Something stirred within her, a deep thought strung beneath a heavy weight. It was far and distant yet it ate at her, growing stronger and striking emotion into her heart. She couldn't feel herself. She felt nothing. No limbs or being, barely existing. But this feeling drove her, she had to wake up. How long she had been gone she did not know but slowly she felt warmth rise beneath her. It was comforting and she could feel her form against it. It fed her. It called to her from the depths of creation.
Willow slowly opened her eyes. She lay still, taking in the brilliant white glow surrounding her and the sweet scent filling her senses.
"Ouchie," she said.
Willow sat up and looked around her. All was white in all directions, above and below. She seemed to sit on nothingness, floating in an expansive void. The witch stood up slowly taking herself in. She wore normal clothes, the ones in fact she was wearing when she did the spell.
"The spell," she said "Oh no."
Willow knew then that something had gone wrong; she knew she was lost but could not tell where. She closed her eyes with composure and reached out her magics, sensing her surroundings and trying to realise where she was between dimensions and planes. Her brow furrowed as she looked beyond herself, the borders of the realm not ending, seeming to stretch for eternity. Willow knew she was not dead though, in heaven or hell, she knew because she had ripped souls out of both. It didn't feel familiar. It didn't feel right.
"Bugger," she said.
The witch tried to think of a solution, think of her last dealt steps and what could have gone wrong. She had not stood long when she heard a voice.
"Willow," it said.
The voice was soft and loving and to Willow it brought an unknown sadness.
"Hello?" said Willow.
A warm, gentle wind picked up behind her, casting her burgundy hair aloft in the breeze.
"Willow," said the voice.
The witch froze. The voice was closer now, more formed and real then before. She felt a presence behind her. Willow turned to see nothingness, but on the edge of site a shape formed. Like solid wind it came closer, furling silk trailing in its wake. Willow was confused till it spoke to her again and this time the voice was real.
"Willow," it said.
The being was before her, long blonde hair falling about the angelic milk face, its body clothed in silver-white silk trailing softly to bare creamy feet.
"T-Tara," said Willow.
Willow stood still, not daring to move. She would not be fooled if this was some trick of The First. She would end existence if The First dared to take the shape of her first true love. But this was different, it felt too real. Slowly Willow reached a quivering hand to the cheek of the girl before her, not daring to pull away. Like paused time she leant closer until her hand touched soft, warm skin.
Willow's heart broke. There was no denying then that she was not dead, the emotion she felt was so human. It ripped through her like a million knives and a million kisses all at once. Silent tears streamed her face. Willow held her hand there and it was met by the girl's as she moved her skin against the witch, remembering her touch.
"It's me," said Tara.
Her deep blue eyes met Willow's and they were one again.
"Oh baby," said Willow.
She slid down in a heap, crying uncontrollably at Tara's feet.
"It's okay honey," said Tara "I'm here."
She too sat down beside Willow and embraced her, laying the witch's ear to her chest, allowing her to feel her heart beat and her steady breaths. She lifted Willow's chin and they took each other in. Slowly Tara leant forward and left a sweet kiss on Willow's scarlet lips.
"I've missed you," said Tara.
For a time Willow could do nothing but weep, gently rocking in the arms of Tara.
"What happened?" said Willow "Where am I?"
Tara smiled gently at the witch and answered as best she could.
"You are not meant to be here," she said "The spell you were performing would have banished The First, reversed the magics allowing it to be present and allowing it physical sway in the world. But something happened and until now we didn't know what."
"We," said Willow "Who's we?"
"The Powers That Be," said Tara "This laid beyond their hand. Even they didn't see it coming. Some power entered our dimension, for what purpose we don't know seeing it was not to do with The First."
"How do you know?" said Willow "Getting rid of me is-,"
Willow broke off. Tara did not meet her eyes.
"What is it?" said Willow "Tara?"
"Buffy's gone too," said Tara "And Faith and the vampires, oh and Andrew too."
"What would someone want with Andrew?" said Willow.
"We assume that bit had to be a mistake," said Tara "The point is this came from above The Powers, something they did not see, and that's impossible. They have rule over all, existing in the uppermost of realms. There is nothing beyond them."
"So what then?" said Willow "Why are you here? Not like I'm complaining."
"I was sent as your guide," said Tara "We don't have the power to wake you up or even to find Buffy. This is up to you, you have to find yourself. It took all their strength to locate you and send me here. Once I've done my task I have to go back."
"Back?" said Willow "You're leaving me again?"
"Honey," said Tara "I never left you. But we have no time. The First is soon to open the Hellmouth and we can't stop it."
Tara stood up and Willow followed. Tara took the witch's hands in her own and closed her eyes.
"I'm here to ground you," said Tara "So we don't lose you again. Concentrate, think back, open your mind and release your power."
Willow closed her eyes and once again reached out with her magics. This time however it felt different. The space around her became her thought, like a compass looking through her past.
Dark shapes began to form around the two, indistinguishable from the others and shapeless in themselves.
"Find it," said Tara "Find the spot."
Willow searched within herself till something flashed across her thought, causing her to stumble. If not for Tara she would have fallen.
"That was it," said Tara "Find it again Willow."
The witch focussed all her strength on seeing the shape once more.
"Hurry," said Tara "I'm losing my grip."
Willow's eyes opened and they glowed black, so dark that the surrounding light was lost in them. Her essence burned and her magics engulfed them. The shape reappeared and the white of the distance began to melt. The glow turned to green trees and endless forest. Willow felt water on her face and hard ground beneath her feet. The air had turned bitterly cold and she shook. He powers wanned and she felt Tara slip from her grasp.
"You will find your answers here," a voice came, and when the witch looked up Tara was gone.
Willow stood on blades of thick wet grass. The rain that was falling soaked deep into her. She stood still with her arms outreached, longing for the feel of Tara once more.
Willow felt different here, sick and constricted, like she was caged where no one could reach her. She began to walk under the towering oaks when the smell of fire met her. Through the sheets of opaque rain and strands of drenched hair she saw in the distance a small wooden cabin, wisps of grey- black smoke issuing from the stack on the thatched roof.
"Why not," she said.
Willow walked warily through the sentinelled trunks, her eyes and ears sharp, yet she met no foe. The wind blew strong from the North and as she reached the gnarled wooden door she was sheltered slightly form the torrent. No windows there were on this side of the structure so little there was she could do to see the occupants. Slowly she reached out toward the rusted brass handle when the door of its own accord opened slightly to a touch of her shaking finger.
"Come," said a voice from within, cold and commanding, black and empty as death.
With one last look into the washed landscape behind, Willow pushed open the door and walked in.
"We'll cover the causeway and the gate form above," said Theoden "No army has ever breached the Deeping wall."
Gimli gave an indignant growl beside Faith.
"This is no rabble of mindless Orcs," he said "These are Uruk-hai. There armour is thick and their shields broad."
Theoden looked angered by Gimli's remark.
"I have fought many wars Master Dwarf," he said "I know how to defend my own keep."
Theoden walked inside the gates of Helm's Deep leaving Legolas, Gimli and Faith staring off into the coming darkness.
"Nice try Gim," said Faith "But some people just don't listen to us smarter people."
The Dwarf chuckled.
"Aye, Faith," he said "And my axe will have something to say too before this day is done."
The Deep was alive with frantic hurrying, all trying to fortify the defences before the attack came. The last reports of the King's riders told that the army would reach their walls some time shortly after nightfall. The last of the peoples of the Riddermark riding for the safety of the Deep had been overtaken by the enemy and slaughtered.
People on the wall went this way and that, the stores and peoples flowing back into the caves while all who were able were called out to fight. Elves and men stood side by side, silent sentinels at arms, on the wall and over the Deep. With Gandalf away, but a fraction remained at their defence. Five hundred from Rivendell, two hundred and fifty riders from the greater Eored and three hundred men and strong lads conscripted from the peoples of Edoras.
"This isn't right," said Faith "These are kids and old men, not warriors."
"There are many decisions a king must make that do not seem right," said Legolas "But would you rather them fight for Lord and land Faith, or have them fall cowering in the caves?"
Legolas caught a muttered "Elves" slip from Faith's lips yet said nothing.
As the three walked further into the dell a wave of soldiers met them, going in the opposite direction, and they were separated. In the commotion of spears and armour Faith felt a hand close about her wrist and she was drawn off into a quiet alcove, sheltered if only for a moment from the worries of that world.
Soft lips met her own and a strong form pushed against the Slayer. Faith was overcome and submitted, wanting everlasting the man before her.
"What do you want Eomer?" she said.
"Only to have you one last time Lady Faith, ere my fall."
Eomer stepped back from her and leant against the cool stone of the hidden inlet. He looked sorrowful yet not afraid, a man of stature worthy of the halls of the Lords of the West.
"It won't be your fall," said Faith "Anyway, I'm here to protect you."
Eomer gave a small and seldom smile. Faith kissed him gently once more, her hands resting upon his chest and looked into his deep brown eyes.
"How are you?" she said "How are the men?"
Eomer's smile faded as quickly as it had come.
"Their courage hangs by a thread," he said "The king looks to me to lead them, and I would do it. If this is to be our end then I would have them make such an end as to be worthy of remembrance. Though there is little hope Faith, we have not the numbers to achieve victory through strength of arms."
"What about others?" said Faith "Isn't there anyone else that can help?"
Eomer shook his head, a distasteful look on his face.
"The old alliances are dead. Gondor ruled by a failing hand and Elves and Dwarves in far lands occupied with their own designs. We are alone in this fight."
"Not alone," said Faith.
She kissed him passionately and as before they were lost in time and memory. Fear and doubt melted away and in that moment naught was there but a feeling of safety, a knowing of the future, of a life without war and despair. Faith drew away.
"I believe in you Eomer," she said "We won't fall today, or tomorrow, hell I'm already twenty four. That's a Slayer record."
Forgetting her humour Faith looked at him in all seriousness.
"I'm not going to leave you. Not like this," she said.
Eomer pressed his lips to her hand renewed with strength and victorious determination.
"My Lady," he said.
Eomer left the cove and Faith shortly followed.
The day grew to be shadowed and cold. Distant clouds from the South blew in on biting winds and were torn across the sky as day began to fail. The wall and Hornburg covering the causeway were to be the two places of strength, Elven bows and the spears of men clashing at the waves of the hellish Orc armour.
Faith had entered into the caves and sought for Buffy. She found the blonde Slayer with Aragorn and the Evenstar, now healed of all her hurts.
"Hey," said Faith "Look who's better."
"Indeed," said Arwen "Healing comes swift under the hands of the Elessar."
Buffy shot a hidden smile to Faith.
"How are you?" she said "Horsemen not giving you any trouble?"
"No more then I can handle," said Faith.
A look of concern came over Aragorn.
"Faith," he said "You mean to say that men of the Rohirrim are treating you badly?"
"No," said a voice "She means she's banging Eomer."
Faith turned and all looked up to see a shrieking Andrew flying through the air.
"Don't listen to that," said Faith "He has... Issues."
A hurrying Gamling came up to those gathered, a silent worry upon him.
"King Theoden calls for you all. He awaits you in his chambers."
The four walked toward the entrance of the caves as Gamling went away on other business. Faith stepped over the wincing form of Andrew without looking down. Buffy however stopped and lifted him from the floor. He began to talk but Buffy cut him off.
"No sympathy," she said "You brought that on yourself mister."
Gimli and Legolas awaited them at the cave mouth, the Dwarf lazily resting against his axe.
"C'mon Gim," said Faith "And don't forget your axes, we'll be needing them."
The Slayer put her arm around him and led him off casting a dark look back at the following Andrew.
Haldir and Eomer were already with Theoden when the group entered, the last purples of sunset glowing in the outer air. Before the door was shut Gamling and Eowyn had also entered. Theoden for a moment looked lost, yet within him grew a grim determination and a strength for his people. He could not let the Deep fall lest the armies of the enemy continue further South and West and defile utterly the world of men.
"The hour draws closer," he said "When all will come to darkness and like stinging flies we will be bitten in the black. I will not suffer them to enter my gates or lay waste to my fair land."
Before him on the worn wooden table Theoden rolled out a large sheath of parchment. On its yellowing surface was a sketching of the Deep with all its ways marked in red ink.
"The forces will come without relief. My thought is that they will concentrate on both the wall and the causeway gates. Ladders we can expect and hooks and crossbows. It has been their way in the past and I do not doubt it now. Our best defence is to spread our forces evenly along the wall and up the Hornburg. Gamling, I would have you on the wall yet you shall be stationed at the caves lest the enemy break out ranks. With you shall be pikemen and the most hardy of the Elves to hold the line if retreat is sounded."
Theoden moved his hands over the map showing those gathered where their stations would be.
"Eomer, you shall be at my side above the gate. As my highest Captain you shall take lead if I fall. For you six," Theoden looked toward Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli, Buffy, Faith and Haldir "I would ask you to hold the stations at the wall. You are all of strong heart and courage and the men will follow your word. The stone shall be shaken beneath your feet and you are all strong and nimble and will not fail in stead of the attack."
"What of me?" said Arwen "What would you have me do?"
Theoden looked at the Elf thinking how best to respond.
"It is not within my power or want to command you either way, my Lady," he said "If you seek to fight there is little I can do to sway you."
"I would stand beside Aragorn and his friends," said Arwen.
"Yeah," said Faith "You can help Andrew load his crossbow."
Andrew stumbled, looking horrified at the king.
"I did not expect you to fight Andrew," said Theoden "But to choose as you will."
"I-," said Andrew.
"He jumped at the chance," said Faith "He wants to help."
"So be it," said Theoden.
Andrew looked close to fainting as Faith sidled up beside him. No more then a whisper she spoke to him.
"Wish you hadda kept your mouth shut now huh?... Have fun."
They made to leave but another spoke.
"What of me?" said Eowyn.
"You have my decision," said Theoden "You are to stay in the caves."
Buffy had heard the conversation of Theoden and his niece yet Faith was shocked to hear the news.
"What?" she said "Eowyn's not fighting?"
"This does not concern you Faith," said Theoden.
"Like hell it doesn't," said Faith "Eowyn, you want to be on the wall right?"
Eowyn gave a small, almost nonexistent nod in fear of the king's anger.
"Right," said Faith "So if Eowyn doesn't, neither do I."
All turned to Faith.
"Why didn't I think of that?" said Buffy "Same for me."
"My Ladies," said Theoden "You can't-,"
"You wanted us here to fight," said Faith.
Her anger was growing and she would not be dissuaded now.
"If we fight, Eowyn fights. That's the deal."
Theoden's expression was mingled with fear and grief and fury. He knew well that was against them and there was little hope of victory. He knew Faith and Buffy were mighty warriors for they had proven this many times now. He knew this but he could not let his sister-daughter fall. All were silent for the others feared the king's answer. Theoden rested his palms on the table, his face looking sternly at the map before him. Slowly he raised his eyes and looked only at Faith.
"Very well," he said "She may fight."
The Slayers, Eowyn and Andrew were in the armoury as night began to fall about them. Thick, dark clouds had covered the pale sky and distant cries could be heard from the carrion starting to circle over the field before the Deep. Buffy and Faith had found small shirts of mail with thick leather arm and shoulder shielding. They were burnt with the emblem of Rohan and told the story of many wars in days long past.
"I do not know what to say," said Eowyn "I cannot thank you enough for what you have done for me."
"No sweat," said Faith "I will make sure you go to battle against thirty thousand UberOrcs any time you want."
The growing shadow had made Faith realise the extent of her actions. The king's thought, Eomer's words about their fall, Faith questioned what she had done.
"Do not doubt yourself now," said Eowyn "If death comes I shall have died with honour. I thank you for my chance to stand at your side."
Their thought was broken as a loud crash sounded beside them. Andrew was attempting to pull a shirt of mail over his head when he fell backwards into a wrack of swords and spears.
"Ouchie," he said.
He struggled to move but was stuck.
"Little help," he said.
Buffy put down her bow and picked Andrew up pulling the steel down over his head.
"I'm beginning to regret 'this' decision," said Buffy "Do you think he really should fight?"
Andrew was trying to secure his belt while searching the pile of fallen arms for a helmet. He could not hear their conversation.
"He ain't leaving now," said Faith "We need all the 'help' we can get."
Andrew was now whining as he had placed a helmet on his head that was too small and had become stuck.
"Bring on the Uruk-hai," said Faith.
A dead silence had fallen over the walls of the Deep. The soldiers had taken their positions and waited with anxious thought. At the centre of the wall stood Aragorn, his cold grey eyes looking deep out into the surrounding darkness. Buffy, Arwen, Haldir and Eowyn stood beside him and a little further along the stone were Legolas, Faith, Gimli and cowering behind them, Andrew.
"You could have picked a better spot," said Gimli.
The stone wall obscured his vision and he could not jump to see over it.
"You're not missing much Gim," said Faith "Just Black."
"Would you like me to find you a box?" said Legolas.
The three of them laughed yet Legolas and Faith faltered. A streak of silver lightening had creased the sky casting all the planes about with dim light. An icy rain had started to fall and neither Faith nor Legolas spoke.
"What is it?" said Gimli "What's happening out there?"
Andrew fell to the ground huddling behind the stone. Gimli looked at him, unaware of what was coming.
"Oh crap," said Andrew.
Before the Deep, on the edge of sight a red light had flickered. The Uruk- hai were sweeping into the planes around the left arm of the mountainous gate. Slowly the flames had become more numerous and in a short time the ground was alight as if a lake of fire was spilling into the coomb. The rain that had increased in strength did not quench the flames. The fuelled torches of the black army continued forward and all the mountains about were shod with a dark radiance. A sound and a tremble had met those assembled on the Deep. Orc horns and war cries cut through the air, the armoured feet of the thirty thousand troops shaking the ground beneath them. Buffy and Faith looked to each other. Faith was not one for fear but it was threatening to take her. Heavy steps came behind them and Aragorn stood beside the three. Andrew was still cowering, covering his ears and humming the Smurf's theme song.
"Courage my friends," said Aragorn "Courage is all we can ask."
"Your friends are with you, Aragorn," said Legolas.
"Yes," said Gimli "Let's hope they last the night."
The enemy were nearing the wall. The torches they bore brought into sight their evil faces and crooked weapons.
"Get up Andrew," said Faith.
He hadn't moved and Faith kicked him. He removed his fingers from his ears with a cringe and looked at her.
"Get up!" said Faith "Or I'll be the one that makes sure you permanently stay down."
Andrew slowly got to his knees and peered over the top of the stone. He was visibly shaking yet trying not to show his fear. The army had stopped and one clear, dark, call rang through the night. With terrible sound the Uruk- hai began to beat their spears upon the ground, the Orcs and Goblins doing the same, clashing sword and axe to shield and armour.
Faith suddenly smiled. Her fear melted away and she knew what was coming. The battle would soon be waged. A call came down the wall and all along it drew forth their bows and fitted them with shafts. Andrew had been given a crossbow by Buffy. She had felt that he was less likely to hurt someone with that then a traditional bow. Faith drew back the string of hers and took careful aim through the torrents. Andrew was still fitting his arrow when the crossbow was set off and the dart sped into the Orcish ranks. The wound was deep of one of the Uruk-hai and Andrew shouted.
"Ha!" he said "I got him, did you see that?"
"DARTHO!" [Hold] said Aragorn.
He did not want the wall to be the hand that moved first.
"Andrew you doink," said Faith "Put it down or I'll cut your hands off."
The damage had been done. The warriors cried in their evil language, hate and destruction kindled even more furiously in their dark hearts. A captain had screamed his orders and the army ran forth.
Theoden stood above the causeway, determination spawned anew in his mind. He looked at the coming waves and spoke to himself.
"So it begins."
A small well lit room opened up before Willow's eyes. The walls and floor were sparsely furnished, a withered wooden table and a few chairs stood in one corner. The witch's eyes were drawn to the far wall where a fierce fire burned behind the grate.
"Sit down witch," said a voice.
In front of the flames in a dark crafted chair sat a figure dressed in black robes. A shadowed hood was drawn over the hunched form and Willow could make out nothing about it except its harsh, dead voice and a strange power flowing steadily from it.
"I told you to sit," it said again.
"Standing's good thanks," said Willow.
She would not so easily be told by the form what to do. An odd veil was on her that brought doubt to her mind.
"Who are you?" said Willow.
"Questions, questions, you must always ask," said the figure "I shall answer when I deem fit and as much as I am willing to allow you to know."
A fire burned within the witch. She would not be treated as weak and inferior.
"Hell no," said Willow "You'll tell me now."
The figure stood and drew back its hood. Willow stepped back, pushed against the door in shock. The figure grew to fill the room, black light flowing from its being. Its face was terrible, scarred and bloody, a rotted white flesh surrounded by tangled black hair.
"Do not think to challenge me witch," it said "Your coming was unsought and you have served your purpose. Oppose me and I shall cast upon you untold horror, that you shall be utterly destroyed in the wake of my wrath."
"Blah, blah, blah," said Willow.
Her eyes burned black and her power matched that of the one standing before her.
"I have seen and felt horror you will never know," she said "I was fear, I was terror, now sit your ass back down and answer me or I'll be the one doing the unleashing."
The form faltered before her and shrunk back to the small figure. The appearance was now different, a young man with a friendly face of ancient wisdom. He smiled at her and sat back at the fire.
"Power runs from you Willow," he said "I was right to choose you."
"Choose me?" said Willow "Who are you?"
The man looked at her, a smile creasing his face.
"My name is Melkor," he said "Or Morgoth. Each is I as I am to it. I have many names besides."
Willow did not know the name. She left the soaked wood behind her and moved closer to the man.
"Melkor," she said "I haven't heard of you."
A slight smile came on Melkor.
"And for good reason, my Lady," he said "But there is time for that later. We are not bound by such contrivances as time here. It slips away and yet I do not feel it. A thousand years may pass and I shall not have aged a day. But please, sit by the warmth with me, you are cold and wet and would do well for it."
Willow took a few more steps toward Melkor. He had changed from the beast she had seen moments before. He had a fair face and presence. She could see deep into him though, beneath the layers of flesh and kind words.
"Maybe I should be asking what you are," said Willow "What had the power to bring me here, to do all this."
Melkor laughed.
"Come now willow, still caught up in your own grandeur? I told you before your purpose was served. You were my facilitator, a means to an end. You are not who I wanted."
Willow froze.
"What?" she said "But who else?... Buffy... Faith."
"Oh goodness no," said Melkor.
He laughed again.
"Still you look only to what is in front of your eyes. Soul for blood, strength for life, years for torment."
"The vampires," said Willow "You wanted Angel and Spike?"
Melkor was not smiling anymore. His face was grim and he looked upon Willow with empty eyes.
"They were to serve a purpose like you... But I fear..."
Melkor's voice drew away into a latent stammer, his face turning back to the fire.
Willow's mind burned as the flames in the hearth. This Melkor, this being had not told of what he knew. Willow grew inpatient.
"With all disrespect," she said "I don't have time for your babble. I need to get back to my friends, problems with The First and all."
"So caught up in such small matters," Melkor said to himself "The First is to I as man to god, beyond reckoning of mind, a child in the days when I was already old."
Willow took a step closer to Melkor. He knew The First, there was more he could answer.
"What did you do?" said Willow "I know I am not dead, and you used me to get Angel and Spike, but where are they?"
"Your mind races," said Melkor "Streams with thought and emotion, human sickness given life and power. You strive to know, find a reason for your petty existence, the drops of pain and grief filling you, swelling within, tearing you apart until you burst. You were warned not to ask, you don't need to know, served your purpose, means to an end."
Willow had had enough. Her friends she knew at least were taken, for what she knew not. All Willow knew was that Melkor would answer. The witch placed a strong hand on his shoulder and turned him to look at her.
"NO!" said Melkor.
Their eyes met and Willow sped from that room. She was torn apart and moved through existence, scattered this way and that, unable to steady herself.
A figure was before her, a figure of untold power, beyond the pettiness of good and evil, to look upon it was to be alive. It raised its hand and such music went up as Willow had never heard, unable to be written, unable to be recorded, it was the song of creation. Yet in this hour as the chords and verses swum around her the bite of hate filled her and she stood against the figure. She rose up and challenged it and was met by a sound greater still. Again she challenged it and threw her enemy down only to be diminished by the final note it struck, so terribly beautiful that she failed as she stood before him.
A world was made and she went to it, greatest of all there. She lived in darkness, beneath the stars which never before she had seen. She was bitten again by jealous wrath growing steadily inside, yet she needed to wait.
The children awoke, coming forth from the earth, spreading throughout the world. The land was given light, earth and heaven, and Willow was moved by the splendour. She would end it. She threw down the great lanterns, casting the world again into shadow and she was satisfied. But murmurs grew, some would seek to challenge her, but she would not allow it.
Sun and moon were created and the people spread forth growing in wisdom and craft, in skill and power. Willow had to act. Some were taken and changed, given over to her evilness, mutilated and destroyed, a ruined and powerful race. But still she was challenged. She would move against them.
The mountains loomed up as they swept along the shore, the Western isle and home to those of power. The eagles swept about them giving call to their master, yet they were slow. Willow ate, sent forth her minion to feed on the light. The trees were cast down, the land in ruin, and she fled.
Time passed and she was satisfied, satisfied to brood in her deep dark and look upon her world. She fed the evil growing in her caves and gave birth to Worms and other foul creatures. She was happy when word reached her that three gems of unfathomed beauty were made. She needed them.
Willow cried out as seven wounds stung her, never to heal, bitten by a child before she could extinguish him. But she was happy, she had her prize.
The alliances formed. The battle was waged. Fire and shadow sped from her. Scale and blood, wing and spear, all her forces were at war.
Her power broke and she fell. Hands of power grasped her, tightened over her wrists and throat. Horns called and she was judged, for all her evil. Her time was ended.
The sky opened and Willow was cast out, through cloud and darkness into a space of nothingness. Blackness closed in about her. She could not breathe. She was suffocating, clawing at her mouth, needing air, but bound tightly by the void. Her eyes shadowed, she cried out yet no one heard, her mind and heart stopping. She knew no more.
The chill rain cut Willow's face with every drop. Slowly the witch opened her eyes and saw above her massed grey clouds spilling forth onto her. The scent of pine brought her focus back and she sat up, sliding in the wet grass. Her vision was blurred slightly and she took long steadying breaths to assure herself that she still could. It hadn't been some dream, the constricted weight was still upon her and the wooden cabin swam back into view, its cold wooden door standing ajar in welcome. Willow stood and walked to the door, this time thrusting it open with horrific purpose. Melkor still sat in his chair, his dark eyes reflecting the flicker of the fire.
"I know what you are," said Willow "I know what you did. Do you honestly think I could help? Reverse what was done?"
"Things done do not always reveal our true intent, Willow," said Melkor "You should know this."
"Then tell me," said Willow "Tell me why you did what you did. What do you want?"
Willow was nearly in tears of confusion and pain, wrapt up in the designs of a higher power. Melkor turned to Willow. He held out his hand motioning for her to take it.
"I will show you," he said.
The first of thousands had given call into the night, drawing their crooked weapons and charging the wall. Their metal feet sped through sinking mud as the rivers grew in the heat of the storm.
"Tangado halad!" [Prepare to fire] shouted Aragorn.
He drew from his side an ancient sword, crafted with skill and marked by those of power. Anduril burned in his hand, shining in the wicked night like a shining torch of flame. The orcs drew close and Buffy steadied her aim.
"Their armour is weak at the neck and under the arm," said Arwen.
Eowyn and Buffy nodded and smiled silently to themselves. They were yards from the wall. The strike would be swift.
"Leithio i philinn!" [Release the arrows] roared Aragorn.
The archers fired their shafts and they cut through the smoky light. The first wave of Orcs fell into the mud only to be trampled by ten more in their place from behind. Another call came down the wall, the order for a volley of arrows to bite at the enemy. Again all the troops along the wall fired as did the hundreds in the Deep below. Andrew screamed as arrows flew past his head into the Orcish ranks.
"A lake, candy canes, bunnies," he said.
"Fire Andrew," said Legolas "You must fight."
The Slayer and the Elf shot dart after dart into the oncoming lines, each shaft lost in the enemy's flesh, the ruined body falling into darkness. The storm intensified spewing iced rain and lightening onto the filed and wall. The aim of the Elves and the Rohirrik people were true yet for each Uruk- hai to fall more would speed through. The forward troops would reach the wall. Their black hands were upon them.
Goblins and Orcs were at the wall carrying crossbows before them. They fired up into the cold torrents above striking down Elf and man alike. Andrew cowered behind the wall as the black arrows sped toward them. He sat there shaking as an Elf fell into his lap, pierced in the face and throat by three arrows. The Elf's blood sprayed over him and flowed into his clothes as his dead eyes surveyed Andrew's terrified face. Andrew pushed the dead form away only to be brought back from the deafening heartbeat sounding in his ears by a cry from Faith. The Slayer had stumbled backward, dropping her bow as a shaft struck her arm. By chance her mail saved her from the cruel metal sting as the dart sped off, spinning from the bent link. A dull thud sounded from beneath them and Aragorn called into the night.
"Pendraid!" [Ladders]
More then twenty wooden ladders were sunk deep into the dark mud and raised against the wall.
"Send them to me," said Gimli "Come on!"
He held his axe before him, overflowing with the excitement of battle. Faith beside him drew her axe as well and sounded a good luck chink on his blade.
"Don't let the Elf beat you, Gim," she said.
The cry came from Aragorn to draw swords and each on the wall did so as the Orcish ladders hit the uppermost stones. The Uruk-hai spilled forth onto the wall, jagged long swords slashing into the Elvish armour. Gimli had struck down two and gave call to Legolas.
"I'm on seventeen," said Legolas.
"Ha!" said Gimli "I'll have no pointy ear outscoring me."
His axe blazed once more through the chill droplets and another Orc was thrown down in Death. As the battle continued on the uppermost rungs, forms fair and evil falling, a steady march of Uruk shields cantered up the causeway. Buffy saw the advancing tide and called to Aragorn who signalled the Elves to fire their shots into the weak sides of the ranks. Like the battle on the field another body took the place of one that fell. Theoden gave call and rocks and spears fell into the enemy, no use against the thick wrought metal. The Orcs attacked all along the wall and the defences were stretched. More of the Elves and men failed, allowing more of the Uruks to flood into the Deep.
Faith and Gimli stood back to back, each of their axes carving its way through dark flesh and deep armour.
"Eighteen," said Gimli "Nineteen... Twenty."
A voice cut over his calls and Faith turned to meet it. Two goblins were bearing down on Andrew. He had fallen on his back and was crawling through the din of battle looking for escape. Faith reached for her bow and fitted a shaft. The arrow streaked white through the air biting deep into one of the Goblin's throats. It gave a gurgled shriek before falling down into the mountain stream, the water of which had burst its banks. Her axe then spun out of her hand as she threw it with all her strength tearing the mail from the other Goblin and spilling its offal over the washed stone. The Slayer ran to the body drawing forth her weapon and pulling Andrew to his feet. All he would say was "I have an inner ear problem."
Andrew turned to look out upon the field, not a break in the evil beings could he see until they strangely parted beneath his feet and a brilliant light was spawned atop a pewter torch. The battle waged around him, sword and knife falling and biting, but he was oblivious to all else.
"I didn't know Orcs had Olympic Games," he said.
Aragorn who was now nearby looked into the cheering swarm. A masked Uruk sped at the wall, the torch spitting forth magical light.
"Legolas," he yelled.
Legolas shot at the Uruk, causing it to stumble but it did not fall.
"DAGO HON," [Kill him] roared Aragorn "DAGO HON!!!"
Legolas fired again yet it was too late. Time seemed to slow as Faith grabbed Andrew and threw him along the wall.
"Run," she screamed, but all was done.
The mountain erupted in smoke and fire and a hail of stone. Warriors were cast into the night and looked upon the day no more. The Deeping Wall had been broken, the blast sounding throughout the glade and mountains and shaking the earth beneath their feet. Faith and Aragorn had been caught on the edges of the blast and were thrown down into the lower level of the fortress, their unconscious forms lying still as the dust and rock sprayed down upon them. Buffy was shaken by the explosion and watched as Slayer and king once again looked as though lost.
"Haldir," she said "Hold the wall."
Buffy leapt from the wall into the swelling mud as the Uruks and Goblins swept in through the fault in the stone. As she ran to the fallen they stirred and stood, looking at the charging beasts. Buffy looked at Faith.
"Time for the Slayers to kick some ass."
The made to move yet a call sounded from atop the wall. Gimli had dived from the wall into the black ranks, knocking Andrew after him. The Dwarf fell amongst the spears, striking down warriors that stood against him. Andrew screamed and Aragorn called to the Elves massing in defence.
"Hado i philinn!!!" [Fire the arrows]
A spray of darts shot through the shadow and struck the front runners dead.
"Herio!!!" [Charge] yelled Aragorn.
They all sped to meet their enemy, Faith and Buffy tearing through those that stood against them. Faith pulled Gimli from the broken stream and Buffy lifted Andrew. The Orcs had surrounded them with spear and fork, their green eyes glowing with hate. Faith impaled two Orcs and struck head from body as Legolas came into the fold firing his last arrows in protection of his friends. A cry came from above the gate as the Uruks advanced with a wooden ram. Theoden called for the troops to brace the gate as the first blow sounded upon its sturdy form.
The wall was failing. The enemy was too many and the defences were tiring.
"Fall back!" yelled Theoden from the gate "Fall back to the keep."
Slowly the troops fell away, Aragorn and the others holding the back line. The ammunition of the Slayers was spent and they fought with sword and axe, not only for themselves but for those that took shelter from the storm in the caves. Arwen, Eowyn and Haldir were still on the wall as the Uruk forces came again in greater strike. They were outnumbered and growing weak and slow with exhaustion. Buffy saw it coming, an Uruk-hai drawing on Haldir from behind. A goblin shot at Andrew and as his face screwed up fearing death, no strike came. Buffy had caught the shaft inches from his face and fitted it to her own bow. She fired the shot and the Uruk upon Haldir fell dead at the Elf's feet. He nodded in gratitude to the Slayer and fell back with the rest of the fighters.
Faith, Aragorn and Gimli had run to the gate to aid Eomer and Theoden. As the Third Captain looked upon the Slayer he gave a grateful smile. The gate had been broken and the men could not sure up the door.
"How long do you need?" said Aragorn.
Theoden looked at him, a resolve to fight on against the unbeatable tide rising in his eyes.
"As long as you can give me," he said.
Aragorn took Faith and Gimli through a secret door which led out onto the far Western edge of the Deep. The three looked around the crevice and saw hundreds of Orc fighters at the door trying to break its defence.
"C'mon," said Gimli "We cam take 'em."
Aragorn looked at the Dwarf with comical concern.
"It's a long way," he said.
Gimli looked slightly nervous and Faith wondered why.
"Toss me," said Gimli.
Faith broke out in hysterical laughter only to be silenced by a look from Gimli.
"I cannot make the distance," he said "You'll have to toss me."
Aragorn reached out and took hold of the Dwarf's mail. Gimli stopped him. He looked at Faith and Aragorn.
"Don't tell the Elf."
"Not a word," they said.
Aragorn threw the Dwarf onto the causeway and he and the Slayer followed.
Buffy was now on the edge of the Hornburg with Legolas, Eowyn, Haldir and Arwen. She looked out into the steady darkness and saw that the Uruks were moving great machines nearer to the wall. The Orcs fired and mass hooks bit into the stone. The Goblins heaved on the thick rope and vast lattices and gnarled wood rose against the higher walls of the Deep. The enemy was closing. Naught could be done.
The Rohirrik men made the door as strong as they could and Theoden yelled to Aragorn to get off the causeway. Legolas threw a rope to the three and Buffy and Eowyn helped to pull them to the safety of the upper level. Eomer ran to them, sick concern on his face.
"We cannot hold them for long," he said "We must fall back, come."
He pressed a horn to his lips and signalled the retreat into the inner halls of the Hornburg.
The defences broke and all the forces were sweeping forth, further into the Deep. The rearguard fought vainly and fell swiftly as the thought of victory came to the minds of the evil Orcs. The defenders fortified the king's chamber blocking the door against the forward attack. Theoden looked lost in himself, destroyed by what had happened.
"What can men do against such reckless hate?" he said.
Buffy and Faith were at the chamber door needing all their strength to keep it upon its hinges. The strokes from the Orcs were swift and deadly. The wood was beginning to bend and splinter. The defences would fall.
From a window a fresh breeze met the face of Aragorn. Warm and welcoming from the North it brought upon it the first purples of morning.
"This will not be our end but his," he said.
Theoden looked up at the kingly figure. This ranger from the North believed the Rohirrik people would win through. Theoden stood with masterful resolve.
"Yes," he said "The horn of Helm Hammer Hand shall sound in the Deep, one last time."
Theoden sent for his horses and Gimli was given charge to sound the battle call.
"We ride out and meet them," said Theoden "For death and glory. For Rohan and its people."
The door was broken and the armoured claws of the Uruks reached through to find their prey. Buffy and Faith ran from the door and leapt upon their steeds. As the door gave way and shattered in spines and dust Theoden sounded the attack to the horn of Helm's Deep.
"Forth Eorlingas!!!"
The sound of the call was terrible. Its note rang through the mountain and the Deep. It sang along the broken stream and out into the swarming brood. The horses charged and they were not hindered. So afraid was their enemy that they threw their weapons upon the ground and begged for their lives. The note struck again as the riders swept down the causeway, cleaving their path into the greater force. Sword and axe stung in the bright morning rays and no Uruk escaped the hand of their conquerors.
Not all were done by the horn though. Some stood against it and encircled Theoden and his riders. Their escape seemed slight until a brilliant gleam came into the East. A single rider of blinding radiance stood atop the gravelled hill that led down into the coomb.
"Gandalf," Theoden sighed.
Elvish horns like thunder sounded as Gandalf's forces sped down into the battle. Elf and man charged the black ranks before a sun of untold beauty. The Orcs cried as they were set upon, dart and spear taking the life of those that remained. Gandalf and Elrond led their riders into the heart of the Uruks, their dark armour unable to stop the bite of the Elvish metal. The Elf and Wizard met Theoden in the centre of battle as Erkenbrand took his Eored towards Helm's Gate to stop any Orcs fleeing to the North.
"It seems the White Rider comes when he is most needed," said Theoden.
"Need is great of all," said Gandalf and his face was grim "Men may still fall in this world but it is not this day. This day we fight."
The wizard lifted his staff high into the morning breeze and from it shone a deathly glow. The Uruks around Gandalf fell dead and others were struck dumb with fear and blindness. The remaining strength of Rohan and Imladris closed in, the steaming remains of the Orc filth melting into the warm rays of morning. The final clashes of steel on bone rang the stinking air and were blown into memory towards the South. Faith jumped from her horse, landing in the stagnant ruin of the defeated enemy.
"Nice workout," she said "Pity about the mess."
Buffy joined her and the Slayers cast victorious looks around the waste. Their eyes met the Deep where the rearguard spilled onto the field to rejoice in their saviour. A lone figure sprinted down the causeway, shrieking to all that would listen.
"I killed one, I killed one," said Andrew.
His fear had left him and in the bright day he was consumed with his own self satisfaction.
"Did you see it?" he said looking at each Slayer "Did you see me kill it?"
Buffy and Faith exchanged nonplussed looks.
"You fell on it," said Faith "We should be congratulating your ass."
Andrew had not registered what Faith had said. His vision was locked on something over her shoulder and it seemed to Faith that Andrew looked as though he wanted to cry. Two small figures were now dismounting from Gandalf and Elrond's horses. Andrew walked over to them and questioned the wizard.
"Oh," he said "Did you find these children all alone on your ride? That's so sad."
"What?!" said Merry.
"Children?" said Pippin "I'm older then you are."
Andrew snorted.
"C'mon," he said "You're what? Seven? Eight?"
"I'm twenty nine," said Pippin.
Andrew stopped short.
"But you're so little," he said.
"Why thankyou," said Merry "We might not have noticed if you weren't so kind as to point it out, my Lord."
"Come now," said Gandalf "This is a time for joy. The battle is done and Rohan is safe for now. The shadow has lifted from its people, at least for a moment."
Gandalf, Elrond and Theoden went into happy conversation with Gimli and Legolas debating who had won their contest. A tall figure came behind Faith and she turned to see Eomer, his face grim yet his eyes alive with happiness.
"I'll just go over here," said Buffy.
The Slayer and Captain were left alone and he spoke softly to her.
"We made it through this Faith," he said "I tasted your warmth and it led me through the darkness. I thank you."
Faith looked up into his grey eyes and an uncommon pit opened in her stomach. Her heart beat faster and her cheeks flushed slightly. What was this feeling that grew within her? It was distant and surreal, a feeling that she had only glimpsed fragments of during her life. Would it take this man, Eomer, to open and complete that void she had longed for? He took her hand and pressed it to his lips.
"I must take my leave now," he said "Until tonight."
He made to move but Faith stopped him. The Slayer rested against the cold armour concealing Eomer and met him in a slow passionate kiss. His warm tongue and breath met her soft lips and Faith fought to stay on her feet. Her eyes fluttered as her senses were lost in his taste and smell. They broke apart and both took a steadying gasp. Faith cleared her throat.
"T-tonight, yeah, that sounds okay."
Eomer turned and made his way back towards the Deep, his hand shielding his eyes against the gleam from the fallen reek. Buffy returned to Faith's side and whispered two words into her ear.
"Jealous... Much."
Arwen, Haldir and Eowyn passed Eomer at the gate and met the king and his companions.
"Atar," [Father] said Arwen.
"Arwen," cried Elrond "You have risen."
"And kicked ass," added Buffy.
Another short blonde figure loomed nervously in the background. Buffy caught sight of this and spoke again.
"And I might add, so did Eowyn."
Eowyn flushed and looked at the ground. Theoden stepped up to her and lifted the shield maiden's chin so that her eyes met his.
"I was wrong to doubt you sister-daughter," said Theoden "You have proven your courage and won renown. I am proud."
Silent tears streamed from her eyes and her face broke into an elated smile. Gandalf now spoke to those gathered and re-sheathed his sword.
"There are still those in the caves who this day belongs to also."
Theoden set the warriors to task, dealing to them the role of clearing the debris of battle.
As the Captains moved to the caves, passing the ruined remains of their dark foe Faith questioned Gimli as to the winner of his and Legolas' contest.
"Well Gim," she said "Hope you didn't let me down."
Gimli laughed heartily.
"The Dwarf wins always Faith," said Gimli "Forty three to his forty two."
The Dwarf fingered lovingly at his notched axe.
"There was one left as they sped off. He fired his little stick but my axe met if first."
Legolas rolled his eyes.
"I'll never hear the end of it," he said.
They met the dark cave entrance where thick wood had been hastily erected to block the entrance. Gamling and five of his men that remained sat exhausted on the stone floor.
"They do not call me Gamling the old for naught," said Gamling "Yet now I am glad to see you all well."
He stood and bowed to Theoden.
"The people will be mighty glad to see our health," he said.
Theoden ordered the barrier torn down and this was done with haste.
The group entered into the shadowed entrance and complete silence met him. No murmur of voice or clatter of feet could be heard. Their pace led them swiftly into the depths of the caves where the Rohirrik peoples and sheltered Elves stayed. The fires and torches in the inner chambers were extinguished and Gandalf smiled happily.
"Perhaps a little light," he said.
He cracked his staff on the stone and the cave was bathed in colour. As they continued into the depths of the ancient making a strange metallic scent filled the air. It was stale and stagnant and each gathered could taste its sweet bitterness on their tongue. Gandalf's eyes opened wide and he cast his light over the shelf in front of them onto the last lower chamber. The group staggered.
The golden stone beneath them was washed scarlet red. A thick river of congealing blood trickled consistently from each of the slaughtered forms before them.
"No!" shrieked Arwen.
The others however could not find words to break the silence. Disbelief and horror choked their voices, the chill air lost in their throat. They simply stood there looking at each form, child and She-Elf, old and sick, each utterly destroyed, leaking their life and soul on to the cutting rock.
Gandalf was first to move and the others were swift to follow. They drew their weapons but spoke not. They rushed on, sliding in the thick blood spilled from babies and wives. Heads and limbs were torn from body, the destroyed carcases torn with knife and sword and struck with horrific darts. Eyes and Flesh were torn from faces and naked forms lay splayed on the floor, defiled and bleeding. All were dead.
They had stopped at the very end of the cave where soft light was cast from a hidden door onto the backs of two menacing shapes. Their faces were hidden as they crouched over a mother and her daughter, the girl still held, clenched tightly in the maternal arms.
"FREDA!!!" screamed Andrew.
The faces rose and the weapons of the Slayers clattered to the ground. They looked upon the demonic faces, washed with blood and contorted with perverted joy.
"Don't you just hate it when you're interrupted at meal times," said the brunette vampire.
"Angel," whispered Buffy.
Her heart exploded. What the fuck was going on.
"Not quite luv," said Spike "But this one's better... Less moody."
The two rose and laughed horribly. Angelus held Freda by the hair and lifted her dead form to lick the sweet nectar from the wounds in her neck. He cast her aside like a stained pebble and his face relaxed into its normal state.
"Don't mean to eat and run," he said.
"Where are our manners?" said Spike.
Angelus looked deep into the Slayers and spoke again.
"But this place is beginning to bore me and unless there are more, wet, warm, tasty little girls to be had, we'll take our leave."
Legolas at least had finally found himself and with fierce rage he fired at Angelus. The shaft streaked through the damp death and Angelus caught it with ease.
"Please," he said "An arrow. I ask you?"
He crushed it in his had and sped through the door into the mountain paths.
"Hooroo," said Spike and threw Freda's mother atop her.
All stood there with no thought in their mind. Andrew fell to his knees and shook uncontrollably. He was beyond tears. The mountain door creaked loudly in the breeze and was the only sound that rent the dead silence. The world of men was ended.
Willow gasped and opened her eyes taking several steps backward from the form sitting before her. She was stealing horrified gasps. What she saw wasn't real; it was some terrible glamour that Melkor had made. The witch could not speak. She had once been filled with evil, she had been a slave to its allure, but what she saw and who had caused it she could not comprehend.
"You," she said "You did this."
Melkor sat silent in his chair, a small smile lining his face. Was he happy with his work or did it go deeper? Did he rejoice in Willow's torture?
"TELL ME!!!" screamed Willow.
The house shook and Melkor stood, casting off his cloak.
"Don't be a fool." he said "You saw what happened, you saw inside me. I was cast out, into this," he looked around the room with disgust "Existence."
"But where are they? Where is that place? Why them?" said Willow.
She was crying with rage and sorrow. She wanted them back. Melkor looked on her with unpitying hate.
"They are on the world of Arda, a place beyond the existence of your realms, created by the god of gods. You saw me cast out witch."
Melkor was now pacing the cabin, his voice echoing an eternity of desire from loneliness, a deluded, psychotic tone.
"You felt it choking you, this place, this void. I would do anything to be rid of it."
"But why them?" said Willow.
Her voice was a terrible steadiness.
"Because they are the champions!" roared Melkor "Warriors simply stained with a soul. I have been patient and watchful. I saw them in their true state. I saw the darkness lingering beneath their shells. I wanted the demons, and to lack of chance I was given three by products, one of which I unfortunately look upon."
"How did you do it?" said Willow.
"Don't you listen silly girl?" said Melkor "I used you like the whore you are. I used you and the Slayers to claim my prize. I left my Captain in that world and he grew strong, strong enough to challenge the men that would stand against him. But too I foresaw the coming of a man of stature, one that would lead to his fall. I would not lose my chance to return. I did what I had to do; I had sent to him champions to stem the tide of good that would threaten to wash over him."
Melkor stopped and looked at the ground, his hands twisting with worry and agitation, speaking now quietly to himself more then to the witch.
"I fear though they have even now grown beyond him. They deceive him and work for their own purpose. They will not follow him."
"So that's all?' said Willow "You want to go back? You tore apart reality so that you could brood in a bigger hole?"
"I tire of this," said Melkor "Your questions are insufferable."
"You're going to answer my questions," said Willow.
"You are a fool if you believe that," said Melkor.
Willow burned and she rose up her hands. Her eyes glowed as night and the deathly steam rose from her mouth. The cabin trembled atop the quaking ground. Melkor stood with fear. The cabin exploded in a haze of ash and smoke, wood and stone thrown into the forest as the form of Melkor flashed into the undergrowth, streaking through the rain, thrown by Willow's magics. The witch glided out through the torrents, the smoking ruin in flames behind her, the tips of her boots trailing in the mud as she swept into the storm.
Melkor stood and waved a hand before him. Willow was struck down into the grassy filth only to rise up again.
"Do not challenge me girl," shouted Melkor through the icy sheets "You face a being you know naught of."
"I've kicked god's asses before," said Willow "One more is no biggie."
"And to what purpose?" said Melkor "In my defeat what do you achieve?"
"You know you're right," said Willow "First you tell me how to reverse it, then I kill you."
Melkor laughed. His laugh was terrible and it brought a distant fear upon the witch.
"You think all this can be changed?" said Melkor "Some resolve to the chaos?"
Willow stopped. What was he saying? Like answer to her thought he spoke over the howling winds.
"When I was thrown down I used what power I had to create this place. A pitiful dwelling away from the nothingness of the void. It took all my strength and power to do it and as it formed I was ended. I could do naught but sit and wait, cursed to look upon a world I could not touch. But I knew Sauron was there. I knew he would grow strong and when he held that world he would seek to return me. As I told you I foresaw his fall and looked out with my being and found you and your world. I felt your power even from here and knew it was you that would bring my resolve. By fate or destiny my champions were there also and a means to allow me to work my magics. I sat here for a thousand years regaining my strength so that it could be done."
Willow was struck dumb, she could not believe this.
"And so I cast my spell," said Melkor "I chose my time and fed my essence into you, and what I wished was done. The souls were ripped from the vampires, destroyed utterly by the magics, but the spell was erratic and the Slayers and the strange one were sent also. The magics were not intended for them or you and so you were affected in different ways. They, it seems, were simply transported. You in fact should not have lived. The demons were sent to aid him, not to seek their own rule. The vampire is lowly, I thought it easily tamed."
"You never met Angelus properly then," said Willow.
She walked toward Melkor through the gathering water, her hair soaked and her clothes stuck to her small frame.
"This was not my intent," said Melkor.
"Then reverse it," said Willow "Put things right."
Melkor walked out from the trees and gave a dry, harsh laugh.
"They sent your lover to find resolve. To seek redemption that their own designs are fulfilled. It is such irony that things we powers desire never truly work in our favour."
Willow then realised what Melkor was saying.
"That's not true," said Willow "You can put it right."
"My dear girl," said Melkor "I am diminished."
Willow raised her hand again and Melkor was thrown down.
"Truly hope is an ill conceived emotion with little realisation," he said over the deafening sway of the oaks and pines.
"Put it back!" screamed Willow "Now! End it. Send us back!"
"Even if I wanted to I could not witch," said Melkor "The time, power, circumstance, they no longer exist. It was an instant that cannot be recreated or reversed."
His tone was defeated. He lifted his arm and his cabin reformed. Melkor walked exhaustedly back into its warmth. Willow stood with her eyes downcast as Melkor closed the door behind him. She stood in the harsh winds as the storm raged around her. She stood there as stone, damned to an eternity of nothingness. Willow fell to her knees, the cold water splashing around her form. She covered her face to stem the tears, and to her self she whispered silent words, the horrible realisation.
"We can't go back."
There it is guys, the end of this Fic Waits to hear the collective cheers. For those that think this is a bad ending never fear, there is going to be a sequel, it is just that I have had other Fics eating at me to be written and I want to get them done before this one finishes. I want to thank everyone for taking the time to read it and a special thanks to my reviewers, especially Anoron who inspired me to start Ficking.
I would love to know how you think it flowed and if the ending was good enough with the explanation of happenings and all.
Thank you all once again.
ยง - sonofgloin
