Temptations of the Heart

Chapter 9

It felt as if time had stood still. No movements could be seen as the world slowly darkened in her eyes. The once green fields covered in a rainbow of colorful wildflowers had turned grey, leaving the scene before her in a blanket of despair. She vaguely heard the painful sounds of screaming echoing in her ears and as she ran she realized it was her own desperate wailings as she ran towards William and his attacker.

Angelus looked up as Buffy’s screams reached his ears and he watched as she ran towards them, the smile on his face widening and a small chuckle escaped his throat as he realized capturing Buffy would be easier than killing William would be. The thought was short lived though as his feet were kicked out from under him and he fell hard, hitting the ground flat on his back. He stare up at the darkening sky, blinking and trying to catch the breath that had been knocked from his lungs as anger filled him and as he started to sit up to finish off William, a bright explosion of light lit up the night and darkness over took him as his body once again slumped to the ground.

Buffy was blinded by her tears, and a sob escaped her throat as she saw William roll over and deliver a hard kick to the side of Angelus’ head. The stocky brunette fell to the ground, his body lying motionless as William leaned on one arm before he also fell.

Buffy was out of breath as she finally made it to him. She could barely see as tears clouded her vision and she dropped the heavy sword she had been dragging as she fell to her knees.

“William.” Buffy said frantically, looking down at him and she gasped as she reached out and rolled his body to her. His entire face was covered in blood from the gash in his eyebrow that Angelus had effectively been able to make as he swung the sword down and Buffy thanked the gods for giving him the strength to roll out of the way before the killing blow had being made.

Reaching out to the hem of her dress, Buffy quickly pulled the ripped material, shredding a large piece of the silk away as William lie motionless on the ground, before wiping the blood from his face. His left eye was pooled with his blood and the cut was still leaking the crimson liquid and running down his face.

“William, can you hear me?” Buffy asked as she tried to wipe the blood away before ripping another piece of the dress apart and bunching the material up over the cut. William winced in pain as the pressure Buffy was applying to the cut stung and Buffy smiled weakly knowing he was at least semi-conscience.

“William, please answer me?” Buffy said, frowning as William lie silently unmoving. Buffy continued to wipe the blood from his face, the cut in his eyebrow slowing its release of blood as the pressure she had been forcing on it was finally began to staunch the bleeding.

Buffy sighed heavily, looking up at the forest before turning to look around. No one else was in sight and the sun had almost set. Her eyes fell on Angelus as he lay unconscious at William’s feet and her anger and hatred at him for what he had done to William boiled within her as she glanced over to the sword he had dropped. The thoughts of killing him and freeing both her and William from his torment ran through her mind and she knew she would be able to do it as he lay motionless on the ground.

Turning her body, she reached out slowly, her green eyes large and wide as she reached for the fallen sword. Her breath was coming quickly as the adrenaline rush at what she was about to do had her pulse racing. Grabbing the shiny metal, she pulled it to her, feeling the cold steel in her hand.

“Buffy”

Buffy jumped as William said her name and she dropped the sword, her body turning quickly as she looked back down at him. “William?” she said, a ghost of a smile turning the corners of her mouth up as she stare down at him. “William can you hear me?” she asked as she reached down, laying her hand on his cheek.

William swallowed hard, his mouth completely dry as his entire body ached. The sharp pain in his face causing him to stiffen as his head throbbed in time with his pulse. He could hear Buffy talking to him, but he was having trouble answering her as he felt the outside world slowly slipping away as his tired body fought for consciousness.

“William please answer me.” Buffy almost begged, her tears once again returning as she continued to rub his face.

William opened his mouth, but no words came as pain gripped his body. His eyes fluttered open slightly, barely catching a glimpse of Buffy as she sat beside of him and he slowly raised his arm, bringing his hand up to rest over hers.

Buffy smiled through her tears as William grabbed the hand she had resting on his face and a small sob escaped her throat as he lightly squeezed her hand, her fears slowly lifting as she stare down into his bloody and bruised face.

“Shhh, don’t cry luv.” William whispered, hearing her quiet sobs as he fought to remain conscience. “You need to go to the forest.”

Buffy dried her eyes with her free hand before looking back at the forest. She knew he was right. They couldn’t stay out in the middle of the field all night and the thoughts of Angelus waking were nagging at her mind. Looking around, Buffy smiled as she saw Angelus’ horse grazing on the grass before she looked back down at William. “I’ll be right back.” She told him before slowly standing.

Walking towards the horse, Buffy knew she would need him to get William to the forest as there was no way she could carry him. Reaching out she grabbed the reins and gently pulled the horse forward.

“William, can you sit up?” Buffy asked as she once again knelt down beside of him. She waited for an answer, looking down into his face and frowning as he didn’t answer her. “William, I need you to wake up.” Buffy told him as she shook him lightly trying to stir him awake.

William groaned as Buffy shook him, his body once again aching from the injuries he had taken from Angelus. His eyes fluttered open a few times before he forced them to stay open. He stare up at Buffy and could see the concern on her face as she looked at him before a tiny smile graced her face.

“Hey, do you think you can stay awake for a few minutes longer?” Buffy asked, smiling down at him. “We need to get you up?”

William shook his head as Buffy reached out and grabbed him under his arms and pulled him up. William groaned loudly as a sharp pain shot through his rib cage, making him dizzy as he brought his arm around and holding his ribs.

“You okay?” Buffy asked concerned as William’s head fell forward and his eyes clenched shut.

“Yeah, just give me a minute.” William gasped out softly as he held his bruised ribs. He took deep breaths, trying to push the pain away and gritted his teeth together, fighting the pain before his foggy brain finally realized his position.

His head was nestled in Buffy’s chest, her warm skin almost searing his flesh and he inhaled deeply, taking in what little scent that was still all hers in as he felt her hand slowly running over his head. His pain was forgotten as he shifted his head slightly, tucking it tightly under Buffy’s chin and smiling as Buffy’s arms wrapped around him tighter. He sat there, enjoying the feel of her against him and the way she was caressing him like he was the most precious thing in the world to her.

Buffy had her eyes closed, her mind a whirlwind of emotions as she held William to her. A part of her wanted to distance herself from him, knowing she was only adding to her own misery but the other part, the part of her that knew that she would never be able to love him the way she wanted to held on to the simple act of comforting him. She knew it wasn’t much, but it was all she could give him and it saddened her having to face the reality of her situation again. With a heavy sigh, she finally opened her eyes and lifted her head. “Think you can stand?”

William nodded his head, already missing the feel of her against him as Buffy slowly stood and helped him to his feet. He spared a glance at Angelus, the urge to ram his own sword through him overwhelming as Buffy led him to Angelus’ horse.

After many painful tries and fighting to control the tears that were ready to spill forward as William’s battle beaten body raged, Buffy had finally managed to get him seated on the horse. Reaching down, Buffy picked up the sword she had dropped before she grabbed hold of the reins. She turned her head and smiled up at William before she slowly walked towards the forest, leading the horse and its precious cargo into the safety of the darkness that lie ahead.

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Buffy was almost in tears as she tried to start a fire unsuccessfully. She had watched William do it many times and she couldn’t understand why it wasn’t working for her. She glanced over at him, the shadows of the forest barely leaving him visible to her as darkness was quickly engulfing the area.

She had been able to find a large grassy area and after a painful descent from the horse, William had finally fallen into a deep sleep. She knew he needed the rest, so she had made him as comfortable as she could, pillowing his head on the spare clothes she had found in one of the satchels attached to Angelus’ horse.

Turning once again, Buffy tried to start the fire. She was tiring quickly as her food deprived body was running on nothing and she didn’t want to spend the rest of the evening alone in the dark with nothing to comfort her but the sound of William’s breathing.

Her eyes widened suddenly and a huge smile split her face as she smelled the first signs of smoke. A delighted chuckle escaped her throat and she turned her head, ready to squeal out her success to William only to look back at the tiny flame that she had managed to create when she realized he was to far gone to notice.

Gathering up the small twigs from around her, Buffy added them to the flame, delighting in the fire she had created. The small flame grew as she scooted back, adding larger pieces of wood to it until a bright glow illuminated the area and she sighed in relief as she stare into the now raging fire.

Standing, Buffy searched the area, grabbing the scattered rocks she found and surrounded the fire as she had seen William do before she quickly scanned the area for more wood to keep the fire going. As she laid the last bit of firewood down, Buffy let out a long cleansing breath before she turned to Angelus’ horse and removed the large satchels that it carried.

Carrying them over to the fire, Buffy sat back down and began going through the contents and she almost cried out as she found a large roll of sweet bread. She quickly broke a piece off before bringing a shaky hand to her mouth and closing her eyes as the first food she had had since waking made it into her mouth.

Buffy began to rummage further into the bag as she enjoyed her small meal, delighted in finding more food and flasks of clean water. She was almost tempted in waking William, knowing he needed to eat as well, but one look at his face had her thinking better of it.

She let her gaze travel over his form and a frown covered her face as she saw the blood that was now drying over various parts of his body. His knuckles were raw and dried blood caked his hands. His shirt was torn and she could see a large gash running across his chest but his face was what terrified her the most. It was still covered in blood, although it was mostly dry now. His lips were swollen as were his eyes and large cuts marred his once perfect pale flesh.

Sitting the satchel to the side, Buffy stood and walked over to him, sitting down on the ground beside of him as she continued to look him over. Large purple bruises covered his face as she held back the tears that were stinging her eyes. Raising her hand, she laid it on his cheek, softly running her fingertips over his skin. An overwhelming rush of emotions surged through her and the tears she had been trying to hold back finally came forward.

Buffy cried, laying her head on William’s chest as her fear at what could have happened to him finally hit her. Her protected life had left her unprepared for horrors such as what she had witnessed earlier. Her fathers death at the hands of an unknown assailant would forever haunt her but to stand and witness the brutal attack that almost took William’s life had scared her beyond anything she had ever witnessed.

Lifting her head, Buffy wiped her eyes dry and looked down at William. She smiled in spite of her sullen mood at remembering the way he had fought off Angelus’ attack with his bare hands and even though Angelus out sized him and was wielding a weapon, William had defeated him.

Leaning forward, Buffy looked into his face before lowering her head and placing a soft chaste kiss on his bruised swollen lips. She lingered there, enjoying the feel of him before she pulled back slightly; smiling as she lightly ran her hand over his cheek. “I love you William.” She whispered against his lips. “Always.”

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William stirred at the feel of warm hands running over his chest before his heavy eyelids began to flutter open. He felt cool air pass over him followed by warm touches of feather soft caresses and as his eyes fell back shut he knew he must be dreaming as the sensations of loving hands slowly passed over him as he was once again taken over by sleep.

Buffy froze and looked up when she saw William’s eye flutter open. She let out the breath she held in as his eyes slowly closed again before she once again ran her hand lightly over his flesh. She had already cleaned his hands and bandaged them with the remains of the clothing she had found lying unused by a man that seemed to have vanished into thin air and as she tried to clean the wound on his chest, she was finding the task more difficult than she had first imagined.

She was glad he was still sleeping as she found herself becoming increasingly flustered the longer she tended to him. Hard lean muscles encased in silvery pale skin danced under her fingertips and she wasn’t sure she would be able to finish her task if he were awake.

She had never seen a man in such a state of undress before and that along with the feel of his smooth skin under her fingers had her trying desperately to finish quickly but wanting to prolong the task at the same time. Her eyes roamed over the hard muscles of his abdomen as her hands resumed their task and giving another quick glance up to William’s face to make sure he was still asleep, she allowed herself the pleasure of taking in his beauty.

A tiny smile curved her lips as she took in his lean form and she let her imagination run wild for a moment as she wondered what other pleasures lie confined within the expanse of clothing that covered him. A tinge of jealously ran through her knowing she would never be able to experience what it felt like wrapped around him in a lovers embrace and knowing that somewhere there waited a lady who would know the pleasure that she was denied, left a pang in her heart that she knew would forever leave her with a longing for him.

Shaking her head and reluctantly pushing away the thoughts, Buffy once again resumed her task. Finishing the cut to his chest, she soaked more of the ripped pieces of fabric with water and started cleaning the small cuts and abrasions on William’s face, taking great care to not disturb him. He winced slightly in his sleep as she cleaned the area around his eyebrow and she knew the large cut would scar as she had nothing to see that it was properly taken care of.

She smiled sadly knowing that the wound would forever be a reminder to him of what had happened and of ‘her’ and although deep down a part of her was glad he would always remember her, a part of her wished she could give him more.

Buffy finished cleaning his wounds and removed the blanket she had found rolled up and strapped to the horse’s satchel bags before she covered William with it. Adding more logs to the fire, she sat back down beside of him, staring at the fire as the long emotional day played out in her mind. As her eyes became heavy, she glanced over to William, running her hand softly over his face before lying down beside of him. Staring into the flames as they danced into the night, Buffy sighed lightly before closing her eyes and letting the days events wash over her as sleep finally consumed her.

To Be Continued……..

Chapter 10

The smell of smoke drifted through the air as birds sang in the early morning light. The sun’s rays filtered through the tree top canopy, casting streams of light onto the soft grass below as the world slowly came alive and a new day dawned.

William moved his head, trying unsuccessfully to open his eyes as he did, before he raised his hand to his face. He groaned slightly as pain still racked his body before lowering his arm.

“Buffy.”

The only sounds he was able to hear were the birds and the occasional rustling in the bushes as animals scurried around. His face felt like he had slammed into a tree and he wasn’t able to open either eye as they were both swollen shut. Leaning to the side, William was able to prop up on one arm, sitting on his elbow for a minute, trying to let the dizzy feelings pass before he turned his head, trying to figure out where Buffy had gone.

Buffy was smiling as she finally saw the thin line of smoke from the fire she had built up ahead as she rode Angelus’ horse back to where she had left William. She had left him as the sun had come up, trying to see if there were a water source nearby. As she cleared the trees, her eyes instantly fell to where she had left him and her smile widened as she saw him sitting up.

“Hey, you’re awake.” She said as she finally came to a stop and slid from the horse.

William’s head turned to the right when he heard her voice and he wished he could see her. He could tell by the sound of her voice she was smiling and he wanted nothing more than to see it. “Yeah, barely,” He told her.

Buffy’s smile disappeared as she finally got a good look at him in the light. His entire face was colored with large purple and red bruises and both of his eyes were swollen shut. She walked slowly towards him, smiling again before sitting on her knees in front of him.

“How do you feel?” She asked, searching his face.

“Like someone beat the hell out of me,” he said, offering a smile but realizing it as a mistake when his pain shot through his face.

“Well, it looks like someone did,” Buffy said, smiling up at him. “Are you hungry?”

“Yeah, did you find something?” William asked as he heard her stand and walk away.

“Actually, Angelus had plenty in his bags,” She said, smiling as she grabbed the satchel bags and brought them back over to where William was sitting. “Fresh water as well.”

“And you took his horse,” William said after hearing the animal stomp and snarl lightly.

“Yes, don’t you remember?” Buffy asked, digging into the bag and pulling the roll of sweet bread she had found the night before out.

“Don’t remember much other than getting my head beat in.”

Buffy smiled slightly as she looked back up. “Well, you gave Angelus a good kick to the head as well, knocked him out cold. I took his horse and brought you and it into the forest.”

“What happened to Angelus?”

“I left him lying there,” Buffy told him, breaking off a piece of the bread and handing it to him.

William looked down as he felt her hand on his and his head lifted as she handed him the bread, her hand cupped around his for a long minute before she took it away. He smiled slightly, looking back down before raising his arm.

“So, did you start the fire or did the fairies do it?” William asked, taking a small bite from the bread.

Buffy laughed before shaking her head as she reached for the water flask and opened it. “I did it.”

“Really?” William asked, surprised.

“Yes really,” Buffy said, grinning “I’m not completely useless you know; I’ve been watching you.” She ducked her head and was glad he couldn’t see her as her face burned.

“Have you now?” William asked, smiling, knowing her face was probably three shades of red.

Buffy turned her head, busying herself with the contents of Angelus’ things as she waited for the glow to disappear from her face before she turned back to William. “So, I found a pond a little ways up. We can move up there once you’re able to.”

“Is that where you were?”

“Yes. This place is beautiful,” she said, smiling brightly. “I can’t wait for you to see it.”

“Seen anything unusual yet?”

“Like what?” Buffy asked, handing him the water flask.

“Well, the fairies for one,” William said, smiling.

Buffy laughed, watching as he tried to lift the flask before she reached up, helping him hold it. “There are no fairies.”

“Says who?”

“Well, have you ever seen one? They’re just a tale.”

“Just like everything else in the forest.”

“Well I haven’t seen anything other than just really odd flowers and trees.”

“Well then we won’t leave until you’ve seen a fairy then, how’s that?” He asked as he held out the flask for her to take.

Buffy giggled, capping the flask before sitting it aside. “Well, we may be here forever if were waiting just to see a fairy.”

“I don’t have problem with that,” William said softly.

Buffy’s head shot up at his words and a smile formed on her face as she looked at him. Even with his eyes swollen shut and his face three different colors, she could still tell he had meant what he had said. “Yes, well I’m sure Prince Edward might,” she said softly, hating the thought of marrying the prince as soon as she mentioned his name.

“Suppose he would,” William told her, eating his last bite of bread. “So, where’s this water hole you found?”

“It’s just up the trail a ways,” Buffy said, placing the remaining bread back into the satchels. “I can’t wait for you to see it,” she told him, her face almost glowing as she spoke. “It is so beautiful. It’s surrounded by flowers, and there’s a small waterfall on one end.”

“A waterfall?”

“Yeah, kinda strange seeing how most of the ground here is flat.”

“Well, nothing’s ever really as it seems here, or at least I’ve heard.”

“I guess so,” Buffy said, smiling. “We’ll move there as soon as you feel up to it.”

William shook his head slightly, leaning back on one arm before sighing heavily. He could hear Buffy rustling around in the bags she had taken from Angelus before she stood and walked away.

His head turned to the side, hearing the horse once again walking around and his mind flashed back to Angelus and how long it would be before he tried to capture Buffy again. If one thing he knew, Angelus wouldn’t stop until he had her.

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Angelus began to stir, the dew from the grass soaking his clothes as the sun shined around him. His eyes opened slowly before he looked around, seeing nothing but wide- open fields before the forest came into view.

Raising up, he instantly grabbed his head as pain shot through his body. He could feel the wet sticky blood that had poured from the open cut just below his hairline before his face twisted in anger.

Sitting up, he searched the field, scowling as his horse and belongings were gone. Returning his gaze back to the forest, a string of curses were shouted before he stood. Reaching into the front of his shirt, Angelus pulled the large medallion that hung around his neck out before holding it between his fingers. Closing his eyes, he began to chant, the metal between his fingers warming before it started to glow. As his chants grew louder, the air around him became charged with electricity, flashes of lightening breaking through the calm of the valley before a loud, piercing whistle broke through the silence around him. As the last word was muttered, lightening shook the ground around him before he was encased in light, a bright glow illuminating his body. “See you real soon…William,” He said, looking towards the forest as his body disappeared into the light.

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Ethan smiled as he heard the air crackle around him before he turned; the soft glow of light growing in the center of the room, widening as he stepped back. He looked towards the witch, his pride swelling as his attention was once again drawn to the light that was rapidly growing in the room.

As the lightening began to crackle a figure was slowly seen taking shape before the whistling rang out in the stone-walled room. With a piercing scream, light erupted, causing all present to shield their eyes as Angelus’ body slumped to the ground, his agonizing screams dying as the light slowly receded.

“I take it you were unsuccessful in obtaining the Princess?” Ethan said as he took a step towards Angelus, a tiny smile gracing his face.

Angelus turned his head and his entire body felt hot as he slowly opened his eyes, looking up into his father’s smiling face. “You would think being a mighty sorcerer, that you could find a way for that to not be so painful.”

“Ah, well if you would have completed your task right, then there would have been no need for your pain.”

“Still doesn’t explain why it hurts so much,” Angelus grumbled, sitting up slowly.

“What happened?” Ethan asked as he turned, walking back towards the table the witch was currently at.

“They got away,” Angelus told him, finally making it to his feet. “Not sure how really, but my men were nowhere to be found and William, the princess and my horse were gone when I woke.”

“When you woke?” Ethan asked, turning to look at his son.

“Yes, when I woke,” he said, rolling his eyes slightly before sitting down in the chair by the fire.

“I take it there was a confrontation,” Ethan said, giving his son a good look. “I do hope you were able to a least slow them down.”

“Oh, I’m sure William isn’t up to his usual self this morning,” Angelus said, smiling as he stared into the fire.

“Yes well, William being beaten has nothing to do with the Princess,” Ethan said, walking around the table. “If they’ve made it into the forest, our task will be more difficult.”

“Well, you are the one with all the knowledge, so find a way.”

Angelus turned his head as he heard the small chuckle coming from his father before a smile broke out on his face. “I take it you found one?”

“Indeed I have.”

“And?”

“And my dear son, the princess will be ours, or, yours rather,” Ethan said with a gleam in his eye. “The Torlothan will secure her for us.”

“The Torlothan?” Angelus asked, surprised. “I thought that was a myth.”

“Oh, it exists, I can assure you,” Ethan told him as he leafed through a stack of old parchments. “Harnessing its power will be the difficult part.”

“And how do you suggest we do that?”

“Just leave everything to me.” Ethan said, smiling. “Princess Elizabeth will be in our possession before they ever reach Alcala.”

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Buffy busied herself with gathering up more firewood and keeping the small fire she had managed to start, burning as William lay on his side. She couldn’t tell if he were sleeping or just lying there. She would steal glances at him every so often, a pang of guilt running through her every time she did. He looked worse now than he had the night before and she knew that it was all because of her.

They had talked briefly as he ate but she could tell it hurt him to do so. His entire face was swollen and if she didn’t know it was him, she wouldn’t have even recognized him. She wondered how long it would be until he was rested and healed enough to continue on their journey. She was sure King Rupert knew of their disappearance by now which meant, that her mother knew as well.

She hated worrying them and wished there were a way to let them know she was okay. She felt relieved in knowing that they were probably looking for them by now and hoped that once they cleared the forest, they would be rescued and not have to make the rest of the journey on foot.

Walking over to the last of the small logs she had found, Buffy sat down by the fire. Her attention fell back to William and a sad smile covered her face as she looked at him. As much as she wanted the comforts of home, she knew that once she arrived in Alcala, things would be different. No longer would it be appropriate for her to be around William, no matter what they had been through together. He was a servant and she was royalty. He was only there to serve his king.

She knew they had only been missing for a few days and the wedding wasn’t to take place for another month. A true smile lit up her face, knowing that at least she would have this time with him, even if it were short lived. Just being able to spend time with him would be worth more than all the riches in the world, for as soon as she reached Alcala, the love she had finally found would be forced away, replaced with a duty to her kingdom, and her king.

To Be Continued…………

Chapter 11

King Rupert smiled as Joyce walked into the throne room before he stood to greet her. He could see worry etched across her face and he wished more than anything he had news for her.

“Your majesty,” he said, smiling as he took her hand. “I do pray your trip was pleasant.”

“As pleasant as it could be,” Joyce answered him, forcing a smile onto her face.

“Yes, I suppose it is difficult to not worry in a situation as of this.”

Joyce nodded her head, afraid if she spoke, the tears she had been holding back would come forward. She smiled as King Rupert led her towards the door off to the side of the room and she looked back at her children, motioning them to stay. Once inside King Rupert’s private office, the tears she had been fighting finally came.

“Please,” King Rupert said as he handed her a handkerchief. “Everything is being done to assure the princess’ safe return.” He told her, trying to ease her fears.

“Yes, I’m sure that it is,” she said, trying to calm herself. “I just feel so responsible.”

“Responsible?” King Rupert asked, confused. “This tragedy has nothing to do with you, I can assure you that.”

Joyce let out a small sad chuckle as she dried her eyes before looking up at the King. “Buffy did not want this,” she told him as she turned and walked toward the window. “She only did it to secure our Kingdom.”

“Yes, I am aware of that,” he told her, walking to stand with her. “And your Kingdom will be protected.”

“What if she isn’t found?”

“I have fifty men looking for her now, they will find her.”

“And King Edward…is he also looking for her?”

Joyce turned her head when she heard King Rupert sigh loudly and, by the look on his face, she could tell that Prince Edward was not with the rescue party. Anger consumed her instantly. King Rupert had told her of his son’s defiant behavior and his unwillingness to assume the responsibilities bestowed on him. Why she ever agreed to allow such an immature man to rule her lands had her rethinking the whole idea. Not only had Prince Edward neglected his duty as future ruler, now he was neglecting her daughter, his future bride.

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Buffy walked along the small path she had found the day before, the horses’ reins held tightly in her hand. It had taken William four tries to get up on the horse and his persistence that they find their way to the pond had Buffy ready to knock him out.

She knew he was hurt, but he was getting very cranky. He had done nothing the night before but complain and hearing him whine over things they had no control over angered her. She knew men were at their worst when they were not feeling like themselves; she had seen her father act worst than a three-year-old when he was ill and figured William was no different. To get him to at least stop complaining over everything that had gone wrong since he first picked her up in Parissa, she had agreed to move to the pond.

“Are we there yet?” William asked, irritated.

“No for the fourth time,” Buffy said, looking back over her shoulder. “It isn’t much farther.”

William sighed heavily, his whole body aching as the horse carried him blindly through the forest. He was beyond irritated. He’d never had to depend on anyone to take care of him and now, he was battered and bruised, temporarily blinded due to the beating he had received from Angelus. The fact that Buffy was having to care for him like he was a child had him biting his tongue to keep from lashing out at her as his anger at the situation ate away at him.

He was there to protect her and now that he couldn’t do that, quite frankly, he was scared. No one knew what “really” lied within the confines of the forest. The tales spun by people who claimed to have seen first hand were as skeptical as the creatures they claimed to have seen. No one really knew what was here and the fact that he wasn’t able to see it and make sure they were safe had him cursing himself and the whole situation.

Buffy smiled as the path opened up and the light shining off the pond had the whole area covered in a bright glow. She slowed the horse, turning to her left, before stopping him by a tree and securing his reins in place.

“This is it,” she said happily as she turned to William and walked over by the horse. “Do you need any help?”

“No,” William snapped before turning and sliding from the horse. He stood completely still as his feet hit the ground, the pains shooting through his limbs causing him to become dizzy as he realized he may have been a bit hasty in his dismount.

Buffy raised one eyebrow, regarding him and his apparent pain and she smiled in spite of herself. She knew he was in pain, but he was stubborn and pig headed. The combination of the two only heightened by what she knew had to be a bruised ego as well by his constant clipped remarks.

Smiling, she turned, heading for the water’s edge while William continued to stand by the horse. The scene before her was unlike anything she had ever seen. The water was crystal clear and small ripples littered the surface as the sound of the waterfall washed over the area. Tall grass lined most of the surrounding area, with wildflowers as far as the eye could see.

It was breathtaking in appearance. Trees she had never seen before, full of flowering petals of bright pinks and yellows hanging low, their limbs almost touching the surface of the water and the small flowers that had been nestled within their branches dancing across the surface of the water.

The light shining through the thick canopy of trees illuminated everything; the falling flower petals dancing along in the breeze had her wanting nothing more than to stay here forever.

Sighing lightly she turned, looking back over at William before walking back over to him. Grabbing the satchels, she pulled them, dragging them from the horse before sitting them on the ground, glancing up at William as he stood there before she grabbed the blanket and spread it out on the ground.

“Do you want to sit?” she asked him softly, reaching out and touching his arm.

“I didn’t mean to snap at you,” William said quietly, turning his head in her direction. “I’m sorry.”

Buffy smiled up at him brightly before taking his hand and leading him over to the blanket, helping him sit before sitting along beside of him. “I know you aren’t feeling your best it’s only natural for you to get cranky.”

“No,” William said shaking his head. “I should have never done that, no matter how bad I feel.”

“Well just as long as it doesn’t happen again,” Buffy said, grinning. “I’d hate to have to feed you the ‘bad’ berries.” She giggled softly.

“Now you wouldn’t do that, now would you?” William asked, smiling slightly.

“It would serve you right for being such a troll,” She said, giggling.

“Suppose it would,” William said before turning his head towards the pond. “Is that the waterfall I hear?”

“Yes,” Buffy said, smiling as she looked over at it. “Wait till you see it, it’s so beautiful here,” She beamed. “There are flowers growing right in the trees and their petals are floating around and covering everything.”

William smiled as he listened to Buffy describe the area to him. He could hear the excitement in her voice and he longed to see her face. He could only image the wide smile covering it. “Well hopefully the swelling will go down soon and you can show me.”

Buffy looked back over at him, studying his face before lifting her hand. She ran her fingertips lightly over the puffy bruises, smiling a little as she did. “It doesn’t look as bad today as it did yesterday,” she told him. “It shouldn’t be much longer.”

William sighed lightly, relishing in the feel of her warm fingers sweeping across his cheek before they vanished. He heard the rustling of her dress, the air around him moving slightly as she stood and walked away. Sitting back on his elbow, he listened, trying to make out where she had gone and wondering why she had left so quickly without saying anything.

Taking a deep breath, he let it out slowly before laying down, the short journey they had made taking what little strength he had away. As he lay there, listening to the calming sounds of the waterfall as it splashed down into the pond, he let his mind drift, images of Buffy and her smile following him into sleep.

________________________________________

Angelus paced the stone floors, listening as his father and the witch made plans to harness the power of the Torlothan. He knew the plan would work; it was foil proof, the only problem being getting the creature to bend under their power.

“The creature will fight,” the witch said, looking at Ethan as he studied the maps that showed the way to the land the Torlothan inhabited. “Protection spells must be in place or your very lives will be at stake.”

“I know this,” Ethan said, never looking up. “I can handle the protection spells. Are you sure the creature can be controlled?”

“Yes, I have seen it done.”

“And there were no mistakes?” Ethan asked, finally looking up at her.

“No sire,” the witch said, smiling. “The creature is pure, yet deadly. Harnessing its power is obtained through the eye.”

“The eye?” Angelus asked, finally stopping and looking at the two. “Surely you don’t mean the Eye of Frathous,” he said, chuckling slightly.

“Yes my boy, that’s exactly what she means,” Ethan said, glancing over at his son.

Angelus chuckled, looking between the two before his laughter echoed throughout the room. “You must be insane,” he told them. “Controlling the Torlothan is a feat in its self; how are you ever going to get your hands on the eye?”

Ethan smiled, shaking his head as he looked at his son. “Have I ever failed at any attempt to obtain what I wanted?”

Angelus studied his father, knowing he had always reined victorious in anything he set out to do, but obtaining the Eye of Frathous, was a feat even the gods themselves would be crazy to try.

“Don’t you worry Angelus,” Ethan said, moving around the table and walking to his son. “Everything will go according to plan. Before the new moon, the princess will be yours, and her kingdom, will be ours.”

________________________________________

“Have you seen the size of this place?” Dawn asked, wide-eyed as she walked along the halls with Willow and Cordelia. “I thought our Castle was big but this place is enormous.”

“Well the kingdom of Alcala is much larger than Parissa,” Willow told her young sister, “It’s only natural than its ruler would be housed in such a place.”

“I can’t believe Buffy is going to inherit this,” Dawn said happily. “I wonder where they’ll live.”

“From my understanding, she and Edward will live in Parissa,” Cordelia finally spoke up. “Not that I’m going to enjoy taking orders from her,” she said snobbishly.

“You’re just jealous,” Dawn said laughing.

“Of what?” Cordelia asked loudly. “That she has to marry some ogre, whom she has never seen, and fornicate with him JUST to be Queen! Please, I pity her if anything.”

“My brother isn’t an ogre,” Tara said shyly from the doorway of the library.

All three girls stopped, looking over at the sandy haired girl who stood in the doorway with her head tucked into her chest.

“I’m sorry,” Willow said to her. “We meant no disrespect.” Willow glared at Cordelia before turning her attention back to the girl before them. “You must be Tara,” Willow asked, taking a step towards her.

“Yes,” Tara answered, finally looking up. “My father said you would be coming.”

“Yes well, Mother is quite upset at what has happened,” Willow told her, smiling at the shy girl before them before she ducked her head again at their constant gazes.

“I would imagine so.” Tara said, smiling sadly at the trio. “My mother, before she took ill, worried over everything. Every time Edward would go off on one of his hunts, she would fret the entire time until he returned.”

“I think that’s what mothers do best,” Dawn said, smiling. “Mother is always worrying over something.”

“As she should,” Tara said, finally looking up. “Ruling a kingdom the size of Parissa without a king is a very difficult task. I overheard father and Edward discussing it.”

“At least you are halfway in the know,” Cordelia said. “We never find out anything unless it is beneficial to us.”

“Well, they do not know I heard,” Tara said, grinning. “It was kind of hard not to hear, not with the way father was yelling.”

“Yelling?” Willow asked curiously.

“Yes, Edward can be, how should I put this,” Tara said, smiling. “Very self-absorbed.”

“Oh great,” Cordelia said, rolling her eyes. “We get princess, ‘why me’ and prince ‘not me’ together and Parissa will be in a depression before the year is complete.”

“Cordelia,” Willow said in a warning tone. “You have no right to judge the actions of anyone. The responsibilities placed on the heir are great. You will never know what that may be like until you are standing in that place.”

“Whatever,” Cordelia said, crossing her arms over her chest.

“Sorry,” Willow said, looking back at Tara. “I’m sure everything will work out fine.”

“I hope you are right,” Tara said sadly.

_______________________________________

Buffy let out a very un-lady like growl as she once again had trouble starting a fire. The light was almost gone and the fact that William was awake and listening only made her nervous.

“Problems there pet?” William asked, smiling as he listened to Buffy slap the ground several times before mumbling something under her breath.

“I’ve got it,” Buffy replied, glancing over at him before turning back to her task. She hated this more than anything. She had been so pleased the first time she had started the fire that she had wanted to wake him just so he could see, but now that he was awake, she was silently wishing he was sleeping again.

William leaned back, supporting his weight on his hands as he continued to listen to Buffy struggle with the fire. He could sense the approaching night as the crickets and tree lizards sang out its arrival.

The sounds inside the forest were nothing like they had been in the forest on the outskirts of Parissa. It was peaceful here, the gently sway of tree branches rustling their leaves along with the constant rippling of the waterfall were almost melodic. He hadn’t even seen the wonders that Buffy had so eagerly told him about, but just as her, he could stay here forever.

“Aha!” Buffy squealed, causing William to sit straight up.

“What’s wrong?” William asked worriedly.

“It’s burning,” Buffy said, giggling as she place a few twigs around the small flame.

William sighed heavily, shaking his head before trying to relax. “You scared me half to death, don’t do that again,” he said, scowling best he could.

Buffy glanced over at him, a wide smile on her face before turning back to the fire. “Yes, your majesty,” she mocked, giggling slightly.

“What did you call me?” William asked, sitting up straight.

Buffy turned her head, her smile vanishing at the look on his face. “I was just teasing, lighten up.”

William sat there, listening to the slow crackle the fire was now producing before settling back on his hands. He sighed heavily, looking up towards the sky while his mind went into what seems like ten different directions at once.

Buffy finally got the fire going steadily before she stood and approached William, sitting down beside of him on the blanket. She studied his face, seeing the intense look of concentration crease small lines in his forehead before she reached out and placed her hand on his.

“Is everything okay?” She asked him quietly. “You seem, preoccupied today.”

William lowered his head, looking down where their hands were joined before raising his head. “I’m fine luv, just a little on edge. Not being able to see what’s going on is a little frustrating.”

“Oh,” Buffy said, relieved at his answer. “The swelling will go down soon,” she told him, smiling. “You’ll be able to see what’s happening soon enough.”

“I know.”

Buffy looked down, her smile widening as she felt William’s thumb slide over the side of her hand. An internal battle waged within her the instant he did it and before she had time to think about the implications, she linked her fingers in his.

Her eyes closed briefly as she felt him tighten his hold, pulling her fingers deeper into his palm before he lifted her hand. He placed a small kiss on her knuckles before cupping his free hand over hers. She looked up at him, wondering what was happening before she let go of all the what ifs and just enjoyed the small gesture. As the last flickering of the sun nestled its way behind the tress, Buffy sighed contently, looking over at William as he held her hand to his chest. If this was as close as the two would ever be, it was enough for her.

To Be Continued………………

Temptations of the Heart

Chapter 12

William rolled to his side, the early morning sun shining down on him, warming his body and for the first time in days. The only aches and pains he felt were the usual stiff limbs associated with sleeping on the ground.

He groggily opened his eyes, the bright light from the sun causing him to shut them quickly as the first light he had seen in days caused stars to shoot behind his closed eyelids. Raising his hand, he shielded his eyes, opening them slowly before a huge smile lit up his face. Four long agonizing days of seeing nothing but black were finally over.

William sat up slowly, blinking quickly as his eyes began to water in the bright light before his vision started to clear. He turned his head away from the sun, taking in his surroundings and his smile widened when he saw the area Buffy had settled them in. It was every bit as beautiful as she had described. Flower petals littered the ground and the small pink and yellow flower petals were floating in the breeze as their fragrant scent drifted through the air.

Turning his head, he shielded his eyes as he looked at the pond. His eyes widened and his smile grew when he finally saw her.

Buffy was standing in the pond, her dress pulled up over her knees as she waded in the cool water. The sun was shining brightly, casting a bright glow as it reflected off the water. She inhaled deeply, the smell of the flowers filling her as her eyes closed and she took a few steps deeper into the pond.

The pond floor was covered in grass and it was slightly squishy under her feet. The soaked grass gave slightly, causing her feet to sink in a few places and she had to fight to keep her balance.

Raising her dress higher, she ventured in further as she looked towards the waterfall. The sight always seemed to steal her breath and she smiled as she saw the flower petals swirling in the air as the outpour of water disturbed the airflow near the waterfall.

“Having fun?” William asked, smiling as he stopped near the water’s edge.

Buffy screamed, turning quickly as his voice startled her and as she finally saw him, the slick grass under her feet gave and she was down before she could regain her footing.

William’s eyes widened as she went down and he ran in after her, his booted feet sticking in the soggy bottom as he reached for her. The slick grass under his feet offered no footing and as Buffy’s head finally re-surfaced, she barely caught a glimpse of William before he followed her into the water, face first.

Buffy was laughing hysterically as William finally resurfaced. She was still sitting in the water and her face was lit up as she stared at him. “That had to be the funniest thing I’ve ever seen,” she said, watching as William wiped the water from his face.

“Wasn’t so bleedin’ funny from this end,” he said, scowling slightly as he looked over at her.

“Serves you right for sneaking up on me,” Buffy said, giggling.

William finally smiled, shaking his head before splashing water in her direction. “I didn’t sneak up on you,” he told her standing before taking a few steps towards her. “’s not my fault you weren’t aware of your surroundings,” he said, reaching down and grabbing her arm, helping her to her feet.

“I was very aware of my surroundings,” Buffy said as she finally got her feet back under her. “I just didn’t expect you to come walking in behind me is all.”

“Well if you had been paying attention, you would have heard me.”

Buffy smiled as she stared up at him, his normally curly hair hanging limply on his head, long curls falling over his forehead and he had an almost boyish appearance to him. His bruises had all but vanished, barely visible except when standing close to him and the cut in his eyebrow was healing as well. Her eyes widened slightly as she realized his eyes were open. “You can see!” She squealed, her smile causing her eyes to twinkle. William smiled at her enthusiastic statement.

“That I can,” he said, laughing slightly as he looked down at her.

“See, I told you it wouldn’t take long,” Buffy said, laughing with him. “So does this mean, no more grumpy William?”

“Depends,” William said, taking a step away from her and looking around the pond.

“On what?” Buffy asked him.

“On how bad you irritate me,” he said grinning, turning back around to look at her.

“Is that so?” Buffy asked, laughing loudly as he turned towards her, his shocked face causing her giggles to erupt as she splashed water into his face. He just stood there, his eyes closed as the water ran down his face. She saw his jaw tighten before he opened one eye, his hand rising to wipe the water from his face before he smiled.

“You do know you’re going to pay for that, right?” He asked, reaching down and cupping his hands together.

Buffy squealed, turning her head as they yelled and splashed each other, each falling back into the water as their water fight escalated.

________________________________________

Angelus stalked down the steps past the dungeons to where he knew his father was waiting. He could hear the witche’s shrill cackle as she laughed and he felt repulsed just hearing it. Making his way into the room, he spotted his father and the witch as they both hovered over a boiling cauldron near the fire.

“Breakfast?” Angelus asked, smiling as he approached them.

“Your attempts at humor are sorely lacking,” Ethan said, turning his head and looking at his son.

“Must be genetic,” Angelus said, grinning. “What do you have cooking there?”

“An enlightening spell,” the witch declared. “It shall aid in finding your princess.”

“How so?” Angelus asked, peering into the foul-smelling concoction brewing in the pot.

“It will allow us to see where she is,” Ethan said, staring back into the pot.

All three watched as the smoke bubbling over the surface began to clear, trees clearly coming into view before a purple haze seemed to envelope the scene and block out the picture.

“What happened?” Angelus asked, looking at the witch.

“They are inside the forest,” the witch said, taking a step away from the pot and looking at both men. “No magic can penetrate that realm.”

“So, we can’t actually see if they are there then?” Angelus asked.

“Oh, they are there,” the witch stated, walking back towards the table. “The magic of the forest is blocking them,” her harsh raspy voice echoed in the room. “Once they clear the forest, we will be able to see them.”

“So, what now?” Angelus asked, walking to the large chair by the fire and sitting down with a heavy sigh.

“We get the eye and concentrate on controlling the Trolothan,” Ethan told him, joining the witch.

“I’m still not to sure about acquiring the eye,” Angelus said, his fear at what lay in the mountain of Meralot causing him much distress.

“You need not go,” Ethan said, turning to look at his son. “The witch and I can do this without your involvement.”

Angelus shook his head, hoping his joy in not having to help in the scheme to acquire the princess didn’t show on his face. He was all for having her as his bride, but the drastic measure his father seemed to enjoy taking had always seemed a little on the obsessive side to him. “Well, I think I’ll go into the village,” Angelus said, standing. “Chant if you need anything,” he told them smiling before turning and leaving the room.

“Your son is not as brave as he appears,” the witch said, smiling knowingly.

“Angelus does not appreciate the magic as I do,” Ethan told her. “He still believes it is all smoke and talk. He will see soon enough.”

“And then?”

“And then, he will embrace the dark arts as I have,” Ethan said, smiling.

_______________________________________

Buffy was laughing hard as she finally started yelling: “stop”. She could barely breathe; having swallowed what she assumed was as much water as she threw.

“You promise to be a good girl?” William asked, grinning.

“Maybe,” Buffy replied, grinning big as she turned to look at him.

“Alright then,” William said, swimming towards the shore and standing.

Buffy was smiling as she kicked her legs slowly, keeping herself afloat as she watched William stand. She giggled as he reached down, pulling the long boot from his foot and watching as he turned it over, pouring the water from it before tossing it to the bank.

As her gaze traveled over him, she realized the white shirt he was wearing hid nothing as the now wet material clung to his body. She could see every muscle she had just days before secretly admired, and, as his hands reached for the bottom of his shirt, her eyes widened when he grabbed the material and pulled the shirt up over his head.

She spun around quickly, turning her back to him as her breathing increased. “What are you doing?” she asked loudly.

William turned his head to her, his wet shirt now in his hands. He smiled at her bobbing head before walking to a nearby tree branch that hung over the pond and throwing his shirt across it. “I’m getting out of these wet clothes so they can dry,” he told her. “Can’t walk around dripping all day.”

“But….but you…,” Buffy stuttered, scared to turn around.

“You might want to get out of that dress as well,” William said, ignoring her babbling. “It will take that thing hours to dry as it is.”

Buffy closed her eyes. She could feel her face heat up and knew it had to be as red as the night sky when the sun settled low in the horizon. “You must be insane,” she told him, laughing nervously.

William looked back over at her, realizing finally that she had turned away from him and he looked down at himself. A smile lit up his face and as his gaze finally lifted, his smile widened. “What’s the matter princess?” he asked, grabbing the waistband of his pants, yanking the material down over his hips. “I’m sure you’ve been naked in the presence of another before,” he told her, throwing his pants over the limb before diving back into the water. “Does your lady in waiting not bathe you?”

“Yes,” Buffy said softly, her head turning in the opposite direction as she saw him out of the corner of her eye. “But she is….”

“Female?’ William asked, grinning. “I promise not to look.”

“You are a pig!” Buffy said, her head snapping in his direction. “How dare you even suggest such a thing? I cannot be naked in here with you!”

William laughed, shaking his head before turning and swimming towards the waterfall. “Suit yourself,” he said, turning his head to look back at her.

Buffy stared after him, watching as he completely disappeared under the water. Her mind was a swirl of conflicting emotions and the already quickening heart rate she experienced at seeing him remove his shirt, only seemed to accelerate as she realized he was “completely naked”!

Seeing him resurface in front of the waterfall, her eyes traveled over his form as the water spray from the waterfall hit the pond. The light from the sun seemed to glisten over his body, each tiny drop of water highlighted as it traveled down his back.

Looking around, she swallowed hard, debating what to do. She agreed with the thoughts of it taking hours for her dress to dry, but to actually allow herself to be naked in the presence of another, a man, more importantly William, how could she?

Looking down, Buffy realized that the once crystal clear water was now clouded as they had disturbed the bottom. She could no longer see anything in the pond but small grass particles floating around mixed with a brown tint of dirt as it floated throughout the pond.

Biting on her bottom lip, she glanced back over towards William before taking a deep breath as he turned to her.

“Well, are you just going to float in that same spot all day?” he asked, smiling as he looked at her.

Buffy stared at him for a minute before looking down again. Raising her head she saw him slowly swimming towards her before she looked towards the shore. “You’ll promise not to look?” She asked quietly, glancing back over at her.

“I promise not to look,” William said, hoping he wasn’t lying.

Buffy stared at him for a long minute, chewing softly on her lip before finally nodding her head. “Turn around,” she said, waiting for him to do so before she swam towards the shore until her feet hit the bottom. Standing, she reached behind her, finding the long row of buttons that traveled down her back before she began unfastening them.

William swan back towards the waterfall, silently asking himself “what he was doing?” There was no way he would be able to control the reaction his body was already having at the thoughts of her being completely naked and he was glad the water was clouded. Sighing heavily, he had to force himself not to turn around and look at her as she quietly undressed.

Taking a few deep breaths, he managed to calm himself and as he opened his eyes back up, he barely heard Buffy’s voice over the rush of water of the waterfall. Turning his head slightly, he saw her out of the corner of his eye and, seeing that she was still dressed, he turned completely.

Buffy looked at him, her embarrassment over the situation only increasing as he started towards her. “I can’t reach all the buttons,” she said softly, her eyes looking at anything but him.

“Do you want some help?” William asked, stopping halfway to her.

Buffy looked back over at him, swallowing hard before finally nodding her head. As he started towards her, she turned her back to him and tried to get control of her breathing as she heard him approach.

William swam towards her, his own breathing increasing as he stopped behind her. Standing, he took a deep breath, letting it out slowly before raising his hand and moving her hair over her shoulder before reaching down.

Buffy’s eyes closed as she felt him start unfastening the buttons. His fingers softly slid down the material of her dress before her breath caught when he touched her skin. Her mouth opened slightly, her chest rising and falling quickly as William unfastened the buttons and she stood completely still as his fingers once again brushed over her flesh.

William was having as much trouble controlling is own breathing as she was when he saw the golden skin slowly exposing itself to him as he unbuttoned the dress. He couldn’t stop himself from lightly brushing his fingers over it and he could see Buffy shiver every time he did.

As the last button was finally unfastened, the dress seemed to pull away from her, her whole back now exposed to him and he took a deep breath, trying to calm himself. He unconsciously reached up, brushing the expanse of her back with the backs of his fingers and he heard her sharp intake of breath before she shivered again.

What seemed like a thousand emotions swamped his brain as her warm skin played under his fingertips before he finally cleared his throat and took a step away from her. “All finished,” he said quietly, turning and quickly swimming away from her.

Buffy turned her head, seeing him swimming back towards the waterfall before she reached up and pulled the dress from her shoulders. She kept her eyes on him, making sure he didn’t turn around before pushing the wet material down her body and stepping out of it. Turning quickly, she draped the dress over the same limb William’s clothes were hanging across before quickly ducking back down into the water.

William heard the splash of water Buffy made as she lowered herself into the water and as much as he wanted to turn around, he kept his gaze locked on the waterfall. He really hadn’t thought that being that close to her as she undressed would have affected him as much as it had and he cursed himself for even suggesting she undress.

The fact that she was now, completely naked and swimming only yards behind him had him trying desperately to control his body’s reaction to the fact. As he heard her coming towards him, he slowly turned his head in her direction, waiting for her to signal that it was okay for him to look. Seeing her out of the corner of his eye, he inhaled deeply. Her bare shoulders just barely exposed over the surface of the water and as he saw her smile at him, he finally turned.

To Be Continued………………..

A/N….Did things just take a turn or what??? Stay tuned to find out what happens next!!

~*~Zarrah~*~

http://www.zarrah.com

Chapter 13

“You are both seriously insane, you know this, right?” Angelus asked as he watched his father and the witch gather up the components for the spells they would use to secure the Eye of Frathous.

“Your point has been taken Angelus,” Ethan said, smiling at his son’s anxiety. “All will be well.”

“And if it isn’t?”

“Then you will have to rule without my guidance,” Ethan told him. “Now stop worrying so much. By this evening, the princess will be practically in our hands.”

Angelus stood by the fire, watching with dread in his heart as his father finished picking his potions. He wasn’t especially close to Ethan, but he did like having him around. The more Ethan did, the more time he had for other things.

“We shall be back,” Ethan said, stepping around the table and smiling.

“The wait will drive me insane,” Angelus said, grinning.

“You’re welcome to come along,” Ethan said, returning the smile.

“That’s quite alright. I think I’ll wait until you return to see if you actually pull this off.”

“No need to wait,” the witch said, her rotting teeth causing her crooked smile to look more devious than it was. “If we succeed, you will know.”

“I will?”

“Oh, indeed you will,” Ethan said, reaching into his shirt and grabbing the medallion that hung around his neck. “The heavens will bleed and chaos will reign.” The smile on his face was filled with pure evil, and Angelus was glad the old man was on his side.

“Well, be off then,” Angelus said, trying to act as calm as he could as he sat down in the chair by the fire. He watched as Ethan and the witch started chanting, the spell to transport them to the Mountain of Meralot causing a bright light to encase them before the electricity in the air began to crackle. He turned his head, the bright flashed of light almost blinding as he heard the last word uttered before the light seemed to expand and a loud burst of energy rippled through the room.

As the air stilled and all noise stopped, Angelus turned his head, looking at the spot his father and the witch had just been standing. Smiling, he stood; shaking his head before turning and exiting the room, his mind once again filling with images of the princess and what fun he would have once she was finally his.

________________________________________

“And you don’t think that is childish?” Buffy asked, smiling as she looked at William across the pond from her.

“No, do you?”

“Yes,” she stated. “If Prince Edward is such a juvenile, I may have to rethink this whole arrangement.”

“Now don’t be too hasty, princess,” William said, laughing softly. “Boys will be boys you know.”

“Yes, and one who is at his age shouldn’t be acting in such a manner.”

William just smiled at her, rolling his eyes slightly before looking out across the pond. The situation wasn’t nearly as distressing as he first thought, not after retreating to the other side of the pond that is.

Being anywhere close to Buffy had caused thoughts that shouldn’t be running through his mind to play havoc on his body as it responded to them and distancing himself from her seemed to work, or it did until he thought about her again.

He sighed heavily, glancing back over at Buffy before he looked away quickly, staring up at the sun and silently praying for its heat to dry his clothes faster. He was almost tempted to put the wet clothes back on, just to save himself from the torment of being so close to her in their present state.

“Hello, you still with me?” Buffy asked, smiling as she stared at the far-off look on William’s face.

“What was that?” William asked, turning his head toward her when he realized she was talking to him.

Buffy giggled slightly, wondering what he was thinking before he shifted in the water and his chest came into view. She immediately looked over at the waterfall, wondering if her face was as flushed as it felt before she cleared her throat. “I asked where the water goes,” she said, sparing a look at him before turning away again.

“What do you mean, where does it go?”

“Well, there is water coming into the pond, but there is no outlet,” Buffy said, looking around the pond. “All this water has to be going somewhere.”

William looked around, the thought of where the water flowing into the pond went had never dawned on him. “Good question,” he said quietly. “Seems almost impossible, doesn’t it?”

“Yes.”

William studied the area, looking toward the waterfall before surveying the outline of the pond. “Maybe an underground stream is catching the excess,” he said, almost to himself before looking at Buffy. “It’s possible for the outlet to be beneath the surface somewhere.”

Buffy thought about it before nodding her head and accepting the answer. “I suppose you’re right,” She said, before silence settled between them again.

The times of silence were almost as uncomfortable as when they did find things to talk about. The mere fact that they were both completely naked had them both stealing glances at the other every so often and Buffy silently prayed for her dress to dry quickly.

She still didn’t know what had possessed her to get into the pond. Her rational side kept screaming that it was wrong, that she should know better, but the curious side of her was flashing images in her mind of William that she had never had of any other man and the thoughts alone caused her face to burn as she blushed.

The distant rumbles of thunder could be heard and Buffy looked toward the sky, seeing the bright blue and white puffy clouds looking down on her. She almost wished for a distraction as the minutes passed along, causing the silence to become even more unbearable. Sighing heavily, she stole a quick glance at William, a tiny smile playing on her face when she caught him looking at her again before they both looked off to opposite directions.

________________________________________

Ethan and the witch walked silently into the cave, the loud roar of thunder echoing off the walls of the cave. The witch was chanting a protection spell that would assure their safety as Ethan led them deeper into the cavern.

The beast that was said to inhabit the cave was their greatest concern. It protected the Eye of Frathous and it was said to be of massive size and possessed great strength. No one had actually ever seen it and lived to tell of it, but ancient recordings of the eye described the keeper of the eye as a beast unlike man had ever seen.

Ethan stopped, studying his surroundings as a faint noise was heard up ahead. He would be lying if he said he wasn’t fearful for he had no clue as to what awaited them. Glancing at the witch, he waited for her signal to proceed; assuring him the protection spell would indeed keep them safe.

As light was finally seen in the cavern just ahead of them, the two made their way deeper into the cave. A flickering of shadows played along the stone walls, casting eerie shapes of something moving up ahead. The deep growling and constant sounds of stomping had the noise echoing off the walls as the ground beneath their feet started to move.

“Whatever is there, knows we are here,” Ethan said, his voice low pitched and shaking.

“The creature will be fearless,” the witch commented as she stopped her chanting to look at Ethan. “Remember the plan as you will not fail.”

Ethan gave her a nod of his head before taking another step closer. As the entrance of large cavern began to open, his eyes widened at what he saw.

The room was massive in size, the ceiling seeming to climb as far as the eye could see. Gold lined the walls, the light it produced almost blinding as Ethan and the witch finally emerged from the black tunnel that had led them.

Statues of men, cast in pure gold, lined each of the four walls and riches unlike anything either had seen before lay in vast piles along the floor. Rubies, diamonds and sapphires glistened amongst the bright yellow glow of the gold, their reflection projecting a rainbow of colors across the walls.

“The treasure exists,” Ethan said quietly, taking in the beauty before him before a smile lit up his face.

“Remember your goal, sire,” the witch said, eyeing the room. “The treasure is only a way to lure you from what you came for.”

Ethan took a small step forward, reaching down toward a large ruby that sat amongst the gold coins and jewels along the floor before the witch reached out and grabbed his hand. “You mustn’t touch anything,” she told him. “It is only by your greed that you will fail.”

Ethan stood, looking at her before taking a deep breath and trying to focus on their plan. Giving her a small smile, he turned, looking back over the cavern before his eyes fell on a large statue on the far wall.

His smile widened, his eyes glistening in the bright glow of the room before a small chuckle escaped him. “The Eye of Frathous,” he whispered, seeing the large amber colored stone shining brightly from its position on the statue.

The statue of the man-beast stood at the farthest end of the cavern. The familiar facial features of a man stare back at them as they slowly approached it. The stone sat securely on the face of the statue, directly in-between where the creature’s eyes should have been.

The torso of the statue resembled that of a man but from waist down, the body looked as that of a great stallion. Large-muscled legs in pure gold held the statue up and its size was slightly bigger than that of a real man or horse.

Walking slowly, Ethan and the witch approached, their eyes fixed on the stone.

“Remember, the creature will attack as soon as the stone is free,” the witch said, her eyes scanning the cavern. “It knows we are here.”

“Yes, I am aware of that,” Ethan said, looking over his shoulder at her. Taking a small dagger from the sheath on his hip, Ethan approached the statue cautiously. Whatever beast had been making the floors shake earlier had settled down, leaving the room void of any noise other than the loud crack of thunder outside as a result of them disturbing the mountain.

A tiny small crossed Ethan’s face as he reached up, placing the tip of his dagger along side of the stone before he took a deep breath and started working the stone out. As he felt it start to give, the air in the cavern began getting hot.

“It has started,” the witch said, as she started to chant her protection spells.

Ethan worked quickly, cutting along the edges of the stone, trying to pry it loose from the statue. He could hear the mass of coins and jewels along the floor begin to shift, the large piles shifting and spreading out as whatever was protecting the cavern began to stir.

The witch’s eyes scanned the room as her chanting became louder. The roar of thunder and lighting outside the cavern also became louder as she looked back over at Ethan. “Quickly, the beast is rising,” she said, her urgency coming forth as her voice began to crack.

Ethan dug the tip of his dagger behind the stone, twisting and pulling on the stone. Glancing over his shoulder as he heard a loud hissing noise, his eyes widened as he saw the shadows on the wall enlarge just as he felt the stone give way. Turning back to the statue, he grabbed the stone, pulling it from the statue and shoving it in his pocket as the creature finally emerged, showing itself.

To Be Continued……..

A/N….I know, I didn’t resolve anything, but real life issues have really been a pain as of late and now it seems as if I’ve come down with some sort of Flu bug. I do apologize for the lack of updates and the short chapter, but I hope you will understand and not flame me to bad.

~*~Zarrah~*~

http://www.zarrah.com

http://www.recklesspassions.com

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