*Whistles casually*
People who appreciate their limbs and the lactose intolerant.
That’s a good point to bring up. Thinking about it, in the show between the girls there is a lot of competition. Even Buffy felt threatened by Dawn in regards to Joyce’s affections. Where as in this story you currently have five women heavily present and none seem like they are competing or feel like they need to compete, maybe some situational friction but otherwise they are supportive off one another while still carrying their individual stories. Take note Hollywood, it can be done.
Googled it, still entertaining imagining it use stairs. Thank you for the visual aid.
Thankyou. I resisted from rewriting it as dragon nightmare fuel.
She has scales though, so that’s an armour on the skin.
Might have to reassess not rewriting that lullaby, might be a PSA that lost meaning down the generations.
I forgot that in that moment, there was a lot of weight on that scene, I suppose because most of the chapter was a withdrawn Willow and then everyone trying to get Tara to see that her holding back from telling Willow, even though she feels ready and isn’t sure was holding her back, was having a massive downward spiral effect on Willow. I saw that moment as more of an emotional release and didn’t connect it with the physical clasp. However I think that’s more to do with my perception of hugs rather than the way physical touch is displayed throughout the story. Trying to think of an analogy but actually thinking about it, if I take it out of its physical form and think of it as emotional it does match the release. As you say comfort allowing the words.
I wouldn’t say not funny at all. The bits of visuals that come through are funny.
I’ve taken note of it and will definitely let you know my thoughts on it when I read it.
It helps if you take on my method of reading. Whenever Willow talks about boobs, I do so in the same tune as ‘Lions and Tigers and Bears, Oh My!’ and end every sentence with Oh My!
I can see that coming through.
I’m good with this territory, now to wait and see if I can swing the scales to completely right or completely wrong.

On with the show!
I had to google it thinking it’s some kind of breakfast steak brand thing but not actual steak, nope it’s an actual steak. There’s no monarchy in America but have breakfasts fit for them. I knew a guy who would open his eyes, down a monster energy drink and then grab another one for his walk then enter the room slamming his hands as hard a possible on the desk. Every single day. Occasionally he flipped tables. I think monster energy drink breakfasts are the way to go. his mornings seemed to give of an air of awoken misery but yet high octane not giving a damn.
”That’s due to the Michael Fish effect. Weather people tend to give the worst case scenario so they don’t get brought up in every weather conversation where the weather turned out different than predicted.
Still say you’re from Canada when traveling in Europe. Brits are seen as Europe’s Americans, plus we have form of being hooligans abroad.
No, this will be a learning experience.
This is good sign to show Willow that Tara sees their friendship/relationship as long term but curious does Tara mean home as in Odessa and Kathryn’s place while they are still living in dorms or home as in a place of their own? I ask because they’ve just established the tree as their own and you said the painting was more revealing of emotions Tara doesn’t know yet and a place of their own could be considered a home. They can’t live at the tree though.
But what if Ren diverts the water into your bladder. Not so convenient then.
The way you sleep when not expecting company.
Anyone else hear the curtain twitcher perv neighbour with binoculars in their hand sigh in disappointment.
Not in the UK.
But it can’t be over, a local, small town, family run business hasn’t been saved while simultaneously finding the love of your life who was the antagonist in the beginning but it turns around with how helpful they are with the fundraiser/ charity event/ town fair and turn out to be the saviour of the day. Meaning they’ve watched you struggle the whole film knowing for well they could help but no it’s cool, knight in shining armour and all that. *nose exhale*

Overall this part feels like a transition from the high emotion of previous chapters and gearing up for a celebration. Some threads weaved in of undesirable separation to come along with the looming knowledge of the darkness they must face down the line but for now it’s about enjoying the moment, sky clad or otherwise.

_________________
One Shots - Basement Grotto - Door 25 - "You're My Always" - "Do You Like Cats?"
You don't have to write to contribute to the board, feedback can be its own event - Dubs Festive Advent Challenge - Fic Club - Pens Write A Holiday Story
Existing at some point, maybe - The Justice for Tara series.
*Rides in on a tricycle* Wanna play a game? - Five Minutes of Artistic Integrity - Those Three Little Words - Sassy Synonyms - Aradia's Antonyms

Before I start on the actual replies, I just want to say that I am sorry that it has taken me so long to get back here and post another chapter. I have not abandoned this story, or even stopped writing. Life has just been crazy between my beta transitioning back to civilian life after coming home from his deployment and going on a well deserved vacation. I also started a new job that has me working a lot of overtime. I will try to post more regularly as things start to settle. Now, onward with the replies!



Not gonna lie, I worry about that guy's health. I occasionally have an energy drink, but I really try to stay away from them. Steak and eggs is a really nice treat, but not something that I would eat every day. Now avocado toast... there is the breakfast of champions!



I had to google the Michael Fish effect. I bet he felt like a royal dumbass after that hurricane...



I really need to get my Canuk accent and dialect down before I come over to the EU, especially if I decide to go to France for some reason....



So the celebration is not heavy on the educational aspect of things. Samhain is considered the pagan new year. It is also the time of year where the veil between the 'normal' realm and spirit realm is thinnest. This makes it easier to communicate with spirits of the dead. You'll see why this is significant in the next chapter. That said, Samhain often coincides with Halloween, which is based off of All Hallows Eve (aka All Saints Day) - A Christian Tradition that was created by the Catholic church in order to convert pagans to Christianity. Isn't religion fun?



You will get the answer to all of this sooner rather than later. I will say that while the tree is their place and something of their own, the girls will find that spending time together on walks with the dogs is really what constitutes part of the something that is their own. They will find their place soon enough.



Ren does not want to kill Odessa which is why he would never do this.



While Willow likes to sleep naked, the idea of being naked in front of anyone at this stage is terrifying, hence the reaction. That said....



One of the reasons to not do the celebration skyclad, but they do have another place where they could do so without having to worry about pervy neighbors.



I am finding that there is very little that is weird to do with your mom in the UK.



You do have a point. Hallmark movies, especially their Christmas movies, are rather predictable, aren't they? That said, I think Faith was thinking about the sappy cards instead of the movies



I think you will be interested in the things to come. I am currently working on Chapter 22, and I am just about ready to finish the overall arc of this part of the story. It took me a lot longer than I thought it would, but a lot of good stuff managed to come in and most of it is rather significant. As always, thank you so much for reading and for your thoughtful feedback. I hope you enjoy the next chapter.

_________________
If we treat people as they ought to be, we help them become what they are capable of becoming.
~Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Flaming is only allowed if you're being fabulously queer and campy <3

Author: Bellalocke

Rating: PG-13 for Drunken Shenanigans

Ownership: Please do not cross-post this story without talking to me first.

Note: Tara, Willow, and other characters associated with BTVS belong to Joss, ME, and all other affiliates. Please don't sue me I am a poor Enrollment Specialist.

Spoilers: Aside from some dialogue here and there, none whatsoever. This fic is completely AU

Feedback: Always welcome and encouraged

Author Note: Cari Unum = Dear One

Chapter 15 part B

Tara looked out the window in the kitchen that showed Willow and Faith working on building the bonfire. For a while, the women sat on the log and appeared to be deep in conversation while drinking a bottle of cider. Kat approached Tara and touched her shoulder.

“Are you worried?”

Tara nodded. “I want them to get along. I also don’t like her being so far away. Kat, what’s happening?”

The tall witch took the blonde into the living room and sat down with her on the couch.

“They are just fine, Tara. Willow has treated my daughter kindly, even though it would have been understandable for her to be upset or angry with her. She hasn’t acted in anger towards either of you, which speaks to who she is as a person. You don’t like her being so far away from you?”

The blonde nodded her head. “I feel drawn to her like a magnet. I don’t understand why being near her brings me peace. When we are apart, questions overwhelm my mind. I don’t think I can take it.”

Kat gathered Tara into her arms and began to infuse the blonde with some of her calming energy. “You and I are going to spend some time together after the sabbat, and then I am going to call Cyndi. I think you would benefit from more sessions with her. I say this because a lot of changes have happened, and it is a lot to deal with. You also went from hardly being able to touch Willow to needing her to be nearby. That is a huge change and one that needs to be addressed. How do you feel about that?”

Tara nodded. “I think that would help. I didn’t tell Willow about being in therapy for all this, but she is smart, and I figure that she knows on some level. I will talk with her and tell her outright. When you talk with Cyndi about the extra sessions, can you see if she can do them in the mornings?”

Kat nodded. “Of course. We are lucky to have her in the coven. She is honestly the most talented counselor I have seen in a long time.”

Tara smiled. “She has helped me a great deal, and I am grateful that she is sticking with me. What about you? Does Willow know what you are doing?”

The tall witch shook her head. “I am not counseling her the same way that Cyndi is with you. I simply give her room to talk, comfort her when she needs it, and give her advice when she asks for it. I already know that Willow will not go anywhere near a counselor or a psychiatrist for a multitude of reasons. If she hasn’t told you, don’t ask her about it. She needs to tell you on her terms.”

The blonde nodded. “I understand that. Do you think mama is going to talk with her about the danger that she is in and what she will be facing?”

Kat nodded. “Now that she knows about you, she can be told the story and not have any gaps in the information.”

“I’m sorry it took so long.”

“Worry not, Tara. You told her when you were supposed to. Now we just must prepare both of you for the future, but that is something that will happen over time because we have it.”

The blonde nodded her head as Kat continued to hold her and run her hands through the blonde’s locks.

“I promise you that everything will be alright.”

Tara nodded and continued to hug the tall woman. “I know, mom. As long as Willow and I are friends, I can be strong and see all of this through.”

Kat smiled and held Tara a bit closer when the young witch called her mom. “Come now and let us work on the crowns and decorations.”

Tara smiled and followed Kat into the living room where the supplies for the fall crowns were assembled on the table.
Willow and Faith entered the kitchen just as the two witches sat down at the table.

The raven-haired witch called over to the redhead. “Come here for a second, please.”

The redhead sauntered over to Kat. “Hey there. How can I help?”

“Kneel so that I can measure your head.”

Willow did as she was asked. Kat took a cloth measuring tape and noted how big the young witch’s head was.

“Ok, off with you! Go and see if Des needs any help. She is in the altar room. Faith, I need you to work on the centerpiece. All this needs to be completed and set up before sunset.”

Faith nodded as she sat down beside Tara who was taking sapling sticks and bending them in a circle before securing them with twine.

Willow made her way down the hallway until she reached the altar room. She found Des pouring over a book bound in leather. The young witch knocked on the door and waited for the high priestess to acknowledge her presence.

Des lifted her head and smiled. “Come on in, Willow.”

The redhead entered the room and walked over to the elder witch. She tried not to look at the book, but her curiosity got the better of her.

“Come here, Willow, you can look at the book.”

The lithe woman stood beside Des and gazed down at the book. The particular entry that the high priestess was looking at was written in Latin.”

The redhead needed a moment to recall the information that she had learned in the Latin class she took in high school. Once the knowledge of the language was at the forefront of her brain, Willow was able to read the entry without much trouble.

Des looked over at the young witch. “So, you know Latin; this is going to make things much easier than I had thought. Do you know what this entry is about?”

Willow nodded. “I am not sure who wrote this, but they are explaining how the ritual for Samhain should go. The sabbat is a bit different than what is considered traditional. Is this a family tradition? Who wrote this?”

The high priestess smiled. “Got it in one. My great-great-grandmother wrote this entry. This book is called a Book of Shadows and has been in my family for a very long time. Each generation that inherits a full book, keeps the book in their possession to cross-reference information as needed. Traditions such as sabbats are always written in the new book so that they can be accessed easily since we use them so often. New spells are then added, and further information is written in the older entries as new information becomes available. The spells may be altered somewhat, but the sabbats and the traditions that have been present in my family for generations always remain the same. Whoever started the tradition of writing a Book of Shadows for the Maclay clan, decided to write the book in Latin since it is one of the few languages that has not changed over the years, which has made it easier to keep the spells and traditions as they are.”

Willow tentatively reached out towards the book. “May I?”

Des nodded and watched the young witch touch the page with the sabbat. She noted that Willow jolted after a moment.

“Holy Crap! Do you have any other Book of Shadows’ that are older than this one?”

The high priestess nodded. “We keep the oldest of the books at the coven headquarters. It is locked in a temperature-controlled vault. Why do you ask?”

“Could I see it sometime? I have a feeling about something that I can’t quite put words to.”

Des felt a shiver go down her spine as Ren spoke to her.

Let the girl see all that we have. She is a key part of all of this, and once she has the information that we have, she may be able to help us understand how he can be defeated.

Should we tell her about the prophecy?

No. We need to wait until she and Tara are together. The consequences otherwise could be disastrous, and you know
exactly why that is. Talk to the girl and let her know that she can see what we have.

Afterward, you and Kathryn need to go through the few books that we have that mention specifics about the prophecy and hide them away. I need to talk with the others but call me if you need me.

Ok, Ren. Good Luck.

“I can take you to the headquarters of the coven, but it will have to be after the Winter Solstice.”

Willow nodded. “I am good with that.”

The two women stood in silence as they continued to read about the traditions of Samhain.

“Hey, Odessa…”

“Please call me Des. Odessa is so formal, and I would say that we are beyond that stage. Wouldn’t you agree?”

“If you say so. Des, do you know how old Solana is and what she is?”

“I know that she is incredibly old, but she has not given me specifics on her age or her history. “

Sol, can I tell her?

Yes, but be prepared for her to not believe you. I have not provided you with proof yet because you are not ready, but you can at least plant the seed in her mind.

Ok, then here goes nothing. Please listen to all of this because I have a feeling I will need your help later.

Of course. I am with you always.

“So, how much do you know about dragons?”

“I know that they were born of one dragon. They are also the originators of magic as we know it. That is about it.”

“Can we sit down? I will tell you what Solana shared with me.”

Des nodded. “I’ll make some tea. Are you sick of Earl Grey yet?”

Willow shook her head. The redhead ordered her thoughts while she waited for Des to brew the tea. When the elder witch came over with the tea, Willow settled into her chair and prepared her cup. Once she had Des’s attention, she told the elder witch the same story that Solana told her. The redhead couldn’t help but smile when Des shook her head as she tried to comprehend what Willow had shared with her.

“You’re telling me that Solana and her sisters are as old as magic itself and were 4 of the original dragons born from the Dragon Mother, who is the first dragon to ever exist. Is that correct?”

Willow nodded.

“And my family is one of the original 12 families who were gifted magic from the Dragon mother herself?”

“That is what Solana told me.”

“I need some time to consider all of this. Would it be ok if we talked about something else?”

Willow nodded. “Believe me, I am still trying to wrap my mind around all of this, and she is my guardian.”

“We should see how close to sunset we are. I have a feeling we will need to start things soon. I do want to continue this conversation. If not tonight, then tomorrow perhaps?”

Willow nodded before leaving the room.

Des considered the lithe witch’s countenance during the conversation.

I have no idea how to gain her trust. I am not like Kat but there must be something that I can do.

Give her the room to speak, and don’t push her. I think that sharing your history may also help.

Thanks, Ren.

Of course, My Lady

***
Just before sunset, the four witches and Faith gathered all the food for the feast as well as the necessary implements to cast the circle and light the bonfire. Willow was in awe as to how large the circle they were about to cast was. Des and Kat placed the autumn crowns on Faith, Tara, and Willow before they placed the final crowns on each other.

Sol, will I need to put extra energy into this considering how large the circle is?

It would be helpful if you could. I plan on visiting after the corners are called for sabbat and it would be easier for me to come in my physical form if you put more energy into the circle. Are you up to the task?

Yes. Ever since Tara and I bonded, I feel like I can harness more energy.

Be careful. I don’t want you to hurt yourself.

I promise I will be.

When the time came for Willow to call to the Guardians of the Watchtowers of the South, the redhead pulled as much fire as she could and expelled it when calling Solana. The dragon appeared in her corporeal form and smiled at her charge. The four other women that were within the circle were surprised when Solana showed up physically. While the presence of a guardian in their physical form had happened before, it was a rare occurrence. Once Des was done calling the Guardian to the Watchtowers of the West, the four witches and Faith opened the circle to allow friendly spirits in. Willow did not notice any spirits enter the circle at first but had a feeling she soon would.

Des cried out. “Let us begin this sabbat with blessings!”

Willow moved over to the spot where the feast had been placed. She was surprised when Solana moved over with her.

“Worry not, Cari Unum. I can keep watch while not facing the south. I am a dragon after all… a hungry dragon at that.”

Willow as well as the rest of the women in the circle laughed.

Kat spoke first. “Good thing that I made enough food to feed an army.”

Once the women were seated, they made sure to leave space for any spirits who decided to join them. The food was dished out on plates and passed around. Next bottles of cider, as well as cups of mead, were passed around.

Faith looked over at Solana. “Are you able to get drunk off of this stuff?”

The dragon laughed. “It has been a while since I have had blessings, but I believe I can. Why? Do you want to see a drunk dragon? Don’t think you can get away with your usual tricks, my dear. What is it that humans say? Ah, yes! I have your number.”

The young raven-haired woman laughed. “I know better. I mean, who wants to piss off a dragon, never mind a goddess knows how old dragon? I prefer to live with all my limbs intact, thanks.”

“Smart move.”

Solana tore into her piece of the roast. Willow had to laugh because she knew that this was not how her guardian normally ate her meat. She figured that it was a show for Faith to reinforce her ferocity. Tara was seated between Des and Kat. She looked over at Solana and her best friend and smiled as they talked and laughed together. The blonde loved watching them interact. One had to look carefully, but when they did the love between the guardian and her charge was clear as day. Even though he was not within the circle in his corporeal form, Tara felt Tor and his energy around her. She felt the deep love and compassion that her guardian felt for her. The blonde looked over at her guardian who was keeping watch from the north and smiled. Tor returned the grin.

She certainly is something, isn’t she?

Which one, Tor?

I suppose the statement can apply to them both. When you are done eating, you should approach Willow. There is someone that wants to speak to her. Look beside you with your third eye.

Tara looked at the space to her right as she closed her eyes and opened her third eye. She almost gasped when she saw a woman who looked like Willow. The woman looked over at her and met her eyes with a kind smile. Tara had seen that smile before on her friend’s face. She was not sure who the woman was, but she did not doubt that she was important.

Willow will need help from you and Solana to see her at first, but once she does, she will be able to see her on her own. Before they start talking, you must leave them.

I understand.

Tara was curious as to what Willow and this spirit would discuss, but she took Tor’s advice to heart. Whatever was spoken between the woman and Willow was meant to stay between them until the redhead was able to share.

The feast continued until all participants had their fill. More bottles of cider and cups of mead were consumed. When Willow stood up, she was a bit unsteady on her feet. Solana helped the redhead gain her balance as Tara approached.

“Looks like someone is almost drunk.”

Solana laughed. “This is why I am here. There is something special about being with someone when they get drunk for the first time.”

Tara’s face broke out into a lopsided grin. She regarded the dragon with eyes that were starting to get glassy as the alcohol coursed throughout her system.

“Before we drink more and I forget, there is someone here to speak with Willow.”

The blonde took Willow and Solana’s hands and walked them over to the open spot in the circle.

“Reach out to my mind, Willow, and keep yours open.”

The redhead took a moment before she reached out to Tara. She found that she did not need to make her presence known before Tara allowed her in. What Willow saw once she started looking around with the sight that Tara possessed with her third eye was jarring but beautiful. She looked over to the space that had been empty a moment ago, but now had a woman that looked like her. Willow felt the blonde slip from her mind and was surprised that she could still see the woman. The redhead’s gaze was glued to the woman, so she did not notice when Tara slipped away. Solana stayed with her charge and smiled at the spirit.

It is good to see you again, Aoife.

The spirit smiled at the guardian with an old familiarity. She then turned to Willow and spoke to her in Latin.

It is wonderful to meet you again, Willow. My time is short. After we speak, talk with Solana about the questions you no doubt will have. Please listen to what I have to say and take these words seriously. Do not seek the knowledge from the book of shadows you wish to have until the eve of your 20th birthday. Only then will you be able to utilize what you will learn. I will see you again when there is more time and you are ready, Cari Unum.

Once the words were spoken, the spirit departed, and Willow’s vision returned to normal. The redhead felt dizzy for a moment before she returned to her normal state. The emerald-eyed beauty turned to Solana.

“Who was she?”

Solana smiled. “One of your ancestors and an old friend. Please listen to Aoife’s advice and wait on gaining the knowledge you seek.”

“Do you know what that knowledge is? What the answer to my questions are?”

The dragon shook her head. “I may be old and immortal, but I am not omnipotent. There are many things that I do not know, including many of the things surrounding the situation that you find yourself in. That said, I will help you when the time comes to put the pieces together. Come now and let us enjoy this sabbat and blessings!”

Willow smiled and followed the dragon over to the other women. Faith lit the bonfire, and more alcohol was consumed before everyone danced around the fire. The redhead found herself beside Tara. The two witches laughed and danced hand in hand. All of the women were entertained as they watched Solana do what she called a ceremonial dance around the large fire.

The girls eventually sat down on the log to take a break. Surprisingly, while both witches felt relaxed and not sober, they were not as drunk as they thought they should be.

“Have you ever gotten drunk before, Tare?”

The blonde giggled and placed her arm around her friend. “Nope. Have you?”

Willow leaned into her friend’s side. “Not even close. I am glad my first time is with you.”

Tara gave a goofy and lopsided grin. “I hope we have many more firsts together.”

Both women leaned into each other and continued drinking more cider as they watched the celebrations. No other spirits visited the circle, but none of the witches were disappointed as the blessings continued. Eventually, Faith, Solana, Tara, and Willow found themselves keeping each other company if for no other reason than hanging out with Des and Kat would have been awkward. The elder witches were very drunk and could be found in one of the few dark spaces of the circle kissing like crazed teenagers. The remaining women kept drinking in hopes that they would not remember the sight come morning.

Willow looked over at Tara. “Have your mom and Kat always been like that?”

“Yes, and at times it can be quite awkward.”

Faith laughed. “At least neither of them decided to get skyclad this year.”

Solana spoke next. “Do not tempt the fates. The night is still ongoing.”

“Knowing our luck, both mom and Des will decide to get skyclad.”

Willow blushed. “I really hope not. I do not need to see either of them naked, and there is not enough alcohol in the world that could erase that sight.”

“Want to bet that, young one?”

Faith chimed in. “Sounds like you have something fun up your sleeve, Sol. Care to share with the rest of the class.”

“I’ll do you one better.”

Solana disappeared for a few minutes before she came back with a bottle, some glasses, and a few water skins.

“Draconic fire whiskey. One of the few spirits I have that is safe for humans. Who is woman enough to join me?”

Faith immediately shot her hand up.

Willow grinned as she looked over at Tara. “Want to add another first tonight?”

Tara nodded and put their joined hands up.

“Excellent. Now! Drink from these water skins unless you feel like being horribly hungover when you wake up.”
The dragon passed the water skins to each of the women and watched as they drank.

“Sol, why do you want to get us drunk?”

The dragon gave her redhead a grin. “There is much to celebrate, much bonding to be had, and it has been a very long time for me to have such fun, Cari Unum. Let us drink tonight as if we are all immortal. To love, to life, to bonds that will never break, and to friendship!”

The dragon carefully poured shots for all the young women and herself. The liquor tasted like cinnamon, burned like hell, but left a warm feeling that spread throughout everyone’s body.

Faith giggled. “Now that is what I am talking about! Sol, what do I have to do to convince you to give me a bottle of this stuff?”

The dragon hiccupped. “The whiskey is for special occasions and should not be drunk by you too often unless you feel like losing an organ or so. That said, we are good for the night as long as you keep drinking the water.”

The women kept drinking both the whiskey and water as the fire burned and the night wore on. They occasionally got up and danced around the fire as the mood struck them. Willow and Tara stopped drinking when the sky began to get light and signal that sunrise was on its way. Solana carried a very drunk Faith into the house where she noticed Kat and Des wrapped around each other as they slept on the couch. The dragon smiled and took Faith to her mom’s study. Before she laid the woman down on the couch, Solana gave Faith a hug and a rumble from her chest. The raven-haired young woman smiled.

“Thanks, Sol. You are beautiful.”

Faith fell asleep immediately after the dragon placed her on the couch. The guardian then moved back outside where she saw Tara and Willow sitting close on the log leaning into each other. The dragon couldn’t help but smile as the witches added another first to their list of firsts that happened that evening. After the sun had risen higher in the sky, she helped both young witches into the house and up to Tara’s bedroom. She hugged both women, rumbled her chest, and touched her forehead to each witch. As Tara and Willow lay down beside each other and fell asleep in one another’s arms, the dragon could not help but smile as the golden glow of their bond and the red thread that bound them together grew just a little more.

Indeed, it shall be their love that will overshadow any evil that may cross them and ultimately save the world.

_________________
If we treat people as they ought to be, we help them become what they are capable of becoming.
~Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Flaming is only allowed if you're being fabulously queer and campy <3

But not for people wanting to get onto the property ladder. Another thing from the UK of someone on TV saying complete twaddle. Makes Michael Fish look pale in comparison.
Thank you for the explanation. Just going to leave that rhetorical rhetorical.
I doubt this was meant to be a ‘Your Mum’ joke but that’s a solid your mum joke. Got a laugh out of me. There’s certainly weird things to do but alcohol makes the veil between the ‘normal’ realm and the ’weird’ realm at its thinnest, it’s a celebration known as ‘ It’s five O’clock somewhere.’

On with the show!
Kathryn would lose her mind at DFS, All sofas and always on sale.
That’s a big deal Tara calling Kathryn mom, especially as she doesn’t remember her from her childhood and knowing not every parental figure is there to protect you. From my understanding she only recollects Kathryn from her time in the UK after she escaped but has a vague awareness of a before time so only a few years to build up a relationship to the extent she can trust someone in a role she only knew as a nightmare for years. I only know what you’ve written so I’m embellishing a little but the main point is the title given speaks volumes about their relationship.
Bobble head Willow.
It’s five O’clock somewhere!
Bring out the babies.
Well that’s turned sinister in my head now. Laughing about infant cannibalism.
Faiths not the loaves and the fishes.
Yes please.
*Timidly raises hand*
Future Willow is my guess but probably be an ancestor.
Now to start the hazing for onlooker’s amusement.
Spirit should have been the giveaway for not future Willow. But if we go the futurama route of time being a cycle, then technically all ancestors are our future selves.
Gangnam style.
.No but there is paint stripper.

Getting drunk, starting a fire, claiming to see and talk to spirits. All in an English garden because it’s a holiday. Yep sounds about right. Now for the next morning when the neighbours find all the rubbish has been thrown over the fence.

_________________
One Shots - Basement Grotto - Door 25 - "You're My Always" - "Do You Like Cats?"
You don't have to write to contribute to the board, feedback can be its own event - Dubs Festive Advent Challenge - Fic Club - Pens Write A Holiday Story
Existing at some point, maybe - The Justice for Tara series.
*Rides in on a tricycle* Wanna play a game? - Five Minutes of Artistic Integrity - Those Three Little Words - Sassy Synonyms - Aradia's Antonyms

I have so much student loan debt that I will be lucky to ever get on the property ladder. Might as well enjoy what I have for breakfast, lest I completely fall victim to the crushing despair that seems present in the life of every Millennial in America.



And that, folks, is how you expertly sidestep a topic that could easily become so volatile that even the most openminded person will start spewing vitriol.



I am glad that I gave you a laugh with this one. Good to know that 'your mom' jokes, even when unintentional, are still funny. The UK sounds like a few regions here in America so far as drinking with mothers as well as what can be classed as 'weird' or normal activities. It really just comes down to what kind of accent you prefer



The only reason that there are not more couches in the house is because Odessa put her foot down. Otherwise, Kathryn would have tried to get a couch in just about every room in the house... Because you never know where you will be when you need one.



You are on point with this, and I would consider it more extrapolating vs embellishing. This is a very big deal and it is important that this aspect of Tara's relationship with Kathryn be established now because it will come into play with events in chapters to come. That said, even though I have not portrayed it a great deal, the relationship that Tara has with Kathryn has been impactful in ways that will not be apparent for a while.



If you want them to bond by getting arrested, sure this will work just fine. Otherwise, let's think more in terms of ways that Willow has bonded with Tara so far.



Noted. I will make this happen in a future chapter.



I guess we're having roast Dub for dinner tonight then....



Glad I got the spirit of holidays in the UK down to a science. So far as the neighbors are concerned... well, the garden is special and kinda rural, but I am not doing a good job portraying that in my description of it. Also, Solana is best guardian and dragon ever. I'll give you three guesses as to why....

UPDATE DIRECTLY BELOW

_________________
If we treat people as they ought to be, we help them become what they are capable of becoming.
~Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Flaming is only allowed if you're being fabulously queer and campy <3

Author: Bellalocke

Rating: R for Language and Adult themes.

Ownership: Please do not cross-post this story without talking to me first.

Note: Tara, Willow, and other characters associated with BTVS belong to Joss, ME, and all other affiliates. Please don't sue me I am a poor IT contractor.

Spoilers: Aside from some dialogue here and there, none whatsoever. This fic is completely AU

Feedback: Always welcome and encouraged

Author's Note: If you want to listen to a piano/cello cover of the second song I mention in this chapter, you can do so here

Chapter 16

Odessa Maclay woke up and opened her eyes before immediately shutting them. The sunlight that was streaming into the room was not helping the headache that she had. The elder witch took a moment to try and take stock of the sabbat as snuggled into her beloved. She remembered drinking more than she had intended to and dancing around the bonfire. Everything afterward was a blur and not clear, though given time, she was confident that she would remember. The high priestess lay in Kathryn’s arms for a while before she heard someone shuffling into the kitchen. The smell of coffee and the promise of some aspirin caused the witch to gently withdraw herself from her lover’s arms while opening her eyes carefully. Odessa slowly got up from the couch and headed into the kitchen where she found Faith. The young woman looked a little tired, but none the worse for wear.

Ah, the advantages of youth. I need to be more careful during blessings. Hopefully, Kat and I didn’t do anything to embarrass ourselves.

When she entered the kitchen, Faith handed her a tall glass of water and two aspirin.

“Drink up, Des. You look like death warmed over. How much do you remember from last night?”

Odessa swallowed the pills and gulped the water down before heading to the fridge and filling the glass once again.

“I remember dancing around the fire, seeing Solana do her ceremonial dragon dance, and being handed quite a few ciders and cups of mead. Past midnight? Not all that much.”

Faith smiled as she gathered ingredients for a perfect hangover breakfast: Avocados, Potatoes, bread, eggs, and vegetables.

The young raven-haired woman laughed. “Well, that will make for some interesting stories for you both.”

Odessa drank another glass of water before refilling it again. “What do you mean?”

“Well, let’s just say that Sol and the rest of us drank some Draconic Fire Whiskey to try and forget what we saw.”

Odessa put down the glass and rubbed her temples. “Goddess, what did we do now? Kat and I really need to not drink around all of you.”

“Well, at least you didn’t attempt to get skyclad this year.”

The high priestess shook her head. “Draconic Fire Whiskey? How are you not dead, never mind hungover?”

Faith grinned. “Apparently Sol has been around the block more than once when it comes to drinking and giving humans liquor made by dragons. Magically imbued water does a world of good. I think you will find that Tara and Willow are not hungover either. You should wake mom and give her some aspirin and water while I prep a breakfast that will help both of you recover.”

Odessa nodded as she grabbed the bottle of painkillers on the counter and a full glass of water. After she walked over to the couch, the elder witch carefully placed the water on the coffee table before she woke up Kathryn.

Odessa kissed the tall witch’s forehead. “Lovely, I need you to wake up.”

Kathryn protested being woke up and tried to pull her beloved back onto the couch with her.

“Come on, lovely. You need some aspirin and water.”

“Ugh. Why does everything hurt?”

The high priestess smiled at the adorable grumbling of her partner. “I’m afraid we had a bit too much to drink last night, sweetheart. I have some painkillers and a full glass of water with your name on it.”

Kathryn carefully sat up and accepted the glass of water and aspirin. “I must look like death right now because I certainly feel like it.”

“You are as beautiful as ever. Let me get you some more water.”

Odessa stood up from the couch and walked back into the kitchen. She looked through the cabinets until she found a large pitcher that she filled with water. After she grabbed her glass, the witch made her way back over to the couch and sat beside Kathryn. The elder witches continued to drink water until they began to feel the hangover recede. Eventually, they made their way into the kitchen and helped Faith prep the late breakfast.

Tara and Willow made their way downstairs looking particularly bright-eyed and bushy-tailed despite the lack of sleep.

Willow commented on the state of the elder witches. “You two are looking a little rough around the edges. Did you have a tumble or something last night?”

Faith and Tara smirked at the redhead’s seemingly innocent comment. Kathryn looked around at the girls with an arched eyebrow, but it was Odessa that spoke up.

“Just what are you insinuating, Miss. Rosenberg?”

The redhead had the good sense to look as confused as possible. “Me? Nothing at all. I was just wondering why both of you look so rough around the edges this morning.”

Willow’s statement caused Faith to howl in laughter as she folded cheese into the last vegetable omelet before plating it and bringing it over to Odessa. The young raven-haired woman brought over a large bowl of home fries and a plate of avocado toast. Faith continued to laugh as she sat down and tucked into her plate of food.

“And just what is so funny, daughter of mine?”

“Nothing at all, mom. You should eat your omelet before it gets cold.”

Meanwhile, Tara was staring intently at her plate of food and feeling grateful that neither of the elder witches had paid much mind to her. She hoped that this would remain the case until breakfast was over and she could retreat to her room with Willow for a nap. Unfortunately, Odessa noticed how quiet her daughter was being and dialed in on her.

“Anything to add to the conversation, Tara?”

The blonde cursed under her breath as she shook her head.

“You sure? You look like you have something to say.”

Tara hated the fact that she was a bad liar, unlike Faith and Willow, and that even if she were a good one, her mom could always tell when her daughter was keeping something from her.

“No, mama. I’m just feeling overwhelmed still from the sabbat last night. You know how I get with Samhain.”

Tara figured that if she pivoted with something truthful that she would be able to get away without much further scrutiny. Odessa apparently bought what Tara had said because her face softened.

“How long did you stay up?”

A lopsided smile broke out on the blonde’s face. “Willow and I watched the sunrise with Solana.”

“It’s not a wonder both of you aren’t still asleep,” Kathryn said between bites of avocado toast. “I was going to ask you to hang out with Faith and me today, but if you need to catch up on sleep, we can hold off.”

Tara shook her head. “I just need some of Willow’s coffee and I will be good to go. What did you have in mind for today?”
“Not sure yet. I thought we could talk about it after breakfast.”

Odessa looked over at Willow. “So, it looks like it’s just us hens today. We’ll figure out something fun to do as well.”

The redhead gulped nervously at the thought of spending the whole day alone with Odessa. Willow felt like Tara could read her mind because a moment before she went into an anxiety-ridden head babble, she felt Tara brush her leg against hers. The lithe witch cast a sideways glance over and smiled. Willow brushed her leg against Tara’s to answer the small gesture of comfort. Though the touch was brief, and the moment passed almost instantaneously, Willow felt so much better than she had a moment ago.

“Sounds good, Des. I think I will make some coffee for us. Extra strength French press for the lot of you!”

Willow stood up, placed her hand briefly on Tara’s shoulder, and made her way to the kitchen. After the coffee was done brewing, Tara got up and helped Willow carry the prepared cups of coffee out to the table.

“Red, you seriously remembered how I take my coffee?”

Willow shyly nodded.

“She remembered how all of you take your coffee,” Tara said with a proud smile.

The women at the table all happily drank the coffee that Willow had put such care into making and preparing for them.
Kathryn, Odessa, and Tara helped clear the table while Willow and Faith stood up and stretched after a good meal.

“Thanks for breakfast, CSB.”

Faith walked over to Willow and gave her a hug. “Any time, Red. I know you are nervous, but Des is a cool lady. Would my mom be with anyone who wasn’t?”

Willow returned the hug before releasing Faith and shaking her head.

“Just give her a chance and trust her. I think you will be surprised at how much you have in common. Anyway, Mom and I will keep Tara safe and make sure she has a good time.”

The redhead was not sure why, but the dark woman’s words made her feel a lot better than she had since their talk yesterday. Willow smiled and looked into the kitchen when she heard a sound that always warmed her heart. Tara was standing between Odessa and Kathryn laughing at something that the tall witch had said. Both elder witches looked highly amused as they too started laughing. Willow’s smile was broad and genuine but there was still a layer of melancholy that lay beneath all the positive emotion.

Faith regarded the redhead standing beside her. The love that the young witch held for all three women standing in the kitchen was clear as day, but the melancholy that could only be seen for the briefest of moments in those emerald eyes had the brown-eyed young woman worried. Her instincts told her that the sadness that lay there was not something that Willow could talk about with her mom or Odessa; it was a burden that she had been carrying alone for who knows how long.

“Hey Red, we should be back around dinner. Want to hang out after? I know mom has something she needs to take care of, and Des wants to spend some time with Tara. If the weather cooperates, we could have a small fire outside and polish off the rest of the cider.”

Willow was surprised by the offer but pleased, nonetheless. “That would be cool, thanks.”

Faith nodded. “Well, I better get ready. This cleavage doesn’t look good without some work.”

The redhead arched an eyebrow despite the blush that appeared on her face. “Really? Care to share with the class? Goddess knows I could use some help in that department.”

“You know, we never did discuss your assets at movie night.”

Willow looked down. “That’s because short of stuffing my bra, I don’t have any.”

“Stuffing your bra? That sounds like a story I want to hear. Tell you what, Red, we’ll put this conversation on hold until we hang out tonight, cool?”

The redhead nodded. “Have fun today, Faith.”

The raven-haired woman gave her a warm smile. “You too, Red.”

Am I going to talk to Faith about all of that? I mean… this is something that not even Buffy and I have talked about. Is Faith an empath too? Hmm… no. She feels different than Kat but comforting in her own way. Why do I feel as though I can trust her? She’s given me no reason to, but then again, she’s given me no reason not to. Well, worse comes to worst, we drink, I tell her the story about the time I stuffed my bra, we laugh, and we call it a night.

Willow left her reverie just in time to see Kathryn and Tara approach her. “We’re going to get ready to go, sweets.”

The tall woman hugged the redhead and dropped a kiss on top of her head. “Try to not get into too much trouble, ok?”

Willow gave Kathryn a wry grin. “Oh yeah, Des and I get into trouble, sure. What are we going to do, take over the world by brewing too much tea and reading tarot cards?”

The raven-haired witch shook her head and laughed. “Willow, you have no idea, but get her drunk enough, nostalgic enough, or in the right mood, and you might learn. You better watch yourself.”

With those final words, Kathryn walked off to the music room, giving the two young witches a moment to themselves.

Willow nudged her best friend’s shoulder. “Try to not get in trouble, ok? The last thing all three of you need is Des and I coming to bail you out.”

Tara shook her head and laughed. “To hear Kat talk, you and mama are the two to watch out for. Make sure you don’t burn the house down trying to boil water or give yourself a thousand papercuts shuffling those tarot cards, ok?”

Willow stepped forward and hugged Tara, taking a moment to hold her close and tight. “Have fun.”

The blonde whispered. “You too, Will.”

“Ok you, go on and get out of here. Faith may need some help with her cleavage.”

Tara quirked an eyebrow.

Willow grinned. “Ask her about it, maybe she’ll tell you.”

The blonde witch shook her head before giving the redhead a lopsided grin. When Tara finally turned to go upstairs, Willow grabbed a glass from the cabinet and filled it with water. She alternated between taking sips of water and deep breaths.

What am I feeling? This is more than just missing Tara or being nervous about hanging out with Des. I really fucking hate it when my brain decides to do this.

Willow took a few minutes to re-center herself and headed towards the altar room where she imagined Des could be found. Instead, she heard the piano being played in the music room. The redhead stood close to the door and realized that Odessa was playing as well as singing. Willow hardly noticed when the music stopped.

“Do you want to come in?”

Willow noticed that the elder witch was looking right at her through the door. She blushed as she entered the room.

“Come and sit with me, Willow. Let me play you a song before I tell you a story.”

The redhead nodded and sat down on the piano bench.

Odessa began to play a few chords on the piano and sing a verse of the song.

“Do you know this song?”

Willow shook her head.

“It’s called ‘Feels Like Home’ and this particular arrangement is my favorite. Shall I continue?”

The redhead nodded. “Please do.”

Odessa smiled and started the song over.

Something in your eyes
Makes me wanna lose myself
Makes me wanna lose myself
In your arms

There's something in your voice

Makes my heart beat fast
Hope this feeling lasts
The rest of my life
If you knew how lonely my life has been

And how long I've been so alone
If you knew how I wanted someone to come along
And change my life the way you've done

Willow listened as Odessa sang one of the most beautiful love songs she had ever heard. When the elder witch finished the song, they both sat in silence for a few minutes. The silence was not as comfortable as it was with Tara, but it wasn’t horribly awkward either.

Willow broke the silence. “That was about Kat, wasn’t it?”

Odessa nodded. “How much has she told you about how we met?”

The young witch shook her head. “The first night I met you and Kat, she mentioned that both of you had been together for twelve years and said one day she would tell me the story of how you got together. She mentioned it was a story for another time.”

The high priestess nodded. “At the time you didn’t know about Tara and so she did not feel as though she could tell you because there would be too many details that she would have to omit. If you like, I can tell you the story now.”

Willow looked at the elder witch and could tell that this was not going to be an easy story for Odessa to tell nor an easy story for her to hear. “If you feel up to it, I will gladly listen.”

“Why don’t we go out to the living room where it is more comfortable?”

The redhead nodded and followed the blonde as she stood up and walked out to the living room. Both women sat on the couch facing one another. Willow waited for Odessa to begin.

“Kathryn and I met at the grocery store if you can believe it. She was pregnant with Faith while I was pregnant with Tara, though she was about 8 weeks ahead of me. We struck up a conversation while looking for a good alternative to coffee to drink. That is how I got turned on to Earl Grey tea.”

The high priestess laughed at the memory. “I constantly remind her that my addiction to that tea is all her fault. Anyway, we started hanging out regularly when she suggested a good midwife that could help me deliver Tara. As the months passed, we grew closer. I was married at the time to Tara’s father, Alistair, but he was not around very much at that point due to work. Kat went with me to all of my appointments and was there when I found out I was having a girl. I was so happy and so was she. At some point, I figured out that she was an empath, which explained a whole lot. I have never met someone like Kat, and I don’t think I ever will again. She was with me when I had Tara.”

Odessa sat silent for a moment.

“Why wasn’t Alistair with you? You would think that he would be happy about the arrival of your child.”

“Sad as it is to say, when he found out that I was having a girl, Alistair changed. I’ll get to that part here in a moment. Suffice it to say, Kat being present for the birth of Tara cemented our friendship. Since our daughters were so close in age, we spent a lot of time together due to play dates and other things of the sort. So, in a way, Faith and Tara grew up together; for a little while at least.”

The elder witch shifted her position. “Would you be ok if we took a small break so that I can get something to drink? Would you like something?”

“Of course, and I’ll have what you’re having.”

Odessa nodded and went to the kitchen to prepare drinks for them. A few minutes later, the blonde returned with two glasses and a pitcher of limeade. Willow couldn’t help but smile at the memory of the first time she went out to dinner with Tara.

“That’s quite a smile you have on your face, Willow.”

The redhead blushed a little. “Limeade reminds me of the first time that Tara and I went out to dinner.”

Odessa smiled. “I’d like to hear the story sometime. Are you ok if I continue?”

Willow nodded as she poured them a glass of limeade from the pitcher.

“Where was I? Oh, yes. Remember how I told you that Alistair changed when I found out that I was having a girl?”

The young witch nodded.

“Well, the change was subtle over time. You’d think that a witch as powerful as I was would recognize the changes and get the hell out of dodge, but I didn’t. This was partly due to the fact that I was caught up with Kathryn and dealing with some questions that had emerged since my friendship with her started. Now comes the deep end of things, so let me ask you a question: How much did Tara tell you about what she went through?”

Willow shuddered at the memory of reading Tara’s letter. “She told me everything, and I mean everything. Tara was brutally honest and spared no detail. That was the most difficult letter I have ever read, but I knew that her being completely honest in her letter allowed her to exorcise some of the demons that she had been carrying with her for way too long. I learned and it is something that I will carry with me for the rest of my life, if only because I hope that it helps Tara. I cannot know what it was like to go through what she did, and I cannot help her shoulder the burden. I can support her and protect her, which is something I will do for the rest of my life if that is what she needs.”

Odessa nodded. “That was very brave of her. You are a remarkable person, Willow, and I am beyond happy that Tara has you in her life. Since she told you as much as she did, I can spare you some of the details since she and I had very similar experiences. That said, I imagine you want to know how Alistair got away with what he did. The changes that he underwent were subtle at first. Things didn’t start to get bad until Tara was about 6 months old. That is when the physical abuse began as well as when I noticed the magical subjugation that he had been exposing me to ever since I told him that the baby was a girl. The subjugation was subtle at first, and the changes that it caused I attributed to being pregnant because I had no idea how pregnancy affected one’s ability and affinity for magic. The day that I figured out that he was a practitioner and what he had been up to was the day that I could no longer talk to my guardian. I still am not sure how he did it but doing so cut off my ability to cast spells or do magic of any sort. That day, I went to Kat, came out to her as a witch, and told her what happened. I also told her that I knew she was an empath. To say that she was worried is an underestimation of epic proportions. Kat set about trying to figure out a way to reverse the damage so that I could talk to my guardian again and figure out a way to escape him. Somehow, he found out what Kat and I were up to and forbade me to see her. Of course, I didn’t listen, and I would sneak out to see her while he was at work.”

Odessa paused for a moment and took a sip of limeade. “While Tara and Faith played together, we would talk and try to figure out how to get my daughter and me out safely. I think you can infer that the abuse was not just mental, magical, and physical but another type as well. Every time I saw Kat, there were… consequences, but I couldn’t keep myself away from her. She was the refuge in the storm that was my life. The worse things got, the more I needed her. Finally, when Tara was four, Kat and I deduced that the only way for all of this to stop was to run away and find someone that could help me purge his magic from my body. We planned to do it in the dead of the night while he was away on a business trip. I had slowly begun packing clothing and other things months before. I had to do it slowly and over time so that he would not recognize what I was doing. When the time came, Kat had our bags packed and in her car. I went up to Tara’s room to wake her up so we could leave. I opened the door and found Alistair standing there with a knife to her throat. He threatened to kill Tara if I took another step. The asshole told me that I could run as far as I wanted, but that he would find me and make me wish for death before he was done with me. I cannot tell you how much it killed me to leave Tara behind.”

Silent tears fell down the witch’s face. “The only reason that I left was because Kat came up the stairs and threw me over her shoulder to physically remove me from the house. We flew to Boston where my childhood friend, Galatéa, gave Kat and me the protection of her coven as well as a place to stay. She was also the one who helped me purge Alistair’s magic and heal the damage that he had caused. I was devastated about being forced to leave Tara behind. I begged Galatéa to help me try and rescue her. We spent a year using the full force of her coven to try and rescue Tara to no avail. The last time we tried, Alistair appeared before me and said that he would kill my daughter if I attempted to try and rescue her again. Believe it or not, I stabbed him and he just laughed at me, but doing so helped more than you can imagine even if it didn’t kill him. I will get to that part later. Ok, let’s take a break. I am sorry this is such a long story, but there is a lot here that you need to know.”

Willow nodded and stood up. She took a few moments to stretch her arms, legs, and back. The redhead went into the kitchen and found her stash of chocolate and brought it back over to the couch and placed it on the table. She then went over to where Odessa was standing and tapped her on the shoulder. The older witch turned around and found herself enveloped in a hug.

“I know the story is not over yet but thank you for being so brave.”

Odessa smiled and dropped a kiss on the top of Willow’s head. “Shall we continue?”

The young witch stepped back. “I am ready when you are.”

Both women sat back down on the couch and faced each other once again. Willow opened the bar of chocolate and broke off two pieces. She handed one to Odessa before biting into her own. The elder witch smiled and bit into the chocolate and took a moment to enjoy the treat while centering herself.

“I am not sure how to transition to the part about Kat and I… remember how I told you that I was dealing with some questions that had emerged when Kat and I became friends? Well, this is where I began to realize that I was gay and falling for Kat, and I mean falling hard. These were feelings that I struggled to keep from her, given that she was an empath, but she never mentioned anything, so I figured my efforts were working. Anyway, after we ran away, those feelings came back in full force, and I eventually told her. Turns out that she felt the same and we have been together ever since. Now, to circle back to Alistair. At some point, I began to suspect that he was not fully human, but the only way that I could find out was by somehow getting some of his blood so that some of the members of the coven could test it and see if my theory is correct. Turns out that it was, but we still have not determined exactly what he is. That said, Tara is fully human, and we are also trying to figure out why that is.”

Odessa fell silent and allowed Willow to process all the information she had been given. While she took a few minutes to think, the redhead broke off another two pieces of chocolate and handed one to Odessa.

“If I am honest, I think I know where this is leading.”

The elder witch nodded. “Tell me your thoughts.”

“The protection ritual that you did with Tara and me had to happen because of Alistair. He was the one messing with our minds. Was that also to help hide her and me from him?”

Odessa smiled. “You truly are a wonder, Willow. You hit the nail on the head. This leads to the issue facing us now, and the one thing that Tara has been most worried about. By coming into the family and associating with all of us, you are now in harm’s way. Though I think you would be in danger regardless of your association with us, but that is just another theory I have. Despite the number of years that have passed, there is still so much that we don’t know about Alistair. That said, we need to figure it out sooner rather than later because of the danger he now poses since Tara escaped. She has been worried that you would be angry with her because she feels as though she is responsible…”

Willow cut off Odessa. “I will talk to her about it because that is absolutely ridiculous. I think that you are right; I would be in danger regardless of my association with all of you. At least now, I have the protection of a powerful coven and the three of you. I am also sure that Solana would not allow any harm to come to me so easily.”

Odessa moved over to Willow and enveloped her in a hug. “I’m sorry, I know that all of this was a lot. I originally had only planned on telling you about Kat and me, but I can see how a lot of what is going on now is tied to our story. Are you ok?”

The redhead chuckled as she fell further into the elder witch’s embrace. “All of that was on par with the number of thoughts that pass through my head daily. I think I will be ok. Did Kat ever tell you what I shared with her about Sheila?”

“No, she didn’t. I think she figured that you would tell me if and when you were ready.”

Willow released the elder witch. “I want to tell you if you want to listen.”

Odessa nodded. “Let’s get more comfortable.”

The high priestess situated herself on the couch so that Willow could lay with her head in her lap.

“Is this a family ritual? Kat does the same thing when we talk.”

Odessa smiled. “You could say that. It all started with Kat. She would do the same thing when I would talk with her or when I needed comfort. Somewhere along the way, I picked up the habit as well. I do the same thing with Tara and even Faith on occasion.”

Willow relaxed as the blonde ran her fingers through her hair. She spent the next hour or so telling Odessa about her relationship with her mother as well as the things that Sheila subjected her to on a regular basis. When Willow finished telling her story, she could tell that a quiet fury had settled within the high priestess.

Odessa’s voice was deadly quiet. “Sheila better pray that she never crosses my path.”

Willow knew that there was an apology in those words but felt oddly satisfied at the anger that the elder witch held toward Sheila. Where Kat was all calm and full of loving compassion, Odessa was quiet with passionate fury; it was a feeling that resided in her heart underneath all the love and care. For the first time, Willow felt like that part of her was truly seen, and she was so grateful for Odessa that she couldn’t help but cry.

“Thank you for seeing me.”

“Any time, sweetheart. How about I make us some lunch and then we can find something fun to do?”

Willow smiled as she sat up. “Sounds good to me.”

While Odessa was making lunch, the redhead used her computer to look up a particular piece of sheet music that she wanted to try and play with Odessa since she noticed a cello that had not been there before.

“How would you feel about playing some music with me?”

The high priestess smiled. “What did you have in mind?”

Willow handed the blonde the sheet music she had printed out while she took a bite of her tuna sandwich.
“We can definitely play this. I’ve listened to the actual song, so this shouldn’t be a problem. Which one of us is going to sing?”

“I thought we could either sing it together or alternate verses.”

Odessa smiled. “Why don’t we play it by ear?”

“Sounds good.”

Both women finished their lunch relatively quickly before moving back to the music room.

Willow moved the bench closer to the piano and cradled the cello against her neck. “Why don’t we warm up before we start?”

“Sounds good.”

The witches took a few minutes to warm up before they began to play “Nothing Else Matters” by Metallica. Willow was amazed at how well Odessa played and how they fell in sync together so quickly. They traded verses at first before singing the final half of the song together.

I never opened myself this way
Life is ours, we live it our way
All these words, I don't just say
And nothing else matters

Trust I seek and I find in you
Every day for us something new
Open mind for a different view
And nothing else matters

Never cared for what they say
Never cared for games they play
Never cared for what they do
Never cared for what they know
And I know, yeah, yeah

So close, no matter how far
Couldn't be much more from the heart
Forever trusting who we are
No, nothing else matters

The two women spent the next few hours playing songs and singing for one another. Once Kathryn, Faith, and Tara arrived back at the house with takeout for dinner, they parted with another hug and left the room to join the others.

***

When the women had finished dinner, Tara gave Willow a lingering hug. “I’ll see you later tonight, ok?”

“Sounds good, Tara. Don’t have too much fun.”

The blonde gave a lopsided grin. “Without you? Never.”

When Tara left the room, Faith approached Willow. “Still feel up for hanging out, Red? Looks like it is going to be clear out tonight.”

“Sure thing. Where is the cider?”

“I already put it outside so it could get nice and cold. I also got us another treat while we were out with mom today.”

Willow gave Faith a questioning look. “I don’t know if I should be scared or excited.”

“You already agreed to drink with me, Red. The scary part is over and now we just get to hang out and have fun. Contrary to popular opinion, I don’t make a habit of beating up my friends.”

She considers me her friend? When did this happen and why wasn’t I given the memo?

“Yes, Red. You are a friend.”

Willow shook her head. “So now we can add mind reader to the list of traits you have.”

“C’mon, Red. Time’s a-wasting.”

Both women moved outdoors and over to the firepit where Faith had already set up the wood for the fire.

“Just give me a second and I’ll get it lit.”

Willow grinned. “Let me take care of that.”

Sol, would you mind lending me a little power?

Trying to impress your new friend? No problem

Willow could feel Solana grin as she clapped her hands together while focusing on the wood. The motion caused the wood to catch fire.

Faith smiled and sat down on the log. When the redhead sat down beside her, the dark-haired woman handed Willow a cider.

“Ready to see the treat?”

Willow smiled. “Let’s see what you have.”

Faith reached down beside her and held up a bottle of Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey. “Not as good as what Sol gave us, but still nice. And before you ask, no, I don’t make it a habit of drinking this often, but sometimes it’s nice.”

“No judgment here. This is the most I’ve ever drunk, and even I know to not make this a habit.”

Faith offered Willow a sip of the whiskey before placing it back down on the ground. The redhead took a sip of cider and smiled.

“You know, I think you are on to something here. The cinnamon makes the cider taste better.”

“Great minds, Red. Great minds…”

The two women sat in silence for a while as they drank their ciders and watched the fire. Faith was the first to break the silence.

“So, are you going to tell me about the time you stuffed your bra?”

Willow nodded. “Normally, something like this would be funny, and maybe it is now, but back when it happened… well, let’s just say that I pretended to be sick for a week, so I didn’t have to go to school.”

“Shit, Red. That is saying something.”

“Yeah. Middle School and High School were not fun for me. There was this clique of girls that was particularly cruel to me, and I never could figure out why. Anyway, this happened during Freshman year. As you can see, I am quite lacking when it comes to boobs. I was even smaller when I was in high school; I looked more like a twelve-year-old boy compared to all the girls in my grade, and they never let me forget it. I remember having to look up the saying ‘carpenters dream’ the first time that someone called me that. Except they said that only someone desperate would want to nail me. When you get insulted and made fun of so many times, most of them just roll off your shoulders like they are nothing, but that one… that one hurt like hell every time they said it to me. Eventually, I got sick of it and went with this half-cocked plan to stuff my bra to give me something more to work with. One of the girls from the clique, Amy, pointed out that I had somehow grown a chest overnight. During gym class, one of them stole my bra. Fill in the rest of the blanks. As you can imagine, that only gave them more ammo to use against me. So, I stayed home for a week, did my assignments, and prayed that the whole ordeal would be over when I came back to school.”

Willow took a swig of her cider and pointed towards the bottle of Fireball. Faith handed the bottle to the redhead and watched her take a swig before taking one herself.

“So, what happened?”

The redhead shrugged. “It was a mixed bag. Most people forgot, but the girls in that clique never let me forget, even years later. I still remember the summer before Junior year, I finally started developing what I have now. I remember being so happy. I mean, it wasn’t much, as you can see, but I wasn’t flat-chested anymore. On the very first day of school, Amy and her merry band of bitches saw me and accused me of stuffing my bra again. Since we weren’t in gym class, Amy decided to prove her point by…”

Willow took another swig of her cider. “She groped me. At least the bitch had the good sense to be shocked and quickly recoiled. You would think that it was all good, right?”

“I’m guessing not,” Faith spoke softly as she handed Willow another bottle of cider.

The redhead shook her head and took a pull from the bottle. “That little event started the ‘Willow is a Dyke’ movement in my school. All because Amy told everyone that a certain part of my chest got hard when she groped me. That was the first time that anyone had ever touched me like that, and I didn’t know how sensitive I was.”

Willow fell silent and stared at the fire. “Funny thing is, nobody ever accused Amy of being gay even though she was the one who groped me. The only good thing that came out of the whole thing was my best friend heard Amy call me a dyke and proceeded to deck her, which made her think twice about saying anything to my face ever again. The rumor mill still went crazy though, and people just started saying stuff behind my back. I am not sure which is worse.”

Faith took a swig of her cider. “You know, if I had gone to your school, not only would I have beat the crap out of the bitch clique, I would have also gone after all the people who watched what you went through but stayed silent. They are just as guilty as the people who actively bullied you. Red, you didn’t deserve any of that. If I were in your shoes, I would find that hard to believe, but I mean it. Can I ask you a question?”

Willow nodded and took another pull from her bottle.

“When you look at other women, Tara and I included, you’re comparing yourself to them aren’t you?”

The redhead looked at Faith. “Yeah.”

“Do you feel pretty or beautiful? Has anyone ever made you feel that way or told you so?”

Willow shook her head.

“God people are assholes and idiots! Ok, Red, I have a proposition for you. Not that kind of proposition either. You’re cute, but I do not feel like having my ass handed to me by my girlfriend.”

The redhead laughed for the first time since she had started talking to Faith.

The raven-haired woman cracked a grin. “What would you say about doing some shopping next weekend? You and me, maybe T. We could make a day of it.”

“What kind of shopping?”

“Well, both you and T need a boost in some self-confidence. I want you to feel beautiful all on your own, and that starts with changing how you view yourself. The easiest way to achieve that is by trying on different clothes. Doesn’t mean you have to buy them, but it can be fun and give you some perspective. Also, I think that maybe we need to do some bra shopping for you. I am not sure if T will feel up for trying on different bras, but I think I can help you there. At least give you some pointers on what kinds of bras will give you the results you desire. What do you say?”

Willow chugged half her bottle. “Fuck it. At this point, I have nothing left to lose. Sure, Faith, we can go shopping.”

Both women fell into a comfortable silence for a while. Faith threw another log on the fire and handed Willow the bottle of Fireball. The redhead took a sip and handed it back to the woman who was quickly cementing herself as yet another friend.

“It’s all connected, isn’t it, Willow?”

The witch turned towards Faith when she heard the dark-haired woman use her name. “What do you mean, Faith?”

“The heartbreak, the lack of confidence, and always feeling like you are on the outside looking in. You can’t see how wonderful you are. Every remarkable part about you is simply dismissed as being normal.”

Willow shook her head. “I’m nothing special, Faith.”

“See that’s the thing, Red. You really are, but all this crap that life has handed you is stopping you from seeing it. I mean, look at the lengths that you went to give T more time to be comfortable with telling you the truth. You practically killed yourself to learn a new technique and then set aside your feelings and did something you hated just so that T had room to breathe. Do you honestly think that anyone would do that? For a friend no less? You’re fucking special, Willow, and I will be damned if I don’t do everything I can to help you see that.”

The redhead sat in stunned silence.

Faith continued. “I saw something today that worried me. It was this morning when we were talking. You were looking at Mom, Tara, and Des while they were laughing while standing in the kitchen. You were so happy to see them laughing and the love you hold for them was clear as day on your face, but underneath that was this… melancholy. I think whatever is causing it is not something you can talk to Des or mom about. Am I getting close?”

Willow nodded. “You sure you’re not an empath?”

“My mom is probably the most powerful one around, but the Goddess did not see fit to grant me that gift. I just have incredible powers of observation and know how to read people. Please talk to me and tell me what you were thinking about when you were looking at them.”

The redhead was not sure what was compelling her to do so, but she decided to be honest. “I was thinking about what it would be like to have a mom that cares and wishing that I had a family like you and Tara do.”

“That is why you haven’t talked to mom about this, right? She’s involved in the situation. How long have you been carrying feelings like this?”

“Wondering what it would be like to have a mom that cares? All my life. Wishing that your family was mine? Since the first time I met your mom and Des.”

Faith shook her head. “Too long in both instances. Well Red, if we keep up crap like this, I’ll consider you family in no time. I think you should talk to mom about this, but I understand if you don’t want to. I just want you to know that you do belong here, ok?”

“Ok, CSB.”

Faith barked a laugh. “I meant it when I said that I like your style, Red.”

***

Tara and Odessa looked at the two women sitting outside by the fire pit. “What do you think they’re talking about, mama?”

“Knowing Faith, they are either planning their next round of shenanigans or talking about some rather serious stuff.”

Tara tried to get a good look at Willow’s face. “I’m going to go with serious on this one. Can I ask what you got up to while we were out?”

Odessa moved them to the couch and invited Tara to lie down. The younger blonde stretched out on the couch and put her head on her mama’s lap. The elder witch was silent for a few moments as she ran her fingers through her daughter’s hair.

“I started by playing my song to Kat, and then I told her the story about how we got together. I also told her everything surrounding that. Willow knows what is going on and what we are up against. I need you to understand that she does not blame you nor is she mad at you for the situation she finds herself in. She agrees that she would have been in danger regardless of her association with us.”

Tara sighed. “Are you sure?”

“Yes, my darling. She cares for you very much.”

Odessa continued to run her fingers through her daughter’s hair. “She also told me about Sheila. I am so angry at that woman for what she put Willow through. I told her that Sheila better pray that she never crosses my path.”

“Everything Willow had to endure as she grew up makes me so upset. I don’t know how she can be as compassionate and show as much care as she does after everything that so many people put her through.”

The elder witch smiled softly. “She is displaying the things that she wants most. Willow wants compassion, care, and even love from those around her, but she will never ask for it or talk about it. I think that deep down a part of her doesn’t think she deserves it. I cannot say whether she is aware of this or not.”

“Oh, mama. What can I do to help her?”

Odessa looked down at Tara. “Just keep doing what you are. I am going to talk to Kat. She and Willow are close, and Kat has come to regard her as family, if not another daughter she always wanted but was never able to have. I think Willow would benefit a great deal from knowing that. I want to spend more time with her, but I already see her as being a part of this family.”

“You are wonderful, mama. I am glad that you got to spend some time with her.”

The high priestess smiled. “Thank you, sweetheart. So, tell me about your day. I missed you and want to hear all about everything you’ve gotten up to lately.”

“We started at the gym. I watched Kat and Faith spar against each other. Faith is getting good at harnessing her power. Kat decided that it was time for me to learn some moves for self-defense. You know me, mama; I avoid violence if I have the choice, but I suppose knowing how to get myself out of a dangerous situation is a good thing. I am glad I brought a change of clothes because it was quite a workout. Afterward, we went shopping. Willow’s birthday is in four days and I wanted to get her something special. Kat and Faith decided to get her presents as well. Do you think we could throw a party for her?”

“Of course, honey. I need to get her something as well in that case. What do you think she would like? I wish I had known her birthday was coming up so soon.”

Tara gave her mama a lopsided grin. “I think you should make her your strawberry cake. I am not sure what Kat is going to get her. Faith got her some gift cards because she wasn’t sure what Willow would want, and I got her some magic supplies because she doesn’t have much that she can use to build an altar. I will make sure to give you a list of what I got her, but I think that you should get her some magic supplies as well.”

Odessa nodded. “Sounds good, sweetheart.”

The two women spent the rest of the night catching up with each other and talking about things that had been on their minds since the beginning of the semester. As the night passed on, Tara felt something settle within her chest. Even though she had hardly seen Willow all day and they were not near each other, she could feel the other witch and kept her close.

Even if we are apart, I know that everything will be ok. She is with me just as I am with her; all I have to do is look and feel.

_________________
If we treat people as they ought to be, we help them become what they are capable of becoming.
~Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Flaming is only allowed if you're being fabulously queer and campy <3

We are here. I took note and am ready to read and give my thoughts. But first …
It’s okay! The UKs (thankfully now) ex PM has given some solid advice for tackling money concerns, buy a new kettle.
Life Motto “Shit happens in life, don’t tread in It.”, Life experience, joked about Jesus Jazz hands during the crucifixion and a close friend did not speak to me for three days. I got off lightly, still find it funny though, I was following them with Jazz hands everywhere. Learn from my mistakes kids, don’t be a dick.
Has Kathryn put her foot down on the amount of bath products Odessa can fill the bathroom cabinets with?
That’s the power of please kids.
Damn already used my power of please.
I am always nominated as the bait in theoretical zombie apocalypse situations and have multiple people say how they would eat me. One even went into great detail about spit roasting me and what marinades and rubs they would use but was very specific they want me alive when they shove the metal rod through my body, south to north. Not all Canadians are friendly, in fairness I was helping them with ideas. But I take it as a compliment that so many people think I’m delicious.
You’re doing a fair job at it, I’m just perverting it for my own twisted amusement. Even when rural though you have public roads/paths which people use as a right to walk right through your garden/farm land without a care even if the path is all grassed over and clearly in private property or has animals in the field. In fairness though legally, the walker is in the right I believe.

• Can rub her belly and pat her head at the same time
• Always has a paracetamol to hand.
• Will devour anyone who makes a noise while you are hungover.

And that people is how you waste three guesses.

On with the Show!

Charmingly accurate.
Keep the potatoes if grated alongside onions and made into hash browns, bread is to be fried, eggs normally fried for a hangover, vegetables are a no unless its mushrooms and tomato, fried. Now is not the time to get into the tomato is a fruit conversation these people are hung over. Smoked bacon, two Cumberland sausages and as it’s a hangover situation you can have baked beans with the tomato. Optional black pudding as some don’t like the idea of congealed blood and offal as appealing with a queasy stomach but yet they can somehow take all that grease. That is a greasy spoon hangover cure from Brits.
You’re the empath. You tell us.
If Odessa and Kathryn weren’t nice and sensible people I could just imagine them moaning on the sofa watching Tara and Willow come down and venomously cursing under their breath at their youthful ability to not get hung over, while they wince and clutch their head at every sound the stairs make along with fighting over the one pair of sun glasses they could find nearby. Then crying into a pillow when they don’t have them in a futile attempt to emotionally manipulate the other into giving them the sun glasses out of pity. Hangovers have no empathy.
Where there’s blame, there’s a claim.
Dub senses activated, for what I’m meant to be looking for, not the cleavage. Senses pop up at inconvenient times.
Night club toilet conversations but by the camp fire and without the drunk stranger telling you you’re beautiful.
Willow is writing the Pinky and the Brain revival.
That musical connection theme coming through.
Picard lost out on an endorsement sale there.
Not at all and even if you did, it’s never as simple as leaving and you also had Tara’s safety to consider. One person getting out of that situation is hard enough but two is even harder. Doesn’t mean people shouldn’t seek help though. Hard isn’t impossible with the right help.
Ooh that’s a twist.
Dad of the fucking year. Holding back some very choice words.
Does Tara know that part?
I’ve got a selection terms for him.
If I’ve understood correctly this means Alistair is the HIM they were talking about the whole time. I’ve always felt it was someone else, I’d say more to my own suspicions rather than what you’ve written.
I can’t think of a tuna sandwich without berating Dawn, Why tuna Dawn? Why? She doesn’t know her own mind let alone a toothbrush. Mindless Tara seems like a mouth breather, you are all suffering in the Winnebago before the knights’ show up.
At last I know one! Well the chorus … Okay just screaming nothing else matters. Listened, nope, I’m thinking of Linkin Park in the end. So close. False alarm, carry on.
Did you check your spam?
Its cool though because if Amy was a guy she would be totally straight. Not gay, a girl sexually assaulting another girl. I guess the moustache worked in Amy’s favour, whoops did I just say that. No I’m sure it’s a fetching caterpillar accessory on your upper lip there.
As horrible as a select few are, you really have to give it to high school girls, they are very good at adding two plus two to equal others insecurity.
Agree to an extent. They are guilty but I wouldn’t say just as guilty. At least they kept their hands to themselves. Staying silent still very much aids the continued issue though. Unfortunately there are negative effects from speaking up but I always think the positive that will come out of people taking a stand against these people will always outweigh it. Sadly a lot people don’t have the luxury of being able to take on the negative effect though. It’s a difficult situation. Clear moral answers but all wouldn’t be a problem if people kept their hands to themselves.

It’s tough. All be it fictional but still. To have Odessa reveal her story and Willow hers.

Once again you used music to bond and connect characters as they have trouble expressing their emotions to each other so it flows a different way. It adds a different layer to the relationships, Lehane ladies, Willow can vocalise to, while the Maclay women, to start, it takes a different way to connect emotionally in order to vocalise it.

Willow having a lot of insecurities, absolutely I think that’s a big part of the characters core. Getting them due to the way people have treated her, again absolutely. I don’t personally see canon Willow react with care, compassion and kindness, to me this is where your Willow and my interpretation of Canon Willow differs but it’s all good because the core is there so I still identify her as Willow.

Same with Faith. I’ve never watched her Angel episodes so I’m not entirely sure of her emotions there but certainly to the Mayor she has a strong sense of loyalty. She’d do anything for the people she cares about.

Odessa’s story, I mean stripping away the magical aspects and looking at it as a real-life story. I mean people could argue why she left Tara, rather die herself than have her daughter suffer but there’s f all you can do in that situation. Everything was taken from her. She had a plan and Alistair took the Tara component away while Kathryn took away any further choice. I don’t blame Kathryn for what she did.

Tara’s father being the big bad. I’m still processing. It makes sense. Having him magical certainly counters the factor of one of the ways Odessa could have escaped. As this story is emotion led it would be a catharsis to eventually overpower him after all the disgusting acts he’s done. I think part of me not coming to terms with this straight away is because of how humans can be just as monstrous as the fantasy monsters. I’m never a fan when that human component is taken out because even if the story doesn’t give them a pass because creature made from evil anyway. Psychologically it detaches the reality element for me. I have the feeling the emotional element will be what holds this together for me, in terms of not having that psychological detachment to the human evil element.

It’s a strong chapter. I still very much look forward to see how this all unfolds.

_________________
One Shots - Basement Grotto - Door 25 - "You're My Always" - "Do You Like Cats?"
You don't have to write to contribute to the board, feedback can be its own event - Dubs Festive Advent Challenge - Fic Club - Pens Write A Holiday Story
Existing at some point, maybe - The Justice for Tara series.
*Rides in on a tricycle* Wanna play a game? - Five Minutes of Artistic Integrity - Those Three Little Words - Sassy Synonyms - Aradia's Antonyms

And I’m caught up!

I’m glad Willow and Tara finally had some truth uncovered, bringing them closer - it’s nice to see. I am intrigued by how insightful Faith is and I love this friendship forming. Exciting stuff, can’t wait for more!

_________________
- I am a poster girl with no poster, I am 32 flavours and then some -

Dub



Hence the reason that Odessa did not give Faith the hairy eyeball. Even hung over, she knows that she cannot argue with the truth.



This is the part where I tell you that a greasy breakfast as a cure-all for a hangover is a myth... It's a myth. That said, a full English, if you 86 the blood pudding, sounds lovely.



A Healer doth not an Empath make, much as some days (like this day) does she wish it so.



I could see this, but aside from being nice and sensible, both Odessa and Kathryn know that their current predicament is their own fault and that they should have known better.



Faith has this lovely ability to take what would normally be a creepy and potentially awkward situation and make it what it should be in the first place. I consider it one of her many talents.



I can see it, and I think the humor would be better. These are things to consider....



Absolutely, and I really hope it is not trite. Given the situation, it just makes sense. In this instance, the choice was Odessa's because she knew that music is a forum where Willow is very comfortable.



One of many, but I will save the others for later!



Trust me, Alistair deserves every single one of them, and you are far and away from done being pissed off at him.



You will have to wait for a few chapters to find out the answer to this one.



This is a theme that will be explored later in the fic, but make a note of this because it will help you understand. That said, yes, Alistair is the main antagonist, he is evil, and his background is quite interesting.



Linkin Park will make an appearance or so later on. That said, I hope you liked the song if you listened to it.



If only.... Amy was glammed up like Cordy was on the show and definitely did not look like a man. Willow saying that nobody called Amy gay or considered her such was directly correlated with the fact that they called her gay because of her reaction to an unwanted touch. It also depicts a bit of commentary on how woman on woman sexual assault is regarded in society....



I could not agree more, but it is a question that we will never know the answer to because Amy is not important enough to warrant any more conversation than this.



In this instance, Faith wasn't just referring to the sexual assault, but also the bullying that Willow endured throughout the years, but especially in high school. From my experience, when it comes to bullying, silence equals death. While you have a point that the people who stood silently by and watched what happened to Willow are not as guilty as the people who did bully her, Faith was coming from a place of indignant anger because she cannot stand to see people who have power use it against those who have very little or none at all.



I am glad that Willow is still coming through despite the differences between my characterization and canon Willow. The reason that I decided to take my Willow in the direction that I did is because of the fact that in canon she did not react with care, compassion, or kindness, and this is what led her down the path of destruction. I think Odessa summed it up best when she said, “She is displaying the things that she wants most. Willow wants compassion, care, and even love from those around her, but she will never ask for it or talk about it. I think that deep down a part of her doesn’t think she deserves it. I cannot say whether she is aware of this or not.” This is Willow at her core; both in this story and canon she wants these things, but the major difference is how she goes about trying to get them. Make sense?



I never watched Angel either. My version of Faith is largely based on a thought exercise I did where I started to imagine what she would have been like if she had a good mother. Then I thought up Kathryn because she is a good counterpoint to Odessa, and on it went from there. That said, Faith is fiercely loyal to those she cares about, and she shows an almost preternatural awareness of what people need.



I am glad that her situation came off the way that I meant it to. Truly, it was an impossible situation, and had Kathryn not intervened, Odessa would have been killed, and Tara would have still suffered all that she did, but she would not have had a mother to escape to. I couldn't do that to either one of them. I don't blame Kathryn either (obviously), but there will be consequences that you will see here in a few chapters.



I think that as the story unfolds, you will find many things compelling. What makes Alistair evil are his actions, not that he is purely made from evil so the human component will not be removed. That said, I will be interested to see how you feel about him as the story progresses. Finally, the emotional element will remain throughout and be the moving force behind so much of this story. Plus, when it comes down to it, this is a love story... with a little bit (a lot) added on.

I hope you enjoy the next chapter!

GrimCityGirl



Congrats on catching up! I am glad that you are enjoying the story so far and that there are some elements that are intriguing still. You will learn more about Faith and how she got to be so insightful, but it will not be for a while yet. Faith is going to be a very big help to both Willow and Tara as the story progresses. I definitely like how she is fitting into the story. I hope you enjoy the next chapter!

UPDATE DIRECTLY BELOW

_________________
If we treat people as they ought to be, we help them become what they are capable of becoming.
~Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Flaming is only allowed if you're being fabulously queer and campy <3

Author: Bellalocke

Rating: R for Language and Adult themes.

Ownership: Please do not cross-post this story without talking to me first.

Note: Tara, Willow, and other characters associated with BTVS belong to Joss, ME, and all other affiliates. Please don't sue me I am a poor IT contractor.

Spoilers: Aside from some dialogue here and there, none whatsoever. This fic is completely AU

Feedback: Always welcome and encouraged

Chapter 17

Willow woke up surrounded by warmth and strong arms around her. The softness beneath her cheek told her that she had once again ended up using Tara as a pillow. She could not help but smile when she felt fingers running through her hair.
Tara grinned as she felt her stir and begin to wake up. “Good morning, birthday girl. How did you sleep?”

Willow looked up and saw her smiling down at her with a bright Mona Lisa smile; it was by far the best smile to wake up to. “Good morning, Tara. You know, one of these days I am going to stop using you as a personal pillow.”

“Comes with the territory. I promise I don’t mind, and if I did, I would tell you. Plus, you do the same for me on some nights too. Are you ready for a fun day?”

The redhead smiled. “I am! So, what is happening first?”

The blonde witch smiled. “Kat asked for you to meet her in the office while breakfast is being prepared.”

Willow stood up and began to gather her clothes for the day: A loose-fitting pair of black jeans and her favorite Berserk shirt.

“I wonder what she wants?”

Tara couldn’t help but give the redhead another smile. “I have an idea of what she wants to talk about. If I am right, you will be quite happy.”

The blonde got out of bed and walked over to her friend. Willow put her clothes on top of the dresser as Tara approached. The other witch gave the redhead a hug and held her tight.

“Go ahead and change in here. I am going to get a shower and then try to get my hair to cooperate today.”
Willow giggled. “You’ve been playing with that new curling iron for the last two days, Tare. I like your hair the way that it is.”

The taller girl laughed. “Ok, birthday girl, I will stop torturing my hair and leave it as is. Now go on and get dressed. You don’t want to miss breakfast.”

Tara left the room and Willow changed before heading downstairs. The smell of bacon as well as cinnamon and spice greeted her when she was halfway down the steps. Whatever breakfast Des and Faith were cooking smelled delicious and made her mouth water. The emerald-eyed witch tried to abandon her thoughts about what breakfast would be as she headed down the hall to the office. Willow saw Kat sitting on the couch reading the newspaper as she entered the office. The tall witch looked up and smiled when she saw the redhead. After she folded up the newspaper, Kat got up and placed it on the desk opposite the couch. The elder witch gave Willow a lingering hug and held her tight.

“Happy Birthday, Willow.”

Kat led the redhead towards the couch and invited her to lie down and rest her head on her lap. Willow looked up and saw the raven-haired woman looking down at her. Kat’s countenance was different, and the redhead saw something new in the other witch’s eyes.

Kat ran her fingers through the redhead’s tresses. “My dear, there are a few things that we need to talk about; they are nothing bad, I promise. Tell me, do you feel that we are close and that you can trust me?”

Willow knew that the witch already knew the answer to these questions but decided to humor her. “Kat, I do trust you, and I feel as close to you as I can be.”

The redhead continued to look into Kat’s eyes as the woman ran her fingers through her hair. She noticed the flecks of dark green and gold in the woman’s eyes and wondered how she had missed seeing them.

“Des and I have been talking over the last few days. I realized that there are more than a few things that have gone unsaid. I think these are things you need to know. Will you listen?”

Willow noticed that Kat seemed to be nervous. She looked up at the older woman and smiled softly.

“I will always listen to anything you have to say.”

Kat smiled and continued running her hands through Willow’s hair. “We have grown so close over these last few months. I consider you to be so much more than my student or even Tara’s friend. Our bond is as strong as it could ever be, and you mean so very much to me. I know that you have been struggling with feeling like you belong here. I hope that you will forgive her, but Faith told me about her concerns for you. She is the one who convinced me to tell you all these things. Willow, you are another daughter I was meant to have but was never gifted with. You are still a gift to me even though you were not borne from my body. I love you so much, my darling, and I hope that these words bring you peace and happiness.”

Willow sat up and turned towards the other woman. She hugged Kat as tight as she could as tears of happiness streamed down her face.

“Thank you so much. I love you too.”

The two women held each other for a long time. Eventually, Des and Tara came to the door and gave a soft knock. Both women’s faces were red and puffy from the tears they had shed.

Des smiled. “Why don’t you two clean up before we eat breakfast.”

Both women stood up from the couch and hugged once more before Willow headed upstairs with Tara to wash her face.

Des looked at her partner. “Good talk?”

Kat nodded. “Couldn’t have gone any better. I felt a great surge of love and peace when I told her. I think she is finally starting to accept and see that she has a place here.”

The elder blonde softly kissed the tall woman. “All in time, my love. What is important is that she knows how you feel. I think she considers you to be a surrogate mother, even if she is not able to say it just yet.”

Kat hugged Des and held her for a while. Eventually, she let her partner go. “I should wash up before we eat. I will see you in the kitchen, my love.”

The other witch smiled and pulled down the raven-haired woman to give her a soft kiss. “See you soon, sweetheart.”

***

Tara stood with Willow in her bathroom as the redhead looked in the mirror and splashed her face with cold water in hopes of reducing the redness on her face as well as the puffiness around her eyes.

“You ok, Willow?”

The emerald-eyed witch nodded. “She told me that I was another daughter she always wanted but was never gifted with… her daughter… Do you realize what this means?”

Tara met her friend’s shining eyes with a soft smile. “You have a family. You belong here, Willow.”

The redhead smiled. “Ok. All of you need to stop making me cry. I look like a mess.”

Willow splashed more water on her face. She took a soft hand towel she had laid down by the sink to dry her face. The redhead finally turned around in Tara’s arms and hugged her.

“I am so happy I met you, Tara. You are such a blessing and have brought so much good into my life.”

The redhead hugged the taller girl and held her close. When she pulled away, Willow considered kissing Tara’s cheek but lost her nerve. Instead, she gave her a smile trying to convey how much she cared for the young woman standing before her. Tara dipped her head before meeting Willow’s eyes with a look that said she understood perfectly.

The two witches were about to exit the bathroom when Willow’s phone pinged. The redhead reached into her pocket and pulled out her phone. The redhead’s face brightened when she saw the notification that the text message was from her father but scowled when she read the message. Willow’s expression changed to a frown after she messaged her reply to the text.

Tara looked at the lithe woman with concern written all over her face. “What’s wrong, Will?”

“My dad is in town and wants to meet up for dinner, which would normally be a great thing, but Sheila is going to be there. Apparently, she remembered my birthday this year and was able to fit me into her oh-so-busy schedule. God fucking forbid that she voluntarily miss one of these conferences or whatever to spend time with me. I don’t want to go, Tare, but I don’t want to hurt dad’s feelings either.”

The blonde nodded. “I’m sorry, Will. I know it sucks, but it is just a few hours and then you can come home.”

“I wish you could go with me. Knowing Sheila, she is going to try to pull some shenanigans.”

Tara frowned. “I wish I could go with you too. What kind of shenanigans?”

“Not the fun kind like Faith pulls. Probably something along the lines of wanting to introduce me to a ‘nice Jewish boy’ again. Why can’t she just do something without ulterior motives? I wish that I could just be done with her already. As much distance as I try to put between us, she still finds a way to meddle in my life. Lately, she has been doing stuff like this; forcing me to see her if I want to see dad. Goddess, forgive me, I hate that woman.”

The blonde gave her best friend a sympathetic look.

“It is ridiculous, isn’t it? I wonder if Sol would pay a visit to Sheila. Now that would make for some hilarity.”

Tara noted the slight absent look that happened when she was talking with Tor or, in this case, Willow was conversing with Solana.

I could, Cari Unum, but only if the woman is stupid enough to step on Odessa and Kathryn’s property. There are things that regular humans do not need to know, and the existence of dragons is one of those things.
Fine, Sol. I guess I can’t incinerate her either. Take away all my fun…
I dare say that Sheila should worry about Odessa rather than me. Now, go eat breakfast. You have much to do today before you must see your father and the tart.

Willow snorted when Sol called Sheila a tart.

“Come now, Tare. Let’s enjoy the day until I must go and see my father and Sheila.”

Tara smiled as Willow led her out of the bathroom and downstairs. When they entered the kitchen, the redhead was greeted by three smiling women and a plate full of French toast and bacon. Willow smiled when she saw every topping known to man laid out on the table. Once she and Tara were seated on the same bench, Faith came over with a large mug of coffee.

“I think I got it right, Red. Let me know if you don’t like it and I will just make you a regular cup.”

Willow took a sip of coffee through the whipped cream and smiled. “You make a mean mocha, Faith. Thank you so much for making it for me.”

The redhead opted to top her French toast with fresh strawberries and strawberry syrup. Tara just put a little maple syrup and some powdered sugar on top. As the witches traded bites and ate their bacon, Des spoke up.

“So, I was thinking that we could go out for a nice dinner tonight instead of staying in. What do you think, Willow?”

The redhead frowned again. “My dad is in town. I have to go to dinner with him and Sheila. I really don’t want to, but it is the only way that I am going to get to see him this time around. I really don’t want to hurt his feelings.”

Kat looked at Des and saw her face darken for a moment before regarding Willow kindly. “That’s ok, I understand. We can just do dinner tomorrow. Sound good?”

Willow was happy that Des was not upset by the change in plans. “Are we still going shopping today? Dad told me that I should dress up.”

Kat looked at Willow kindly. “What restaurant are you going to?”

“Nut Tree Inn or something like that.”

Faith whistled. “That place is nice but rather expensive… like Michelin star rated expensive. Well, at least we know what kind of outfit we are looking for. Don’t worry, Red, we’ll get you something that will knock their socks off.”

“Not sure I want to do that. The restaurant must be my mother’s idea if it is that expensive, and more likely than not, she is going to have a ‘nice Jewish boy’ and his parents along for dinner. Goddess forbid I tempt him too much. I do not need another Joel Bernstein incident happening again.”

Faith and Des had blank looks on their face. Kat leaned over towards Des and gave a short explanation while Tara did the same for Faith.

Faith cracked her knuckles. “Let me know if any guy tries to lay a hand on you, ok?”

Des looked at Willow and locked eyes with her. “And you let me know if your mother tries anything stupid, ok?”

The redhead nodded at both women. “Let’s finish this delicious breakfast and prepare to go shopping. Can we save presents for after dinner? I think I may need some cheering up after all the pompous parading and bullshit…err bull pucky or horse hockey. Yeah, let’s go with that. Who came up with those statements? The origins of slang have always been interesting to me. I should look these two up later….”

Willow was interrupted by the elder witches chuckling at the redhead’s nervous babble. The emerald-eyed witch looked at them with some apprehension and a nervous smile.

Kat smiled. “You’re fine, Willow. Faith, you were going to say something about Willow’s presents?”

Faith grinned. “Yes. We can save all but one of your presents, Red. Let me give you mine, ok?”

When Willow nodded, Faith got up from the table and walked over to where the pile of presents was. She grabbed a card from the top of the pile and walked over to the table.

“Sorry it’s not as personal as the rest of theirs, but I still hope you like it.”

The redhead shot Faith a smile as she opened the card. Willow pocketed the gift card that slipped out before reading the card.

Hey Red,

Thanks for the time, the talk, and for trusting me. Welcome to the family.

Your new friend,

Faith

Willow got up from her seat and walked over to Faith with a big grin on her face. She pulled the raven-haired young woman into a hug.

Willow whispered. “Thank you for listening and being there.”

Faith grinned before ruffling the redhead’s hair and tickling her side. “Ok, enough of the Hallmark crap. Let’s go and cause some good trouble at the mall.”

Willow jumped when Faith tickled her before she looked at Kat and Des. “Are you two going with us?”

Kat smiled. “I think this is more of a young ladies’ trip. We’ll see you for lunch.”

***

Willow looked nervous as she stood outside of Victoria’s Secret with Tara. “I can do this, right?”

The blonde felt a little better knowing that she wasn’t the only one who was nervous about going into the store.

“We can do this, Willow. I’ll try to be brave for you. Can you try to be brave for me?”

The redhead looked over at her best friend and nodded. “I will be brave for you, and strong.”

“Strong like an Amazon?”

Willow smiled softly before pulling Tara into a hug. “Strong like an Amazon.”

The two young women walked inside the store and looked for Faith. They found her with a store associate who was measuring her bust with a cloth measuring tape.

“You’re next after me, Red.”

Willow nodded and watched as the woman finished with Faith. “Looks like you are a 36B, Faith.”

“Cool, no change in that case. Ok, Red. This is Eve, she is super sweet and knows her shit.”

The redhead gave the woman a small smile after putting on her brave face. “What’s your name, love?”

“Willow.”

Eve smiled kindly. “Nice to meet you, Willow. I am going to hand you the end of the measuring tape and have you hold it in the center while I circle around. We are going to do this three times, once for each level of your chest that I need to measure. We’ll get those measurements, do some math, and get you sized, ok?”

The redhead nodded. Eve worked quickly to minimize any discomfort Willow might feel.

“Ok, my dear. Looks like you are a 32A.”

“So tiny…”

Eve shook her head and gave the redhead a genuine smile. “You are perfect as you are. We just need to find the right bra for you to see that.”

Willow smiled and let herself believe the woman’s words for a moment. The redhead walked over to Tara and spoke softly.

“Do you want to try getting sized? You don’t have to, but I’ll be right here if you do.”

Tara bit her lip before nodding. The two witches approached the store associate hand in hand.

Eve gave the blonde a soft smile. “What is your name, dear?”

Willow gave the blonde’s hand a small squeeze to reassure her.

“Tara.”

“What a pretty name you have, Tara. My name is Eve, and I am going to help size you today. Would you like Willow to help me with that?”

The blonde nodded.

Eve looked at Willow. “You do the measuring, and I will do the math. Sound good?”

The redhead nodded and explained to Tara what she was going to do. When she indicated she understood and gave her permission, Willow took the three measurements and reported them to Eve.

“Ok, Tara. Looks like you are a 36C. Feel free to look around. I will be around the store if you have any questions or need help finding something.”

Faith walked over to Tara and hugged her. “I’m so proud of you, T.”

Willow hugged her once Faith let go of her. “I’m proud of you too, Tara. Are you cool hanging out while Faith has me try on some bras?”

Tara gave her friend a lopsided grin and nodded.

“If you are comfortable doing so, would you give me your honest opinion of how my shirt or one of Faith’s tank tops looks on me as I try the different kinds on?”

Tara nodded. “I’ll do my best.”

Faith walked up to the two women. “What’s up? I heard my name.”

“Didn’t you tell me that you brought a tank top for me to wear for this expedition?”

Faith grinned. “Sure did, Red. It’s even low cut too.”

Willow laughed nervously as the raven-haired woman circled her. “What are you doing, Faith?”

“Sizing you up, Red. So, tell me what we are trying to accomplish here? Do you want cleavage? A bit of push-up? Make them look bigger? Or my favorite, all the above?”

The redhead stared. “Can a bra really do those things?”

Faith nodded. “You are going to find out all the wonderful things the right bra can do. So, how about this, I will grab some different ones that can accomplish those things individually as well as a few that can give you the complete package. Sound good?”

Willow nodded.

“Now, the other important question: material. “Does lace agree with you? Do you like soft like satin? Or is cotton more your speed?”

“Lace is a no; too itchy. Satin is always a yes, and cotton depends.”

Faith smiled. “Ok then, let me grab a few and I will meet you over by the dressing rooms.”

Willow and Tara headed towards the dressing rooms. “You ok, Tare?”

The other witch bit her lower lip and looked down. “I don’t know. I’m trying to be. I’ve never put much thought into buying underwear like this before.”

The redhead nodded her understanding. “Me either. I never thought I would ever go into a store like this, and I certainly would never do this or come here alone. I’m really glad you’re here for moral support.”

Tara looked at her best friend and noticed for the first time how nervous Willow looked. On one hand, she felt relieved that she was not the only one who was nervous. On the other hand, she felt bad that Willow was nervous and a bit jumpy.
“I’m happy I can be here for you if nothing else. Can I ask something?”

Willow nodded. “You can ask me anything, Tara.”

“Did something happen? You never seemed very interested in this kind of stuff before.”

Willow looked down. “Can I tell you later? Not that I don’t want to tell you, but it is long and involved. Not the kind of conversation to have here.”

Tara nodded her understanding. “Of course, you can. I’m… I’m thinking about trying some new bras, but I’m not sure. I have no idea what I want a bra to do for me. I don’t like the idea of anyone objectifying me, but at the same time, I wonder what I would look like with a different bra.”

“Take your time until you are sure, one way or the other. We can always come back here some other time if you still aren’t sure by the time we have to leave.”

The blonde nodded. “I’ll give it some more thought then.”

After waiting for a few more minutes, Faith finally approached the witches with an arm full of bras.

“Ok, Red. Reach into my bag and grab the tank. Next, try this one. All it is going to do is give you a bit of push-up. Once you have it on, let me know, and I will tell you some tricks that will get you looking your best. Sound good?”

Willow nodded as she took the bra from Faith as well as the tank top. A minute or so later, Willow spoke.

“Ok Faith, I have it on. What tricks do you have?”

“I know this is going to sound like a prank, but I promise it’s not.”

Faith proceeded to tell the redhead how to adjust herself in the bra. “Ok, now put on the tank, and let us see.”

Willow was blushing when she opened the dressing room door. Faith got up to get a closer look.

“I’ll give my thoughts in a second, but how do you feel?”

“I’m surprised, to be honest. The bra is comfy and definitely pushes up. I can’t give a final opinion until I try the others, I guess.”

Faith nodded. “I agree. T, any opinion?”

The blonde shook her head and looked away. Willow saw the look on her friend’s face and stepped back into the dressing room to put on her t-shirt before coming back out again.

“Tare, are you ok? Faith can take you somewhere else and I can ask Eve for help.”

The blonde shook her head. “I just need a minute.”

Willow knelt in front of her. “Are you sure? I don’t want to make you feel uncomfortable.”

“I… I promised I would help, and I want to because this is important. I just n-need a minute.”

Willow nodded. “Ok, Tare. How about we do it like this: Faith will look and give her opinion. If you feel like you can look, do so, and if you have anything to add, you can. Otherwise, we’ll move on. Sound good?”

Tara nodded. “I think I can do that.”

The redhead leaned forward and gave her best friend a hug before she stood up. “Ok. On to the next then.”

Willow tried on the next two bras and Faith gave her opinion on how well the redhead looked in them.

“Ok, Red, last one. Let’s give it a whirl and see what we can do.”

Willow took a moment to get into the new bra. “Holy shit!”

“Red, you ok?”

Willow put on the tank top and came out of the dressing room.

Faith looked at the redhead. “Holy shit is right.”

Tara looked at the beaming smile she saw on Willow’s face. “Goddess… You look wonderful, Will.”

The redhead grinned. “Faith! I have cleavage! I mean… look at those! Where did they come from?”

The raven-haired young woman smiled and hugged Willow. “I told you, Red. All it takes is the right kind of bra. So, I take it that we have a winner?”

Willow nodded. “Definitely.”

Faith smiled. “Should have known you would pick the same style I use. I’ll let Eve know you want to wear one of them out and have her remove the security tag, cool?”

Willow nodded. “I’ll just uh hang out in here until you bring me one in that case.”

Faith nodded. “Any preference on color?”

The redhead shook her head. “Party on, Red. I’ll be back in a few.”

The raven-haired young woman returned a few minutes later and tossed a bra over the door. Willow caught the bra and put it on along with the tank top.

“Lookin’ good, Red. Just shove your old bra and shirt in my bag and we can get going.

“Umm…”

Willow and Faith turned around when Tara started to speak.

The redhead noticed her best friend’s hesitance. She pulled her into a hug. “Take your time, Tare.”

Tara returned the hug for a minute before letting Willow go. She whispered in the redhead’s ear. The emerald-eyed witch nodded her understanding and went over to Faith.

“Tare wants to try some bras on but isn’t sure where to start.”

Faith nodded and approached the blonde. “T, would you be ok if I got Eve? I think she may have some better ideas for you than I would.”

When Tara nodded, Faith went to find Eve. Willow sat down by Tara.

“When Eve helps find you some bras, you can just try them on in the dressing room, ok? You don’t have to show us. I want you to be comfortable.”

Tara nodded. A few moments later, Eve came over with Faith.

“Hey T, are you ready?”

The blonde nodded.

Eve smiled softly. “Hi, Tara. Faith was telling me that you weren’t really sure what kind of bra you wanted or what you hoped to accomplish with one. So, I’m just going to pick a few out for you to try and we’ll go from there. Sound good?”

The blonde witch nodded again.

“Ok, lovely. I have just a few questions for you regarding the materials. Is lace an option?”

Tara shook her head. “I l-l-like s-satin.”

Eve nodded. “Any color preference?”

The blonde shook her head.

“Ok, I’ll be back in a few.”

Faith knelt in front of Tara while Willow sat beside her. “I am so proud of you for trying, T. If you don’t like any of them, you don’t have to get anything, ok?”

Tara leaned against Willow and felt an arm wrap around her shoulder. The women waited for a few more minutes before Eve returned.

“Ok, my dear. I have a few for you to try on. Give them a whirl and then come out and let me know if there are any that you like.”

The blonde nodded and headed into the dressing room. Willow, Faith, and Eve waited for a solid ten minutes before Tara came out.

Willow stood up first. “I like this one. Hey Faith, come here for a second.”

Faith approached the two women. “I agree with Red. This one looks really nice on you. Eve, what do you think?”

Eve approached. “Is this the blue one?”

Tara gave the woman a small smile. “Yes. It f-feels really n-nice.”

The woman smiled. “It looks nice. This style is one of my favorites. Would you like to try on any others?”

The blonde shook her head.

“Ok, dear. Do you want just the one or a few more?”

“T-Three m-more, please. Can I wear one out too?”

Eve nodded. “Of course. Just give me a few moments to get the security tag removed on one and I’ll be right back.”

The sales associate hurried off to get three more bras and returned when the tag had been removed from the one. Tara swapped the bras out and emerged a few minutes later.

Ten minutes later the three women paid for their purchases and left the store.

“Ok Red, the only thing left is to get you an appropriate outfit for your dinner.”

***

The three young women returned to Des and Kat’s house with quite a few more bags than they had expected to be carrying. Much to Willow's and Tara’s chagrin, Faith insisted that she pay for all the clothing purchases. They ran the bags upstairs before finding the elder witches in the living room watching a movie.

Des looked up. “Have fun, girls?”

Willow smiled. “Lots! I got some pretty amazing things.”

Faith snickered. “That’s one way of putting it.”

Tara swatted the dark woman’s arm.

Des arched an eyebrow.

“I just helped Red discover that she does, indeed, have boobs.”

Kat shot a look over towards her daughter. “How do you feel, Willow?”

“The first words out of my mouth when I saw them in this new bra were ‘Holy Crap’ if that says anything.”

Faith grinned. “Red wouldn’t show us how either of the outfits she bought looks, but I think she is going to look absolutely amazing.”

Kat laughed. “I think that it is a good thing that Willow is keeping an air of mystery. The anticipation won’t kill us.”

Des smiled. “Are you girls hungry or did you eat?”

“I think we could use a snack before we head upstairs to give Red here a makeover.”

“Mama, can we use your bathroom?”

“Of course, sweetheart. Have fun!”

The three young women grabbed some fruit salad and leftovers from the fridge. After they finished eating, they headed upstairs.

“Ok, Red, you have enough time for a bath and then we need to get started to be done by the time your dad gets here. He’s coming at 5:00 PM right?”

Willow nodded. “Tare, can you bring me some PJs in like ten minutes?”

The blonde nodded before heading out the door with Faith.

“I wonder which outfit Red will choose?”

Tara smiled. “Either way, she is going to look amazing.”

Faith grinned. “How are things going for the two of you?”

“Better than I could have hoped for. I wish that I had told her earlier, but I suppose things happen for a reason. Faith, I know you said that today was important for Willow, but you never said why.”

“I think that you should ask Red about that one. Just trust me when I say that today did her a world of good. She is going to need it to deal with that bitca pretending to be her mother.”

Tara giggled. “Bitca… that was always one of my favorites, Faith. I should get Willow her PJs and then we need to set up your makeup in front of mama’s vanity.”

***

Three hours later Willow found herself in front of the two outfits she had bought with this dinner in mind. Willow chose the green satin knee-length dress that gave her the most confidence. She was grateful that Des told her that she could wear anything in her jewelry box. Willow almost chose the pearl necklace but opted for an opal pendant necklace and moonstone earrings. After placing her black heels on, Willow looked in the mirror once more, making sure to adjust her bra and the neckline of her dress. The redhead never thought in a million years that she would ever have the problem of revealing too much in a dress, but here she was. She looked up into the mirror and cracked a grin.

I guess I do clean up pretty well. Faith was right; it is amazing how making a few different choices can make such a change. I better get downstairs.

Willow stood in front of the mirror for another moment, and perhaps for the first time in her life, she felt beautiful. She took a moment to appreciate the hard work Faith put into her makeup and how lustrous Tara made her hair look. Beautiful indeed. Smiling once more, Willow turned and left the room. When she walked downstairs, she was greeted by four of the most important women in her life. For a moment, she wished Buffy was here. Des and Tara gasped while Faith and Kat grinned like Cheshire cats. Des was the first one to step forward and wrap the lithe witch in a hug.

“You look beautiful, Willow. I could not have chosen a single thing better than you did.”

Faith stepped forward next and hugged the redhead. “You look amazing, Willow. Knock ‘em dead for me, ok?”

Willow nodded her head. “Thanks, Faith, for everything.”

The look the redhead gave the raven-haired young woman conveyed all the things that words could not. Faith smiled and moved away.

Kat approached Willow next and enveloped her in a huge hug before spinning her around. Willow laughed until the tall witch stopped.

Kat leaned down and whispered in Willow’s ear. “I hope you feel as beautiful as you look. Truly you are a sight to behold.”
Willow nodded and smiled up at the tall witch. Kat gave the redhead’s shoulder a squeeze before moving to the side.

Tara stood still for a moment longer before she walked up to Willow. The redhead could not recall a time when she had seen her friend look at her with eyes so sincere and a smile that outshone the sun on the hottest day of summer. Tara pulled Willow into a hug and held her tight.

The blonde spoke in a low voice. “Saying that you look beautiful isn’t nearly enough, Willow. You are stunning, and don’t let anyone make you feel otherwise. I wish I could go with you tonight, but I will be with you; all you have to do is think of me.”

Tara gave Willow a lingering kiss on the cheek before letting her go. The redhead blushed and grinned at her best friend.

Willow slipped on the black leather coat that Faith had lent to her for the evening. “I’ll be back as soon as I can.”

The redhead turned and opened the door leaving the four women behind.

***

Des looked at Kat. “Can you grab my tarot deck for me? I have a feeling.”

The tall witch nodded and headed off to the altar room.

The elder blonde looked at Tara. “Honey, can you see if you can talk to Solana? I don’t know why, but I have a really bad feeling about all of this.”

The younger witch nodded and headed towards the altar room. She took three white candles and placed them on the eastern, northern, and western points of the pentagram. Tara then placed a red candle to the south. Once she lit the candles, the blonde sat in the lotus position facing the south.

Sol, can you hear me?

Tara tried calling out to Willow’s Guardian two more times. When she did not receive an answer, she decided to go and pay the dragon a visit. Falling into a trance, Tara projected herself to the astral plane. She saw two divergent paths and headed down the one that felt new and less familiar. She suddenly found herself in the room she and Willow had landed in when visiting Solana for the very first time. Tara went to the door on the south wall and opened it.

The blonde witch announced her presence. “Solana, we need your help.”

Tara approached the dragon who appeared to be resting. She placed a hand on the dragon’s shoulder and gently shook Solana. When the dragon did not respond, Tara went to the stream and drank as much as she could before filling a waterskin for the dragon. Walking back to the center of the room, Tara knelt in front of Solana, opened her mouth, and carefully poured the water down the dragon’s throat. After a few minutes, the fire dragon woke up.

“Tara? What happened?”

“I called out to you, and you didn’t answer. So, I came to visit you, and you would not wake up. I gave you some water from the stream and hoped that it would help.”

“Smart girl. You can return to your realm. I will join you shortly.”

Tara nodded and disappeared with a pop. When she re-entered her body, Tara went into the kitchen to find her mother looking rather concerned.

“Solana?”

“I had to visit her realm and help her wake up. Something happened to her, mama.”

Des furrowed her brow. “Something is not right. We must prepare just in case. I hope that I am overreacting.”

_________________
If we treat people as they ought to be, we help them become what they are capable of becoming.
~Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Flaming is only allowed if you're being fabulously queer and campy <3

Let them have their placebo and you can keep your avocadoes.
Nope but don’t take it personally, I’m indifferent to most music. There’s only so many arrangements a set amount of cords and notes can do. It all sounds the same to me. I had a life time of people jamming their dirty ear buds in my canals asking “do I like it?” Certainly not to the ear bud sharing. Once led to an interesting hour of maths and instrumental jazz while discussing why the ear bud jammer shaved their afro. It was a ginger mop of madness but glorious to all who witnessed it. I’m trying to learn how to use it to effectively enhance various media. Music, not the afro.
Amazing how many think it doesn’t exist, matched with outdated laws, it’s unfortunately no surprise. Men on men too.
Sorry youve had that experience.
Perfectly.
I’ll be sure to let you know with minimal use of expletives.

On with the show!
The issue occurs when Willow starts using Tara as a throw pillow, everyday spending five minutes to move her off the bed by flinging her on the floor. Then groaning while putting her back in the morning. The slap of approval for a job done. Only there as eye candy instead of practical use. Appreciated by no one and everyday questions what’s the point of her? The receiver of a barrage of punches and screams when angered. When all a pillow wants to do is offer support.
The quadratic formula?
Odessa’s daily cinnamon challenge attempt. Faith films it for TikTok.
All is right in the world. The day Kathryn sits on the floor, heads will start spinning 360, projectile vomit, bleeding eyes and satanic verses chanted somehow through the vomit stream.
Depends if you’re going to shove a wax greased ear bud in my vibration cylinder.
Step sis romance. Can’t say I’ve come across a Willow and Tara story in that realm.
S’up step sis who followed me in the bathroom. Okay that was the last one.
She unscrews the salt shaker lid, when it all spills out she then lectures you on why eating too much salt is bad.
Does this make Ira a vicar?
Susie Dent has you covered.
The Body. Is Victoria’s secret, that she took all the underwear from corpses?
Can hold a pair of coconuts too.
Faith might as well work here.
That’s dinner entertainment sorted.
A smile that makes you drenched in your own fluids, blisters the skin and every 5 minutes have to tell it to fuck off.
Kathryn is sitting on the floor!?!

I did kind of check out when it came to the bra shopping. It’s not my scene. Any retail and my mind wanders off. The people who can sit with bags in a changing room have more restraint than me. The significance of it wasn’t lost though. The confidence Willow has gained now being reflected on the outside, along with Tara, all the mental work put in is seeing its results.

There’s also the small action of a kiss on the cheek. Willow wants to but backs off however in the end she gets one from Tara. I like how it wasn’t a big deal either. It didn’t hang on either of their minds all day. I think it shows a confidence in knowing what they mean to each other. It’s not the end of the world if one thing doesn’t happen, there’s time, and neither is going anywhere.

It was a nice lighter chapter after the heaviness of the revelations which came previously. However as ever you leave that little bit at the end of ‘uh oh’ to keep the story and readers intrigue going.

_________________
One Shots - Basement Grotto - Door 25 - "You're My Always" - "Do You Like Cats?"
You don't have to write to contribute to the board, feedback can be its own event - Dubs Festive Advent Challenge - Fic Club - Pens Write A Holiday Story
Existing at some point, maybe - The Justice for Tara series.
*Rides in on a tricycle* Wanna play a game? - Five Minutes of Artistic Integrity - Those Three Little Words - Sassy Synonyms - Aradia's Antonyms

I just realized that I haven't commented on your story before.
I like how close the bonds between Willow and Tara and Willow and Faith have become and that Willow finally gets motherly love (practically double from Kat and Des).
Those five women are like a family now. I just hope that the relationship of Willow and Tara will soon develop more to the romantic side (I want smoochies! ). I'm wondering if they consider themselves as best friends or girlfriends at this stage.

That Tara's father is the "big bad" - an evil sorcerer and not only a wretched human being - surprised me. Then again it is the only possible excuse for the fact that Odessa left Tara in his clutches for 13 -15 years (I'm not sure how old Tara was at the beginning of the story and too lazy to check back) although she had magical power herself and the magical help of Kat and a whole coven to boot . Although I have to admit that this excuse doesn't fully convince me.


So you tried for a year and gave up for the next 12-14 years without ever trying to contact Tara while she wasn't in her fathers presence (f.e. at school)? Although you must have known what horrors Tara must have been suffering every day for all those years?! Sorry, I can't understand that.

I'm also wondering: if Alistair is such a powerful evil sorcerer that he could prevent all those witches from saving Tara, then how on earth was Tara able to escape from him? Why wasn't he able to get her back by (magical) force, teleport into her aunts house, blast the door into pieces or anything?
Maybe he willingly let her escape and just put on a (bad) show of trying to get her back because he for some reason wanted her to unite with Odessa, Kathryn and Willow, having some sinister plans with them?

I have a bad feeling considering the diner between Willow and her parents, suspecting that Sheila might be "more" than just a cold, neglectful mother. Maybe she is somehow in league with Alistair? For me it's a bad sign that Willow's guardian fell into some strange "coma" just at the time Willow left the house.

I'm looking forward to the next chapter.

Dub


It will never happen, and you should know better, Dub.


If we want to talk in academic terms, think more along the lines of gravitational lensing or Redshift as an example of the Doppler Effect.


I hate to be that old fogey that ruins everything, but TikTok does not exist in this universe. Moving on....


Ok, I am not going to sugar-coat this, but these comments bothered me. This conversation between Kathryn and Willow was supposed to serve as a reminder to Willow that she has a place, that she does belong, and that she has an extraordinarily caring woman who views her as a daughter, meaning that she has a surrogate mother who cares about her; which I think I have hammered home are two of the things that Willow wants the most. I don't know why you went to the step-sister realm with this because that is not how it was intended. If Kathryn had expressed this to Willow after she and Tara were together, would you have gone there?


Last I checked, Ira was Jewish, not Catholic....


Victoria may have many secrets, but stealing underwear from corpses is not one of them. Had that quote come from any other episode... @_@


They can also make a useful improvisational slingshot if you ever find yourself in need of one.


Who says that she doesn't or hasn't in the past? Faith is a woman of many talents and perhaps an equal amount of secrets.


One of these days, I am going to write a chapter where they all go to Japan and Kathryn has to sit on the floor and sleep on tatami mats. That may be the only thing that will convince you that the world will not start spinning backwards, or more scarily, stop turning, if Kathryn stops sitting on couches.


I am a bit sad that you checked out during that scene because it really was one of my favorite scenes to write in the story so far. That said, I understand where it isn't and will not be everyone's cup of tea. All that being said, I am glad that the significance wasn't lost. I think that in this upcoming chapter, you will understand why I had to build up and bolster Willow as much as I did in the previous chapter.


Willow did lose her nerve when it came to kissing Tara's cheek, and I think it largely comes from her lack of understanding on her compulsion to do so. That being said, Tara had no idea that Willow wanted to kiss her cheek in the first place. This made it easier to not have things hang in the air or weigh on them. Funny how being completely blind to the true nature of your feelings can come in handy in moments like this. I will say that the moment where Tara kissed Willow's cheek is one that will come back around later.


You will get a few answers regarding Solana, but it will simply cause more questions. Isn't world building fun? I hope you enjoy the next chapter, and as always, thanks for the feedback!

Will's redemption


Hi There! Thank you so much for taking the time to read and leave feedback on this fic. I am most pleased that you are here.


I have had such a fun time writing all of these women and forging bonds between all of them as time has gone on, and it is not something that will end soon. Des definitely cares for Willow a great deal, but is waiting for the right circumstances to lay it all out; things have to get infinitely more interesting before those circumstances come about.


I am not going to lie and tell you that romantic developments between Willow and Tara are right around the corner, but the progress will continue to be steady. I do promise that all the signposts they hit along the way will be satisfying. Trust me, I wish they would see what is staring them in the face and so apparent to everyone else so that I can get on with writing the smoochies, but it would be doing them a disservice given what both of them have been through. I dug a hell of a hole by giving them such horrendous backgrounds, and it is taking a while to get them where they need to be, but it is worth it, I promise. They firmly consider themselves best friends as of right now, and I am having to leave a lot of breadcrumbs so that they eventually pickup the clue stick. That said, if this is how they are when they just consider themselves to be best friends, imagine how they will be when they fall in love


I thought that Tara's father being the big bad would not come as a surprise, but then again, I have been more than a bit cryptic about the big bad in general as well as Alistair. Odessa was regretfully forced to leave Tara with her father when she was 4, and Tara did not escape him until she was 17. When Odessa left, she was not able to cast because Alistair had magically subjugated her so that she literally could not communicate with her guardian, and so her magical ability was gone until Galatéa was able to heal the damage.


You bring up a lot of valid points and really good questions here. I am glad that you are puzzling and thinking while reading this fic, and I hope you continue to do so. What all of this boils down to is how I am telling the story and the fact that there are still a lot of unknowns about Alistair as well as the true threat that these women are facing. All of your questions and the plot holes will be addressed, but it will take time. Just as some food for thought, do you ever wonder why Odessa, Kathryn, and Solana are insistent that Willow and Tara be allowed to arrive at the truth on their own because meddling with their progress basically spells doom? Or why Oracles were involved when Alistair first starting messing with Willow? A lot of other little things serve as breadcrumbs and sign posts, but the picture will not become clear for a while yet. When the answers start coming, things will make a lot more sense and Odessa will not appear to be this horrible mother that left her child behind. I will say that Odessa never imagined that Alistair would subject Tara to the same treatment, on all accounts, that he subjected her to.
As for Sheila, well... you'll just have to read the next chapter to find out about dinner, and a while more for further information.

Again, thank you so much for stopping by and leaving feedback. I hope this next chapter is satisfying in its own way.

_________________
If we treat people as they ought to be, we help them become what they are capable of becoming.
~Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Flaming is only allowed if you're being fabulously queer and campy <3

Author: Bellalocke

Description: Willow's Birthday dinner from hell commences, resulting in Sheila learning the truth about Willow as well as the consequences of insulting the wrong witches

Rating: R for Language and Adult themes.

Ownership: Please do not cross-post this story without talking to me first.

Note: Tara, Willow, and other characters associated with BTVS belong to Joss, ME, and all other affiliates. Please don't sue me I am a poor IT contractor.

Spoilers: Aside from some dialogue here and there, none whatsoever. This fic is completely AU

Feedback: Feed the Feedback Monster

Chapter 18

Solana appeared in the altar room with five water skins. She felt tired, which was quite unusual for her. She moved into the kitchen where she saw the three witches and approached Kat.

“We need to pay a visit to Yggdrasil.”

The tall witch nodded and looked over at her partner and daughter. “We are going to give Gaea a visit. We will be back soon.”

Des nodded before continuing to shuffle her tarot cards.

Kat and Solana left the kitchen and went to the altar room.

“Are you ok, my friend? I’ve never seen you like this.”

Solana smiled. The raven-haired woman was one of the few friends she had from the days of old. She took a long drink from one of the water skins.

“Something is not right. I need to see Yggdrasil and Gaea. She may be aware of something we are not. What I do know is that we need to make sure that Willow does not run into any issues meeting Zephyr as well as the other things we discussed after I became her guardian.”

Kat nodded. “Understood. I will help in whatever way I can.”

Solana smiled down at her friend. “I need you to keep quiet about whatever we find. Not even Odessa can know about this. We will tell her when the time is right and she, as well as Tara and Willow, can do something about it.”

The tall witch nodded. “I hate to keep things from her, but I understand.”

Kat and Solana entered the circle. “Do we just need to astral project or are we doing the whole shebang?”

The dragon smiled. “Whole shebang. Here, drink some water before we go.”

Kat took a drink from the water skin before taking Solana’s hand and concentrating on moving to the physical plane of Yggdrasil. It was rare that Kathryn visited a different realm physically, but if Solana needed to be physically present, then feeling tired afterward was worth it.

***

Solana was in front of Yggdrasil moments later. She was impressed that Kathryn was able to teleport them so close to the World Tree. The fire dragon took a long drink from one of the water skins she was carrying. She knew that she would need to do so often until whatever damage had occurred either to her realm or to her was repaired.

Solana placed her hand on the tree and looked to see if there was any damage to her realm. She noticed that the bridge between her home and Yggdrasil was fine, but the bridge between her home and the human realm was extremely damaged. Looking over at her sister’s realm, the fire dragon noticed that the bridges that would connect Zephyr’s realm to the human realm were very damaged as well. The path between Solana and Zephyr’s realm was damaged, but not to the extent of the others. Looking at the damage, Solana was surprised that she had been able to cross over to the human realm.

Gaea approached the dragon. “Show me what you see.”

Solana nodded and reached out to the goddess.

Gaea held the dragon’s hand so that she might see what Solana saw.

“Can you repair them?”

The dragon nodded. “Yes, but not until I am healed. I wish that you could help, but I need to pull some magic from the tree.”

Gaea nodded. “Make sure you talk to her before you do so.”

Solana nodded before placing both hands on the tree and calling out to the spirit who inhabited it.

The spirit answered Solana’s call and the process began.

The process would take some time, but it would repair the bridges and heal the dragon. Solana was happy the damage to the bridges was repairable and not as extensive as it could have been.

***

Willow was horribly bored. She sat between her father and Sheila. The older redhead was busy talking to the family that she had invited to join them for Willow’s birthday. Of course, the Goldmann family had brought their son, Ephraim, who was a junior attending Cambridge University and majoring in Physics. The group had not even made it through the second course when Willow reached a boiling point. She knew that based on how Sheila was talking to the Goldmann family, the elder redhead intended on setting her up with Ephraim. The redhead looked over to her father whose jaw was clenched, and his hands were balled up so hard that his knuckles were turning white.

Sol are you there?

Willow became concerned when her guardian did not answer her. She decided to wait for a little while longer to see if the dragon wouldn’t answer.

The redhead thought of Tara and tried to reach out to her.

Tara, can you hear me? I can’t reach Solana.

I’m here, Willow. What do you need?

Can you grab Faith and come get me? I know that Sheila is about to pull some bullshit and I am not sure if my dad will be able to take me back home.

We’re on our way, just hang on.

The emerald-eyed witch turned her attention back to the conversation. After the second course was cleared and the third one served, Sheila finally went in for the kill.

“Willow, I think you and Ephraim should go out together on a date. I know of a few places where you could go dancing and have some fun.”

The witch looked across the table at the dark-haired boy. She noticed that he was staring at her chest rather than her face. The final dam within her broke.

“Sheila, you really need to stop doing this. My patience was worn thin, and now it is non-existent. I will not go on any dates with boys that you try to set me up with.”

When the older woman shot the young redhead a withering look, Willow stood up.

“Excuse me.”

The emerald-eyed witch moved her way through the restaurant with Sheila hot on her heels.

Once both women entered the women’s bathroom, Willow’s anger flared. “How dare you try to do this on my birthday! Couldn’t you for once just do something nice and not have ulterior motives? Would it be so horrible for you, me, and dad to just have a nice dinner together where you ask me how I am doing? How my classes are going? If I have made friends here? I am so fucking tired of your bullshit. Did you forget the time Joel Bernstein assaulted me on a study date you set up?”

Sheila tried to speak in an even tone. “Why won’t you give him or any other boy a chance? Why do…”

Willow cut off the elder redhead before she could continue her inquisition. “Why won’t I go on a date with a boy? Here’s the news flash for you, Sheila: I’m a lesbian.”

Sheila stood stock still. “You’re a what now?”

“A lesbian. As in a woman who loves other women, exclusively. I will never have a husband because I don’t want one nor have a need for one. Is any of this starting to sink in?”

The older redhead gave Willow a sharp look. “No daughter of mine will be a lesbian.”

“I feel sorry for her then. Oh, you were referring to me? No. I don’t think of myself as your daughter because you were never my mother. Giving birth to someone does not make you their mother. That is something you have to earn, and you have not come anywhere close to doing so.”

“Does your father…”

Willow nodded. “Of course, dad knows. I told him as soon as I realized. He has shown me nothing but love.”
The elder redhead looked absolutely livid.

The redheaded witch felt Tara reach out to her.

We’re outside when you can get away.

The young witch moved toward the door. “I’m leaving. Have a nice life, Sheila. Don’t even think about coming anywhere near me, you have no place in my life and you never will. I have friends who have shown me more love and consideration in the last three months than you have in the last nineteen years.”

“Get back here, Willow. I am not done with you yet.”

The redhead turned on her heel. “You were done with me the moment that you decided your career was more important than I was, and the moment that you told me that something was wrong with me, and I needed to be fixed. So don’t you fucking dare to condescend to me that I need to do anything you tell me to. You have no control over me anymore. Now, if you don’t mind, I am going home.”

Willow stormed out of the restaurant and hopped in the backseat of Tara’s car. When she looked out the window, the redhead saw Sheila running toward the car. Willow quickly shut her door just before Faith put the pedal to the metal and sped away. Willow noticed that Tara was sitting in the back seat with her. She smiled when she felt the blonde grab her hand and began rubbing small circles on the top of it with her thumb. All three women were quiet on the half-hour drive home. The trio finally arrived back home. When they entered the house, the elder witches along with Solana approached them. The guardian pulled Willow into a hug and held her for a long time. The redhead began to relax when she felt the rumble of Solana’s chest. Before they separated, Solana touched her forehead to Willow’s for a lot longer than she normally did.

Solana was the first to speak. “I am sorry, Cari Unum. I am still trying to figure out why I could hear you but could not answer. Tara is the one who came to get me. Are you ok?”

“As well as can be expected. I’m just glad all of you are here and happy to be home.”

Kat walked up to Willow and pulled the young redhead into a hug. “Are you ok, my darling? What happened?”

“I think we need to sit down in the living room.”

Willow settled in the middle of the couch. Tara sat to her right and Kat sat to her left. Faith, Des, and Solana sat on the large ottoman and listened as Willow recounted the evening. When Tara held her hand and rested her head on the redhead’s shoulder, Willow smiled. The further into the recounting of events the emerald-eyed witch went, the more that Faith’s jaw clenched, and Des’s eyes blazed with fury. Just as Willow finished her story, the doorbell rang.

The redhead stood up. “That might be my dad; let me get it.”

Willow walked over to the door and opened it. Instead of finding her father’s kind eyes, the witch was met with Sheila’s withering glare. The elder redhead grabbed Willow’s wrist and tried to pull her out of the house.

“You are coming with me, right now, Willow.”

Des and Faith rose from the ottoman and were behind the witch in an instant. The raven-haired young woman held on to Willow’s waist and pulled her out of Sheila’s grasp. Odessa took a good look at the elder redhead and allowed her ire and fury to rise to the surface.

“You must be Sheila. My name is Odessa, and you were not invited into my house. You have no business being here, and you certainly have no claim over Willow.”

Sheila glared at the blonde woman before her. “Don’t you dare tell me what I can and cannot do with my daughter.”

The elder redhead noticed Tara standing beside Willow. When she looked down, Sheila saw the two girls holding hands.

“This must be your girlfriend, Willow. I’m surprised that a harlot like yourself would choose such an ugly girl to shack up with. If you insist on being a dy…”

Willow interrupted Sheila’s rant by holding up her hand. “Don’t you fucking dare. You do not get to speak about my best friend like that. She is more beautiful than you could ever possibly hope to be. Now leave! You are not welcome here.”

Kathryn stepped upfront when Willow and Tara moved away from the door. Sheila strained her neck to look up at the tall witch. “My name is Kathryn and Odessa is my partner. Now you get to learn what happens to uninvited guests who dare to use such ugly words in our house.”

The high priestess’ eyes blazed with fury when Sheila still refused to move. She reached out and squeezed Kathryn’s hand. The tall witch looked back and smiled at her partner before focusing on the elder redhead. She conjured up all the feelings that Willow had expressed each time she talked about her past and projected them on Sheila.

Odessa spoke as Kathryn continued the emotional barrage. “Do you feel that, Sheila? That is all the pain your daughter felt throughout her entire childhood. Pain that you instigated or outright ignored. Willow was right in front of you for so long and yet you never saw her be what she has always been: a remarkable, intelligent, talented, and beautiful young lady. Instead, you ignored her, insulted her, or made her feel unsafe. You have no idea what you’ve lost, Sheila, and I doubt you ever will.”

Kathryn ended the barrage of Willow’s pain when Sheila fell to her knees. The tall witch knelt before the elder redhead.

“Look at me, Sheila.”

The older woman looked up as tears streamed down her face. Kathryn almost felt sorry for the woman… almost.

“Willow is like a daughter to me. I love her like she was my own and as much as you should have loved her from the moment she came into the world. How dare you think you have any claim over her when you have no idea who she even is. The pain that you feel now is the regret that you will carry with you for the rest of your life. Regret that you brought upon yourself because you were willfully ignorant, abusive, and distant. Never again, you hear me? So long as I have breath, you will never hurt Willow again.”

Kathryn whispered in Sheila’s ear. “You never wanted her, did you? I can feel that emotion at your core. You never wanted one of the most amazing young women I have ever known. She will never hear that you didn’t want her because I choose to spare her from that anguish and pain. From now on, Willow will only know unconditional love, acceptance, and the true love of a mother. I will give her what you refused to give.”

The tall witch stood up and nodded at her partner.

Odessa’s eyes still blazed with fury. “Get up, Sheila.”

The elder redhead stood up and glared at the high priestess.

The blonde considered the woman who stood defiantly before her.

“You are lucky, Sheila. My partner is the nice one, and she convinced me to let her handle you. Look at Willow for the last time because you will never see her again.”

Sheila looked over at the younger redhead and was taken aback by what she saw. Willow was standing tall, with her shoulders squared, eyes defiant, and a proud smile on her face. She had never seen her daughter looking so proud or confident.

Odessa called the older redhead’s attention for the last time. “Time for you to go, Sheila. If you ever give Willow any trouble, then you get to deal with me, and I am not as nice or forgiving as my partner. Now, leave us; you are banished.”

Everyone in the room felt the ripples of magic laced with the final words the high priestess spoke. Sheila, ignorant of the spell that had just passed through her, turned on her heel and left the house. Faith quietly shut the door while Des and Kat leaned against each other. Solana appeared for the first time since Sheila had shown up. The dragon picked up the tall witch and carried her upstairs to the master bedroom. Faith cradled Des in her arms and followed Solana.

Now that Willow and Tara were finally alone, they took a moment to lean on each other.

“You ok, sweetie?”

Willow nodded. “Tired. Can you help me get to bed?”

Tara nodded and guided her upstairs to her bedroom. Once they were inside the room, the blonde grabbed a long nightshirt and some shorts for herself as well as Willow. When she turned around Tara noticed the redhead was laying on the bed and not moving.

“Do you need some help?”

Willow nodded. “Just help me stand up.”

Tara leaned down and helped Willow into a sitting position before helping her stand up. The redhead wobbled for a moment before steadying herself. Willow turned around and faced the wall with her back to Tara. The lithe witch struggled with getting the zipper down.

“Tare, I’m sorry, but can you get the zipper started for me? The damn thing isn’t cooperating.”

The blonde turned around and carefully pulled down the zipper until the redhead could get a firm grasp on it. Willow finished pulling the zipper down and let the dress fall to the floor along with her new bra. Afterward, she grabbed the long nightshirt and struggled for a moment before she finally got it on in the right direction and fit properly. A few moments later, Willow got her sleeping shorts on. She picked up her dress and turned around to place it on the hanger on the back of the door. When she looked up, Willow saw Tara’s naked back. The redhead quickly turned around and fussed with the dress, picking up imaginary pieces of lint and smoothing out the wrinkles.

“You can turn around, Willow. Sorry I didn’t tell you I was changing.”

“No worries. I didn’t see anything.”

Tara quirked an eyebrow. “Really now?”

“Fine, Tare. I saw your back, and I’m sorry.”

The blonde canted her head for a moment. “I’m not upset. It’s not like you did it on purpose.”

Tara laid down in her bed and was scooting over to make room for Willow when she saw the redhead move towards the other bed.

“Willow…”

The redhead turned around. “I wasn’t sure if…”

“We don’t have to if you don’t want to.”

Willow moved over towards Tara and climbed into bed. “Of course, I want to. I just didn’t want to make you uncomfortable.”

The blonde pulled her close. “I’ll tell you if you do, but I doubt that will ever happen.”

The two women lay together in comfortable silence for a while. Eventually, the bedroom door opened, and Solana popped her head in. “Goodnight, dear ones. I will see you tomorrow.”

Willow smiled. “I love you, Sol.”

Tara smiled softly. “I love you as well.”

The guardian gave both witches a toothy grin before bowing her head and shutting off the light. The blue light of the moon crept into the room and Willow snuggled further into Tara’s arms.

“Willow?”

“Hmmm?”

“Did you mean it?”

“Did I mean what, Tara?”

“When you said that I was beautiful, did you mean it?”

Willow rose her head off Tara’s chest and found her eyes. The redhead gazed intently into her best friend’s azure eyes. “I meant every single word. You are beautiful, and nothing will ever change that.”

The emerald-eyed witch laid her head back down and settled into Tara’s arms. Willow smiled when she felt the blonde run her fingers through her crimson locks.

“You’re beautiful too.”

The words echoed into the night as they reached Willow’s ears a moment before she fell asleep. Tara lay awake after her best friend fell asleep in her arms. The redhead’s words echoed in her head and planted a feeling in the deepest recesses of her mind.

She’s some kind of wonderful.

_________________
If we treat people as they ought to be, we help them become what they are capable of becoming.
~Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Flaming is only allowed if you're being fabulously queer and campy <3

Hmmhmm yup totally *franticly googles terms*
I only see improvement.
I don’t know the origins of it, tarts and vicars are a combo deal of a sort. There are tart and vicar parties where the attendees dress as a tart or a vicar. I think that’s all there is too it but it’s fairly common or at least was, in England.

Clearly I’ve bothered and upset you with my comments for this chapter. I’m sorry. I’ll tone it down, focus on the story/writing instead of my own head plays with it and will not read up on the Targaryen family tree (that’s one crippled tree!) before reading/feedbacking in future. Sorry.

On with the show

Has it already been confirmed that Kathryn is a resurrected witch or has it only been hinted so far and this is continuing that?
Meaning Willow is solo for dinner.
Small detail, not important as it would make sense for Willow to still see the education system in American terms. It would just be known as third year in England. Depending on the course it could be final year. After a point it becomes under grad etc but I’m unclear on all that.
Not solo.

Table kick off, bathroom kick off, coming out, disapproval, get away, dinner story, front door brawl, Willow standing tall, banishment, exhaustion, beautiful. Eventful birthday.


“A true victory is to make your enemy see they were wrong to oppose you in the first place” – Gul Dukat

This is a quote I think about often because in essence I agree with it however it fails to apply the importance of method to get to the victory.
I bring this up because of the magic use to reflect everything Sheila had made Willow feel.

In this scene up to that point it’s been a human display of conflict. then who we are meant to root for as the good guys uses a higher power to get their point across.

I’m not saying the whole front door scene wasn’t poignant and hit a cord however I don’t think it hit as strong a cord as the potential you placed in it.

Willow was firm, she stuck to her words she said to Sheila and went on her way. No magic. That is all the confidence she built up since coming to England and meeting Tara.

Magic may have played a part in growing that strength in Willow however her conflict with her mother is not magical.

Magic may be a binding factor with the Maclay/Lehane/Rosenberg family connection however what has played out the most is their emotional bond.

Making Sheila feel everything Willow felt is a great touch but the method feels like the wrong tools to combat this fight with. It doesn’t feel balanced to me and from what little I understand of the spiritual side of Wicca is that balance is the end goal (probably a better word/phrase to use than that).

I personally think the victory would have felt even grander than it was if the emotional was the method that showed Sheila why she was wrong.

A counter argument to this could be that Sheila had already displayed absolutely no signs of ever listening or taking notice of anything that isn’t what she wants/believes in and so she would take no notice of the bond displayed between Maclay/Lehane/Rosenberg’s.

Also the fact that their magic is tied to their emotions and it was an empath projecting emotions so in essence the method was emotional at its core. However to me it’s like both having a baseball bat but the witches bat has an electrical current running through it.

Feels like using an advantage they didn’t need to use because Willow already had the advantage of being right and innocent.

Sheila is not fleshed out to the extent of all the other characters we know. And to have characters we do know who are meant to be good and look at the grander scale of things, I personally think it was a cruel act and doesn’t paint Kathryn or Odessa in a good light.

Yes it’s using Sheila’s effects of her actions against her however if you have to stoop to your opponents level to win, I don’t think it’s a win.

As I said Sheila is shown as a brick wall and doesn’t listen to what she doesn’t want/believe. I have no reason to believe she has learnt anything and her acts won’t happen to another person. Or that all that pain of Willow she experienced won’t manifest itself in another way making Sheila worse.

Don’t get me wrong, in no way do I like or agree with Sheila, she is very much the villain and wrong however part of me cannot accept that magic is the answer to her. Sheila is intelligent, can reason and take in information. It’s telling someone off in a different language. Sure you know they are angry but you don’t get why. If Sheila doesn’t get why, then what was won here? And on a grander scale if it does get worse and not nulled then magic was used by the good guys to tip the scales more on to evil. Intentional or not.


I’ve skim read the chapter again and it really comes across as Sheila bashing to me. I barely know this character and it’s just a torrent of hate. Yes we have Willows back story just like we do with Tara, Odessa and Alistair however Alistair is being fleshed out more, we are learning new pieces of information.

There’s a chill in the air about Alistair, it doesn’t come across as hate bashing it comes across as a sinister presence and we see him through the effects he’s had on Tara and Odessa. A description of desperation and hopelessness, not pure hatred.

There could be a million and one reasons why Sheila never wanted Willow but instantly it’s just thrown out there that its bad to feel that way. The insistence on Willow being a certain way could have multiple reasons. Does it make her actions right, certainly not. Everyone has a back story even the bad guys. It’s what people do and the majority’s perception of their actions that defines them as good or bad.

In Family there’s a wonderfully thought provoking exchange between Tara and Mr Maclay.

Mr Maclay – You have evil inside you and it will come out.
Tara – It doesn’t feel evil
Mr Maclay – Evil never does.

No one honestly thinks they are the bad guy. Whedon (appreciate the work, not the person) does a great job of this with the villains throughout the show.

The mayor thought he could create a better world, Adam thought he was making a superior race, glory just wanted to go home, the trio felt small, insignificant and thought the world owed them.

You can shift any of these characters intents and change their actions to ones the majority would perceive as good to make them a protagonist.

I don’t feel this with the depiction of Sheila so far.

As a reader, I don’t understand the victory in this scene because I don’t understand what Sheila has lost.

Perhaps she has been starved of familial love and feeling that in seeing the Maclay/Lehane/Rosenbergs would have hit that much harder because is a double loss. Something Sheila could have had even more than just Willow going along with whatever she wanted. And it adds a better victory for Willow as a reader as we know exactly what she has because she worked for it unlike her mother. A mirror of what is and what could have been based on choice.

That’s a lot of words I’m likely going to get in trouble for. In short

- With fantasy it’s important to know if the conflict is magic or human. If magic is used in a human conflict, it often doesn’t end well.
- Even the bad guys need to be fleshed out. They can have sympathetic elements and still be horrible cretins.

This is a good, strong chapter, you’ve done a lot of character work to get to this point. I just feel you can punch this whole chapter to another level by utilising that depth you’ve built. The depth of love and belonging between the Maclay/Lehane/Rosenbergs, not a magic fix. And by fleshing out Shelia more, we could feel that loss, pain and ultimately feel justice for Willow instead of bashing a brick wall.

I’m not trying to be cruel by saying all this, likely coming across as it though. You have laid out fantastic ground work throughout, I just want to help show you ways that could potentially enhance and fully unlock all the potential you have here.

but then again, I don't know diddly and so am just running my mouth.

Sorry.

_________________
One Shots - Basement Grotto - Door 25 - "You're My Always" - "Do You Like Cats?"
You don't have to write to contribute to the board, feedback can be its own event - Dubs Festive Advent Challenge - Fic Club - Pens Write A Holiday Story
Existing at some point, maybe - The Justice for Tara series.
*Rides in on a tricycle* Wanna play a game? - Five Minutes of Artistic Integrity - Those Three Little Words - Sassy Synonyms - Aradia's Antonyms

Sorry, I have been MIA on the commenting front. I am a little concerned about Sol being drained. Hopefully that isn't a sign for more issues to arise. I am glad Willow was able to finally come out to Sheila and put that boundary up between them. I am sure this will not be the final time we see her, but hopefully she stays away for a bit so Willow can heal. The family Willow is building away from that negative influence is nice to see. The Willow/Tara slow burn in this one is slooooow, but necessary with everything each of them have been through. A solid foundation is always best.

_________________
Chance

---------------
"In my world, we have people in chains and we can ride them like ponies." - Vamp Willow

Dub



Gravitational Lensing is a phenomenon that happens when large amounts of matter, like clusters of galaxies, create a gravitational field so large that it acts like a magnifying glass by bending light and allows astronomers to see distant galaxies that would otherwise not be as easily observed.

Redshifting is basically an example of the doppler effect that states that objects that are moving away from us, their light waves are elongated and thus fall into the red end of the electromagnetic spectrum. The doppler effect basically explains the phenomenon of light emitted from objects moving towards or away from the observer shifting to one end or the other of the electromagnetic spectrum.



Kathryn is not resurrected.

From Chapter 9:

So, it is fair to say that Kathryn is reincarnated, as are all powerful witches. For purposes that are important and that will be made clear later on in the story, it is important that the difference between being reincarnated and resurrected be established. It mostly has to do with memories.

I am going to respond to the remainder of your comments without quoting, for the most part, because there is a lot and it is just easier this way.

I think that we are now getting to the portion of the story where there are a lot of plot holes and things that are not necessarily making sense, and it has to do with how I am choosing to tell the story. This is where thought and conjecture come along. I have left breadcrumbs and little hints here and there about some things, but not all of them. So many things in this story are interconnected and in order for one thing to be understood, you need to have more information about other things that are connected to it. This brings me to Sheila.

Sheila is more than she appears to be. Think about it... if Willow storming off from dinner and then coming out to Sheila in the bathroom was a normal occurrence, wherein most parents that have an issue with their child being gay simply cut them out of their life and have nothing to do with them, then why did she bother coming over to Odessa's and try to physically remove Willow from the house? Why has she been trying to control Willow in one way or another for most of her life? Why did she say that something was wrong with Willow that needed to be fixed?

You are assuming that Sheila is a regular run-of-the-mill human who simply neglected her daughter. Admittedly, that is because of how I have presented her so far. That said, I cannot go into further detail about her until you learn more about other people and happenings, and that will take time. The only thing that I will say is that the way in which Odessa and Kathryn dealt with Sheila was necessary, and when you know more about her, I think that you will view this scene a lot differently.

The scene wasn't so much about victory as it was about catharsis. Willow finally got to say her peace to Sheila, and found peace in knowing that Sheila, if only for a few minutes, felt the weight and brunt of the emotions that she has been carrying for years. The scene also led to another happening that will prove to be important in the coming chapters. The happening being one of the things in which a lot of people are invested in.

The only thing that I want you to keep in mind is that the ground work is still being laid. Not all the cards are on the table nor are the chips in play. That said, once the ground work has been fully established, I hope that looking at things in retrospect will cast a new light on certain happenings - the scene with Sheila being one of those things.

Thanks for commenting.

CK_Mako



You've been busy, so I understand, but I will poke you from time to time... unless you want to start giving me feedback in the beta process



I wish that I could tell you that this doesn't have implications for the future, but I also do not want to lie. That said, how and why this happened as well as how Solana healed herself will be explored and explained in the future, though it is a while off just yet. I have to get our girls together first.



Sheila will definitely be back, and it is not going to be for hugs or snuggles either. She plays an interesting role in all of this, and it is going to be a lot of fun exploring her role in all of this.



While no family is perfect, it is only going to continue on, and all of these wonderful women are really going to help Willow come into her power, especially Tara.



What is funny is that when I first started writing this story, I had thought that the entire story was going to be about 30 chapters or so, and that Willow and Tara would be together by now. As you can see, that is not the case. The fact that they have yet to pick up the clue stick on the reality of their feelings for each other is evidence of that. Admittedly, some times that super slow burn drives me nuts, but I agree, it is absolutely necessary. I want to do our girls and their story justice. It will be worth it in the end, as it should since I am taking my sweet time getting there. Not to worry though, They will start understanding soon, and Yule is just around the corner and bound to bring lots of happiness.

Thank you for taking the time to comment.

UPDATE DIRECTLY BELOW

_________________
If we treat people as they ought to be, we help them become what they are capable of becoming.
~Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Flaming is only allowed if you're being fabulously queer and campy <3

Author: Bellalocke

Description: In the aftermath of her confrontation with Sheila, Willow takes some time alone to take stock of what happened. Solana keeps her company so that even if she is alone with her thoughts, Willow is not truly alone. Eventually, Tara finds Willow who speaks her thoughts, tells her more about her past, and ponders the concept of What could have been.

Rating: R for Language and Adult themes.

Ownership: Please do not cross-post this story without talking to me first.

Note: Tara, Willow, and other characters associated with BTVS belong to Joss, ME, and all other affiliates. Please don't sue me I am a poor IT contractor.

Spoilers: Aside from some dialogue here and there, none whatsoever. This fic is completely AU

Feedback: Always welcome and encouraged

Author’s note: The quote ‘It was like being seen after a perpetual darkness… to be heard after a lifetime of silence.’ was written by Lang Leav

Author’s Note 2: Cari Unum is Latin and roughly translates to Dear One. My Latin is a little rusty, so forgive the creative license potentially taken here.

Author's Note 3: I thought that I would note that as of this chapter, this story is at a little over 123k words. This story is far from little and far from over. I just want all of you to know how much I appreciate you reading this story whether you comment or not. I hope you continue to enjoy the story and all that it brings.

Chapter 19

Willow woke up while the pre-dawn light still cast a blue hue in the room that she shared with Tara. Ever since the revelation of Tara’s past, the blonde occupied what felt like every corner of the redhead’s life, and that was a comfort after all of the years that she had spent alone. Willow had gathered her in her arms sometime in the night and held her close to her heart. The smell of Tara’s conditioner, the weight of the blonde’s body, and the feel of her lower leg wrapped around her own were the solution to the question of what was bringing her so much peace in the midst of so much chaos.

Is this what it’s like for Tara? Is this why she has no issue holding me through the night and waking up to me in the morning? Do I bring her peace?

Willow looked down at her friend and smiled as she began to run her fingers through the blonde’s soft tresses.

Such moments of peace and tranquility… please let me know them for the rest of my days. I don’t want to be alone again. I don’t want to be afraid, but how can I not fear certain things? We go, we fly, we come close, and we touch the sky… what happens when it all falls away? Where will I go when this place and these women are no longer my home? Hold my head up high, I must, and face a world I do not trust. That was my cornerstone, my mantra, and my resolve for years, but it no longer can be. I know what it is to not only care deeply but to be cared for, trust completely, and have that trust returned.

The redhead’s attention once again drifted down to her friend. She continued to softly run her fingers through Tara’s hair; the gesture was as much a comfort to her as it was for the blonde.

I can’t go back. I hope I never have to.

Willow lay in bed until the sun began to rise. When the pink light of dawn entered the room, the redhead carefully extricated herself from Tara’s arms and the warm cocoon of blankets. She carefully placed her pillow in her friend’s arms before quietly going to her drawers to grab clothing. Willow didn’t think twice about changing into the sweatpants, long-sleeve shirt, and hoodie in the same room as her sleeping friend.

How many things have changed in such a short period of time? Will I always be her best friend? She will always be mine.
Willow quietly left the bedroom and made her way downstairs. The house was still and completely silent. In many ways, it felt so foreign to not hear someone else moving around, but Willow was fine with the silence this morning. She wanted to be alone with her thoughts…well as alone as she could be these days. The redhead brewed some coffee in the French Press so as not to wake anyone up with the smell of coffee; it was quiet, and she wanted it to remain that way for at least a little while longer.

After Willow had her coffee prepared and poured into a thermos, she put on the heavy boots Faith had lent her and headed outside. She tossed a few logs into the fire pit and lit them before sitting down on the large log to watch the sunrise. When the sun had just begun to peak over the horizon, the emerald-eyed beauty felt a presence settle next to her. A blanket was wrapped around her shoulders when she finally spoke.

“Hey, Sol. I’m surprised you’re back so soon.”

The fire dragon wrapped her scaled arm around her charge. “And miss you opening your presents for your birthday? Never, Cari Unum, never.”

“That is not happening for a few more hours at least. Nobody is awake; it’s just me and the light of a new dawn.”

Solana continued to keep her arm wrapped around her young charge. “All the more reason for me to be here. I can leave you alone with your thoughts, but if you want me to do so, then I am going to physically be here with you. Either way, you are not alone, and now is the very time that you need to be reminded of that. Do not lose yourself to the maelstrom that is your depression because it will not last forever.”

“I have so much to lose now, Sol, and with the way my life has been, I inevitably will lose everything, and it will be my own fault. I can’t lose them… I can lose you…I can’t lose her. I won’t survive it.”

The Guardian gathered the redhead in her arms. “Willow, I mean it when I say that I am bound to you. For the rest of your life… for all your lives, I will be with you, even if it takes a while for us to find each other. No matter what, you will never be alone. You are not going to lose these women you have come to care for so very much. Just as you will never leave them, given the choice, they will not leave you.”

“But what if…”

Solana touched her forehead to Willow’s. “No buts, my dear. They will not leave you and neither will I. You and I both know everything that you have been through over the years including the stuff that you have not told Kathryn. I protect those feelings and those memories because it is not fair for an empath to know they are there and then you feel like you have to share. I will never speak of them, not even with you unless you choose to do so. What you need to understand is that by very virtue of the fact that you are no longer alone with those memories, thoughts, and feelings, they have lost so much of their power. The fear that comes from those events and memories is no longer what it once was, and never will be again. You are not alone, and you never will be again. The years of that being your truth are in the past.”

Solana and Willow sat on the log for a few more minutes until someone else approached. Tara sat down on the other side of Willow. Willow bumped Tara’s shoulder and offered her some coffee.

A soft lopsided smile graced Tara’s face as she accepted the thermos and took a sip. They sat in silence as they continued to watch the sunrise.

Solana slowly stood up. “I forgot something and must return to my realm. I will be back for presents.”
Willow stood up and hugged her guardian. “See you in a bit.”

Solana rumbled her chest and touched her forehead to Willow’s. “Don’t forget what I said, Cari Unum.”

The redhead nodded as the dragon released her before disappearing with a pop.

Willow sat back down and took another sip of coffee. The two witches sat in silence for a little while longer.

Tara spoke softly. “Good morning, Willow.”

The redhead smiled at the soft sound of the blonde’s voice. “Good morning, Tara.”

“I was worried when I woke up alone. I guess I have gotten used to you being with me when I wake up. Are you ok?”

Willow pointed a finger to her head. “Lot going on up here.”

Tara nodded. “Understandable. Did talking with Sol help?”

“Kind of. She reminded me of some things that made it safe for me to be as alone with my thoughts as I can be these days.”

“Do you want to talk about it?”

Willow shook her head.

“Can I hold you then?”

The redhead stood up and dumped water over the dying embers of the fire before offering her hand to the blonde. The two witches headed inside the house.

“Let’s go upstairs, ok?”

Willow nodded and followed Tara through the house. When the two witches reached their shared bedroom, the blonde had Willow enter the room first. Tara placed a glyph on the door before closing and locking it.

“I know that mama and Kat have a habit of stopping by the room after they wake up. I put a glyph on the door requesting privacy. We don’t have to talk, but if you don’t want to have to deal with a lot of people for a while, that is the best way I can help make it happen.”

The two women lay down on Tara’s bed. Willow snuggled in as the blonde wrapped her arms around the redhead and held her tight. The emerald-eyed witch was surprised that Tara did not attempt to talk or ask questions but instead just remained silent and steadfast while she sorted through her thoughts. The redhead felt the most at peace and calm when Tara ran her fingers through her crimson locks.

“Tara?”

“Hmmm?”

“Can you make me a promise?”

“Of course.”

“Can you promise you won’t leave as long as you have the choice?”

Tara locked eyes with Willow. “I promise I won’t leave no matter what happens.”

Willow nodded and lay her head back down. She listened to Tara’s steady heartbeat and let the rhythm calm her nerves.

“I can’t go back, Tara. I can’t go back to being alone now that I know what it is like to belong somewhere. I am so afraid of losing all of this… of losing you, Kat, Des, and even Faith. I need you… I need all of you, and that is so scary.”

Do you need me? Are you afraid of losing me? Will you always be my friend?

“Yes, to all of them, Willow.”

The redhead blushed. “I forgot that that particular spell was still in effect. Guess I must have shouted that one for you to hear it.”

Tara chuckled. “Just a little. We should remember to dispel it as soon as it is no longer needed. I am glad that mom showed us how to do it just in case, but I don’t want to always be linked to your mind like that. We need to remember ourselves as individuals and spells like that take a lot of risks when it comes to that. That said, I am so glad we did that spell last night.”

Willow nodded. “Me too. Especially with what happened to Solana. Last night would have been more of a trainwreck than it was had you not been able to come and save me.”

The witches took a moment to dispel the mental link spell.

“I’m glad that Faith and I could be there for you… on all accounts.”

The redhead looked at Tara with a sheepish smile. “You must have so many questions, Tara.”

“I do, but they can wait until you are ready.”

“Faith really didn’t tell you the reason why she wanted to take me shopping yesterday?”

Tara shook her head. “Nope, and I didn’t ask. You’ll tell me when you are ready, and I can be patient.”

“And if I wanted to tell you now?”

The blonde witch cast down a Mona Lisa smile at her. “I’m all ears, and ready when you are.”

Tara listened intently to Willow and did her best to reserve her reactions until she was done talking. For a long time, all the blonde could do was shake her head. After a few minutes, she reached for her phone.

“What are you doing, Tare?”

“Looking something up…”

“Carpenter’s dream?”

The blonde nodded.

“Don’t bother. I can tell you what it means.”

“I didn’t want to…”

Willow shook her head. “Don’t worry. It doesn’t bother me as much as it used to, especially if it helps give you context so you can understand.”

Tara nodded.

“A carpenter’s dream is ‘flat as a board and easy to nail.’ They mostly used it to describe my chest, but there were a few that tried to insinuate other things.”

Tara shook her head. “I’m so sorry, Willow. I wish I could have been there for you.”

“You’re here for me now, and that is what matters.”

“I don’t understand how anyone could treat you so badly. I mean… you were sexually assaulted, and I bet that Buffy is the only one who knew about it when it happened. You have lived with far too much pain for far too long, and you have shouldered it all by yourself. Never again. You won’t suffer in silence as long as I have anything to say about it.”

Willow couldn’t recall a time when she had seen Tara angry before this moment. “You really mean it, don’t you?”

Tara nodded. “Of course. Would you accept any less for me?”

The redhead shook her head.

“There is your answer then.”

Willow looked up at her. “You know, the same is true for you too. You have so many people; you have me, and you will never be alone again.”

Tara was quiet for a few minutes. The blonde continued to run her fingers through Willow’s hair with one hand while rubbing the redhead’s back with the other.

“Now I understand why Faith wanted to take you shopping yesterday. She wanted to give you your power back.”

“I never thought of it like that.”

Tara considered her words carefully. “Those girls, the horrible things they said, and the people who didn’t stop them, they took your power. I think Faith felt that if you could see yourself as you never had before, maybe you could take some of that power back and see just how beautiful you are. She was right, and you did.”

“Is…is that why you called me what you did?”

Tara nodded.

“I felt those words, Tara. I felt them and that made me believe them. Nobody has ever looked at me the way that you do.”

The azure-eyed witch blushed. “What way is that?”

“Well… you see me, the real me, to begin with. You look at me like I am important, like what I have to say matters, that my feelings matter, and like I don’t have to do anything to deserve to be seen or treated well. You make me feel…human? I don’t know. It’s hard to put into words.”

Tara touched her chin to the top of Willow’s head before continuing to run her fingers through crimson locks. Her expression was pensive as she tried to find the words that could begin to describe so much of what was inside her.
“’It was like being seen after a perpetual darkness… [being] heard after a lifetime of silence.’”

Willow nodded. “Exactly.”

“I’m glad it was you who saw me, and you who heard me. I can’t imagine it being anyone else but you.”

Silence descended over the room and watched over both women for a long time. After such an intense bout of words and emotions, it was a welcome reprieve. Willow broke the silence.

“Tara?”

“Hmmm?”

“Can I hold you for a while?”

The blonde looked down at her and nodded.

Willow moved up to the top of the bed and gathered Tara in her arms. The blonde could feel the lithe witch relax even more than she had been when the redhead started running her fingers through soft golden locks. Both women contented themselves with silence once again. Willow felt herself enter almost a meditative state as she continued to run her fingers through her hair. Tara closed her eyes and felt herself journey to the twilight between wakefulness and sleep. In this in-between state, Tara found herself before Solana and another dragon.

The fire dragon stepped away from the silver-blue scaled dragon. “Tara, what are you doing here?”

“I’m not sure, Sol. Willow and I were talking while lying in bed. She was holding me, and we must have drifted off at some point because when I closed my eyes, I found myself here."

Solana silently swore.

“Tara, I know that you and Willow were talking this morning, but you need to go back to her and get her to talk about what is bothering her.”

The blonde nodded and forced herself awake. Tara looked up and saw the silent tears that were falling from Willow’s face. She reached up and wiped her friend’s tears away.

Tara spoke softly. “Talk to me, Willow. I’m here and I am not going anywhere.”

The redhead held her tight. “It’s stupid. It really is. I shouldn’t be feeling this way… I shouldn’t be sad because it really should not matter.”

“Oh, sweetie. You are not stupid for feeling the way that you do, and of course, it matters. You are valid, and your feelings are too.”

“Can we sit up? I’m having a hard time breathing.”

Tara nodded and moved off the bed for a moment to grab a box of tissues. She also grabbed two bottles of juice she kept stashed in her room. After she handed Willow the box of tissues and the bottle of cran-grape juice, Tara settled back down on the bed and looked at her friend. She waited for the redhead to start.

“She was everything a mother should never be. She didn’t even want me… that much was apparent to me from the time I was ten or so. Dad did his best to shield me from it, but I still knew better. Maybe that is why all I have ever wanted to feel is wanted.”

Tara inclined her head in understanding.

“Now, she’s gone, and I will never have to see her again. Part of me is grateful, but there is this tiny part of me that is sad. I think of her, I look at our relationship, and I see where things were completely screwed from the beginning, where I never stood a chance, but then I see, and I wonder about what could have been. Isn’t that messed up? Most people think about ‘what could have been’ when they think of old lovers or crushes, not their own parent… their own mother.”

Tara remained silent but squeezed Willow’s hands. She knew that the redhead just needed to get this out. The time for reassurances and kind words would come later.

“I hate her. I loathe her for so many things she did over the years, but the last straw is when she called you ugly. She could say whatever she wanted about me, call me whatever she wanted, and I wouldn’t care, but insult you? You are the one person who really gets me, who understands, who sees me like nobody else. There was no way I was going to let her get away with that or let you feel any measure of those horrible words. I never meant anything more in my life than when I defended you. And now, she is gone, and I never have to worry about her trying to insult you ever again. I am relieved, but I am also so sad. Does any of this make sense? I know I have Kat and your mom, but this feels different.”

Tara gave Willow a sad and sympathetic smile. “I cannot imagine being where you are, and I am so sorry. I wish I could take your pain away. Of course, all of this makes sense. Your relationship with Sheila was complicated and not what it should have been. She gave birth to you, whether we like it or not, that counts towards something. I don’t think you are sad about the loss of the actual relationship. I think that you are sad about what could have been…what should have been, and that is totally understandable and ok.”

Willow nodded.

Tara moved forward and rested her back against the headboard of the bed before gathering Willow into her arms. She gently rocked them back and forth as she hummed a tune. The redhead continued to cry until she fell asleep again. Tara kept her in her arms and close to her heart, watching over the lithe witch until the tears leaking from her sleeping eyes finally abated.

What could have been…such a powerful, beautiful, but terrible thought. I hope I never have to look at Willow and ask that question. I hope that any ‘What could have been’ we might have will turn into ‘What will always be.’

_________________
If we treat people as they ought to be, we help them become what they are capable of becoming.
~Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Flaming is only allowed if you're being fabulously queer and campy <3

Response to Chapter 18 replies

Thankyou for explaining, personally I don’t get catharsis from the chapter. I get that there are bread crumbs and ground work but in my opinion if any story is going to have a under story to be revealed as the main story at the end, then the surface level story we get at the time, particularly when its chapter updates, need to make sense on that surface.
You achieved this with Alistair which is why the reveal came as a surprise.

For me the surface of what’s there with the (in my opinion) unbalance of the Maclay/Lehane/Rosenbergs actions towards Sheila doesn’t fit into the provided surface level that makes sense. Family dispute into bam! Magic showdown by two of the most powerful witches, on what the reader sees as a human. The odd murmur to raise suspicion on the Richter scale sure, but that felt like a full earthquake.
The idea that Odessa and Kathryn had so much energy drain is a murmur that there's something more to Shelia but at the same time it felt like they expected it to, which makes no sense as to why they would let Willow go to dinner if they knew Shelia wasn't human. Because of the earthquake the energy drain felt like an aftershock as opposed to a murmur.
It’s because of this I don’t get catharsis coming through. I get a more 'well that escalated' feel which stays prominent through the chapters end.

Shelia following Willow home, did make sense after the bathroom showdown. The way Willow has depicted Shelia is a sense of entitlement, I imagine coming over to England setting up a birthday dinner and being shown up of in front of guests, she must see as worthy in her eyes, would cause a parental reaction to follow a, in her eyes, ungrateful child.

I can only leave feedback to what I see which is a chapter by chapter basis so I often won’t pick up on all the big story stuff until its revealed. Which of course will give me a different perspective. With present reading and no hindsight involved, I have to go with the flow of the story I’m seeing without the revealed layers. I can be and often am completely wrong but my feedback until finished will always be how I feel in the moment and the story so far.

When the story is complete, I will reread it all and give a full overview review.

I’m not arguing with you, I accept and respect this is your story, told your way. I appreciate you always responding to me with the bigger picture of things to come but felt I needed to make it clear that I am going off what’s there for the reader and how that fits into the story the reader has read so far.


Yeah, I mixed up resurrection and reincarnation. Its not quite tomato tomato. Sorry.


On with the show!

Is it meant to be can’t lose you? Possible typo.


What ifs and what could have beens. The situations that torment minds, instead of allowing them to live in the moment, fortunately for Willow, this chapter shows that she has anchors keeping her from the murky waters of the past.

There is a feeling of unease reading Willows parts while sol and Tara offer a contrast in there steadfast stance in this chapter.

It’s her birthday and she will cry if she wants to, luckily for Willow she has Tara’s arms and understanding wrapped around her. A grounding of the turbulence from the previous chapter while still not shying away from the emotional consequence of it either.


Now to wait in anticipation for the unwrapping of presents.

_________________
One Shots - Basement Grotto - Door 25 - "You're My Always" - "Do You Like Cats?"
You don't have to write to contribute to the board, feedback can be its own event - Dubs Festive Advent Challenge - Fic Club - Pens Write A Holiday Story
Existing at some point, maybe - The Justice for Tara series.
*Rides in on a tricycle* Wanna play a game? - Five Minutes of Artistic Integrity - Those Three Little Words - Sassy Synonyms - Aradia's Antonyms

Little Willow growing up and starting to understand adulthood. We all want that security in our world. Unfortunately, people come and go too often and not always by their own hand. Some are forced apart. Hopefully this isn't a foreshadow of what is to come in that sense.



Always. Even through the hard times.



Good words to live by.







Lets hope she keeps that promise.



Finding your person is always the goal.

_________________
Chance

---------------
"In my world, we have people in chains and we can ride them like ponies." - Vamp Willow