Rating: R
Distribution: TPWFLD; Angel of Mine; otherwise please ask.
Disclaimer: Angel, Willow, and the gang don't belong to me. They belong to Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy. No copyright infringement intended. Only Hunter and Cheyenne belong to me.
Author's Note: This takes place the gang's senior year, but the 2nd and 3rd season never happened. Also, Buffy and Angel never became involved.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Bodies lay strewn across the parking lot. A young woman stood on the edge of the carnage, watching her companion walk through the bodies. No matter how many times she went through similar situations, it never got any easier. The man approached her.
"They're dead." He said without emotion.
The girl took a deep breath and nodded. "Naturally. You're always very thorough."
"You know as well as I do that this was inevitable. They were our enemies."
She bent her head forward. "I know."
He reached out and cupped her cheek, tilting her head to look at him. "Do you regret your decision to stay with me, Chey?"
"You know I don't, Hunter. I made my decisions years ago, and I haven't changed my mind." Cheyenne said.
Hunter pulled her into his arms as she wrapped her arms tightly around his waist. She leaned against his muscular chest, taking strength from his presence.
"But the killing still bothers you." Hunter stated.
She nodded against his shoulder. "I'm not like you. Seeing you kill them so easily still scares me. It probably always will."
Hunter gripped her neck, forcing her to look at him. "Do you believe I could hurt you?"
Cheyenne looked into his eyes, and reached up to stroke his face. "No. I know you would never hurt me. And I trust you with my life."
Hunter nodded and gave her a quick kiss. Tucking her under his arm, he led her to the motorcycle. Without a backward glance at the destruction he caused, Hunter got on the bike then turned to Cheyenne.
"Chey, I know the killing bothers you, but I don't have a choice. For us to survive, this is the way it has to be."
"Knowing it doesn't make it any easier. But I do accept it."
Hunter started the bike as Cheyenne turned to the morbid scene. She didn't mourn for the people killed. They had come after them with murder on their minds. Cheyenne knew that Hunter believed that it was the killing that disturbed her the most, but he was wrong. What bothered her was how he killed with such ease, without a second thought to what he was doing. And although she knew in her heart that he'd never hurt her, it still scared her seeing him in action. As she got on the bike, she prayed the same prayer she did every time........that this sort of massacre wouldn't happen again. That she and Hunter would finally be free of their past.
"Next stop......Sunnydale." Hunter said calmly.
Cheyenne shivered at the thought of their destination. She had a bad feeling about that place. But they needed to find the Slayer.....and quickly. Before it was too late for them......and for their unknown allies.
End Prologue
Buffy and Willow sat on the picnic table in the park talking. It had become a ritual for them to gossip a bit before patrolling. Plus it was a way to kill time while they waited for Angel to show up.
"How's Xander doing?" Buffy asked.
"Still sick, apparently. Although I think he's overexaggerating his 'symptoms' in order to stay out of school a few more days." Willow replied.
"Typical Xander."
The conversation drifted from Xander to homework to Cordelia's limited participation with the world of vampires and demons.
"Hi."
Both girls jumped then turned to glare at Angel. "Dagnabbit, Angel! Make some noise, will you?" Willow said, putting her hand over her heart.
"Sorry." Angel said with a smirk, as he plopped down between the two girls.
"Sorry, my....." Buffy began.
"Buffy! I'm shocked at your language." Angel teased.
Buffy and Willow just shook their heads, smiling. The vampire had definately been spending too much time with Xander.
"You're starting to sound like Xander." Buffy said.
"Yeah, so...."
Willow slapped Angel on the back of the head. "Well, knock it off."
Angel just smiled and shrugged his shoulders. Buffy and Willow exchanged glances and then started laughing. Finally, Buffy jumped off the table.
"Do you think you're up to a little bit of hunting?" She asked Angel.
With exaggerated motions, Angel stood up. "If I have to."
Buffy rolled her eyes, and started walking as Willow jumped off the table pushing Angel from behind. "Get a move on it, old man."
Angel turned to the girl behind him and stopped abruptly. Willow ran right into him, then poked him in the chest. "Hey!"
"You'll pay for that comment, little girl."
Willow stuck out her tongue, then started pushing Angel again. "Whatever you say, just get a move on. You're holding up traffic."
Buffy laughed at her friend's antics, and they went on their way. After patrolling for several hours, they found themselves back where they started.
"Well that was productive. Not a single vamp in sight." Buffy said.
"I don't like it....it's too quiet." Angel pointed out.
A scream echoed through the silence. Buffy turned to Angel, "You just *had* to say something, didn't you?"
End Part 1
The three of them rushed across the park toward the sound. Near the playground they came to a dead stop, stunned by the sight that greeted them.
A group of people were fighting, although the odds looked about 6 to 2. Not sure what was going on, they approached quietly, hiding behind some playground equipment. At their new vantage point, they could tell that the six aggressors were vampires. The other two, a man and a woman, were fighting against them. As Buffy tried to approach to help, Angel held her back.
"Angel, they need our help. They don't know what they're getting into." Buffy whispered.
"I think they do. Look."
Buffy turned back to the two mystery people. Both were carrying stakes, and neither seemed surprised by the show of 'game faces'. It was obvious they knew about vampires, and how to destroy them. More curious then before, Buffy tried to get a better look at the two people.
The man appeared to be in his early to mid 20s. Under the park lights, she could tell he was good looking, with dark hair. Wearing faded blue jeans and a black duster, he was in excellent shape. The woman looked younger, not much older then them. Long brown hair was pulled back into a ponytail, dressed in jeans and leather jacket, but her looks were rather plain. As Buffy watched them fight, it was obvious they'd fought together before. Their moves were synchronized, and one always knew where the other was. The man fought like the devil, while his partner was more reserved, but both were deadly. Exchanging glances with Willow and Angel, Buffy knew they were both thinking the same thing.
Only two vamps remained. The girl kicked the vamp she was fighting to the ground, but he came back with a hit that knocked her down, then he pounced on her. The gang watched as her companion dusted his opponent, then helped his partner. As she lay on the ground, he dropped to his knees beside her, stroking her hair. Buffy decided that they needed to find out who these people were, and headed towards them, with Willow and Angel right behind her.
"Who are you?" Buffy asked.
She and the others jumped back as the man jumped to his feet, turning to face them with a stake in his hand. Buffy brought up her stake as she saw him.
"You're a vampire!"
Willow and Angel also gripped their weapons, as they watched the man's face slip back into it's human form. He stood facing them, not saying a word. The girl pushed herself off the ground, and moved to stand in front of him. His hands went to her shoulders as she faced them. Looking at the three people in front of her, it only took a moment to realize that the blonde was the Slayer.
"Put the stakes down. We're not here to cause problems, Slayer. We need to help each other."
Buffy looked suspiciously at the girl, who was leaning back against her companion. "How do you know who I am?"
"Because we came here looking for you."
"So talk." Angel said, his gaze locked with the other vampire.
"Not with you pointing stakes at us. We won't attack you." The girl said.
"And what are *you*? I mean, it's obvious that he's a vampire, but what about you?" Willow asked.
"I'm human, nothing else. Now can we talk civilly?"
Buffy exchanged glances with Willow and Angel. It was making her nervous that the vamp hadn't said a word, and she didn't trust either one of them. But, she was curious about them. Finally she motioned the others to lower their stakes. After everyone had put away their weapons, they walked to the picnic table and sat down. Buffy studied the vampire. {Gods! He certainly gives tall, dark, and handsome new meaning.} But despite his good looks, he was dangerous. Buffy turned her attention to the girl.
"Ok, let's talk. Starting with introductions. I'm Buffy, and you obviously already know I'm the Slayer. These are my friends Angel and Willow. Now, who the Hell are you!?"
They watched as the two new arrivals exchanged glances, and saw the man nod slightly. The girl turned back to them.
"My name is Cheyenne.......and this is Hunter."
Angel's eyes widened at the name, and the other vampire noticed it. "You've heard of me?"
End Part 2
Buffy and Willow turned toward Hunter. It was the first time that he'd spoken. Buffy immediately noticed the arrogance of the vampire. He was too damn confident for her likes. Then they turned to Angel.
"Angel, do you know who he is?" Buffy asked.
"I've heard of him. He's known as the Death Hunter. A 500+ year old vampire who has left only death and destruction behind him. He's known as one of the most sadistic, cruelist vampires that ever walked the Earth. But, he dropped out of sight almost 20 years ago, no one has heard anything about him since."
Buffy's gaze swung to the vampire. "Is that true?"
Hunter shrugged, "More or less."
Angel stood between his friends and the other vampire. He'd heard enough about Hunter to not trust his motives. And he'd be damned if he let him get anywhere near Buffy or Willow.
"Then give me one good reason why I shouldn't stake you right now?" Buffy asked.
Hunter just sat and stared at her. Buffy stood and pulled out her stake. She was sick of his attitude, and wanted to teach him a lesson.
"Sit down! How can we tell you anything if you won't listen?" Cheyenne asked.
"And were you aware of his past?" Willow asked, as she motioned Buffy to sit down.
"Of course.....no one knows his past better then I do." Cheyenne whispered.
They watched in fascination as the vampire cupped Cheyenne's neck, and leaned over to whisper in her ear. She nodded and took his other hand. Then she turned back to them.
"We have alot to talk about, and we don't have much time. We've found a prophecy that involves Hunter and I, and we need your help finding the other two people it describes." Cheyenne said.
"If this deals with a prophecy we need to see my Watcher. That's his department. You'll have to come with us."
Cheyenne and Hunter stood and followed them. "We don't trust you anymore then you trust us, but we need to help each other if any of us are going to survive."
Buffy nodded and led the way. Willow slowed to walk with Cheyenne, while Angel and Hunter followed.
"And exactly how did you know who I was?" Hunter asked.
"Looks like we've all got questions." Angel answered cryptically.
End Part 3
The group entered the library, everyone nervously watching the others. Buffy told Angel and Willow to stay with their 'guests' while she went to find Giles. Buffy headed off into the stacks, while the others sat at the table.
"Why don't you tell me how you knew my name?" Hunter asked Angel.
"Your reputation isn't exactly a secret." Angel pointed out.
"No, but usually I'm only talked about in certain circles......amongst other vampires. Even the almighty Watcher's Council doesn't have as much information as you seem to have."
Angel sat back in the chair, staring at the elder vampire. As he watched Hunter, Angel knew the exact moment when he realized that Angel was a vampire too.
"And who might you be?" Hunter asked.
Angel felt Willow's hand on his arm, and he squeezed it reassuringly. "I go by Angel now."
"But who were you then?"
"Angelus."
Hunter showed no emotion, just nodded his head. "What happened to you?"
Angel wasn't surprised by Hunter's insight. "Gypsy curse......I killed one of their own, they gave me back my soul."
Willow saw the look on Cheyenne's face when Angel talked about having his soul. When Willow saw her grip Hunter's hand and saw him nod, she knew something was up.
"That means something to you, doesn't it?" Willow asked.
Angel looked from Hunter to Willow, then back again. "What are you hiding?"
"You are one of the ones we've been searching for. The prophecy made mention of a souled vampire, now we need only find the fourth person." Cheyenne said.
Just then Buffy and Giles came back. Buffy sat down, while Giles stared at the new vampire. He had heard whispered rumors about the Death Hunter, and when Buffy filled him in on what had happened, he figured the rumors were true. He made a mental note to talk to Angel about Hunter's past. Right now, he needed to find out what these people were doing here.
"I hear that you two have a prophecy. I haven't come across any that mention either of you." Giles said.
Cheyenne reached into her backpack, and pulled out a book. Opening it up, she handed it to Giles. "Probably because you didn't have the right book."
Giles took the book and looked at it. The book was one that had been missing for hundreds of years. When Giles looked at Hunter, it was obvious he'd had it in his possession the entire time. Giles returned his attention to the book, reading the page the girl had opened it to. After reading the prophecy, he glanced around the room. This was not good news for any of them.
"Giles? What does it say?" Angel asked.
"It predicts the end of the human race if four fighters cannot defeat the darkness."
"Does it say who the four are?" Buffy asked.
"Vaguely. It reads: 'Four will stand as one against the forces of the evil; One has lived an eternity in the darkness; Another brought him out of the darkness; A third is darkness with a soul; and the final a fiery innocent, with a pure heart and lightness."
"Oh, that's clear as mud." Buffy pointed out.
"The first one refers to Hunter, and I'm the second. We've just figured out that Angel is the third, now we just need to find the fourth." Cheyenne said.
Giles studied the passages carefully, and glanced around the room. The prophecy also made mention of the Slayer's connection, which must've been how Hunter and Cheyenne knew to come to Sunnydale. With a sinking heart, Giles realized who the fourth must be.
"I know who the fourth is.......it's Willow."
End Part 4
Everyone turned to Willow. "Me? How do you figure? I'm not a fighter."
"Fiery innocent? Your redhair marks you as fiery, and you are innocent. And no one has a purer heart then you. Plus, it states that the Slayer has a connection to two of the fighters. And since she's never seen Cheyenne or Hunter before...."
"Point taken." Willow whispered.
"Alright, now that we've established who the four fighters are, maybe you two would like to tell us about yourselves. Tell us how a vampire with a reputation like Hunter's began fighting against his own kind." Giles said.
Hunter and Cheyenne exchanged glances. They had assumed that these people would want to know about their past. It was something both of them had tried to prepare themselves for. Hunter squeezed Cheyenne's hand before standing up and pacing the room.
"You already know that for most of my life I was known as the Death Hunter. My pleasure in life was causing other people pain. There was nothing I wouldn't do or anyone I wouldn't hurt. Although my preferences were innocents. I loved toying with them, scaring them, tormenting them.....then killing them slowly. Must sound familiar, Angel? After all, I've heard of Angelus and his methods."
Angel nodded. "I used you as a role model, actually. Your name invoked fear and terror into people, and I wanted the same thing. But, I'm not the same anymore."
"Neither is Hunter." Cheyenne said.
"And why did he change? I changed after regaining my soul, but that's not the case with him." Angel said.
Hunter walked over to stand behind Cheyenne, laying his hands on her shoulders. "She's why I changed."
"Care to elaborate?" Giles asked.
"Almost twenty years ago, a baby was born in the town where I was hunting. I first saw the child when her mother was stupid enough to be walking home after dark. And I immediately felt a connection of some kind for the child, although I didn't understand it. As the child grew, I continued to watch her. I watched as her parents left her on her own time and time again. I watched as she isolated herself from other people. At first all I did was watch, then I began 'playing' with her. Toying with her actually. Phone calls in the middle of the night, or knocks on the door, always when she was alone. Then I started with the 'gifts'. I terrorized her for years, making her afraid to leave the house. When she was 12 I finally allowed her to see me......both as I am now and as a vampire. From the time I'd first seen her as a baby, she'd become my soul target. Oh, I still killed, but that was for food or thrill of the hunt, not for the fun of a game. Finally, two years later, I decided it was time for the final game. I captured her and planned to slowly kill her. But from the time I took her, she ceased being afraid of me. Once I had her with me, she became the one with the power."
Buffy looked back and forth between her friends. And from the looks on their faces, they were as confused as she was. "What kind of power?"
"The power to tame the demon. She would sit for hours and just stare at me, never uttering a sound. Even when I physically hurt her, she refused to cry out. I was feeling things that I didn't understand, and I wanted them stopped, so I decided to kill her. I grabbed her by the throat and started choking her. But, she brought her hands and placed them on my arms. She looked me straight in the eyes, and said 'I forgive you'. The words stunned me and I dropped her to the floor. After that, I couldn't make myself kill her........and I never hurt her again."
"And the girl was you?" Willow asked Cheyenne.
With tears threatening to fall, Cheyenne just nodded her head. Willow looked from the pale girl to the vampire. "How can you stand being around him after what he did to you?"
Cheyenne took a deep breath. "In five years, Hunter has done nothing to hurt me. He protects me and takes care of me. The things that happened in the past, belong in the past. My future lies with Hunter."
The silence was deafening. Everyone sat trying to absorb the things they heard.
"It's late and we all have alot of information to deal with. I suggest we get some sleep and meet back here tomorrow night. Do you two have some place to stay?" Giles asked.
"We'll find a hotel." Hunter said.
Giles still didn't trust the vampire, and decided it would be better if someone kept an eye on him. "Why don't you stay with Angel? And I'm sure Willow wouldn't mind having Cheyenne stay with her. That way the four of you can get to know each other."
Hunter smirked, "Suspicious little Watcher, aren't you? Fine, we'll do it your way."
Angel and Hunter left to walk Willow and Cheyenne home, while Buffy stayed behind with Giles.
"Do you think that's a good idea?"
"I'm hoping this way Angel and Willow will be able to get more information out of them."
Buffy left the library and headed home. So much had happened and she had a feeling that things were going to get worse before they got better.
End Part 5
Willow and Cheyenne sat in the living room, staring at the television. Conversation had been stilted, and an awkward silence now existed. Willow turned to watch Cheyenne.
"Can I ask you a question?" Willow asked.
"You can ask, I don't promise to answer." Cheyenne said.
"You're in love with Hunter, aren't you?"
Cheyenne leaned her head back against the couch. "Yes, I am. I have for a long time. I've forgiven him for the things he did to me."
"And does he love you?" Willow asked.
"Hunter's not capable of loving anyone. He's not like your friend, Willow. He doesn't have a soul or a conscience. The only thing stopping Hunter from once again being the Death Hunter is his promise to me."
"What kind of promise?"
Cheyenne turned to face Willow. "To not kill unless it's a matter of self-defense. And to not hurt anymore innocent people."
"And you trust his promise? How can you forget the things he did to you?" Willow wanted to know.
Cheyenne stood and walked over to the window. "I never said I'd forgotten......I said I forgave him. It's not something I'll *ever* forget. As for trusting him.......I trust Hunter with my life."
"I guess you're more trusting then I would be."
"We're more alike then you think, Willow. We have alot in common."
"Like what?"
"We've both pretty much raised ourselves because our parents were too busy; we're both introverted people; we've both been used by others; and.........we're both in love with vampires."
Willow sputtered. "I......you.......I don't know what you mean. I'm not in love with a vampire."
Cheyenne turned to Willow. "Don't try to deny it, Willow. I saw it in the way you looked at Angel. You're in love with him, just like I am with Hunter. Although, you have a better chance of having Angel return those feelings."
"Angel thinks of me as a friend, nothing more."
"Maybe.......maybe not." Cheyenne replied.
"It's almost dawn, we better get some sleep before we have to go back to the library." Willow said, needing to change the subject.
The girls went up and crawled into their beds. Willow couldn't get her thoughts off of Angel. No one else had ever seen how she looked at him, or knew of her feelings. So, how did Cheyenne see it? {Maybe we are more alike then I thought.}
Cheyenne curled up under the covers, but couldn't relax enough to sleep. She'd confessed more to Willow then she ever had to anyone before. Even Hunter didn't realize the depths of her feelings. Sure, they had the physical relationship, but he didn't know that she loved him. That had to remain her secret, because she knew Hunter didn't return the feelings. {Who am I trying to fool? Even if he was capable of love, he sure wouldn't fall for me. We're only together because he didn't have a choice.} Destiny had chosen their paths for them.
End Part 6
Angel and Hunter sat in the apartment, staring at each other. Neither wanting to give the other an advantage.
"Well, this is fun." Hunter said sarcastically. "How long have you had your soul?"
"About 100 years." Angel answered.
Hunter watched Angel intently. "So, you haven't killed a human in all that time?"
"Not a one. The only killing I do is vampires. What about you?"
"What about me?" Hunter asked.
Angel glared at the arrogant vampire. "How long has it been since you killed a human?"
"Oh, that. About two days."
Angel's eyes widened. "But, I thought......"
Hunter smirked at Angel's confusion. "That could be dangerous, soul-boy."
"Why does the girl stay with you if you still kill people?" Angel asked, ignoring Hunter's comment.
"Chey stays with me because she doesn't have a choice.....neither one of us do. But, I had to promise her to only kill when it was necessary. We've had plenty of enemies chasing us......some vampires and some humans. I kill them if they get in my way."
"And that's okay with you? It must be hard behaving yourself after so many years of inflicting pain." Angel asked.
Hunter shrugged. "I do what I have to do to survive. Call this my hiatus."
"You plan on returning to your role as the Death Hunter?"
"Of course. This Mr. Nice Guy routine will get old pretty quickly. I'll be more then ready to return to my 'normal' activities." Hunter said.
"When?"
"Chey won't live forever." Hunter stated simply.
Angel glared at the other vampire, and got an uneasy feeling. A suspicion began poking at his brain. "And will you.....shall we say, help her along?"
Hunter actually looked surprised at the question. "Are you asking if I plan to kill Cheyenne?"
End Part 7
"Kind of the way it sounded to me."
Hunter jumped to his feet. "I will never hurt Cheyenne again, and will protect her with my own life. As long as I'm around, she'll be safe."
Angel watched the vampire head into the bathroom and slam the door. He didn't understand what had just happened. Hunter had sounded so casual about Cheyenne's death, but when confronted with it, he flipped. Could it be the elder vampire actually had feelings for the girl? Or was it merely due to the connection they shared?
"You're so quick to dissect my relationship with Chey, what about your relationship with the redhead?"
Angel jumped up at Hunter's voice. He turned to face his guest. "I didn't dissect anything, just curious about her safety. And Willow and I are just friends."
"I don't think so, my friend. Whatever's between you two is more then friendship. But, feel free to deny it all you want."
"And what is your relationship with Cheyenne?" Angel asked.
"Sex and survival. We need each other to survive, that's all."
Angel shook his head, and laid down on the bed. "If you believe that, then you're the one in denial. You show an awful lot of emotion towards someone you claim not to care about."
Hunter dropped into the chair, and glared at Angel. "My relationship with Chey is no business of yours, so stay the hell out of it!"
"Fine, but the same goes with me and Willow. Keep your damn nose out of my business."
"Whatever."
Angel turned his back on Hunter, trying not to think of images that Hunter's statements had created. Willow was a good friend, probably his best friend, but that was it. {Right?}
"You'd think after 200 and some odd years, you'd learn to respect your elders." Hunter grumbled under his breath.
"Yeah, you'd think that." Angel replied sarcastically.
Hunter shook his head at the younger vampire. It had been a long time since he'd talked to another of his kind. For twenty years, he'd pretty much isolated himself from other vampires, concentrating only on Cheyenne. She was a neccessity in his life only because of that damn prophecy. Once they stopped the darkness that the prophecy spoke of, they'd go their seperate ways, and he'd go back to his real life. Then everything would go back to normal. {Then why does the thought of my life without Chey in it seem so unattractive?}
End Part 8
Willow and Cheyenne sat at the computer, waiting in the library for Buffy and Giles to show up. Hunter and Angel were seated on the other side of the table, talking about their pasts. The two vampires had found they had alot in common, as did Cheyenne and Willow. And when Cheyenne caught Willow watching Angel, she teased the redhead mercilessly. They erupted into a giggling fit, catching the attention of the two vampires.
"Care to share?" Angel asked.
"Sure, I was just telling Willow......" Cheyenne began, but was stopped by Willow's hand over her mouth.
"Nothing's funny. Just go back to what you were talking about." Willow said, throwing the other girl a threatening look.
Cheyenne pushed Willow's hand away, and they continued laughing and whispering. They were so busy in their own conversation, neither one noticed the strange looks they were getting.
"Think they're talking about us?" Angel asked.
"Definately." Hunter replied.
Hunter kept staring at Cheyenne. She looked so happy, and was apparently enjoying herself. Hunter couldn't remember the last time he'd heard Chey laugh. {Have I ever heard her laugh?} God knows he'd never given her anything to laugh about.
All four looked up as the library doors opened. But instead of Giles or Buffy, it was Cordelia. She moved towards Willow, not noticing the two vampires.
"Well, if it isn't the computer geek, and a nerdy little friend. Where's Buffy?"
"Hello to you too, Cordelia. Buffy's patrolling. Something you need?" Willow asked.
"I......." Cordelia began, but lost her train of thought as she caught sight of Angel and Hunter.
"Hello, Angel. I didn't see you there. Who's your friend?"
End Part 9
"Cordelia. This is Hunter."
Cordelia walked over and held out her hand to Hunter. He just sat in the chair, staring at her but not moving. Cordelia's smile became brittle, and she put her hand down.
"That's a nice name. Very sexy." Cordelia flirted.
Cordelia couldn't believe that this gorgeous guy wasn't falling all over her. {He must be playing hard to get.}
"Are you new to town?"
"Hunter and Cheyenne are just visiting, Cordelia." Willow said.
Cordelia spun towards Willow. "And was I talking to you?"
Cordelia turned back to Angel. "He a friend of yours?"
"Not exactly. I believe Willow already answered your question."
"And who's Cheyenne?" Cordelia asked.
"The young lady sitting next to Willow." Angel replied.
Cordelia turned and looked the girl up and down, then turned her attention back to the guys. "Oh, the little mouse? She must be a relative of Willow's."
Angel shook his head, but Hunter glared at her. "Actually, Cheyenne's with me. We came here to meet Angel and Willow."
Cordelia smiled at the fact that the hunk had finally said something. "Oh, she's a charity case. I understand perfectly."
Angel rolled his eyes. Leave it to Cordelia to put her foot in her mouth. He suspected that one easy way to piss off Hunter, was to criticize Cheyenne.
"I think you better shut your mouth. Because if you don't, I'd have to close it for you. And believe me, you wouldn't like that." Hunter said coldly.
"Hunter, it's okay." Cheyenne said.
"No, it's not. I won't let someone like *her* insult you." Hunter answered.
Cordelia glanced between the four people. "You don't mean that you two are.......that she's your.....I mean,....."
Hunter leaned forward and smirked evilly. "What do you mean?"
"Let it go, Cordelia." Willow said.
"Well, it's just that you made it sound like the two of you are together, and I know that can't be. I mean, that'd be like Angel and Willow being together. " Cordelia explained.
"You know that? You don't know anything about us. And how do you know that Willow and Angel *aren't* together? Do you really think they'd tell *you*? As for Chey and I, we are together......in every meaning of the word." Hunter said suggestively.
Cordelia's face went red, and she turned and stomped out of the library. The girls kept straight faces until the doors closed behind the Homecoming Queen, then they laughed. Angel shook his head, and Hunter leaned back in the chair.
"I think Cordelia met her match." Willow said between giggles.
"What a twit." Hunter remarked. He'd disliked the dark-haired girl as soon as she'd entered the library. He'd never had any patience for women like her.
About half an hour later, Giles and Buffy arrived. The six of them sat down, and began researching the prophecy. Trying to come up with anything that would help them in their fight. After hours of researching, Giles decided they needed some physical training. He needed to see how the four of them would work together. So, with Buffy pretending to be a vamp, Giles watched as the group worked out attack situations. It was then agreed that for the next few nights, they would take over the patrolling. The four fighters would need the practice before they faced the real thing. And they were down to only 72 hours.
End Part 10
For the next two days, the four allies learned to fight as a team. They learned each other's strengths, and their weaknesses. Giles hadn't been able to find out anything new to help them, so all they knew was that the fight would occur the following night. And all of them knew that if they failed, it would be the end of the human race. As Giles sent them home for the night, he knew they were as prepared as they could be. Angel and Hunter were both very powerful, and Willow and Cheyenne were both skilled. Unfortunately, no one knew exactly what they'd be facing.
Buffy and Giles headed home, while the other four headed to Willow's house. They had decided it would be best if they all stayed together. While Angel and Hunter sat in the living room, Willow and Cheyenne sun-proofed her room and her parents room. Willow told Cheyenne that she and Hunter could have her parent's bedroom, and Angel could have her room. She'd sleep downstairs. After finishing their mission, the girls walked down to the living room. Cheyenne curled up in one of the recliners, while Willow plopped down on the floor. Angel and Hunter sat on the couch, watching the girls.
"Everything okay?" Angel asked.
"We're just tired, I guess." Willow replied.
Hunter turned to look at Cheyenne, who was sitting quietly in the chair, staring at her hands. He didn't like the look on her face. She was closing herself off. Hunter stood up and walked over to the chair. Bending down, he picked Cheyenne up in his arms. She looked up at him in confusion.
"Time for bed. You need your rest." Hunter said and headed for the stairs.
"See you guys tomorrow." Cheyenne said softly.
"Night." Willow called back.
Hunter carried Cheyenne up to the bedroom, then into the bathroom. Setting her down, he turned on the shower. "Maybe a shower will help you relax."
Cheyenne just nodded and watched Hunter leave the room, shutting the door behind him. She heard him in the bedroom, and dropped her face into her hands. Tears fell down her face as she stripped out of her clothes and got under the warm spray. She was scared and wanted nothing more then for Hunter to take her in his arms and tell her everything was going to be alright. Cheyenne wanted him to tell her that no matter what happened, he wasn't going to leave her alone. But, she was afraid that he wouldn't be able to promise that. Cheyenne slid down the shower wall to sit on the floor. Pulling her knees up, she dropped her head to her knees, and let the tears fall freely.
"I think we better get some sleep too. We're going to need all of our strength for tomorrow." Angel said as he stood.
"You can use my room. It's been sun-proofed."
"Thanks, but where are you going to sleep?" Angel asked.
"Down here. It's not a big deal." Willow said.
Angel watched Willow stand and carry the tray of snacks into the kitchen. No one knew what was going to happen tomorrow night, or if they'd survive. Angel thought about his feelings for Willow, and made a decision. As Angel followed her into the kitchen, he knew he was going to stop denying what he knew he wanted.
Willow was standing at the sink when Angel came up behind her. She jumped in surprise when she felt Angel's arms go around her waist, and he leaned his head against her shoulder.
"Angel?"
End Part 11
Angel didn't respond, he just pulled her back tightly against him.
"Angel? What is this?" Willow whispered.
"I think you know, Willow. We need to stop ignoring what's between us."
Angel began nuzzling Willow's neck, and she tilted her head. Her hands moved to grip his arms, as she leaned back against him.
"I don't believe this is happening." Willow said.
"Believe it. I want this......and I want you. I have for a very long time."
Angel loosened his hold only long enough to turn Willow around, then he pulled her tightly against his body. His lips captured hers, teasing her. Willow's gasp allowed Angel entrance, and he deepened the kiss. Willow wrapped her arms around Angel's neck, and pressed intimately against him. Angel's hands roamed over her body, learning every inch of her, before dropping to caress her ass. His lips drifted to her neck.
"Are you sure this is what you want, Willow? I don't want to pressure you."
"I want you so much, Angel. I always have."
Angel smiled and lifted Willow into his arms. He carried her up to her room, and laid her on the bed. Willow watched as Angel removed his shoes and shirt, then laid on the bed, covering her body. Her arms moved to his back, as he bent to kiss her.
Angel took his time, torturing Willow with his slow and gentle touches. And as their clothes disappeared, Willow's modesty was replaced by passion, and she became bolder. As Angel wrapped her in his arms, whispering words of love to her, Willow cried out as he entered her. She gripped him hard as Angel took her to new heights of pleasure. She'd never dreamed that she and Angel would make love, and it was better then any dream could be.
Later, lying in her lover's arms, Willow prayed that it wouldn't be the last time they were together. Now that she had found her love, she knew she wouldn't be able to handle losing him. Seeming to know what she was thinking, Angel tightened his hold on her, kissing her head. Willow put the thoughts of the following night out of her head, and snuggled into Angel's arms.
End Part 12
Hunter sat on the edge of the bed with his back to Cheyenne. She hadn't said a word since she'd come out of the bathroom, just crawled into bed, not once looking at him. Hunter had discarded most of his clothes, leaving just his jeans on, but he couldn't even think about sleeping. Cheyenne had completely cut herself off from him, and he didn't like it.
"Damnit, Chey! What the hell is wrong with you?" Hunter yelled.
He turned in time to see Cheyenne flinch, but she made no sound. She'd curled herself into a fetal position, and buried herself under the covers. Hunter leaned across the bed, and gripped her shoulder to turn her to face him.
"Tell me what's bothering you."
Cheyenne shrugged off his hand and tried to turn away from him, but he wouldn't allow it. Hunter pushed her onto her back, then covered her. When she brought her hands up to try to push him away, he pinned them above her head.
"You can't fight me, Chey. Now tell me what's wrong." Hunter said calmly.
"When are you leaving?" Cheyenne whispered.
Hunter was shocked by the question. Did she actually believe he'd leave her? {Isn't that exactly what I told Angel I was going to do?}
"Don't ask stupid questions. I'm not going anywhere."
Cheyenne looked up at his face, knowing that was exactly what he planned to do. She knew him better then he thought she did.
"You've never lied to me, Hunter. Don't start now." Cheyenne whispered.
Hunter watched as Cheyenne turned her face away from him. It was then that he realized what she was doing. She knew that he planned to leave, and she was protecting herself. By pulling away from him now, it wouldn't be quite so traumatic when he left. Hunter rolled off of her, and laid staring at the ceiling. When had things become so damn difficult?
Hunter decided that the best thing for both of them would be to part company after the fight. Cheyenne needed to learn to stand on her own, and rebuild the life that he had destroyed. And he needed to get back to his life. He wanted the thrill of the hunt back. He wanted to start terrorizing again, and maybe find a new 'game'. The only way to get that back was to get Cheyenne out of his life. She was too damn good at getting him to deny that part of himself. As soon as he was away from her, the better. But as he turned to look at Cheyenne's curled up form, Hunter knew the words were as hollow as they sounded.
Flipping onto his side, Hunter decided there'd be enough time later to decide this stuff. Right now, he needed to concentrate on getting him and Cheyenne, as well as Willow and Angel, out of this alive.
As one couple discovered a long denied love, another was being torn apart by doubts and conflicts. In order to survive, they'd all have to put their feelings aside, and fight for their future. A future not all of them would live to see.
End Part 13
The following night, Giles walked into the library to find a somber group. He was surprised to see Willow sitting on Angel's lap. Obvious alot had happened since the last time he'd seen them. Giles was glad that Angel and Willow had found each other, he just hoped their relationship wouldn't be destroyed before it had a chance to begin. Looking from Hunter to Cheyenne, Giles realized there had been other changes as well. He noticed Cheyenne was sitting as far away from Hunter as she could, and Hunter was leaning against the table, scowling. This wasn't the time for the group to fall apart.
"Alright, the time has come. Buffy is out on patrol, but she'll be there if you guys need her. Now we just need to figure out where you're supposed to be." Giles said.
"I know where......and we need to leave soon." Cheyenne said softly, her eyes focused on the floor.
Hunter turned to Cheyenne. "What do you mean you know where? Since when?"
"Since now."
"Damnit, Chey, I'm sick of......." Hunter began.
"Hunter, leave her alone." Willow said, as she walked over to her friend.
"Don't tell me what to do!" Hunter yelled.
Angel walked over to Hunter and pushed him out into the hallway, leaving Giles with the two girls.
"This doesn't make me feel much better about tonight." Giles said.
Cheyenne stood and grabbed her jacket, and nodded to Willow. "This is the way it has to be, Giles. We aren't meant to fight as a team."
"What?"
Giles watched as Cheyenne pulled out another book, and handed it to him. As he read the marked page, he realized with dread what the young woman meant.
"How long have you known?" Giles asked.
"Since last night. I hadn't figured it out until then." Cheyenne answered.
Giles looked from the girls to the doors. "Do they know?"
Willow shook her head. "They can't know, Giles. Cheyenne and I have to follow a different path, but they still need to fight."
"But don't you think they should know that they're not even fighting for the same thing as you are?" Giles asked.
"You know as well as we do that this is the way it has to be. Cheyenne and I have to do this part alone." Willow said.
Giles nodded. "I don't like this. Won't you at least tell me where you're going?"
"It's better you don't know." Willow said.
Giles hugged Willow tightly, then gave Cheyenne a hug as well. He watched as Willow whispered to Cheyenne, and she pulled out two envelopes.
"If we don't come back.....give these to Angel and Hunter." Willow said, handing the Watcher the letters.
Giles took them, and put them in his pocket. "You *will* come back. Be careful."
Willow gave him a sad smile as she and Cheyenne left out the backway. Giles dropped into the chair, not looking forward to facing two furious vampires.
Angel and Hunter stood in the hallway. Angel watched as Hunter pounded his fist into the locker.
"You're not helping matters, Hunter."
"I don't need you telling me what to do, you young pup!"
"You're so god-damn mature or experienced, or whatever you want to call it, then why don't you start acting like it!" Angel yelled back.
Hunter glared at Angel, but then turned his back on him and headed back to the library.
"Control your temper, or you're going to destroy us all." Angel warned.
Giles looked up as Hunter and Angel entered the library. He watched as Hunter dropped into a chair, obviously not noticing the girls' absence. Giles turned his attention back to Angel, and knew that Angel had noticed.
"Giles, where are Willow and Cheyenne?"
Hunter looked up and searched the room. When it was obvious that they weren't there, he turned towards Giles.
"They're gone."
"WHAT!?!?" Both vampires yelled.
End Part 14
"What do you mean 'gone'? Where did they go?" Angel asked.
"To fight for mankind's survival." Giles replied.
Hunter jumped to his feet. "You mean they took off without us? Why the bloody hell would they do that?"
"Because you're not meant to go with them. Your fight lies in a different direction."
Hunter grabbed Giles by the shirt, lifting him off the ground. "Quit talking in riddles!"
Angel shoved Hunter away from Giles. "Back off, Hunter!"
"Don't you care that he just let them walk out of here.......alone?" Hunter asked.
Angel glared at Hunter then turned back to Giles. "What's going on?
Giles took a deep breath. "Apparently there was more to the prophecy that Cheyenne only discovered yesterday. It stated that she and Willow would face the darkness alone......in a fight to save the human race."
"And what about us? We were mentioned in the prophecy too?" Angel asked.
"But you're fighting for a different cause. The girls are fighting the darkness to save the world..................you two must fight the darkness to save yourselves. To free yourselves from the lure of the evil."
"This is ridiculous!" Hunter shouted.
Giles handed the book to Hunter. "This is the way it's written, Hunter. There's nothing you can do to change it. Cheyenne and Willow must fight on their own.........and you two must battle your own demons."
"Why do we need to do this? What importance is it?" Angel asked.
"Even if Cheyenne and Willow win this battle, the war isn't over. In order for any of us to survive, we will need your strengths to defeat the evil of the Hellmouth. That can't be accomplished until you're both free of your dark desires. You need to completely let go of that part of yourselves, or you'll be tempted back when we need you the most."
"Another prophecy?" Angel asked.
"A future one, yes."
Angel sat down, and ran his hands through his hair. The thought of Willow out there fighting for her life, without him, scared him to death. He'd just opened himself up to the love he felt for her, he didn't want to lose her now.
"How the hell are we supposed to do this?" Angel asked.
"You each know what you must do. Now, it's time you go fulfill your destiny." Giles said as he turned and walked to his office.
"Damn." Angel swore softly.
"She knew about this. That's why she pushed me away. Son-of-a-bitch!" Hunter swore.
"The only thing we can do to help them now is hold up our end of this. Let's go."
Hunter watched Angel head towards the door. "Aren't you worried about Willow? I thought you were supposed to love her?"
Angel stopped, but didn't turn around. "I do love her, and I'm scared to death. But, she's out doing what she needs to do, and she'd expect me to do the same. And the sooner I do this, the sooner I can get back here."
Angel walked out of the library, never looking back. Hunter swore under his breath, and followed him out. Once outside, Hunter followed a different direction from Angel. He knew that to confront their demons, they needed to do it in their own ways........alone.
As Hunter headed off to face his demon, he finally realized he was willing to do whatever was necessary to keep Cheyenne in his life......even if that meant never killing or hunting again.
While Angel and Hunter headed off to confront their dark sides, Willow and Cheyenne were already engaged in a vicious fight for survival. They didn't have the physical strength that the vampires had, but they had a weapon more powerful.......the purity of the light. They just prayed it would be enough to defeat the forces of the dark.
End Part 15
Giles and Buffy sat in the library, impatiently waiting for news. Buffy had returned from patrol only to learn that the prophecy hadn't been complete, and that Willow and Cheyenne were out there by themselves. She felt useless, sitting around while her best friend was fighting for her life.......for everyone's life.
"I need to be doing something, Giles. Just sitting here isn't helping anyone."
"Buffy, there's nothing you can do.......except pray."
"That's not good enough. I'm going......." Buffy's sentence died as the door opened and Angel walked in.
Giles watched as the vampire sat down. "Angel? Are you alright?"
"I've just seen Hell, and it's definately not someplace I want to visit again."
"Angel, what happened to you?" Buffy asked.
Angel closed his eyes, and told his friends about his journey. After leaving the library, he'd gone to confront his past. He'd relived everything he'd done in his life.....both as Angelus and as Angel. Every detail had been crystal clear, and the emotions as fresh as if it had happened yesterday. He experienced every pleasure and pain he'd ever felt or inflicted. Facing for the first time in 100 years the desires he'd repressed once he'd regained his soul. The powerful draw of being in control, of deciding the fate of other people. It was like a drug, the rush of the kill and the thrill of the hunt. He'd been tempted to give himself back to that addiction, to allow himself to enjoy the game once again. But, thoughts of Willow and the life he'd built in Sunnydale had stopped him. Faced with a choice between the way things were, and the way they could be with Willow in his life, there had been no contest. And by choosing Willow, he had kicked the hold the dark had on him. Angel had finally found a way to put his destructive past behind him, and concentrate on the good he could do in the future.
Buffy and Giles both had tears in their eyes as Angel told his tale. They were glad that at least one of their friend's had come through this safely.
"Any news yet?" Angel asked.
"You're the first one we've heard from. Don't worry, Angel. Willow's tough, she'll get through this." Buffy said reassuringly.
Angel nodded, then dropped his head onto his hands. Reliving his entire tortured existence had drained him, but he refused to succumb to his exhaustion. He wouldn't rest until Willow was back in his arms.
Hunter laid in the park, crying for the first time since he was a child. He'd gone out to prove that he could control his own destiny, that he was the one in charge. Hunter had decided that he'd never kill again, but he soon realized that he wasn't in control. As he walked through the park, he'd attacked a young man out walking. He'd felt the thrill of hearing the man beg for his life, he could smell the fear and he loved it. Hunter experienced the exhileration of being the attacker, of having someone weaker at your mercy. He gave himself over to the pleasure he was feeling. But, as he lowered his head to sink his fangs into the man's neck, an image flashed into his mind. An image so vivid, it dropped him to his knees.
Hunter grabbed his head, not caring that his prey was escaping. His mind was seeing Cheyenne being devoured by the darkness. He could hear her calling for him, begging him for help. And he heard himself laughing at her, then saw himself pushing her further into the darkness. Hunter shuddered as he heard Cheyenne's final words......"I love you, Hunter." Then she was gone, and Hunter felt an intense pain throughout his body.
"NO!!!!!!!!!!! CHEYENNE!!!!!!!!!!" Hunter yelled, then collapsed.
The library was quiet when Hunter entered. He saw Angel sitting in the chair, eyes closed. The Slayer and her Watcher were sitting with their heads leaning back on the chair. Without making a sound, he moved to the table and dropped to the chair. He propped his elbows on his knees, and dropped his head into his hands.
"Did you win your battle?" Angel asked.
"Yeah." Hunter said quietly.
Angel turned to look at the elder vampire, and saw that he'd obviously been through hell, too. Angel knew that Hunter would need to talk about his experience, but now wasn't the time......and he wasn't the one Hunter needed to talk to.
"We haven't heard anything yet." Angel said.
Hunter nodded, but didn't say anything. He couldn't bring himself to speak. The image of Cheyenne's death was still too vivid for him to talk. And for the first time ever, Hunter prayed. He prayed that the image had been a warning, not a reality.
Suddenly, Angel and Hunter both glanced at each other and bolted out of their chairs. They ran out of the library, neither answering the shouts of Buffy and Giles. All they knew was that they needed to get to the park......quickly. Buffy and Giles ran after the vampires, not knowing what was happening.......and scared to death to find out.
And in the aftermath of a battle between the light and darkness, the battlefield appeared vacant. Except for dwindling signs of smoke..........and two still forms lying on the ground.
End Part 16
Hunter and Angel rushed through the park. They had been drawn to this area, and knew that it was where they'd find Willow and Cheyenne. At the edge of the park, near a clearing, both vampires stopped. Their eyes drawn to the two bodies lying on the ground. From that distance, they were unable to tell if either of them were still alive. Both stood frozen to their spot, unable to force themselves forward.
Buffy and Giles finally caught up and stopped next to Angel. Giles bent over, trying to catch his breath.
"What's going on?" Giles asked.
When no one answered, Giles looked up at Angel. The vampire's eyes were glued to something in the distance. Giles turned to look, but saw nothing. He turned to Buffy, but she didn't know any more then he did.
"Angel, what are you staring at?" Buffy asked.
"Cheyenne.......and Willow."
Buffy looked out over the clearing, still unable to detect anything. "You see them? Where?"
"In the middle of the clearing.........neither of them is moving." Angel said.
"You mean......... You're not saying they're dead, are you?" Buffy asked, worriedly.
Buffy glanced at him. "Angel?"
"I......I can't tell from here."
"Then we need to get out there and find out. They need our help."
Buffy and Giles started walking out into the clearing, but stopped when they noticed the vampires weren't following them. Buffy turned back to Angel.
"Angel, come on! Willow needs you." Buffy said.
Angel didn't acknowledge Buffy. She turned to Giles.
"Giles, what's with them? Why aren't they coming with us?"
"They're both in a vulnerable state right now, Buffy. And the thought that they might lose the people they care about is paralyzing them. To their current way of thinking, if they don't go out there, they can believe that Cheyenne and Willow are alright. They'd rather hold onto that hope, then go out there and have the hope shattered."
"You don't think they're dead, do you?" Buffy asked.
"I don't know." Giles whispered.
Buffy looked from
one vampire to the other, then to Giles. "Well, I *need* to know."
Angel watched Buffy rush into the clearing, and finally shook himself out of his fear. Willow was out there, and she needed him. Angel ran after Buffy. Giles moved to stand beside Hunter.
"Come with us, Hunter. Cheyenne needs you now."
Hunter shook his head. "Cheyenne needed me *then*......and I let her down."
"What do you mean?"
Hunter refused to
answer the Watcher, and watched in silence as Giles followed the others.
Cheyenne had needed him to be there for her, but he hadn't protected her.
Last night, she'd needed his strength, and he'd turned his back on her.
He let his anger override everything else. And now he'd lost her forever.
Hunter took a final look towards the clearing then turned to leave.
Angel knelt next to Willow's body. He lifted her into his arms, thankful that she was breathing and had a steady pulse. Angel stroked her cheek, softly whispering her name. Tears ran down his face as her eyes fluttered open.
"Angel?" Willow whispered.
"I'm here, Willow." Angel said, then lowered his head to hers. She wrapped her arms around him, and held tightly.
"Cheyenne?"
Angel turned to Buffy and Giles. Buffy looked at him with tears in her eyes, and shook her head. Angel closed his eyes, and said a silent prayer for the young woman who had suffered so much in her young life.
"I'm sorry, Willow."
Angel tightened his hold on his love as she cried for her lost friend. Giles removed his coat and wrapped Cheyenne's body, then lifted it gently. He and Buffy started to head back to the library, but Buffy stopped and looked around.
"Where's Hunter?"
As Angel stood, with Willow in his arms, he noticed for the first time that Hunter had disappeared. "He's gone."
"Giles, did you give him the letter?" Willow asked.
Angel and Buffy exchanged confused glances as Giles shook his head. "I left both of them at the library."
Willow leaned her
head against Angel's shoulders, thankful to be back in his arms. Cheyenne
had known it was possible that she wouldn't survive, and that was why she'd
written the letter to Hunter. As Willow had done for Angel. Willow prayed
that someday he'd come back and they'd be able to give it to him.
Hunter walked into
the library and went to grab the duffle bags he and Cheyenne had left there
earlier. After locating them, he turned to leave when he saw an envelope
with his name on, lying on the counter. It was Chey's writing. Hunter reached
out, and traced the writing. Closing his eyes, he grabbed the letter and
left the library.
Angel and Buffy had gone to take care of arrangements for Cheyenne, leaving Willow to rest in Giles office. Just before she fell asleep, Giles poked his head in.
"Willow, Hunter's letter is gone. He must've seen it when he came for his things. And here's the one you gave me." Giles said as he handed the envelope to Willow. "What are they?"
"Goodbyes."
Giles nodded, then left Willow to rest. Willow walked over to the garbage and ripped up her letter. She wouldn't be needing it. She and Angel would have more time together. Time to learn about each, time to watch their love grow.....time to do things that Hunter and Cheyenne wouldn't have.
Willow laid back down, clutching Angel's jacket to her chest, and drifted into an exhausted sleep. Angel returned later and curled up on the couch with her, holding her tightly in his arms. He'd been so afraid that he would lose her, but he hadn't.
But, Hunter had lost Cheyenne. Angel hadn't known Hunter very long, but he knew that the elder vampire had cared about the girl. What he didn't know was what Hunter would do now that Cheyenne was gone. Would he go back to his evil ways, or would he continue to fight.....to defeat the darkness that had destroyed Cheyenne? Or would he end his existence? Angel didn't know, but he knew that they'd never see Hunter again.
End Part 17
Hunter sat on his bike, staring at the place where it had all started. Twenty years ago, Cheyenne was born in that house, and she'd been his obsession ever since. For twenty years she'd been a part of his life, and now she was gone. Destroyed by a darkness she didn't have the strength to defeat. And Hunter knew it was his fault. For fifteen years, she'd used her strengths to protect herself from him. Then for five years, she'd used her strength to keep him in line, and fight for their survival. If it hadn't been for him, she'd be alive.
Hunter reached into his pocket and pulled out the letter he'd found. Tearing open the envelope, he began reading the letter. Tears ran down his face as he read Cheyenne's farewell letter. She knew that she wouldn't be coming back, and wanted him to know how much he meant to her. Cheyenne forgave him for the things he'd done to her when she was a child, thanked him for protecting her as an adult, and begged him not to go back to the life he'd led. She wrote that he was destined to be a fighter for good, and that she believed in him. Lastly, she confessed to something she'd never been able to tell him while she was alive. Hunter clutched the letter tightly as he read the declaration of love. She'd loved him, and he hadn't even noticed. As he folded up the letter, and put it back in his bag, Hunter cursed himself for being such a fool.
Taking a final look at the house, he kicked the bike into gear. He would honor Cheyenne's wishes, and fight against the evil. Her memory would guard him against any urges he felt to return to that life, and he would be the man that Cheyenne had believed him to be.........the man she had loved. Hunter said a silent goodbye to Cheyenne, and drove off into the night.
Willow stood on the porch, looking out at the darkened street. When she felt Angel's arms go around her waist, she leaned back against him.
"What are you thinking about?" Angel asked.
"Cheyenne......and Hunter. Despite how he'd hurt her, Cheyenne forgave him. Loved him even. And he didn't even bother staying around to find out what happened to her."
Angel leaned his chin against her head, trying to come up with a way to make her understand Hunter's behaviour. "Willow, don't judge him too harshly. Hunter had feelings for Cheyenne that he couldn't understand. And those feelings scared him, made him lash out at the person who was making him feel again. As for his leaving, Hunter already knew that Cheyenne was dead. I don't know how, but that's why he refused to enter the clearing. He couldn't handle seeing her lifeless body, so he left."
"He ran away, Angel. Without saying goodbye to anyone.....to Cheyenne. She deserved better then that."
"Willow, Hunter needs to find his own way to say goodbye to her.....in his own time. But never doubt that her memory will live on."
Willow turned to look at Angel, confused. "What do you mean?"
Angel reached out to cup her cheeks, "As long as Hunter lives........he'll keep Cheyenne's memory alive."
"I hope you're right, Angel. She was a good person."
"So are you, Willow. I love you." Angel said, then bent down to kiss her.
Willow leaned into his kiss. Angel swept Willow into his arms, and carried her into the house. Their lovemaking was passionate. They had fought their battles, and triumphed over them. And together, along with their friends, they would face other battles, because they were determined to win the war. But their love would never waver, and it would see them through their darkest hours.
The End