “I belong with Buffy, I feel it, the demon feels it and she….”
“Had her memory taken from her of your day as a human? You have sacrificed much for this human. You have marked her, according to your laws as your mate, yet you left. Why?”
“I could not be with her and not be able to touch her. I cannot give her…”
“Cannot or will not? You are aware of the anguish you cause your mate by separation?”
“Yes, and I can no longer do this to herself or me.”
Hecate studied him carefully and her face shifted to that of the Maiden, and she spoke again, “Angel, you surprised many with your sacrifice. Much talk occurred over why you had not chosen to seek another alternative. You must learn to open your heart and mind to other possibilities and avenues; much can be learned by being open, to your mate, to your friends, and those you seek to help. You have redeemed much of your prior sins. The Powers never intended for you to leave the Slayer. Battles lie ahead where she will require not only your strength but your love.”
“Then…”
“Do not think us heartless Angel. We have compassion as well as cruelty. Life is a balance and you are such an example of this. You came before me in honesty and need, I feel no disrespect from you.” She smiled and her face shifted back to the Crone as she raised her staff, “As you ask it is done. Be with your beloved with no fear. But hurry to her side as there are forces of darkness preparing an assault.”
“And Angelus?”
“Do you accept him as part of you?”
“Yes” without hesitation.
A blinding white light filled the room and Angel raised his arm to shield his eyes. “It is done, what was two halves is now one.” Hecate was gone.
__________
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