June 1998
Willow stared at Giles bent head. It was summer. Buffy was gone who knew where. She had left the same day Angelus had been destroyed. Xander and Cordelia were off somewhere making out. They had helped some over the summer so far, but usually just entertained each other. Oz had left for school already. He was going to NYU. She had been sorry to see him go, but was relieved in some ways. She hadn't loved him....not like she should have. It was just her and Giles.
He looked up and noticed the melancholy expression on her face. "Is something wrong?"
"My parents want to send me to stay with my grandmother in Dallas. Odd that they could care less what I was doing until I end up in the hospital."
"Well, I'm sure that they are just worried."
"A little late for that" She said.
"I think that sounds like a good idea actually."
"What?"
"Buffy has to risk her life, it is her destiny. But you and the others....it is very dangerous. I think it would be good for to get away while you can. Have a normal life. If you remain here, there is just a chance that you will die young."
"I'm needed here." she said, her voice shaking.
"Go Willow. It will do you good. I can handle the research. Enjoy life while you can."
Willow looked at him in amazement as he stood and went into his office. He wanted her to leave. She had refused her parents, telling them that she could not just leave her senior year. That she wanted to graduate with her friends. Now, Giles was telling her adios. He could have added Don't let the door hit you on the ass and it would have been just perfect.
She got up and told him goodbye. She walked home. She couldn't believe it. They didn't need her. No one needed her. Her parents were never home. Xander was busy with Cordelia. She couldn't fault him. They actually seemed very happy. Giles had already made his opinion clear. Buffy hadn't even called since she ran away. Maybe she should just go to Dallas. She could buy a cowboy hat and some boots and spend her senior year listening to awful country music and riding horses.
She heard the children playing little league. She sat down and watched them running around. She was trying to decide what to do. She knew that Giles hadn't meant to hurt her, but he had. She had always felt like nothing until she had met Buffy. Then, she knew she was contributing...helping save people. It was a good feeling. It had raised her self esteem. Now, he had shot it down with a few words.
"Didn't your mother tell you it was dangerous to be out alone after dark? A pretty little girl like you.....All sorts of nasty things wanting to eat you all up."
Willow heard the amused words and froze. She knew that voice. She turned around, her eyes wide.
Willow looked at the vampire standing in front of her, her heart racing. "I thought you were gone." she said softly, fear in her voice.
"Looks like I'm back."
"Oh" Willow said, not sure if she should scream or just wait to die.
"You like watching the children play?"
"Yes" Willow said, hesitantly.
"Me too. So sweet...so innocent....just waiting to die...."
The vampire came forward, peering at Willow's face. Willow swallowed as a cool finger slid across her cheek. She watched as the finger went to the vampire's mouth.
"Salty...you've been crying."
"Yeah" Willow said.
"Why?" was asked curiously.
"Nothing important."
"WHY." demanded this time.
Willow took a deep breath. "Because, Buffy left....Xander is in love with my worst human enemy.....Miss Calendar is dead....And Giles told me today that I should leave Sunnydale....that I wasn't needed,,,that I should get out while I had a chance...he wants me to go to Dallas and ride horses instead of staying here and fighting evil...it really hurt that he said those things.....Are you going to kill me now?"
The vampire smiled. "Not yet. You amuse me. You speak so quickly. Come with me."
"Uh...I really should be getting home...if you aren't going to kill me."
"I said, come with me."
"Or I could just go with you" Willow said, standing. She followed the vampire to the entrance of the park. Suddenly, they stopped.
"What is your name my sweet?"
"Willow."
The vampire smiled. "Willow? That's a pretty name....you can call me Dru."
Willow felt the woman take her hand, surprised at how cold it was. She had never really been close enough to feel one of their enemies. Even Angel had only touched her when he was trying to kill her. She had been so scared, she'd never noticed his lack of temperature.
She followed behind Dru, not sure why she wasn't running or fighting. She guessed that she was just too tired. It had been a long three weeks. She was about to just give up. She saw Dru look back at her a few times, an unreadable expression in her dark eyes. She wondered what was going to happen to her.
"Here we are" Dru said, opening the door to the mansion.
"Is Spike here?" Willow squeaked. She didn't want to face the vampire.
'"No. He hurt me. He was a bad man. I hit him and left him tied up. He won't be able to hurt me anymore."
"Oh" Willow said, almost smiling at the image of Spike tied up by the small female.
"You took my daddy away." Dru said, sitting down, her eyes on Willow.
"No. Buffy killed him."
"Miss Edith told me he isn't dead. He's in the bad place."
"What?"
"His soul is in him. You gave him his soul."
"It worked?" Willow sat down, her mind understanding what Dru was saying. "He's in hell with his soul?"
"Yes."
"Oh no...I never meant for that to happen."
"Is ok." Dru said, her eyes on the girl's stricken face. "He was naughty. He had to be punished. Miss Edith told me that he will be back soon. He won't be naughty anymore."
"Who is Miss Edith and how does she know it all?" Willow asked, not believing that she was exchanging pleasantries with the vampire that had killed Kendra and hospitalized her not even a month before.
"This is Miss Edith....she speaks to me" Dru held up a doll.
Willow nodded. "Oh"
"She told me to find you.....that you would help me."
"Me? How am I supposed to help you?"
"Spike hurt me." Dru said, her eyes looking sad.
Willow almost felt sorry for her. She had lost Angel and Spike. She was now alone. What was worse, she was insane and alone.
"He did it for you." Willow said softly.
"He loves me" Dru said, nodding. "I don't want to see him again. Not for awhile. He had to be punished for hurting his princess."
Willow waited, deciding that she didn't want to interrupt.
"I hate boys" Dru said suddenly. "They all just want naughty things. They treat me like a child...they don't trust me to take care of myself. Do you think I'm crazy?"
"Of course not. You seem very smart."
Dru smiled at Willow. "Daddy and Spikey think I'm crazy. I knew you were the one. Miss Edith never lies." she moved to Willow, running her hand over her face. "Girls are so soft and squishy. Much better to be with than boys sometimes."
Willow froze. She knew her eyes were wide. She swallowed as she waited for Drusilla to do something.
"What did Miss Edith tell you about me? Cause I like boys. I really like boys." Willow said, hearing the fear in her voice.
"So soft.......I like boys too....even if they act naughty.....they just don't treat me right."
"Good. Naughty is good" Willow said, relieved when Dru moved back to the sofa. She looked at her surprised, when Dru looked at her, her eyes suddenly sane.
"I need you sweet Willow. Miss Edith says you are the one.....you will take care of me until Spike is finished being punished. I will take care of you too my little tree."
**********
March 1999
Spike stumbled into the mansion. "Druuuuu????"
He moved forward, knocking his bottle of tequila on the wall. "Dru? Are you here?"
He heard a noise and turned. His eyes widened when he saw Angel come in.
"Spike? What the hell are you doing here?" Angel demanded.
"Heard Dru came back here....looking for the bitch."
"You lost Dru?" Angel said, taking in his childe's appearance.
"She left me.....tied me up and left me. Last summer.....took me this long to find out she came back here."
"Dru isn't here. She hasn't been here since you took her away." Angel said.
"Fuck" Spike sat down on the floor. "My source said that she said she was coming here. Maybe she hasn't gotten here yet" he said hopefully.
Angel moved forward, his eyes on Spike. He took the bottle from his childe. Spike looked up, tears on his face. "She left me. I hate being alone. It stinks."
Angel sighed as he sat down. "I know. It does."
Spike looked at him "You aren't going to kill me for coming back?"
Angel took a drink from the bottle. "No. You're my childe. I couldn't kill you before, why should I now?"
"You enjoy your stay in hell?" Spike asked, grinning.
"I can always change my mind." Angel threatened.
Spike scowled and took his bottle back. He took a long drink, before falling back on the floor. He decided he'd wait until Dru returned to Sunnydale. That way, he'd be here for her when she came back to him.
**************************************
"I got an email from Willow today."
"What did she have to say? Is she enjoying Dallas?" Xander asked Giles.
"She didn't say. Just said that she was doing well. Missed us all. Won't be back for Spring Break."
"She's never going to come back is she?" Buffy said quietly.
"I doubt it. It's been almost ten months. I've had three emails in all that time."
"I can't believe you let her go" Buffy said, staring at Giles.
"What's the big deal? I'd think you'd all be happy she got out of this damn town" Faith said, not understanding what the fuss was about. She had heard about Willow since she got to town. She was sorry she hadn't met the girl, but was glad that someone had escaped this town alive.
"She was my best friend. I just wish SOMEONE had done a better job of convincing her to stay." Buffy said, looking at Giles and Xander who flinched.
The doors opened. Buffy smiled slightly when she saw her former love. She frowned when she noticed the blond head behind him.
"What's he doing here?"
Angel sighed. "Spike is with me. He's going to be in Sunnydale for awhile...waiting for Dru. He's not going to be a threat, Buffy. We've already discussed what was expected."
"Daddy told me the rules. Curfew is 5am. No snacking on any of you twits. No dead bodies....at least ones you can find. Did I forget anything Pops?"
"Keep your mouth shut unless spoken to." Angel said through clenched teeth.
"You're joking aren't you?" Buffy asked.
"Buffy, we can use the help against the mayor. Spike is strong. He's promised. I trust him. It will only be until Dru comes back."
"Hey hottie. I'm Faith. If you ever need a little company...."
"Her number is on every bathroom wall from here to Boston" Cordelia said sweetly.
Faith shot her a nasty look before laughing. "Good one C. We'll loosen you up yet."
Spike glanced at Angel. "Why do I suddenly think being alone would be better than putting up with them?"
Angel just smiled softly. "It isn't."
**********
April 2003
Willow sat up and stretched. She smiled as she saw the darkness outside. She got up, glancing in the mirror. Her hair fell past her shoulders in waves of deep red.. She had thought about getting it cut, but Dru liked it long. She did too really. She had cut it short the summer she had left, but it always seemed to get in the way.
She glanced across the bed at Dru. She was sleeping silently. It still unnerved Willow to see her friend not breathing. She had been with her for five years, and she still hadn't gotten used to it. They had been in New Orleans for the last three years. Willow had fallen in love with the town and refused to leave. She and Dru had purchases a small place in the middle of the French Quarter.
Willow took a shower, got dressed then went to make some dinner. Dru had made her a proposal all those nights ago. She had asked Willow to stay with her....let them take care of each other until the time was right. Willow had felt needed and didn't want to move to Dallas so she had agreed. As it turned out, Dru had been surprising. She really wasn't that insane. She was psychic and just didn't know how to handle her visions. She was still a bit loony sometimes, especially about her past, but over the years she had grown tremendously. Willow believed personally that Spike and Angelus had never allowed her to become anything other than the girl that they had driven insane. She was actually very bright. She and Willow had become best friends and more.
Willow was Dru's. The vampire had performed an ancient ritual bonding the human to her three years before after Willow had been threatened by a demon. Willow was still human, but she had stopped aging. Her life was tied to Drusilla's. If Dru died, Willow would become normal again and the aging process would continue naturally. That was Dru's idea. She hadn't wanted to lose her Willow. Willow had agreed because she rather liked the idea of immortality, even if it was only for a bit.
Because of the spell, Willow was untouchable to other vampires. They could smell Dru's claim on her....see the marks. She had her own little protection from the creatures of the night. This had deepened the bond between the two girls. They were not lovers, though they did love one another as deeply as two friends could. Dru had tried several times to be naughty, as she called it, but Willow had refused. She just couldn't do that....not yet at least. She was still a virgin. It was silly actually. Her reasons that is. Over the years of listening to Dru, she had secretly fallen in love with Spike. She would never admit it to her friend, but it had happened. She couldn't even explain it.
"Sweet?" Dru said softly.
"Yes Dru?"
"You're awake." Dru walked into the room, her long nightgown flowing behind her.
"Got hungry."
Dru smiled. "Pancakes?"
"With strawberries."
"Yum" Dru sat at the bar and watched Willow cook. "I had a vision."
Over the years, Dru had put Miss Edith away. She would now admit that the visions were hers. She no longer felt the need to speak through her doll.
"What was it?" Willow asked curious. Usually, Dru's visions centered around evil. The two girls had fought numerous demons and nasties that threatened people.
"The slayers....evil....one might die...Spike is in danger.."
"We're going to Sunnydale" Willow said, looking into Dru's eyes.
She nodded and smiled. "Yes, it appears we are. We have to save the slayers...can you believe I just said that?"
"We have to save Spike" Willow added softly.
Dru saw the look in her friend's eyes. She felt such love for the human. She had never thought it possible. Willow had allowed her to mature into the vampire that she should have been years ago. Neither Spike nor Angel had ever wanted her to leave the niche they had cast her in. Spike had helped her, but he had never wanted her to not need him. He had never wanted to be alone, so he had catered to her insanity, knowing that it would make her dependent on him. She had realized that over the years.
Willow was different. She was always pushing her to be better. Willow believed that she was what she was....she never tried to make her into anything. Dru no longer felt the fear of her visions. Willow had helped her learn how to deal with them. She hadn't killed since that summer. She didn't miss it. The death was something the boys always liked. She liked the hunt, but didn't need the death to be satisfied.
Willow was in love with Spike. She knew this, though the girl tried to hide it. She knew it was her fault. He had always been so nice to her, in his way. He loved her deeply. She could see where Willow would fall in love with him...with her image of him. She almost laughed. They were going back to Sunnydale...back to Spike. Spike loved her....Willow loved him...and she loved Willow. Things would be interesting to say the least.
**********
"So, what's the prob?" Faith asked, taking a chair around the table.
"We're still waiting for Buffy and Ryan" Cordelia said, rolling her eyes.
"Did you hear noises in the janitor's closet as you passed?" Xander asked, making a face.
"No. They've quit going there since Spike caught them that time. Great picture."
Spike smiled. "Dumb bitch. Should have picked somewhere to shag."
The doors opened and Buffy walked in followed by a tall red haired man. "Sorry we're late. Ran into some nasties."
"Is that what you're calling it these days?" Angel said smiling.
"Oh you...hush" Buffy said, blushing. "I'm serious. Some real mean vamps. Didn't want to die."
"They were quite nasty" Ryan said as he took a seat.
"Good lord. It's already begun." Giles said.
"Let me speak for everyone when I say huh?" Buffy said.
"New prophecy." Giles ignored the groans. "I'm not sure I understand it. That's why I asked for the meeting."
"So, you want us to be confused so you have company?" Faith said smiling.
"Yes. That's why." Giles said, rolling his eyes.
"Lay it on us, old man" Spike said, leaning back.
"There shall fall a time when two chosen shall face their impending death. An uprising of evil so great that the world shall be destroyed if all fail to stop it. Two elements joined together as one, Fire and Ice, shall strike a blow that will destroy the uprising and save the chosen. One of the night shall join the elements and evil's forces shall be fought for the remainder of eternity".
"I'll be the first to say what the fuck?" Faith said, looking confused.
"Well, the chosen must be you and Buffy." Xander said. "I don't know any other chosen ones. Now, what the hell are these elements?"
Giles sighed. "That, my boy, is where I am greatly confused."
"Oh goodie....Wait, what is the deal with my impending death and graduations?" Buffy whined. "Didn't I suffer enough in high school?"
"Apparently not" Angel said, smiling at his ex girlfriend. She stuck her tongue out at him before turning back to Giles.
"So, Faith and I are toast unless you figure out what these elements are?"
"I'm afraid it appears that way" Giles said, scowling.
"Research. Now. No one leaves until we find out how to save us" Buffy said, grabbing a book.
The others sighed and grabbed a book. It was going to be a long night.
**********
"I can't find a damn thing" Faith said, shutting her book.
"I agree with the skank" Cordelia said sitting back.
"I must admit, it does seem rather hopeless" Giles said, yawning. "I can't find anything useful."
"Damn...there has to be something we aren't seeing." Buffy said. Ryan smiled and put his arms around her shoulders.
"We'll find it. Don't worry. I don't plan on letting you die." He kissed her cheek as she smiled.
"Can I gag now?" Spike asked, making a face.
"Shut up" Buffy said, throwing a piece of wadded up paper at him.
"Hurt me slayer" Spike said, laughing.
"The stars told me that my Spikey was helping the slayer....I thought they lied" a lilting voice said.
Spike froze. "Dru?"
Everyone turned to face the woman. She was wearing jeans and a tank top.
"What the hell are you doing here?" Buffy said, reaching for a stake.
Dru looked at her as she moved into the room. "Put the stake down, you nasty slayer you. You took my Angel and my Spikey away....you should be punished."
"Dru." Spike said again, taking in her drastic change of appearance. "Jeans luv?"
"Don't talk to me.....you help the slayer."
"Only while I was waiting for you Princess." he said, hurt in his eyes.
"Nasty old thing did bad things with my daddy then thinks she can take you too. Daddy...you're not you" she said, frowning at Angel.
"Can I just stake the bitch?" Buffy asked, her eyes begging at Giles.
"No Buffy. Drusilla...why are you here?" Giles asked.
She smiled, her eyes looking off into the distance. "The stars told me to come. They said I needed to save Spike. That he needed me. They were so pretty. So bright and shin..."
"Geez Bella. Stop with the stars already. You're giving me a headache" the amused words were spoken softly from the door of the library. Dru smiled suddenly, the dazed look leaving her eyes. She turned to face the newcomer.
"But Sweet....I'm having such fun" she whined, winking at her friend.
**********
The people at the table stared. A woman with dark red hair walked slowly toward them. She was wearing black jeans and a Tulane University t-shirt. She looked up, her green eyes flashing with amusement.
"Willow?" Buffy said, staring.
"Hey Buff. Long time" Willow said, smiling at her old friend.
Dru rolled her eyes. "Excuse me, may I finish?"
Willow laughed lightly. "Sorry Bella. No more stars."
"But Will...." Dru suddenly turned and laughed. "Did you see the looks on their faces? I thought that boy was going to wet himself" she motioned to Xander.
"Bad Dru." Willow said, smiling at her friend.
"Oh, whatever. You enjoyed it. I play insane so well" Dru said arrogantly.
"You should. You had a hundred years to practice." Willow said, rolling her eyes.
"Hmph. You're just jealous because I got here first. You would have been playing with them if it had been you. Besides, you ran into that smelly thing."
"First, the insane thing doesn't work well with jeans. Try the long flowing dresses. It just adds something to the idea. Second, he did rather smell didn't he?"
"Yes....like a human. What did he want?" Dru asked, her eyes not leaving Willow's face.
"Oh nothing much. He just wanted me to run away to Reno and get married. You wouldn't mind would you?" Willow said, laughing at Dru's expression.
"Would you like me to turn him into a frog?" Dru asked, smiling sweetly.
"Ugh...frogs. Yuck. Seriously, I used to know him...tutored him years ago. He just wanted to know if it was really me. I said it was and left. Satisfied mother?"
"For now." Dru said, smiling. "I wouldn't have turned him into a frog. Maybe a roach....they have all those cute legs."
Willow hit her arm.
"Ow. What was that for Sweet?"
"Bella...bella....bella....you were sounding like your old loony self."
"Good grief. Sorry" Dru said, grimacing. "See, I knew we shouldn't come here. Back two hours and I'm already going crazy."
"I believe that you're the one who said we should come first, or was that just my imagination?"
"I wish you didn't remember things so well" Dru said scowling.
Suddenly a whistle sounded. They turned, having forgotten the others who were watching wide eyed.
"What the fuck is going on?" Spike asked, bringing his hand down, staring at the two women.
**********
Willow flinched at the hard tone in his voice. Dru noticed and put her hand on Willow's shoulder.
"Willow, what are you doing with Dru?"
"Can I sit down? This might take awhile" Willow said, taking a seat. Dru moved a chair over and sat down beside her, her eyes watching Willow's face.
"Well?" Buffy demanded.
"I've been with Dru since that summer five years ago. I never went to Dallas. We've been living in New Orleans for the last three years."
"Before that, we saw the states" Dru said, smiling. "We went to Boston and Seattle and New York and oh so many places."
Willow smiled. "It was great. We decided to settle down though. The travelling got tiring."
"She wouldn't leave New Orleans" Dru put in. "So, we didn't."
"Are you a vampire?" Xander asked, not understanding anything that was happening.
"Good grief no." Willow said, eyes wide. "Dru would never do that to me."
"Then why the hell are you with her?" Cordelia asked bluntly.
"She needed me when no one else did. She made me a proposal that I couldn't refuse. We would take care of each other. Now, she's my best friend. I can't imagine life without her" Willow said smiling softly.
Dru smiled. "Nor could I. With Willow's help, I've learned who I am." She looked at Spike and her smile deepened. "No more nuttiness. I haven't had an episode in four years."
Willow nodded and smiled. "No more Miss Edith either. We torched the doll in Bangor."
"What are you saying?" Spike asked. "You were never insane?"
"Nope. Just a little dippy, as Sweet says. You and Angelus needed me to be dependant on you. You catered to the craziness instead of making me get over it. Willow didn't. She pretty much told me to get off my crazy tush and get better. I did." she smiled fondly at Willow.
"I don't think I was that harsh" Willow said, looking hurt but ruining it with the amusement in her eyes.
"Worse. But it was what I needed. I still have the visions but with Willow, I can control them."
"I'm sorry" Spike said, his face falling. "All those years I thought I was helping you...I was really doing more damage."
"Good God. I feel like I've stepped onto Oprah" Faith said grumbling.
Dru glanced at her, her eyes narrowing slightly. "Slayer."
Willow looked at her. "I don't know if I want to save her." she whispered to Dru.
"We must my sweet" Dru said, looking upset at the idea.
Angel leaned forward, suddenly noticing something. "Willow....that scent."
She looked at him warily. "Yes?"
"You're bonded to Drusilla?" he said surprise in his voice.
"Bonded!" several voices repeated Angel's words.
"You and Dru?" Buffy said, making a face.
Willow got angry. "What of it if we were? It's a free country. But, no. We aren't, not like that. You people" she rolled her eyes.
Dru smiled, watching her friend. She was curious to see what she would say. She noticed Spike watching, dismay in his blue eyes. She felt a feeling of regret. She had loved him for so long. Now, that was nothing compared to what she felt for the girl who had saved her from herself. She still loved him, just not the same way that she had.
"About three years ago...."
"Three years, two months and six days" Dru added, knowing automatically when she had almost lost Willow.
Willow smiled brightly. "Yeah. Well, I almost died. A vampire tried to snack on me. So, Dru performed this ancient spell binding my life with hers."
"Good god." Giles said, sitting back. "I've heard of several of those. They usually are performed on those that a vampire chooses as a mate..."
Dru stared at him, her gaze unblinking. He nodded as he finally understood the situation.
"What do you mean? How is your life bound with hers?" Xander demanded.
"I quit aging. As long as she lives, I live. If she dies, I begin to age normally again."
"You're joking" Buffy said.
"Nope. As long as she's around, I'm practically immortal."
"Why?" Giles asked softly.
Dru smiled. "I couldn't lose her." she said simply.
"Bloody hell, you love the chit." Spike said, his eyes hurt but understanding.
Willow felt her face flush as they all stared at her and Dru. She rolled her eyes. "Of course she does silly. We're best friends."
"It's more than that" Angel said, seeing the look in Dru's eyes. "You chose her?" he asked softly.
Dru nodded. "Yes. She is my life. I could never lose that. We are one."
Willow glanced at her, her eyes curious, "Chose me for what?"
"As a companion." Dru said smiling.
"Oh that...yeah, I knew about that" Willow said, still blushing. She knew how Dru felt about her. It still amazed her. She had never been one to think that one day the vampire that put her into the hospital would love her that way. She glanced at Spike. She felt her heart break at the look of loss on his face....his eyes were so sad. She had caused that.
"I can't believe this. This should be fun." Faith said smiling. "Well, we know the answer."
"What?" Several people looked at her.
She smiled at them. "You mean, I got this before you all did?"
"Got what?" Giles said, looking at his slayer.
She started laughing. "Man, I love this. I never get these things before you all. The prophecy? Fire and Ice? We have Red and Dru, bonded as one. They're the friggin' elements."
**********
"Elements?" Willow asked.
"I can't believe I didn't see that" Giles said. He looked at Willow and Dru. "A prophecy we've been researching."
He read it to them. Willow glanced at Dru.
"Is that what you dreamed?" she asked softly.
"Possibly," Dru said. She looked at the others. "I had a vision that the slayers were in danger. I woke knowing that Willow and I should come."
"Spike was in danger too" Willow added quietly.
He glanced at the girl, noticing the way she had said his name. He looked into her eyes and saw something that she quickly hid. He felt his curiosity rise.
"Well, we have the players. Now, if we only knew who they were facing." Angel said, wondering what was going to happen.
"Have you noticed anything unusual?" Willow asked, her minds racing.
"The vampires last night" Ryan said. "They were very had to defeat. Wouldn't die."
Willow smiled at the boy. "I'm rude. I didn't introduce myself. I'm Willow. This is Dru."
"Ryan...I'm with her" he gestured at Buffy, who smiled at him.
"Nice to meet you. Now, why don't you tell us about those vampires." Willow said, leaning back.
Dru listened as the man spoke. She thought about the words of the prophecy. It sounded like when she and Willow defeated the evil, they would both be immortal. She glanced at Spike and saw him studying Willow curiously. She knew that he was the 'one of night' that the prophecy spoke of. She wondered how things were going to work out. She wanted Willow happy and knew that Spike was the one the girl loved. She was content to stay with her being her friend. She knew she would never leave the girl. Her mind started going through all the possibilities that they could be facing.
Spike noticed Dru watching him. He almost smiled at the pleased look in her eyes. She was happy that he was curious about the red head? Things were getting complicated. He wanted some answers.
"I think that's enough for tonight" he said, interrupting. "You two ladies can stay with me....with us" He motioned at Angel. "There is plenty of room."
"Of course" Angel added. He wanted to speak to them both more. He was curious as to how their unlikely friendship had happened. If they stayed with him and Spike, all the questions could be answered without an audience.
"Thank you Angel" Willow said, smiling. "That would be great."
"I could use some rest" Dru added mischievously. "Didn't sleep well this afternoon."
Willow glared at her. "My driving was not that bad. You just wouldn't shut up long enough to sleep."
"Who's fault was that? I wasn't the one that insisted on playing that music the entire thousand miles or so."
"I didn't force you to sing along with EVERY SINGLE song. I am so not into self punishment."
"As if you sing any better" Dru said, smiling.
"Well, I don't sound like a dying cat."
Dru snorted. "I'm not that bad."
"AHEM..." Giles said.
They both stopped, looking guilty.
"We'll meet back here tomorrow night. Maybe we can have some answers by then" Giles said.
"OK" They said in unison.
Spike smiled. They both looked innocent, wearing matching expressions. "Let's go pets" he said, standing and offering an arm to each. Dru smiled, glad to see that he was wanting to at least be friends. Willow glanced at him hesitantly before accepting the arm. They walked out the doors, Angel following behind.
Faith smiled. "Why do I get the feeling that there is going to be some freaky stuff happening around here soon?"
"Well, it is the hellmouth" Giles said.
Faith laughed and rolled her eyes. "Uh huh....like I could forget that."
**********
"Can we talk?" Spike asked Dru softly before they entered the mansion.
"Of course" she said smiling.
Willow glanced at Angel. "OK, old man. Show me around your place."
Angel laughed. "I missed you Willow."
"Thanks" she said smiling widely as they went inside.
Dru watched, affection on her face.
"How long have you loved her?" Spike asked sitting on the bench in the garden.
"I really don't know. It seems like forever, but it's only been a few years." Dru said, sitting across from him, her brown eyes staring into his.
"I never meant to make you something you weren't." Spike said.
Dru smiled. "You didn't. I needed to be looked after. Hearing the prophecy, it seems that I was meant to befriend Willow. See, if you'd acted differently, the world might have ended."
"Thanks" Spike said, smiling softly. "So, she doesn't love you."
Dru shook her head. "Not like that. Her heart belongs to another. My feelings for her happened gradually. I didn't realize just how important she was to me until I almost lost her. I tried a few times to move past the friendship, but she never allowed it. I accepted it."
"She's rather interesting" Spike said, thinking about the red head.
Dru smiled. "She is the best mortal I've ever met. I can't think what I would still be if it hadn't been for her."
"You said her heart belongs to another. Who does she love?" Spike asked curiously.
Dru laughed softly. "You."
*****************************
"So, you and Dru. I can't imagine how that happened." Angel said, sitting on the sofa.
Willow smiled. "She caught me at a time when I needed to be needed. You were gone...in hell. I am so sorry about the soul."
"Don't be. I made it through hell with it. It will never leave me again. It was tough, but very much worth it. Continue."
"She made me a proposal. Over the years, she has become my dearest friend. She is very special."
"She loves you." Angel pointed out.
Willow laughed. "Weird isn't it? The first person that really, truly loves me is the woman that tried to kill me. I love her too, just not in that way. She understands. It has never been an issue. If anything, it has made our friendship stronger."
"Amazing. If I hadn't seen it, I wouldn't have believed it. I can't believe that she is so..."
"Sane?" Willow asked.
"Yes. She is still so beautiful, but there is strength in her eyes that has never been there before. Even when she was human, she let the visions get to her. She was rather crazy even before my...Angelus's courtship. I feel even more guilt that I unknowingly kept her insane all those years."
"Angel" Willow sighed, "Get over the brooding. Every problem in the world is not your fault. You can't change the past. It's done and gone. Worry about the future."
Angel stared at her then surprised her by laughing. "Thanks for the pep talk coach."
"My pleasure." Willow said smiling. "I've gotten good over the last five years at those pep talks. Anytime you need one, just call."
He looked at Willow, noticing the changes. She had turned into a beautiful, intelligent, caring young woman. He thought back over what he had seen and heard in the library. Willow had looked at Spike like he was the most perfect man on Earth. He wondered how Drusilla felt about Willow's feelings for Spike. He would have to discuss it with his female childe.
"I'll do that" he said, smiling at her, catching her up on all that had happened since she had left.
**********
Willow glanced up as Dru and Spike came inside. Dru smiled at her and moved to sit down on the sofa beside her. Spike had a dazed, confused look on his face. He sat down in a chair, not looking at anyone.
"What's wrong with him?" Angel asked Dru.
She shrugged. "Don't know. So, what have you two been talking about?"
"Angel was telling me all about the changes in Sunnydale. I've missed so much. Xander and Cordelia are married. Giles is sleeping with Faith. Buffy is engaged to that Ryan guy."
"The watcher and the slayer?" Dru asked, smiling. "I can somehow see that."
Willow shuddered. "I'd rather not, thank you very much."
"She makes him happy. After Jenny...." Angel drifted off.
Willow smiled. "What did I tell you?"
He looked at her and smiled. "Yes mom. No brooding."
Spike snorted suddenly, coming out of his fog. "Peaches not brood? Yeah, when hell freezes over."
"Well, we'll see about that" Angel said.
"See what you started?" Dru whispered in Willow's ear.
"Didn't mean too" Willow said, turning toward her friend.
"Those two will go on all night. Let's go on upstairs."
"Sure. Do you know which room is ours?"
"Well, there are about ten so I guess we can choose." Dru said, heading up the stairs.
Willow laughed softly. "Ten? Wow. We could change rooms nightly."
Angel and Spike stopped their bickering to watch the two disappear upstairs.
"That still just strikes me as weird." Angel said.
Spike nodded in agreement. "Do you know what Dru told me outside?"
"What?"
"She said that the redhead loved me."
"I know." Angel said softly.
"What?" Spike looked at him in surprise.
"The way she was watching you tonight. I don't understand it, but she does have feelings for you."
Spike sat back and closed his eyes. His sire had even seen it. How could that girl love him when she didn't even know him? Why did the thought of her loving him make him so happy? Things just didn't make any sense.
**********
Willow woke when she heard whimpering from the other side of the bed. She sat up, her eyes looking at Dru. She watched as her friend began to struggle before her eyes flew open.
"You ok?" Willow asked softly.
Dru felt the tears on her face. She glanced at Willow before moving across the bed. Willow opened her arms, enveloping her friend in the safety of her embrace. It had been months since a vision had affected Drusilla so badly. Willow was used to rocking her friend through the nightmare until her thoughts were safe.
"The evil...I saw it....you and Spike were dying...blood everywhere....I couldn't move....it wasn't real...it felt like someone sent it to me....the demon...his name was Gerit."
"It's ok. I'm here. I'm alive. Spike is right across the hall. No one has killed either of us. He is just playing with your mind. He must know that we are the ones who can defeat him." Willow continued to rub her friend's arms and back, saying soothing words. Eventually, Dru let Willow's voice soothe her into sleep.
Willow sighed as she leaned her head against the headboard. She had been through this those first years. Often, she would have hold Dru while she slept. It was the only way the vampire felt safe. It had been so long since she had had to do this. Dru was deeply bothered by the images she had seen. If this Gerit was able to get into their minds, what chance did they have?
Spike watched the red head hold Dru. Saw the tears in her eyes as she looked at the wall. She looked defeated. She closed her eyes, reopening them with a determined look taking the place of the tears. He had heard what Dru had said, having woken by instinct at her first whimper. He had been surprised to see the girl calming her down. It had usually taken him hours before she would go back to sleep. The girl had done it with some nice words and her arms. Her strength shone through like sunlight.
He leaned against the door, watching her silently. She loved him for some reason. He was still unsure why. Dru loved her. He had to accept that he would never have his princess again. Seeing the girl close her beautiful green eyes and lay her cheek against Dru's bent head, he moved back to his room. He laid down, her determined gaze in his mind as he drifted to sleep.
**********
"Gerit...Garrett...Jerit...Something like that." Dru said.
"None of those names sounds familiar. Could you describe him for us?" Giles asked.
Dru shook her head. "I didn't see him. All I saw was the blood....the bodies...his name echoed from the cave walls."
"A cave?" Faith said, trying to think of caves that were around Sunnydale.
"Yes. I'd rather not think about anymore" Dru said quietly. Willow glanced at her and took her hand. She smiled at the vampire.
"Dru thinks he sent it to her, which means that he knows who we are....where we are. I have to admit, I'm a bit worried. I was really hoping for the element of surprise here. Is there a time that this uprising is supposed to happen?"
"No specific date" Giles said, sighing.
"That would be too easy. Can't have that." Xander said bitterly.
"Did you have a nightmare too?" Buffy asked her old friend. She saw the circles under Willow's eyes and the tired look in them.
"No. I stayed up with Dru. She has problems sleeping after a particularly bad vision." Willow said, fighting a yawn.
"The only way I can sleep is in Willow's arms" Dru added.
"Oh" Buffy said, looking at them both.
Willow yawned, covering her mouth. "I hope that he doesn't send any more nightmares tonight. I could use some sleep." She ran her hand over her neck, trying to ease the tension.
Spike stood quietly and moved behind the redhead. The others began to look for mention of a demon named Gerit. He began to massage her shoulders, feeling how tense she was. Willow glanced at him surprised before giving in to the pleasure. She sighed contentedly and closed her eyes. He eased the knots of stress from her before she laid her head down on the table and drifted off to sleep. He saw Dru smile at him and winked at her before sitting back down.
Dru could see that Spike was interested in Willow. She knew that it wasn't anything like the redhead felt for him, but it was a beginning. She brushed Willow's hair away from her face. She could hear her even breathing. She picked up one of the books and began to look through it. The sooner they found out who this demon was, the sooner they could leave...she missed New Orleans and their little place. She would be glad to get away from the weird looks of the humans.
**********
Willow walked through the dark cave. She could barely see anything. She knew she was dreaming. She ignored her fear and continued walking. She entered an open space and looked around. Candles burned brightly casting a pale glow over the space. She heard a noise and turned.
"You came" a deep voice said.
"Did I have a choice?" Willow said, rather irritated at having what could have been a good dream interrupted.
A creature came forward. Willow stared, taking in each detail. It appeared to be a man in build but his face was not. He had small ridges along his cheeks. His eyes were purple. He had three small horns along the top of his head. Dark gray hair was matted along his head. He was slightly taller than her, but not by much.
"You always have a choice Willow. Remember that. I am Gerit."
"Yeah, I figured that."
"No fear. Good. You will do well. I knew that you were the chosen."
"Do well?"
"There are some things that you need to know. That is why I am here. The prophecy is important, but what I say is much more so. I am to be your guide."
"Wait, you aren't the evil we have to face?"
Gerit laughed. "No. Not evil. The prophecy is a bit misleading. It was done intentionally, of course. The elders set it thousands of years ago."
"All righty." Willow said, not sure what to believe. "Why don't you tell me what is misleading about it?"
"I can not do that, I regret to say. Trust me when I say that you have no immediate threat of evil. Come with me. I will begin your lessons."
"Wait, why did Dru have a nightmare about me and Spike dead?"
"She dreamed what she feared. I tried to stop her...to speak to her, but she was too deep. I could not pull her out without risk. She had to complete the dream. Soon, she too will join us for the lessons. As will the third."
"The third?"
Gerit laughed as he walked into the darkness. "So many questions. Patience my dear. All will be answered soon enough. I have my instructions. Follow me. We will begin. I decided that it would be best if you were familiar with things before bringing your friend here. She has much fear in her mind. She loves you, yes?"
Willow nodded. "She's my best friend."
"Good. Then you can help her. Now, come."
Willow followed him into the darkness.
Dru watched Willow's face as she seemed to sink into a deep sleep. Her breathing was normal but her eyelids were moving just a bit. Dru hoped she wasn't having a nightmare. She saw Spike watching Willow while he was supposed to be reading. She just smiled and went back to her book.
**********
"Nothing." Buffy said, closing the book.
"Why can we not find anything on this demon?" Xander whined. "We've looked through everything."
"He's not the evil" Willow said softly, sitting up. She rubbed her face, trying to wake up.
"What?" Faith asked.
Willow looked at them. "He isn't the evil. Dru's dream was just a nightmare. He tried to get her to avoid it, but she was set in the path. He couldn't stop it."
"Nightmare?" Dru said. She nodded. "I've dreamt of your death before. Never the cave though."
"That was Gerit. He lives there. It's where we will train."
"What are you talking about?" Giles asked the girl.
Willow smiled. "Sorry. Forgot. Ok. I had this dream. Met Gerit. It seems that the prophecy is somehow misleading. He told me not to worry about the evil right now. He was sent by the elders to train me and Dru....also someone known as the third. With his guidance, the prophecy will be fulfilled and all will be perfect."
"He told you this?" Angel said. "And you believed him?"
"Yes," Willow said simply.
"What sort of training?" Spike asked, accepting her decision. If she said the guy was ok, he trusted her.
"I'm not sure. He said it started tonight but all he did was ask questions. Lots of questions. About me....my life...my thoughts. It didn't really make too much sense to me."
"He is going to train me too?" Dru asked.
"Yes." Willow smiled at her. "He thinks it will be easier for you if I am there. That's why he contacted me tonight. He wanted me to let you know not to be scared of him. He's here to help."
"How is it misleading?" Giles asked.
"He told me that he wasn't allowed to say. He just said not to worry about that evil. That there was no immediate threat."
"Then, that means we can party?" Xander asked hopefully.
Giles started to say no when Faith glared at him. Sighing, he smiled. "Go. Party. If we hear anything else, I'll call."
"Yippee!" Xander said, pulling Cordelia to her feet. They left, Buffy and Ryan following behind.
"You can go too" Giles said, smiling at Willow.
"Good. I could use some ice cream" Willow said standing.
"Do they have chocolate?" Dru asked, closing her book and standing.
"Of course silly. It isn't an ice cream place without chocolate."
Angel and Spike followed them outside into the night.
**********
"Dru, this is Gerit. Ger, this is Dru."
"I'm sorry I frightened you before" Gerit said, looking at the woman carefully.
"It was my nightmare" Dru said. "Not your fault what I dream about."
"You won't lose her." he said, quietly.
Dru looked at him and smiled. "Guarantee that?"
"Of course."
"Yoo hoo..I am standing here." Willow said, laughing. "So, when does the training start?"
Gerit frowned. "We are waiting for the third."
"Third?" Dru said, curiosity in her voice.
"The third is the last of the chosen. All three of you were picked many, many years ago. Before you were conceived in fact" Gerit said, explaining. "Your souls were the brightest. The elders knew that you three would one day be the hope for mankind."
"Not a huge burden to bare huh Dru?"
"I don't have a soul" Dru pointed out.
"You have no guilt...no conscience. But, you have always had a soul."
"What?" Willow asked, glancing at Dru.
Gerit smiled. "It is a little known fact. For the scholars, it is easier to just say that vampires have no soul. It is gets too difficult for them to understand that you can have a soul and still be a killer. Though, with all the humans that are far worse than the demons ever could be, I don't understand how that could be."
"So, all vampires have a soul. They just have no conscience so killing is a way of life." Willow repeated, trying to understand.
"Yes. Have you not lived with Dru for several years? She has not killed or maimed anyone has she?"
"No" Willow said. "She developed a conscience didn't she?"
"Yes. There are many vampires, especially in Europe, that have a conscience. They choose not to kill for sport. Anyway, I've probably just broken several rules by telling you that. You never heard it from me ok?"
"Of course....Gerit who?" Willow asked, her eyes wide and innocent.
Dru had to laugh. "So, this third. Do we know her?"
"You might. I've been unable to pin point Third's identity. I do know that he/she will figure prominently in the prophecy. I do believe it is a man though."
"Hmmm" Willow said, sitting down on a rock. "How long do we wait?"
"Hopefully not much longer. Tonight is the night we are all supposed to meet."
Suddenly, they heard a noise. Then, loud cursing.
"Blimey, where the hell am I?"
Dru and Willow looked at each other then stared at the doorway of the cave. A familiar head came into view. He scowled.
"What the bloody hell are you two doing here? And who the fuck is that?"
"I take it you know this....man." Gerit said, scowling at Spike.
"Yes" Willow said, sitting back in shock. Spike was the third? Things suddenly made sense. That was why the three of them had such a strange relationship. It had been pre-destined.
"The name's Spike" Spike said arrogantly.
"Charmed" Gerit said, rolling his eyes.
Dru stifled a laugh. "He's the third."
"Would appear that way. My luck" Gerit said drolly.
"Third? The third what?"
"The prophecy. We've been selected to save the world from evil and all the usual stuff. Seems our souls were bright." Willow said to the blond.
"Souls?"
Dru quickly explained what Gerit had said.
"Really? I've had a soul this whole time?" Spike said for the tenth time.
"YES. Deal with it" Willow said, exhausted from his chattering.
"Geez...someone's in a bad mood. That time of the month pet? I don't smell anything...."
"Can we say yuck." Willow said. "Why does it always have to be a woman's time of the month if she actually has an opinion and speaks her mind? Of all the sexist, egotistical stereotypes there are..."
Spike's mouth caught the rest of her words. He couldn't resist. She had fire coming from her eyes. Her hair added to the illusion of her as a flame. He pulled her closer to him as she relaxed into the kiss. Her hands went to his hair, gently running through the short depths.
Dru saw Gerit watching wide eyed. "They've been building up to that for the last week" she told him softly.
"Yes...well....I was under the impression that you and she were...."
"Just friends." Dru said, smiling. "She loves him. I used to be involved with him. Now, I love her. It's pretty much a big old mess."
"Actually, it makes sense. The prophecy. The three of you bound together. I won't say anything else until they finally come up for air. Does he knew that she still has to breathe?"
"I imagine so. Let them enjoy this. It is their first kiss after all" Dru said softly.
She could smell Willow's arousal. She watched them, fascinated by the sight of them, her old love and her new love. She felt her own arousal as the kiss continued. She saw Spike's hand drift down to Willow's bottom. He pulled her closer to him. Dru could hear the faint gasp escape from Willow's lips. She imagined that Spike was hard. She remembered fondly the feeling of him. She didn't love him anymore, but she had enjoyed their times together. He had been an amazing lover. Now, her best friend would be able to enjoy his skill. She didn't feel the slightest bit jealous. She wondered if that was due to the prophecy. Maybe soon Gerit would give them some answers.
**********
Willow pulled reluctantly away from Spike.
"What was that?" she asked breathlessly.
"I believe they call it a kiss" he said smirking.
"I'm glad you two finally came up for air" Dru said, laughing softly.
Willow felt her face flush as she looked into the knowing eyes of her friend. "It isn't my fault. He started it."
"I didn't hear any protests from you luv" Spike said in his defense.
"How could I protest? Your tongue was down my throat"
A shrill whistle sounded. Both looked guiltily at Gerit.
"Sorry" the echoed.
"Can we please start the training? You are still asleep, if you remember. What did I do wrong to deserve this assignment?" he asked the air above him.
"What did you mean about the prophecy?" Willow asked, calming herself down.
"Oh, I should have known you'd remember that. I'm not at liberty to discuss it."
"Gerit.....you have to tell us. Buffy and Faith are Willow's friends...." Dru said, her voice soft and coaxing.
"Buffy is. I wouldn't say anything about that other bitch."
"Who?" Gerit asked.
"The slayers. The bloody chosen ones" Spike said sarcastically. "Didn't you read up on the bleeding prophecy?"
"The chosen aren't the slayers" Gerit said. "Who told you that they were?"
"What? Well, then, who are they?" Willow asked, curiosity in her voice.
Gerit sighed and ran his hand over the middle horn in his head. "Damn. We'll talk about this tomorrow. I can't get into it tonight. Wake up."
The three glanced at each other before they suddenly disappeared from the cave. Willow and Dru woke up, sitting up in the bed.
"Did we just have a dream about a weird man with horns?" Dru asked softly.
"Yes....Oh my god. Spike kissed me." Willow said, running her fingers over her lips.
**********
"You mean, Buffy and Faith aren't the chosen?" Xander said.
"Nope. He didn't want to go into it last night." Willow said. She heard the door open and saw Spike come in. She knew her face was flushed. She turned away and avoided his heated stare.
"Why didn't he tell you last night?"
"Oh, he would have, BUT certain people wouldn't come up for breath long enough OW" Dru exclaimed as Willow hit her hard.
Willow glared at Dru as Spike laughed softly. "Dru's right. Certain people were a bit occupied. The ugly demon thing didn't have a lot of time."
"Wait. You were there?" Giles asked Spike.
Spike nodded then said proudly, "I'm the third. Whatever the hell that means."
"The demon in the prophecy. You will fight forever beside Dru and Willow keeping the world safe from evil." Angel said softly.
"What? Me fight evil? Bugger that."
"It's decided. Gerit told you that last night, if you had listened" Dru said, rolling her eyes.
"Spike never listens" Faith pointed out.
"Hey, I am right here you know" He said raising his hand.
"Well, then. We have the three that the prophecy discusses. Now, if we only had an idea who the chosen were."
"No offense, but I'm thrilled that Faith and I are out of this thing. Of course, we'll help you all we can" Buffy said smiling at Willow.
"I'm glad you two are out of it too" she said softly.
"Ah, what a touching moment. Where are the violins?" Spike said sarcastically.
"Listen here you undead piece of meat. They are my friends. You are part of this so get rid of the damn attitude and get rid to put that cute ass on the line." Willow said, her eyes sparking.
Spike smiled slowly, his eyes on hers. "So, my ass is cute"
"Angel, why did you make this conceited imbecile a vampire?" she asked Angel, her eyes on Spike.
"Imbecile? I'll tell you something pet.." Spike stopped. "Fuck it. I'll show you"
His mouth caught hers in a replay of the dream. Dru sighed loudly. "You asked why Gerit didn't tell us anything? Talk to those two....when they come up for air. I timed it at an hour this afternoon."
The others just sat, watching. The heat that the two were giving off was intense. Angel smiled at Dru and winked. It seemed his childe had found his match.
**********
"Excuse me." A cultured British voice said. "Ahem..." Giles looked at Dru who shrugged.
"They have been at it for an hour. Does Willow not need to breathe?" Faith asked, her eyes watching the red head and the blond kiss. "Oh, popsicle is getting some hand action. Go dead boy."
"Faith, would you go patrol" Giles said, glaring at her.
"What? What did I say?" Seeing his look, she grinned. "Sure thing babe. I'll try not to get too horny for you."
"Drusilla, would you please try to separate them."
"Nope. Willow is happy. Let them be. They won't contribute anyway. Too busy making secretive glances and soft sighs."
"You're probably right." Giles admitted. "I have noticed that the last few days."
"We can still hear you know" Willow said, glaring at them. Her lips were red and swollen. Her eyes wide with lust and desire. Spike had his arm around her waist.
"Yes, I assumed that he wasn't kissing your ear" Dru said smiling at the flush that came over her friend.
"Shut up" Willow muttered as she sat down. "What did we miss?"
"Us watching you two play tonsil hockey" Dru offered.
"Dru, would you like to see the sunrise tomorrow? I have a nice chair and some rope" Willow said sweetly.
"Save the rope for Blondie. He always did like being tied up."
Willow looked up at Spike with interest. "I don't think that image is going anywhere for awhile."
"Shut up ducks" He shot Dru a glare. Looking at Willow, he smiled. "What can I say?"
"Not a thing. Just promise to show me sometime..."
He moved forward as if he were going to kiss her. Giles hit the table hard.
"Enough kissing. You two can discuss rope and such on your own time. Tell me what this Gerit said about the prophecy and how it doesn't affect the slayers."
"Someone had too much coffee" Spike muttered.
"Or not enough" Willow added.
"Watcher, sit down. I'll tell you while the love birds bond" Dru said and began to describe the dream talk.
**********
"Tell us demon dude" Spike said, sitting on a large rock. Willow moved beside him, taking a seat. He smiled at her and took her hand. They had spent all the night and half the day talking. They actually had a lot of similar interests. Spike could feel himself falling for her.
"What I tell you can not leave the cave. That means, no explantations to anyone. Understood?"
The three sighed and nodded.
"Good. Well, the prophecy. It is a bit misleading as I said. It was intentionally worded so that you three would meet. The elders used the term chosen ones knowing that you would assume it was the slayer's and come back to Sunnydale, meeting up with the third." Gerit cast a grimace at Spike. "So, really, the uprising occurrs in about three hundred years and will be against two mortals that will...well, that isn't important. Just know that you three are their only hope."
"Three hundred years?" Willow said softly. She gripped Spike's hand tightly.
"Yes Willow. You have fallen in love with the third, correct?"
She blushed but nodded.
"We know about the history of him and Drusilla. He loves you also as does Dru. The bond between will be sealed and eternal immortality will be given to you as a gift from the elders. As I said, we've had our eye on your souls for quite awhile. I will admit, it had been intended for two men and one female. BUT, these things happen. At least the meeting was not called for during the Victorian times. It would have been quite awkward to explain."
"Wait, bond mean immortality? What bond?" Dru asked.
Gerit smiled, "The bond that will require freely giving yourself to each other. It can be at your own pace. Of course, the longer you wait, the better chance that something could happen to one of you."
"You mean....we have to..." Willow knew her face was red. "Oh my god...I see why those details were left out of the damn prophecy. I wasn't aware that the elders condoned orgies!"
"Will, calm down" Dru said softly. She looked at Spike and saw the shell shocked look on his face. Sighing, she turned to Gerit. "After we all make love, we are immortal. Is that right?" Seeing him nod, she said, "We then begin training to fight evil for eternity?"
"Yes. The bond will be permanent and never able to be broken. You will, in essence, be married until the end of creation."
"I'm not old enough to be married to two vampires" Willow said softly. Her mind was trying to understand all that Gerit had said.
"The innocent. You are the key. The others have the love for you. You will be the middle, linking the unit together. The three of you together will have strength that you can not comprehend. You will not only save the chosen, when the time comes, but also fight for all of mankind." he lowered his voice, "I had to say that. I know it must be tough for you to comprehend what is happening. Take some time. Don't rush into the sex just to gain the immortality. It will happen regardless of when the bonding happens. It is important that there are no hesitations in any of you. I must go. We will meet again, in the real world, once the bonding is complete. Be safe."
They watched as he disappeared.
"Well, I somehow think we should listen to him and not tell the watcher about this" Spike said quietly.
"Good grief. Why me?" Willow said,
*********
Willow leaned against Spike, running her hand over his arm. It had been a week since the last dream with Gerit. A week for them all to accept what their future would be. They had only told Angel the true meaning of the prophecy. After he had finished laughing, he promised to help them any way that he could. He vowed that he would assist them in their fight.
Willow had found a spell in once of Giles' books. She and Dru had secretly performed it. It gave Angel, not only a permanent soul without the guilt issue, but also a very good form of immortality. There was only one known way to kill him, and Gerit had assured them that the instrument would be delivered to them soon. Willow planned to destroy it as soon as they got it. They had not told him or Spike what they had done. Instead, waiting for the right moment. Willow had this image of pushing him into the sun, just to see his reaction as he didn't burst into flames. Dru thought the idea amusing.
Willow thought of her friend and smiled. Their friendship had grown so much over the last few years. They knew each other so well. It had gradually slipped into love for the vampire. Willow did love her, accepting her as her equal. The love was not as strong as the love for Spike. That was why they had brought Angel into the forever family. Drusilla had admitted to having growing feelings for the dark haired sire. Now, with him, she would have someone as Willow had Spike. It also made things a bit easier to explain to the outside world.
Willow felt a mouth on her foot and looked into dark chocolate eyes. Angel smirked as he ran his tongue over her foot and up her leg. She felt a cold mouth on her breast and smiled into blue eyes. Spike began to leisurely suckle her breast. She felt cool lips on her neck and met Dru's demanding kiss. Gerit was on his way to begin their training. Their bond had been sealed two days before. Willow pulled away from Dru's kiss.
"Bet you never imagined what you'd be getting yourself into that night did you?" she asked softly.
Dru ran her cold fingers along her Willow's face. "No regrets?"
Willow felt Spike bite into her nipple as Angel found her center. Laughing softly, she looked at them then back at Dru. "None."
Dru smiled as she saw the dark head and the blond head on her lover. "Me either."
"Who'd have ever imagined this?" Willow asked, bringing her hand to the top of Dru's.
"The elders" Dru said rolling her eyes. She looked serious a moment, causing Willow to frown.
"What?" Willow asked.
Dru nodded slowly, "I've realized something."
"Yes?"
"We need a bigger bed" the vampire said laughing as she caught Willow's smiling lips.
THE END