Parts: 11 - 15 (End)
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~Part: 11~
The next afternoon, Willow had stayed within his room. She awoke to the feel of a wet cloth on her face rubbing softly. She felt sticky and sore, but all she cared about was leaving with the child. She opened her eyes to see Devon sitting by the bed and Marguerite laying beside her holding one of her hands.
“The girl refused to leave your side. She has become quite fond of you in these few days. I am so sorry for this.”
“Devon I need to leave, or at least get Marguerite to Rosenberg. Her mother is there.”
“I will help you escape. Do not look so shocked my lady. My master is quite unstable and it is certain that he will kill you or the girl if either remain. The duke is in the market buying you a gift. I may be able to smuggle you and the girl out if you dress as peasants. I have your horse and one for the little one waiting half a mile outside the walls. But we must hurry. If we wish to succeed we must act now.”
Devon arose and handed her a brown peasant gown for her and a light yellow one for Marguerite. He left the room to let them change saying he’d return within a few minutes. Willow woke up Marguerite and told her to change that they were leaving to find her mama. Joy and hope shone in the blue orbs. As she changed herself, a stabbing pain swept through her midsection, causing her to inhale sharply. When Devon reentered the pain had not left her but ignored it for she needed to get the child away from here.
“You are almost a day’s ride from Rosenberg. Just keep riding south and you should be there by midnight. Now keep your heads down and be quiet. Since it is market day we will be able to blend out.”
They finally reached the horses and Willow placed Marguerite on Starlight and she took the other horse. She said that Starlight knew how to get home so Marguerite would just have to let her lead, and she would lead her mare. Thanking him again and offering refuge at Rosenberg, the two set out for safety. They were a few miles from the walls when a particularly sharp pain made Willow double over. Marguerite stopped and turned to her savior and friend.
“Willow what it is?!”
“I do not know. Sweet One, I need you to go on to the city. Ugh!! Tell my husband that I am near, and to bring the healer. Please hurry, just let Starlight take you there and tell them the mistress sent you.”
Scared and nervous the little girl urged on her ride and rode to Rosenberg. Willow dismounted the horse and promptly fell to the ground in pain, clutching at her abdomen. She felt as if she was being ripped in two. Tears of pain were once again streaming down her cheeks. A scream was ripped from her throat. As shudders passed through her frame, she huddled into a small ball and prayed to be found soon.
~~~*~~~
All in the Rosenberg Keep were in the Great Hall brooding and worrying. Another day and nothing. They searched north this time whilst yesterday they searched west. Angel looked at his family. Wesley had his arms wrapped around Faith as they both sat close to the fire. Cordelia was pacing as Xander and William talked with Giles on strategies. Dawn and Elizabeth were trying to comfort his mother as she cried for the loss of her daughter in law. Every once in a while Dawn and William would look at each other with such longing caring it made the room warm. Xander had noticed the looks and had frowned in concentration. As for himself, Angel was reliving every happy moment he had with his wife and the moments they made love. He was digging a deeper whole for which to wallow in his pain.
Marcus then came into the room holding the hand of a ragged, dirty and crying blonde haired girl. She took one look at the occupants in the room and shrieked in relief and happiness.
“MAMA!!!” Elizabeth looked up at the sound of her daughter’s voice.
Seeing her really standing there. She launched herself from the chair as
her daughter ran to her as fast as her small legs would carry her. She
dropped to her knees as she reached the little girl and gathered her close.
Marguerite responded by wrapping her arms and legs around her mother
and whimpering slightly as she cried.
“Oh Mother Goddess, thank you, thank you. Oh my baby. Oh let me look at you. Oh, my poor little girl. What did he do to you?” She touched the bruise on her daughter’s cheek and the tears only fell harder. Everyone came close to the reunited mother and child. Xander bent on one knee next to his sister and niece. He turned the girls face to his and felt such rage it almost toppled him with the force of it.
“Marguerite, who hit you?”
“The bad man.” She whispered and hugged herself closer to her mother. He looked to Buffy for an explanation. With her daughter here in her arms safely, she could reveal everything.
“Daniel Ozbourne the Duke of Rotham took her. Marguerite never went to visit her father’s family. The duke came to me one day demanding I help him in tearing Angel and his wife apart. I refused and so he took my daughter. When I received the letter of what he had done, I went to see him. He told me that if I ever wanted to see my child alive again I would help him. He then brought out my baby. She was covered in bruises and was crying. He had beaten her. He said it was a message that he would not hesitate to kill her. When you asked me to come here Xander, I accepted because I could then be close enough to carry out his plans with no suspicion. I am so sorry, but I had no choice, he was going to kill my daughter if I did not help. He has a small home about a days ride away from here that is where he is keeping Willow.” Just as Angel was going to reassure Buffy that he understood why she had done it, her daughter began to speak urgently.
“Mama! I forgot about Willow. She helped me get away from him. We were close to arriving when she felt a pain in her tummy. She sent me ahead and said to ask for her husband and healer. Please hurry she said it hurt.” More tears came to her confession. Soon all hell had broken loose. Angel demanded to know which way she was. The girl said she came through the back entrance near the forest. Angel had Janna, Giles, Faith, William, Wesley, Marcus and two more men with him when they rode out in search of the red head. Angel rode his stallion as hard as he would go. As he neared to where she lay, he heard her scream and prayed for her to be safe and in his arms soon.
She heard his voice calling out to her. She wanted to turn and see him. She wanted to throw her arms around him and never let go, but the blasted pain wouldn’t let her. She suddenly felt another cramp over take her and yelled from the force of it. She was being lifted into strong familiar arms. She opened her eyes to see her husbands face looking down on her as he ran to mount his horse. Her voice was hoarse and low.
“It hurts. Please make it stop, make it stop Angel.”
She whimpered as he mounted never releasing her. The horse turned and set at a fast speed back to Rosen berg. She heard him yell out to the others, whom where approaching them now, to turn and head to the Great hall; that he had his wife with him and was taking her back to the safety of her home. He jumped from the animal cradling his wife close once they stopped in front of the keep’s steps. As he reached the top Willow felt a hot sticky liquid begin to coat her inner thighs. Whatever it was flowing rapidly from her and being soaked into her husband’s tunic. Angel felt something wet on his tunic and looked down. They were almost into the hall when he saw it. Blood, and lots of it, was flowing from between Willow’s legs.
“Janna help me!!! Willow’s bleeding. Oh dear there is so much blood.”
“Set her down my lord. Giles get Joyce in her. NOW!”
Willow was placed on the floor on top of a soft rug. Instantly, Janna lifted the girls skirts and parted her legs. Even with the blood she could see the bruises on her lower body, her hips, her thighs, and between her legs. Willow arched up and screamed bloody murder. She kept pleading for the pain to stop. Joyce then came in with all of Janna’s supplies. They tended on Willow; Joyce looked at Janna with a question in her eyes. Being a mid wife she also knew some of healing, but what she saw made her blood freeze. Janna simply nodded and urged their young charge to drink a potion to help ease the pain and another to stop the flow of blood. Eventually. Willow passed out from the pain and blood loss. When they were done, Joyce asked for Amy to bring buckets of warm water as Angel carried his limp wife to their bed. Once she was bathed and changed, they left the girl to rest. In the hallway awaited all for news on what happened to her.
“My lord….” Janna couldn’t seem to finish. Her throat constricted and soon she was weeping. Giles held her as she wept, for the horrible things done to Willow, for the pain she must have been through and finally for the injustice of it all.
“Please Joyce tell me what is wrong. I’ve seen the bruises on her face already. Just…. What happened to her?” he dreaded the answer. He feared the worst, and soon they were confirmed.
“I am so sorry my lord. Willow, she, she was beaten, and she was raped.”
“Oh Gods!” Darla exclaimed as she held onto her other two children. Cordy, Buffy, Xander and Dawn huddled close. Elizabeth broke away and apologized to everyone once again. She was glad she had put Marguerite to bed already. She could not face her daughter, not now.
“I am so sorry for all of this. I should have said something. I should have warned you the moment she left the village. I am responsible for this.” Angel cut her off.
“No Buffy. Ozbourne is to blame for this. You were just trying to save your daughter and I do not blame you for what you did. Though I am displeased with it, you were not in control of your actions. A mother will do anything to protect her child.”
“My son is right. My dear you are not at fault. None of us blame you.” Darla hugged Elizabeth close to her as they wept. Janna’s voice brought them back to the matter at hand.
“That is not all. The reason Willow was in so much pain and bleeding is, is because. She lost her babe. We found bruises and marks on her belly, right were her womb rests. Add to that the rape and she, her body could not handle the trauma and there fore expelled the child. I am so sorry for your loss my lord.”
Angel said nothing only entered his chambers and went to lie next to his wife. He took her small hand in his, brought it to his face and began to sob.
“I am so sorry My love. I should have been more attentive to you. I should have told you how I felt. I have failed you again and I failed our child as well. Gods, forgive me! Forgive me.”
“There is nothing to forgive.” His head snapped up at the sound of her voice. She sounded so weak, so fragile.
“How can you say that. I was a fool. I wanted to be certain nothing romantic remained with Buffy because I did not wish to hurt you and that is what I did anyway. I vowed to always protect you and I failed. Because of me you are hurt and our babe is dead.”
“No, you are not to blame. Daniel Ozbourne has done this to me. To us.”
“I swear on my honor and the sacred isle of Avalon that Ozbourne will never hurt you or any other again. I am going to kill him.”
“Normally I would not seek or accept the death of another. But now, I cannot find reason why not end his life. He hurt me, and Marguerite and Elizabeth, and so many others. He is mad Angel, he terrifies me.”
“Rest now my love. Rest and know that soon he will no longer walk this earth. Know that I will never again leave you. I love you.”
“And I love you my husband.”
~Part: 12~
It was dark Willow could feel it trying to envelope her. She searched for light, and the feelings of security she usually felt but none came. Then she saw a candle being lit at her left. Fleeing the darkness she swam in the young redhead followed the source of light. When she reached it she found herself in Daniel Ozbourne’s bedchambers once again. She looked behind her and found the closed door. Tugging at it she found it locked. Willow turned around to inspect her surroundings. To the left she found the large bed on the dais. It was made of Cherry oak wood. The four posters ran high above almost reaching the roof of the room. Twined on the posts was cloth of smooth material that then connected in a knot at the middle, where they wrapped around a candelabra. The material was the color of her green eyes and transparent. She looked to the bed and saw the various luscious pillows piled at the head of the bed. The red coverlet was pulled don to the feet and she could see the white linen adorning it. Slightly to the right of the dais she saw a folding screen was set for privacy when one changed. She continued traveling the length of the stone wall until her sight rested on a beautiful woven tapestry. It was a large forest with dark leaves and eerie eyes that glowed in the shadows. Before the woods stood a field with an enchanting lake and waterfall; a man and woman were bathing in the waters as the creatures in the darkness watched. She turned her head to the right were she found the hearth with a fire blazing. In front of it was a large fur rug, all in different tones of brown. It was obvious to the girl that it was made of different bears for it to be so large and have different tones of brown. It was there that it had happened, there where she had been hurt and brutalized.
Willow gasped as two strong male arms wrapped around her and pinned her arms to the side. She struggled against them only to have the arms squeeze tightly, cutting her supply of breath. She was picked up and carried to the rug, she knew what was coming, and struggled harder, kicking and screaming to be released. Shoving her roughly, the girl stumbled to the floor on her hands and knees. As she began raising her capture flipped her onto her back. She gazed up in fear as she made out the pale skin and mad eyes of Ozbourne. Before she could react he had ripped the bodice of her gown and pinned her hands above her head. Suddenly she was standing beside the couple on the floor as the man raped and beat the redhead. Bile rose in Willow’s throat as she witnessed her own rape. Then she was no longer beside herself, but she was feeling the pain and humiliation, only when she looked up, it wasn’t Ozbourne between her legs, it was her husband, Angel. He heaved and jerked, and the pain was unbearable, as he climaxed. Tears streamed her face, and then she heard him speak.
“Truly my dear wife, did you think I would care for you? Not only do I finally have my beloved Elizabeth, but you allowed another man into your body. You bring me nothing but shame. You are to be treated as what you really are, a nuisance and a harlot.” The pain his words brought made her scream.
Angel was sitting by his wife’s bed as she slept. She had been sleeping for the entire day, the potions the healer gave her and the trauma of her body demanded her to rest. He gazed at her troubled features, the bruises on her cheek and eye, and blind fury coursed through him. His mind drifted back to the past few days when she had fled. His heart cried out in anguish every second she was gone. He believed he had felt agony and loneliness when he had witnessed Elizabeth’s wedding. It was nothing compared to what he felt when the first few hours of searching for Willow turned up nothing. Yes he had loved Buffy immensely yet his feelings for his wife made those seem infantile. This small and fragile woman had been strong enough to break through years of closing his heart, an old deep ache he swore would never heal. Her gentle and loving nature had not only cured his hurt but made him a better man in the end His mother was right, his soul had recognized it’s true mate and raged against her being taken from him.
His wonderings came to an abrupt stop when Willow’s blood curdling scream pierced his mind and heart. He looked up to find the redhead crying, screaming and writhing on the large bed. The hair was becoming damp with sweat and her lower limbs were tangled in the sheets. Rising swiftly Angel grabbed for her wrists to try and keep her from damaging herself, only to receive a swift kick to his belly. He sucked in air to fight the pain and tried to subdue her again. Her eyes opened at the contact of his large powerful hands and they held blind fear. He heard her keening pleas as she fought him.
“Please. Please, let me go. I’m sorry. Please don’t hurt me. Don’t hurt me anymore. Please.” The last word was sobbed out.
The master bedchamber door burst open admitting all those that cared for the sobbing woman. Most stood frozen at the gut wrenching scene she painted, but Darla’s maternal instincts made her move swiftly. Removing her son from his wife’s side, the blonde woman, held Willow’s shoulder as she spoke gently yet firmly above her cries.
“Willow, sweeting, look at me. You are safe now. Come on it is time to wake up. Yes that’s it darling.”
Willow looked at her mother in law and sobbed in relief. Her cries tore many hearts as Darla gathered her into her arms. She stroked her long tresses as tears slid down her own face. Why did such a thing have to happen to Willow? She is a good woman, one who is loyal, kind and begrudges one nothing. At that moment, Darla wanted Daniel Ozbourne’s head on a stake, anything to bring him the same anguish this child felt. Faith climbed into the other side of her and placed a hand to Willow’s back. Without releasing her ‘mother’, she turned her head and saw the brunette, whimpering she drew Faith into the ring of comfort. Willow was beginning to feel better sandwiched between the two women, until she saw Angel begin to approach her. Her dream still fresh in her mind, fear gripped her and she burrowed closer to Faith.
“No please.” Was softly spoken but the women heard it. Darla looked at what had suddenly made the redhead more nervous. Understanding came crashing down on her and she wanted to howl with the injustice of it.
“Alright gentlemen, out you go. Don’t worry my boy, I’ll care for her. Janna I need you to explain this to them.” All were escorted out of the room.
“Janna what did mother mean that you had to explain it to us? Explain what?” the healer looked at the master and she saw his helplessness. She did not want to do this by it had to be done.
“Willow is afraid of you.”
“What!? Why would she be afraid of me?”
“My lord she has been raped, that kind of thing makes women wary of men, but her insecurities of herself, the beating and her rape have made this much worse. Willow is no stranger to a beating, she experienced such a thing from her father when she was younger, but this was worse. She was broken and humiliated; she fears that you will do the same to her, for that is what her mother taught her a husband does to his wife. Also she thinks you do not love her, that you merely own her.”
That revelation had rage and sorrow slam into this large and powerful man. After two months of showing her he cared, of the intimacies shared, learning things the other cared and knew of, in general, just knowing each other; all of it had been snatched from them. Willow no longer trusted him but feared him, and that made this all the worse. His need for blood and vengeance rose as he heard a whimper through the closed door. Angel knew he had to rid his wife of her pain, and right now he would begin by ending the life of the miserable whoreson that broke her.
“Will have Giles gather the men in the Great Hall, I will select a few to go with me to find Ozbourne. We leave in four days to hunt down that animal and make him pay for all the pain he has brought to this family.”
“Do you think it wise to leave Willow right now brother? She needs you more than ever and I do not think it wise to leave her alone.”
“I know she needs me William and I intend on getting my wife back. But at this moment I must assure her that Ozbourne will never be a threat to her again. Once he is dead I can concentrate on regaining her trust… and her love.” The last words were softly spoken as he looked to his chamber doors. The great Raven Warrior had been brought down by the pain of a slip of a girl that was his wife, his very life. Now was the time for vengeance, vengeance for himself, for the child he was robbed of and mostly for his wife and the happiness she now lacked.
~Part: 13~
Willow awoke felling sore and pain in various parts of her body. She opened her eyes to find her sister sitting in a chair next to her, her neck at a strange angle as she slept. Willow gazed around the room and realized that the curtains were drawn closed on the large window across the bed. She had been plagued by nightmares through the last few days all involving her husband’s loathing and distaste for her his wife. Since she had returned four days previous she had been sleeping from exhaustion and all the potions she had been given. Her hand strayed to her belly and emptiness filled her so grand she had to struggle for breath. She had lost her babe, one that was created in love, before Elizabeth came back and Angel had turned to the fair haired woman.
Willow sat up on the bed and she moaned as her muscles protested to the strain they had been through lately. Faith awoke at the sound and instantly was at Willow’s side.
“You are awake. How do you feel?”
“I hurt. Not just my body but, deep in me my heart hurts.” She whispered brokenly.
“Oh Willow.” Faith hugged her, but not too tightly. She could only imagine what her sister in law felt like. The poor girl had suffered so much in her short life that if Faith had not witnessed her strength she believed this last thing would have completely destroyed her.
“Where is your mother?” Willow asked her friend.
“She is with Cordelia in the kitchen making sure that Trist prepares your meal adequately.”
“What of the others, where are they?” Willow wished to know where her husband was but she did not want to right out ask.
“Well Elizabeth and Marguerite are preparing to return to Xander’s home soon. We all fear that Daniel will come after them since your escape. Joyce and Janna have been tending to the people in the village; Amy has taken charge of the maids as has mother. Dawn and Cordelia are getting better acquainted. As for the men well, Angel, Giles, William, Wesley, and Xander have chosen some men and have left to find Ozbourne.”
Faith watched as the emotions played on the beaten woman’s features. She saw sadness and regrets then acceptance, but acceptance at what? Willow sat there thinking that she should not have been surprised that Angel would have left so soon. She could only imagine his disgust at her for allowing another to take her, but she had lost their child as well. Her mother’s voice sounded in her head once again.
‘A man, your husband, will want certain things of you. He will not tolerate any other man to take you, no matter what the circumstances. You are to ensure that the child you give him be male and that he remains safe. If any of this is not so then the fault is yours.’
“I wish to bathe myself. There are things I must do in the keep while the men are away.”
Willow left her bed and prepared herself to the best of her abilities, much to Faith’s protest. But the girl would not heed the female warrior. Willow’s spirit and self worth had been brought so low it was almost non existent. Those she knew since she was a child saw the change and feared for the woman. Daniel Ozbourne had been able to accomplish that which her ill mother couldn’t. She barely spoke and was nervous around many of the men and felt safe only when she was with Darla, Joyce, Janna, or Faith. She felt at ease with the other women but not safe. Darla and Buffy both agreed with William that now was not the time for Angel to have left his wife without his presence, who knew how she would react when he returned.
~~~*~~~
Angelus rode in quiet anger with his small army behind and beside him. He hated leaving his love behind but this was something he needed to do for himself as much as he did for her. For months this man had been torturing and disturbing his life and loved ones. He had once told his wife, when they had just been married, that he was someone that prided himself in protecting that which was his. Well he had not shown her so, instead he had made it seem as though she was not as cherished as he proclaimed her to be. His heart was breaking continually, for he was away from his dear poppet and mostly because he could still remember the look of horror on her face when he tried to comfort her along with his mother and sister.
This was something that he would never let go unpunished. Ozbourne, despite Lord Giles’ efforts to prevent it, had managed to break Willow’s spirit. Since ridding out from Rosenberg William and Wes had been constantly saying now was not the time for him to be away from his wife. But how could they know that? They were not the ones that had a wife they loved beyond life and reason, only for her to fear them. They were not the ones wronged when another man, a mad one, orquestrated for said woman to be in his possession only to brutalize and rape her causing the woman to lose the child. So much pain and suffering all brought by one man, a man that would soon feel such pains he would pray for Tuataras. But Angelus would have Willow back as his wife in every sense of the word. He would begin by killing the one responsible for her pain and then he would show her that she had nothing to fear from him.
Joshua, one of Angelus’ best warriors a young man of twenty with black hair and hazel eyes of medium build and just two inches shorter than Angelus himself, informed his master that they had spotted the enemy’s camp. Quickly dividing into three groups, they surrounded the camp and attacked. Battle cries were heard and weapons were bared. As Xander’s sword sliced the head off one of the men they all realized that none where real. These were clothes filled with straw and placed to look like real men.
“Scower the camp!” commanded the Raven Warrior. The men hurried to obey as the nobles gathered close still on their mounts.
“I don’t understand this. Why would Ozbourne leave his camp here full of straw men?” Wesley asked
“He must be trying to divert us from the true location of his camp. He may be mad, but the man is very cunning.” Replied Giles
“My lord we found tracks here.” One called out. William dismounted and strode to the east of the camp where the man stood. Crouching low to the ground he examined the marks. They were horse imprints and they were carrying men, armed men if the depth of the hoof print indicated correctly. Suddenly Will leapt up and began shouting orders.
“Everyone to their horses, we must head back!” the blonde jumped onto his steed and turned to his brother and fellow warriors.
“The marks were made by armed men on horse back. They are headed for Rosenberg. They are taking the south east route to the village. We have been following a decoy trail in hopes to delay us. I fear my brother that the madman has not given up on possessing your wife for his own.”
“Never, that bastard had better not even set eyes on Willow for he will suffer more than what I already plan for him!!”
“I hope that we left sufficient protection for the women at the keep. We did take most of the men with us for this search.” Giles spoke his greatest fear as they all rode like demons leaping from the underworld. He prayed they got there before anymore damage could be done.
~~~*~~~
Darla hovered close to the red head during the day. The blonde feared that Willow would harm herself more than she already was, but not even Janna could succeed in convincing the Lady of Rosenberg to rest. The girl had confided in her that she needed to busy herself in order to keep the nightmares at bay and to fill this sudden void she was left with.
Elizabeth had tried to convince Willow that she and Angel were merely friends now that the blond no longer wished for the dark warrior in such a manner. Her forward and rather unladylike behavior was simply fabricated only in hopes of saving her daughter’s life. But try as she may, Willow could not believe that the two of them would not desire to be together after all that was said and done.
Darla saw as Willow flinched at the mention of her husband’s name. Fear was etched in her features and uncertainty. Finally having enough of this, Darla felt that maybe a bit of strict love would help the matter.
“Everyone leave us! I need to speak to the Lady in privacy. Willow enough of this ridiculous behavior! I know you were raped and that you lost your babe, but do you honestly believe that Angel would ever harm you?” Darla’s voice was firm and gentle.
“Why would he not hurt me? My mother, she told me…”
“What dear one? What did she tell you?” she softened her voice a bit more as she urged the other woman to continue.
“Don’t you see? This is my fault! If I had stayed in the keep Ozbourne would never had captured me and our babe would be safe and alive. But even though I did not stay here, I was captured and I let that animal take me! Why then should Angelus not blame or despise me?” Willow began shedding small tears. Darla moved to soothe her only to have the red head stop her.
“No! I am to blame for this. I was unfaithful to my husband when I allowed Daniel to take me and I failed to protect our child! My mother told me that it was my duty to never allow another to bed me and to ensure that my husband has an heir and I did neither.”
“Now you listen to me young lady! None of what you are saying is true. Yes as women we are meant to be loyal to our husbands, but when and if we are raped as you were, and then we never betrayed them. Angel knows this, he would never blame you he blames Ozbourne. As for the child, again Ozbourne is to blame. I am certain that you fought him to try and keep him from taking you. He is mad my love and he most definitely beat you. We all saw the marks and Janna said that it was not your fault!”
“Then why did my husband flee from here the moment the opportunity arose? I appreciate what you are saying but he does not want me. When we first wed he told me that he could never have the woman he truly wants because she married. Now Elizabeth is a widow and he can have her. I heard when she offered herself to him and he accepted her proposition of taking her as his mistress.”
“First of all I knew you where listening to us so I made certain you misinterpreted the encounter between Angel and me.” Elizabeth spoke from behind the two shouting women. Elizabeth had heard the shouts and followed them to the source, fearing something was amiss. She entered the weaving room, a small room in the western side of the keep. The medium sized windows provided a nice draft to allow the breeze to cool the place without chilling it. They also provided a good view of outside the gates. At that moment Willow was standing in front of them as Darla was close to the spindles. Both facing off in a battle to return the Willow they all loved above anything else.
“What do you mean?”
“Well Willow, Ozbourne knows that you would feel uncertain of your place in Angel’s heart because you are in love with him. He needed me to make you believe that Angel did not want you but me. He knew your noble heart would make you flee allowing him to pursue what you believed he wanted. That morning 10 days ago I knew you where listening. I had proposed that Angelus and I be lovers, only when he did not answer I very quietly asked him if he ever truly loved me. That is what you heard him answer to. Willow, he never agreed to be my lover. If you had stayed longer maybe you would have heard as Angel threatened to cut himself completely from my life if I did not cease in my pursuits. He even offered to help me find a suitable husband and father for Marguerite.”
“He did that?” Willow’s voice was small and unsure, but there was no mistaking the hope in her voice.
“Yes Willow. Angel loves you, more than he ever did me.” Elizabeth assured the red head hoping this would help her to begin healing.
“If you doubt her then believe me. When I first arrived not 12 days had passed when he confessed to me his growing feelings for you. He had once vowed to never allow a woman to have reign over his heart and yet you had gotten past all his barriers and it confused him to no end. But he was certain of one thing; all he desired was you by his side and happy for the rest of time.”
“Then why did he leave so soon after I was returned?” Willow was beginning to doubt all of her beliefs, but then if he loved her so much then why had he left.
“He left because he wanted Ozbourne to pay for hurting you. He told us that he felt that in order for you to begin healing and to gain your trust once more, he needed to remove this threat. He would not rest until justice had been done for the things done to you, and he could not bear to see fear of him from you.”
“Oh Goddess.”
Willow finally allowed her doubts to melt away. She knew that Darla would do anything to reunite her eldest son with his wife, but she’d never lie. Also if Elizabeth and Angel were lovers, then why would the woman defend and justify her supposed lover’s actions to his wife, allowing for the two to become close again. No what the two blondes said was the truth and that meant that her husband did not blame her, he cherished and loved her as he had professed the night she had been brought to the keep.
Tears flowed from Willow’s tightly clenched eyes as she sunk to the floor. Relief, grief, anger and finally hope flowed through her. It may take time for her to allow Angel to be intimate with her, but she did not have to fear his wrath and disgust towards her.
The women heard shouts and curses coming from the walls at the gates. As Elizabeth held and rocked the redhead Darla walked to the window to investigate. Fear clenched the older woman’s throat. Outside the wall was the Duke of Rotham with at least thirty men and in front of the duke on his horse with a knife to her throat was Dawn. The young girl had a bruise on her face and was bound, tears running down her face. Faith came into the room at that moment.
“Oh Gods, Willow, Ozbourne is at the gates and he has Dawn with him. He is demanding you speak with him or he will kill her.” The words were rushed, but Willow’s actions where faster. The lady raced out the doors, through the keep, across the courtyard and up the stairs to the top of the gate walls. Elizabeth right behind her, fear of her sisters well being making her run like the wind; Darla and Faith followed.
“I am here Daniel. Let the girl go and we will talk.”
“I have a better idea, we make an exchange. You, for this pretty little thing here.”
There was silence at the events. It was ironic how the master had gathered a small army to hint down this dog in order to protect his wife, only to have the enemy come to her. Willow took a deep breath and stepped to the stairs to climb down. Faith grabbed her arm, halting her process.
“What do you think you are doing?”
“I can’t let him kill her. It is me he wants and I am the lady of Rosenberg, it is my place to see that no one is harmed her in my husband’s absence.” She freed her arm and ran down before any could catch her. It was amazing at how she seemed so small and helpless just the day before, but called on all her strength when another’s life and safety was at stake.
“Willow you cannot do this!” It was Cordelia. She had heard what was happening from Marcus and raced to stop Willow. The duchess of Summershaven knew that her cousin would not hesitate to the exchange if it meant Dawn’s safety.
“I have no choice.” As the gate lowered Willow checked she had the dagger she kept hidden her skirts ever since her rape. She strode out and faced off with her tormentor and greatest fear. If she could survive this encounter then things would be better, they just had to be.
“Alright Ozbourne here I am. Now let Dawn go.”
Willow stood six feet from them all. Every archer had an arrow aimed at the madman, fear for their lady’s safety in their minds there were warriors with their weapons ready to run out to their lady’s rescue at any moment now. Ozbourne moved forward another two feet then dismounted and shoved Dawn away from him. The girl was no longer needed, Willow was all that mattered. He reached out for the redhead he was going to punish her for fleeing and then her would make sure she never left him.
~Part: 14~
As Daniel’s hand closed over Willow’s upper arm, an arrow flew by slashing his forearm. Enraged, the Duke turned to see who had dared to shoot at him. A thunderous and angry voice sounded on the field.
“Take your hand off of her you miserable whoreson or I will kill you right where you stand!”
The voice belonged to Angelus of Rivendale-Fawke, the Raven Warrior. He was said to be a savage yet honorable warrior but when one harmed that and those he held dear, one would prefer to face Hades himself than the Warrior. At that very moment, Daniel knew fear like never before. His hand stiffened on Willow’s arm and dragged her close to his body. He distantly heard her whimper of pain, but could not savor it, for in that moment all he could think of was fleeing with his life, and maybe his prize. He looked back at the red head and knew that she was the only thing keeping him alive, that as long as he kept her near him, then Angelus would do nothing to endanger her further. Spinning her in his grasp, Ozbourne withdrew a dagger and placed it at her left breast, directly over her heart.
“Come any closer to me and I will kill her!”
Angelus and his men stopped in their tracks at seeing the man’s intent. None of them wanted any more harm to come to the girl. By all that was sacred she had been raped and beaten by this man not so long ago and here she was in his grasp once again. What could be going through her mind? The terror she must feel at this. Angelus looked at his wife’s face; he took notice of her pale features and rounded darkened eyes full of fear and determination. But determination of what?
Daniel stepped back with the redhead still clutched o his chest. Angel and the others saw as his men clustered before the pair, some dismounted and all prepared to battle. Ozbourne had reached his horse, the dagger never letting up the pressure over Willow’s left breast. The madman handed her to one of his most trusted soldiers and the soldier held his own weapon to the girl’s throat. As soon as he was settled on the steed he reached down and pulled her in front of him in the same manner he had Dawn.. Placing the knife to her breast once more Daniel began backing up the horse.
“Take a good look at her Lord Rivendale for it shall be the last time you ever see her.” He waited a second d before turning the horse and galloping away.
Angel was seething with rage and drowning in fear. He had been a fool, he should have stayed behind as the others had suggested. If he had done so then Willow would not be in danger once more. It seemed like the fates liked tormenting them, because no matter how much he vowed or desired her safety, Willow was constantly in danger. He saw as the puny little bastard dragged her back, as he handed her to the soldier that dared to point a weapon to his beloved’s throat, then as she was positioned in front of his enemy. The words shouted by the man only made Angel’s anger rise and as he turned to flee with that which was his. A primal scream flew from deep within. Withdrawing his sword Angel engaged in battle.
“Attack! We must retrieve the Lady of Rosenberg.”
Wesley, William, Giles and Xander all heard the scream that was rent from their friend and brother. They had all heard it before it was a primal and animalistic sound of rage, pain and sorrow. All knew Angel had planned on capturing and torturing Ozbourne, but know the man would die swiftly and painfully. Then the order to fight was given and every man from Rosenberg and the ones that were brought from Summershaven attacked. The thirty men from Rotham were no match for them and were soon dispatched of.
While the others fought, Angel, Giles and William broke apart from the battle to chase after Willow. Marcus and two others had done the same and were soon right next to the three noblemen. Their target was in sight not more than fifteen paces ahead.
Daniel looked back at the sound of hoof beats on the ground. Five men were behind them and gaining fast. While his head was turned Willow took advantage to bite the arm that was wrapped about her chest. Having not been expecting such a thing her captor screamed and jerked on the horse’s reigns. The beast reared back and soon both riders and the animal had toppled to the ground. The redhead scrambled quickly to her feet and began running. She had to stop when she came to the edge of a cliff. She turned to try and run before it was too late, but Ozbourne was already there.
“You shouldn’t have done that love. Now come away from there and let us be on our way home. You have to be properly disciplined for fleeing from me.”
“No, Daniel listen to me. I was never yours and I never will be. I have a husband and he has inherited everything, the king gave his blessing to giving him all that was my father’s at his request. As for me, my heart belongs to Angel and no other.”
“Never, that is not true! You think that you felt pain that day in my home? Oh my dear that is nothing compared to what I will make you endure for your betrayal and audacity. You will never be free of me. I will always come for you Willow. Always, you belong to me and no other.” His voice was cold and cruel.
In that instant all of Willow’s anger and fear at what Daniel Ozbourne had put her through surfaced. Her hand gripped the dagger firmly as she withdrew it and lunged for him. Daniel held on to her wrists trying to subdue her. But Willow was lost to reason and her emotions were giving her the strength she needed. She felt as the dagger came closer to his breast and then as it slid into his chest. Blood poured forward from the wound and she pressed forward until it was buried to the hilt. With what little strength he possessed in him Ozbourne held on to Willow as he fell from the edge of the cliff, taking her with him. If she was not his in life then she would be in death.
“WILLOW! NO!”
Angel saw as his wife stuck her knife into the whoreson’s chest and he felt pride for her. He smiled knowing that it was now over. But soon his smile faded as he saw the bastard grip her tighter then fall off the cliff with her still locked in his arms. He screamed his denial. No it couldn’t end like this. The powers would not be so cruel. He quickly dismounted and rushed to the edge looking over. He knew he would see his beautiful poppet locked in death’s embrace at the bottom. He knew he would see her bruised body crushed and bleeding still held in Ozbourne’s arms.
“Angel.”
He could still hear her calling him. Her voice soft and distant.
“Angel!”
“Willow! Oh gods, Angel it’s Willow. Look she’s still alive.” William shouted with joy and relief. The darker man threw himself to the ground and edged closer to the edge of the cliff. Hanging from a branch was his wife; she was holding on to a branch that was growing from the side of the cliff. Her clothes and hair were mused, she had dirt smudged on her face and tears were steaming down her cheeks.
“Angel help me. The branch cant’ hold me for much longer,” as if to confirm her statement, the plant cracked a bit making Willow squeal.
Angel told the others to hold on to one another forming a human chain and lowered Angel to his wife. He clasped his hands around her chest and she wound her arms around his neck. Soon she was lifted to the ground and weeping in her husband’s arms.
“It’ over. It’s finally over.” She whispered.
“Yes poppet. It is finally over. Come let’s get you home.” Angel lifted her in his arms and never let her go as they returned to the castle. He was pleasantly surprised that she did not shy away from him, but seemed to try to get closer. For her part Willow was glad that he was touching her. In difference to that first nigh after her rape, his touch didn’t frighten her, it made her feel safe and welcomed. She only hoped he would be patient when it came to his bedding her. She still felt frightened of the act, despite her new belief of him never hurting her. Hopefully the other women would be able to help her recover in this as Darla and Elizabeth had in her fear of Angelus.
~Part: 15~
It had been two months since Willow had killed Ozbourne. As a result Angel had gained the man’s lands, money and title as spoils of battle, the king had told him to do with it all as he pleased. So in order to help his brother with his pursuit of Dawn, Angel had given all that was once Daniel Ozbourne’s to William, who was now the Duke of Rotham, had at least equal to two thirds the full wealth Angelus had and another village and keep. Now Castle Rosenberg was being prepared for a wedding Faith had finally accepted Wesley’s proposals, and celebrating the betrothal of William and Dawn.
Elizabeth had fallen in love with one of the few good men amongst the soldiers that were at Rotham, Graham. She did not care he was not of high noble ranking, a mere knight, or exceedingly wealthy. He was a good man, noble in nature, strong, caring and Marguerite adored him, he had helped protect her during her capture by Ozbourne. All that had been her husband’s had been given to his brother upon death, since Elizabeth had not produced a son, but she was allowed Sunnydale as her own and Marguerite’s dowry when she married. The village and keep would be given to her new husband, but the wealth and title was not part of the agreement.
Willow had suffered of nightmares every night about her rape and Daniel’s death. She did not feel immense guilt over taking his life, for she had to protect herself, but it still plagued her dreams. Angel had been incredibly patient with her, holding her whenever she awoke screaming from her nightmares, never touching her in a sexual way, giving her the space and time she needed to recover. And through it all he never once sought another woman to relieve the incredible lust he felt for her.
“Oh Faith you look absolutely breathtaking.” Cordelia spoke to her raven haired friend, bringing Willow out of her reminiscing of the resent events. But as soon as she said the words the poor girl had to dash to the chamber pot. Janna had just told the young woman that she was with child, and the poor duchess of Summershaven was suffering from morning sickness.
“Do I really? I want to look my best.” All those that knew Faith realized that she was very nervous about her wedding day.
“Yes you do my darling daughter. Oh how many days I had prayed you would finally give in to Wesley and finally marry him. Now my eldest boy is married, William will soon marry Dawn and move to his own lands and keep, and today my baby finally takes a husband. A mother could not ask for more, well maybe grandchildren but those can wait.” Darla spoke with such pride and longing that all felt giddy for her. Willow’s mind wandered to the babe she had lost. Her belly would be round with child now and her babe would have arrived in another four months. The red head looked to Cordelia and she envied her cousin the good fortune she now had. But hopefully someday soon she could grant her mother in law the news of a grandchild.
At that moment Joyce came into the room to announce the beginning of the wedding.
“The priest has arrived and poor Wesley is anxious to finally have you as his wife. So let us be on our way.” All the women followed her out to the great hall to begin the celebrating.
~~~*~~~
Angel smiled as he saw his now married sister dance and laugh in delight. Wesley would see that she would be protected and happy. He would never forbid her of the things that brought her so much joy. He looked beyond her to his brother and his bride to be. They were seated in front of the hearth enjoying each other’s company and the warmth. His gaze continued to his dear friend Alexander and his wife Cordelia. They were so much in love and happy, plus they now expected their first child; Buffy though was twirling Marguerite around in a circle as Graham gazed on in fondness and longing. He suspected it was only a matter of time before the man proposed to the woman that once held his heart. He looked for Willow and found her speaking to his mother. The red head smiled fondly nodded her head and then left the hall. Angel was surprised and a bit worried. She preferred being in company of others her nightmares making her fear the solitude.
He strode to his mother a worried frown adorning his handsome face.
“Mother, where did Willow go to? Is she alright?”
“She just felt a bit tired. She asked me tell you she had retired for the evening to your chambers. Also she bade me to say that she much preferred you to join her soon if you desired to do so.” Darla smiled reassuringly to her eldest son.
“I believe I will retire then.” He turned to his guests and raised his voice.
“I thank you all for coming to celebrate such a glorious occasion with us. My dearest Faith, you now have a husband and home of your own. You will soon journey with him to a new life as we all must some day do. I wish you all the happiness in the world. Wesley, you are one of my oldest friends and I doubt not that you love her very much, but heed me, if you ever hurt her I will hunt you down.”
“As will I.” added William. He smiled to him as he held his beloved tighter in his arms.
“Ah, William, I do not forget that soon we will celebrate your own wedding to the fair Dawn. To all of you present I wish to leave you this message before I retire for the evening. Cherish the ones you love. If you are ever fortunate to find the one meant for you as I and my family have, do not turn them away. Hold on to them for as long as you can, and protect them with all your being. There is nothing better in this world than the love of your destined mate. I bid you all a goodnight and a safe journey to those that must return to your homes in the morrow. May the gods bless you all.” He looked to Alexander, Cordelia, Elizabeth, Marguerite and Graham, knowing they would depart at dawn to their own keeps. He would say his goodbyes to his mother brother, his bride to be, Faith and Wesley later next day. Right now he just wanted to hold his wife in his arms.
When Angel opened the door to his bedchambers the sweet scent of jasmine and lavender assaulted his senses. Willow had bathed herself then. He sighed as he realized just how long it had been since he had made love to her, but squelched his desires quickly knowing that she was not ready for such intimacy yet. He stripped his dark green tunic, the same one Willow had made for him so long ago. He froze as he felt small warm hands tentatively touch his bared skin. One of the hands trailed up to his right shoulder and traced the phoenix that was painted into his skin. Warm lips kissed the bird and a shiver ran through him. Slowly Angel turned to look down into his wife’s green eyes. He cupped her face in his hands and kissed the tip of her nose. He was shocked and aroused as she lifted on the tips of her toes to softly kiss his full lips. As she drew back he asked her, his voice deep and raw with need.
“Are you certain my love? Is this what you want?”
“Yes Angel. I know it has been a long time since we have been intimate, but I am ready. I want you. I need you. Will you make love to me husband?” her voice was soft and low, so full of uncertainty it made him hurt.
“There is nothing I would want more than to make love to you. But are you certain you are ready for this? The last time we attempted to make love you could not get his image out of your mind.” His voice held worry and understanding.
Willow remembered the last time she had approached him for this. It was five weeks ago that they had been in this very room engaging in the act of love. He had aroused her and made her feel wanted. Angel had gone slowly with her and was as gentle as one would be with a new born babe, but the moment her pushed into her, when she felt his weight settle upon and within her, she had panicked. It was not his face, his body that was with her, but Ozbourne’s. He had withdrawn from her and clamed her of her fears; simply held her while she cried over what she had felt and seen. Angel had assured her that it would be alright, that he would wait eternity if need be, as long as she felt safe and happy it was all he cared for.
“I am certain. I no longer have to fear Daniel. He is dead, stabbed with my own dagger. I refuse to allow him to win, to keep me from the one I love. I have been speaking with Janna and your mother; they have helped me move past that. What he did to me no longer matters; all that does is that I love you more than anything in this world. I want to be your wife, in every way possible. I miss you and what you make me feel. So tonight I stand here before you asking you to make me yours once more. Please Angelus, make love to me.”
Willow lifted her head to kiss him once more and she heard him groan softly into her mouth. Now after so many months of holding one another and not being able to express their love, they would finally be able to do so. She had prepared and expected him to be frantic with need and longing but no, he was gentle and slow, as he had been their second night of marriage.
Angel slowly walked them to the edge of the bed. When his legs impacted with the mattress he lifted his head from hers and simply looked at her. He loved her so very much, he never wanted to be away from her. His hands found the fastenings to her night shift, and with trembling fingers he undid them. Willow was far from idle. As Angel slowly divested her, she undid his breeches, releasing his hardened member. Once they were both naked, Angel lowered her to the bed, enjoying the feel of her warm body underneath him. He stroked and caressed her making sure to prepare her for him. He trailed kisses down the length of her and when his mouth touched her she grunted in pleasure and lifted her hips.
“Angel!” she breathed his name. He continued to kiss and work her into a powerful climax. As she came down from her release Angel crawled back up and settled between her splayed thighs. He kissed her and spoke into her mouth.
“I love you.”
“And I love you Angel”
When he entered her, he looked into her deep green eyes and saw only love and trust in them. His heart sang and he felt relief at finding no fear or pain in her. They moved as one, reclaiming that which he feared they had lost. Their mating was slow and sweet both achieving their passion at the same time. When it was done, he did not retrieve from her, simply rolled to their sides and held on to her His hand stoked her long silky hair as she traced sensual figures on his back.
“I have missed you.” He finally spoke.
“I know. Thank you Angel, For being so patient and understanding with me. Not many men would have been.”
“I only want what is best for you. I wish only for your happiness and safety, I could never hurt you.” He held her closer to him wanting to reassure her of his confession.
“I believe that. I will never again doubt you, or believe what my poor mother told me. She was wrong and ill. Now that there is no more danger to us, we can build our lives together as we were meant to.”
“Aye we will. Rest now sweeting, it has been a long day.” He kissed her temple and simply held her. When he heard her even breathing and knew she was asleep he allowed his mind to revisit every memory and feeling her had from the moment he set foot in Rosenberg. All the pain, the worry, the sorrow, and fear he felt were now in the past. He had only the love, warmth, happiness, and excitement to look forward to. Closing his eyes he joined his love in sleep. He thanked the goddess and god for everything good in his life, but most of all for Willow and the love they shared, praying that soon they would become a larger family.
THE END