jesterladyfic | BTVS Oneshot: Take No Byways

Title: Take No Byways
Rating: G
Summary: Oz's thoughts when he goes to LA to drop off the Ring.
Disclaimer: I don't own ATS. The title is from George Herbert.

He’d known when he agreed to drop it off that it would be futile. It amazed even him how well he knew a situation that was not his own. But he would play his part in making sure the choices were offered.

It was good to see Cordelia, to meet Doyle. But he felt almost sad to see Angel. It was like admitting that the
other taciturn man was moving on. He knew it was only right, of course, but the beginnings of destiny were never
pretty. One only needed to look at the last three years in Sunnydale as an example.

Now a new chapter of destiny had begun. In fact, he believed that it was the most important one. But it wouldn’t
be pretty either. At least to begin with.

He had to ponder the difference between Spike and Angel as possessor of the ring. Angel was conflicted with
the choices it presented. Spike simply reveled in the freedom long denied him. It was certainly easier, wiser even, to
go with Spike’s way. But Angel wasn’t susceptible to such freedom. He would never give up a chance to do
something the hardest way possible.

It was probably the best and the most infuriating thing about him. Buffy would certainly think so anyway.

But he could understand. He definitely believed in letting people make their own choices. Angel had made his
bed. He would let the vampire lie.

But he watched Angel as he stared at the ring in dismay, awe and doubt. The others were not so calm about
Angel’s lack of enthusiasm, but their emotional tones soon faded into the background. His own expressionless face
gave away nothing as he backed up to join them. Angel looked up quickly, dismissively, but Oz knew. Angel was
grateful for the messenger. He’d been the perfect choice.