Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Summer Script Challenge
The Powers that Be Pro Temporae
Episode 6.06: Lost Along The Way
By SWS, December and Noggins
GILES (V.O.)
Previously on Buffy the Vampire Slayer
On Edge: The vampire meeting.
DARIUS
I have word that our almighty Grandmother
is rising again.
Waiting For The Sun: Angel studies the ring he found.
ANGEL
The Mark of Lillith.
…
Rumoured to be the oldest
living vampire on the planet.
A Place So Far Away: Giles telling Buffy the Council wants to see her.
Spike at Angel's hotel.
SPIKE
Don't mind if I stay for a while?
Quentin talking to Lillith. No words are heard but Travers' voice is heard in the next scene.
Buffy arriving in the old pub. She sees Lillith sitting on a bar stool.
TRAVERS (V.O.)
Go out and wreak a little havoc.
TEASER
INTERIOR: SMALL PUB - night
Buffy and Lillith stand facing each other. Lillith is at the bar, Buffy near the entrance. There are bodies everywhere. They are both silent. Lillith pulls out a small watch from down her top.
LILLITH
(looking at watch)
Come on, I expected to be dead by now.
Buffy pulls out an axe.
BUFFY
Fine then. Let's finish this thing.
ANGLE: BUFFY
Who is diving at Lillith, who suddenly disappears and...
ANGLE: LILLITH
...reappears on the other side of the room. She gestures, and...
ANGLE: BUFFY
...Buffy has to drop the axe in her hand 'cause the handle is on fire.
ANGLE: LILLITH
Lillith is standing there laughing her head off. Buffy comes running into the shot and tackles Lillith. They're rolling about on the floor kicking and punching and generally beating the ever-lovin' heep out of each other. They manage to get upright again and continue wailing on each other. Every so often a stray fist or kick will splinter a chair, the floor, a section of wall, you get the picture.
Buffy throws a punch but Lillith intercepts it and sends her flying across the room. She hits the wall with a thud. She jumps to her feet and attacks again. Buffy is taken aback by Lillith's strength but doesn't lose her cool… or her ego.
BUFFY
You've got to be smart…
(punch to face)
…to have survived this long. Why are you…
(ducks kick at her head)
…tangling with me?
LILLITH
(avoids one of Buffy's punches)
Ask the Watchers.
BUFFY
(didn't see that coming!)
The Watchers?
Lillith translocates across the room behind Buffy who senses her and spins around, throwing another stake, which ends up in Lillith's arm. The old vampire laughs and reaches over to wrench it out when a knife goes through her hand pinning her to the wall. Lillith rips it out.
LILLITH
(with silver glowing fire in her eyes)
You're so lucky little Slayer…
If I wanted to I could rip your
throat out…
BUFFY
Then I guess you're obviously
not into wanting right now…
Lillith turns to attack but Buffy's there with her axe (handle slightly charred). With a great swing she decapitates Lillith. Her head falls onto the floor and her flesh turns to dust leaving only her bones - a bit like the Master. Buffy brings the axe down on them and they shatter.
BUFFY
(throwing axe over her shoulder)
One ancient vamp dead, and three days left in
Merrie Old England. I could get used to
these working vacations.
Buffy calmly walks out of the door.
INTERIOR: WATCHERS UNIVERSITY - LIBRARY - night
Willow is wandering the stacks in a bathrobe. In the dim light she selects a book and opens it up, paging through it.
DAWN (V.O.)
(Challengingly {did I just invent a word?})
What are you doing here?
WILLOW
(Shrieks, book goes flying in the air)
OH! Dawnie. I was-- I came looking for
you.
DAWN
Well, here I am.
WILLOW
(picking up book and smoothing its pages)
Why, yes you are. Here, that is. And up
way past your bedtime. Back to the dorm
right now, lil' missy.
ANGLE TO: DAWN
Willow turns, puts the book back on the shelf, and heads out of the library.
ANGLE TO: BEHIND DAWN
Dawn sighs, and reaches behind her head, sliding the big, hooked, serrated, and generally nasty looking knife she had in her hand back into its holster on her back. She adjusts her pajamas to hide it, then follows Willow out.
CREDITS
ACT ONE
INT WATCHERS COUNCIL ROOM -- DAY
Buffy is sitting in the chair at the foot of the table, but she's got her feet kicked up on the mahogany. There's some breakfast foods in front of everyone, obviously from the breakfast buffet set up in one corner of the room. Quentin Travers is very obviously trying to keep from saying something about it.
BUFFY
...so she did that translocation thingie
again, thanks again for giving me
the heads up about that, and I threw a
couple of stakes at her, just to keep her
occupied, then she came at me and
I just went all
(bad british accent)
Off with 'er 'ead!
QUENTIN
Well, then, that was quite well done.
BUFFY
(picking the raisins off a scone)
Yeah. Too bad it was so easy.
QUENTIN
(stands up, this interview is so over)
We thank you for your time and
assistance in this matter.
BUFFY
(Uh huh, you think YOU'RE in charge here?)
What I don't get is if she could incinerate
my axe so easily, why didn't she just
make me go boom?
QUENTIN
Yes, well-- I guess we'll never know.
BUFFY
(Staring him down, you can fairly hear the OK Corral theme)
That's funny, when I asked her the
same question, she told me to
talk to you.
QUENTIN
(Cool as a cucumber)
I assure you, Slayer, we have no idea.
BUFFY
(Like I believe YOU!)
Ok then.
EXTERIOR: WATCHER'S UNIVERSITY QUAD - day
Buffy wanders past the students and the martial arts class practicing on the grass.
TARA (V.O.)
BUFFY! Over here!
Buffy turns, and sees Tara and Dawn sitting on a blanket with a picnic basket. Tara is waving, Dawn is studying the martial arts class. Buffy heads on over.
BUFFY
Hey Tara, hey Dawnie,
what are you guys doing?
TARA
That refrectory is too dark and
gothic for me, I convinced Dawn
to join me in a picnic breakfast.
Have you eaten? We have orange
juice and scones and clotted cream!
BUFFY
Thanks, but I already ate. Besides,
in my line of work, 'clotted' does
not go with 'cream'. Where's
everyone else?
TARA
Willow is in the library, and I think
that Giles is lecturing again.
BUFFY
Can you do me a favor? When
you're done here, can you two
go back to our rooms and pack
your stuff?
TARA
Is something wrong? Is it Lillith?
BUFFY
No, Lillith's taken care of. Something
else though...
(beat)
it's just not feeling right...
TARA
(gathers up blanket)
All right. You done, Dawn?
DAWN
(Still watching class)
Yeah.
BUFFY
(looks over to the main building)
Look, I'm gonna find Giles. I'll
meet you inside.
DAWN
Sure.
Buffy heads off towards the entrance.
INTERIOR: WATCHERS UNIVERSITY - FOYER - day
GILES is talking to LYDIA, one of the bootlickers who have been kissing up to him for the past few days. They seem to be in the middle of a heated conversation.
GILES
Look Ms. Barlow, I'm flattered by
this but I can hardly say yes can I?
LYDIA
And why not exactly, Mr. Giles?
GILES
Well, for a start Sunnydale is
dangerous and I've got Buffy to
train… and a shop to run! I don't
exactly want to start showing
another Watcher the ropes… I
haven't got enough time!
LYDIA
I'd just be observing! You shouldn't
have to do anything.
GILES
(exasperated)
That's not the point!
Buffy comes from outside and joins them.
BUFFY
Hey. What's up?
LYDIA
I'm informing Mr. Giles that I've
been ordered by the Council to
return with you to Sunnydale.
GILES
Wha? Ord… ordered by the Council?
You didn't tell me that!
LYDIA
I thought it spoke for itself.
BUFFY
(protesting)
She's not is she?
GILES
(Agh! Too many women!!!)
I…
LYDIA
(ignoring Buffy)
It's not like you have any choice
in the matter. And neither do I.
Do you think I want to go over
to the States? You do me a
disservice by thinking…
BUFFY
(HEY!)
And what exactly is wrong with the
States?
LYDIA
(again, ignoring Buffy)
Mr. Giles… I'll be meeting you
at the gates in three hours. My
tickets for the plane are already
booked.
GILES
Nice of you to tell me…
Lydia walks off. Giles watches her go with frustration in his eyes while Buffy just looks pissed off.
BUFFY
(hopefully)
If we go now she won't realise.
Giles gives her an "if only" look.
INTERIOR: CAR - TRAVELLING - day
They're all being driven to the airport to return to America. Dawn is sitting silently looking out of the window. Lydia is at the front of the car and not involved in the conversation.
BUFFY
C'mon, Giles… it's gonna be
pretty expensive to change
our tickets so suddenly.
GILES
But London…
WILLOW
Yay London!
TARA
(excitedly)
We… we can stay in a hotel
in the centre and we'll be able
to go sightseeing and… and
have picnics in Hyde Park and
everything!
GILES
Do you realise how much it
costs for hotel rooms in London?
When I lived there I was quite
happy with a tiny flat not
unlike your average demon lair.
BUFFY
Aw, c'mon Giles, if this isn't a
Platinum card moment, I don't
know what is.
GILES
(sighs)
Well, you have a point…
(beat)
HOW did you know I have a
platinum card?
Buffy smiles.
EXTERIOR: AEROPLANE - SKY - day
The aeroplane the gang are in flies overhead.
INTERIOR: AIRPORT - day
Buffy, Willow, Tara and Dawn come out talking about everything. Giles and Lydia follow soon afterwards bickering with each other.
LYDIA
I still don't know why you
allowed them to spend so
much time there! If getting
back was so urgent…
GILES
After all that's been going on
I think they deserved some
time to relax!
LYDIA
I honestly don't believe you
have any control over your
Slayer.
Giles glares at her but bites his lip and says nothing. He walks on towards the girls.
LYDIA
I was only offering my own
opinion.
GILES
(under his breath)
Opinions are like arseholes,
my dear. Everyone's got one
but not everyone wants to
hear yours.
LYDIA
What was that?
GILES
Oh, nothing.
INTERIOR: AIRPORT - LAX CUSTOMS - day
Xander is standing at the exit doors holding a big sign that says, "SUMMERS, ROSENBERG, MACLAY, GILES" He's wearing a rather beat up chauffeur's cap.
WILLOW (V.O.)
XANDER!!!
Hugs all around! (except for the manly men, who share a hearty handshake).
XANDER
Giles, I've got a message for
you from Anya.
GILES
(nervously)
What happened?
XANDER
Two nights ago, a big group of
demons… not sure what they were…
broke in. The place is completely
trashed, and as a contractor, I can
tell you, it's not going to be cheap
to clean up.
Xander pulls out a Polaroid camera and takes a picture of Giles' shocked face.
XANDER
Before you kill me, I must tell
you that she's attempting to
develop her sense of humor…
GILES
The shop is okay?
XANDER
(nodding)
The shop is okay.
GILES
Oh, good. (beat) She's fired.
LYDIA
Yes, well, can we go now?
XANDER
Um, what's she doing here?
GILES
(sighs)
The Council have ordered her to
come back with us to observe
my training methods.
XANDER
Training methods? That's a joke,
right?
LYIDA
(whispers to Giles)
They don't have much faith
in you.
GILES
(ignoring Lydia)
Hopefully she'll only be here
for a few weeks then things
return to normal.
Time for some tension easing methinks! Willow notices Xander's hat.
WILLOW
Nice hat.
XANDER
Why thank you. Anya bought
it for me.
WILLOW
Do I want to know why?
XANDER
(smiles)
Nope.
WILLOW
All righty then. OOH! I bought you
a snowglobe in London! See?
You shake it and…
(demonstrates)
Ooh! Snowy Houses of Parliament!
XANDER
(smiles)
Cool! The car's this way!
INTERIOR: XANDER'S CAR - TRAVELLING - day
They're in quite a big car since it's got to fit everyone in. I'm guessing Xander rented it since I don't think a people carrier is really his style!
They are discussing the events that have taken place in Wales and England.
TARA
…And then we tried to understand
what all the locals were saying but
we had no idea!
WILLOW
Yeah, and all those sheep…
XANDER
(while driving)
And you finished off that Lillith
chick?
BUFFY
Yeah… a little too easily… which
isn't necessarily a bad thing…
XANDER
And she stayed dusty? Not like
the mas… Dracula… Jeez! I wish
I'd stop doing that!
BUFFY
Nope, she's finished off. Turned
to bones like the Master then
*smash* and she's gone.
Willow looks over to Dawn who's still silent.
WILLOW
Are you okay, Dawnie? You
haven't said much since we
left.
DAWN
(slowly turns around)
I'm just tired.
BUFFY
I know the feeling. We're getting
back home and I think I'll be
off to bed.
XANDER
So we're not Bronzin' it?
BUFFY
(smiles)
Well, maybe for an hour or so…
EXTERIOR: XANDER'S CAR - TRAVELLING - day
ANGLE ON the front of the car as it comes towards us. We quickly turn to see is go passed then focus on the back of it as it disappears into the distance.
INTERIOR: HYPERION HOTEL - LA - night
We are behind the counter watching CORDELIA sorting through some files. She's muttering to herself.
CORDELIA
And who's idea was it to file
them like this? Sure as hell
wasn't mine.
(mocking)
"We're going out Cordelia…"
"Find that files for us Cordelia…"
"It's not like you've got anything
better to do, Cordelia."
(Humphs)
Well, they might as well have
said that!
There is the sound of the door opening. Cordelia doesn't look up.
CORDELIA
If that's you Wesley, I haven't
found the damn thing!
There's no reply. We hear footsteps walking towards the counter. Cordelia stops going through the files.
CORDELIA
Wesley? Gunn? If that's you, Spike
I'll…
She looks up over the counter. We don't see who the other people are.
CORDELIA
Oh, sorry… h…
She's about to say more then she sees something and shrieks out!
ACT TWO
INTERIOR: MAGIC BOX - evening
The shop is empty except for Anya who is standing behind the counter looking quite pleased with herself. We hear the door opening and she turns around.
ANYA
Hi there how can I…
(See it's Giles)
Oh, it's you. I thought it was
people with money.
GILES
Pleased to see you too. How'd
Things…
ANYA
Everything's gone great. People
have come, bought goods, given
me money and it's gone in the
register. I've taken that money
to the bank, deposited it and
took out my pay to buy pretty
things… You'd be…
The door opens again. Lydia enters carrying her suitcase. There's the sound of a car driving off outside.
ANYA
What's she doing here?
GILES
She's been ordered by the Council
to come back with us and…
LYDIA
Observe his methods of training
the Slayer.
ANYA
(whispering to Giles)
Make her go away, Giles.
The telephone begins ringing in the back room.
GILES
Excuse me…
Giles disappears to answer it. Anya and Lydia stare at each other.
ANYA
(nervous laugh)
The phone… who'd have guessed?
LYDIA
Quite.
Awkward silence.
ANYA
So uh, how's England? I haven't
been there in a while…
(suddenly, nervously)
not that I've been there at all.
Stayed here in the good ol'
US of A all my twenty years… as
an American… and a human…
because I'm as human as they
come… You see…
LYDIA
You needn't worry. I have been
Informed of your past…
ANYA
My past? Yes! My past! As the
only daughter of a mail man
and a elementary school teacher.
Both completely human… and
American… heh.
Lydia just stares at her in disbelief.
CUT TO:
INTERIOR: MAGIC BOX - BACK ROOM - evening
Giles is on the phone. It seems to be urgent.
GILES
Yes, yes I understand. Cor…
Cordelia… calm down. Yes,
yes I understand.
(pause)
Now there's no need for language
like that. I'll get Buffy. Don't…
The phone suddenly goes dead. Giles looks up. Despite the drama of it he can't help but say:
GILES
Here we go again…
INTERIOR: BRONZE - late evening
Willow, Buffy and Tara are sitting around a table talking. Xander returns with drinks.
XANDER
Some tasty beverages for the
lovely ladies… courtesy of my
latest pay packet.
BUFFY
Xander… have I ever told you
that you're a gem?
XANDER
(smiles)
Probably but, you know, I can
never get enough of it.
He hands the drinks out and sits down.
XANDER
(C'tnd)
So… what did I miss?
Anya and Giles suddenly come running into the Bronze, pushing their way through the dancing mass until they get to the table.
GILES
Buffy!
BUFFY
Giles? What's wrong? I
thought you'd be tucked up
in bed with your cuppa and
reading book.
GILES
This is serious.
BUFFY
Last time you said something
like that we ended up on the
other side of the Atlantic!
GILES
Then you'll be glad to hear we're
Only going as far a Los Angeles.
BUFFY
(shocked)
LA? Is it Angel?
GILES
Very likely…
XANDER
Another road trip? Can I
come this time?
(takes out car keys)
I can drive!
BUFFY
What about Dawn? I don't want
her to miss any more school
than she already has.
WILLOW
(raises her hand)
She can stay with me and Tara.
Unless you need me…
Buffy turns to Giles.
BUFFY
How serious is it?
GILES
I'm not sure. Cordelia called me…
She seemed distressed and then
the phone went dead.
BUFFY
We go now!
Buffy gets up with Xander.
WILLOW
Take care.
TARA
(smiles weakly)
Bring back souvenirs.
Buffy returns the smile then leaves with the others. Willow absently strokes her forehead. Tara notices.
TARA
Are you okay, honey?
WILLOW
(nods)
Yeah… just the after effects of
that book-related vision. Yuck.
Tara puts her arm around Willow sympathetically.
WILLOW
(sighs)
Now I know how Cordelia feels.
EXTERIOR: HYPERION HOTEL - LA - night
Xander's car pulls up next to the hotel. Buffy is the first to jump out and runs into the hotel.
BUFFY
I hope we're not too late.
The others follow soon after.
INTERIOR: HYPERION HOTEL - LA - night
We focus on the door as it opens slowly as Xander, Buffy, Giles and Lydia walk in. Once they are all inside we pull back to see the state of the main foyer of the hotel
They see the mess. There are signs of a struggle. Buffy runs forward and starts calling out.
BUFFY
Angel!
She runs to the stairs, gets halfway, calls again then runs down again.
Xander and Giles head for the office, pull the doors open and see no one is in there. Lydia stands around looking confused. Buffy rejoins the others.
BUFFY
There's no one here… they're
gone. We've got to do something.
XANDER
What exactly can we do? We're
Clueless! Literally and figuratively.
BUFFY
No… there's got to be a sign.
We hear a door opening but none of the gang searching do.
VOICE (V.O.)
Oh bloody hell…
Xander, Buffy and Giles turn around first to see Spike standing in the doorway, slightly drunk but otherwise fine. He was obviously not involved in a fight.
XANDER
Spike?
SPIKE
(re: the mess)
Well, what happened here?
They are all clearly surprised that he's there.
BUFFY
What the hell are you doing
here?
SPIKE
Thought i could use a
vacation LA seemed like
a good place… You mean
you didn't know I was gone?
Show's how much attention
you lot pay!
Spike absently stands up a table that's been knocked over. He looks up and notices Lydia.
SPIKE
What's she doing here?
GILES
(sighs)
She's observing my teaching
methods.
SPIKE
Bloody Watcher's got you under
their thumb again?
GILES
No… they…
SPIKE
Calm down Rupert, mate. Only
having a laugh.
GILES
(ignoring his comments)
So, where is everyone
SPIKE
How the hell am I supposed to
know? I went out for the night
came back to this…
(indicates the mess)
Not a pretty sight.
XANDER
Out for the night? Getting
drunk and ogling girls?
SPIKE
Ogling demons actually… but
don't think you're any different.
(rambling)
call me a freak but i fancied
watching a three headed heklar
demon singing "Stuck in the Middle
with You".
XANDER
You're a freak.
SPIKE
Oh, how witty.
BUFFY
(interrupts before any fighting starts)
Enough talking, more looking!
Come on!
Xander, Buffy, and Giles start looking for clues. Spike and Lydia just stand around. Spike leans closer to her.
SPIKE
Bet you're pretty excited to
be working with me again, eh?
LYDIA
Well, it does appear that I'll
be able to further my research.
SPIKE
(smiling)
Research? Is that what you lot
call it?
Lydia jumps a little as Spike slaps her ass. She looks shocked as he walks off smiling.
BUFFY
Spike, could you stop harassing the
Watcher and help here a little
SPIKE
Looks to me like you've got all
that you've got the searching
down to a T without my help.
BUFFY
(glares at him)
Spike!
SPIKE
Okay, okay. So what are we looking
for exactly.
XANDER
Clues…
SPIKE
(sarcastically)
And that's not even in the slightest
bit vague, is it?
Spike ignores Xander's angry glances and joins Buffy who is searching behind the desk.
SPIKE
So you didn't even notice I'd
gone? At times I'd swear you
didn't care about me.
BUFFY
Spike…
SPIKE
What? I'm only joking! I know
this is serious! Calm down a
little before you explode at
me.
BUFFY
(shakes her head)
No… it's not that.
Spike turns to face her. By this point they are kneeling down behind the desk and no one can see them.
BUFFY
(C'tnd)
You're running away…
SPIKE
(defensively)
It was not running away!
Buffy looks at him again and he stops to let her continue.
BUFFY
It didn't have anything to do with
me and Pike did it?
SPIKE
("Yeah right!")
That ponce? Give me a little more
credit, luv.
BUFFY
I'm serious…
SPIKE
(slightly more defensive)
So am I!
XANDER (O.S.)
Hey! Look at this!
Xander's exclamation seems to ease the tension as both Spike and Buffy stand up.
BUFFY
(jumping over the desk)
What is it?
CLOSE UP: on a piece of ripped tweed on a lose nail. Xander looks up at everyone.
XANDER
Watchers...those bastards
(quickly glances at Giles)
No offence Giles ...
GILES
(A little offended)
None taken.
LYDIA
(More offended)
You really should exercise a
little more control Mr. Giles.
BUFFY
What would Watcher's want with
Angel and the others?
SPIKE
Apart from Angel being a vampire
who's made them look incompetent
more times than I can remember?
XANDER
He's got a point.
BUFFY
But why now? Just after we've
got back from seeing them in
England?
XANDER
You sense a disturbance in the
Force?
BUFFY
Yeah, something like that.
(turns to Lydia)
What do you know?
Lydia begins to back away a little.
LYDIA
I… Nothing… This has nothing
to do with the department I
was with… I assure you.
BUFFY
How about repeating that and
next time try sounding a little
more sincere.
LYDIA
Miss Summers, my presence
here has nothing whatsoever
to do with these events.
While they are talking, Spike is looking at the ripped piece of cloth, which has been pulled off. He sniffs it a little then looks at the nail.
SPIKE
People! I think I can find them!
Buffy spins around.
BUFFY
What?
SPIKE
Looks like whoever got himself
caught on this cut himself pretty
bad. There's blood on this.
GILES
You think you can follow it?
SPIKE
Bit out of practice. Last time I
was doing that I was hunting
not trying to find my bloody
nemesis.
BUFFY
I thought I was your nemesis.
SPIKE
(smiling, mocking)
Look who's on an ego trip…
BUFFY
Forget it! Spike, can you do
this?
SPIKE
I'll give it a shot.
BUFFY
Then let's go!
CUT TO:
INTERIOR: ABANDONED OFFICE - LA - night
We're in the dark until a light is switched on. We see Wesley, Cordelia, Gunn and Fred all tied up in a small room. They are all showing signs of having been in a fight. All of them are quiet except for Cordelia.
CORDELIA
Hey! You better get us out of
here quick or I swear you're
gonna…
WESLEY
Cordelia, please… it's not the
time.
GUNN
(sarcastically)
Oh no, let her carry on. I'm
Sure she'll stop when she
Finds out they've left us here
*to die!*
His last two words are spoken louder.
FRED
(rambling)
This really isn't the time. No…
No… it really isn't. It's all wrong.
GUNN
You said it girl.
Two WATCHERS (Mick and Keith) walk in. One of them clearly has arm bandaged up. Wesley is the first to notice them. He motions to the others. Cordelia looks up with fire in her eyes.
CORDELIA
Hey!
(she's ignored)
You! What the hell do you think
your doing?
MICK
(to his partner)
Maybe we should gag her. She's
Been yelling since we picked them
up I think my bloody eardrums are
going to break.
KEITH
Give the bird her due, she's
got a voice on her.
MICK
That's as may be but she's there's
only so much I can take.
CORDELIA
Then why don't you just let us
go then you'll never have to hear
me again!
The Watchers smile.
MICK
Oh, we plan on setting you
free eventually. You just need
to sit tight and enjoy it.
CORDELIA
(still yelling)
Then why the hell did you bring
us here? Because that's just
plain stupid! Just let us go and
we won't do anything!
WESLEY
Why don't you just kill us? I know
you're not beyond doing that.
KEITH
Because you're only here for the
preparation. You're not important.
We've got a surprise planned for
the Slayer and we don't want you
ruining it.
CORDELIA
Surprise? What surprise? You
can't kill Buffy! You need her!
Plus we've only just got her
back and it seems like a waste
to kill her again…
MICK
That's it I'm getting a bloody rag!
He begins to walk off but the other Watcher stops him.
KEITH
Don't bother. There's something
about a screaming woman I
really like.
GUNN
Pig!
MICK
You don't know the half of it!
He's much worse than this
most of the time.
The two Watchers begin to leave.
WESLEY
Where's Angel? What have you
done with him?
KEITH
Oh, the vampire has been taken
care of. No need to fret over that.
He's nice and comfortable.
We close in on the shocked faces of the tied up gang.
INTERIOR: BASEMENT CAR PARK - LA - night
We see a car park much like the one at Wolfram and Hart but it's in a mess since the office has been abandoned. There's a van in the middle where cars would normally go through.
INTERIOR: VAN - BACK - night
We begin with a close up of Angel. He is shivering in pain. We pull back slowly to see he has no top on and the inside of the van is lined with crosses. He keeps jerking to move away from them but they're all around.
ACT THREE
INTERIOR: CAR - LA - TRAVELLING - night
The Scoobies and Lydia are in a car driven by Xander. Spike is in the front passenger seat with his head out of the window. He occasionally comes back in to sniff the piece of rag.
BUFFY
How's it going?
SPIKE
Well, considering there's not
much blood on this thing I've
got quite a good track on them.
I reckon I could find them…
(to Xander)
Left here.
(C'tnd)
pretty quickly.
BUFFY
Good.
ANGLE ON: GILES AND LYDIA
They are still bickering about the methods they're using.
LYDIA
I'm sure that if the Council see
fit to do this then there must
be a perfectly good reason…
GILES
You should know as well as I do
that the Council is more corrupt
than either of us would ever like
to admit.
LYDIA
I think you're exaggerating more
than a little, Mr. Giles. The methods
we often use are those that will get
results not…
GILES
Results? Like stripping Buffy of her
powers and setting her against a
demon? Or blackmailing her into
performing endless tests in order to
be able to get information? That, my
dear Ms Barlow, is what I call corrupt.
ANGLE ON: SPIKE
He takes one more sniff of the rag.
SPIKE
Stop here!
Xander puts on the break and the car comes to a halt. Spike gets out of the car.
EXTERIOR: OLD OFFICE BLOCK - LA - night
Buffy follows Spike out.
SPIKE
This is the place.
BUFFY
You're sure?
SPIKE
(show's Buffy the material)
You wanna sniff just to make
sure?
BUFFY
Okay, okay. I'll take your word
on it.
(turns to the others)
We're going in quietly. Now come
on…
XANDER
Maybe we can catch them
mid-tea break. They'll have to
finish that off before they can
fight us.
GILES
Can we please get in before
Xander can bring up any more
cultural stereotypes?
LYDIA
(protesting)
I refuse to go in and help you
fight the people that I work
with… it's just ridiculous!
BUFFY
Then you can watch.
There's no more words. Buffy walks up to the entrance. It's been boarded up to prevent people breaking in.
Buffy punches through the wooden boarding and the glass before unlocking the door from the inside. She walks straight in.
INTERIOR: OLD OFFICE BLOCK - FOYER - night
Buffy and the others enter to see five Watchers running at them.
XANDER
Looks like smashing open the
door doesn't count as quiet.
Buffy runs into the first punch with a fluid motion. She knocks the Watcher back into the wall quickly and turns around.
One of the Watchers is punching Spike who is defending himself. He takes a swing but his chip activates. He falls back to the ground and the Watcher dives on top of him and begins to punch.
Xander throws another Watcher over his shoulder. He hits the ground hard. He hits him in the face to knock him out.
XANDER
That felt good…
Giles is struggling with another one who is on his back, putting him into a strangle hold. Giles tries to break free but can't. Suddenly the Watcher loses his grip and falls to the floor. Giles turns to see Lydia standing there.
LYDIA
I'd like to inform you that I'm
not doing that for you again.
Giles glares at her before finally relenting and giving her a "thank you" look. He then joins the fight again.
Spike is still being overwhelmed since he can't fight back. The Watcher is yanked from on top of him by Buffy who throws his attacker to the ground.
SPIKE
Thanks, luv. Just remind me
next time you decide to get
into a fight with humans!
Buffy helps him to his feet. The Watcher on the floor begins to get up. She kicks him in the face and he falls down again.
The final Watcher, who has avoided fighting so far begins to run. Giles and Xander run after him before bringing him to the ground. Before he can do anything Buffy is standing above him.
BUFFY
Where are our friends?
FIRST WATCHER
I… I…
Buffy kneels down and grabs his face.
BUFFY
You people have messed me
around more than enough in the
last few weeks so I'm not in the
mood to force the information
out of you unless I really have to…
FIRST WATCHER
Th… they're on the fifth floor.
A small office o… on the left.
BUFFY
Thank you.
Buffy knocks him out. She gets to her feet.
BUFFY
Shall we try quietly this time?
XANDER
(smiles)
We could…
INTERIOR: ABANDONED OFFICE - LA - night
Cordelia, Gunn, Wesley and Fred are still tied up. Wesley looks up.
WESLEY
Sshh… I can hear someone
outside.
CORDELIA
Maybe they really are gonna
put us out of our misery.
The door is kicked down. Buffy is standing in the space where it originally was.
CORDELIA
Buffy!
BUFFY
You were expecting someone
else?
CORDELIA
Actually, yeah. We thought
you were Watchers trying to
kill us.
Buffy rips off the ropes that are binding the others. They get to their feet.
BUFFY
Where's Angel?
WESLEY
We got the impression they
were holding him downstairs
somewhere… away from us.
Buffy runs off quickly before anyone can say a word to her.
FRED
She looks pretty sprightly for
a dead person.
CORDELIA
(to Giles)
You have a dangerous job, you
know that. Your bosses are
psychos!
GILES
(to Lydia)
See? I'm not the only one who
realises it.
WESLEY
(re: Lydia)
What's she doing here?
Giles just gives an angry, "I've had enough of being asked that" look at Wesley.
INTERIOR: BASEMENT CAR PARK - LA - night
Buffy gets to the car park. Several Watchers are looking over the van when she gets there. She dives into action, punching and kicking in all directions.
One of them tries to get away but Buffy somersaults over the top of the van and lands in front of him. She pushes his head into the side of the van.
Once all of the Watcher's are out of the way Buffy rips the back door off the van. She is pounced on and is knocked back. It's Angel! He's just about to punch her when he realises who it is.
ANGEL
Buffy!
Without even thinking about it he kisses her and she quickly joins in. They both stop suddenly. They're fighting temptation for the whole of this conversation.
ANGEL
Sorry.
BUFFY
No… I'm sorry. Really.
ANGEL
We shouldn't…
BUFFY
Even though you thought I
was dead…
ANGEL
Uh, yeah… but you're back.
BUFFY
That I am.
ANGEL
(sincerely)
I thought I'd last you. I'm not
sure how I got through those
months.
BUFFY
You said. After you brought
me back.
ANGEL
But you weren't really your old
self then. You are now.
BUFFY
(smiles)
True.
They kiss again. There's a cough and they stop. The others are standing around them.
ANGEL
Hi.
BUFFY
Uh, yeah…
They slowly stand up again, albeit a little uncomfortably and full of embarrassment.
XANDER
You guys have as much control
over your feelings as my grandfather
has over his bowels!
CORDELIA
We can't leave you two alone
for a few seconds can we?
(whispers to Buffy)
Make him evil again and I won't
be responsible for my actions…
Angel shrugs. He notices Lydia.
ANGEL
What's she doing here?
ANGLE ON: GILES
He notices one of the beaten up Watchers is stirring. He kneels over him.
GILES
You. What's going on here?
SECOND WATCHER
I won't say anything.
GILES
Yes, yes. We've had that already
today. Change the record.
SECOND WATCHER
You won't get a word out of me.
By the time you know what's
going on it'll be too late. We
already have people on their way
to the prison.
GILES
Prison?
Buffy overhears.
BUFFY
Faith!
INTERIOR: LA PRISON - ENTRANCE - night
Two men in suits walk to a desk. They show a woman there their ID cards and she lets them through. We finally get a clear shot of their faces - it's Mick and Keith!
They walk through several metal detectors. We notice that every time they do Mick is pressing a button on a device on his hand. It seems to render it useless.
They are allowed through the first set of bars by a security guard who leads them towards Faith's cell. They are talking to each other but we miss the first part of the conversation.
KEITH
(C'tnd, whispering)
Are you sure about that? She
would still be strong…
MICK
Don't worry. The medication
they have her on is enough to
make her as docile as a kitten.
Holding her down won't be
difficult.
(notices the cell)
Ah, here we are.
EXTERIOR: CAR - TRAVELLING - night
The car containing the Scoobies and the LA gang is moving as fast as it can through the streets.
INTERIOR: LA PRISON - night
The Security Guard unlocks the cell.
SECURITY GUARD
Faith… you've got some visitors.
(to the Watchers)
She may not say much.
MICK
(smiles)
She doesn't need to.
ANGLE ON: FAITH
She looks up slowly and sees the two Watchers.
ANGLE ON: MICK AND KEITH
They smiles falsely as they walk into the cell.
ACT FOUR
INTERIOR: LA PRISON - ENTRANCE - night
Buffy and the others run through the doors. They dart passed the main desk.
RECEPTIONIST
(presses an alarm)
Security!
A battalion of Security Guards come running from all directions. Wesley, Cordelia and Fred are grabbed first. The others get a little further before they too are overwhelmed.
Buffy and Spike are the only ones who get through. Spike turns to watch them all being held back.
BUFFY
Hurry up!
INTERIOR: LA PRISON - FAITH'S CELL - night
The Security Guard with Mick and Keith has left to deal with the emergency. The two are now alone. Mick is holding Faith back and as much as she tries to struggle the drugs she is on have made her too weak.
Keith takes out a syringe and fills it with a clear liquid.
INTERIOR: LA PRISON - CORRIDOR - night
Buffy kicks down the cell door leading to the main holding cells. Another alarm goes off. She and Spike run towards Faith's cell. Spike manages to run faster than Buffy.
INTERIOR: LA PRISON - FAITH'S CELL - night
Keith notices Buffy and Spike running towards them.
KEITH
Oh… crap!
MICK
Hurry up! Just pump that stuff
into her!
The door to the cell is pulled open and Spike gets in first but is thrown back into the door by Keith. It slams shut.
Buffy tries to pull it open but there are no handholds.
BUFFY
(from outside the cell)
Spike!
Spike attempts to get it open too but can't. He looks at Buffy in horror as Keith grabs him and punches him to the ground.
KEITH
Spike, eh? You don't happen
to be the Spike who…
(pulls out a stake)
… this here stake would kill?
SPIKE
Would you believe it? I'm not.
Keith holds the stake above his head and takes aim.
INTERIOR: LA PRISON - ENTRANCE - night
The rest of the gang are being held back by the Security Guards. Giles is protesting.
GILES
Look - we're here to stop some
men murdering one of the inmates
here!
SECURITY GUARD
Who on earth would be dumb
enough to try and commit
murder in a prison?
GILES
I can think of a few.
Angel is struggling with a particularly well built security guard. He seems to be getting angrier and his about to vamp out.
XANDER
(quietly)
Don't… it'll only make things worse.
ANGEL
How the hell do you know?
XANDER
Buffy can do this!
ANGLE ON LYDIA
She looks slightly nervous as all of this is going on but it's not just to do with them being held back from saving Faith - she knows something.
INTERIOR: LA PRISON - OUTSIDE FAITH'S CELL - night
We can see through the Plexiglas that Spike is struggling with Keith to stop himself from being staked.
Buffy watches in horror, wanting to get in. The security guards who tried to chase them finally catch up and grab Buffy.
BUFFY
You've got to let me in there!
They'll kill them both!
SECURITY GUARD
And make things even worse
than you've already made them?
You've gotta be kidding!
BUFFY
Please…
INTERIOR: LA PRISON - FAITH'S CELL - night
Keith is struggling with Spike, trying desperately to stake him. Mick is holding Faith down but it's becoming increasingly difficult the more she struggles.
MICK
Hurry up you poof!
KEITH
I'm trying but he's strong!
SPIKE
Too bloody right I am!
Spike suddenly jerks forward and head butts Keith who falls off him. Spike grabs his head in pain. He jumps to his feet and punches Keith again. They both fall back in pain.
Spike takes a deep breath then really jumps into the fight, punches flying into Keith's face as he clearly tries to ignore the pain in his head. He picks Keith up and throws him into Mick. Faith kicks Mick in the head and he's knocked out.
Keith dives at Spike who jumps up and kicks him in the head. Keith falls down and Spike grabs his head in agony, screaming out loud as he collapses on the floor.
The door is opened by one of the security guards who realises the threat is gone. Buffy pushes passed him to get in.
SECOND SECURITY GUARD
Hey!
Buffy goes to Faith.
BUFFY
Faith! Faith? Are you okay?
FAITH
(nods)
Sure… just a little shaken…
You better check up on him…
(indicates Spike)
Buffy turns to see Spike struggling to his feet. She helps him up.
BUFFY
Spike… are you…
SPIKE
In agony? I think so… My
sodding head feels like there's
been about fifty knives driven
into it.
BUFFY
But you beat them! Even with
the chip in your head! You beat
them!
SPIKE
(looks at the two Watchers on the floor and smiles)
So I did.
(walks to Faith)
You okay?
FAITH
(nods)
Thanks to you, yeah. Who'd
have guessed it. A vampire
saving a Slayer's life…
SPIKE
I happen to be quite experienced
in that field of work, luv.
Faith gives Spike a kiss on the cheek.
FAITH
I appreciate it.
SPIKE
(smiles)
So you bloody well should. I
put myself through agony
for you and I've never even
met you.
FAITH
Oh, you have. But I was her
at the time.
(indicates Buffy)
SPIKE
Oh yeah.
(whispers)
So would you do those things
you said you would to me?
FAITH
(grins)
In an instant.
Cordelia, Angel, Giles, Lydia etc. finally arrive.
GILES
We managed to convince the
prison authorities to let us through.
CORDELIA
Looks like we weren't needed
anyway.
XANDER
(to Angel)
See? I told you she could do it.
Lydia walks in.
LYDIA
Is everything okay?
(notices Faith)
Ah, so you're still alive. Glad
to see it. We didn't want to
lose another Slayer.
FAITH
(angrily)
What's she doing here?
BUFFY
The Council sent her. She's
not here for you. She's Giles'
new stalker.
GILES
(sardonically)
Oh thank you very much.
LYDIA
(to Faith, ignoring Giles and Buffy)
Are you all right?
FAITH
(defensively)
Yeah…
LYDIA
You haven't been injured? They
didn't touch you with that
syringe?
FAITH
No…
LYDIA
(moves away)
Good.
GILES
More security should be here
soon. I suggest we leave while
we can. I dread to imagine the
questions they'll ask us if we're
still here.
BUFFY
(nods a little, contemplative)
Sure… I can't believe how close
we were. If we'd been any later
we…
Suddenly light envelops everything until all we can see is white.
INTERIOR: ORACLE'S ROOM - night
When the light dissipates Buffy, Spike, Xander, Giles, Angel, Gunn, Fred and Wesley are standing in the room where the Oracles used to be found. They all look around.
BUFFY
What's going on?
ANGEL
The Powers That Be want us…
BUFFY
The Powers That Be? This is
where you find them?
ANGEL
Well, yeah.
BUFFY
And do they usually look like
Cordelia.
They all turn to see Cordelia facing them all. Se is wearing white robes. She begins to float from the ground. She speaks in three different voices - one male, two female.
CORDELIA
(First Voice)
Silence!
WESLEY
Cordy? What's wrong?
CORDELIA
(Second Voice)
The body you see is your link
To us. We are using her to speak
to you.
(Third Voice)
Losing the Oracles means we must
adopt new means of talking with our
champions.
XANDER
(grinning)
I'm a champion?
CORDELIA
(First Voice)
Be quiet, boy!
(Second Voice)
The deeds done today have
changed the destiny of all
of you here.
(Third Voice)
An act of bravery has altered
the flow of time. Prophecies
have been fulfilled…
ANGLE ON ANGEL
He shifts a little. He knows what they're talking about. He smiles.
CORDELIA
(First Voice)
Step forward vampire. You
shall have your reward.
Angel is a little shocked but his eyes light up. As he steps forward Wesley, Gunn and Fred are taken aback. Buffy looks at Angel. She doesn't know what's going on. He smiles at her. Spike, Xander and Giles look a little nervous.
Angel walks towards Cordelia. He rubs his jacket down and stands prepared.
ANGLE ON CORDELIA
She gives him a "what are you doing?" look.
ANGLE ON ANGEL
Angel looks a little confused.
ANGLE ON SPIKE
He notices something and looks up.
ANGLE ON CORDELIA
We pull back from a close up as we see her gesturing towards Spike. He looks shocked.
CORDELIA
Come forward…
TITLE CARD: "TO BE CONTINUED"
Summer Script Challenge
The Powers that Be Pro Temporae
Episode 6.06: Lost Along The Way
By SWS, December and Noggins
GILES (V.O.)
Previously on Buffy the Vampire Slayer
On Edge: The vampire meeting.
DARIUS
I have word that our almighty Grandmother
is rising again.
Waiting For The Sun: Angel studies the ring he found.
ANGEL
The Mark of Lillith.
…
Rumoured to be the oldest
living vampire on the planet.
A Place So Far Away: Giles telling Buffy the Council wants to see her.
Spike at Angel's hotel.
SPIKE
Don't mind if I stay for a while?
Quentin talking to Lillith. No words are heard but Travers' voice is heard in the next scene.
Buffy arriving in the old pub. She sees Lillith sitting on a bar stool.
TRAVERS (V.O.)
Go out and wreak a little havoc.
TEASER
INTERIOR: SMALL PUB - night
Buffy and Lillith stand facing each other. Lillith is at the bar, Buffy near the entrance. There are bodies everywhere. They are both silent. Lillith pulls out a small watch from down her top.
LILLITH
(looking at watch)
Come on, I expected to be dead by now.
Buffy pulls out an axe.
BUFFY
Fine then. Let's finish this thing.
ANGLE: BUFFY
Who is diving at Lillith, who suddenly disappears and...
ANGLE: LILLITH
...reappears on the other side of the room. She gestures, and...
ANGLE: BUFFY
...Buffy has to drop the axe in her hand 'cause the handle is on fire.
ANGLE: LILLITH
Lillith is standing there laughing her head off. Buffy comes running into the shot and tackles Lillith. They're rolling about on the floor kicking and punching and generally beating the ever-lovin' heep out of each other. They manage to get upright again and continue wailing on each other. Every so often a stray fist or kick will splinter a chair, the floor, a section of wall, you get the picture.
Buffy throws a punch but Lillith intercepts it and sends her flying across the room. She hits the wall with a thud. She jumps to her feet and attacks again. Buffy is taken aback by Lillith's strength but doesn't lose her cool… or her ego.
BUFFY
You've got to be smart…
(punch to face)
…to have survived this long. Why are you…
(ducks kick at her head)
…tangling with me?
LILLITH
(avoids one of Buffy's punches)
Ask the Watchers.
BUFFY
(didn't see that coming!)
The Watchers?
Lillith translocates across the room behind Buffy who senses her and spins around, throwing another stake, which ends up in Lillith's arm. The old vampire laughs and reaches over to wrench it out when a knife goes through her hand pinning her to the wall. Lillith rips it out.
LILLITH
(with silver glowing fire in her eyes)
You're so lucky little Slayer…
If I wanted to I could rip your
throat out…
BUFFY
Then I guess you're obviously
not into wanting right now…
Lillith turns to attack but Buffy's there with her axe (handle slightly charred). With a great swing she decapitates Lillith. Her head falls onto the floor and her flesh turns to dust leaving only her bones - a bit like the Master. Buffy brings the axe down on them and they shatter.
BUFFY
(throwing axe over her shoulder)
One ancient vamp dead, and three days left in
Merrie Old England. I could get used to
these working vacations.
Buffy calmly walks out of the door.
INTERIOR: WATCHERS UNIVERSITY - LIBRARY - night
Willow is wandering the stacks in a bathrobe. In the dim light she selects a book and opens it up, paging through it.
DAWN (V.O.)
(Challengingly {did I just invent a word?})
What are you doing here?
WILLOW
(Shrieks, book goes flying in the air)
OH! Dawnie. I was-- I came looking for
you.
DAWN
Well, here I am.
WILLOW
(picking up book and smoothing its pages)
Why, yes you are. Here, that is. And up
way past your bedtime. Back to the dorm
right now, lil' missy.
ANGLE TO: DAWN
Willow turns, puts the book back on the shelf, and heads out of the library.
ANGLE TO: BEHIND DAWN
Dawn sighs, and reaches behind her head, sliding the big, hooked, serrated, and generally nasty looking knife she had in her hand back into its holster on her back. She adjusts her pajamas to hide it, then follows Willow out.
CREDITS
ACT ONE
INT WATCHERS COUNCIL ROOM -- DAY
Buffy is sitting in the chair at the foot of the table, but she's got her feet kicked up on the mahogany. There's some breakfast foods in front of everyone, obviously from the breakfast buffet set up in one corner of the room. Quentin Travers is very obviously trying to keep from saying something about it.
BUFFY
...so she did that translocation thingie
again, thanks again for giving me
the heads up about that, and I threw a
couple of stakes at her, just to keep her
occupied, then she came at me and
I just went all
(bad british accent)
Off with 'er 'ead!
QUENTIN
Well, then, that was quite well done.
BUFFY
(picking the raisins off a scone)
Yeah. Too bad it was so easy.
QUENTIN
(stands up, this interview is so over)
We thank you for your time and
assistance in this matter.
BUFFY
(Uh huh, you think YOU'RE in charge here?)
What I don't get is if she could incinerate
my axe so easily, why didn't she just
make me go boom?
QUENTIN
Yes, well-- I guess we'll never know.
BUFFY
(Staring him down, you can fairly hear the OK Corral theme)
That's funny, when I asked her the
same question, she told me to
talk to you.
QUENTIN
(Cool as a cucumber)
I assure you, Slayer, we have no idea.
BUFFY
(Like I believe YOU!)
Ok then.
EXTERIOR: WATCHER'S UNIVERSITY QUAD - day
Buffy wanders past the students and the martial arts class practicing on the grass.
TARA (V.O.)
BUFFY! Over here!
Buffy turns, and sees Tara and Dawn sitting on a blanket with a picnic basket. Tara is waving, Dawn is studying the martial arts class. Buffy heads on over.
BUFFY
Hey Tara, hey Dawnie,
what are you guys doing?
TARA
That refrectory is too dark and
gothic for me, I convinced Dawn
to join me in a picnic breakfast.
Have you eaten? We have orange
juice and scones and clotted cream!
BUFFY
Thanks, but I already ate. Besides,
in my line of work, 'clotted' does
not go with 'cream'. Where's
everyone else?
TARA
Willow is in the library, and I think
that Giles is lecturing again.
BUFFY
Can you do me a favor? When
you're done here, can you two
go back to our rooms and pack
your stuff?
TARA
Is something wrong? Is it Lillith?
BUFFY
No, Lillith's taken care of. Something
else though...
(beat)
it's just not feeling right...
TARA
(gathers up blanket)
All right. You done, Dawn?
DAWN
(Still watching class)
Yeah.
BUFFY
(looks over to the main building)
Look, I'm gonna find Giles. I'll
meet you inside.
DAWN
Sure.
Buffy heads off towards the entrance.
INTERIOR: WATCHERS UNIVERSITY - FOYER - day
GILES is talking to LYDIA, one of the bootlickers who have been kissing up to him for the past few days. They seem to be in the middle of a heated conversation.
GILES
Look Ms. Barlow, I'm flattered by
this but I can hardly say yes can I?
LYDIA
And why not exactly, Mr. Giles?
GILES
Well, for a start Sunnydale is
dangerous and I've got Buffy to
train… and a shop to run! I don't
exactly want to start showing
another Watcher the ropes… I
haven't got enough time!
LYDIA
I'd just be observing! You shouldn't
have to do anything.
GILES
(exasperated)
That's not the point!
Buffy comes from outside and joins them.
BUFFY
Hey. What's up?
LYDIA
I'm informing Mr. Giles that I've
been ordered by the Council to
return with you to Sunnydale.
GILES
Wha? Ord… ordered by the Council?
You didn't tell me that!
LYDIA
I thought it spoke for itself.
BUFFY
(protesting)
She's not is she?
GILES
(Agh! Too many women!!!)
I…
LYDIA
(ignoring Buffy)
It's not like you have any choice
in the matter. And neither do I.
Do you think I want to go over
to the States? You do me a
disservice by thinking…
BUFFY
(HEY!)
And what exactly is wrong with the
States?
LYDIA
(again, ignoring Buffy)
Mr. Giles… I'll be meeting you
at the gates in three hours. My
tickets for the plane are already
booked.
GILES
Nice of you to tell me…
Lydia walks off. Giles watches her go with frustration in his eyes while Buffy just looks pissed off.
BUFFY
(hopefully)
If we go now she won't realise.
Giles gives her an "if only" look.
INTERIOR: CAR - TRAVELLING - day
They're all being driven to the airport to return to America. Dawn is sitting silently looking out of the window. Lydia is at the front of the car and not involved in the conversation.
BUFFY
C'mon, Giles… it's gonna be
pretty expensive to change
our tickets so suddenly.
GILES
But London…
WILLOW
Yay London!
TARA
(excitedly)
We… we can stay in a hotel
in the centre and we'll be able
to go sightseeing and… and
have picnics in Hyde Park and
everything!
GILES
Do you realise how much it
costs for hotel rooms in London?
When I lived there I was quite
happy with a tiny flat not
unlike your average demon lair.
BUFFY
Aw, c'mon Giles, if this isn't a
Platinum card moment, I don't
know what is.
GILES
(sighs)
Well, you have a point…
(beat)
HOW did you know I have a
platinum card?
Buffy smiles.
EXTERIOR: AEROPLANE - SKY - day
The aeroplane the gang are in flies overhead.
INTERIOR: AIRPORT - day
Buffy, Willow, Tara and Dawn come out talking about everything. Giles and Lydia follow soon afterwards bickering with each other.
LYDIA
I still don't know why you
allowed them to spend so
much time there! If getting
back was so urgent…
GILES
After all that's been going on
I think they deserved some
time to relax!
LYDIA
I honestly don't believe you
have any control over your
Slayer.
Giles glares at her but bites his lip and says nothing. He walks on towards the girls.
LYDIA
I was only offering my own
opinion.
GILES
(under his breath)
Opinions are like arseholes,
my dear. Everyone's got one
but not everyone wants to
hear yours.
LYDIA
What was that?
GILES
Oh, nothing.
INTERIOR: AIRPORT - LAX CUSTOMS - day
Xander is standing at the exit doors holding a big sign that says, "SUMMERS, ROSENBERG, MACLAY, GILES" He's wearing a rather beat up chauffeur's cap.
WILLOW (V.O.)
XANDER!!!
Hugs all around! (except for the manly men, who share a hearty handshake).
XANDER
Giles, I've got a message for
you from Anya.
GILES
(nervously)
What happened?
XANDER
Two nights ago, a big group of
demons… not sure what they were…
broke in. The place is completely
trashed, and as a contractor, I can
tell you, it's not going to be cheap
to clean up.
Xander pulls out a Polaroid camera and takes a picture of Giles' shocked face.
XANDER
Before you kill me, I must tell
you that she's attempting to
develop her sense of humor…
GILES
The shop is okay?
XANDER
(nodding)
The shop is okay.
GILES
Oh, good. (beat) She's fired.
LYDIA
Yes, well, can we go now?
XANDER
Um, what's she doing here?
GILES
(sighs)
The Council have ordered her to
come back with us to observe
my training methods.
XANDER
Training methods? That's a joke,
right?
LYIDA
(whispers to Giles)
They don't have much faith
in you.
GILES
(ignoring Lydia)
Hopefully she'll only be here
for a few weeks then things
return to normal.
Time for some tension easing methinks! Willow notices Xander's hat.
WILLOW
Nice hat.
XANDER
Why thank you. Anya bought
it for me.
WILLOW
Do I want to know why?
XANDER
(smiles)
Nope.
WILLOW
All righty then. OOH! I bought you
a snowglobe in London! See?
You shake it and…
(demonstrates)
Ooh! Snowy Houses of Parliament!
XANDER
(smiles)
Cool! The car's this way!
INTERIOR: XANDER'S CAR - TRAVELLING - day
They're in quite a big car since it's got to fit everyone in. I'm guessing Xander rented it since I don't think a people carrier is really his style!
They are discussing the events that have taken place in Wales and England.
TARA
…And then we tried to understand
what all the locals were saying but
we had no idea!
WILLOW
Yeah, and all those sheep…
XANDER
(while driving)
And you finished off that Lillith
chick?
BUFFY
Yeah… a little too easily… which
isn't necessarily a bad thing…
XANDER
And she stayed dusty? Not like
the mas… Dracula… Jeez! I wish
I'd stop doing that!
BUFFY
Nope, she's finished off. Turned
to bones like the Master then
*smash* and she's gone.
Willow looks over to Dawn who's still silent.
WILLOW
Are you okay, Dawnie? You
haven't said much since we
left.
DAWN
(slowly turns around)
I'm just tired.
BUFFY
I know the feeling. We're getting
back home and I think I'll be
off to bed.
XANDER
So we're not Bronzin' it?
BUFFY
(smiles)
Well, maybe for an hour or so…
EXTERIOR: XANDER'S CAR - TRAVELLING - day
ANGLE ON the front of the car as it comes towards us. We quickly turn to see is go passed then focus on the back of it as it disappears into the distance.
INTERIOR: HYPERION HOTEL - LA - night
We are behind the counter watching CORDELIA sorting through some files. She's muttering to herself.
CORDELIA
And who's idea was it to file
them like this? Sure as hell
wasn't mine.
(mocking)
"We're going out Cordelia…"
"Find that files for us Cordelia…"
"It's not like you've got anything
better to do, Cordelia."
(Humphs)
Well, they might as well have
said that!
There is the sound of the door opening. Cordelia doesn't look up.
CORDELIA
If that's you Wesley, I haven't
found the damn thing!
There's no reply. We hear footsteps walking towards the counter. Cordelia stops going through the files.
CORDELIA
Wesley? Gunn? If that's you, Spike
I'll…
She looks up over the counter. We don't see who the other people are.
CORDELIA
Oh, sorry… h…
She's about to say more then she sees something and shrieks out!
ACT TWO
INTERIOR: MAGIC BOX - evening
The shop is empty except for Anya who is standing behind the counter looking quite pleased with herself. We hear the door opening and she turns around.
ANYA
Hi there how can I…
(See it's Giles)
Oh, it's you. I thought it was
people with money.
GILES
Pleased to see you too. How'd
Things…
ANYA
Everything's gone great. People
have come, bought goods, given
me money and it's gone in the
register. I've taken that money
to the bank, deposited it and
took out my pay to buy pretty
things… You'd be…
The door opens again. Lydia enters carrying her suitcase. There's the sound of a car driving off outside.
ANYA
What's she doing here?
GILES
She's been ordered by the Council
to come back with us and…
LYDIA
Observe his methods of training
the Slayer.
ANYA
(whispering to Giles)
Make her go away, Giles.
The telephone begins ringing in the back room.
GILES
Excuse me…
Giles disappears to answer it. Anya and Lydia stare at each other.
ANYA
(nervous laugh)
The phone… who'd have guessed?
LYDIA
Quite.
Awkward silence.
ANYA
So uh, how's England? I haven't
been there in a while…
(suddenly, nervously)
not that I've been there at all.
Stayed here in the good ol'
US of A all my twenty years… as
an American… and a human…
because I'm as human as they
come… You see…
LYDIA
You needn't worry. I have been
Informed of your past…
ANYA
My past? Yes! My past! As the
only daughter of a mail man
and a elementary school teacher.
Both completely human… and
American… heh.
Lydia just stares at her in disbelief.
CUT TO:
INTERIOR: MAGIC BOX - BACK ROOM - evening
Giles is on the phone. It seems to be urgent.
GILES
Yes, yes I understand. Cor…
Cordelia… calm down. Yes,
yes I understand.
(pause)
Now there's no need for language
like that. I'll get Buffy. Don't…
The phone suddenly goes dead. Giles looks up. Despite the drama of it he can't help but say:
GILES
Here we go again…
INTERIOR: BRONZE - late evening
Willow, Buffy and Tara are sitting around a table talking. Xander returns with drinks.
XANDER
Some tasty beverages for the
lovely ladies… courtesy of my
latest pay packet.
BUFFY
Xander… have I ever told you
that you're a gem?
XANDER
(smiles)
Probably but, you know, I can
never get enough of it.
He hands the drinks out and sits down.
XANDER
(C'tnd)
So… what did I miss?
Anya and Giles suddenly come running into the Bronze, pushing their way through the dancing mass until they get to the table.
GILES
Buffy!
BUFFY
Giles? What's wrong? I
thought you'd be tucked up
in bed with your cuppa and
reading book.
GILES
This is serious.
BUFFY
Last time you said something
like that we ended up on the
other side of the Atlantic!
GILES
Then you'll be glad to hear we're
Only going as far a Los Angeles.
BUFFY
(shocked)
LA? Is it Angel?
GILES
Very likely…
XANDER
Another road trip? Can I
come this time?
(takes out car keys)
I can drive!
BUFFY
What about Dawn? I don't want
her to miss any more school
than she already has.
WILLOW
(raises her hand)
She can stay with me and Tara.
Unless you need me…
Buffy turns to Giles.
BUFFY
How serious is it?
GILES
I'm not sure. Cordelia called me…
She seemed distressed and then
the phone went dead.
BUFFY
We go now!
Buffy gets up with Xander.
WILLOW
Take care.
TARA
(smiles weakly)
Bring back souvenirs.
Buffy returns the smile then leaves with the others. Willow absently strokes her forehead. Tara notices.
TARA
Are you okay, honey?
WILLOW
(nods)
Yeah… just the after effects of
that book-related vision. Yuck.
Tara puts her arm around Willow sympathetically.
WILLOW
(sighs)
Now I know how Cordelia feels.
EXTERIOR: HYPERION HOTEL - LA - night
Xander's car pulls up next to the hotel. Buffy is the first to jump out and runs into the hotel.
BUFFY
I hope we're not too late.
The others follow soon after.
INTERIOR: HYPERION HOTEL - LA - night
We focus on the door as it opens slowly as Xander, Buffy, Giles and Lydia walk in. Once they are all inside we pull back to see the state of the main foyer of the hotel
They see the mess. There are signs of a struggle. Buffy runs forward and starts calling out.
BUFFY
Angel!
She runs to the stairs, gets halfway, calls again then runs down again.
Xander and Giles head for the office, pull the doors open and see no one is in there. Lydia stands around looking confused. Buffy rejoins the others.
BUFFY
There's no one here… they're
gone. We've got to do something.
XANDER
What exactly can we do? We're
Clueless! Literally and figuratively.
BUFFY
No… there's got to be a sign.
We hear a door opening but none of the gang searching do.
VOICE (V.O.)
Oh bloody hell…
Xander, Buffy and Giles turn around first to see Spike standing in the doorway, slightly drunk but otherwise fine. He was obviously not involved in a fight.
XANDER
Spike?
SPIKE
(re: the mess)
Well, what happened here?
They are all clearly surprised that he's there.
BUFFY
What the hell are you doing
here?
SPIKE
Thought i could use a
vacation LA seemed like
a good place… You mean
you didn't know I was gone?
Show's how much attention
you lot pay!
Spike absently stands up a table that's been knocked over. He looks up and notices Lydia.
SPIKE
What's she doing here?
GILES
(sighs)
She's observing my teaching
methods.
SPIKE
Bloody Watcher's got you under
their thumb again?
GILES
No… they…
SPIKE
Calm down Rupert, mate. Only
having a laugh.
GILES
(ignoring his comments)
So, where is everyone
SPIKE
How the hell am I supposed to
know? I went out for the night
came back to this…
(indicates the mess)
Not a pretty sight.
XANDER
Out for the night? Getting
drunk and ogling girls?
SPIKE
Ogling demons actually… but
don't think you're any different.
(rambling)
call me a freak but i fancied
watching a three headed heklar
demon singing "Stuck in the Middle
with You".
XANDER
You're a freak.
SPIKE
Oh, how witty.
BUFFY
(interrupts before any fighting starts)
Enough talking, more looking!
Come on!
Xander, Buffy, and Giles start looking for clues. Spike and Lydia just stand around. Spike leans closer to her.
SPIKE
Bet you're pretty excited to
be working with me again, eh?
LYDIA
Well, it does appear that I'll
be able to further my research.
SPIKE
(smiling)
Research? Is that what you lot
call it?
Lydia jumps a little as Spike slaps her ass. She looks shocked as he walks off smiling.
BUFFY
Spike, could you stop harassing the
Watcher and help here a little
SPIKE
Looks to me like you've got all
that you've got the searching
down to a T without my help.
BUFFY
(glares at him)
Spike!
SPIKE
Okay, okay. So what are we looking
for exactly.
XANDER
Clues…
SPIKE
(sarcastically)
And that's not even in the slightest
bit vague, is it?
Spike ignores Xander's angry glances and joins Buffy who is searching behind the desk.
SPIKE
So you didn't even notice I'd
gone? At times I'd swear you
didn't care about me.
BUFFY
Spike…
SPIKE
What? I'm only joking! I know
this is serious! Calm down a
little before you explode at
me.
BUFFY
(shakes her head)
No… it's not that.
Spike turns to face her. By this point they are kneeling down behind the desk and no one can see them.
BUFFY
(C'tnd)
You're running away…
SPIKE
(defensively)
It was not running away!
Buffy looks at him again and he stops to let her continue.
BUFFY
It didn't have anything to do with
me and Pike did it?
SPIKE
("Yeah right!")
That ponce? Give me a little more
credit, luv.
BUFFY
I'm serious…
SPIKE
(slightly more defensive)
So am I!
XANDER (O.S.)
Hey! Look at this!
Xander's exclamation seems to ease the tension as both Spike and Buffy stand up.
BUFFY
(jumping over the desk)
What is it?
CLOSE UP: on a piece of ripped tweed on a lose nail. Xander looks up at everyone.
XANDER
Watchers...those bastards
(quickly glances at Giles)
No offence Giles ...
GILES
(A little offended)
None taken.
LYDIA
(More offended)
You really should exercise a
little more control Mr. Giles.
BUFFY
What would Watcher's want with
Angel and the others?
SPIKE
Apart from Angel being a vampire
who's made them look incompetent
more times than I can remember?
XANDER
He's got a point.
BUFFY
But why now? Just after we've
got back from seeing them in
England?
XANDER
You sense a disturbance in the
Force?
BUFFY
Yeah, something like that.
(turns to Lydia)
What do you know?
Lydia begins to back away a little.
LYDIA
I… Nothing… This has nothing
to do with the department I
was with… I assure you.
BUFFY
How about repeating that and
next time try sounding a little
more sincere.
LYDIA
Miss Summers, my presence
here has nothing whatsoever
to do with these events.
While they are talking, Spike is looking at the ripped piece of cloth, which has been pulled off. He sniffs it a little then looks at the nail.
SPIKE
People! I think I can find them!
Buffy spins around.
BUFFY
What?
SPIKE
Looks like whoever got himself
caught on this cut himself pretty
bad. There's blood on this.
GILES
You think you can follow it?
SPIKE
Bit out of practice. Last time I
was doing that I was hunting
not trying to find my bloody
nemesis.
BUFFY
I thought I was your nemesis.
SPIKE
(smiling, mocking)
Look who's on an ego trip…
BUFFY
Forget it! Spike, can you do
this?
SPIKE
I'll give it a shot.
BUFFY
Then let's go!
CUT TO:
INTERIOR: ABANDONED OFFICE - LA - night
We're in the dark until a light is switched on. We see Wesley, Cordelia, Gunn and Fred all tied up in a small room. They are all showing signs of having been in a fight. All of them are quiet except for Cordelia.
CORDELIA
Hey! You better get us out of
here quick or I swear you're
gonna…
WESLEY
Cordelia, please… it's not the
time.
GUNN
(sarcastically)
Oh no, let her carry on. I'm
Sure she'll stop when she
Finds out they've left us here
*to die!*
His last two words are spoken louder.
FRED
(rambling)
This really isn't the time. No…
No… it really isn't. It's all wrong.
GUNN
You said it girl.
Two WATCHERS (Mick and Keith) walk in. One of them clearly has arm bandaged up. Wesley is the first to notice them. He motions to the others. Cordelia looks up with fire in her eyes.
CORDELIA
Hey!
(she's ignored)
You! What the hell do you think
your doing?
MICK
(to his partner)
Maybe we should gag her. She's
Been yelling since we picked them
up I think my bloody eardrums are
going to break.
KEITH
Give the bird her due, she's
got a voice on her.
MICK
That's as may be but she's there's
only so much I can take.
CORDELIA
Then why don't you just let us
go then you'll never have to hear
me again!
The Watchers smile.
MICK
Oh, we plan on setting you
free eventually. You just need
to sit tight and enjoy it.
CORDELIA
(still yelling)
Then why the hell did you bring
us here? Because that's just
plain stupid! Just let us go and
we won't do anything!
WESLEY
Why don't you just kill us? I know
you're not beyond doing that.
KEITH
Because you're only here for the
preparation. You're not important.
We've got a surprise planned for
the Slayer and we don't want you
ruining it.
CORDELIA
Surprise? What surprise? You
can't kill Buffy! You need her!
Plus we've only just got her
back and it seems like a waste
to kill her again…
MICK
That's it I'm getting a bloody rag!
He begins to walk off but the other Watcher stops him.
KEITH
Don't bother. There's something
about a screaming woman I
really like.
GUNN
Pig!
MICK
You don't know the half of it!
He's much worse than this
most of the time.
The two Watchers begin to leave.
WESLEY
Where's Angel? What have you
done with him?
KEITH
Oh, the vampire has been taken
care of. No need to fret over that.
He's nice and comfortable.
We close in on the shocked faces of the tied up gang.
INTERIOR: BASEMENT CAR PARK - LA - night
We see a car park much like the one at Wolfram and Hart but it's in a mess since the office has been abandoned. There's a van in the middle where cars would normally go through.
INTERIOR: VAN - BACK - night
We begin with a close up of Angel. He is shivering in pain. We pull back slowly to see he has no top on and the inside of the van is lined with crosses. He keeps jerking to move away from them but they're all around.
ACT THREE
INTERIOR: CAR - LA - TRAVELLING - night
The Scoobies and Lydia are in a car driven by Xander. Spike is in the front passenger seat with his head out of the window. He occasionally comes back in to sniff the piece of rag.
BUFFY
How's it going?
SPIKE
Well, considering there's not
much blood on this thing I've
got quite a good track on them.
I reckon I could find them…
(to Xander)
Left here.
(C'tnd)
pretty quickly.
BUFFY
Good.
ANGLE ON: GILES AND LYDIA
They are still bickering about the methods they're using.
LYDIA
I'm sure that if the Council see
fit to do this then there must
be a perfectly good reason…
GILES
You should know as well as I do
that the Council is more corrupt
than either of us would ever like
to admit.
LYDIA
I think you're exaggerating more
than a little, Mr. Giles. The methods
we often use are those that will get
results not…
GILES
Results? Like stripping Buffy of her
powers and setting her against a
demon? Or blackmailing her into
performing endless tests in order to
be able to get information? That, my
dear Ms Barlow, is what I call corrupt.
ANGLE ON: SPIKE
He takes one more sniff of the rag.
SPIKE
Stop here!
Xander puts on the break and the car comes to a halt. Spike gets out of the car.
EXTERIOR: OLD OFFICE BLOCK - LA - night
Buffy follows Spike out.
SPIKE
This is the place.
BUFFY
You're sure?
SPIKE
(show's Buffy the material)
You wanna sniff just to make
sure?
BUFFY
Okay, okay. I'll take your word
on it.
(turns to the others)
We're going in quietly. Now come
on…
XANDER
Maybe we can catch them
mid-tea break. They'll have to
finish that off before they can
fight us.
GILES
Can we please get in before
Xander can bring up any more
cultural stereotypes?
LYDIA
(protesting)
I refuse to go in and help you
fight the people that I work
with… it's just ridiculous!
BUFFY
Then you can watch.
There's no more words. Buffy walks up to the entrance. It's been boarded up to prevent people breaking in.
Buffy punches through the wooden boarding and the glass before unlocking the door from the inside. She walks straight in.
INTERIOR: OLD OFFICE BLOCK - FOYER - night
Buffy and the others enter to see five Watchers running at them.
XANDER
Looks like smashing open the
door doesn't count as quiet.
Buffy runs into the first punch with a fluid motion. She knocks the Watcher back into the wall quickly and turns around.
One of the Watchers is punching Spike who is defending himself. He takes a swing but his chip activates. He falls back to the ground and the Watcher dives on top of him and begins to punch.
Xander throws another Watcher over his shoulder. He hits the ground hard. He hits him in the face to knock him out.
XANDER
That felt good…
Giles is struggling with another one who is on his back, putting him into a strangle hold. Giles tries to break free but can't. Suddenly the Watcher loses his grip and falls to the floor. Giles turns to see Lydia standing there.
LYDIA
I'd like to inform you that I'm
not doing that for you again.
Giles glares at her before finally relenting and giving her a "thank you" look. He then joins the fight again.
Spike is still being overwhelmed since he can't fight back. The Watcher is yanked from on top of him by Buffy who throws his attacker to the ground.
SPIKE
Thanks, luv. Just remind me
next time you decide to get
into a fight with humans!
Buffy helps him to his feet. The Watcher on the floor begins to get up. She kicks him in the face and he falls down again.
The final Watcher, who has avoided fighting so far begins to run. Giles and Xander run after him before bringing him to the ground. Before he can do anything Buffy is standing above him.
BUFFY
Where are our friends?
FIRST WATCHER
I… I…
Buffy kneels down and grabs his face.
BUFFY
You people have messed me
around more than enough in the
last few weeks so I'm not in the
mood to force the information
out of you unless I really have to…
FIRST WATCHER
Th… they're on the fifth floor.
A small office o… on the left.
BUFFY
Thank you.
Buffy knocks him out. She gets to her feet.
BUFFY
Shall we try quietly this time?
XANDER
(smiles)
We could…
INTERIOR: ABANDONED OFFICE - LA - night
Cordelia, Gunn, Wesley and Fred are still tied up. Wesley looks up.
WESLEY
Sshh… I can hear someone
outside.
CORDELIA
Maybe they really are gonna
put us out of our misery.
The door is kicked down. Buffy is standing in the space where it originally was.
CORDELIA
Buffy!
BUFFY
You were expecting someone
else?
CORDELIA
Actually, yeah. We thought
you were Watchers trying to
kill us.
Buffy rips off the ropes that are binding the others. They get to their feet.
BUFFY
Where's Angel?
WESLEY
We got the impression they
were holding him downstairs
somewhere… away from us.
Buffy runs off quickly before anyone can say a word to her.
FRED
She looks pretty sprightly for
a dead person.
CORDELIA
(to Giles)
You have a dangerous job, you
know that. Your bosses are
psychos!
GILES
(to Lydia)
See? I'm not the only one who
realises it.
WESLEY
(re: Lydia)
What's she doing here?
Giles just gives an angry, "I've had enough of being asked that" look at Wesley.
INTERIOR: BASEMENT CAR PARK - LA - night
Buffy gets to the car park. Several Watchers are looking over the van when she gets there. She dives into action, punching and kicking in all directions.
One of them tries to get away but Buffy somersaults over the top of the van and lands in front of him. She pushes his head into the side of the van.
Once all of the Watcher's are out of the way Buffy rips the back door off the van. She is pounced on and is knocked back. It's Angel! He's just about to punch her when he realises who it is.
ANGEL
Buffy!
Without even thinking about it he kisses her and she quickly joins in. They both stop suddenly. They're fighting temptation for the whole of this conversation.
ANGEL
Sorry.
BUFFY
No… I'm sorry. Really.
ANGEL
We shouldn't…
BUFFY
Even though you thought I
was dead…
ANGEL
Uh, yeah… but you're back.
BUFFY
That I am.
ANGEL
(sincerely)
I thought I'd last you. I'm not
sure how I got through those
months.
BUFFY
You said. After you brought
me back.
ANGEL
But you weren't really your old
self then. You are now.
BUFFY
(smiles)
True.
They kiss again. There's a cough and they stop. The others are standing around them.
ANGEL
Hi.
BUFFY
Uh, yeah…
They slowly stand up again, albeit a little uncomfortably and full of embarrassment.
XANDER
You guys have as much control
over your feelings as my grandfather
has over his bowels!
CORDELIA
We can't leave you two alone
for a few seconds can we?
(whispers to Buffy)
Make him evil again and I won't
be responsible for my actions…
Angel shrugs. He notices Lydia.
ANGEL
What's she doing here?
ANGLE ON: GILES
He notices one of the beaten up Watchers is stirring. He kneels over him.
GILES
You. What's going on here?
SECOND WATCHER
I won't say anything.
GILES
Yes, yes. We've had that already
today. Change the record.
SECOND WATCHER
You won't get a word out of me.
By the time you know what's
going on it'll be too late. We
already have people on their way
to the prison.
GILES
Prison?
Buffy overhears.
BUFFY
Faith!
INTERIOR: LA PRISON - ENTRANCE - night
Two men in suits walk to a desk. They show a woman there their ID cards and she lets them through. We finally get a clear shot of their faces - it's Mick and Keith!
They walk through several metal detectors. We notice that every time they do Mick is pressing a button on a device on his hand. It seems to render it useless.
They are allowed through the first set of bars by a security guard who leads them towards Faith's cell. They are talking to each other but we miss the first part of the conversation.
KEITH
(C'tnd, whispering)
Are you sure about that? She
would still be strong…
MICK
Don't worry. The medication
they have her on is enough to
make her as docile as a kitten.
Holding her down won't be
difficult.
(notices the cell)
Ah, here we are.
EXTERIOR: CAR - TRAVELLING - night
The car containing the Scoobies and the LA gang is moving as fast as it can through the streets.
INTERIOR: LA PRISON - night
The Security Guard unlocks the cell.
SECURITY GUARD
Faith… you've got some visitors.
(to the Watchers)
She may not say much.
MICK
(smiles)
She doesn't need to.
ANGLE ON: FAITH
She looks up slowly and sees the two Watchers.
ANGLE ON: MICK AND KEITH
They smiles falsely as they walk into the cell.
ACT FOUR
INTERIOR: LA PRISON - ENTRANCE - night
Buffy and the others run through the doors. They dart passed the main desk.
RECEPTIONIST
(presses an alarm)
Security!
A battalion of Security Guards come running from all directions. Wesley, Cordelia and Fred are grabbed first. The others get a little further before they too are overwhelmed.
Buffy and Spike are the only ones who get through. Spike turns to watch them all being held back.
BUFFY
Hurry up!
INTERIOR: LA PRISON - FAITH'S CELL - night
The Security Guard with Mick and Keith has left to deal with the emergency. The two are now alone. Mick is holding Faith back and as much as she tries to struggle the drugs she is on have made her too weak.
Keith takes out a syringe and fills it with a clear liquid.
INTERIOR: LA PRISON - CORRIDOR - night
Buffy kicks down the cell door leading to the main holding cells. Another alarm goes off. She and Spike run towards Faith's cell. Spike manages to run faster than Buffy.
INTERIOR: LA PRISON - FAITH'S CELL - night
Keith notices Buffy and Spike running towards them.
KEITH
Oh… crap!
MICK
Hurry up! Just pump that stuff
into her!
The door to the cell is pulled open and Spike gets in first but is thrown back into the door by Keith. It slams shut.
Buffy tries to pull it open but there are no handholds.
BUFFY
(from outside the cell)
Spike!
Spike attempts to get it open too but can't. He looks at Buffy in horror as Keith grabs him and punches him to the ground.
KEITH
Spike, eh? You don't happen
to be the Spike who…
(pulls out a stake)
… this here stake would kill?
SPIKE
Would you believe it? I'm not.
Keith holds the stake above his head and takes aim.
INTERIOR: LA PRISON - ENTRANCE - night
The rest of the gang are being held back by the Security Guards. Giles is protesting.
GILES
Look - we're here to stop some
men murdering one of the inmates
here!
SECURITY GUARD
Who on earth would be dumb
enough to try and commit
murder in a prison?
GILES
I can think of a few.
Angel is struggling with a particularly well built security guard. He seems to be getting angrier and his about to vamp out.
XANDER
(quietly)
Don't… it'll only make things worse.
ANGEL
How the hell do you know?
XANDER
Buffy can do this!
ANGLE ON LYDIA
She looks slightly nervous as all of this is going on but it's not just to do with them being held back from saving Faith - she knows something.
INTERIOR: LA PRISON - OUTSIDE FAITH'S CELL - night
We can see through the Plexiglas that Spike is struggling with Keith to stop himself from being staked.
Buffy watches in horror, wanting to get in. The security guards who tried to chase them finally catch up and grab Buffy.
BUFFY
You've got to let me in there!
They'll kill them both!
SECURITY GUARD
And make things even worse
than you've already made them?
You've gotta be kidding!
BUFFY
Please…
INTERIOR: LA PRISON - FAITH'S CELL - night
Keith is struggling with Spike, trying desperately to stake him. Mick is holding Faith down but it's becoming increasingly difficult the more she struggles.
MICK
Hurry up you poof!
KEITH
I'm trying but he's strong!
SPIKE
Too bloody right I am!
Spike suddenly jerks forward and head butts Keith who falls off him. Spike grabs his head in pain. He jumps to his feet and punches Keith again. They both fall back in pain.
Spike takes a deep breath then really jumps into the fight, punches flying into Keith's face as he clearly tries to ignore the pain in his head. He picks Keith up and throws him into Mick. Faith kicks Mick in the head and he's knocked out.
Keith dives at Spike who jumps up and kicks him in the head. Keith falls down and Spike grabs his head in agony, screaming out loud as he collapses on the floor.
The door is opened by one of the security guards who realises the threat is gone. Buffy pushes passed him to get in.
SECOND SECURITY GUARD
Hey!
Buffy goes to Faith.
BUFFY
Faith! Faith? Are you okay?
FAITH
(nods)
Sure… just a little shaken…
You better check up on him…
(indicates Spike)
Buffy turns to see Spike struggling to his feet. She helps him up.
BUFFY
Spike… are you…
SPIKE
In agony? I think so… My
sodding head feels like there's
been about fifty knives driven
into it.
BUFFY
But you beat them! Even with
the chip in your head! You beat
them!
SPIKE
(looks at the two Watchers on the floor and smiles)
So I did.
(walks to Faith)
You okay?
FAITH
(nods)
Thanks to you, yeah. Who'd
have guessed it. A vampire
saving a Slayer's life…
SPIKE
I happen to be quite experienced
in that field of work, luv.
Faith gives Spike a kiss on the cheek.
FAITH
I appreciate it.
SPIKE
(smiles)
So you bloody well should. I
put myself through agony
for you and I've never even
met you.
FAITH
Oh, you have. But I was her
at the time.
(indicates Buffy)
SPIKE
Oh yeah.
(whispers)
So would you do those things
you said you would to me?
FAITH
(grins)
In an instant.
Cordelia, Angel, Giles, Lydia etc. finally arrive.
GILES
We managed to convince the
prison authorities to let us through.
CORDELIA
Looks like we weren't needed
anyway.
XANDER
(to Angel)
See? I told you she could do it.
Lydia walks in.
LYDIA
Is everything okay?
(notices Faith)
Ah, so you're still alive. Glad
to see it. We didn't want to
lose another Slayer.
FAITH
(angrily)
What's she doing here?
BUFFY
The Council sent her. She's
not here for you. She's Giles'
new stalker.
GILES
(sardonically)
Oh thank you very much.
LYDIA
(to Faith, ignoring Giles and Buffy)
Are you all right?
FAITH
(defensively)
Yeah…
LYDIA
You haven't been injured? They
didn't touch you with that
syringe?
FAITH
No…
LYDIA
(moves away)
Good.
GILES
More security should be here
soon. I suggest we leave while
we can. I dread to imagine the
questions they'll ask us if we're
still here.
BUFFY
(nods a little, contemplative)
Sure… I can't believe how close
we were. If we'd been any later
we…
Suddenly light envelops everything until all we can see is white.
INTERIOR: ORACLE'S ROOM - night
When the light dissipates Buffy, Spike, Xander, Giles, Angel, Gunn, Fred and Wesley are standing in the room where the Oracles used to be found. They all look around.
BUFFY
What's going on?
ANGEL
The Powers That Be want us…
BUFFY
The Powers That Be? This is
where you find them?
ANGEL
Well, yeah.
BUFFY
And do they usually look like
Cordelia.
They all turn to see Cordelia facing them all. Se is wearing white robes. She begins to float from the ground. She speaks in three different voices - one male, two female.
CORDELIA
(First Voice)
Silence!
WESLEY
Cordy? What's wrong?
CORDELIA
(Second Voice)
The body you see is your link
To us. We are using her to speak
to you.
(Third Voice)
Losing the Oracles means we must
adopt new means of talking with our
champions.
XANDER
(grinning)
I'm a champion?
CORDELIA
(First Voice)
Be quiet, boy!
(Second Voice)
The deeds done today have
changed the destiny of all
of you here.
(Third Voice)
An act of bravery has altered
the flow of time. Prophecies
have been fulfilled…
ANGLE ON ANGEL
He shifts a little. He knows what they're talking about. He smiles.
CORDELIA
(First Voice)
Step forward vampire. You
shall have your reward.
Angel is a little shocked but his eyes light up. As he steps forward Wesley, Gunn and Fred are taken aback. Buffy looks at Angel. She doesn't know what's going on. He smiles at her. Spike, Xander and Giles look a little nervous.
Angel walks towards Cordelia. He rubs his jacket down and stands prepared.
ANGLE ON CORDELIA
She gives him a "what are you doing?" look.
ANGLE ON ANGEL
Angel looks a little confused.
ANGLE ON SPIKE
He notices something and looks up.
ANGLE ON CORDELIA
We pull back from a close up as we see her gesturing towards Spike. He looks shocked.
CORDELIA
Come forward…
TITLE CARD: "TO BE CONTINUED"