The Price by April

Rating: NC-17
Disclaimer: All characters are property of Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy. I only took them out for a stroll.
Distribution: The Mystic Muse http://mysticmuse.net
Sure, just let me know where and when.
Feedback: Please.
Spoilers: None
Author's Notes: I wrote this at the end of Season 6, trying to think of some way to bring Tara back. Little did I know how close to the theme of Season 7 I was coming. I have written Xena fiction but this is my first attempt at BtVS fiction. Please feed the author and let me know how I did.
Pairing: Willow/Kennedy

Summary: Haunted by Tara's death, Willow receives a visit and gift from her beloved and a warning as to the future.

Sleep was the only solace she had left and even then the dreams tormented her. Her body was alive with the sensations they had shared during the night and the last thing she wanted to do was leave their haven.

Morning sun poured through the bedroom window and cast a golden aura around her partner. Looking into those hazel/blue eyes offered all she ever wanted in life and reminded her how close she had come to losing it.

But that was the past and now as she finished dressing and checking herself in the mirror, she saw her living, breathing dream watching from across the room. Moving closer, a mixture of confusion and surprise appeared on her lover’s face. She felt warm splatters on her face and neck and stared at the growing red patch on the other woman’s shirt. She tossed in her sleep, groaning, remembering the final words. "Your shirt..." And leaping forward to catch her lover as they sunk to the floor.

The warmth that she so treasured snuggling against was rapidly leaving her wounded lover. "Tara! Tara! Baby please…." She pulled her closer, rocking the still form, knowing that she was alone now. A scream of grief from the depths of her being erupted and she called upon the darkness she had sworn to never use again.

Her red hair whipped wildly and her eyes turned to onyx as the room was filled with the demon’s presence. His anger was tangible and she knew it was because of her summoning him. It didn’t matter to her. Fear was of no concern to the Wiccan, only her lover cradled in her arms. At first she asked, then ordered and when those didn’t work she begged. Nothing mattered but convincing the demon to restore life to her beloved.

The blonde’s death was a natural death. The order of things and couldn’t be changed. At his refusal, her power became focused and to his surprise she waved her hand and sent him tumbling into the netherworlds.

She held Tara, looking at her pale, peaceful face, until she heard the sirens approaching in the distance. Leaning down, she kissed the cooling forehead of her partner, then slid out from under her body. She opened her arms and the blackness consumed her.

Willow cried out in her sleep, "Tara! Tara." A steady stream of tears ran down her cheeks and soaked into her sweat-dampened hair and bed. Two shadowed figures watched from the doorway, the scene almost making them ill as their own memories were relived.

"Should we wake her? She sounds so…" Xander asked his companion. Buffy shook her head. "No. She has to work it out on her own. We all do." The Slayer had long ago learned how to cover up most of her emotions and she did so now, not allowing her friend to see her tear filled eyes.

Tara’s death had taken away a piece of the Slayer as well. When she first met Tara and Willow admitted they were more than friends, she had been taken aback. Seeing the two Wiccans together offered her comfort. Willow was her best friend and she loved her as much as she did Dawn. Tara made her happy and that was all Buffy needed to accept her as a Scooby.

It was only in the last year that the Slayer had gotten to know the soft-spoken witch and they had become good friends. Tara being open about her own mother’s death had helped Buffy and Dawn when Joyce had died. She understood their pain more than anyone and was a good listener. That had given her even more insight to the witch and she had seen what attracted her best friend and why she was so in love with the woman. Tara was a nurturer and had a gentle way, but was in no way weak. There were times when Buffy and Willow had suspected she was the strongest of the group. When they had brought the Slayer back from the grave and she got intimate with Spike, it was Tara she went to. The warm, non-judgmental woman had become Buffy’s confidant, confessor and almost a mother figure.

Now she was gone. Taken away by a death meant for the Slayer dealt out by a spoiled, temper mental boy. They had come very close to losing Willow as well. Buffy would have never thought she and her best friend would be fighting to the death one day but Tara’s death had hidden the Willow they knew and loved.

Buffy slid her arm around Xander’s waist, taking comfort in his quiet strength. "You did your job, Xander. You were the only one who could reach her and save her. I’m just sorry I didn’t see it sooner." He sighed. "I wish I could do something for her now."

The phone sounded, sending Xander down the hallway, trying to stop it from waking his life-long friend.

Her heart hurt to see Willow toss and cry out. "We’re here Will." Buffy stated, then pulled the door closed.

Willow stilled as her dreams changed and she was with Tara as they had been only two weeks ago. They reunited after a painful breakup when it seemed like the Scoobies were falling apart. "Can you just be kissing me now?" Tara had asked and Willow had gone to her, both knowing this time it was for keeps. They reveled in one another, touching, tasting, committing and their passion was unequaled.

"Noooo Taraaa…" Willow cried out as the dream threw her back to the moment she realized Tara was dying.

Only this time the dream changed. They were in the floor, Willow cradling the bigger woman, but Tara opened her eyes and looked up into the green pools of her lover. Weakly, she raised her hand and stroked Willow’s freckled cheek. "Baby, don’t leave me." Willow begged, intercepting the hand and bringing it to her mouth. She brushed kisses on the hand and deeply inhaled the vanilla tinged scent of her lover.

The dream was so vivid that when she snapped awake, she could still smell vanilla. The room, their room, was dark. Absentmindedly she reached across the bed and found the same emptiness she now carried in her heart. The hurt was almost overwhelming and she only wanted to escape it.

Willow froze in place. The soft voice caressed her like her lover’s touch. She closed her eyes, wanting to hear more. Her instinct was to turn her head and look upon the face of the speaker but she knew no one was there. Taking a deep shaky breath, she sat up. "I miss you so much." She admitted and turned to look at the emptiness beside her.

A soft, white light surrounded Tara. She was wearing a white peasant blouse and skirt. Blonde hair shone like gold and her eyes was as bright and warm as a summer’s day. " You’ll never be alone, Willow."

Now Willow smiled. She could always count on Tara to tell her the truth. "I love you Tara. Dream or not."

Starting to reach out to touch her lover, Willow stopped. "I have to Baby. I can’t ..can’t make it without you. I can’t think or feel. Nothing matters but you, us." Raising her hand, Tara met Willow’s fingertips. "We’re part of one another. I’ve gone on to another plain but I still love you and will always be with you. We’ll be together again."

Willow closed her eyes in shame. "Tara. I’ve done things. When I lost you I lost myself for awhile. I’ve done horrible things."

A warm feathery finger shushed her. She snapped her eyes open in shock. She knew Tara’s touch and this wasn’t just a dream. The smells, taste, feel, every inch of her lover was committed to memory and this was Tara. "I know Will." The blonde said sadly. "You thought the darkness would ease and take your pain. You thought it could bring me back but you don’t realize that darkness has a price and it’s higher than you know."

Her thoughts drifted back to Rack and all the magiks she had invoked. She should have had to pay a price but there hadn’t been anything until Tara was….it struck her. Eyes wide, she whispered, "My fault. It’s my fault you were….Oh Goddess, baby I’m sorry." Her mind began to shut down. This was too much. Losing Tara was enough to make her want to vanish but to know she was the cause, the reason her lover had had to die. She curled into a ball, arms locking around her knees. Her cries were hoarse but full of anguish from her very soul.

The red head was unresponsive and the Wiccan could feel her willing herself into a dark place. She closed her eyes, letting her senses soak into the room. Taking deep breaths, the room began to shimmer, then shrink as its energy flowed into her. Once complete, she slid her now corporeal body next to Willow.

Locked tightly into the fetal position, Tara almost had to fight to get close to her lover. Letting some of her energy seep into the red head, Willow began to relax and open like a flower. Now Tara moved in and embraced the quaking woman. "My heart, it was not your fault. What happened was ..the order of things." The demon’s words echoed in her ears and she started to tense again. Tara pulled her even closer and she could feel her partner relax slightly. "My Willow, I love you so."

Her smile returned as the smaller woman clung to her. Gentle fingers stroked through her red hair. The vibrations from Tara’s breathing were comforting and she realized how hungry she had been for this touch. Her mind flashed to their last time together. Skin to skin, learning one another’s bodies again. Time apart had in fact helped them realize exactly what they had and wanted. They had started off fast and furious, quenching the hunger first before slowing to savor. Tara’s full, round breast nestled against her own smaller but shapely chest. Looking into one another’s eyes as they matched stroke for stroke. Her body singing as Tara found the exact spot she sought and signaled the start of the waves. As she rode the tide she saw in Tara’s eyes only love, in her touch, devotion.

Satisfaction tinged Tara’s smile when the red head came first, dragging her nails across Tara’s soft, smooth back, which triggered her own orgasm. The minutes following were spent just holding one another, feeling and being together.

The memory vanished but she was still in Tara’s arms and she held tighter, for fear she would disappear as well. Effortlessly, Tara brought both of them up into a sitting position. "Baby, we need to talk." Willow pulled her head away from Tara’s wide shoulder. Her face was swollen and pale. "How can you ever forgive me Tara? For doing those things in your name?"

"I love you Will." Tara brushed a kiss on her cheek. "You were hurt and angry. You’d already tasted the darkness and liked what it offered so it stayed with you in case you needed it."

Green eyes met Hazel. "But I stopped. When you left me and I hurt Dawnie, I turned my back on it."

"I knew you were strong when we met. As we became closer and did more majiks, I saw you surpass me very quickly. We’ve all seen the things you can do. When Glory took my-mind, you were the only one that could reverse it." Tara took small cool hands into her own. "In time your power could very likely surpass hers. Once the darkness got a taste of that, it stayed with you. It was there when you needed it and you embraced it, rushing things."

There was no denying it. Darkness was easy, strong and inviting. It made life so much easier and when her heart had threatened to stop as Tara lay dying, darkness had appeared with the promise of easing her pain. It promised the power to visit retribution on her tormentors, her lover’s murderer. Then her best friends had gotten in the way and the voice had called them tormentors. Tara was gone and they remained. They wanted to stop her from easing her grief and making Warren pay. Her friends were now enemies and so they would perish with the rest. Only ending everything would make the pain stop.

Xander. Her knight in shining armor. Her best friend and first crush and the one who knew her better than anyone. Faithful Xander who would love her no matter what, even through the fires of hell. The man that would forfeit his own life to bring Tara back if he could just to ease his best friends pain. He knew she used the darkness to fend off her grief and he forced her to face it.

"It should have been me." Willow whispered. "It should have been me. There must be some way to change it. Some kind of…"

Tara released her hold on Willow and leaned back. "Yes I do know. But you’re no longer able to see the lines."

A spark lit at what she perceived as an insult. "I love you and want you back. Is that wrong?" Warmth washed over her but was quickly replaced by the cool embrace of darkness. Remaining silent, Tara watched the face of her beloved change. Her eyes began to darken and cloud. Willow realized what was happening and pushed it away. It had come over her so quickly and she had welcomed it. She leaned over and grabbed the garbage can as her stomach ejected its contents.

Comforting hands steadied her shoulders and held back her red hair. She had hardly eaten in the last two weeks so it wasn’t long before her stomach was empty. Strong arms pulled her back into her lover’s warmth. "Oh Goddess, help me Tara. It’s there and I can’t control it. I can feel it inside me. I’ll give up the majiks; the spells, whatever it takes but I need you. You’re my anchor, my light."

Tara had managed to hold her own emotions in check but she was beginning to lose the struggle. She could feel the pull but was in no hurry to leave the other half of her soul. The pain and grief radiated off Willow and she only wanted to ease that not be the cause.

The powers that be allowed her to briefly come back and at first she was thrilled at the chance to say the things to her lover she didn’t have the chance to. Now it seemed that she only brought her lover pain. A battle between Good and Evil was on the horizon and was moving and intensifying quicker than expected. With Willow’s power, the scales would shift if the wrong side got a hold on her. Even with Buffy as the Slayer, the balance was precarious but Tara was caught off guard by the strong hold darkness had on her lover. She knew the hold had to be broken and was determined to help. Her beloved partner was a target for the coming evil and she wouldn’t let her fall.

"Can you stay with me?" Willow craned her neck to see her Wiccan. "I know I can turn my back on the bad stuff. I’m powerful and can use that for good, like I used too. I-I just can’t stand to lose you again."

"You haven’t lost me now. Everything happens for a reason, everything is connected."

Tara continued. "You will always have my heart and love." She nuzzled the red head’s slender neck and kissed her. "But this is something you have to do on your own. Things are not over yet. They’re just beginning and I need you to be strong Baby, so we can be together again."

Feeling an odd tingling, Willow found herself falling backward for a second and stopped just as suddenly. Tara had grasped her arms, trying to steady her. "What was that?" Tara tried to continue smiling but it was dimming. "Our time is short Will."

The redhead righted herself, and came face to face with her angel. "What’s wrong? Let me help."

She cocked her head sideways, frowning. "There. You instinctively look to your powers. You need to build up your resistance. Relearn what you’ve forgotten and find the connection." "I don’t understand." Willow reached out and this time her hand passed through Tara. "Baby, no."

"I can help if you want. I want to be with you again, Will, but what’s coming could stop that."

"I’ll beat this Tara. Whatever it takes for us to be together again. I love you Tara."

Tara sat up on her knees, almost nose to nose with her partner. "You showed me what love and family really were. I’ll remind you of the light."

A tangible presence was against her, heat radiating from the couple. Lips met and Willow could feel Tara’s body pressing against her own. It was similar to when they made love, but this was different, deeper and more intense. Both women were passionate in and out of bed and knew how to pleasure their partner. They knew just the right places to lavish attention on and gave and received freely. This was more than that and like nothing she had ever experienced.

Afraid of waking from the dream, Willow kept her eyes closed. Hands grasped the back of her head pulling her downward so that her face was raised. Being enveloped by sweet warmth followed kisses on her face and neck. Tara was merging with her, truly making them as one. She could feel her lover inside her. Her thoughts, feelings, desires, her very soul. Tara’s love for her was so immense that she cried out, now understanding her loss as well.

Willow fell back into the bed, quivering. She could feel the darkness within her stirring as Tara’s light coursed through her. Love was what the beast feared and theirs was powerful. Refusing to fail her partner again, she completed the merging, allowing Tara to sweep through her. Together they faced the darkness and it began to recede. Without warning tendrils shot forward, trying to pull the red head back with it. Willow fought like a wildcat but the tendrils were overpowering her. There was more here than the darkness and Tara stepped forward. "Noooo!" She yelled, blinding Willow with a brilliant flash of light before sleep claimed her.

"Tara?" She called out to the empty bedroom. It would have been easy to dismiss everything as a dream but she could still smell Tara’s scent in the room. More importantly she could feel her lover within and knew she wasn’t alone. "I won’t let you down or fail you Baby. I promise." She whispered to the empty room.

She was beginning to feel like scrooge when she found a strange woman standing at the foot of the bed. She was small in stature but radiated power. Of average weight and body shape, she had graying black hair pulled back into a loose ponytail and was wearing a flattering but comfortable looking metallic black gown.

Willow couldn’t explain how but she knew this woman and was even more surprised to find her standing in her bedroom. "Hecate?"

"All your gifts and you seek the quick, easy path. So many times you were given chances to correct your path but still…."

"When promises are broken the pieces must fall somewhere. It’s the way of things."

"I’ve put someone in danger, haven’t I? Is Tara at Peace?" Her first instinct was to call on her majik to get the answer but she fought down the urge.

The older woman shook her head and laughed sadly. "Not even a candle mark and already the majik calls to you."

"She has lit the path for you but darkness is a seductive mistress. Make you choices carefully. You have promise child and it will be called upon." She vanished as quickly and quietly as she had appeared.

Cold dread crept over her and she drew her legs up to her chest. Still in the same position and in deep thought, she was brought out of it an hour later by the Slayer's soft knock. "Wills?"

She was turning to leave but was surprised by a soft, "Come in." Carrying a tray, Buffy eased into the darkness. "Brought your favorite. P.B. and J with Moo juice."

Setting the tray on the nearby dresser, she caught a glimpse of a photo of Tara and Willow from last summer. Their happy faces and bright smiles made the last two weeks seem surreal. Afraid of showing her own grief, she turned and aimed for the door.

That stopped her in her tracks. She turned and gave her friend a weak smile. " I don’t want to crowd you Will."

"I am so sorry, Buffy." Fresh tears began. "How can you let me stay here or be near me after what I’ve done?"

The small blonde took a seat on the side of the bed facing her friend. "You’re my best friend. I love you."

Buffy shook her head. "No buts. Better or worse, we’re buds. I know you’re hurting, we all are. We loved her too. She was part of the Scoobies, part of the family." A few tears escaped down her face. To her surprise, Willow embraced her offering comfort, a comfort they both needed.

"Had it coming." Buffy answered with conviction. Seeing her friend waver, she pulled her back into the embrace.

The silence between them was a comfortable one. It was Willow that finally broke it. "I need to speak to Giles." She said against the Slayer’s shoulder. "I have to apologize and make things right with him."

Her thoughts bounced back to high school. A night of love with Angel had released Angelus. The soulless demon had gone after those Buffy loved. It was Jenny Calendar, computer teacher, gypsy and Giles paramour that found a way to bring his soul back. And it was her he made a point of. His torture of Giles had only added to the insult and they never spoke of it.

"He’s been right all along. Tara told me I had to go back to the beginning. I need Giles to help me."

"I need time. When Giles goes back to England I want to go with him. I need his help." Willow replied, meeting Buffy’s eyes. " I have a lot of ground to cover and I don’t think we have much time."

"Tara came to me." The red head explained, showing more energy than she had in weeks. "There’s something coming. She gave me a gift and I’m not sure but I think she may have endangered her final rest by doing it."

They lived on the Hell Mouth and were no strangers to such warnings. Buffy listened as her friend recalled the earlier dreams and conversations and with each word felt the same sense of dread as Willow.

The wind and flashing lights ended as suddenly as they had begun. Only a second ago she had been sitting in the Summer's dining room using a locator spell on The First. The air had become heated and a rainless storm swept through the room. She felt it slam into to her like the heat of an oven and she was standing up to make a run for it when she found herself sitting in the floor by the table.

Silence filled the room and she realized that she was alone. Twilight had settled over the house and with a grunt, the Wiccan grabbed the edge of the table and pulled herself up.

It had only been a few weeks ago since her return from Merry Old England. The time with Giles and the Coven and helped her greatly but she still had a lot to face up to upon her return to Sunnydale. That had been such a frightening prospect that she had willed herself invisible. Only Anya had been able to see her and let her know about a new string of murders that matched her M.O. on Warren. Things had eventually been straightened out but not before she had an encounter with the cannibalistic Gnarl, leaving her with still healing wounds where pieces had been torn away and devoured. Could it have happened again? Was she again invisible to her friends?

Her body ached from the crash to the floor but she shook it off and moved slowly into the living room. "Anybody home?"

She strained her hearing as a soft whisper floated down to her from upstairs. When it came the second time, she heard her own name.

The first thought was that someone was hurt and her long, lean legs climbed the steps two at a time. Her muscles argued in protest but the fast movement seemed to limber her up somewhat.

Reaching the top of the steps, she turned and saw the flickering lights coming from her bedroom. She stopped and watched the room for a moment. This could be a trick of The First, trying to lure her into a trap. Her approach slowed and became more cautious.

Moving up to the doorway, she eased around the frame and looked in the room. There was a figure lying in the center of the bed, unmoving. A green flame encircled the bed, preventing anyone from getting too close or making a rescue. The rest of the room was the same as always except for the depth of the shadows. Drawn to the bed, she moved closer and gasped when she got a good look at the figure.

She wanted to reach out to Tara, but the flames crackled with power and seemed to rise in warning. The red head's heart thudded loudly as she looked at the blonde witch lying in repose. She was different now. She looked older and gray. Almost instantly Willow realized what it was. Her light was fading and it was because she had infused her Wiccan with some of that light. "Oh baby, what did you do?"

It came from behind her and was the same yet different. Feeling a hand on her shoulder, Willow shivered and slowly turned to face the voice.

Her chest tightened at the sight before her. Her first instinct was to rush to Tara and embrace her, but something held her back. Tara shimmered but was being caressed by the shadows as well. It had to be The First trying to trick her and it somehow knew her weakness. She took a couple of steps back. "You're not Tara."

Blonde hair draped over her bare shoulder and curves encased in a thin black gown. The neckline dived deep and revealed seductive cleavage that had once been Willow's favorite pillow and pacifier. Firm nipples protruded from the material and Willow unconsciously licked her lips.

"That...." she said motioning to the figure on the bed. "..is your Tara. I'm your offspring."

Dark Tara stepped towards her and Willow held up her hand in warning. "Don't come near me." Her voice wasn't as convincing as she'd meant it to be and the apparition in front of her knew it.

There was the little pout that Willow loved and Tara's voice was silken and alluring. "You sense it, don't you lover? You and she merged that night. She shared her light and took some of your darkness." Tara smiled. "I've tasted the darkness and now I understand what drew you to it. Goddess Willow, it feels incredible. It gave me the opportunity to come back."

Tara coming to her in her grief and warning her of the coming darkness, her infusion of light that helped anchor Willow's soul. It seemed like only a short time ago. Then she had been visited by Hecate, warning of a price for what she had done and could do with her abilities. That price was now standing before her.

Dark Tara took a step closer but didn't want to crowd her 'parent'. "Yes, it can be but not when you learn to use it properly."

Willow half turned and looked at her Tara. It was like seeing her in her coffin again and she felt her eyes tearing up. What kinds of torments was her lover enduring because of her generosity? Angel had gone to a hell dimension and the thoughts of her gentle, sweet Tara in such a place stirred her anger. "Let her go."

Sounding like a child, Dark Tara protested and her lips resumed their pout. "I don't want to be let go. I like what I've become."

Finishing her turn, Willow returned to the bedside of her lover. She could feel the power rising off the field. She put out a shaky hand and found herself thrown back from the barrier. Undeterred, she approached again, settling for just looking at her lover. "But you're not her."

"I will be before much longer." The other said and positioned herself on the opposite side of the bed.

The essence of vanilla tickled the redhead's nose as the dark one passed by. "She won't give into you. That power that you have is controlling you. You can't control it."

Tilting her head to the side, Willow leaned as close as she could to her Tara. "Hang on Baby. You will have peace."

"Aww, that's so sweet. Deluded, but sweet. That's one of the reason's I love you so much."

Willow straightened up and locked on the blue/hazel eyes across from her. "What do you want? Why have you brought me here?"

"You." The voice whispered in her ear. The hair on her neck stood up as she felt the warm breath and realized that in the blink of an eye, the other was behind her now. A gentle touch on her shoulder and the feel of Tara against her, drew a sigh of loss. "You can have us back. We can be together again."

She could feel Tara's body pressed against her, could feel the firm breast and hips gently swaying against her own. Willow shivered when she felt lips nibbling her ear. "You're feeding off her. Devouring her light, her goodness."

"It's still me Willow. The seed may have been something dark but by drawing from her, I am her. The only difference is that now I've tasted the power you have and I want to share it, to have it as a part of me. I want you, sweetie. We can be together again."

Tara planted soft kisses, down her neck and lightly rested her free hand on the red head's hip. "The battle has begun already. The First wants you on our side, to instruct others in the majiks."

"What can..." Willow was distracted from her thoughts, as Tara's hand drifted over her body. Fingers brushed against her smaller breast and her nipples hardened in response. "Stop!"

The hand stopped and Dark Tara stepped back, breaking their body contact. "I..I'm s.sorry. I t..t..thought you w.w.would want to be with me."

The disappointment mixed in the stutter convinced the Wiccan that this was no trick of The First. The dark forces she had channeled were evil but not something sent by The First. It had however allowed it a way into the Slayers Inner Circle. Maybe she could take advantage of that as well. She let her shoulder slump as she exhaled. "I'd do anything to get my Tara back, but The First can't be trusted." There were footsteps behind her and then hands on her upper arms. She allowed herself to be turned to face the cost.

The look of hope on Dark Tara's face was making this even harder. "Yes love. This time you won't have to give up your power. I'm sorry I ever hurt you over it. Together we can control it and The First can teach us its full potential."

"They'll have to choose. Now is the time for The First. Nothing can or will stand in its way. But the two of us are being given a second chance. Does that sound like something the ultimate evil would grant?"

This time the redhead didn't pull away when Dark Tara embraced her. "How do I know you won't be taken away again? What if I can't control the majiks like before?"

A tender palm lovingly caressed her check. "Because my love, you have that much power. That's why The First wants and needs you. He is willing to grant you your hearts desire to prove your worth to him. He also knows that I can help you to control it and in time learn to use it myself."

Her thoughts were jumbled. The thing she wanted most in the world, to have her Tara back, was within her grasp. To have it she just had to embrace what she had fought against for the last seven years. She would have to betray her best friends who were more like family than her own blood. The ultimate darkness wanted her and was courting her with the best possible incentive.

Was she that important? Was there something she could do that might help Buffy defeat The First and he was trying to get to her first. Hecate's voice rang in her ears and she remembered what the goddess had said about choosing the right path when the time came.

The direction of that path came to her with such clarity, that she stumbled back. Dark Tara was there to steady her. "What's wrong Will?"

Recovering quickly, she held her place leaning against the seductive figure. "I want to talk to Buffy and the others first. I think I can convince her to lay down her arms in this."

"Of course." She purred. "You can try. The First doesn't want this war. In fact if you could convince any of them to join us, it would make the transition that much easier."

Pulling away, Willow went back to the edge of the barrier and looked down at an even paler Tara. "I love you Baby." She whispered.

Sensing movement behind her, she turned as Dark Tara joined her. She took a deep breath and asked, "So what do I have to do?"

Dark Tara smiled and held open her arms. "Just accept me. I'm still the woman you love."

The red head walked into the embrace. Strong arms circled her and drew her in close. Soft, hungry lips sought out and captured the Wiccan's. A familiar spark that happened anytime she kissed or touched Tara flared through out her. The fire of desire coursed through her veins as the kiss became more passionate and their tongues tasted one another. She felt hands roaming her slender body, exploring well-known territory once again.

She could also feel the power that Dark Tara had siphoned off her beloved and that kept her from falling into the physical trap they were attempting. Willow stepped up the passion, pulling the shadowy figure tightly into her arms and planting kisses on the exposed collarbone and chest. When she felt the other relax and return some of the same, she made her move.

Summoning all her courage and maintaining a tight hold, she threw herself into the supernatural flames surrounding her Tara. It was an unexpected move and Dark Tara had no time to resist as she was pulled into the flames with her, Willows grip around her was like steel bands. Willows skin tingled and then began to burn. She clenched her teeth and closed her eyes against the intensity but kept her hold on her struggling prisoner.

Was this what Buffy had felt when she leapt to her death? The searing of skin, your flesh feeling as if it were melting off your bones and pains that racked her entire body. Her thoughts stayed on her best friend. The Slayer and the Wiccan had been through a lot together, good times and bad, but they were closer than sisters and more than friends. Now, as she prepared for what could be the biggest battle yet, she would not be by the Slayer's side.

Would Xander, Dawn and Giles understand why she had to die. She had something The First wanted and she couldn't let herself be used by it. She would not allow it to force her to hurt them or worse, and maybe by this gesture she could give her lover some peace.

Consciousness was ebbing and she opened her eyes to see if her prisoner was still alive. It was no longer wearing Tara's face and she saw the real demon now. It resembled human but those evil glowing eyes and bared fangs didn't support that theory. It's skin was melting away and she could see hints of a skeletal structure underneath as it let loose a low rumbling growl. It reared back its head, ready to strike and Willow realized that it had a clear path to her throat. Its fangs were dripping with saliva and it was ready to take her into hell with it.

Tensing, she waited for the deathblow, hoping that the teeth were so sharp it would be quick and relatively painless. She was not expecting to feel another pair of hands brushing hers and enforcing the restraining grip on the Demon. Surprised, they both looked around and Willow's eyes widened. Her Tara, pale and weak was there once more helping her against the dark majiks.

Tara's light flickered and brightened a bit as the demon grew weaker. Given this incentive, Willow held on tighter than she thought possible, giving her lover every chance to regain her power. The things' thrashing was slowing down and Willow directed her gaze at the woman below her. The full lips of her lover never moved but Willow clearly heard her voice. "You need to go back now sweetie. They need you."

Putting the creature in a chokehold, gave Willow a better view of the blonde witch and her heart swelled with emotion. "Not until I know..."

"It's all right now Willow. My light can never go out as long as you keep me in your heart. But can you handle the residue of the demon?"

She understood and slowly nodded her head. She had not and would not have been able to fight this had Tara not taken some of the darkness from her. It had allowed her the time to gain strength and knowledge that could defeat what was coming. The blonde had so much faith in her that she trusted she would be able to save her before it was too late. "I love you Tara."

The demon in their arms was decomposing into a small black cloud and taking a deep breath, Willow absorbed it. The flames that had surrounded the bed vanished and the room returned to normal. Willow felt it coursing through her body and tugging at her soul. She glanced over at the mirror and saw the thing and strangled down a scream. The face was straight from hell, with yellow eyes and talons steeped in blood. "You only make me stronger." It rumbled.

Tara watched her carefully, feeling the internal battle her lover was fighting. "Will...?"

Willow opened her eyes, revealing black pupils that quickly changed to green. "Still here. Goddess Tara, was that it? That thing is The First? It's inside of me Tara."

"Yeah." The red head agreed weakly. "I can keep it under control and in the box. We've got a pretty good team and this thing can be defeated, right?"

Tara reached out and touched her hand to Willow's chest. "I love you too, Willow." There was warmth and then she felt herself tumbling and dropping to the floor. Startled and confused she looked around and found herself back were she had started.

Flashes from what she had just experienced assaulted her and she could not calm down. "I don't want to hurt anybody. Please, Buffy, don't let it make me."

The redhead slumped against her friend's shoulder and was wrapped in a warm embrace. "We won't. I promise, Will. We won't use any majik to fight this thing until we know what we're doing."

It had been enough excitement for them all and Willow remained quite the rest of the day. When she faced off with it, it had seemed like hours but in fact was only a minute or so. She couldn't shake how she felt when The First came through her. Fear, disgust and what frightened her most, the desire to let it consume and use her.

The bus grumbled through the darkness, bouncing on back roads, in search of an out of the way hotel. Its occupants were exhausted not only physically but mentally and emotionally as well. Some were covered in dirt from the day's battle and several were injured. The only serious injury had been the one to their leader, but with her amazing healing skills she was slowly recovering. That ability however, didn't really help with the current pain and discomfort.

What really surprised the observer was the fact that after Giles had bandaged her wound; she had leaned against the dark slayer and was now using her lap as a pillow. Once bitter enemies were now comrades in arms, unknown powers tapped into and the ultimate evil defeated, the day's events had changed the world for all of them forever.

Earlier, the observer had watched Xander as he sat alone, staring out the window at the fading light. She knew him so well that she could almost feel his anguish and it made her heart ache. She knew his thoughts were with Anya. Anya was gone. She had died fighting the evil and gave her life to save Andrew.

The ex-demon, who for all of her inappropriate words and behavior, would never fail you when she was needed. She complained and groused but she had loved Xander and cared for the Scoobies. Despite all the differences and arguments, they were family and they had lost one of their own. At the moment she couldn't feel anything, but Willow knew that she would grieve and miss Anyanka.

Spike had sacrificed himself in the ultimate act of love for Buffy. The cocky, brave vampire, who had on more than one occasion tried to make a meal of her, was no more. It just didn't seem possible that they had lost Spike, Anya, Amanda and so many of the potentials. Her heavy heart was reflected in her sigh.

She looked up at the woman whose lap her head rested and could see the concern even in the shadows of the bus. But she did not find the dark, exotic features of Kennedy. In their place was her beloved blonde Wiccan.

"I'm not sure. I think so." After the last year, Willow was no longer surprised at Tara's unannounced visits.

Tara stopped the motion and grasped Willow's chin. "It was more than luck, Will. You have glimpsed something very few mortals or any living being has. It wasn't by chance."

There was no argument there. To tap into the Slayer lines, she had summoned powers that terrified her and at one time threatened to consume her. She knew she could do it but the fear was almost overpowering. Kennedy had been her anchor and could have herself been lost to the darkness. The young potential was willing to risk that for the redhead.

During the last few months, Kennedy had seen a lot of weird things, but after kissing Willow and opening her eyes to find a strange man; she learned about the world of magic. Knowing the extent of Willow's power had made her back off, afraid of this unknown power. That fear didn't last very long as she found herself drawn to the shy Wiccan and in time they had grown closer.

Guilt nudged at Willow, when she thought of Kennedy while being with Tara. Picking up on it, Tara smiled sympathetically. "I don't expect you to be alone for the rest of your life Willow. I want you to be happy. She makes you happy?"

Blush rose up her cheeks. "Yes. We're still getting to know one another. It hasn't been long enough for me to be ready….I mean when we….I couldn't…."

Tara placed a steady finger on Willow's lips to silence her. "I don't need to know the details, Will. What we had comes along once in a lifetime and no one can touch that. It will be the same with your next lover."

Stillness settled over them for a few minutes. Tara had resumed stroking the red hair, occasionally tracing patterns down Willow's face and smiling when she saw Willow savoring the feeling.

"I understand now." Willow finally spoke up. "At least I think I'm starting to get it."

The blonde remained quiet, allowing her lover to continue, knowing that to hear it aloud would help. "I was a typical nerdy kid and for some reason I happened to be good at two things. Computers and Magic's. Everybody or anybody can work with computers but being able to work the spells is not that ordinary. I realized early that my emotions made my power stronger and I liked feeling special, needed.'

`I was dead inside when I met you. I didn't know how empty I was until you came along and I didn't understand what I was feeling, well I did, but I didn't know how to handle it. My powers fed off that. It made me special, you made me feel special and I wanted to live up to that."

"I'm not accusing you Tara, I'm just starting to understand some things about myself. I realized that when we were together our magics were strong and that was enough. When Glory hurt you, that's where I made my mistake. She took the thing I loved most in this world and my ordinary magics didn't give me the power I needed to stand up to her. I opened the door and invited evil in and to make itself at home. It's like the houseguest that comes for a visits and never leaves, it makes you into something you aren't."

"Have you ever wondered why the First has been so determined in his pursuit of you?" Tara questioned seriously.

Tara grasped her shoulders and lifted her into a sitting position, then turned to face her. "Wrong answer. Try again."

Willow felt a soft warm hand take hold of hers. "Not when there is someone who is strong enough to call on the forces of the darkness, harness and use them, then reject them. Someone, who has witnessed things that shouldn't be but are and has such a pure heart, she is allowed to get a glimpse of the face of good. A power that chose you and embraced you. Even in bad times it was with you and it helped you defeat the darkness you once embraced. Goddess Willow, how can you say you're lucky?"

Mouth slightly agape, Willow stared at her pale lover. Even as tired and exhausted as she was, her mind was beginning to see the truth.

"Buffy, Xander and you were destined to come together. Since birth all of you were coming to this place. You are warriors and leaders in a timeless battle. You were chosen to protect innocents, defeat evil. You see no evil in those you meet. Buffy does no evil, she fights the minions of it and Xander hears not the call of evil but of those in need of protection. And your trials are far from over." Tara stroked Willow's jaw tenderly.

Reeling in shock, Willow trembled slightly. This was like a movie or some television show. Good and evil starring Willow Rosenberg as a warrior in the battle to save innocents. Not even.

But there was no denying the things that had happened in the last seven years. They had seen it all. Miracles, demons, gods, rising from the dead and all sorts of nasties and they had survived it although there had been scars left behind. Sometimes the price was high. Jesse, Jenny, Kendra, Joyce, Anya, Spike and so many lives lost. Everyone had cut a notch in her heart but it had been losing Tara that had as much an effect on her life as when she realized she had fallen in love with the older woman. Her life with the blonde witch had opened her eyes and allowed her to come into her own.

"Thank you." Tara grinned with a blush. "I was blessed to be with you and help you on your journey."

Tara leaned forward and her lips slightly brushed against Willows. The red head took a deep breath and looked deeply into blue eyes. "What I am now is because of you. There's no words to tell you how very important you are or how much I love you."

"I will always love you, my Willow. But we must all move on at some point. One chapter is closing but there are more to be written. You have some choices to make and work to do."

Willow pulled her former lover into an embrace. " I think we both know the team I'm on now. I didn't know any other thing could even come close to your beauty until last night. Close but you're still the title holder."

"Vixen." Tara's image seemed a bit fuzzy and out of focus now. "So much love in your heart. Don't be afraid to love again, you deserve that. And know that I wouldn't change a thing. I have loved and been loved, something I never thought would happen to me. I was in the arms of my love when my time came and there is no other place I would have wanted to be. The only pain was leaving you, but I will never truly leave you."

Tears stung her green eyes. "Always and forever, Tara." With that she blew her lover a kiss, then closed her eyes to memorize every detail of the blonde’s face. Then her tears erupted.

"Willow?" A different voice called after a minute or so. She felt fingers wiping the tears away and opened her eyes to find the dark Latino features of her new girlfriend. Even in the darkness, the new slayer's eyes sparkled with concern. "What's wrong? Are you hurt?"

Light started to filter into the bus as they entered a motel parking lot and Willow took that moment to gently kiss the full lips of the woman next to her. "I'm okay." She said pulling back. "I guess everything's just catching up with me."

Kennedy pulled her close, encompassing her in safe arms. Tara and Kennedy could not have been anymore different yet Willow cared deeply for both in more than a physical way. Tara had been quite, shy and contemplative. Kennedy was outgoing, acting first then worrying about consequences. The calm and the storm and she loved them both.

The bus pulled to a stop, lurching most of the sleepers awake. Giles stood up from his front seat and turned to face the occupants. "I'll get us some rooms. We all need to rest and get cleaned up and properly look after the wounded." He exchanged a few words with Robin Woods and then the two slayers before leaving the bus. Faith got up and pointed to Dawn and Carly and they began preparing for the move inside.

"Back in Sunnydale, on the Hellmouth. You were right there with me, my anchor. I couldn't have tapped into the magic's, gone through the darkness to the light without you."

The younger woman shrugged her shoulders. "I told you I'd be there and I'm a woman of my word." Kennedy was uncomfortable with compliments and added, "Besides it was a great light show."

Willow snuggled against Kennedy's neck, nipping at her ear. "That you are." Kennedy was pleasantly surprised when a strong, loving hand toyed with her breasts. Her nipples turned ridged and pushed against the fabric restraining them, bringing a smile to the red head. The smile broadened when she stroked and pinched at the points and received a muffled groan in return. The brunette's breathing was picking up speed and she quickly scanned the bus to see if anybody was watching them. She intercepted Willow's hand and held it still. "Uh..Red. Now's is not really the time or place…."

She lifted her head to meet the Slayer's eyes. "The other night. Our night together. You were so wonderful, and gentle, giving. I feel horrible that I couldn't return…."

Kennedy shook her head and brought their coupled hands to her chest. "It's okay Will. When you're ready we'll know it. For you I can wait."

"I want to make love to you. Not because it may be our last night alive or to prove that I can control my powers. I want to show you how I feel about you, to give back some of what you've given me."

Opening her mouth to respond, Kennedy was silenced by Giles return. "I've secured us a block of rooms. I suggest the wounded stay in the largest so we can keep watch over them. There are enough rooms that it shouldn't be too crowded. Let's get the wounded in first and then unload the bus."

The inhabitants of the bus moved in harmony with one another, wordlessly helping each other get the wounded up and ready to move. Without a word Willow and Kennedy got up from their back seat and moved forward. As she came upon Xander, Willow noticed how pale and pained he looked. She reached out to him and touched his arm. "Xan, I'm here if you want to talk or just sit."

His face softened a bit as he looked at his best friend. He leaned forward and kissed her on the cheek. "Thanks Will. I do want to talk, but I just need some time first, K?"

She returned the kiss, "K." And moved on down the aisle. Buffy was struggling to stand up, and Willow stepped in to help. Once she and Faith had the injured Slayer up, Faith went to take care of Robin. Willow stayed with her best friend, while Kennedy and Dawn each helped more injured out of the bus.

An hour later the injured were settled, bandaged and resting peacefully. Their immediate supplies had been brought in but other things would spend the night on the bus. There had been tears as reality set in and the shock wore off. There was nothing left to do now but rest for the next step, the next day. Catching Willow alone, Giles slipped a card key into her hand. "None of us would be alive without you and Kennedy." As if she had heard her name, the small dark slayer joined them. "If you don't mind sharing, I got a room for just the two of you. You've earned it and then some."

The two women exchanged a look and smiled. Willow stepped over and hugged him. "Thank you Giles."

Kennedy was never one to forgo duty for her own needs or wants. "What time do you need me back here for my shift to watch the injured?"

"Everyone is stable at the moment. The Slayer's accelerated healing abilities are making a big difference. The only thing anyone can do is rest and rebuild your strength. Go ahead and go to your room."

"Yes." A soft voice answered. Willow smiled at the small, blonde slayer as she approached. She was bruised, bloodied and pale but she still had the sense of power about her. The two women embraced, mindful of wounds and sore spots. "I hear you put on a hell of a spell."

They seemed to energize one another as the embrace continued. "I hear you put on a hell of a Slayfest." They stayed together for a few seconds longer, then pulled away. Looks and touches, relaying so many things unsaid.

Faith eased her way over to the growing group. "You did good Red. I'm glad you're on our side."

The dark slayer turned her attention to the small, Latino powerhouse. "Very nice ass kicking back there, Kennedy."

Giles had removed his glasses and begun wiping them with a smudged hanky. "Uhhmmm. May I suggest that we get some rest and continue the love fast over breakfast in the morning."

There were giggles but the last thing on Willow's mind was rest or breakfast. "Call if you need us. See you in the morning." She grabbed Kennedy's hand and made for the exit. After the door shut the two slayers and ex watcher, couldn't help but smile. "You think the hungry and horny thing goes for witches too?" Faith asked.

Their room was two doors down and Willow rapidly scanned the card key when they reached it. A green light flashed and she pushed open the door, pulled Kennedy inside and shut the door in one fluid movement.

"Wil…" The slayer was cut off as two soft lips captured hers and she felt herself being pushed against the door. Using her own body, Willow held her in place and continued the assault on her mouth and tongue. An aggressive Wiccan was a surprise but not an unwelcome or unpleasant one. The first time they had been together had been gentle but frantic and Kennedy had focused on pleasuring her new lover.

The impending battle with The First had hung over them like a cloud. Thoughts of death and loss peering over their shoulders. In a little over 24 hours, that fear was gone and they were free to focus on nothing but one another.

Willow moved her lips from mouth to jaw to ear and then neck. Kennedy felt each love bite and chills scurried down her spine. Strong, slender witch hands roamed the denim clad slayers body, memorizing every curve. She was hungry for her Slayer's skin and at that moment there were too many layers in her way. Firmly grasping the jacket, she eased it over her shoulders and down strong arms until it fell to the floor.

Kennedy felt her body coming more alive with each burning kiss. She was used to being the aggressor but was enjoying the role change. Even more she was enjoying the redheaded beauty in control and how she felt when touched by her. Content to let Willow lead, she rested her hands on the woman's hips, fingers brushing under her shirt and feeling heated flesh.

With the jacket gone, Willow turned her attention on the buttons in her way. As each button was released, Willow welcomed the exposed skin with a soft kiss. Upon reaching, Kennedy's waistband, she unbuttoned the top of her jeans. The Slayer was no big fan of underwear so it came as no surprise that she found only bare skin underneath the denim. Kennedy's scent was intoxicating and she got ready to remove the jeans in her way until she felt hands on her shoulders, urging her up.

As she stood up, the look on the redhead's face sent a jolt through the small brunette. Her face was flushed, pupils dilated and lips swollen with a hunger and want and there was no mistaking the need she saw reflected there. In fact its depth caught the younger woman off guard and she realized they were about to take another step in this new relationship.

She also couldn't miss the flicker of confusion, then doubt on the slender, pale face. After a few seconds she understood the problem and reached out cupping her lover's face in her hands. "Bed. Lights. Want to see you." Her eyes dropped down to the body next to hers. "Too many clothes." She wasn't sure when her ability to form sentences had disappeared, but she knew Willow understood.

Passion and want mutually noted, Willow reached to the left of Kennedy's head, felt for the light switch and flipped it on. Dim light flared from a lamp beside the bed. The lighting could almost be considered romantic but at the moment the only thing in the room that interested them was the bed.

Kennedy lifted Willow and smiled when she felt long, lithe legs wrap around her waist. Both women felt the contact and as Kennedy started across the room, Willow pushed her shirt down and licked and nipped her lover's dark salty skin. Between that and feeling Willow grinding up against her with every step, she grunted as she hit the bed with her knees. "Bedspread."

Reluctant to leave her position, Willow did lean over, grasp the offensive, flowered material and threw it back to reveal starched white sheets. As one they fell into the Queen sized bed, and Kennedy moved them closer to the center of the mattress. Now she was better able to participate and she yanked at the T-shirt Willow was wearing.

Willow raised her arms and the shirt then bra landed in a heap by the bed. Porcelain skin contrasted against the dark skin of Kennedy as the affection was returned to her neck and chest. She could feel hard, swollen nipples on handful-sized breasts pressing into her and she moaned softly. Ready to lavish attention on those points, she was stopped by Willow pushing her up.

At first flustered in her efforts, she realized that straddling Willow gave her a wondrous view of the beauty pinned beneath her. A comparison to a younger Faith had been made before but with Willow she saw things in herself she hadn't before. The Wiccan's intelligence, generosity and wisdom helped temper her rashness, selfishness and insecurity. She just looked at the woman, mesmerized that someone like this existed and chose to be with her. She felt slender fingers tease her bra covered nipples and Kennedy shifted her focus. "You okay?"

Willow snapped the bra strap and stared into dark brown eyes that welcomed her. "Take it off."

It was not a question or demand but a statement of fact that sent shivers of arousal straight to her core. The friction of already stiff nipples against the silky material caused her to sigh.

Now it was Willow's turn to observe. Watching the smaller woman remove her bra, slowly and intentionally erotic made her heartbeat increase. She tossed the item aside and Willow's mouth watered at the sight above her. Despite the compact size, Kennedy had curves in abundance and ample breasts. Slightly larger than her own, Kennedy's featured dark areola and dust rose nubs. With rapt attention, Willow watched as Kennedy rubbed her own breast before toying with them, stroking and pinching the nipples seductively.

The slayer blushed as she watched the woman beneath her, breathing rapidly and tongue moistening dry lips. Knowing Willow was enjoying the show added to her own want. She could feel the woman squirming under her and the seam of her jeans pressed into and rubbed her slit, causing her to groan unexpectedly.

"Oh Goddess." Willow returned when she too felt the pressure. Chewing her lip, she struggled for more contact but was being denied and that irritated the Wiccan.

Totally surprised the slayer found herself flipped over onto her back and their positions reversed. She raised her head and stared at emerald eyes. "That's better." Willow smiled and attacked her lover's breast with zeal.

Kennedy's head dropped back and all pretense of resistance or calling the shots disappeared. She grunted when she felt a love bit on the underside of her breast, then hissed, "Yessss" when Willow's teeth grazed and bit her nipple. Running her hands through red tresses, she felt her lover slowly moving downward. She could also feel Willow's breasts being dragged along her body and halting when her jeans got in the way. As if swatting a fly, Willow pushed the jeans down short muscular legs until they vanished off the side of the bed.

Her senses were flooded with Kennedy's scent of need and she continued down the slender body until her breast came to rest on the girls slit. She grinned as she felt the juices coating her and she pressed her hardened nub in a bit. While doing that she ever so slightly trailed her tongue around the pierced navel.

As much as Willow's tongue was stoking the fire, it was her lover's breast rubbing between her neither lips and against her clit that was driving her insane. "Please…Willow…"

Such a sucker for begging, her mouth began the southward journey again. It took all of her control to hold the steady, slow pace as the patch of trimmed black curls beckoned her. After an eternity, she reached her goal and nuzzled against the softness there. Taking a deep breath, she let the scent envelop her and it made her dizzy with hunger.

Feeling the breath and attention, Kennedy spread her legs invitingly. Glassy eyed, Willow accepted. She trailed her tongue along the crease of her thighs, nipping at her soft skin there before tracing her tongue along the slick, swollen lips and tentatively, venturing in.

"Mmmm..." Kennedy sighed as Willow tongue and lips explored every inch of her. She spread her legs even further to ensure that her witch had all the access she wanted.

Willow was lost in the sensations, smells, and tastes. Her tongue was a dancer, gently moving over the swollen clit, across the outer and inner lips, floating down and darting into her opening.

Kennedy soared as her body became electrified. She'd only had three lovers in her life and none were as attentive and giving as her Wiccan. It was something she planned on exploring and returning later. Her inner core hummed and she kneaded Willow's shoulder in rhythm to her tongue. She felt two fingers sliding in and curling up. "Uhnnnn…" Was the only sound she could make when they found their target and began rubbing. Tongue and lips now moved with the fingers and went to work on her clit.

Feeling her body tensing more by each tongue stroke, she felt as if she might explode. Willow's fingers picked up speed and pressure. Feeling Kennedy's firm grip on her shoulders and head told her that the slayer was enjoying the affection and the crotch of her own jeans were soaking now.

Hearing that, Willow sucked hard on Kennedy's clit, drawing it into her mouth and grazing it with her teeth.

The younger woman howled as orgasm swallowed her, waves rolling over her from head to toe. Her muscles continued to clench at the fingers stroking her and she felt another orgasm sweep through her. Willow held on tightly to the bucking woman, wanting to continue for as long as she could take it. A flood of fluid poured forth and for half a second the slayer worried about drowning her witch until she felt the magic mouth.

Willow released her hold on Kennedy's clit and drank in the slayer's essence as it coated her face. It was strong and musky but not unpleasant, different from Tara's sweet musk. She scolded herself for the brief lapse and concentrated on the woman beneath her.

As Kennedy landed, Willow eased her fingers out and regretfully left the wet warmth. Using the covers she quickly wiped the remaining juices from her face and crawled up her lover. Kennedy's hair was damp and her body glistened with sweat. Her eyes were closed and her breathing was resuming a normal pattern.

Willow lay on her side intently watching the recovering woman. Her head propped on one hand and the other stroking black locks. She had expected to feel some guilt but there was none. She loved Tara. Always would, but it was time for her to move on. There would never be another Tara, or Kennedy or whomever might come next but she held a piece of them as they did of her. Looking at the young woman beside her opened up a New World of possibilities. Tara had been gone over a year and she knew she was finally at peace.

Kennedy's eye lids flickered, drawing her attention from her thoughts. She finally opened her eyes and simply said, "Woof."

"Better than good." Kennedy whispered. "...Willow, I've never felt love like that before. So giving and unselfish."

"I told you I needed to show you because I'm not good with the word stuff and sometimes and I tend to get off track like when…." She blushed. "…Babble becomes an issue."

Kennedy rolled over onto her side so she was facing her lover. She leaned in, stroking Willow's jaw and gently delivered a kiss on her lips. She could taste herself on the soft pink mouth and it sparked an urge of eroticism. "Come here." She smiled and pulled the taller woman into her arms. They entwined, wrapped in each other's arms and legs, breast to breast and nuzzling.

She placed another kiss on her lover's forehead. Now was the time to issue the invitation in the only way she knew how. "Yeah, shiny and new. A chance to start over if you want to."

It was a little scary but after all was said and done, she was ready to start again. She had defeated her addiction and the Big Bad. Kennedy had come into her life unexpectedly and although she tried to deny it, the spark was there. Luckily Kennedy was the aggressive type and now that spark was growing and would continue to grow.

Brown eyes sparkled as her slayer smiled. Strong, callused hands moved down Willows back and slid under the waistband of her jeans. Kennedy firmly grabbed her rear end and pulled her in tight. "You got."

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The Price

by April

Copyright © 2003

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