A/N- Okey dokey pokey..Well I guess it's safe to say "I'm BA-ACK!" lol A
HUGE thanks to all my reviewers for Alternate Reality Or A Different
Dimension. You guys were soooo awesome and this is the sequel I promised
you. See, 'cos you were so wonderful and reviewed chapter 15, I couldn't
say no..lol. You guys know who you were. Hopefully you'll like this one
just as much.
Also THIS CAN BE READ AS A STAND-ALONE. You don't have to have read 'Alternate', but I do recommend it 'cos a lot of the character inter- relationship thingies were developed in it. (Okay, so my attempt to sound smart kinda backfired..^_^) But if you don't want to go out of your way to read it, I think this one does work without the background story.
Summary- taking off a couple of months after 'Alternate' left off. Angel(ita) fights to get back to help her family away from reality recover from the horrific events that have occurred. Problems escalate as more clichéd (and awfully predictable) obstacles both follow and await her. Confused yet? Yeah..I know. I am too. Lol. ^_^ I guess you're just gonna have to read to work it out. Then review. PLEASE. ^_^
Disclaimer- Do I own anything other than my original characters? Hmm..let me think..Umm..NO. Big fat "uh-uh" also fair to say "never", "Not a chance" and "No way in hell!" *Indignant pouting and sighing as I cross my arms over my chest* It's just not fair..
Dedication- To my reviewers. Gotta luv you all. ^_^ (Hint Hint.read and review)
Another A/N..linking to Dedication- This chapter could not have happened without Mrs O-Town, Star and one of my off FF.N buddies: Kat. Guys, I'm thanking you sooooo much for everything you've done. Mrs O and Kat for being my scene brainstorming buddies and Star for the brilliant incantation. You're all awesome and I luv you to bits. ^_^
Okay..well..this is it.
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FANFIC!
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I refuse to believe it. I will NOT believe it.
I've been back home a couple of months now. 2 months, 1 week and 4 days to be exact. It's been that long since I first learnt of the events of Waiting in The Wings and all subsequent episodes of Ats, and that long since I discovered the horrors that were unravelling in Sunnydale. Everything's going wrong. EVERYTHING.
But the worst part? The worst part is that I couldn't get back. Correction; I *can't* get back.
No matter how hard I've tried, I just can't cross realities.
So now I sit frozen in front of my TV, watching in anguish as my inter- dimensional family's lives fall to pieces even more. I just don't want to believe this is happening. I mean, the season final of Buffy is playing out in front of me, and I'm sickened to think that I can't do anything to help.
Of course, I know how it's going to end. I've read and re-read the spoilers from every site I've been able to find over and over again to make sure it's all real. And even though the Btvs season 6 finale isn't the worst ending imaginable (as opposed to what is gonna be on tomorrow night) the thought that I can't do anything to prevent the bad stuff from happening is killing me.
This is awful. I remember Wes telling me that I might not be able to get back..Telling me that there was something we might be missing to complete my re-entry into the Ats/Btvs world..But I thought he was just being stuffy and fussing over tiny insignificant details like his character usually did. In hindsight, I realise that I should have listened to him. I should have stayed longer. If I had, I doubt he would have..done what he did. In fact, I doubt any of the badness would have happened.
Plus..If I would have stayed, we might have worked out what was missing and I wouldn't be stuck in this situation. I think by now I've made it clear that the problem is I didn't stay. We *didn't* work out how to get me back for certain. And now I'm stuck here watching as everything goes wrong for the characters..or should I say..people I love.
The situation's kinda funny, in a sad sorta' way. I mean, a few of my friends don't get why I've gotten so worked up about the shows now. The fact that Nic never watched them while she was here posing as me struck them as odd, but they let it pass. Of course, once the real me was back I suddenly became 'crazed' over 'Angel' and 'Buffy'. Gotta tell you, it has them really confused. They have no idea what's going on, and if I told them they'd lock me up in a padded cell and throw away the key.
I guess I'm gonna have to let them stay confused then.
As the ads come on, I try my hardest to teleport into the next reality. My attempts are in vain..yet again.
I *have* to work out what's wrong. Preferably sometime in the next 30 seconds.
I know. It's a lost cause. It's killing me that I just can't seem to work it out. Urgh! I'm soooo not lovin' this!
I know for a fact that the resistance has nothing to do with reality as we know it not supporting magicks as easily, because I'm able to teleport all over the place and move things with my mind as usual. It has nothing to do with my methods 'cos I've tried everything Wes suggested and more. So it has something to do with what he thought we were missing. Grr Argh! This is so damn frustrating!
My internal ranting is put on hold as the ads fade out and the final episode of Buffy begins. I still can't believe what's happening.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Angel, hey!" A far too chirpy voice calls out.
I spin to see the source. "Beth.." I force a smile. "Hi."
She runs to catch up, then stops in front of me, tilting her head quizzically. "Okay." Her tone is serious. "What's up?"
I sigh. "Nothing. It's all good."
She shakes her head. Nothing gets past Beth. NOTHING. I have to smile when she furrows her brow and glares at me, her emerald eyes shimmering with distrust. "I don't believe you. Now spill."
Elisabeth is one of those people you can't lie to. I've known her for a few years now, but we've gotten closer these past couple of months. We're practically best friends. After Sarz moved away unexpectedly she was there to support me and I'm not usually the type of person that likes the whole 'sharing of emotions' thing. She respected that and knew that I'd talk when I was ready. Needless to say I ended up ranting and raving my heart out at her within 2 weeks (which is weird 'cos nobody in this reality has ever made me do that before) and we realised that we had more in common than I had first assumed. For one thing she was a big fan of Btvs and Ats too, and we shared similar views on the characters. For another she knew how to track my trail of thought and could predict what I was going to say in most situations. And I'm not usually someone that revels in predictability.
On the outside, Beth is one of those people that can be snarky, sarcastic and extremely witty. She doesn't wear her heart on her sleeve either, and voices her opinion when she feels it necessary..which is almost always. She's a blast to shop with, and can keep a secret like nobody I've ever met. But the best part is that I can always count on her honest opinions. She doesn't hold back in case of hurting my feelings, which I really respect. And she expects the same from me. So we get along just fine.
However, in situations like the one today, I try to avoid her. It's not that I dislike her in any way..because that's practically impossible..just that I find it so hard keeping my Alternate Reality secret from her. Honestly, she'd be the first person to book me into a mental institution if I told her the truth. Either that, or she would think it was a joke and laugh at me..then I'd have to prove it to her and she'd get freaked out and probably never speak to me again.
I know..I know. I still have to answer her though.
"Really. It's nothing. I promise." I grin at her, but she hardens her gaze further.
"Angel.." She warns.
I throw my hands into the air and sit down on one of the benches outside our first class. "Fine. It was the final of Buffy last night. And I'm upset. That, and the final of Angel is on tonight..Which is probably gonna kill me, even though I know what's gonna happen." I glare at her in mock anger. "Happy now?"
She breaks into a huge smile. "Yup." Taking a seat next to me she adds, "They are leaving a lot to be desired, aren't they?"
"You don't know half of it." I mumble.
She catches it and looks at me, curiosity playing over her fair features. "Pardon?"
"Uh.." I chuckle nervously. "I'm just obsessed. Don't mind me. Brainless rambling."
She grins knowingly. "But that's what makes you YOU. Plus, it's really quite funny."
"Thanks." I reply sarcastically. "You think I'm funny. I feel so much better now."
We chuckle and before long the third member of our little 'Troika' sits down in front of us. "Heys." She begins. "What's funny today?"
"Hi." I respond. "We're just laughing at the patheticness that is me. Wanna join?"
Kassie chuckles. "I'll pass. I'm too busy moping over what happened last night."
Beth grimaces and plants her hands over her face, shaking her head in amusement. "Here we go.." She starts.
See, Beth's the most rational thinker in our group. When you put Kassie and I in a room together, you're almost certain to find mindless conversation about Angel and Co. or a lot of deep analysis of the episodes. Either way, Beth is the only one of us that seems to think about anything (and everything) else.
Karisma, or Kassie for short, is a lot like I can be when I'm on a sugar high. She loves the fact that her name is a variation of Charisma 'cos she's a HUGE Cordy fan. We even call her Cordy from time to time actually, when we're laughing about our nicknames. Me being Angel and her being Cordy..I know, I know. It sounds lame..but that's what being a fan is all about, really.
Anywhos..Kassie is a bundle of energy, always cracking jokes and making up wild scenarios to use in fanfics. However, I haven't known her for that long, really. See, Kas just moved to Australia from England and, though she's meant to be in grade 11, she was upped to grade 12 because she's so smart..thus joining our class. And even though she's a good year younger than Beth or I, she seemed to fit right in with us.
"..So..anyway, there I was sitting in front of the TV yelling 'GO EVIL WILLOW! KICK BUFFY'S SCRAWNY LITTLE ASS!'.." Kassie says, causing Beth and I to burst into a fit of hysterics. Truth be told, we're not exactly Buffy fans..But that's kinda obvious by now. "..And my mum walks past shakin' her head muttering somethin' about me having to get a life. It was hilarious." We continue to giggle and she looks at Beth and I. "What about you? What did you guys think of last night?"
I smile. "Well..I was a little wrapped up in Spikey goodness..Although I did decide one thing." I look between them and smirk. "Pause for dramatic effect.." They roll their eyes and I smirk even more. "I decided that Dawn must die."
"Here Here!" The others exclaim. We laugh a bit more and the conversation inevitably drifts towards tonight's episode of Angel.
"..I can't believe we've had to wait so long." Kassie whines. "I mean, I get the fact they had to air the Commonwealth Games and all..but they coulda aired Angel at its usual time this week.."
"I reckon." Beth cuts in. "I was sooo getting psyched up to watch it on Tuesday, hey. Then I read the TV guide. I mean, what's the difference between today and Tuesday anyhow?" I open my mouth to tell her that today is Friday and Tuesday comes 3 days later, but she rolls her eyes. "Aside from the obvious, Angel."
I grin and nod. "I s'pose they wanted to keep us waiting in suspense. Evil TV executives."
"Yep." Kassie agrees eagerly, while Beth just nods happily. "I can't believe what's gonna happen. I mean, the spoilers and all kinda..well..kinda spoilt it, but I know I'm still gonna be riled up about it."
Yeah. You have no idea how much it's going to upset me. "I reckon! Seriously,I have this sneaking suspicion I'm gonna need a few boxes of tissues.."
"Aaaawwww.." Beth says, mocking me with her tone. "Poor Angel. You do know it's just a TV show, right?"
No. No. No. It's not 'just a TV show'. It's real and I love these people sooo much! "Yeah..I guess. I still feel kinda attached to them though."
Kassie throws her arms around me and glares at Beth in jest. "Me too."
Beth can't control her laughter as she practically rolls around in front of us. "Kas.." She gasps in between her giggling, "Your mum was right. You *DO* need to get a life."
I take one look at Kassie's indignant pout and burst into laughter along with Beth. This is how our form room teacher finds us before he lets us into the classroom, shaking his head in amusement. I doubt I'll be doing much schoolwork today. I'm still determined to work out a way to get back to the Angelverse..and I'm determined to do it tonight.
"Okay guys.." Our teacher begins as the other grade 12s start to forward in, "I know it's Friday and all, so bear with me. I want to be home just as much as you do.."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
The final bell rings and there is a thunderous movement as people jump from their seats, rushing to the door to escape this conformist hellhole for the next two days.
Because our last lesson was an elective, Kas, Beth and I were in our separate classes of choice. We have to gather in the locker area and collect our homework and bags, all whilst gossiping about the lesson past and chattering about the tear-fest we are going to be subject to tonight.
"I don't want to see the fang gang go through this sort of torment.." I confess, strolling down the path towards where our parents usually pick us up. "But at the same time I can't bear missing an episode. Joss is-"
"Evil." The others finish for me. "We know. We know."
I grin sheepishly and fold my arms over my chest. "Well he is."
Suddenly Kassie stops in her tracks. "Hey!" She exclaims, a funny gleam in her eyes. I take a step back, knowing full well what that look can mean. It's her 'I have a plan' look. The kind that almost always ends with Beth and I getting roped into some half-witted scheme that hasn't been thought out properly. "I soooo had the best idea!"
Told ya so. "Yeah..?" I reply somewhat uneasily. "And.?"
Kas is about to explain when Beth holds up her hand. "One question before you say anything. Does this involve me dressing up like a chicken again? 'Cos that was just wrong and-"
"Okay." Kassie says, a little annoyed that Beth keeps bringing that up. "First of all, *THAT* was for charity.."She grins wickedly, "And, secondly, it got Mark's attention didn't it?"
I have to bite my tongue at the scene in front of me. Beth's still not impressed and she's scowling at Kas, who's still bouncing around like a puppy dog. She shrugs off Beth's glare and continues happily, "Anyways..I was thinkin' that maybe tonight we could have a group TV night. Just us three. Watching Angel..Moping over Angel..Snacking on goodies that are going to rot our teeth..Debating the key issues of this season of Angel.." She looks at Beth and I excitedly. "Well? What do you think?"
I don't like that idea. Not one bit. I mean, what if I work out a way to get back? "Umm.." I look at Beth, but she seems to actually agree with Kassie. Urgh. Traitor. "Sure. Why not?"
"Yay!" Kassie exclaims, "This is gonna be great!"
"Mmmhmmm.." I respond with a little..okay, okay..a lot less enthusiasm. "I can't wait."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Angel!" Mum calls from downstairs, "Beth and Kas are here!"
See, I eventually decided to host this sleepover thing at my place. I guess it just seemed easier this way.
"Cool!" I yell back. "They know where my room is. Send them up."
After a few seconds, there's a light knock at my door and Beth laughs. "Well..It's nice to feel appreciated," She jokes, "*Send them up*? What was that? Honestly, great friend and daughter you are."
I roll my eyes at her sarcasm, lean over to my bed, grab a pillow and hurl it at her. I guess tonight might be kinda fun after all.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Oh my god.." I gasp. "No..No No No No."
Beth and Kassie roll their eyes. "Its just an ad, Angel..Let it go." Beth coos.
"But it's promoting BRITNEY for Christ sakes! Don't these people have SOULS?" I hiss in response. The others look at each other and laugh. I cross my arms over my chest indignantly. "I guess that's a no."
"What is your problem with her anyway?" Kas asks, waving an arm towards the tv lazily.
This is the way it always starts. Kas defending the skanky..er..I mean, Britney, and me threatening to kick her out of my house.
I sigh pointedly and roll my eyes to insinuate my superiority. "Just that she's a bad role model for young girls and she's not exactly the best example of-"
"OH-KAY!" Beth says, putting up her hands in the classic 'time-out' signal. "Can we PLEASE get through at least one slumber party without a fight breaking out over Britney?" She eyes us both. "Please? Look..Angel's coming back on in a few seconds..Can we make it through until then?"
Kas and I glare at each other playfully. I smirk. "Yeah..I guess I can be the mature one and-"
"Hold on." Kas cuts me off in disbelief. "You? The mature one? Spare me."
We all laugh again and the ads fade out once more. "Oh god.." I murmur as the show continues, grabbing my pillow and snuggling into it. "Poor Groo.."
And there's another thing. I never got to meet Groo. I loved Groo. He was sooo cute. Some of the lines that he had were classic ('You want me to make sex with you!')..and the innocence in those big blue eyes..I know. I know. I have a serious problem with the guys on this show. Can I help it if the casting agents only cast good-looking men? Except Vincent Kartheiser. I wouldn't say he's drop-dead gorgeous like the others..But I wouldn't say he's ugly either..Just not the kinda image I expected for Angel's son, that's all.
Arrgh! Speaking of Connor..what the hell does he think he's doing?
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
That's it. Season 3 Angel has officially come to an end. And, needless to say, I am not happy. I knew what was going to happen and I couldn't stop it. I knew what was going to happen and I just sat back and watched it. I failed Angel.
Kas, Beth and I just sit in silence. After a while, Beth finds her voice. "Well..Wow." She says. "I can't believe how corny the Cordy floating into the sky bit was."
I smile and force my tears away. I haven't cried yet. I refuse to cry. "Yeah.." I manage to reply. "But the episode was pretty good, I guess. A few minor details..okay.. *major* details that were kinda lame, but overall it was executed well."
Beth nods in agreement and Kassie sniffs a little. "Poor Angel.." She begins. "I can't believe it. Joss actually went through with it."
"Yeah. He's evil. We've covered this." I try to lighten the mood, and they smile. Inwardly I'm dying. I need to get back now more than ever. I stand up and stretch, holding out my arm to Kassie and the other to Beth and helping them to their feet. "Well..I'm thinking I want ice-cream now. Comfort food ahoy!"
They giggle and we head downstairs for snacks and chatter about the past seasons of Ats and Btvs. After seriously depressing myself, I decide we'd better do something, or watch something to raise our spirits.
"Heys.." I start, my mouth still full of TimTams, "Who's up for a comedy?"
My friends raise their hands enthusiastically and we go back to the TV. I pick up the remote control and start flipping through channels, in hopes the Friday Night Movie is a good one.
No. Nup. Nu-uh. Oh God No. Wait a second. What was that last one? Quickly I flip back to the channel that caught my attention. There's a couple of people dressed as, what seems to be, a turtle and some sort of bird creature and they're singing something. Thing is, it's not the lame costumes that caught my attention, it's the song.
".Will you, won't you, will you, won't you, will you join the dance?"
I still can't place the song, but I know that I've heard it *somewhere* before. Then it clicks and I'm stunned into silence, my mouth gaping open. A scene from the not-so-distant past is playing in my head.
!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!
Drusilla is swishing her hips in time to an imaginary song. She hums, looks at me and extends her hand, gesturing for me to join her on her imaginary dance floor, repeating the end of the song. "Will you, Won't you, Will you, Won't you, Will you join the dance?"
!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!
"Oh My GOD!" I exclaim, startling the hell out of Kas and Beth. "OH MY GOD!" I get up and rush to my desk, yanking open the top drawer and digging through until I find the crumpled, worn piece of paper. I read the words and it all falls together. "Oh my god! That's it! THAT'S IT!"
By now I'm rushing around gathering things that I might need up and packing my backpack. Beth stands up and steps in front of me. "Ah..Angel. Want to explain what all this is about?" She gestures at my backpack and reaches for the piece of paper in my hand.
Kassie, on the other hand, looks at the TV and back at me. "You know..If you didn't like Alice in Wonderland, we coulda just changed the channel."
I turn to look at her, pulling my piece of paper with me as I do. "It's not that. I just..Realised something."
Beth taps me on the shoulder and I turn to look at her again. She folds her arms and glares at me. "What am I missing, Angel?"
"Nothing. I promise. I just..I've gotta go to the toilet. Be right back." I push past her and head out the door as fast as I can. Rushing into the bathroom, I close the door behind me and grab my lipstick from the sink.
I bend down and draw a circle on the cold, white tiles. Pulling out a couple of candles from my backpack, I mutter, "I hope it works this time," and then proceed to light them. Placing the three lit candles in a triangular pattern around the outside of the circle; one in front of me and the other two behind me to the sides, I look into the mirror.
I can't believe it never occurred to me to use the mirror before now. A classic cliché and I missed it completely. I think I've gone mad. No, correction, I *know* I've gone mad.
What was it, other than the annoying song, that made me realise that the mirror was the key? Well, the song was from Alice In Wonderland. If you've ever seen Alice in Wonderland or read it, you'd know about the segment 'Through the Looking Glass', where Alice steps through the mirror to get back into her Alternate Reality.
TA DA! Or should I say: Ta *DUH*?
It was staring me right in the face the entire time..and I missed it!
*That* was the missing segment of the spell! *That* was what Wes and I couldn't work out! Well, all I have to say is 'don't ever doubt the prophetic powers of an insane vampiress' and also 'Thanks Dru!'
I turn the bathroom lights off and step back into the circle, taking a deep breath as I do. I look into the mirror, my resolve face in deploy. I don't need to read the words on the paper anymore. After all, I've read them over and over every night for the past few months. I've kinda memorised them. Oh well.. Here goes nothing. While I speak I use a feather to draw an air symbol on the mirror with salt water. (It makes more sense than to draw a symbol in the air like I had done previously.)
"Image of the deep, let me through to who I am,
release that which I was, let go the time sand,
enter another way, a portal, a slip of time,
bring back to me what was, the heart friends of mine
Eros the enchanter, take me and that becomes thine,
But I must beg a favour, send me to heart friends of mine"
After a few seconds of absolutely nothing happening, I start to think that maybe the whole 'through the looking glass' thing was yet another dead end. But just as I unlock the bathroom door, the mirror starts to fog up. (I don't need to point out the obvious clichés this time 'round, do I? Didn't think so.) I stop and take a step towards it. My reflection smiles at me.
"Hey.." Nic says. "How u doin'?"
I grin back at her. "Not too bad now..Listen, I have a favour to ask you.."
We chat for a while about the fact that I need to get back and that I don't know how long I'll need her to stand in for me. She agrees enthusiastically to escape that dimension and we go over some of the reputation/personality traits we're each going to need to hold up around certain people.
"So.." Nic smirks happily, "How's your..or should I say, *my* love life goin'? Are you lovin' your boyfriend? What was his name? Michael? I thought he was perfect for us."
I roll my eyes. "Figures." I reply, winking. But I gaze off a little dreamily anyway. "Yeah..Actually I'm pretty happy with him. He hasn't run away yet." I laugh. "I haven't seen him for a few days, though. I've been busy with school and he's been working-" She furrows her brow in worry and I smile reassuringly. "And he really *has* been working. He's one-hundred percent honest and cheat-free. Gotta love that."
She beams, her relief evident. I guess what Damien did to her still hurts. "Good. Well..is there anything else I should know about your life? Or you should know about mine?"
I think for a second. "No..Not really." I think a little more and then it hits me. Timidly, I smirk a little. "Actually..There is one thing." She raises an eyebrow and I try not to look her in the eye. I don't know why..I mean, it's not like I have anything to be ashamed of. Especially not with Nic..who is basically me in another dimension. "No sex. With Mike." Or anyone for that matter.
Her eyes widen with disbelief. "WHAT?"
I look at her seriously. "You heard me." She's about to ask why, so I decide to explain anyway. "It's just that..We haven't..you know..and I kinda want to be the one to.." I stop and compose myself, making my resolve perfectly clear. "I want to be able to be in my own reality and in my own mind and when 'I' lose my vir-"
"Hold it right there." She interrupts. "You expect me to believe that you've never slept with anyone?" I nod and she throws her hands in the air. "But that's not fair!"
I roll my eyes. "You can live a few months without sex. It's not as devastating as it sounds." Before she can argue, I glance at my watch. "Whoa! It's getting late! I really gotta get going." I pause and look back up at her. "So..You ready to go now?
She nods. "Yeah..If there's anything I need to know I'll contact you..or search your mind..or something."
"Cool." I reply, before taking a step forward, hopping up onto the bench and catching my breath as I move into the mirror. 'Now this is something you don't see everyday.' I think as my world dissolves. As I watch the colours swirling around, I look back. Huh. That's weird. When did Kas and Beth enter the bathroom?
Then the reality of what they've just witnessed hits me.
Oh shit!
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Kas and Beth looked at each other in shock. Had they just seen what they *thought* they'd seen? They were extremely creeped out and didn't know exactly what to make of the situation. Naturally Kas was the first to spring into action. She ran towards the fogged up mirror and hoisted herself onto the counter-top like she had seen Angel do.
Beth watched in horror as the second of her friends disappeared into the swirling mist that had once been the bathroom mirror. She was torn, but followed anyway, her fear and confusion growing with every millisecond.
A few seconds later, three figures came sliding out onto the cold, white bench.
Nic stood up and looked around appreciatively. It felt great to be back. She had loved it here and had never really wanted to go back to LA. Suddenly she was jolted from her thoughts as one of the girls on the floor groaned.
"Where am I?" she asked, still a little dazed.
It took Nic a few seconds to process what was going on. "Oh Shit!" She exclaimed, putting her Aussie accent into practice once more. "Angel's not gonna like this!"
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
I land gracefully on my feet in the middle of Nic's apartment. Once the dizziness subsides I take a good look around. It's a really nice place she's got here. Which confuses me a little.
I'm still puzzled about *her* life. I mean, she's 17 and yet she doesn't seem to have any family or remotely close friends. I don't think she goes to school and she's only just recovering from her days as an evil bitch. I'll have to work all of this out one day. I've gotta remember to ask her about her past sometime. Maybe I will the next time I decide to make a social call to the Angelverse. Or even when I'm leaving this time around.
That's if I ever leave, though.
I don't know if I really want to. I mean, I never should have in the first place..But that's all past now. What matters is that I'm here now and I've got issues to resolve. Which reminds me..I hope Nic has the sense to explain things to Kas and Beth in a rational and logical kinda way. (In other words I hope she lies through her teeth.) But, again I digress. There's nothing I can do about that reality at the moment. I've got bigger, more important, problems to deal with in *this* reality first.
Grabbing one of Nic's jackets and a couple of $20s that she had laying on the kitchen counter, I exit the apartment and hail a cab. "Uh..The Hyperion Hotel, please." I tell the driver as I get in.
When I finally reach AI's headquarters I pay the cabbie and stand on the sidewalk, just gazing up at the building. It looms above me, dark and seemingly empty. I take a breath and start to walk up the front steps. Pushing open the double doors I mutter, "Here goes nothing."
The lobby is lifeless. I walk in slowly, the sound of my high-heels clicking against the cold, hard tile echoing throughout the entire ground floor. I wonder how long it's been in this reality since the season final. Apprehensively I make my way around the pentagram stain on the ground and spin around at the bottom of the stairs. "Hello?" I call, "Anyone home?"
After a couple of minutes of silence, I slump my shoulders and drop onto the bottom step in defeat. A tear of frustration slips down my cheek and I brush it away furiously.
This can't be it! Joss was planning a 4th season so it can't be the end but then..Urgh! This is so frustrating! Why the hell did I come again? I mean, if Joss is planning another season there's really no reason for me to be here at all. Things will be resolved at his hand, *not* mine.
No. I can't think like that.
I came because I wanted to help. I can affect the outcome. I *know* I can! But not if I'm too late. Which, funnily enough, I may very well be.
I sigh and drop my head into my hands.
"Who are you?" A cold voice asks a few seconds later. I know that voice!
I snap into action and stand up, glaring at the person in front of me with a mountain of contempt. "Connor.." I try not to snarl, remembering the fact that he was as innocent in all this as..No. Screw it. How the hell could anyone believe Justine? Especially under THOSE circumstances! Riiight! TV land! This could take a while.
I move forward and he immediately assumes his fighting stance, or rather, *Angel's* fighting stance. I tilt my head to the side and smile. "You don't remember me? I knew you when you were this big." I gesture with my hands. "I asked you to be good to your dad." I pause pointedly. "I see that never worked out.."
"I'll ask you again.." The scrawny one growls. "WHO. ARE. YOU?"
"Oh boy..Here we go." I sigh. "Kid, it's a long story."
"WHO-"
I roll my eyes and hold up a hand to silence him. "I get it. The name's Angel. Well, Angelita really, but I go by Angel." I hold out a hand. "I'm a friend of your dad's and-"
Connor scowls. "Then you are also my enemy."
"What?" I ask incredulously. "You can't be serious."
"Angelus is my father, but he killed my dad. Angelus is my enemy and any friend of his-"
"Is an enemy of yours..I see. But Angel isn't Angelus. And I'm friends with *Angel*. And, besides, he never killed Holtz." I wait for a response, but I don't get one, so I continue instead. "Holtz and Justine set him up. The bite marks were fake. Justine stabbed Holtz. He made her do it. The crazy son of a bitch actually got his revenge."
At this Connor snarls and lunges towards me. "Liar!" He screams angrily. "My dad would never do a thing like that!"
I roll my eyes and tussle with him. "He would!" I pant whilst matching him blow for blow. "And he did!"
"LIAR!" The teen yells again.
"Look..what Angelus did to Holtz was wrong, and I never hated Holtz for wanting revenge..Or for taking it. He was justified in his own twisted way." I manage, ducking a few more of Connor's furious attacks. "But Justine shouldn't have gotten involved. And you should have been smarter than to believe her! But you did..and now Angel's at the bottom of the ocean because you preferred to believe a complete stranger than your own flesh and blood-"
"Enough!" Connor calls, pushing me into a corner. He strikes out again with his hands and I duck. He lunges forward once more. "Angelus is a demon! Why should I believe him? Or you?"
Propelling myself against the wall behind me, I flip and land behind him. (Okay..so TV land has SOME good points..) "Because Angel is not Angelus and he's more than a demon. He's not evil and neither am I." I argue, but to no avail. I guess fighting him isn't going to prove anything, so I stop and raise my hands to prove my point. "I don't want to fight you. I'm one of the good guys." And My God that was cheesy! It's TV land getting to my brain again. (Yep. Back to cliché bashing..)
Connor glares at me and stops fighting as well, though he's still in fighting stance..obviously not gonna trust me anytime soon. "And you expect me to *believe* any of this?" Then he backs up, seemingly doing a double take, trying to recall different aspects of what I've told him. "You said you never hated my dad..Holtz. You know of his past with the demon. You know many things..and people..that are involved here, but I have never seen of even heard of you." He narrows his eyes. "How do you know so much?"
I smile at him. "And that's a long story in itself. You understand about Alternate Realities and Different dimensions, right?"
***************************
A/N- I know, I know. There was no actual Angel or Ats action. And the Connor thing was badly written. A lot of this was to tell the truth. BUT Don't sue me just yet. I just had to set up a few things. The next chapter should be more interesting as I get back into the swing of things. BTW, I'm always open to ideas and stuff, so see the little *send a review* button? Click it and do just that. Thanks. ^_^
Also THIS CAN BE READ AS A STAND-ALONE. You don't have to have read 'Alternate', but I do recommend it 'cos a lot of the character inter- relationship thingies were developed in it. (Okay, so my attempt to sound smart kinda backfired..^_^) But if you don't want to go out of your way to read it, I think this one does work without the background story.
Summary- taking off a couple of months after 'Alternate' left off. Angel(ita) fights to get back to help her family away from reality recover from the horrific events that have occurred. Problems escalate as more clichéd (and awfully predictable) obstacles both follow and await her. Confused yet? Yeah..I know. I am too. Lol. ^_^ I guess you're just gonna have to read to work it out. Then review. PLEASE. ^_^
Disclaimer- Do I own anything other than my original characters? Hmm..let me think..Umm..NO. Big fat "uh-uh" also fair to say "never", "Not a chance" and "No way in hell!" *Indignant pouting and sighing as I cross my arms over my chest* It's just not fair..
Dedication- To my reviewers. Gotta luv you all. ^_^ (Hint Hint.read and review)
Another A/N..linking to Dedication- This chapter could not have happened without Mrs O-Town, Star and one of my off FF.N buddies: Kat. Guys, I'm thanking you sooooo much for everything you've done. Mrs O and Kat for being my scene brainstorming buddies and Star for the brilliant incantation. You're all awesome and I luv you to bits. ^_^
Okay..well..this is it.
3
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FANFIC!
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I refuse to believe it. I will NOT believe it.
I've been back home a couple of months now. 2 months, 1 week and 4 days to be exact. It's been that long since I first learnt of the events of Waiting in The Wings and all subsequent episodes of Ats, and that long since I discovered the horrors that were unravelling in Sunnydale. Everything's going wrong. EVERYTHING.
But the worst part? The worst part is that I couldn't get back. Correction; I *can't* get back.
No matter how hard I've tried, I just can't cross realities.
So now I sit frozen in front of my TV, watching in anguish as my inter- dimensional family's lives fall to pieces even more. I just don't want to believe this is happening. I mean, the season final of Buffy is playing out in front of me, and I'm sickened to think that I can't do anything to help.
Of course, I know how it's going to end. I've read and re-read the spoilers from every site I've been able to find over and over again to make sure it's all real. And even though the Btvs season 6 finale isn't the worst ending imaginable (as opposed to what is gonna be on tomorrow night) the thought that I can't do anything to prevent the bad stuff from happening is killing me.
This is awful. I remember Wes telling me that I might not be able to get back..Telling me that there was something we might be missing to complete my re-entry into the Ats/Btvs world..But I thought he was just being stuffy and fussing over tiny insignificant details like his character usually did. In hindsight, I realise that I should have listened to him. I should have stayed longer. If I had, I doubt he would have..done what he did. In fact, I doubt any of the badness would have happened.
Plus..If I would have stayed, we might have worked out what was missing and I wouldn't be stuck in this situation. I think by now I've made it clear that the problem is I didn't stay. We *didn't* work out how to get me back for certain. And now I'm stuck here watching as everything goes wrong for the characters..or should I say..people I love.
The situation's kinda funny, in a sad sorta' way. I mean, a few of my friends don't get why I've gotten so worked up about the shows now. The fact that Nic never watched them while she was here posing as me struck them as odd, but they let it pass. Of course, once the real me was back I suddenly became 'crazed' over 'Angel' and 'Buffy'. Gotta tell you, it has them really confused. They have no idea what's going on, and if I told them they'd lock me up in a padded cell and throw away the key.
I guess I'm gonna have to let them stay confused then.
As the ads come on, I try my hardest to teleport into the next reality. My attempts are in vain..yet again.
I *have* to work out what's wrong. Preferably sometime in the next 30 seconds.
I know. It's a lost cause. It's killing me that I just can't seem to work it out. Urgh! I'm soooo not lovin' this!
I know for a fact that the resistance has nothing to do with reality as we know it not supporting magicks as easily, because I'm able to teleport all over the place and move things with my mind as usual. It has nothing to do with my methods 'cos I've tried everything Wes suggested and more. So it has something to do with what he thought we were missing. Grr Argh! This is so damn frustrating!
My internal ranting is put on hold as the ads fade out and the final episode of Buffy begins. I still can't believe what's happening.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Angel, hey!" A far too chirpy voice calls out.
I spin to see the source. "Beth.." I force a smile. "Hi."
She runs to catch up, then stops in front of me, tilting her head quizzically. "Okay." Her tone is serious. "What's up?"
I sigh. "Nothing. It's all good."
She shakes her head. Nothing gets past Beth. NOTHING. I have to smile when she furrows her brow and glares at me, her emerald eyes shimmering with distrust. "I don't believe you. Now spill."
Elisabeth is one of those people you can't lie to. I've known her for a few years now, but we've gotten closer these past couple of months. We're practically best friends. After Sarz moved away unexpectedly she was there to support me and I'm not usually the type of person that likes the whole 'sharing of emotions' thing. She respected that and knew that I'd talk when I was ready. Needless to say I ended up ranting and raving my heart out at her within 2 weeks (which is weird 'cos nobody in this reality has ever made me do that before) and we realised that we had more in common than I had first assumed. For one thing she was a big fan of Btvs and Ats too, and we shared similar views on the characters. For another she knew how to track my trail of thought and could predict what I was going to say in most situations. And I'm not usually someone that revels in predictability.
On the outside, Beth is one of those people that can be snarky, sarcastic and extremely witty. She doesn't wear her heart on her sleeve either, and voices her opinion when she feels it necessary..which is almost always. She's a blast to shop with, and can keep a secret like nobody I've ever met. But the best part is that I can always count on her honest opinions. She doesn't hold back in case of hurting my feelings, which I really respect. And she expects the same from me. So we get along just fine.
However, in situations like the one today, I try to avoid her. It's not that I dislike her in any way..because that's practically impossible..just that I find it so hard keeping my Alternate Reality secret from her. Honestly, she'd be the first person to book me into a mental institution if I told her the truth. Either that, or she would think it was a joke and laugh at me..then I'd have to prove it to her and she'd get freaked out and probably never speak to me again.
I know..I know. I still have to answer her though.
"Really. It's nothing. I promise." I grin at her, but she hardens her gaze further.
"Angel.." She warns.
I throw my hands into the air and sit down on one of the benches outside our first class. "Fine. It was the final of Buffy last night. And I'm upset. That, and the final of Angel is on tonight..Which is probably gonna kill me, even though I know what's gonna happen." I glare at her in mock anger. "Happy now?"
She breaks into a huge smile. "Yup." Taking a seat next to me she adds, "They are leaving a lot to be desired, aren't they?"
"You don't know half of it." I mumble.
She catches it and looks at me, curiosity playing over her fair features. "Pardon?"
"Uh.." I chuckle nervously. "I'm just obsessed. Don't mind me. Brainless rambling."
She grins knowingly. "But that's what makes you YOU. Plus, it's really quite funny."
"Thanks." I reply sarcastically. "You think I'm funny. I feel so much better now."
We chuckle and before long the third member of our little 'Troika' sits down in front of us. "Heys." She begins. "What's funny today?"
"Hi." I respond. "We're just laughing at the patheticness that is me. Wanna join?"
Kassie chuckles. "I'll pass. I'm too busy moping over what happened last night."
Beth grimaces and plants her hands over her face, shaking her head in amusement. "Here we go.." She starts.
See, Beth's the most rational thinker in our group. When you put Kassie and I in a room together, you're almost certain to find mindless conversation about Angel and Co. or a lot of deep analysis of the episodes. Either way, Beth is the only one of us that seems to think about anything (and everything) else.
Karisma, or Kassie for short, is a lot like I can be when I'm on a sugar high. She loves the fact that her name is a variation of Charisma 'cos she's a HUGE Cordy fan. We even call her Cordy from time to time actually, when we're laughing about our nicknames. Me being Angel and her being Cordy..I know, I know. It sounds lame..but that's what being a fan is all about, really.
Anywhos..Kassie is a bundle of energy, always cracking jokes and making up wild scenarios to use in fanfics. However, I haven't known her for that long, really. See, Kas just moved to Australia from England and, though she's meant to be in grade 11, she was upped to grade 12 because she's so smart..thus joining our class. And even though she's a good year younger than Beth or I, she seemed to fit right in with us.
"..So..anyway, there I was sitting in front of the TV yelling 'GO EVIL WILLOW! KICK BUFFY'S SCRAWNY LITTLE ASS!'.." Kassie says, causing Beth and I to burst into a fit of hysterics. Truth be told, we're not exactly Buffy fans..But that's kinda obvious by now. "..And my mum walks past shakin' her head muttering somethin' about me having to get a life. It was hilarious." We continue to giggle and she looks at Beth and I. "What about you? What did you guys think of last night?"
I smile. "Well..I was a little wrapped up in Spikey goodness..Although I did decide one thing." I look between them and smirk. "Pause for dramatic effect.." They roll their eyes and I smirk even more. "I decided that Dawn must die."
"Here Here!" The others exclaim. We laugh a bit more and the conversation inevitably drifts towards tonight's episode of Angel.
"..I can't believe we've had to wait so long." Kassie whines. "I mean, I get the fact they had to air the Commonwealth Games and all..but they coulda aired Angel at its usual time this week.."
"I reckon." Beth cuts in. "I was sooo getting psyched up to watch it on Tuesday, hey. Then I read the TV guide. I mean, what's the difference between today and Tuesday anyhow?" I open my mouth to tell her that today is Friday and Tuesday comes 3 days later, but she rolls her eyes. "Aside from the obvious, Angel."
I grin and nod. "I s'pose they wanted to keep us waiting in suspense. Evil TV executives."
"Yep." Kassie agrees eagerly, while Beth just nods happily. "I can't believe what's gonna happen. I mean, the spoilers and all kinda..well..kinda spoilt it, but I know I'm still gonna be riled up about it."
Yeah. You have no idea how much it's going to upset me. "I reckon! Seriously,I have this sneaking suspicion I'm gonna need a few boxes of tissues.."
"Aaaawwww.." Beth says, mocking me with her tone. "Poor Angel. You do know it's just a TV show, right?"
No. No. No. It's not 'just a TV show'. It's real and I love these people sooo much! "Yeah..I guess. I still feel kinda attached to them though."
Kassie throws her arms around me and glares at Beth in jest. "Me too."
Beth can't control her laughter as she practically rolls around in front of us. "Kas.." She gasps in between her giggling, "Your mum was right. You *DO* need to get a life."
I take one look at Kassie's indignant pout and burst into laughter along with Beth. This is how our form room teacher finds us before he lets us into the classroom, shaking his head in amusement. I doubt I'll be doing much schoolwork today. I'm still determined to work out a way to get back to the Angelverse..and I'm determined to do it tonight.
"Okay guys.." Our teacher begins as the other grade 12s start to forward in, "I know it's Friday and all, so bear with me. I want to be home just as much as you do.."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
The final bell rings and there is a thunderous movement as people jump from their seats, rushing to the door to escape this conformist hellhole for the next two days.
Because our last lesson was an elective, Kas, Beth and I were in our separate classes of choice. We have to gather in the locker area and collect our homework and bags, all whilst gossiping about the lesson past and chattering about the tear-fest we are going to be subject to tonight.
"I don't want to see the fang gang go through this sort of torment.." I confess, strolling down the path towards where our parents usually pick us up. "But at the same time I can't bear missing an episode. Joss is-"
"Evil." The others finish for me. "We know. We know."
I grin sheepishly and fold my arms over my chest. "Well he is."
Suddenly Kassie stops in her tracks. "Hey!" She exclaims, a funny gleam in her eyes. I take a step back, knowing full well what that look can mean. It's her 'I have a plan' look. The kind that almost always ends with Beth and I getting roped into some half-witted scheme that hasn't been thought out properly. "I soooo had the best idea!"
Told ya so. "Yeah..?" I reply somewhat uneasily. "And.?"
Kas is about to explain when Beth holds up her hand. "One question before you say anything. Does this involve me dressing up like a chicken again? 'Cos that was just wrong and-"
"Okay." Kassie says, a little annoyed that Beth keeps bringing that up. "First of all, *THAT* was for charity.."She grins wickedly, "And, secondly, it got Mark's attention didn't it?"
I have to bite my tongue at the scene in front of me. Beth's still not impressed and she's scowling at Kas, who's still bouncing around like a puppy dog. She shrugs off Beth's glare and continues happily, "Anyways..I was thinkin' that maybe tonight we could have a group TV night. Just us three. Watching Angel..Moping over Angel..Snacking on goodies that are going to rot our teeth..Debating the key issues of this season of Angel.." She looks at Beth and I excitedly. "Well? What do you think?"
I don't like that idea. Not one bit. I mean, what if I work out a way to get back? "Umm.." I look at Beth, but she seems to actually agree with Kassie. Urgh. Traitor. "Sure. Why not?"
"Yay!" Kassie exclaims, "This is gonna be great!"
"Mmmhmmm.." I respond with a little..okay, okay..a lot less enthusiasm. "I can't wait."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Angel!" Mum calls from downstairs, "Beth and Kas are here!"
See, I eventually decided to host this sleepover thing at my place. I guess it just seemed easier this way.
"Cool!" I yell back. "They know where my room is. Send them up."
After a few seconds, there's a light knock at my door and Beth laughs. "Well..It's nice to feel appreciated," She jokes, "*Send them up*? What was that? Honestly, great friend and daughter you are."
I roll my eyes at her sarcasm, lean over to my bed, grab a pillow and hurl it at her. I guess tonight might be kinda fun after all.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Oh my god.." I gasp. "No..No No No No."
Beth and Kassie roll their eyes. "Its just an ad, Angel..Let it go." Beth coos.
"But it's promoting BRITNEY for Christ sakes! Don't these people have SOULS?" I hiss in response. The others look at each other and laugh. I cross my arms over my chest indignantly. "I guess that's a no."
"What is your problem with her anyway?" Kas asks, waving an arm towards the tv lazily.
This is the way it always starts. Kas defending the skanky..er..I mean, Britney, and me threatening to kick her out of my house.
I sigh pointedly and roll my eyes to insinuate my superiority. "Just that she's a bad role model for young girls and she's not exactly the best example of-"
"OH-KAY!" Beth says, putting up her hands in the classic 'time-out' signal. "Can we PLEASE get through at least one slumber party without a fight breaking out over Britney?" She eyes us both. "Please? Look..Angel's coming back on in a few seconds..Can we make it through until then?"
Kas and I glare at each other playfully. I smirk. "Yeah..I guess I can be the mature one and-"
"Hold on." Kas cuts me off in disbelief. "You? The mature one? Spare me."
We all laugh again and the ads fade out once more. "Oh god.." I murmur as the show continues, grabbing my pillow and snuggling into it. "Poor Groo.."
And there's another thing. I never got to meet Groo. I loved Groo. He was sooo cute. Some of the lines that he had were classic ('You want me to make sex with you!')..and the innocence in those big blue eyes..I know. I know. I have a serious problem with the guys on this show. Can I help it if the casting agents only cast good-looking men? Except Vincent Kartheiser. I wouldn't say he's drop-dead gorgeous like the others..But I wouldn't say he's ugly either..Just not the kinda image I expected for Angel's son, that's all.
Arrgh! Speaking of Connor..what the hell does he think he's doing?
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
That's it. Season 3 Angel has officially come to an end. And, needless to say, I am not happy. I knew what was going to happen and I couldn't stop it. I knew what was going to happen and I just sat back and watched it. I failed Angel.
Kas, Beth and I just sit in silence. After a while, Beth finds her voice. "Well..Wow." She says. "I can't believe how corny the Cordy floating into the sky bit was."
I smile and force my tears away. I haven't cried yet. I refuse to cry. "Yeah.." I manage to reply. "But the episode was pretty good, I guess. A few minor details..okay.. *major* details that were kinda lame, but overall it was executed well."
Beth nods in agreement and Kassie sniffs a little. "Poor Angel.." She begins. "I can't believe it. Joss actually went through with it."
"Yeah. He's evil. We've covered this." I try to lighten the mood, and they smile. Inwardly I'm dying. I need to get back now more than ever. I stand up and stretch, holding out my arm to Kassie and the other to Beth and helping them to their feet. "Well..I'm thinking I want ice-cream now. Comfort food ahoy!"
They giggle and we head downstairs for snacks and chatter about the past seasons of Ats and Btvs. After seriously depressing myself, I decide we'd better do something, or watch something to raise our spirits.
"Heys.." I start, my mouth still full of TimTams, "Who's up for a comedy?"
My friends raise their hands enthusiastically and we go back to the TV. I pick up the remote control and start flipping through channels, in hopes the Friday Night Movie is a good one.
No. Nup. Nu-uh. Oh God No. Wait a second. What was that last one? Quickly I flip back to the channel that caught my attention. There's a couple of people dressed as, what seems to be, a turtle and some sort of bird creature and they're singing something. Thing is, it's not the lame costumes that caught my attention, it's the song.
".Will you, won't you, will you, won't you, will you join the dance?"
I still can't place the song, but I know that I've heard it *somewhere* before. Then it clicks and I'm stunned into silence, my mouth gaping open. A scene from the not-so-distant past is playing in my head.
!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!
Drusilla is swishing her hips in time to an imaginary song. She hums, looks at me and extends her hand, gesturing for me to join her on her imaginary dance floor, repeating the end of the song. "Will you, Won't you, Will you, Won't you, Will you join the dance?"
!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!
"Oh My GOD!" I exclaim, startling the hell out of Kas and Beth. "OH MY GOD!" I get up and rush to my desk, yanking open the top drawer and digging through until I find the crumpled, worn piece of paper. I read the words and it all falls together. "Oh my god! That's it! THAT'S IT!"
By now I'm rushing around gathering things that I might need up and packing my backpack. Beth stands up and steps in front of me. "Ah..Angel. Want to explain what all this is about?" She gestures at my backpack and reaches for the piece of paper in my hand.
Kassie, on the other hand, looks at the TV and back at me. "You know..If you didn't like Alice in Wonderland, we coulda just changed the channel."
I turn to look at her, pulling my piece of paper with me as I do. "It's not that. I just..Realised something."
Beth taps me on the shoulder and I turn to look at her again. She folds her arms and glares at me. "What am I missing, Angel?"
"Nothing. I promise. I just..I've gotta go to the toilet. Be right back." I push past her and head out the door as fast as I can. Rushing into the bathroom, I close the door behind me and grab my lipstick from the sink.
I bend down and draw a circle on the cold, white tiles. Pulling out a couple of candles from my backpack, I mutter, "I hope it works this time," and then proceed to light them. Placing the three lit candles in a triangular pattern around the outside of the circle; one in front of me and the other two behind me to the sides, I look into the mirror.
I can't believe it never occurred to me to use the mirror before now. A classic cliché and I missed it completely. I think I've gone mad. No, correction, I *know* I've gone mad.
What was it, other than the annoying song, that made me realise that the mirror was the key? Well, the song was from Alice In Wonderland. If you've ever seen Alice in Wonderland or read it, you'd know about the segment 'Through the Looking Glass', where Alice steps through the mirror to get back into her Alternate Reality.
TA DA! Or should I say: Ta *DUH*?
It was staring me right in the face the entire time..and I missed it!
*That* was the missing segment of the spell! *That* was what Wes and I couldn't work out! Well, all I have to say is 'don't ever doubt the prophetic powers of an insane vampiress' and also 'Thanks Dru!'
I turn the bathroom lights off and step back into the circle, taking a deep breath as I do. I look into the mirror, my resolve face in deploy. I don't need to read the words on the paper anymore. After all, I've read them over and over every night for the past few months. I've kinda memorised them. Oh well.. Here goes nothing. While I speak I use a feather to draw an air symbol on the mirror with salt water. (It makes more sense than to draw a symbol in the air like I had done previously.)
"Image of the deep, let me through to who I am,
release that which I was, let go the time sand,
enter another way, a portal, a slip of time,
bring back to me what was, the heart friends of mine
Eros the enchanter, take me and that becomes thine,
But I must beg a favour, send me to heart friends of mine"
After a few seconds of absolutely nothing happening, I start to think that maybe the whole 'through the looking glass' thing was yet another dead end. But just as I unlock the bathroom door, the mirror starts to fog up. (I don't need to point out the obvious clichés this time 'round, do I? Didn't think so.) I stop and take a step towards it. My reflection smiles at me.
"Hey.." Nic says. "How u doin'?"
I grin back at her. "Not too bad now..Listen, I have a favour to ask you.."
We chat for a while about the fact that I need to get back and that I don't know how long I'll need her to stand in for me. She agrees enthusiastically to escape that dimension and we go over some of the reputation/personality traits we're each going to need to hold up around certain people.
"So.." Nic smirks happily, "How's your..or should I say, *my* love life goin'? Are you lovin' your boyfriend? What was his name? Michael? I thought he was perfect for us."
I roll my eyes. "Figures." I reply, winking. But I gaze off a little dreamily anyway. "Yeah..Actually I'm pretty happy with him. He hasn't run away yet." I laugh. "I haven't seen him for a few days, though. I've been busy with school and he's been working-" She furrows her brow in worry and I smile reassuringly. "And he really *has* been working. He's one-hundred percent honest and cheat-free. Gotta love that."
She beams, her relief evident. I guess what Damien did to her still hurts. "Good. Well..is there anything else I should know about your life? Or you should know about mine?"
I think for a second. "No..Not really." I think a little more and then it hits me. Timidly, I smirk a little. "Actually..There is one thing." She raises an eyebrow and I try not to look her in the eye. I don't know why..I mean, it's not like I have anything to be ashamed of. Especially not with Nic..who is basically me in another dimension. "No sex. With Mike." Or anyone for that matter.
Her eyes widen with disbelief. "WHAT?"
I look at her seriously. "You heard me." She's about to ask why, so I decide to explain anyway. "It's just that..We haven't..you know..and I kinda want to be the one to.." I stop and compose myself, making my resolve perfectly clear. "I want to be able to be in my own reality and in my own mind and when 'I' lose my vir-"
"Hold it right there." She interrupts. "You expect me to believe that you've never slept with anyone?" I nod and she throws her hands in the air. "But that's not fair!"
I roll my eyes. "You can live a few months without sex. It's not as devastating as it sounds." Before she can argue, I glance at my watch. "Whoa! It's getting late! I really gotta get going." I pause and look back up at her. "So..You ready to go now?
She nods. "Yeah..If there's anything I need to know I'll contact you..or search your mind..or something."
"Cool." I reply, before taking a step forward, hopping up onto the bench and catching my breath as I move into the mirror. 'Now this is something you don't see everyday.' I think as my world dissolves. As I watch the colours swirling around, I look back. Huh. That's weird. When did Kas and Beth enter the bathroom?
Then the reality of what they've just witnessed hits me.
Oh shit!
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Kas and Beth looked at each other in shock. Had they just seen what they *thought* they'd seen? They were extremely creeped out and didn't know exactly what to make of the situation. Naturally Kas was the first to spring into action. She ran towards the fogged up mirror and hoisted herself onto the counter-top like she had seen Angel do.
Beth watched in horror as the second of her friends disappeared into the swirling mist that had once been the bathroom mirror. She was torn, but followed anyway, her fear and confusion growing with every millisecond.
A few seconds later, three figures came sliding out onto the cold, white bench.
Nic stood up and looked around appreciatively. It felt great to be back. She had loved it here and had never really wanted to go back to LA. Suddenly she was jolted from her thoughts as one of the girls on the floor groaned.
"Where am I?" she asked, still a little dazed.
It took Nic a few seconds to process what was going on. "Oh Shit!" She exclaimed, putting her Aussie accent into practice once more. "Angel's not gonna like this!"
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
I land gracefully on my feet in the middle of Nic's apartment. Once the dizziness subsides I take a good look around. It's a really nice place she's got here. Which confuses me a little.
I'm still puzzled about *her* life. I mean, she's 17 and yet she doesn't seem to have any family or remotely close friends. I don't think she goes to school and she's only just recovering from her days as an evil bitch. I'll have to work all of this out one day. I've gotta remember to ask her about her past sometime. Maybe I will the next time I decide to make a social call to the Angelverse. Or even when I'm leaving this time around.
That's if I ever leave, though.
I don't know if I really want to. I mean, I never should have in the first place..But that's all past now. What matters is that I'm here now and I've got issues to resolve. Which reminds me..I hope Nic has the sense to explain things to Kas and Beth in a rational and logical kinda way. (In other words I hope she lies through her teeth.) But, again I digress. There's nothing I can do about that reality at the moment. I've got bigger, more important, problems to deal with in *this* reality first.
Grabbing one of Nic's jackets and a couple of $20s that she had laying on the kitchen counter, I exit the apartment and hail a cab. "Uh..The Hyperion Hotel, please." I tell the driver as I get in.
When I finally reach AI's headquarters I pay the cabbie and stand on the sidewalk, just gazing up at the building. It looms above me, dark and seemingly empty. I take a breath and start to walk up the front steps. Pushing open the double doors I mutter, "Here goes nothing."
The lobby is lifeless. I walk in slowly, the sound of my high-heels clicking against the cold, hard tile echoing throughout the entire ground floor. I wonder how long it's been in this reality since the season final. Apprehensively I make my way around the pentagram stain on the ground and spin around at the bottom of the stairs. "Hello?" I call, "Anyone home?"
After a couple of minutes of silence, I slump my shoulders and drop onto the bottom step in defeat. A tear of frustration slips down my cheek and I brush it away furiously.
This can't be it! Joss was planning a 4th season so it can't be the end but then..Urgh! This is so frustrating! Why the hell did I come again? I mean, if Joss is planning another season there's really no reason for me to be here at all. Things will be resolved at his hand, *not* mine.
No. I can't think like that.
I came because I wanted to help. I can affect the outcome. I *know* I can! But not if I'm too late. Which, funnily enough, I may very well be.
I sigh and drop my head into my hands.
"Who are you?" A cold voice asks a few seconds later. I know that voice!
I snap into action and stand up, glaring at the person in front of me with a mountain of contempt. "Connor.." I try not to snarl, remembering the fact that he was as innocent in all this as..No. Screw it. How the hell could anyone believe Justine? Especially under THOSE circumstances! Riiight! TV land! This could take a while.
I move forward and he immediately assumes his fighting stance, or rather, *Angel's* fighting stance. I tilt my head to the side and smile. "You don't remember me? I knew you when you were this big." I gesture with my hands. "I asked you to be good to your dad." I pause pointedly. "I see that never worked out.."
"I'll ask you again.." The scrawny one growls. "WHO. ARE. YOU?"
"Oh boy..Here we go." I sigh. "Kid, it's a long story."
"WHO-"
I roll my eyes and hold up a hand to silence him. "I get it. The name's Angel. Well, Angelita really, but I go by Angel." I hold out a hand. "I'm a friend of your dad's and-"
Connor scowls. "Then you are also my enemy."
"What?" I ask incredulously. "You can't be serious."
"Angelus is my father, but he killed my dad. Angelus is my enemy and any friend of his-"
"Is an enemy of yours..I see. But Angel isn't Angelus. And I'm friends with *Angel*. And, besides, he never killed Holtz." I wait for a response, but I don't get one, so I continue instead. "Holtz and Justine set him up. The bite marks were fake. Justine stabbed Holtz. He made her do it. The crazy son of a bitch actually got his revenge."
At this Connor snarls and lunges towards me. "Liar!" He screams angrily. "My dad would never do a thing like that!"
I roll my eyes and tussle with him. "He would!" I pant whilst matching him blow for blow. "And he did!"
"LIAR!" The teen yells again.
"Look..what Angelus did to Holtz was wrong, and I never hated Holtz for wanting revenge..Or for taking it. He was justified in his own twisted way." I manage, ducking a few more of Connor's furious attacks. "But Justine shouldn't have gotten involved. And you should have been smarter than to believe her! But you did..and now Angel's at the bottom of the ocean because you preferred to believe a complete stranger than your own flesh and blood-"
"Enough!" Connor calls, pushing me into a corner. He strikes out again with his hands and I duck. He lunges forward once more. "Angelus is a demon! Why should I believe him? Or you?"
Propelling myself against the wall behind me, I flip and land behind him. (Okay..so TV land has SOME good points..) "Because Angel is not Angelus and he's more than a demon. He's not evil and neither am I." I argue, but to no avail. I guess fighting him isn't going to prove anything, so I stop and raise my hands to prove my point. "I don't want to fight you. I'm one of the good guys." And My God that was cheesy! It's TV land getting to my brain again. (Yep. Back to cliché bashing..)
Connor glares at me and stops fighting as well, though he's still in fighting stance..obviously not gonna trust me anytime soon. "And you expect me to *believe* any of this?" Then he backs up, seemingly doing a double take, trying to recall different aspects of what I've told him. "You said you never hated my dad..Holtz. You know of his past with the demon. You know many things..and people..that are involved here, but I have never seen of even heard of you." He narrows his eyes. "How do you know so much?"
I smile at him. "And that's a long story in itself. You understand about Alternate Realities and Different dimensions, right?"
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A/N- I know, I know. There was no actual Angel or Ats action. And the Connor thing was badly written. A lot of this was to tell the truth. BUT Don't sue me just yet. I just had to set up a few things. The next chapter should be more interesting as I get back into the swing of things. BTW, I'm always open to ideas and stuff, so see the little *send a review* button? Click it and do just that. Thanks. ^_^