Zanial looked across at his Sire, wondering what his hidden meaning was. Are you sure that is wise, my lord? he asked, frowning. But Methos only laughed, patting him on his back as he turned around and went back to his desk. But not sitting down he turned and faced his 2IC, his lips crushed together and his eyes hard and violent.
I will not let that boy get the better of me, Zanial. Methos told him in a low voice, his anger barely contained. If he wants to unwittingly lead us to his lady love, then that is his problem.
His eyes flashed. I will get that girl, and my dear son is going to help me every step of the way.
Zanial smiled.
****
In Sunnydale....
Nimisha gaped. Her eyes open wide as she stood frozen in front of the tall smoking form of her half-brother. Spike was watching her right back, wondering why the hell she was looking at him like that.
He bent down at waved a hand in front of her face, getting her attention. Are you alright? he asked. Youve been staring like that for ages.
Nimisha shook her head, sputtering. What the hell are *you* doing here!? she screeched, waving her hands wildly. Spike frowned and put his hands on his hips, stamping his cigarette out under his boot. Now, thats not very nice, is it? he shot back at her. I was here first, so I get to ask the questions!
They faced each other, both had their hands on their hips, eyes flashing with barely contained anger.
Nimisha laughed, her black hair bouncing down her back. And if I dont answer them? she shot at him, sarcastically. He said nothing to that, only raised his eyebrows.
Well, darling. If you dont wanna answer my bloody questions, then im gonna have to tie you up and drag you over to Giles house. And ill tell you now, hes got some very good ways of making little smart mouthed, brats like yourself talk for information.
Nimisha narrowed her eyes, making them flash a bright yellow and taking a step towards him. Just you try it, Spike. Im not like mama, and I *will* kick you ass out of Sunnydale and back to Dru.
He looked down at her, confused. im not like mama... he muttered her words back to himself, and Nimisha opened her eyes wide as she guessed just what she had said.
She opened her mouth for a reply but it was cut off as Spike quickly reached out and grabbed her wrist, pulling her close as she tried to get away. She let out a little scream in surprise.
Spike had felt it the second he had come in contact with her skin. The tingly, sweet sensation that he knew all to well. His eyes opened wide. It couldnt be.....
He released her quickly, flinging her away from himself so forcefully that she rocked back on her feet, gripping her head in pain with the sudden movement.
Just who the bloody hell *are* you!? Spike yelled, stepping back to separate the distance between them. His legs were spread, a fighting stance that Nimisha knew all to well. Looking up she saw that his eyes were golden, loose anger fighting to gain control. But it was confusion that she saw hidden deep within him that made her stop from bolting away from the scene.
Nimisha looked down, her long hair falling across her face, hiding her frustrated look. She couldnt help but sob, her mother was going to be *so* mad....
Spike noticed, and let his hands fall to his sides. Taking small steps towards her, he let a few feet separate them. He was completely baffled, not knowing how in hell a simple rescue mission had suddenly spun so out of control. This wasnt how it was meant to happen!!
He looked down at her, noticing for the first time that her shoulders were shaking. He tightened his jaw, not wanting to get involved, but trying to ignore the weird pull he felt towards the girl. He looked at her, really looked this time. Letting his eyes travel up the length of her body, from strong legs, to well formed hips to her smooth, pale neck and long black hair. Reachiܥe # g ,f l ,f l f f f Y (f f f T f Bp Y Times New Roman Symbol Arial Courier New Times New Roman
*Balteiar*
Methos looked across at Zanial with a thoughtful expression on his face. Are you sure? he asked, bringing his hand up to scratch his dark chin. He was sitting behind his desk in his private chambers, alone in the room save for the tall figure of his most trusted ally and spy, Zanial.
The tall Vampire nodded his dark head. Yes, Sire. Your son is most defiantly on Earth, I saw him there myself. Zanial didnt know what to expect from this meeting, Methos anger usually showed itself at the oddest times. He knew that the young Prince had left Balteiar, he had been in the Gate room when it happened, and he would always shudder at the thought of how Methos vented his fury after that one....
Zanial was used to it though, he had been Lord Methos Second in Command for over 500 years, and had been hunting the Tessionares for long before that...
He was a frightening figure, that he knew. With his massive height, piercing silver eyes, and strong jaw bones, terror had been the last emotion of many of his victims.
Methos discrete cough made his eyes sharpen to what was being said, his head snapping around to regard his master thoughtfully. What is to be done, my lord? he asked, knowing very well how *he* would fix the situation.
Methos didnt say a word, only continued to stare at the far wall, deep in thought. Zanial remained silent, standing tall in front of the huge desk that his master was seated at, letting Methos think.
Do you know what he was doing there? Methos finally spoke, and Zanial nodded his head.
He was in a country called America, my lord. In some sort of party, there were humans everywhere. He looked up and found Methos watching him intently. He was dancing...with a girl. he concluded.
Methos head shot up, eyebrows quirking in amusement. Really? he said, chuckling.
Zanial frowned, not wanting to see what his reaction to the rest of his report was going to be.
The girl is known, my lord. he said, and Methos eyes flinched. They turned hard and flashed deep silver.
Who is she, Zanial? he asked. Zanial took a deep breath and said quickly,
It was Lady Nimisha, Sire. Everynne must have sent her to Earth.
Methos jaw dropped and he stood up quickly. Leaning forward he said loudly, He was dancing with Lady Nimisha!? Zanial flinched, but nodded slowly.
Methos was breathing quickly now, his silver eyes wide with a mixture of excitement and fear. Do they know who each other is? he asked Zanial. The tall man shook his head. His eyes were blue, my lord. He must have changed them somehow. You know as well as I do that Lady Nimisha would only have known him by that, she has been protected her entire life. They looked at each other. She would not recognise a Vanquisher otherwise. Zanial concluded.
Well, Methos muttered. At least we know where she is now. Good one, Everynne. Id have never thought to look there... he trailed off.
The room fell into silence. Both men thinking of the horrible consequences that could come out of this meeting. Then suddenly Methos started to chuckle, deep in his throat. Zanial looked up at his Master in concern, wondering what possibly could be funny.
Methos noticed his reaction, leaving his desk to come and stand before him. They regarded each other in silence, their dark Vanquisher faces blank of any emotion.
Go to Earth, Zanial. Keep an eye on both of them. he said firmly in a low voice. Zng out slowly he put his finger under her chin and lifted it so he could get a good look at her face.
He gasped and almost dropped her chin. The moon was visible, shining brightly in the night sky. Nimisha sniffled, raising her green eyes to meet his. They stared at each other, Spike knowing that he was falling into those green eyes that he knew so well...
Buffy? he whispered longingly, not really knowing what possessed him to say that. He saw the girl flinch, breaking eye contact and ripping her face out of his grip.
She took a few steps back, watching his tall figure warily. Why do you say that? she asked in a little voice, and Spike was reminded of a scared, little girl, just as baffled as he was.
He frowned at her question, asking himself the same thing. I dunno. he answered, spreading his hands wide. You just remind me of a couple of people thats all.
Nimisha smiled sadly. Yeah, I guess I would.
That got Spikes attention all right. Now what the hell is that supposed to mean, you little chit!? he yelled in a loud voice, no longer confused, but just plain angry.
And it was at the moment that Sita jumped out of the bushes, having heard the yelling miles away. She jumped in front of Nimisha, holding a staff in her hands that the girl didnt even want to asked where she got it from. But seeing just who it was that was threatening her charge, Sitas eyes narrowed, her body tensing for a fight.
Spike jumped back, raising his arms in surrender when he saw her intention. Whoa! he said in a surprised voice, wondering who this beautiful, lithe woman was and just where in the world she had come from.
Getting her bearings, Nimisha yelped, yelling for Sita to stop. Hey! Its okay! she yelled, stepping out from behind Sita - a fact that Spike had noticed with interest - and moved to stand in between the two squaring off fighters.
Sita ignored her, her eyes narrowing with fury. Leave this place, Vampire! she hissed, her hands tightening on the strong staff in her arms. How dare you threaten my Princess! she raged in fury.
Spike looked panicked, not knowing what the hell was going on or what he had fallen himself into. Just who the bloody hell are *you*!? he yelled, falling into a fighting stance again to protect himself if necessary. The two elder immortals faced each other, the tension flickering between them.
Hey! Nimisha screamed loudly, finally getting their attention. They both turned to her, eyebrows raised. Thank you! Nimisha said as she saw she finally had them back.
Sita, cool it, will you? she told her friend, walking over to lay a hand on her arm. Its only Spike, he would never hurt me. she added quietly, but Spike heard and shot her a baffled look.
Like Hell I wouldnt! he told them, sputtering. He took a step closer and Sita growled in warning.
Nimisha shot him a look, frowning and telling him to lay off. Do you want you ass kicked? she asked him firmly. He turned to her small form, eyes opening in surprise at her statement.
Cause if you do, your going the right way about it, Spike. she told him. Just back off, let me handle this.
The girl turned back to Sita, who was watching her with a confused look on her tanned face. Nimi? she asked quietly. Who is that?
Nimisha sighed. Its Spike. You know, Papas Childe. Sitas eyes opened wide, understanding filling them.
I thought he was unable to fight? she hissed, panicked.
Nimisha answer was cut off when Spike started to speak. What do you mean, Papas Childe? he asked. Nimisha sighed, forgetting that he had unnatural hearing.
She turned back to his confused form, almost laughing at the completely baffled look on his bleach-blonde head. She put her hands on her hips and inclined her head to the side. Well, you are Angels childe are you not? she asked in a no nonsense tone.
Spike frowned. No, actually im not. He grinned at their startled looks. Im Drusillas technically. He shrugged his shoulders.
Just what have you got to do with my Yoda anyway? The Vampire asked in a casual voice, trying to pretend he wasnt really interested by lightening up another cigarette and taking a drag slowly.
Nimisha scrunched up her nose as she smoke reached them. Thats disgusting. she told him, shrugging her shoulders when he shot her a look that obviously said, yeah, so?
The three of them fell into a comfortable silence, the two girls not really trusting the Vampire, but knowing that they were not going to be attacked any time soon.
So? Spike pushed. Are you gonna answer my bloody questions or not? he asked. Who the hell are you and what you got to do with Peaches?
Nimisha frowned, annoyed that she put herself and Sita in this situation in the first place. But, she thought. It would be good to have someone else that knew. And as fighters went, Spike was one of the best.
She looked at him, measuring the possibilities. She knew that if he found out just who she was to Angel and Buffy....yet alone to *him* he would never hurt her, Vampires cared very protectively for their close family, this she knew more than anything.
Making her decision, Nimisha took a step towards Spike - ignoring Sitas cry of surprise as she figured what she was doing - and walked to stand before his chest, looking up into his suddenly wary face. Without a word, the girl gathered his hand in hers and lay it above her heart, letting him hear the soft heart beat ring throughout her small body.
The relief that washed over Spike face was almost comic, save from the fact that confusion settled back on his features. So your human. he told her quietly. Or human enough to have a heart beat, but that still doesnt explain who you are. he added in a serious tone.
Nimisha didnt answer, only raised her eyes to lock them with her brothers, knowing deep inside him he knew just what she was going to say. Spike startled, opening his eyes wide as he looked down at her standing so close to him, a familiar sensation washing over him...a feeling that he knew so well, even if he hadnt felt it in so long...
Buffy? he asked her again, complete confusion in his seemingly human eyes.
Nimisha smiled sadly, knowing that he was sensing the Slayer in her.
Thats right, Spike. she told him quietly.
He looked down at her in horror, jumping back out of her reach. Your *Buffy*? he yelled, getting freaked.
Nimisha chuckled, knowing what he was getting at. No, im not Buffy, Spike. she told the Vampire, who was by now watching her as if she had grown another head.
Im her daughter. she told him finally, feeling sorry for him.
Spike froze. His head raised to look at her, understanding flooding in. His posture relaxed for the first time that night, knowing now that she wasnt a threat. He stared at her, at everything about her, only then noticing just how much she looked like a mixture of Buffy and....
Oh, god. he whispered. Your *their* daughter.
He looked at her, wondering why she was here in Sunnydale...why *now*...and where her mother was...
Nimisha smiled at him gently, knowing just how deep his shock ran. Then suddenly he moved, walking slowly over to where she stood, bringing a shaking hand out to touch a handful of her long black hair, chuckling softly.
You had to go and have *his* looks didnt you? he asked, laughing now. Nimisha beamed, knowing this was the real Spike...the funny Spike that her mother talked of so often.
Then he became serious, both of them missing the retreating form of the smiling Sita, who quietly left the scene, knowing they had to be alone.
Something is happening, isnt it? he asked her, letting his hand drop to his side.
Nimisha grimaced and nodded her black haired head. Spike sighed. Just tell me this, he asked her softly, Nimishas head raising in confusion. You mother is alive, isnt she?
She looked up at him, a blank look on her face, as if she was now going to reveal her deepest secret, something she knew she shouldnt be doing. Finally she bit her lip and nodded slightly.
Spike sucked in a tight breath, only to let it out again. His voice shaky.
Oh, crap. he said, putting his hand under Nimishas chin to raise her face, smiling lopsidedly down at her as she sniffled.
Whats that bloody Slayer gone and gotten us into *this* time?
Nimisha laughed and gathered her brother into a warm hug.
****
The Next Evening....
Day 4
Come on Nimi. Its easy! Jesse told his frowning friend happily from where they both sat the next day at the study table in the now deserted Library. School had been out for over three hours and the two teenagers had headed straight for the silent comfort of the Library for a long over-due study session.
Alex and Karan, who conveniently had other plans for their afternoon, had decided to pass. So that left just the two of them in the musty room, even Giles had taken the afternoon off - his eyebrows raising above his glasses as to why any teenager that were *not* to do with the Slaying would want to be there after school - as he gave them free rein of his beloved abode.
Nimisha sighed in disgust and threw her pencil across the other side of the table as she pushed her text book away from her body. She would so rather be talking somewhere with Spike than doing boring homework even if it meant that she *never* learned about History. The girl smiled wistfully at the thought. After their little confrontation in the Cemetery the night before the two of them had become glued at the hip. Nimisha had finally gotten back to Willow and Ozs house just after three in the morning after staying up all night explaining everything to Spike. He had taken it rather well considering.
Who cares about American History anyway!? she wined after seeing the surprised look on Jesses face at her violent outburst. But seeing that she wasnt serious, the boy grinned. Nimisha (or Nimi, as shed insisted on being called) was so different from the rest of the pupils at this school. She was more like the mystical Princesses from the beloved Science Fiction novels he soaked up in his spare time or in the weekends.
Jesse was still so surprised that she had wanted to be his friend in the first place, never having expected to hear from her again after their abrupt meeting in the bleaches a few days before. But, to the surprise of not only himself, but to others in the school, Nimisha *had* sort his company more than they would have originally liked.
It was little things at first. A quick hello in the hallways between classes, a smile at lunch as they passed each other. Then she had asked to sit with him the day before in science, that had been the shocker. To everyone. Jesse remembered clearly how the whole classroom had gone dead quiet as every pair of eyes flew towards the strangely calm girl with the piercing green eyes as she took her seat beside the sputtering red headed boy and looked coolly towards the front of the classroom, her chin tilted proudly.
He had been impossibly proud of her for that. He knew what guts it would have taken to take such a leap of faith. Also since everyone knew Maria Chase had taken such a violent dislike to the beautiful, quiet girl.
Jesse grinned again, knowing how lucky he was to have her as a friend as he reached over the table and pointed to a certain section in the page.
American History *is* important, Nimi. he told her calmly, trying not to smile when she shot him a quick look of shear disbelief. You have to know where your ancestors come from. he continued, ignoring her snort of disagreement.
Then Nimisha laughed suddenly, causing him to look across at her in surprise. Jess, my ancestors *dont* come from America. she told him, still laughing with a bright smile on her dark featured face.
He frowned, wondering secretly if she was finally going to open up and give him some more information of her past...
He looked confused as he asked her in a bemused voice, But, uh, you *sound* American. He looked truly baffled. I just assumed your family came from here.
She smiled softly at him, showing of perfect white teeth. My mother was born in America, Jess. she told him, deciding that *that* wasnt going to let anything slip. My fathers Irish, although he has lived in America for a long time.
Jesse raised his eyebrows, storing that information for further use. But why are you staying with Miss Rosenburg? he asked her, knowing like everyone else that the new girl was somehow related to the awesome teacher.
Nimisha grinned at his curiosity. Willows my Aunt. Im staying with her for a few weeks while my mothers overseas.
Jesse just nodded, letting the subject drop when Nimisha turned back docilely to her thick text book. They stayed like that for about 15 minutes, Jesse getting more and more surprised as the minutes ticked by as Nimisha lack of knowledge of American History showed its ugly face.
My mother *tried* to teach me. she told him, catching his baffled glance. But she isnt to hot on History either, so that didnt help. she added laughing.
Then he remembered something. Hang on! he told her, jumping up from his seat and jogging in the direction of the stacks. Where are you going? she called after him, halfway rising from her seat to join him as his head poked out from between a handful of books and he called down to her,
I just remembered that Mr Giles has the perfect book in here for beginners History! His voice was muffled. Stay there, and ill be down in a minute. he added.
Nimisha raised her eyebrows at his sudden enthusiasm for the subject as she sat back down in her wooden chair and looked back and forth between the books that were scattered across the table top.
Idly flicking through the top few, she noticed that the library had gone completely silent, not even Jesse could be heard anymore.
Hey, Jess? she called up towards the stacks. There was no answer. Thinking that he had probably found a fascinating book up there and was totally engrossed, Nimisha shrugged and looked back towards the books on the table.
A notebook caught her eye. One she hadnt noticed before. Frowning in confusion, the girl flicked her long black hair over the shoulder and reached over to grab the notebook from where it sat, partly hidden by A4 pieces of paper.
It was a small, hardcover, blue ringbinder. About the size of a diary. Gently playing her delicate fingers across the smooth cover, Nimisha traced the words,
Jesse Phoenix, 1984-
She shot a quick look up into the stacks, dreading what her friend would do if he came back down here and found her looking through what was obviously very precious to him. Nimisha bit her lip, weighing the possibilities.
But curiosity winning the siding vote, Nimisha silently lay the small book on the table top and open the cover.
She gasped in shock.
**** Across Town...
Willow hummed to herself as she made a quick sweep through one of the busier Cemeteries in Sunnydale, stuffing her cold hands into her overalls pockets, wishing suddenly that she had decided to wear a jersey over her shocking pink turtle-neck top.
Silently she heard Sita falling into step beside her as she came back from effortlessly killing a Vamp. Looking up into the tall, brown haired womans face, Willow smiled. Even though she reminded her so suddenly of when Cordelia used to come Patrolling with them because she was wearing tight black nylon pants and a black spaghetti strap halter top, Willow was actually quite surprised to find how well the two of them got on together, they had hit it of from the start.
But it served its purpose well, both woman gaining from the friendship. Sita, who had told Willow quite sheepishly that she had never set foot on Terran soil before in her life, tried to learn all she could about this strange new world. From shopping, to technology (a fact that Sita found quite amusing) Sita practicality guttered Willow and Ozs brains for information.
Willow on the other hand - who normally would have killed for an opportunity to even glance at their advanced technology - was more interested in finding all about Buffy and Nimishas lives for the past 16 years. So, knowing exactly what the Witch was doing, Sita told her everything she could remember. And that was actually a lot, since she was probably the closest civilian, save Afraya, to the Imperial family.
She even got Afraya to secretly send some holograms of Nimishas childhood for the pair through the Stargate, which Sita then Teleported from Ireland across to America using Telekinesis. Willow had then sat, glued to the floor with a pile of holograms in her arms and scattered on the carpet around her.
There were hundreds of them and Sita knew she had done the right thing when she had looked up and saw the excited look in Willows eyes soften as she gently picked up and picture of a three year old Nimisha laying in her mothers arms from where they both lay of the ground, flowers sprinkled in their hair and with long green grass around them.
Sita chuckled, remembering just when it had been taken. Willow looked up at her, confused at her sudden humour, but Sita just waved her hands, telling her everything was alright.
And you do this often? Sita then asked her new friend. Willow grinned, spreading her hands out wide.
You mean Patrol? she asked. Sita nodded. Yeah, usually one or two of us do it every night. she told her, explaining the lore. Then she shrugged sheepishly. Its not as good as having a Slayer, but it tends to keep the Vampire population down so its bearable.
Ahh, I can understand that. Sita cocked her head over to Willows direction. That was mainly what Buffy was worried about when she first left Earth for Allrelen. That you guys would want to take over the Slaying and get yourselves killed.
Willow frowned, not sure if that was a complement or not. Well, weve done okay, I guess. She shrugged. Stopped a few big baddies on our travels, killed a few demons. She smiled up at Sita gently. Buffy always did it better though. With more punch, I guess you can call it.
Sita smiled back down at her. But you took over Slaying once before, no? When Evie ran away the first time after she sent Nimishas father to Hell?
Willow looked up at her in surprise. Just how much about us do you actually know? she asked, jokingly.
She laughed and shrugged fake-snobbishly. A lot! Sita told her. Buffy used to tell me all about you guys when we first met. She grinned. Okay, so I was 11 years old, and I think I was more of a therapist than anything else, but I listened, and she needed someone to talk to...so, she shrugged, the rest obvious.
Willow stopped in her tracks, reaching out to gently grab Sitas hand as well, stilling her. Sita looked back at her, confused. But Willow only tightened her grip and smiled softly up and at the tall, lithe woman.
About that. Willow whispered softly. I just wanted to thank you for looking out for Buffy and Nimi for as long as you have. You cant imagine how reassuring it is to me to know that they have someone like you there for them. Willow shrugged. Its just good to know she has had someone to talk to, I guess.
Sita smiled back at her, falling back so they were side to side. Giving Willows arm a quick squeeze, she told her, I know, Will. She cocked her head. Although im not to hot on the idea of me being there for a substitute for *you* all those years, I know she needed someone.
They both smiled at each other, suddenly knowing they had a lot more in common than they originally thought.
Well, isnt this just classic. A crisp voice drawled from the shadows. If it aint a flamein crying party.
Both woman spun around, but visibly breathed with relief when Spikes blonde form stepped out from the shadows. Willow frowned, putting her hands on her hips.
I thought we talked about you being Cryptic? she asked.
Spike only shrugged, getting a cigarette out from inside his duster and lighting up. Completely ignoring her question, the Vampire looked around the clearing with a eager smile on his face, jumping excitedly from foot to foot, as if searching for something.
Well? he asked. Wheres my lovely little sister this beautiful Sunnydale evening?
Willow sighed, giving up on the total lost cause that was Spike. Shes at the library studying with a friend. she told him, trying not to smile visibly when the smile fell from the mans lips and a pout took its place.
You can see her afterwards, Spike. Sita told him, grinning. She knew all to well how well Nimisha and Spike had hit it off. And from what Willow and Oz had told her, it seemed like Spike was well and truly on his way to being smitten with his younger sister. Although no one doubted the main reason was Spike trying to get back at his Grand-Sire by becoming chummy with his only daughter...a fact that everyone *knew* Angel wouldnt be happy with if he eventually found out about Nimisha.
Although he *did* had a point, only a certain amount of Spike could be tolerated at once. And truthfully, he wasnt exactly the best influence for a 16 year old girl. Let alone one who had just spent her entire life living in outerspace.
They all knew Angel would have a few choice words to say about *that* one.
So? Spike asked, falling back so that he was walking between the two woman. Whats happening in Sunnyhell lately?
Willow raised her eyebrows and looked at the Vampire oddly. Spike you live here just like the rest of us, you should *know* whats happening. She cocked her head to the side. More actually, since your a Vampire.
Spike put his hand on his chest, dramatically making a show of swooning. Red, you insult me so!
Sita laughed, still amazed that they actually got on quite well with Vampires. Let alone ones as different as Spike and Angel.
Seriously though. Spike said, becoming just that quickly. After what Nimisha told me last night, youd be expecting Alien Vampires to be overrunning the place.
Sita shook her head. Were still hoping on the account that they dont *know* were here on Earth at all. she told her friends, both who had turned to regard her thoughtfully.
Spike frowned. But they must be figuring it out sooner or later, surely. he asked. If I know my Buffy as well as *they* think they do, their bloody gonna click that she sent Nimisha here. He shrugged when the looked at him in surprise.
Buffy may be many things, my sweets. But original isnt one of them. he told the startled woman beside him. Come on guys! Shell be as predictable now as she ever was. He snorted. More probably, after spending 16 years without Giles to give her a kick up the bum every time she gets lazy.
They both laughed, even though Sita quickly spoke up for her absent Queen. Hey! Its not like she hasnt been practicing at *all* she told her grinning friends. Afraya and I make sure she stays in shape and fit. Although the Tessionare traits keep her that way all the time anyway.
But getting back on track, Willow said, getting a serious face once again even as she turned in Sitas direction. How long do you think Nimisha will have to stay here on Earth? she asked, knowing that however long it was it wouldnt be long enough for her, shed want Nimi to stay forever.
Sita bit her lip, knowing that what ever way she went around this the answer was going to be the same.
Well, she drawled. If our calculations are right, Methos and the Vanquishers will be attacking in seven days from now. Willows face fell, and Sita smiled reassuringly down at her. Although im sure Evie will be wanting to stay here longer after everything is gone and done. She pattered Willows shoulder gently. Remember Will, shes just found you guys after 16 years, she be in no hurry to leave, I can tell you that.
Both Willow and Spike smiled. But Willow soon faulted as she remembered something. What about Angel? she asked Sita, wishing with all her heart that Buffy could somehow find a way to tell their friend about the sudden arrival of his darling daughter.
Sita expression turned regretful as she nervously flicked a lock of shoulder length light brown hair behind her ear.
She turned to Willow just as Spike inclined his blonde head to look at her, interested as well in the answer, as the three figures turned the corner and headed deeper into the Cemetery.
Willow, you know as well as I do that if Angel finds out about Nimi - let alone that his one true love is actually *alive* - that he not gonna let them go again. She let out a deep breath of air. Theres no easy way to look at it, either way hes gonna be mighty *pissed*.
Willow frowned as Spike snorted in denial. Okay, thats probably true. she told Sita. But I seem to remember me having a temper tantrum soon after Buffy and Nimi arrived on my doorstep. It wasnt a joke.
Sita just looked down at the dark ground as they continued walking. I know Will. she whispered quietly. I think Buffys just dead scared at what hes going to say. She looked over at the Witch. You should know more than anyone how Buffy hates letting him down or having him disappointed in her.
She shrugged her shoulders. To just have a 16 year old kid thrust in your face, let alone a kid with *Buffy*, is bound to get anyones hackles up.
They fell into a comfortable silence, each individual lost in thought. Until, Well, I think shes being a little selfish, if you ask me. Spike said, breaking the dead air. They both frowned and looked at him oddly.
Why do you say that? Sita asked, curious to what his answer was going to be.
Spike took another drag of his cigarette as he reached up and moved a low hanging branch of a Willow tree out of the way so the two ladies could pass under it.
Im just saying, that if you asked me the same question a few days ago - if Buffy should tell Peaches about Nimi that is - idve said not a chance. Let the bloke suffer without her... Willow grinned and thumped him none to lightly on his arm, knowing Spikes apparent view towards the souled Vampire.
...Hey! Im trying to be philosopical here! Be good and let it in, cause it wont be happening often. *Anyway*...where was I. Oh yeah. But now that ive actually met the kid, im sorta leaning towards telling Angel.
Sita and Willow looked at him in surprise. He just shrugged and smiled down at them wolfishly. Shes actually pretty cool, for an alien that is.
Hey! Sita cried, laughing. I resent that!
Spike shot her a sleazy glance. And I care, how?
Willow just rolled her eyes, slowing down slightly now that they had reached the outer gates of the Cemetery where they where meant to be meeting Oz. She sighed, wishing she hadnt had to lie to Giles when she told him she had Patrol covered that evening.
Even if Xander had looked at her oddly and Anya had told her quite bluntly that if she got herself killed Patrolling on her own not to coming running to her for sympathy, she had to bite her inner lip when she muttered that Oz would be joining her.
Remember Willow. Giles had told her kindly that morning in the library. We cant afford to take risks, not after... He had cut of but Willow knew he was about to mention Buffy.
The Witch sighed again, wishing so deeply that she could somehow remove the stress line around the Watchers eyes that just seemed to become more prominent in the last four year by telling the man that his darling Slayer was actually still alive.
Willow snorted. It was all well and good fighting over telling *Angel* about Buffy and her daughter, what about Giles, Xander, Cordelia and the others? There were other people to consider with the decision, Willow just hoped everyone took that into consideration.
But by then they had made their way out of the huge metal gates and all three of them took seat around the entrance, Willow sitting up of the grass, Sita finding a spot of the cool concrete pathway with Spike as they all waited for their missing Werewolf to join them.
Hey, guys! they heard Oz call from further down the street, and they all turned to watch him walk up to them. When the three of them all finally got a closer look at his face from when he stood under a glowing lamp-post they saw that he was positively glowing.
Good night? Sita asked, smiling as she watched Willow jump down from her seat and give Oz a quick kiss in welcome. The Werewolf rested his hand on his girlfriends hip as he turned them both in Sita and Spikes direction from where they both still sat on the ground.
I just got a call from Cordy as I was walking out the door, thats way im so late.
Willow frowned in confusion and looked up and her boyfriend. Cordelia? she asked, baffled. Why in the world would she be calling us?
Oz just shrugged, obviously just as lost as she was. Thats the thing. he told them. She wouldnt say, just wanted to know if Angels place of Crawford Street wasnt in use.
Then he waved it off. But thats typical Cordelia for you. You dont get a call in months - from *her* not Angel - and then she goes and asks stupid questions. He shrugged again.
Truthfully? I dont think ill ever get how that girls mind works.
They all laughed as they walked down the street towards Sunnydale High to pick up Nimisha.
Missing completely the retreating form that had been following them from the start of the travels in this particular Graveyard, hearing all their fascinating conversation. As she saw they were leaving, Faith smiled softly to herself, flicking her dark hair over her shoulder as she moulded back into the shadows, trying to absorb everything she had learned tonight...and at the same time trying to figure out just *what* she what she was going to do with it.
B and Angel got a kid, huh? she said softly to herself as she craned her neck to watch the group of the Werewolf, the Witch, the Vampire and the Alien bodyguard walked down the street.
Who wouldve thought?
**** Back at the Library...
Nimisha mouth fell open in a silent gasp as her startling green eyes racked over the impossible picture in the journal. Monsters...Demons...Vampires...they all stared back at the girl as her shaking fingers gently flicked through page after page, the images in the notebook getting more disturbing, more realistic, more *detailed* as the book went on.
The outside world seemed to disappear as she looked, everything she had thought she knew about her caring, sweet new friend seemingly flying out the proverbial window.
Everything must have been a lie, she thought wildly, throwing a desperate glance up into the stacks as if she expected the redheaded boy with the blue rimmed glasses to come exploding down the stairs and kill her.
How can he know all this? Nimisha said in a stunned whisper as she turned yet another page and found herself confronted by what was obviously a Keval Demon. It was exact. Even down to the three pointed horns on its forehead.
This was impossible....
What are you doing!? A angry voice made her scream as she quickly dropped the book and jumped up out of her seat, only to rush over to the other side of the table so that the wood seemed to separate them.
He looked hurt at her reaction, and Nimisha suddenly realised he was only angry that she had been looking *at* the book, not what she found.
Silence fell in the deserted room as Jesse looked down at the table, his eyes opening wide as he noticed just what she had been looking at, then up to a terrified Nimisha, wary as to what her reaction was going to be.
Dont you like my drawings? he asked in a modest voice and Nimisha startled. Not expecting that question to be the first out of his mouth.
Ahh, yeah. Their great. was the only words she could seem to get out of her suddenly dry mouth. She nervously licked her lips to get some water of them.
They both went silent again, Nimisha finally allowing herself to relax as they both stood, tense on either side of the large, wooden study table. Jesse started to look through the book himself, seemingly trying to will his body to loosen up. Finally flicking through the pages, the boy calmly let it rest of one of the ones at the back, lowering his eyes to regard the picture for a few moment intently.
Curious to just what had made Jesse stop, Nimisha craned her neck to look at the page. Seeing what she was trying to do, the boy calmly picked up the ringbinder and held it up so that it faced the girl.
Nimisha willed her face blank as she saw just what was on the lined paper when she noticed that Jesse was watching her face nervously, as if afraid of her answer.
You like? he asked. Then without waiting for her reply he looked across at the drawing and seemed to frown, confused, as if he had never seen it before.
It seems to me that ive got a big imagination. he laughed, trying to cover it up.
Nimisha put her hands on her hips and cocked her head to the side, letting her hair fall in front of her shoulder. Raising her eyebrows she told him in a serious voice, Thats gotta be one *hell* of a imagination you got there Jess, if you can draw a Alamarrin demon from scratch.
The boys mouth fell open as he eyes popped. Wordlessly he dropped the book back on the table as he took a step back.
What are you? he whispered in a stunned voice.
Nimisha laughed, throwing her head back. She could imagine what she looked like just then, with her hands on her hips and her black hair flying wildly around her shoulders. Bringing her head back level her eyes danced as she told the shaking boy in a laughing voice,
I see you are wise enough to ask *what* I am, not *who*. Obviously not the answer he was hoping for, Jesse gulped and nervous eyes flew towards the swinging doors, seemingly weighing his luck to dive for the door.
Dont even try it, kid. Nimisha told him in a stern voice as her eyes flashed.
She hadnt meant to get so worked up that her eyes changed, but Jesse obviously saw them because he started to pant and he quickly backed himself against the wall.
You're a Vampire! he managed to hiss out as he once again started to breath heavily
She lost whatever humour she had once possessed. What I am is no concern of yours. she told him coolly. What you dont know wont get you killed.
He gaped, his glasses frosting up. Seeing that she wasnt about to get anymore information out of the boy in his present state, Nimisha calmly stepped around the table once again and took a seat. Jesse watched her movement, warily, but then he too, cautiously pulled out a chair so that they sat side by side. Noticing that her friend was still terrified, Nimisha gently reached out and pattered him hand, trying to sooth him.
How is it that you know about Vampires, Jess? she asked in a soft voice, not wanting to scare the boy anymore than he already was.
Jesse looked down, his shoulders going tense. He didnt answer at first, so long in fact that Nimisha wondered if he had heard her question at all. But then his shoulders sagged and he exhaled shakily, as if he was suddenly about to reveal a horrible secret he shouldnt even be mentioning.
I was 11. He said in a low voice, Nimisha having to call on her vampiric hearing to hear his confession. My family and I were camping up at Lake Mead for the summer, my mother and father and my little sister, that is.
Nimisha felt dread wash over her as she somehow knew just what he was going to say.
He carried on, looking down at the table, obvious to her sudden distress. Looking up, Nimisha saw that he had tears leaking out of his eyes. She watched one circle his cheek bones then fall with a quick plop onto the wooden table.
We were in a tent, you know. The typical family vacation. He grimaced and looked up at her, smiling sadly when he noticed her mouth was slightly open and horror was edged on her dark featured face.
They hit so quickly, Nimi. he whispered. I was almost awake by the time they had finished butchering my family. I was sleeping under a bunch on blankets. Thats probably the only reason they didnt realise I was there.
She winced as they locked eyes. My sister was six years old, Nimisha. He smiled sadly again. Her name was Annie and she was *six* years old. And they killed her.
Oh, Jess. Nimisha moaned, covering her face with shaking hands. I didnt know. But he only pattered her hand and gave her shoulder a quick squeeze. How could you? No one here knows what happened to them, we were living in New York at the time. I live here in Sunnydale with my Grandmother.
What did you do afterwards? Nimisha asked, curious to how the boy had survived. But Jesse only shrugged his shoulders.
Not much really. I spent the next few years with my nose in a book learning all I could about Vampires. He looked at her sheepishly. Not that I would be able to do something if I actually *faced* one, I couldnt just sit around and do nothing when I knew what was out there.
Nimisha smiled softly at him, struck to just how similar he sounded to how her mother had told her about Willow and Xanders first reactions to the whole Slaying thing.
But then Jesse sat up straighter and looked at her intently. What about you? he asked in a low voice. Whats your story?
Nimisha startled, her head flying up. Jesse just laughed at her reaction and leaned back in his chair. Come on, Nimi. he told her, grinning. After hearing that, you can hardly expect me to let you off the hook so easily.
She hesitated. Its a long story, Jess.
Well, he retorted, raising his eyebrows. Ive got all night. But Nimisha only sighed and got out of her chair, only to start pacing across the floor. Jesse watched her from his seat, cautiously remaining silent as she worked out her problems.
Then suddenly she stopped, turning so that she faced him. Putting her hands on her hips she cocked her head to the side and looked at him oddly. So, im to take it that youve been checking up on me. It wasnt a question.
But Jesse surprised her, throwing his head back and letting out a bark of laughter. Are you kidding? he asked her when he finally settled down. Nimisha frowned, not sure if she liked that answer to much.
But he didnt wait for her answer, quickly jumping out of his chair and jogging around the side of the table so that he stood in front of her. Reaching out, he grasped her forearms - which she had firmly folded across her chest in a nervous gesture - and squeezed them reassuringly.
Nimi, Ive literally been gutting the school computers trying to get information about you. He chuckled at her startled look. Dont worry, he told her, grinning. Your files are so heavily guard I bet even *you* couldnt get into them. He didnt sound sorry in the least for the invasion of her privacy.
She looked down. Why? she asked in a small voice. He frowned at gave her a strange look. What do you mean why? he repeated. Your like the puzzle of the century. Fixing peoples broken glasses one minute, making enemies that even the gods would stare clear of the next...
He put a hand under her chin and raised her face. ...You might not have figured it out yet, Nimisha. But most of the people in this school are *mighty* curious about you.
She frowned and quickly stepped out of his arms. Well, thats a bad thing! she yelled. Jesse looked at her in surprise.
Jess! I cant continue to have people checking up on me! she explained. He just continued to look completely baffled by what she was saying.
Why ever not? he asked, terribly confused.
Nimisha stopped her pacing once again and walked across to him, only to grip the boy firmly by the shoulders to push him down so that he found himself perched on the side of the table. He looked up into her suddenly stern face and gulped.
Now listen here, mister. Nimisha started in a firm tone. You have to understand something. Something very important. He opened his eyes wide, finally guessing she was about to tell him something.
The reason im in Sunnydale in not as simple as I told you.
He grinned. Even I can see that, Nimi. Is miss Rosenberg even your Aunty? he asked, jokingly. But the smiled wiped completely off his face when he heard her answer.
No, shes not. Well not technically anyway.
He gaped. Jesus, Nimisha. he breathed in awe, looking at her in a new light. Are you like, running from the law or something?
She chuckled. Not exactly. She looked at him silently, deciding to open up a bit. Willow and my mother are best friends. she told him, only to raise her eyebrows when Jesse frowned, confused.
But I thought miss Rosenbergs best friend was that lady who died here four years ago? he asked her, grimacing when her eyes opened wide.
You know of her? she said, although she couldnt quite keep the smile of her face.
Jesse looked at her oddly. Of course I know about her, everyone does. He shrugged. Something Summers, I think. She disappeared on evening. Used to go to this school as well.
Then a thought stuck him. Leaning closer to his friend he asked in a doubtful tone. That dead chicks your *mother*?
She frowned at the term. Although she doesnt go by Dead Chick anymore, yeah, she is.
Holy moly. he breathed.
But Nimisha waved *that* topic away, getting on to more important details. The thing is Jess, Im sorta meant to be in hiding here in Sunnydale until my mother can come and get me again. she told him, smiling when he nodded, taking the information in.
But I cant be in hiding when I have people checking up on my computer files. he poked his chest none to gently. Files that are meant to be *confidential* anyway.
He grimaced. So call me Sherlock Homes. I like to investigate.
She rolled her eyes and ignored him. Just promise me you wont try that again and I *swear* Ill tell you everything I know.
He looked up, pleased finally to were this conversation was heading. But Nimisha saw his grin and clipped his around his ears jokingly. But only because you could be some use to us in the Vampire Lore department.
Cool! he said, rubbing his hands together. Then he frowned and looked up at her where she was standing in front of him. Do I get awesome superpowers as well? he asked, chuckling.
But Nimisha only looked at him oddly. Thats another thing I was meaning to talk to you about.
Jesse looked at her expectantly as she inclined her head.
Have you ever heard of Telekinesis?
****
Meanwhile on the bad side of town....
The room was dark. Silent, save for the gentle tapping of a keyboard. The room was bare, sad gray walls hung lifelessly while mouldy white nets framed a small, dirty window. A single bed was all the room had in its possession, and even that was nothing to be proud of. It was covered by a single, thin gray blanket. The place looked for all the world like Faiths old apartment that she had stayed in briefly before turning to the dark side.
But in one corner, life stirred. A fake, bright light could be seen in the darkness, along with a lean figure sitting in a creaky old chair. His fingers dancing expertly on the computers keyboard as he brought it back to life.
The figure continued to dance, getting further and further through the boundaries that did not poss a threat to him as they did to mortal hackers. He chuckled at the thought. And they thought they were so advanced, living in their own brilliance. Not knowing that only about 12 light years away was a planet that housed a race who could wipe them off the face of the Galaxy with a single push of a button.
He snorted. Humans....
Then he stopped abruptly, his silver gaze locked on the top-of-the-range Laptop computers screen. He had thought to check in the Los Angeles Police Records for the latest deaths that may have been Vampiric, but he knew he would have no luck, this girl would be smarter than that...Well, he *hoped* she was smarter than that.
Ash sighed. He wished for about the hundred time in the last few days that Sati and Jadis would hurry up and tell him just *why* was meant to be searching the entire LA for one teenage girl, who could she be that was so important anyway?
He snorted. They could have narrowed the search down just a little, but nooo. The bloody Oracles had to go and leave out the fact that Los Angeles has *suburban* cities that were still in its boundaries. So now he would have to go search them as well!
Bloody humans. he muttered. Why they have to hide from everything is beyond me.
But then his face softened, his mind drifting to a certain beautiful black haired girl he had meet the night before. The way she smiled...
He shook his head forcefully, mentally telling himself to get back on track. But the thought was still there, in the back of his mind that would ever so often push forward, as if wanting attention. She ran from you, Ash...the voice told him. But he knew that sounded weak even to his own ears.
She had been scared.
Of what, he had no idea what so ever, but the point was that she *had* been scared. And he knew it has something to do with him.
He sighed in frustration. He would never get woman. But, knowing he must, Ash turned back to his computer and continued his search.
Not knowing of course, that the very female he was searching for was dancing in his dreams.
****
A few hours later....
Oz and Spike held open the swinging Library doors so that Willow and Nimisha could walk slowly thought, their feet dragging on the floor. It was now well and truly night, Willow thought checking her watch. Only to gasped when she saw that the it would be morning in a few hours.
And they hadnt got a wink of sleep.
She yawned at the thought, grinning when she saw Nimisha follow suit. They had just stepped through the front door about an hour ago after dropping Jesse off at his Grandmothers when they had gotten a call from Giles, telling them all to get down to the Library as soon as possible.
Of course, them all didnt mean Nimisha, or Sita for that matter. But after a very much delayed begging session - of which Nimisha had afterwards firmly denied for she didnt *beg* for anyone - Willow had eventually caved in and said she could come.
Just dont come running to me when Giles bits your head off. she told the grinning girl, wagging her finger in her direction. But now she only sighed. It would be so much easier if they could just *tell* Giles about Nimisha knowing about Vampires it would solve a lot of problems.
But after talking to Buffy this very evening through Telepathy when she dropped a line (so to speak) to check up on her daughter, she knew her best friend had a point when she said *she* would be the one doing any telling.
<I just have to be there, Will> Buffy had told her, Willow having no trouble picturing the Mental wince on the Slayers beautiful face.
Ah, there you all are. Giles voice broke through. Willow looked up and was confronted by not only Giles, but Xander and Anya who were already seated at the large wooden table.
Hey there, Will! Xander chirped, raising one large, tanned hand to give her a friendly wave. She returned the gesture, but it faulted when she caught sight of the frown Giles was giving Nimisha, who was standing slightly behind Spike and Oz still a little shocked with seeing these people for only the second time.
Hello, Nimisha. Giles said kindly, even though he seemed to be frowning at Willow at the same time.
Hey. she answered quietly as Willow walked over to get a thick book that was laying next where Giles sat, perched on the end of the table.
I didnt know you were bringing you niece, Willow. Giles said in a low quiet tone, only heard by her, Xander and Anya who sat not to far away, as Spike and Nimisha went over to sit of the stairs and started to talk softly to themselves. Oz too, took and chair and straddled it.
Willow sighed and turned on him. What was I meant to do, Giles? Leave her at home in a strange town by herself?
Not, she added silently, that she would be alone, for Sita was out Patrolling around the school boundaries somewhere waiting for the - hopefully short - meeting to come to a close. They all agreed that having two new people barge in on a usual small meeting, people might start to get suspicious. Not taking into account that Sita was meant to be a new staff member at the school.
Giles just sighed in frustration and pushed his glasses off the bridge of his nose. Well, there is nothing that can be done now, I guess. he said quietly. But you will have to tell her to go into my office when the real reason for this meeting comes to light...
He trailed off just as the twin doors swung open and three dark clothed figures walked into the room.
Everyone went silent as all heads turned in their direction.
****
Nimisha had frozen the instant the doors started to swing. Her head starting to spin so badly that she reached up and gripped her scull, crying out softly as she winced in pain.
You alright, Nimi? Spike asked, breaking off his train of conversation. She didnt answer, only flying her head around to stare at the door as the figures entered.
The room went silent.
Spike followed her gaze, his eyes opening wide when he was the first to recognise the newcomers as they stepping into the light. He gasped, crushing his sisters hand in his own beside them.
Nimisha... he hissed warningly but didnt have to bother. She was right there with him. Her eyes open wide even as one of the figures stepping in front of the others and began so speak.
Whats the matter with you guys? Cordelia asked, putting her hands on her hips as she looked from face to face of the people sitting on the table, not having noticed Spike and Nimisha sitting on the stairs to the side of her.
Willow, I know you face is usually pretty pale, but I swear you look like youve seen a ghost.
Nimisha shot Willow a quick glance, her mouth falling open as she noticed that yes, Willow face was deathly pale, her eyes wide with shock. Her mouth was slightly open but no sound came out of it.
Giles, Xander and Anya were completely baffled as they too, looked at Willow.
Will, you okay man? Xander said calmly, making to get out of his chair to help his childhood friend even as Anya wined and pushed him back down.
But Willow didnt notice. Oz.. she whispered in a panicked voice. Everyone turned to look at the Werewolf. But he didnt look much better, his body frozen in shock as he eyes just continued getting bigger and bigger as he stared at a figure behind Cordelia.
Oh, shit. Are we in for it now... he whispered. Willow, get Evie.
Nimisha let out a deep breath, suddenly thankful that Oz used her mothers Royal name not her Earthly one. But it was gesture that alerted everyone else of her presence. Woops! Didnt see you over there...
Cordelia broke up with a stunned gasp.
Now it was Angel and Doyles turns to be confused as they - along with everyone else - wondered why Cordelia had broken off her sentence.
Both men spun around.
And found themselves confronted by a beautiful, black haired, teenager who was sitting next to Spike. They were silent as she slowly got to her feet, her hands shaking so badly that Spike tried to still them in his own as he stood up beside Nimishas terrified form.
Angel gasped as he got a look at her eyes. He knew them somehow...
Doyle on the other hand was completely confused. Looking back and forth between Angel, Cordelia, Willow and the girl, he could feel the tension rising with every breath.
Nimisha was panting so hard she could hardly breath. This wasnt meant to happen!! she raged to herself in her mind as she raised her eyes and locked them with her fathers, grimacing when she noticed the mixture of emotions that were flitting across his edged face. Confusion, surprise, fear, and something else she couldnt place...
And with that thought she felt her head spin out of control. The next moments seemingly happening in a blur.
She barely noticed herself sway and Spike cry out....
Willow giving a scream even as she broke out of her stunned stance and raced across the floor towards her...
Angel looking at her in surprise at her reaction...
And Cordelias sudden burst of recognition on her face was the last thing Nimisha saw as she gave a piercing scream...both physically and mentally and fell silently to the floor.
But words filled her shattering mind...
What has been done, has been undone... The future is changing...the Balance is shifting... The Players are chosen... The Lines are set... Let the Games begin... Chapter 9
*EARTH*
Nimishas head was spinning, completely out of control. Black darkness surrounded her as she floated down an invisible corridor. She faintly recognised that people were talking somewhere, she could hear voices, all around her it seemed.
She thought she knew some of them....
Willow....Oz...Giles....Angel?
She smiled with that thought, wondering if this was just some wonderful dream where she was finally aloud to hear her beloved fathers voice.
Then as she felt herself being sucked back into consciousness, the memories returned. She cried out, knowing that her mother was going to be well and truly pissed at her for this one.
But there was something she knew she should be doing...something else. And why was there darkness?
Maybe I should try and open my eyes, she thought.
And she did.
Faces swam in her blurred vision and she moaned in pain. Her hand flew to her forehead, making sure for some horrible moment that her moon wasnt uncovered, and clutched her head between her palms.
Nimisha felt two or more people place their hands on various parts of her body and gently try and sit her up. She moaned again, this time with the sudden movement, as she reached out behind her to steady herself even as she looked around and found that someone, Angel probably if Willow had anything to do with it (that thought made her smile) ha d picked her up and placed her unconscious form on the library table.
A face peered across at her and Nimisha had to rack her brain carefully before she recognised it as Xander. Anya wasnt to far behind, although she looked as if she couldnt be bothered if Nimisha died or not. Spike was standing behind them with Willow, watching her in concern.
You okay, kid? he asked and Nimisha bristled. She hated being referred to as a kid.
But she tried to smile for him, he looked generally concerned with her wellbeing. Yeah, Xan. Im fine. She smiled sheepishly. A little embarrassed, but ill live.
Xander grinned broadly. Hey, think nothing of it. he told her. Ive been unconscious in this place *hundreds* of times!
She laughed, seeing Giles disapproving look that the Watcher shot Xander for that piece of information. Information that she didnt necessarily need to know.
But then Willow and Spike were pushing Xander out of the way, a look of deep concern on their faces as they studied her face. Nimisha smiled, shaking her head to tell them that she was fine.
Willow smiled in relief as Spike chuckled, finding the whole situation hilarious. Nimisha shot him a stern look and he backed off, going back to his seat of the stairs with a broad smile on his lips.
You gave me a heart attack, Nimi. Willow told the girl, giving her a quick hug. But when she pulled away Nimisha saw that her face looked troubled.
Remembering why, Nimisha quickly scanned the room and found Angel, Cordelia and Doyle standing off to the side, talking softly. They werent looking in her direction but Nimisha gasped when she saw Angel tense, seemingly noticing that someone was watching him, and turn his head to regard her.
Their eyes locked.
Nimisha gulping as she tried desperately not to grin or burst into tears. She gave him a little smile, as if to say hello, and Angel returned the gesture. But still the looked at each other, Nimisha unable to break the gaze. Finally, after Willow thumped her on the leg to get her attention, she sighed and regretfully looked away.
Angel didnt know what the hell was happening. One minute they were walking through the library doors, fully expecting to see only the original members on the gang, plus Anya of course, but they get in there only to find a weird looking teenager sitting off to the side with *Spike* of all people. Oh, they knew that Spike was working with the Sunnydale group, had been of over four years now, but it was still a shock to see him having a civilised conversation with a human girl. Only to have her get one look at the three of them walking through the door and faint dead away on the floor.
She was a strange one, Angel decided, discreetly watching her talk to Willow across the room. He unconsciously blocked out what Doyle was saying to Cordelia and let his hooded eyes travel up her body from where she still sat - bare legs dangling off the side - on the study table.
His eyes locked on her face, opening wide when the took in the fine details of her eyes, lips and nose. She was incomparably beautiful, thats for sure. He watched her, unable to tear his eyes away from her enchanting face. He noticed her eyes were a startling shade of green, so like another persons eyes he used to know...
He swallowed, thoughts of Buffy invading his mind unwantedly as he watched the girl laugh at something Xander said to her as he leaned behind Anya and leered friendly at her.
Who was she? Angel wondered. Never had he felt so strongly for someone he had only just met...if thats what you called it for he didnt even know her name. Only Buffy had made him feel this way, but there was just something about this staggeringly beautiful girl that made Angels head spin. Made him want to get to know her better, know everything about her life, who she was....
****
Nimisha was the first one to notice Angel walking over to them, his hands stuffed nervously in his duster pockets and his eyes locked on her face, filled with curiosity. She gulped and flew her eyes around to meet Willows, the Witch freezing where she stood when she finally caught sight of the tall, dark Vampire walking slowly over to them.
Their conversation drifted off as Angel moved to stand before Nimisha, her legs stilling their swaying. She locked her eyes on his chest, trying desperately to get control of herself and not let her emotions run awry. For a horrible second Nimisha thought all she would have to do was lift her eyes to his and all her secrets would be at once public knowledge, her father instantly knowing the true meaning of their meeting and just who her mother was to him.
But knowing she had to, Nimisha slowly raised her head and met his dark eyes, only to find that his face was filled with concern.
Are you okay? he asked, his voice low and hypnotic.
Nimisha tried not to catch her breath with the sound of his voice...just what she had always thought it would sound like...and smiled brightly, pleased that he was concerned about her, even though they had only just met. Yeah. Thanks, im fine.
He looked relieved as the two of them fell into a awkward silence, Nimisha all to aware of Willow who stood just of to her side, tense and ready to jump in at any time if the conversation got to personal or difficult to explain. Nimisha was glad she was there, even if she bristled at first when she realised just why she was standing there. Did her and Oz think she was so stupid that she would let something slip? Nimisha surly hoped not because she didnt intend to do anything of the sort.
Knowing she had to say something, Nimisha smiled brightly and held out her hand to Angel who had been painfully aware of the silence and was looking around the library - even though he had been there countless times over the past seven years - with bright attention.
Im Nimisha. she told him, feeling her legs melt when he reached out and grasped her hand in return.
They both jumped.
Angels mouth fell open in shock with the sudden contact with her skin, feeling the sweat, innocent, *powerful* jolt that her hand had sent shooting through his body. He felt his head jerk up, eyes gluing on her face for any trace that she had felt it as well. But he found that she had masked her emotions well, the only hint that she too, had received the jolt was that he saw her visibly wince the moment their hands had touched. But then, quickly, she had covered it up.
Angel felt himself frown, realising that this girl just kept getting more suspicious, more strange the longer he knew her. Seeing how quickly she had masked her face, he knew she must have been doing that a lot to have gotten so good at it. Either through her entire life or just recently.
But he smiled for her benefit, noticing that she hadnt picked up on where his thoughts now lay. Its nice to meet you Nimisha. he replied.
Im Angel.
****
Nimisha knew now what hell felt like.
She was living it this very moment.
He was here, finally. After 16 years of hoping, wishing, dreaming of the day where she would finally meet the legendry figure who had unbeknown to him held such a huge part in her life. The man of who her beloved mother Buffy and her would spend countless hours talking about, remembering, and envisioning for Nimishas entire life. And now, after totally humiliating herself in front of him and his two closest friends, she was facing him, talking to him...and she didnt have a clue what to say.
But looking up into his darling dark face, Nimisha could see visibly as if they were painted straight onto his face, the feelings he felt towards Buffy. She smiled with that thought, seeing how proudly he wore them, how lovingly.
Nimisha knew he probably didnt even know they were there himself. But she could see them as clear as the day.
And what she saw could have made her weep.
The love she found in his eyes astounded her. As she watched him watch her right back, Nimisha looked deep into his eyes, knowing she was seeing Buffy dance behind them, as she did every waking moment of Angels day. And of course, for many hours after that.
She was right there. Just inches from the surface, dancing with a beautiful smile on her face, her blonde hair flying around her shining face. The way Angel wanted to remember her....*had* to remember her. Now that she was gone....
Nimisha ripped her eyes away from his, unwilling for her father to see the sudden guilt that filled them. For she knew the only reason Buffy was not laying in his willing and loving arms right now was because of the Queens undying love for her, for her only child. For her body heir and only link she now had to Angel.
Nimisha didnt like how that felt. But she knew it was the cold, hard truth. For she would always be a substitute for the dark Vampire with Buffy. She could remember clearly how many times as a child she had woken in the cold of the night only to find her mother sitting on the side of her bed, weeping silently into her hands as she had been gazing down at the sleeping child who looked so like her father. And Nimisha had always known Buffy was dying inside every day that passed without Angel by her side. But the truth was there was nothing a small child could do to ease her pain. Only gather the sobbing Slayer in her little arms and rock her as she cried for what she had lost, for the lives of the ones she loved beyond everything else who she was forced to abandon so her little baby could live the life she was destined to live, the life and luxury and pleasure.
The life without her father by her side.
Im Angel. His words played through her mind time and time again before she fully understood what he had actually said to her. But seeing that he was looking down at her, a confused expression on his face for her lack of comment, Nimisha raised her head and smiled at him.
She had just started to open her mouth when Willow beat her to it.
Hi, Angel. she said, nudging Nimishas side.
<Hey!> Nimisha shot at her telepathically, knowing she could say whatever she wished and Willow could not answer her.
<Dont worry, Will. They cant hear me> she added when she caught sight of the Witchs startled look as she heard the sudden voice in her head even as she learned over and gave Angel and warm hug in greeting. But Nimisha kept her face neutral, as if she was mearly watching two old friends reunite and was not having another one-way conversation with one of them in their heads.
<Were in deep karbeesh now, huh?> she said in a laughing voice as the two of them broke apart, her face not even twitching. <Dont worry Willow. I wont say a word and ill be on my best behaviour> Then, as if she couldnt help herself, she opened the link to Oz and Spike as well and gave all of them a loud mental cheer.
<THATS MY DAD!!> she screamed happily in all their minds, trying not to laugh when she saw Oz suddenly choke on the cup of tea he was drinking while talking to Cordelia, Doyle and Anya. They looked at him oddly but he just smiled and Nimisha saw him mouth that it was hot.
Spike grinned broadly, shooting Giles a hard look when the Watcher stopped what he was doing and turned to look at him strangely, seemingly baffled at just why he was acting so happy.
Willow on the other hand had the most stupid smirk on her face, the Witch relaxing when she finally got over the initial shock of seeing him here and she realised that Nimisha wasnt going to do anything drastic.
So maybe having Angel here wasnt to bad, she thought, watching Nimishas beautiful face with a soft smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. The way the girl had been hanging onto every word Angel had said, the way her eyes were huge with emotion as she gazed up with shear adoration at the dark figure in front of her.
But then her and Angel separated and he returned to look down at the flushed girl, a confused look on his silent face.
Oh! Willow yelped, finally picking up on why he was confused. Both Nimisha and her father turned to look at her.
Angel, Nimisha is my cousin. she told the Vampire, trying not to wince when she saw Nimishas face fall slightly. She too, wished she could tell Angel just who Nimisha was to him.
Shes staying with me and Oz for the rest of the week while her mother is overseas. Then Willow turned to Nimisha, explaining things to the girl that she already knew off by heart but that would look odd to everyone else if she didnt.
Nimi, Angel was living here in Sunnydale a few years ago before moving to LA.
Nimisha smirked, knowing what she was doing.
He was a friend of Buffys. Willow continued, having no idea what everyones reaction to what she just said was going to be.
The room when quiet as Angels head shot around to regard Willow with raised eyebrows, the same for Xander, Giles, Cordelia, Anya and Doyle. They all looked at her, stunned as she said that with no trace of the usual emotions she had with talking about Buffy. But seeing how their friend wasnt about the burst into tears anytime soon as they saw her turn back to Nimisha, totally unaware of the effect she was having on everyone else, they turned to each other for an explanation
Xander looked at Giles. Cordelia looked at Doyle. Anya looked at Xander...
...And Angel looked down at Nimisha.
And that was when the door burst open.
****
All head turned towards the door just in time to see a flushed, and panting Sita burst through the door, searching the faces desperately for her young charge. Finding her across the room with Willow she let out a huge breath of relief and bent over to try and ease the stich in her side. Nimisha was just about to leap of the table and run over to her when Willow saw her attention and clamp a hand down on her upper arm to still her.
She shot an annoyed looked up at her mothers closest friend but let it drop when she saw that Giles was already walking over to the tall brunette.
Of course, Nimisha thought. I cant act like I know her because shes meant to be a new teacher at the school.
Instead she settled just to watch Giles push his glasses up higher on his nose as he neared the panting woman.
Miss Reijik? Giles asked in surprise.
Sita raised her flushed brown head, noticing the Watcher for the first time. Her mouth fell open as she silently raked her eyes over each and every figure in the room.
Figures who were in turn, staring right back at her.
She blinked. But quickly getting in control of herself she eased her breathing back to normal and straightened. She smiled at Giles as she took his helping hand to steady herself.
I was just down the hallway finishing off some work. she told Giles and anyone else who was listening. But seeing the Watcher visibly relax Sita carried on. I heard someone scream, so I thought id come and investigate.
She shrugged her shoulders, as if the rest was obvious.
Ah, yes. Giles exclaimed, turning to Nimisha. Nimisha here just got a fright and fainted. Shes alright now though. he added when he saw the surprised look Sita shot Nimisha.
But Nimisha herself was trying to hide a smirk. <Calm down, Sita. Im fine> she pathed to her close friend quickly.
<You gave me a heart attack, Nimi> Sita shot back in a stern voice. Then the blinked when she noticed Angel standing by her. <Who the hell is that?> she asked.
<Its Angel> was Nimisha laughing reply. Sita started, her eyes turning to Willow when Giles started to offer her a cup of tea. Willow met her silent gaze - for she had been watching Nimisha face and had seen her eyes glaze over as she Pathed - and nodded her head slightly, not attracting attention. Sita opened the link suddenly to Willow, Oz and Spike, sending them all a mental groan.
<What the hell is *he* doing here?> Of course only Nimisha could answer, but Sita looked at all the faces and saw them all wince with the tone of her voice.
Miss Reijik? Giles asked, noticing that she had yet to comment on his suggestion of tea. She turned to him, confused, but then remembering what he was talking about she raised her eyebrows.
Oh! she yelped. Im terribly sorry, Mr Giles. Ive been here too long. She chuckled. My mind doesnt work probably at this time of night. Yes, tea would be lovely.
He smiled, and turned towards his office. Delighted that someone new was willing to try his English delicacy. Seeing that he wasnt watching her anymore Sita turned back towards Nimisha and Willow, trying to do it discreetly when she noticed Angel was watching her little charge when a frown on his face, as if he was trying to figure out a puzzle.
<Sita we dont have a clue why he is here> Nimisha exclaimed, not bothering to wait for her to start. <But we are going to have to do something pretty quick>
<Why?> was Sitas startled answer even as Willow, Oz and Spike simultaneously turned in Nimisha direction.
<Cause if you guys havent figured it out yet, that is Cordelia Chase over there by that wall> She continued even as she saw Willow grimace and Sita groan quietly as she picked up on what she was going on about.
<Yeah. I dont know if she recognised me yet, but as everyone continues to tell me I have a unique looking face she its not gonna take her long. Sooner or later she going to realise im the girl who was looking through her windows a few days ago, and she gonna want to know why>
They broke the link as Giles came back with Sitas tea. Nimisha brought her hand up to rub her forehead in pain, the Path taking more out of her than she realised. It was only meant to be a small gesture but Angel noticed it and looked down at her.
You alright? he asked, reaching down to touch her shoulder as Willow turned to her, hearing Angels question.
Yeah, I must have hit my head harder than I thought. Nimisha told her father, hating the lie as soon as if left her mouth. Angel smiled kindly and moved so he was leaning against the side of the table beside her. She tried not to look surprised at the movement as she scooted around so she was sitting crosslegged on the surface of the table and half in Angels direction. Seeing that they were only talking, Willow took a hint and quietly left them to it, going over to walk with Sita who was on her way over to Oz and Spike.
So, how long have you been in Sunnydale? Angel asked Nimisha in a warm voice, surprising himself at how much he wanted to talk to the girl. He usually wasnt the most open person in the world, well not since Buffy died anyway. But here he was, sitting in Giles Library talking to the weirdest, kindest, oddest person he had ever met.
But what surprised him the most was the fact that he couldnt get enough of hearing her talk, the sweet, angel like voice that flew from her mouth every time she took a breath.
He just wanted to talk and talk and talk.
****
Willow was frowning when she intercepted Sita and they both continued towards Oz and Spike who were still sitting on the far stairs. Both men were unusually silent, their heads tilted the side as they watched something across the room with mixed emotions on their faces. Oz looked worried, or as worried as his layed back face would allow. Spike on the other hand looked as if he had just won the lottery. He had a huge, smart-ass grin on his pale face, his eyes sparkling.
Both woman joined them, Spike reaching out and gently taking Sitas tea cup out of her hands so she could sit down beside him. She shot him a bright smile of thanks as she got comfortable and he gave the cup back to her.
The group then all lifted their heads to gaze across the room in silence.
Nimisha was sitting crosslegged on the table, her long black hair falling down her back and the ends just touching the polished wood. She was fiddling with a loose tendril unconsciously as she looked across at her father seriously, soaking in everything he was saying.
Angel was leaning comfortable and relaxed against the side of the table, his legs straight with his long arms holding onto the sides on the table for balance. He was smiling for a change, his eyes glued on his daughters face as he talked. Disbite the fact that they barely knew each other, the were both totally engrossed in the conversation, Nimishas face so unusually calm while Angels so happy and bright.
Willow frowned, not taking her eyes off the beautiful pair. Were gonna have to do something, guys. she said quietly to the three people beside her. Who in turn hadnt even breathed a word in the last four minutes.
Sighing, Willow went on. They cant stay there talking like that. Someone is going to look over soon and see how much they look like each other and start getting suspicious.
This time they seemed to hear her, and as if breaking out of a spell they all shook their heads slightly.
Jesus, Will. Spike breathed in awe. Would you just shut up for a bloody minute and *look* at them?
Willow huffed, but doing as he asked, she turned and looked at Nimisha and her father, sitting there on the table, ignoring everyone else but themselves.
She blinked.
The similarities between them were amazing. The could have almost passed as twins if it wasnt for the age difference. They both had the dark coloured hair, the same strong nose and pale skin. Even their eyebrows were similar, the strong arch on their powerful cheek bones reaching them so they curved exquisitely. Only their eyes were different. Nimishas so bright and alive like her mothers, the jade colouring making her look somewhat like a gypsy they were so startling. While Angels were a dark brown, hooded and deep, just like his soul. Willow had no doubt that Angel was getting more and more confused as the minutes ticked by as to where he had seen the exact same eyes before.
Willow groaned. Come on, guys. They cant sit so close together like that! she hissed, getting worried that either Cordelia or Doyle would stop their conversation long enough to spare their friend more than short, confused looks as to why he was talking in such depth to the girl and actually *look* at the pair and notice that things just werent right.
Oz sighed, knowing Willow was right. As so, together the four friends got up and walked over to the two dark Warriors, wishing they didnt have to disrupt their first meeting in 16 years.
****
Nimisha smiled at his question.
Just a few days. she answered, trying to keep to the story Willow, Oz and her and been sticking to. Its a pretty nice place actually. she continued and Angel grinned.
Your dead bored? he guessed and Nimisha laughed.
Willows been taking me shopping quiet a lot, so thats okay. she told him, chuckling when his eyebrows shot up. Willow? Shopping? he asked in a disbelieving tone and Nimisha giggled.
She said Cordelia got her into it.
Angels smile twitched, as if it all made sense now why Cordelia had always insisted the Witch come shopping with her. He looked down, his smile disappearing. Nimisha winced, knowing she shouldnt have said that, but reached out and touched her fathers shoulder.
Im sorry. she whispered and he slowly raised his head again. You really miss her, dont you? she asked, feeling terrible for she was indirectly responsible for making him feel as bad as he did.
How much did Willow tell you? he asked in a low voice, but Nimisha could tell he was very surprised that she knew as much as she did.
Nimisha bit her lip, trying to decide how much to reveal. Just that she was Willows best friend and that she loved you. And that one day she disappeared and no one ever saw her again.
Angel sighed. Well, thats the cliffs-notes version of it, I guess. He let out a deep breath and turned to her, a small smile on his face again.
But enough sad talk, how about me and you go on a delayed tour of Sunnydale tomorrow night? I could show you all the sights.
Nimishas mouth fell open.
But she couldnt help herself and her face broke out into a stunning smile as she nodded her head vigorously. Thatll be great! she told him, grinning like a fool as Angel smiled back.
Well, Nimisha thought. If im going back to Allrelen soon, this might be the only chance ill have to spend some time with him. Her mother couldnt be mad at her for that, could she?
But then the girls smile drained off her face as she caught sight of Willow and the others getting up from their seats and walking over to them. Looking at all their faces in turn she could tell they werent very happy and that they didnt want to have to butt in, so Nimisha didnt feel to bad.
They came to stand in front of Nimisha and Angel. Well, Nimi. Willow started. Time for us to be heading home, let Angel and the others talk to Giles like they came here to do. She had a bright smile on her face to mask her words. Looking over her shoulder Nimisha saw Sita standing with Spike.
Willow followed her gaze and noticed how strange it would look if the new teacher left with them. Where giving miss Reijik a ride home, she walked here and didnt really wish to walk home in the dark. the Witch thought up quickly.
And with that, she reached down and gathered Nimishas hands in hers and gently eased her off the table top. Once she was standing on her own two feet again, Nimisha turned to her father and - surprising not only herself but everyone else - she reached out and let him gather her in a hug. They stayed like that for a while, Nimisha somehow comforted by the lack of heart beat in Angels chest before breaking apart.
They smiled at each other. See you tomorrow? Angel asked and Nimisha grinned. She nodded her head. The next thing she knew Willow was pulling her out of the library.
As she neared the swinging doors, Nimisha turned her head back and the last thing she saw before being pulled through was Angels smiling face, his eyes still watching her leave.
****
The Next Night...
Day 5
So, what did you think? Angel asked Nimisha with a lopsided grin on his face. They crept through a dark, dirty alleyway towards The Bronze, Angel having just giving Nimisha the grand tour of the Sunnydale Campus that Willow, Oz and even Buffy briefly had attended. Actually Nimisha had been meaning to go there since she first arrived in Sunnydale but between Sitas arrival, school work and her new friends she hadnt had time.
It had been bigger than Nimisha had originally thought it would have been, and hadnt bothered to hide her surprise from her father as they had entered the main gates. Angel had laughed, telling her Buffy had the exact same reaction.
Actually, the pair had spoken of Buffy quiet a lot this evening, much to Angels surprise. But he found that the girl was such a good listener, he felt as if he could tell her anything. So, with Nimisha listening more intently than he could have ever imagined, Angel told her about some of his and Buffy adventures - leaving out the Vampires and Demon parts of course, for he didnt know Nimisha knew of those things - and she had loved it. Her whole life Buffy had been telling her the same stories of course, but to hear them from Angels side, his views and perspectives, was just amazing.
I think the music of this place gets worse the more I come here. Nimisha said tartly. Its horrible.
Angel laughed.
Buffy used to drag me here all the time when her and the others were still in high school. Angel told her, smiling softly with the memory. Nimisha remained silent, so silent in fact that Angel looked over at her and found the girl looking down at the ground, a sad look on her face. Angel frowned, she had been having that look quite often tonight, even if she didnt realise he knew. And she seemed to get it whenever they talked of Buffy...
Where are the others meeting us? Nimisha suddenly cut in, and Angel had the sudden strange feeling that she knew just what he had been thinking. But he nodded anyway, and told her, At the Bronze, we have to go patrol...er, do some stuff afterwards.
He watched her let that sink in, waiting for her to say something about where they would be going. But to his surprise, Nimisha only nodded, as if she hadnt expected anything else. Angel tried to shake of a feeling to total deja vu.
But instead he turned his head slightly to watch her as he had been doing so often tonight as Cordelia had asked him to do when her and Doyle had discovered he was showing her around town tonight. She hadnt said why to either him or Doyle but Cordelia had been quite adamant that he would have to watch her, she would tell him why when he got back.
And so, he watched her.
She was dressed in a comfortable pair of dark blue Levi jeans and a white muslin t-shirt with long sleaves. Her hair was up, fixed in a odd style Angel had never seen before. The top layer was done in tiny little plaits and the rest was piled up on the top of her head in a loose, elaborate coiffure that reminded Angel of 18th century France. But as he looked closer he found that the when her hair had been put up all the tiny plaits had mixed and threaded their way through her black hair and in turn, helped it stay up. Even though when it was finished it looked rather innocent and simple, Angel thought it looked beautiful with her regal face, it made her look extremely exotic.
But as they walked in silence through the deserted alleyway, stepping over trash cans, a figure stepped out from the shadows, her hands folded across her chest and her legs planted firmly on the ground.
They both stopped abruptly, their eyes opening wide as they both recognised the girl in front of them.
Now, what a surprise to find you two together in Sunnydale. Faith told them, smiling as they were forced to stop as she now stood right in front of them.
****
Faith? Both Angel and Nimisha said at the same time, their mouths handing open in surprise to see Buffys sister Slayer standing in the alleyway with them. But even as Nimisha just continued to gawk at the dark haired girl, Angel clicked at what she had said and turned to looked at her, frowning in confusion.
How do you know Faith? he asked, suddenly thinking that this girl might not be as perfect as she seemed to be.
Nimisha gulped, her eyes flitting from Faiths towards her fathers, not knowing what to say to that one.
But it was Faith herself who saved the day. Its okay, Angel. she told the sputtering Vampire, walking up to them and laying a calming hand on his arm. Me and Nimisha go way back.
Nimisha gaped at the girl as Faith turned and winked at her, smiling broadly. But then the younger Slayer turned back towards Angel and said in a low voice, Angel can you get lost for a few minutes so I can talk to Nimisha here?
Angel sent Nimisha a look of his own, but seeing she was surprised as he was, he sighed and nodded his head. Turning back to Faith he told her, Five minutes then im coming looking for you, is that clear? he looked sternly down at the brunette Slayer.
Then your going to tell me why your not in jail where you were two months ago when I came to visit. He cocked his head. Are the cops looking for you? he asked, but Faith only shook her head.
You said five minutes, Angel. And im not starting counting until your ass is behind that corner over there. She pointed towards the far pathway leading towards the Bronze door.
He sighed and looked at his daughter, his eyebrows raised in a silent question. Nimisha halted for a moment then knowing she could take Faith down anytime she wished if the girl suddenly decided Nimisha wasnt friend material after all, she nodded at Angel, telling him everything was okay.
Angel still didnt look okay with the situation but without looking back he turned around and walked into the shadows.
The two girls watched his back until he was out of sight. Then silently, they both turned to stare at one another. Faith was grinning from ear to ear, looking like she was having the time of her life, totally ignoring the fact that Nimisha was ready and capable on kicking her Slayer ass back to LA.
Nimisha on the other hand was furious. And she didnt mind letting Faith know it.
Why the *hell* did you have to go do that for!? Nimisha screeched, waving her hands in the air in a frustrated gesture. She saw Faiths smile fault for a moment, as if she was suddenly wondering if confronting Buffys daughter was such a good idea after all.
Nimisha turned on her. Do you have any idea what you might have done? she yelled, bringing her hands down to rest them on her hips. You might have just blown the cover that took us three bloody days to think up!
Nimisha was so angry she totally forgot to watch her eyes, which when she thought of all the time they had wasted if Faith blew their cover, started to flash a bright yellow. Faith had been watching her the entire time she was yelling, leaning up against the side of the dark building with her hands crossed across her chest, cocking her dark head to the side and listening to everything she was saying. But the minute Faith saw Nimisha eyes start to flash she was off the wall in an instant and had the teenager in a throat hold in a matter of seconds. But Nimisha surprised her and didnt cry out. Faith thought it was almost as if she had been expecting her to do that all along. But bringing her head down close to Nimishas so that they were eye to eye, Faith stared into cool, jade glass and narrowed her own eyes.
And im sure thats got nothing to do it? Faith asked in a low voice, relaxing the hold on Nimishas neck when she saw that the girl wasnt even going to struggle. When Nimisha didnt answer her, Faith let her go completely and took a step back, watching the beautiful, dark girl wearily.
Nimisha just stood there, her eyes back to their natural colour and were narrowed slits as she looked coolly at her mothers replacement without even batting an eyelid. She was totally calm, her powerful legs ready to crush Faiths chest if the need be.
And Faith was not foolish enough to doubt that she could in a matter of seconds.
So? Nimisha snapped in a crisp voice. What are you doing here in Sunnydale?
Faith grinned suddenly, as if forgetting the danger she was in if she angered the powerful girl in front of her. Are you kidding? she asked, ignoring Nimisha growl of warning and started to pace back and forth.
Ive been having these really weird dreams lately. Faith told Nimisha, deciding the sarcastic path may not really be the safest. Dream about Buffy. she continued, smiling when she saw the flicker of doubt in Nimishas eyes as she heard her.
Then a few nights ago I was asleep in my cell - lovely places by the way - when I wake up to find these two weird looking, golden people standing by my bed.
She cut off when she noticed the surprised look on Nimishas face. She looked confused as she stood there, watching Faith pace back and forth across the dirty alleyway floor.
Sati and Jadis? she muttered to herself and Faith shot her a startled look.
You on a first name basses then? she asked, her eyebrows raised. When Nimisha nodded, she whistled.
Wow. Thats a thing you dont see every day. Faith exclaimed.
Nimisha frowned. Ive known them since I was child, why shouldnt I be on a first name basses? she asked, a bit annoyed with Sati and Jadis herself for not informing her of what they were doing.
Faith just held up her hands in a gesture of peace. Hey, im not saying a word. She licked her lips. So, anyway theyre standing in my cell, creeping the hell out of me when I suddenly realise their Angels Oracle people that he keeps telling me about. Then the next thing I know im not in my cell at all but standing on the grass outside the police station with them telling me to get my ass into gear and get to Sunnydale cause im gonna be needed or something.
Faith shrugged and spread her arms, telling Nimisha that the rest was history.
Nimisha looked at her intently. Then im to believe that you know who I am then?
Faith laughed, but it was a kind sort, and stopped her pacing. Turning so they both faced each other, Faith cocked her head and smiled gently.
Your Bs kid. she told Nimisha, grinning when the girl rolled her eyes in frustration. Is their anyone who doesnt know that? Nimisha breathed. Mama is gonna be pissed as it is with Spike knowing, now you... Nimisha sighed.
Faith laughed again and walked over to Nimisha. Reaching out she touched Nimishas forearm and gave it a warm rub. Its gonna be fine, kiddo. You leave your mom to me.
They both smiled slightly. So your not gonna kill me? Faith asked and Nimisha burst out laughing, surprising the older girl.
Kill you? she asked. Mama would *kill* me!
They both stopped laughing, falling into a comfortable silence until Nimisha asked her new friend, Sati and Jadis didnt say why you would be need, did they? But Faith only shook her head, saying no they didnt.
Nimisha shrugged her shoulders in a oh, well gesture and Faith told her, But I bet its sorta the same reason you daddy dearest is suddenly in town.
Nimisha nodded, agreeing, as they both walked over and took a seat on a crate that was sitting on the side of the alleyway. When they got there Nimisha turned her head to look at Faith, who was wrapping her leather jacket around herself and rubbing her hands on her leather pants.
What are you going to tell everyone about you being here? Nimisha asked, hoping she wouldnt decided to blow their cover completely. Faith seemed to know what she was thinking and her head snapped around in surprise.
You mean, am I gonna tell everyone about your mom, you mean?
Nimisha bit her lip, knowing she was being shallow. But Faith only sighed and put her arm around the girls shoulder. Nimi, ive done a lot of things in my life that im not proud of, most of which you probably know about with Buffy being you mom, but your dads being helping me a lot, so has Cordelia and the others. She turned to look into Nimishas eyes with a small smile. This is going to be the first thing I do right, Ill tell you that.
She shrugged her shoulders and looked down at her clothes. Im done with the whole bad girl look, anyway. she told Nimisha, who was smiling kindly at her, always knowing just like her mother had that Faith was a good soul deep down.
So if the Oracles think that im good enough to have on the home team again thats just what im going to tell Angel. That the Oracles got me out of jail to come here for a reason I wouldnt have a bloody clue. She smiled across at Nimisha and gave the other dark haired girl a warm hug.
Your mom is going to be proud of me again if its the last thing I do.
But then they saw Angel walking towards them and they quickly changed the conversation, knowing Angel wasnt ready to hear what they were saying. Nimisha raised her head to say hello but the word died on her red lips as she looked over Angels shoulder and saw Giles, Willow, Oz, Xander, Anya and Spike walking up behind him.
****
Hello, Faith. Giles smiled at the dark haired Slayer politely and Faith smiled back, taking her arm off Nimishas shoulder to stand on her feet. Nimisha knew everyone was looking at her, wondering just how Willows cousin knew the Slayer. But as if Faith knew what they were thinking, she reached down and offered Nimisha her hand, which she took. Hauling the younger girl to her feet Faith turned towards everyone and told them,
What? You guys wanna know how we know each other? Giles nodded, and Nimisha saw that Willow was biting her lip while Oz looked incredibly worried.
Willow and Nimisha here came to visit me in LA last week while Willow was there picking Nimi up from LAX.
Nimisha could have laughed out loud at the relieved looks that flashed across Willow and Ozs faces with that lie. It was quite clever actually, with Faith only having a few minutes to think it up.
Even Giles looked relieved. Yes, well. He sputtered, pushing up his glasses. Thats very well, but we need to talk about just why your here.
Angel firmly second that with a nod of his head.
Well! Willow said a bit to brightly for Nimisha liking. Thats our cue to leave, dont you think Oz? she asked her boyfriend, who nodded his head vigorously. Then without waiting for her to disagree Spike walked over and firmly latched his large hand over her arm, pulling her away from Angel and Faith.
She rolled her eyes at their protectiveness, but turned around just in time to give Faith and wave before she disappeared into the shadows.
****
The Next Morning...
Day Six.
The sun was bright and heavy in the middle of the sky, blanketed by a vast blue nothingness that stretched on forever, surrounded by fluffy white clouds. Lying back on the grass Nimisha couldnt stop looking up at the sky. The endless, beautiful blue sky that warmed her pale face as she smiled and closed her eyes in pleasure.
It was Saturday and Nimisha was taking full advantage of the holiday by relaxing by herself on the hills just behind Angels mansion. The same ones where he had almost given himself up to the rising sun gods years before, only to have the sudden snow save his life. Nimisha winced, thinking of the consequences that may have come to pass if the Powers hadnt intervened and gave her father a second chance.
Unsettled with that thought, Nimisha pattered her firm belly that could be seen for she wore a baby blue halter top and a faded pair of short jeans shorts of Willows. It was just to hot to wear anything else. Sighing, Nimisha knew it was times like these that she wished she could just cut all her hair off, but after Willows reaction to that comment this morning at breakfast, Nimisha knew her mother would have a fit. So to compromise, Willow had helped her put the thick, black mass into two long plaits that fell down either side of her neck.
She grinned up at the sky, her eyes closed as she felt herself slipping away...
Sasha?
A voice broke into her train of thoughts and Nimisha gave a startled cry. She shot up into a sitting position and looked around for the owner of the voice. But seeing Ash walking up the side of the hill she raised her eyebrows in surprise. It seemed everyone was feeling the heat today for Ash had on a thin green T-shirt and white board shorts. Nimisha tried not to grin, he looked incomparably wonderful in casual wear.
But not wanting to scare him off, Nimisha tried not to show her nervousness while she shielded her eyes from the sun with one hand and gave Ash a little wave with the other. She saw him smile broadly with her reaction, probably thinking that she was going to run off again. Silently, Nimisha watched the dark haired boy reach her and take a seat on the grass beside her.
They didnt talk, only continued to look out onto the peaceful town of Sunnydale and at the darting birds that flew in the sky. Both of them staring in awe at the small planets beauty and how different it was from the places they called home.
Nimisha could tell the boy sitting beside her was nervous, the way he sat there, perfectly still was proof of that. Im sorry for ditching you like that the other day, Ash. Nimisha told him, shrugging when she saw him flinch in surprise.
I dont know why I did it, I swear.. But whatever she was going to say was cut off as Ash turned towards her with a lopsided smile edged on his dark face.
Nimisha stared. She hadnt actually noticed how good looking he was before at the Bronze, but now she couldnt tear her eyes of his face. His strange blue eyes were sparkling in the sun, looking down at her with what Nimisha could only interpret as possessive longing. She smiled up at him, her green eyes flitting over his strong jaw bones and proud forehead. But surprising herself, she reached out a shaking hand and ran her soft fingers down the side of his face slowly and came to rest them on his smooth chin.
She looked across at her fingers as if she had never seen them before, looking with fascination how her smooth, pale hand stood out with his darker one. She slowly raised her eyes, locking them with his, only to find Ash watching her intently, his blue eyes unreadable.
Nimisha looked down shyly, not knowing what had come over her. But she felt Ash lift and reach out a hand, put it on her bare arm and slowly make his way up towards her beautiful face.
Ash was flying. As he watched the stunning little mystery in front of him look down at his travelling hand, he was struck by how beautiful she was, how innocent. It was if she had never been in this situation before. The way her sea-green eyes lit up when he touched her, the nervous way her lips had twitched as his hand moved...Ash knew he would never let her go.
They were both silent as his hand travelled up her arm, across her collarbone and up her smooth neck. He let it rest under her chin, pushing slightly to raise her head. Her eyes were still cast down shyly even as her head was pointed upwards. He chuckled at her innocence, reaching out to lightly tap her nose to get her attention.
Her green eyes flashed as they flew up to meet his, and Ash laughed with her response. It was how his mother had got his attention as a child countless times. But then, as if she suddenly remembered what she was doing, Nimisha lost her smile and looked down again.
Ash frowned, seeing her body go still and the tears that fell from her green eyes. Sasha? he asked. You okay?
Nimisha sniffled, wiping her eyes with the back of her hand as they both sat on the tall, sunny hill behind the building where her father was probably sleeping, dreaming of her mother. Ash, I cant do this. she whispered, not looking up at his face.
He inclined his head to the side, watching her with a small smile on his dark face. Why ever not? he asked her.
Nimisha sighed in frustration, raising her head finally to look steadily at him. She waved her hands in the air, Ash, ive got a *boyfriend*. she said in a frustrated voice, wincing when she noticed him go still out of the corner of her eye.
He didnt say a word so Nimisha took the opportunity to charge ahead. She swallowed and played with one of the thick plaits that had fallen over her shoulder.
Im going to break if off anyway. Nimisha explained in a soft voice, not wanting to hurt Ash any further. It wouldnt be fair to Thian, not after this... she broke off and sighed again.
What I feel for you is so *different* from what I thought I felt for Thian. She looked across her him. How can I continue to have a relationship with someone when I know there is something better? she asked, smiling slightly when Ash finally turned his head to watch her try and explain. His face was blank, what he was feeling so carefully hidden inside him that Nimisha was stuck at the similarities between Ash and her father.
Then she saw him reach out a hand and take one of hers in his own, squeezing encrouagingly.
But still he didnt say a word.
Im leaving soon anyway. Nimisha carried on, wishing with all her heart that she could stay on Earth longer than a few weeks. She breathed out a frustrated breath of air and raised her eyes towards the heavens.
So theres no point of getting into something serious... she lowered her head and looked at him, raising her black eyebrows. ...and im telling you that this could be serious if we let it.
She shrugged. Theres no point when im going to be leaving soon. Well only get hurt. She broke off, dreading what his reaction was going to be.
But Ash only burst out laughing. She shot her head around to stare at him, her mouth falling open in surprise.
But still Ash continued to laugh, leaning over her to put both hands on the sides of her face. He stopped laughing, but Nimisha noticed that he still had a smart-ass grin planted on his lips as he bent down over her and gently kissed her on the lips.
His voice was husky as he whispered, Honey, we have all the time in the world.
And with that, the prince of the greatest Vanquisher alliance in the galaxy latched his hands around Nimishas waist tightly and pushed her down to lay on the grass. Leaning over her, Ash looked at her face intently, running his hand gently over her smiling lips and up her slanted check bones. One hand played in her hair, bringing one thick plait up to admire its texture in the sunlight.
Such beauty... Nimisha heard him murmur and she grinned. He saw her smile, and returned the gesture. They locked eyes, silent until Nimisha whispered.
I barely know you... She said it lightly, laughing softly. Ash made no reply, only leaned on her fully and rested his head in the crock of her shoulder, idly unplaiting the braid he still held in his hand.
They stayed like that for a moment. Both feeling content and safe for the first time in days. But then Ash raised his head, leaning most of his weight on an elbow which he planted on the grass beside Nimishas face. He wasnt smiling this time, she saw as she watched him. But without talking, Nimisha sensed the mood change and she looked into his eye with curiosity. A smile tugged on the corner of his mouth as he gently lowered his head and their lips meet, Nimisha closing her eyes as all thoughts fled her mind.
They forgot everyone but themselves as two of the most important beings in the galaxy ignored their destiny, forgot their quests and troubles...as they fell into each other.
And off to the side, hidden by thick bushes that made him invisible to the naked eye, Zanial watched to pair. His face blank, dark and unreadable...and he knew the time for action had come.
****
Meanwhile inside the mansion....
Cordelia yawned, wiping the sleep out of her eyes as she padded down the huge, *cold* corridor and into the room that Angel swore was a dining room. Cordelia looked around with a grin on her face, if you asked her it was more like a hall.
But she only shrugged, it being to early in the morning for detailed thoughts for Cordelias sleep filled brain as she wrapped her dressing gown around her body more firmly and stepped further into the room. Doyle and Angel were already there, Doyle stuffing his face with what Cordelia could only hope were pancakes while Angel stood in the kitchen, off to the side so he was out of the sun, an apron around his waist and a flipper in his hands as he expertly fried the frying pans contents to a proverbial crisp.
They both saw her at the same time, Angel giving her a warm smile and Doyle raising his fork in greeting. She looked down at him in disgust. There were times when he reminded her so much of Xander.
Uhh, thats disgusting. Cordelia told her boyfriend as she flopped herself into one of the tables chairs and sighed.
Doyle stopped his eating and looked up at her. Hey! Im eating the stuff, arent I? he complained. If I like it, then you got nothing to worry about. He grinned when he noticed her turn slightly green.
But then Angel was coming out of the kitchen - careful to step in the shadows - with a plate of his own. He saw her sitting down and offered her some. But Cordelia only screwed her face up and waved him away.
No thank you. I, for a fact, respect my skin enough not to drown it in oil!
Angel only grinned, not expecting her to doing anything else with his offer of food. But then Cordelia was looking at him so strangely that Angel stopped in mid chew. What? he asked, confused.
Cordelia sighed in annoyance. How did it go last night? Did you get anymore out of Faith as to why shes here?
Angel only shrugged as he put his fork down to give his friends full attention. Doyle did the same. She swore she didnt know anything else. Angel explained. Just that the Oracles got her out of jail and said to get down here for she would be needed.
Cordelia frowned. Well, theyve taken the cryptic award this time, havent they? she raged. I mean, if they want us to do a good job then it wouldnt kill them to give us some more freakn info once in a while, would it?
They had nothing to say to that, so Doyle and Angel went back to their breakfast.
Did you watch that girl like I asked, Angel? Cordelia suddenly put in and Angel looked at her in surprise.
Yeah, I did. he replied slowly. Although I dont see what can be so wrong with her, Cordy. Shes actually really nice.
Cordelia only rolled her eyes skyward. Have you guys completely lost it? she asked in a loud voice, getting up from her chair to pace the floor.
They both only shot her baffled looks which only made her screech in frustration. Have you both forgotten the meaning were all here in Sunnydale in the first place?
They both just stared.
Sighing in annoyance at her stupid companions, Cordelia muttered, Oh, what the hell. before explaining, Shes the girl from the office, you guys. The black haired chick that was looking in the windows and asking questions about Buffy!
They both blinked.
Your kidding. Angel said in a stunned voice as he suddenly dropped his fork in his pancakes, causing strawberry syrup to splash onto the table. Cordy grimaced and looked at him gently, seeing that he had really taken a shine to the girl.
Yeah, you guys. Im positive. Didnt you see her reaction when she first saw us in the library? I mean, she was so surprised she fainted for Christs sake!
Angel looked down at the table, picturing the beautiful girl as they walked through the Campus the night before, the way she smiled with such brilliance, such innocence....
I dont think she anything evil, Cordy. Angel told her, looking up when she gave a cry of surprise.
She had her hands firmly latched onto her hips, her eyes flashing in anger and she stopped her pacing and turned on him. Come one, Angel! Why would she be asking questions about Buffy then? Then she saw his wounded look and softened. I dont want her to be evil either, my friend. That girl could make millions on the cat walks, but its just to much a coincidence that shes here at the same time as us and Faith.
Doyle had been silent throughout the exchange but he sudden spoke up, I think you guys are forgetting something here. They both turned to regard him. Isnt she Willow cousin?
Oh, please! Cordelia huffed in disgust. With Willow having red hair and hers black? I dont think so.
Angel frowned. Well, my brother had red hair. he told her, grinning when she shot him a betrayed look.
He held up his hands in acceptance. Okay, okay. Well watch her over the next few day, see what she does. She saw Cordelia smile smugly and added quickly, Although im not going to be writing her off straight away, Ill see if I can get to know her a bit better, see if I can get anything out of her.
He turned to Doyle. I want you to keep an eye on Oz for me. Cordelia, youve got Willow. See if you can get as much information about Nimisha out of them as you can, see if she is *really* Willow cousin and if not, why they are hiding her.
Both his friends nodded, happy with that decision. Then as he saw Doyles mouth start to open he held up his hand and sighed, knowing what the half demon was going to say.
No, we dont tell Giles. Hes odd around her as it is. If he and the others find out theyll act weird around her and if we are completely wrong about this, I dont want Nimishas relationships with them to be damaged.
Well, they didnt look overly happy with that comment, but seeing the truth in the matter they again nodded.
And with that, all three friend went back to their breakfast, getting ready for a day of investigation on Cordelia and Doyles half and well needed sleep on Angels. But the whole time Angel finished his breakfast, the image of Nimishas face filled in his vision, her beautiful smile that reminded him so much of Buffy....
He shook his head. Oh, how he hoped she had nothing to do with this.
****
On Allrelen a few hours before....
Buffy sighed in pleasure and leaned back against the back of her sun seat and pushed her sunglasses back onto her nose. The sun was warm and inviting and Buffy just couldnt help herself, she had told Captain Asten and the rest of the Council that she was taking a well earned break for a few hours. They had nodded, knowing how tired she must be.
Her and Afraya had been Porting space ships for three days straight and it was starting to take its toll on Buffys mind. After her vision had started to sway so badly that she had to reach out for Afrayas support she had giving up and demanded this break, the first one she had gotten all week.
So here she was, laying back on her bedroom balcony, the swinging French doors open wide letting what breeze there was filter the huge bedroom. She was wearing swimming gear. A light purple top that Afraya told her quite bluntly looked more like a bra than an actual piece of clothing. It was short, ending with a curve that shaped the underline of her breasts, and one of her favourite sarongs. It was made of light satin, a pale silver colour with little black stitched flowers on the hem. It had been a present from Nimisha a few birthdays ago, her daughter going all the way to Chandras with Sita to retrieve the precious gift.
With that thought of her beloved daughter, Buffy reached up and picked up a pile of Holograms that had been sitting on her lap, unlooked at and untouched till now. She raised the pile, blocking out the sun and started to sort through them.
Buffy smiled at the first. It was of her, Nimisha and their close friends in Semarrittes garden. Nimisha looked about seven at the time, her childish face happy and serine with the simpler days of her childhood as she sat on the swing with Afraya pushing her. Buffy looked at herself in the hologram for a moment with a sad face. She had been sitting under a tree, not to far away from the swing with Sita, talking away happily while the two of them sunbathed quite similar to she was doing now.
Buffy felt the tears start to form and forcefully willed them away, there was no need to cry she told herself. Nimisha was fine, having a great time at Willow and Ozs on Earth. Willow had told Buffy that she was making new friends, a fact that Buffy had to smile about. Her daughter was the queen of charm, she could find friends even if she didnt want to. Buffy smiled with that, looking closely at Nimishas face in the Hologram.
Her head shot up when she heard the unmistakable sound of someone walking through her bedroom towards the doors that led onto the balcony. Buffy waited for the person to appear and visibly relaxed when she saw Afraya walk through the twin doors and stop to lean on the door frame.
Having a nice time? he asked with a laughing smile on his blue face as he watched her.
Buffy grinned back and snuggled deeper into her chair. Lying on her back she looked up and stuck her tongue out at him. Yes, actually im having a wonderful time.
He laughed and pushed off the door to come sit crosslegged on the marble floor beside her seat. They didnt speak, falling into a comfortable silence that pointed out their long friendship. As Buffy went back to her sunbathing Afraya idly picked up the fallen Holograms and started sorting through them himself. Even with her eyes closed Buffy could hear him chuckling when he must have come to a particular funny one. She grinned.
Then suddenly a piercing pain shot through her head. Buffy screamed and shot up into a sitting position on her sun-seat, clutching her head between her palms.
Afraya had gotten such a fright with her scream that he had dropped the pile of pictures and fallen back. Looking up at his close friend from where she now sat, rocking back and forth, screaming in pain, Afraya jumped to his feet and rushed towards her, even as he heard the unmistakable sound of the guards pounding feet as they rushed towards her room, hearing her painful screaming.
Evie! Afraya called, bending down so they were face to face and grabbing her hands to stop her rocking. Whats wrong!? he yelled, getting more and more freaked the longer it went on.
But his friend didnt seem to hear him and even as she stopped her loud screaming, she started to whimper, Afraya getting the fright of his life when he forcefully lifted her head and saw that her moon was flashing a terrified bright red, a colour that Afraya had never seen before. Not of his beloved Shari *or* her daughter.
But then she stopped, going so still and quiet that for a horrible second Afraya thought she was dead. She went limp in his arms, her head falling to the side as the guards finally rushed into the room and out onto the balcony, only to find their screaming Queen laying in her 2IC arms.
They stopped, wondering if they had misinterpreted her screams. But Afraya caught one of guards mental cry of surprise and clicked as to where their thoughts now lay.
He looked up at the five men in disgust. For gods sake, men! Where are your senses? he yelled, nodding when they finally broke away and rushed towards him.
Afraya ignored them, turning back to Buffy who was still limp in his arms. He gently layed her back down on her seat, softly slapping her check to try and get his Queen to wake up.
Then suddenly, just as she had gone to sleep, she was awake, her brilliant green eyes snapping open so fast that Afraya heard the guards fall back. She didnt say a word, only fumbled to get out of the chair and was bolting through her bedroom in a flash, Afraya and the guards stumbling to catch up with her.
Evie, where are you going!? Afraya yelled after her, willing his legs to move faster as he sprinted through the palace hallways, almost smashing into a woman with bright blue hair as he skidded around a corner, the five guards not far behind him.
Finally Buffy came to a stop, bending over to latch her hands onto her knees, breathing in huge gasps. Afraya paused beside her, grabbing her shoulders to spin her around.
Whats wrong!? he practically screamed at her, getting seriously freaked by her odd behaviour.
Buffy looked at him, her eyes wide and wild. Its Nimisha, Affe. Shes in trouble! she screamed back at him. Afraya barely noticed people stop what they were doing and stare at them as they screamed at each other in the marble hallway.
How in the world do you know that? Afraya gaped. But Buffy only reached up and tapped her head.
It was a vision, Affe. There were Vanquishers there! It was Earth, I know it was! I swear I saw Giles Library, and there was Vanquishers there!
Afraya knew she was getting herself extremely worked up, but he knew from experience to trust any of his friends dreams and visions.
His blue face drained of colour as his mouth slowly fell open. What are you going to do? he asked her stupidly. But he didnt hear her reply for she was off again, sprinting down the hallway....
...towards the Gate.Chapter 10
*Absolute Power*
Day 8.
Nimisha shivered and wrapped her bare arms more tightly around her body, pressing into Ashs chest as she walked. Silently, she felt him chuckle and tighten his arms around her waist. The pair had just walked out of the Bronze where they had been dancing all evening with Jesse, Karan and Alex and had been very surprised at the sudden turn to the worst the weather had taken over night. Apart from the fact that it had been raining all day, the wind had picked up furiously all over Sunnydale.
But as Giles had told Willow earlier that morning and what she had repeated to her later on at lunch, Nimisha knew this was the Hellmouth so they shouldnt really be surprised at anything strange at it spat out at them...and if that meant odd weather patterns, then so be it.
Nimisha had laughed when Willow told her that, knowing Giles was interested in even the tinniest aspects of the demon world. Anything to keep his mind off his missing Slayer, Nimisha had thought, trying not to wince as she wondered just how much pain and sorrow could have been avoided if she had never bee ! " # $ % & ' ( ) * + , - . / 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 : ; < = > ? @ A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z [ \ ] ^ _ ` a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z { | } ~ n born.
Nimisha shook her head, frowning at herself. What a way to boost your self-confidence, Nimisha she thought, knowing it was a stupid statement. For the truth was things would be immensely different if she *hadnt* been born and everybody knew that.
Although she wished all could have come to pass with out everyone getting hurt...
Nimi, you okay? a soft voice floated down from above and Nimisha jumped, startled out of her review.
Ashs eyebrows shot up. Woah there, girl. he told her, grinning like a loon. Deep thoughts?
But she didnt answer, only smiling up reassuringly into his dark face. There was no way he could even hope to compensate her thoughts, Nimisha mused, secretly looking up at him as they walked casually away from the Bronze and down the alleyway, occasionally flicking soft raindrops off their clothing. She knew that from the two days that had passed since their confrontation of Angels hill, she had told Ash positively nothing of her life, her family, and that it was probably driving him mad. Nimisha tried not to sigh, what was she meant to tell him?
The truth?
The simple truth was that she would be leaving in a few day, maybe a week tops, and then she would probably never see him again. And that was something Nimisha didnt even want to think about. Even though they had only known each other a few days, she felt as if she had known him her whole life. Nimisha smiled and stopped walking to reach up and touch his smooth face, thinking in wonder that she had never seen a face like his before. The way his cheek bones curved up regally, how his startling blue eyes danced in the moonlight...his face way unique in every sense of the word.
***
Ash could tell there was something wrong with the small, dark haired, little elf in his arms, something that was troubling her deeply. But she had covered it well...almost too well, with the way she put on a happy mask every time he asked about her well being. But then she had stopped then both, reaching up with one delicately made hand and started to caress his face. In a way that made Ash shiver deep in his bones for he knew the way well. He had held his mother the same way only days before as he fled his home, hopefully never to return.
Nimisha was saying goodbye.
Ashs head snapped to hers, his dark face hooded as he looked down into her green eyes, bringing out a hand to snatch a handful of long black hair.
I wont let you go, you know. he whispered possessively down at her, his mouth set in a firm line. Quickly Ash pulled her flush against his body, letting his arms relax as he felt her wrap her arms around his neck and cling to him.
Oh, Ash. was her only muffled reply as she barrowed her head into his neck. Still holding her, Ash felt Nimisha lift her feet as he walked them both over to a public bench and sit down, Nimisha now sitting on his lap. They stayed there for a few minutes, both lost in their own thoughts until Nimisha leaned back and looked into his face with a solemn expression, her eyes huge with unshed tears.
I cant stay.
The words were spoken lightly but he heard them still, turning his head to regard her thoughtfully. I know.
Nimisha only sighed, knowing this discussion was no way finished. But then she felt Ash cup her chin and gently raise her face to his. She saw his smile dimly in the moonlight as if sensing her worried mood.
Why do you have to leave, Sasha?
Nimisha flinched. That was another thing that bothered her, the fact that he didnt even know her real name second the fact that their differences were somehow going to wake up and make themselves known if this relationship.
But Ash didnt know any of her dark thoughts as she smiled softly up at him and bent down to kiss his forehead.
Inclining her head to the side she raised her eyes to the heavens, seemingly making a joke of how much to tell him. When he groaned in fake annoyance she laughed but told him seriously,
Because there are people somewhere who need me. He looked at her in surprise. People who cant live their lives the same if im not there.
He looks terribly confused, Nimisha thought, feeling sorry for him.
Why? he suddenly whispered, even though they were the only people in sight.
I need you. he added, only succeeding in making her feel worse. But she only shrugged, suddenly wishing she hadnt brought up the conversation in the first place. She was skating on really thin ice, she knew. One slip and it was all gone.
Because thats just the way it is, Ash. Nimisha told him, leaning forward so their forehead touched. I know you dont understand anything im talking about and for that im sorry. But its better this way.
He didnt look like he agreed, but as if he knew that asking one more question about who she was would probably make her clam up completely, he wisely decided to stay silent on the matter.
But then the dark mood seemed to lift suddenly as the rain seemed to clear and the clouds around the moon seemed to disappear. Both looking up into the now clear night, Nimisha letting out a incredibly unlady like yell as she quickly jumped off Ashs lap and took off around the corner of the building. Laughing at her seemingly childish display, Ash got off the bench and followed after her in a jog.
He finally found her standing in the middle of the deserted Sunnydale main street, her head tilted backwards as she gazed up at the sky. Standing a few metres away from her, Ash stood and watched silently as her dark hair fell down her back, the curly ends clashing with the tight white jeans she wore.
Smiling as he watched her, he was struck with the sudden similarities between Nimisha and his mother. The complexion was different, of course, with Nimisha ivoryness while his mother had tended to have darker skin, but apart from that they were very similar. Both were quiet, observing people who cared very dearly for those they loved. Both were beautiful above comparison, their smiles lighting up his world.
And come to think of it, they both had secrets. Things that they wouldnt tell him. In his mothers case the reason had been to protect him from his father, but looking across at Nimisha, whose eyes were closed as she seemed to soak up the pregnant moons rays, Ash frowned as he realised her motives might just be the same...
He shook his head, telling himself that there was nothing Nimisha need to protect him from, as he jogged over to her and wrapped his arms once again around her waist. He felt her relax in his arm as she smiled, still looking up into the sky as if she was searching for something.
What are you looking for? Ash whispered huskily into her ear as he bent down to kiss her neck.
Nimisha only giggled, pointing up into the nothingness with a sigh.
There. she whispered back and Ash craned his head to follow her outstretched finger as they both stood, wrapped in each others arms in the middle of the main street.
He looked with his eyes, following her until his gaze fell on a unusually bright star. A star that seemed to be surrounded in others as it shone brightly down at them.
What is it? he asked, turning his head so that he could see her beautiful face, which was peering upwards with tears in her eyes.
She opened her mouth to reply before seemingly thinking better of it for she closed again abruptly, quickly bringing her hand down to wipe away the tears. Ash looked at her oddly, wondering why she was getting so worked up over a star of all things and had just opened his mouth to ask what the matter was when a voice cut through,
Hey, Nimisha!
****
Both Nimisha and Ash spun around, their arms up in obvious fighting stances. But when Nimisha saw Willows smiling - if curious - face hopping out from the shadows she breathed a sigh or relief and lowered her arms, signalling for Ash to do the same. Ash shot her a odd look, but Nimisha didnt see it for her eyes were glued on the shadows as she saw more figures amerge. Looking down at his girlfriend, Ash saw her face break out in a huge smile as obviously saw someone she was glad to see.
Looking up to the direction the people were walking out of Ash saw a tall, dark haired man smile and walk towards them. Although he spared a quick glance in his direction and a brief nod in greeting he seemed to only have eyes for Nimisha, gathering her in a warm hug when he finally reached them.
Tearing his eyes away from the pair, Ash saw three other people move to stand in front of them and Willow, three people who were glancing at him with obvious curiosity. But seeing Willow - who Ash had meet before - grin at him, he forced himself to relax although he couldnt shake the feeling that he was being interrogated by Nimishas parents, even if there were five of them.
Hello, Ash. Willow said, laughing when Giles shot her a startled look.
Relax, Giles. Ashs advanced hearing heard Willow mutter quietly to the older man beside her just as the blonde man and the woman with him walked forward and extended their hands.
The woman was first, her smiling face pleasant and kind, even if her eyes betrayed her as they seemed to bore into his head. She stopped smiling the minute their hands clasped and she flinched, her blue eyes knitting together in confusion. Thinking that maybe she was one of the scarce Telepathics on this planet Ash quickly snatched his hand back, trying to ignore the strange look that she shot his way.
But after everyone had said their greetings and Nimisha and the man, Angel, he had introduced himself as, had come back to join the group, they all started to shiver as they seemed to notice just how cold the weather had turned.
Would you all like to come back to the library for a warm cup of tea? the British gentleman asked, even if his question seemed to be directed towards Ash.
Well, were meeting Xander, Cordy and the others there so that makes sense. Willow spoke up, grinning broadly at the suggestion of the warm drink that filled Giles cupboards. The others quickly agreed.
You wanna come along? Nimisha whispered in his ear, giggling when he jumped at her nearness. But Ash only delivered a swift elbow in her side before nodding pleasantly at the older man.
Willow clapped her hands together in delight. Perfect! she yelped happily, Nimisha knowing she had probably only suggested the meeting so she could watch Ash being interrogated by Angel...even if the vampire didnt know why he was doing it in the first place.
So with that, the small group of beings - Humans, Witches, Vampires, Watchers and Aliens - all huddled together against the cold as the started off, not knowing that what awaited them was *much* worse.
****
There you are! Came the unmistakable voice of one Xander Harris as they all walked across the library lawn and towards the front doors. Angel groaned, knowing he was going to have to put up with more of the annoying mans banter than he would have cared for.
I hope you all realise we are freezing out here, and if I get sick and die your paying my hospital bills! Added his girlfriend Anya who was anything but, for she was wrapped in so many layers of woollen clothing it was getting hard to see her actual body.
Anya, always a pleasure. Was Spikes droll reply as he and Sita walked up the steps and past the complaining pair.
There is coffee and tea in the library, you guys, if your that cold. explained Willow kindly, then laughed out loud as Ash bowed in her direction and offered her his arm, Nimisha on the other. Grinning she took it, flicking a fake snobby glance towards Oz who was walking behind her with Cordelia, Doyle and Faith.
Angel and Giles brought up the rear, the two older men happy beyond words that the two groups of friends still got on as well as they had years before. It seemed that no matter how many harsh problems had stood in their way they always seemed to rise above it, always come up on top to face the world for another day.
Angel smiling sadly as he watched Nimisha, Ash and Willow walk up the dark hallway, at the light in the dark girls eyes as she looked up into Ashs blue eyes and found love there.
Angel remembered it all too well, the way her heart must be dancing in joy with the sudden find of a lifetime. She must have never been so happy as she was now.
The vampire looked down as he walked, knowing that his beloved deserved more than anyone to be walking down this hallway with her friends, with the people who she loved more than live, and the people had deserved to see her grow and mature into the beautiful woman they all knew she would have turned out to be. But now they never would...they hadnt even had a chance to say goodbye.
Are you alright, Angel? came Giles crisp British inquiry. Angel looked up, noticing that they were the only people left, everyone else must have turned the corner. But Angel couldnt smile at the Librarian, knowing he was going through the same pain. So he settled for just sighing and turning in his old friends direction, stuffing his hands in his duster pockets.
The two men regarded each other in silence. The two men that had held such a huge impact on the young Slayers life. One who had sworn to protect her ever way he could, and the one who had loved her more than anything in the world.
Its hard, Giles. Angel whispered and he heard Giles slow intake of breath, as if he had thought that was the source of the problem.
I know. Now it was Giles who put his hands in his pockets and slowly ate up the space that separated them as he walked closer. But we have to be strong, Angel. he added kindly, looking into the vampires pale face. We have to be strong for them, for her friends.
Angel nodded, knowing he spoke the truth.
Now, come on. Giles said in a suddenly more clipper voice. If those children eat all my biscuits there is going to be hell to pay.
Angel laughed, and the two men jogged around the corner just in time to see Spike and Xander push open the library doors while Willow and Nimisha laughed about something.
They abruptly broke off, and gasped at the impossible sight before them.
****
Sitting at the head of the study table, in Giles chair, was a tall, well muscled man with shocking black hair. He had tilted the chair back casually so that it stood on two legs and was drumming his dark fingers on the surface of the table impatiently.
Laying open in front of him on the wooden table with all its contents spilled was Nimishas blue backpack.
As the gang paused in the doorway, seemingly unsure on how to react, the man looked up, as if noticing them for the first time. He was silent, gazing at and over everyone in the room with a cocky smile on his face.
Willow gasped.
His eyes were the most startling shade of silver.
Finally, as if he was completed his overview of everyone, the man made of show of stretching his arms and legs before standing up, bringing his hands to fold them across his chest. But still he didnt speak...until,
Ah, there you all are. I was getting a bit worried. He exclaimed in a pleasant accented voice before chuckling. Mr Giles, I must say that im a bit disappointed. You see, I had waited so long to try this Terran Tea of yours, and now that I have, ive come to realise its quite ghastly.
He inclined his head slightly, looking through the thong of people only to find Giles confused face and smile kindly.
Giles cleared his throat, unsure how to begin. Ah, can we *help* you?
The man smiled brilliantly and clapped his hands together in delight. I most certainly do hope so, Mr Giles. He laughed shortly before explaining.
You see, I just made this exceedingly long journey to pick up some property of mine. He slowly reached into his black shirt and took something out, fiddling with it in his hands. Property that ive come to believe you possess.
Giles coughed. Excuse me? he asked, not wanting to insult to clearly educated man.
Now the man only frowned slightly, his perfectly arched eyebrows tilting upwards beautifully. You have come into contact with a certain mysterious creature, have you not?
Getting no answer from the extremely confused Giles and Co, the dark man sighed in annoyance. For gods sake, He muttered. Is everyone on this gods forsaken planet so stupid?
Everyone looked at him, startled by his statement as the man threw up his hands. A creature, Mr Giles, that has been fooling you quite shockingly for the past week or so. It walks with you now, at this very moment if im not mistaken.
The sudden absence of sound in the room was deafening.
As everyone seemed to mull over the dark mans words, Angel started visibly, his face reflecting the shock he now felt. Then slowly, he raised his pale head, everything strangely clear for the first time in days. He turned, looking straight at the two black haired teenagers that were standing behind everyone else, their hands clasped together so tightly both their knuckles were white.
Their faces were masks of terror.
****
Ash had gone still the moment their guest had made his presence known in the large room, gripping Nimishas hand to his as if it was the only lifeline he now possessed.
It was.
The boy felt like bursting into tears of frustration. How had he found him here? *How*?
For he knew, of course he knew, that his father Methos was now standing here on Earth, talking in a tone of voice Ash had never heard his take before. Everything in the princes mind came to a crashing abrupt halt.
Nimi, you have to get out of here. Ash whispered to the strangely silent girl beside him, slowly pushing her towards the door.
Why? Nimisha asked, standing on tip-toes to get a look at the person Giles was talking to. Seeing her intention, Ash quickly reached over and pushed her down, hissing when she got such a fright and knocking into him.
Ash, what are you doing? she asked, confused. But Ash didnt answer, only put his hands on either side of her face and leaned in closer so they were face to face. Looking in her confused green eyes, Ash felt his mouth start to tremble as he started the speech he had hoped he would never have to use.
Nimi, you have to know something. he started desperately. Nimisha reconsigned the tone and shut up quickly, dread filling her eyes.
I am not like them, I swear. Tears started to fall down his face as Ash gazed at the beautiful face of the girl he loved, the girl who he would now never see again. All I ever wanted was peace for my people.
Nimisha now looked terrified. Ash... she started, a look of shear disbelief edged on her face as she started to understand just what he was saying.
But she suddenly cut of as she noticed Angel watching her with such a stunned and betrayed looked in his features that Nimisha stopped, looking back at him.
What? she asked in a low voice, her hands startling to tremble.
You lied. Was Angels only reply, his face transforming into one of fury.
By now the rest of the Scoobies had started to notice the activity behind them and turned around, looking back and forward between Angel and his unknown daughter. Methos looked to, his face breaking out into a delighted sneer when then group seemed to split in half, revealing not only his son but Nimisha as well, the two Scions standing huddled together, both not having a clue what was happening.
Oh course she lied, vampire. The man spoke suddenly, his voice no longer kind but sounding low, angry and incredibly evil.
Giles and Willow looked at him in surprise, hearing the quick change on tone. But they gasped when the man suddenly stood up straighter, his silver eyes narrowing in fury as he watched the two children in the centre of the group.
She was born a lie, werent you, mlady? He asked, sneering. Ignoring everyone else, the man walked forward confidently, coming to a stop a few metres before them. All youve ever known is lies.
Ash closed his eyes in dread, knowing what was about to happen as the terribly confused humans watched in silence, panic starting to settle in as they started to realise something was terrible wrong.
Then Methos spreed his hands apart, revealing the object between them, his gaze never wavering from the almost in tears Nimisha. It was a small, grey metallic ball, about the size of his palm. Covering it were tiny incrusted gems, reds and blues, yellows and greens, all flashing furiously.
Nimisha looked shocked. Where did you get that? She managed to get out, sputtering. But the man only laughed, making the girl shudder before turning back to her, looking down in disgust.
You should really learn to keep your secrets more concealed, *mlady*. The way he said the title was not lost on anyone in the suddenly ignored group of Terrans. Technology like this shouldnt be just laying around in your bag for anyone to find.
Then there was a quick, shocked gasp from the back. Sita paled, letting go of Spikes hand so abruptly that he turned, just in time to see her push her way between Doyle and Anya, coming to standing in the front of everyone, facing Methos.
But Methos barely noted her presence, mearly flicking a finger in her direction as he turned slightly. Dont even think about it, Miss Reijik. Your a bit late to try and save your little charge now. He grinned at here horrified expression.
Oh, god. The bodyguard whispered as she realised just what was happening.
The Vanquishers had found them.
What the *Hell* is going on!? Xander asked loudly, getting fed up.
Thats a good question, Mr Harris. Methos replied sternly, still looking at Nimisha and his son. Would you like me to explain?
Nimisha choked. Please, she begged desperately. Dont say anything.
But Methos only laughed. What? he asked, delighted by the scene he was about to cause. You dont think they have a right to know who you are? Everyone suddenly turned to Nimisha in surprise.
Methos casually started to pace the room, his hands once again at his front, his gaze never leaving Nimisha heartbreakingly horrified face.
Still pacing, Methos turned to Angel, who was looking at Nimisha, his face a mixture of betrayal and hurt. Coming to a stop beside the tall vampire, Methos reached out and layed a mock sincere hand on his arm and grinned as he went for the killing blow.
You dont think this vampire has the right to know just what happened to his precious Slayer? How you hold inside you all he would ever have to know about her and her *real* destiny?
Willow let out a cry of dismay, covering her mouth with her hand as she watched, helpless as the scene they had all been dreaded folded out before their disbelieving eyes. Angel choked, looking his daughter with such a hurt look on his face that Nimisha burst into tears, covering her face with her hands.
Please, stop. she begged again loudly, not noticing Ash had opened his eyes and was looking at her in bewilderment, clicking that this wasnt going just as he thought it would. Taking a step forward, Ash held out his hands towards his father, telling him to stop what was obviously causing the girl great pain.
But Methos only looked at him in disgust. And you. He spat out. Your even worse. A Vanquisher who wants to be Tharran. Its enough to make a man sick.
Sita gasped, swinging around to gape at the boy who she had giving total permission to see her charge, only then noticing just how much he *did* look like a Vanquisher.
But his eyes...
Methos saw her surprise and laughed. Yes, its strange isnt it, Miss Reijik? he asked, still studying his suddenly motionless son. Ive never seen anything like it. And you go and let the boy feel up the very girl you were sent here to protect. He smiled happily, tilting his head as he thought that over and just how bad it sounded.
Nimisha gave a jolt and blanched visibly at that bombshell, turning slowly towards Ash. Her face a mixture of hope and dread as her eyes pleaded him to deny it. But he just stood there, looking down at the ground, his hands stuffed in his pants pockets.
She started to shake so badly she thought she would fall over, her heart breaking into a million pieces. She was in love with the one person that was forbidden....
Almost unconsciously Nimisha took a step away from him, not knowing why she did it. But there was just the most undying urge to get *away* from him, from everything that was suddenly going so wrong. But there was a Vanquisher in the room right now, standing just to the side of her. Nimisha chocked, wondering how everything could have turned so appalling so quickly.
But as she backed away Nimisha felt herself collide with a hard body. Jerking away she felt strange hands grip her forearms and squeeze so tightly that Nimisha knew they would leave bruises.
A mouth lowered towards her ear and Nimisha whimpered in fright. Nowhere to go, no where to hide. Methos whispered, the girl feeling his lips touch her ear. And now your all alone. The last part was said louder, everyone hearing it clearly.
Shes not alone, you pig. Willows voice cut through firmly. Methos stiffened, leaning back to regard the Witch in amusement.
And what are you going to do about it, little spellcaster? he asked, grinning smugly as he saw Sita, Oz, Spike and Faith come out to stand beside the redhead. Faith looking at Methos with barely contained fury.
You touch one single hair on her head, you prick, and yourll be answering to a Slayer. She planted her feet, bringing her arms up to her chest. Now I might not know every single detail around here, but I think I know enough.
She clenched her lips tightly together. And I just wanna know something, okay? Who the *hell* do you think you are? Do you have any idea who her mother is? What she is gonna do to you if you lay a single hand on her body?
Willow elbowed her in the ribs. Faith, shut the hell up!
Giles looked at the redhead, laying a hand on Cordelias shoulder when the brunette started forward. Willow, is there something your not telling us?
Willow closed her eyes, breathing deeply. Giles, this is not the time, we did what we had to do. She turned back to Methos. I dont want to even *think* of how you found Nimisha and Sita here, but I swear your not getting out of this room alive.
Methos grinned. You must know your petite powers is no match for a Vanquishers. Theirs might be, but mines not. Sita said angrily, stepping forward with her arms raised. Anya, Giles and the rest watched in awe as the beautiful brunette narrowed her eyes in fury and flung her hands up so suddenly that Methos didnt have time to react. As the invisible power reached him, the man cried out in surprise as he was picked up and smashed against the far wall, landing with a sickening thump.
Nimisha blinked, as if realising for the first time that there was actually a way to fight back against the man, the power inside her ready and willing to be used seriously for the first time in her life.
Reading her mind, the totally unfazed Sita turned quickly to the rest of the still group and called over her shoulder, I hope to the gods you remember everything ive been teaching you over the years, Nimi. Me and those Oracles of yours, my girl. Cause your about to use them.
Nimisha had just turned in her direction to reply when she was struck from behind, her arm starting to burn in pain.
She screamed, clutching her forearm. Bringing her hand back Nimisha stared at it dumbly when she saw that her hand was covered in thick, red blood from the huge gaping wound in her arm.
Nimisha! Sita cried, running for her as she saw the awake Methos bring the knife up to stab her again. But Ash was quicker, diving for his father. Unfazed, Methos jerked his hand at the boy and Ash was sent flying back, knocking his head against the side of the library table so forcefully that he fell in a limp pile to the floor.
Ash! Nimisha screamed, making to run for his still body. But seeing her intention, Methos reached out and grabbed her around her neck, holding on tightly.
Stop where you are, Miss Reijik, Spellcaster. Methos barked out in a commanding voice, bringing the knife up to hold it against Nimishas throat. Both woman froze in their tracks, turning slowly towards him.
And if you thinking anything stupid, Miss Reijik. Ill do well to inform you that this knife is laced with a poison so powerful its bound to do damage to even the prettiest of Royal children. he sneered, shaking Nimisha by the arms.
I know all about you, Sita Reijik of Chandras. Your the First Prime bodyguard of Everynne and her kin. The most valued student of Captain Afraya Lartarni. He smiled. So I would think it wise to inform you now this Princess in my arms will die in a matter of seconds if you try one of those famous moves your so well known for.
Sita gaped. This is impossible. she whispered in denial. Thats the most classified information we have!
Seeing that Methos was temporally sidetracked, Angel walked slowly to Sita and Willow, standing beside them to glance at the Vanquisher holding the girl he had come to care very deeply about in the last few days in a death grip. Even though he now knew she was been lying, that everything she had probably told him was a lie, there had been something so unusual, so special about this mysterious girl that stuck him deep in his unbeating heart. He could just stand there and see her being killed.
So carefully, Angel held out his hands, trying not to see the desperate look in Nimishas terrified eyes as he moved. Okay, I realise im missing a whole lot here. But I dont think you really want to go kill the girl, mister. Angel said soothingly, trying to change the mans mind.
But Methos only looked at him ludicrously. Are you absurd? He asked as if it was the most ridiculous thing he had ever heard. Do you actually know who this girl is?
Sita and Willow started to breath heavily, panic setting in as they waited for what was bound to come next.
Methos continued, almost forgetting the girl in his arms for a moment as he spoke to Angel, trying to teach him the lore. Do you have *any* idea just who this girl is? Who she is to *you* of all people?
Angel started, that being the last thing he expected to hear the man say. Looking at him in bewilderment, the baffled man just said,
What do you mean? Angel asked quietly, looking up to see Nimishas eyes had gone impossibly wide, the girl shaking her head from side to side slightly even as Angel saw her eyes seemed to be apologising for whatever Methos was about to tell him.
She started to thrash in his strong arms, making muffled screams under Methos hand that covered her mouth.
Woah, there mister. Spike suddenly spoke up nervously as he trotted over to Angels lonesome form, grabbing his arm and attempting to pull the other vampire away before Buffys biggest secret was revealed.
Oh, I think he should hear this, vampire. Methos spoke in an icy tone to Spike.
Angel too, wanted to hear it. Spike what are you doing? he asked, baffled at the vampires actions. But Spike only sighed, looking into his Grand-Sires eyes sadly.
Only trying to spare you the hurt your gonna feel when you hear this, my man.
Angel knitted his eyebrows, stunned. You know what hes about to say, dont you? He whispered, hurt.
Spike just sighed again, this time in apology. Your not gonna like this, Angel. he warned.
Methos threw back his head, hollowing with laughter. As his hands shook, the knife that was dangerous close to Nimishas pale throat. Oh, im sure hes going to have a field day with the knowledge, you stupid vampire. How is he suppose to react when he finds that the girl he has been almost obsessed over finding info on turns out to be his daughter?
All noise vanished.
Willow started to sob, her hands shaking so badly that a tearful Oz reached over and stilled them in his own, the werewolf needing the comfort as well.
Sita only closed her eyes in dread. Their lives suddenly changed so amazingly by one single word.
****
His daughter...
His daughter...
Oh, God, Oh, God, no, no, no, no....
Angel shuddered, his hands gripped together as a gasp of sheer disbelief was echoed throughout the room. Slowly he looked up, noticing Nimishas no longer struggling body was limp, her green eyes huge and impassive as she stared back at him. Her face a mask of black sorrow.
<Im sorry>
The voice was so faint in his mind that for a moment Angel thought hed imagined it. But there was just something about it, the powerful thrust that had pulsed the words into his mind that made Angel know instantly that it had come from the beautiful girl in her enemys arms on the other side of the room. Angel smiled sadly at her, everyone and everything dissolving around him so all he could see was the girl in front of him, her black hair falling down her back in such a way that made her look so much like himself.
Why didnt he see it before....
<We did not mean to hurt you>
Angel regarded her softly for a moment before mouthing the words, I know. The relief that washed over his daughters face almost brought him to tears. Silently, the two of them locked eyes, and it was at the instant that something deep inside Angel shattered. The pain that he saw dancing in her eyes, the torment that he knew now had been plaguing her since their meeting a few days before.
Everything made sense now, Angel mused. Nimishas reaction when they first meet, her attachment to him, her fears. She was terrified of what he would say if he found out...
Angel looked down at the ground, unable to meet her desperate gaze. What this his reward? Where the Oracles giving him someone to care about and love now that Buffy was gone from his life? Sighing with regret, Angel had to admit that he didnt want to know the answer to that.
<You hate me, dont you?> the voice asked again, a sad note attached. Angel quickly jerked his head up, shaking up ever so slightly so only Nimisha knew what the actions were meaning.
Mouthing the word No, he looked and noticed the girl didnt look very convinced. <We had to, Ni. We had no...>
She abruptly broke off, staring at the library doors with suddenly wide, frightened eyes. Turning, Angel saw everyone else do the same just in time to see another man enter slowly, his feet brushing the floor like a panther, not really touching the surface.
Sita looked up into his face, all colour draining from her own as she noticed the long gash running from his left eye down his face and meeting at the top of his mouth.
She stilled, her hands shaking as she reached over and gripped Spikes arm strongly. The vampire glanced at her, his eyes opening wide when he took in her deathly white complexion and her open mouth.
Sita, what is it? he hissed, bending across when she whispered the answer.
Its the Beast. He has come.
****
Zanial walked confidently into the Library, taking in instantly the prone body of Ash laying unmoving by the stairs. He smiled, seeing that his Sire had already taken care of half the problem. Totally ignoring the staring Terrans, the tall man made his way over to Methos and Nimisha, stopping in front of the frightened girl and peering intently down at her pale face.
Hmm, He muttered to himself, reaching out with one dark hand and grabbing Nimishas chin in a forceful grip. Making a show, the man forced her head this way and that, his eyes fill of possessiveness, almost as if he was admiring a priceless piece of art.
Beautiful, isnt she, Zanial? Methos said, smirking broadly when Nimisha whimpered and squirmed in his arms.
Zanial didnt answer, letting his hands travel slowly down her face and neck, a feathered touch that lingered on her heaving breast. Never once did he break the smothering eye contact.
Feeling where his hands lay, Nimisha tried to scream and bought one of her unbound feet smashing down his own. Zanial flinched, reaching out and delivering a forceful slap to her cheek, causing her face to fall more further into Methos arm. Nimisha started to sob in pain.
Hey, you bastard! Faith yelled furiously. Get you bloody hands off her! And with that, the angered girl pounced forward towards the three Aliens, only to find that as she took a few steps she slammed against an invisible barrier, causing a violent shock to run through her body.
Faith fell to her knees, jarred from the impact. Reaching up with her hands she was stunned to find that when she ran her hands up and down in the air, they touched an invisible wall, a wall the forced her back. Pushing with all her Slayer strength made not the slightest difference, they were well and truly separated from Nimisha.
Jumping to her feet, the younger Slayer turned and faced her friends, only to see that their faces were filled with dismay and fright. Walking forwards quickly, Giles summed up the problem before anyone else.
Willow, have you seen anything like this before? He asked the panicked Witch. But she only shook her head.
I have. Sita said, stepping forward calmly. Reaching the now light blue wall, she touched in slightly, testing its strength by pushing on it with her fingers.
Its a forcefield. The Vanquishers use them all the time. She frowned. I should have seen this coming. she muttered.
Suddenly Giles turned in her direction, his hands on his hips in a frustrated gesture. Well, maybe we would have seen most of it coming if you lot hadnt been lying to us! He raved, looking pointly at Sita, Willow and Oz.
Spike stepped forward. We did what we did for a reason Giles, she asked us not to tell you.
Who the *hell* are you talking about? Giles yelled suddenly, obviously fed up at being left in the dark.
Sita and Willow looked down at the ground, their mouths firmly shut. Oz too, remained silent, but he looked across at Nimisha with the two dark men, both of them who were watching the confession scene in enjoyment. Spike and Faith just narrowed their eyes, shooting daggers at Giles. Their body language said plainly that they didnt intent to inform him on what was going on in the least.
Giles sighed, throwing his hands up in frustration. Cordelia on the other hand stood of to the side with Doyle and Angel, standing close to the silent Vampire in comfort.
Well, I knew something was wrong with that girl the first time I saw her poking her nose in our windows! She cried, huffing when Xander and Giles turned to her in surprise.
Xanders mouth fell open as he stared at his former girlfriend. And you didnt see fit to tell *us* that wonderful piece of information!? He sputtered.
Cordelia only huffed again, refusing to rise to the bait. Laying a restraining hand on her arm, Doyle spoke up.
We were. What didja think the real reason we are ear in Sunnydale for? He asked. A vacation?
Still, Xander didnt back down. Stepping right up to Cordelia, he put his hands on his hips and barked out, We were the ones she was staying with, Cordy! Jeez, for all you know we couldve been harbouring a known criminal!
Hey! Sita cried, striding over and getting right in Xanders face. Bringing a hand up, she poked him firmly in the chest. Watch who you accuse, Mister Harris. She snarled at the surprised man. Nimisha is no more a murderer than you are, less probably.
Xander frowned. And youd know, wouldnt you? he spat out. You in this whole thing with her! He poked her back. You *knew* she was Angels daughter and you didnt say a fuckin word!
Sita barked out laughing. Of course I knew, you idiot. She meet his eyes with a icy stare. I was sent here to protect her from reactions such as this!
Anya calmly spoke up, I *knew* there was something off about her. She muttered quietly. It was so obvious I could kick myself.
Yes, I have to agree. A voice came floating across. Everyone turned to see Methos walking with Nimisha still in his arms closer to the barrier, tauntingly. Zanial wasnt to far behind. Everyone stopped their bickering and turned to them.
Willow stepped forward slightly, so she was inches away from Nimishas terrified face. But she seemed so far away...
I would like you all to meet Zanial, my most trusted ally. Methos told them all, grinning from ear to ear with his accomplishment. Giving Nimishas head a quick tap he explained, Zanial here is responsible for finding these two missing children and informing me of their whereabouts.
Zanial took a small bow, his face still impassive. Then with out a word, the tall Vanquisher abruptly spun on his heals and went back over to Nimisha. Knowing everyone of the humans, were watching him, he slowly brought up one dark skinned hand and started to caress Nimishas long black hair, seemingly amazed by the lustre and colour.
Nimishas barely noticed Methos realising her and taking a step back, letting Zanial have full range with the girl. Looking up, Nimisha gazed into his silver eyes, realising with a jolt that his eyes were so startlingly different from Ashs. They seemed to be just fill of evil.
They were smothering, Nimi feeling as if she was falling into chaos. And try as she might, she found herself totally unable to tear her now sleepy eyes away from his, the impressive whiteness pulling her in...
****
Sita was the first to notice Nimisha fall into the trance, the girl going limp and still even though there was no longer anyone keeping her in place.
The bodyguard groaned, burying in face in her hands as she realised what was happening. Everyone turned to her, questions written on their faces. Sita didnt give them any, only stared at Nimisha with a worried face.
Hes doing it. She whispered. Just like he did to every one of her ancestors.
Angel turned to her, concerned for the daughter he only just learned he had. What are you talking about? he asked. But Sita only shook her head, her lips starting to tremble as she more and more frightened.
We have to get her away from him! she screamed, running full against the barrier. It held fast, sending the lithe, browned haired woman to her knees with a gasp of pain. She didnt try in it again, staying on her knees even as Spike made his way over to her, her hands held up against the wall, her face fill of panic and dread. Falling to his knees beside her, Spike resting a hand on her shoulder in comfort, which obviously worked when to his complete surprise, Sita learned into him, closing her eyes for a moment.
Hes going to kill her, Spike. Just like he killed Semarritte and the others. she whispered. Spike opened his eyes wide in alarm, throwing his blonde head around to glance at the impassive Nimisha, whos arms hung limply at her side, her eyes sleepy and glazed over.
He knew they had to do something quick before they lost her forever.
And so, he began to yell.
****
Zanial smiled in delight, a truly charmingly evil sight. Here standing in front of him was Lady Sharis granddaughter, child of a demon. Savouring the moment, the tall man closed his eyes in ecstasy, breathing in the scent that was pure Tessionare. A smell he hadnt smelt in a very long time.
Studying the young girl before him, Zanial reached out and tapped her nose, snorting when he didnt get any reaction from the child. She just stood there like before, her face blank and cold.
He smiled, everything was going perfectly.
****
Nimisha knew she was in trouble. She had known it from the first second the man had walked into the room. She hadnt known who he was, she still didnt, but there was just something about him, the way he held himself that send tremors of terror throughout her entire body.
He was a Vanquisher, that was obvious. But Nimisha had seen the terrified look in her bodyguard eyes which told her straight away that this man was a threat.
Sita wasnt afraid of anything.
But his eyes had been just so enthralling, Nimisha feeling herself slip away. But then she panicked, suddenly noticing there was no way to free herself, to gain control over her body.
But then things started to change.
Nimisha moved her eyes - about the only thing she *could* move - to follow Zanials head as he lowered it towards her own, his sweet, sickly breath hot on her neck. She tried not to shudder, knowing somehow that it would only infuriate him.
She listened, appalled at the things he whispered to her, her eyes going wide in horror.
She felt his arms go around her, pulling her close to his body as he whispered words of evil. Words of a thousand deaths spanning a thousand years. But of course, they were there, Nimisha knowing somehow that they would be there....
I killed you grandmother, Lady Nimisha. Zanial whispered, the smug note attached making Nimishas blood boil. I picked up this knife here... And then to make matters worse, he lifted his hand and Nimisha saw that in it was a deadly, sharp knife. She stared at it dumbly, only then recognising it as the same one Methos had placed against her neck.
And I stuck it in her back, touching the spine. Nimisha started to whimper, tears running down her face. And she screamed. Oh, how she screamed. And of course, she cried for her daughter, the daughter she never knew.
And that only made me push it in deeper. Zanial started to run his hands up and down her bare arm, Goosebumps forming wherever his hand touched. She saw him look down to study her arm, fascinated.
But she didnt last as long as the others, mlady. That I have to tell you. He chuckled in her ear.
Dimeara and Tandira lasted *so* much longer than her.
Nimisha body froze, the blood in her veins stretching to a holt before starting again, the moon on her forehead starting to pulse. Nimisha could feel it, the fury that fuelled its awakening. Never has she felt such a strong reaction from her birthline, the thing suddenly growing a mind of its own.
And then....she was back.
Nimisha sucked in a huge breath of air, blinking furiously as she felt that power flow threw her body. She smiled, stretching her arms out beside her, letting the power reign free.
Zanial took a step back, surprised.
He never had a chance.
As all the backed up fury and frustration came pouring out, Nimisha let go. Let go to everything. All the pain and anger, the concern for her friends, the love she felt for her mother and father...she let it all out, let it mesh together as the power that had been laying dormant in her body for the last 16 years came suddenly alive. She felt and understood its need to mesh, to come together, and she let it, taking the back seat for a moment.
And when she knew she was ready she looked up calmly, into Zanials suddenly wary face. Her eyes narrowed as she singled him out.
And she let go.
It came pouring out of her, from all directions. The purple fire that was her birth line shot up, up, up and out of her, singing happily with the sudden release.
Zanial gave a cry as he was struck by a force he had never encountered and thrown to into the wall, the impact knocking the breath out of him. The man looked up, breathing heavily, into Nimisha strangely calm face. Her eyes were glazed, a purple haze covering them.
Knowing he had to, Zanial jumped to his feet, calling his own power to work his will.
Looking down at his hands, Nimisha saw them start to glow, the dark red energy crackling around his fingers. She looked up sharply, confusion written on every feature. But Zanial laughed, throwing his head back.
You have to know by now, little princess, that im not a normal Vampire. he said, shaking his head at her apparent ignorance. Bring up one crackling hand, Zanial stared at it, fascinated. Then he looked sharply at Nimisha again, his face furious.
You will pay for that little show of insolence, Miss Nimisha. he snarled, stepping forward and raising his arms out towards her.
Nimishas face paled. Shit.
****
Willow, Sita and the rest of the gang had stood back, watching as Nimisha suddenly broke free of her control and sent the surprised Zanial sailing against the far wall with power Sita had told them all she didnt possess.
They could all see quite clearly that the bodyguard was freaked.
Whats really so bad about it thought? Cordelia had asked, hands still on her hips. So the girls got some strange new power that none of you new about, big deal!
Sita only shook her head, her face a deathly pale as she gripped Spikes hand in hers. No, you dont understand. She sputtered, turning to the group, spreading her hands desperately.
Purple power in the Tharrans in unheard of! Its impossible!
Why? Angel and Doyle asked at the same time.
Sita only continued to shake her head, sweat starting to appear on her tanned forehead. Because purple is the power of the Gods! She finally answered them in a guiltily voice, almost as if she was saying something she shouldnt be.
Giles and Willow both started, regarding Sita in alarm. Pardon? Giles asked, his eyebrows raising above his glasses.
Sita only rubbed her arms nervously.
Im not quite understanding this. Giles said, taking is glasses off to rub them on the side of his shirt. Are you saying this girl, Angels daughter, has the powers of the Gods?
Sita sighed, looking down at her lap. She has since she was a child, since she was four, I think. She looked up into the faces of Buffys most trusted friends. The Oracles have been teaching her their ways for years.
Doyle choked, looking shocked. My Oracles? he sputtered. Angels Oracles?
Sita nodded and smiled after a beat. They have taken quite a shine to your whole family, Angel. she told the stilled stunned vampire, whos head wipped up.
What do you mean by that? he asked, frowning. He was silent for a moment, then his eyebrows shot up in alarm when he seemed to think of something. Are you talking about Nimishas mother?
Sita grimaced, looking away from his suddenly inquisitive face.
Then she felt something pierce through her brain. <Sita? Can you hear me?> A powerful voice asked, obviously Pathed to everyone for Sita saw in amusement the rest of the gang looking startled for a moment, looking around the room for a source.
Sita closed her eyes to concentrate better. <Yeah, girl. I can hear you. Thats some powerful thrust you got going there> she joked.
But with her next sentence, Sita lost her smile, sensing Nimishas panic. <Youve got to get out of here!> She yelled, Sita looking over at her physical body just in time to see Zanial send her sailing into the library table.
<Nimi!> Sita screamed, a wave of pain hitting her fill on. She winced.
<I know! I know!> Nimisha managed to get back, avoiding a red ball of fire that Zanial sent shooting in her direction. <Look, you guys are going to have to get out of here, this guy is way powerful than he looks>
<Nimi we are not leaving you> Sita Pathed firmly.
<You have to!> Nimisha cried. <Get mother, Sita!>
Sita started, her eyes flying open in time to see Willow, Oz and Faith do the same. Looking around, Sita saw everyone was watching her.
<I know we said not to involve her, Sita, but this guy is going to kill us all if we dont! She is the only one who is strong enough to kick his ass back to Foltaire>
Sita took a deep breath of air. <Nimi, I cant leave you...> she choked, looking on helplessly as her little charge was hit in the arm by a fire thrust, crying out in pain and falling to her knees. Looking up, Nimisha meet her gaze strongly, her eyes huge and sad.
<The rest was bound to come out sooner or later, anyway, Sita. You knew that.> Her voice was faint, her mind and body getting weaker with all the mental thrusting she was being forced to do.
Sita set her lips tightly, not liking this one bit. But as she felt Willows soothing hand on her shoulder, she forced herself to relax. <Will, use the necklace mother left for you, its also a communications device.> Nimisha Pathed weakly to the group, Willow nodding in return.
<Go!> Nimisha yelled suddenly, the girl noticing Zanial pause to turn to the group behind the forcefeild, sensing the mental exchange.
And so, with that, the large group of people all stumbled to their feet and made a mad dash for the door, swinging them open so forcefully that they smashed against the wall behind them.
As he was just about to run through, Angel paused in the doorway, looking at his daughter helplessly as she fought for her life. Sensing the gaze, Nimisha looked up and locked his eyes, smiling sadly at him. He smiled back, wishing they could have meet under such different turns of events.
But then, Xander was pushing him forward, the vision of his beautiful daughter seemingly ripped from his arms.
****
They all ran, the hallways silent save for the pounding of feet and the heavily breathing of humans. And as they all sprinted down the dark hallway, their thoughts only lay with getting Nimisha out of there alive, running for help from a woman most of them didnt even know the shocking identity of.
And so, as the group of friends picked up speed, they sprinted around the last corner...only to run smack into Buffy who was running towards the library from the other direction.
****
Xander recognised her first, for it was he who slammed into her when he leaded the group around the corner. Yelping in surprise, for encountering someone else in the school grounds was the last thing they expected, Xander sputtered and reached out to steady the person so they both didnt fall to the floor with the force of impact. Looking up, ready to apologise sincerely, Xanders mouth fell open in shock when he found himself face to face with one of his best friends.
He choked, jumping a step back. Everyone had now halted, realised something was wrong, and collective gasps of surprise, and cries or dismay filtered throughout the now silent hallway.
Oh, my god. Sita moaned, shaking her head from side to side. No one even noticed her speaking, their eyes glued on the heavenly vision in front of them. Xander on the other hand, had recovered first, gulping as the man looked Buffy up and down, taking in her outfit.
She was still in the swimwear she had been wearing when she left Allrelen in such a hurry, the silver sarong and her green bikini top. Her hair was loose, done up in hundreds of tiny plaits that fell down her back. On the end of each one was a little bell, ringing out softly when her head moved. She had makeup on, her green eyes outlined quite darkly with eyeliner and light purple eyeshadow. Her lips were dark, blood red lipstick standing out clearly with her pale complexion. The moon was also there, uncovered and flashing proudly a beautiful sea blue on her forehead.
Over all, she looked exceedingly exotic.
Xander gaped. Holly, Shit. he muttered, closing his mouth when Anya poked him in his ribs.
Buffy just stood there, her jade eyes huge in panic. Her hands were still up in a fighting position she had mastered quickly when first smacking into them a few seconds ago. Looking across, she saw that they were all here, the faces reflecting the shock she felt inside.
Oh, shit.
Suddenly Buffy frowned, her powerful eyes flicking from one person to the other, noticing for the first time that someone was missing. Shaking her head, she snapped out of the stunned spell they all seemed to be under and quickly turned to Willow, running up to her so quickly and grabbing her shoulders so forcefully that the girl yelped in surprise.
Getting in her face, the Slayer screamed at her, Where is she!? Getting no answer from the stunned girl, she shook her shoulders hard. Will, where is Nimisha!?
Sita snapped out too and took a step towards her Queen. Shes in the library still, Evie. she explained, wincing when Buffys panicked face turned to her, disbelief written all over it.
You left her there!? She sputtered, furious. But Sita quickly shook her head. She told us to get out, Evie. To go and get you.
Buffy closed her eyes in dread, breathing slowly as she forced her body to calm down. Then without looking at anyone else, she Ported out of the hallway, leaving a stunned group of people in her wake.
Giles spoke up first. Was that who I think it was? he asked quietly, putting a hand on his chest.
Willow sighed. Yeah, Giles. That was Buffy.
Then suddenly, as if they just realised what this was going to mean to one member, everyone simultaneously turned to Angel, sympathy on their faces. He just stood there, his hands shaking at his side, his face blank. Noticing his posture, Cordelia layed a hand on his arm and squeezed briefly. Angel blinked and gave her a sad smile.
Looking up in Willows face, the vampires eyes were desperate as he begged someone to explain what was going on.
Shes Nimishas mother, isnt she, Willow? he asked, closing his eyes at how that sounded.
Willow looked down, tears forming in her eyes. Yeah, Angel. She is.
Cordelia didnt look convinced. How can she be Nimis mom? That means she would have had her when she was a little kid!
But Sita only shook her head. Were we come from, time is different. She tried to explain. Buffy has actually be gone for 16 years, not four. Everyone looked at her in alarm, Giles stepping towards her quickly.
Are you saying you, Nimisha and Buffy have been living somewhere else for *16* years? Sita grimaced and nodded. Giles saw this and blanched. Who the hell are you? He asked, sputtering.
But Sita only shook her head again. Look, we dont have time to explain everything here, but I promise Evie and I will tell you everything when we get Nimisha out of there. She looked sincerely at each and everyone of them with a kind smile.
I promise.
Angel spoke up. What I dont get is when did Buffy get pregnant? he asked, running his hand through his hair nervously. But Sita only laughed, turning towards the way they had just come.
Lets just say Cookie-dough-fudge-mint-chip is more a aphrodisiac than you would have thought. she told the vampire grinning.
But Angel abruptly lost his smile even as gasps of surprise could be heard behind him from Doyle and Cordelia. Looking sadly at Sita, Angel whispered, She remembers? The words were said lightly, quietly, but Sita could hear to desperation hidden deep within them. Reaching over, she tapped Angel on the nose, grinning from ear to ear.
Oh, yeah. And shes got a few choice words to tell you, my friend, about you making decisions behind her back. She raised a pointed eyebrow.
Angel bit his lip and grimaced. Scratching his head sheepishly, he looked towards the library. Sita saw and nodded. And guys, if you want to see what your precious Buffy has been doing the last 16 years, follow me and see her beat the crap out of some Vanquisher! She explained happily.
And with that, the group of friends all spun on their heals and raced back towards the Library.
**** They found Buffy standing inside the room, her hands up and against the blue forcefeild, her eyes panicked. Seeing her standing there, Faith groaned sadly and ran to stand beside her sister Slayer. Buffy notice her come up slowly beside her and she gave the brunette a sad smile.
Hey, girl. Its been a while. Then abruptly, Buffy leaned over and embraced the surprised girl in a warm hug. Sati and Jadis called you, didnt they? she whispered in Faiths ear, smiling when the girl chuckled.
Letting each other go, Buffy reached out and touched Faiths face hesitantly, her fingers shaking. I missed you. she told her simply.
Faith smiled. I missed you too, B.
A discreet cough made Buffy turn her head gracefully. Giles was standing there with his hands stuffed nervously in his pockets, looking down at the ground.
Oh, Giles. Buffy whispered, biting her lip. Im so sorry.
The Watcher looked up, meeting her gaze with a slight smile lingering on his lips. Yes, well. he said briskly. You most certainly have some explaining to do, dont you?
Buffy laughed, touching his arm. Then quickly her eyes flew over his should and Giles notice her go stiff, her face go pale. Stepping aside, he let the two lovers confront each other.
And for the first time in 16 years, Buffy came face to face with her greatest love. She knew tears were falling down her face, she couldnt stop them. She just stood there, feet unable to move as she gazed up into his unsmiling face, noticing how everything was the same.
Just like her.
You're immortal. Angel whispered suddenly, his eyes going wide. Buffy looked down guiltily. But then she felt him reach out and push her chin up, locking eyes. You should have told me, Buffy. he said, rubbing her cheek with his fingers gently. Buffy felt herself close her eyes as he feel into his so familiar touch, his hands so like Nimishas...
She gasped, ripping herself out of his embrace and turned to find her daughter, laying on the ground with Zanial looming over her.
Nimi! she yelled, running over to the forcefeild.
Both Zanial and Methos looked up, surprised to see her there. But then Methos smiled, walking leisurely over to them.
Everynne, what a surprise. You just in time to see Zanial kill your daughter. He explained pleasantly. Buffy narrowed her eyes and snarled.
I dont think so, Methos. she spat, pounding on the blue wall. Methos only laughed, clapping his hands in delight. This is perfect! he retorted. Both Tessionares in the same building. What ever shall we do with both of you?
Buffy remained calm, sensing Angel, Sita and Willow come to stand side her, the rest of the group not to far behind. You let her go, Methos. And then maybe I wont rip off both your legs. Buffy growled.
She felt Angel hand rest soothingly on her arm and forced herself to relax. Methos noticed the action and sneered. Ah, how touching. The two scions back together again. He lost his smile abruptly. Too bad you now going to see your daughter die.
Not if I have anything to say about it. A furious voice cut through. Methos gave a yelp and started to turn, only to have a large piece of wood smash into the side of his head.
He fell to the ground silently.
Buffy blinked and raised her head, looking for their saviour. Only to gasp when she saw a young Vanquisher standing there, his feet planted firmly on the ground, what looked like a table leg held strongly in his hands.
Ash looked furious.
Oh, my god. Buffy breathed, taking a step towards the young man. You're Ash, arent you? she asked. Ash de Zellreaire. The man looked down at the ground, his heart beating quickly as he stood before his greatest hero. The woman he had wanted to live under her command his entire life.
Sita coughed and Ash quickly raised his head, falling to knee in front of her. Everyone looked surprised at the action, but Buffy only smiled. Bending down, she gathered his shaking hands in hers and gave them a quick squeeze.
Get up, Ash. she said giggling. Your embarrassing me.
Ash quickly scrambled to his feet, clutching her hands in his. I never knew she was your daughter, mlady Everynne, I swear.
Buffy looked confused, not understanding what he was talking about, but then Sita leaned over and whispered something in her ear, causing her eyes to open wide as she grinned broadly.
Its fine, Ash. She cocked her head to the side, studying the dark boy intently. Ive been hearing some exceedingly strange things about you from the Oracles, young man. And if what they have been saying is true, then I will be proud to have to come stay with us on Allrelen. She shot him a sly glance. Im sure Nimisha would love that.
Then abruptly she turned away from the sputtering boy and found Zanial and Nimisha, standing over the prone body of Methos. Tightening her lips together angrily, Buffy forgot her friends for a second and walked up to the barrier, closing her eyes in concentration.
Angel watched i n awe as the moon of Buffys forehead started flash a bright orange as she put her hands up against the wall and started to push with her fingers. At first it held strongly, the blueness starting to pulse as it was threatened. But then, to Angels surprise, Buffys eyelids started to flutter and her hands slowly started to follow through, blue tendrils of energy crackling around her finger tips which latter spread out over the entire wall.
She seemed to glow, stepping forward to she was right in the middle of the blue forcefeild. Then it suddenly started to whine, a piecing sound that made everyone reach up and cover their ears in pain.
But then it was gone.
Angel looked at Buffy with wide eyes, finding her starting right back at him, her eyes acquiring a purplish tinge to them.
<It will leave in a few hours, Angel> she Pathed, smiling at his concern. But then she turned to Zanial.
He was standing calmly before her, his hands laying limply at his side, but Buffy wasnt foolish enough not to know that with a single flick of his fingers she could well and truly be dust. So slowly walking forward, she kept her back straight and her legs tense, ready to attack in a second if the need be.
You have to done well, Everynne. Zanial told her, tapping the side of his leg with his finger tips. Buffy watched them out of the corner of her eye warily.
You powers have expanded greatly since the last time I saw you. He smiled. Semarritte should have seen fit to inform me of this development before she died. He murmured.
Buffy stopped dead, squeezing her hands into fists at her side. You will not speak my mothers name in my presence. She gritted out between clenched teeth.
Zanial bowed mockingly, his eyes never leaving hers. Well, when should I then? I know you are dying to know just how she died.
Buffy stamped her foot impatiently. I know how she died, you fool! she spat out loudly, getting everyones attention. You stabbed a poison knife into her back and left her on the ground to bleed to death! She narrowed her eyes and said in a low, calm voice, Afraya has been telling me the same story for the last 16 years.
Zanial clapped his hands together, ignoring Nimisha who stood slightly behind him, still in a fighting stance.
Very, good, mlady. You have been well informed. He stepped forward abruptly. Its a shame you arent going to be able to make peace with her before you die. he told them sweetly.
Without waiting for her reply, he quickly brought his hand up and waved it above his head, causing the air to shudder. Then, as Buffy and her friends watched in amazement, bodies began to appear in the room, spread out behind Zanial and the motionless form of Methos.
Looking up, Buffy gasp when she saw the library was now fill with about 50 Vanquisher guards, their lasers all pointed up and towards them. Throwing a quick look at Zanial, Buffy saw he looked ecstatic, rubbing his hands together in fake glee.
He meet her gaze. Now, havent the tables turned?
Buffy gulped.
****
With a cry of rage, Zanial pounced towards Buffy, knocking her surprised form to the ground as the Vanquishers all attacked Nimisha and the gang. Even with Buffys small maths brain, it didnt take her long to realise they were well and truly out numbered.
Buffy grunted and took a swing at the strong man, connecting with his jaw. Squirming, she tried to throw him off. But he held fast, straddling her with his hands holding her shoulders firmly in place on the ground.
Get, off! Buffy screamed, attempting to bring her hand up again to take another swing at him. But he was too quick, catching her arm and squeezing so tightly Buffy knew there would be bruises in the morning.
Leaning forward, he kissed her temple before whispering. I dont think so, mlady. Then he jerked away, staring down at her in revolution. The cycle ends now. No longer will your family control us, I will see to it.
Buffy stopped struggling, looking coolly into his flashing, silver eyes. You dont get it, do you? she hissed, sneering with his glance of surprise. It isnt my family who rules in peace, you idiot. Its the people, the way of life. She swallowed. And Zanial, its something you just cant change, no matter how long you try.
He gave a howl of fury, slapping her so strongly on the side of the face that she went skidding from under him and slid across the polished floor. Buffy jumped to her feet, looking around quickly to see if her friends were still okay. Raising her eyebrows in surprise, she saw they were holding their own against the Vanquisher guards, finding out early that they dusted the same as usual ones. Searching with her eyes, Buffy was just in time to see Angel grab one from behind and send it sailing over his shoulder, wiping around suddenly and impaling the stake in his screaming chest.
Buffy smiled. <You sure havent lost you touch> she told him in an admiring tone. He looked across at her, shrugging modestly. But when she pointed an eyebrow he laughed, spinning around to stake another who had been coming up from behind.
But then she gasped in pain, reaching for her neck, as a shocking, powerful thrust of pain was sent her way. Desperately she staggered to the table side, gripping it when she saw Nimisha out of the corner of her eye, standing in the middle of the room.
Her front was covered in blood.
Nimi! Buffy yelled out loud, noticing the girl start to sway. Zanial was standing behind her, an evil gleam in his eyes, the poison knife dripping with blood in his hands.
Sita ran over to Buffy, choking when she saw her charge fall lifelessly to the ground, the gaping wound in her throat still pulsing blood.
Buffy felt herself be grabbed from behind, strong arms wrap their way around her so that her arms were pinned uselessly at her side as the guard forced her to walk before Zanial.
Still looking in disbelief at her daughter, Buffy winced when he slapped her cheek, grabbing her chin to thrust her face up towards his. I told you Id kill your daughter, Everynne. he whispered into her horror stricken eyes as her friends were one by one overthrown by their opponents and brought before Zanial.
He bent down. And now Im going to kill you.
And with that, the man brought the knife up and stabbed it in Buffys chest, ignoring her friends sudden screams.
****
Buffy jerked with the pain started, a haze of it floating towards her. She weakly felt it dance for her heart, her life source that could kill her. And she knew she should be fighting it....
But she was just so tired...
She felt her eyes close, the screams of Angel and the gang drift off as she felt herself fall to the ground beside the motionless form of her black haired daughter, the blood pooling around her head.
Buffy weakly smiled, slowly reaching out with one hand to touch her nightless hair, caressing it cold lustre.
Oh, how she loved this girl...
She blinked, knowing this wasnt the way she was meant to go. She had thousands of years to go, years at her disposal where she could do whatever she wanted. Not to die here on the cold ground...never to hold Angel again.
Buffy choked on her own blood, turning over so she lay on her back and looked up into the horrified faces of Ash, Sita, Angel and her friends.
She looked into Angels eyes, smiling weakly to try and reassure him that she was okay. But he didnt smile back, only stared blankly back at her with those beautiful dark eyes that she loved so much. She sobbed, knowing that she was now going to be ripped away from him even though she had just found him again.
She felt the fury start to build within, the anger at the Oracles and the Powers That Be that they would allow this to happen. And she let it build, let it form and gather in her body, finally making its way up to her flashing moon.
She knew something was happening from Angels startled glance at her forehead, the confusion that masked his face. And as Zanial bent down towards her, the knife that had already killed so many of her family in his hands, ready to deliver the killing blow, Buffy let out a furious scream and felt the power that had been building so powerfully in her body burst out of her in a blue explosion that touched everybody in the room.
All sound was blocked from her mind as she thought dumbly that if this was the true meaning of Tessionare power, then why didnt Sati and Jadis inform them earlier?
She huffed. It would have saved a great deal of trouble.
The energy continued to pulse, Buffys vision cloudy. But when she knew it was time, she reached in herself and tried to turn it off.
And then, just as it had come, it was gone.
She moaned in pain, the wound in her chest still bleeding. Looking around at the now silent library, Buffy blinked when she realised there wasnt a Vanquisher in sight - apart from Ash that was - they had all disappeared.
She raised her eyebrows, not having a clue *that* was going to happen. But it was true, she had dusted the 30 remaining vampires in a single thrust. Zanial and Methos were gone as well, although Buffy was sure she would see them again, it taking more than that to get rid of the powerful pair.
But then she heard Nimisha give a soft moan beside her and she quickly turned over towards her daughter, wincing with that pain that small movement caused. But Buffy smiled when the girl opened her green eyes and blinked at the harsh lights in her eyes.
Angel fell down on his knees beside her, reaching out and gently running a hand thought her dark hair. Nimisha saw his face and smiled weakly.
You're not mad at me? she whispered and Angel choked on his tears. Of course not. he whispered back, looking over at Buffy and smiling.
She didnt smile back, knowing just how bad Nimisha and her own wounds actually were. He saw her sad face and instantly became worried.
Whats wrong? he asked, concerned. But Buffy only looked away, not able to meet his eyes.
Mama? Nimishas soft voice spoke out. Buffy quickly turned back to her.
We have to get out of here mama. They will be back, you know that. Her green eyes were huge and sad, knowing as her mother did, how unlikely she was to live.
Buffy raised her eyebrows. Of course. she muttered, starting to take deep breaths. Nimisha saw her intentions and frowned in confusion.
What are you doing? she asked weakly. Buffy didnt answer her, extending what energy she had left to include Willow, Ash and the rest of the gang, putting mental tags on each of them. Both Nimisha and Sita felt her mental probing in their minds and gasped in horror as they realised what she was doing.
No mama, you cant! Nimisha screamed, making a useless attempt to sit up.
I cant let you die, Nimi. Buffy only whispered back at her, opening her mental mind as she prepared to attempt the impossible and port them through space.
Nimisha groaned, her head spinning as she felt her mother pick her up and start to port, the pressure building in her mind.
Mama, no! Nimisha screamed again, but it was too late. As they all started to yell, clutching their heads in pain, Buffy ported them out of the room, out of Sunnydale, off Earth and to the one place automatic reflexes could take her!
And the last conscious thought Nimisha had was her mothers shattered mind, screaming as the pressure took control and sent her spiralling into the abyss of Chaos. Chapter 11
Brave New World*
Nimisha screamed and screamed and screamed.
The pain exploded in her head causing the girl to completely forget about the gaping wound in her neck for a moment. She knew she was seeing things in slow motion, for it usually only took mer seconds to Port, and so far it seemed like she had been floating in the Abyss for hours. She could sense all her friends, their minds pulsing furiously with the sudden invasion as they too, waited and dreaded where Buffys Port would make them end up.
Buffy was there too, her conscious mind completely shattered as she floated weakly beside them all in the black nothingness, her body limp and still, the blood still pouring from the huge wound in her bare chest. Nimisha weakly opened her mind to hers but admittedly shut it off, slamming up her mental shields as the raw waves of mental agony rolled backwards to her own mind where she grabbed her skull in anguish.
Opening her eyes slowly, Nimisha gasped and looked around her in growing horror. For even as her mind denied it, the stars and planets that bathed her with their breathtaking beauty were proof enough that they were floating in deep space, probably millions of miles from any of the Alliance populated planets.
Nimisha choked, only then noticing that she was breathing air, her mother somehow unconsciously producing a way for them all to survive as she dumped them where ever they were. Looking at all her friends faces Nimisha saw their eyes were all closed, their chests rising and falling slightly as they endured the cold sleep.
How was this possible??
But when she started to feel the sleep calling her too, and realising that she probably was meant to be sleeping as the others were, Nimisha opened her mind fully and as a last ditch effort before the unwanted waves crashed over her, she let out a piercing scream that echoed through the stars.
But no voice answered her.
She was alone out here, the pressing blackness enveloping her as she froze in fright. It was so cold...so dark...so very dark....
She felt her eyes flutter together as they closed by themselves, her body feeling heavy and so very tired....
Nimisha sighed sleepily, her breathing slowing down as she drifted off to sleep...
<Afraya...help me> was the last weak whisper that she projected as she floated away...
Then suddenly...
<Nimisha!?> Afrayas unmistakable voice screamed in the void of blackness.
Buffys eyes fluttered open...
****
Allrelen....
The Gate Hall flew into stunned panic as the group of bodies suddenly appeared on the marble floor in front of the huge metal ring, the blood already starting to stain the ground as the guards who had been standing watch all snapped out of the review and dived for the alarm button, causing the Klaxons all to flash a bright red as the screaming siren pierced through the air.
Footsteps thudded as the huge wooden doors burst open and Afraya ran in first, only to stop dead where he stood when he saw the still group of people laying in a mixture of tangled limbs on the ground.
Oh, my god. he heard someone whisper behind him as he hesitantly made him way forward, the room filling up quickly with yelling and panicking people. But Afraya ignored them all as he bent down beside the nearest body - that of a red headed woman who he admittedly identified as Willow - and rolled her over gently so that she lay on her back so he could get a good look at her face for damage.
How had they gotten here? he wondered to himself, wincing sadly as he examined the sleeping young woman. She looked very young, her body unhurt at first glance. But Afraya new what to look for, and when he did, the marks were completely visible.
She had bitten through her lower lip; a trickle of blood had made a scarlet line across her check. Her face was streaked with tears. Her fingernails had cut through into her palms when she clenched her fists. Her closed eyes looked bruised by deep and dark circles.
With great compassion, Afraya gently propped Willows head up with a pillow that he ported from his own quarters and placed both of his hands lightly on the girls temples. Closing his eyes in concentration, he blocked out all the yelling people around him and narrowed all his thoughts and energies on the bruised mind in front of him. Pushing slightly, Afraya dug deeper into her mind until he found her, huddled and shivering within the darkest, blackest corner of her being.
He sighed in pity, realising the girl had no training what so ever in how she was meant to react to such a attack on her mind.
<Willow?> he probed gently, slowly surrounded her with his own light, forcing her to snap out of it and regard him.
<It hurts, it hurts...> she continued to chant, her voice babbling.
<Its alright, Willow, the pain is all gone> Afraya tried to reassure the fevered girl.
She paused, her ears pricking up. <Its gone?> she whispered pitifully and Afraya grimaced.
<Yes, Its all gone. You can open up now, Willow> Then, without waiting for her response, Afraya latched onto her subconscious gently and started to push it up towards the surface. After a brief flinch of surprise, Willow let her mind be guided by his in the gentlest of probes, Afraya trying to ignore the mental anguish he experienced at having to touch so torn a mind.
He could read her thoughts, they were printed so close to the surface they were screamed at his mind the second they touched. Uppermost was the thought he knew that all her and her friends would share: Buffy, exhausted and dying, Porting them out of the room, her mind screaming in pain with the powerful thrust.
Afraya knew he could do nothing for that, only tried to sooth her panicked thoughts until she could see Buffy for herself.
But as he watched Willows eyes flutter open, he smiled down at her, brushing a strand of hair out of her eyes in a kind gesture. She took a few huge gasp of air, coughing and sputtering as Afraya gently helped her into a sitting position.
She turned to him, her eyes alarmed. Where are they? she whispered, her voice husky. Afraya shook her head, slightly turning her around so she could see her friends, all still laying on the ground asleep, each surrounded by people as they desperately tried to wake them up.
Letting go of Willows arm, Afraya got to his feet when he caught sight of a group of people arguing heatedly over a unconscious body. Walking over to the quickly, Afraya pushed his way between them as he tried to see what their problem was.
He gasp in surprise, his eyes going wide in alarm when he noticed straight away to distinct traits on the sleeping boys face.
A Vanquisher. He snarled, stepping back quickly as the doctors all turned to him.
We noticed that, Captain Lartarni. A round man with glasses explained in a annoyed voice as he broke away from his colleges and bent down beside the boy.
The question is, what is he doing here? He picked up one of Ashs limp, dark arms and let it fall back on the ground as a demonstration.
I dont really care what he is doing here, Doc. Afraya snarled, crossing his arms across his face as he looked furiously down at Ash. I want him out of this Palace and off this planet as soon as. He tightened his lips together in fury. He shouldnt be aloud to set foot in this building. Its disgusting!
The doctor sighed, clentching his lips together tightly in annoyance as he stood up and faced Afraya. Im sorry, Captian. I cant just dispose of the boy. He frowned at Afrayas furious snort. There has to be a perfectly good reason Queen Everynne Ported him here, and neither I or anyone else are going to even touch this boy in harm until we find out just why that is. Is that clear?
Afraya narrowed his eyes and abruptly spun on his heals, striding away from the bossy doctor.
Searching with his eyes, Afraya looked around for the biggest group of people he knew would be tending to Everynne. Sure enough, on the far side of the room, he could just make out her silver sarong through the doctors legs.
Quickly heading in that direction, he abruptly stopped in horror when he looked down at found Nimisha at his feet, the blood pooling around her head from the gaping wound in her neck. Pushing the doctors aside, he quickly bent down beside her unmoving form, picking up her wrist.
She didnt have a pulse.
****
Angel slowly opened his eyes, groaning when the harsh light invaded them. Rolling over onto his back, he propped himself up on his elbows, looking around the huge room that he found himself in.
His mouth fell open.
It wouldve had to have been the most beautiful, the most grandest room he had ever been in. Craning his neck upwards, Angel saw that the roof was at least 50 metres high, the metal rafters travelling from one end to the other. The wall were a dark royal blue, what looked like hand painted black Runes edging the outline. Looking down he saw he was sitting on a creamy marble floor, the pattens running and mixing together beautifully. On the walls were paintings of people, mostly blonde woman. They were huge, stretching up towards the rafters with thick wooden frames. Looking around, Angel saw there was a wide staircase cascading off to one side, woven around the walls and stretching out wider when it reached the bottom.
Gaping in awe, Angel stumbled to his feet, noticing the huge metal ring that was obviously the centre attraction in the hall, the alien symbols all flashing brightly as people all ran quickly around it...
People?
Looking around quickly, Angels eyebrows nearly hit his hairline when he caught sight of all the different coloured people all yelling franticly to each other, completely ignoring him in the process. Trying to see what they were yelling about, Angel looking and found Sita and Anya, unconscious on the cold ground next to each other, surrounded in people.
He ran towards them, pushing the surprised doctors out of the way as he feel to his feet beside his two friends. One of the doctors noticed his strange complexion and grabbed his arm in attempt to pull him to his feet.
Angel snarled, vamping out as he turned in the mans direction with glowing eyes. The poor doctor yelped in fright and released him quickly, stepping back.
Whoa! Who the hell are you? he asked loudly, getting the rest of his teams attention. But Angel only ignored him, turning back towards Sita and feeling for her pulse on her neck.
The man dropped to his knees beside him, seeing what he was trying to do. Thats no good. he told Angel, bringing a hand up to brush a strand of pure white hair out of his pale face nervously. Angel snapped his head up and found himself staring into shocking blue eyes. Angel started, never had he seen such strange colouring before. They didnt seem to have pupils, the whole eye was just blue a circle.
The man continued, seeing that Angel wasnt going to answer him. Its not her body thats hurt. he told the vampire patiently. Its her mind.
Angel let out a unnecessary breath and cursed. What of the rest of my friends? he asked.
The man looked across the halls floor to the other groups of people. They should be fine, if we can reach them that is... He abruptly broke off, staring at something with a raised eyebrow.
There, that young woman is better already. He told Angel happily. Angel jerked his head quickly, finding Willow sitting bewildered in a sitting position by herself, looking around the room with wide eyes.
Willow.. he whispered, getting to his feet. The young doctor frowned. You know her? he asked.
Angel didnt turn to him, still looking at the Witch. Of course I do. he muttered, annoyed. Shes Buffys best friend.
The doctor suddenly gasped, stepping back suddenly. Angel shot him a look. What? he asked, baffled at his suddenly wary behaviour.
The mans shocking blue eyes were open wide, his breathing coming in quick, sharp gasps. Your Angel, arent you? he whispered in awe, not able to take his eyes of Angels face. Lady Everynnes mate.
Angel choked, putting his hands on his hips. Excuse me?
The doctor didnt answer Angels question, only turned away from the small group and put two of his fingers in his mouth, letting out a piercing whistle. Angel started, turning in the same direction to see just who he was calling. Nobody reacted to the noise at first, just kept on with the desperate business until one man quickly looked up and over towards them, his blue face standing out brightly with all the other people.
Angel watched, fascinated, as the man looked at the young doctor by his side in annoyance, his blue hands still resting on the arm of the person he was attending to. Then suddenly his eyes flew over to meet Angels, his eyebrows shooting up in alarm as he obviously reconsigned just who he was.
Getting to his feet quickly, the blue man looked down at the unmoving body, obviously torn at who to go to. Making his mind up for him, Angel jogged over to the small group and stood tall in front of him.
The blue man sighed as he glanced at Angel, wiping a shaking hand across his brow to relieve the sweet. But he only achieved to leave a bloody smear across his forehead, Angel only then noticing that his hands and arms were covered in thick, red blood.
Looking down in horror, Angel dropped to his knees at Nimishas side, reaching out with a shaking hand to touch her blood stained cheek, her eyelashes like white lace on her sickly, pale face. He let his eyes travel the length of her body, getting wider as he rested them on the bloody mess that used to be her neck, a faint gurgling sound easily heard whenever she took a shallow breath.
Afraya dropped down beside him, laying a reassuring hand on the vampires arm. She wont die, my friend. he told him quietly, Angels head snapping around in anger.
How can she survive that? He hissed out between clenched teeth. Im amazed she still alive now.
Afraya grimaced. So am I actually. he explained. But if we can reach her in time, our facilities here are well equipped to handle her recovery.
Angel choked, looking at Afraya like he was mad. Excuse me? he hissed out, looking up and around him in annoyance. Would someone please be kind enough to inform me where we are in the first place!? Angel was getting fed up, fast.
But Afraya only regarded him oddly, his eyebrow slightly raised. You dont know where you are? He asked, smiling. Angel didnt answer, only shot him a cold look.
Well, Afraya explained, going back to Nimisha while at the same time looking around for a doctor to snag in order to help the injured girl. Ill be pleased to inform you that you are on the planet Allrelen. Capital planet of the Imperial Alliance.
This only made the poor vampire even more confused, but even as he opened his mouth to reply, a small, weak moan could be heard from the dark haired girl laying on the floor. Both Angel and Afraya were down next to her in a flash, both sighing in relief when her eyes fluttered open.
Afraya? she whispered huskily, bringing a hand up to inspect her wounded neck. But Afraya saw her intentions and grabbed her raised wrist, gently cradling it on his knees.
No, baby. he told her kindly. You cant do that. Now that we have got you back, you just have to wait until a doctor comes. Angel was watching, fascinated, as Nimisha started to sob in pain, the moon suddenly appearing on her forehead.
Whats that? Angel asked, reaching out with a shaking hand and running his finger over the moons smooth surface.
Its what makes her and her mother who they are. Afraya told him cryptically. But with the sudden mention of Buffy, Angel gasped and shot to his feet, looking around the room wildly. Seeing his desperation, Afraya quietly whispered something in Nimishas ear and stood up at Angels side, pointing to the group of people that were attending Everynne.
Shes over there, he told the concerned vampire. But be prepared, Angel! he yelled as Angel took off in a dead flat run in that direction. Shes not in a very good condition!
But Angel just ignored him, reaching the small group and pushing between them to fall at Buffys side similar as he had done a few minutes ago with his daughter. He moaned as he got a good look at her body, the silver sarong and green top she was wearing now covered in blood.
He turned in anger up to the doctors who had now all fallen silent as they watched the pair, his vampire ridges barely contained. Why is she still here? he yelled. Why isnt she in a hospital!?
She will get transferred to the infirmary when we can make recontact her mind! One middle aged man spoke up, furiously. Now, would you kindly inform me just how you got into this compound in the first place!?
Angel just stared at him, his hands tightening their grip on Buffys cold wrist firmly. Just try it, you yellow eyed freak. he hissed out at the man, his eyes flashing. The doctor gaped, his *very* yellow eyes popping.
Then suddenly the group was again separated, a body pushing through. Looking up, Angel sighed in relief to see Sita bark to the people to stand away and fall to her queens side. A ruffled, visibly shaken Sita, but Sita none the rest. The men all stiffened in her presence, but their expressions turning to that of confusion when they all saw her turn to Angel.
How is she? she asked, tears falling down her face as the brunette glanced down at the still, pale form of her closest friend.
Angel ran a nervous hand through his short, dark hair, his eyes never leaving Buffys face. Not good. From what that blue man was saying about Nimisha, something has to happen with her mind before they can fix her up.
Sita looked confused for a minute. The blue man.. she muttered. Oh! Afraya. She looked across the floor, seeing Afraya help three people load Nimisha on a stretcher.
Ah, excuse me, Miss. The yellow eyed man said angrily. The guards are here to take this young man to the holding rooms.
Sita jumped to her feet, putting her hands on her hips in annoyance. Coolly eyeing not only the man but the three guards that were standing stiffly beside him, she cocked a regal eyebrow delightfully. Dont be so stupid, Jarni. She snarled, pointing a commanding finger towards the stretcher that Nimisha was laying on.
This man isnt going anywhere. You have no right to make that sort of decision! Rights that *I* on the other hand *do* have. So you can kindly tell these three men here to stop wasting my time and take their Princess to the infirmary.
Angel had to bend his head to step from grinning, letting Buffys motionless form wipe the smile right off his face. Ignoring the suddenly sputtering Jarni and the furious Sita, he blocked out their voices and bent down beside Buffy again, placing a soft kiss on her forehead.
Wake up, love. He whispered in her ear desperately. We cant help you until you do. He felt the frustrated tears form in his eyes as he watched helplessly as she slipped away.
Oh, Buffy. You should have told me. Angel told her softly, placing the back on his hand on her cheek, feeling the cold skin. She was so beautiful, he thought. Laying there with cool dignity even as she fought for her life. Her dark, lace like eyelashes where fans against her brilliant green eyes, her lips slightly blue, parted as what breath she managed to breath escaped through the gaps.
Angel. Sita gently probed, laying a reassuring hand on his shaking back. He lifted his head up, unashamed of the tears that he knew she would find there. But she only smiled down at him gently, sitting Indian style of the ground. Looking over her shoulder, Angel saw Willow and Cordelia walking over in their direction with the help of Xander and Spike. Giles and the others all awake by now, gently being propped up by kind hands and looking around their spectacular surroundings in what could only be intimidated awe.
Angel was sure he read the words, Holy shit.. on Giles stunned lips.
Hey, He said softly to the two approaching woman with their willing minders. They all stopped before Buffy and looked down at her, Spike wincing at all the blood that he saw pooling on the ground.
What is she doing laying on the ground like that? Xander asked angrily, looking around the massive room for a spare doctor that were all milling around, talking in excited voice about their strange, uninvited visitors. But he looked quickly back when Angel sighed.
Shes not fighting, Xan. the vampire told the tall, dark haired man who gave a cry of dismay. Well, why bloody not!? He yelled, causing the still sensitive Sita, Willow, Cordelia and Anya to clutch their skulls in pain. Xander looked sheepishly down at the ground, most definitely expecting the hard whack that both Willow and Anya shot his way.
Because she doesnt know your reactions to her, thats why. Sita spoke abruptly, her tender eyes never leaving her Mistress form. Angel frowned with that, looking deep into Sitas eyes for an explanation. He stilled when he meet them, sucking in a breath at the emotions that he found dancing in the bodyguards icy blue depth.
It was share devotion. Devotion and love for Buffy and her family, Angel mused, turning back to his love as if he expected her sleeping body to reveal all the answers that he desperately wanted and needed.
Who was she to have all these people under her obvious command? To have a beautiful, mysterious woman like Sita ready to die for either her of her precious daughter?
<All will be explained in time, Angel> the powerful voice inside his head answered him, the unmistakable tag of Sita leaving a warm, fuzzy sensation inside his body.
Angel shifted uncomfortably, still unused to having people slip in and out of his mind like a mall.
You mean shes not waking up because she thinks we are going to be mad at her? Cordelia asked, breaking Angels spell. The beautiful 22 year old was gripping Doyles arm so tightly that the Irishman was wincing in pain.
Sita inclined her head to the side slightly, still lightly stroking her Queens cold, bare arm in comfort as she searched for an appropriate answer.
Yes and no. She told them, smiling at the Allrelenian people who started to drift over towards the group, staring down in horror at their fallen Queen. A little girl with brilliant purple eyes shuffled over to Buffy and sat down on her knees above the Slayers head, running her tiny, light blue fingers through Buffys long blond plaits, humming softly in reassurance as her mother and father watched on in approval.
Inside, I think she always knew you would not hate her for leaving - she didnt really have a choice in the matter - but thats beside the point. She touched Giles shaking hand briefly. Its the guilt that she feels inside that keeps her drifting out of her body. The guilt at having to leave you all to defend yourselves on the ghastly planet of yours.
Willow and Xander crawled to Buffys side together, their faces reflecting the shock, sorrow and pride that they all felt for her, for being so strong.
Oh, come on Buff. Xander teased, although his voice was shaky. That was never enough to make you sleep before. So you open your silly eyes, you lazy butt. Ya hear me? he ordered his beautiful friend softly.
Willow smiled, knowing that Xander was trying to reach with Buffy with the only thing he had left. And deep down, she had hoped it would work. His humour had always proven a source of delightful and desperately needed amusement in the Slayers gloomy, dark life. They all had know, even though Xander might lack in the actual fighting and Magick side of the battle, Buffy loved her first real friend very dearly for the fact that he was really the only one that could bring laughter into her nights after Angel left, and it was always something that touched her deeply.
But bending down beside her head, Willow choked on a sob as she whispered in her best friends delicate jewelled ear, Please, Buffy. We cant loose you now.
Willow kissed her temple gently, her tears mixing with the sleeping Slayers bright hair. What are we going to tell Nimisha if you leave her?
But still the Queen slept on, her shattered, pain filled mind spinning off its axis somewhere in existence that they could and would never see. Her staggeringly brilliant mind screaming as the power pulsed though it..power that did not belong.
****
Angel looked down in his lap, the feeling of helplessness overcoming him. Bending down, he danced a gentle hand over her weakly flashing moon lightly. Buffy, my love. Please wake up. he begged her. I cant live without you now that ive found you again.
In a rare show on weakness, the dark vampire buried his face in the crook of her neck, breathing in the floral sent that was totally Buffy. A smell that hadnt changed in all the years that she had been forced from his side. It will kill Nimisha if you leave her, my love. Please dont leave me to explain this all to her. he sobbed, not noticing his friends all staying silent as he poured out his heart to the girl he loved..would always love, their tears mingling with his.
*Behold, those who would belong to the Slayer. These are her followers, those by whom she is beloved above all else. Though they part from her a thousand leagues, their spirits stay with her. Their hearts stay with her. Their souls stay with her. To one another they are true, for the sake of her. Their loyalty is one living thing among them, no matter the future, no matter the past. This is their bond, and this is the Slayers strongest weapon. Beyond battle, beyond force, this is their greatest gift...
And still the Slayer slept on...but she didnt dream.
****
Angel felt the first movement of her delicate fingers, the twitch that he knew he would feel forever in his bones. She gripped his hand firmly, squeezing tightly. With wide eyes, the vampire sucked in a excited breath, daring to hope...
She was squeezing her eyes shut, her head thrashing from side to side slightly with a expression of agonising pain flitting from every feature. Angel could hear her moaning, the strangled, tortured cry of an injured animal.
Buffy? he whispered, bring his head down close to hers. He noticed instantly the rest of the gang gather round, Willows eyes huge.
But Buffy didnt answer them, her whole body starting to shake in huge spasms. Angel jumped back on his butt in alarm, looking around desperately for someone who could help. But before he could say a word someone was pushing him aside with kind, but firm arms.
Afraya gently pushed himself to the front of the group, silently placing his light blue fingers on Buffys temples and closing his eyes in concentration. After a brief pause he huffed, seemingly pleased with what ever it was he found and lifted both his fingers away, only to place one of them over her eyes, cover both closed green emeralds and the other over her mouth.
The gang watched, baffled as the lean mans hands started to give of a faint, pulsing glow.
Whats he doing? Oz hissed to Giles who was standing beside him.
I wouldnt have the slightest idea, Oz. Giles told him dryly, his eyes never leaving Afraya.
No one spoke as the tension build around them, each of the group hoping desperately that Afraya could somehow find their lost friend and bring her back to them.
And as if she could hear them thoughts, under Afraya and Angels watchful gaze...Buffy sighed and opened her eyes weakly.
She blinked, puzzled for a second before the memories suddenly drawned on her. She groaned, turning her head away. But Afraya wasnt to be denied, his fingers catching Buffys chin in a flash and quite forcefully turning her face back. Huge, sorrow filled green glass regarded him sadly. He grimaced, smiling gently back at her.
All will be well, Evie. Afraya whispered in her ear, pity filling him when he felt her shudder. He almost cried out when he felt her lift up one of his blue hands with a trembling one of her own and press his fingers against her temples in an unconscious plea for relief of the pain.
What happened? Why cant I control my mind? Buffy cried, tears of alarm streaming down her face.
You rather stretched yourself, Evie. Porting them all here. Afraya explained to her soothingly. But she only groaned, blinking the tears away furiously so she could at least see clearly. I cant remember...
Afraya chuckled. You mightnt, my dear. he told her dryly. But every rating Telepathic in the Alliance sure does. You gave everyone a hell of a shock, Evie. She didnt seem to hear him, only groaning again, crushing his hand in hers to breaking point.
Oh, my head. She whined. Its all black, Afraya. She abruptly stiffened, her eyes fluttering. Theres something I have to do, Affie. But I cant remember what it is. Buffy tried to rise but, though Afraya exerted little pressure, she sank back on the floor. There is something I must do, only I cant *remember*. You did everything you must, Evie. Afraya told her sternly. But youve suffered a tremendous trauma, and you *must* rest!
She closed her eyes in exhaustion, her body screaming at her to stop being so bloody strong willed and give in to the sleep that she knew was waiting. She felt her consciousness slip away...
She *should* be dead to the world right now, Mister Giles. came Afraya tenored voice above her. Shes worried about something and we probably wont get her to sleep until she finds out whatever it is thats on her mind.
Well, then. Came Doyles Irish lit. Why dont we wake her up and find out whats bothering her?
There was a brief silence until Buffy felt her face being gently slapped. With a sleepy smile she opened her eyes and saw Angels face swimming in her vision.
Angel... she pleaded, not because he had slapped her but because she *had* to get him to understand...
My love. he said quietly for her only to hear. But he said it with such loving pride that she almost burst into tears.
Angel bent down at trailed light kisses over her eyelids, his tears mixing with hers. Are you okay? he whispered huskily, his hands gripping her fingers unconsciously. Buffy nodded weakly, seemingly not noticing the tears that were dripping down her pale cheeks.
Is Nimisha alright? she finally asked in a small voice, trying not to winch with the pain that shot through her body with speaking. Angel smiled, knowing that was going to be what was worrying her. But to her he just nodded. Yeah. Afraya got her into the infirmary. Buffy sighed with relief. Their fixing her up now.
But then she started to sob, the flood of tears that she couldnt stop running freely down her face. Oh, Angel. I thought hed killed her...I thought hed killed you all.
The vampire caught a handful of long, blonde plaits, bringing them up to the light, seemingly awed by the brightness. I know, Buffy. he told her soothingly, swaying one sightly and smiling when the gold bell on the end sang out quietly.
She didnt answer him, only looked up into his face with huge, sad eyes. So I guess you know everything now. she whispered.
But Angel only laughed, moving aside quickly when Giles dropped to his knees beside him, a group of doctors behind him waiting to take the Slayer to the hospital.
No, Buffy. Angel explained bluntly. I wouldnt have a clue about *anything*. I dont even want to *guess* where we are right now.
She smiled, her breath starting to come a fair bit quicker. Seeing this, the doctors pushed the two men out of the way and started to tend to their queen.
Giles looked annoyed with that, opening his mouth to complain but shut it abruptly when Sita leaned over to him and explained in a low voice, Their just doing their job, Giles. Let them take her.
But Buffy said a quick word to the nearest doctor and they paused, moving aside so the Watcher could quickly jump to the side of the stretcher that Buffy was now lying on. She reached up with trembling, weak hand and layed it on the side of her Watchers face, smiling lovingly up at him.
God, I missed you. she whispered, tapping his glasses with the end of one finger in amusement. Ill explain everything when I can, Giles. I promise. She closed her eyes suddenly, sucking in a tight breath with the increasing agony in her mind.
Its fine, Buffy. You just get better. Giles told her, kissing her forehead gently. When he drew back he saw her eyes were closed, the pale lids fans on her cheeks. She was asleep.
Okay, Mister Giles. one of the doctors explained gently. We have to get her to the infirmary now. They started towards the door, the gang watching on as they left. But everyone jumped when Afraya suddenly cupped his mouth and yelled at them,
Hey! Remember you are not to Path anywhere near them, is that clear? the Captian yelled. Their minds are hanging by a thread as it is and if *any* of you even probe in there youll be running the risk of burning them out completely. So no reaching of any sort until they are fully healed, got it?
They all dipped their head slightly, understanding the order. And with that, they gently carried the sleeping Buffy out of the huge room, leaving the rest of her friends with Afraya and Sita.
****
As soon as the last back disappeared around the corner Afraya briskly spun on his heals and faced the bewildered group with a kind smile on his face, rubbing his hands together at his chest.
Well, now that they are being suitably cared for, I guess you all want an explanation, am I correct? The Foltairian asked, grinning.
They were all silent, gaping at the man, until Xander suddenly took a step forward with his hands on his hips and craned his neck, looking up into the roof. After a beat he dropped his head back and regarded Afraya with a single raised eyebrow expertly.
Yeah. You could say that. the young man said dryly. How bout starting with who the hell are you are where the hell *are* we?
Afraya just laughed, closing the few feet that separated them. Well, my name is Afraya Lartarni and im the Captian of the Alliance Navy and Everynnes 2IC. He grinned. And right now you are standing in the Gate Hall, which is found in the Crystal Palace on the planet Allrelen.
They all just stared.
Were in the Crystal Palace? Willow abruptly asked, her surprised voice causing everyone who didnt know what that was to turn around and raise their eyebrows at her.
You actually know what that *is*? Cordelia asked bluntly and Faith laughed. Willow opened her mouth to reply but quickly shut it again when she tall, uniform wearing woman stride up to Afraya and whisper something in his ear. The Captian listened and gave a distinct nod when she was finished. Turning back to the Scoobies, Afraya looked sorry.
Im terribly sorry, but it seems that our visiting Vanquisher has awaken. I really must speak to him. he explained.
Ash? Sita and Spike blurted out at the same time, searching the room quickly for the missing Vanquisher. Afraya looked exceedingly alarmed, hurrying to follow the boys friends as they all jogged over to his body.
You know who he is, then? He asked as they ran. Sita and Willow both skidded to a halt, turning quickly to Afraya. Of course we know him, hes Nimishas boyfriend! Willow blurted.
Afraya skidded into Spikes back in his shock. Hes her what!?
Sita sighed, pulling her tall friend aside. Hes her boyfriend, Affie. she told him quietly. Afrayas eyes bulged as he clenched his fists into balls on the side of his uniform. Thians her boyfriend, Sita. he ground out between tight lipped teeth, his face furious.
How could she do this to us? The others stopped and regarded him in surprise. Getting herself knowingly involved with a Vanquisher is a major crime, Tessionare or no Tessionare! he raged.
Thats the thing! Sita shot back, not understanding why her friend was having such a negative reaction to the charming, dark, young man. She didnt know who he was! Nether of them did! She sighed and lay a calming hand on Afrayas shaking arm. They were so surprised when Methos told them, it was obvious. she explained in a low voice.
Afraya didnt reply, only stared at the now waking up vampire with suspicious, narrowed eyes. His mouth was still clenched. It was obvious that he was still unhappy with it.
Getting fed up, Sita snapped, For the gods sake, Afraya! Do you have any idea what this is going to do to their relationship in the first place? You sulking like that is only gonna make things worse! Now, you put a smile that face of yours and go talk to the boy, hes probably going to be terrified when he wakes up.
Afraya just huffed, crossing his arms across his chest. Fine. He gritted out. But im not gonna be satisfied that hes not a spy of some sort until *ive* fully examined him, alright?
Sita didnt reply, just smiled smugly and inclined her head gracefully in Ashs direction, telling Afraya to go for it.
He marched off.
Sita and the rest of the gang watched him go, all of them smiling as they looked and saw Afraya bend down and held the bewildered Ash into a sitting position, the boy still rubbing the sleep out of his eyes.
Right then. Sita abruptly said in a chirpily voice. They all turned to her just in time to hear the bodyguard grin broadly and rub her hands together greedily, similar to how Afraya had a few minutes before.
Now that thats settled, whose for a tour?
****
And as we walk through here we get to Buffy and Nimisha quarters. Sita explained happily as she pushed open the twin polished wooden doors and stepped aside so the gaping group could step through the awesome entranceway.
Xander whistled, looking around up and around the breathtaking room, taking in the white marble walls and dropping dark green drapes that touched the floor, uncovering the two metre high windows that looked down into the Palace courtyard.
Giles stepped into the room and sucked in a stunned breath. Good, lord... he whispered, spying the huge painted portraits of Buffy and her ancestors. The four painting were each at least four metres high, the blonde woman posing regally in each of them wore similar exquisite gowns, all endured with emeralds, rubies and other precious gems. The Watcher slowly walked over to them, ignoring the tapping sound the heals made on the polished floor and regarded them each on turn.
They were all so haunting, the beautiful womans green eyes locked on his own, as their sightly tilted chins were proud in a defying way. He paused at the last one, the face staring back making Giles open his eyes wide in shock.
Good, God. Thats Buffy! he cried, pointing up and the picture in awe. Angel wondered over slowly, looking terribly impressed by the imposing pictures.
Wow. Great dress. the vampire said, one eyebrow raised. Giles growled and turned on him. Wow? Is that all you can say?
Angel just looked at him with his head cocked to the side. A small, calm smile on his face. What else am I meant to say, Giles? he asked. Im standing in a room that looks like something out of the Henry the 8ths castle back in England looking up at a painting of the woman I love most in the world who for the past four years I thought was dead. But suddenly im being thrust into this whole different *world* - no pun intended - where ive been told by her *bodyguard* of all people, that she rules...as in rules as their *Queen*. He shrugged his shoulders, not looking bothered in the slightest to the things he just said.
Im still stuck back at the part of Buffy being alive at *all*. He shrugged again. Ask me again in about four days and I should have an answer for ya by then, okay? He smiled sweetly at the watcher.
Who are they, Sita? Faith asked, her hands on his hips as she critically examined the woman in the paintings. Hearing her question, Angel and Giles both turned to the Bodyguard, interested in the answer as well.
Sita smiled, standing in front of the first one and pointing her finger and each one in turn. This is Dimeara, Buffys great-Grandmama. She taped the frame lightly before moving onto the next. This one is of Tandira, Dimearas daughter. She was barely a child when her mother died.
Then she grinned and slowly walked over to the third one. Smiling kindly at Willow she told everyone, And this ones Semarritte...Buffys mother.
Giles started, pushing his glasses back on his nose. This is the woman? he asked Sita, stuttering. She nodded, moving aside so Angel, Willow and the Watcher could get a better look.
Oh, my... Willow trailed off, her eyes glued on the intimidating picture of the woman she had heard so much about from Nimisha. And she had to admit that even if she looked identical to Buffy, her green eyes held such a note of sadness and guilt that Willow knew she could never mastake her for the Slayer.
What she must have been going through... Willow whispered to herself, not realising she was saying it out loud until she heard Giles cough discreetly.
Indeed. he muttered, lowering his head to wipe the tears out of his eyes.
Angel on the other hand, couldnt tear his eyes off the painting of Buffy. The light violet dress that she wore looked something out of a kind Autheran tale, it was so breathtaking. The cut off shoulders were low, the cleavage dipped daringly. Her long golden hair was curled into tight ringlets, half arranged beautifully on top of her proud head and the rest of the mass falling down her back and over her shoulders, the strings of diamonds and rubies that were woven through it sparking in the captured sun.
He couldnt believe it, the glass eyed Siren whose chin was tilted defyingly like her mothers... was Buffy...*his* Buffy. It was only the slight, teasing smile that graced her rose lips that hinted the Slayer that he knew was hiding behind the mask of diamond earings and the piercing silver moon that was printed on her forehead brightly. It seemed to him that only days ago she was walking into the Bronze, straw stuck through her hair as they met for their first real date after a hard evening of Slaying.
How different she had looked. After four years of separation she had appeared virtually out of nowhere in the middle of Sunnydale high, her exotic clothing instantly spinning her into a completely different image in Angels mind from the one he had held protectively in his mind for the entire time.
He blocked out everyone else and crept slowly up to Buffy portrait, running his shaking hands over the hem of her floor length gown in wonder. Looking up, he smiled gently when their faces met, her wise, imperial eyes unconsciously boring back into his, sparking with unleashed fire.
Angel? He jerked around quickly, dropping his shoulders when he saw it was only Doyle and Willow, their concerned faces touching him deeply.
Are you okay, man? the Irishman asked quietly, placing a reassuring hand on the vampires shoulder.
Yeah. Angel replied shakily, wiping a hand across his face nervously. Its just a lot to handle...
Willow chuckled. Ive known about it for a week and im still speechless. She craned her neck and whistled. They both tried to tell me but I could never imagine it until now. The Witch giggled and turned back to the two men.
I mean, can you actually imagine *living* here? the Witch asked, still giggling uncontrollably. Both Angel and Doyle soon joined her, finding Willows laugh quite contagious. But the all stopped abruptly when the heard Cordelia yell happily.
Well, I dont know about you guys but *I* think this place is the Kick! she told them all, standing alone in the middle of the huge room and spinning around with her arms out wide. Buffy sure has come a long way in the fashion department, ill give her that. she said to no one inparticular.
But Sita just laughed. Actually, Miss Chase, this room has been the quarters for Tessionare woman for over 7,000 years. Buffy hasnt changed a thing, she didnt want to.
Cordelia didnt seem bothered by that, creeping curiously over with Faith, Xander and Oz to the twin doors that married into Buffys actual bedroom. Looking over her shoulder quickly she shot at Sita, Are we aloud in here?
The brunette just shrugged her shoulders charmingly. Go for it. Im sure she wouldnt mind.
The three friends looked at each other wickedly. And as one, they bolted through the doors
****
Spying Angel, Spike and Willow walk over to the far wall but abruptly stop, Sita casually trotted over to them, smiling when she got closer and noticed them were all staring, stunned, through a glass cabinet that held over 30 beautiful Faberg eggs, all the incredible masterpieces sitting regally on tiny gold stands.
What are they? Willow whispered to Sita as she walked over, bending down with the rest of the small group of friends.
Their eggs, stupid. Spike shot. What do they bloody look like?
Sita laughed. Actually, their Faberg. she told them simply. It was obvious from their pointed looks that Spike and Willow didnt have a clue what she was talking about but she saw the startled smile on Angels face. You mean like that stuff the Russians used to make at the turn of the century? he murmured, still peering curiously through the glass.
Yeah. Their used as presents of sorts, given to friends and family for important events. Sita chuckled and gently stroked the glass that separated them from the beautiful works of art. Buffy kept them from year to year, almost everyone she got...she tressures them, really.
Angel sighed sadly and regarded with teary eyes the graceful objects. They were all different colours, but mostly of a pale mauve enamel, with diamond ribbons circling the enamel gracefully. Small gems were encrusted deeply into their surfaces hand painted gold thread swirling around each one. With a quick look at Sita for permission, Angel gently opened the cabinet and slowly removed the largest of the group, the still tiny egg sitting proudly in his large palm.
The vampire noticed the tiny spring almost instantly, and with the two woman and Spike peering over his shoulder, he pressed it and was rewarded when it revealed a miniature gold swan on a lake of aquamarine. Grinning widely with the charming surprise, Angel touched the lever he somehow knew was beneath the wing. The swan spread its tiny golden wings, and walked slowly across his palm.
Oh, Angel. He heard Willow whispered sadly behind him. Its exquisite...
Its her favourite. Sita told them quietly. It was given to her by her father.
Angels head shot up in a flash, confusion writing on his face. Her *what*? he asked, just wondering how they could have missed that question when they had interrogated Sita an hour before. But his question was cut off when the apartment doors burst open.
He jerked, almost dropping the egg in surprise. Quickly placing the egg - with the tiny swan beside it - on the glass table beside him, Angel turned towards the door just in time to see a middled aged, dark haired man hurry into the room.
He completely ignored the Scoobies, jogging over to Sita and stopping in front of her. He was panting and it was obvious from the flush on his face that he had been running.
Are they okay? The man asked in a panicked tone, running his hands over his brow. Angel was struck by the startling instantaneous liking he felt towards the man. The first thing he noticed was that he looked incredibly kind. Running his eyes over the tall, distinguished man Angel noted his brilliant blue eyes and the single shocking lock of golden hair that shot back over his normally brown haired head from his temple.
Yes, Leo. Sita told them soothingly, grinning from ear to ear. Afraya got them to the infirmary as soon as they woke up.
Leo sighed, slumping with relief. Its so like Everynne to do something like that. he muttered. Scared me half to death, she did.
Sita just laughed, turning around back to the Terran gang. Guys, Id like you all to meet someone. They all shuffled forward, Angel still having his eyes glued on the mans charismatic face.
Leo finally seemed to notice them, turning with a wide grin in their direction. Well, Afraya didnt tell me we had guest.
Sita laughed dryly. Well we do, Leo. she told him, pushing him forward.
The two mens eyes locked, Angel starting instantly with the brilliant blue eyes. Leo, this is Angel. Sita exclaimed, giggling as the unknown father-in-law regarded the vampire in surprise. His thick black eyebrows shot up to his hair line and he let out a deep rumble of laughter from the bottom of his stomach.
Leo stepped forward and gripped the vampires cold hand, pumping it stoutly. Mighty glad to know you...finally. he humorous man obviously couldnt help from adding. Angel found himself totally unable to stop grinning back like a fool as he returned the gesture. The mans smile was full of uninhibited magnetic humour and friendliness.
Hello. Angel said back in a rueful manner, his tone oddly accented. The two dark haired man regarded each other calmly, and more was exchanged between the two men than a simple greeting.
Before any of the humans realised what they were doing, everyone had left their spots - Cordelia, Faith, Xander and Oz having silently creeped out of Buffys bedroom between the exchange - and gathered around the newcomer, all grinning broadly.
His smiling face turned to Giles next and before any of them knew what he was doing, he bowed in front of the Watcher with all the grace of Prince. Straightening up, his usually happy face was serious as he reached out with a large, lightly browned hand and clasped Giles own. I want to thank you, Mister Giles, for protecting my daughter while she was under your care.
His kind eyes met Giles and they were full of laughter. She talked of you often, and always fondly, let me assure you that.
Poor Giles didnt know what to do, his glasses steaming up with embarrassment. Sita noticed this and laughed, waking the tall Leo on the arm.
Leo, introduce yourself already! She told him chirpily. They havent a clue who you are.
The man startled. Oh, beg you pardon! he laughed, bowing again. My name is Leo Boynton. Im Buffys father.
****
Meanwhile on Balteiar...
Nasyian fumbled with his papers, quickly shoving them all into the small black bag in frustration. Shooting a quick, anxious look towards his bedroom doorway, his silver eyes were sleepy and tired. The boy hadnt slept in days and he knew if he didnt rest soon he would be dropping where he stood.
That though made the smaller boy pause in his haste, sighing with regret with what he was about to do. What he had to do...
The thudding of the boots made him jump, casting alarm filled glances down at the sheets of white, written on paper that covered the wide surface of his desk.
My work... he whispered, groaning as he realised it would all have to be scacfriced. Knowing the approaching soldiers would be bursting through the door any second from now he gasped and dived for the most imported item he just couldnt forget. The map was old, stained a faint brown colour. The thin, light black lines were almost invisible but to Ash it was the most valuable item he owned.
So gently, the boy slowly wrapped the map up and placed it lovingly in his backpack. He could hear the voices now, just out side his room as the argued with his mother of his whereabouts. Running a nervous hand through his longish black hair Nasyian knew she would delay them as long as she could, but they both knew their was no stopping them, the information that they all knew Nasyian now held in his grasp was worth a thousand mens deaths.
And as he knew it would, the loud shot that followed made the short, dark skinned boy close his eyes in agony. He heard the sickening sound of his mothers body falling with a thump as it fell lifelessly to the ground.
Oh, mother. he whispered, knowing she had committed the overall scarifies for not only Nasyian and his dear friend and Prince, Ash, but someone else entirely...
Quickly, he tore that thought from his mind and hurried silently over to his bedroom doors that opened onto the same balcony that Ash had visited just under a week ago to beg for his help. Sprinting out the doors, he faintly heard his room door burst open and the guards fill it, barking orders quickly when they notice ! " # $ % & ' ( ) * + , - . / 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 : ; < = > ? @ A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z [ \ ] ^ _ ` a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x z { | } ~ d he had escaped them after all.
Nasyian pressed his body against the wall, holding his breath as he watched, terrified, as one of Methos guards poked his dark head on the doorway and sniffed suspiciously around. But after a tense moment that Nasyian knew he would never forget, the guard snorted and withdrew.
After waiting a few seconds - just to make sure - the boy let out his shaky breath, his bright silver eyes darting back and forward in the nights sky, looking down over the tall balcony at the sleeping city below. The city that he knew after tonight he would never see again.
With that though, Nasyian pushed himself off the wall silently and heaved the heavy black bag over his shoulder.
And then, using the skills that he and his childhood friend had mastered since their early teenage years...the dark skinned boy slipped into the shadows...his quest awaiting him.
But time was running out...fast.
****
Back on Allrelen...
I beg your pardon? Giles asked, sputtering again. But Leo only shrugged with a modest difference, calmly looking from face to face.
Oh! Willow cried, delighted as she clapped her hands together. Nimisha was telling me all about you! She was smiling openly, her eyes sparking as she obviously held the man in high esteem.
He threw back his head and roared with laughter, waltzing over to Willow and evoped her in a huge, bear hug. And you, my pretty, must be Willow. He raised a eyebrow charmingly in question and huffed when she nodded.
And they say im terrible with names. Huh! he held her at arms length and made a show of regarding her critically. No, my darling daughter got it all wrong...your even prettier than she exclaimed!
Willow burst out laughing, blushing furiously as he gave her a wink and released her arms. Turning to the others Leo put his hands on his hips and inclined his head to the side. Biting his lip with barely contained laughter, the dignified Prince pointed to each one in turn - and to everyones complete surprise - named them all correctly.
Ah, how do you know us? Xander asked, a baffled smile on his face. But the striking dark haired man only shrugged sheepishly and shook his head.
I dont actually. he told them happily. Buffy speaks of you all the time. It wasnt hard to pick up on all your names after 16 years of having them drilled into your brain almost everyday.
Faith laughed, walking up to the man and giving him a pat on the shoulder. You, know. Ive decided I really like you. she told Leo, giving him a brilliant grin. Leo straightened instantly, raising an eyebrow at the Slayer.
And you, my dear, were put in my good books years ago. He ruffled her hair, bending down to her ear. But we need to have a little talk later, dont you think? he asked gently. Faith frowned, stepping away slightly. But the Prince only chuckled, pulling her closer again.
Now, now. he told her quietly. Dont get all silly about it. Buffy has been telling me about you little problems and I think I have a few things that will be of help to you.
The younger Slayer looked up, finding no deceit his he startling blue eyes. Why do you want to help me? she asked in a sad voice. But Leo only smiled gently, putting a kind arm over her shoulder.
Because you remind me a lot of Buffys mother, Semarritte. She was exactly the same as you when she was younger, always getting into trouble with the power she was given. Realising he now had everyones attention, Buffys father looked down at the ground in respect for a moment before looking up at the group, sorting Angels face out of the small crowd and locking eyes with the vampire.
It took us all a very long time to finally get Shari to understand that what she had been given by the Powers was a gift...and even longer understand that not all gifts are harmless.
He looked down at Faith again, noting that the girls eyes were filling with tears. Seeing some of Semarrittes things - her journals and such - might help you in ways you never thought could.
Faith bit her lip, weighing the opportunities. But in the end she nodded slightly, still looking down at the ground. But everyone could see her posture wasnt as stiff as it once was.
Her road to recovery was beginning.
But the moment was broken abruptly when Afraya suddenly Ported into the room right in front of Giles, giving the Watcher a hell of a fright in the process. The Captian gave Giles a sheepish look before turning to Sita, Leo and the rest of the group.
Even before he opened his mouth, Angel knew what he was going to say.
Buffy and Nimisha are awake. They wish to see you all.
****
The walk to the infirmary seemed to take forever, Angel noting uncomfortably that people would stop and stare at them all as they walked down the busy Palace hallway with Afraya and Leo in the front. There were whispers everywhere, the vampire having no trouble realising that the public knew who they were...him especially.
He was the missing, vampiric father of their future Queen, a fact that was bound to stir a few nurves.
They were passing under the huge marble gateway before Angel realised it, Afraya stopping at the entryway to speak quickly with the single guard on duty. He looked them all over with a blank face then gave Afraya a brisk nod of his head, telling them that they were all fit to enter.
They were all silent as they passed the sick and wounded, sticking close to Leo and Afrayas backs as they tried to ignore the suspicious glances that the nurses and doctors shot their way as they passed. Angel heard Willow whimper as her sensitive mind was struck full on by all the subtle pain that people were giving off unconsciously. He made to give her arm a quick squeeze in reassurance but smiled when Oz wrapped a protective arm around her shoulder, Willow leaning into him gratefully.
They spotted Buffy and her dark haired daughter instantly, both Scions sitting propped up in their beds next to each other, totally wrapped up in the conversation they were having before abruptly breaking off, their twin green eyes turning with a show of delightful dignity in their guests direction.
Hey, guys! Nimisha cried happily, sitting forward quickly when Willow gave a cry and evoping the girl in a tight hug. But seemingly realising what she was doing, the Witch pulled back in a flash and looked at Nimishas neck in horror, fully expecting the strength of her greeting to damage the girls wound more than it already was.
The wound was completely healed.
She gasped, stepping back away from the bed with a stumble, her eyes flying up to Buffys in question. But the Slayer only laughed kindly, patting the bed space beside her in indirection for the Witch to sit down. Stunned, Willow did as she was told..
Buffy brought a hand up and gently stoked Willows cheek with the back it. Afraya tried to tell you we would be okay, Will. she told her best friend in a gently tone, wiping a tear out of the redheads eye and letting it trickle onto her hand.
But I saw your wounds, Buffy. There was no way you could be fixed up already. Willow whispered back.
But the Slayer only chuckled. Your a firm believer in science, Will. Thats why this is so hard for you to believe. she cocked her head, looking very unlike a queen as she stuck out her tongue at her dear friend. Lets just say there are other ways of doing things that Earth hasnt figured out yet.
Willows eyebrows shot up in surprise. Really? Advanced medicines? She turned to Afraya expectably, almost jumping up and down like a excited child. The Foltarian held up his hand at his chest with moke alarm.
Woah, there, Miss Rosenburg. he told her, grinning. After dinner, ill be happy to show you anything you wish.
Willow yelped in happiness, clapping her hands together. But she halted instantly when she noticed out of the corner of her eye both Buffy and Nimisha discreetly reach up and grab their skulls slightly, wincing with the pain as the should vibrated through their still tender minds. Willow looked sheepishly at the pair, putting her hand over her mouth in apology.
Its fine, Will. Buffy told her weakly. Still a bit touchy right...
But she quickly broke up, a delighted smile growing on her lips. Leo? she asked in a surprised voice, just having noticed her biological father standing behind Afraya.
The dark haired man stood out from behind her 2IC and grinned at her. Hey, kiddo. he told her, crossing his arms across his chest casually. Buffy laughed in delight, beaconing the man over impatiently. Leo turned slightly and shrugged to the rest of the bemused group.
Ive been summoned. he whispered loudly, causing Buffy to huff. But the Prince quickly walked around to the side of his daughters bed and bent down, giving her a warm hug.
Well, this is great, isnt it? Leo asked with a grin even as he turned around and gave his excited grand daughter the same treatment and sat down beside her on the bed, picking up Nimishas pale hand and stroking it idly in his palm. Your friends finally get to see you on your own turf and your stuck in bed!
Buffy nodded, smiling at Angel when he hesitantly stepped around Giles and looked her up and down, seemingly making sure she was better again like everyone said. Touched with his concern, Buffy beaconed him over and reached for the chair that was beside her bed.
Finding that she couldnt reach she groaned out loud in frustration. I never thought Id miss Telekinesis as much as I do now that im not aloud to use it. she muttered, causing everyone to smile.
Its only for a few days, mama. Nimisha told her, frowning. You lasted all those years without it when you were on Earth, why should you not be able to now? She huffed. It seems to me youve become for to reliant on certain things, mama. It cant be healthy.
Buffy looked at her daughter in surprise, picking up her pillow and throwing it at her daughters head lightly. You can talk, Nimi. she said dryly, shooting Leo a dirty look when the man halted the pillow with his mind inches from his grand daughters face. The pillow floated there for a few seconds, probably just to annoy Buffy, before gently falling on Nimishas lap, the girl picking it up and putting it behind her neck, wiggling around in her bed to get more comfortable.
A nearby nurse saw this and made to assist but Nimisha just waved her hand slightly, telling her to remain where she was.
Meanwhile Buffy looked at Angel who was now slowly sitting down in the seat beside the Slayer. She turned on her side in the bed, laying her head on her pillow as she regarded the quiet vampire.
Have a nice trip? she asked seriously and Angel growled lightly, both lovers ignoring everyone else who had discreetly gathered around Nimishas bed, leaving the pair alone for a while.
Thats not funny, Buffy. he told her, although he was smiling slightly. She shrugged her shoulders, sighing into her pillow.
Yeah, I know. Then she perked up brightly. At least it wasnt a complete disaster, we did learn a important fact.
Angel married his eyebrows together in confusion. We did? he asked, not understanding what she was talking about.
Yeah. The Slayer answered back, warming to the subject so much that she sat up in her bed, pulling the sheet down to her knees. We now know that Tessionares can space travel in a Port.
Angel choked, bending forward. Youd never done that before? he asked, seriously freaked with the notion. But Buffy only smiled broadly, turning her head to the others.
Hey, Afraya! she called, getting the blue mans attention. Is it true, we can Port in space for real now?
Afraya inclined his head to the side, seemingly weighing his options before answering quietly, I dont see why not, if youve done it once you should be able to do it any time now.
Nimishas eyes bulged. Really? she squeaked, probably running through her head just how much easier this was going to make it getting of the house without her mother knowing. Reading her thoughts, Buffy frowned darkly. Dont even think it, my girl. she told her daughter with a single raised eyebrow.
Nimisha huffed and sat back down on her bed.
Leo chuckled and pattered her hand, causing the girl to brighten considerately. Buffy turned back to Angel, laying a pale hand on his arm. He looked up in question with the action.
But Buffy didnt see him, putting pressure on his arm as she slowly moved her legs to the side of the bed and swung them over the side, pausing then to catch her breath. Angel looked surprised.
Are you sure you should be doing this? he asked her in a low voice. But she only sent him a determined smile.
We need to talk, Angel. she told him gently even as the dark vampire offered her his arm in support. And we cant do that properly with me stuck here in this bed. Angel laughed, nodding as he seemingly agreed.
And so, in an almost painful slow motion, Buffy gripped the side of the bed with on hand and Angels arm with that other, and eased herself up to her feet on shaky legs.
It was then that Afraya looked around and saw them both, his mouth falling open as he yelped. Hey! he cried, hurrying over as everyone else - including Nimisha - spun around to see what the matter was.
But Buffy brought her hand up quickly, halting Afraya in his tracks. She looked at her 2IC with cool determination flashing in her green glass eyes. Afraya, im fine. she ground out between clenched teeth. Ive got to walk some time, and now is better time than any.
Her eyes bore into his, seemingly daring him to defy her.
Afraya wisely stayed silent, watching nervously like everyone else as Buffy took a hesitant step with Angels assistance. Finding that she could, the Slayer looked up into the vampires face in delight and slowly let go of his arm to stand by herself.
There! she cried, turning around in a circle slowly to show everyone that she was fine. All better.
It was that moment that the dizziness swamped her and she groaned, gripping her head tightly even as she started to sway. Angel was on her in a flash, wrapping his arm around her waist as he gently lead her back to the chair that he had been sitting on. She gratefully sank down in it, in obvious pain although her eyes were bright and brilliant.
Told you I could do it. Buffy muttered to Afraya who grinned. He opened his mouth to reply but she added quickly, And the only reason im sitting down here now is because I over did it, got it? she shot at him.
He chuckled and didnt answer, shaking is head as he turned and went back to Nimisha who was now doing the same thing with Leo and Giles assistance.
Nimisha, what are you doing? a high voice shrieked from the doorway. Everyone turned just in time to see a red headed whirlpool come running into the room and skid to a stop in front of the Princess, her long, fiery red hair flying down her back.
But Nimisha only frowned, putting her hands on her hips as she regarded her dearest friend. What does it look like im doing, Asia?
Asia huffed and tilted her chin. Well you shouldnt be! she scolded her friend. I was talking to Affie and he said you werent to exhaust yourself!
Nimisha turned to Afraya, a displeased expression on her face. The man covered his grin with his hand, mouthing to Buffy and Angel to words, Oops.
Angel looked amused as he sort out the raving girl Sita had told him a little bit about, her pretty face a frown as she regarded her friend in displeasure. She *was* pretty, very in fact. Her doe like green eyes were large and expressive, clashing brightly with her long, shining red hair. She wasnt very tall, only a few inches above Nimisha, although, looking at her she seemed so much bigger. It was the way she held herself, the outspoken, elegant tilt of her chin. There was a aura of almost regal dignity as she moved her head. Everything about Asia was intense, her eyes, her hair, the way she moved her hands or darted across a room. She was still very tiny but filled with power and life and excitement.
And it was then that Angel remembered what Sita had told him earlier about the pretty girl that made him realise just why she moved like that. From what Sita had said, Asia belonged to one of the most respected families on Allrelen, her ancestors dating back all the way to Demeara. That was how Asia and Nimisha had met, both girl having been just out of nappies.
They girls had everyone in common, their passions, their secrets, their dreams, their world. They had shared the same terrors and delights when they were children, and had become friends instantly. Both of them scorned the restricted responsibilities they were both expected to preform as the next generation of Nobles on Allrelen, both preferring to pull in the many favours they had gathered over the years from the gate staff and excape into their own worlds on different planets thousands of light years away. To places where they could just be themselves, to shop and party until they dropped, not having to be constantly reminded of the impossible rules that restricted their lives back on Allrelen, where they could be as free as they wished.
And it was with those facts in mind that Asia totally forgot how mad she was meant to be at her friend and embraced her warmly.
Oh, Sasha, how I missed you! she cried against her friends dark hair with her heavily accented voice, her own hair mixing with the black mass. Then she abruptly pulled away and thumped Nimisha on the arm..hard.
Nimisha looked up, shocked. What was that for? she sulked, rubbing her now sore arm.
But the red head just continued. For leaving without telling me, thats why! Do you realise how mad I was at you for just packing up and taking off like that! Asia stamped her foot. I could have killed you, Nimi, I was so furious! It was just like you, taking off to some distant planet without telling me, you almost gave Papa a heart attack when he was told!
But Nimisha didnt seem affected by the fury, only smiled soothingly and put her arm around her friends shoulder.
She didnt really have a choice in the matter, Asia Savangel. Buffy told her dryly, causing the small girl to spin around in surprise.
Eva, I didnt see you there. Asia told her queen happily, darting over and giving Buffy a hug. Pulling back their similar green eyes met and held warmly. Mama and Papa send their love, Papa says to hurry and get better soon. Her charmingly exotic voice made a delightful change in the room.
Buffy laughed, stroking the girls shinning red hair gently with her delicate hands. You tell your father that I am enjoying a well overdue holiday with my closest friends.
Asia jerked her head up, seeing the bemused Scoobies for the first time. Oh! she cried, her mischievous glance resting on Angel finally, the girl biting her lip wickedly.
Hello, Angel. Asia said, ignoring Nimishas cry of horror as she realised what her outspoken friend was doing. Angel on the other hand just chuckled and decided to play along. Excepting her out stretched hand the vampire dipped and planted a delicate kiss on the top of Asias hand, keeping eye contact the entire time, causing the girl to startle and blush.
Ripping her hand from his, Asia burst out laughing, turning to Nimisha. Your fathers a hoot, Nimi! she yelled, clapping her hands together. Nimisha went bright red and hurried over to her friend, grabbing her forearm and - ignoring Asia cry of sudden pain - turned to her mother quickly.
Im going to see Ash, mama. Nimisha told Buffy, already walking towards the doorway, pulling her still giggling friend behind her. Ill be back for dinner.
And with that the girl yanked Asia out of the door, the Scoobies hearing as they left,
Asia! How could you embarrass me like that!
Asia just kept on laughing.
****
The next day....
Willow, Oz and Angel walked up the Palace steps and into the courtyard, heading in the infirmary direction. They had just spent the remainder of the day walking around the Palace gardens, Sita showing them all the famous spots, including Semarrittes garden where she was killed. They had asked Afraya to join them but he had declined, knowing that Sita would be showing them that. Still, after all these years he found it hard to step into the place that took Shari from him.
Now it was even worse, Buffy was again reunited with her love, them and Nimisha finally being able to be a family if the Slayer and the Vampire were able to sort out their problems. There was nothing standing in their way here, the age old problems that he been against their relationship on earth were non standing. Both were immortal, knowing that they could live out the remainder of their lives together.
Another thing - and the one that had shocked Angel the most - was that the vampire could walk in the sun here on Allrelen, the planet not having the same UV elements as it did on Earth. Spike was already living it up, taking Sita and who ever wanted to come down into the city for hours on end. From what Buffy had gotten from Sita earlier that day, it was probable that the blonde vampire would stay on Allrelen indefinitely...as long as Sita would have him that was.
As she had told her queen at breakfast that day...he grows on you.
Angel on the other hand, had a lot more to consider. The business in LA for starters, even though Cordelia, Doyle and Faith had promised to keep it going. He said he just felt bad at chucking in on them suddenly. Cordelia, with all her nonpresent tact, had said he was mad if he didnt take up the opportunity to live like a king, free of charge.
But that was all far from his mind as a voice suddenly invaded his mind.
<Angel? Can you come to the Gate Hall please?> Sita asked kindly.
<What the matter?> Angel asked, using the silver Mantle that allowed them to Path and Port they had all been given for the first time. The objects were like metal hats, covering their heads snugly with long tendrils falling down their backs. Buffy had told them that they would only have to use them for about a mouth, after that the power of Telepathy and Telekinesis would forever be at their disposal.
<We dont really know. The Gates starting up and we wouldnt have a clue whos dialling through...Evie just wants everyone here, just in case.>
What went unspoken was obvious. The fact that Methos and Zanial were still running free was bound to make anyone a bit over protective.
<Sure thing, Sita. Well be there in a few.>
<Thanks Angel.> the bodyguard said gratefully and cut the link.
Seeing that she was gone, Angel turned to Willow and Oz and grinned. Ready to try these new powers of ours?
Both the Witch and the Werewolf chuckled, nodding their heads with excitement. As one, the three friends closed their eyes and slowed their breathing. And as if they had been doing it for years, they Ported out of the courtyard.
****
The Gate Hall was full of people when the arrived, Willow spying Giles, Doyle and Faith standing off to the side with Buffy and Leo. Looking around with her eyes she smiled brightly when she noticed Nimisha walk slowly into the room with Ash on one side and Asia on the other, the rest of the Scoobies not to far behind. The girl looked sad, her eyes slightly red from crying and Willow realised instantly that she must have just come back from talking with Thain. She also noted the boy was missing from the room, the breakup obviously taking more out of him than Nimisha wouldve thought.
Another chapter in her childhood was closed.
But Willow could see just how tightly she was gripping Ashs arm, the dark vanquisher looking around the intimidating room in awe. Willow couldnt even start to begin what the last few days had been like for the young vanquisher. To be suddenly thrust into the very world that your people had sworn to destroy and who you yourself had always wanted to live in must have been mindblowing.
But the Witch knew by looking at the way the two teenagers were talking softly to each other - much to the apparent disgust of Asia who had just saw them kiss gently and practically ran across the room away from the love birds - that they would be fine. They had each other and they had Buffy and Angel, the two Scions and the two Vampires surely to make some sort of family in the near future.
But then the Gate was shooshing open, the guards falling into place at the bottom of the ramp as they all waited, tense, for their unexpected visitor to walk through. What they didnt expect was to see a limping figure, wrapped from head to toe in a dirty black blanket to come stumbling through the blue water and fall to his knees instantly.
Nimisha frowned when she felt Ash got rigid beside her, the tall boys eyes glued on the figure even as people broke away and ran to help the falling figure. But the Princess gave a surprised cry when Ash suddenly bolted from her side and tore up the Gates ramp, overtaking the guards in his haste as he ignored the startled cries that followed his abrupt action and fell to his knees beside the shaking, sobbing mess.
He barely noticed Afraya and Leo - with Buffy and Angel standing slightly behind him - kneeing next to him as he brought a dark hand up and ripped the blanket from the figures head.
And he gasped.
Nasyian stared back at him, his face grubby with a mixture of dirt and blood. The small, dark haired boy was still sobbing, clutching something in his hand tightly.
Nass? Ash probed gently, lifting his best friends face up by his chin. The Vanquishers tearful, exhausted silver eyes latched of his and he gave a loud sob, falling into Ashs arms and clutching the clock that he wore as if he expected him to be ripped from his embrace.
Nasyian, what happened? But all that question proved to do was make Leo and Afraya regard him in surprise.
You know this boy? they asked the Prince and Ash sighed. Yeah, hes my best friend.
They both frowned, looking back at the crying boy, both obviously thinking the same thing. Ash saw the looks on both their faces and sighed again. Look, I dont know why hes here. The last time I saw him he was breaking into the Gate system on Balteiar to get me off the place, we never arranged to meet anywhere, I swear.
Both men nodded, excepting his story. But then Nasyian stopped crying abruptly raising his head and looking around himself in confusion. Looking back he spied Ash and froze, his silver yes getting wider and wider on his shocked face.
Holy, shit. he muttered, falling back on his butt. Am I on Allrelen? he asked Ash, looking around and seeing Buffy standing behind her father. His dark face seemed to pale, his mouth falling open.
Oh, god. Nasyian groaned.
Ash just chuckled, helping Leo and Angel get the baffled boy into a standing position, although they didnt let go of his arms as he turned to his best friend.
Oh, Ash. Am I glad I found you. he told him, sounded very relieved.
What the hell happened to you? Ash asked, horrified as he looked down at the shorter boys body, noting the cuts and welts that formed several patterns on his bare legs and arms. But Nasyian only let out a shaky breath and ignored the question, fumbling around with whatever it was in his hand and quickly thrusting it into Ashs arms. The prince looked down at the tatty, torn piece of paper before looking at his friend again, a raising a single eyebrow in question charmingly.
Id been doing some research after you left, Ash... he abruptly broke off, spying Nimisha standing behind her parents, looking at him with wide eyes. But when Ash coughed he quickly looked back, trying to slow his breath to explain.
Researching stuff that your father didnt want anyone finding out. He grinned. But I did, found it out that is. And that map is the clue, thats were everything went down...
Ash was getting fed up. Nasyian, what are you talking about? he finally asked, getting fed up.
But Nasyian just ignored his tone, looking into his silver eyes with a pair of his own and smiling brilliantly, his breath suddenly calm and dignified.
Your mothers alive, Ash.
****
Three hours later Angel paced around Buffy bedroom, nervously looking at every piece of wall in a hope to calm himself down. He stilled suddenly when he noticed the framed pictures above the fireplace, the row of coloured memories lining it nicely. He walked over, gently picking up the first small, wooden frame that he saw.
It was of Buffy and Nimisha, the girl looking only about five years old. They were at what must have been a beach, the waves pooling over Buffys bare feet as she held the shrieking child in her arms, both of them smiling brightly for the camera as their long hair flowed out behind them with the slight breeze.
With shaking fingers, Angel stroked the glass that separated his fingers from the actual picture, unable to tear his eyes off Buffys smiling and happy face. Never, in all the years that he had known her could he remember seeing her so happy as she did there, holding her precious daughter in her arms as she played in the surf, away from the troubles and darkness of the world she had escaped.
And it was at that moment that Angel knew where the Slayer belonged.
It was here, with the people that loved her and the people that needed her. Not on a planet that only wanted to kill her and her spirit, one by one taking all the things she held dear from her. He couldnt and wouldnt ask her to leave....ever.
She was terrified off the water at first. A graceful voice said behind him and Angel jumped, spinning around with the picture still in his hands. Buffy stood there, dressed in more traditional clothing than she had been wearing in the past few days. The beautiful, low cut, light blue gown was short sleaved, the cut off shoulders leaving her shoulders bare, the only jewels she wore was the single cross that he had given her oh, so many years ago.
Her normally curly hear was curled into tight ringlets, the thick blonde mass piled up on top of her head and nestled between was a stunning silver crown, the silver replica of her moon falling charmingly from twin, thin chains and sitting snugly over the true moon that was now found on her forehead, shining a bright blue like her gown. Over her arms were twin white arm gloves, travelling upwards until the abruptly stopped just before her elbows.
But she saw me getting in, so of course she followed. Buffy added, seemingly not noticing Angel speechlessness and taking the photo from his hands gently and looking down at it herself softly.
She reminds me so much of you, Angel. She always has. The Slayer whispered, tears filling her eyes. Slowly, Angel reached out and lifted her chin with his finger, staring into her glassy green eyes lovingly.
Its good genes, Buffy. Angel whispered back, the moment stretching as he bent down and kissed the tear that was dancing down her cheek, her dark eyelashes fanning his nose as he felt her close her eyes.
She was breathing slowly, her eyes still closed as he pulled back, stroking her moon gently with one finger. She smiled when she felt him, walking closer to eat up the space that separated them and let the tall vampire elope her in his arms, wrapping her arms around his neck instantly.
They stayed like that for a while, both drifting in and out of the real world. Hows Ash? Angel suddenly asked. Buffy sighed and drew back.
Furious. she told him and the vampire chuckled. Hes sworn to search for her for the rest of his life, and he will too. Its lucky that Nasyian and Nimishas promised to go with him, all else their relationships could really hit the rocks. She looked out the window, a far away look in her eyes. I just cant believe Methos did it, you know? Telling the boy that his mother is dead but actually hiding her away on some deserted planet, I dont know if I could stand it.
Trust me, love. Its horrible. Angel whispered gently.
Buffy caught her breath, looking up at him with sad eyes. I guess thats true. she said, feeling glum.
How is Nimisha? Angel probed, kissing her forehead softly. But Buffy laughed at that, reaching up and tapping his nose. Feeling horrible that she just upd and left her friends like that. Shes currently writing three very important letters for Willow and the others to take back to Earth with them, saying how sorry she was to leave without saying goodbye.
Angel smiled. So Spikes staying on Allrelen? although he already knew the answer.
Buffy grinned. Yeah, him and Faith. she shrugged. Although I dont think shes stay forever, shes more at home in the city. I think she feels theres not enough crime of something, no vampires to slay.
That thought made them both fall silent again.
We really made a bulls up of the last few years didnt we? she asked good humouredly and he chuckled.
Well, my love. We have thousands of years to make up for it.
She caught her breath, not being able to believe he just said those words as she slowly raised her head from his chest, daring to hope....
He was smiling tenderly down at her, his eyes glittering and filled with love. She open her mouth slowly, totally unashamed of the tears that she knew where falling down her face. Do you really mean that? she asked, her voice barely a whisper.
He bent his head again, landing a kiss on the end of her nose. But of course. He looked deep into her eyes, his other finger still stroking the moon that was her birthline gently. Now that ive found you again, do you really expect me to let you and Nimisha go?
Her breath caught, her eyes getting larger and larger every second on her stunned face. Then suddenly she gave a cry like a child and flew into his arms, crushing him tightly to her.
Oh, you..you..bastard! She cried against his neck as he laughed, wrapping his arms around her silk covered back. Youve known this from the second you landed on Allrelen and you didnt tell me!
She thumped his shoulder, causing him to chuckle and grip her arm gently, wrapping his arms around her tighter so she was pinned against him.
I might have. he told her casually, causing her to scream in frustration now that she couldnt wack him again. He walked them both across the floor, sitting down on the end of the bed with Buffy still in his arms. Letting her go, she instantly turned in his arms and faced him, her arms still wrapped around his neck.
Anyway. he told her, reaching out and brushing one loose tendril of golden hair off her face. Ive found that Ive got a burning desire to learn more about these planets of yours, its quite a collection youve got here, my little golden queen. he muttered, nuzzling her neck.
But she pulled away, regarding him oddly. What did you just call me? she asked, a strange note attached to her voice.
But Angel just looked at her calmly, a lopsided smile gracing his lips.
My little golden queen. He cocked his head. You are you know, and it fits.
Buffy seemed to think about it for a moment before smiling. It does, doesnt it?
Angel laughed, picking her up in his arms again and heading towards the door, Buffy feeling safe and happy in his arms as they headed towards the dining room for dinner with their friends.
This is only the beginning, my love. Angel whispered in her ear as he carried her down the deserted hallway, his voice a whisper on the walls.
This is the beginning of the Tessionare Dynasty: you, me, Nimisha, and all our family.
Buffy smiled with his words and closed her eyes, knowing that no matter what the future held, their love would hold strong...and that they would do everything together....
...For together there was nothing they couldnt overcome...
The End
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