A Game Of Chance

Author: PaulenaK ~ toukalah@hotmail.com

Rating: PG

Disclaimer: Wrestlers property of the WWE and themselves, ATS and

BTVS property of Josh Whedon. Everyone you don’t recognize are made up for this fic.

Pairing: Willow/Edge Xander/Anya

Summary: Fate or the luck of the dice?

Author's Note: Totally AU fic set in 1800's or there about.

**

Part One

**

They watched her from the hill top hidden amongst the trees as she casually rode through the countryside atop her steed. His eyes never leaving her form, watching as she nudged her horse into a gallop only then noticing the Rottweiler running along beside the horse, the dog ever in her presence.

"I will have her." He said to the man next to him.

The man smirked, "Don't you ever give up, Helmsley? You know she hates you."

"Yes, hate me she does. But there are other avenues to acquire what I want." Lord Helmsley told his friend in reply as they watched her gallop off.

**

Willow Rosenberg walked through the house that she grew up in and came to a stop beside the stairway as the butler came forward reaching out for her hat and coat. "My father, Mellum, is he in the library?"

"No, miss Willow. Sir Ira left for Los Angeles shortly after you left for your ride." He replied bowing once in her presence before raising his head to meet her gaze, a knowing look in his eyes.

A look of confusion crossed her face as she removed the gloves from her hands. Taking a step forward she clutched the barrier for support when her confusion turned to realization.

"Did Sir Ira say when he'd be back?"

"No miss." The old man replied taking a step closer to her. "He said he would be staying with your cousin, Master Xander, while he was in town."

"Thankyou, Mellum." She whispered fondly in reply before reaching up to lightly place a kiss on his weathered cheek. Her father had often scolded her on her affection towards the old butler who had been her friend and confidante for as long as she could remember, claiming she was of noble blood therefore any such acquaintance with a person whose station was so besidedly below her own would 'out' her in the eyes of would be suitors. There were only three people she trusted more then life itself in this world, Mellum, her handmaid, Cordelia and her cousin Xander. With the exception of her cousin... nobility be damned!

Lifting her skirt a fraction she began to make her way up the stairway to her room and stopped midway up to gaze at the portrait of her father that hung there. 'You would have been included in that little group too father,' she thought. 'If not for your evident love of the dice… and lack of love for me.'

"Please let him win," she whispered a single tear escaping leaving a glistening trail down her cheek. "Please, just once let my father win."

**

Part Two

**

A knowing look in his eye and a light smirk on his face, lord Rosenberg held his cards up in front of him, staring at the other two men seated at the table with him.

"Trump," Lord Bradshaw said laying his cards on the table, exhaling a cloud of smoke between his lips as he eyed the other players.

"And trump again," Lord Rosenberg said in reply as he too laid his cards down atop the others with a smile.

Lord Xander stood to the side and nodded approvingly at his uncle's win, 'Maybe he could get his uncle to quit now that he was ahead.' He thought moving forward.

"My trick I think gentlemen, and my game." Lord Rosenberg said gathering in his winnings.

"The cards love you tonight squire," Lord Xander said as he leaned in closer to his uncle. "Uncle, you have won back all your winnings and more, now is the time to quit."

Lord Rosenberg gave a stifled laugh. "On the contrary dear boy now is the time to ride my luck."

"With respect sir, that has never failed to bring you disaster."

"Oh just one more game sir, just one more game!" His uncle cried smiling to his two friends seated before him.

"Uncle," His nephew persisted. "If you will not think of you… think of your daughter, Willow."

Sir Ira Rosenberg sobered at hearing that and sent a thoughtful look his nephew's. Xander knew given the company they were in he couldn’t retract on Xander's plea without losing face with these men. "Well gentlemen, I know that discretion is death to a gamester but prudence has been forced upon me… and I must confess I do see the sense in it." He rose up taking his winnings with him. "I play no more."

"You have paid your dues to lady luck in the past Sir Ira, we will excuse you." Lord Bradshaw said as the other men nodded in agreement.

"My lords." Lord Ira bowed to the other gentlemen before moving towards the doors of the gaming room, Master Xander at his heels… Only to stop when the doors opened and a cocky Lord Helmsley stood before them.

"Rosenberg, going so soon?" He asked raising his eyebrows at the older man. "I thought you'd like to take revenge on me for lightening your pocket the last time we met."

Lord Rosenberg spared a glance towards Lord Helmsley but being the gentleman that he was, he smiled to the other man before moving to pass the other Lord only to be stopped again.

"Hmm, I'd swear he has an impatient mistress waiting for him." Lord Helmsley raised his voice a notch drawing curious looks from the men who frequented the gaming rooms.

Lord Rosenberg turned around and looked Helmsley right in the eye, all traces of the smile he had gone. "I am at your disposal, my Lord Helmsley."

The other man smiled triumphantly as he entered the room more fully.

**

Willow paced the floor of her room her arms wrapped around her middle pulling taut the shawl she had draped over her shoulders her thoughts running rampant through her head. Her father’s lack of control when it game to gambling was common knowledge through their small country community of Sunnydale, and she was in doubt that knowledge was well known in Los Angeles too.

She raised her head when the door opened and her maid, Cordelia walked through baring a tray laden with a pot, cup and saucer and a small cream boat. Placing the tray on the side table she made her way to her mistress reaching out at once to envelope the other girl in her arms. Although Willow and Cordelia were the same age, Cordelia had fallen into the role of an older sister and thoroughly took great pains to ensue Willows safety as well as being there for her emotionally.

Her father having placed Cordelia with Willow at an early age to act as a companion while he was away on his many 'business trips' as he had called them when she had been a child, she wasn't that naïve anymore. Hence the two girls had grown up together under the tutelage of Mellum and his wife Abigail.

"Just some hot chocolate, Miss Willow." She said motioning towards the tray. "Please have something, you have had nothing all day."

The thought of hot chocolate did nothing to eradicate the butterflies swarming around in her belly and did naught for Willow's lack of appetite. Instead she patted Cordelia's arm in response before once again resuming her pacing, allowing the thoughts of her father and the things he would do today to further secure their poverty.

**

Part Three

**

"Uncle," Xander latched onto his uncle's arm stilling his progress as he made to follow the other lord. " Helmsley's luck has always topped yours."

"Tonight he will learn his lesson." Ira replied not meeting his nephew's gaze as he followed Helmsley to the Chance table.

"Dice suit you?" Helmsley asked removing his money pouch to lay it on the table beside him.

"As you please," Ira replied as he followed suit, a butler coming forth to bow before both men.

"Yes would you?" Helmsley nodded to the butler who would act as referee in this game.

"Certainly my lord," he replied taking his position between the two men. "Quick and simple, high score wins, no limit on stakes."

"Agreed." Both men said simultaneously, Ira emptying his money pouch on the table pushing forth a thousand pounds in gold coin towards the butler before taking up the cup and dice, shaking it then turning the cup upside down to allow the dice to fall to the table.

"10." The butler said looking at both men in unison before handing the cup and dice to Helmsley.

Ira shared a smile with his nephew as Helmsley took up the cup and dice.

"11." The butler said after Helmsley had released the dice gathering his winning and pushing it towards him.

Ira’s steely gaze penetrated the man across from him; fate had certainly graced this man with the luck of the devil when he found himself faced with him across a gaming table. But given his luck earlier today surely luck would be in his favour.

Straightening his back he took up the cup and dice, shaking it before letting the dice drop to the table.

"11." Came the low monotones of the butler.

"Good throw, uncle," Ira heard his nephew utter from behind him.

"12."

Murmuring could be heard from the other men in the room as they watched the game progress, Ira having yet to win.

Xander glared at the older man across from his uncle but Helmsley only had only eyes for his uncle all the while smiling is sick and conceited smile knowingly at the other man's weakness.

Ira glanced across the table at the large pile of coins in front of Helmsley having to stop himself from comparing it to what was on the table in front of him, he didn’t have to look to know that it was now bare of all the winnings he had won previously.

"A chair here!" He said in panic and his nephew jumped to do his bidding grabbing the nearest chair to his person and placing it behind his uncle, tentatively bringing his hand up to ease the old man back into it.

"Well, there's always your house, Rosenberg, is there not. A rather fine house I've always thought." Helmsley said not caring that he was at that moment being subjected to a lot of hateful glares from the other men in the room. "But…" He continued, "If you don't care too… well… we'll all perfectly understand.

Across the room Lord Jericho and Lord Christian watched the happenings at the chance table. "He's baiting him." Jericho whispered to his friend.

"I'd rather face a drawn sword then the Helmsley charm." His friend whispered in reply.

"Ahh… Lord Edge of Mandrake is here," Jericho said nodding to the man who had just entered. He nodded back in kind to his two friends Christian and Jericho before moving to stand in front of the fireplace. Accepting the drink offered to him by one of the many butlers in service to the patrons of the gaming rooms.

"Well?" Helmsley asked referring back to the game he had going with Ira. Sweat glistening his brow Ira looked up and grabbed the cup and dice, shaking it not letting his eyes waver from the man across from him as the dice fell to the table.

"8." Lord Rosenberg sank once again to the chair behind him as the realization of what he'd just done sank in.

Loud murmuring could be heard all around the room as Helmsley took up the cup, the ever-present smirk still plastered to his face as he released the dice.

"9."

Deflated and in shock Ira made to move away from the table.

"Not leaving already Rosenberg, my dear fellow."

"There is nothing left to wager," Came the shaky reply from a shattered Lord Rosenberg. "You have taken everything I possess."

"Not quite everything…" Helmsley said as Ira turned away from the table. "That pretty daughter of yours. She's a touch high and mighty with me I have to say, but a girl of great spirit." He paused as he watched the interest grow on the other mans face. "They tell me that she inherits eighty-thousand pounds from a trust on her marriage."

Xander’s glare shot daggers at the other man, but being as it was he was powerless to do anything about it.

"I'll tell you what, just to be fair with you, I'll wager everything you have lost so far… against your daughters hand in marriage."

**

Willow sat on the floor in front of the fire, her dog, Warrior at her side, her hand gently stroking his fur. The remnants of a barely eaten dinner left forgotten on the floor beside her, her eyes mesmerized by the dancing yellow and orange flames that spilled light into the tiny room.

Cordelia and Mellum having given up on all efforts to get the girl to rest now let her be, Mellum having retreated to his downstairs bedroom while Cordelia remained seated in a chair across from Willow, in case her mistress should need her.

**

Part Four

**

Lord Rosenberg gripped the back of the chair for support and could only stare at the man who had been his adversary in more than just gambling.

"Uncle he's baiting you," Xander came forward only to be brushed aside by his uncle.

"Well sir?" Helmsley asked brushing an invisible piece of lint off the lapel of his coat. "Yes… or no?"

Moving to a vacant side table Ira picked up a pen and began to scrawl upon it the terms of the wager on a piece of paper.

"For god's sake man! Not your own daughter!" Xander exclaimed once again approaching his uncle. "And Helmsley of all people!"

"What would you have me do, go back! And tell Willow that I have gambled away the roof over her very head!"

"Better that than-"

"By all the laws of chance I 'have' to win! Just once against this Helmsley!"

Helmsley raised an eyebrow at that comment by kept silent knowing by this mans crazed look that he had already won.

"Now is the time! Now!" Ira continued, "Oh Xander, cant you see… if I ordain everything then Willow need never know."

The young man shook his head knowing that his once strong willed uncle was passed the point of reason.

Ira made his way back to the chance table and threw the slip of paper down in front of the butler. "My daughters hand and her inheritance against everything I have lost." With an unbelievable steady hand and a determined glare he picked up the cup and let the dice fall to the table.

"10." The butler said placing the cup and dice in front of Helmsley.

Taking hold of the cup Helmsley smiled shaking it before turning the cup upside down letting the dice free not once did his gaze drop from that of man in front of him.

Hurried and very audible sounds erupted around the room sealed the fate of Lord Rosenberg. He didn't have to look down at the dice to realise he had lost.

"11." The butler said his voice for once showing signs of unease as he pushed the piece of paper willing the daughter of one man away to another.

"So," Helmsley smiled. "Lady luck has her little way. I hope it would be convenient to call on you tomorrow. Do ask the adorable Willow to expect me."

Ira bowed his head before shakily making his way to the door.

"Poor devil," Christian said to his friend. "He never did know when to stop."

"That should never have been allowed." Jericho replied.

"My Lord Helmsley." Came a voice above the murmurings of the other men after Ira had made his exit.

Helmsley raised a brow as he saw the owner of the voice making his way towards the table.

"I will throw you one hundred thousand pounds against the house and the girl." He said as he dropped his money pouch on the table in front of the butler.

Helmsley chuckled to himself, as he looked this man up and down. "Done. Tonight I am unbeatable, even by you my dear Lord Edge."

Taking the proffered cup and dice handed to him by the butler; Helmsley tipped the cup to send the dice rolling across the table.

"11." Came the voice of the butler.

Edge just smirked as he took up the cup and dice and in turn let the dice fall.

Genuine cries of surprise filled the room.

"Devil take me." Christian exclaimed as he looked down at the dice lying on the table.

"12." The butler said, then sighed almost in relief extracting a crisp white handkerchief from his breast pocket and dabbing it across his forehead.

Edge smiled as he removed the slip of paper from Helmsley's possession.

The celebration though was cut short by the sound of a gun shot from the next room. Which then lead to Xander's mad dash from the room to where his uncle had exited minutes before.

Edge sent a glare in Lord Helmsley's direction, all waiting expectantly for the return of Xander. No one need ask what had happened in the next room, the young lord's face said it all once he returned; Lord Rosenberg had taken his own life.

**

Part Five

**

After seeing to his uncle's body, Xander raced to Rosenberg House as fast as his horse could carry him. Coming up short of the front stairway he slid off his horse and charged into the house in search of his beloved cousin, a confused Mellum following in his wake.

"Willow!" He called climbing the stairs in the main hall that led to the upper wing that housed the main bedrooms. "Willow!"

"Here, Xander, what is it?"

Taking his cousin's hand he led her back into her room.

**

Willow sat with a horrified look on her face. She hadn't moved in almost two hours. After her cousin had told her of her father's debt and the fate that debt had led too. She hadn't much cared to do anything else but remind herself of all the reason's she hated that man Lord Helmsley!

"Willow," Her cousin said seating himself next to her on the small settee. "There is a way to avoid this."

"How?" She asked turning to face him, her voice just a notch higher then a whisper.

"You can marry me."

A small laugh escaped her lips as she shook her head at him, she should have known he would suggest this. He would give his life for her and vice versa. "No." She declared.

"Yes, we can," Xander protested, "By special license. I'll ride into LA tomorrow and have the papers drawn up."

"Xander, no." She said a bit forcibly this time. "As much as I love you for asking, I know you are already head over heels for Lord Regal's Widow, the Lady Anya."

Xander looked fondly at his cousin before lowering his eyes, "Willow, you may have escaped the clutches of Helmsley… but Lord Edge is far worse. Some call him the son of the devil, he never shows any emotion, always gets what he wants-"

"No man could be any worse then that man Helmsley." Willow cut him off with a very unladylike like snarl.

"Willow… Lord Edge doesn't even smile,"

**

"Why the devil did you do it?"

"Merely for the pleasure of besting Helmsley," Edge replied with a shrug not looking at the man who had spoken.

"But, Edge you know nothing of this woman." Jericho persisted.

"That is of no consequence."

"No consequence!" Christian piped up, "Edge, you won her hand in marriage and the house she lives in, in a game of chance… and you say it has no consequence?"

"Well I had intended to return both to Lord Rosenberg but hadn't planned on his early demise."

"And now?"

"And now I guess I have a situation."

"What say we go there now?" Jericho said getting to his feet.

"Splendid idea my good fellow, we could make a race of it." Christian suggested the excitement apparent in his face.

Edge thought about it for a moment before conceding, "It would be something to do."

"Pffft!" Came a forth voice, Jericho's younger sister, Lady Anya Regal, speaking for the first time since joining her brother and his friends. "She's probably a fickle old maid with a wooden leg!"

"Then you my lady, may stay here." Edge replied walking through to the hall calling out to his butler, Bischoff, as he went.

"No, no!" Anya rushed after him. "I will come… that is if I may ride with you…" She looked up at him demurely ignoring the snickering that came from behind her by her brother and his friend.

Egde just nodded his head towards her as his butler helped them all with their hats and coats.

**

Part Six

**

The four companions soon arrived at Rosenberg House, Lord Edge tapping incessantly at the front door until an elderly man cautiously pulled it open.

"Tell Miss Rosenberg, Lord Edge has come to call upon her." He instructed stepping through the threshold and into the hall.

"Right away, my Lord." Mellum bowed leaving them to wait in the hall.

"I wonder what's taking her so long," Anya pouted not liking being left in a hallway or having to remove her own hat and coat.

"She's probably screwing on her wooden leg," Jericho smirked sharing a smile with Christian reminding them all of Anya's earlier words.

Hearing footsteps the two men composed themselves as a woman holding a candle slowly made her way down the stairs. She had long brown hair pulled back and up under a night cap and a shawl draped over her shoulders, a strong yet worrisome expression on her face and as she came closer they noticed she seemed to favour her right leg, causing a slight limp in her gait.

Jericho and Christian snickered in the back and Anya brought her hand up to her mouth to hide her smile, none daring to look at Edge least their laughter be evident in their eyes.

"My Lord Edge," came a voice from the top of the stairs where Willow stood with Warrior at her side watching them with interest.

Jericho and Christian stood wide eyed and open mouthed at the beauty now descending the stairs. She had hair the colour of flames and eyes of the truest green, her skin the colour of milk and yet the way she held herself spoke more then words ever could. She was indeed a beauty.

Anya shifted from foot to foot as she looked from Edge to this spit of a girl he had won in a stupid game. His face showed nothing of his emotions and Anya had known Edge long enough to know that's when he was at his most dangerous.

"Miss Rosenberg," Edge stepped forward bowing to the young girl. "My I present Lady Anya Regal, her brother Lord Jericho and Lord Christian."

Willow curtsied to all before turning back to meet the steady gaze of Lord Edge.

"Well, you all must be hungry I will send to the kitchen."

"Miss Rosenberg, we would not hear of it." Jericho said stepping forward his eyes lighting up when he was rewarded with a smile.

"A glass of wine then… hmmm?"

At their nods Willow turned to her maid, "Cordy, would you show our guests into the drawing room and Mellum would you bring out some wine?"

Edge's brows drew together in confusion to the way in which she spoke to her servants. Not at all how a lady of her station would, phrasing her words in askance rather then in command.

"Miss Rosenberg," Edge stepped forward again before Willow could follow the others through to the drawing room. "Might we have a word?"

Nodding Willow showed him into another room shaking her head when her maid turned to follow. "I'll be fine, Cordy." She said giving her maid's arm a squeeze. Another unladylike thing to do for someone of her station, he noticed.

"What do you know of our coming together?" Edge asked once the door had closed and they were alone.

"That I was a bet in which you won..." Willow stated as she stared defiantly back up at him, "...My lord."

"It hadn't occurred to me that you would be so young,"

"I was a late child. My mother died giving birth to me." she watched him as he paced, his presence seeming to overpower the small room and she suddenly wished she had shown him through to the parlour.

He wasn't that bad looking she surmised and she had to admit a far sight better then Lord Helmsley. His long hair bleached at the tips by the sun, prominent jaw and piercing eyes etching themselves into her memory.

"I see."

Shaking her head a little she fought to get her mind off the man standing beside her and back to the business at hand. "I have prepared the accounts and made up a list of all the town’s people and servants who received pensions from my father… you would of course continue to pay those?" she asked clasping her hands in front of her.

"Of course."

"Now I'm afraid I have no idea as to the livestock on the estate."

"It matters not, my foreman will see to all the details."

"The house-"

"Will be sold."

"Sold!"

"Yes," he replied matter of fact, "I have no use for it and since you cannot go on living here-"

"Why?" she cut in worry etching its way onto her brow.

"Surely you see…" he began, "I am a single nobleman… this house now belonging to me and you, a single lady of marriageable age... alone..."

Willow felt the need to snort at his innuendo. "And I understand from Xander that the Lady Lita already fills that position." Willow snapped realization hitting her like a ton of ice. People would think she was his mistress thus bringing her status down on the marrying scale. No one would want to marry her if they thought he was keeping her in a house owned by him unchaperoned. Hence he would either be stuck with her for the rest of his natural born life or marry her off to the highest bidder!

"And now that leaves you Miss Rosenberg, what am I to so with you?"

Willow looked away already seeing in her mind's eye the wheels churning inside his head. "I am in your hands, my Lord. I must honour my father’s debt."

He seemed pleased with her answer. "In that case, you will join my mother at Mandrake, the family home. It is a rather long and tedious journey, therefore I will send my most comfortable coach for you to ride in to make your journey more pleasant."

She merely nodded at his thoughtfulness continuing to look down at her hands rather than at him. "May I bring my maid, Cordy… and my dog?"

"Of course, I will send them on ahead to make your arrival less… strange…"

"Thankyou, my lord."

"Till then, miss Rosenberg… let us remain as we are… two strangers brought together by a game of chance." Coming to stand before her he reached for her hand bending a little to place his lips to her up turned hand before turning to walk out the door.

Willow stood locked in thought only snapping out of it when she felt Cordy's arm slip around her shoulders.

"Oh, Cordy…" She sighed letting the other woman comfort her. "I have no experience where men are concerned and know even less of how a man thinks but… I have never been more baffled by a man in my life!"

**

Part Seven

**

Willow stuck her head out of the side window of the coach as it passed by the tiny village she had frequented with Cordy when errands needed tending to in town. The coach jerking and swaying this way and that on the uneven gravel, which was a common thing for such a small out of the way place.

Her head remained stuck out the window until the small village had faded into the scenery and Willow sat back with a sigh and thought of ways she could amuse herself to pass time. Since she hadn't ventured further then the village and never without a chaperone she was quite utterly in the mercy of the coach driver.

She hadn't thought to bring a book with her to pass the time so instead she found herself watching the view the tiny window provided and counting the trees.

**

"Whoaaaaaaaa!"

The voice of the coach driver brought her up with a start, she had dozed off… her legs now propped up on the seat of the chair across from her in a most unladylike fashion. 'Well… I've never been one for my lady like values.' She thought rubbing the sleep from her eyes.

"Wow…" She gasped when the carriage door was opened and she stepped out getting her first real glimpse of her 'for now' home, Mandrake House. It was twice the length and height of Rosenberg House with 11, she did a quick count, yes 11 chimneys’s jutting out at different points on the rooftop.

"If you please, miss." An elderly man bowed before gesturing for her to follow him up the stone stairway towards two huge doors.

Upon entering servants were lined up to greet her and she smiled at them all as she passed. It seemed everyone but the master of the house had turned out to greet her, 'now how welcome does that make you feel?' she thought turning around in a circle to look fully upon the house she had just entered.

She had to admit it was indeed beautifully done, murals graced the ceilings and walls, sparkling chandeliers hung down from the high ceilings catching the rays of light that shone through the windows basking the room in sunshine.

Her pleasant thoughts were interrupted by a shrill voice that could be heard coming from the top of the stairs.

"If my orders are not carried out immediately, you will be whipped!"

'Lame attempt at scaring the new girl' she thought as the owner of the voice made an appearance.

Standing before her now looking down at her with scorn and contempt was she could only presume, the lady of the house, Lady Ivory, Edge's mother.

"I am told you are to receive eighty thousand pounds." She said holding a looking glass in front of her eyes as she perused the papers given to her by the coach driver.

"Upon my marriage, marm."

"Well, not a large fortune as fortunes go… but that innocent look and porcelain skin will work wonders for you in the gaming room." She said looking at the girl before her from head to toe.

"Gaming room, marm?"

"That's what I said girl." She barked turning away dismissing her with a wave of her hand. "Show miss…" she turned back with a sneer, "Rosenberg, to her room."

Willow could do nothing but follow the maid up the stairway.

**

Part Eight

**

"Cordy!"

"Oh, miss Willow."

The two friends embraced as Willow entered the room she was given to stay in for how ever long her stay here would be. Kneeling down she stroked at Warriors fur, the dog panting approvingly at her touch.

"Oh, Miss Willow," Cordy repeated, "The Mistress of this place has given you the coldest, darkest room in the house." She continued pulling the shawl she was wearing more firmly around her shoulders.

"We will make do, Cordy. She's only trying to scare me though I know not why."

"There's talk amongst the servants, my lady. They say this place is haunted."

Willow couldn't help but laugh. "Oh Cordy… you can be so gullible at times,"

But her maid came forward again grabbing her hand, "They say the old lord still walks the grounds-"

"Cordy stop it… your giving me the willies." She cut in silencing her friend with a stern look. "We are here so we may as well make the most of it. Although I must admit the old dragon does scare me… but there's nothing she can do to me while I am her son's ward."

"Yes," Cordy agreed. "But what happens when you are not."

Willow gave a start as the door burst open and Ivory breezed through, Willow stepped in front of Cordy protectively although the older women gave no indication of over hearing their conversation.

"That will go in the stables!" She ordered pointing at the dog sleeping in front of the fire.

"At night yes," Willow nodded in agreement. "But during the day he and my maid will stay here, it is what we are all used too."

Lady Ivory gave her a murderous look. "Tonight you will keep to your room, I will take the liberty of having a tray sent up to you. Tomorrow you will join us down stairs, I have some guests coming."

"As you say, my Lady."

"I will have my dress maker sent up in the morning… dressed as you are now I doubt you have anything suitable."

Willow rolled her eyes turning towards Cordy as the older lady left, the door banging shut behind her.

**

Willow lay in bed, the covers pulled up to her chin as she lay in the dark. She heard a noise coming from the far wall that sounded like a door opening then closing. 'Funny,' she thought getting up to investigate. 'I thought I was in the tower facing the north wing? In theory, there shouldn't be a door on the other side of that wall.'

Feeling around with her hand she moved aside a wall hanging of the family crest and froze when indeed she found a door. Trying the handle proved pointless, it was locked and she found no key.

'No wonder this room is cold, having a door where on the other side is nothing but…" she glanced out the window her face paling when she saw a shadow walk across the path below her and enter the tower across from her.

Moving back to her bed she dived under the covers her wide eyes peeking out from beneath them as again she heard the sound of a door opening then closing but this time she heard foot steps… and they stopped right at the locked doorway she was standing next to moments before.

She held her breath as she waited for the door to open to see what predicament fate had led her to this time. But it never came… she breathed a sigh of relief when the sound of footsteps retreating filled her ears.

"Great… now I definitely have the willies."

**

Part Nine

**

"Edge, what were you thinking in bringing that girl here."

"And where would you have me place her, mother." He replied smoothly as he looked down on the topic of their conversation walking around the grounds below. Watching as she stopped at one of the old towers that had long since been boarded up and now used only for storage.

"Now there I could help you, I could have Molly have a look at her… do something with her hair…"

"And parade her around the gentry offering her up to the highest bidder?" Edge finished for her, he knew his mother so well and though he thought her little tirades tiresome and utterly beneath her, she continued to disrespect not only him and the family name, but the House it self and all it stood for.

"Surely you can’t mean to marry her," She gasped clutching at her chest. "Edge, you can’t…"

"I marry no one mother, you know full well I do not."

"By the devil you had me worried. For a minute there I thought you were interested."

"One day mother, there will have to be an heir."

"One day, yes," She agreed straightening her shoulders primly as she changed her position on the day bed. "But that day is far off yet, god knows I'm not ready to be a grandmother."

Edge turned his back once again on his mother to watch the young Miss Willow below as she tried to open one of the doors leading into the tower, pushing on it when it refused to budge. She turned then as if she knew he were watching her and looked straight up at him. Their gazes locked for a moment before her back became taut and straight and her eyes steely.

Turning on her heel she walked in the opposite direction towards the gardens and out of his sight.

**

Willow sat in a chair in the middle of her room while three of Lady Ivory's maids tended to her. Molly, she had been told was to style her hair for tonight's extravaganza and at the moment her hair was sectioned off every which way imaginable. Stacey, was in charge of her dress, it was her job to make sure Willow was buffed up in places that needed buffing and deflated in places that needed deflating. And Finally Torrie, it was her job to capture Willow's innocence with powder's and smelling salts and Willow swore the girl was more nervous about this than she was.

Torrie was now in the process of trying to open a pot of powder, the strain of her actions showing on her pretty face. The three women gave a start when the lid popped off and they were all covered in a cloud of white dust.

"I'm awfully sorry, Miss." Torrie whispered not looking up from the pot of powder she held.

"You stupid girl!" Molly shrieked, "Lady Ivory will have all our heads!"

"You better hope Lady Ivory doesn't take your mistake out on the three of us!" added an equally irate Stacey.

"Please don't say anything my lady," Torrie looked up into Willow's eyes pleadingly. "I'm already on my last warning. Lady Ivory will have me whipped…"

"Shhh…" Willow cooed softly to quiet the maid putting a comforting hand on her arm. "Of course I wont… anybody here could see it was my fault. I should not have distracted you from your task."

Both Molly and Stacey looked at her with shocked expressions but didn't comment further on the matter, knowing that this way their own butts were being saved a whipping.

Torrie offered her a smile, one of the first Willow had seen since the girl’s entry into her room. Reaching down Willow squeezed her hand returning the maids smile with one of her own.

Willow looked over at Cordy who sat in front of the fireplace with Warrior's head in her lap and smiled when Cordy rolled her eyes… and all was quiet once more as the maids continued on with there primping.

**

Part Ten

**

'Well this should be an experience,' Willow thought as she made her way into the main dining hall. Her eyes widening at what she saw, lanterns streamed down from the ceiling and candles adorned every wall filling the room with flickering light. There was an orchestra playing on one side of the room and couples moved to the melodic sounds of the violin.

She moved through the room sending a polite smile to those that greeted her as she passed. Stopping when she saw a couple of the gentlemen standing on the other side of the dancers, her curiosity quickly piqued when they entered another room, the doors closing quickly behind them. But in the small amount of time she had seen that the other room was indeed full of people… maybe even more so then the room she was standing in now.

Her curiosity getting the better of her she made her way to the door and opened it, quietly slipping inside. The room smelled of cigar smoke and whiskey and as she looked around she noticed all the residents in the room were male. Gaming tables were scattered about the room and no one seemed to notice that she was even there, or so she thought.

"Ah! The little heiress."

Willow lifted her gaze in the direction the voice came from to see Lady Ivory making her way towards her.

"Ladies are not permitted in this room, but you shall be the exception."

Latching onto her wrist Ivory pulled her through the crowd of onlookers stopping only when she held all their attention.

"May I introduce to you all, my son's ward, Miss Rosenberg." Her voice echoed through the room followed by muffled whispers from the men. "She is to have eighty thousand pounds upon her marriage."

More murmuring were heard as Willow was lead from table to table and introductions were made.

"And now I will introduce you to your dinner companion," Raising her gaze Willow met the fierce intense eyes of Lord Helmsley.

Her eyes flash with hatred and loathing but she dared not give him the satisfaction of lowering her eyes in his presence.

"I am well acquainted with Lord Helmsley - among other things… he murdered my father." The last part she directed at Ivory before fleeing the room only stopping for breath when she had left both the gaming room and the dining hall.

Her hands gripped the balustrade and she knew if she hadn't of been wearing gloves her knuckles would be as white as snow.

Edge walked up the stairway and smiled upon seeing her, but his smile was short lived when he noticed her laboured breathing and drawn brows.

"I was just remarking how long the trip from town is… I swear that road gets busier every year." he said knowing it was custom for him to remark first allowing her open reign to confide in him if need be.

"I hate that man!" she stated, no sign of the thanks she felt for his opening showing on her face. "His eyes… they… I have been put next to him at dinner!"

He looked down at her hands and saw the death like grip she held the balustrade capture in, knowing all too well now the reason for her distress.

"You will not be." He promised, and he meant every word. As her guardian he would protect her from all and any who would meant her harm.

**

Part Eleven

**

"Yes, but you must remember Jericho… it's not how you play the game but how you play to win it." Christian's voice could be heard coming up the landing.

Edge and Willow turning to find the man in deep discussion with Jericho and Xander, Anya preceded them up the landing and possessively lay her arm on Edge's sleeve before reaching up to brush her lips over his cheek.

"Oh Edge," She breathed loud enough that Willow would hear before turning to greet her. "Miss Rosenberg."

"My Lady,"

"Miss Rosenberg you do look stunning," Christian remarked bowing slightly before her.

Willow blushed at his compliments lowering her eyes but the smile that graced her face shone from ear to ear and only caused to make her look even more radient.

Not liking all the attention drawn from her Anya leaned up to whisper into Edge's ear before addressing Willow again. "Oh… I brought Xander for you… I knew you'd be pleased." She motioned to the man standing behind her with a wave of her hand before linking her arm in Edge's. "Edge, darling you promised me a dance…" She could be heard saying as they walked into the main dining hall.

"Xander!" Willow cried as he came forward kissing her on both cheeks before they too entered the dining hall leaving two very amused Lord's in their wake.

**

Dinner proved to be a very trying task on Willows behalf. Edge, true to his word had placed Willow at the opposite end of the table from Helmsley and his meddling mother. Willow being subjected to very obvious glares from the two.

Turning away from the pair she found her gaze moving to her guardian and she smiled mouthing the words 'thank you' when he returned her gaze. Which only proved her to be subjected to even more glares… this time from Anya.

"A little livelier then Rosenberg House I imagine," Jericho said leaning towards her.

Willow turned to the man seated next to her and smiled, "I must say it has all taken my breath away… I mean all that out there."

"Didn't Edge tell you? His mother is a fanatic gambler who craves the game like a thirsty man would crave water."

"Only thing is," Lord Xander added from his place on the other side of her. "As fast as she wins it she gambles it away herself."

She laughed quite openly at Xander's jest oblivious to the attention that small sound had made from others seated around her.

Lifting her water glass to her lips she noticed for what had to be the sixth time that Xander's eyes were once again trained on the one who held his heart, Lady Anya.

"For god's sake Xander, you look like a love sick calf! If you want her go out and get her." She whispered only loud enough for him to hear.

"She has eyes for no one but that confounded Edge." He whispered back.

"You got to let the girl you’re there, she probably hasn't even seen you yet."

"What the blazes do you mean 'hasn’t seen me'. I'm around her the whole bloody time."

Willow laughed at him wondering how a man could be so clueless. "If you don't understand that you understand nothing!"

**

Lady Ivory watched as Willow laughed and chatted away with the other guests and she also noticed her son’s eyes being drawn to the little waif more and more. 'No little scrap of a girl is going to defy me!' She thought emptying her glass of its contents as she stared at the girl.

"She seems to be the topic of more then a few of your guests, my dear Ivory." Helmsley said at her side.

"Let her enjoy it, for I can guarantee it won’t last long."

"Now, now lets not be hasty… surely some arrangement can be made without touching that pretty little head of hers." Helmsely knew exactly what Ivory had had in mind for his little filly… He let his gaze wonder back to her as she happily conversed with the two men seated beside her. 'And I'll be damned if I'd let her slip through my fingers again.'

**

Part Twelve

**

The next day Willow sought solitude away from the house and its variable mistress and so confined herself to the grounds of the extensive gardens that surrounded Mandrake House. Looking out over the grounds Willow was reminded of the gardens she played in as a child granted they were nothing as articuli groomed as the gardens of Mandrake House but in her minds eye they were pretty and filled with mystery.

"Miss Rosenberg, a word if you please."

Turning at the sound of the unexpected feminine voice Willow came face to face with that of Lady Anya.

Motioning to a stone bench that sat to the side of them Anya waited until they had seated themselves before continuing.

"What is between you and Edge?"

Willow had to stop herself from rolling her eyes at the other woman but decided against it; one woman who disliked her in this house was enough.

"There is nothing between me and Edge. I do not wish to wed him and he certainly does not wish to wed me I hardly know what I'm doing here. I've never met people like this before and I would not care if I were never to meet them again and her ladyship holds me up like a slave to the hopeful bidder. That’s at best is how I can explain it is my situation."

She watched the amusement dance in Lady Anya's eyes. "Oh Miss Willow but I like you for that. I should hate you but it seems we must be friends." Extending her hand towards the other girl she smiles a look of warmth in her eyes. "Willow."

"Friends… Anya," Willow returned her smile as they daintily clasped hands in friendship. "Do you love him very much?" She asked.

"More than life… but he'll have none of me," She sighs. "And that is part of his deadly attraction. I know it is absurd but I cannot help it. The colder he is to me… the more he makes me suffer the more I want him."

Willow quirked her eyebrow at her new friend when she leaned closer to her. "I do like my men to be men. Do you know that Edge on many occasions has beaten champion prize fighters! What do you think of that?"

"I don't know what to think…" Willow mumbled trying not to sound bored.

Anya smiled, "I had forgotten you are a little country mouse. I bet you do not know half of what goes on in this house."

"I have eyes…” she replied. “I can see."

"Yes… but what about what you cannot see."

**

Looking down on the two women chattering away Lord Helmsley smirked his eyes never leaving the petite form of the young girl he had lusted over for so long 'Even with her father gone she still remained untouchable' He thought his gaze becoming sinister as a plan began forming in his mind.

"Soon my dear Miss Willow… soon." He whispered before nudging his horse back through the woods.

**

Part Thirteen

**

Willow's mood was heightened by her newly found friendship with Anya and it showed on her face as she skipped merrily down the hall towards the stairway anxious to get to her rooms before anyone could discover she was back in the house only to stop dead in her tracks upon the sight of Lady Ivory disappearing through a wooden panel in the wall directly opposite the stairs.

Curiosity getting the better of her she slowly ambled over darting a look over her shoulder as her hand inched its way up the wooden panel until it found what she was looking for, a secret latch.

"Are you interested in… panelling?"

One hand coming up to her chest the other clutching the wall for support she slowly turned on her heel, her eyes lowered in embarrassment at being caught at what could only be construed as a secret entrance.

"Ah… yes… that is we had something like it at Rosenberg House."

Edge seemed to be satisfied with her answer or so she thought until he took a step closer to her. "In this house it does not pay to be curious."

She lowered her eyes again as the blush she had just moments before gotten in check once more crept up her neck.

Seeing this his eyes softened and he had an irresistible urge to kiss her just to see how deep a blush he could get from her.

"You must have heard that Mandrake House is haunted, you never know what ghosts you might find."

Finally turning her eyes up to his she graced him with a smile. "Well, if Mandrake is haunted I cannot blame the ghosts… the house is so beautiful." Her eyes dart about the room before coming back to rest on his face.

He seemed surprised and pleased by her remark. As if realising she had spoken her thoughts her eyes once again fell to stare at the floor.

Taking her arm in his he led her up the stairway. "I like to hear you say that. I love Mandrake. I love how each generation has added to the house. Anglo-Saxon, Normandy, Edwardian, Elizabethan, Restoration, Queen Anne, It's a great house… and a gracious one."

Glancing up at him she offered him up a smile her eyes dancing with wonder and awe at all he had to tell.

"Are you happy here?" he asked as they came to a stop outside her bedroom door.

She shrugged, "There's so many strangers…"

"You were happy when I placed you next to your cousin Xander at dinner."

"I'm very fond of Xander."

"Do you contemplate marrying him?"

"I do not. He is in love with the Lady Anya."

Edge lowered his eyes for a moment as if deep in thought. "And you?" He asked after a few moments.

"I am in love with no one."

"Least of all the man to which you are betrothed."

Willow could practically see his back stiffen, for a moment she thought he looked injured but his face hardened so fast she must only have imagined it. He stared down at her with intense eyes as if daring her to turn away.

"Shall I make you fall in love with me, Willow. Are you afraid of love… or merely of me."

She opened her mouth to reply but quickly shut it again choosing instead to pull her arm out of his grasp and flee into her room.

Leaning back on the closed door she slowly counted to ten trying to decrease the rapid beating of her heart. Quietly she pulled the door back open only enough for her to peek through to see him walking away catching a glimpse of the knowing smile on his face as he rounded the corner.

**

Part Fourteen

**

The sea seemed restless as angry clouds rolled across the night sky obscuring the moons light and shrouding the small boat that was slowly oared to shore in a blanket of darkness.

The small boat continued on its path the men carefully listening to the sounds around them for any signs of her majesty's guards who patrolled these waters, the oars being pumped in and out slicing through the water with each stroke as they passed through a series of sharp rocks that jutted up from the waters surface.

"Steady lads… steady…" Came a gruff raspy voice through the smog.

Harsh sighs were made as the boat slipped into a small cave off the cliff side and moored to the landing inside.

**

Willow stood in front of her mirror absently pulling at the strands that curled down the side of her face before sighing loudly as she made her way out of her room and down the stairway to the dining hall.

'I wonder who her ladyship is going to dangle me in front of tonight?' She thought as she entered the great hall. She had all but stepped inside the doorway when she was approached by a young officer and whisked out on to the dance floor.

"I didn't know gentry of the queens guard would be present." Willow said to the officer as he slowly twirled her about the room.

"It's a necessity my lady. Smugglers have been seen in these waters over the past two weeks." He replied looking on her his eyes intense.

"Oh…"

"The French will try to smuggle anything in if the moneys right," He continued. "Brandy, tobacco… silk…"

Willow smiled up at him warmly before lowering her eyes focusing on the music and the steps of the dance silently willing it to end.

**

Lady Ivory looked down at the cards in her hand before raising her eyes to the man seated across the table.

"Devil take you, Helmsley." She said as he raked in his latest winnings.

"Oh, Ivory dear I do hope he does… I'd hate to be parted from you…"

"You will pay for that."

The man seated across from her rolled his eyes feigning boredom before gathering up the cards on the table.

"Do you challenge me again?" He asked.

"To eternity." She declared dropping a small pouch on the table.

"Ten pounds?" Cocking his eyebrow at her he began to deal out the cards.

"A hundred."

He smiles inwardly but his face showed no expression. "Oh… reckless lady."

A servant appeared bowing before the mistress of the house before placing a silver tray with a white slip of paper folded neatly in the centre before her. Accepting the slip of paper she reads it quickly placing it into her open cleavage as she rose out of her chair.

"My apologies Helmsley, my challenge will have to wait." Turning on her heel she left the room not offering him any further form of excuse.

**

Edge watches as his mother breezes past everyone on the dance floor out into the main hall towards the stairwell. By the look on her face he knew exactly where she was headed and why. His eyes hardened momentarily before excusing himself from his dance partner.

**

Lady Ivory entered her chambers closing the door quickly behind her. "They weren't supposed to be here for 4 days." She breathed leaning heavily on the closed door. "I should have foreseen it. Do you have the money?"

Out of the shadows appears her housemaid, an old frail woman as thin as a rake with drawn in features and old, old eyes. Turning to open a small chest that sat upon a side table she returned with a black velvet sack.

"Feels a bit light to me," She ponders before looking at her ladyship with accusing eyes. "You have not been dipping into it."

"Give me that!" She snapped snatching the bag out of the old woman's hands. "A few pounds here… a few pounds there… I was going to have it all back in time. How was I to know they would arrive 4 days early."

"What will you do? You can't hardly offer these beauty's double or quit."

"Hold your tongue old woman! You forget your place!" She glared down at the old woman her eyes dancing with anger. "Give me the staff."

The old woman hands her the staff that is propped up against a chair.

"I shall be back directly." With that she rushes out of the room making her way down the stairway towards the hidden passage way hidden behind the wooden panel.

Grabbing an already lit lantern off the wall and walking down the stone steps till her dainty shoed feet felt the grainy softness of sand. Her eyes focusing on the tiny boat moored at the end of the pathway.

**

Part Fifteen

**

"Are you mad coming here when the queen's guards have been swarming these waters for days now," She barked approaching the men who were now unloading cargo from the small carrier.

A Chubby face vagrant held his own lit torch forward to peer into her eyes. "Black as the ace of spades out there, Miss."

"Where are the papers?" She asked pulling her kerchief up to her nose as his stench filled her nostrils. Bringing forth a scrap of parchment from inside his jacket he handed it to her before moving back into line to help unload the boat.

"Brandy… Wine… Where's the silk…"

**

A servant dressed in full attire hastily ran towards the door, the thrashing that came from the outside halting as he opened it.

"In the name of the queen we request an audience with the Mistress of the house.”

Willow watched from the top of the stairs as the servant bowed slightly before moving back allowing them entrance before rushing off to find her ladyship.

Stopping a few feet away from her the servant bowed before Edge then proceeded to explain about the men waiting in the entrance way.

Reaching out Edge grabbed Willow's hand he smiled at her. "How charming you look, Miss Rosenberg." Slightly leaning forward, his eyes never leave hers as he placed a kiss upon her palm. "Go warn my mother that the patrolling queens guards are here get to her through the door behind the panelling."

Willow's eyes widened at his whispered order seeing the plea in his eyes before turning towards the hallway that led to the stairway of the upper levels of the house looking over her shoulder the whole time.

When she reached the panelling her hands searched frantically for the secret latch pulling on it once her fingers curled around the handle. The panel opened and Willow stepped through, not really sure what she would find inside.

**

"We'll have our money now, Miss," The same vagrant who had given her the parchment said as he approached her, the rest of the men filing in behind him.

"You’re early therefore you only get two gold coins each." She said tossing the coins at him.

"Two! I came here for five and by the devil I will be leaving with five!" One of the men in the back hollered causing a few of the other men to voice their own concerns about their due payment.

"How dare you!" She cried when one of the men stepped forward. "Keep your distance! Your stench sickens me!" She snarled using the staff she held in her hand to push the man back in line. "There is no more!" She said flinging the now empty velvet bag at the man in front of her.

"No more!" The same man roared. "Well then, I'll just be taking that pretty necklace you got!"

He didn't get within a foot of her before she had pulled forth a razor sharp blade from within the cane she always carried. Seeing the reaction in the men's faces she smiled sadistically returning the blade to the cane.

Turning at the sound of footsteps behind her she turned to see Willow's form through the dim light in the cave.

"The queen's guards are here!"

"Quickly, back to your ship. I will send word when I have the rest of your gold." She looks down at the man still lying in a pool of his own blood down at her feet. "And see that you take 'that' with you."

Walking away from the men she stopped in front of Willow watching as the girl's hands clutched at the stone wall her shocked eyes on that of the men carrying the body of one of their own, placing it in their boat before each one got in and the small boat was cast off.

"Stitch yourself together girl… have you never seen a wild boar speared?"

Head held high she preceded her son's young ward through the tunnel to return to her role as hostess to her dinner guests.

**

Part Sixteen

**

"Ah mother, may I introduce Captain Richards who is searching the area for smugglers… he says they were seen in our waters." Edge smiled at the Captain but when he turned his gaze on his mother she visibly flinched at the rage that shone through his hazel orbs.

Turning her eyes away from those of her son to train on the Captain in front of her, her smile one of dignified aristocratism and control.

"My… how exciting… have you found any?"

"Not as yet my lady, although I have no doubt in my mind that we will." He bowed respectfully in her presence as he continued, "This call is merely to warn you that the smugglers have been seen in the waters surrounding Mandrake House and that guards will be posted accordingly."

"Why thankyou kind sir, I will feel ever so safe with that knowledge."

Bowing once again the Captain turned to leave, Edge followed him to the door.

"My lady,"

Rolling her eyes Ivory turned to meet the intense gaze of Helmsley. "I've heard of running from a losing streak but aren't you dramatising it a bit?"

"My leaving our game had nothing to do with this military intrusion."

"I'm sure… although you're dress and that of my little fancy over there," He motions with his head to Willow standing a few feet away from them. "Seems to be made of the finest silk that can only be made in France."

"I could never dupe you, Helmsley. You are too sharp."

"No, no my dear… you know me, dim as a poor mans candle."

Not believing a word he said she kept her gaze steady. "What will it take to keep you silent." It was more a statement then a question.

"As if you even need to ask." He smiled rakishly his head turning back to where Willow still stood.

Her stature and expression telling them both she knew full well that 'she' was the topic of their conversation.

"My lady… may I retire?" She asked not able to stand Helmsley’s eyes on her a moment longer.

"You may," The older woman dismissed her with a wave of her hand before turning back to Helmsley.

"My dear Ivory…" He watched the young girl run up the stairs disappearing around a corner before he turned back to the lady of the house. "I have a proposition for you."

**

Willow retreated up the stairs as if the devil himself were after her nearly falling flat on her backside and would of if not for the strong arms that now held her up.

Edge looked down on her with concern, taking in her pale face and wide eyes. "What is it? What is the matter?" He asked.

Willow could do nothing but gasp for air surprising him by flinging herself against him burying her head chest her eyes lids closing as she inhaled his scent.

"Willow…"

Her eyes snapped open and she pulled away from him, 'What was she doing?' Her mind screamed. Shocked at her actions she pushed past him rushing up the rest of the stairs not stopping for a moment.

He watched her go only relaxing his stance when he heard her door slam shut behind her.

**

Part Seventeen

**

Willow awoke to the sound of birds chirping outside her window, the sun streaming through the glass warming her body as she pulled back the covers. The smell of the sea and the fresh smell of nature wafted in to tease her senses. She smiled in spite of herself shedding her bedclothes and slipping into the clothes Cordy had set out for her the night before.

"Come on Warrior… come on boy…" She called to the dog sprawled out in front of the fire place. "Lets go exploring…"

Clutching his collar when he obediently came to her she heard the creak of another door being opened and her head immediately turned to the hidden door in her room. Walking over to it she pressed her ear against the hard wood jumping back with a start when the noise came again.

Reaching for the handle she tried it her eyes widening when it swung open.

"Come on boy…" She called again to her dog. "Lets see where this leads."

Walking first into a dimly lit hallway she followed it. It seemed to spiral downwards. Stopping at the first door she came too she pulled on the handle and walked through to find herself surrounded by books, floor to ceiling shelves filled with tons and tons of books. A cosy little fire burned in the fire place and gave the room a nice homely feel but what caught Willow's eye was the huge pine desk that sat in the middle of the room, it reminded Willow of her fathers desk all strewn with papers and maps.

Her eyes widened as one of the bookcases opened and an elderly man entered sliding it closed before turning around to clutch at his chest as his eyes settled on her, his shock soon turning into a smile.

"My dear, how nice of you to visit me. Do you know I saw you that first day from the door in your room, there hasn't been anyone there in a long, long time… who are you?"

Willows eyes shone with amusement at his curiosity. "Well sir, my name is Willow Rosenberg. I fear my story is a bit of a strange one, I was won in a wager by Lord Edge."

"By Lord Edge!" He exclaimed, "You were really? Oh what a rogue that fellow must be."

A knock at the door brought their attention to a servant who had entered. "I heard voices my Lord Mandrake."

"It's okay Austin, we have a guest. Bring us some tea there's a good fellow. Poor Austin, he knows no one should be in here, he probably thinks you came down the chimney." He smiled grabbing Willow's hand to lead her over to the fireplace where he pulled a chair over for her.

Willow eyed the other man thoughtfully her brow creasing together. "He called you Lord Mandrake."

"Yes, he did."

"That means Edge isn't the real Lord, you are."

"No, my dear. Edge is the real lord… because I am dead."

The door opened again and Austin walked back in pushing a trolley laden with refreshments.

"It's the whole sad tale… older, richer, scholastic man falls for young, beautiful money hungry wife who gambles away his money and his lively hood leaving him poor and desolate."

"But you don't look poor and desolate… this house is magnificent."

"Ah yes… but it wouldn't be if not for Edge."

"I don't understand."

"When Edge was sixteen he was sent abroad for schooling. He knew nothing of what his mothers gambling had cost us and I couldn't find it within myself to tell him. Therefore I died which allowed Edge to become Lord of Mandrake and to have access to his inheritance which could only be touched upon my death."

"But that's sad."

He smiled. "Yes it was, but I am content here you see I have always been a scholar. Books are my life and this way I get to finish my insight into the history of this house." He paused for a moment looking deeply into her eyes. "My son is the most honourable man I know. He was furious at what we had done, but it was the only way. I shouldn't really be telling you all this but I am still venerable to a pretty face."

Willow smiled prettily back at him, he reminded her so much of her own father.

"May I ask you something?"

"Yes, of course."

"Are you in love with my son?"

"I am not."

He raised his eyebrows at her reply. "And my son, is he in love with you?"

"No." She lowered her eyes not being able to help the blush that crept up her neck to now stain her cheeks.

"Oh, if I were young again…" He smiled back at her when her blush grew darker before reaching out to grab her hand in his. "I am so glad you are here young Willow… so glad."

**

Part Eighteen

**

Edge angrily paced the floor space in front of his desk as he awaited his mother's presence. 'She should never have been allowed access to the tunnels,' He thought to himself, 'As if she hasn't done enough to taint the honour of the family."

He didn't look up as the door opened and his mother entered instead he walked towards the window to wait until she had seated herself before turning to glare at her.

"How long?"

"Oh, Edge you are thoroughly over exaggerating… it was only a little brandy." Ivory replied not meeting his stare.

"A little?" He snapped, his tone made her fidget with the lace of her dress and she still refused to meet his eyes. "A little brandy wouldn't of brought the queens guards to the doors of Mandrake!"

"Mandrake!" She exclaimed, "That's all you think about although I'm not surprised… that's all your father thought about."

His nostrils flared and his chin rose as he stared down his nose at her. "The entrance to the cave will be closed and the tunnels blocked."

"Pfft! You would never do that the tunnels have been a part of Mandrake for centuries."

"I will do it mother." He leaned down closer to her forcing her to meet his intense eyes. "You will be sent abroad."

She gasped clutching her breast as she realised the seriousness of his tone. "Oh Edge you cant… you can't send me abroad…"

"I can… and I will mother. It stops now." He left her then a tense and apprehensive look on her face as she pondered her son's words.

**

Anya and Willow rode along a quiet trail in the woods with their escorts Jericho and Xander following along behind them. The two friends quietly chatting away, there combined giggling and laughting all the two men behind them could hear.

"I thought Edge was joining us?" Anya pouted after a moment of silence between the two women.

"He'll be along soon, he had a matter to discuss with his mother." Jericho answered his sister before they once again lapsed into silence.

"You know," Anya began again causing the two men behind her to chuckle. Anya was known as one who couldn't keep silent for long. "I overheard a conversation the other day between Ivory and Helmsley… he seemed to be guaranteeing her ten thousand pounds upon delivery of the goods and they seemed to be looking in your direction."

Willow lowered her eyes so her friend wouldn't see the fear that sprang up every time Helmsley's name was mentioned. 'Oh, how I loathe that man!'

"They were probably discussing one of their gambling plots." She answered her friend with a cherry smile turning at the sound of galloping hoof beats to see Edge approaching them atop his magnificent steed, Thunderbolt.

"Isnt he magnificent atop a horse…" Anya drooled openly.

Willow shrugged dismissively, "I think Xander has a good seat atop a horse." She smiled inwardly sending her cousin a wink, which wasn't missed by the man next to him.

"Oh, Xander rides well enough but not like Edge." Anya replied not giving it a second thought.

"Thank you kindly madam," Xander mumbled to himself sending Jericho a glare when the chuckle he was trying hard to conceal slipped forth.

Edge appeared beside them tipping his hat in greeting towards the ladies his eyes resting on the petite form of Willow a tiny smile dancing on his lips. "Enjoying the fresh air?"

Although his question had been directed at both women his eyes remained on Willow.

"Immensely." Anya answered looking to see how Willow was reacting to his open stare and wanted to laugh at her little friend who seemed to be looking anywhere but at the man in front of her. She really was a change from the men hungry women she usually associated with.

Stirring her horse into a gallop she smiled when she saw movement beside her and knew Willow had taken her lead leaving Edge to follow behind them.

**

Part Nineteen

**

Willow raced up the stairs to her room shutting the door behind her and shrugging out of her riding coat before flopping down on the bed only to jump up again as she remembered what she had found whilst out on their ride.

Bringing forth the small pouch that was hidden amongst the folds of her dress she smiled as one by one a handful of baby strawberries rolled out onto the bed.

Having already decided whom she was going to give them too she quickly went to the mirror to run a brush through her hair. Emptying a little wicker basket of smelling salts she neatly laid assorted coloured ribbons along the bottom before arranging the baby strawberries on top.

Pleased with her gift she picked it up gently cradling it in the crook of her arm and pulling back the cover hiding the secret door she gently opened it and stepped through.

"Good afternoon, my lord," She said as she entered the hidden study not bothering to look towards the desk already knowing he would be seated there. "Oh!" Surprised shows on both their faces as she turned to be met with the younger more intense eyes of Edge. "I'm sorry… I came to see your father."

"My father…" He paused looking at her quizzically at he stood to stand before her. "Is there any secret that cannot be kept from you in this house?"

Willow lowered her eyes but couldn't hold back the teasing smile that came to her lips. "I found it by accident."

"The devil you did," He said a smile of his own breaking upon his face. "My father suffers from a weak heart, he is resting."

His gaze trails down her form stopping at the small parcel she has in her hands. "Ah… strawberries, where did you get them?"

"From your own gardens, my lord." She replied her smile growing as she realised the small victory she had just won, a slight blush creeping up his neck. 'Even if it was a very small verbal victory,' she thought. "Will you see that your father gets them, with my love."

He reached out taking the strawberries from her watching for her reaction as his hands brushed hers. "I'm glad you have found someone to love here at Mandrake. You have only been here a short time and already you know all out guarded secrets."

"You can trust me."

"Can I?"

Stretching out her hand she offers it to him. "You have the hand of Rosenberg on it."

He takes her hand in his gently rubbing his thumb across her palm sending tingles straight up her arm. "Such a little hand to hold the honour of mandrake in it."

Willow wasn't so sure she had heard him; he had spoken so softly as if to himself. She lifted her eyes to his and all coherent thought left her as he held her gaze with his own.

'He's going to kiss you,' she thought, 'the devil is going to kiss you!" Pulling her hand from his grasp she lifted her skirts and once again fled his presence.

**

Willow was once again in her room being fussed over by Cordy and Torrie. "Theres talk among the servants, mam." Cordy began excitedly. "There's going to be a wedding."

"What? With whom?"

The two maids shared a look before bursting into giggles. "Why, miss…" Torrie said in between giggles. "The joining of you and my master."

"The joining?" Willow nearly choked on the words. "No, your wrong… there is nothing between-"

"Shhh, miss Willow. All I want is for you to be happy." She smiled down at the girl as she applied the finishing touches to her hair. "Now go down to dinner and enjoy yourself."

Willow barely had time to voice a reply as both girls pushed her out the door and then just as quickly closed it, leaving a wide eyed, open mouthed Willow out in the hallway.

Shrugging her shoulders she made her way to the stairway her mood so light this evening she felt like sliding down the banister and she probably would have had she not seen the servant waiting below.

"Excuse me, miss," He said as he approached her. "Her ladyship had sent me to inform you that your dog has been hurt."

"Warrior?"

"Yes miss."

"Take me to him."

She followed the servant out of the house and towards the stables.

"Just in there, miss." The servant bowed before rushing off.

Willow opened the door and stepped through not having time to scream as a hand was clapped over her mouth and she was hoisted up into a waiting carriage. Out of the darkness all she could hear was the crunch of gravel beneath the wheels and when she opened her eyes she saw the grim face of Lord Helmsley.

**

Part Twenty

**

The carriage raced through the woods under a cloak of darkness and fog. The driver oblivious to the goings on inside the carriage as he fought to see his was through the trees.

"Get off me!" She screamed clawing at his face with her nails. "You make me shudder!"

"Do I? You don't know how I have longed to make you shudder." He whispered coarsely his face so close to hers it was suffocating. Seeing an opening she reached up feeling a sense of satisfaction as he cried out, her nails having connected with his cheek.

"You'll pay for that." He sneered pulling at the bodice of her dress tearing it from sleeve to waist, smiling down at her exposed flesh he trailed a finger over the soft mound of her breast. "We are leaving here, Willow, and when we return it will be as husband and wife."

"No, I loathe you! I would kill myself first!"

"I offer you more with my proposal… wealth… position…title… the Helmsley name. I could just very well take you here and now and then toss you aside."

"Even I can see the benefits in that rather than having to live through a life time with you." She emphasized her words by spitting up in his face.

"Why you little-" That was as far as he got as gun shots sounded outside and the carriage slowly came to a stop, Willow's eyes widening in shock as through the window she saw the body of the driver slump down from his perch a top the carriage falling to the ground with a loud thump.

"Out you come!" A voice called from outside the carriage. "Come on hurry up!"

Hunter slowly opened the carriage door and stepped out pulling Willow after him glaring bloody blue murder at the man holding a pistol to his chest.

"I'll have your neck for this.” Helmsley sneered the apparent rage on his face contorting his features into that of a crazed man.

"No doubt… meanwhile… I'll have your money, your watch, your jewels and anything else you lot doll yourselves up in." the bandit replied.

Pulling his money pouch and watch from the inside pocket of his waist coat his eyes never leaving that of the man a top his horse Helmsley stepped toward the man. "Take it and be damned."

"Thankyou." The bandit replied allowing Helmsley to drop the items into a small sack tied to his horse. "Oh no, mam. I never take from young ladies." He added when Willow stepped forward unlocking the latch to the necklace she wore.

She looked up at his words and caught the gaze of the man who had spoken, his face blackened from dirt and crime and his clothes were rags to the finery she was accustomed too but what she saw in his eyes radiated the honour and dignity this man held in himself.

Looking from Helmsley to the other man knowing she was taking a huge risk here but… "Sir, would you help me?"

"You look like somebody should miss," He replied looking down at her torn dress.

Pulling the torn pieces together she lifted her chin to stare back at him knowing she would rather put her trust in this bandit then in Helmsley. "This man was about to carry me off. Would you be so kind as to return me to Mandrake House."

"Well, gods bless me soul. If I'd a known I would have ridden me white charger." Getting down off his horse he untied his green cape draping it over her shoulders before holstering her up on to his horse, pulling himself up behind her.

"Your insane going with a man like that!" Helmsley shrieked realising she was going to slip through his fingers once more.

"And she'll be sane staying here with a man like you?" Willow watched as the man once again aimed his pistol at Helmsleys chest. "Remove your shoes."

"What!"

The pistol clicks signalling it had been cocked. "Remove your shoes."

Helmsley waisted no time in removing them bending to pick them up as the bandit motioned for him to toss them inside the open door of the carriage.

Once that was done Willow watched as he raised his pistol to the sky letting a bullet free to shoot up between the treetops spooking the horses causing them to run off at a rampant gallop into the darkness.

"Good day to you sir." He tapped the barrel of his pistol in salute to the man standing before him, nudging his own horse in a gentle trot back the way he had come, Helmsleys shrill cry coming through the darkness behind them.

"I'll see you hang!"

**

Part Twenty-One

**

"Name's Helms, Shane Helms… but my friends call me Hurricane because I've been known to leave carnage and destruction in my wake."

Willow frowned wondering again if she had made the right decision in putting herself in the mercy of this man… then just as quickly squashing that thought as she felt the rumble of laughter explode from his chest.

She turned accusing eyes on him. "You're teasing me."

"Yes, miss… and you make it so easy to do so."

"You seem like a good man of educated speech. Why do you choose to be like this?"

"Fell on hard times I did, the more I tried to lesson it the harder I fell." He looked down into her up turned face and saw the sadness there in her eyes. "Don't pity me miss… I pity myself enough for the both of us."

They rode in silence for the rest of the way until he brought his horse to a stop. "I dare not go any further," He admitted. "But Mandrake house is just beyond those trees."

"I'll never be able to thank you enough."

"A good deed in a wicked world and all that," He smiled as he helped her down. "Be lucky."

"Be lucky," She whispered silently watching as he rode off back into the woods.

**

Willow lifted her skirts and ran through the gardens, feeling the pull of pickles and shrubbery on her dress but too afraid to stop. Rushing through the kitchen and up the side stairwell that would lead her up to her room only to stop in her tracks when she came face to face with Edge. He moved toward her his eyes on the tattered green cape wrapped around her shoulders, his arm reaching out to pull it from her baring her torn dress.

"What happened." He demanded he eyes boring into hers.

"I can't tell you…"

Grabbing her by the arms he shook her. "Let me be the judge of that. Tell me!"

"I can’t," She whispered winching in pain as his fingers dug into her arms as he continued to shake her.

"I see." He sneered. "You’re just like all the rest! Taking in the moonlight I think it's called, it was Xander I suppose… or Christian? Was he your fancy?"

Willow couldn't believe he was accusing her of such a thing, his anger fuelling hers she pulled out of his grasp rubbing at her arms where his hands had held her moments before, his eyes softening as he saw the imprint he had made on her skin.

"How dare you!" She was absolutely livid, her eyes screaming injustice. "If you must know I was lured out of this house in your mothers name by one of your servants."

"My mother?"

"Yes." She didn't stop to register the look that came into his eyes at the mention of his mother or the tears that started to fall from hers as she continued. "…And then I was seized and carried away by the one man I hate more than anything in this world… and then… and then he tried to force himself on me." Out of breath her chest all choked up with the events of this evening she did something she had never ever done before… she fainted.

**

Part Twenty-Two

**

“It didn’t work mother.”

Ivory sat once again in the firing line of her son’s concealed anger.

Her eyes looking anywhere but at him, her fingers twisting and untwisting in the folds of her skirt showing just how agitated she was.

Edge continued. “It didn’t work.”

“What?”

“Lord Helmsley and Miss Rosenberg… your nasty little plot. It failed.”

“Have you lost your mind?”

He leaned down forcing her to meet his eyes. “You arranged to have him abduct her.”

“Pfft. What an absurd fancy!”

“She escaped,” He counted paying no heed to what his mother was saying. “She’s back in this house… I’ve spoken to her.”

“Whatever happened I played no part in it,” She lied.

“What did he offer you?”

“I don’t know what you mean, really Edge-“

“Sit down!” He bellowed when she made to rise from her chair. “What did he offer you?”

“Heavens above,” She cried clutching her chest. “That simpering creature, where else would she find such a good match. One day she would have thanked me for it.”

Edge’s eyes widened in anger at her outburst. “How much!”

“I declare your question is indecent, if Helmsley felt pleased to give me a modest present for the introduction…”

Edge stood to his full height as he walked behind her leaning down to whisper in her ear. “I want the truth.” He could practically see her mind working over time in her facial expressions.

“Very well then he was giving me ten thousand pounds… little enough when you consider she was bringing him a dowry of eighty!” She shrieked primly adjusting her position in her chair before continuing. “Besides I will not have you marrying that chit and reserving my place!”

He walked back in front of her to pace the floor space behind his desk. “Ten thousand pounds. That is your price for selling one of ‘my’ guests out of ‘my’ house, to a lecher!”

“It was not like that!”

“It’s a stain on my honour as Lord of Mandrake… one I will never live down.”

She stood raising her chin at his stare. “That is all life means to you, you’re precious Mandrake, god the tedium of listening to it all my life first from my husband and now from my son. Your father married me to set a jewel in Mandrake… he didn’t want flesh and blood… well my desires far surpass bricks and stones. Mandrake may be your mistress but it is not my master!”

Edge watched as a small chuckle escaped her lips. “Well… have I silenced you at last?”

His eyes never wavered as they bore into hers. “The house will be closed the tunnels will be blocked… I suggest you pack.”

His mother’s face paled right before his eyes. “Edge you can’t mean to banish me… you cannot…”

“I can and I will.” He said not affected by the tears that fell heedlessly down her cheeks. “You have played out your last scheme in this house.” His eyes clouded over as his train of thought shifted elsewhere. “But first… there is something I must do.”

**

The next day Edge stood along side Helmsley having issued a challenge to the older man the night before. In front of them two sets of weapons lay a top a table… rapiers and pistols and the voice of a magistrate being carried along on the wind as he drummed out the rules of the duel.

“At the word ‘commence’ you will each take ten paces and upon my timing turn and fire one shot.”

With a nod in agreement from both men they turned their backs to each other as the mediator began the count.

“Commence. One. Two. Three. Four. Five. Six. Seven-“

“Edge!” Jericho cried out but it was too late… There was nothing they

could do, on the count of eight Helmsley had turned and fired… Edge now lying still on the ground as Helmsley was seen fleeing to his carriage.

**

Part Twenty-Three

**

Ivory sat in the parlour awaiting Willow’s presence; a stable hand had arrived with an urgent message for both ladies.

“Hurry up girl.” She barked as Willow stepped through the doorway her glare full of hatred for the girl who had formed a formidable wedge between her and her son. “What is the message?” She directed at the stable boy.

“Lord Edge said to me this morning that if anything were to happen to him I was to ride back immediately to tell you.”

“Edge was hurt?” His mother’s form sunk into the nearest chair as the stable boy left, her gaze lifting to glare menacingly at Willow. “This is all your fault.” She shrieked. “He fought this duel for you! A portly scrap of a girl, you killed him! You killed him!”

**

Her hurtful words rang through Willow’s ears like a continual symbol gong ringing throughout her head as she ran up the stairway to her room, she had to see if he was alright… she just had too.

Once in her room she donned her riding coat and boots pushing past a concerned Cordy she flew down the stairs and out the door towards the stables.

“Saddle Thunderbolt.” She ordered a reluctant stable hand.

“But Miss Willow, he’s the fiercest horse in the stables, only his lordship can handle him.” The stable hand protested.

“I said saddle him!” Her ordered her voice rising a notch.

“Yes mam.” He quickly conceded walking off to do her bidding.

Willow rode out of the gates of Mandrake and into the woods thoughts of Edge filling her mind. ‘Are you happy here at Mandrake… shall I make you fall in love with me, Willow… Such a little hand to hold the honour of Mandrake in its palm…’

“Do not die, Edge… please… do not die…”

She rode hard all day without rest and it wasn’t until the sun began its descent that she past through the gates of Pemberly bringing Thunderbolt to a stop in front of the stables and in the care of the stable hands before running up to the main house.

“I need to see your master.” She said pushing past an elderly man who had opened the door.

“I’m sorry miss… but he’s-“

Not waiting for him to finish his explanation Willow pushed past him when she heard laughter from one of the rooms and looked up to see a servant entering with refreshments. She moved forward pushing open the door the servant had disappeared through moments before and stopped dead in her tracks at what she saw and heard.

Edge was down on one knee in his hand he clasped the hand of a woman. “My dear Lita, I swear you are the most amusing woman in all Los Angeles.”

She looked around the room from one shocked face to another the words of her cousin came drifting back to haunt her. ‘He’s been said to be wooing Lady Lita, the dancer…” And for the second time in as many days Willow fainted.

**

Part Twenty-Four

**

Willow opened her eyes groggily trying to survey her surroundings, this wasn't her bed, the mattress beneath her was far too soft and she felt the sun's warmth on her back, the window in the room Ivory had given her was far too tiny for the sun's rays to reach her bed.

Brushing her hair away from her face she sat up as memories of her epic ride and what had awaited her flooded her mind. Edge, the famous dancer Lita… his hand on hers.

"Oh you fool," She mumbled banging her tiny fist into her pillows. "You fool, you fool, you perfect little fool."

`How was she to get herself out of this one? Xander wasn't here to help her' she racked her brain but all she could think about was Edge kneeling before Lita. She had obviously interrupted something… and what of her dear friend Anya who loved him with all her being?

She had never thought of that when she had frantically made her journey to Edge's side so what did that say about her.

Now that she thought about it she hadn't really given much thought about what she was to do once she was here or wether she would have been a welcome visitor.

"Oh, I am the worse kind of friend." She muttered into her pillows, "The worse kind."

Turning to lay on her back she sighed as she stared up at the ceiling deciding there and then that she would never leave this room… at least until someone came to get her and she knew someone would inevitably come, but till then there was no way she was going to embarrass herself more than she already had.

She cringed twenty minutes later when that inevitable knock sounded on the door.

"Come in."

"Morning miss," Greeted a young maid. "Just brought you some clean

clothes and to let you know that a bath has been drawn for you in the next room." She said pointing to an open doorway on the other side of the room.

`Funny, I didn't notice that before.' Willow mumbled lost in her thoughts. "Thank you."

"Your welcome miss."

"What time is it?"

"Noon miss."

"Noon!"

"Yes miss, his lordship has been awaiting your presence all morning.

He is in the drawing room miss, when you’re ready."

Willow sank back down on her pillows her eyes on the ceiling. "He isn't much injured." It was more a statement then a question but the young maid took it as the latter.

"Oh lord bless yah no miss, just a graze they say."

"And Lord Helmsley?"

"Fled to France, he'll not show his face around here again. No need to worry miss… my master will protect you." And with that the maid left leaving Willow to ponder over her words.

**

Edge stood in the drawing room a tiny smile tugging at the corners of his mouth as he thought of Willow's untimely entrance last night his smile growing as he thought of how she had arrived… on Thunderbolt no less.

His eyes moved to the door as he saw a shadow pass back and forwards from the light that shone beneath it as if someone was pacing in front of it.

"Come in Willow." He watched as the pacing stopped immediately and chuckled to himself as the handle turned and Willow walked in shutting the door quietly behind her.

"I trust you slept well," He wanted to laugh at the sullen look on her face; anyone would think she was appearing before a judge a executioner.

"Yes I did, although I am sorry I slept so late." She apologized trying hard not to meet his gaze.

He waved his hand towards the couch, "Do sit down." He waited until she had seated herself before he continued. "When a young lady has done what you have done she is entitled to sleep late… although she must also be prepared to face certain consequences."

Her brows creased as she lifted her head meeting his eyes for the first time since she entered the room.

"Are you sure you feel well enough to face such matters?"

"I am quite well."

"Your epic ride to my aid on the most ferocious animal in my stables is already being acclaimed in all the clubs around L.A."

"I'm the talk of the clubs?" She asked sarcastically.

"A young lady arriving in the most dramatic fashion, unaccompanied into the house of a bachelor… you must see that you have compromised yourself."

She looked away from him to stare at a spot on the wall. "Oh."

"Is that all you have to say?"

"Well actually… it was for your…" She trailed off frustrated at

herself for not being able to word the thoughts in her mind without bringing about her `feelings' for him.

"Yes? Go on… my…"

"Nothing, my Lord." She said not being able to get the picture of Lita's hand clasped in his out of her mind.

"What it amounts to is that a decision in our affairs has been thrust upon us… and we can no longer go on drifting."

"No, I guess not." `He's going to send me away, I know it' She

thought lowering her lashes to hide the tears that stung at the back of her eyes and totally missing the spark that entered his.

"Therefore Miss Rosenberg, I have the very great honour in asking you to be my wife."

Willow stood bringing up a hand to her forehead as if trying to clear the confusion evident in her eyes. "Your wife…"

"Yes."

A maniacal laugh escaped her lips and she turned her back on him. "No. No, I'm sorry I can’t." She began to pace back and forth her tiny hands balled up into fists at her sides. "I will not allow you to marry me out of a sense of duty."

His back straightened at her refusal and he walked tight-lipped toward the window to stare down at the activity. "Come here Willow."

"No."

He laughed then turning his laughing eyes on her. "You are going to have to swear to obey me when we are married. Now, come here Willow."

"Why?" He laughed again when he caught her roll her eyes. "What do you see?" He asked when she stood next to him at the window.

Willow sighed as she looked down to see the woman she had seen Edge with the night before being helped into a carriage by Lord Jericho. "I see the dancer, Lady Lita."

"What you see is my very good friend Chris Jericho seeing the Lady Lita into his carriage which will take her to his country house on the out skirts of town where he will no doubt be joining her later."

"But I thought you and her…"

"No." He smiled as he caught her chin in the crook of his finger turning her face up to his. "Not for a long time… not since I met you… now will you marry me?"

**

Part Twenty-Five

**

Ivory paced back and forth across the garden the glass of brandy in her hand doing little to settle her nerves. "Why did I cancel tonight’s entertainment?" She huffed.

"It would be easy to rearrange it, my lady." Xander offered helpfully.

"You seem fatigued, my lady. Now that we know Edge is safe why not go and rest." Anya added trying to appease the older woman.

"Yes." She agreed not noticing the sighs of relief flutter forth from the three people seated in the garden with her.

**

Once she had gone Anya jumped to her feet to take up the position of pacing the paved pathway Ivory had just vacated. "Oh, I am as mad as fire with myself, it should have been I who rode to Los Angeles to be with Edge."

Xander rolled his eyes sick to death of hearing his friends name continually pass through the lips of the woman he loved.

"On Thunderbolt Anya, you would never have gotten out of the stables," Christian laughed. "Buggy or carriage is more your style."

"I would have ridden something fast." She exclaimed then smiled as her eyes fell on Xander. "Xander would have driven me."

"No I would not." He declared, "As it is I am surprised at my cousins indiscretions and would be obliged if it went no further."

Anya gasped a hurt look adorning her pretty face. "I adore the child, I wouldn’t dream of gossiping about her." Suddenly feeling hot with a flick of her wrist her fan was opened and administered over her face and neck as she stood rigidly in front of the men.

"Oh dear lord, tell me it's not true." Ivory exclaimed as she floundered back out to the garden.

"Tell you what, my lady?" Xander asked quickly getting to his feet to offer her his chair she looked like she was going to drop any second.

"This." She declared waving a piece of paper in her hand.

Xander took the piece of paper from her hand and opened it, his face a mask of surprise as he perused the letter. "Well I never... They are to be married."

Another wail escaped Ivory's lips as she collapsed into the chair Xander had vacated for her.

"Who?" Anya asked taking the piece of paper from Xander's nimble fingers, her eyes widening in shock as she read through the letter. "Why the little sly faced maggot!" She screeched.

"I have matters to arrange." Ivory said getting up once again her composure in place, although her step faltered as she tried to walk.

"My lady, let me help you. You look like your about to have a bout of the vapours." Christian said immediately coming to her aid, taking her arm in his to guide her up the path and into the house.

"Willow! The mouse faced little snake!" Anya paced angrily. "She squirmed her way into my favour so she could betray me!"

"I'm sure she did nothing of the thought-"

"And you probably helped her." She accused spinning on her heel to face him. "Yes, it was a plot between you and that little worm!"

"Anya... I swear..."

"You can swear your head off but I'll still never believe you... or that sneaky little judest!"

"Anya, I beg of you..." He implored reaching out to grab her arm.

"Yes, go on beg. That’s all I have ever heard you do! Whimpering after me like a love sick dog. What I want is a real man and all you can do is beg!" she threw her gloves at him one at a time before sinking down into the nearest chair.

Xander watched her little tantrum and wondered to himself what he ever saw in her. She could be nasty, competitive and absolutely rude at times but she still made his heart go a flutter. Why did he have to go fall for a woman whose only concern was for herself.

She gasped as he pulled her up by the arms bringing her within inches of his face, his eyes filled with fire and his breath coming out in strangled gasps. "Stop it! Do you hear me, stop it! Stop it! Stop it! You are nothing but a spoiled little brat. Edge never loved you and thats why you wanted him." He spat. "You have no time for people who really care about you. Well I have had enough, I'm leaving! You will never have to see me again. But before I go let’s just say this for old times sake." Before she knew what he had planned his lips were crushing hers, hard and demanding... daring her to response. But before she could he had released her and she was left to stare at his retreating back.

"Xander..." She whispered her fingers coming up to her swollen lips. She had never been kissed so... so... "Xander!" She cried running up the path after him.

**

Part Twenty-Six

**

Lady Ivory watched from the window as the carriage that held her son's bride to be rolled into the courtyard, watched as the footman opened the carriage door and helped the little miss step down from her seat.

"I will die before you become mistress of this house." She vowed turning her head to the man who stood behind her.

"Ivory dear, fear not... I have arranged everything."

"See that you have." She snapped curtly turning from him to start pacing the room. "I will not have her in this house a moment longer."

"What of your son?"

"I can handle him just make sure you come through with your part of the plan."

"Ten thousand pounds on delivery of the goods, just like I promised." Helmsley bowed to the lady of the house before slipping back through the secret doorway behind the panelling and down to the caves below.

**

Willow didn't know what to expect upon her arrival back at Mandrake House and thanked whoever was watching over her that Cordy was by her side. She didn't think she could handle Ivory's scorn over the confirmation of her acceptance to her son's marriage proposal... and it came as no surprise to her when she was met by the housekeeper with apologies of her lady ships absence.

"...she was not feeling herself and has taken to her bed..."

Willow smiled at Cordy who stood behind the old woman and rolled her eyes.

"...but she has informed me in your change of status and has had the queen's room made up for you." The housekeeper continued leading the way up the stairs.

They were shown to a room three times the size of the one Willow had occupied before, Cordy's eyes widening at the four poster bed that graced the room with fine quilts of the finest fabric.

The walls were adorned in flowing silks of maroon and pink and after opening an inner doorway found Willow now had her very own toiletry chamber and bath tub.

"My lady..." Cordy lifted her hand pointing to the bed, Willow approached the bed her brows creasing as her eyes caught on the layers upon layers of silk and lace.

"It's beautiful..." She whispered reaching out to pick up the letter that lay on the bed beside the gown.

Miss Willow,

I took the liberty of having Molly prepare

this for your wedding tomorrow. I trust it

is to your liking.

Ivory

Willow folded the note in half before turning back to Cordy. "I thought she'd be ready to kill me."

"Maybe she has come to her senses at last," Cordy suggested. "She needs her son... and she knows her son needs you."

Willow blushed prettily at Cordy's words pulling the gown up against her lithe frame to admire it in the mirror.

"It's quite exquisite, is it not?"

"You look like a princess, his lordship will be so proud of his bride." Willow couldn't help but twirl in front of the mirror, her delight showing in her smile. "You must promise me you will sleep tonight," Cordy continued. You need your rest for your big day tomorrow."

"Oh Cordy I'm so excited I doubt I shall sleep a wink." She exclaimed happily grabbing Cordy's arms to waltz her maid across the room.

"This will help," Cordy said hobbling over to the table, she reached for the brandy decanter and poured some into a small glass. "Drink." She ordered holding it out to Willow.

"Oh no Cordy please... I've got such a wonderful feeling I don’t want to lose it just yet."

She pouted at her maid smiling when Cordy's shoulders slumped and a sigh escaped past her lips, two signs that she would get her way.

"Oh well, waste not want not." Cordy shrugged downing the glass in one swallow.

Willow turned back tot he mirror, she still couldn't believe how her life had changed... she didn't think she would ever be this happy and longed for Xander to share in her merriment.

A crash brought her attention back to her surroundings a small cry catching in her throat as she saw Cordy face down on the floor.

"Cordy...." She rushed over and knelt down beside her maid, her hand moving to pat her cheek. "Cordy?" She saw the small glass Cordy still clutched between her fingers.

She grabbed the decanter and emptied it out onto the floor staining the plush red rug beneath her, her suspicion confirmed when a small root fell to the floor along with the brandy.

"Mandrake root..." She whispered knowing at once that this drink was meant for her, she knew from her studies that men of medicine used mandrake root as a cure for insomnia.

"Why could you not oblige me by being asleep like your maid?"

Willow stood as Lady Ivory entered the room extracting the blade from within the staff she always carried. "Looks like Helmsley's will have to settle for damaged goods."

Willow could only watch as Ivory rushed towards her, frantically she backed off feeling the ice cold glass of the mirror at her back. Before she knew what she was doing Willow stepped around the mirror pushing it forward with all her might then stood back to watch as it fell forwards, Ivory barely getting out of the way in time as it came crashing to the floor.

"Well... I see the little mouse has found her backbone." She rushed at Willow again and Willow scampered over the bed and out the door.

She reached her old room and clawed at the wall hanging pushing at the doorway she knew to be there before running down the dimly lit passage way towards the secret study where hopefully she would find protection.

"My Lord!" she cried upon entering only to stop in her tracks, her face turning ashen as her eyes settled on the slumped form of the old man who had found his way into her heart.

"There's no one to help you my dear," Ivory smirked from the doorway, shocking Willow's legs back into action as she raced for the door on the other side of the room. Lady Ivory's laugh filling her mind as she ran down the stone steps and into the dark caverns that littered the shoreline below.

The sound of footfalls descending the stone steps spurred her on through the tunnels, she could hear the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks, smelt the scent of the sea getting stronger and stronger.

"Goddess... help me." She whispered pleadingly nearly tripping over in her haste to get away from Lady Ivory.

**

Part Twenty-Seven

**

Edge spurred his horse on as he travelled down the road that would lead to Mandrake House. An elated ambience had settled over him all morning and it showed in everything he did that day, everyone he came into contact with... and more then a few surprised eyebrows had rose at the smile that seemed permanently etched onto his face.

Now as he rode closer and closer towards Mandrake house that feeling seemed to lesson somewhat and he had the nagging suspicion that all was not right in his home.

Thoughts of his mother entered his mind, 'I will not have that chit marrying you and reserving my place in this house!' His eyes darkened and his nostrils flared as he spurred his horse into a gallop. One word repeatedly looping over and over in his mind to the beat of the horse's hooves on the dirt ground.

'Willow.'

**

Willow pressed herself up against the stone wall as Ivory's form came into view and she slowly inched her way back towards the waves that were thundering in her ear drums as they smashed against the rocks.

"Oh what a dastardly fate that has befallen you, Miss Willow..." She cooed as she leisurely stood on the other side of the cavern. "First you lose everything but the clothes on your back and the slippers on your dainty little feet... and now you will lose my son."

She laughed maliciously as Willow's back straightened and her eyes went from the crashing waves behind her to the sharp rapier that Ivory still held in her hand.

"Either way, the outcome doesn’t seem good." She continued.

"Edge would never forgive you... does the happiness of your son mean nothing?"

"The happiness of my son means everything... nearly as much as my happiness, but then you see with you out of the way my happiness will still reign supreme."

"Your crazy-" She began but a hand on her arm startled her cutting off the words she had wanted to spew forth as her eyes met the hard blue ones of Helmsley.

"Hello, my darling Willow... so nice of you to meet me." He felt her stiffen in his arms and that feeling alone made his eyes glaze over with the crazed need he had for this young woman. "You are mine now."

**

Edge jumped down from his horse not bothering with pleasantries as a stable boy reached out to take the reins. Taking the stone steps three at a time he burst through the front door and up the stairway towards Willow's room.

His eyes immediately finding the slumped body of Willow's maid as he entered, his eyes hardened and his heart beat erradically in his chest as he fell to one knee beside the girl to feel her pulse.

A look of relief washing over his face as he felt the strong steady drum of her pulse.

Getting to his feet he walked stealthily towards the secret panelling by the stairs, knowing if his mother were behind this, that’s where she'd be.

"You've played your last card, mother." The word 'mother' came out in a hiss as the panel was opened and Edge disappeared through it.

**

Part Twenty-Eight

**

"I want to thankyou, Ivory, for delivering my little parcel to me in one piece."

Willow felt Helmsley’s tongue slide up her cheek and she cringed in disgust as his exploration moved over her ear to finish at her temple.

"Take her and be damned." Ivory shrieked holding her rapier up so that the tip of it pointed at Helmsley throat. "Now... I believe you have something I want?"

"Of course... ten thousand pounds..."

Willow watched as he reached into his waist coat and pulled forth a small pouch weighing it in the palm of his hand before tossing it to her. The coins spilling to the ground around Lady Ivory's feet.

"Insolent fool." She grumbled hastily falling to her knee's to lap up the coins in the folds of her skirt.

"Ah... no my dear, I believe you are the fool."

The whimper that escaped Willow's lips went unheard as Helmsley pushed her into the cold stone wall of the cavern before striking out at the kneeling woman with his cane. Shocked Willow could only watch as Ivory’s body slumped to the ground.

Helmsley gathered Ivory's form in his arms turning her around to face him. "But I know you too well Ivory... it would have been ten thousand pounds now and then another ten thousand next month and then the next month..."

A small smile came to Ivory's face. "And then the next month..." She whispered before giving in the encroaching darkness that claimed her.

Letting Ivory’s form fall to the ground Helmsley reached out for Willow’s arm pulling her roughly against him. "It's only you and I now my sweet."

"I would beg to differ."

Helmsley spun around with her still in his arms to face the stern hard voice of Edge.

"Edge old chap!" Helmsley grinned pointing a pistol to Willow's throat. "Can’t stay... my lady and I have a boat waiting and you know how I do hate to be late."

His eyes met the prone form of his mother yet he felt nothing towards the woman who had born him, his eyes moved back to Helmsley. "Let her go."

"Sorry, can’t do that." He continued to back up pulling Willow along with him. They were so close to the edge she could feel the spray of the water on her bare arm.

She met Edge's gaze, her eyes scared and pleading, his focused and determined. His eyes slanted down a fraction before turning back to her and she allowed her gaze to follow his to where some old fishing nets lay against the stone wall, letting her gaze return to his face she motioned with her eyes that she new what it was he wanted her to do. His eyes never left hers as he mentally counted to three and then rushed forward as she ducked, his form crashing into that of Helmsley’s rearing him back into the stone wall while Willow used the force of his momentum to launch herself down onto the fishing nets.

Looking over her shoulder she saw both men struggling on the edge, Helmsley overpowering Edge as he fell to one knee. She had to do something, she couldn't lose Edge as well... she just couldn't.

Crawling over to Ivory's body she pried the rapier from her still fingers and stood to her feet. All the pent up anger and frustration of what this man had done to her family and to her... all for the sake of winning.

Without her brain having to command her feet she moved toward the two men. Rapier held high she brought it down, the blades point going through his back like a hot knife through butter and his back stiffened before he turned around to face her, his eyes going from the point that now protruded through his chest from where it had gone clean through to the girl who he had sought after for so long.

"I always knew you'd be the death of me." He mumbled before collapsing in a heap at her feet.

**

Epilogue

**

Willow thought this day would never come. She finally felt free, finally felt like she belonged somewhere and not just as a prize won in a silly bet.

She had often thought how different her life might be if the odds of the game had been in Lord Helmsley’s favour. She doubted she would have lasted a month in that man's care... no, 'care' was too strong a word for what she would have had to endure under that man's roof.

Now all that was over, she had naught to worry about and wondered if god would be displeased at the enlightenment she had found at both Helmsley's and Lady Ivory's funeral's, not to mention she and Edge both found it appropriate that since they were so close allies in life that they should be buried side by side in death.

The funeral for Edge's father had been something quite different, a small ceremony for only family and the long attending servants who had cared for the old lord. His body being placed in the family cemetery along side his forefather's.

She herself mourned the old man's loss... for he was the first person inside Mandrake House who accepted her at face value and welcomed her into his little section of the house with all the kindness and love he had to offer.

She turned to the man standing next to her and the corners of her mouth curved up in response to the smile he gave her before they both turned back to the man standing in front of them, who was now addressing the couple on her right.

Her eyes moving to her cousin who clasped the hand in Anya's in his as they repeated their vows to one another and she couldn't help but grin at the look of utter (love this word, it's funny... just had to put it in somewhere lol) love she saw shining from his eyes as he gazed down upon his lady fair.

It seemed for once everything in both their worlds was right.

"...I now pronounce you husband and wife..." The clergyman smiled to the couple on his right, "and..." He turned to her and Edge. "I now pronounce you husband and wife."

Willow smiled shyly up at Edge as he turned her around to face him. He looked very regal in his dark grey jacket and stark white cravat.

"I do love you, Edge."

"And I you, from the first moment I saw you." He whispered back before their lips sealed the bond they had pledged to each other in marriage.

**

END

**

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