Saving Missmith Part 1
CHAPTER ONE
Come on, Tara, don't be that way.
What way? What way am I being?
You know. You're acting all funny and all, like you're jealous or something.
What? I'm jealous of someone who died 2000 years ago? Don't be ridiculous.
Then why won't you help Buffy and me?
Oh, so now it's Buffy AND you?
I told you that! She'd like to see them just as much as I would. She and Xena were getting to be pretty good friends.
As good as you and that Gabrielle were?
I knew it! You ARE jealous!
Don't be ridiculous.
Then prove it!
How? What do you want me to do?
I told you, help me cast a spell so that Buffy and I can go visit Xena and Gabrielle, or so they can come here.
Willow, it's not that easy! Even if I knew one, I don't know if we could make it work right. Passing through time isn't anything to be careless with. One wrong word or a mispronunciation could make it not work. Or even worse, it could send someone anywhere. Or should I say any when? And they could be lost forever. We'd never even know where they ended up.
Well, couldn't we practice first? Like on a mouse, or a pinecone, or something? How about a pizza?
Willow, don't you understand? You don't just practice something like that! Either you can do spell, and you cast it, or you don't do it at all. And anyway, if we were going to cast a practice spell, and I only said IF, then we'd have to have some way of knowing if the pizza, or whatever, actually went when and where we wanted it to. We'd need a Seeing Spell.
What's a Seeing Spell? I never heard of that one.
Well, obviously. There are hundreds, maybe even thousands of spells. Even I don't know how many there are. And if I don't know them, I certainly can't cast them.
But you do know how to do a Seeing Spell. You said that, didn't you?
I know what has to be done to cast it, but I've never actually done one.
Then if we did one, that means that we could see Xena and Gabrielle?
That's what it's for.
Could they see us, too?
No, it's just a one-way spell. And no, I don't know any spells to make it work both ways. There probably is one, but I don't know where to find it. My Book only has a few spells in it, mostly the ones I've added. I don't know any other witches well enough to ask favors from.
Then let's do it! I'm sure Buffy would like to see what they're up to; or were up to.
Don't you think that's like eavesdropping? How would you like it if someone was looking at you?
We don't have to look at the private stuff; just when they're in public. And maybe you can see how Xena fights.
And maybe you can see how Gabrielle looks while she's, I don't know - taking a bath?
Tara, stop that! I told you no private stuff. Besides, I don't think of her like that! You're the only one I want to see taking a bath.
If you say so.
I do say so!
CHAPTER TWO
I called Buffy, but she's not home. Dawn wasn't there either, so I just left a message. If we cast the spell and she's not here to see it, can we do another one when she comes?
We shouldn't have to. Most spells last a pretty long time. Some of them even require the witch to die before they're broken.
Is the Seeing Spell one of those?
No. This one can be ended whenever we want. We just have to blow out the candles and the image fades away. Some of them are like that. Some others require an Ending Spell.
Do we have everything we need? There's not much here.
We have everything we need. I just hope I can say the words correctly, with the right rhythm.
Don't I get to say them, too?
Not this time. I'm not 100% sure about the recitation. The words need to be said just right, but if you are thinking them while I'm reciting them, it makes the casting stronger, and we won't have to worry that we might not be in unison. Why don't you arrange the candles around that bowl in two overlapping pentagrams, like a 10 pointed star. It's a bowl of Holy Water, that's where the images will appear, just like a TV screen.
But I thought that Holy Water was bad for witches.
We're Good Witches, remember? Only the bad ones, and demons, are destroyed by Holy Water. In the meantime, I need to go over these words again. It's got to be done just right.
*****
Okay, I think we're ready. As soon as you light the candles, we'll hold hands around them, and I'll start. You say the words along with me, but to yourself. Whatever you do, DON'T say anything out loud. I can't have any distractions.
You know, I wasn't so picky when I cast the Translation Spell. It was easy.
Willow, this isn't the same thing. That WAS an easy one. But this one has to transcend over 2000 years of time, and a few thousand miles of distance. Now, if you want me to do this I will, but I need a little cooperation.
You're right. I'm sorry. Please don't be mad. Whatever you want me to do. Here, I'm lighting the candles.
Okay, let's hold hands.
From here and now this Spell I cast
We search for two from years long past
Xena Warrior Princess; Gabrielle Amazon Queen
In this fire and water let them now be seen
Tara! I can see ---
Shhh!
Through time and space they have been found
Now let us hear their every sound
Words they say, both woman and man
Give us the power to understand
Oh, Tara! You did it! You actually did it. I can see them AND hear them. It's so neat!
Somehow, they don't look like I thought they would.
Are you kidding! That's exactly how they look! Shhh. I want to hear what they're saying.
*****
Gabrielle? Are you awake? I brought you some cool water. It's from the spring. Come on, try to drink a little if you can.
Xena, I don't want any right now. Just the thought of drinking anything makes me want to throw up. I'm so tired. Let me rest a little.
Do you think you can eat something? You haven't eaten in two days.
Please, don't even mention food!
Does you stomach still hurt?
Does it ever! Right here on the right side. Ow! I can't even touch it.
Gabrielle, I think your fever is up again. Try to drink some water if you can.
Please, Xena, just leave me alone and let me rest.
*****
Tara! Gabrielle's sick. We've got to do something!
What would you suggest?
I don't know. Let me try to call Buffy again. She always knows what to do.
*****
Buffy! I'm so glad I got you. You have to come over right away. Gabrielle's sick. Well,
just come over, you'll see. Hurry!
*****
Hi, Tara. What's up. Oh, casting spells again, you two?
Yeah, and look Buffy, there's Xena and Gabrielle. Tara cast a Seeing Spell so we can see them. And then she did one so we could hear what they're saying AND understand them. She's Great! But, anyway, Gabrielle's sick, and Xena doesn't know what to do.
Tara, can they see us?
No, it's a one-way Seeing.
So, if they can't see us, and I presume they can't hear us, Willow, then what do you want me to do?
I don't know. You always know what to do. Can't you think of something?
I'm sorry, Willow, but this magic stuff just isn't my line of work. Tara, can't you cast some kind of get-well spell?
I'm sorry, Buffy, but Healing Spells don't always work so good. If they did, I could have been able to make your mother well, but I couldn't.
But we can't just let her die!
Willow, I don't know what else we can do. That's the way life is. Mom's gone, and now maybe it's Gabrielle's time.
Uh, guys, there may be something, but I'm not sure if it's a real spell. And even if it was I don't know if I could cast it.
What! Tell!
I heard that there is a Transfer Spell. It's where you can transfer people from different places.
Like they do on "Star Trek"?
Not like that. Two people have to trade places. But I don't know if it would work going through time. I remember seeing it, but I'm not sure where. It was in a witch's Book, but I don't remember whose it was.
Do you think you could find it again?
I can try.
CHAPTER THREE
Willow, has there been any change?
No. If anything she's worse. She's been asleep a long time. I know she's in pain, but she just won't wake up. Oh, Buffy, I don't want her to die!
Neither do I. How's Xena doing?
Not very well, I'm afraid. When she's not trying to get Gabrielle to get up, she's almost crying. You can tell how worried she is.
Have you heard anything from Tara since yesterday?
She called this morning, but she still hadn't found anything.
*****
I found the spell! It was up in my grandmother's attic. I just hope she doesn't find out I copied a spell from her Book.
So, can you cast it?
I think so. It doesn't seem to be as difficult as I thought it would be. But there is something it you ought to know.
And that is?
Being transferred through time isn't the same as through space. There is a link of some kind between the two people. Cosmological or spiritual or something, it really doesn't say. But if one of them dies, then the other person can't return.
So if we bring Gabrielle here, and she dies, then whoever goes back there can't get back here?
That's what I just said. So who is going to volunteer?
I guess I will. It was my idea.
No! If you go back I won't do the spell! I'm not going to take the chance that I'll lose you. Buffy or Anya or somebody else will have to go.
How about Xander?
It only works with the same sex.
I can't go. I have to stay here and protect Dawn from Glory.
Then I guess no one will go.
Tara, don't be like that. I'll be okay.
Maybe. But how do we know Gabrielle doesn't have some kind of virus that the doctors cure? How do you know she won't die? Can you guarantee she won't die? Can you?
Buffy, I try not to ask a whole lot from you, but can't you . . . ?
And who's going to guard Dawn. What if Glory comes back?
Tara and I can watch her. We still know the spell that got rid of her the first time. And Giles and Xander and Anya can come over, we'll all watch her.
Buffy, why don't you ask Spike? He kind of likes Dawn, and since he's in love with you, you know he'll do it.
NO! I want NOTHING to do with Spike!
But, Buffy, this is an emergency. Please, ask him. Tara won't do the spell and save Gabrielle if you don't.
And what if she dies? Then where will that leave good old Buffy?
She won't die, I promise. We have good doctors. We'll get her to the hospital just as soon as she gets here. We'll have the whole gang here. Oh Please! Please?
Oh all right! I guess I'll go talk to Spike. You two get the rest of them here and explain the situation.
*****
Buffy, are you sure you want to do this. It sounds very dangerous.
No, Giles, I really don't want to. Well, the curious part of me wants to. But if this is the only way save Gabrielle, then I say let's do it.
Then I insist on one condition. If it looks like this Gabrielle is actually going to die, then Tara must reverse the spell immediately.
Okay, you can do that can't you? Okay, it's settled. So what do I do?
Well, I think you should change into something more comfortable, like big sloppy pajamas.
And why would I want to do that?
Because only your body will transfer, not your clothes. And it looks like Gabrielle is a little heavier than you are. And we wouldn't want her to end up being squeezed to death in those tight jeans of yours.
Are you trying to say . . . never mind. I'll find something more appropriate to change into. Anything else?
When you're ready, just lie down on the bed. Any last words?
This better work!
We'll watch Dawn, I promise we will. All of us will!
I know. Dawn, you behave. And don't do anything foolish. I don't know how long I'll be gone. Hopefully only a day or two. Okay everybody, places. Let's get this show on the road.
I need for everyone to be real quiet. I've never done a spell that was this important before. It has to be done perfect. Everybody light a candle and stand around Buffy. And remember, no talking.
Buffy and Gabrielle. Apart in time. Apart in space.
Let them now be switched to each other's place
From each one's world may they disappear
Send Buffy there, bring Gabrielle here
CHAPTER FOUR
Xena was beside herself with worry. She would groom Argo for a few minutes. Then walk back to Gabrielle, who was lying on a makeshift bed of leaves stuffed under a blanket. Then she would check on the fire, then back to Gabrielle.
Xena tried to eat, but she had no appetite. As much as she hated to admit it, Gabrielle could actually die. She had never just up and gotten sick like this before. Xena knew how to field dress battle wounds, and she knew a few plants and herbs that could help with fever or pain, but this. . . .
Once again she walked back to Argo, to talk to her and to be consoled, when suddenly Argo got skittish - there was danger! A stranger was near!
Xena pulled her sword from its scabbard, her eyes alert to any movement, her ears straining to hear from where the impending attack might come.
"Where is it, girl?" She whispered to her horse. "Where's the danger?"
"I think she may be sensing me." Xena heard a vaguely familiar voice. When she looked towards it, she was shocked to see Buffy rising from Gabrielle's bed, trying to keep Gabrielle's top from falling down, and holding the waistband with her other hand.
"Buffy? What are you . . . ? Where's Gabrielle? How did you get here? What. . . ?"
"Xena, I'll explain later, but right now we need to know everything you remember about when and how long Gabrielle's been sick."
"We? Who? Where's Gabrielle?"
"I'll explain later! Right now, if you want to save Gabrielle, you have to trust me. Willow and some of my friends have her, and they're going to get her to a hospital, but we need to know how she got sick."
"I don't know how. She started complaining about her belly hurting, and then she said the pain moved down low on the right side. She had fever, she threw up some, and she when she laid down, she wouldn't, or couldn't, get up again. That's about all I can think of."
And to further confuse Xena, Buffy yelled out. "Okay, guys, that's about all. It's up to you now. Get her to the hospital!"
Becoming agitated, Xena confronted Buffy. "Are you going to tell me what's going on? Where is Gabrielle?"
"Okay, it's like this . . . ."
*****
Just as soon as the last words were said, Buffy disappeared, and in her place was Gabrielle.
Dawn wrinkled her nose. "She smells! She needs a bath, big time."
Irritated by Dawn's remarks, Willow answered her. "She's been sick. She can't help it if she hasn't been able to take a bath."
"Please." Giles admonished them. "We're trying to hear."
After they watched and listened to Xena's description of the onset of Gabrielle's illness, Giles insisted they call an ambulance right away.
"It sounds as if her appendix is about to burst, if it hasn't already. She's going to need immediate surgery."
"Who's going to stay, and who's going to go to the hospital?" Xander asked.
"Willow and Tara and I will go with Gabrielle," Giles instructed. "The rest of you stay here. Not only for Dawn's protection, but to keep watching Buffy and Xena. If they say anything else important, someone will have to call."
"Why do just they get to go?" Anya whined. "Why can't Xander and I go, too?"
"Because I have to go to check her into the hospital and fill out all the paperwork. Willow has to go because she's the only one Gabrielle knows. And Tara has to go in case she has to reverse the spell in a hurry. And if Glory happens to find Dawn, Spike will need some help, such as it is."
"Well thanks for the bloody vote of confidence, Mate." Spike said with hurt feelings.
*****
The ambulance was at Willow's dorm within 15 minutes, and 10 minutes later it was rushing Gabrielle to the hospital. Giles had insisted the EMT allow Willow to ride with them, while he and Tara followed in his car.
At the hospital he explained that Gabrielle was visiting from the East Coast. Because she needed a last name, Giles picked the first one he could think of -- Smith.
As "Gabrielle Smith" was wheeled into the emergency room, Giles told the attending physician of her symptons. And after a hurried, but thorough examination, he diagnosed that, indeed, she had a burst appendix, and had Gabrielle prepped for surgery.
*****
"Now let me get this straight." Xena said to Buffy. "This Tara made a spell so that Willow, can see us, all the time, no matter where we go or what we do?"
"Yep, that's pretty much it."
"Even when we have to go into the bushes?"
"Even in the bushes."
"Well, I'm not so sure I like that. I like my privacy."
"From what I understand, as soon as they started seeing you two they found out that Gabrielle was sick. That's when Tara told us she could do the Transfer Spell. And anyway, you ought to be glad they did. If it wasn't for that, Gabrielle might still be here, and dying."
"Are you sure your Healers can make her well?"
"I'm almost positive. And in my time, we call them doctors. But modern medicine is almost like magic. They'll have Gabrielle up and running in no time. She'll be as good as new. Even better. Trust me."
After a few minutes, Xena asked, "So if they can see me, what happens when I turn around? Does this thing follow both of us? And what happens if we separate?"
"We didn't have a lot of time to chit chat, we were in such a hurry, but I think I remember hearing Tara telling Willow that it's like a camera."
"A what?"
"Nothing. They have this big bowl with candles around it. It's like if you look into it and you see your reflection. It's as if they are always standing in front of us. So no matter which way we turn, it always shows the front of us. And I guess that when we split up, then it shows both of us. I'm not sure about that part."
"So how did you get here?" Xena asked.
"Tara again. She's really getting to be an experienced witch. But as I was saying, Tara found a Transfer Spell and used it to send me here and Gabrielle there."
*****
While Gabrielle was in surgery, Giles and Willow could only wait. Every fifteen minutes or so, Willow was go outside and called Xander to see if anything new, or interesting, was happening with Buffy and Xena. Nothing was.
"Gosh, Giles, how long does it take? They've been in there for hours. She's all right, isn't she?"
"Of course she is, Willow. These things take time. Oh look, here comes the doctor now."
Willow ran up to, and into the doctor, almost knocking him down.
"How is she? Is she going to be okay?"
"She's fine. She's a very lucky woman. A few more hours and I don't think we could have saved her."
"You said her appendix had burst?" Giles asked.
"Yes, probably a day, maybe two days ago. Peritonitus was starting to set in. Fortunately, she is a strong and relatively healthy young woman. There's no reason why she can't make a full recovery. I was going over the results of her blood test. She is somewhat anemic, and she has a slight B vitamin deficiency. She's on antibiotics right now, and I'm going to give her prescriptions for both more antibiotics and a multivitamin."
"So when can she come home?" Willow asked.
"Not for a good long while yet. She doesn't need to be moving around until the incision has mostly healed up. The staples will have to stay in for about a week. When I take them out, I'll give her another exam and if everything's okay, then I'll release her."
"That may be somewhat of a problem, Doctor," Giles said, "She has to return home in just a few days. Isn't there some way you can hurry up the process somehow?"
"Well, maybe if I could talk to her doctor, we might be able to work something out. But in the mean time, she'll have to stay in bed for the next three or four days."
"Can I see her?" Willow asked impatiently.
The doctor looked at his watch and said, "She should be out of recovery now and in her room, but she won't be waking up any time soon."
"That's okay, I don't mind waiting. I'm the only one she really knows, and I'd hate for her to wake up alone. She might get scared if there wasn't anybody there."
"I don't see why not." The doctor said.
End of Part 1
CHAPTER ONE
Come on, Tara, don't be that way.
What way? What way am I being?
You know. You're acting all funny and all, like you're jealous or something.
What? I'm jealous of someone who died 2000 years ago? Don't be ridiculous.
Then why won't you help Buffy and me?
Oh, so now it's Buffy AND you?
I told you that! She'd like to see them just as much as I would. She and Xena were getting to be pretty good friends.
As good as you and that Gabrielle were?
I knew it! You ARE jealous!
Don't be ridiculous.
Then prove it!
How? What do you want me to do?
I told you, help me cast a spell so that Buffy and I can go visit Xena and Gabrielle, or so they can come here.
Willow, it's not that easy! Even if I knew one, I don't know if we could make it work right. Passing through time isn't anything to be careless with. One wrong word or a mispronunciation could make it not work. Or even worse, it could send someone anywhere. Or should I say any when? And they could be lost forever. We'd never even know where they ended up.
Well, couldn't we practice first? Like on a mouse, or a pinecone, or something? How about a pizza?
Willow, don't you understand? You don't just practice something like that! Either you can do spell, and you cast it, or you don't do it at all. And anyway, if we were going to cast a practice spell, and I only said IF, then we'd have to have some way of knowing if the pizza, or whatever, actually went when and where we wanted it to. We'd need a Seeing Spell.
What's a Seeing Spell? I never heard of that one.
Well, obviously. There are hundreds, maybe even thousands of spells. Even I don't know how many there are. And if I don't know them, I certainly can't cast them.
But you do know how to do a Seeing Spell. You said that, didn't you?
I know what has to be done to cast it, but I've never actually done one.
Then if we did one, that means that we could see Xena and Gabrielle?
That's what it's for.
Could they see us, too?
No, it's just a one-way spell. And no, I don't know any spells to make it work both ways. There probably is one, but I don't know where to find it. My Book only has a few spells in it, mostly the ones I've added. I don't know any other witches well enough to ask favors from.
Then let's do it! I'm sure Buffy would like to see what they're up to; or were up to.
Don't you think that's like eavesdropping? How would you like it if someone was looking at you?
We don't have to look at the private stuff; just when they're in public. And maybe you can see how Xena fights.
And maybe you can see how Gabrielle looks while she's, I don't know - taking a bath?
Tara, stop that! I told you no private stuff. Besides, I don't think of her like that! You're the only one I want to see taking a bath.
If you say so.
I do say so!
CHAPTER TWO
I called Buffy, but she's not home. Dawn wasn't there either, so I just left a message. If we cast the spell and she's not here to see it, can we do another one when she comes?
We shouldn't have to. Most spells last a pretty long time. Some of them even require the witch to die before they're broken.
Is the Seeing Spell one of those?
No. This one can be ended whenever we want. We just have to blow out the candles and the image fades away. Some of them are like that. Some others require an Ending Spell.
Do we have everything we need? There's not much here.
We have everything we need. I just hope I can say the words correctly, with the right rhythm.
Don't I get to say them, too?
Not this time. I'm not 100% sure about the recitation. The words need to be said just right, but if you are thinking them while I'm reciting them, it makes the casting stronger, and we won't have to worry that we might not be in unison. Why don't you arrange the candles around that bowl in two overlapping pentagrams, like a 10 pointed star. It's a bowl of Holy Water, that's where the images will appear, just like a TV screen.
But I thought that Holy Water was bad for witches.
We're Good Witches, remember? Only the bad ones, and demons, are destroyed by Holy Water. In the meantime, I need to go over these words again. It's got to be done just right.
*****
Okay, I think we're ready. As soon as you light the candles, we'll hold hands around them, and I'll start. You say the words along with me, but to yourself. Whatever you do, DON'T say anything out loud. I can't have any distractions.
You know, I wasn't so picky when I cast the Translation Spell. It was easy.
Willow, this isn't the same thing. That WAS an easy one. But this one has to transcend over 2000 years of time, and a few thousand miles of distance. Now, if you want me to do this I will, but I need a little cooperation.
You're right. I'm sorry. Please don't be mad. Whatever you want me to do. Here, I'm lighting the candles.
Okay, let's hold hands.
From here and now this Spell I cast
We search for two from years long past
Xena Warrior Princess; Gabrielle Amazon Queen
In this fire and water let them now be seen
Tara! I can see ---
Shhh!
Through time and space they have been found
Now let us hear their every sound
Words they say, both woman and man
Give us the power to understand
Oh, Tara! You did it! You actually did it. I can see them AND hear them. It's so neat!
Somehow, they don't look like I thought they would.
Are you kidding! That's exactly how they look! Shhh. I want to hear what they're saying.
*****
Gabrielle? Are you awake? I brought you some cool water. It's from the spring. Come on, try to drink a little if you can.
Xena, I don't want any right now. Just the thought of drinking anything makes me want to throw up. I'm so tired. Let me rest a little.
Do you think you can eat something? You haven't eaten in two days.
Please, don't even mention food!
Does you stomach still hurt?
Does it ever! Right here on the right side. Ow! I can't even touch it.
Gabrielle, I think your fever is up again. Try to drink some water if you can.
Please, Xena, just leave me alone and let me rest.
*****
Tara! Gabrielle's sick. We've got to do something!
What would you suggest?
I don't know. Let me try to call Buffy again. She always knows what to do.
*****
Buffy! I'm so glad I got you. You have to come over right away. Gabrielle's sick. Well,
just come over, you'll see. Hurry!
*****
Hi, Tara. What's up. Oh, casting spells again, you two?
Yeah, and look Buffy, there's Xena and Gabrielle. Tara cast a Seeing Spell so we can see them. And then she did one so we could hear what they're saying AND understand them. She's Great! But, anyway, Gabrielle's sick, and Xena doesn't know what to do.
Tara, can they see us?
No, it's a one-way Seeing.
So, if they can't see us, and I presume they can't hear us, Willow, then what do you want me to do?
I don't know. You always know what to do. Can't you think of something?
I'm sorry, Willow, but this magic stuff just isn't my line of work. Tara, can't you cast some kind of get-well spell?
I'm sorry, Buffy, but Healing Spells don't always work so good. If they did, I could have been able to make your mother well, but I couldn't.
But we can't just let her die!
Willow, I don't know what else we can do. That's the way life is. Mom's gone, and now maybe it's Gabrielle's time.
Uh, guys, there may be something, but I'm not sure if it's a real spell. And even if it was I don't know if I could cast it.
What! Tell!
I heard that there is a Transfer Spell. It's where you can transfer people from different places.
Like they do on "Star Trek"?
Not like that. Two people have to trade places. But I don't know if it would work going through time. I remember seeing it, but I'm not sure where. It was in a witch's Book, but I don't remember whose it was.
Do you think you could find it again?
I can try.
CHAPTER THREE
Willow, has there been any change?
No. If anything she's worse. She's been asleep a long time. I know she's in pain, but she just won't wake up. Oh, Buffy, I don't want her to die!
Neither do I. How's Xena doing?
Not very well, I'm afraid. When she's not trying to get Gabrielle to get up, she's almost crying. You can tell how worried she is.
Have you heard anything from Tara since yesterday?
She called this morning, but she still hadn't found anything.
*****
I found the spell! It was up in my grandmother's attic. I just hope she doesn't find out I copied a spell from her Book.
So, can you cast it?
I think so. It doesn't seem to be as difficult as I thought it would be. But there is something it you ought to know.
And that is?
Being transferred through time isn't the same as through space. There is a link of some kind between the two people. Cosmological or spiritual or something, it really doesn't say. But if one of them dies, then the other person can't return.
So if we bring Gabrielle here, and she dies, then whoever goes back there can't get back here?
That's what I just said. So who is going to volunteer?
I guess I will. It was my idea.
No! If you go back I won't do the spell! I'm not going to take the chance that I'll lose you. Buffy or Anya or somebody else will have to go.
How about Xander?
It only works with the same sex.
I can't go. I have to stay here and protect Dawn from Glory.
Then I guess no one will go.
Tara, don't be like that. I'll be okay.
Maybe. But how do we know Gabrielle doesn't have some kind of virus that the doctors cure? How do you know she won't die? Can you guarantee she won't die? Can you?
Buffy, I try not to ask a whole lot from you, but can't you . . . ?
And who's going to guard Dawn. What if Glory comes back?
Tara and I can watch her. We still know the spell that got rid of her the first time. And Giles and Xander and Anya can come over, we'll all watch her.
Buffy, why don't you ask Spike? He kind of likes Dawn, and since he's in love with you, you know he'll do it.
NO! I want NOTHING to do with Spike!
But, Buffy, this is an emergency. Please, ask him. Tara won't do the spell and save Gabrielle if you don't.
And what if she dies? Then where will that leave good old Buffy?
She won't die, I promise. We have good doctors. We'll get her to the hospital just as soon as she gets here. We'll have the whole gang here. Oh Please! Please?
Oh all right! I guess I'll go talk to Spike. You two get the rest of them here and explain the situation.
*****
Buffy, are you sure you want to do this. It sounds very dangerous.
No, Giles, I really don't want to. Well, the curious part of me wants to. But if this is the only way save Gabrielle, then I say let's do it.
Then I insist on one condition. If it looks like this Gabrielle is actually going to die, then Tara must reverse the spell immediately.
Okay, you can do that can't you? Okay, it's settled. So what do I do?
Well, I think you should change into something more comfortable, like big sloppy pajamas.
And why would I want to do that?
Because only your body will transfer, not your clothes. And it looks like Gabrielle is a little heavier than you are. And we wouldn't want her to end up being squeezed to death in those tight jeans of yours.
Are you trying to say . . . never mind. I'll find something more appropriate to change into. Anything else?
When you're ready, just lie down on the bed. Any last words?
This better work!
We'll watch Dawn, I promise we will. All of us will!
I know. Dawn, you behave. And don't do anything foolish. I don't know how long I'll be gone. Hopefully only a day or two. Okay everybody, places. Let's get this show on the road.
I need for everyone to be real quiet. I've never done a spell that was this important before. It has to be done perfect. Everybody light a candle and stand around Buffy. And remember, no talking.
Buffy and Gabrielle. Apart in time. Apart in space.
Let them now be switched to each other's place
From each one's world may they disappear
Send Buffy there, bring Gabrielle here
CHAPTER FOUR
Xena was beside herself with worry. She would groom Argo for a few minutes. Then walk back to Gabrielle, who was lying on a makeshift bed of leaves stuffed under a blanket. Then she would check on the fire, then back to Gabrielle.
Xena tried to eat, but she had no appetite. As much as she hated to admit it, Gabrielle could actually die. She had never just up and gotten sick like this before. Xena knew how to field dress battle wounds, and she knew a few plants and herbs that could help with fever or pain, but this. . . .
Once again she walked back to Argo, to talk to her and to be consoled, when suddenly Argo got skittish - there was danger! A stranger was near!
Xena pulled her sword from its scabbard, her eyes alert to any movement, her ears straining to hear from where the impending attack might come.
"Where is it, girl?" She whispered to her horse. "Where's the danger?"
"I think she may be sensing me." Xena heard a vaguely familiar voice. When she looked towards it, she was shocked to see Buffy rising from Gabrielle's bed, trying to keep Gabrielle's top from falling down, and holding the waistband with her other hand.
"Buffy? What are you . . . ? Where's Gabrielle? How did you get here? What. . . ?"
"Xena, I'll explain later, but right now we need to know everything you remember about when and how long Gabrielle's been sick."
"We? Who? Where's Gabrielle?"
"I'll explain later! Right now, if you want to save Gabrielle, you have to trust me. Willow and some of my friends have her, and they're going to get her to a hospital, but we need to know how she got sick."
"I don't know how. She started complaining about her belly hurting, and then she said the pain moved down low on the right side. She had fever, she threw up some, and she when she laid down, she wouldn't, or couldn't, get up again. That's about all I can think of."
And to further confuse Xena, Buffy yelled out. "Okay, guys, that's about all. It's up to you now. Get her to the hospital!"
Becoming agitated, Xena confronted Buffy. "Are you going to tell me what's going on? Where is Gabrielle?"
"Okay, it's like this . . . ."
*****
Just as soon as the last words were said, Buffy disappeared, and in her place was Gabrielle.
Dawn wrinkled her nose. "She smells! She needs a bath, big time."
Irritated by Dawn's remarks, Willow answered her. "She's been sick. She can't help it if she hasn't been able to take a bath."
"Please." Giles admonished them. "We're trying to hear."
After they watched and listened to Xena's description of the onset of Gabrielle's illness, Giles insisted they call an ambulance right away.
"It sounds as if her appendix is about to burst, if it hasn't already. She's going to need immediate surgery."
"Who's going to stay, and who's going to go to the hospital?" Xander asked.
"Willow and Tara and I will go with Gabrielle," Giles instructed. "The rest of you stay here. Not only for Dawn's protection, but to keep watching Buffy and Xena. If they say anything else important, someone will have to call."
"Why do just they get to go?" Anya whined. "Why can't Xander and I go, too?"
"Because I have to go to check her into the hospital and fill out all the paperwork. Willow has to go because she's the only one Gabrielle knows. And Tara has to go in case she has to reverse the spell in a hurry. And if Glory happens to find Dawn, Spike will need some help, such as it is."
"Well thanks for the bloody vote of confidence, Mate." Spike said with hurt feelings.
*****
The ambulance was at Willow's dorm within 15 minutes, and 10 minutes later it was rushing Gabrielle to the hospital. Giles had insisted the EMT allow Willow to ride with them, while he and Tara followed in his car.
At the hospital he explained that Gabrielle was visiting from the East Coast. Because she needed a last name, Giles picked the first one he could think of -- Smith.
As "Gabrielle Smith" was wheeled into the emergency room, Giles told the attending physician of her symptons. And after a hurried, but thorough examination, he diagnosed that, indeed, she had a burst appendix, and had Gabrielle prepped for surgery.
*****
"Now let me get this straight." Xena said to Buffy. "This Tara made a spell so that Willow, can see us, all the time, no matter where we go or what we do?"
"Yep, that's pretty much it."
"Even when we have to go into the bushes?"
"Even in the bushes."
"Well, I'm not so sure I like that. I like my privacy."
"From what I understand, as soon as they started seeing you two they found out that Gabrielle was sick. That's when Tara told us she could do the Transfer Spell. And anyway, you ought to be glad they did. If it wasn't for that, Gabrielle might still be here, and dying."
"Are you sure your Healers can make her well?"
"I'm almost positive. And in my time, we call them doctors. But modern medicine is almost like magic. They'll have Gabrielle up and running in no time. She'll be as good as new. Even better. Trust me."
After a few minutes, Xena asked, "So if they can see me, what happens when I turn around? Does this thing follow both of us? And what happens if we separate?"
"We didn't have a lot of time to chit chat, we were in such a hurry, but I think I remember hearing Tara telling Willow that it's like a camera."
"A what?"
"Nothing. They have this big bowl with candles around it. It's like if you look into it and you see your reflection. It's as if they are always standing in front of us. So no matter which way we turn, it always shows the front of us. And I guess that when we split up, then it shows both of us. I'm not sure about that part."
"So how did you get here?" Xena asked.
"Tara again. She's really getting to be an experienced witch. But as I was saying, Tara found a Transfer Spell and used it to send me here and Gabrielle there."
*****
While Gabrielle was in surgery, Giles and Willow could only wait. Every fifteen minutes or so, Willow was go outside and called Xander to see if anything new, or interesting, was happening with Buffy and Xena. Nothing was.
"Gosh, Giles, how long does it take? They've been in there for hours. She's all right, isn't she?"
"Of course she is, Willow. These things take time. Oh look, here comes the doctor now."
Willow ran up to, and into the doctor, almost knocking him down.
"How is she? Is she going to be okay?"
"She's fine. She's a very lucky woman. A few more hours and I don't think we could have saved her."
"You said her appendix had burst?" Giles asked.
"Yes, probably a day, maybe two days ago. Peritonitus was starting to set in. Fortunately, she is a strong and relatively healthy young woman. There's no reason why she can't make a full recovery. I was going over the results of her blood test. She is somewhat anemic, and she has a slight B vitamin deficiency. She's on antibiotics right now, and I'm going to give her prescriptions for both more antibiotics and a multivitamin."
"So when can she come home?" Willow asked.
"Not for a good long while yet. She doesn't need to be moving around until the incision has mostly healed up. The staples will have to stay in for about a week. When I take them out, I'll give her another exam and if everything's okay, then I'll release her."
"That may be somewhat of a problem, Doctor," Giles said, "She has to return home in just a few days. Isn't there some way you can hurry up the process somehow?"
"Well, maybe if I could talk to her doctor, we might be able to work something out. But in the mean time, she'll have to stay in bed for the next three or four days."
"Can I see her?" Willow asked impatiently.
The doctor looked at his watch and said, "She should be out of recovery now and in her room, but she won't be waking up any time soon."
"That's okay, I don't mind waiting. I'm the only one she really knows, and I'd hate for her to wake up alone. She might get scared if there wasn't anybody there."
"I don't see why not." The doctor said.
End of Part 1