Title: Who Said You Only Live Once
Author: anne
Posted: 02-04-2003
Rating: NC17
Email:
Content: c/a is the goal, this is an Highlander cross-over.
Summary:
Spoilers: ATS- takes place in between S2 and S3 (but- I’ve mentioned things learned in Birthday (S3-); However, the important part- no Connor (baby or otherwise) or reappearance of Darla or Groo or anything remotely S4 - or when Wesley and Fred decided to get eye surgery or contacts thereby not needing their glasses:
Highlander- I don’t know the episodes well enough to say- the series has ended so there is no chance of anyone being ‘spoiled’ but I have included a brief history of certain characters…and the mention of the demon Ahriman was an arch at the end of S5& S6-
Disclaimer: The characters in the Angelverse were created by Joss Whedon & David Greenwalt. No infringement is intended, no profit is made. Highlander belongs to Gaumount/Davis.
Distribution:
Notes: if you don’t like crossovers or the Highlander you won’t like this- I hope that you’ll give it a chance but I’ll completely understand if you don’t.
Highlander Notes: (brief summary for those that are unaware-the Highlander was a show about Immortals- beings that were immortal except they could be killed by decapitation and their purpose was to live for the ‘gathering’ a final battle that left one with the power of all- main character- Duncan Macleod- Highlander- 450 years old-very nice looking- cool- (OK, my opinion) )
Methos- 5000 years old -yeah- that old. Really a cool character- history- (except- that he was one of the four horsemen of the apocalypse.
Cassandra- almost as old as Methos- the history- Methos with his friends killed her whole village-and I guess her (except she was also an Immortal)
I read from the great feedback that either people know all about the Highlander or barely nothing….this part tells a little more in depth about Immortals. Anything that is wrong- sorry to the purist. I’m going on memory and a quick refreshing from episode guides.
Feedback:
Dedication: Dannyblue - Thanks for reading my spirited ideas- more importantly your encouragement.Part 14
“Okay, show me what the best swordsman in the world has taught you.” Angel stood before Cordelia his sword pointing to the ground.
Cordelia narrowed her eyes at Angel’s biting tone. What was the vampire’s problem? He sounded mad and why the dig at Duncan?
Cordelia shrugged and lifted her sword. Angel’s was up in an instant to meet hers. Cordelia frowned at the impact. Angel was holding back. She hadn’t ever fought Angel before but she knew that the vampire had more power than what he was showing. Hmmph. Cordelia would show him that she could handle whatever he had.
Cordelia nimbly danced back swinging her sword wide and hard daring Angel to counter her aggressive attack.
Angel raised his weapon deflecting Cordelia’s blow easily. Cordelia swirled directing her sword in a wide arch pushing her blade towards Angel, her feet moving closer to the vampire. Angel gracefully moved back his sword ready for Cordelia’s assault.
Angel met another one of Cordelia’s attempts to get through his guard then he changed his tactics. Angel conceded that Cordelia wasn’t bad. Her attacks were strong and confident but could she defend herself. That was the question he needed to have answered.
Angel stepped forward, his sword up, and swinging. Cordelia was pushed back on the onslaught. She brought her sword up in a frantic motion to block Angel’s. No longer was she on the offensive, Cordelia moved quickly trying to counter Angel’s every move. The vampire was no longer holding back.
Cordelia lunged trying to take control of the fight. But she couldn’t, Cordelia remembered the vampire’s strength but not his vamp speed. Angel swung with a swiftness and an accuracy that allowed her nothing but frantic attempts to regain her footing and keep her sword protectively in front of her. She was being beaten down by his speed and strength. This was not good. Her sword flew out of her hands and before she had a chance to move Angel’s sword was up against her neck. That was definitely not good.
“You’re dead.” Angel stepped back picking up her sword from the ground. “Again.”
Cordelia caught the sword. And the fight began again. Like before she was losing. Angel wasn’t allowing her the opportunity to try out any of the fancy moves Duncan had taught her all she could do was just try to maintain her balance and grip on her sword. That didn’t even matter. Angel’s sword was once again against her throat.
“Again.” Angel backed up.
Cordelia grunted. This wasn’t teaching this was slaughter. She had no idea what Angel was trying to prove except that she couldn’t beat him.
Duncan had told her to know her surroundings and if possible know your opponent. The Highlander said there was always a way to beat a stronger more experienced fighter she would just would have to figure out his weakness and use them before she was dead. The thing was Cordelia wasn’t seeing any weakness in the vampire. Cordelia grunted again as she dodged and scrambled to get her footing. But she did know Angel.
Cordelia stumbled falling back, her sword too high to meet Angel’s. She winced as Angel’s blade sliced into her stomach.
“Cordy.” Angel’s sword clattered to the ground as a red stain spread through the slash in Cordelia’s shirt.
Cordelia looked at the blood running through her fingers. “Ow.”
Angel took a step forward, his hands reaching out. His expression horrified at the sight and smell of Cordelia’s blood.
Cordelia dropped suddenly to the ground her legs swinging out knocking the stunned vampire to the ground. She straddled his chest, her sword firmly against his throat. “Got you. Your dead and I’m all healed. See.” Cordelia lifted her shirt partway exposing her skin.
Angel tentatively reached out touching the wounded area, now smooth, the blood the only evidence that there ever had been an injury. Angel’s concerned eyes turned darker.
Angel snatched the sword from Cordelia and tossed it aside.
“That was your strategy getting hurt.” Angel’s voice was low couched in cold anger. He jerked her off his body. “That was a stupid plan.”
“It worked didn’t it,” Cordelia scooted away on the ground.
Angel stood, his anger making his eyes pitch black. “That only works when the person trying to kill you loves you and is scared to death anytime your injured. Not something that you can count on. Is that what the best swordsman’s been teaching you- how to be stupid and reckless. I could‘ve really hurt you.”
“Angel,” Cordelia scrambled up to her feet trying to reach out to the furious vampire.
“Wesley and Gunn are back.” Angel looked up the stairs.
Cordelia followed his gaze sensing Duncan and Methos’ presence in the lobby.
“Angel, where…”
Angel didn’t answer or look back as headed up to others.
Part 15
Cordelia picked up her sword. Well that didn’t go well. She blew out a burst of air. At least Angel didn’t think she was a killer, just stupid and reckless. Yippee. That was a comfort.
Cordelia slapped the tip of her sword against the ground. She should’ve realized that he wouldn’t appreciate her ingenuity.
Shoot and now he was mad at her. But it had worked. Cordelia scrunched up her face towards the door. What had he said? It only would’ve worked if the person trying to kill her loved her and was scared to death anytime she was injured. Did that mean Angel loved her? Cordelia bit her lip and moved slowly to the stairs. A small kernel of hope appeared in the mass of insecurities that had burdened her since Angel went away. If he loved her than that meant she was his friend and possibly that Angel did need her even without the visions.
Angel had seemed to be really happy to see her at first. Of course, that one hug was the last time he appeared that way. Then he just started to act weird. However, he did say she couldn’t leave because she was family. So, maybe it was true. She knew she thought he was hers- so. Cordelia had to find out. That answer would effect her decision on whether to stay even more than Angel’s reluctant promise not interfere with the game.
***
Angel ignored all the occupants in the lobby expect one. “Wesley.” Angel called, as he went straight into the office not waiting to see if the other man followed.
Wesley sighed and adjusted his glasses. He wasn’t looking forward to this conversation. Trust Cordelia not to satisfy all the vampire’s questions, the young woman probably Pfft and hmmphed her way through her explanations, skipping over the important parts, leaving Wesley to deal with an angry vampire. And lord only knew what happened in the basement. Wesley braced his shoulders and entered, shutting the door behind him.
“I’m glad I’m not him, that’s for damn sure.” Gunn jumped on the counter.
“You think Angel’s mad.” Fred wrinkled her brow.
“Girl, that wasn’t a happy smiley face on the vamp.”
“Oh.” Fred frowned. “Maybe, Cordy beat him, she’s gotten really good.”
“Not that good.” Cordelia commented entering the lobby.
“Cordy.” Duncan worriedly glanced at her bloodstain shirt.
Cordelia rolled her eyes. “I’m fine.”
“Angel did that? Fred eye’s widened in disbelief.
“He actually cut you?” Duncan said roughly.
“Of course not, I set him up to do it. It was the only way I could win.”
Methos shook his head. “You let yourself be injured too win. Gee, haven’t tried that one before. Exactly how does that work?”
Gunn chuckled from the counter. “That explains the vamp’s growling. Man, I bet he’s pissed.”
Fred nodded in agreement. “Cordy, that wasn’t nice. Angel would never want to hurt you.”
“It gave me the advantage, yeah, he is pissed, and yeah, I realize that tactic wouldn’t actually work with another Immortal, but he kept winning, using his super vamp strength and stuff, I had to do something.” Cordelia defended weakly. “I need a shower and another new shirt.” Cordelia grumbled. She stopped at the foot of the stairs. “Hey, Gunn.”
“Yeah, Kamikaze girl.”
“Hmmph,” Cordelia scowled. “Go to the butcher shop and get Angel some blood. We’re out. Maybe some piggy goodness will get him out of his grumpiness.”
“Wes got some on the way back.”
“Oh. Okay.” Cordelia nodded and headed up stairs.
Part 16
Wesley couldn’t decide if he should stand or go sit behind his desk. After careful consideration he decided to sit, standing made him feel like he was on the defensive. Wesley was the boss of Angel Investigation. They were in his office; therefore Wesley would sit behind his desk.
“You’ve questions.” Wesley decided to grab the demon by the proverbial horns.
Angel stopped his pacing. “A few.”
Wesley tried not to squirm at the anger- induced sarcasm that dripped from Angel’s tone. “Of course, what did Cordelia tell you?”
“Just enough to make me have more questions.”
“Which are?” Wesley wasn’t so much surprised at Angel’s angry tone as his hesitation to get to the point.
“How could you let her go fight a Gorgon?” Angel glared, settling on the first question he had for Wesley since he returned.
Great. He had to start with that one. Wesley wished Angel would go back to pacing.
Luckily, Wesley knew how to answer that question. He had not stopped thinking about it since Cordelia was killed as the result of his decision.
“Angel, Cordelia is a part of Angel Investigations. She wants to be a part of it. At the time of the call, we thought we were dealing with Gorgon larvae. We took precautions.”
“Precautions? What precautions? Cordelia was killed.”
“Yes, our information was incorrect as to how long the Gorgons had been in their cocoon state. They hatched before the spell was complete.”
“You should’ve never let her go.”
“In hindsight, you may be correct.”
“In hindsight, Wesley.” Angel swung around. “If she wasn’t an Immortal, she’d be dead. DEAD, Wesley.”
Wesley instinctively leaned back at the forcefulness of the vampire’s words. Wesley pushed at his glasses and took a deep breath. “I realize that Angel, how could I not. Gunn and I watched her bleed to death. I was holding her cold hand when the doctors declared her dead. Believe me, I know. And had that been the case, it would’ve been a guilt I would’ve carried with me always.”
“You think the fact the she’s alive now absolves you for your poor judgment.”
“I think it gives me leave not to dwell on it.”
“I don’t know, Wesley. I trusted you to keep her safe.”
“You left, I made my decision. Cordy wanted to go.”
“That makes it okay?”
“It makes it my decision and hers. You weren’t here and honestly, if you were chances are you wouldn’t have said 'No' either. You’re even worse than I am at telling her no. Orders don't work with Cordy, they never have, and you know that better than anybody. Angel, please understand Cordelia feels a very strong need to be an active part in what we do.” Wesley decided on the ‘we’ rather than the empathic ‘you’ he wanted to shout to the high heavens. Wesley wasn’t sure if Angel or Cordelia were quite ready to explore their feelings for each other any more deeply. “She wasn’t having the visions. She was feeling useless and unnecessary- she wanted to help.”
“That’s stupid. The visions aren’t what makes her who she is or why I need her.” Angel started to pace again.
Wesley blinked at Angel’s choice of pronoun. Maybe Angel had taken his time away to explore his feelings for Cordelia. “Of course, but she does feel that way, ridiculous or not. And the presence of Gabby has upset her further, unfortunately Cordelia has been taking her feelings out on Gabby.”
“What about this Gabriel. I mean do you trust her, she seems a bit a much.”
“She has been having visions and she’s very nice just eager. Don’t let Cordelia’s feelings influence you in that regard. Gabby is trustworthy.”
“Cordy said she got her killed.”
“That was a mistake. If Cordelia would just be objective in regards to Gabby, she would admit that her own readings of her visions in the past weren’t always 100 percent accurate.”
“She never got one us killed. I trust Cordy.”
“Angel,” Wesley sighed. “Gabby is your seer, you have to give her a chance.”
“Whatever.” Angel sat down in the chair and studied his hands. His head shot up. “Why didn’t she tell me that she was dying?”
Wesley took a deep breath. Good lord, Wesley had thought he already answered the hard question. “I don’t know, Angel. She didn’t tell anyone. She said it was because there was nothing anyone could do. However, after seeing her reaction to Gabby, I believe that it has more to do with she was scared that we WOULD find a way to take her visions. She had the opportunity in Plyea and she choice not too. Cordelia’s very protective of her visions and of you.” Wesley took a chance with that last bit.
“Stupid.” Angel looked up again. “She could’ve gotten rid of them in Plyea?”
“Yes and before you ask I didn’t know until all of this came out.”
“How? Nevermind, I don’t want to know, I have a feeling I’d just get angrier.”
“I would agree there’s no point to that discussion.” Wesley was relieved he didn’t want to have to explain the whole ‘comshucking’ prophecy with Angel.
Angel pushed himself out of the chair and started to pace again. “How could you let a stranger live here? You should’ve called me. Cordelia is my responsibility not this MacLeod’s.”
“Call you? Do remote Tibetan monasteries have phones now?”
“There was a village surrounding it. It had phones.”
“Oh, you know this because you made all those phones calls to us informing us of your whereabouts and how you were doing.”
“I…”
Wesley brought up his hand to halt the vampire. “Angel, we understand why you left. Buffy’s death was very tragic and quite a blow especially to you. You obviously needed the time. But we couldn’t just sit still and wait for you to return. Duncan and Methos were here they had the information that Cordelia needed to cope with her new status. Duncan had more than enough skill to teach her how to defend herself. He, as well as, Methos has been a great benefit on some of our case and Gabby’s visions.”
“Defend herself, right. What to do know about this Game?”
“Unfortunately enough too know its true, but not enough to explain it completely or understand its purpose.”
“How can you be sure?”
“Methos and Duncan introduced me to a man, Joe Dawson. Joe is Duncan’s watcher. Through him, I was given access to information on Immortals.”
“A watcher?”
“Yes, Immortals have watchers. The watchers have a Council, a Council that is historically connected to my former but centuries separated from it now. An Immortal’s watcher is a mortal that knows the existence of Immortals and records the Immortal’s life for the benefit of knowledge and history. That’s all they do, they don’t interfere in any way. In most circumstances, Immortals don’t know they have watchers.”
“But obviously, Methos and Duncan do. Cordy has one of these watchers?”
“Methos doesn’t have a watcher. During a part of his life he infiltrated the Council and destroyed many of the references to his existence. Duncan found out through the negligence of his watcher and they eventually became friends. A friendship that is not looked well on by the Council, but again none of the Council has interfered with it. It’s seems that a while back Duncan and Joe discovered some renegade watchers who were attempting to kill all Immortals. The council feels they owe the Highlander for cleaning up their mess.”
“Cordy’s watcher, does she have one? Some stranger watching her recording her movements.” Angel repeated the only part he cared about.
Wesley stood and raised the sleeve of his right arm showing a circular designed tattoo on the inside of his wrist. “Joe with his influence has convinced the Council that I, having some experience as a slayer’s watcher as remote as it is to their purpose, be Cordelia’s watcher. Without telling either council of Cordelia’s true history, we- Duncan, Methos, Joe and I- felt that because of Cordelia’s past connection with the Powers and her connection to the vampire with a soul that the recordings of her Immortal life be provided by someone that could edit where appropriate.”
“What does that mean?”
“It means I submit monthly reports on Cordelia’s activities as I see fit. Cordelia was not happy about it. The first month she stole my report and sent a copy of a People Magazine article on Jennifer Anniston. Nevermind.” Wesley said in response to Angel’s puzzled look. “Now, I’ve taken to hiding my reports and only showing her after I’ve sent it.”
Angel slowly nodded. “Have you discovered any thing else about the Gathering?”
“Nothing except that every Immortal believes it to be true. An inherent instinct I believe-when its time, all Immortals still alive will be drawn to the place of the Gathering and fight until only one remains. Unfortunately, there is no evidence of when or where that is to occur.”
“And these rules, the ones that say I can’t interfere if Cordy’s challenged?”
“They are real and true. They must be abided by or it’s chaos.”
“You’re saying that Cordelia has no choice in this Game or its rules.”
“That is what is indicated in the writings. She’s an Immortal, Cordelia is now living by their destiny and rules.”
Angel stared hard at his friend and turned quickly only to face Wesley again. “So then, MacLeod or Methos don’t have a choice. They would fight and try to kill Cordelia if it came to it.”
“Yes, but they are no danger to Cordelia until then, which could be centuries or longer. Methos has been alive for over 5000 years.”
“But they will be when the Gathering happens if they’re still alive, right?”
“Yes, but.”
Angel nodded and left the room.
Wesley slumped back and rubbed the bridge of his nose. That didn’t go too badly. Now, if he could just ignore how Angel’s last statement sounded somewhat menacing. He looked up as Methos entered.
“Is the vampire more receptive to the changes that have happened since he’s been away?”
Wesley sighed. “Not that I don’t appreciate all that you and Duncan have done since you been here, but it may be time for you to leave. Angel, the vampire, is back.”
“That would be a no then. Problem with your suggestion, which I agree with, is I’m not sure Duncan’s ready to leave not without Cordy.”
Wesley stood up. “He has to be. I find it very unlikely Cordelia will change her mind about leaving LA.”
“She’s been talking more about it.”
“That was before Angel came back. She isn’t going to leave him and he’s not going to let her go.”
“It’s not his decision.”
“I know that, you know that, Angel even knows that, thing is I don’t believe he’ll care. Anyway, it doesn’t matter. Cordelia doesn’t want to leave him.”
“So, we are dealing with a jealous vampire.”
“It doesn’t have to be that way, not if you and Duncan leave now. Where is he by the way?”
“Upstairs talking to Cordelia.”
“Please tell me that Angel went anywhere but upstairs.”
“Sorry.”
“Great.” Wesley leaned back in his chair and rubbed his face harder.
Part 17
Angel watched from the landing as Duncan exited the vampire's suite. Duncan paused momentarily at the sight of Angel and then continued towards him.
“Have Wesley and Cordy answered all your questions?” Duncan stopped.
Angel studied the Immortal. “Some, I imagine, will never be answered. That’s the way of life. But, I’m clear on the important stuff.”
“Good.” The Highlander nodded and turned to leave.
“MacLeod.” Angel called as the Immortal tried to go past.
“Yes.”
“I know you’ve been training Cordelia and Wesley has told me how you’ve been helping with the visions- I should thank you.”
“You don’t have…” Duncan stepped a foot closer.
“I wasn’t. I said I should. The thing is we don’t need your help anymore. Cordy doesn’t need your help anymore. You’re what 450 years old, I’m sure you have a life to get back to, I suggest you do it. You’re done here.”
“Cordelia is my friend. I’m done when she tells me to leave.” Duncan’s friendly tone choked in his throat.
“Friend? You’re an Immortal. You aren’t her friend. You’re a potential threat. What you need to understand is that since the first day Cordelia came into my life she became my responsibility. I will remove all threats to her that I can. I will keep her safe not you, not anyone else.”
“I’m not a threat to her.”
Angel stared. “You’re not now but you will be if you’re alive when the Gathering occurs. Just like any other Immortal. And I won’t let anyone take Cordelia’s head. I like it where it is.”
“You can’t interfere if she is challenged.”
Angel laughed softly. “I’m a vampire, not much practice in following rules. But, who said anything about interfering. The way I see, I kill the Immortal before the challenge. It’s over.”
“I think you’ll find Immortal’s difficult to kill.”
“Right, the sword. I can hold my own, but the funny thing is - I don’t need one. I’ve learned in my mere 250 years that there is more than one way to separate a head from shoulders; one of my favorites back in the day was just ripping them off. I kind of got off on getting my hands dirty back then.” Angel shrugged with a cold smile.
“Are you threatening…” Duncan said with disbelief.
“What’s going on?” Cordelia came out of Angel’s bedroom.
Angel stepped away from the Immortal. “Nothing, just thanking MacLeod for all his help.”
“Uh uh.” Cordelia glanced back and forth between Duncan and Angel. She hadn’t heard what they were saying. But she recognized the tension between the two men.
“What are you doing?” Angel stepped closer ignoring the Immortal that his intention had been so focused on, pointing to the duffle bag in Cordelia’s hand.
“Packing, duh.”
“You’re not going anywhere.” Angel moved quickly ready to grab the bag out of her hand and throw it and her back in the room.
“Of course I am, or were you planning to let me have your room. Here, make yourself useful,” Cordelia swung the bag that Angel had been ready to grab. “While I get the rest of my stuff. Oh and find me a room that has a comfortable bed and good water pressure. Shoot, probably all the good ones are gone. This place is getting too crowded,” Cordelia grumbled as she turned back into Angel’s room. Cordelia popped her head back out the door. “Maybe, I should just go back to my apartment. I miss Dennis.”
“I’ll find you a good room. You’re staying here for the time being.”
“Hmmph. We’ll see. Hey, have you eaten yet? Wesley brought back some blood for you.”
“I’m not hungry.”
“Are you sure, because you’re awful grumpy? I’ll fix you something in a minute. See ya later, Duncan.”
“Yes, you will, Cordy. Angel.” The Immortal nodded went downstairs.
Angel shot a dirty look at the Highlander’s back and then hurried to find Cordelia a comfortable room, preferably one that was close to his.
Part 18
"The vampire just threatened me.” Duncan leaned up on the counter next to Methos.
"What did you do?"
"At the threat or what did I do to get threatened?"
"I already know what you did to get threatened. What did you do at the threat? I assume he's not a pile of dust up there."
"I walked away."
"I think its time we both not only walk away but fly our asses back home."
"I'm not ready to leave yet."
"Why not? Duncan, the deal was to stay until Cordelia had someone that could train her. That person's here, okay, he's a melodramatic vampire but so what? Cordelia doesn't have a problem with that so why should you."
"He actually cut her."
"Do you know how insane that sounds? Cordelia admitted she set it up. She's an Immortal so no harm and again, so what. That sort of thing happens when training."
"I'm not sure he's any good, probably relies too much on being a demon how’s that going to help Cordelia."
"I've a hunch he's good enough- look, Mac, how about we go look for Cassandra. Weren't you just the other day expressing concern that we hadn't heard from her?"
"And didn't you say so what?"
Methos shrugged. "I just think our time would be better suited traipsing around Eastern Europe looking for Cassandra than staying here and pissing off a potentially dangerous demon."
"I'm not leaving until Cordelia tells me too. Until then, I'll assume that she needs me to stay. I’m not sure I trust the vampire."
"He's one of the good guys. Power's warrior and all."
"You said that meant nothing."
"Well, it does mean he's not evil."
"Right, you heard what Wesley said about the past year, what the vampire did to Cordelia."
"Wesley was just talking, giving history, not given us carte blanche not to trust the vampire, every mortal in this hotel trusts Angel, Cordelia also. That's all that matters. Let's just go look for Cassandra maybe she needs saving or something. She needs some better advise on research material that's for sure."
"What do you mean?"
"That book she sent us for is useless. It’s just a spell book. There's more historical data on Baba Yaga in Brother's Grimm."
"I don't understand. A fairytale?"
"Baba Yaga is Eastern European folklore. A prototype for Hazel and Gretel, among others."
"Legends have a way of being true."
"Of course, but that book Wesley bought is full of spells. It would be like doing a biography of Julia Childe and using her recipes as research material."
"She must have some use for it."
"Well, if we go look for her we could ask."
"I’m not leaving and Joe is checking with Cassandra's watcher. If there's a problem he'll let me know and then I'll decide if I need to leave."
"Wonderful. Let’s just ignore the obvious danger to ourselves.” Methos shook his head.
***
Cordelia wandered down the hallway, peeking in unoccupied rooms. Where did that damn vampire go with her stuff? She swung her knapsack over her shoulder. He better not have had gone to the third floor. That floor was a disaster.
Cordelia shook her head resisting the urge to just yell out at the top of her lungs. If Angel didn't show up soon she was going to camp back out in his room. Damn. She turned towards the direction she came. She might as well pack another bag while she waited for the vampire to bless her with his presence and her new room.
Cordelia tossed her bag on the bed and headed towards the dresser drawers. She was pretty sure that she got everything out but she better double check. She didn't want Angel to freak if he found her panties and bras mixed in with his boxers. Cordelia flipped through the neatly folded material trying not to wrinkle anything. Who folded their underwear? Her hand rested on a soft pair of orange boxers with bright yellow smiley faces on them. Hmmph. They still had the tissue around them. Damn. The vampire never even wore them. That was the last time she spent any of her hard earned money on him or tried to liven up his sense of black as a fashion commandment. Hmmph. Well, if he didn't want them she'd take them back. They were cute and real silk- awesome sleepwear. That vampire had no sense of fun that's for sure.
Cordelia jerked as she heard something bang in the bathroom. She stuffed the boxers in the Knapsack. Damn. She thought she glued that shelf on right the last time. Didn't Angel ever put anything on it before? What's a shelf for if not to hold stuff? Cordelia grabbed her other knapsack. She might as well start empting the bathroom. Maybe she could prop the shelf up again. Angel wouldn't know. And if it fell later, it'd be his fault not hers.
Cordelia stopped once she entered the bathroom. The shelf hadn’t fallen. She scrunched her face as she heard more banging. She moved cautiously towards the vibrating far wall. That's weird. She'd been in Angel's room for over three months and had no previous signs of a ghost. She moved closer scanning the cracks in the wall, her finger tracing the very uniform vertical line that reached up from the floor to the ceiling. She bounced back as the line became a crack and expanded. She moved to push at the door.
"Okay whoever dead person you are, stop it, Angel's going to blame me...Stop, whoops.” Cordelia fell through the doorway landing in Angle's arms.
"Don't scream."
"I wasn't going to lug head, what the hell.” Cordelia pushed away from Angel's grasp and looked around. "What are you doing in here, where is here?"
"You're new room." Angel shrugged.
"My new what? Where did it come from?" Cordelia looked back to Angel's bathroom. The cracks in the wall now clearly showed a doorway.
"It's always been here. It's a big suite."
"It has not." Cordelia strode into the middle of the room, yanking at the door across the room.
"I’ll get it.” Angel pulled using his weight. The door groaned and then opened. "See. It just sticks a little."
Cordelia peered out into the hall of the first floor. Sure enough it was a real room. How come she hadn't noticed it before? Cordelia looked closer at the hall wall. Gee. That answered her question. The door had been wall papered over.
"You want me to stay in an aromatically sealed room. Do you want me to asphyxiate? Do the windows even open and where's the bathroom."
"You said you wanted a comfortable bed. It was the best I could find. Unless you want to kick someone out of their room."
"How about I kick you out? Where's the bathroom."
Angel pointed to the room that Cordelia just exited.
"That's your bathroom, dumbass."
"Best water pressure. Unless you..."
"Want to kick someone out. I'm still thinking about you." Cordelia studied the doors. "There’re no doorknobs."
"There's plenty unused ones in the hotel, I'll just take a couple."
"Right, Mr. Vamp Handy Man. Brute force might've unsealed this tomb but you'll need tools to do that."
"I can do it and look at this way, you won't have to move your stuff from the bathroom."
"You mean share...with you.” Cordelia said in shock. "You who bitched and moaned all last summer when we had to share at my apartment."
"I did NOT. I merely wanted you to pick your wet towels."
"You did TO. You couldn't wait the blasted ten seconds it took Dennis to swoosh in and toss them in the hamper."
"I still can't believe you make poor Dennis clean up after you."
"WHAT? He likes it."
"Right, all dead guys like to pick up after messy girls."
Cordelia narrowed her eyes. "Did you or did you not, DEAD guy, fold all my clothes, put my shoes in neat little pairs and line my lotions all in a row. In for what the two and half minutes I left you to warm your dinner."
"You're exaggerating. Anyway, it's easier to move if neat. I didn't like to do it." Angel kept his thought out of his statement. It would've taken him even less time but he had to drag the mattress from all the way down from the room at the end of the hall and break the showerhead of its bathroom.
"No, you're just freakily anal." Cordelia took a deep breath. "Where's my bag?"
"I put your clothes in the drawer."
"I haven't even said I like this room."
"There's nothing wrong with this room. Check out the bed." Angel sat bouncing slightly on the mattress.
"Right, it's been under wallpaper for probably a hundred years, moldy and stinky."
"It's not."
Cordelia wandered over to the bed, testing it slightly. "I guess it's okay, but what about the sheets, they're probably all mothy and stuff."
"I put new sheets on it."
"When? Geez. We need to hire you out for those maid service gigs. Angel, have toilet brush and will travel and as a bonus will kill any pesky demons you may have as well."
"You said you wanted a comfortable bed and the best water pressure. This is it."
"A room that is connected to yours by a bathroom that we have to share."
"It is what is.” Angel nodded philosophically.
"Fine, but if I hear one peep of complaint from you about sharing the bathroom, your ass is on the third floor."
"I don't complain."
"And here, I thought you didn't have a sense of fun.” Cordelia snorted. "Well, don't just sit there with that goofy ass grin go get me some doorknobs."
"Right." Angel ran down to the lobby to find Gunn figuring Gunn was the most likely of the Angel Investigations family who had any real experience with the handy man stuff. Angel sure didn't and unless there was an instruction booklet Wesley would be useless.
Part 19
"How long are you going to be in there?"
"Is that a complaint I hear?” Cordelia jerked open the bathroom door.
Honestly, Angel didn't have any complaints. Well other than that MacLeod hadn’t seemed to take the hint and was still residing in the hotel, and then there was the endless hours of the impromptu ‘lets get to know the strangers among us –his- midst’ which had been a little too close too hellish for his comfort. Angel hadn’t wanted to get ‘acquainted’ with any of them Angel just wanted them all gone from his hotel and his life. But like his many years in hell, he hadn’t the choice so he survived.
But, hey, right now, Angel could put up with Gabriel, Methos, and even MacLeod. Though, thinking back to the young blonde woman, Angel had to acknowledge there was something really odd about her eyes, they had kept blinking at him –it had made his eyes itch and then there was her voice- his ears still rang at the painfulness.
But all and all, things were going better than they had been. Cordelia was staying next-door right beside him way away from the Highlander and she hadn't said anything more about leaving- of course she hadn’t really said much too him over the past few hours, except one-liners couched in sarcasm- it was like she was mad at him or something. But as far as he knew he hadn’t done anything. But, if Cordy was, that was okay, she’d been mad at him before and it worked out better than fine after a few nut wrenching, ball-breaking months. That horror had been real and he made it through it. And he and Cordelia became even closer. Angel was positive in his thinking. He could make it through a little bit of incomprehensible Cordy sarcasm now.
The thing was Angel was starting to realize that his slow insight during his self-imposed retreat wasn’t the end of it. Cordelia’s presence was a way lot more encompassing than what he first thought. His need for Cordelia was a real priority rather than just a mere acknowledgment. That true fact had been slammed into him with a force of a thunderbolt as the events of the past three months were told to him in alternate quips and long explanations during the tortuous group discussion with the ‘so-called’ new friends that he had been subjected too. And how could he forget his own reaction to Cordelia’s closeness to Duncan MacLeod. Angel realized that Cordelia had become more than his responsibility. She was his reason and hope for the future. Angel couldn’t deny it and more importantly he didn’t want to anymore. It was too mind hurting.
"Well." Cordelia stood in the doorway her hands on her hips.
Angel glanced up from his position on the bed. He was laid out on his back his hands resting under his head. His body clad in a muscle t-shirt and gray sweats. Nope. No real complaints at all. Angel took in the sight of the young woman. Cordelia looked beautiful her hair was damp. The dark strains were curling to frame her lovely face that was flushed from the warmth of the shower. Angel peered at the steam rising behind her in wispy patterns. "Did you use all the hot water?" Angel refused to be tongue-tied by the young woman’s beauty and presence; he was a 250-year-old vampire for god sake.
"You've already taken your shower, Mr. Miser."
"Maybe somebody else wants to use the hot water. Each bathroom doesn't have its own water heater, you know."
"Gee, the guy pretends to put a couple of door knobs on and he thinks he Bob Vila or something. And don't think I don't know who really put those on. I saw Fred darting down the back staircase dropping all the tooly incriminating trails.”
"She only assisted. It was a delicate operation." Angel coughed. He wouldn’t be intimidated but he could be embarrassed. Fred had been the only one that hadn’t looked completely blank when he rushed down yelling for some one to tell him how to put doorknobs on.
“She just assisted.” Angel repeated more firmly.
"Of course, our little Plyean refuge’s a lot smarter and handy than her crazy act leads one to believe isn’t she, definitely different from the boys of AI who act just as dumb as they are.” Cordelia adjusted her robe.
Angel expression remained the same, while his mind did a little freaky dance along with his loins. Cordelia’s retort hadn’t even registered. Angel hadn’t realized until just that moment how much he wanted the damn robe to fall open. Cordelia really was beautiful. Why hadn’t he realized that before? Of course, he had known, what male wouldn’t, but how did he miss the effects of her long limps, luscious body, and amazing face on his body? Somehow, his past epiphanies had failed to bring that particular obvious fact to light.
"Did you just growl?"
"I don't growl.” Angel jerked. Lord she was more than gorgeous when she was righteously indignant. “That's a myth. Vampire's don't growl."
"Oh, okay, 'grr' guy, turn me into the Anti-Defamation League for Vampires for the misquote. I’ll try again, being more PC- you made a noise that allegedly sounded suspiciously like a GROWL."
"You're wearing my robe." Angel saw no reason to comment on her nonsensical statement. He just wanted to look. God she was stunning, even mad. No, he corrected, especially when mad. Cordelia's face was even more flushed and her eyes were flashing, it really was amazing. How’d he miss that again? God he was a dumbass.
Cordelia blinked and grabbed the ties. "Here." She threw it.
Angel loins lurched up to his throat as he scrambled to get the material off his face. Angel thanked the heavens and braced for what he hoped he would see and then growled.
"You did it again."
"I did not.” Angel sat up staring at the t-shirt and boxer clad young woman. Why would she wear a robe if she had clothes on? "Hey, those are mine.” He thought quickly and pointed to the smiley shorts. It worked before. This time he wouldn’t let the material hit his face.
"They are not."
"They are too." Angel brought his lips into a tight line. She wasn’t tearing off the boxers. Damn. He would have to rethink his tactic. Angel wasn’t sure he was up to more fast thinking not when confronted with a scowling, pouting, and beautiful Cordelia.
"Are not."
Damn she was persistent. "Are too, you gave them to me.” Angel smiled he got her there. She did buy them for him. He did remember the gift giving, her great smile, and his perplexed frown in response. God, he wished he could take it back. But, then again, Cordelia wouldn’t be wearing them looking quite wonderful in them.
"I took ‘em. You obviously didn't like them because you never wore them."
"How do you know?” Damn. Angel refused to be deterred.
"Because, no-sense of Mr. fun guy, they were still wrapped in the tissue I spent obviously too much time wrapping them in and even you’re not so anally neat."
Angel decided to ignore the not so implied insult and continue on with his agenda. "I was saving them."
"For what?"
"The appropriate time." Angel would maintain his dignity and purpose.
"What appropriate time?"
"The appropriate time to wear them.” Angel huffed indignantly.
"What?"
"You heard me."
"Dumbass" Cordelia mumbled.
"I heard that."
"Duh."
"Cordy” Angel studied the woman, her gasps of breath were making her heartbeat erratic, and she was struggling to maintain her stance. It wouldn’t be as hard as he thought to gain the upper hand, but then again underestimating Cordelia was always a mistake. Angel would proceed with caution.
"What?"
"Why were you going through my drawers?"
Cordelia scrunched up her nose at him.
"What? It's a legitimate question."
"Oh, for a minute there I thought you actually tried to be funny."
"Uh?” Angel hid his on-coming smile. She took the bait.
"Drawers," Cordelia tugged at the boxers. "You know going through your drawers," she pointed to the dresser then to the boxers. "Oh nevermind."
"Cordy."
"I'd to put my stuff somewhere.” She huffed.
"I thought that was what the floor was for.” Angel let his smirk show.
Cordelia just stared.
"Get it? All your clothes were on the floor before."
"I got it. I'm not the humor deficient one, Geez. That just wasn’t funny.”
"Cordy?" Angel leaned up. There was something going on with the young woman, a reason for her trying so hard to be in her superficial attack mode.
"What now?” She stood at the doorway her arms defensively crossed against her chest.
"Why are you so grumpy.” Angel kept his tone light, but hoping that he could get to the root of the problem Cordelia was having. He hated not knowing.
"Don't say that."
"Say what? That you're grumpy? You are."
"Vampires don't say grumpy- it's takes away from the whole vampire mystique-thing." Cordelia waved her hands in the air to demonstrate her point.
"What vampire thing?" Cordelia did seem to talk more the senseless he seemed.
"Were you always this dense or did I just forget not having the pleasure of your company for so long?” She glared.
Angel stared back holding the woman’s hazel eyes in his grasp. Suddenly his agenda or former thoughts had no meaning. He had been gone from her. “It was too long. I'm sorry. You shouldn't have been alone"
Cordelia blinked at the sudden change in Angel’s voice. He was serious. "I wasn't alone. I had Wesley and everyone and well Duncan and Methos, too."
Angel leaned back on the bed; his eyes closed at the full weight of what he had missed. "I should've been here."
Cordelia bit her lip and moved slowly to the bed. "Angel. I was okay, really."
"I should be the one training you."
"Why, so you could beat me all the time? Hmmph." Cordelia tried bring the tone back to its previous one. Good-hearted sarcastic quips were so much easier to handle than the serious atmosphere that room had descended into.
"I'm taking over tomorrow.” Angel sat back up stating his intentions since he knew of MacLeod’s existence.
Cordelia stared in Angel's intent eyes, her attempt to lighten things worthless, and nodded slowly.
Angel nodded in return grateful for her acceptance. "Now tell me why you’re so grumpy."
"Why aren't you still grumpy?"
"I ate." He tried.
"Right.” Cordelia rolled her eyes.
"Come on, Cordy,” Angel patted at the space beside him on the bed.
Cordelia sat down. "You’ve been weird since you got back and you got mad at me. All I was trying to do was win. Know your opponent that's what Duncan says and you didn't even let me use the cool moves I learned."
Angel sat straighter studying her put-on pout. "Cordelia, learning and identifying your opponents’ weaknesses IS smart. But being reckless is stupid. It's not about the winning, it's about staying alive."
He cringed a little as Cordelia’s manufactured pout fell, revealing her true expression. But, he had wanted to know, so his own expression remained intent. It worked as Cordelia licked her lips nervously and studied the floor. Finally, she glanced up taking a deep breath.
"I have to win to stay alive, Angel. I'm going to have to...” Cordelia closed her eyes and looked away.
Angel pulled her face back to him. "You are going to have to do whatever in takes to stay alive- except be reckless, not in a real battle, Cordelia."
"Angel, I don't want to..."
Angel suddenly knew. He wasn’t exactly sure how, but he did know what was making Cordelia’s beautiful eyes tear up. He wanted to hit something instead he cupped his hand gently under her chin.
"Whatever it takes, Cordelia. It won’t make you a killer, it will make you a survivor.” Angel watched Cordelia fight the tears. He swore then that he would do everything possible to prevent Cordelia from ever meeting another Immortal in battle.
"How'd you know?” Cordelia sniffled wide-eyed.
"I know you." Angel leaned up letting her scoot away from him.
"And I know you.” Cordelia stilled, studying the vampire intently. “You can't stop it, Angel, not if it's going to happen, you promised."
Angel closed his eyes briefly not wanting to break his promise before he was even confronted with the decision to keep it. Angel slowly nodded.
Cordelia pursed her lips and decided to take Angel's small acknowledgement as another promise.
"What else?” Angel sensed that particular conversation was over for now. He smiled again trying to draw Cordelia back into her former demeanor, he’d easily put up with her cuts and barbs, anything to get the tears off her face.
Cordelia narrowed her eyes. "I'm not grumpy."
Angel cocked his head, fighting the smile that was threatening to emerge. But he was glad. Cordelia’s sad expression had disappeared.
Cordelia sighed and looked up. "I can't find my hair scrunchy."
"You're what?” Okay, he had asked. But, Angel was floored. What was a scrunchy? A hair thing? She had tons all over the bathroom- bands, clippy things, and stretchy things, how could she ever know she had lost one- there were so many lying around the sink.
"The hair scrunchy I sleep in," Cordelia repeated, gathering her hair in a ponytail for explanation.
That had helped sort of, but Angel’s mind was diverted from the light bulb that went off, his mind focusing on the dark strains gathered in Cordelia’s graceful fingers. Angel had noticed but then it fell to the wayside as more important problems and issues came to light. "You're letting your hair grow out again, aren't you? And you got rid of the highlights.” Angel reached out to touch a dark strain that had fallen from her fist.
Cordelia dropped her hand and scooted further away from the vampire, her expression surprised. "Since when do you even notice my hair?"
"I notice you're hair. I'm not blind." Angel wondered how far she would scoot if he told her that he had become addicted to the scent.
Cordelia squirmed feeling way too uncomfortable about being so damn comfortable on Angel’s bed with him caressing her hair and staring at her so intently. She jerked off the bed.
“Cordy?” Angel sat up on the bed, surprised and irritated that the warmth and weight were gone.
She glared at the vampire for a moment then darted through the bathroom.
Angel was on his feet ready to chase after her to say anything to change the sudden unpalatable circumstances when Cordelia was back in front of him.
Angel’s renewed contentment was ruined as a pillow hit him in the face. His hands grabbed at the soft material as his growl emerged.
“Right, you don’t growl. Hmmph.” Cordy ran too Angel’s bed and grabbed at one of the pillows. “I want this. Mine suck.” She squeezed the squishy pillow to her chest. “It’s a fair trade. I gave you that.” She pointed to the pillow that Angel was strangling.
Angel bit his lip and thought before he growled or spoke again. Cordelia took his pillow, the pillow that was saturated with her scent. He wanted it back. Angel was about to forgo thought or reason when the scent of the new pillow in his arms reached him. Oh. Angel shrugged as Cordelia’s fragrance hit him. This pillow had it too. Angel looked at the stubborn girl waiting for his response.
Angel hid his smile. “Okay, you can have it. You could’ve asked without resorting to such childish behavior. But okay. Goodnight, Cordelia, or do you want the blanket too.” Angel was so very reluctant to have her leave but he began to think this was the best way.
Cordelia narrowed her eyes gripping the pillow tighter to her body. “You don’t want it back?”
“Yes. But, if you want it, I’m not prepared to get into a pillow fight with you, unless you want to. If it will make you more comfortable than take it.” Angel said magnanimously, almost wishing that Cordelia would dare his gesture. A pillow fight with Cordelia could become very interesting.
Cordelia’s narrowed eyes were now tiny squints of deep brown.
Again, Angel wondered how he missed the way that Cordelia’s eyes could flash and change color in an instant. It was memorizing. He bit back another smile as she spoke.
“Fine, glad you decided to be mature about the whole thing.” Cordelia scoffed and headed towards the bathroom.
Angel watched for a second and settled back on the bed, Cordelia’s discarded pillow securely squished under his head, his hand reaching for the previously unidentified elastic band he had discovered hidden in his bed. “Oh, Cordy.” He waited, twirling the found hair scrunchy around his wrist.
“What?” Cordelia peered out of the bathroom.
“I really want you out of my drawers.” Angel turned on the bed leaving his back towards the young woman.
Cordelia hmmphed as she turned to go back to her bed, in less than a second she headed back to Angel. “What?”
“Night.” Angel said in her pillow, his wrist close to his face.
“Angel?”
“Good night, Cordy,” Angel turned and yawned at the young woman, keeping his scrunchy-clad arm out of sight. “This arrangement isn’t going to work if you keep me up all night.”
“You’re a vampire.” Cordelia hmmphed.
“Still need to sleep.” Angel yawned again.
“Fine. Good night.” Cordelia stomped to her room.
Angel smiled into the scent of the pillow and the hair garment that he clutched into his body.
***
Cordelia jumped on the bed, scrambling to get comfortable, her mind rambling. No. There was no way Angel said what she thought he said. He didn’t know drawers from dressers or boxers. And he was socially inept. He meant to say that he wanted her to stay out of his dresser drawers. That’s all. No reason to make a federal case out of it. He just screwed up. Gee how unusual. Cordelia settled into the mattress. Cordelia went to sleep praying and almost knowing that Angel wasn’t making an almost funny sexual innuendo towards her. Cordelia grumbled and pushed the hair that was falling in her face. At least she could’ve found her scrunchy. She pushed at her hair and punched the pillow trying to settle into sleep.
Part 20
Cordelia yawned and stretched, blinking at the walls around her. She brushed at the strands of hair in her mouth. Where was she? OH. Cordelia jumped up moving quickly to the bathroom. Cordelia peeked through Angel’s door. Yep. The vampire was really there. Sleeping where he was supposed to be. He was home. She softly closed the door. Angel was home. Cordelia took a deep breath, remembering the events of the day before and more specifically her late night conversation with Angel. He had been so sincere when he cupped her face and told her she wasn’t destined to be a killer. In that one intense moment she believed him and never felt closer to the vampire. Then he started the weird stuff and she freaked and ran.
Cordelia concentrated on her breathing as she unconsciously started to slowly manipulate her body into the Tai Chi exercises that Duncan taught her.
The fluidity of the Tai Chi woke up her muscles, stretching and strengthening them with each manipulation, easing the memories of the past events and the idea of her leaving LA fled with all her morning stiffness.
She stopped at the sound of knocking, her attention jerked to the bathroom door. She bit her lip as she realized that the knocking was coming from elsewhere.
Cordelia mentally kicked herself. It was too early for Angel to be awake. While the sun, even hidden by heavy drapes, drove her to stir from the bed, it had the opposite effect on the vampire.
She peeked out the door. She smiled a good morning greeting to the Highlander.
“Practice?”
Cordelia glanced at the sword in the Immortal’s hand. She had agreed the night before that Angel would be training her from now on. She looked back at the bathroom and then at the clock. It would be at a couple of hours before the vampire joined the ranks of the living and Duncan was there, who said she couldn’t train with both men? Anyway, possibly Duncan could teach her something that would give her an advantage over Angel.
“Give me a minute.” She smiled.
“Cordelia”
The young woman jumped at the deep voice behind her. “Stop that, Geez. That’s one thing I didn’t miss- being scared into a heart attack.” She swirled to Angel. “You keep that up, I swear I’m getting you a bell. You should’ve knocked, what if I was naked or something.” She waved her finger. “Hey, what are you doing up so early?”
Angel narrowed his eyes after ridding an unclothed Cordelia from his thoughts.
“Obvious, you’re not awake yet, go back to bed.” Cordelia hmmphed at the silent vampire.
“I’m awake.”
“You never get up this early.” Cordelia argued.
Angel frowned deeper. She made it sound like all he did was sleep all day. Sure, his body’s rhythms were a bit sluggish when he woke up during sunlight hours, but all he needed was some blood and he would be fine. Anyway, there was no way he was going back to bed after hearing Duncan’s request and Cordelia’s answer.
“I’m awake,” he repeated. “Must still be on Tibet hours,” he added at Cordelia’s raised brows.
“Right.”
Angel turned to the Highlander listening at the door. “I’ll be training Cordy today. She needs to get dressed now, goodbye.” The vampire reached the door closing it firmly in the Immortal’s face.
“Angel, that was rude.” Cordelia ran to the door.
Angel remained still blocking the door. “I told you that I was training you from now on.”
“Yeah, but that doesn’t give you the right to be an asshole.” Cordelia huffed with her hands on her hips.
“You don’t need him anymore, I’m back. Get dressed,” he looked the young woman up and down. “Don’t you have a robe, you shouldn’t answer your door like that.”
“Like what?” Cordelia looked down at the boxers and t-shirt. Sure, maybe she had bed hair, sleep grit in her eyes and morning breath, but how would a robe cure those…. Eww. Duncan saw her morning gross. She glared at the vampire. “You Mr. Morning Sunshine NOT whined and grumbled when I had yours. Now get out of here.” Cordelia ran to the mirror over the dresser. “Eww.” She whined at her reflection, grabbing her brush.
“Be ready in five minutes.” Angel left.
Cordelia shot a look at the retreating vampire. “And to think I missed you. Keep up the jackass routine and I just may leave. Hmmph.” She grumbled under her breath.
***
“What are you doing here?” Wesley stepped back as he heard the accusatory tone of his voice. “You're up.” He changed his direction, moving into his office, deciding after his first faux paux that he wouldn’t tell Methos to get out of his chair.
The Immortal looked up. “I don’t get it.” He tossed the Baba Yaga spell book on the desk.
Wesley sat down. “You’ve been reading that constantly. I thought you decided that your friend was wrong in requesting that book.”
“I do think that. But, that doesn’t explain why she did. Cassandra isn’t stupid. This book is useless.” Methos waved at the text.
“I would have to disagree the book is full of spells that would be VERY useful for someone interested in the dark arts.” Wesley nudged at his glasses, peering through the lens. “You said she wasn’t.”
Methos raised his eyes to Wesley’s blue protected ones. “I would still say that. But, why would she want it?”
“Possibly to illustrate the witch better? The spells would make Baba Yaga’s section more colorful. Though, I would strongly suggest changing the incantations slightly, so as not to allow an innocent reader to access powerful dark magic, not to mention deterring those that are looking for such spells."
Methos nodded slowly. He studied the discarded book again. “Almost every spell in this book are designed to make the enchanter invincible, able to live through death, become strong in their re-birth, more than strong.”
“You’re friend is already that, an Immortal.”
“Yes, but…” Methos looked again at the book. “She’s not invincible.” He mumbled.
Wesley shrugged not at all sure what was troubling the Immortal.
***
“What do you make of that?” Lindsay strolled into Lilah’s office getting comfortable in one of her chairs.
“I didn’t. And I didn’t appreciate the lecture.”
“Yeah, “ Lindsay settled more into the chair.
She does seem a bit bossy.”
“Bossy? She was giving orders.”
“They sort of made sense.”
“Sure, but not the sense that make sense to US.”
“We don’t know that.”
“I can guess. She wants the power of Baba Yaga. She’s wants us to help alleviate her in ‘her’ game. Have you yet heard the benefit to us in her wants?”
“The destruction of the vampire with a soul is a plus.”
“If that happens.” Lilah looked up. “Weren’t you the one in memo after memo that suggested that attacking the seer wasn’t the way to go, it just made the vampire more unpredictable?”
“No, I believe I said it made him more predictable. He will try to save her no matter what. But, if this woman’s plan works, our hands are clean.”
“You actually believe that,” she looked pointedly at his reattached hand. “I don’t see why she doesn’t kill the Chase woman.
“She explained that killing her now wouldn’t be productive. She needs the seer’s eyes.”
“Right, the spell.” Lilah looked up to the other lawyer. “You trust her?”
Lindsay looked at his hands, the newly obtained one screaming at him. “No. She’s not our friend; ally maybe, but friend no. I say we help her with her Cordelia problem and then…well we know how to kill her…slice through the neck, I know we have some one that can accomplish that. The only thing that we need to do is make sure that Angel doesn’t do it before we’re ready. He can’t about that the manipulations we’ve already set in place. At least not until whatever the plan good or bad is over.”
Lilah cocked her brow. “You’re saying play her game.”
“Yes, until its time for us too finish it. We have to control it.”
Lilah nodded her agreement.
Part 21
“I’m sorry about Angel earlier.” Cordelia faced Duncan. “He didn’t mean anything by it. Even under the best circumstances he isn’t the most social guy and, well,” she shrugged,” he just got back. And you have understand he just got back and the reason he went was horrible and he was hurting and now with everything else.” Cordelia smiled apologetically.
“Cordy, you don’t have to apologize for the vampire.” Duncan gently caressed her shoulder. “Are you sure you want to go down into that dark basement. It’s a beautiful day and I know how you like the sun.”
“I…”
“MacLeod’s right. Don’t apologize for me.”
“Then you do it and STOP sneaking.” Cordelia jumped.
“Ready.” Angel headed for the basement.
Cordelia rolled her eyes. “Ignore him, I knew he woke up too early. His pig cocktail soothing effects mustn’t have kicked in.” Cordelia moved after the vampire.
“Cordy.”
“See ya, later Duncan. Take advantage of not having to waste your morning with me.” Cordelia smiled.
Duncan sighed knowing that his practice time Cordelia was never was a waste.
Part 22
“Why are you being such a jerk?” Cordelia stomped down the stairs of the basement.
Angel turned his sword in his hand. “I can’t go outside.”
Okay that caused her to stop in her tracks. Angel not being able to go outside couldn’t be the cause of his jerkdom, otherwise he’d be a jerk every minute of every day from sunrise to sunset, and he wasn’t. Sometimes, he was actually very wonderful, when not broody, socially inept or a dumbass and even then he wasn’t jerk- not counting a good portion of last year but that had nothing to do with going outside just a dead, human, dead whining blonde. Cordelia scrunched her face at the pacing vampire.
“I could put more lights up. There are those sun ones, you’d be okay with that, right?” Angel looked up to the ceiling imagining hanging bright lights manufacturing sunlight for Cordelia.
Cordelia blinked, her tongue wetting her suddenly dry lips. Her vampire was being wonderful again and stupid.
“Sure, why not. It’s pretty dark down here. Get the sun lamps and we might even be able to grow real ones of these.” Cordelia fingered a bright plastic flower.
“Where’d those come from?” Angel stared at the fake plant and all the others ones placed around the basement.
“Surprise.” Cordelia smiled. “I thought bringing some life, well some semblance of life, would brighten the dank atmosphere.”
“You‘ve been practicing down here?”
“Not for me, silly, for you when you got back- Viola, you’re back.” Her grin widened. “Do you like?”
“I…” Angel just stared. “Cordy, I can’t…”
“Go outside. Duh, did you just figure that out. Are we going to do it?”
“Do it?” Angel’s eyes jerked up from the plastic flowers to
Cordy’s hazel ones.
“Practice. Geez.” Cordelia swung up her sword.
Angel blinked incomprehensibly at the weapon in her hand.
“Sword fighting,” waving the blade in the air.
“Right,” Angel nodded. “I just thought,” he looked around the dark room.
“Lights could work.” Cordelia followed his gesture. “But, Angel, I don’t need the sun to swing a sword.” She patted him gently on the arm.
“You do like the sunlight.”
“Sure when it’s on a beach and I’m laying there in my itty-bitty bikini soaking in the rays with a pretty drink and next to a hot guy, well, we only got two out of three here, so no need for sun.” She shrugged.
It took Angel a minute to tick off her sun requirements. No pretty drink and no bikini. Though, Angel wasn’t so sure Cordelia’s spandex works out pants and midriff t-shirt could leave any more to the imagination than an itty-bitty bikini. Angel’s eyes traveled up and down Cordelia’s form. How itty-bitty was itty-bitty? Wait. That was two. Did Cordy just say he was a hot guy?
“Angel?” Cordelia bit her lip and kicked at the dirt.
Angel cocked his head at her sudden nervousness. He thought that was limited to him. “Cordy?”
“Tell me about your trip. Are you really okay? You’ve been acting weird. Is that why? I know it can’t have been easy. Will you talk to me now? Please.” Cordelia blinked up at the vampire.
“Nevermind.” Cordelia looked back at her feet. It wasn’t fair. She told Angel about her fear about being a killer. Cordelia sighed. Who was she kidding? When was life ever fair? The vampire was the perfect example. He had tried so hard so many times and life just kept kicking him. How could she ever thing that she could help him through Buffy’s death. Buffy wasn’t just some woman that he loved, she had been his hope. Cordelia had figured that out even back in Sunnydale.
Angel reached out and gently took Cordelia’s hand. He lead her too the bench along the wall. “I told you about the monk demons, so I guess you figured out it wasn’t completely peaceful.” He said lightly.
Cordelia looked up at the vampire. She squeezed her smile in. She stayed quiet as she intertwined her fingers with Angel’s. He was going to talk.
“But in between that ‘fun’, I had a chance to think, really think…It’s amazing how conducive a dark ship hold is for thinking,” he tried a soft smile in Cordelia’s direction. “I am okay, it’s just that…. I feel guilty…surprise, uh.” Angel’s smile got bigger.
“Guilty?” Cordelia blinked and drew her hand back. “Guilty because you weren’t there to save her. I wish…I…” Cordelia’s head fell.
Angel re-gripped her hand, pulling her face back to his with his other hand. “I went to Plyea because I had to, I had to save you. YOU have nothing to feel guilty about and that’s not why I feel guilty.”
Cordelia blinked at the tears that were suddenly forming. For a dense ass vampire, Angel could know exactly what she was thinking. “Angel, if you had been here…”
“Then it would’ve been one day too long before you were home and Buffy would’ve still died. You heard Willow, they didn’t call…and I would’ve never left you in a hell-dimension.”
“But, Angel…”
“Don’t Cordy, I did what I had to do, what I would do it again, no matter what. I…I need you Cordy so you see you can’t leave.”
“Leave?” Cordelia had long forgotten her earlier dilemma.
“I heard Fred’s babble about France before Gunn shushed her up. You aren’t going with MacLeod.”
“I’m not you’re seer.”
“I don’t care. The visions aren’t who you are or why I need you. They’re just after products like…..”
“Did you just compare me to a car?”
“A very nice one.” Angel gently smiled.
Cordelia hmmphed with less than her usual indignation.
Angel held her hand tightly as the room became silent.
Cordelia looked up. “You still haven’t explained why you feel guilty, other than that’s a normal feeling for your brood-self.” She said softly.
Angel leaned back against the wall, keeping Cordelia’s hand gripped in his. “I loved Buffy, I hadn’t cared for anyone as much as her and then she was gone. It hurt and I also realized that I could still live. How was that possible? I didn’t know so I left hoping to figure it out.”
“Angel,” Cordelia turned cupping his face. “Of course, you loved her, she was you’re dream of the future, but, Angel, she wouldn’t want you to go back into the broody sewer pathetic mode. She would want you to go on with your life, your mission. That’s honoring her, living is honoring her not betraying her.”
“I figured that out.” Angel smiled softly.
“Oh.” Cordelia squirmed a bit at her show of emotion.
“I also figured out that I moved on and that did make me feel guilty. I hadn’t believed that would happen, but it did. Her death hurt but it wasn’t has devastating as I thought.”
“Angel, it’s all right. You’re allowed to move on.” Cordelia kept the surprise out of her voice. Angel had moved on from Buffy? When did that happen? Why was she the last to know?
“It feels wrong some how.”
“Angel.” Cordelia turned to the vampire.
“But, I also know its right. It’s just hard to forget.”
“Angel, don’t forget, you can’t, never do that- that would be a betrayal. Buffy wasn’t my best friend, in the most generous stretch of the imagination, but you loved her and she was a major hero on the world scale barometer, even in my high school bitchy days I was able to pick up on that little fact. Buffy needs to be remembered, her life needs to be honored and I can’t think of a better way than to continue on with your mission. Granted, at first glance you seemed to be polar opposites- vampire- slayer- but you are on the same side. You can’t give up.”
“I wasn’t planning too.” Angel decided not to explain his major insight to the young woman that was the subject of the insight. Cordelia’s eyes pleaded with him to agree. Angel sat still realizing that his particular insight kept changing and expanding every time he was in Cordelia’s presence. It had gone from recognizing a need, to seeing her amazing attractiveness to just the necessity of knowing Cordelia would always remain in his line of senses at all time.
“Yoa, Angel, Cordy.” Gunn bellowed from top of the stairs.
Angel kept hold of Cordelia’s hand as he went to the foot of the stops. “Yeah, what? We’re busy.”
“Right, got that, but hey new case, thought you’d be interested, was it ‘my bad?’”
“No.” Cordelia shouted up the stairs. “We’ll be up.” Cordelia bit her lip. “No time like the present to get back with life, business and the whole shebang. The sword stuff will have to wait too later.”’
Angel looked to the sword. “I meant it when I said that I would be training you from now on.”
“Angel,” Cordelia leaned up caressing his stern expression. “It’s okay to live. So, let’s go live, we can do the sword thingy later. Clients are a major start. It’s a living.” She tilted her head.
Angel nodded refusing to let go of her fingers.
Continue on...