Temptations of the Heart

Chapter 19

The castle was in utter chaos as the inhabitants scurried from the windows. The screams of women were echoing off the walls as everyone saw the legendary dragon flying high in the sky. The guards were scurrying across the courtyard, trying to get everyone inside to safety as the beast approached.

“Quickly,” King Rupert yelled as he ushered Queen Joyce and her daughters into his throne room before slamming the large door behind him.

The palace guards were already manning their stations along the castle walls and their arrows were taking target on the beast.

“Lower your weapons!” One of the guards yelled as he saw what looked like someone dangling from the dragon’s clawed feet.

The guards lowered their bows, all watching as the dragon flew over the top of the castle. Eyes were wide and mouths gaped as they saw the limp body of a girl hanging from the creature’s grasp.

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Prince Angelus followed Ethan into the courtyard to await the Trolothan and his soon-to-be bride. He was ecstatic at the outcome of the day’s events. When the witch had stirred the potion to see the area around the Enchanted Forest and they all saw Buffy exit alone, they had all shared an amused look with each other as Ethan told Angelus to ready his amulet to collect the princess. Seeing William follow her out some time later thrilled Ethan as he knew the spell could be preformed after all.

Watching the scene play out was as good as actually being there and smiles lit up the faces of Ethan and Angelus as they stared into the sky while the creature was seen off in the distance.

Angelus was practically bouncing on his feet as the creature came closer and he could see Buffy hanging from its massive claws. “She’s not hurt is she?” He asked his father as the creature swooped down and prepared to deposit the limp body of the princess.

“No,” Ethan assured him. “I’m sure the excitement has just rendered her unconscious.”

“I hope that’s all it is,” Angelus stated. “No fun beating William if the prize isn’t worth having.”

Ethan laughed heartily at his son and they both moved in closer as the Trolothan closed in on them and lowered the princess. Once she was firmly in their grip, the Trolothan released his hold on her and quickly departed.

Angelus held an unconscious Buffy in his arms, a satisfied smile creasing his face as he turned and walked back into the castle. After all this time, she was finally his. A small chuckle escaped him as he walked down the hall toward his room, thinking of what poor William would do once he realized that he had once again been too late.

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King Rupert paced the hall outside his throne room as Joyce and the girls watched him. The news that the beast had taken a young girl distressed him greatly. With all that had taken place over the last several weeks, he didn’t know how much more he could take. How was he to see to the safety of his people when he couldn’t even do that for his own?

“He’s here,” Tara said, smiling as she rushed from the window and ran to the hall. “He’s here father! Edward has returned.”

King Rupert looked up and sighed in relief as he heard Edward’s voice boom through the castle. He could hear him barking out orders and any other day his son’s rude behavior would have been sorely taken, but today it was a welcome sign.

Queen Joyce, along with Dawn, Willow and Cordelia all stepped out into the hall as they heard the commotion and they all stood dumbfounded as they saw the man marching down the hall toward them. His face was almost red with anger and they could tell by his posture that now wasn’t the time for questions.

“Dear lord Edward, where on earth have you been?” King Rupert asked loudly as his son walked right past him without saying a word.

Joyce saw the astonished look on King Rupert’s face before he turned and followed Edward down the hall, calling out to him as he went.

King Rupert followed his son into the weapon’s hold and watched as he rifled through the swords and daggers, concealing the smaller weapons on him before he went about gathering more. He had never seen his son look so put out before and the look on his face was beginning to terrify him.

“Edward, what is wrong? Where have you been? I’ve been worried sick,” King Rupert asked worriedly as he watched him throw the unwanted weapons clean across the room before grabbing more. “We do have guests. You should be more considerate of them.” He said before looking over his shoulder as Joyce and her girls appeared in the doorway. “I do apologize Joyce. He usually isn’t like this,” he said, trying to reassure her.

“It’s quite alright,” Joyce said, smiling slightly. “Something has obviously upset him,” she said, still watching with wide eyes.

“Edward, will you please stop!” King Rupert yelled after hearing the loud clamor of steel hit the floor. “Now what is the meaning of this?” He demanded. “Edward!”

“Stop calling me that! No one but you ever insists on calling me that. Why is that Rupert?”

“May I remind you to whom you are speaking,” King Rupert said, clearly embarrassed at his son’s outburst. “And Edward is your name, in case you have forgotten.”

“No one else has a problem with my name, why you do?”

King Rupert stared at his son’s angry face as he stopped and turned, finally looking over at him before he shook his head and went back to the weapons. “I’m sorry Edwa…William. You’re mother gave you that name. I feel it only right to use it.”

William stopped what he was doing as another pain shot through his heart at his mother’s mention before he closed his eyes and tried to get his anger to recede. The entire day had been more stressful that any he had ever had and he grew weary just thinking of the battle that lie ahead of him. “I don’t mean to be disrespectful,” he said softly. “But I don’t have time for pleasantries at the moment.” He told him before grabbing a jewel-handled sword and pulled it from its sheath.

“Tell me what is wrong,” King Rupert said calmly as William grew still while he inspected the sword he had drawn.

“He took her,” William said quietly as he stared at his reflection in the shiny blade before him. “I wasn’t able to stop him and he took her from me.”

“Who, William? What are you talking about?” King Rupert asked softly as he stepped further into the room.

“Buffy?” Joyce asked with tears in her eyes. “You’re talking about Buffy aren’t you?”

William turned and looked over toward the door, finally noticing Joyce before straightening his shoulders. “Yes, your majesty. I’m talking about Buffy. Prince Angelus took her.”

“Edward,” Rupert began. “Sorry…William, how do you know this?”

“Because I was there.”

“Is anyone else confused?” Dawn whispered to Willow as she watched the scene before her. “I thought the cute blonde was Prince Edward’s page.”

“So did we,” Willow said, as a wide grin split her lips as she shared a look with Cordelia.

Dawn looked from Willow to Cordelia and back to William before the pieces starting falling into place in her young mind. Her eyes widened comically before her mouth flew open. “William is really the prince!” She shouted.

Willow couldn’t help the giggle that escaped her as the adults in the room all turned and look over at them. “We’ll, just be…going now,” she said as she grabbed Dawn’s arm and dragged her out of the room with Cordelia following closely behind.

King Rupert and Joyce finally turned their attention back to William as they girls left and they both had questions they didn’t know would get answered. As Joyce slowly walked across the room, she bit back the tears threatening to fall as she stared at the young man she had seen her daughter leave her home with.

“What happened?” She asked him, fear for her daughter’s safety once again returning.

William sighed heavily as he looked between his father and Joyce before his shoulders once again drooped. “Prince Angelus attacked the carriage. I managed to get Buffy to safety and we made our way to the Enchanted Forest. After leaving, Angelus sent the Trolothan. It took her.”

“The carriage? How do you know of that?” King Rupert asked, confused.

William rolled his eyes in irritation before looking at his father. “I picked up the princess in Parissa. I sent Xander to the country posing as me so I could meet the princess without all the stress of her knowing it was me, but that’s not the point.”

“I see,” King Rupert said, still not sure of what he was being told. “But, what is this about the Trolothan?”

“Angelus sent it after us,” William told him as he went back to the weapons. “It took her.”

“Dear lord,” Joyce said breathlessly as the images of the limp body hanging from the beast’s claws flashed back across her mind. “That monster has my baby,” she cried as she looked at Rupert.

“It won’t hurt her,” King Rupert tried to assure her, hoping he was right. “I am sure that was not Ethan’s plan.”

“Ethan?” Joyce asked, confused.

“Yes,” Rupert told her. “Prince Angelus does nothing unless Ethan has something to gain from it.”

“And what would that be?” Joyce asked as she looked between the two men.

“Parissa,” William and King Rupert both said in unison.

William turned from them, grabbing up the sheath to the sword and fastened it around his waist before he turned and walked toward the door with the jewel-handled sword in hand. As he reached the doorway, his father’s voice halted him.

“Edward, what are you planning on doing?” King Rupert asked him worriedly.

William stopped and turned back to face his father. “I going to get my princess back,” he told him as he looked down and sheathed the sword before looking back up. “Don’t worry your majesty. I won’t return without your daughter.”

Joyce smiled as she watched what she now knew was the elusive Prince Edward walk out of the room. She gave a worried glance to King Rupert before she wiped at the lone tear that slowly ran down her cheek.

“Don’t worry Joyce,” Rupert told her softly. “Once Edward sets his mind to something, he follows through.”

The smile Joyce gave him took King Rupert by surprise before she chuckled through her tears. “You may want to get use to calling him William,” she said, smiling. “I don’t think he much likes being called Edward.”

“I believe you may be right,” King Rupert said, returning a smile to her. “Do you suppose he’s been so angry with me all this time because of that?” He asked, as Joyce took his arm and led him from the room.

“Children don’t really need a reason to be angry with us,” Joyce said, smiling. “I think it’s just their nature.”

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Buffy slowly opened her eyes and was met with unfamiliar surroundings. She gasped in surprise as she turned her head to the side and saw Prince Angelus sitting in a chair by the bed, staring at her.

“I was beginning to believe you dead,” he said, smiling. “It would have made this whole ordeal quite disappointing.”

“Where am I?” Buffy demanded as she sat up quickly and scooted to the edge of the bed.

“My home,” Angelus told her. “Might as well make yourself comfortable. You’ll be here for a very long time.”

“I highly doubt that,” Buffy spat out at him as she turned and stood from the bed. “You cannot keep me here.”

Prince Angelus was up and on his feet before Buffy could make her way to the door and he smiled as he grabbed her. “I don’t think so princess, you belong to me now.”

Buffy stared at him with wide eyes before a smile curved her lips and she started to laugh. Angelus watched her as she continued, her face turning red as she almost doubled over in laughter.

“Great, another insane one,” Angelus sighed. “Boy, does Will know how to pick them or what?” He asked no one as he released Buffy’s arm and leaned up against the door and crossed his arms over his chest. “I’m really going to have to start questioning that boy’s sanity if he continues to pick the looniest girls in the land for his bride.”

Buffy’s laughter had died some as Angelus talked and she straightened up before looking at him. “William is not insane, but you are if you think you are going to keep me here,” she said, grinning. “I am no man’s prize, not yours and not William’s. I choose whom I will spend my life with. Not you!”

“That’s where you are wrong princess,” Angelus said smiling as he pushed himself off the door and took a step toward her. “For once William arrives to reclaim you; you’ll have no one but me!”

Buffy felt her blood boil under her skin as Angelus grinned at her. How dare he presume that just because he managed to get her here, that she would just willing go along with his plans. “You underestimate me Prince Angelus,” she said smugly. “I have never and will never take orders from someone such as you.”

“We’ll see about that princess,” Angelus said as he chuckled softly. “Make yourself comfortable. I’ll be back at dusk so we can become…better acquainted.”

Buffy lunged for the door as Angelus opened it and left. She could hear the locks click into place and she screamed as she kicked at the thick wooden door as she pounded on it with her fists. She could hear Angelus’ laughter as he left the door and tears were springing to her eyes as the adrenaline of their meeting finally made her realize the situation she was in.

She looked frantically around the room before she saw a small window on the far wall. Running to it, she gasped as she saw the two-story drop to a lower balcony. Fear crept up her spine as she looked out across the land toward where she could barely make out the blurry outline of what she knew was the castle in Alcala.

As the first tear fell, her heart sank as she stared at the vast country before her. How did things come to this? Why, after everything she had been through, did things still seem so wrong?

Sighing heavily, Buffy leaned her head against the cold stone wall on the side of the window. “I’m so sorry William,” she said sadly before fresh tears flowed.

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Buffy looked up from her seat on the floor by the window when she heard the locks in the door click open. Standing quickly, her mouth opened to protest what ever it was Angelus demanded of her this time but was surprised to see King Rayne instead.

“Ah, Princess Elizabeth, I do hope your accommodations agree with you,” he said smiling as he entered. “We had so little time to plan.”

“You cannot keep me here!” Buffy said loudly as she took a step toward the door.

“Oh, well I take it you are not enjoying our hospitality then?”

“Hospitality?” Buffy questioned with wide eyes. “You kidnap me, lock me up and expect me to be having a good time? You people are seriously disturbed!”

“Well, let me apologize for Angelus’ behavior if he offended you. The boy doesn’t think before he speaks.” He grinned. “But, I’m sure you will learn to…appreciate him.”

Buffy stood awestruck as Ethan stared at her smiling. What did these people want? Surely it was more than just herself.

“Ah, I see your prince has finally arrived,” Ethan said, almost bouncing as he looked out the window. “I guess the party is about to begin.”

Buffy turned, looking out the window behind her and a smile lit up her face as she saw the army of horses coming toward the castle. William must have made it back to Alcala, she thought as hope started to once again stir in her. A frown soon followed as she realized that this was King Rupert’s army and also Prince Edward’s.

She walked quickly back to the window, trying to get a better look and to see if she could tell which one Prince Edward was, knowing he was there, or at least assuming he was.

“They’re here,” Angelus announced happily as he burst through the door to his room. “He brought the whole damn army with him though.”

“Well, William was always one to use his head, unlike some,” Ethan said as he looked out the window over Buffy’s shoulder.

“And what is that suppose to mean?” Angelus asked hatefully.

The mention of William’s name caused Buffy’s smile to return briefly. She still hadn’t figured out a way for them to be together and wasn’t sure if she could. “William brought the army?” She asked, turning her head to look at Ethan after what was said finally registered to her.

“Angelus, go sound the alarms,” Ethan said, ignoring Buffy and his son’s question. “I’ll stay and see that our guest stays out of harms way.” He grinned.

Angelus gave his father a murderous look before glancing at Buffy. “Well Elizabeth, I do hope you enjoy the show. A good fight always seems to get me…in the mood,” he said with a cheeky grin before he turned and left the room.

Buffy hadn’t paid any mind to Angelus’ statement as she gazed out the window at the army advancing on the castle. A hopeful smile crossed her face of the thought that maybe, just maybe…William was down there somewhere, coming to her rescue.

To Be Continued……

Temptations of the Heart

Chapter 20

The dark castle loomed in the distance, and the sound of the horses’ hooves trampling the hardened ground rang out through the valley as William and his army approached Colligt.

William’s mind was a tangled mass of confusion and worry. He had seen his father’s concerned face as he mounted his horse and turned from the castle and, given his past history with Angelus, he knew his father feared the worst.

He had told Queen Joyce that he wouldn’t return without Buffy and he had meant it. He wasn’t going to face the world without her, and if it meant taking down Angelus at the cost of his own life to see that she were safe, then that’s what he planned to do.

“You okay?” Daniel asked as he rode silently beside William.

“Yeah, just fine mate,” William said, not taking his eyes off their destination.

“You don’t look fine.”

William sighed heavily, glancing over at his red-haired friend before he gave him a little smile. “Just not sure about the outcome of this one is all,” he told him. “If I do manage to somehow get her, she’s going to rip me apart when she finds out who I really am.”

Daniel laughed quietly to himself while shaking his head. “I can’t believe you went through with that,” he said, smiling. “You’d think after all these years, you would have learned by now.”

“Yes, and I’d think, you, Oz, would have learned who you’re laughing at,” William said, trying to look angry.

“Oh, going to pull rank on me now, are you?” Oz laughed.

“Can do what I please,” William said smugly as he turned his head. “I’ll be King soon enough.”

“Lord help us all,” Wesley muttered as he paced his horse with William’s.

“Not you too?” William asked, glancing over at his best knight.

“Well, if memory serves, I do believe we all told you what a bad idea that was.”

“Not my fault we were attacked,” William stated angrily. “Everything would have gone perfectly fine if that stupid wanker wouldn’t have bollocked up my plan. He will stop at nothing to make my life miserable.”

“Well, Angelus doesn’t like to lose,” Oz said looking at the castle. “And I’m sure he’s more than prepared for us.”

William shook his head in affirmation, knowing that Angelus would do everything in his power to keep Buffy from him, even if it meant taking her life.

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Buffy watched as the army approached; hope springing to her chest in thoughts of her rescue. She could hear Ethan’s army preparing for battle as they locked the castle down. Their shouts and yells could be heard echoing through the halls and the scurry of men could be seen on the courtyard below.

Anticipation was causing her heart to race in her chest as Ethan continued to talk behind her. She had tried to tune him out completely, but the constant demands he shouted to his army were beginning to wear thin on her nerves.

As the army finally approached the castle, Buffy smiled as she finally saw William. Her eyes were fixated on him and her heart soared in her chest. He came, she thought happily to herself as her eyes drank him in.

As the loud shout from the man to William’s left caught her attention, Buffy tore her eyes away from William, looking at the dark haired man who, with sword raised high, gave the command to attack.

Buffy’s breath caught in her throat as they all charged the castle, Ethan’s cry to his men almost deafening her as the battle began.

As hard as she tried, keeping track of William was almost impossible. The scurry of activity below was amazing to watch and the more she saw, the more frightened she became.

Men were falling from their horses as others jumped and charged Ethan’s men. The cries of the men were mingled with pain and she knew that death would find many of the young knights as they fought for her freedom.

Buffy once again saw the dark-haired man that had ordered the approaching army to advance and the more she watched him, the more she realized he was in charge. The fleeting thought that he may be Prince Edward flitted through her mind and panic began to set in.

<><>

The battle on the ground was fast and furious as neither side gave. Blood was spilled from both sides as William’s army tried to gain access to the castle while Ethan’s men tried to hold them back.

Angelus stood on the outer wall of the castle, watching the scene below with a satisfying smile. His eyes were riveted to William and a sardonic chuckle escaped him as he watched. As he saw the first man scale the wall of the castle, Angelus turned, making his way back inside.

<><>

“Looks as if things are about to get interesting princess,” Ethan said as he also saw several men making their way up the castle walls. “What do you say we find a more secure place to put you?” He asked as he reached out and grabbed Buffy’s arm, dragging her away from the small window.

Buffy protested loudly as Ethan hurried her to the door. Her heart was racing in her chest as they stepped out into the hall, where the sounds of the fight grew louder.

“I’ll take her,” Angelus said loudly as he stepped around the corner and saw Ethan and Buffy. “You may want to get that witch to be of some use and stop William. His men are already making it over the wall,” he shouted angrily.

“Very well,” Ethan said, letting go of Buffy as Angelus grabbed her. “I already have plans for William and his men.”

Buffy was whisked down the hall as Ethan turned and made his way down the steps. The look on Angelus’ face was one of anger and determination as he hurried her down the steps of the castle and down a long corridor. The sounds coming from outside were getting louder and she knew King Rupert’s men were finally getting inside.

William quickly scaled the wall with Oz by his side and both men broke out into a run the instant their feet were on the small ledge that made up the top of the wall. Several of Angelus’ men met them before they made it to the main building and they were once again thrown into battle. The loud clicking of swords as they connected rang throughout the courtyard below and as the air around them began to move, William saw two of their opponents stop and stare up at the sky. The small distraction was all William and Oz needed to clear their path.

As the last one fell, Oz turned quickly to where the men had been looking, his eyes widening at the scene before him. “William, we are in serious trouble,” he said, shaking as he pointed toward the south wall.

William turned, his annoyance at the situation only increasing as he saw the Trolothan. The large red dragon had returned and the scurry of movement on the ground increased as the beast began its descent.

William and Oz watched as claws and teeth were used to scoop up men and fling them carelessly away from the castle. The screams increased as the men still on the ground ran helplessly from the creature.

“Come on,” William said as he turned and ran for the castle. “We can’t help them.”

Oz followed, running into the castle behind William as the screams of agony rang in his ears.

<><>

It was total chaos as Buffy watched the scene play out. The horror of seeing the beast practically rip the men apart trying to rescue her had her turning her head. She felt her stomach turn as terrified screams wafted through the breeze. The loud laughter of Angelus only heightened her fear of the situation as she opened her eyes and looked at him.

“You weren’t seriously thinking he was actually going to rescue you, were you?” Angelus asked, still chuckling. “William has been down this road before princess. He wasn’t able to do it the first time, what’s makes you think he can now?”

“He’s already inside the castle,” Buffy said, trying to sound more confident than she was feeling. “It will only be a matter of time before he finds me.”

“Yes, and what fun we’ll have when he does,” Angelus said, smiling. “I honestly didn’t think he’d ever fall for another so hard after Drucilla, but the boy proves me wrong time and time again. His-full out assault on the castle proves that. I guess he wasn’t willing to risk your life so carelessly as he did with hers.”

“What are you talking about?” Buffy asked numbly as she turned back to the window.

“Why, his beloved Drucilla,” Angelus said, still grinning. “I’m sure he told you about her?”

Buffy glanced over her shoulder at Angelus, the grin on his face only confusing her more. “Drucilla? Prince Edward’s first bride?”

“Yes, surely he’s told you of her.”

“Not really,” Buffy said as she once again turned back to the window.

“Well, well,” Angelus said taking a step away from her. “Seems our little William is keeping secrets from his bride-to-be. I suppose he’ll share the story with you eventually.”

Buffy was only half-listening as she continued to watch the slaughter outside the castle. The dragon was quickly thinning the number of men trying to gain access to the castle and as she felt Angelus’ hand come to rest on her waist; she gasped and turned to him quickly. “Get your hands off of me!” She yelled as she slapped at his hand and moved back away from him.

“What’s wrong princess?” Angelus asked, smiling as he took a step toward her. “I thought we’d have a little fun before William came for you.”

Buffy had so many emotions running through her, she wasn’t sure which one to act on first. Anger and fear were the most prominent, as were total loathing and disgust at the man who was slowly advancing on her as his hands once again settled around her waist. As her anger finally won over, her lips tightened into a thin line, her fingers curling into her palm and, with every ounce of courage she could find, she struck.

Angelus was slightly jarred from the impact of Buffy’s small fist as it connected with his jaw. Raising a hand and running it over the stinging flesh she had assaulted, he chuckled loudly as he turned his face to look at her. “Now we’re getting somewhere,” he announced loudly. “It’s no fun unless you fight back.”

Buffy gasped loudly as Angelus’ hand shot out and grabbed the back of her neck. Her eyes were wide as he smiled down at her before she jerked in his grasp, trying to free herself. As he pulled her body tightly against his, Buffy was overcome with fear while Angelus lunged forward.

<><>

William and Oz ran through the halls of the castle, pausing at the large corridor that led in three different directions. They both scanned the halls for movement before turning to look at each other.

“Split up or stay together?” Oz asked, panting slightly for breath.

“I’d say split up, but…” William’s words were cut short as both men heard Buffy scream. Oz turned his head, looking down the hall behind him and before he was completely turned, William was running. “Stay together then,” he mumbled to himself as he took off down the hall after William.

Fear was replaced with insane hatred as William ran down the long corridor. Buffy’s screams seemed muffled and William’s imagination ran wild at the possibilities of what was happening to her. He could faintly hear Oz’s footfalls on the stone floor behind him as the sound of his own heart beat loudly in his ears. As both men approached the end of the hall, a large bright, white light filled the area and they both skidded to a stop.

William was the first to recover, the small twinkling lights flashing in front of his eyes and causing his vision to blur finally clearing enough to see the tiny man standing before them. He wiped at his eyes, trying to get them to clear from the sudden flash of light before the small man spoke.

“Talia sent me, your majesty,” he said, smiling. “I am called Fralum. I’ve come to secure the beast.”

“Talia?” William asked, confused. “How, what?”

“We see all. We know of your trouble,” Fralum said. “We haven’t much time. I need to find the witch and the sorcerer.”

William looked down the hall, the undistinguishable voices carrying along the corridor as he once again heard a small, strangled scream. “Buffy,” he said quietly as he looked down the hall.

“Go to her,” Fralum said as he looked over at Oz. “This one can help me.”

William didn’t even give Oz time to reply before he was once again on the run. As he rounded the corner, Oz finally looked over at the small man before him.

“I suppose you’re one of the hobbits William told me about?” He asked, smiling as he looked at the small, almost elf-like creature before him. “Gotta say, I wasn’t much believing that story.”

Fralum laughed quietly to himself before lifting the small bag in his hand. “Come, we have work to do.”

<><>

Buffy kicked the best she could as Angelus continued to hold her tightly. One hand was fisted in her hair while the other hung tightly around her waist. She struggled in his grasp, muffled screams escaping her throat as he repeatedly attacked her lips with bruising kisses. No matter how hard she fought, his hold only tightened as he tried to hold her head still. As she felt his tongue enter her mouth, her eyes widened as her stomach turned.

The loud moan he let out caused her eyes to burn with tears, joining the ones already quickly descending down her face. As her struggles proved useless and the feel of Angelus’ tongue curled around her own, Buffy screamed into his mouth before she did the only thing she could think of.

William heard the loud yell and curses of Angelus echo through the hall and he didn’t waste any time making it the end of the hall to the last door in the corridor. As his foot connected with the solid wood door, he heard Buffy scream again.

“Buffy!” William yelled as he once again kicked at the door.

Buffy’s heart leapt in her chest as she heard William and more tears ran down her face as she heard his pounding on the door.

“William,” she yelled as she ran toward the door, Angelus’ anguished cries drifting behind her.

William felt his fear recede slightly as he heard her voice and he once again began pounded on the door.

Buffy tried to pull the latch on the door, only to find it locked. As she jerked and pulled on the large wooden door while William beat on it from the other side, Angelus’ laughter caught her attention.

“Looking for this?” Angelus asked, grinning. “No way in or out without it,” he said as he held up the key. Straightening his body, Angelus turned his head to the side, spitting his own blood from his mouth where Buffy had bit him. He groaned as the sickening pain in his groin where her knee had effectively connected made him wince again. “You do know you will pay painfully for that, don’t you?” He asked as he slowly walked toward her.

Buffy’s breath quickened as he approached her and she glanced around her, looking for anything to use against him. She felt slightly comforted that William was right outside the door, but with no way inside the room, she was left to defend herself.

Angelus rolled his eyes as he heard the constant pounding on the door. “Alright, enough already!” He yelled as the ringing in his ears increased. “We know you’re there!”

“Angelus, you lay one hand on her and you’ll beg me to kill you quickly!”

Angelus laughed as he stared at the door. “Big words from a man incapable of following through with his threats, don’t you think Will?”

William kicked the door again, knowing it was useless before he glanced around the hall. Seeing a small window to his right, he hurried to it and looked out. He surveyed the surrounding windows, looking above him and to each side before a plan formed in his head. Turning around, William glanced at the door that separated him from Buffy before he turned and ran.

“Well, that didn’t take long,” Angelus said, almost disappointed as he heard William’s footfalls echo down the hall. “I figured he’d try a little longer before he gave up.”

Buffy’s fear once again started to climb as she slowly backed up. As she felt the door hit her back and the smile on Angelus’ face widened, she turned and ran toward the far corner of the room. Looking for anything to use as a weapon, Buffy grabbed the large candle sconce that stood by a large pillar and held it high. “I’ll kill you myself if I have to,” she said with a shaky voice.

Angelus’ laughter echoed in the room as he slowly advanced on her. “No wonder William likes you so much; you’re a little spitfire when you want to be,” he said, grinning. “Tell me princess, will you be this feisty in my bed?”

“Stay away from me!”

“I don’t think so, precious,” Angelus said as he slowly walked toward her. “The fun has just begun.”

William climbed onto the windowsill, bracing his weight evenly on the balls of his feet before looking down at the long three-story drop to the ground. His breathing was labored and he inhaled deeply before closing his eyes briefly trying to collect himself. As he opened them back up, he let out a long, cleansing breath before he reached out and grabbed the long sash of purple and gold cloth that hung along the side of the castle wall. Glancing down at the window below him, William grabbed the cloth securely in his hands as he carefully stood up on the windowsill.

Closing both hands around the material, William swallowed heavily before closing his eyes and picturing Buffy’s smiling face. As his eyes slowly opened, he said a silent prayer before he jumped.

To Be Continued……

Temptations of the Heart

Chapter 21

Oz hurried down the stone steps to the lower corridors of the castle, following the hobbit. Fralum had briefly explained to him that a beast such as the Trolothan was a mystical creature of which control was not to be gained. The instant Ethan and the witch had power over the beast; they had unwittingly sealed their own fate. Their only problem now was breaking the curse they had cast over the creature.

As they entered the lighted corridor where they both could hear the voices of the witch and Ethan, they slowed their steps. Oz watched quietly, as Fralum reached into the bag, pulling a large crystal from it and smiling as he looked up.

“Once I break the hold on the beast, I will need you to help me cast the spell,” Fralum whispered.

“And what’s this spell to do?” Oz asked him curiously.

“It will make them pay for their transgressions on the land.”

“Meaning?”

“Meaning, they will both get what they deserve,” Fralum said, as he held the crystal out to Oz. “Hold this.”

Oz reached out, taking the crystal in his hand. His mind wandered briefly to William and if he had made it to the princess yet, before Fralum’s voice interrupted his thoughts.

“Once the crystal begins to glow, do not drop it,” he instructed.

Oz nodded his head, watching as the little man began to sprinkle a glittery substance around them as he chanted softly. As Fralum started walking toward the door that separated them from Ethan and the witch, the heat that started to engulf his hand caused his eyes to widen as the crystal started to glow and change colors.

<><>

The witch looked up as the air around her started to crackle. She could feel the energy around them start to dissipate before she looked wide-eyed at Ethan. “How can this be?” She asked, quickly. “No magic is greater than that of ‘The Eye’.”

Ethan was still chanting as he concentrated on the creature and its destruction of the men on the ground. He barely heard the witch before a blast of energy surged through him, taking his breath momentarily away.

<><>

Buffy lifted the candle sconce high, ready for her attack on Angelus when a sweeping flash of light and color caught her attention. With wide eyes she watched as William bounded through the window and crashed into Angelus.

Angelus grunted from the sudden blow as he and William rolled across the floor, entangling themselves in the cloth William had used to swing himself down into the room. With quick movements, they both fought their way free and stood facing off.

“Well, I must say Will, I’m damn impressed,” Angelus said, grinning as he looked at the angry man before him. “Now if that wasn’t heroic, I just don’t know what is,” he laughed.

William’s jaw ticked as he clenched it together before he reached for his sword, unsheathing it. “Not here for pleasantries, Angelus,” William said in clipped tones. “Came for my princess.”

“Ah, the fair Elizabeth,” Angelus grinned. “She really is a sweet thing, isn’t she?” He asked, chuckling as he glanced over his shoulder at her. “Taste as sweet as honey, don’t you agree?”

William glanced quickly over at Buffy before looking at Angelus. He could tell by her disheveled appearance that Angelus had gotten closer to her than he would have liked and the thought only caused his anger to soar. Gripping his sword tightly in his hand, William raised it, pointing the blade toward Angelus. “You’ll die for touching her.”

“Oh, now this’ll be fun,” Angelus said, glancing around the room before cautiously taking a few steps to his left and grabbing the sword lying on the long table against the wall. Picking it up, he gave it a small swing, the blade cutting through the air before he looked back at William. “You sure you want to do this, boy?” He asked, grinning as he approached William. “Seems last time we met, I gave you a little reminder of how useless you are around my blade,” he said, as he laughed and looked at the scar that ran through William’s eyebrow. “How does it feel to have a constant reminder of how useless you are?”

Faster than Angelus had time to react to, William’s blade sliced through the air. The burning sting to the left side of his face was covered quickly with his hand as he looked up at William.

“How does it feel to you?” William asked, leaning his head to the side slightly as he watched the crimson fluid drip along Angelus’ face from the large slash that ran from the corner of his mouth to just under his eye. “Seems we both have a reminder now.”

Angelus saw red and it wasn’t from the blood that gushed from his wound. With an animalistic growl, he lunged forward.

Buffy gasped loudly, scurrying into the corner as the loud clang of metal echoed off the stones walls. She watched helplessly as William and Angelus engaged in battle.

<><>

Wesley had finally managed to lower the gate, letting in what was left of their men. The Trolothan had severely dwindled their numbers, but the remaining knights took up their weapons and fought Ethan’s men with a furry.

Wesley had seen the idiotic stunt William had pulled and his breath had caught in his throat as he saw him swing down into the window below him. He had shaken his head and let out a relived sigh when he saw William crash through the window before he once again returned to the battle.

As they advanced on the castle doors, a new surge of energy overcame him as he realized he needed to get inside. King Rupert would be most displeased if anything happened to William, especially seeing how he had personally been picked to be the prince’s personal guard. Cutting a path toward the door, Wesley swung his sword, trying to defend himself and make his way to William.

<><>

Fralum smiled as he turned to Oz and grabbed his arm, pulling him away from the door just before it opened and Ethan hurried out of the room with the witch trailing behind him. The two hiding men watched as the furious pair marched down the hall.

“What’s happening?” Oz asked, watching as Ethan cursed under his breath and disappeared around the corner.

“The counter spell is working,” Fralum told him.

“So, the spell on the creature is broken, then?”

“No quite,” Fralum said, “He still has a hold on the beast, but it is breaking. Come, we have to act quickly.”

Oz hurried along behind Fralum as he ran down the hall after Ethan and the witch. He wasn’t sure what was happening, but from the look on Ethan’s face, it was apparently working in their favor. Hopefully, and with any luck, William would take care of Angelus, get the princess back and they could make it back to Alcala before nightfall.

<><>

Buffy huddled in the corner as Angelus lunged at William, trying to stay clear of the two fighting men. Shock at seeing William fly through the window had added to her already adrenaline-rushed mind and as the fight she knew was coming started, Buffy was worried beyond belief.

Her eyes were wide as she watched the two men wield the heavy swords as they dangerously lashed out at the other, the loud clang from the metal echoing off the stone walls ringing in her ears. Exhaustion was playing havoc on her body as she watched with fearful eyes, as the battle she knew would end in death, began in earnest.

Angelus wiped uselessly at the blood running his down face after ducking a wild swing from William before he laughed. “Getting sloppy in your old age, boy,” he spat out. “I thought all the practice I’ve given you over the years would have taught you something by now.”

William’s jaw was clenched tightly as he lunged forward, pushing his sword toward Angelus as his opponent continued to throw off casual barbs while they fought. He knew Angelus well enough to know that the useless banter was Angelus’ way to try to throw him off guard.

“Not in the mood for talking, Angelus,” William said. “Much rather get to the killing part if you don’t mind.”

“Oh, well I just thought we’d get in a little last minute bonding time,” Angelus laughed, “You know…seeing how this will be our last and all.”

“That it will,” William said, lunging to his left and striking out with his sword as Angelus swung at him.

Buffy was inching her way along the wall, her eyes never leaving the two men circling around the center of the room. She was struck with the conflicting emotions of being half scared out of her mind and feeling a sense of pride as she watched William fight for her. Every time Angelus’ sword came a little too close to William; she would feel her heart skip a beat in her chest before she saw the strength and skill that he possessed before she would relax.

Looking to the floor as her foot caught on something; Buffy stepped over the pile of parchments that lay there before she looked up quickly as she heard the clatter of metal against the floor. She gasped loudly as she saw William’s sword slid across the floor and Angelus smile as he leveled his sword at William’s throat.

“Never could hold onto anything, could you, Will?” Angelus laughed. “Damn shame if you ask me. All that time spent on trying to make you a half-decent fighter, for what?”

William slowly straightened his back, looking straight ahead at Angelus as he panted for breath. “Well, unlike you Angelus, I don’t really need a weapon,” he said, smiling slightly before he lunged toward the left and kicked out with his foot, catching Angelus’ legs and knocking them out from under him.

Angelus’ sword skittered across the floor as he fell on his back and just as quickly as the fight had stopped, it was on again.

Buffy felt like cheering as she saw William deliver what she knew was a painful punch to the side of Angelus’ head before the two men were at it again. She was almost relieved as the dangerous fight took a turn and the only weapons now being yielded were their fists.

Angelus and William both got to their feet, the hard blows from their fist making contact with the other as they circled the room. The small talk had completely vanished as blow after blow was delivered and hit its intended target. Both men were panting for breath and the force of their punches weakened as both men were quickly tiring.

<><>

Wesley hurried down the hall, his sword raised as he scanned the halls for William. Several men were following behind him and every room they passed was checked before they would move on.

The beast was still outside doing what damage it could and the screams of the men unlucky enough to find their way in its path could be heard through the castle. As the group made their way around the corner, Wesley stopped as he saw Ethan and a woman hurry down the hall and out the castle door.

“That was the witch,” one of the knights said, as he spotted the old woman with Ethan. “They say she is the key to Ethan’s power.”

Wesley was torn between whether to go after Ethan or continue looking for William when he saw Oz round the corner with a strange little man. His eyes widened as the little creature turned and smiled at him.

“Daniel, who is that?” Wesley asked, as he approached the two.

“This is Fralum,” Oz told him. “He’s one of William’s hobbits.”

Wesley looked at the wide smile on his friend’s face before he looked down at the small man before him. “Hobbits are real?” he asked, in shock. “I thought William was lying about that.”

“So did I,” Oz laughed. “Seems his elaborate tales were more accurate than we thought.”

“We haven’t time,” Fralum said, looking up at Oz. “We must finish this.”

Oz gave Fralum a nod before the little man scurried down the hall. “Go find William,” Oz told him. “Second floor, near the end I believe.”

“Right then,” Wesley said, watching as Oz hurried after the hobbit and disappeared around the corner. “Let’s go.”

<><>

Ethan was almost blinded with rage as he made his way outside. The spell on the Trolothan was weak and his constant chants to keep his hold on the beast were quickly weakening him. The carnage outside the castle instantly put a smile on his face as bodies lay in a tangled mass of bloody limbs along the ground.

His eyes scanned the sky, looking for the beast and his smile widened as he saw the red dragon make a pass over the south side of the castle. Closing his eyes, Ethan began his chants again, pulling every ounce of strength he could from the witch as she held The Eye.

Fralum and Oz made their way outside, the crystal in Oz’s hand still glowing as Fralum once again spread the glittery powder and repeated his chants. The crystal began to warm and as Oz looked toward the sky, he could have sworn he saw the beast change colors.

The Trolothan flew high, soaring into the bright sun as the pull on him tightened. A loud roar escaped his throat as he turned and dove for the castle. The men along the ground scurried for cover as the beast made a low flying pass before soaring into the sky and turning to make another pass.

All eyes were on the beast as Fralum pulled a large black stone from his bag and held it high. The air around the castle crackled before a bolt of lightening struck out of a cloudless sky and echoed across the valley.

As Ethan and the witch turned to see what had happened, their eyes landed on Fralum. The hobbit still held the black stone and a wide smile graced his face. “The only thing more powerful than The Eye, is its twin,” the little man said. “Your hold over the beast is no more.”

Ethan turned, looking toward the sky and his eyes widened as he saw the dragon coming straight for him. The dark red color of the creature’s skin had changed to almost black, but the red in his eyes was clearly visible. Even before he could completely comprehend what was happening, the beast’s mouth had opened and the roar it let out was deafening. The scream of the witch as she saw the creature coming was vibrating through his body and as the beast swooped low in the sky, Ethan knew his time had come.

As the sharp claws dug into his flesh, Ethan gasped for breath as the crushing grip the creature had him in felt as if it were ripping him in two as he saw the witch being picked up from the ground.

Her screams were hysterical as she thrashed in the beast’s grip and Ethan hung motionless in the clawed foot of the Trolothan as he saw his castle slowly drift farther away. As his body was wracked with pain, Ethan looked toward the witch, her arms flying helplessly as she struggled in the creature’s grasp before the Trolothan lowered his head.

Ethan closed his eyes as he listened to the sound of crushing bones and the sickening pop the witch’s body made as it was crunched by the beast’s strong jaw, letting him know his own fate. Sparing one last glimpse of his kingdom, Ethan watched his dynasty drift farther away before he thought of his son and he closed his eyes.

<><>

Wesley could hear the sounds of the two men fighting as he ran down the hall before stopping at the last door. Trying the door, he realized why William had entered the way he had. “Go find something to get this open with,” he demanded, as he turned to the knights behind him.

Pushing uselessly on the door, Wesley looked around, looking for anything to open the large wooden door with as the sounds from inside the room continued.

Buffy faintly heard talking from the other side of the door and, looking away from the fight, she sighed in relief as she heard the men outside. She was still watching William and Angelus and the sight of the two had her covering her face every so often as one of them would get in a good punch or kick to the other and blood would flow.

William’s face was once again covered with wounds and she knew he’d be covered in bruises again. Her attention was drawn away from the two fighting men as the men outside the door began to bang on it relentlessly.

Wesley stood back, watching as the small group of men rammed the large wooded pole they had found repeatedly against the door. He wondered briefly if the door was magically protected as their battering ram seemed almost useless against it. Yelling out an order, he stepped back further as the men increased their vigor and continued to work on the door.

“Looks like the cavalry has arrived,” Angelus smiled as he kicked out, landing a brutal kick to William’s left leg that caused him to fall to the ground.

William stood quickly, ignoring the insistent pounding on the door before he threw a left hook, catching Angelus under his chin. He smiled as blood flew from Angelus’ mouth before he landed another punch just as quickly.

The two men were almost completely exhausted but neither gave an inch in their perusal of the other. They both knew that one wrong move would cause the other to gain control of the situation and it would be over.

As the shouts from the hall increased and the sound of cracking wood finally echoed through the room, Buffy let a small smile creep over her features before stealing a small glance over to the door. The grunts from Angelus and William mingled with those outside, making it hard to distinguish between the two.

As the door finally cracked, sending wood shards across the floor, William glanced away from Angelus momentarily. The small distraction was all Angelus needed as he landed a hard kick to William’s chest, sending the smaller man sprawling to the floor.

In a move faster than any could have guessed he had, Angelus retrieved his fallen sword before turning to William. As the wood on the door finally gave way to those outside, Angelus yelled, rushing toward William.

William scrambled to his feet, grabbing the small dagger from his boot, and lunging to his right as Angelus rushed toward him. As the angry man charged, William swiftly imbedded his knife into Angelus’ side but lost his footing as the speed at which Angelus ran, hurdled them both toward the window.

Buffy screamed as she watched both men tangle themselves around each other and the purple and gold banner that still blew into the window before they both disappeared out the window with a scream. She was frozen in place as the window now lay vacant and the men outside rushed into the room.

She slumped against the wall, the yells of the men in the room surrounding her as her entire body went numb. She didn’t even see the man sitting in front of her, asking if she were okay.

Wesley felt his heart stop in his chest as he rushed to the window and peered over the sill. He gasped as he saw Angelus’ body hit the ground and bounce slightly before he lay still on the stone balcony below.

A rush of relief and adrenaline spread throughout him as he saw William, hanging from the sash before he grabbed the cloth and began to pull.

“’Bout bleeding time you made it up here,” William huffed as Wesley and two other men finally pulled him back through the window and deposited him onto the stone floor. “Stupid wanker almost did me in.”

“We were a little tied up with the dragon,” Wesley tried to defend himself. “You could have waited.”

“No time,” William said, as he achingly sat up and looked around the room.

Buffy was looking at him and although she knew she saw him, she had to wonder if it wasn’t her imagination. When he smiled at her, a small sob escaped her when she realized it wasn’t her imagination, but in fact, William.

She watched as two men helped him stand before he slowly approached her; the man that had been sitting with her standing as well and quickly moving away. She stared up at him, tears clouding her vision as he kneeled down in front of her and the small sobs that had been coming quickly increased as William cupped her cheek in his hand.

“Hello princess,” William smiled, wiping away her tears as he smiled at her.

“William,” Buffy whispered hoarsely, before she smiled and threw her arms around his neck as he enveloped her small frame in his arms. She cried hard, holding onto him tightly as she cried out her joy and fear.

Small whispered words of comfort were buried under her cries as Buffy held onto him, intent on never letting him go. The men in the room all silently turned to leave, each smiling at the pair in the floor. Wesley stood guard, watching the two and sighing in relief now that the ordeal was over.

William pulled back, smiling before kissing Buffy’s forehead. “Are you okay?” he asked, quietly.

Buffy nodded her head, before she looked up into the crystal blue eyes that seemed to look into her soul. She smiled, silent tears slowly making their way down her face before she sighed heavily, laying her forehead against William’s.

“I was so scared,” she whispered, as more tears welled up in her eyes.

“I know,” William said, as he ran his hand over her head. “So was I. I didn’t think I would make it in time.”

“But you did,” Buffy smiled.

“Yeah,” William said. “I’ll always come for you. I would die for you.”

Buffy cried at his admission before their lips met, small light touches caressing the other before William leaned in, deepening the kiss. Buffy’s breath caught in her throat as William crushed her body against his and she moaned as his tongue slipped between her lips.

Relief flooded her body and she sagged against him as her fear at what had transpired finally left her. The calm that washed over her sank into every part of her body before she pulled back with a gasp. “I love you,” she breathed out, smiling as she opened her eyes and looked up at him.

“And I love you,” William smiled back. “Always.”

Buffy’s smile widened as she looked at him before she saw movement and looked toward the door. Her smile fell away as the dark-haired man she had seen earlier stood by the door.

William turned his head, looking over at Wesley and smiling as he saw him before looking back at Buffy. “Didn’t realize we had an audience,” he said, chuckling softly.

“Your majesty,” one of the knights said, as he walked to the door, “King Rayne and the witch have been…taken care of.”

William turned his head back to the door, nodding before Wesley turned to the knight who had spoken.

“Very well, gather the remaining men and wait out front,” Wesley said, watching as the man nodded his head and turned to leave. He smiled as he turned and looked back over at William and Buffy. “I do believe we should be going now.”

Buffy’s eyes went wide as her throat seemed to close off before she stood quickly, taking a step away from William as she stared at Wesley. She felt her stomach clench into a tight knot as William slowly stood and looked at her.

“Buffy, I can explain everything,” William said, seeing the fear once again return to her eyes.

Buffy was staring at who she thought was Prince Edward and wondering just how she was going to explain what had happened. There was no doubt he had seen her and William and the longer she stared at him, the sicker she felt.

“William, we must be going if we are to make it to Alcala before nightfall,” Wesley said quietly, watching Buffy curiously as she stared at him.

“Yeah,” William said, staring at Buffy, “in a minute.”

Buffy dazedly looked over at William before her eyes fell back on Wesley. She felt sick as she stared at him and William’s voice seemed to echo in her head when a red-haired man walked in the door with what Buffy knew was one of the hobbits from Verisha.

“The evil doings of the sorcerer have been stopped,” Fralum said happily, as he entered the room and walked toward William and Buffy.

“Thank you,” William said, smiling as he turned from Buffy and looked at Fralum. “I guess Talia wasn’t joking about being able to see us then.”

“No your majesty,” Fralum said, looking up at William. “The people of Verisha are most curious about your world and with the dark magic King Rayne was doing, now stopped, maybe now we can venture into your realm more.”

“That would be a sight. Maybe people around here wouldn’t look at me so bleeding funny when I tell them of you.” William said, glaring at Oz and Wesley.

Fralum chuckled slightly, looking at William before turning to Buffy. “Talia wishes her blessings onto you and to William. May your lives be filled with much joy and happiness.”

Buffy stared at the little man, his words rolling around her head and she watched as Fralum said his goodbyes to William and the other two men in the room. She wondered why Fralum had called William “your Majesty” and her brow scrunched together as her eyes became unfocused.

Buffy was in a daze, bits and pieces of conversations breaking through her once distracted mind and as the words began to play over for her, her eyes slowly began to focus on William.

“Buffy, luv, are you okay?” William asked, as he turned and looked at Buffy. Her mouth was open slightly and a look of total confusion was written across her face. As her eyes finally focused on him, he took a step toward her and raised his hand to her face.

“You’re the prince,” Buffy whispered, more as a statement than a question. All the small clues that were right in front of her from the very beginning began to fill in the gaps and at the look on William’s face; she didn’t even need to hear his confirmation to know she was right.

“I tried to tell you,” William told her softly. “Many times, but something always….”

“You’re Prince Edward?” Buffy asked in shock, as tears filled her eyes. “You lied to me,” she whispered.

“I never meant for it to happen this way.”

Buffy shook her head, trying to sort through the jumble of facts as she took a step back away from William. She looked across the room, seeing the two men standing there with their heads hanging low before she looked back at William. “How could you lie to me for so long?”

“I didn’t exactly lie, just didn’t offer the complete truth,” William lamely tried to defend, “I was going to tell you.”

Buffy felt completely lost as she took a step forward, her head shaking slowly as she started for the door.

“Buffy,” William said, reaching out and taking her arm.

Buffy stopped and turned her head, looking back at William before looking down at his hand on her arm. “Let go of me,” she said through clenched teeth.

William felt helpless as he slowly released Buffy’s arm and she gave him a hard look before she turned and ran from the room. He closed his eyes, clenching them shut tightly before he opened them and ran out of the room after her.

“This isn’t going to be good,” Oz said, as he and Wesley turned and followed the pair out.

Buffy ran from the castle, vision clouded with unshed tears as she stepped out into the late day sun. She looked around, seeing the men gathered there before she marched over to the closest one. “Help me up,” she demanded, as she looked at his horse.

The knight gave her a long look, glancing over at one of the other knights before shrugging his shoulders and helped her up onto the horse. As she fixed her long skirt over her legs, Buffy grabbed the reins and gave the horse a swift kick just as William raced out of the castle.

“Buffy!” William yelled, as he saw her take off across the courtyard and out of the castle gates. Grabbing the closest horse, William grabbed the reins and started to mount the horse when Wesley grabbed his arm and stopped him.

“For once in your life William, will you please listen to me when I say that you don’t want to go after her just yet.”

“I have to,” William said, pulling his arm free as he mounted the horse. “She’ll never forgive me if I don’t explain why I did it.”

“Maybe not,” Wesley told him. “But if you approach her now, you’ll only upset her more. Give her some time to cool off.”

William looked from Wesley back to Buffy as she crossed the knoll before sighing in defeat. He knew Wesley was right and even though he wanted nothing more than to explain to Buffy his motives, he knew she would need time to sort things out.

Shaking his head, William looked to Oz, giving the man a tight smile before looking back to where Buffy had went. “Go with her. Make sure she makes it back safely.”

Oz gave William a nod, smiling slightly before mounting his horse and taking off after Buffy. William watched him leave, wondering how he would ever make this right as Wesley mounted his horse along with the remaining knights.

As the small army began their journey back to Alcala, William ran through every reason he had for not telling Buffy up front who he was. The only thing he hoped was that she would believe his reasoning behind it to be as valid as he did.

To Be Continued…….

A/N…Okay kiddies…we’re almost to the end of our story!! Next up…..THE WEDDING?

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