Title: The Tunnel's End.

Disclaimer: Joss Whedon, 20th Century Fox & Mutant Enemy own Angel the
show not me.

Author: Aunt Lorna.

Summary: An  AU fic set many years into the future. It is not
the type of future we see in movies of space travel or other advanced
technology.

Spoilers: What has been seen so far is all.

Rating: PG 13 on up to R.

Pairing: A/C.

Distribution: List archives are fine all others ask first....unless you
are already hosting some of my fics.

Author's Note: Feedback would be a nice and friendly gesture. This was written during season 2 of Angel.

Email: [email protected]

The two figures strode through the dark night both were tired they were
seeking shelter for a few days so they could get some much needed rest.

The male of the two stood tall and lean with broad shoulders, his hair
was long and pulled back into a braid that fell down his back. His
facial hair was kept trimmed and neat. His eyes were dark and old with
knowledge.

The female was of medium height and slim with full breasts. Her long,
dark hair hung loose this night it swayed slightly as she walked quickly
trying to keep up with her companion. Her own eyes were dark even tho
they held a spark they too were old with knowledge.

Few words were exchanged between the two they had been together for so
long that with a glance or gesture they knew what the other was
thinking. The male paused and with a slight nod headed up the side of a
nearby hill she followed with no hesitation.  They came upon a small
cave over looking a creek, trees and shrub grew wildly around the area
making it a perfect place to stay.

The male turned to her, "Stay here and set up camp while I go look for
food." he handed her the back pack he was carrying.

She took the back pack, "Fine I think a small fire will be safe."

He only nodded before turning and striding off into the dark.

She quickly set up camp and got a small fire started with some of the
twigs she found near by. This was nothing new to her she'd been doing it
for so long now it was second nature to her. None of the old her was
really left the way she was a young girl in high school was but a
distant memory.

He soon found several rabbits and managed to catch one. He sank his
fangs into the warm animal. After draining the blood from the rabbit he
quickly skinned and gutted the creature before returning to the cave.

He found her waiting for his return, "Have a rabbit here to cook."

She smiled, "Good I am hungry...I think I'll walk down to the creek."

He nodded, "Just be careful."

A little while later she returned she could smell the rabbit cooking it
was almost done. He glanced up at her briefly before returning his
attention to the fire.

He took the rabbit from the fire and slid it off the stick he'd been
using as spit. He placed it on a wooden plank that was used as a plate.

He handed her the plate, "Here it should be cooked enough to eat."

Taking the plate, "Thanks, I found some wild onions and watercress near
the creek."

He nodded, "Good...I am going to take a look around."

She smiled at him as she watched him turn and disappear into the night.

He found a huge rock near the creek he sat down and leaned back. He
looked up into the night sky the stars were so bright tonight the moon
but a sliver. Sighing he wondered how many of the stars of his youth
still existed.

He glanced back at the cave he could just make out the fire and the
woman sitting near it eating.  

How long now had they traveled the world fighting evil, surviving
plagues and wars?

He frowned close to 500 years at the very least. Such a long time to
exist so long in fact that at times he forgets he was once called Liam
then Angelus then simply Angel. And her she has always been Cordelia
some called her Cordy but the ones who did were long dead and forgotten.

Part 2

Angel sat there thinking of days past lately he had found himself
indulging in such thoughts. Even Cordelia was remembering the past they
had talked briefly about their old friends a few times of late.

Angel looked at his hands they were old now and scared even his vampiric
nature had been unable to keep them from scarring.  He knew his face
must show some of the battles they had fought Cordelia never said
anything but sometimes she would run a finger along his forehead where
over a hundred years ago a demon had cut him to the bone.

Angel glanced back at the fire it was dimmer now and he could tell she
was curled up under the animal skins they carried for blankets. He
wondered if she ever regretted bounding to him that night in the year
2005. The night they fled L.A for their very lives from what should have
been a friend but instead was a crazed foe.

Angel didn't like thinking about that creature with the face of his
beloved Buffy. When she died she should have stayed dead but Sunnydale
was falling without their Slayer. Magic conjured a new Buffy with all
the memories and feelings of the old Buffy. When Angel went to Sunnydale
soon after her re-birth he was appalled when he met her, she looked like
Buffy acted like her even laughed and smelled like Buffy but she was
missing the one thing that would have made her Buffy and that was her
soul.

She had no soul or not Buffy's that was for sure that connection they'd
had was gone. When he left the house he went straight to Buffy's grave
and as he suspected she was still there the real Buffy was still in her
grave....where she belonged.

Spike and Dawn both suddenly appeared next to him as he stood at Buffy's
grave he looked  at them and almost growled.

Angel: "What have they done? Why have they dishonored this noble woman
with the making of that creature?"

Spike tossed aside his cigarette, "Got me mate I know it's a damn bloody
shame too."

Dawn shrugged and leaned against Spike, "They said she was needed that
the evil would take over Sunnydale without her.....I am afraid of Buffy
now."

Angel clenched his fists, "I fear her too."

Dawn sobbed slightly, "They want to dig her up and destroy her body I
over heard them talking about it."

Angel nodded, "Spike take her home then come back here."

Angel sighed as he remembered that night he and Spike dug up Buffy and
he moved her to a place where she would be safe.  The old mansion on
Crawford street had a deep sub-basement with a secret room he placed her
coffin there with the headstone. He sat vigil for two days before
leaving Sunnydale he never went back he wondered if somewhere deep in
the bowels of what use to be Sunnydale if she was still there.

Angel stood and headed back to Cordelia he was tired and needed to
sleep. The last few weeks the battles had grown somewhat and it was only
last night that the other side backed down and disappeared.

Angel laid down next to Cordelia he pulled some of the skins over him he
felt her curl up closer to him.

Part 3

Cordelia slowly woke up to the sound of birds chirping near by a sound
that was rare in this world. Sighing she looked over at Angel he was
sleeping for once another rarity.

The sun was just peeking out from behind the mountains Cordelia checked
to make sure the sun wouldn't hit Angel. She smiled he was tucked back
against the cave's back wall he would be fine.

Cordelia went over to her back pack and got one of the apples she had
picked yesterday. That had been a lucky break finding a orchard filled
with ripe apples she picked as many as she thought she could carry.

Cordelia tossed the apple core into the near by brush when she was done
eating the apple. Such a simple pleasure fresh fruit she could remember
when if she wanted a piece of fruit all she had to do was go into the
kitchen. Gone were the days of stores full of food or restaurants with
menus to delight even the pickiest of eaters.

So much of what she grew up with was gone she didn't even have a mirror
Angel tho said she was still beautiful. Angel he was all she had left of
her former life and she was all he had.

Cordelia closed her eyes it all started after the re-birth of Buffy when
Angel went to Sunnydale to see her. He came back and informed them of
what he'd found and then declared that they were to have nothing to do
with those in Sunnydale ever again.

A few months later Spike with Dawn in tow came to the hotel he wanted
Angel's help. It seems the new Buffy was acting strange and threatened
both him and Dawn several times. So he and Dawn were on the run now.
Angel did what he could and gave them money, some fake IDs and sent them
on their way.

After that Buffy made life hell for them demanding to know where Spike
and Dawn were. Angel honestly didn't know but Buffy didn't believe him.

Demon activity even picked up and her visions changed some were more
painful with more detailed. Faith got out of jail and joined them she
was quieter stayed hidden for the most part helped out when needed.

Then that night they were all at the hotel when a huge demon with scales
and claws burst in through the front doors. They were all caught
unawares a fierce battle ensued it seemed that no matter what they did
it came back for more.

Gunn was slashed by one of the claws he fell to the ground Cordelia went
to him he died in her arms. Angel somehow managed to bring the demon
down with help from her and Wes they finally killed the beast. As it
died Willow and Buffy came into the lobby fury written all over their
faces.

Buffy went right for Angel, Willow began to chant, Wesley could tell it
was a powerful spell she was trying to weave. Wesley  began his own
chant and grabbed Willow a huge light enveloped them and they
disappeared.

Cordelia sat there hurting the demon had managed to scratch her. She
could tell that Buffy was getting the better of Angel. Faith crashed
into the two of them knocking Buffy away from Angel.

Angel crawled over to where Cordelia lay she was drenched in sweat and
was shaking. Angel scooped her up and ran he took her to Caritas.  

Cordelia sat back and thought more about that night Lorne informed Angel
that she was dying from a poison from the demon. That was the last thing
she recalled for awhile before seeing a light with Buffy emerging from
it. Only it was the real Buffy not the creature that they had fought
earlier.

This Buffy stroked Cordelia's forehead before speaking, "You cannot die
if you do so does Angel he cannot go on without you. You must be strong
Cordelia and return to him and accept the conditions for you to be with
him."

Cordelia remembered the pain and feeling so weak as she woke up and
looked up at Lorne, Angel, a man who looked like a butler and a woman
dressed rather old fashioned. It was the woman who spoke to her.

Woman: "Cordelia you will die if you do not agree to our terms. You will
from this night forward be bonded in soul and life to Angel. You will
exist as long as he does you shall be immortal. You will only begin to
live again when he becomes human. You will fight beside him, take care
of his wounds and never leave him."

Cordelia swallowed, "Sure fine on one condition of my own make sure we
can have pleasure with each other and not worry about Angelus."

Cordelia smiled as she remembered how they all looked at each other then
her the woman smiled, "As you wish."

The woman and butler guy lay their hands on her and Angel a light glowed
and her pain went away.

Cordelia wiped some tears that threatened to fall her and Angel left
where the hell they were and went back to the hotel it was in flames.
Next her place it had been ransacked they were able to  save a few
things they would need before they fled into the night.

Cordelia gave herself a good shake why was she remembering these things
it did no good.
She stood and went back to the cave and Angel she placed some of their
spare animal skins around the opening making sure Angel would be safe
from the afternoon sun.

Part 4

Cordelia found some berries near by it was the right time of year to eat
off the land she'd learned early on what was good to eat and what
wasn't. Not that it really mattered she was immune to illness and healed
quickly when injured.

Cordelia sighed it was a hot day she'd checked the creek out it was safe
so she decided to take a swim. Shedding her clothes she waded into the
waist deep water she dunked her head under the water it felt good.
Swimming lazily she along she spotted several herbs that were good for
cleansing one's hair and body.

Cordelia gathered the herbs she rubbed the fresh herbs into her damp
hair and along her wet body. The sweet smells released made her smile
she felt good and clean.

Cordelia finally decided it was time to get out of the water she climbed
onto the bank she wrung out her hair. She glanced up and spotted Angel
in the shadows of the cave watching her she waved and did a little dance
for him. Picking up her clothes she hurried up the hill to where he
stood.

Angel sighed as he watched Cordelia she was so beautiful still very few
scars marred her face and body. Sometimes he regretted that she didn't
get a chance to live out life the way she'd planned it as a young girl
in high school.

Cordelia stopped in front of him, "That felt good when the sun is down
enough you should take a dip."

Angel nodded, "I think I will it's been awhile."

Cordelia frowned, "You got brood face creeping up."

Angel smiled, "Sorry just thinking way too much again."

Cordelia arched her eyebrows, "Angel sweety you got a damp, naked woman
in front of you what the hell do you have to think and brood about?"

Angel chuckled, "Not a damn thing come here."

Cordelia stepped up to Angel he pulled her into his arms and kissed her.
He pulled her into the back of the cave where the animal skins were they
sank to their knees before laying down.

Angel ran his rough hands along her body in 500 years this was the one
thing neither of them ever got tired of. Making love to one another was
their way of forgetting just how bad the world around them was.

Cordelia moaned softly as Angel explored her body she tugged his tunic
off and helped him get his leather leggings off next. She could never
get enough of him like this to her it was just about  the best thing
about the whole deal of being with Angel.

Soon the cave was filled with the soft moans of their love making.

Part 5

Angel lay there with Cordelia in his arms she was sound asleep, it was
at times like this that Angel felt truly content.

The sun was going down soon he would need to go out and hunt for food
for the both of them. Angel shifted enough to place Cordelia on the
animal skins he pulled a few over her as he got up.

Angel still naked strode down to the creek he waded into the water and
swam around briefly, enjoying the way the cool water felt. Angel went
back to the cave after his swim he gathered his clothes together and
quickly dressed.

Cordelia opened her eyes and stretched, "Hey you're up."

Angel nodded, "Yeah, just took a swim and am on my way to hunt us up
some food."

Cordelia smiled, "Good...be careful, I'll start a fire while you are
gone."

Angel leaned down and kissed the top of her head, "I will be."

He turned and walked off into the darkening night he was quickly lost to
view. Cordelia sighed and stood up she stretched and put on her clothes,
smoothing out the leather leggings she wore.

Cordelia shook her head, leather she remembered the leather skirts and
dresses she use to wear. Now it was deer skin and some cattle it
depended on what Angel caught and killed. They had learned how to skin a
animal and to tan the hide to make leather for their clothes and other
needs.

Gathering wood for the fire Cordelia thought back to when it became
necessary to learn such things in order to survive. They had been
traveling for close to 200 years when several plagues and natural
disasters wiped out a huge portion of the human population.

Until then things were fairly easy despite wars and a nuclear bomb being
released by terrorists. Goods were still available in stores people had
homes and finding a place to stay only meant finding a hotel that would
take them.

Then a unusually cold winter that never really went away, clouds, rain
and snow fell in places that were hot and dry in the summer. Crops would
not grow and illness over took the land and it's people. Fights broke
out over food and medicine, what little government that was in control
disappeared leaving no one to make decisions.

Demons and vampires retreated away from the human population and watched
and waited to see what would happen. Angel took her into the mountains
where it was safer he too feared what was to come.

After the winter that would not end began the summer that went on. It
got hot and stayed that way for several years hardly any rain fell,
rivers dried up lakes disappeared and the oceans grew smaller. The smell
of death lingered in the air even in the mountains where they were
living you could smell it coming up from the valley's below.

Angel found a deep dark cave where it was still cool and there was water
it had a tang to it but it satisfied their thirst. Cordelia rarely left
the cave she only did when in the company of Angel. He would go at night
looking for food they were both thankful that he only needed blood and
that with her immortality she could go days even weeks with little or no
food as long as she had a little water.

The first few weeks of torrential rains washed away the stench of death.
The rains cleansed the earth of the foulness that lay everywhere. Lakes
came back to life and rivers flowed again the ocean became the powerful
entity that it was before.

Earth's human and animal population was now sparse. The animals seemed
to be in better shape and quickly were thriving on what the new world
had to offer.

Even then the battles for Angel and Cordelia continued evil still
stalked the nights in one form or another. The demons and vampires came
out of hiding determined to rule the land and the few humans that still
lived.

Angel and Cordelia found the remains of an old city and under the rubble
they found a huge library and took refuge there for several months. Food
was easily found and they had shelter, scrounging around Cordelia found
clothing and other welcomed and needed goods.

Angel read every book that was still readable he filled his ancient mind
with knowledge he figured they would need.  Cordelia joined him at times
reading the books on herbs and plants learning what she felt would be
helpful.

People came to the city they were seeking out knowledge of the old ways.
Angel showed them the library and watched to make sure they were not
going to destroy it or the things found there.
When Angel was satisfied that all would be well he and Cordelia left the
city behind and continued on with their travels.

Cordelia sighed as she got the fire going the city was still there and
was growing in population. She looked up as Angel came back to the cave
he was smiling and holding several eggs.

Angel: "Found some chickens near by these eggs should be fine later
while you sleep I'll see to it that dinner tomorrow will be chicken."

Cordelia laughed as she pulled the small iron skillet and it's grate
from one of the packs and placed them over the fire.

Angel quickly cooked the eggs using some of the lard they kept in a
small earthen ware jar.

Part 6

The next few days for Angel and Cordelia were ones of rest. Angel
managed to get some hunting done at night while Cordelia slept thus
increasing their supply of skins for their own use and as barter.

During the day when Angel slept Cordelia picked berries, herbs and other
plants. Some of what she gathered would be dried and used by them or
bartered along with the skins.

Cordelia sighed as she ate a few of the strawberries she'd found. Food
and animal skins were their money now they traded them for things like
the cotton tunics they wore or heavy wool blankets and coats some food
supplies or occasionally a trinket or two.

When Angel managed to bring down a cougar or bob cat the skins from them
fetched the most bargaining power. She smiled as she fingered a cougar's
fang she had on a piece of leather she wore around her neck. Angel wore
it's twin they came from the first cougar Angel brought down.

Cordelia glanced over to where Angel was starting to rouse a little the
two of them made quite a pair. Both had changed so much since those days
at the hotel with Wesley and Gunn. Cordelia sighed after Wesley and
Willow disappeared into that huge ball of light neither were ever heard
from again. Lorne had tried to find out what happened or where they went
and had no luck.

Until his death Lorne was the only one they had contact with in L.A.
Faith and Buffy both died in the fire according to the reports. New
slayers followed after that none lasted more than a year or two. The
longest one after Buffy lasted over three years before being brought
down.

Spike and Dawn were another mystery even tho Angel and Cordelia searched
for the two of them they never found them. Xander and Anya left
Sunnydale and lived a normal life with children and grandchildren.

Tara drifted away after Willow disappeared Angel and Cordelia ran into
her years later she was a very old woman telling people's fortunes and
selling spells.

Giles went back to England and stayed this time dying a old man alone in
a flat not far from the Watcher's Council's headquarters.

Cordelia watched as Angel sat up and stretched he was leaner  but much
more muscular. Angel glanced over at her and smiled he stood and walked
over to where she sat.

Angel sat next to her, "You have a pensive look on your face."

Cordelia shrugged, "Was just thinking about the old times is all."

Angel nodded, "Yeah sometimes I think back to the way things were."

The two of them sat there holding hands in the shadow of the cave as the
sun went down.

Part 7

That night Angel came back from the hunt late with lacerations he was
dragging a dead black bear behind him.

Cordelia jumped up and ran over to him, "A bear you killed a bear?"

Angel nodded, "He didn't give me a choice it was fight or end up his
dinner he's a big brute his pelt should fetch quite a bargain. We need
to work quickly so we can save some of the meat for jerky also."

Angel and Cordelia worked hard on the bear by the time the sun was where
Angel was forced to retreat to the cave they had the hide stretched out
to cure properly. Cordelia spent the day slicing the meat and rubbing
spices into it and hanging it on racks she'd made from wood she found
scattered around the cave.

It was hard, hot work but she was use to it actually mostly it was deer
meat this was only the second bear Angel had killed and it was the
biggest too. She checked the hide several times to make sure it was
doing ok Angel was right it would be a big bargaining tool.

Angel woke up from his sleep the sun was down enough he could join
Cordelia at the front of the cave. Angel shook his head Cordelia was
sitting there with just her leather leggings on, hair in a braid down
her tanned back.

Angel: "Sitting there like that you look like one of those old paintings
of American Indians I have seen."

Cordelia looked up at him, "Well you could pass for one too or at least
a mountain man."

Angel shrugged and sat down, "Almost done?"

Cordelia nodded, "Yeah have a stew cooking for dinner found some more
wild onions and some other root vegetables."

Angel nodded and picked up a freshly cut piece of raw meat and began
chewing on it, "He was a young bear and huge no telling how big he would
have gotten if he hadn't attacked me."

Cordelia nodded, "Yeah, we'll have plenty of jerky to eat this winter.
Angel I was thinking maybe we could keep this hide for our bedding when
we settle down for the winter."

Angel frowned, "We can it would be nice to lay on and warm for you."

Cordelia smiled and stood up, "Can you finish up I so need to take a dip
in the creek."

Angel laughed slightly, "Sure go ahead just be careful."

Cordelia stripped down and waded into the creek she swam around washing
off the bear's blood and her sweat. When she finally felt clean enough
she hurried out of the water and back to the cave she donned a fresh
cotton tunic that hung to just below her knees.

Angel smiled, "Your stew is done have a seat I'll serve you dinner."

Cordelia sat down she smiled when Angel handed her a wooden bowl full of
the hot stew she'd made.

Angel did the finishing touches on the meat and checked the bear skin he
was satisfied all was well.

Angel froze he heard noises soft footsteps trying to be quiet slowly
making their way up the hill. Two sets if he was hearing right and at
least one human the other he paused as he felt a very old very familiar
pull.

Angel stepped into the darkness and waited he didn't have long before
two figures crept around the rock he was hiding behind. Angel took in
the two and managed not to gasp he could not believe his eyes.

Angel softly made a whistle that only one other knew about the taller of
the two figures stopped and cocked his head slightly. A low soft
answering whistle came back to Angel he shook his head it had to be him.

Angel made a slight movement, "Spike is that you?" he whispered.

A voice he hadn't heard in 500 years spoke back, "Oh hell Angel."

Angel stepped further into view as did Spike they stared at each other
in disbelief. Spike's hair now was long and no longer bleached blonde
and a long scar crossed his face.

Spike reached back and pulled his companion into the light, "I think you
know this one too."

Angel did it was Dawn she didn't look a day over 18 really a few scars
and well tanned was all.

Angel smiled slightly, "Dawn my god."

Dawn nodded, "Yep it's little ole me."

"Well my, my if it isn't Spike and Dawn took you 500 years to find us."

Spike snorted, "Well if it isn't the princess you look good for your
age."

Cordelia shook her head, "Come on and sit by the fire if you're hungry
we got plenty to eat."

Cordelia turned and went back to the cave and the fire in front of it.
Dawn and Spike followed with Angel right behind them.

Part 8

Dawn took the bowl of hot stew Cordelia handed her, "Thanks it smells
real good."

Cordelia smiled and sat down next to Angel, "Well Angel killed a bear
last night so we have plenty to eat."

Spike snorted, "So Angel killed a bear what else does the mighty poof
do?"

Angel glared at Spike, "We don't steal from others by sneaking up on
them in the dark for one thing."

Spike looked away then back to Angel, "Well one has to survive."

Angel shook his head, "We have survived just fine by taking care of
ourselves."

Cordelia feeling the tension building between the two spoke up, "So guys
where have you been all this time?"

Dawn sensing the same thing shrugged, "Well after we left L.A. we ended
up in Argentina for awhile then Brazil. We stayed there for several
years with Drusilla and some of her friends."

Angel frowned, "You took Dawn to Dru?"

Spike nodded, "Yeah the loony could see the truth when it came to Dawn
she was actually frightened of her said as long as Dawn lived the world
would not truly die."

Dawn smiled, "She had a friend a mage of some sort who knew all about
the Key and Glory. He told me I would not grow old that I would live as
long as I was needed then a new Key would be born."

Spike sighed, "Yeah well it seems that the powers made me the Key's
guardian since I did promise the real Buffy I would guard her with my
life for as long as she needed me. Even after the chip stopped
functioning I could not harm humans or those who needed help."

Angel glanced over at Dawn, "It makes sense knowing how Dawn was
created."

Dawn finished her stew and laid the bowl down next to her, "We left
Brazil right after that huge earthquake that destroyed almost everything
there. Dru and some of her friends were killed in the fires that burned
afterwards."

Angel winced he remembered that earthquake Cordelia and him were in
London at the time tracking down a vampire cult.

Spike nodded, "If it weren't for Dawn I would have been killed too she
managed to get us on the last ship that was leaving. I was injured quite
a few burns and both my arms were broken."

Dawn reached over and touched his hand, "I was so afraid I'd lose him so
I did what I had to in order to save him."

Spike frowned, "Yeah well the next thing I knew we were in Australia, my
burns were healed as were my broken bones. We didn't stay there long it
felt off the whole place was just wrong for some reason."

Dawn sighed, "We went to Italy I liked it there all those old places I
felt like I belonged I felt drawn to them."

Spike smiled, "Yeah it was good there didn't get hassled much."

Angel nodded, "So what did the two of you do when the cold set in?"

Spike sat back and chewed on a piece of bear meat, "We were in South
Africa then it took the cold longer to reach there but when it finally
arrived it didn't take long for the people to go crazy."

Dawn sighed, "Fights broke out and people began killing each other for
food even and the animals went on rampages. Spike and some other
vampires stole a plane one of the other vamps was a pilot before he was
turned. We managed to get to what was left of Morocco then Spain."

Spike closed his eyes, "It was rough but we managed to survive somehow."

Dawn nodded, "There were a bunch of kids living together we joined them
and we all looked after each other."

Cordelia shook her head, "Sounds rough so how did you get back here?"

Spike smiled, "There was this huge ship the owners offered free passage
to any who wanted to sail to America. We took him up on the offer of
course it was a scam they were just looking for slaves and well food to
sell. Dawn and I managed to take care of some of the owners and jumped
ship in what had been New Orleans."

Dawn yawned, "Yeah we headed west after that I was wanting to see what
was left of California and L.A."

Angel stood, "Get some sleep we will finish talking tomorrow and don't
get any ideas about taking off I will be able to find you."

Cordelia nodded, "Yeah stay for awhile at least let us help you out."

Dawn looked over at Spike, "I really would like to stay with them for
now."

Spike smiled, "Same here it's kind of nice being with old friends we'll
stay for now."

Cordelia made Dawn a bed with some of their extra skins and a wool
blanket. Dawn fell asleep quickly she was warm, full and safe.

Angel went over to Spike, "I'm glad you're here don't make me regret
taking you in."

Spike looked Angel over the vampire that stood before him was not the
pompous Angelus he once knew or the brooding Angel. No he was stronger
more powerful and he feared him more than before.

Spike nodded and went over to Dawn and laid down next to her he watched
Angel and Cordelia as they banked down the fire and settled in for the
night.

Part 10

Angel sat with his back against the cave's back wall. He watched as
Spike tossed and turned in his sleep. Spike suddenly sat up and looked
around wildly.

Spike: "Dawn....where's Dawn?"

Angel pointed, "She's with Cordelia down at the creek they are
swimming."

Spike: "Will she be safe....nothing can happen to her?"

Angel nodded, "She's safe Cordelia won't let anything happen to her."

Spike relaxed a little he could hear the two women laughing.  Angel
handed Spike some of the bear jerky. Spike sat and chewed on the meat
lost in his own thoughts.

Angel watched Spike he wondered more about what those two had gone
through.

Angel: "Spike what did you do when the heat started?"

Spike shrugged, "We went north as far as we could up into the mountains
took up with some other vampires and demons."

Angel sighed, "You're lucky to be alive or at least Dawn is."

Spike: "Look Angel I am not like you. You have always been able to adapt
to whatever situation you find yourself in. Me I just go by my gut
instincts."

Angel smiled, "Sometimes that works. You have done good you're both
here."

Spike shrugged, "Well it has more to do with Dawn than me she's the
brains and I am just the brawn. That girl found quite a few ways to
survive when all I wanted to do was curl up in a hole and die."

Angel frowned, "Don't sell yourself short Spike you took care of Dru all
those years."

Spike: "Yeah but it was different then and despite her craziness Dru was
a vampire."

Angel frowned, "True. Spike you and Dawn are more than traveling
companions?"

Spike smiled, "Yeah got a problem with it?"

Angel shook his head, "No it makes sense is all."

Spike leaned back, "I waited several years after we left L.A. probably
would have waited longer. A demon mage got wind of Dawn and her
innocence he wanted her for his own uses. We were with Dru by then and
good ole Dru said that the only way to keep the demon mage away was for
me to be with her."

Angel nodded, "You did the right thing."

Spike only nodded and closed his eyes. Angel watched Spike wishing
they'd hooked up a lot sooner.

Part 11

Dawn sat back and let the sun dry her body. She loved it when she could
find a creek to swim in. Dawn watched as Cordelia stepped out of the
water and walked over to where she sat.

Dawn: "You and Angel have done pretty good for yourselves."

Cordelia smiled, "We have but it hasn't been easy we've had our own hard
times."

Dawn sighed, "Spike's been good to me. I know it's been hard for him to
cope. There were times I thought he was just going to give up and meet
the sun."

Cordelia nodded, "Angel never got that way just frustrated at times. I
really think tho that having each other helped."

Dawn smiled slightly, "Yeah I think I'm what has kept Spike going and he
is why I am still here. Cordelia it's weird but I do love Spike very
much."

Cordelia laughed, "It's not weird at all what's weird is the world we
are now living in"

Dawn looked up at the cave and sighed.

"Spike is awake I should get dressed and go to him he gets so worried
about me if I get out of his sight."

Cordelia stood and fetched their clothes.

The two of them dressed quickly then headed up the hill to the cave.
Cordelia took note of the shabbiness of Dawn's garments.

Angel smiled when he noticed Cordelia and Dawn walking up the hill.  

Angel: "They are on their way to the cave."

Spike sighed, "Good I don't like it when Dawn is out of sight."

Cordelia went over to Angel and sat down. Dawn smiled at Angel and Spike
as she took a seat next to Spike.

Spike grinned, "Enjoy your swim?"

Dawn nodded, "Yeah it felt good getting clean."

Angel glanced at Spike, "After the sun sets I think that we shall take a
swim."

Spike started to protest but knew by Angel's look he wouldn't take no
for an answer.

Cordelia reached over and picked up her pack. She went through it and
pulled out a cotton tunic and pair of leather leggings.

"Dawn here take these the leggings are too small for me and I have
several tunics."

Dawn hesitated before taking the offered clothing.

"Thanks, Cordelia."

Dawn stood up and stepped out of the cave and out of sight. She quickly
stripped off her old clothes and put on the things Cordelia gave her.

Dawn smiled the leggings fit perfectly and the tunic was so soft.

She felt a little bit ashamed with the thought that she hoped Spike
didn't mess things up with Angel or Cordelia.  She wanted to stay with
them.

Part 12

The next few days were ones of adjustment. Angel took Spike with him
when he hunted at night. After observing him Angel shook his head.

"How have you survived is beyond me it's rabbits we're hunting not
humans."

Spike shrugged and looked away. Angel went over to him and gently
scuffed him on the shoulder.

"It's ok Spike I guess all those years of chasing rats in alleys
prepared me for chasing rabbits in the forrest."

Spike looked at Angel and nodded.

"Dawn is a better hunter than I am I lived way too soft especially after
I got chipped then it was just open the frig and heat it up in the
microwave."

Angel laughed softly at Spike's remarks.

"Well I do miss a microwave. Come on we have more hunting to do
tonight."

Cordelia watched Dawn during this time. The girl knew how to take care
of herself and Spike. Cordelia figured it was because of her that they
had lasted all these years.

Dawn waited til Angel and Spike had left to go hunt. It was their third
day with Cordelia and Angel.

"Cordelia this might sound odd but I have a feeling we were suppose to
meet up with the two of you. I mean sometimes I know when things are
about to happen little things. A few days before we found you I dreamed
of Angel. When I've had dreams before about certain things or place they
sort of come true."

Cordelia sat back with a slight frown on her face.

"You are probably right Angel and I have both been noticing changes. We
are beginning to wonder if there isn't a time for peace and well
happiness ahead."

Dawn smiled slightly, "You feel it too. Spike is worried tho he thinks
that I will no longer need him or that he might cease to exist."

Cordelia shrugged, "The powers that be can surprise us at times. It's
because of them I am still here."

Dawn sat back and stared into the fire and wondered what was going to
happen next.

Angel and Spike returned to camp a little later. Both of them were
carrying rabbits they had caught and dressed.

Angel cooked both rabbits while Cordelia
took care of the skins.

Part 13

Angel woke up feeling rather uneasy. Glancing around he spotted Dawn and
Spike curled up together. Angel frowned Cordelia wasn't in the cave.
Angel stood up making sure not to disturb Spike and Dawn.

Stepping out of the cave Angel found Cordelia sitting on a rock near by.

"Hey what's wrong?"

Cordelia shrugged before turning and facing Angel.

"Do you feel it, there's a storm coming look how dark the morning sky
is."

Angel nodded, "I know my skin is actually tingling we must stay alert
today."

Cordelia sighed and turned her attention to the dark clouds in the sky.
Angel put his arm around her giving her some comfort.

Dawn woke up as Angel stepped out of the cave. She carefully got up and
followed him.

"Hey awesome clouds must be a big storm brewing I feel so jumpy."

Angel turned to Dawn and smiled slightly.

"I know what you mean. This feels different than other storms I think
there is more to it than just rain."

Dawn closed her eyes and took a deep breath of air.

"I sense magic or something like magic in the air."

Cordelia sighed, "I sort of had a vision that is what woke me up. It
wasn't the usual vision of evil deeds but one of peace."

Spike finally joined them outside of the cave.

"I don't like the look of those clouds will be safe in the cave or
should we move on?"

Angel glanced at Spike then the storm clouds.

"We'll be safe so don't worry Spike."

Spike grumbled a bit then returned to the cave.
Dawn glanced at Angel and Cordelia before following Spike.

Dawn went and sat next to Spike.

"Don't worry this is a good thing happening we'll be ok, trust me."

Spike shrugged, "I do trust you it's just that I am afraid of losing
you."

Dawn leaned over and gave Spike a kiss.

"You won't lose me I promise."

Spike stared at Dawn, "Don't make promises you might not be able to
keep."

Dawn smiled at Spike and curled up next to him. Spike wrapped his arms
around her and held her close.

Part 14

The storm broke and the sound of thunder reverberated though out the
cave. Lightening lit up the sky and rain came down in torrents.

Angel and Cordelia huddled together at the back of the cave. Dawn and
Spike was next to them.

The very walls of the cave shook from the power of the thunder. Dawn
shivered not from cold but fear. Spike held her close he knew how much
she hated storms.

For several hours the rain continued. The front of the cave was wet from
wind sweeping in the rain. Angel and Cordelia had moved everything as
far back into the cave as possible.

Angel didn't mind the storm he watched the rain as in came down from
where he sat. Cordelia curled up next to him would glance over at the
cave's front and the rain.

When the rain finally stopped the sun shone weakly through the remaining
clouds. The air was fresh and clean.    

Cordelia carefully stepped outside. Looking around she saw little damage
to their hillside. The creek was now a raging river.

Dawn joined Cordelia, "It's over for now."

Cordelia nodded, "Yeah it is and see we managed to survive."

Dawn shook her head, "I know it's just there was something about this
storm."

Cordelia sighed, "I know and we will find out soon what."

Dawn just nodded her head and looked out over the vista before her.

Part 15

That night they were awakened by a shaking and rumbling. The whole cave
shook making rocks and dirt rain down on the occupants.
Finally it stopped and as the dust settled down they breathed a sigh of
relief.

"Is anyone hurt?" Angel asked.

Spike coughed, "I'm fine and Dawn seems to be ok."

Dawn grumbled, "Just dirt in my mouth."

Cordelia sneezed, "I'm ok a rock hit my arm but that's it."

Angel turned to Cordelia.

"Let me make sure that arm is fine."

Cordelia turned so that Angel could inspect her arm.

"It's fine...no blood or swelling."

Dawn brushed dirt from her clothes.

"First a storm now a earthquake wonder what's next?"

Spike stood, "It's dark out still I think I'll scout around a bit."

Angel nodded, "Wait up Spike and I'll join you."

Cordelia watched as Angel and Spike left the cave. She stood and went
over to front and looked out. Dawn joined her.

"Cordelia are you afraid?"

Cordelia shrugged, "Sort of but I have seen so much that I am not one to
be easily surprised."

Dawn sighed, "Yeah I know what you mean."

Cordelia sat down just outside the cave. Dawn sat next to her. They both
waited in silence for Angel and Spike to return.

The silence was broken by Spike as approached the cave. Angel was right
behind him.

"Spike I told you to be careful that the hillside was loose."

Spike grumbled, "Yeah....yeah I know but damn it's dark out
here....darker than it should be."

Angel stopped next to where Cordelia sat.

"Spike slipped down the hillside behind the cave it's pretty loose but
the cave isn't going anywhere."

Dawn went over to Spike.

"You ok...hurt?"

Spike chuckled, "I'm fine just my pride got a little bruised is all."

Angel nodded, "It's true about the darkness tho it should be near sun
rise yet there is no light behind the mountains."

Cordelia shook her head, "I noticed that too."

Angel folded his arms and stared at the eastern sky line looking for
signs of a rising sun.

Part 16

The sun never really shone that day. It was but a faint light in the
dark sky. The birds stayed in their trees. Other animals didn't venture
out from their lairs. The four in the cave didn't go far from their own
sanctuary.

The night had no stars and the moon showed but briefly. There didn't
seem to be any living thing around. It was so still and quiet as if the
earth was waiting. For what the four in the cave had no idea.

Dawn huddled next to Spike. Angel kept Cordelia close. Fear gripped all
of them. Near dawn they fell asleep from exhaustion cause by their fear.

Angel was the first to awaken. He blinked several times as the
brightness of the day lit up the cave. He nudged Cordelia until she woke
up. Cordelia sat up and looked around. She went over to Dawn and Spike
and woke them up.

Together Cordelia and Dawn stepped outside to see what was going on. The
sun shone bright and hot. The air was so dry it was hard to breathe.
Steam rose off the creek below it was so hot.

The two women returned to the cave where it was a little cooler. Angel
and Spike were against the back wall avoiding the light.

"It is very hot and bright outside."

Angel nodded at Cordelia's words.

"Be best then if we all stayed inside at least it is a little cooler."

Dawn went over to Spike and sat down next to him.

"I have never see the sun so bright....it seemed as if it has gotten
closer to us."

Spike put his arms around Dawn.

"I doubt that very much."

Angel kept glancing at the front of the cave as the day went on. Finally
it became darker.

Cordelia stepped outside and felt a slight cool evening breeze. She
watched as the sun finally disappeared behind the mountains.

Angel, Spike and Dawn joined her. Dawn sighed as the breeze blew through
her hair.

"That feels good it was getting so warm in the cave."

Angel looked around as he sniffed the air.

"Things still are not quite right there are no animals out as yet."

Spike pointed to the moon as it made it's appearance.

"The moon....look at it's color."

They all watched as a blood red moon rose over the landscape.

Part 17

They sat and watched as the blood red moon reigned over the night sky.

In the early hours a breeze brought a mist up from the creek. The four
in the cave were overcome with sleep.

They dreamed of days past. Of old friends and lovers. They dreamed of
past battles.

Angel dreamed of when he was Liam and living in Galway. He dreamed of
Darla and the terror they created. Angel dreamed of Drusilla and her
madness. He dreamed of gypsies and curses. He dreamed of a beautiful
blonde Slayer named Buffy. Of the love they gave each other. Angel
dreamed of the day that never was. He dreamed of those he hated and
those he loved. Angel dreamed of Doyle and Cordelia.  He dreamed of the
hotel he called home. He dreamed of a brunette Slayer named Faith. He
dreamed of Wesley and Gunn. His dreams showed him Angelus.  Angel
dreamed of his last days in L.A. He dreamed of Cordelia and their
travels. He was shown some of what was to come. He was to be their
leader. To help them live. To make sure they survived.

Spike dreamed of the young man William. The poet who could not make a
woman love him. He dreamed of Drusilla and how she sired him. He dreamed
of the love that they shared. A love that was not possible between two
demons. He dreamed of the pain and agony the Initiative brought him.
Spike dreamed of the two Slayers he killed and the one he loved. He
dreamed of a red head witch that was friend then foe. Spike dreamed of
Buffy's death and rebirth. Spike dreamed of Dawn when she was young and
innocent. He dreamed of their travels. He was shown some of what was to
come. That he was to put aside past grievances. To accept things as they
were.

Cordelia dreamed of her childhood. Of all her pretty dolls and clothes.
Of the huge bedroom with a walk-in closet. She dreamed of her parents.
She dreamed of when she was the May Queen of Sunnydale High. How she
ruled over her fellow classmates. She dreamed of Mitch and the other
boys like him. Cordelia dreamed of Xander and her love for him. She
dreamed of the hurt and pain of his betrayal. She dreamed of losing all
her pretty things. She dreamed of L.A and the roach infested apartment.
She dreamed of Doyle and Angel. She dreamed of Pylea and Groo. Wesley
and Gunn were in her dreams. She dreamed of her last days in L.A. She
dreamed of Angel and their  travels. She was shown some of what was to
come. To stand beside Angel. To be his mate. To make sure they did the
right things. To be Dawn's friend and guide.

Dawn dreamed of things she at first did not understand. Dreams filled
with light and energy. She dreamed of monks chanting. She dreamed of
Buffy and her mother Joyce. She dreamed the dreams of false memories.
Dawn dreamed of Buffy's death. She dreamed of Glory and Ben. She dreamed
of Willow and Tara. Of Xander and Anya. Dawn dreamed of her travels with
Spike. She dreamed of fear and happiness. She was shown some of what was
to come. How she was to stand with Spike. To turn to Angel and Cordelia
for help. To live and bring forth the next Key.

Part 18

Angel was the first to awaken. He lay there listening to the sounds
around him. He felt the difference immediately. Sitting up he nudged
Cordelia to wake her up. Cordelia opened her eyes and blinked a few
times.

"Angel what's wrong?"

Angel smiled he reached over and took her hand.

"Cordelia here feel."

Angel placed Cordelia's hand on his chest. She gasped and stared at him.

"Angel.....your heart it's beating....Oh my god it's happened you've
shanshued."

With tears in his eyes Angel nodded.

"I know...I feel so different and yet sort of the same."

Cordelia sat up and threw her arms around Angel. They hugged tightly.
Both had tears running down their faces.

"Oh Angel this is so wonderful."

Angel nodded, "It is."

Dawn and Spike awakened by Angel and Cordelia watched as the two hugged.

"Angel what's going on?"

Angel looked over at Dawn and Spike. Spike had the oddest look on his
face.

"I think that maybe Spike may be able to answer you. I think the same
thing has happened to him that happened to me."

Dawn turned to Spike.

"Spike what is Angel talking about?"

Spike shook his head.

"I'm bloody human again....my heart is beating and I need to breathe."

Dawn stared at Spike then Angel. She gave a small yelp and threw her
arms around Spike.

"Spike that is so wonderful."

Spike hugged her back.

"I guess it is."

The four stood and walked out into the mid morning sun. They stood and
looked around. Angel turned to Spike and smiled.

"We've come a long ways William."

Spike laughed, "That we have Liam."

Cordelia took Angel's hand in hers.

"From now on we live like humans. We are all no longer what we were
before."

Angel smiled and put his arm around her waist.

"Yes my love we do. And you are right."

Dawn nodded, "I know I feel different too."

Spike wrapped his arms around Dawn.

"Our travels and battles have come to an end."

Angel chuckled, "Maybe we will no longer fight evil but we still have to
survive what life has in store for us."

Spike nodded. "Yeah so where do we go from here?"

Angel looked around the area they were standing.

"To be honest this might just be a good place to set up a home for all
of us. There is the creek for water. I noticed an abundance of wild life
and Cordelia has found quiet a bit of wild vegetables, and herbs."

Cordelia nodded, "I think this would be a good place to live. There is a
small village about a day's hike from here."

Angel smiled, "She's right and it is filled with families they have
always welcomed us."  

Spike grinned, "Then it's settled we're staying here."

Dawn giggled, "We will be pioneers like that old tv show Little House on
the Prairie that I watched the reruns of."

Angel threw back his head and laughed. The warm sun felt good on his
face. Cordelia grabbed Dawn and they danced around in circles. Spike
stood there and smiled it felt good to be alive.

Part 19

They spent several days looking for the right site to build on. Once
chosen
they spent several weeks building the log cabins for their homes. The
work
was hard but satisfying. A few weeks into establishishing their site a
few
other people arrived.

Angel was quickly chosen as the leader of the growing community. He
quickly
formed a commitee to oversee the chosing and registering of homesteads.
Spike
soon became in charge of security and laying down the law.

Cordelia and Dawn gathered the few women into a work force. Planting
gardens
and gathering food from the land around them. One woman knew a bit about
medicine she soon became the small community's doctor.

Several men under Angel's supervision went hunting for several days.
They
came back with plenty of meat to get them through for several weeks.

Months went by and the small group grew more. As winter set in Angel
made
sure all had plenty of food stored for the upcoming winter months. The
first
child was born a girl to a young couple.

Angel was thrilled when Cordelia came to him and told him she was with
child.
The winter was harsh but they all managed to survive. Only one death and
that
of an old man. Several babies were born during this time with no or
little
complications.

The first day of spring was when Cordelia gave birth to her and Angel's
son.
A big boy that they named Liam.

Dawn was with child by now. Spike kept
hovering over her making her nervous.
Just as the first days of summer were beginning Dawn gave birth to a
girl and
with Angel's permission she named her Buffy.

As the summer drew to a  close a commotion near the cave got
everyone's
attention.

Angel and Spike went to investigate the bright light that lit up the
night
sky. They slowly approached the cave. Angel shook his head when he
spotted
two figures huddled together.

Spike gasped and turned to Angel.

"Are we seeing who were are seeing?"

Angel shook his head and approached the two figures. They at first tried
to
move away from him. Angel made soothing noises which calmed them down.
Angel
knelt down next to the male figure.

"Wesley have no fear it is me

Angel....how...why are you here?"

After a few minutes Wesley blinked and looked around.

"Angel where are we? Why do you look like you do?"

Angel sighed, "Wesley it has been many years since the two of you
disappeared
into that ball of light."

The female figure finally stirred and sat up,

"What's going on?"

Angel turned to her, "Willow it seems that you and Wesley have been in
some
sort of magical suspension."

Willow shivered and shook her head. She spotted Spike in the shadows
behind
Angel.

"Spike you're here too."

Spike only nodded his head. He turned to Angel.

"We should maybe take them home."

Angel nodded, "We should...but first I need to be reassured of one
thing."

Angel turned to Willow, "Willow you were into some rather dark magic
before
all this happened. You cannot be a part of this commuinty and practice
dark
magic or for that matter any true magic. This is now a time of peace, a
time
of regrowth for the human race. The world you knew no longer exists. If
I
catch you once doing any magic dark or otherwise you will be dealt with
accordingly. Do you understand and agree to what I just told you?"

Willow nodded, "Yes Angel I do and no need to worry about me and magic I
don't think I no longer have the ability to do a spell."

Angel stood up and took off his cloak and handed it to Willow.

"Here wrap yourself in this."

Willow took the offered cloak and quickly wrapped around her, pulling it
close.

Spike removed his cloak and handed it to Wesley. Wesley took it and
covered himself as best he could.

Angel led them to the nearby village they had established. Cordelia was
shocked when she saw who Angel brought into their home.

Willow and Wesley both looked around the small front room of the cabin
in
amazment.

The next few weeks were spent teaching Willow and Wesley how to survive
in
this world. Both were shocked by what they saw and were told.

Part 20 the Epilog

Angel sat next to Cordelia. They were on the hill over looking the
valley below them.

It had been close to 80 years since Angel had become human. They were
both old now with grey hair and wrinkles.

80 years of forming a new life for themselves and others. They had built
a thriving community. It had not been easy there had been problems.

Fights over land and mates. Angel along with Spike, Cordelia and Dawn
had settled most disputes. Now their children were in charge.

Angel and Cordelia had 4 children. Liam, Faith, Charles and Winifred.
All good kids now grown up with mates and children of their own.

Spike and Dawn had three. Buffy, Joyce and Alexander. Buffy took Liam as
her mate.

This union brought tears to Angel's eyes when they came to him. She
looked so much like the Buffy he had loved and his son Liam was him in
looks. Cordelia and Willow both felt as if they were looking at the
past.

Willow and Wesley stayed together and had two children. Tara and Lorne.

Angel sighed and squeezed Cordelia's hand. Earlier that day they had
buried Wesley.

Willow went the year before. Spike and Dawn were both gone also. They
died just months apart.

Angel looked over at Cordelia.

"When do you think our time will come?"

Cordelia shook her head.

"Soon I feel it in my heart."

Angel nodded in agreement.

The two sat there and watched the sun set.

The End