Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Summer Script Challenge
The Powers that Be Pro Temporae
Episode 6.20: The Ghost Behind My Eyes
By Noggins, me and SWS
GILES (V.O.)
Previously on Buffy the Vampire Slayer...
From: "A Place So Far Away":
Dawn hugs Pike tightly, sniffing but not quite crying. He crouches so that he is on eye level with her.
PIKE
Hey, kid, buck up. I'll be
back to see you soon.
DAWN
Promise?
From "From Sunnydale With Love":
The Watchers are all in the Magic Box explaining what's happened to Dawn.
NIGEL
We extracted they part of
her that was the Key, and
substituted the essence of
the first Slayer. It was not
a lengthy procedure, and
Dawn was not aware of what
was happening.
From "My Sister's Keeper":
GILES
Her body and mind is unable
to cope with it...
CUT TO:
Dawn stabbing Buffy in the stomach.
GILES (V.O.)
(C'tnd)
...It will slowly take her over...
CUT TO:
From "Something in the Way"
Dawn plunges a knife through Lydia's heart.
GILES (V.O.)
(C'tnd)
...driving out any humanity
inside her...
CUT TO:
Willow's eyes go black and hurl Dawn into a wall. Suddenly Willow begins to glow red.
CUT TO:
From "Gifts and Loans":
Willow and Tara put their hands close. Not close enough to touch and hurt Tara but enough to form a connection.
CUT TO:
Odessa and Morigan appear in a cloud of mist. Xander, Buffy and Spike try to stop them but they take Willow away.
CUT TO:
Dawn in pain. She regains her humanity... but soon returns to Slayer mode without Buffy realising there's hope for her...
TEASER
EXT. MAGIC BOX - MORNING
Establishing shot.
XANDER (V.O.)
This isn't happening...
INT. MAGIC BOX - MAIN - MORNING
Xander is pacing around. Buffy, Giles, Spike and Anya are sitting around the table. Tara is alone in the corner looking numb.
BUFFY
But it is...
XANDER
They just took her and
we couldn't do anything!
SPIKE
Didn't see you trying that
hard.
XANDER
I lost my voice and hurt
my back. I tried. God, I
hate magic.
He brings his fist down on the table before walking away.
BUFFY
Xander...
XANDER
We've lost Willow! Don't you
realise this? They just walked
away with her...
BUFFY
We *will* do something!
XANDER
But not until you've finished
with Dawn. Spike's right!
SPIKE
(shocked)
I am?
XANDER
There's nothing we can do!
Forget her! Let her go slaying!
Maybe if we stay out of her face...
BUFFY
You saw what she did to Lydia!
ANYA
And our apartment!
BUFFY
I have to save her!
XANDER
Everything is telling us we
can't! But we can save Willow!
Xander wants to scream but stops himself. He takes his anger out on a shelf, knocking everything of it.
BUFFY
I want to help them both...
XANDER
But you can't?
BUFFY
(breaking down)
I don't know...
Giles stands up and walks towards Xander, pushing him into the shelf.
GILES
Now you listen... calm down!
This isn't helping!
XANDER
But it's Willow...
GILES
(nods sadly)
I know.
There's suddenly silence. Giles lets go of Xander and he relaxes. Everyone is drawn to Tara who is looking up for the first time. She seems hopeful and shocked at the same time. Something's happened.
TARA
I know what to do.
XANDER
What?
TARA
I... I cast a spell on Willow...
a tracking spell... when we put
our hands together... I didn't
think it worked but... it must
have been the force-field
blocking it... but...
XANDER
(runs to her)
Yes?
TARA
I can follow her...
XANDER
YES! Pack up! We're going to
get her back!
He looks over everyone.
SPIKE
Dawn should be our...
XANDER
Then you just stay here!
(to Buffy)
Come on!
Buffy is torn but she knows what she has to do.
BUFFY
Okay.
(to Tara)
Are you sure you can do this?
Tara nods.
BUFFY
(C'tnd, to Spike)
Come with us.
GILES
And me?
BUFFY
Stay here. Research. The Council
may not care what happens but
there must be something we can do.
INT. SPIKE'S FORMER CRYPT - MORNING
Dawn is leaning against the wall. Voices from the past are plaguing her thoughts.
JOYCE (V.O.)
I think you're going to like it...
DAWN
NO!!!
Dawn punches the wall.
XANDER (V.O.)
So this is the poor kid Buffy
keeps locked away.
DAWN
(frustrated)
No! Go away!
Dawn punches it again.
DAWN (V.O.)
So you go around poking
ugly people like the guy
in the cave last year with
a pointy stick?
BUFFY (V.O.)
It's a lot more complicated
than that, Dawn!
Dawn screams as she punches the wall over and over until the mortar starts to get chipped away. She pulls her hand back and looks at the blood trickling down her knuckles.
CREDITS
ACT ONE
INT. MAGIC BOX - DAY
Xander is talking to Anya while the others leave the shop to get into his car.
XANDER
I want you stay...
ANYA
Don't go.
XANDER
I have to.
ANYA
No. Buffy, Spike and Tara
have to. You don't.
XANDER
She's my best friend.
ANYA
I know. And because of that
it's going to kill you. I mean,
I'm not worried her jumping
on you or anything but this...
this closeness... it'll get you
damaged.
XANDER
Not if I can help it. It'll be
okay. We just find her,
get her and come back,
hopefully with as little
conflict as possible.
ANYA
It'd better be...
Xander smiles as he hugs Anya. As he breaks away he kisses her and makes his way out of the door to the others.
ANYA
Come back alive. All of you.
Giles walks next to Anya.
GILES
We may have to go back
to my house to get more
books.
ANYA
What? You haven't got enough
here?
EXT. NEAR MAGIC BOX - SUNNYDALE MAIN STREET - DAY
Dawn, with a bandaged hand, arrives and looks around. Not many people are up and about yet. She walks towards the shop and pushes the door. It's locked. She gives it a harder push and it opens.
INT. MAGIC BOX - MAIN - DAY
Dawn looks at the mess on the floor after Xander knocked items off the shelf. She doesn't pay it that much mind and notices something on the table. She notices several open books on the table. She looks at one of them.
ANGLE ON: Dawn's hand flicks through a few pages of the book then closes it to look at the cover. It's called "Power of the Slayer".
Dawn frowns. She throws it across the room then goes through all of the other books. They're all related to the Slayer. She picks one up and is about to rip it to pieces when she hears the door open. She spins around quickly.
EXT. COTTAGE IN THE HILLS - DAY
The Registry mage's car pulls up outside the cottage. The front doors open and black mist comes from both of them. They turn into MORIGAN and ODESSA. Odessa holds her hand out and the back door opens.
ODESSA
We're here.
Willow emerges from the back looking rather nervous.
MORIGAN
This way...
They walk towards the cottage, Odessa in front of Willow and Morigan behind.
INT. COTTAGE - MAIN ROOM - DAY
They walk into the main room. ALANDRA and MARISSA are there along with about ten other powerful witches and warlocks. Willow is clearly nervous in their presence.
MORIGAN
You know Alandra and Marissa...
these are some other high
members of our order.
WILLOW
Um, hi.
They nod but don't say anything. Alandra and Marissa walk forward.
ALANDRA
You realise what you've done.
WILLOW
You're pissed of, right?
ALANDRA
(shakes her and smiles a little)
No, no child. Of course not.
Just... disappointed.
WILLOW
Disappointed?
MARISSA
That you found it so easy
to use the black arts. Even
with our precautions.
WILLOW
But I had to! Tara and I
were in danger. You see,
Dawn... Buffy... that's the
Slayer... Buffy's sister was
about to attack us... She
was channelling some
primeval powers and...
Marissa puts her finger to her lips. Willow stops talking suddenly. She knows there's no point in arguing.
ODESSA
It makes little difference.
Our actions have already
been decided.
MORIGAN
We intend to strip you of
your powers. It's the only
way...
WILLOW
Strip me of my... no! You
can't! That's not even possible...
MORIGAN
It's a lengthy procedure and
takes many people. That's
why we're all gathered here.
It will result in making you
blind to magic.
WILLOW
Please! You can't! I'll stop!
I can stop performing...
Odessa rests her hand on shoulder.
ODESSA
It's for the best.
WILLOW
No! It isn't! How can you say it's
for the best!
(pleading)
Please...
INT. MAGIC BOX - MAIN - DAY
Dawn turns around, holding a knife ready as she checks out the new arrival. The figure all in black leather slowly takes off it's motorcycle helmet - it's PIKE. Dawn just looks at him.
INT. BUFFY'S OLD HOUSE - HEMERY - FLASHBACK - EVENING
A nine year old Dawn is watching as Buffy (now about fifteen) is sneaking Pike up the stairs.
YOUNG DAWN
And where'd you think
you're going?
YOUNG BUFFY
(turns around)
Damn!
YOUNG DAWN
I'm telling mom you sweared.
And that you're taking a boy
to your room.
YOUNG BUFFY
This is Pike...
YOUNG DAWN
That's not a proper name.
And he's still not allowed
in your room. Dad said...
YOUNG BUFFY
I-I'm not taking him to my
room. I'm... I'm gonna show
him the panelling in the bathroom.
YOUNG DAWN
(as if!)
Yuh-huh...
YOUNG BUFFY
But I am!
Pike is looking a little uncomfortable during all of this.
YOUNG PIKE
Uh, maybe I should just go.
I don't think your parents
would be very happy if I...
y'know... was caught up there.
(whispered)
And I don't think they'll believe
us if we tell them we're hiding
from vampires... even if it is
the truth.
YOUNG BUFFY
They don't care what I do
as long as they can argue
about it later. C'mon... Plus, I
don't want you going out
there. It's dangerous.
YOUNG PIKE
Hey! I'm two years older
than you!
YOUNG BUFFY
(whispers)
You're also not blessed with
super strength.
Buffy turns her attention to Dawn.
YOUNG BUFFY
Don't tell them. Please.
YOUNG DAWN
Why not?
YOUNG BUFFY
Just because...
YOUNG DAWN
That's not a proper answer.
Pike steps forward.
YOUNG PIKE
Let me deal with this.
He gets out his wallet and counts out several notes.
YOUNG PIKE
(to Dawn)
Is this reason enough?
Dawn's eyes light up. She looks at him suspiciously for several moments before snatching the money and running upstairs to her room, slamming the door shut behind her.
YOUNG BUFFY
You never cease to amaze me.
INT. MAGIC BOX - MAIN - PRESENT - DAY
Dawn continues to stare at Pike as he puts his helmet on the shop counter.
PIKE
So are you gonna say "hi"
or what?
DAWN
(in shock)
Pike...
(End of Act One)
ACT TWO
INT. MAGIC BOX - MAIN - DAY
There's a pause as Dawn and Pike look at each other. She suddenly gets an idea and runs to hug him.
DAWN
Oh, God! I've missed you!
PIKE
That's more like it...
DAWN
Thank God you've come back!
Pike looks around the shop. He sees the books out and the mess on the floor. He gets worried and looks at Dawn.
PIKE
Where are the others?
DAWN
(nervously)
I... I'm not sure.
PIKE
Look at the mess here!
What's going on? What's
been happening?
DAWN
(mock tears)
It... it's a long story...
She hugs him again and smiles evilly while he can't see.
EXT. XANDER'S CAR - TRAVELLING - DAY
The car containing the Scoobies travels along a road winding through a valley.
SPIKE (V.O.)
Wow. This really is the middle
of nowhere. Bit bloody depressing
for me.
INT. XANDER'S CAR - DAY
Xander is driving while Tara is sat next to him, her eyes closed as she tries to keep track of Willow. Buffy and Spike are in the back.
XANDER
(to Tara)
How's it going?
TARA
We're getting closer... but...
I'm not sure... something's
in the way. Like the presence
of other magic users are
distorting the signal without
knowing it.
BUFFY
But they can't detect it? Can
they?
TARA
If they knew what they were
looking for they could...
XANDER
Then lets hope they don't.
ANGLE ON: Spike and Buffy are in the back having a private conversation about Dawn.
BUFFY
Everything's just happening
all at once. I don't think I can
deal with this.
SPIKE
You'll sort it all out. You always
do.
BUFFY
But I don't think I can anymore.
SPIKE
Then it's a bloody good job
you've got us.
Spike takes Buffy's hand in his.
SPIKE
That's what I love about you.
You're a fighter.
Buffy looks at Spike's hands.
BUFFY
This didn't work out before.
We've got nothing in common.
SPIKE
I like to think I've grown since
I got this here soul of mine
back.
There's silence. They both look at each other. Buffy pulls her hand away.
BUFFY
I can't. There's too much
going on.
SPIKE
Then after. If this all works
out...
BUFFY
I don't want to start going
through some make-up, break
up relationship.
SPIKE
Who says we'd break up again?
Buffy looks at him but shakes her head. She wants to do this but can't.
BUFFY
No.
EXT. XANDER'S CAR - TRAVELLING - DAY
The car continues to speed down the empty road.
INT. COTTAGE - MAIN ROOM - DAY
Willow is on her knees in front of Morigan. Her hands are tied behind her back with a mystical rope. He has his hand on her forehead.
MORIGAN
Let me be the collector.
Let her essence flow into
me. Let the power be drained.
The first of the warlocks comes forward to start the spell. He places his hand on the back of Willow's head. Morigan is still at the front.
FIRST WARLOCK
Let the power be drained.
Let the essence leave her
body. Let her be blinded.
The first warlock moves away. Alandra steps forward and puts her hand on the back of Willow's head.
ALANDRA
Let the power be...
Morigan pulls away cancelling the spell. Alandra looks concerned.
ALANDRA
What is it?
MORIGAN
(thoughtfully)
Something... something is
attached to her. An energy.
ALANDRA
Energy?
Morigan looks at Willow. He knows what's happened. He frowns at her then turns back to Alandra.
MORIGAN
Mortals. They have no
understanding of our ways.
WILLOW
My friends aren't as ordinary
as they seem...
MORIGAN
Nonetheless they are out
of their depth.
(to Alandra)
Join with me.
Alandra takes his hand and they begin to chant under their breath.
INT. XANDER'S CAR - DAY
Tara, still with her eyes closed is giving directions to Xander.
TARA
Take the next left...
XANDER
(nods)
Got it...
Tara opens her eyes and exhales suddenly. Buffy moves forward and grabs her shoulder to pull her back onto the seat.
BUFFY
Tara!
TARA
No! No!
XANDER
What is it?
TARA
I lost it! I lost my connection
to her! They found out!
XANDER
Damn it!
Xander pushes on the brakes and the car comes to a stop. He hits the steering wheel.
EXT. MOUNTAINOUS ROAD - DAY
Xander gets out of the car and rests his head on the roof. Tara gets out too and leans back against it. Buffy follows her.
BUFFY
Well we must be close. You
said we were nearly there, right?
TARA
(nods)
That's probably how they knew
we were coming.
BUFFY
So we just find some kind of
building around here. And there
can't be that many.
We PULL BACK to show what a desolate area they're in. There doesn't seem to be any human life for miles around.
EXT. OUTSIDE MAGIC BOX
Giles and Anya return to the shop with more books. Giles gets his key out and puts it into the door but it just swings open.
GILES
Bloody hell!
ANYA
What?
GILES
Some bugger's broken in!
ANYA
You left the door unlocked?!!?
GILES
I thought you were going
to do it.
ANYA
You had the key!
He piles his books on top of hers and rushes in.
ANYA
(sarcasm much!)
Gee, thanks a lot. I really
wanted to carry another
whole ton of books inside.
INT. MAGIC BOX - MAIN - DAY
Giles is already inside looking around as Anya walks in and dumps the books on the table.
GILES
Nothing seems to be missing.
ANYA
I think Xander caused enough
mess anyway.
GILES
Clearly I panicked for nothing.
ANYA
Clearly.
GILES
Wait a minute...
He looks over into the corner and sees the book that Dawn threw across the room. He leans over to pick it up. He looks thoughtfully at it.
EXT. GRAVEYARD - DAY
Pike and Dawn are walking around the gravestones as Dawn gives him an interesting version of the events that have taken place since he left.
PIKE
So it all started when you
went to England?
DAWN
Uh-huh. The Council wanted
Buffy to fight this vampire
Lillith. Buffy staked her and
all but we found out that she'd
been possessed.
PIKE
By Lillith?
Dawn nods then pauses as if she's having trouble discussing these traumatic happenings.
PIKE
(C'tnd)
How long ago did you know?
DAWN
Well, it must've taken a while
to kick in but she snapped...
about a month ago.
PIKE
How are the others? Xander,
Willow and the... vampire...
DAWN
Spike?
(Pike nods)
As soon as Lillith took over
Buffy he jumped in with her.
Any chance to jump her bones
even if there's another mind
in there.
PIKE
The bastard. But the others?
They're okay?
DAWN
Two days ago... Buffy came
in... she broke into the Magic
Box. They're all okay but they
went after here... I... I haven't
seen them since.
Pike stops walking. He sits on a gravestone under the shade of large tree and shakes his head in disbelief.
PIKE
How could all this happen?
How can it even be true?
DAWN
(suddenly defensively)
I'm not lying.
PIKE
I know... I know you wouldn't
do that... but it just seems so...
DAWN
Way out?
PIKE
Yup.
DAWN
Don't I know it.
(pause)
I'm just worried that Willow
and Xander and Giles are
gonna get killed...
Pike turns decisively to her.
PIKE
Is there anything I can do
to help?
Dawn looks up at him, mock innocence in her eyes.
ACT THREE
EXT. GRAVEYARD - LATE DAY
Pike has taken in Dawn's suggestion.
PIKE
You want me to take you
to find Buffy?
DAWN
Maybe I can to bring her back
to us... Maybe I can make her
push Lillith out...
PIKE
But you said you didn't know
where she is...
DAWN
That's why I said find her!
PIKE
But what about you? The last
thing I want is to get you in
danger...
Suddenly, a hand comes from the grave below him and grabs his like. He is pulled to the floor with a thud.
PIKE
Oh, yeah. Hellmouth irony.
I keep on forgetting it.
He begins to struggle to break free.
INT. MAGIC BOX - MAIN - LATE DAY
Giles and Anya are sorting out the new books they've brought in.
ANYA
I think we've got another
double here. Why'd you
have to get two copies of
so many?
GILES
They're newer editions.
ANYA
Oh.
(looks at two of them)
How didn't I notice? This one
was written in 1679... a whole
fifty years after the one you've
got here. I bet that's got all
of the answers!
GILES
Anya, can you please stop
being sarcastic? It really isn't
helping.
They both turn at the same time when the door is pushed open with a jingle. Two men in casual suits walk in.
BERNSTEIN
May we speak to Mr Rupert
Giles?
GILES
That's me.
They take out police badges badges.
BERNSTEIN
I'm Detective Bernstein; this
is my partner Detective Robinson.
We've come to ask you further
questions about a Miss Lydia
Barlow.
ROBINSON
You gave us your details at
the scene of the crime...
GILES
Um, yes. Yes of course. How
can I help you?
He motions for them to sit down at the table but they both decline.
BERNSTEIN
I know this must be hard for
you but there has been some
new evidence?
ROBINSON
Our forensics lab was able to
identify that knife that killed
Miss Barlow. An incredibly
unique weapon.
GILES
Yes?
ROBINSON
We've been able to track it
down to a shipment that was
sent to this store, the uh, the
Magic Box...
GILES
Really?
Bernstein leans forward and glares at Giles.
BERNSTEIN
Before we even think of asking
how it could have got into the
hands of the killer I'd like to
know what exactly you're doing
ordering weapons?
Giles looks a little nervous.
EXT. GRAVEYARD - LATE DAY
The vampire is still holding onto Pike's leg, trying to pull him back. With all of his strength, Pike pulls forward bringing the vamp with him but not quite into the sunlight.
PIKE
(urgently to Dawn)
Get away from here! Now!
The vamp gets to his feet and jumps onto his back on holds tight. Pike tries to force it off by ramming backwards into the tree but can't. The vamp gets ready to bite into Pike's neck. He closes his eyes.
Suddenly Pike falls forward with the weight being taken off his back. Dawn throws the vamp into the tree as if it's just a doll then pulls out a stake and plunges it through its heart. The vamp turns to dust.
Dawn turns to Pike and holds her hand out to help him up. He just looks at her.
DAWN
(sheepishly)
I kinda missed out a couple
of other things that've happened...
EXT. MOUNTAINOUS ROAD - LATE DAY
Xander has a map spread out across the roof of his car trying to work out where they are.
XANDER
So where exactly are we?
(looks around)
I see mountains.
(looks at map, mock cheerful)
Oh look. Mountains. Loads of
them.
Spike quickly points an area out.
SPIKE
There. We passed that viewing
point about fifteen minutes
ago so I'd say we're about here.
BUFFY
I'm impressed. But where could
they have taken Willow?
They all study it again. Tara notices something.
TARA
There's a cottage there... but
it's a public attraction. They
wouldn't take her...
XANDER
(interrupting)
I know that place! It's famous
for some old hermit or something.
We went on a field trip there
years ago... it's been closed down
for about six years.
SPIKE
(smiles)
I think we've got 'em.
Xander gathers the map together while the others get into the car. Xander follows them and they drive off.
INT. MAGIC BOX - TRAINING ROOM - DAY
The two detectives are impressed with the room.
BERNSTEIN
Very nice. Don't tell me this
place is a gym as well.
GILES
Er, ah... no. This is strictly
for personal use.
Robinson notices two axes on the wall.
ROBINSON
And these? Are they for
personal use?
Giles suddenly panics but quickly relaxes before he speaks.
GILES
No, no. You see, back at the, uh,
crime scene I told the detective
that Miss Barlow and I worked
for the same company. She dealt
in antique weapons... and some
reproductions...
Bernstein begins writing notes. Giles waits for him to finish.
BERNSTEIN
Continue...
GILES
Her business in England was
linked to ours... that is, she
had artefacts for her American
clients sent to my store so I
could deliver them. Worked
out cheaper, you see.
ROBINSON
And you have receipts for
all of them?
GILES
The branch in England deals
with all of that.
BERNSTEIN
And this company Miss Barlow
worked for... do you have a
number we could call?
GILES
Of-of course.
Giles checks himself over for a pen and paper. Bernstein hands him his. Giles writes it down and hands it back.
GILES
There. They should corroborate
my story.
ROBINSON
Thank you, Mr Giles. That
should be all for now.
The detectives and Giles walk back into the main part of the shop.
INT. MAGIC BOX - MAIN - AFTERNOON
Bernstein puts his pad away and the two walk to the door. Robinson turns and looks at Giles.
ROBINSON
Thanks for your help.
GILES
(false smile)
My pleasure.
The two detectives leave. Giles flops into a chair, utterly exhausted.
ANYA
It wasn't a pleasant experience,
I take it?
GILES
You could say that.
ANYA
But Lydia didn't work for any
weapons company in England...
how're you gonna get out of
that?
GILES
The Watchers Council will
continue the façade. It's the
least they can do after the
mess they've caused.
He opens a book in front of him.
GILES
And now the research.
ANYA
(downbeat)
I'd kinda hoped you'd forgotten.
She pulls a book from the pile and starts reading.
EXT. COTTAGE IN THE MOUNTAINS - AFTERNOON
Xander's car pulls up at the cottage and all four of the Scoobies jump out. Buffy goes straight to the door with her business face on. With a powerful kick she knocks the door from its hinges.
INT. COTTAGE - MAIN ROOM - AFTERNOON
As Buffy gets in, the last of the witches is about to perform the spell on Willow. Everyone turns to look at the four new arrivals.
WILLOW
Buffy! Tara!
BUFFY
(to Morigan)
Get your filthy hands off her...
XANDER
...you damn dirty warlock!
Buffy jumps at Morigan and pushes him away before the spell can be completed. For the second time the spell is cancelled.
ODESSA
No! You ruined it!
BUFFY
I'll do more than that!
Buffy starts punching and kicking Morigan like there's no tomorrow.
Spike launches into Odessa and Alandra. He pushes their faces into the wall.
Xander starts to fist fight with one of the younger warlocks.
Tara runs to Willow and tries to untie her.
WILLOW
I didn't think you'd find me...
TARA
I had to...
Tara tries to cast a spell on Willows bindings but it doesn't work
TARA
The magic's too strong.
WILLOW
Forget it. It's not important.
Willow moves forward and kisses Tara full on the lips.
WILLOW
(C'tnd)
But that is...
Tara wraps her arms around Willow.
SPIKE (O.S.)
Let's bail!
Spike is suddenly thrown across the room by magic. He lands between Willow and Tara, knocking them both down.
ANGLE: Morigan looks pretty pissed off as he raises his hand and creates a force field that blocks all of Buffy's blows.
MORIGAN
Enough!
BUFFY
No. Not even near enough!
XANDER
Buffy! Let's go!
Buffy glares at Morigan then joins the others in the run to the door. Just before they get to it, it disappears and turns into a brick wall. They spin around to see all of the witches and warlocks grouped together.
MORIGAN
I said... enough.
CLOSE UP on the Scoobies. They realise that they're in deep trouble now.
ACT FOUR
INT. COTTAGE - CELLAR - NIGHT
The Scoobies are all chained up having been well and truly beaten in the fight.
XANDER
At least they had the decency
to heal us after they'd finished...
SPIKE
How long have we been here
already?
XANDER
I'd say five hours. And no one's
coming. They're gonna starve
us to death.
WILLOW
At least they haven't cast the
spell on me yet. Thanks guys.
XANDER
Least we could do.
WILLOW
It's just a shame I can't get
out to make the most of still
having powers before they do.
She smiles weakly. They hear the door opening upstairs and see Odessa floating down the stairs to meet them. She lowers onto the floor once she's there.
ODESSA
We're almost ready. We've wasted
a lot of time today but we will
complete the spell.
WILLOW
And then?
ODESSA
Your friends here will be dealt
with accordingly.
WILLOW
No... please. Just let them
go! Do what you want to
me but...
Odessa holds out her hand. Willow's head is thrust backwards and she's knocked unconscious on the wall.
TARA
No!!!
XANDER
Bitch!
TARA
You can't do this! It's not right!
ODESSA
What we do is what is best
for the majority of magic
practitioners. If we have to
make a few sacrifices to do
that, so be it.
SPIKE
How very utilitarian.
Tara shakes her head in disgust. Odessa looks at her questioningly.
TARA
You're disgusting. You're not
followers of light magic. You're
just as evil as the people who
persecuted witches in the
sixteenth and seventeenth centuries!
ODESSA
That's not...
Odessa stops and looks up the stairs as if she senses something. There's suddenly a loud crashing sound. She says no more to the Scoobies and darts up towards the main part of the house.
INT. COTTAGE - MAIN ROOM - NIGHT
Odessa runs upstairs to see the mages trying to deal with Dawn. She is jumping and somersaulting all over the place, avoiding magic blasts and kicking anyone who gets in her way.
Dawn is suddenly knocked down by a blast. She looks up, extremely pissed off and with her eyes glowing blue. She begins to channel the primal powers again.
DAWN
Gesh-toog me-en-dan.
sha me-en-dan. Me-en-den.
Oo-khush-ta me-ool-lee-a
ba-ab-tum-mu-do-en.
The warlocks and witches combine their powers in an attempt to stop Dawn but before they can they are all knock apart. Two of them run towards her but get lightening bolts through them before they can get close.
CLOSE UP on Dawn as she glows and fires energy at all of the Registry people.
Finally Dawn comes down and looks at Odessa who is the only remaining one. She seems to look through Dawn, sensing what's inside her.
ODESSA
There's conflict within you,
child. The light and the dark
are struggling for control but
neither can...
Dawn thrusts a knife through Odessa before she can react.
DAWN
There is no conflict.
Odessa slumps to the floor dead. Dawn looks at her and suddenly feels faint. She falls to her knees.
INT. BUFFY'S HOUSE - DAWN'S ROOM - FLASHBACK - DAY
Dawn is lying on her bed while Willow floats a pencil back in her weak magic days (about season 3-ish). She's in awe.
DAWN
That is so cool!
WILLOW
Watch this...
Willow closes her eyes and the pencil begins to draw something on a piece of paper. Willow opens her eyes and looks at it. It's a sketch of Dawn.
DAWN
(blushing)
Aw... it's amazing.
WILLOW
And actually better than I
could do if I tried actually
drawing it.
Dawn hugs Willow.
DAWN
Magic is so cool! You've gotta
teach me some stuff!
INT. COTTAGE - MAIN ROOM - NIGHT
Dawn has a nostalgic smile on her face.
WILLOW (V.O.)
Well, maybe. If you're good.
The smile fades to the emotionless Slayer Dawn again. She rubs her forehead.
DAWN
Gotta stop doing that...
Pike runs in. He sees all of the bodies scattered around the room and Dawn kneeling in front of Odessa.
PIKE
Oh my God.
Dawn slowly turns to look at him.
DAWN
(mock fear)
Something bad's happened.
INT. COTTAGE - CELLAR
The sound of the fighting has stopped. There's only silence.
TARA
It's over.
BUFFY
No. Wait. I can hear voices.
The door opens and they all look up expectantly. Pike comes down from the door first. He gets halfway down the stairs.
BUFFY
(shocked)
Pike!
PIKE
Buffy... but I thought...
Dawn comes down behind Pike. Her turns to look at her.
PIKE
What the hell's going on?
XANDER
Dawn!
BUFFY
Pike! Get outta here!
Dawn throws Pike down the stairs. He lands on the stone floor and is a little dazed when he turns to see Dawn walking down behind him.
PIKE
You-you lied.
DAWN
Yeah, I'm good at that.
(looks over the Scoobies)
And now I've got you all in
one place. Lucky me.
They all look nervously in her direction...
TO BE CONTINUED...
Summer Script Challenge
The Powers that Be Pro Temporae
Episode 6.20: The Ghost Behind My Eyes
By Noggins, me and SWS
GILES (V.O.)
Previously on Buffy the Vampire Slayer...
From: "A Place So Far Away":
Dawn hugs Pike tightly, sniffing but not quite crying. He crouches so that he is on eye level with her.
PIKE
Hey, kid, buck up. I'll be
back to see you soon.
DAWN
Promise?
From "From Sunnydale With Love":
The Watchers are all in the Magic Box explaining what's happened to Dawn.
NIGEL
We extracted they part of
her that was the Key, and
substituted the essence of
the first Slayer. It was not
a lengthy procedure, and
Dawn was not aware of what
was happening.
From "My Sister's Keeper":
GILES
Her body and mind is unable
to cope with it...
CUT TO:
Dawn stabbing Buffy in the stomach.
GILES (V.O.)
(C'tnd)
...It will slowly take her over...
CUT TO:
From "Something in the Way"
Dawn plunges a knife through Lydia's heart.
GILES (V.O.)
(C'tnd)
...driving out any humanity
inside her...
CUT TO:
Willow's eyes go black and hurl Dawn into a wall. Suddenly Willow begins to glow red.
CUT TO:
From "Gifts and Loans":
Willow and Tara put their hands close. Not close enough to touch and hurt Tara but enough to form a connection.
CUT TO:
Odessa and Morigan appear in a cloud of mist. Xander, Buffy and Spike try to stop them but they take Willow away.
CUT TO:
Dawn in pain. She regains her humanity... but soon returns to Slayer mode without Buffy realising there's hope for her...
TEASER
EXT. MAGIC BOX - MORNING
Establishing shot.
XANDER (V.O.)
This isn't happening...
INT. MAGIC BOX - MAIN - MORNING
Xander is pacing around. Buffy, Giles, Spike and Anya are sitting around the table. Tara is alone in the corner looking numb.
BUFFY
But it is...
XANDER
They just took her and
we couldn't do anything!
SPIKE
Didn't see you trying that
hard.
XANDER
I lost my voice and hurt
my back. I tried. God, I
hate magic.
He brings his fist down on the table before walking away.
BUFFY
Xander...
XANDER
We've lost Willow! Don't you
realise this? They just walked
away with her...
BUFFY
We *will* do something!
XANDER
But not until you've finished
with Dawn. Spike's right!
SPIKE
(shocked)
I am?
XANDER
There's nothing we can do!
Forget her! Let her go slaying!
Maybe if we stay out of her face...
BUFFY
You saw what she did to Lydia!
ANYA
And our apartment!
BUFFY
I have to save her!
XANDER
Everything is telling us we
can't! But we can save Willow!
Xander wants to scream but stops himself. He takes his anger out on a shelf, knocking everything of it.
BUFFY
I want to help them both...
XANDER
But you can't?
BUFFY
(breaking down)
I don't know...
Giles stands up and walks towards Xander, pushing him into the shelf.
GILES
Now you listen... calm down!
This isn't helping!
XANDER
But it's Willow...
GILES
(nods sadly)
I know.
There's suddenly silence. Giles lets go of Xander and he relaxes. Everyone is drawn to Tara who is looking up for the first time. She seems hopeful and shocked at the same time. Something's happened.
TARA
I know what to do.
XANDER
What?
TARA
I... I cast a spell on Willow...
a tracking spell... when we put
our hands together... I didn't
think it worked but... it must
have been the force-field
blocking it... but...
XANDER
(runs to her)
Yes?
TARA
I can follow her...
XANDER
YES! Pack up! We're going to
get her back!
He looks over everyone.
SPIKE
Dawn should be our...
XANDER
Then you just stay here!
(to Buffy)
Come on!
Buffy is torn but she knows what she has to do.
BUFFY
Okay.
(to Tara)
Are you sure you can do this?
Tara nods.
BUFFY
(C'tnd, to Spike)
Come with us.
GILES
And me?
BUFFY
Stay here. Research. The Council
may not care what happens but
there must be something we can do.
INT. SPIKE'S FORMER CRYPT - MORNING
Dawn is leaning against the wall. Voices from the past are plaguing her thoughts.
JOYCE (V.O.)
I think you're going to like it...
DAWN
NO!!!
Dawn punches the wall.
XANDER (V.O.)
So this is the poor kid Buffy
keeps locked away.
DAWN
(frustrated)
No! Go away!
Dawn punches it again.
DAWN (V.O.)
So you go around poking
ugly people like the guy
in the cave last year with
a pointy stick?
BUFFY (V.O.)
It's a lot more complicated
than that, Dawn!
Dawn screams as she punches the wall over and over until the mortar starts to get chipped away. She pulls her hand back and looks at the blood trickling down her knuckles.
CREDITS
ACT ONE
INT. MAGIC BOX - DAY
Xander is talking to Anya while the others leave the shop to get into his car.
XANDER
I want you stay...
ANYA
Don't go.
XANDER
I have to.
ANYA
No. Buffy, Spike and Tara
have to. You don't.
XANDER
She's my best friend.
ANYA
I know. And because of that
it's going to kill you. I mean,
I'm not worried her jumping
on you or anything but this...
this closeness... it'll get you
damaged.
XANDER
Not if I can help it. It'll be
okay. We just find her,
get her and come back,
hopefully with as little
conflict as possible.
ANYA
It'd better be...
Xander smiles as he hugs Anya. As he breaks away he kisses her and makes his way out of the door to the others.
ANYA
Come back alive. All of you.
Giles walks next to Anya.
GILES
We may have to go back
to my house to get more
books.
ANYA
What? You haven't got enough
here?
EXT. NEAR MAGIC BOX - SUNNYDALE MAIN STREET - DAY
Dawn, with a bandaged hand, arrives and looks around. Not many people are up and about yet. She walks towards the shop and pushes the door. It's locked. She gives it a harder push and it opens.
INT. MAGIC BOX - MAIN - DAY
Dawn looks at the mess on the floor after Xander knocked items off the shelf. She doesn't pay it that much mind and notices something on the table. She notices several open books on the table. She looks at one of them.
ANGLE ON: Dawn's hand flicks through a few pages of the book then closes it to look at the cover. It's called "Power of the Slayer".
Dawn frowns. She throws it across the room then goes through all of the other books. They're all related to the Slayer. She picks one up and is about to rip it to pieces when she hears the door open. She spins around quickly.
EXT. COTTAGE IN THE HILLS - DAY
The Registry mage's car pulls up outside the cottage. The front doors open and black mist comes from both of them. They turn into MORIGAN and ODESSA. Odessa holds her hand out and the back door opens.
ODESSA
We're here.
Willow emerges from the back looking rather nervous.
MORIGAN
This way...
They walk towards the cottage, Odessa in front of Willow and Morigan behind.
INT. COTTAGE - MAIN ROOM - DAY
They walk into the main room. ALANDRA and MARISSA are there along with about ten other powerful witches and warlocks. Willow is clearly nervous in their presence.
MORIGAN
You know Alandra and Marissa...
these are some other high
members of our order.
WILLOW
Um, hi.
They nod but don't say anything. Alandra and Marissa walk forward.
ALANDRA
You realise what you've done.
WILLOW
You're pissed of, right?
ALANDRA
(shakes her and smiles a little)
No, no child. Of course not.
Just... disappointed.
WILLOW
Disappointed?
MARISSA
That you found it so easy
to use the black arts. Even
with our precautions.
WILLOW
But I had to! Tara and I
were in danger. You see,
Dawn... Buffy... that's the
Slayer... Buffy's sister was
about to attack us... She
was channelling some
primeval powers and...
Marissa puts her finger to her lips. Willow stops talking suddenly. She knows there's no point in arguing.
ODESSA
It makes little difference.
Our actions have already
been decided.
MORIGAN
We intend to strip you of
your powers. It's the only
way...
WILLOW
Strip me of my... no! You
can't! That's not even possible...
MORIGAN
It's a lengthy procedure and
takes many people. That's
why we're all gathered here.
It will result in making you
blind to magic.
WILLOW
Please! You can't! I'll stop!
I can stop performing...
Odessa rests her hand on shoulder.
ODESSA
It's for the best.
WILLOW
No! It isn't! How can you say it's
for the best!
(pleading)
Please...
INT. MAGIC BOX - MAIN - DAY
Dawn turns around, holding a knife ready as she checks out the new arrival. The figure all in black leather slowly takes off it's motorcycle helmet - it's PIKE. Dawn just looks at him.
INT. BUFFY'S OLD HOUSE - HEMERY - FLASHBACK - EVENING
A nine year old Dawn is watching as Buffy (now about fifteen) is sneaking Pike up the stairs.
YOUNG DAWN
And where'd you think
you're going?
YOUNG BUFFY
(turns around)
Damn!
YOUNG DAWN
I'm telling mom you sweared.
And that you're taking a boy
to your room.
YOUNG BUFFY
This is Pike...
YOUNG DAWN
That's not a proper name.
And he's still not allowed
in your room. Dad said...
YOUNG BUFFY
I-I'm not taking him to my
room. I'm... I'm gonna show
him the panelling in the bathroom.
YOUNG DAWN
(as if!)
Yuh-huh...
YOUNG BUFFY
But I am!
Pike is looking a little uncomfortable during all of this.
YOUNG PIKE
Uh, maybe I should just go.
I don't think your parents
would be very happy if I...
y'know... was caught up there.
(whispered)
And I don't think they'll believe
us if we tell them we're hiding
from vampires... even if it is
the truth.
YOUNG BUFFY
They don't care what I do
as long as they can argue
about it later. C'mon... Plus, I
don't want you going out
there. It's dangerous.
YOUNG PIKE
Hey! I'm two years older
than you!
YOUNG BUFFY
(whispers)
You're also not blessed with
super strength.
Buffy turns her attention to Dawn.
YOUNG BUFFY
Don't tell them. Please.
YOUNG DAWN
Why not?
YOUNG BUFFY
Just because...
YOUNG DAWN
That's not a proper answer.
Pike steps forward.
YOUNG PIKE
Let me deal with this.
He gets out his wallet and counts out several notes.
YOUNG PIKE
(to Dawn)
Is this reason enough?
Dawn's eyes light up. She looks at him suspiciously for several moments before snatching the money and running upstairs to her room, slamming the door shut behind her.
YOUNG BUFFY
You never cease to amaze me.
INT. MAGIC BOX - MAIN - PRESENT - DAY
Dawn continues to stare at Pike as he puts his helmet on the shop counter.
PIKE
So are you gonna say "hi"
or what?
DAWN
(in shock)
Pike...
(End of Act One)
ACT TWO
INT. MAGIC BOX - MAIN - DAY
There's a pause as Dawn and Pike look at each other. She suddenly gets an idea and runs to hug him.
DAWN
Oh, God! I've missed you!
PIKE
That's more like it...
DAWN
Thank God you've come back!
Pike looks around the shop. He sees the books out and the mess on the floor. He gets worried and looks at Dawn.
PIKE
Where are the others?
DAWN
(nervously)
I... I'm not sure.
PIKE
Look at the mess here!
What's going on? What's
been happening?
DAWN
(mock tears)
It... it's a long story...
She hugs him again and smiles evilly while he can't see.
EXT. XANDER'S CAR - TRAVELLING - DAY
The car containing the Scoobies travels along a road winding through a valley.
SPIKE (V.O.)
Wow. This really is the middle
of nowhere. Bit bloody depressing
for me.
INT. XANDER'S CAR - DAY
Xander is driving while Tara is sat next to him, her eyes closed as she tries to keep track of Willow. Buffy and Spike are in the back.
XANDER
(to Tara)
How's it going?
TARA
We're getting closer... but...
I'm not sure... something's
in the way. Like the presence
of other magic users are
distorting the signal without
knowing it.
BUFFY
But they can't detect it? Can
they?
TARA
If they knew what they were
looking for they could...
XANDER
Then lets hope they don't.
ANGLE ON: Spike and Buffy are in the back having a private conversation about Dawn.
BUFFY
Everything's just happening
all at once. I don't think I can
deal with this.
SPIKE
You'll sort it all out. You always
do.
BUFFY
But I don't think I can anymore.
SPIKE
Then it's a bloody good job
you've got us.
Spike takes Buffy's hand in his.
SPIKE
That's what I love about you.
You're a fighter.
Buffy looks at Spike's hands.
BUFFY
This didn't work out before.
We've got nothing in common.
SPIKE
I like to think I've grown since
I got this here soul of mine
back.
There's silence. They both look at each other. Buffy pulls her hand away.
BUFFY
I can't. There's too much
going on.
SPIKE
Then after. If this all works
out...
BUFFY
I don't want to start going
through some make-up, break
up relationship.
SPIKE
Who says we'd break up again?
Buffy looks at him but shakes her head. She wants to do this but can't.
BUFFY
No.
EXT. XANDER'S CAR - TRAVELLING - DAY
The car continues to speed down the empty road.
INT. COTTAGE - MAIN ROOM - DAY
Willow is on her knees in front of Morigan. Her hands are tied behind her back with a mystical rope. He has his hand on her forehead.
MORIGAN
Let me be the collector.
Let her essence flow into
me. Let the power be drained.
The first of the warlocks comes forward to start the spell. He places his hand on the back of Willow's head. Morigan is still at the front.
FIRST WARLOCK
Let the power be drained.
Let the essence leave her
body. Let her be blinded.
The first warlock moves away. Alandra steps forward and puts her hand on the back of Willow's head.
ALANDRA
Let the power be...
Morigan pulls away cancelling the spell. Alandra looks concerned.
ALANDRA
What is it?
MORIGAN
(thoughtfully)
Something... something is
attached to her. An energy.
ALANDRA
Energy?
Morigan looks at Willow. He knows what's happened. He frowns at her then turns back to Alandra.
MORIGAN
Mortals. They have no
understanding of our ways.
WILLOW
My friends aren't as ordinary
as they seem...
MORIGAN
Nonetheless they are out
of their depth.
(to Alandra)
Join with me.
Alandra takes his hand and they begin to chant under their breath.
INT. XANDER'S CAR - DAY
Tara, still with her eyes closed is giving directions to Xander.
TARA
Take the next left...
XANDER
(nods)
Got it...
Tara opens her eyes and exhales suddenly. Buffy moves forward and grabs her shoulder to pull her back onto the seat.
BUFFY
Tara!
TARA
No! No!
XANDER
What is it?
TARA
I lost it! I lost my connection
to her! They found out!
XANDER
Damn it!
Xander pushes on the brakes and the car comes to a stop. He hits the steering wheel.
EXT. MOUNTAINOUS ROAD - DAY
Xander gets out of the car and rests his head on the roof. Tara gets out too and leans back against it. Buffy follows her.
BUFFY
Well we must be close. You
said we were nearly there, right?
TARA
(nods)
That's probably how they knew
we were coming.
BUFFY
So we just find some kind of
building around here. And there
can't be that many.
We PULL BACK to show what a desolate area they're in. There doesn't seem to be any human life for miles around.
EXT. OUTSIDE MAGIC BOX
Giles and Anya return to the shop with more books. Giles gets his key out and puts it into the door but it just swings open.
GILES
Bloody hell!
ANYA
What?
GILES
Some bugger's broken in!
ANYA
You left the door unlocked?!!?
GILES
I thought you were going
to do it.
ANYA
You had the key!
He piles his books on top of hers and rushes in.
ANYA
(sarcasm much!)
Gee, thanks a lot. I really
wanted to carry another
whole ton of books inside.
INT. MAGIC BOX - MAIN - DAY
Giles is already inside looking around as Anya walks in and dumps the books on the table.
GILES
Nothing seems to be missing.
ANYA
I think Xander caused enough
mess anyway.
GILES
Clearly I panicked for nothing.
ANYA
Clearly.
GILES
Wait a minute...
He looks over into the corner and sees the book that Dawn threw across the room. He leans over to pick it up. He looks thoughtfully at it.
EXT. GRAVEYARD - DAY
Pike and Dawn are walking around the gravestones as Dawn gives him an interesting version of the events that have taken place since he left.
PIKE
So it all started when you
went to England?
DAWN
Uh-huh. The Council wanted
Buffy to fight this vampire
Lillith. Buffy staked her and
all but we found out that she'd
been possessed.
PIKE
By Lillith?
Dawn nods then pauses as if she's having trouble discussing these traumatic happenings.
PIKE
(C'tnd)
How long ago did you know?
DAWN
Well, it must've taken a while
to kick in but she snapped...
about a month ago.
PIKE
How are the others? Xander,
Willow and the... vampire...
DAWN
Spike?
(Pike nods)
As soon as Lillith took over
Buffy he jumped in with her.
Any chance to jump her bones
even if there's another mind
in there.
PIKE
The bastard. But the others?
They're okay?
DAWN
Two days ago... Buffy came
in... she broke into the Magic
Box. They're all okay but they
went after here... I... I haven't
seen them since.
Pike stops walking. He sits on a gravestone under the shade of large tree and shakes his head in disbelief.
PIKE
How could all this happen?
How can it even be true?
DAWN
(suddenly defensively)
I'm not lying.
PIKE
I know... I know you wouldn't
do that... but it just seems so...
DAWN
Way out?
PIKE
Yup.
DAWN
Don't I know it.
(pause)
I'm just worried that Willow
and Xander and Giles are
gonna get killed...
Pike turns decisively to her.
PIKE
Is there anything I can do
to help?
Dawn looks up at him, mock innocence in her eyes.
ACT THREE
EXT. GRAVEYARD - LATE DAY
Pike has taken in Dawn's suggestion.
PIKE
You want me to take you
to find Buffy?
DAWN
Maybe I can to bring her back
to us... Maybe I can make her
push Lillith out...
PIKE
But you said you didn't know
where she is...
DAWN
That's why I said find her!
PIKE
But what about you? The last
thing I want is to get you in
danger...
Suddenly, a hand comes from the grave below him and grabs his like. He is pulled to the floor with a thud.
PIKE
Oh, yeah. Hellmouth irony.
I keep on forgetting it.
He begins to struggle to break free.
INT. MAGIC BOX - MAIN - LATE DAY
Giles and Anya are sorting out the new books they've brought in.
ANYA
I think we've got another
double here. Why'd you
have to get two copies of
so many?
GILES
They're newer editions.
ANYA
Oh.
(looks at two of them)
How didn't I notice? This one
was written in 1679... a whole
fifty years after the one you've
got here. I bet that's got all
of the answers!
GILES
Anya, can you please stop
being sarcastic? It really isn't
helping.
They both turn at the same time when the door is pushed open with a jingle. Two men in casual suits walk in.
BERNSTEIN
May we speak to Mr Rupert
Giles?
GILES
That's me.
They take out police badges badges.
BERNSTEIN
I'm Detective Bernstein; this
is my partner Detective Robinson.
We've come to ask you further
questions about a Miss Lydia
Barlow.
ROBINSON
You gave us your details at
the scene of the crime...
GILES
Um, yes. Yes of course. How
can I help you?
He motions for them to sit down at the table but they both decline.
BERNSTEIN
I know this must be hard for
you but there has been some
new evidence?
ROBINSON
Our forensics lab was able to
identify that knife that killed
Miss Barlow. An incredibly
unique weapon.
GILES
Yes?
ROBINSON
We've been able to track it
down to a shipment that was
sent to this store, the uh, the
Magic Box...
GILES
Really?
Bernstein leans forward and glares at Giles.
BERNSTEIN
Before we even think of asking
how it could have got into the
hands of the killer I'd like to
know what exactly you're doing
ordering weapons?
Giles looks a little nervous.
EXT. GRAVEYARD - LATE DAY
The vampire is still holding onto Pike's leg, trying to pull him back. With all of his strength, Pike pulls forward bringing the vamp with him but not quite into the sunlight.
PIKE
(urgently to Dawn)
Get away from here! Now!
The vamp gets to his feet and jumps onto his back on holds tight. Pike tries to force it off by ramming backwards into the tree but can't. The vamp gets ready to bite into Pike's neck. He closes his eyes.
Suddenly Pike falls forward with the weight being taken off his back. Dawn throws the vamp into the tree as if it's just a doll then pulls out a stake and plunges it through its heart. The vamp turns to dust.
Dawn turns to Pike and holds her hand out to help him up. He just looks at her.
DAWN
(sheepishly)
I kinda missed out a couple
of other things that've happened...
EXT. MOUNTAINOUS ROAD - LATE DAY
Xander has a map spread out across the roof of his car trying to work out where they are.
XANDER
So where exactly are we?
(looks around)
I see mountains.
(looks at map, mock cheerful)
Oh look. Mountains. Loads of
them.
Spike quickly points an area out.
SPIKE
There. We passed that viewing
point about fifteen minutes
ago so I'd say we're about here.
BUFFY
I'm impressed. But where could
they have taken Willow?
They all study it again. Tara notices something.
TARA
There's a cottage there... but
it's a public attraction. They
wouldn't take her...
XANDER
(interrupting)
I know that place! It's famous
for some old hermit or something.
We went on a field trip there
years ago... it's been closed down
for about six years.
SPIKE
(smiles)
I think we've got 'em.
Xander gathers the map together while the others get into the car. Xander follows them and they drive off.
INT. MAGIC BOX - TRAINING ROOM - DAY
The two detectives are impressed with the room.
BERNSTEIN
Very nice. Don't tell me this
place is a gym as well.
GILES
Er, ah... no. This is strictly
for personal use.
Robinson notices two axes on the wall.
ROBINSON
And these? Are they for
personal use?
Giles suddenly panics but quickly relaxes before he speaks.
GILES
No, no. You see, back at the, uh,
crime scene I told the detective
that Miss Barlow and I worked
for the same company. She dealt
in antique weapons... and some
reproductions...
Bernstein begins writing notes. Giles waits for him to finish.
BERNSTEIN
Continue...
GILES
Her business in England was
linked to ours... that is, she
had artefacts for her American
clients sent to my store so I
could deliver them. Worked
out cheaper, you see.
ROBINSON
And you have receipts for
all of them?
GILES
The branch in England deals
with all of that.
BERNSTEIN
And this company Miss Barlow
worked for... do you have a
number we could call?
GILES
Of-of course.
Giles checks himself over for a pen and paper. Bernstein hands him his. Giles writes it down and hands it back.
GILES
There. They should corroborate
my story.
ROBINSON
Thank you, Mr Giles. That
should be all for now.
The detectives and Giles walk back into the main part of the shop.
INT. MAGIC BOX - MAIN - AFTERNOON
Bernstein puts his pad away and the two walk to the door. Robinson turns and looks at Giles.
ROBINSON
Thanks for your help.
GILES
(false smile)
My pleasure.
The two detectives leave. Giles flops into a chair, utterly exhausted.
ANYA
It wasn't a pleasant experience,
I take it?
GILES
You could say that.
ANYA
But Lydia didn't work for any
weapons company in England...
how're you gonna get out of
that?
GILES
The Watchers Council will
continue the façade. It's the
least they can do after the
mess they've caused.
He opens a book in front of him.
GILES
And now the research.
ANYA
(downbeat)
I'd kinda hoped you'd forgotten.
She pulls a book from the pile and starts reading.
EXT. COTTAGE IN THE MOUNTAINS - AFTERNOON
Xander's car pulls up at the cottage and all four of the Scoobies jump out. Buffy goes straight to the door with her business face on. With a powerful kick she knocks the door from its hinges.
INT. COTTAGE - MAIN ROOM - AFTERNOON
As Buffy gets in, the last of the witches is about to perform the spell on Willow. Everyone turns to look at the four new arrivals.
WILLOW
Buffy! Tara!
BUFFY
(to Morigan)
Get your filthy hands off her...
XANDER
...you damn dirty warlock!
Buffy jumps at Morigan and pushes him away before the spell can be completed. For the second time the spell is cancelled.
ODESSA
No! You ruined it!
BUFFY
I'll do more than that!
Buffy starts punching and kicking Morigan like there's no tomorrow.
Spike launches into Odessa and Alandra. He pushes their faces into the wall.
Xander starts to fist fight with one of the younger warlocks.
Tara runs to Willow and tries to untie her.
WILLOW
I didn't think you'd find me...
TARA
I had to...
Tara tries to cast a spell on Willows bindings but it doesn't work
TARA
The magic's too strong.
WILLOW
Forget it. It's not important.
Willow moves forward and kisses Tara full on the lips.
WILLOW
(C'tnd)
But that is...
Tara wraps her arms around Willow.
SPIKE (O.S.)
Let's bail!
Spike is suddenly thrown across the room by magic. He lands between Willow and Tara, knocking them both down.
ANGLE: Morigan looks pretty pissed off as he raises his hand and creates a force field that blocks all of Buffy's blows.
MORIGAN
Enough!
BUFFY
No. Not even near enough!
XANDER
Buffy! Let's go!
Buffy glares at Morigan then joins the others in the run to the door. Just before they get to it, it disappears and turns into a brick wall. They spin around to see all of the witches and warlocks grouped together.
MORIGAN
I said... enough.
CLOSE UP on the Scoobies. They realise that they're in deep trouble now.
ACT FOUR
INT. COTTAGE - CELLAR - NIGHT
The Scoobies are all chained up having been well and truly beaten in the fight.
XANDER
At least they had the decency
to heal us after they'd finished...
SPIKE
How long have we been here
already?
XANDER
I'd say five hours. And no one's
coming. They're gonna starve
us to death.
WILLOW
At least they haven't cast the
spell on me yet. Thanks guys.
XANDER
Least we could do.
WILLOW
It's just a shame I can't get
out to make the most of still
having powers before they do.
She smiles weakly. They hear the door opening upstairs and see Odessa floating down the stairs to meet them. She lowers onto the floor once she's there.
ODESSA
We're almost ready. We've wasted
a lot of time today but we will
complete the spell.
WILLOW
And then?
ODESSA
Your friends here will be dealt
with accordingly.
WILLOW
No... please. Just let them
go! Do what you want to
me but...
Odessa holds out her hand. Willow's head is thrust backwards and she's knocked unconscious on the wall.
TARA
No!!!
XANDER
Bitch!
TARA
You can't do this! It's not right!
ODESSA
What we do is what is best
for the majority of magic
practitioners. If we have to
make a few sacrifices to do
that, so be it.
SPIKE
How very utilitarian.
Tara shakes her head in disgust. Odessa looks at her questioningly.
TARA
You're disgusting. You're not
followers of light magic. You're
just as evil as the people who
persecuted witches in the
sixteenth and seventeenth centuries!
ODESSA
That's not...
Odessa stops and looks up the stairs as if she senses something. There's suddenly a loud crashing sound. She says no more to the Scoobies and darts up towards the main part of the house.
INT. COTTAGE - MAIN ROOM - NIGHT
Odessa runs upstairs to see the mages trying to deal with Dawn. She is jumping and somersaulting all over the place, avoiding magic blasts and kicking anyone who gets in her way.
Dawn is suddenly knocked down by a blast. She looks up, extremely pissed off and with her eyes glowing blue. She begins to channel the primal powers again.
DAWN
Gesh-toog me-en-dan.
sha me-en-dan. Me-en-den.
Oo-khush-ta me-ool-lee-a
ba-ab-tum-mu-do-en.
The warlocks and witches combine their powers in an attempt to stop Dawn but before they can they are all knock apart. Two of them run towards her but get lightening bolts through them before they can get close.
CLOSE UP on Dawn as she glows and fires energy at all of the Registry people.
Finally Dawn comes down and looks at Odessa who is the only remaining one. She seems to look through Dawn, sensing what's inside her.
ODESSA
There's conflict within you,
child. The light and the dark
are struggling for control but
neither can...
Dawn thrusts a knife through Odessa before she can react.
DAWN
There is no conflict.
Odessa slumps to the floor dead. Dawn looks at her and suddenly feels faint. She falls to her knees.
INT. BUFFY'S HOUSE - DAWN'S ROOM - FLASHBACK - DAY
Dawn is lying on her bed while Willow floats a pencil back in her weak magic days (about season 3-ish). She's in awe.
DAWN
That is so cool!
WILLOW
Watch this...
Willow closes her eyes and the pencil begins to draw something on a piece of paper. Willow opens her eyes and looks at it. It's a sketch of Dawn.
DAWN
(blushing)
Aw... it's amazing.
WILLOW
And actually better than I
could do if I tried actually
drawing it.
Dawn hugs Willow.
DAWN
Magic is so cool! You've gotta
teach me some stuff!
INT. COTTAGE - MAIN ROOM - NIGHT
Dawn has a nostalgic smile on her face.
WILLOW (V.O.)
Well, maybe. If you're good.
The smile fades to the emotionless Slayer Dawn again. She rubs her forehead.
DAWN
Gotta stop doing that...
Pike runs in. He sees all of the bodies scattered around the room and Dawn kneeling in front of Odessa.
PIKE
Oh my God.
Dawn slowly turns to look at him.
DAWN
(mock fear)
Something bad's happened.
INT. COTTAGE - CELLAR
The sound of the fighting has stopped. There's only silence.
TARA
It's over.
BUFFY
No. Wait. I can hear voices.
The door opens and they all look up expectantly. Pike comes down from the door first. He gets halfway down the stairs.
BUFFY
(shocked)
Pike!
PIKE
Buffy... but I thought...
Dawn comes down behind Pike. Her turns to look at her.
PIKE
What the hell's going on?
XANDER
Dawn!
BUFFY
Pike! Get outta here!
Dawn throws Pike down the stairs. He lands on the stone floor and is a little dazed when he turns to see Dawn walking down behind him.
PIKE
You-you lied.
DAWN
Yeah, I'm good at that.
(looks over the Scoobies)
And now I've got you all in
one place. Lucky me.
They all look nervously in her direction...
TO BE CONTINUED...
