Gods Served and Abandoned

[undertheirspell]

Great Job



That was a very fitting ending to this wonderful story.

Gina.



----------

"The only thing that matters is just following your heart and eventually you'll get it right." ~~~ In This Diary, By - The Ataris

[jixer]

Hello Kittens-



From Dawn wishing she had never blurted out her feelings to Riley's interdimensional blank space (perhaps the origin of mimes is explained) there are hints and echoes from the story. The idea of a halfway house for demons somehow strikes me a very California thing to do. The end with Willow and Tara at Julia's grave shows just how much has changed and how much remains. That which has not changed is more clear and it reflects the changes. Perhaps the clearest example is:



Willow wanted to jump in and reassure her, but she realized that that would serve her need, not Tara’s. Instead, she said simply, “What would you ask her?”



What they have is now even better for the insight the girl who doesn't "do emotions" has now. This is also the mark of a wonderful work of fiction. You have grown all the characters into so much more than we ever saw in canon and yet they are still true to themselves. That was an amazing feat that only leaves us wondering if we will see these burnished examples under your control again. For now, thank you for this wonderful work.





Jixer

[Patches]

Good Mary, Queen of Sco(tissues), as Frost says, "I have promises to keep and miles to go before I sleep." I will be back later, but for now, I thank you ever so much for this tale. It made me think. It made me laugh. It made me feel. Of all these, it is the latter that has had the greatest impact on me. I found it odd that I could become so invested in fiction, yet there is a truth that underlies this story that I could not deny. For all it's foundation in myth and fantasy, you capture something that's so elusive - the magic of reality. I read fiction to escape, and strangely through this tale, I found something I never expected; I found a small piece of my own reality. Words are powerful weapons; you wield them well and with great care. Mary, you are an incredibly talented writer. Many, many thanks for sharing your wonderful prose and poetry with us. For many reasons, this is one story I will never forget. Merci beaucoup, because one language just isn't enough.



"Good birthday?"

"Best birthday."



Cheers, good scribe!!

Patches

You know I've heard about people like me. But I never made the connection. They walk one road to set them free, And find they've gone the wrong direction. But there's no need for turning back 'cause all roads lead to where I stand. And I believe I'll walk them all No matter what I may have planned

Edited by: Patches at: 10/22/03 12:12 am

[Little M]

Fantastic. Very moving but I'm so glad everything worked out.

This has been an amazing story, with so many difficult things for the gang to work through..

I actually dont really know what to say besides things like fantastic, amazing, wonderful, etc. So they will have to do





And I hope you will write something new, when/if you feel like it ofcourse, but I know I for one would read it

Thank you for this,

------------------

'I go online sometimes, but everyone's spelling is really bad..it's depressing' - Tara



Amber Online www.amberbenson-online.cjb.net

[russ]

Mary



So you have no idea what we look like, eh? You should realize that all of your readers are incredibly good-looking, as well has having excellent taste in literature and above-average intelligence.



It's amazing how after upheavals, and disasters both personal and public, everyday life asserts itself once more. You don't think anything can be the same again, and indeed it isn't. Yet, work and the routines of existence make their demands on our time and resources.



In this epilogue you've given us sadness and humour, always with the love and respect that is the hallmark of your work. The sadness of parting to go home is so much more bearable than the sadness of permanent parting. I love that you brought Debra & Rachel into the story; what better way to acknowledge the Pens community.



Poor Riley, trapped in Limbo until the end of the story. At the last, though, you gave him an important task: interrupting Giles when he was getting all pompous and watchery.



I'm certainly glad Giles passed up on Binky's offer; having the minion around would be bad for his mental health. Hey, maybe that's what made Glory so evil. I just have to wonder: halfway house for demons -- half way to what?



Dawn gets to deal with bereavement and unrequited love. This is an improvement; things are really looking up for her. Somehow I think your Dawn will not have to resort to shoplifting to gain attention. Her bond with her sister is strong and healthy. The fact that Buffy is allowing herself to be loved and supported also bodes well.



One has to feel sad for the Nathan/Donnie/Beth situation. There seems to be nothing for them but toil and despair. Yet, they are reaping what they have sown.



I love the verse on Julia's monument: "Be ye kind." It ranks right up there with "Do unto others" and "Do justice, love mercy, walk humbly" as one of those verses that sum up what Christianity is supposed to be.



So in the end, after dealing with a hell god, you bring us back to the crux of this story: Tara's family, especially her mother's actions. There are no pat answers to what happened, and that sense of wishing you could ask questions of the departed parent rings so true. It's Willow's insight that helps Tara to deal, and Willow's love that makes it possible for her to accept and carry on. Not bad for one who doesn't do emotions.



At the end you give us words to live by: “Our children will never, ever wonder if their parents love them; and they will never, ever doubt that their parents love each other, and belong together, completely and eternally.”



Brought tears to my eyes, as well as Willow's.



As the two walk toward their future, it's time to offer a heartfelt "thank you" to you, Mary, for creating this wonderful story and sharing it with us. It's been a privilege to be along for the ride.



I'm looking forward to your future writing endeavors. Meantime, be well (that's an order), and may you always have raspberries.



Russ

Edited by: russ at: 10/22/03 3:57 am

[Grimaldi]

that was a wonderful ending to a great story



the bit about Riley being trapped in another dimension and Binky wanting to be Giles Butler was funny



thank you for sharing this story

I'm not stealing, I'm just taking things without paying for them. In what twisted dictionary is that stealing?
Oh man, I hate pornos that try to tell a story

[SlayerSydney]

I absolutely loved this story.



I wish I could string my words together as wonderfully as you to express what an incredible writer I think you are. You kept my interest throughout the story, even when it felt like waiting in "suspended animation" for an update. You really do crack my stuff up.



Anyway, thanks for this great story and giving me a better season 5 ending than I could have imagined.

[Puff]

Along with everyone else I seem to be stuck in finding the right words to thank you for this wonderful story. For almost a year I looked forward to each and every update. It was an amazing journey of love and family and overcoming tremendous odds. There have been tears and laughter and wonderful dialogue. You even managed to fit in the word wimple



The epilogue was very fitting and life goes on once more on the hellmouth. Tara (and Willow) now have the chance to actually think about everything that has taken place and the visit to her mothers grave was very poignant. I liked the inscription as well.



So I thank you Mary and hope that inspiration may strike again for another story one day.

---

So, the day started and I knew my name and had my pants on. So far, so good. Yay.
Amber Benson

[justin]

That was a great ending to a wonderful story which proves that Emilly Dickensen was right when she that parting is all we know of heaven, and all we need of hell.



The humour of the beginning was wonderful with Binky reffering to Giles as most illustriously British one, and Riley being stuck in Limbo (one wonders if he had to limbo while there.)



The ending, with the promise that Tara asked for was very moving



I hope it won't be long before you start a new story



Go on, you know you want to

Anya in a wimple...I'd pay full admission for that. Gods Served And Abandoned - by Antigone Unbound


You know the worst thing about people in a relationship? The fact that they're in a relationship. - Hilda Spellman

[BFR from Paris]

Hey Mary!



Sorry about the little "shocker" in my previous post



I just read the epilogue while listening to a melancholic French song called "Voilà, c'est fini" ("Well, it's over"), I thought it was fitting



I can't wait to re-read the whole fic now



Thanks for a great Tara/Willow adventure



Christine

[barnabasvamp]

Mary, such a wonderful finish to another great story.



We laughed, cried, got angry and loved along with your characters as you described them. Thank you for sharing this with us.



Another soon??



BV

"When choosing between two evils, I always like to take the one I've never tried before"-Mae West

[good2cats]

When selecting a fan fic to read
Every person of taste must concede
AntigoneUnbound's are both witty and profound
Clearly the best of the breed

Superb work Mary,I laughed, I wept and I laughed some more.You skillfully address the whole range of human emotion(and seem to have a fair understanding of feline as well).I hope to be reading another of your works soon.And my inner pervert is hoping for something hot and trashy but every thing you write is delightful.
Be well and send my regards to the six little furries,Karen

[TemperedCynic]

And so another illustrious story on Pens ends with our girls together at the end. This Willow and Tara have seen tough times and are better for the experience. They are stronger, personally, and together they are unbeatable.



We will miss the interactions of the Scooby gang. Only these Scoobys acted like they always had in the past - with surprising maturity in the face of horrible dangers. Our new characters will also be missed - Beverly, Tanya and our beloved Binky. Oh to have seen this trio during Season 5!



Last but never least, we will miss you, Mary. Your style, wit and humor help us through our dreary days. I knew Pens had a major talent when I first read "On Second Thought". Please continue with another story at your leisure, Mary. We'll be waiting.

---

More than any other time in history, mankind faces a crossroads. One path leads to despair and utter hopelessness. The other, to total extinction. Let us pray we have the wisdom to choose correctly. Woody Allen (1935 - )

[AntigoneUnbound]

Hello all. I've just been basking in the warm glow of your words...unless, of course, my house is on fire and I'm mistaking one for the other. In any case, thank you!



Connie: Please don’t ever think that “Thank you” is inadequate, especially when accompanied by such gracious words as yours. I’m so glad you’ve enjoyed reading this, because I’ve certainly enjoyed writing it.And so I say to you, O Most Illustrious Reader--thank you…for reading and for taking the time to let me know you did so.



Gina: Glad the ending worked for you. It felt important to tie up a few loose ends and put a period of sorts on the story. (Um, that’s “period” in the grammatical sense, not the menstrual. But you probably already knew that…)



Jixer: Oh my God--you’ve answered that oldest of questions: From whence sprang mimes (and why)? And you’re right--a demon halfway house is a very California thing to do. I’m sure they have cell phones and bottled water there…Thank you so much for your kind words regarding the characters and their growth. I think that’s a tricky dance--making them grow, but retaining their essence, a sense of psychological continuity. And a major tip o’ the quill to you for your use of the word “burnished,” which is definitely one of the finer words in this or any language. Joking aside--thank you, Jixer, for choosing to give this story your time in both its reading and in your perceptive comments. I truly appreciate it.



Patches: Wow…your words leave me speechless. You’ve been incredibly supportive of my efforts, and that means more to me than perhaps I can convey. I’m so glad this story struck a chord for you, and did so not unpleasantly. I suspect that we both find the greatest magic to lie within the mysteries and beauty of human interaction. I hope that you were able to keep your promises and tread your miles and finally rest and relax. Thanks, Patches, for your beautiful words.



LittleM: Hey, the words you use word just fine for me! I’m glad the journey of this story was an enjoyable one for you, and yes--I’ll definitely be writing again in the near future. I can’t seem to stay away from this board! Thanks!



Russ: From your description, I can assume that all Kittens hail from Lake Woebegone, eh? I should have known…



You know, the sheer persistence of everyday life fascinates me. No matter what the drama, the laundry still needs to be done and the car needs to be fueled and the groceries need to be bought. I’ve often thought that it would be remarkable indeed if life had a kind of “Pause” button with which we could stop, draw a breath and survey the situation, and then resume play when we felt ready. Thus far, I haven’t found one; let me know if you find one in your sofa, OK? (Reminds me of one of my favorite Willow lines, in “Doppelganglander” after she and Anya have just done the spell. Anya says she just wants to find her necklace, and Willow replies, “Have you tried looking under the sofa in hell?” God, that girl has good comic instincts.)



I really struggled w/ what to do w/ Riley, frankly. Finally, I just opted for the surreal truth of the matter. Glad it worked! And yes, Giles would be ill-advised indeed to keep Binky around, though you raise a good question re: the latter’s new abode: halfway to what?



The inscription on Julia’s grave is my own favorite Bible verse; I see it rings true for you as well, in terms of capturing what is best and most noble about Christianity. And you’re right--there are no easy answers re: Julia’s actions. Tara will have to find a way to make space for this new knowledge while holding onto what she has always known about her mother: that she loved her; that she was essentially a good woman; that she was kind.



I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to end this story; I mean, actually conceive the last 2-3 paragraphs. Surprisingly, they came very easily, and I think it’s b/c once I remembered to let things flow from past to present to future, they made sense to me. Does that sentence make sense? Hmm…Anyway, their promise to each other served as a bridge b/w those 3 time dimensions, or at least I intended them to.



You very graciously thank me for sharing this story, but I must insist that you accept my gratitude to you; and I’m a big, corn-fed country girl so I suggest you not quibble with me on this one, OK? You have been so thoughtful and consistent in your feedback--unfailingly gracious and perceptive. I truly appreciate it, Russ.



Grimaldi: Glad you enjoyed! I knew that once I got Binky into Giles’ house, I’d have to get him out. It was kind of fun mulling that over, in the midst of all the high-drama stuff. You’ve been with me from the beginning on this story, Grimaldi. Thank you for sticking with it!



SlayerSydney: I think you found great words to express yourself! This board has a lot of fine writers, and I appreciate you choosing to spend time with this story. Thanks so much, and I’m glad you enjoyed this.



Puff of the Wimple; Direct, but Never Simple: Hey girl--can you believe it’s been practically a year? I think I started “On Second Thought” at about this time last year, and that was a much shorter piece. Wow…So thank you, Puff, for getting and staying so involved in this story. It’s been great to read your responses. And yes, I had to fit the word “wimple” into this story, and Justin has actually incorporated it into his signature--how cool is that? Hope married life is treating you well, and give the horses a rub for me.



Justin: Oh my God--Justin quotes Emily, and I fall in abject devotion…And now, of course, I’ll dream tonight about Riley dancing the limbo in limbo, a picture that may remain with me for the rest of my days.



Yeah, I’ll probably be starting a new story very soon. I read your words (“Go on. You know you want to.”) and I am reminded of the precept that has driven most of my decisions, of both sound and dubious character, across my life. Sigh…



You’ve been a kind and consistent reader, Justin, and your feedback has made me both smile and ponder various elements of this story, and writing in general. Thank you, for staying with this story through everything.



BFRdeParis: The song sounds incredibly melancholy…(By the way, did you see “8 Women”? God, I loved that film. Your song reminded me of [forgive any mistakes] “Il n’y a jamais d’amour heureuse.”) I’m glad you’ve enjoyed this, BFR, because I’ve certainly enjoyed reading your comments. Thank you for coming along on this ride; or, as I should say, merci beaucoup!



Barnabasvamp: Hey, great picture! Thank you for the kind words and your encouragement for future projects. I’m glad you enjoyed the roller-coaster aspects of this story; heaven knows there were enough of them! Thanks, BV.



Karen: Oh my God--my own limerick! I’d get it tattooed, except I’m not sure about my pain endurance for a project that involved. You know, you capture exactly what I hope to accomplish in sharing a story with folks: invite them in to the emotional carnival, and let them ride every ride in the place, so long as the characters support it. You’ve been incredibly gracious and supportive, Karen, and I have so loved seeing your name on this thread.



And hey--I always support one’s inner perv! I don’t know if you’ve read any of the “Smut Challenge” that Debra (JustSkipIt) started, but it’s in the completed fics archive under her name. There are some great ones there, and I did the second one (aka “Fantasy #5”). Check it out if you’re so inclined, and perhaps you’ll have the opportunity to incline so later on!



Thanks again, Karen, both from me and from all six of my owners.



More later,

Mary

[daiailun]

Finishing this makes me feel like I’ve just said goodbye to a cherished friend after a long and satisfying visit, glad to have had a wonderful time together but saddened by the remnant void. Like so many others, I loved this story, I absolutely loved it.



I’ve thought about Julia Maclay’s voice from the grave, her tombstone inscription. Coming from her context where the Bible was more weapon than healing balm, kindness and Christianity probably didn’t appear together often in Cold Springs dialogue, despite it being one of the Spirit’s most precious gifts. And, I ask with gentleness, might perhaps the verse on her tombstone come from Ephesians (4:32 KJV)? “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another….” If so, that makes me wonder if, as well as delivering a message to husband and son and acknowledgement to daughter, could Julia also be asking for forgiveness? Forgiveness from Nathan? Forgiveness from Donnie? Forgiveness from herself for not following her heart to sustained happiness, or for her mistakes? And if so, I wonder if she knew all along that she really needn’t ask that too from her Bright Eyes. Not surprisingly Tara intuitively just does. (“And as much as it hurts, knowing what she did, I can’t bring myself to judge her; I don’t want to.”) Mercy, I just love your Tara! Anyhoo, regardless of my out-on-a-limb speculations, I’m really grateful to be reminded of just how important is kindness, and how much difference a little of it can make in our lives.



I will miss your updates. I will miss hearing my partner say over supper, “You’re cheerful tonight. Wait, AntigoneUnbound must have posted.” Thanks again for giving Willow and Tara such intelligent and memorable characterisations that just, well, fit. And while they walk off into their future, I do hope they send some postcards and perhaps stop to make a few telephone calls back to your amazing creativity, propelling you to the keyboard once again and soon.



Diane

[justin]

Quote:

---

Oh my God--Justin quotes Emily, and I fall in abject devotion…

---

Would I go down in your estimation at all if I admitted that I was actually quoting Beast from the X-Men cartoon?

Anya in a wimple...I'd pay full admission for that. Gods Served And Abandoned - by Antigone Unbound


You know the worst thing about people in a relationship? The fact that they're in a relationship. - Hilda Spellman

[Modjadji]

Wow. It's over.



I've been struck with that feeling you get when you finish a really brilliant novel, like you should be crying not because it's sad, but just because it's finished. Only difference is, this time I actually am crying.



Bravo.



Mojo

[AntigoneUnbound]

A recent study by the Society for Exemplary Living found that Kittens have 25% more grace than non-Kittens!



Diane: First of all, kudos to you for catching my Scriptural mistake. And to think, I used to be a Sunday School teacher...Actually, I created a stained-glass gift for my mother for Christmas w/ that verse on it; fortunately, I got the author right that time. (My mother and I tend to do this dueling Bible verse thing about many issues, especially those related to her daughter being a big ol' homo.) So thanks for that; I'm going to edit it in the update.



Your thoughts about Julia's intentions for that inscription are very astute, I think. Regardless of her pain and the bad choices she made from that place, she never lost her essential kindness. And yes, she knows that Tara, should she ever learn the truth, will both need to struggle with forgiveness and ultimately grant that...Like mother, like daughter.



And speaking of kind...your words just made me smile, especially the part about your partner. It's amazing, really, how words can move us. The responses I've received from such lovely Kittens as yourself make the writing process so incredibly gratifying.



Postcards and phone calls from their road to the future? Ah, I can't see myself staying away from these lovelies for too long...



Thank you, Diane, for your very gracious words, and give my best to your partner.



Justin: Hey--Emily; the Beast; RuPaul...whoever said it, s/he said a mouthful. I stand corrected, even as I fall down once more...



Modjadji: I've definitely felt the sadness you mention upon finishing a book in which I've just lost myself. I'm so glad this story was an enjoyable read for you. Thanks so much for both checking it out and taking the time to let me know what you think. Kittens rock, n'est-ce pas?



More later,

Mary

[tillowara]

antigone,

Filled was I with many of the clever things one must say as one tries to find the necessary and more importantly, accurate words to convey, express, encapsulate...am I poking you with my point? Anyhow, I'm flabbergasted by inability, so that's pretty much letting you know it all right there. You put it out there, not once, but twice and it simply gets better, like wine that you decork and then let sit, then let roll across the palate as its savored. The story, the detail, the thought and skill, the humor...I'm all with the wow and and ...but the greatest compliment I can think to bestow is to simply say, thank you ma'am, may I have another?

cassandra

[chilled monkey]

Brilliant ending to a brilliant story!



I don't suppose it would hurt to ask about the possibility of a sequel?

[daiailun]

Hey Mary,

The next time you play Duelling Scriptures with your mother, try this one, if you haven’t already: Psalm 50:9 (RSV) “I will accept no bull from your house....” :)



Diane

Edited by: daiailun at: 10/24/03 4:27 am

[Lt Sticks]

Mary! Fantastic epilogue, fantastic fic! Ive loved this all the way through, now could I ask if you're planning any new fics in the near future??



~Emma/Sticks

A fire in my heart, reborn from the ashes...just call me Phoenix


I'm Under Your Spell, nothing I can do, you just took my soul with you...

JediBites.Com Forums

[AntigoneUnbound]

Have I mentioned lately how much I love this board?



Cassandra: Pointedly did I receive your point, made so acutely (and no doubt cutely as well). To encapsulate: your words give weight to the gist I go straight to...that is, take the reader on a good trip and make it worth her while. May you have another? Why shucks, ma'am...since you're so darn nice in the asking--sure! Just give me a few days to rest up from this one. Joking aside--thanks for the great words, Cassandra. You rock.



ChilledMonkey: Hey--glad you enjoyed it! Writing for this board is such a great experience. Thanks for all your good thoughts, CM.



Diane: OK, so that's just about the best verse I've heard, especially for a country girl like myself...You know, there's a great e-mail that made the rounds featuring a "letter" to Dr. Laura in which the writer (don't know the original author) "thanks" her (the doctorate is in physiology, by the way--not psychology!) for clearing up the Bible's intentions re: homosexuality. The author then goes on to ask several questions re: other literal interpretations, such as selling one's daughter into slavery and not being w/ a woman when she's menstruating. If you haven't seen it, I think you'd love it. Let me know, and I can get it to you if you'd like. Anyway, thanks for the great suggestion! Take care.



Lt.Sticks: This was a great story to write, and I love the feedback I get here, so I'm sure I won't be away for very long. Thanks for following this, and for your encouragement.



More later,

Mary

[Grimlock72]

Oww I've been tardy... how did I miss TWO updates of this story, tsk tsk...

(short version at the bottom:-)



Ah well, on with the feedback for the updates; I found it funny how Binky offered himself as buttler. Surely some people would like to have him as one, he would praise their magnificence all day long Indeed he has no pride of his own to stop him from doing so, thats what fun about minions in the first place. May they be kind to him in the halfway-house.



Dawn in this story at least has Buffy beside her to help her cope with things. That should help, provided Buffy picks up on it. Dawn will have to get over her infatuation with Tara on her own though, I doubt she's going to discuss that with Buffy, heh : --> .



I generally like aftermaths and epilogues, which are usually avoided in TV shows. I like to know what our heroes do to cope with the things that happened. Dawn for example had quite a scare on that tower, I doubt she'll forget that anytime soonish. Tara wasn't hurt by Glory in this story, which is a GOOD thing but her familly troubles will likely haunt her dreams and memories for some time.



Speaking of which, I liked their scene at Julia's grave. Willow did say helpfull things, even though it must annoy her she can't help Tara more with her struggle. It's true that at least Julia was a good mother to Tara, we'll never know if that caused Donnie's behaviour or the other way around. I guess that is just something to close and leave in the past, not much either of them can do about it. The letter from Nathan was nice, I don't mind Beth living in their house. It's something she wanted so she gets her wish, nothing wrong with that. I don't particulairy care about Donnie (even though that might not be entirely fair) just as long as he stays far away from Tara and Willow.



Interesting that Tara refers to having children at the end there...



If anything this proves that at least Dawn can be written as less cartoony and plot-filler then we got most of the time. Ignoring her origin I did actually care what she felt and did, something the show never got around too. Mind you that's just my opinion of course... I've always felt that Dawn wasn't done all that interesting so it's refreshing to see another take on her. (the origin part I've discussed before so I'll gracefull skid around it :-)



Granted I like Tara better then Dawn so I was more involved in the first part of this HUGE story because it centered around Tara. Heh, I liked Willow hovering Donnie and telling him he wouldn't touch Tara ever again....yep liked that a lot.. probably mentioned that several months back.



Aaanyway, what also stands out in this story is your humour-laced writing style. Sometimes making light of the story itself or it's writer and it's update frequency. It's nice to read, lightens the mood when needed. Reminds me a bit of the earlier (lighter) Buffy seasons on TV, the not taking yourself all *that* seriously part and such.



Short version: I liked it, please write some more. Either in another universe or five years in the future from this one... with kids of course :-)



Grimmy

--
"You hurt Tara," Willow said too calmly. "The last one who tried that was a god. I made her regret it." -- Unexpected Consequences by Lisa of Nine

Edited by: Grimlock72 at: 10/25/03 11:00 am

[JustSkipIt]

Mary,



I could probably attempt to explain and justify my extreme tardiness and remissfullness (is that a word-me thinks not!). But … Ok. Combine Busy and clueless and I was 3 parts behind! Geez Debra!



So I saw bravo, brava, etc. Well and weller done. I’m so glad that you are on the mend. Even gladder for all the ending parts of this story. Of course your humor is unparalleled: Strap it on…frogs in backpacks…saphic-intensive onslaught…got a better ejaculation? It just doesn’t stop from you. Excellent and inspired choice to bring Angelica in as the sacrifice. We didn’t have to lose a Scooby or Bev but we lost a soldier. Well done. I love that Dawn lost her innocence by killing minion and almost jumped. So well done. W&T’s spell to clear the way… All so well done.



Then the wrap-up—ahhh is all I can say (all evidence to the contrary). Riley just found – I think the important thing there is who cares? But most important that W&T need to make it to bed and be in each other’s arms. Your jab at suspended animation?



Darn, I forgot to put Bev & Tanya on our list for the Dallas shower in a few weeks. I hope they get us something good off the registry. Believe me, we’re glad to share our info with W&T anyway we can—woo hoo for babies! Thanks for the inclusion.

Quote:

---

Finally, Tara turned to her, sadness rippling through the incredible blue eyes. “I just wish I could talk to her, Willow. There are so many things I need to ask her.”

---

Goddess, that’s the eye-watering truth of my every day.



I probably should write better feedback but I can’t. Please write more. You are wonderful. Debra

[Vampivy]

That was really beautiful Mary. It hasn’t been long since it’s ended yet I already miss this.



At some point in this story it was kinda hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. There was some really tough stuff here that had to be dealt with and considering how brutal some of that was I’m really happy how it ended. I guess in the end there isn’t much Willow and Tara can’t get through together. That’s such a comforting feeling to have. I hope I can hold on to that for a very long time.



Many thanks again Mary for this wonderfully powerful story. I truly look forward to reading your next one.



Patty

~ Darkness, Imprisoning me. All that I see, absolute horror. I cannot live. I cannot die. Trapped in myself. Body, my holding cell. - Metallica ~

[The Rose24]

I finally got around to reading this epilogue. I have to tell you this is a beautiful ending to a beautiful and powerful story. You are truly a gifted writer. I look forward to anything you write in the future.

Tara: My heart doesn't stutter.


Tara: Willow, I got so lost.

Willow: I found you. I will always find you.

Edited by: The Rose24  at: 10/28/03 8:54 pm

[shuyaku]

Sorry for the tardiness of my reply - school finals, trip up the coast with my honey for our 5 year anniversary - you know just your everyday, average week in-the-life



On a slightly more serious note - I just didn't want it to end. I didn't want to reply to the final update... it makes it... just... so final.



To say thank you for this amazing story hardly seems adequate, but it is my humble and sincere thanks that I offer. Thank you for your gift and thank you for sharing it with all of us kittens. And since you intend to share more in the future, let me just say I could not be happier. A day without the possibility of pending Mary-writing is a very sad day indeed.



And lest you forget, you rock in at least a dozen languages!

-shuyaku

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"Oh God, Willow—you’re giving me the gift of Karen Carpenter. Just when I think I grasp the full extent of your love." - Tara

"Why do birds suddenly appear? It’s because, you are queer…" - Willow (Gods Served and Abandoned by AntigoneUnbound)

[AntigoneUnbound]

I'm smitten with Kittens...



Grimlock: So first of all, I have to say thank you: you've been with me since this epic started, and you've given me feedback every single time. I hope you know how much I appreciate your interest and the thought you always give your postings.



You know, I'm with you about the uncertainty re: the impact of Julia's actions on Donnie's psyche, and the chicken/egg nature of their relationship. As much as I like closure, the realist in me knew that it would just be contrived to have any easy answers on that front. The scene at the grave was hard to write, because there is so much in that arena that Tara will have to live without knowing. Ah, but that's where Willow comes in...And yeah, Tara definitely sees children in their future. How lucky would that kid be?



I'm really glad that Dawn felt a little more interesting to you than she did in the show. There were definitely some scenes where I just wanted Glory to swoop in and put us all out of her misery. I only hope I wasn't that whiny when I was a teenager.



Glad, too, that you liked the style, and the way humor fits into that. I need to have that in my writing, and in my mindset in general. Life is just too grim without it.



So again, Grimmy, thanks for staying with me on this story and for replying so faithfully. It really makes the whole process that much more enjoyable.



Debra: Hey Girlfriend--Bev says to tell you that it's OK about the shower invitation miscommunication. She'll send you their gift (baby overalls with "Rock on, y'all!" embroidered on the front) via FedEx.



You're right on target w/ my reasoning behind who died and why. I really struggled w/ whether or not to let a main character (including Bev) die, but I just couldn't bring myself to sacrifice any of them. The truth of such a struggle, though, is that good people do die, and I felt like it would be remiss (and unrealistic) to omit that part.



I really appreciate all the good thoughts and kind words about this story, Debra. You've been an incredibly supportive reader throughout, and I always loved seeing your name on the thread. And Sweetie, I get the "eye-watering truth" about talks we don't get to have. I still find myself thinking, "Dad would like that for Christmas," or "I need to ask Dad about planting the potatoes." I hope your heart is in good shape. Thanks again, Debra.



Patty: Hey girl...Yeah, there was definitely a lot of angst and turmoil, wasn't there? Every now and then I'd look at what I was writing and think, "Holy shit--I'm really putting Tara through the wringer!" I'm glad you stuck with it so that you could enjoy the happily-ever-afters. Thanks for all your great support and feedback, Patty. You both made me think and reassured me that the story was worth reading. You rock!



Rose: Ah, and someone else who has been with me from the beginning. You won more than your share of yellow jerseys in the feedback race, too--very impressive! Thanks for sticking with this story, Rose, and for offering such kind and consistent feedback. Take care!



Shuyaku: First of all, girl, the big question: did you find enough Dairy Queens on your trip, compared to your jaunt to the Midwest? Sounds like things have been remarkably busy for you, but at least some of them were enjoyable. And happy 5th to you and your sweetie!



You know, your words are more than adequate. I read them and I blushed. You have been so incredibly gracious and supportive of this story, and your good wishes for the mending process were also very much appreciated. And hey--who came through in the posting crisis for me? Yeah--yeah, that's right, I'm lookin' at you!



If I rock in twelve different languages, then trust that I'm using all of them to tell you how much I appreciate your words! Take care, girlfriend.



More (if apropos) later,

Mary

[tillowara]

Antigone,

I just wanted to say hey...thought you might be suffering from some of them "I just finished a frickin awesome fic, I got them crappy happy letdown blues"...yeah me too, cuz like, hey, I got used to lurking for the updates and now I'm like a nicotine fiend pushing through the ashtray looking for a butt...I'm reading old replies for Larry's sake! So Mare...know you got the groovy life and all...but you gotta do a pilate yoga deep-breath stretch and give us some more of that yummy story goodness. All we need is more, duh duh duh duh duhhh... more is all we need...don't make me start singing John Lennon songs...all we are saaaying is give more a chance...everybody now...I'll start doing Prince, I swear I will...

ps...I read the smut list mini fic you posted and here's what I have to say to that ...think the whyfe liked my liking of it too, if you like what I'm saying...damn girl, you could give Barry White a run for it...see, one more reason why we need more...did you know that Simply Red wrote a song called More...totally awesome song....ok everybody, I'm throwing down the challenge...thing up stuff with"more"in the title, text, body, whatever and send it to Antigone....show her the money.