Bonds

E-Mail: jackieb@kconline.com

Disclaimer: BtVS and AtS belong to Joss and Co.  I'm just borrowing them.

Distribution: Take if you want.  Just send me an email letting me know.

Pairings:  W/A  S/B

Rating:  PG-13 - for now

Feedback:  Please!  All feedback is appreciated!

Spoilers: Through Season 5

Dedication:  Thanks to Jeannette for beta reading and Jerri for helping me brainstorm.

Summary:  Willow makes a decision that changes her life.

Author's Note:  It's been six months since Buffy died.  She came back three months ago.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
 

~Chapter: 1~

“Are you crazy?!”  Buffy yelled.  “You’re not doing it Willow!”

“This isn’t your decision!”  Willow replied as she stood toe to toe with the Slayer.  It was going worse than she thought possible.

“This isn’t a game.  This will put you at constant risk.”  Moving away, Buffy began to pace.  “God, Will, don’t you get it?  You could die!”

“I watched you being buried.  I’m very aware of that risk.  And it scares me.”  Running her hands through her hair, Willow tried to make her
understand.  “But your example gives me the courage I need.  After everything you’ve been through you still go out and make the world safer.  For
me, for your family, and for your friends.  How can I do any less.”

Buffy stopped and faced Willow.   “There is nothing noble or pure about my reasons for fighting.   I’d love to hide at home and pretend it doesn’t
exist but the moment I do, I put you, all of you, at risk.”

“But by doing this I can help you with that burden.”

“No, no, no!”  Buffy interrupted.  “Don’t you realize how much you’ve helped me by just being you?  God, Willow, when I first became the Slayer I
thought any chance I had at a normal life was over.  But with your friendship you showed me I could have friends, family, even love and still save
the world.  And with everything I’ve gone through that has been my anchor.  I won’t, I can’t, lose you.”

Brushing away the tears running down her face, Willow hugged her.  “That isn’t going to happen.  I love you.  And no matter what, I’ll always be
your friend.”   Stepping back she looked around the Magic Shop at the others.  She could tell by the looks on their faces that they were keeping
quiet in the hope that Buffy would talk some sense into her.  “I’m sorry.  I never wanted to hurt any of you. “

“Willow, it’ll be okay,” Buffy said as she reached out and stroked Willow’s face.

“Goddess, I hope so. “  Willow moved back, closer to the door.  “I’m just not sure if you’ll ever forgive me.”  Holding up her hand, Willow whispered,
“Thicken.”  Suddenly, Buffy and the others were unable to move.

“Willow!”  Ignoring Buffy’s shout, Willow turned and ran out of the shop.

**********

Standing outside the door of an old house on the outskirts of town, Willow hesitated.  Once she knocked, her life would be irrevocably changed.
That had become clear after the last scene with Buffy.  Enough!  This was the right thing to do.  Setting her resolve face, Willow reached up and
knocked.  She would just have to trust that, given time Buffy would accept her decision.

The door opened quickly, telling Willow that Galena had been aware of her arrival.

“So you have decided?”

Willow studied the girl who had changed her life so much in the past two months.  When people first meet Galena they saw a fragile, young woman,
with black hair and blue eyes.  But after months of learning magick from her, Willow knew the only part of that description that fit was her coloring.
Galena was older than Angel, and having survived the Inquisition, several wars and assorted demons, fragile is the last word that could be used to
describe her.

“Yes, I want to become a Sister.”  Galena held open the door for Willow to come in and led her into the living room.  Taking in the pentagram drawn
on the floor, Willow looked questioningly at her.

“I knew you would accept.”  Sitting within the pentagram, Galena gestured for Willow to sit across from her.  “This is not to be taken lightly.  From
this day forward you will always be fighting.  Against evil as well as those who hunt us.  You will be able to access the memories and abilities of the
Sisters, living and dead, to aid you.  As we will be able to use yours.  The only way to sever the bond is to break your vow.”

“Are you going to do the spell or talk all night?”  At the sound of a new voice, both girls jumped and turned towards the bedroom door.  Standing in
the doorway was Galena’s Protector, a small brunette, whose resemblance to Galena marked her as a blood sister.

“Manda!  When did you get back and why didn’t you come in the front door?”  Galena asked in exasperation.

Walking over to join them, Manda dropped the duffel bag she was carrying on the coffee table and removed her leather trench coat, revealing the
sword strapped to her side.  “I just arrived.  As for using the front door, if I was going to do that I might as well put up a neon sign saying - Sister
within, all demons welcomed - and be done with it.”

“Hunters?” Galena asked as Manda started pulling knives out of the bag and putting them on.

“Well, I’ve come across five demons, two of which we no longer need to worry about by the way, in the past hour.  So I’d say that’s a yes.  Either
that, or there’s a demon convention in town nobody mentioned to us.”  Sliding two knives in each of her boots, she continued, “Right now they’re all
minor demons, so the cloaking spell will hide us from them.  But, sooner or later, someone more powerful is going to show up to and our cover is
going to be blown.  So you two be good little witches and do your spell.”

The news about the demons had Willow worried.  She’d have to rethink her plans.  “Where did you see the demons?”

“They were camping out at the old high school.  They were hunting in a pack.  Which is why I didn’t kill them,” Manda cautioned.

“Could they be taken with magick?”

“Maybe.  There are things a demon can do to protect itself against magical attacks.”  Manda shrugged her shoulders when Willow looked at her
questioningly.  “After the ceremony you’ll know more about that then I do.  The only thing I can suggest is if you do go after them don’t go alone.
Take the Slayer.”

Willow shook her head vehemently.  “I won’t.”  Realizing that her words could be interpreted two ways, she clarified, “I mean, I won’t go alone.”

“Since that’s settled, let’s do the spell,” Galena said.  As Willow and Galena prepared to start the spell, Manda stepped back and took up a guard
position behind them.

Picking up the ceremonial dagger, Galena made a shallow cut across her wrist.  Letting her blood flow into the chalice between them she started the
spell.

By the power of my blood I claim you as Sister
I willingly share with you my knowledge and power
To use in our battle against evil

Pulling her wrist back, Galena passed the knife to Willow.  Quickly slicing her wrist, Willow held her hand over the cup.

By the power of blood I claim you as Sister
I willingly accept your gift
And give to you my aid in your battle

Next Willow picked up the chalice and drank from it before passing it to Galena.  After they had both drank the blood, they said the rest of the spell.

Freely given, freely accepted, consecrated in blood
Neither time nor death can tear asunder
The bond formed by blood

As they finished, blue and white lights encircled them until they entwined into one column of light.  The lights flashed, lighting the room, before
disappearing, leaving the two witches lying unconscious in the pentagram.

**********

Several hours later, Willow was waiting outside of the old high school.  She could feel her stomach knotting in nervous anticipation.  It wasn’t the
fight she was worried about, at least not the one with the demons.  The fight with Buffy and Spike, that was a different story.  Over the past six
months she and Spike had become friends.  Somehow she doubted he would take the news any better than Buffy.  They both had a tendency to be
overprotective.

Willow knew they were there, it was just a matter of locating them.  Giving a silent sigh, she knew it couldn’t be put off any longer.  Closing her
eyes, she reached out with her enhanced senses.   There, over to the left.  Moving quietly, Willow made her way over to them.  “Buffy.  Spike.”  As
they stepped out of the shadows, Willow could see they were carrying a sword and an ax.

“We’re here.  Now, why did you want us to meet you here and why do we need weapons?”  Buffy asked.  From her tone of voice Willow could tell
she was still upset about their earlier fight.  But, it was a good sign she showed up without any arguments.

Willow paused and took a deep breath.  This was it.  What happened after this would determine her future.  Ignoring the voice that was telling her
she already knew the outcome, Willow explained, “There are three demons camped out inside.”

“Are they planning on opening the Hellmouth?”

“No.”  Willow hesitated, afraid of how Buffy would react to the rest of it.  “They’re Hunters.”

Before Buffy could speak, Spike stepped forward so he was toe to toe with Willow.  “Bloody hell!  You’re a Sister!”   At her nod, Spike started yelling
at her.  “Are you out of your bleeding mind?  You could get yourself killed!  And that’s if you’re lucky!”

Grabbing Spike’s arm, Buffy pulled him away from Willow.  At her glare, Spike shifted his ax so he could cross his arms over his chest.  “As much as I
agree with Spike, now is not the time.  Who, or what, are these Hunters?”

“Exactly what they sound like, Blondie.”   Seeing that Buffy was about to lose her temper, he explained, “They hunt, and kill, the coven of witches
known as the Sisters.”

“They’re not going to get Willow,” Buffy said as she unsheathed her sword.

“I’ll agree with you on that.”  Walking towards the school, Spike asked.  “Where do we start looking?”

“The library.”

Willow watched them walk into the school before following them.  No, there weren’t any arguments.  They just didn’t plan on giving her a choice.
Entering the school, Willow slowly made her way to the library.  She wasn’t in a hurry; she already knew the outcome.  Three minor demons weren’t
a match for Buffy and Spike.  And once she reached the library she would have to tell them she was leaving.  The one thing this had shown her was
that she couldn’t stay in Sunnydale.  She had taken a vow to actively fight evil but Buffy, and Spike, was too protective to let her do her job.  As
much as she had hoped otherwise, she wasn’t surprised by this turn of events.  She had already planned her next step.

Reaching the library door, Willow arrived in time to see Buffy kill the last demon.  This was it.  Time to say goodbye.  But, first, she had one final
thing to do.  She wanted to give her friends peace of mind.  They would need it in the coming months.  So would she.

As Buffy and Spike joined her, Willow grabbed their hands and cast her spell.  A brief feeling of warmth passed through all three as the spell worked.

“Willow!  What did you do?”  Buffy asked in surprise.

“I cast a spell to create a link between us.”  Willow stared at them, trying to burn their images into her mind.

Seeing the tears in her eyes, Spike was concerned.  “A link for what, luv?”

“It will allow us to know if any of us are hurt or … or in trouble.”  Willow couldn’t bring herself to use the word dead.

Buffy felt herself turn pale.  She knew what was coming but wanted desperately for Willow to deny it.  “Why would we need the link?  With all of us
in Sunnydale, we’d already know if there was something wrong.”

“Because I’m leaving.  Tonight.”  Fighting back her tears, Willow turned and left the library.

“Willow!”

Willow stopped walking and turned to face them.  The concern and tears in their eyes almost made her break down.  “Please, please, accept this.
I don’t want to use my magick against you again.”

At this, Buffy changed what she was going to say.  “Where are you going?”

Willow looked from Buffy to Spike.  She couldn’t tell them.  She couldn’t hurt them any more than she already had.  “I…I’m not sure.  I’ll call you
when I decide.”  With that she walked out of the school and to her car.

Getting into the car, Willow started it and headed for the highway.  She knew where she was going.  She was going to the only friend she had left.
The one, she hoped, who would understand.  She was headed for LA.

Back at the school, Spike held Buffy as she cried.
 

~Chapter: 2~

Willow stood outside the Hyperion and stared at the door. All the way here she had told herself that Angel would understand. That he would help. But now that she was here all of her doubts surfaced. What if his reaction was the same as Buffy’s and Spike’s? Where would she go? There was no one else she could turn to. Willow knew there was no going back. The minute she had bonded with Galena her path had been set. But, Goddess, she didn’t want to do it alone.

Willow shook her head and smiled sadly, as she realized that in less than twenty-four hours she was once again standing outside a door contemplating her future. Saying a quick prayer for luck, Willow opened the door and entered.

“Angel,” Willow called. Looking around the empty foyer, Willow pushed aside the memories of her last visit.

“Willow. Did something happen?” Angel asked hesitantly as he made his way down the stairs. He wasn’t sure if he could handle anymore bad news.

Turning towards him, Willow tried to smile. “N-no. E-everyone’s okay.” Seeing how anxious he was, she knew he was remembering when Buffy died. Willow wanted to reassure him, to ease the dread in his eyes. But, no matter how she tried, she couldn’t get the words out. It was like there was a fist trapping the words in her chest, causing it to ache. She wasn’t sure if getting the words out would help or make it hurt worse.

Reaching the bottom of the stairs, Angel walked over to stand in front of Willow. At her words his fear changed to concern. He could see the pain in her eyes and he wanted to comfort her but he wasn’t sure how. All the times before, Willow was the one to offer succor. Even when she had told him about Buffy’s death, despite how broken up she was, she had tried to ease his pain. Now that she was the one in need, he wasn’t sure what to do. Hesitantly, Angel reached out and cupped her cheek. “Willow, what’s wrong?”

At his gently touch Willow felt something break inside of her. With a low moan of pain, she flung herself into his arms and began to cry. “Buffy and Spike. I had to leave. It’s my fault. I couldn’t make them understand.” Willow tried to stop crying. But now that she had started she couldn’t stop. “I can’t lose her. I can’t.”

“Shh. It’ll be all right.” Angel held her as he felt her body shake with the force of her tears. He still didn’t know what had happened but there would be time for questions later. Right now the best thing for her would be to cry herself out. Wanting to make her more comfortable, Angel swept her up in his arms and carried her up to his room. Once there he bent down and tenderly placed her on the bed.

Feeling Angel release her, Willow tightened her arms around his neck. “Don’t leave me.”

“I’m not going anywhere, little one,” Angel said as he gently eased her hands away so he could sit on the bed.

Opening her eyes, Willow watched as Angel quickly took of his shoes and turned to stretch out beside her. Before he could reach for her, Willow moved back into his arms, seeking the solace he offered.

Softly stroking her hair, Angel held her while she cried herself to sleep.

**********

Late the next morning, Angel stood beside the bed and watched Willow pretend to sleep. He knew she was trying to put off their confrontation. He could give her a little more time, but they had to talk. Sitting on the edge of the bed, Angel brushed her hair back from her face. “I laid some clothes out for you. I figured you’d want to take a shower before we talked.”

Opening her eyes, Willow sat up. Focusing her gaze on the blankets to avoid looking at him, she agreed, “That sounds like a good idea.” When he didn’t move, Willow reluctantly moved her gaze up to his eyes.

“It doesn’t matter what you tell me. I’ll be here for you.” Holding her chin so she couldn’t look away, Angel continued, “Just like you’ve always been for me.”

Seeing the sincerity in his eyes, Willow gave him her first genuine smile since arriving. “Thanks.”

Letting go of her chin, Angel stood up. “There’s some coffee on the dresser. I figured you could use it,” Angel said as he made his way to the door.

At the mention of coffee, Willow jumped out of bed and rushed over to get it. Pausing in the doorway, Angel watched in fascination as Willow closed her eyes in bliss at the first taste.

“Oh! Caffeinated coffee.” Angel felt his body react as Willow slowly opened her eyes and smiled at him in pleasure. “I’m not usually allowed to have this at home.”

Angel pushed away his wayward thoughts at the flash of pain that crossed her face. Trying to distract her, Angel asked “Did I just do something I’m going to regret?”

Laughing, Willow set down the cup and went to push him out the door. “I’ll take a shower and be right down.” Giving Angel a sweet look, she continued, “And if you’re really worried about the caffeine then I’d suggest breakfast. It’s been known to take the edge off.”

“Save the innocent look for someone else. I’m not buying.” Angel couldn’t help smiling at the fake look of offense she gave him. “But if you’re a good girl and hurry and get cleaned up I’ll see about making you some eggs.”

“It’s a deal,” Willow declared as she shut the door in his face.

Still smiling, Angel listened as Willow hurried to get ready. Ignoring the part of his brain that wanted to focus on Willow in the shower, Angel turned and headed downstairs. He wanted to fix her breakfast but first he had to check in with the others and see how their current case was coming. Grimacing, Angel imagined the scene that would ensue if he didn’t. That was something he wanted to avoid for Willow’s sake.

**********

Wrapping a towel around her, Willow went back to the bedroom. She felt better after her shower. She was done with the self-pity. Willow had made the right choice. The only choice. Buffy may never understand it but given time she would accept it. Their friendship had survived worse. This would change their relationship but she knew neither of them were willing to give it up. For now she had responsibilities to fulfill. And a friend to help her.

Picking up the clothes Angel had laid out, Willow giggled. The shirt would be big on her but she could wear it. The sweatpants were a different story. Deciding to wear the t-shirt with her jeans, Willow tossed the pants back onto the chair and got dressed.

Willow stared at the phone as she sat on the bed to pull on her socks and shoes. She needed to call Buffy. She would be worried and Willow already felt guilty enough for not calling last night. Seeing that it was early enough for Buffy to still be at home, Willow picked up the phone and dialed her number.

Listening to the phone ring, Willow became nervous. It was easy enough to make a decision. The hard part was following through.

“Hello.” Willow grinned at Dawn’s breathless greeting, knowing she had run to beat her sister to the phone.

“Hi, Dawnie. Can I talk to Buffy?”

“Willow! Are you okay? Man, it’s so cool that you joined a coven. When you get back can you teach me some spells?”

“I’m fine. And I’d be more than willing to show you some spells. With your sister’s approval.”

“That’s not fair. She’ll never agree.” Whatever else she was going to say was cutoff as Buffy grabbed the phone.

“Willow!”

“Hey! I was talking!”

“Not now, Dawn. Willow where are you? Are you okay? I was worried.”

“I’m fine. I didn’t mean to worry you but I was too upset to call last night,” Willow answered, trying to avoid where she was.

“God, Willow, I’m sorry. I just don’t know what I’d do if something happened to you.” Buffy paused and took a deep breath before continuing. “Willow, come home. We can deal with this together.”

Willow closed her eyes tempted by the offer. “I can’t. Not now.”

“Willow,” Buffy pleaded.

“It wouldn’t work.”

“Alright. I won’t push. But at least tell me where you are.”

Willow was silent as she debated whether or not to tell her. It would relieve some of her worries. But she wasn’t sure how she would react otherwise.

“Willow? Willow are you still there?” The concern in Buffy’s voice helped her to decide.

“I’m at Angel’s.” Willow tensed as she waited for Buffy’s response.

“You went to Angel?” Buffy tried to keep the jealousy out of her voice but she wasn’t sure if she succeeded. The worst part was that she wasn’t jealous over the fact that Willow was with Angel. It was more that Willow turned to him instead of her.

“Buffy, promise me you won’t come to LA.” At her hesitation, Willow flinched as she imagined Buffy confronting Angel. “Buffy, please.”

The desperation in Willow’s voice shook Buffy from her thoughts. “I won’t. I’ll wait until you’re ready to come home. But you have to promise to call me every week,” Buffy said, giving and seeking reassurance.

“I promise.” Taking a deep breath, Willow continued, “I love you. Tell the others that I love them and I’ll talk to them later.”

“I love you, too.” With that, both girls reluctantly hung up the phone.

Closing her eyes, Willow fought back her tears. She wasn’t going to cry anymore. There was nothing to cry about. She missed Buffy and the others but she wasn’t alone. As the urge to cry faded, Willow stood up and headed downstairs to Angel.
 

~Chapter: 3~

Making her way downstairs, Willow watched as Angel talked with Cordelia and Wesley.  She was nervous.  She had so much riding on this talk with Angel.  Willow knew he wouldn’t approve.  He was too protective.  In that he was very much like Buffy.  But she also knew he would accept her decision.  Something Buffy still couldn’t do.

“Willow?”

At Angel’s call, Willow realized that lost in her thought she had come to a stop at the bottom of the steps.  Unsure of what to say, she gave him a smile as she walked over to him.

“Are you feeling better?”  Angel asked as she joined them.

“Yeah.  The shower and clean clothes helped.  And the coffee, too.”

Cordelia gave Angel an incredulous look.  “You gave Willow coffee?  Regular coffee?  I hope you know when she starts bouncing off the walls you’re going to be the one dealing with it.”

“Geez, Cordelia.  I’m not that bad,” Willow protested trying to stall the coming talk.

“Oh yes, you are,” came the reply.  “I remember all too well those research sessions after you had caffeine.”

Seeing that Angel was getting impatient, Wesley interrupted.  “Um, Cordelia, maybe we should let Ms. Rosenberg tell us why she’s here.  Instead of worrying about her coffee consumption.”

“Fine, but don’t say I didn’t warn you,” Cordelia said as she went to sit in her chair.

Standing up, Wesley offered Willow his chair.  “Ms. Rosenberg, if you’d like to sit down.”

“Thanks.  And it’s just Willow.”  Trying to calm her nervous, Willow took the seat.  She would have preferred to talk to Angel alone.  But Cordy and Wes were his friends and what he decided would affect them too.

Moving to stand in front of her, Angel gave her a reassuring smile.  “It’s okay Willow.  Whatever it is I’m, we’re,” Angel amended, “all willing to help.”

“Should we wait for Gunn and Fred?” Willow asked.

“They won’t be back until later.  Gunn is spending time with his street family and Fred wanted to spend the day at the library,” Cordelia replied.  “No need to wait.  So tell us what’s wrong and why you’re here.”

“There’s nothing wrong.  Buffy and I had a fight.”

“You had a fight with Buffy?”  Cordelia asked, incredulous.  “Wow.  Tell us all about it.”

Ignoring Cordy, Willow focused on Angel as she continued, “It was over my joining a coven.  They call themselves the Sisters.”  At her words, Angel grabbed the counter.

“What’s the big deal about joining a coven?” Cordelia asked.  “You’re a witch.  Wouldn’t that help you?”  She paused as an idea came to her.  “They’re not evil, are they?”

It was Wesley who answered the question.  “No, Cordy.  They’re not evil.  They’re a very powerful group of witches who have been fighting evil for centuries,” he said, as he stared at Willow in amazement.  “I didn’t realize your magick was that strong.”

“How do you know that?  Have you met any of these witches before?”  Cordy asked Wes.

Wesley shook his head.  “In the past they have occasionally helped the Slayer.  Though none of the council has seen or heard from any of the Sisters in more than fifty years.”

Focusing on Angel, Willow didn’t pay any attention to Wes or Cordy’s conversation.  “Angel?”

Angel looked at Willow.  Seeing the concern and worry on her face, Angel pushed back the memories invoked by the mention of the Sisters.  That was something he’d have to deal with later.  Right now his main concern was Willow.  “Do you know what you’ve gotten involved in?”

“Goddess!  Does everyone think I’m an idiot?”  Willow fought down her irritation at the question.  “I didn’t get into this on a whim.  I know what is involved.  Besides it’s not like I haven’t been fighting evil for the past five years.”

Walking over to stand in front of her, Angel tried to explain.  “You’re not an idiot.  But I am concerned about you.  This isn’t the same as helping Buffy.  Death will become a daily part of your life.  You’ll fight every day for the rest of your life.  And it’ll be kill or be killed.”  Unable to help himself, Angel reached out and took her hands in his.   “Then there are the Hunters.  Their only purpose will be to hunt you down and kill you.  And the Hunters are ten times worse than the Order of Taraka.  It doesn’t matter to them if they have a contract or not.  There is always someone willing to pay them in money or power for the blood of a Sister.”

Willow took a moment to savor the feeling of Angel holding her hands, before gently pulling them away and stepping back.  “I already know this.  They told me before I agreed to join.”  Seeing Angel about to speak, Willow held up her hand.  “I realize that my life expectancy just got shorter.  And yes, it scares me.  But it doesn’t matter.  You and Buffy have shown me that this is a battle that needs to be fought even at the risk of my own life.  And that’s what I plan on doing.  I’d prefer to do it with your help but if not, I’ll do it without.”

Angel closed his eyes in pain at her words.  He could tell this was something she was determined to do.  And none of his arguments would hold up since they were all based on not wanting to lose her.  Taking an unneeded breath, Angel held out his hand for her.  “I wish you wouldn’t do this and I can’t say I’ll every agree with it.  But I’m willing to accept your choice and I’ll always be here for you.”  Blinking back her tears, Willow took his hand and let him pull her into his arms.  Holding her warm body against his, Angel tried to push down his fears.  Knowing that she needed his support.

“Thank you.”  Pushing away from him, Willow brushed her hand against his check.   “I can’t tell you how much your acceptance means to me.  And unfortunately, I’m going to test it again.”

Angel watched in concern as Willow hesitated.  “What is it?”

Taking a steadying breath, Willow blurted out, “I want you to be my Protector.”

**********

Angel had retreated to his workout room after Willow’s request.  Doing pull-ups, he tried to process everything that had happened in the last twenty-four hours.  Since Willow showed up his emotions had gone from one extreme to the other.  The caring and concern was easy to understand.  Willow was a friend.  Even the desire he could handle.  As much as he had loved Buffy, her death had forced him to let go, and Willow was a beautiful woman.  It was all the others that had him tied up in knots.  That and his demon’s emotions.

The minute Willow had asked him to be her Protector, Angelus had become ecstatic about being bonded to the witch and started bombarding him with memories of her.  Angelus had enjoyed playing with the Slayer but it was nothing compared to his obsession with Willow.  That night in the school when he had held her throat in his hands, Angelus had become enthralled by the innocence and spirit that had rolled off her in waves.

Releasing the bar, Angel walked to the center of the room and dropped to the floor to begin doing sit-ups. Luckily, neither Buffy nor Willow had figured out Angelus’s game.

‘The Slayer was too stupid and his redhead too naïve.’  Snarling at Angelus’s insult to Buffy and his claiming of Willow, Angel determined to do whatever it took to protect her from Angelus.  ‘And what?  You’ll let her fight without a Protector?  A Sister’s life is hard enough with a Protector,’ Angelus taunted.

Angel stopped and closed his eyes as memories of the Sister he had known flooded his mind.  He could still smell the scents of trash, unwashed bodies and salt from the ocean from that alley in San Francisco like it was yesterday instead of sixty years ago.  He hadn’t dreamed of them since his time in hell.  His dreams taken over by new nightmares.  But he didn’t have any problem bringing back the memories.  He could still see Ella radiating power and confidence and hear her gentle teasing.  Gareth carrying his broad sword and watching the shadows for danger, a deadly giant.  And him, for the first time, he had friends and was learning he could make a difference.  That night was the closest he had come to being happy since being cursed with his soul.  And then it was gone.  One minute he was fighting vampires side by side with them and then they were dead.

Suddenly, Angel felt a warm hand stroking his cheek.  Opening his eyes he found himself staring into Willow’s concerned eyes.

“I’m sorry,” Willow whispered.

“For what?”  Was she sorry for asking him?

“For hurting you.  For hurting Buffy, Spike and the others.  I never meant to cause any of you pain,” she said sadly.

Sitting up, Angel pulled her into his arms.  “It’s not you.  It’s us.  From the beginning you gave us unconditional friendship.  That’s something none of us has ever had.  The thought of losing that, of losing you, scares us.  And we’re not dealing well with that fear.”

Pushing away from him so she could look into his eyes, Willow tried to reassure him.  “I would never willingly leave any of you.  But this is something I have to do.  And in here I know you are the right choice for my Protector,” she said as she placed her hand over her heart.  Moving her hand to press it over Angel’s heart, Willow continued, “But if you don’t feel that, then I don’t want you to accept.”

Trying to ignore Angelus screaming at him to accept, Angel placed his hand over Willow’s.  “I do feel it.  And I’d be honored to be your Protector.  But before we do anything there are things we need to consider.  What happens if, after we’re bonded, Angelus is set free?”

Giving Angel a brilliant smile, Willow held out her hand to him.  “Why don’t we go for a walk and I can tell you how the bond works?”
 

~Chapter: 4~

Angel watched Willow eat the ice cream cone; she had talked him into buying for her. Looking at her as she enjoyed the treat reminded him of the young girl he had first meet in Sunnydale and yet he was very aware of the differences. He wasn’t sure how to describe it. She still had the same sweetness and innocence about her but she looked prettier, more self-confident. ‘Her fire is closer to the surface,’ Angelus supplied as he hungrily watched the woman, who would one day be his mate.

Catching the eyes of a man staring at Willow, Angel glared. ‘No one looks at Willow like that but me. Rip his eyes out!’ Angelus demanded. Despite feeling the same way Angel ignored him, something he was getting used to. Ever since that fiasco with Darla and Wolfram and Hart, Angelus had gotten more vocal. Angel didn’t know if it was the presence of his sire that made him stronger but he did know that the thought of Darla angered Angelus. ‘I’m no one’s lap dog. Not the Slayer’s and not Darla’s,’ Angelus snarled. Now that was something they both agreed on.

"Angel? Are you okay?" Willow asked, her concern evident in her voice.

"I’m fine," Angel reassured her as he blocked Angelus’s thoughts. "But I think it’s time we talked about me being your Protector."

Willow nodded as she marshaled her thoughts. She had known she couldn’t put the talk off for much longer but she was nervous. She had to make Angel agree. She couldn’t imagine being bonded to anyone else. "First, you don’t have to worry about Angelus. The bond will affect him the same as it does you."

"You know that for sure? How?" Angel asked.

"I asked Galena," Willow replied simply.

That statement threw Angel’s emotions into turmoil. She had asked about bonding him. That meant he wasn’t a last minute substitute. "What about Buffy?" Angel asked the question at the forefront of his mind.

"I won’t lie to you. I thought about it. Buffy’s my best friend and Sunnydale has been my home my entire life. But you and I both know that wouldn’t have worked out." Sighing, Willow thought about everything that had happened in the past two days. "After dismissing Buffy, you were the only other person I could imagine being bonded for life to. I know we’re not close but not only do I consider you a friend, I like you." Willow paused knowing that like was an inadequate term for her feelings for the souled vampire. Shaking her head, she pushed those thoughts to the back of her mind. Now was not the time to confess her true feelings. "And there is no one else I’d trust my life to. Not even Buffy."

Startled Angel stopped walking. She trusted him, one of the deadliest vampires in history, more than the Slayer, her best friend. He couldn’t take it in. No one had ever believed in him. Not like this. Angel could even feel Angelus’s amazement at Willow’s statement.

"Angel?" Stopping with him, Willow turned so she was facing him. Seeing the shock on his face, she gently reached out and took his hand. "I didn’t mean to upset you but it was something I thought you should know. And it won’t change if you decide not to be my Protector."

Clearing his throat, Angel choked out, "I’ll be your Protector."

Slightly taken back by his quick agreement, when she had been prepared for more arguments, Willow studied his eyes. Seeing the look in his eyes, she just began to smile when they were distracted by screams coming from behind them.

Turning around they saw the demons stalking towards them. "They’re Vahrall Demons," Willow said recognizing them from the time they had fought them in Sunnydale.

"Can you stop them with your magic?" Angel asked as he prepared to fight.

"No. They’re protected," Willow said as she noticed the red aura around them. The aura told her that another witch or sorcerer had sent them.

"Then stay back." Angel studied the demons. They were tall, with a large build and long talons. This wasn’t going to be an easy fight. Angel briefly considered grabbing Willow and running. Shaking his head, Angel discarded the idea. They wouldn’t be able to reach the hotel before the demons caught up with them. All they would do is tire themselves out. It was better to take a stand here.

Nodding, Willow step back towards the building. Willow was scared. She had to find a way to help. She knew how tough the demons were from when the other ones had tried to open the Hellmouth. Without any weapons, Willow knew that Angel would be hard pressed to keep from being killed.

Once the crowd had scattered, Angel launched his attack. Moving towards the one on the left, Angel caught it with a kick that knocked it into the one in the middle. Even as the other two went down, the third one hit Angel in the head causing him to stagger back. Taking advantage of his momentum the demon lashed out with its claws, cutting the side of Angel’s face open. Growling as he felt his blood run down his face, Angel vamped out. Moving quickly, Angel grabbed the demon by the throat and tossed him into the wall. Before he could finish the demon off, the other two rushed him.

As the other two attacked Angel, the third one picked itself up from where it had hit the wall and turned its attention to Willow. Seeing movement to the side of her, Willow turned from watching Angel fight just as the demon took a swipe at her with its claws. Dropping to the ground in an attempt to avoid its talons, Willow knew she wasn’t completely successful when she felt pain tear through her shoulder. As she rolled away from the demon, Willow lashed out with her foot. She caught it behind the knee knocking the demon’s leg out from under him. Getting back to her feet, Willow frantically tried to come up with a plan to help them. Suddenly, Willow heard a voice in her head, offering advice.

*Buy yourself time.* At Galena’s words what she needed to do flooded her mind. Going with it, Willow recited the spell. The demon in front of her started sinking as the sidewalk beneath it turned to quicksand.

*Provide your warrior with weapons.* Closing her eyes, Willow visualized where Angel kept his axe and teleported it to him. Opening her eyes, she saw the weapon materialize in Angel’s hands in time to block the blow from one of the demons.

*Start the binding ritual. It will strengthen him.* At that Willow hesitated. She had wanted to talk to him some more before bonding him, to make sure it was what he wanted. *As long as the final step isn’t completed the ritual can be stopped at any time.*

Watching the fight, Willow could see the wisdom in Galena’s words. The link between the demons and their master was allowing them to absorb a great deal of punishment. While Angel’s wounds were beginning to slow him down.

Knowing she would need to be closer, Willow carefully stepped around the demon trying to claw it’s way out of the sidewalk. Ignoring the demon behind her, Willow focused on Angel as she began the ritual to bind them together.

Staggering back from a blow, Angel felt a wave of energy engulf him. Feeling Willow’s presence within him, Angel rushed back into the fight with renewed determination. He wouldn't allow them the chance to hurt her. With the added strength from the spell, Angel was able to finally finish off his opponents.

Turning from killing the last one, Angel saw the last demon pull itself free from the quicksand. Growling, Angel charged the demon before it could attack Willow. Swinging his axe, Angel buried it in the demons chest. Pulling back for another strike, he was surprised to see the demon collapse. When the demon didn’t get up Angel turned to Willow.

"Why was this one easier to kill than the others?" He questioned.

"Whoever sent them removed their protection." Willow grimaced as the pain in her shoulder made itself known.

Dropping the axe, Angel rushed over and gently pulled her into his arms. "Willow? Are you okay?"

"It’ll heal." Willow looked into his eyes, she had to be sure about his answer to her next question. "Are you certain that you want to be my Protector? Don’t do it out of gratitude or guilt. This is something I chose to do knowing full well the consequences. As for being friends that won’t change no matter what you decide."

"I want to be your Protector." Searching for the words to reassure her, Angel remember what she had said to him before they left the Hyperion. "I want to do this because I can feel inside me that it’s the right thing to do." Angel knew he had chosen the right words when he felt her relax against him. Hearing the faint whine of approaching sirens, Angel started to move away from Willow. "We need to get back to the hotel."

Willow clutched at his coat stopping him. Tilting her head back, Willow bared her throat to Angel. "To seal our bond I offer you my blood." After a shocked moment, Angel bent down and carefully sank his fangs into her neck.

Angel, Vampire with a Soul, Keeper of Angelus

By the Power of Blood

I Accept you as my Protector

To aid in my battles against evil

Angel withdrew his fangs and Willow leaned forward and drank the blood from the cut on his cheek.

By the Power of Blood

From this day on we, witch, soul and demon, are as one

Neither Death nor Magic can tear asunder

This bond formed by blood

As the last words rang out, a blue light encircled them signaling the completion of the ritual. When the light faded Willow slumped into Angel’s arms as the last of her energy was used to complete the spell.

Seeing her faint, Angel swept Willow up into his arms. Using his vampiric speed, he started to make his way back to the hotel, avoiding the police. Angel wasn’t sure what the bond entailed but he could feel a difference inside himself. Brushing the feeling aside to be dealt with later, Angel concentrated on Willow. There would be time to get answers when Willow awoke.

**********

Across town in a high rise apartment a crystal ball shattered as it hit the wall. The dark-haired witch who had thrown the crystal sank back down onto the couch as shards of crystal rained down onto the floor.

‘Damn it!’ Maira thought. It had seemed so easy. After discovering the initiation of a new Sister in Sunnydale it had been simple enough to follow her prey to LA. Once in LA, Maira had sent the Vahrall demons out to capture the witch. Instead the witch had managed to not only defeat the demons but also bond a Protector. Not any Protector either but a vampire Protector.

Tapping her fingers on the arm of the couch, Maira reconsidered her plans. There were other Sisters that would be easier to capture then this one. Thinking about the power that she could see radiating from the witch through her scrying, Maira shook her head. This was the one that she wanted. The witch and her vampire would be perfect.

She would have to do something about the witch’s friends in Sunnydale. The Sisters wouldn’t be a problem, they hadn’t been able to stop her before, but the Slayer and her companions could cause problems. Though first she would have to find out more about this vampire, who could actually be bonded to a Sister.

Maira was thinking of her options when she suddenly started smiling. Standing up, she stretched lazily and headed for the bedroom to get dressed. She was in LA she knew the perfect place. Wolfram and Hart would be able to help her kill both birds with one stone. And in the case of the Sunnydale contingent that would be literal.
 

~Chapter: 5~

"Oh, my."

At Wes’ exclamation the other three members of the AI team looked over at him. When he continued to read the book he was studying without saying anything else, Cordelia lost her patience.

"Wesley!"

"Hmm." Tearing his gaze away from the passage that had caught his attention, Wes looked up to see both Cordelia and Gunn standing in front of his desk.

Huffing, Cordelia placed her hands on her hips and glared at him. "Oh, my, what? What did you find?"

"Oh. Well, it’s most interesting. This book was written by Tarmaine, one of the greatest Lore Keepers. Recording and verifying all mystical legends was his life’s work. It’s through his work that we get the most complete and accurate information regarding vampires, demons and other magical creatures."

Holding up his hand, Gunn interrupted. "Uh, Wes, I’m sure all of this is fascinating but could you get to the part that pertains to us some time today."

"I *was* getting there." Frowning at his impatient co-worker, Wesley continued. "For all of his knowledge he knew almost nothing about the Sisters. What he did learn was that when a Sister bonded a warrior, that bond would supercede any other magical enchantment."

Gunn and Cordy looked at each other before shrugging. "Doesn’t sound like a problem to me."

"Wouldn’t that actually be useful? We wouldn’t have to worry about another Darla situation."

"Umm, guys," Fred called softly.

Sighing in exasperation, Wesley rubbed his forehead at the others’ lack of comprehension. "This binding will negate all previous enchantments, spells and *curses*."

"Angelus." Paling at the implications, Cordelia sank down into the nearest chair. "Willow would never do that," she protested.

"Umm, guys," Fred tried again.

"Not deliberately, no. But the question is how much does she know about this spell."

"If this ritual can make Angel go all psycho, the solution’s simple." Gunn leaned back against the side of Wes’ desk and crossed his arms over his chest. "When they get back from their little walk, we tell Angel about this and there won’t be any spell."

Both Cordelia and Wesley relaxed as they realized he was right, he solution *was* simple. Angel would never willing risk setting Angelus loose. "Yes, you’re right, Gunn. When Angel and Willow get back we’ll simple explain to them the consequences of the bonding ritual. I’m sure we can find another way to help Willow." Grabbing for another book, Wes nodded his head decisively. That was the perfect answer.

"Guys!"

All three of them jumped and rushed out over to Fred.

"What is it? Is something wrong?" Gunn searched the lobby for what had set the girl off.

"Angel’s axe." Fred gestured at the weapons cabinet. "It vanished."

"What do you mean it vanished?" Wes and Cordy asked at the same time as they hurried over to the cabinet and looked where the axe should’ve been hanging.

"I was sorting all of the weapons and putting them in order, while you guys were worrying about Angel. Though I don’t know why. Angel’s a good man. He’ll do the right thing."

Gunn shook his head at the girl’s delusion but didn’t say anything. He wouldn’t have to. Cordy would take care of it.

Snorting, Cordelia rolled her eyes. "Fred, I thought we had talked about this."

"We did and I know Angel’s not perfect. But he *is* a hero."

"Fred," Wes interrupted, not wanting to listen to the girl extol Angel’s supposed virtues. "The axe."

"Oh, right. Well, I had just finished putting all of the knives together when I looked up and Angel’s axe was gone."

"Why would someone want that axe? Sure it’s Angel’s favorite weapon but there’s nothing special about it."

"Of course!" Once Cordelia had mentioned it Wes realized what had happened. "Willow!"

"Huh?" Cordelia looked at Wes in bemusement. "Why would Willow want to steal Angel’s axe?"

"She didn’t steal it. Angel and her must have run into trouble and she teleported it to him."

"Oh," Cordelia nodded, "that makes a lot more sense than thinking Willow had stolen it."

Gunn interrupted before Wes could say anything to the accusation. "If Angel is in trouble what are we doing standing here. We need to go help him."

Wes pulled off his glasses and rubbed his eyes. "Yes, well, that’s a good suggestion but where do we start. None of us know where they went."

Gunn shrugged. "They went for a walk to talk about this bonding thing, right? So they’d have to be some where close by. I mean it’s not like Angel’s going to drag the girl all the way across town to talk."

"Good point. All right them, Gunn and I will go and look for Willow and Angel, Cordelia, you and Fred stay here incase they show up."

"Wait," Cordy stopped them before they could leave. "I think we’re all overreacting. Whatever the trouble was they must’ve handle it."

"Why makes you think that, Barbie?"

"Hello! No vision." Cordy gave them a look that said they were idiots. "If Angel was in serious trouble don’t you think that the PTB would send me one of their wonderful, Technicolor, very painful, visions?"

Before the guys could respond the front door of the Hyperion flew open as Angel burst in carrying an unconscious Willow.

"What happened?" Cordelia and Wes hurried over to Angel as he sat down on the couch, cradling Willow in his lap.

Seeing the blood on the redhead’s shirt, Fred ran to the bathroom and to get the first aid supplies.

"We were attacked by demons. One of them managed to injure Willow before I could kill it," Angel replied tersely as he gently pulled the shirt away from the claw marks on her shoulder.

Frowning, Wes examined the wounds. "I don’t understand. Her wounds aren’t that serious, she should be awake." Wes stopped talking as he noticed the bite mark on her neck.

"Is there something wrong with her?" Angel’s eyes flashed gold when Wes just stared at Willow’s neck. "Wes!"

"Y-you bonded with her?"

"Yes. Is that why she fainted?" Angel looked down at the redhead in his arms, concerned that the bonding ritual had hurt her.

"Between the fight and bonding she just used up to much energy." Slowly standing up, Wes gave Angel a sickly grin.

Angel watched in confusion as Cordelia grabbed Fred’s arm, stopping her from approaching the vampire, as she hurried into the room with the first aid supplies. Gunn shifted his grip on his axe, preparing to fight. Opening his mouth to question their odd behavior, he was cutoff by the ringing of the telephone.

No one moved. Wes, Gunn and Cordelia, still retaining her grip on Fred, unwilling to take their eyes off of Angel. While Angel wasn’t willing to release Willow. They all remained as they were and listened to the familiar recording asking the person to leave a message.

"Angel? Cordelia? What the hell happened to Willow? Is she all right? Damn it! Spike and I are on our way."

Laying, Willow down on the couch, Angel used his vampire speed to get to the phone before Buffy could hang up. "No! There is no need for you and Spike to come here." After listening for a few minutes, Angel snarled into the receiver. "Listen to me Slayer. Neither you or the bleached moron are welcomed here. If either of you show up there will be a fight. I protect what is mine and Willow *is* mine." With that Angel slammed down the phone.

Turning around, he found the others staring at him with a mixture of shock and fear. "What the hell is your problem?"

"A-Angelus."

Angel’s eyes widened at Wes’ reply but before he could refute the claim a soft voice came from the couch.

"He’s not Angelus."

"Then why did Mr. Broody just threaten the love of his unlife," Cordelia demanded.

"But you two are bonded," Wes protested at the same time.

Pushing herself up, Willow suddenly found Angel’s arms around her as he helped her to sit up. "He’s not Angelus," Willow repeated before clarifying her statement. "At least not completely." She couldn’t help smiling at the confusion on her friends’ faces. "Why don’t you guys sit down and I’ll explain."

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