To Those Who Wield by CN Winters and Susan Carr

Rating: NC-17
Disclaimer: Joss owns 'em. We're just borrowing them.
Distribution: The Mystic Muse: http://mysticmuse.net
CN's Caldron http://cnscaldron.tripod.com
Anyone else, just ask.
Feedback: You know we want it...
Author's Notes: Takes place during season six after Tara and Willow's break up and Willow's recovery. We took the liberty of letting Vamp Willow live when she returned to her world just because we can. Anyway, seems Vamp Willow has returned to 'Buffy's Sunnydale' again, this time with her new lover Tara Maclay to wreck a little havoc.
Special thanks goes to Chris Cook of Through the Looking Glass and Artemis for the title graphic at the top of the page. Thanks, Chris!
Pairing: Willow/Tara

Summary: Vamp Willow's back and this time she has a new companion.

Tara slid a book toward Anya. "Okay. See if you can find anything on trans-dimensional spells." With that she handed a book to Anya's fiancé. "Xander, give Anya a hand with this translation text in case her Gaelic is a bit rusty."

"Hmm...Hop on line," she told her. "Do a search. Try 'crossing dimensions, dimension crosses' stuff like that. See if you pull up anything that might give us some clue as to how they might have gotten here. That might give us an idea of a way to send them back." Tara reached into a box and pulled out another book as Buffy tried to slide away from the dining room table. "Not so fast Slayer."

"Which is why you'll need this book," Tara said sliding it forward. "It's filled with spells that you can use on vampires who can sometimes be immune to magic. This might not be a simple stake through the heart operation. You might need information."

Buffy gave a heavy sigh and opened the book, looking at the pages. "Ye who holds thy caste – . Hey! You said this was English."

"Archaic English," Tara corrected. "Like Shakespeare used, but still English Buffy. You'll figure it out."

The gang heard Willow cough behind them and they turned to find her standing in her bikini. "Sorry. I'm gonna…ahh…head out back a-and get tan...well…burnt and then maybe tan."

Willow didn't wait for a response. She walked toward the kitchen and out the back door.

"She looks pretty hot, doesn't she?" Dawn said, wiggling her eyebrows, trying yet again to pitch the idea of Willow to Tara.

"I feel like I'm reading Romeo and Juliet and I didn't understand that either," Buffy sighed, closing the book. "Do you have the CliffsNotes version of this?"

"Lemme guess? That's how you got through English Lit?" Tara asked with a teasing grin in place.

"Wanna trade?" Anya asked sarcastically. "I said I knew some Gaelic but 500 years is a long time to be outta practice."

Xander wasn't listening to the conversation. His eyes kept going back toward the kitchen where he watched his best friend leave moments before looking quite despondent. He rose and handed Anya the translation book.

"Where do you think you're going?" she asked. "You get to enjoy the fun of research too."

"In a minute," he said softly, making his way toward the hallway and out the back.

When he stepped outside he found Willow lying on a beach blanket in the grass. "So," he called out, "How's the burn coming along?"

"I've only been out here two minutes," she told him not bothering to look up. "Give me at least another ten."

"Ah yes, the curse of the redhead. I've heard many tales of woe…Jimmy McNally on the site. He gets red as a lobster and then peels to a milky white." Xander made his way though the grass and sat near his friend. He leaned back in the chair and briefly closed his eyes feeling the warm sun on his face.

"Got tired of listening to Buffy whine." He grinned at her. Willow finally opened her eyes to look over at him.

She wasn't sure why but she felt the sides of her mouth curl in amusement. "Already?"

"Yeah. Tara's trying the friendly but firm approach but I don't think it's gonna work."

"Missing the research gig. We know you're not ready to be around that stuff so you don't have to feel..."

"Will," Xander began. "You've gotta go easy on yourself. You've got a problem – an addiction. It's only been a couple of weeks and we know you can't be around that stuff."

"But it's true Xander. I can't help. I can't do anything…Except lie here and burn…Kinda poetic in a way. I should burn after what I did to Tara. At least that would be one way I could make her happy."

"I don't think she wants you to burn. Yeah she's pissed. You did some…well, some not so smart stuff but…I heard that fight in the kitchen."

"And you both have valid points," Xander said ignoring her comment. "And the way I see it you were both wrong. You shouldn't have done the spell but she shouldn't have left. Things get tough sometimes but you try to work past that."

"She couldn't stay Xander. Whether I did the spell or not…she would have left because of the magic…because of how out-of-control-y I was getting. Truth is I'm just not worth sticking around for."

"Is it? Tara left. Oz left…Hell even Giles left. Sure, maybe Buffy no longer needed a constant watcher but…He was family Xander. And like my natural parents he's half way around the world right now…So don't tell me that I'm worth anything because obviously I'm not."

"You're worth something to me. Doesn't my opinion count? Or Buffy's? Or Dawn's? And I'd go so far as to say you matter to Tara – even today. People who give up don't argue that passionately."

"Cordi. When she called it off, it was done. No arguments. No yelling. She just…went…And it was over…And at the risk of sounding less than manly, it hurt…So believe me when I say it's not over for Tara. She still loves you but…like any pop-psychology guru will tell you…you guys got issues."

"Yeah well we haven't said much since the screaming match. I don't see any great dialogues in our near future."

"Yeah well, Buffy's only got 6 years in Willow's world while I on the other hand have 15."

"I wish I could help. I have nothing to offer you guys or Tara for that matter. There's nothing I can do. I'm powerless."

"Depends on your definition of power," he retorted. "Sure I can't work some funky mojo on a hell-dimension god or dust vampires with ease like the Slayer. But I can make my best friend grin when she's down in the dumps. I can pick up donuts or take-out food faster than any human on earth. And I can also see the obvious that the Scooby 'hierarchy' overlooks sometimes because being the 'average Joe' has it's advantages…Are these awe inspiring powers? Well, no. But when the time comes, they're very much needed. And your time will come Willow, even if you can't help right this second… Maybe when you least expect it you'll find you have something to contribute…Take it from a guy who knows."

"Yeah I get that. Having Tara here isn't easy and having to battle a set of evil twins isn't a cakewalk but…We'll get by. We always do. You just gotta have faith…And a little patience," he teased.

Xander began to chuckle when Anya appeared at the back door. "Xander? Buffy and Dawn are fighting over the computer and Tara is threatening to turn everyone into bunnies. Would you come back in here please?"

"Ahh…my work is never done," he sighed. "Tanning or research? Tanning or research? Sorry but if you ask me Will, you got the better deal right now," he winked before getting up. "Coming Dear," he shouted over his shoulder to Anya.

"Well I wish I could stay longer," he said as he looked back at the house. "You have no idea how much I wish I could stay longer."

Tara was coming from the bathroom and nearly collided with Willow who was walking from the bedroom.

"Sorry," they both said in harmony before blushing at the proximity to each other.

Willow's hands rested on Tara's upper arms, their bodies inches away from each other. Neither woman had been so physically close since their separation. It felt familiar but obtrusive and suddenly both women took two steps back from one another as if they were on fire.

Willow felt stupid standing there, not wanting to leave and yet afraid to just walk away. She shrugged her shoulders and the slight movement caused the fabric of her shirt to shift slightly against her back.

"Uh…oh yeah," Willow said as her mouth raced ahead of her thoughts. "Just too much sun, you know? I mean, normally I'm able to time it just right, but after Xander went back inside, I kinda lost track and stayed too long. I don't know why I bother though…it's not like a tan will last longer than a day or so." Willow stopped as she finally ran out of steam, tears threatening once again as she realized that Tara probably didn't even care enough to stop her babbling.

Tara couldn't speak. She wanted to offer sympathy for Willow's pain. She remembered other times when she had used magic to sooth the fair-skinned redhead's sunburn…times usually followed by intense lovemaking sessions. She desperately wanted to help, but she was afraid that even healing magic might be enough to set Willow off.

When Tara didn't seem to make an effort to scurry away, Willow decided to put on her best conversational voice.

She watched an uncertain look cross Tara's face, as if the blonde wanted to say something but stopped herself. For a moment Willow felt once more that Tara didn't want to speak to her but she paused for a moment hoping she would say something.

"It g-goes," Tara answered, taking a sudden interest in her fingernails, trying not to look at Willow.

Feeling defeated Willow gave a heavy sigh. "Tara I'm sorry. I…I'll just leave you alone. I get the not-so-subtle hint. You don't want to speak to me."

Willow turned to leave and Tara's head shot up. "Oh no," Tara called softly making Willow turn around, "I mean, it's not that…well, not only that," she added in confession.

"I don't wanna fight either," she muttered. "I just wanted to know if you were making progress but I'll ask Buffy for the details."

"It's not just the fighting Will," Tara said. "I mean…yeah I'm leery that anything we say will end up in another kitchen fiasco. That and…I'm not sure how much you can take."

"M-magic. I don't mind talking about the plan. After all, it's best that you know w-what we're working on since it concerns you too but…"

Willow gave a chuckle. "Tara the Temptress. Now there's a thought..." Willow couldn't help it and she immediately regretted the comment. "I'm sorry I didn't mean … my foot continues to live in my mouth lately."

Tara decided to side step the temptress comment and just make her point instead.

"Will, I don't know how much information you can take – about the spells and stuff. You're doing well from what everyone says and I don't want you to…"

"I can talk about magic. Really, it's okay. A-and besides, I don't think I have much of a choice here at the moment since…you know…killer vamps on the loose and all."

"Okay," Tara said with a nod. "Well we've found three power transfer spells. Buffy and I are thinking that since I knew magic before I met you that maybe Vamp Tara has been training Vamp Willow. They might have come back here to get power from 'their twins.' Based on what Buffy's told me Vamp Willow didn't like this world. She would have no reason to come back here unless there was something they wanted."

Tara nodded. "There's one spell that works when one twin draws upon the power of the other twin. But they have to be identical twins – the vamps have our DNA even if they don't have souls."

Tara nodded. "That's one spell. But there's also one in the German texts we've found and one in Italian as well – Blitzerheim's Ubergangsenergie and La Potenza di Trasferimento. They're similar in nature but the An etay akor tures has one distinction the others don't."

"Right," Tara agreed. "And since neither of the vamps made a move on us separate, we're thinking they must need us together to do the spell."

"What if I offered them my power for them to go away? Not like I'm using it anyway. Hell I might even get rid of the shakes in the morning."

"That's the catch. When the energy is drained it's like losing your essence, your life-force. The spell would give Vamp Willow unspeakable power but in the end it would kill you. Besides Vamp Tara needs me too in order to complete the spell and I'm not willing to give up my life so they can have more magic in their arsenal."

"Isn't there a way to transfer power without death? I mean I know of a few spells that…" Willow paused. "And I'm not saying I would do them. But, couldn't I transfer my energy to Vamp Willow just to make her go away?"

"I know of the spells too but they're also life threatening Will. You have to be totally willing – totally submissive – to let someone take your power via magic. If you have even the slightest bit of doubt or hesitation it would kill you. Now can you honestly say you'd be relaxed enough and deep down would want Vamp Willow to have that kind of power?"

"That's what I thought," Tara smirked. "I can't do it either. Who's to say what they'll do with the power once they have it? So that's why we have to fight them."

"Honestly? I'm not sure," Tara confessed. "I've been looking all night but…I'll find something eventually – a counter spell with maybe the added kick of sending them back to their world with no return flight. Buffy wants to go out later to see if we can find them. I doubt they'll be forthcoming but maybe we can get some information from them."

"That'd be good." Willow grinned and a short silence fell between them in the small hallway until Willow spoke again. "You know…this is the first conversation we've had that didn't involve one of us screaming or crying?"

Tara didn't add anything and neither one of them knew quite what to say. Their eyes looked everywhere but each other. Finally, Willow cleared her throat.

Willow gave a nod and motioned to the stairs. "Can I go down and make you some coffee?"

Tara's first reaction was to refuse but there was something in Willow's eyes that just pulled at her. She knew Willow was genuinely trying to be helpful and the past few hours had probably left her ex-lover feeling inadequate.

"Come on," Willow said nodded her downstairs with a grin. "I'll go get it ready while you be research girl."

Tara smiled but Willow didn't see it. Willow coffee is the best, Tara thought silently as she followed behind her. On the mornings that Willow would get Dawn off to school the first thing Willow did after waking up was to start the coffee.

Well not the 'first thing,' Tara considered. Willow would make a point to kiss her good morning – once on the lips and once on the neck just below her earlobe. Tara's hand instinctively went to the location on her neck as she remembered the feel of Willow's lips. Willow kissed her that way every morning. No, Tara suddenly remembered, not every morning.

The happy memory soon perished when she realized the loving wake up calls stopped after their first argument about Anya's engagement party decorations. Sure, Willow still made the coffee for her but it never tasted quite as sweet as it once did and she wondered for a brief moment as she walked down the stairs if it ever would again.

But she pushed the thought out of her head. There was no sense dwelling on it. Especially right now. She had bigger things to deal with at the moment, which involved saving them from two power hungry, bloodthirsty vampires. And with that thought she went back to her books as Willow headed off to the kitchen.

"Willy already said he didn't know anything," Xander told Buffy as they entered the demon bar that evening. "Anya and I already came here."

Buffy moved to the center of the bar as the Scooby gang stepped to the side. Casually she held the crossbow up for everyone to see.

"Okay!" Buffy yelled getting everyone's attention. "You've all got 15 seconds to clear out or the Slayer opens fire."

Demon upon demon trampled their way to the exit as Buffy walked over to the bar with the gang behind her.

"Have you seen these two women?" Buffy asked pitching a thumb to Willow and Tara who stood behind her.

Buffy raised her crossbow sending a bolt just pasted Willy's head, shattering a bottle of AB negative blood behind him. He turned sharply and watched it drip as Buffy reloaded.

"Come on, Slayer," he said frustrated, turning around to face her again. "That's expensive stuff."

"Okay, okay." Willy held his hands up, making Buffy lower her sights. "They were in here a night or two ago – I don't really remember. The tall blonde one chatted up your buddy Clem," he said pointing at Tara. "Last I heard they were making the rounds at the Bronze. That's all I know. I swear."

"Thanks for the info Willy," Buffy said tossing a $20.00 bill on the bar and nodded the gang to leave.

Willy simply sighed and pulled the $20 from the bar, stuffing it in his pocket. Once Buffy and her gang left, Willy watched to see the poker room door open and Spike walk out.

"That's alright," Spike nodded with a grin, making his way toward the door. "I think these two will give the Slayer a run for her money…But it'll be fun to watch."

The Scoobies walked into the Bronze and immediately Tara could sense their vampire doubles' presence in the crowded room. With a tap on Buffy's shoulder and a pointed finger, Tara and the group made their way over to the table the couple occupied. Vamp Willow noticed them first and grinned.

"We've got company Kitten," she said nodding toward the approaching gang. Vamp Willow turned to Anya first and gave a light chuckle. "Well, looky there," she remarked to the ex-demon. "I see they're all groveling at your feet just as you predicted years ago. How's that workin' out for ya?"

Vamp Tara looked to her lover slightly confused. "The bottle blonde?" she asked.

Anya didn't reply. For once she held her tongue and looked away from the table. Willow however stepped closer and examined the vampires closely.

"You turned her, didn't you?" Willow asked her vamp self, not hiding her disapproval in the least. "Even AFTER I asked you not to kill anyone."

"Ooooh," Vamp Willow began as she turned to her lover, "She's an observant one isn't she? Well, not too observant. Couldn't tell you from hers after all." She paused a moment and turned back to Willow. "Hello? Still evil," the vamp answered. "You think I'm gonna stop existing because you asked? You're delusional," she chuckled.

"Delusion – ." Willow stopped herself from continuing. She didn't want to start a pointless debate. They came here for answers. But before she could add anything further Vamp Willow spoke again.

"I will say one thing…Kitten's right. Fuzzy isn't so fuzzy anymore. Nice to see you actually discovered you had a body under all that fluff. Maybe I did some good after all because you're looking pretty damn hot."

Vamp Tara gave a soft chuckle and stroked the side of Vamp Willow's cheek with her fingertips. "You always look hot Baby…Now we just gotta work on Frumpy," she pointed to her doppelgänger.

The vampires continued to smirk but Willow still held her ground, unmoving. The vamps just looked at each other and giggled. With a sigh, Vamp Willow turned toward the Scooby group.

Buffy pulled Willow's head down to whisper in her ear. "We're here to find out about their plan Will. Not to make moral judgments, okay?"

"No!" Willow said loudly. "I want her to answer my question," she added, facing her other self.

"Yeah Baby," her lover replied before, leaning over to snuggle into the redhead's shoulder. "She asked if you turned me." For emphasis, she gave a tiny snarl and nipped playfully at her lover's neck.

"Oh yeah, that, " Vamp Willow said in afterthought. "…Yes I did. And if I'm not mistaken she's lovin' every moment of it. Aren't you Kitten?" The vamp then let her fingertips glide under her lover's chin, tenderly moving her closer until their lips closed the distance and met in a very long, leisurely kiss.

Willow was torn between disgust at the display before her and utter arousal. Watching her kiss Tara was distracting her and she shook her head to get back to the point she was making.

"How could you?" Willow asked raising her voice, making the pair face her. "And why on earth bring her here?"

"Look at her," Vamp Willow pointed to the sexy, blonde vampire. "The question should be how could I not turn her?"

"Don't you care about her at all? Are you really that evil that you would force her to live as a animal a-and kill people like you do?"

Willow watched as the vamp version of Tara stilled and moved away from her lover. The blonde vampire looked up to see that the tremor she felt wash over her lover wasn't an illusion – Willow was growing angry. And an angry Willow, although beautiful, wasn't helpful to their goal right now.

"Please Baby," she said softly, knowing they needed Willow alive. "Think of the mission."

Mission, Buffy thought silently. At least they're here for a reason and not a friendly vacation.

Vamp Willow didn't reply to Willow immediately. She just slipped gracefully from the bar stool and strolled three paces toward Willow.

Vamp Willow rolled her eyes at the blonde, "Relax Big Bad Slayer. Fuzzy asked a question…so I'm gonna answer it. That's all."

"It bothers you that I turned her, huh?" The vampire asked Willow in an almost sympathetic voice. Willow, for her part, didn't reply but she didn't break eye contact either. "You don't have to answer. I feel it…feel your emotions…feel the magic inside. Umm…you've got that ole black magic coursing through you like blood. You wanna let loose but you can't. So powerful but so…neutered."

"Maybe not neutered since you stopped for Frumpy's benefit," Vamp Willow remarked putting a slender finger to her temple in thought. "Maybe you're just pussy whipped…Can't say I blame you – it's damn good pussy." Vamp Willow looked over at Tara who was tucked protectively behind Buffy. She wiggled her eyebrows before she began to chuckle. Vamp Willow then turned back to the reforming witch to watch her fists clench and unclench.

It took all of Willow's reserve not to unleash on the vampire before her. Hundreds of spells came to mind but not a single one that she could use. Helpless, she felt her anger making her skin hot and her nerves race.

"Oh come on Will," the vampire said stressing her name sarcastically. "You're just aching to let that fire loose. That power…You could knock me halfway through the wall with just the wave of your hand, couldn't you?…But instead you keep resisting that evil underneath. You fault me for my choices but truth is, I'm not evil. I just gave up resisting my true self."

"You are evil," Willow pressed. She could feel how white her knuckles were becoming as she clenched. "No matter what spin you put on it, you're still a demon."

"Perhaps," the vamp relented. "But you're evil too, whether you admit it or not."

The vamp just chuckled and reached out, her fingertips touching Willow's face briefly. She smiled as Willow jerked her head from her touch.

"You asked how I could turn Tara but the choice was hers. I didn't wield my power upon her. I gave her free will and she chose to join me…I didn't manipulate her mind. I didn't steal her memories. I didn't build illusions of happiness with her." Casually, the vamp spared a glance toward Tara that wasn't lost on any of them in the small circle. "I earned my place with good, ole fashioned honesty and trust." The vampire gave a hearty laugh, "Of course, fantastic, mind-blowing sex didn't hurt any either."

"You got that right Baby," Vamp Tara called from the table. Vamp Willow smirked and turned around. She blew her Tara a kiss before turning back to Willow, who continued to look like she was going to boil over at any moment.

"Look at the facts Sweetie. My Tara's at my side," she boasted. "And later I'm gonna ride her until she sore but satisfied. And as for you and yours? Well…your Tara is scared to death of you and wouldn't let you touch her with a ten-foot pole. So tell me …who's the evil one?"

That did it. Willow let loose. Not with magic but with her fists. She sent a right hook to the vamp's jaw, knocking her about three feet away and on her backside. Willow grabbed her hand in pain but she still charged ahead to deliver another blow. But suddenly her steps froze as Vamp Tara chanted from the table.

"Encase," the blonde vampire yelled as she waved her hand. A stream of green light surrounded Willow.

Willow knew she had to get free as her vamp self rubbed her jaw, moving to her feet.

It was pure instinct. Willow stopped herself in mid chant of the release spell and helplessly watched as the vampire slowly made her way over. She began twisting her body in the hopes of getting free.

Tara knew there was no way Willow was going to break the confines without magic.

"Encase!" the vamp from the table shouted again, slightly annoyed by the disruption.

Once more, Willow became wrapped in a binding spell as her demon self came closer with a feral grin. She looked determined to do some damage to the recovering ex-witch. I need you alive Fuzzy, but not all in one piece, Vamp Willow considered with a wicked smile.

At that point, Buffy darted around the Scoobies to face off with Willow's alter ego while Tara charged toward the table. Giving a mighty heave, she tipped it on top of her vamp self as she shouted again.

Just as she did, the spell was broken and Willow ducked from the impending swing the vampire tried to deliver. The missed punch caused the vampire to lose her balance, sending her straight into the Slayer's arms. With stake in hand, Buffy grabbed the vampire version of her best friend and pushed her against the bar. As she began her strike, Vamp Willow caught her by the wrist, stopping the wood just shy of her heart.

"Nah, ah, ah. Kill me and Fuzzy dies too," Vamp Willow tisked. "You don't really want to do that, do you?"

Killing this vamp would mean killing Willow? How could that be possible? Buffy considered the words but she didn't relent her hold on the vampire in the slightest.

"Tara?" Buffy called out. She didn't ask the question. Tara instinctively knew what she needed.

"To reimpressa or not to reimpressa," Vamp Willow sighed with a grin. "That is the question."

Vamp Willow simply continued to grin at the Slayer, waiting for the inevitable. With a frustrated shove, Buffy pushed the vampire away. Vamp Willow triumphantly straightened out her corset before she strolled over to the table to help her lover to her feet.

The club that had grown quiet watching the 10-second commotion quickly resumed its chatter when they realized the 'chick fight' was over.

"You okay Kitten?" the vampire asked, her fingertips running over the pale skin of her lover's face.

"Don't worry. It'll all be better when we suck the energy outta her. I promise."

Vamp Willow took the blonde's hand and gave a wave to the group. "Later ladies. Oh – that includes you too Xander," she smirked.

"I'm gonna end this right now. They both have to be together in order to do their spell."

"No! You listen to me Buffy! You've got two powerful vampire-witches who are gonna have incredible power if they succeed in their 'mission.' Maybe they'll become powerful enough to destroy the world if they want. I think my life is worth stopping them now."

"And I do. She's right, you know! Everything she said is true. I'm evil and I'm inept. I can't even fight back. What good am I doing here? At least if I take her out then we – ."

"Look, I'm not gonna argue! End of discussion. No vamp dusting allowed until we learn more. Got it?"

Willow continued to walk on without looking back as Buffy sighed feeling her failure.

When no one started to move, Tara found herself running after Willow. She paused at the entrance of the Bronze, looking around before spotting her ex-lover walking toward the open street.

Instead of stopping like she hoped, Willow continued to walk and Tara gave chase. A few moments later, she was at Willow's side grabbing her arm, making her stop.

"Hey," Tara began, her heart pounding – not so much from the jog but from her nervousness regarding what to say.

Okay. Say something Tara, she chastised herself silently. Tara wasn't sure where to start. Sure she succeeded in stopping Willow but now what? When she didn't speak immediately Willow began to walk away again and Tara reached for her once more.

It wasn't so much the words but the pleading tone Willow heard in Tara's voice that made her feet stop. Slowly, she turned around to face her.

"Yeah there is," Tara answered, taking a few steps closer. "She's evil Will. She said all the things that she knew would upset you. And you played right into her hands."

Tara considered the comment. That was true. "But she didn't exactly tell the truth either," Tara remarked.

"Oh so you're not scared of me? I didn't use my power to take you against your will? You know…the way I see it, she's right. I'm not evil like she is – I'm worse."

Willow began to walk away again and Tara paused a moment, trying to put her thoughts together. Quickly, she caught up to her again as they walked along the sidewalk.

"Being addicted to something doesn't make someone evil," Tara told her. "You tapped into stuff that…t-that was bigger than you. Bigger than both of us actually a-and…"

Tara's confusion showed on her face. "Will, I wanted you to give up the magics. I don't understand. Are you saying you wanted me to leave? Is that's why you didn't quit?"

"No." Willow bit her lower lip, wondering how much she should confess. "You would have ended up leaving me anyway."

"Tara, you fell for a someone who was special; who could work spells. You didn't know what you were asking by trying to get me to quit."

"No Tara. You don't know what I was like. What I am like – just some computer geek, nobody really. Hell, Xander dated a woman he hated before he ever noticed me. What's that tell ya?"

"Sorry. Poor choice of words," Tara cringed. "…Point is, he did notice you eventually and it wasn't because of magic. He opened his eyes and he found a woman who was sexy and funny and loyal. He realized that maybe he could have the whole world if he took the time to notice."

Willow shook her head. "No, I don't think so. The rush of the 'forbidden' is what he found titillating most of all. It wasn't me."

"Fine then. Forget Xander. I know I loved you for a lot more reasons than just the magic. You had a magic all your own. It's still there."

"Willow, it wasn't magic that made sure Dawn was taken care of after Buffy died. Magic didn't see to me after Glory's destruction. It didn't make you pour over books researching or cracking secret government files on a computer. And it wasn't Willow Magic that made me shudder every night. It was Willow Hand," Tara said with a half-smirk. She realized instantly that perhaps flirting wasn't the best thing at the moment but Willow just pulled it out of her. Quickly she added, "You have to realize that was all you; not the magic."

"Yes I did leave. I left because OF magic. You took my memories. You didn't trust me enough to love you for you. I left because…I loved you too much to watch you destroy yourself. I tried Will," Tara sighed. "I really tried to make you see the path you were on but…I failed…Lots of failure issues here for both of us."

"Yeah," Willow muttered, her toe kicking an imaginary rock so she could avoid looking up.

"But going on a suicide mission doesn't solve them. The world still needs you Willow Rosenberg. Buffy still needs you – just like Xander and Dawn do too."

"But you don't," Willow told her, unable to still look Tara in the eye. "And you mean the world to me." Suddenly Willow felt more uncomfortable and began shifting her shoulders. "I'm not fishing for affirmation," she added quickly. "I'm just telling you the truth. At least the truth as I see it."

You have no idea how much I need you. The impulse to kiss Willow, to reassure her that she still loved her and would always love her, was overwhelming, but Tara held back. She didn't need to confuse Willow or herself for that matter. She wanted to be a part of Willow's life again. She truly did. But she needed to know that her mind would always be her own. She still couldn't say she felt certain of that. So instead she took Willow's hand cautiously in hers and her heart skipped a beat when she felt the redhead return the gentle squeeze.

Tara grinned warmly before growing serious. "But…I need to know you can give up the magics. And that I'll be safe with you…And for the record, yeah I need you too but I'm still scared."

"I mean…You may not believe it but when I fell for you I fell hard. Harder than I ever fell my whole life...I'm scared that next time around I-I won't be strong again. If you start with the magics, I might not have the s-strength to leave again. I'm not sure I can w-watch you destroy yourself. A-And until I know that you can give it up…I can't come back."

The last sentence came out more like a strangled cry. The thought of Willow's demise and how much she wanted to return touched a part of Tara she kept locked away ever since she'd left. Unable to keep her emotions at bay she began to cry, hiding her face in her hands.

Willow was at a crossroads. Did she comfort her ex-girlfriend? Or did she just let her cry it out in silence? With an uneasy stutter step, Willow moved closer and put her arms around Tara, half afraid of what the reaction might be, the other half longing for the closeness. She wondered how Tara would interpret the gesture and braced herself for a slap to the face or a boot to the shin.

When Tara's arms encompass her instead of pushing her away, Willow relaxed. Her hand began to absently stroke the back of Tara's head. The rush of how soft it felt swept over Willow and she tightened her hold.

"Gods, I love you more than life," she whispered. "Why did I lose sight of that?"

Tara tried to still her sobs but she still remained wrapped in Willow's arms. "Power," Tara sighed.

"You got caught up in the thrill of it, being able to bend things to your will," Tara said pulling away, wiping her eyes. "It's trite but true – absolute power does corrupt absolutely Willow. That power's like a drug. Some people can experiment and go on to lead normal lives. Other people…well…"

"But that doesn't mean you can't change," she said quickly. "You've been changing so much over the last few years. A-and I…I think you can do it. Anything that you set your mind to becomes reality – and not through magic. If you've truly decided to give it up Willow I know you will. I do. But it's a lot of power to give up and like I said. Power is seductive…but it's not what made me notice you."

Tara looked bashful. Oh boy, do I really want to have this discussion? "Ahh, I don't know," she chuckled.

"I know that look," Willow tisked. "You know but you're just not saying. 'Fess up. I can use a bit of levity here now."

Tara chuckled again and put her head down, hoping her blonde locks would hide her crimson cheeks.

"That's it?" Willow asked, full aware there was more Tara considered adding but stopped herself.

Tara paused a moment. She had to admit she was enjoying this remembrance for the moment. Oh what the Hell. Go on and say it.

"This is not a come on," she prefaced herself. "But…I wondered if all your hair was red."

"I am a natural redhead, you know?" Willow teased, making Tara turn even brighter.

A small quiet passed between them before Willow spoke. "I'm sorry Tara. Honest I am."

Tara considered the apology. There was a sincerity there she hadn't heard in a very long time and she gave a nod. "I know you are Will."

"A-and if I could have some way to prove it to you, to show you that I'm gonna get straightened out, that I don't need the power, I would."

"Willow," Tara sighed. "I know that things are pretty tense. But it's gonna take-."

"Yeah I get it. Buffy and Xander have pointed this out on countless occasions, I should add."

"They're good friends Willow and they still need you for things other than suicide missions."

"Yeah as my rational side takes over again I see that but…things are just so topsy turvy. I think it's from coming down off the magics – like the shakes. I go from total optimism to total despair but…I'm getting there I think. Not just for you but for me too. I want to be someone I'm proud of. I'm not sure if I can say I've ever felt that way unless I was with you."

Willow paused to collect her thoughts. She didn't want to lay any big love confessions on Tara. They finally seemed ready to talk to each other and Willow didn't want to jinx that somehow.

"I loved Oz but with you…it's deeper; it's like you're a part of me. I know I can't explain it really well but I remember times when you didn't only say I was special but I could feel you meant it. Even if it was just a glance or smirk or…I'll shut up now. Point is, I still love you and I wanted you to know. That's all Tara. Nothing else. I just…I thought you should know."

Feeling uneasy with the confession and what Tara's reaction might be Willow took a sudden interest in her shoes so she wouldn't have to look eye to eye with Tara. That's when she felt Tara reach out and stroke her face.

Tara decided to take Buffy and Dawn's advice. Allowing her guard to drop for a moment, she looked at Willow as she stood this very moment, not the witch she had become in prior months. Tara had to admit that Willow showed amazing restraint in the Bronze going to so far as to risk injury from Vamp Willow by not using magic. She was grateful when Willow looked up at her.

"I've made tough choices in my life," Tara told her. "I've faced some not so pleasant things but…leaving you really was the hardest one Will. I remember packing that night and just looking around the room. I spent most of the time wondering if I was making the right choice. Later at the dorm, I just felt numb… For days on end I just shuffled through life, not paying much attention to anything around me. I won't lie to you about how it hurt but that doesn't mean-."

"I know you can't come back. You need to be able to sort through everything," Willow said stopping her ex-lover who was on the verge of tears again. "A-And I've figured out if you want me in your life you have to be able to trust me. Stupid but I didn't stop to realize that if you had done the same thing to me – the forgetting spell – I'd be upset. I wouldn't have left…" Willow added in a mutter with a grin before continuing in a clearer voice, "But that's me and not you. A-and I can't compare my thoughts against your actions. You felt you had to go so I respect that. I don't like it but…I really wish you'd say something here to stop my babblefest because I have the overwhelming feeling that I'm gonna stick my foot in my mouth real soon a-and I-."

"Okay," Tara said with a grin. "We're not making any great strides forward but it's better than the two steps back we've been doing …Maybe the key to a truly happy life is dying and becoming a vampire. I mean we seem pretty happy leading the life of evil in vamp form," Tara quipped.

"Well Vamp Will only said those things to upset you. And even though she knew…" Tara stopped and cocked her head at Willow. "She knew," she added in a firmer voice. "How did she know?"

"Maybe they've been here awhile. Been watching us – no," she shook her head, discrediting the idea before continuing. "Even if they were watching they couldn't know all the detail about the forgetting spell. It's not like you can witness that, you know?"

"Yeah but none of the Scoobies would be chatting them up. It would have to be…."

They both knew the answer. It had to be someone within their circle that would offer up their personal information to the vampires; someone that also knew them on a personal level.

"Well yeah for obvious reasons but think about it. He came so far. Taking on Glory. Helping us…It's sad in a way…A-and besides, what's in it for him? Why help them? Vamp kinship?" Willow asked.

"I'm not sure but let's get back to the gang and compare notes. Come on," Tara said as she briefly pulled Willow toward the Bronze again.

The vampires were walking down the back alley nearly joined at the hip, their arms around each other's waists when they heard a small clap of applause from the shadows.

"Good show. I have to admit I liked that," Spike commended as he stepped into their view.

"Yeah but I noticed that Baby had both of them in the room and didn't do your spell. What was it again? Cortisone spell?"

"Cortisone is a cream that gets rid of itching. If we had poison ivy, then, yes. But the spell is called akor tures," Willow answered.

"Far too many people there, you ass. It's not like this is a quick in and out procedure like your sex life."

Tara chuckled softly against Willow's neck. "Now Sweetie," she chastised in a playful voice. "No offending Spike's stamina. Not everyone can be as blessed as us."

"Too true Kitten," Willow answered pulling Tara closer for a long tender kiss. With a contented sigh she turned back to Spike. "When the time is right," Willow told him, "we'll take care of the spell. You just take care of the Slayer. Understand William?"

Okay I'm really starting to hate this bitch. Chip or no chip. "Oh yes mistress," he teased. "Anything you say mistress. Harder. Harder mistress." He ended his rant with a smirk and lit a cigarette. "When you birds get tired of partying, the crypt's open. 'Night ladies," he called over his shoulder.

Willow glared at him a bit, not used to being talked to by a vampire in such a disobedient nature, even by one of Spike's status. Even the Drusilla of their world was her equal. She was convinced. This truly was a stupid world – even her doppelgänger had the audacity to challenge her.

Tara felt her lover's emotions and squeezed her gently. "Don't fret, Will," she soothed. "He's not worth it. Just a tool, you know."

"I'm not so worried about Spike. He's just another 'wanker' as he would say. No, I'm still more rankled at what Fuzzy said."

"Said I'd made you into an animal," Willow growled. "You're not an animal, Baby. I made sure of that."

"Of course I'm not," Tara said. "You're the best sire anyone could have, Willow. You've proved that over and over again."

Willow smiled sweetly at her companion and as they continued on their way. Willow remembered the hard, and – at times – painful steps she took to ensure that Tara's awakening would be as easy as possible for her and her mind drifted back to that evening.

The redheaded vampire sat at the edge of her bed and gently picked up the cold, alabaster hand of the still form lying on the coverlet. So peaceful, she thought, so beautiful, even in death. Willow stroked the stiff hand. She was anxious for the blonde to rise, but since her preparations were not yet complete, she hoped for a bit more time.

With a final squeeze, she laid the hand over the still chest and moved across the bedroom to a large, ornate cabinet and opened it. She selected fresh clothing for herself and with a glance at the blonde, she frowned at the contents of her cabinet…nothing in here would do for her childe.

A smallish dark-haired human scurried into the bedroom, careful to keep his eyes cast down at the floor. As he approached Willow, he slumped closer to the ground until he managed to fall to his knees at her feet.

"I need clothes," she said. "Go to that new store over on Main. I noticed some suitable things the other night."

"Not for me, Worm!" she said. "For her. Make sure you get the sizes right. 8 or 10, I'd say."

The man darted a glance at the bed and Willow stomped on his hand with one booted foot.

"Don't you dare look at her!" she hissed. "You are not worthy enough to look at her."

"Yes, Mistress!" he cried. "I'm sorry, Mistress!" he clutched his wounded hand to his chest, his eyes not daring to look any higher than her toes.

"When she awakens, you will treat her with as much respect as you do me. Is that understood, Willy-boy?"

The man shivered in fear as the vampire whispered his name. She only used it when she was preparing for some particularly horrible torture. Too frightened to answer, he could only nod his head as he continued to grovel.

"Go now," Willow continued. "Be back before nightfall. Make sure I'm well pleased with your selections for her or else I'll let you be her first meal…but not before I demonstrate a few of the more pleasant aspects of your training."

Pleasant for you, maybe, Willy thought to himself glad she could not read his mind. He bowed in obeisance to the vampire towering over him. Still on his knees, he scurried backwards towards the bedroom door, trying to imprint the brief image of the figure lying on the bed firmly in his mind so he could get the right sizes. Only when he softly closed the door behind him did he breathe a little easier.

Willow turned back to the bed, once again gazing in wonder at the sight before her. A small smile graced her lips as she remembered taking the blonde's life…taking her, being taken by her. She thought about her own turning…of the night Xander had come to her. She had welcomed him into her room, but not into her bed. That didn't matter to Xander though…he took her anyway, awakening in her a passion she never knew existed and seducing her until she begged him to give her release. Only after he first drank from where he broke her hymen and then from the pulsing artery high on her thigh did Willow understand what was happening to her and her pleas changed...not for her life, but for her death. She wanted the eternal life he was offering and she gladly accepted his gift of his own blood to her in return as she lost consciousness.

Xander had left her body there to be found by her parents the next morning. Buried before nightfall according to Jewish tradition, Willow had come awake in total darkness, gasping for air until she realized she didn't need it and reveling the new strength in her limbs as she pushed her way past wood and dirt, clawing through to her rebirth. Xander and the Master had been waiting for her, her sire and grandsire ready to teach her all they knew so she could take her place at their side in this brave new world filled with possibilities now that the Master had escaped from his prison.

And now all the work the three of them had accomplished lay in possible ruins. The Master's hold on Sunnydale had slipped. The surviving white hats were regrouping and making serious progress against them. No new slayer had arrived, but the Master felt it was only a matter of time before one did. And despite numerous attacks on them, it galled them both to know the librarian and his werewolf sidekick were still alive.

With Xander and most of his other childer and minions dusted in the factory battle, Willow was becoming even more important to the Master. To his delight, he discovered in her a shrewd tactician and strategist. Willow knew that in the aftermath of the disaster at the factory, were it not for her organizational skills, the white hats would have completed their task in eliminating them from Sunnydale. The Master knew this and rewarded his grandchilde accordingly. He was the only demon in Sunnydale that she answered to…all others leapt to do her bidding.

"No filthy grave for you, Kitten," Willow whispered to her beautiful childe, stroking the outline of her stiff cheekbones. "Willow's gonna take better care of you than that."

The thought of her Tara waking up inside a coffin made Willow's insides clench in fear and anger. She wanted to do anything she could to protect this wonderful gift she had been given. She hadn't felt this happy since before Xander was destroyed. No, she thought in wonder, I'm happier than I was with him. I think with her at my side, I can do anything…we can do anything. The possibilities are endless.

Remembering her own awakening, Willow thought of the insatiable bloodlust that had come upon her. Xander had brought a treat for her for when she rose. She remembered falling upon the bound woman as if she had been reborn an animal. It was only later that she learned to control her savage instincts. Willow hated the memory of that time…she may be a demon, but she wasn't a creature. Looking at Tara, she realized she didn't want her lover to have to go through that…she didn't want to see her beautiful goddess like that…and an idea began to form in her head.

Rising from the bed, she made her way toward the vaulted ceiling living room of her suite the Master had given her. Several minions were sitting around the room, but quickly jumped to attention upon her entrance. One who had been playing a video game was slower than the others and Willow casually stalked forward as she pointedly did not look at him.

"Round up a group of humans…at least a half dozen," she ordered. "Bring them here and chain them in the cage."

As midnight approached, Willow found herself pacing the space of her bedroom. After gorging herself on two of the humans from the cage, she was filled with energy, the fresh blood rushing though her veins like sweet nectar. Every few seconds she would glance at the blonde still lying peacefully on the bed, but Tara did not stir.

What if I did it wrong? she fussed at herself, checking the clothes Willy the Worm had brought for the dozenth time before finding something she thought was suitable. What if I'm not strong enough? What if she does rise, but as nothing more than a brainless minion…no better than that piece of waste I shoved out into the sunlight this afternoon? What if…

Willow's thoughts were interrupted by the soft whisper of skin sliding on the silk of the bedspread.

"Kitten?" she cried as she rushed for the bed. Even before she reached it, she could feel the bloodlust pouring off of Tara. As she watched in wonder, the blonde's human features were replaced by the demon's – the eyebrows pushing upwards as the brow ridges protruded and the canines lengthening into their deadly shape. A low, feral growl slowly emerged from Tara's chest as it filled with the air needed for speech, not life. The growl continued to rise in volume until Willow felt as if her eardrums would burst from the pressure.

Willow grabbed Tara as the newly risen vampire arched off of the bed and into her arms. Willow clung to her childe in a fierce embrace; her arms around the naked blonde's back pulling her close. Tara struggled to free herself, but Willow held on.

"Shhh, Baby," she soothed. "It's okay. I've got you. I'll always have you. Always."

Tara's animal growls continued. Willow ignored the stinging pain as Tara's nails clawed at her back. "Fight it, Baby," she whispered into the blonde's ear. "Control it. You're stronger than that. I know you are…you're mine!"

Willow loosened her grip, but didn't let go completed. She shifted Tara around until she could look into the yellow eyes of her lover, her forehead pressed into the other woman's.

"Willow?" Tara repeated and Willow felt a pang at Tara's pain. Resurrection is so hard on the body, she thought.

"Shhh, Baby," Willow said again. "I know what you're feeling. All us feel it when we rise."

Willow grabbed Tara's wrists and forced the blonde back to the bed as she held them tightly over her head. She pressed her body down, reveling in Tara's new strength, the hardened muscles rippling provocatively as Tara tried to free herself. Willow looked deep into Tara's eyes and felt her own features shift as she brought her will to the fore. "You will when I say, Tara!"

Tara stopped struggling and returned Willow's look. The redheaded vampire could feel the intense emotions surging through the blonde. It was Tara's instinct to feed…to replenish the body of the sustenance it so desperately needed to survive, especially after the painful process of death. Willow knew that Tara could not hold off for too long, but she knew that she had to force Tara to her will.

"Think, Baby," Willow said, allowing her own emotions to surge forth through them both, replacing Tara's hunger. "Do you remember what it was like? When I fed from you? When you fed from me?"

Willow felt Tara's lust for blood change into lust for her. Arousal swept through her body as Tara arched up to meet her.

"Oh Tara," Willow responded as she felt Tara's gift of submission wash over her and through her. "My love," she purred as she ground herself into Tara. "Tomorrow I will let you hunt. But tonight…" She leaned down traced Tara's lips with her protruding fangs, reveling in the danger. "Tonight, you'll feed from me."

As Willow loosened her grip, Tara used her newly born strength to flip the redhead over on her back. Willow grinned as she waited for Tara's next move. Having given her permission, she waited to see what Tara would do.

"You're enjoying this, aren't you, my sire?" Tara asked as she sat up and straddled Willow's hips. Willow grinned as she realized that Tara was at last in control of her emotions, just as she had wished.

"Oh yeah, Baby," Willow replied. "I have a feeling I'm gonna enjoy this for a very long time to come. Eternity, even."

Tara's hands moved sensuously over Willow's body as she teasingly removed the redhead's maroon robe. "I'm way ahead of you."

"Vixen," Willow gasped as in one swift move, Tara's fangs latched onto her neck and began slowly sucking. Oh gods, she thought feeling wave after wave of pleasure roll through her body. Heaven could not possibly be any better than this!

As Tara drank, Willow felt the blonde's hips begin to rock against her upper thigh. As a result she let her own hand wander down to her center rubbing her clit rhythmically in time with Tara's sucking, straining for her own orgasm. Although it had only been a few moments, Willow could feel the blonde ready to burst with sexual excitement and that in turn aroused her even more than her own hand. Oh yes, the Master will like this one indeed, Willow thought as Tara continued to take all she could from the red head. And if not, I'll stake him myself.

Willow knew at that moment she would not let this prize get away under any circumstance. As Tara's orgasm began to course through her, Willow watched the blonde pull up, arching her back.

It was music to Willow's ears – a mix of sexual and feeding satisfaction. Her lover collapsed next to her well fed and sexually spent. Willow on the other hand…

She wasn't finished, not yet. She rolled Tara's exhausted body over and began to slide against Tara's thigh, burying her fingers in Tara's hair at both sides of her temples as she rode the woman. Tiny droplets from the bite dripped down to Tara's chest. Willow began to lick them off, tasting the mix of her blood and Tara's undead flesh. Watching her sire above her created a new arousal within Tara and soon she flipped the redhead onto her back. Without comment or permission she shot to Willow's center, her tongue lapping wildly.

Willow's hands moved to the back of Tara's head, praising her, coaxing her. The waves began to build higher and higher until Willow too crested, her hips coming off the bed, straining for every bit of pleasure she could get.

"Oh Kitten," Willow sighed, reaching down to pull Tara beside her, even as she still felt the contractions deep within her.

The blonde complied and cuddled next to her sire as if waiting for her next command. Willow was pleased with the feeling of contentment that she felt oozing from her lover just as the life-force that feeding her did moments before.

"Thank you," Tara said softly, snuggling closer into Willow's arms. "For letting me feed. For keeping your promise. For giving me life for the first time."

Willow found herself kissing the crown of Tara's head with a feeling she hadn't known for ages – real contentment and peace. This woman was the one, she was sure.

Hours and many orgasms later, Willow left Tara sleeping peacefully in their bed, gently slipping from the hold that Tara had on her.

Our bed. The thought made Willow smile. She was never much of a cuddler but she loved being cuddled. She was grateful that once more Tara fit the bill by wrapping her arm around her before drifting off to sleep.

As Tara slept, Willow went to feed one last time before she too succumbed to exhaustion. Tara had left her feeling weak, but strangely energized. Each time they came together, Willow could feel the bond between them growing stronger.

"Are you alright, Mistress?" one of the minions asked softly from the shadows of the basement.

Willow allowed the corpse to drop to the floor and wiped her lips as her face shifted back to normal.

"Clean up this mess," she ordered, knowing never to reveal herself to anyone. Except for Tara. She felt giddy at the thought.

"Yes, Mistress," he replied, and then stepped forward, his posture bowed. "I have a message from the Master, Mistress."

"The Master wishes you well with your new childe, Mistress. He bids you to bring her to him when you feel she is ready for polite society. Mistress Drusilla has arrived this very evening back in Sunnydale and wishes to also meet her."

Willow's mind raced with the information. So…the Master's spies have already informed him of Tara's existence. And Dru's back in town. Why now?

Willow nodded at the minion. "Inform the Master that we shall attend him at the mansion tomorrow night. And send Drusilla my regards along with something pretty as a welcome gift."

Willow thought about taking him to task for questioning her, but decided the rumors this one would undoubtedly start would serve her better. Even among demons, legends are more feared than facts.

Polite society indeed, Willow fumed as she made her way back up the stairs and to the bedroom. How dare he? My Tara has style and grace and a much better teacher in the ways of vampirism than I ever had I must say.

She pulled the heavy drapes closed in anticipation of the coming dawn and then allowed the silken robe to slip from her bare shoulders as she joined her beautiful blonde under the covers.

So sweet, she sighed, wrapping her arms around Tara and pulling her into a close embrace as she settled back against the pillows. Tara even in her unconsciousness understood what Willow wanted and likewise wrapped her arms around her lover's waist. Willow knew that as her grandsire, it was within the Master's rights to stake Tara in an instant should he find her unworthy. Of course she would never let that happen.

By presenting Tara to him earlier than was expected, Willow was showing off her prowess as a sire…strutting before the Master like a cock in a hen house. If the Master found Tara unworthy, then Willow's standing would slip considerably. But Willow knew different. She knew Tara. And chances were he would be as smitten with her as she was.

You'll be ready, Kitten, she thought. First you'll hunt and then we'll go see the Master. He can't help but find you worthy. You're my everything.

Finally relaxing after such an eventful night, Willow drifted off to sleep as the sun began to show on the horizon.

"Tara?" the girl said as she opened the door. Willow recognized her from the image in Tara's mind.

"Tracy," Tara said, her voice low, a small smile gracing her lips. "Hey. This is Willow. Can we come in?"

"Ummm, I was just going out for some dinner," the girl said. Willow could feel the girl inspecting her, sizing her up as a potential rival. Willow felt a flash of anger at how this one had treated her Tara, but she carefully controlled her expression, simply returning the girl's look.

"So were we," Tara answered. "We won't take long. Just wanted to pop in for a short visit. What d'ya say?"

Willow smiled as she entered the room. Her kitten had passed the first test. She could feel Tara fighting her instinct to simply grab the woman and sink her teeth into her. While fun, that method was sloppy and only drew attention, especially in such a public place as a dormitory. Willow silently applauded Tara's restraint and success in getting an invite.

As Willow moved to sit in the only armchair in the small room, Tracy looked at Tara curiously.

"Are you okay, Tar?" she asked. "You look like you're feeling better. A little pale, but I guess that's expected after you were sick."

"Oh yes," Tara answered, moving slowly around the woman as if sizing her up. For a meal, Willow thought giddily. Tara's actions were unconsciously reflecting her inner sensuality. Willow had recognized that hidden trait in Tara the first time she had laid eyes on her, but now it was bared for all to see. Tracy obviously saw it also, but Willow could sense it was a little frightening to her. She must like Tara meek and mild.

"I'm much better now," Tara said, moving around to face Tracy again. "Thanks to Willow. She made me allllll better."

Willow smiled lazily. "Something like that. Tara herself had a lot to do with it, didn't ya, Baby?"

Tracy frowned. "What…what can I do for you? Do you need notes for the classes you've missed?"

"No," Tara answered. "Willow's gonna be teaching me everything I'll need to know from now on. And…I think there's a few things I can teach her, too."

"Then what?" Tracy asked. The young woman wasn't sure what to make of this change she felt in Tara and it showed on her face. Willow only grinned at the private joke – she knew the answer and soon enough Tracy would find out too.

Tracy frowned at Tara's words. Willow could smell the fear escalating from the girl. And something else as well. Willow giggled to herself. Oh, my baby is good. Very good. Not only is she turning me on, she's turning the girl on.

"Uh Tara…I don't…" Tracy looked uncomfortably at Willow who blew her a kiss.

Tara laughed. "Oh Sweetie. Did you really think after all the nights you spent teasing me…leaving me frustrated and having to get myself off all alone I'd really want you now? That after tasting the wonderful goddess sitting over there, I'd still want you?"

"Tara, I think you better go now," Tracy said, beginning to move towards the door.

Tara stalked her prey softly, yet swiftly as her demon face emerged. Tracy let out a small scream that was quickly cut off by Tara's hand pressing against her lips. Willow felt her own demon's face rising out of excitement at the scene before her.

"I'm going to take you, Tracy," Tara whispered to the terrified girl. "But not the way I wanted to before. I'm going to sink into your flesh and suck you dry. It'll hurt and you'll die, but that's your gift to me. Payback's a bitch, ain't it?"

With that, Tara pulled the girl's head back, exposing her juggler vein. Letting free a feral growl, Tara sank her fangs deep into the girl. Willow found it to be too much and she darted from her chair to join in Tara's feast on the other side of Tracy's neck.

As the blood poured down her throat, sweeter than any wine she ever tasted, Willow felt Tara's hand stroke the back of her head and she began to do the same to her lover. As they consumed the last of Tracy they unceremoniously let the young woman fall lifeless to the ground as their faces contorted back to their human forms. Tara wiped her lips on the back of her finger, cleaning up the remaining trail. Willow watched as Tara put the finger in her own mouth, sucking it clean, thinking it was the most erotic thing she'd ever witnessed in her life.

"You're a natural Kitten. Well done…Doesn't matter if it is an orgy of death, there's still such a thing as a napkin." Willow remarked, stepping over Tracy's limp body to pull Tara over by the waistband of the leather pants that clung to her curves. "And now you've got nowhere to go but forward."

Tara leaned down capturing Willow in a demanding kiss, which Willow responded to in kind. Soon the kissing led to undressing and naked they tumbled to the unmade bed.

Willow pulled back for a brief moment. "Did she tease you on this bed Kitten?" Willow asked in a child-like, sympathetic voice. "Leaving you high and not so dry?"

"Well don't worry," Willow said with a seductive smirk. "Like you said, Willow's gonna make it alllll better. Tonight…Before we go to meet the Master…I'll make sure you come in her bed."

Spike took a deep breath before he raised his hand to knock on the door before him. Just shy of making connection, the door swung open.

She wore a lazy grin. "Speak of the devil," she said in a voice far too chipper for his liking. He knew something was askew.

It wasn't a shock when he felt himself being dragged into the house by the lapel of his jacket and slammed against the wall near the staircase. He watched Willow close the door behind them with all the damn Scoobies in the living room.

He wore a silly grin as he turned back to Buffy. "A round of rough and tumble luv," he cooed. "Sure your friends want to see this?"

"Shut up Spike," Buffy answered, pushing him against the wall, pulling a stake out from behind her, and pushing it over his heart. "Give me one good reason why I shouldn't do this right now?"

He just grinned and instantly Buffy regretted the question. She knew he could tell all of them – Willow, Tara, Dawn, Xander, Anya – about the trysts she'd recently come to know with the vampire. She watched as he shifted his shoulders on the verge of saying what he wanted yet holding back. He licked his lips and instead of spouting things about their affair simply said, "I've got information you need."

"No shit Sherlock," Xander remarked. "Just do it and get it over with," he called from over Buffy's shoulder, egging her on to stake him. "You can't trust what he says anyway."

"Are you two willing to take that chance?" Spike asked Willow and Tara, totally ignoring Xander's rant.

Tara walked over and gently touched Buffy on the shoulder, sliding next to her to stand in front of Spike.

Tara's slap echoed through the entire house and Spike's head shot in the opposite direction, his face stinging from the blow. He turned back around wide-eyed to see the resolve on the Wiccan's face.

"How could you?" she asked him. "After all those months of helping us and…" Tara stopped herself when Spike turned away from her gaze. She grabbed him by the chin and turned him to look at her. "We believed in you."

The slap was nothing compared to the pain of her comment although he'd never admit it. Instead of letting it show, the walls went up around him and gave her a cocky grin.

"Sorry the people in your life's been letting you down Pet. But don't take all those frustrations out on me," he told her, sparing a glance to Willow who stood in the hallway behind the blonde women facing him.

The trick might have worked for Vamp Willow on her ex-lover but Tara wasn't about to let Spike work her into a tizzy.

"Who said anything about selling you out?" he countered, trying to delay while he processed his thoughts. Stupid bitch must've spilled the beans on me, he thought. "I don't know what you're bloody talking about."

"Come on Spike," Willow said. "You're the only one who could have told them about the memory spell."

"Told who?" he asked innocently. "I'm good at keepin' secrets, ain't that right, Slayer?"

Buffy thrust her forearm into Spike's windpipe, cutting off his words. "You damn well know who, Spike. Now spill! Tell us what you know about them."

Spike gagged in an attempt to speak until finally Buffy relented and loosened her hold. Spike looked into her eyes as he cleared his throat and knew she was in no mood for games.

"Alright, fine then, but would you mind moving the stake, luv? Makes a fella of my persuasion a bit edgy, know what I mean?"

Buffy nodded as she released Spike and the gang moved back into the living room.

"Well," Spike began, pulling out a cigarette and then letting out a small sigh when Buffy grabbed them and threw them on the table. "Imagine my surprise when these two birds show up on my doorstep? Thought for a moment that they'd been turned…broke my heart, it did."

"Tis true, pet," Spike said. "Like I told your double, I'm the only one who has the right to sire you and I'll break in half any bugger who tries."

Spike shrugged. "Place to crash. Took a real fancy to some of the more interesting equipment in the basement of my crypt, they did. Say, you two like to play the same way? Cause…judging from the noise Blondie was making, you both must be real wildcats."

Tara glanced at Willow, her face darkening with blood. She looked ready to slap Spike again. He realized it and continued.

"Alright, fine," he sighed. "Knew it bloody wouldn't happen anyway, but they promised to magic away the chip in return for a little distraction."

"Keep you busy, Slayer, while they perform a little mojo on the two witches here. Say! Perhaps you gals can help out a bit…they said all it would require was a wee teleportation spell. Seems like if you can teleport a bitch goddess away, you can get rid of this tiny thing in my head."

"Sorry Spike," Tara said, sounding anything but. "Willow can't do magic anymore and I don't have that kind of power or control. Half your brain would go out the door as well and that would leave you with nothing at all."

Spike blinked at the insult. "Yeah, well, you think you could be a little more grateful, seeing as how I'm helping out the bloody Scoobies, yet again!"

"Helping, Spike?" Willow asked. "You call airing our dirty laundry with a couple of evil creatures helping? What is that? Some kind of vampiric bonding thing? Bloodsucker solidarity? Did they let you join them for supper perhaps? Or how about a little 'play action' in the dungeon?"

"Ease up, Red," Spike said, wondering just how many buttons he could push before the witch snapped like a twig. "I said I'd help you. Your bitch double's starting to get on my nerves anyway. Nothing she's got is worth the crap she gives out."

"Some kind of spell to drain the witches here of their power," he said, nodding his head toward Willow and Tara.

"Unless they have our total cooperation, the An etay akor tures spell will kill us," Tara said, sitting heavily on the couch.

"Bloody hell!" he swore. "They promised they wouldn't hurt any of the Scoobies."

He shrugged. "Other that describing what they like to do in my basement, I don't think so. Unless you two would care to share?"

"Then get out Spike," Buffy ordered. "Pretend like you were never here. We'll contact you when we're ready."

After leaving the campus and stopping at their suite for a change of clothes, Willow and Tara made their way to the mansion in a leisurely fashion. Despite Willow's outward calm, Tara sensed her sire's nervousness. The emotions were running high in Willow and Tara was naturally curious about the rest of the evening's events. She was reluctant to question Willow at this time, but Willow's mood was beginning to affect her as well.

Willow sighed. "Nothing you need to worry about, Kitten. I want you to be yourself tonight."

Tara looked at Willow and knew her sire was hiding something from her. She thought about probing through their connection, but decided to let it go, willing to trust Willow on this. If this is another test, she thought, I want to prove myself to her on my own. I want her to be proud of me.

Willow smiled at her. "I'm already proud of you, my love," she said affectionately.

Tara would have blushed if she could have, but the sweet smile she gave Willow ran though the redhead like a forest fire.

"You look wonderful, Kitten," Willow added, looking appreciatively at her childe. Underneath a long, leather coat, Tara was dressed in dark leather pants, boots and a diaphanous silk blouse that left very little to the imagination. Her long hair was left unbound to flow in the breeze and her pale face only accentuated the ruby red of her lips. Willow could feel herself growing aroused again. What you do to me, you vixen! She chuckled to herself, willing Tara to pick up the thought.

The pair continued on in relative silence through the night, absently holding hands as they made their way up Crawford Street to the large mansion at the top of the hill.

"Nice neighborhood," Tara commented. "The university student handbook warned us to stay away from here. I just assumed it was like an inner-city ghetto from the way they described it."

Willow laughed. "What else are they gonna say? Watch out for the crack ho vampires? No, Kitten. The mansion is the center of the Master's stronghold. He rules from here and anyone stupid enough to wander near wouldn't last long…even in the daytime with the human slaves keeping guard. The Master is well protected. Even the White Hats can't get close to him here."

"White Hats?" Tara asked, her mind whirling with even this little information that Willow was imparting. She knew she had so much to learn and strengthened her resolve to keep her wits about her tonight. Thank the goddess they had already fed well.

Willow's tone turned dark. "Goody-goody humans who dare to interfere in our business. They're led by a busybody librarian from the high school. He was the one who summoned the Slayer who killed Xander. I'm going to eat him for that…after I'm done with him."

Tara didn't know exactly Willow would do but by the glimmer in the redhead's eyes she knew it wouldn't be good…for him. Soon another thought occurred to Tara. Slayer?

"Vampire Slayer," Willow remarked as if Tara said the word out loud. "Just another White Hat, only stronger than normal. There's only one in the world and when one dies another is called…blah, blah, blah. The Master killed the one who got Xander so they can't be that tough."

Willow nodded, anticipating Tara's next question, delighting in how sharp Tara's mind was. Her kitten knew to ask the right questions.

"Very old," Willow said. "Centuries. Other than Drusilla, he's the oldest vampire I know."

"She's very special, Kitten," Willow smiled. "I think you'll like her. She's taught me a lot of what I plan on teaching you."

Tara shivered at the tone in Willow's voice; the implied promise frightened her a little, but excited her as well.

The two vampires walked up the path to the entrance of the towering mansion, and Tara could not help but wonder if its occupant was as imposing. With her newly born senses, she could tell there were many of the undead close by. Minions, Tara thought, remembering what Willow had called the fawning creatures back at the suite who seemed to jump at Willow's every command. Lesser vampires who serve more powerful ones. Like my Willow.

"Do they always show their demon face?" Tara asked, looking at one of the guards who held the carved wooden doors open for them as they walked into the foyer. Tara noted how he bowed respectfully before them, especially Willow.

"There's very little human left in them, my love," Willow replied. "Makes it hard for them to hunt since they can't blend in. Sometimes a minion can raise itself to a higher position, but that's rare…depends more on who made them. They make good foot soldiers, spear carriers, cannon fodder…there'll always be more."

Tara thought again as another minion took their coats. "And I?" she asked. "What am I?"

Willow smiled tenderly at the blonde and gently caressed her soft cheek, relishing the close contact of their bodies. "You're my childe…my mate…my everything. When you are at my side Kitten, there's very little in this world you need fear. Always remember that and act accordingly. Understand?"

Tara nodded as she leaned in to Willow's caress. Willow moved forward and captured Tara's full lips in a passionate kiss, certain now that her childe would pass the tests required of her this evening.

After a few minutes, she moved away and sensuously moved her hand down Tara's silk-clad arm to take her cool hand in hers. "Let's go," she breathed, her body still on fire from the kiss.

Tara smirked and, feeling more confident, nodded to the minion waiting on them to lead the way.

The minion brought them through the vaulted living room and through a pair of open French doors into a pleasant courtyard. The area was lit with hanging paper lanterns and the sweet smell of night-blooming jasmine filled the air. Tara's senses also picked up the faint echo of heartbeats and she noticed several humans clustered in a group in one corner of the garden being watched over by minions.

Suddenly forgetting the humans, Tara was flooded with new sensations…awe and fear at the top of the list. Focusing on the large, ornate throne sitting at a prominent place in the courtyard, she knew without asking that this was the Master.

Tara felt as if her childhood nightmares of death had suddenly leapt into reality. The Master radiated power and strength, confidence and humor. His features were sharp and harsh; more vampiric than her own…as if he were Vampire personified. And yet, he radiated a certain compelling beauty. She looked on him the same way a human would look upon a respected elder, as if the wizened face of the Master was his mark of age and experience.

"Ah! Willow, my dear," he said raising himself from his throne and holding out his hand. "How good of you to attend me this evening."

Willow stepped forward and politely offered her hand to him to kiss. "How good of you to have us, Master."

"Your company is always a pleasure, my sweet," he said holding her hand in both of his. Tara looked at his long claws in fascination as they gently caressed Willow's white skin.

"Tara," the Master whispered as he let go of Willow's hand and took Tara's. "A strong and mighty tower."

Tara felt her throat dry up with fear…she could feel the Master's presence moving inside her and instinctively knew he was judging her. Strengthening her resolve, she willed herself to speak. "May I prove so for Willow and you, Master."

"Indeed?" he asked, looking deeply into her eyes. "Tell me, Tara, where are you from? I'm sure I would have noticed a prime specimen such as yourself before now so you surely can't been a local?"

"North of here, Master," she replied, uncomfortable with the line of questioning. She didn't want to share her past with anyone, especially this creature, but she felt compelled to answer him.

Tara felt Willow's presence nearby as her mind churned in turmoil. She was ready to tell the Master everything…about her father's abuse and her brother, but thinking of Willow she found the strength to resist. "Willow's here, Master," she finally answered. "Here is the only place I belong."

"Thank you, Master," Willow smiled, taking Tara's hand again and squeezing in gentle reassurance. Tara could feel the relief in her sire and noted to herself to ask Willow about what had just transpired later when they were alone. She knew she had passed the Master's test, but if she were to be a player in this game, she'd need to know the rules.

Willow could sense Tara's annoyance, but simply smiled at her with a wry quirk of her eyebrow as the Master led them towards the group of humans.

"Well," he began. "I can smell that you've already dined well tonight my dears, but perhaps I can offer you both a bit of refreshment? Willow? I believe you have a preference for Chinese?"

Tara watched as a minion dressed in a stylized servant's garb approached an Asian woman. Another minion held her tight while the first used a scalpel to deftly open the vein in her wrist, allowing the rich blood to drain into a large golden goblet he held carefully underneath as the woman whimpered in pain.

"And you, Tara?" the Master asked. "What do you have a taste for? A Mexican beauty from just south of the border? Or perhaps a smooth French tart?"

Tara looked over the selection. "Mexican, if you will Master. I prefer my women spicy rather than saucy."

The Master gave a hearty laugh as another minion jumped to fill the order. "I myself do prefer a good smorgasbord. Variety is the spice of life, I say."

Watching Willow, Tara carefully controlled her features as she sipped from the warmed goblet. The aroma and taste of the fresh hot blood filled her senses and she closed her eyes in pleasure. Opening them again, she saw Willow looking at her and again she sensed how pleased her sire was with her. She remembered Willow's lessons from the night before and realized why Willow had at times been very forceful with her, insisting she control herself as she drank of the sweet nectar from Willow's veins.

"Yes," the Master continued as he drank from his own goblet moving away to sit once again in his throne now that business was taken care of. "Willow has taught you well, my dear. But I sense that in you she found a good student."

Willow joined in the laughter, but before she could respond another voice cut through the night.

"She was wasting her time with that bunch of wanna blessed bees. Isn't that right, Kitten?"

Tara turned toward the newcomer and immediately realized whom she was. Willow had said Drusilla was special, but at the time Tara did not realize what her sire had meant by that. Tara instantly knew that the woman approaching them was a seer – her mother had been one and Tara could feel the same vibrations coming from the older vampire. Drusilla might be mad, but Tara instinctively knew the woman deserved her respect.

"That's right. Mistress Drusilla, I presume?" Tara answered, trying to impress yet stay respectful under the scrutiny of the Master's eyes.

Drusilla simply nodded her head and offered her hand, which Tara took, giving a brief shake and a slight bow of respect. With a gentle smile Tara continued. "Nowadays every girl with a henna tattoo and a spice rack thinks she's a sister to the dark ones."

"But not you, Kitten," Drusilla purred. "You're the real thing. Tell me, do you like stars?"

"Ohh! Show me!" Drusilla cooed in her little singsong voice as she led Tara to the center of the courtyard in a little dance.

"Well, there's the big pineapple," Tara pointed out as Willow and the Master watched in amusement. Soon however, Willow sensed her grandsire's attention turn back to her and she looked away from the laughing couple. Without being told Willow approached the Master so they could speak more privately.

"She's a witch, Willow?" the Master asked, his tone dark. "That was the power I felt?"

"Yes Master," Willow answered. "Hereditary witch, I believe. I haven't spoken about it with her yet. We've been otherwise…occupied."

"No doubt," the Master snorted. "She is a morsel. Keep her safe, my dear. She'll serve you well…or destroy us all."

"She already serves me well," Willow smirked. "And I think the only destroying that will happen is with a few White Hats – starting with a certain bookworm who's a wanna be Watcher."

The Master chuckled at Willow's tone, trying to remain carefree. Yet still, Willow could feel an uncertainty brewing in her Master. "I've known a few vampire witches in my day, Willow. They're rare, but they can become quite powerful. You need to be certain which side she's on."

"She's on my side," Willow told the Master looking him deep in the eyes. "I don't even know if she still retains her power. Now that she's no longer human, the point might be moot," Willow knew there was much the Master was not saying but she didn't press, not now.

"Miss Edith likes your new precious," Drusilla said to Willow as the pair returned. Tara wondered who Miss Edith was when suddenly an image of a porcelain-faced doll formed in her head. She glanced at Willow whose expression remained serious despite the amusement radiating from her.

"Thank Miss Edith for me." Willow leaned up to kiss Drusilla's cheek. "Welcome back, Dru. How was your trip?"

"A nightmare I'd rather forget," Willow said. Again an image formed in Tara's mind, this time of her Willow, but rosy-cheeked and dressed in a fuzzy pink sweater. She added it to the list of things to ask Willow about later.

"Thank you, but no Master," Willow answered. "It grows late and we've had a long night. We are both weary."

"Of course," the Master said and stood up. Before he could summon a minion a shrill scream cut through the peaceful night.

"Oh!" Drusilla cried, clutching one of the humans and staring into her face. Tara could see that the woman was thin with light chocolate skin. "She comes. She comes. She wants to kill us all."

"Her!" Drusilla said, her face morphing into its demon form. The frightened human screamed in terror. "Her! The girl. The one girl. She comes to kill us all."

"Slayer," Willow whispered as Drusilla tore into the woman's throat, cutting off her screams.

"A slayer," the Master said, anger in his voice. "Take care of it, Willow. Immediately. We don't need another disaster."

"And I think this would be a good opportunity to test your new plaything. See if she does have any real potential. If not, then you'd better find another use for her…fertilizer for the jasmine, perhaps?"

"Yes, Master," Willow repeated. Tara could feel her sire carefully controlling her emotions.

"Come on, Kitten," Willow said after the Master had stalked away and Drusilla wandered off after finishing her meal. "Let's go home and prepare."

Tara held her questions until they had cleared the mansion gates. She simply allowed Willow to collect their coats, the redhead making sure to help her with hers. Once they were away from listening ears Tara began to speak.

Willow knew what Tara was going to ask. She made a promise that no harm would come to Tara and as the blonde's sire she was going to keep it.

Willow stopped walking and turned to face Tara. "Why did you give up your waking life? Why did you join me? Just for kicks?"

"No!" Tara said as she quickly shook her head. "I…I don't understand it all Willow but…"

"It's karmic Tara. We belong together in any life, by any means. I feel it," Willow said closing her eyes and taking a deep breath and blowing it out. "You feel it too."

"Don't you think I feel the same? Master or no master. Nobody messes with my girl. Nobody."

There was a finality to Willow's voice that told Tara not to protest. Willow was quite serious and would drain the bastard who would dare try to harm her – even if that someone happened to be the Master. Tara knew if any bad were to befall her that the guilty party would be sure to feel Willow's wrath. It was something that Tara never experienced before – someone willing to fight, kill and die for her. Yes her mother loved her but not enough to find a way to stop her father's abuse. For the first time Tara fit with someone, with something, and she couldn't help but smile.

Willow found herself grinning in response before nodding toward the other side of the street. "Let's call it a night Kitten," she said casually.

Before she could take another step forward Willow felt the crossbow bolt slice through her ribcage, just inches from her heart. She shoved Tara from the sidewalk and toward the small bushes.

"Stay down!" Willow warned as she joined Tara in the cover of the foliage, trying to determine the location of the shooter.

Suddenly a green light began to flicker from the rooftop across from them and Willow smirked as she yanked the arrow out of her chest. She saw the image of a young woman looking at her glowing skin as she quickly tried to hide. The light however was too bright and Willow could still see it as the girl jumped to the next rooftop. With that much speed and strength the girl was a demon, a vampire or a slayer. Her money was on the latter.

"Come Tara," Willow said taking her hand. "Time to bag our first Slayer and show the Master how truly powerful you are."

Willow looked up to find Tara standing in the doorway of her bedroom. She could tell the blonde had been deep in thought.

"Oh yeah, sorry," Willow said remembering her manners and moving to sit on the end of her bed. "Have a seat," she motioned. She watched Tara close the bedroom door and then lock it, confused by the privacy Tara was seeking. She knew whatever it was that chances are what Tara had to say was bad.

Tara paused a moment to collect her thoughts. Finally she whispered, "I'm scared Will."

"No," Tara shook her head. "It's not you Willow. It's Spike. What he said tonight about the vamps…I've been pouring over the books and I've found something but…I don't know if I can pull it off and our lives depend on it."

"Oh," Willow said closing the History of Civilization textbook she'd been reading. "Well if anyone can pull it off, I know it's you."

When she turned around to face Tara again she found that the woman had moved and was now standing about a foot in front of her. Nervously she licked her lips and cleared her throat, unsure of what to say next. When she felt Tara reach down and stroke her face every nerve endings seemed to crackle instantly at the contact.

"Uh, Tara?" she asked again, nervous that she might do something inappropriate by having the woman so close to her. "Not that I'm complaining but…what are you doing?"

The reply was lost as Tara descended upon Willow, both of their bodies crashing to the bed, their lips locked against each other's. As Tara pulled back slightly she planted a few light kisses on Willow's ear. The redhead kept her hands on Tara's hips not daring to move them for fear of chasing her off.

"Please…don't refuse me," Tara begged softly in Willow's ear. "I never stopped wanting you."

This wasn't right. Of course it felt wonderful but maybe it was the stress and the blonde wasn't thinking clearly. She didn't want Tara to have morning after regret, knocking them a few strides back after they had come so far in the past week.

"Baby, no," Willow said, pulling Tara up to come eye to eye with her. "God I can't believe I'm saying this but…not now. Not yet."

"Now," Tara whispered, taking Willow's hands and pinning them to the bed. "Don't deny me. I need you," she added as she began to nuzzle Willow's neck.. "So warm. So soft," she sighed. "I'd forgotten how soft you feel."

"Love never is easy Will. You know that. Give me tonight. Give me the strength to see this through."

Tara silenced her with a kiss and then another and then another. She began to nibble on Willow's earlobe. "God I've missed your body," the blonde sighed.

All pretense of being chivalrous left and Willow found herself unable to deny Tara. If having her is truly what Tara wanted she'd give her that, the consequences be damned. With much strength and determination Willow broke free and rolled Tara over until she was on top.

Tara smirked as she gently pushed Willow's hair behind her ear. "Oh yes," she sighed.

Willow couldn't help but grin as she allowed her pent up desire to slowly release. The grin faded and a look of intent crossed her face. If the woman wanted her she'd have her.

It only took a few moments but suddenly they were both naked – squeezing and suckling each other's flesh in a heated frenzy. Willow closed her eyes as she felt Tara's hand snake down to her sex, giving her the friction she craved.

Suddenly Tara's fingertips were on her clit, making a circular motion and Willow felt her hips rise off the bed in response. It was only a matter of a few minutes but Willow felt the waves rising higher and higher.

Willow didn't need much prompting. She was more than willing to take what was being offered and she too let her fingertips dance across Tara's sex.

The redhead darted up in bed to find she was totally alone, no Tara, no naked goodness – just alone. Confused she looked over to the door to see Buffy standing there.

"We gotta get an early start today," the slayer told her. "Rise and shine while I wake up Tara and Dawn."

She watched Buffy walk back out and all she could do was fall back against the mattress. Willow sighed in frustration and her body still humming from the dream. She'd been on the edge of orgasm and without release anytime soon it was destined to be a very long day.

"Couldn't give me five more minutes, could you?" Willow asked to no one in particular as she angrily tore the covers from her body and made her way to the bathroom.

Tara knew she was dreaming. The thought kept running through her mind, but it brought her no comfort. She was trapped – helpless within the confines of her subconscious and powerless to wake up. She was standing in Willow's room, the redhead smiling before her, her white shirt shining through the darkness. Outside the windows gray storm clouds roiled through the sky, filling the air with the acrid smell of ozone that reminded Tara of blood.

Power, Willow said in her mind. It all comes down to power, Tara. You have it…I want it…and I'll take it.

No! Tara cried. Her throat constricted in fear. Willow! Please, you have to listen.

Listen? Willow laughed. I've been listening to you for years now. On and on and on. Magic is pure. Magic is sacred. Yada yada yada…Why not make it simple? Just give me your power…I'll take care of you for the rest of your life. You'll never have to worry again.

Tara let out a sarcastic laugh even though the fear was threatening to overwhelm her. How? By making me your slave? Is that what you want, Willow? A mindless automaton that caters to your every need? Why don't you just have that Warren guy build you your own Tarabot, complete with various attachments? 'Cause that's not me, Willow.

Willow smiled and Tara gasped when her ex-lover's face turned even paler in the darkness and her eyes and hair blackened until it seemed the whole world had turned black. I don't need that, Tara. I have you.

Tara turned the corner of the hallway, cutting off the rest of Willow's words. Instead of finding the top of the stairs, she suddenly was running in the woods, stumbling over roots and other obstacles that threatened to trip her. Behind her she could hear Willow making her slow, but steady way towards her.

Tara tried to focus on staying upright, but she felt the rush of Willow's power surround her and she tripped.

Sweat dripped down her forehead and into eyes already stinging with tears. She tried to rise but she felt a boot push her back to the ground and she rolled over to see Willow standing over her. Instinctively she began to back up, crawling on the palms of her hands and soles of her feet, refusing to turn her back on the witch. As Willow stalked toward her, a vision of darkness with her black hair, black eyes and black clothing, Tara thought for a moment that her heart would stop. Oh goddess, no…please. Tara silently thought to herself. This is only a dream. Willow would never…

Wanna bet, Tara? Willow smiled as she stopped in front of her. It's all about power, you know. Give me your power now…or I'll just take it. Either way, you're mine. The vamps? Ha, they're nothing. Just bit players in their own power game. They came here for our power…but we can take theirs. And we'll be together forever. You know you want it.

Willow, please! I want forever but not like this, Tara begged. You don't want this either. You're…you're not a bad person. And what about your friends…the Scoobies? If you do this, if you take me against my will, then you'll lose them. You don't want that. I know you, Willow…

Tara could feel the rage rising up in Willow, rising to the surface like some ugly, noisome boil coming to a head. She could feel it rushing towards her like the rush of a train speeding closer and she was helplessly trapped, unable to move out of the way. It was coming and there was nothing that was going to stop it.

Tara jumped up in the bed, her heart hammering in her chest, threatening to burst out.

Tara looked at the clear sky beyond the windows of Dawn's room. She looked at the frightened Slayer and nodded. "Bad…dream," she breathed after a moment, her panting finally slowing down.

"Sounded more like a nightmare," Buffy said, taking the blonde's sweaty hand. "Sorry I didn't wake you sooner."

"I'll be okay," Tara said. "It's only a dream, right? Willow's not doing magic?"

Buffy paused a moment and looked at the shaking woman. A feeling of sadness and anger washed over her. Willow had it all and she pissed it away. Buffy knew that Tara loved her best friend dearly but not unconditionally to the point she'd let herself be controlled and manipulated. And now the woman who had brought Tara such joy terrorized her in her dreams, maybe even in her waking life although she probably wouldn't admit it out loud. Buffy could tell that Tara needed reassurance that Willow wasn't the monster she saw in her dreamscape.

"You'd tell me wouldn't you? I mean if Willow was on the magics again you'd say something?"

"I would," Buffy nodded. "But she really isn't Tara and even if it doesn't feel like it, you're safe with Willow."

"Because I know Willow. She's a good person. She just thinks with her heart and not her head sometimes but I can assure you that you're safe here. And she's clean Tara. Honest."

"I know I'm right," Buffy grinned. "Slayer sense and all that," Buffy smiled. "Why don't you get ready and meet us downstairs for breakfast."

It was spoken more as a command than a question and Tara nodded and pulled herself from the covers as Buffy left.

Breakfast turned into a quiet affair. Willow and Tara ate in silence. In fact they hardly looked at each other. And as far as eye contact – that didn't happen at all. They were both still haunted by their early morning dreams and feeling uncomfortable as a result. Dawn shot Buffy a glance and silently asked with a casual wave toward the witches what was happening. Buffy sensed the uneasiness too and understood exactly what Dawn meant. She could only shrug nonchalantly. She understood Tara's mood given how the woman woke up but she couldn't understand what had Willow so quiet.

Damn, Dawn thought with a sigh. And they were doing so good. What the heck happened?

Back at their suite, Tara gently removed Willow's bloodstained clothing and tended to the angry-looking wound.

"You're not acting as if it does!" Tara said, angry with the person who dared to hurt her beloved.

"The pain isn't important, Kitten," Willow explained. "What's important is finding the bitch and killing her."

Willow watched as Tara continued to minister to her, carefully cleaning the puncture wound that was already healing. "Tara?" she asked when the blonde had finished. "What did you do tonight?"

"You mean the spell?" Tara asked and then shrugged at Willow's nod. "A simple reveal spell. I focused it on the last person to touch the bolt that hit you. It can also be used to find lost objects, missing pets, stuff like that."

"Sure, I've got several spellbooks full of them back at my dorm. Most of the books were my mother's, but she discouraged me from using dark magic. Since I came to Sunnydale, I did acquire a couple of spellbooks that would turn her hair white if she knew I owned."

Tara settled herself down on the bed, sitting beside Willow who was resting against the headboard. "Mostly intent. The reveal spell I used earlier is usually a helpful or defensive spell, but it can also be used as an offensive spell. Mother never condoned using magic for harm or personal gain."

"Come now, Tara," Willow chided. "If that was true, would you really have acquired those books before we met? Against your dear departed mother's wishes?"

Tara smiled, "Speaking of which…I really should go fetch them. Some of the books are quite valuable."

"Don't bother yourself, my love," Willow said and called for her personal slave. A moment later Willy prostrated himself before the couple.

"Take a couple of minions with you, Worm," Willow ordered. "Go to your new Mistress's dorm room and pack up all her belongings. Break anything and I'll show her how fun it is to skin humans alive."

"Behind the bed, there's a loose panel," Tara told Willy. "Inside you'll find several books. I suggest if you value your eyesight you do not open them. Understand?"

"Hurry back, Worm," Willow ordered and he quickly scampered out of the room. "He'll be back shortly," Willow said. "In the meantime, what can you teach me?"

"About magic, you mean?" Tara smirked, running one sensuous hand down Willow's exposed torso. Willow closed her eyes in pleasure and then gasped in pain, as Tara pressed hard on the swollen flesh around her wound. "Want me to show you, Willow?"

"Magic is a matter of control, Willow," Tara explained. "You like to be in control, don't you?"

"Good," Tara explained, a wicked grin on her face as she stood up. "Because before you can do magic, you must learn control." With a gesture, four steel-reinforced leather cuffs simultaneously shot out from under the bed and latched themselves around Willow's wrists and ankles. Before the redheaded vampire could react, four stout chains attached themselves to the cuffs and pulled tight, spreading Willow across the bed, her arms and legs stretched, restricting her movement. Willow liked her chains but she never imagined herself being the one in them.

Willow struggled against her restraints, her vampire visage emerging as anger filled her. "Let me go, Tara!" she ordered.

"Nope," Tara said, turning away from the bed and moving to a large chest at the foot of the bed. "Do it yourself, Willow."

Tara ignored the furious vampire as she looked through Willow's toy box. She picked up a leather strap with a hard rubber gag attached to it. "Willow?" Tara asked in an innocent tone. "Don't you have one of these that comes with the attachment for a dildo?"

Willow continued to fight against her bonds, but Tara only smiled as she dug further into the chest. Willow chose only the highest quality for her toys and Tara knew from personal experience that Willow could not possibly break free from them using strength alone. "Oh yes!" she said finally locating what she was looking for. "Here it is. But…I think I'll leave that part off for the moment. Maybe later if you still haven't freed yourself."

She moved to the head of the bed. "Now, Willow," she explained. "You can't learn magic if you're too busy snarling like that."

"Let me up, bitch! I'll show you…" Willow's words were cut off as Tara shoved the gag into her mouth and quickly locked the buckle tight behind her head. Spittle and blood foamed around the edges of the gag as Willow continued to struggle.

Tara stripped off the rest of her clothing and climbed onto the bed, straddling Willow's hips. The redhead tried to throw her off, but the restraints were pulled tightly and she was barely able to move. Tara once again ran her hands over Willow's body, enjoying the feel of the smooth skin underneath. After a few minutes, Willow's struggling finally slowed and then stilled.

"There," Tara said satisfied. "All calm. Now, pay attention, Willow. What I mean by control is controlling your emotions."

Tara's mind suddenly flashed back to earlier that evening when she cast the reveal spell. "Yes," she agreed. "I was excited and nervous. I don't like seeing you almost killed like that, but in the middle of all that I managed to control it and cast the spell. I know you can do it too, and I'll show you how but first I need to do something. Okay?"

Without waiting for an answer, Tara placed both hands against the raw wound in Willow's chest. Willow's eyes grew wide as she felt powerful heat emanating from Tara's hand. She looked up at her gloriously naked lover over her, Tara's full breasts only inches from her face. She groaned, not from the heat, but in desire.

Tara ignored Willow's reactions and closed her eyes in concentration as she chanted softly. After a few minutes she sat back again and looked down at Willow. Her lover's eyes were also closed, her body covered in a sheen of sweat. On Willow's chest, there was a small scar that was quickly fading, but no sign of the puncture or swelling.

"All better, my love," Tara smiled. "I know it's gonna sound hokey, but everything is surrounded by energy. By concentrating the power of your mind, you can learn to manipulate that energy to your advantage. Like this…"

By turning her head slightly Willow watched as a single rose floated up from a vase full of roses and moved towards them. It hovered over her face; it's soft petals gently caressing the skin of her cheek, careful to avoid the leather strap.

"Anything can be manipulated to your advantage, Willow," Tara explained. "You just need to control yourself."

Suddenly, the rose whipped across Willow's face, its thorns cutting cruelly into Willow's cheek. Dark red blood welled up from the gashes. Tara leaned down and slowly licked the wounds clean. She pressed her body into Willow's, enjoying the feel of hardness beneath her. She spread herself until she was lying fully on top of Willow, her hands lacing themselves with Willow's fingers, ignoring the pain as Willow squeezed hard. She pressed one thigh into Willow's center, finding the vampire's wetness. She began to move her body sensuously against her lover's.

"Feel my power, Willow," she whispered. "Tap into it and move the rose yourself."

Tara's eyes closed as she continued to grind against Willow. She knew Willow hated to be in this position, hated the loss of control, but Tara knew this was the only way her lover would learn how to regain that control. She felt herself sinking deeper into Willow as she finally felt Willow making contact with her, felt when Willow connected her energy with her own as she approached orgasm. With a muffled cry around the gag in her mouth, Willow's body arched as far as it could within the restraints. Tara turned her head and grinned as the rest of the roses in the vase, at least two dozen of them, sailed towards her in a flash of energy and sliced across her back.

She cried out from the pleasure of the pain as Willow caused them to fly around and slash at her again, and again. She ground herself against Willow's center as she rode the crest of her orgasm, feeling the redhead underneath her come again as she communicated her ecstasy through their linked energies.

Finally, she collapsed on Willow spent. After a few moments, she sat up again and looked down at Willow. She knew that Willow was still angry, she could feel it, but Willow also had a sense of amazement over what she had just accomplished.

"That was good, Willow," Tara praised. "Now that you've tapped into my energy, try to tap into your own. Use it to manipulate the cuffs so you can free yourself. Take your time…I've got something to do while you try."

Willow watched as Tara moved off the bed and gracefully folded herself into a lotus position on the Oriental rug near the bed. Tara closed her eyes and although she had no reason to breathe, the habit was too deeply ingrained as she began her meditation. After a few moments, Willow saw a tiny light emerge from Tara's forehead and bounce playfully towards her. With a dip, the light kissed its way up her body and then sped off out of the bedroom. Willow sensed she was alone, even though Tara's body still sat on the rug.

She once again tested the strength of the bonds, even though she knew it was useless. She was amazed that Tara had managed to get her in this position. Other than Xander, no one had ever dared. She couldn't help but feel admiration towards her pet – sure Tara was gonna pay and she was gonna pay harshly, but Willow still felt awe at the blonde's daring.

She wondered where Tara had gone and hoped she would be back soon. Daylight was fast approaching and Willow didn't know if her spell would protect her essence from the effects of the sunlight although Willow's shrewd mind couldn't help but consider the advantages of being able to travel during the day.

Instead, she tried to concentrate on getting free. She'd worked the cuffs thousands of times, but always with her hands. But her familiarity with them allowed her to see them clearly in her mind as she closed her eyes and concentrated. After a few unsuccessful attempts she felt herself growing more frustrated and angry with herself. And with Tara for leaving her in this position. She relaxed and tried again.

After what seemed an eternity, Willow finally tapped deep into a source she had never known existed within her. She was amazed she had never realized it before. It was all so simple…all that power within her just waiting to be used. With almost an afterthought, all four cuffs flew away from her and clattered to the floor on the ends of the chains. She sat up and with another thought removed the gag from her face.

Her first instinct was to rush over to Tara and give her the thrashing of her undead existence, but she managed to control herself as she threw on a robe and left the bedroom to see if Willy and the minions were back yet with Tara's belongings. Several boxes were piled up in the living room and she could sense her minions sleeping in the basement.

"Any trouble, Worm?" Willow asked Willy who was running a duster over the furniture.

"No Mistress," he replied. "It was late and there was no one around. It didn't take us long to empty the room."

"Well done, Worm," Willow said, opening one box and pulling out a book. "Make sure you feed Miss Kitty and then you may retire."

After Willy disappeared to care for her cat, Willow sat down to read the book. Most of the contents didn't make sense to her, but she began to see the possibilities. Magic was just another way of harnessing the power within. No different than using the strength of her arms or legs…or even the power of her mind. It was another weapon she could use and she was once again happy and pleased with herself for her choice of companion. Tara was indeed going to serve her well.

She had made her way through several of the books when she suddenly felt a presence. Looking up, she saw the light entering the room and move rapidly through to the bedroom. She waited and a few minutes later Tara walked into the living room also wearing a robe. Willow watched as Tara flopped down on the couch across from her and propped her feet on the coffee table.

"No, but there's some blood in the fridge," Willow said. Tara was just about to get up again, when Willow said, "Let me, Kitten."

Tara sat back and smirked as she heard the refrigerator door opening in the kitchen and the various rattling of cups as Willow prepared them a drink without leaving the couch.

"I knew you could do it, my love," she smiled proudly at the redhead. "You have so much power inside you, I knew it wouldn't take much to free it."

"We'll have to talk more about your methods later, Tara," Willow said, once again happy to be in control. "Now, tell me where you've been."

"Simple," Tara said. "I followed the Slayer…the reveal spell left enough signature so I could get a tracer on her. She led me right to his home."

"She told him about what happened tonight," Tara laughed. "He's quite concerned that one of our kind used magic. I could sense he's played with magic before, but he's rusty. And the news his Slayer brought him frightened him."

"Kendra…that's the bitch's name by the way," Tara pointed out. "She recognized you from your red hair. He sent her after you specifically. She was very contrite that she missed. The way she was acting, I think she almost expected him to smack her for failing. I thought you said slayers were supposed to be tough?"

"Anyway," Tara continued. "They're planning another strike against you in three days time. They know where we live and are planning on attacking here. They figure if they can rid of you, they've got a better shot of getting to the Master."

"Full moon," Tara explained. "The werewolf is out of commission until it passes. The Slayer, the Watcher, the werewolf and the other white hat, Larry – they figure they could make a surprise attack. Kendra wanted to do it right away because you're wounded and weak, but the Watcher thinks it's better to go in full strength, especially with this new development. She bowed to his authority."

"In more ways than one," Tara smirked. She sipped her drink. "So, we have three days. Got a plan?"

"Of course," Willow said, placing the book down. "Come Kitten, we have lots of work to do."

"Are you sure this is gonna work Tara?" Xander asked. "Not that I'm doubting your ability but it sounds like some serious hocus pocus to try to pull off."

"It's not easy," Tara agreed. "But we don't have options here. If what Spike said is true – and I do believe him – we've got only one way to make it work."

"So? Maybe he's telling you exactly what they want him to say. He's been harboring them since they arrived," the ex-demon retorted.

"He's being honest," Buffy interrupted. "He knows if he sides with them that he'll lose and he'll never…" Buffy trailed off her thought process. Saying that he'll never earn my love wasn't something she wanted to get into at the moment. She did agree with Tara that he was being honest and making a sincere effort to help. "…fit in here. That's something he wants."

"I agree with Buffy," Tara nodded. "He's different lately. I don't know how or why but…something's going on with Spike. The look after I smacked him – it hurt him. And not physically but emotionally. I think he's telling the truth so we're planning accordingly."

"Now let me play Devil's advocate here," Xander began. "Say you're wrong. Then what? I'd just like to know that you guys are gonna be safe Tara."

"Safe and Scoobies aren't two words you can use together. We all take a risk everyday Xander."

"She can do it," Willow added without looking at anyone in particular. "I know her ability."

"It's a big gamble…You two could get in there and things could go wrong. And if that happens then maybe you'll..."

"Your words not mine…And yeah…You've been doing so good. But what's to say that you won't get in there and start throwing your magic around."

"Will," Xander began in apology. "I'm just trying to look at all the scenarios. That's all."

"He has a point," Tara told Willow. "And I'm concerned too that if things get rough you'll breakdown."

"You need all four of us in the room in order for you to work the spell Tara. I won't do magics. I'm just there to coax the Vamps in so you can get the job done."

"You don't have a lot of faith in me and that's okay. You'd be stupid if you did. But I promise, on Joyce's grave, I won't do a single spell."

"Maybe since you're all scared Willow will get all witchy again we could just capture the vamps," Anya offered. "You know, keep them locked up for the rest of your lives since we can't kill them. Buffy's got a big basement."

"And they'd stay confined for all of 5 minutes until they used magic to get free," Tara replied. "No – we need to take them out of this dimension but with Willow out of commission it's up to me to put it together."

"I just pray you're powerful enough," Xander retorted, his voice tight with concern.

Willow leaned down to Buffy who was seating in the dining room waiting for the group to assemble. Buffy sent a message with Spike to have the Vamps meet the Witches at a nearby abandoned factory.

"Sure," she said rising and following Willow out to the kitchen. "Getting nervous?"

"No not really…More worried for Tara than me…Speaking of which, I know we have to meet them alone but I know you won't stay too far away."

"So when you do show up and if things are going bad, not working like we planned? I want you to kill Vamp Willow."

"Listen to me. If they get my power it's gonna kill me anyway. Tara too. This way I save Tara and Vamp Tara goes home empty handed. For all we know the linking spell could be a hoax and I'll be fine if you kill her. I'm willing to take that chance…. You know I'm right Buffy."

"Please," she begged. "If they start winning I need you to do the right thing. Lots more people might die besides just me and Tara. With that much power they could be unstoppable and we'd both be dead anyway. This way at least one of us goes on Buffy. That someone should be Tara. So promise me you'll be the Slayer. You'll do what needs to be done. Please?"

Willow knew there was no changing Buffy's mind and if the time came she might have to be the one to stake Vamp Willow. "Alright if you won't do it at least promise to keep Tara safe? I want you to protect her first above everything else. Can you do that?"

Buffy considered it. "Yeah," she replied after a brief pause. "That I can manage but killing you to do it isn't an option for me Willow. I'm sorry."

"You are important in this fight so don't doubt that. Even if you're not working the magic Tara needs your presence in order to see it through. Remember that?"

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To Those Who Wield

by Susan Carr and CN Winters

Copyright © 2005