And we pick up where we left off! Hope you guys are enjoying this :D
Remember to lemme know your feelings and thoughts after you read, reviews make me sleep at night
Episode 2—The Scooby Way
SCOOBY BASEMENT—NIGHT
Faith lays against her pillow with an arm hidden beneath it while the other lays across the bed as Buffy cuddles into her side resting her head on Faith's shoulder. The two are just barely covered by a single sheet tangled around them.
FAITH
Damn B…only person in the world who could actually tire me out, I swear.
BUFFY
(she smiles teasingly) Faith Lehane? Admitting defeat at her own game?
FAITH
Nah, Slaying is my game and I'll never lose in that. But I officially declare gettin' wriggly your game, with a big ol' MVP trophy.
BUFFY (sarcastic)
Yeah…that's a trophy I can show to the public.
FAITH
Hell no! Then everyone will know and try to have a turn with you. Sorry Babe, that's a privilege reserved only for me.
BUFFY
(she smiles) That was almost romantic, Faith.
FAITH
Hey…I can be romantic…
BUFFY
(she raises her eyebrow at her) For our first date you had beer and cold Doublemeat Palace…
FAITH
Yeah…at a moonlight picnic…
BUFFY
In a cemetery…
FAITH (defensive)
You weren't complainin' while we made out all night though, were ya B?
BUFFY
Never said it wasn't a great date Faith. (she smiles and lays back down on Faith's shoulder)
FAITH
(she kisses Buffy on the forehead) I can be romantic you know.
BUFFY
I know (she lifts her head and looks Faith in the eye) You're actually one of the sweetest people I know.
FAITH
And you are the single, most amazing person in the universe. (Buffy smiles as Faith just stares into her eyes) You're smart, funny, strong, brave, sweet. (Buffy blushes and looks away as Faith just looks at her sweetly) Cute when you blush.
BUFFY
(she smiles) Oh, is that all?
FAITH
No. (Buffy looks curious) You're gorgeous all the time.
BUFFY
Careful Ms. Lehane…any bystander may think you were sappy.
FAITH
When it comes to you? They can easily call me whipped. Bad ass gloves come off when it comes to the girl of my dreams. (Buffy smiles and kisses her tenderly. When she pulls away Faith smiles at her)
BUFFY (teasing)
You really want me to untie you, don't you?
FAITH
Now that you mention it…(she pulls her arms to show the one behind her pillow and the one Buffy was laying on are both actually tied to the metal framed head of the bed) My arms are kind of asleep…(Buffy smirks mischievously as she looks down to her girlfriend) Why do I get the feelin' I just said the wrong thing that is gonna have some wicked hot consequences?
BUFFY
Not until I tell you how amazing it is to have you. (she kisses Faith sweetly then looks down into her eyes with a sweet smile) I haven't exactly had much luck with the whole dating thing…Being a Slayer made it hard. But you already understand how that is. I know you're strong enough to fight for yourself and even protect me when I need it. I know you're an amazing person with an amazing destiny before you. You're so kind hearted under your bad girl image and I love how I get to see that all the time. I was really lonely since I was brought back from heaven…but now—I don't think I've ever felt so…happy.
FAITH
(she is speechless before she finds her words) I'm not that good with these kind of deep talks Buffy…they usually scare the hell outta me.
BUFFY
Me too…but not right now for some reason.
FAITH
Same here…You think that's a good thing, or bad thing?
BUFFY
(she searches Faith's eyes and smiles sweetly) Good thing. (she kisses Faith softly, after a moment it quickly starts to deepen and turn passionate before Buffy leans more on top of Faith under the sheet before she pulls back to take a breath and smiles) Definitely good thing. (they two continue their passionate exchange as three little twinkling trails of white light appear in the room, they float closer to the ground before taking human shape as Tara, Kennedy and Willow materialize in the basement, oblivious to Buffy and Faith who also remain oblivious to them as Buffy begins to trail kisses down Faith's neck)
TARA
Alright, I'm not sure who else is—(she turns and sees Buffy and Faith and raises her eyebrows in shock) Oh Goddess…
BUFFY
(she looks up at Faith with a smirk) That's a new one.
KENNEDY (teasing)
Nah, I hear that one a lot actually. (Buffy and Faith turn quickly in shock to see Tara with her eyebrows raised in shock while Willow just looks awkward and Kennedy is trying hard not to laugh)
BUFFY
Oh my God! (she sits up quickly, fumbling to pull the sheet up over herself while accidentally exposing Faith slightly)
FAITH
Hey! (Buffy looks to her and covers her up as well as Faith starts to sit up, however is still tied to the bed)
KENNEDY (laughing)
Oh crap! She tied you up? (she starts cracking up) That's some kinky crap, Lehane.
FAITH
Oh shut it Suarez, I'm sure Red has magiced you a few times under the covers. Same difference.
KENNEDY
Maybe…but score for gettin' some.
WILLOW (awkward)
This might be a dumb question but…Buffy why are you and Faith naked when you knew we were all coming here?
BUFFY
(trying to remain calm) We uhh…got here earlier this afternoon…
TARA
Yeah, Cordelia said she was bringing you two here early.
BUFFY
Yeah…(she notices Willow and Kennedy's strange armor outfits) What's with the Amazon warrior get up?
WILLOW (awkward)
Oh you know…spent two months getting chased through the woods. Had to steal some outfits.
FAITH
Seriously? (she tries to sit up more but the sheet starts to fall. Buffy catches it quickly) Oh, thanks.
KENNEDY
Yeah, long story…tell ya later. (three more trails of twinkling lights appear in the basement and Anya, Xander and Billie materialize. Xander and Billie land roughly and stumble while looking queasy)
BILLIE (uneasy)
Oh crap…I hate teleporting.
XANDER (uneasy)
Ugh, you and me both.
ANYA
(she looks back to both of them) Oh you're fine. If you need to vomit, I suggest doing it now and away from my shoes. (she looks up and sees Buffy and Faith) Good for you Buffy! You finally found someone that makes you happy and can keep up with your Slayer stamina, therefore leading to several possible extra orgasms. Frankly, I say it's about time!
BUFFY (embarrassed)
Oh my god…
BILLIE
What are you—(she looks up as Buffy covers her face and Faith groans while leaning her head back) Oh…
XANDER
(he sits up and shakes his head clear) Alright…I don't think I'm gonna puke but I'm still a little—(he notices the two and his eye goes wide) Merciful Zeus!
BILLIE
Xander! (she smacks him quickly and he looks away)
XANDER
I'm not looking…I saw nothing, and I'm thinking about nothing, and—(he notices Kennedy and Willow's outfits) I'm surrounded by beautiful women in warrior princess outfits, and naked and tied to a bed…If I turn around and Billie is dressed as my sexy pirate queen then my life is complete. (he turns around to Billie's disapproving glare) I mean…I love you?
FAITH (curious)
Hey Ahab…you been workin' out?
BILLIE
Yeah he—wait…Tied to a? (she sees Faith tied up and starts cracking up before turning to Kennedy) Dude! She's—(she stops as she continues laughing)
KENNEDY (laughing)
I know right?
FAITH
(she lays on the bed just staring at the ceiling) Oh just stake me now…
BUFFY
Me first.
ANYA
Well that's kinky.
TARA
You two should get some clothes on. (she flicks her wrist and Faith's arms are untied) Before—(she is cutoff as Cordelia and the teens materialize in the basement in a collection of white lights) That happens.
BUFFY (freaked)
Dawn!
FAITH (freaked)
Oh shit! (the two jump at the teens' presence and fall off the bed while tangled in the sheets)
DAWN (shocked)
Buffy? (she turns away quickly) I'm scared for life.
KRYSTAL
(she looks away) You?
LANDON
(his eyes are wide) Holy…(Dawn and Krystal quickly cover his face)
CORDELIA
Careful Landon…I think you might have drooled a little. (she turns back to the two Slayers as Buffy quickly jumps into sweatpants and throws a tank top on while Faith hops into some short training shorts and pulls on an old band tee) And really guys…I figured I could leave the original two Slayers together for a few hours alone and not worry about something like this. Couldn't you have trained or something!
FAITH
Well…we did sorta get a workout…
ANYA
Yes, of the sexy, sweaty, lesbian fun variety.
DAWN
(she looks to Willow and Kennedy) Why are you guys dressed like you're going to a costume party without us?
KENNEDY
Really? We all just teleported in on Faith and Buffy doing it and the question everyone has is why we're dressed like this?
BILLIE
Pardon us for trying not to be scared for life…
BUFFY
Hey!
FAITH
Whoah wait! (she sees Kennedy's tattoos) Suarez got ink!
XANDER
Hey Will, your hair…
WILLOW
Oh that is all such a long story…
BUFFY
Hope it has an explanation why we haven't heard from you two in two months! I mean…least Xander and Billie called.
KENNEDY
Yeah, cause they have cell service as we're being hunted by Amazon Warriors and Willow has no magic.
LANDON
What?
TARA
(her and Anya walk over to Cordelia as the group bickers together. She gives a warm smile) Its like they never left each other.
CORDELIA
Which is why they belong like this.
ANYA
Yes, you heard the Elders. They are the frontline and need to remain together until its time.
BUFFY (curious)
Time for what? (the three higher powers turn to her quickly with a 'busted' demeanor) Is there another apocalypse we need to worry about?
ANYA (stuttering)
Uh…well
CORDELIA
No. No apocalypse—well…not this week anyway.
XANDER
Well what's with the guilty routine? Something we should know.
TARA (nervous)
No, everything is good right now. We just figured you may like to be back together is all…you know. Best, um, friends and…all…
WILLOW
(she calls Tara out) You're lying!
TARA (nervous)
Am n-not…
WILLOW
I think I know you by now Tara…you stutter when you're nervous and you're most nervous when you're lying.
ANYA
Great…we're gonna get in trouble with the Elders because you cant lie well…which is a completely strange thing to say about higher beings…
KENNEDY
Hold it right there…Elders?
CORDELIA
(she sighs) Our bosses…think higher, higher beings.
FAITH
And they're tryin' to keep stuff from us…shocker.
TARA
It's not like that.
XANDER
Well then. (he sits down on a bench) Enlighten us, I could go for story time.
ANYA
This could get us in a lot of trouble.
WILLOW
The Powers won't hear you down here, the house is charmed plus we're underground
CORDELIA
(she looks to the other two and nods, they nod in return and the three face the Scoobies) Basically you all being apart from each other for so long was beginning to change your fates.
TARA
Which leads to eventually changing your destinies.
ANYA
And with the importance you all have in the fate and destiny of the world—something like that could cause the future to shift. And not necessarily in a positive way.
BUFFY
Wait…you mean a little vacation from one another was completely changing everything in the world?
TARA
Not being apart from one another exactly…more like finding separate lives away from the group as couples alone instead of…for lack of a better term—The Scoobies.
KRYSTAL
So…what? They can never be apart from the group for longer then a couple of months or else an apocalypse shows up?
DAWN
That's a little extreme don't you think? I mean…Xander and Billie are getting married for cripes sake! They aren't gonna be around every waking moment after that.
CORDELIA
Yes, but they won't be at opposite ends of the globe either. You all were led to Moonview for a reason…not necessarily a 'Sunnydale Ending' type reason but you have destinies here that are important. The world is changing every moment and so far the balance shows it changing for the better.
FAITH
All because of us?
TARA
Yes, Faith. (she smiles brightly) What you all did at the Stretch alone has spread through the entire supernatural community. Demons are starting to go into hiding from you, stories are told about your adventures all the way back to when Buffy burnt down her school gym in LA.
ANYA
Humans connected to supernatural forces one way or another hear about Xander and are willing to jump into the fight now.
CORDELIA
Little nerds around the world hear how Willow Rosenberg went from geek to Wicca superstar.
WILLOW
Really?
ANYA
I've found more demons fighting their own kind after witnessing Billie's road to redemption.
BILLIE
Seriously?
TARA
So many watchers around the globe have asked Giles for some kind of record of your adventures for the new Slayers to study. Make them realize they are better suited to survive with friends and family around as well as give them someone to look up to.
FAITH
Might wanna leave me outta that fancy Scooby Tale book…I'm no role model.
CORDELIA (sarcastic)
(she rolls her eyes) Sure Faith…lets leave out the second longest living Slayer in existence. Technically the longest if you don't count Buffy coming back to life every time.
BUFFY
Hey…
FAITH
I'm serious Cordy, the shit I've done? I don't have a demon half, I didn't end up with some scary ass magics, and I have a soul…I went evil of my own damn free will and I don't want all those girls thinking they can too.
TARA
The point is you came back from it Faith. (Faith looks at Tara conflicted) Everything you went through started with an accident, and accidents happen…if anything your story should be first to show that no matter how far you fall there is always hope you can come back from it as long as you face up with the consequences.
BUFFY
(She puts her hands over Faith's and looks her in the eye with a sweet smile) See? Stop doubting yourself Faith…you've more then made yourself worthy of officially being a Champion…just like all of us.
ANYA
Oh! (she lights up remembering) Speaking of Champions. (she turns to Billie and points at her) We have your first official job as our order monkey.
BILLIE (shocked)
Order monkey!
CORDELIA
Anya! I told you not to call her that…she's a Champion with the power of Light. There hasn't been one of those in a long time. She's connected to something higher up then us, definitely no order monkey.
BILLIE
Wow…I suddenly feel special.
KENNEDY
Special, yet I'm sure I could still kick your ass.
FAITH
You an' me both Suarez! (they exchange high-fives as Billie gives them a glare) Uhoh…careful…I think we just work up Bridezilla!
BILLIE (annoyed)
Really? We're already starting wedding jokes?
KENNEDY
With so many more to come.
TARA
Can we focus here? (they shut up and face the three higher powers again) Thank you…now Billie, we need to send you on a—lets call it an errand—through the forest.
BILLIE
What! You want me to go through that thing alone? In case ya didn't know…I'm not exactly a favorite 'a the demon community these days!
FAITH
Chill out Blondie, you'll be fine.
KENNEDY
Yeah, really. I mean…since when do you freak out about a little danger?
ANYA
I'm glad you two feel that way…because you're going with her.
FAITH/KENNEDY
Say what!
CORDELIA (teasing)
Chill out guys…you'll be fine.
ANYA (teasing)
Yeah, since when do you freak out about a little danger?
FAITH
Hey watch it, we're not your errand girls. Far as I see it you three can pick up your own dang dry cleanin' which lets face it…must be a bitch with all the white.
TARA
You guys need to go just as much as she does.
BUFFY
Why don't we all go? I mean…if it's going to be that dangerous it would probably be like, safer right?
CORDELIA
It's going to be hard enough to get to where they need to go the three of them together. I think the best thing the rest of you can do is relax here and catch up. That super best friend bond thing has saved your asses in the past, might as well get it back up to speed.
XANDER
I'm a little insulted they think our bond is gone.
KRYSTAL
Well…if this is all mission stuff for the senior citizen Scoobies, that mean we can still hit the Bullet tonight?
LANDON
Krystal! Everyone just got back and you wanna go to the last week of summer bash at the Bullet?
KRYSTAL
Yeah, pretty much.
CORDELIA
You guys can go, its not like its happening now. They're gonna need sunlight so I'd say first thing in the morning
DAWN
Awesome! (the teens hop up as Dawn hugs Buffy) Welcome back Buffy, see you later! (they run out of the basement)
BUFFY
I haven't seen my little sister in weeks and she runs off when I come home…
KENNEDY
Not her fault she saw you and Faith naked together. (Faith smacks her on the back of her head) Ow!
FAITH
Miss me, Mini-me?
WILLOW
(she giggles) It's like we never left.
TARA
(she holds her hand out and in a flash of bright white hot light a scroll appears in white smoke. She hands it to Faith) This will lead you through the trials on the way to where you need to go.
KENNEDY
Trials?
ANYA
You're going to have to prove yourself to get what you're after.
FAITH
Do we get to know what we're trying to snag?
ANYA
We need Billie's Prophecy Orb.
XANDER (confused)
Billie's who now?
TARA
Prophecy Orb…it's something we use on the higher plane. Whenever someone enters a world, one materializes for them and it is able to relay every single Prophecy that they are a part of whether world threatening, or simple everyday things.
CORDELIA
They basically hold account of every major milestone in any person's life or destiny as it changes. (she motions to Billie) Billie's shattered when she connected with the pure energy of Light, the shock overloaded it with her new destiny. Since Kennedy and Faith's were right next to her's…they got shattered too.
FAITH
(she hits Billie on the back of the head) Thanks a lot Blondie! Ya killed my future.
BILLIE
(she rubs the back of your head) Ow…
KENNEDY
Do we really need them that bad?
TARA
These Orbs are how we know how to guide the people we look after. Mainly Cordelia uses them to give her Seers visions.
BILLIE
So…if we want a heads up if were gonna die then we better get ready for an adventure tomorrow mornin'.
CORDELIA
Everything you need to do you will be able to figure out and anywhere you need to go will appear on the scroll.
FAITH
(Faith unrolls the double pegged worn in canvas scroll as Kennedy and Billie look over her shoulders) This thing is blank…
TARA
Wait for it…
Faith, Kennedy and Billie all look down at the blank scroll skeptically as Tara smiles knowingly. Small glowing sparks trace a map of California on the worn canvas surprising the three girls as the sparks leave what appears to be ink trails. A smaller spark appears and the word 'Moonview' labels itself in perfect cursive script near the spark at the cities location. The entire map sparkles and dissolves away as several more sparks trace out the layout of Moonview in an aerial view. The city begins in the center while being surrounded by some suburban areas as well as more populated spaces. The map traces major street names in perfect cursive script as well as major landmarks as the sparks begin to trace in trees spaced all around the map representing the forest as well as the roads leading out of town. The east of the map is bordered by the ocean and the northwest shows the mountain line at the edge of the forest. Faith's location is highlighted by a small glowing spark as her name as well is printed in cursive script.
BILLIE (amazed)
Damn! What the hell is this thing?
TARA
That…is The Scroll of the Anemoi. It will never allow you to get lost as it adjusts itself as you need it and it always shows you where you need or want to go. (The forest around the scroll continues to dissolve and re trace itself subtly)
KENNEDY
It keeps changing.
BILLIE
It's because the forest itself is changing. (Tara nods to her) It explains why it's a mystical place that is still not charted properly.
CORDELIA
Exactly. Right now that thing is charmed to show you each point where a trial begins. Another will appear as you complete each one.
BUFFY
What kind of trials are we talking about here?
TARA
There is going to be three main trials before you are given your Prophecy Orb. They each test your character, strength and inner identity. Its really dangerous when new ones are brought into the world since in the wrong hands you are basically screwed. They are specifically designed around the people collecting them to be sure they really are who they claim to be.
XANDER
That doesn't sound so bad.
BUFFY
It never does. (Faith, Kennedy, and Billie look down to the map as a little forest lake begins to sparkle at the east end of the map)
FAITH
Check it out, a little lake just popped up by the river. (a small spark remains near the lake as words begin to trace in cursive script stating 'Trial 1: The Weakening Waterfall') Weakening Waterfall? Who names this crap man!
ANYA
Remember…follow the trials. They test yourselves directly so you need to figure them out yourselves.
KENNEDY
Hey guys…guess what we get to break out…(she walks towards one of the weapons cabinets)
FAITH
Our weapons cabinet?
BILLIE
No offense Suarez…But I sort of have mine right here. (she picks up her dual blade in emphasis)
KENNEDY
No…not just the weapons. (she opens one of the doors to show their three jeweled amulets from winning at the Stretch hanging off their long gold chains. Billie and Faith smile widely as Kennedy smirks and tosses them each one of the amulets)
WILLOW
(To Buffy and Xander) I'm kind of worried about this.
XANDER
Nah, they got each other's backs…probably more then we do even.
CORDELIA
I hate to be all pushy…but you guys really need to get this done, got it?
FAITH
No worries, you can count on your Champions Queen C! We got this.
ANYA
Just be sure you head out in the morning, it could take a while.
TARA
(she looks up) We need to go. (she looks back to the gang) You can keep the scroll, it might be helpful in the future. We'll meet you at the end of the trial to pick up the orbs.
CORDELIA
(she looks to Buffy, Xander, and Willow) In the mean time, you three should have a day out on the town…(she smiles) You never know what kind of twists might pop up in your paths. Good luck! (the three glow brightly before dissipating into a trail of twinkling white lights and disappearing)
BUFFY
Well that was kinda cryptic…
XANDER
Stinkin' Powers that Be and their weird hinting to do stuff. (a pillow flies off Faith's bed and hits him upside the head) What the! (he picks up the pillow and looks up) Figures…
WILLOW
I hope you guys are ready to do something like this…you haven't fought together in a while.
FAITH
(she puts on her amulet as Billie and Kennedy do the same. The three admire the gold spiral gem encrusted necklaces and smile at one another) Don't sweat it Red…Tomorrow morning it's time the universe figured out that the Super Scoobies might kick ass…but their girlfriends are what they really gotta look out for. (she winks at Buffy)
KENNEDY
Hell yeah! (Faith, Kennedy, and Billie all take a few quick steps toward each other and jump up hitting their shoulders together in the air before coming down with a cocky cheer)
BUFFY
(she smiles and shakes her head as Willow and Xander stand with her doing the same) Those three are something else
WILLOW
You know…I think they say the same thing about us when we're not around.
MOONVIEW STREETS—MORNING
Faith, Kennedy, and Billie each speed through the streets of town making their way to the edge of the forest nearest the first point on the scroll. They are armed similar to their adventure at the Stretch. Faith has a large broadsword on her back and several curved bladed knives in straps on her arms, thighs, and belt. Kennedy has two katana sheathed to her belt as well as a chained blade wrapped around her torso and shoulder. Billie has her dual blade separated and holstered crossing her back as well as a few throwing daggers in her belt. And finally, of course each of them has a stake in their back pockets along with their matching amulets around their necks. They speed past people catching their attention, primarily of every guy they pass as they admire the hot girls speeding down the road with their hair flying behind them. They reach the edge of the forest and stop at the dirt trail that begins through the thick trees.
KENNEDY
How close are we?
FAITH
(she opens up the scroll again) Pretty damn. Any idea what the hell a Weakening Waterfall is anyway?
KENNEDY
Well…I'm assuming a waterfall—
FAITH
Alright smart ass. I meant what the hell are we gonna have to do.
BILLIE
I think that's part of the whole trial thing, we gotta figure it out. (she reaches over each of her shoulders and draws her dual blades before spinning them at her side and attaching them together at the hilt. The Celtic symbols glow gold against the blades before returning to black as Billie's eyes swirl blue and her tattoos spiral through gold as well) Lets do this.
Billie revs her engine as Kennedy draws one of her katana and holds it at her side nodding to Billie next to her. They both look to Faith slightly ahead of them as she re-rolls the scroll on its pegs and stuffs it in a pocket inside her leather jacket. She smirks back at them before drawing a large jackyl knife. She pulls the throttle and pops into a wheelie before speeding into the trees with Billie and Kennedy close behind her. They weave around the trees and slash through branches along the way. A growl and snarl is heard around them causing them to look to one another before noticing several demon dogs running along next to them trying to bite at their legs. Faith slashes one across its neck making it whimper and tumble lifeless to the dirt just as another jumps for her head. She ducks and stabs the beast as it passes over her head and falls to the ground as they speed on. Billie swings her blades at the dog next to her swiping its legs out from under it making it roll into a tree and yelp out in pain. She spins her blades before chopping another dog's head clean off. Meanwhile Kennedy lifts her katana to stop one of the monsters from taking a clean bite out of her leg. It bites down on the blade as she slashes through it's face. Two more dogs trail close behind her. She looks forward and speeds through two narrow trees jumping off the thick roots at their bases as the two dogs collide head first into the trunks. Kennedy lands in the dirt and speeds to catch up with Billie and Faith. The three exchange high fives and continue through the forest.
WEAKENING WATERFALL—MORNING
A break in the trees to an open forest oasis shows a waterfall along the river. Several large and small rocks line just behind the modest rush of falling water while some break through it. The river bank runs right up to the grass with crystal clear water running across the stony and rock covered river floor. Billie, Kennedy, and Faith ride through the edge of the clearing and ride up near the edge of the river. They kill the engines of their bikes and dismount them on their way to the edge of the river taking in their surroundings.
BILLIE
Woah…this place is amazing!
FAITH
I'll say. (she crouches down and drinks up a hand full of the water)
KENNEDY
Sure Faith…drink the wild water filled with demon poop.
FAITH (freaked)
(she spits the water out quickly and jumps back landing in the grass freaked out) Gah! I just drank demon shit!
BILLIE
Oh shut up Ken, look the water is crystal clear. (she takes off her weapon holsters along with her jacket and tosses them in a pile along the grass before rolling up her jeans past her knees and wades into the water up to her waist) And it's just right too.
KENNEDY
(her and Faith do the same. Kennedy wades into the water as well) Damn, didn't know we shoulda brought our bathing suits for a cryptic trial.
BILLIE
Oh yeah…trial. (she looks around) I don't exactly see anything trial like around here.
FAITH
Slayers and Demons! (Faith stands on top of a tall boulder in a cocky pose, Billie and Kennedy look up to her and start chuckling mockingly at her) I give you, the amazing…the kick ass…the legendary…Final Chosen Slayer herself—the one and only, Faith Lehane!
KENNEDY
(she calls up to Faith) And hopefully the last!
FAITH
Yeah right! You guys wish you had some 'a this. (she shakes her hips)
BILLIE
Sorry…I'm not gay.
FAITH
(she eyes Kennedy and raises her eyebrows) Ken wants me though.
KENNEDY
I have Willow, nice try Lehane.
FAITH
And I got Buffy, so we're even. Guess that just gives me one thing to do…(she steps back on the tall boulder with a devious smirk)
KENNEDY
She wouldn't…
BILLIE
She would.
KENNEDY
She isn't…
FAITH
She is! Look out below! (she runs and jumps off the boulder wildly flying through the air and tackling Billie and Kennedy under the water. They pop above the surface again) Hell yeah! That was awesome!
BILLIE
Maybe for you! (she splashes Faith)
KENNEDY
Yeah what the hell was that for, this river is shallow smart one! (she joins Billie in splashing Faith)
FAITH
Hey knock it off! What a prissy way to fight back, I mean really? Splashing?
KENNEDY
Fine, I got a better idea. (she jumps for Faith and tackles her into the water. They pop back up gasping for air with Faith in a headlock)
FAITH
Hey what's the big idea!
BILLIE
Come on guys, we're supposed to be figurin' out this first trial. (she walks over and tries to break the two brunettes up) Come on Ken, loosen up!
FAITH
Yeah seriously, I'm losin' air here.
KENNEDY
I did…(Faith and Billie finally break her off. The three stand in the river near the waterfall starting to look drained) I uhh…don't really feel so hot.
BILLIE
(she tries to shake her head clear) The hell is goin' on. (she looks around them and sees the water around them glowing in little streams and moving towards the waterfall) Oh shit…
FAITH
The Weakening Waterfall…well damn. (she tries flexing her fingers into fists)
BILLIE
Check it out.
She points to a large stone jutting out through the center of the waterfall as the little glowing lines of their strength flow into it. The rock cracks open slowly revealing a brightly glowing light. The girls stare in awe at it as a bright beam of magic shoots to the middle of the river splashing the water up as a pillar raises from the center of the water. The girls take a few careful steps towards the totem but stop and shield their eyes as a crystal on top of the pillar glows brightly. The light starts to fade a little and the river begins to rumble. Billie looks back at Faith and Kennedy a little freaked out and they mirror her expression. The water starts to ripple as creatures begin to raise from the river surrounding the girls. They look shocked as what appears to be swamp seaweed monsters with glowing yellow eyes stand facing them.
KENNEDY (shocked)
Uh…guys?
BILLIE (shocked)
Uh huh.
KENNEDY (shocked)
I think we found the first trial.
FAITH (shocked)
Yep.
KENNEDY (shocked)
We're gonna need our weapons huh?
BILLIE (shocked)
Definitely.
Three of the seaweed creatures each pick up one of the girls as they try valiantly to no avail to break their grasp. Finally they are thrown out of the river to the grass with a thud. They each groan and sit up while looking to the seaweed creatures that are now guarding the totem as the crystal atop it continues to glow. Faith stands up frustrated as Kennedy and Billie follow her lead.
FAITH
Why the hell are these guys so strong? (she picks up her large broadsword but falters under its weight. She grimaces as she tries swinging it weakly and looks at it confused) And since when is my sword so heavy?
KENNEDY
Probably since you bought the biggest damn one you could find. (she draws her two katana and swings them awkwardly with a shocked expression) What the…
BILLIE
(she attempts to pick up her dual blade but fails under its weight. She struggles but is able to disconnect the two ends at their hilts and picks up one blade before looking to the waterfall) The Weakening Waterfall. (she looks to the creatures then over to the pillar) This is the trial…we need to fight our way through these guys while weakened and get to the pillar thing.
KENNEDY
Yeah, my guess is the shiny crystal on top.
FAITH
It's always a crystal isn't it? (She yells and charges into the water with Kennedy and Billie close behind her)
MYSTIC'S GROTTO—EARLY AFTERNOON
Buffy, Xander, and Willow walk along the street to the door of the magic shop together.
XANDER
First thing we do for the grand reunion is go shopping…I really need some guy friends.
WILLOW
You love it and you know it.
XANDER
Guilty as charged as long as I'm with two of my three favorite girls.
BUFFY
(they walk in the shop and start to look around) Speaking of your other favorite girl…how are you and Billie? Wedding plans going okay?
XANDER
If by plans you mean the complete lack thereof then yeah, going great.
WILLOW
Really? Nothing at all?
XANDER
Well we don't really want it to be something too huge. But at the same time we want it to be something big enough—you know? We definitely wanna invite all of the extended gang, I got some buddies at work and Billie has her friends from Ireland plus her band. Then there's the nightmare of my family who she insists on meeting before and the fact that there is going to be demons there again and we all know how that went last time and— (Buffy cuts him off as he rants holding on to his shoulders)
BUFFY
Xander ! Breathe…
XANDER
Breathe…right, important.
WILLOW
It'll be fine. No offense to Anya or anything since you know we love her but Billie does have a few more people skills. And the Irish demons she would invite are probably more human looking. (she starts filling up a basket with various spell ingredients from the shelves)
XANDER
Yeah you're right. Guess I'm just worried I'll screw up again.
BUFFY
It'll be amazing. I know it.
WILLOW
You know…as long as one of your grooms-women don't end up in the supply closet with the Maid of Honor. (she smirks while inspecting a jar of snake skin)
BUFFY
(Xander starts snickering as Buffy's jaw drops) Willow!
XANDER
Come on Buff, you definitely asked for that one. But serious bonus points for the whole dominatrix over Faith thing. Glad to see you guys are still going strong.
WILLOW
Yeah, did you tell her you love her yet?
BUFFY
Will!
XANDER
Calm down Buff, I think I've known you long enough to be able to tell when you have the little lovey dovey eyes for a certain brunette Slayer. (he whispers dramatically to Buffy teasingly) Don't worry…I wont tell Will you got the hots for Kennedy. (Buffy smiles and smacks him on the arm)
BUFFY
Is it really that obvious?
XANDER
To your best friends yeah. Faith? I'd say your secret is still safe for a while. (Buffy turns quiet as she eyes various trinkets) So no comment on the new found girly lovin'?
BUFFY
Its complicated…
WILLOW
Not really, just three little words you say when the time is right and you're ready.
BUFFY
Well I'm not ready.
XANDER
You already admitted that you love her…kinda means you're ready.
BUFFY
Then the time hasn't been right.
WILLOW
You've been with her non stop for the last three months Buffy. She's dealt with your exes, has the approval of Dawn and your best friends, she's a Slayer so you don't gotta worry about her getting hurt plus she can protect you when you never admit to needing it—
BUFFY (softly)
What if she doesn't love me back? (her friends look at her sweetly and wait for her to continue. She looks up at them worried) What if I'm just a phase for her? Or—or some big conquest? I mean…I really care about her and I know she cares about me but…She isn't exactly the poster girl of stable relationships. I know I'm not either but—
XANDER
Buff…your turn to breathe. Ya keep thinking about all the worst things. Did you ever think 'What if she does love you back?'
BUFFY
(she looks away) Even if she does…I'm afraid that I'll tell her how I feel then she'll get freaked out and run.
WILLOW
She's changed Buffy. She's not that same one night stand girl anymore.
BUFFY
I know…just call me paranoid girl. (she thinks for a second) Sometimes I think I can see it in her eyes…that she really does love me back. Call it wishful thinking I guess.
MADAME THERESA
Or perhaps a lover's connection. (the three look to the shop owner) A different kind of connection to the one you three have. You've been through a lot together.
WILLOW
What? You thought I was the only one? (she smiles and hugs the old gypsy woman)
MADAME THERESA
Always a pleasure little Goddess. How was your quest in Brazil? The little ones told me you and your warrior headed down to the Amazon.
WILLOW
Difficult, but we accomplished what we set down there to do.
MADAME THERESA
(She notices the white streak within the layers of Willow's red hair) I see you were given a mark for your journey. May I? (Willow nods as Madame Theresa admires the streak) You have been marked by Gaia…strange as usually your entire hair would be pure white.
WILLOW
Aria told me that this was all that could be marked given I'm technically a Goddess on my own.
MADAME THERESA
Sounds like you're ready for the next step in your destiny. Any idea what it might be?
WILLOW
Not sure really…I think it will happen when its meant to, and I'll be ready when it does.
XANDER (proud)
And we'll be right behind her every step of the way.
BUFFY (proud)
And even the steps after that.
MADAME THERESA
(she smiles) I was hoping you'd all say that. My family and I are planning on moving back to our homeland. We've spent a lot of time here in America in order to spread our magic, but it's time we returned to our roots. However…I'm quite partial to keeping the store open to the town. With this place's mystical forces it's definitely always in need.
WILLOW (shocked)
Are you saying…
MADAME THERESA
I need people I know I can trust to take over for me. People who can not only defend the secrets of magic within these walls but also who will use it for the greater good of the world. I think it is a reasonable next step in your destiny to take more of a mentor roll to the young wiccans of the city aside from just Landon. So? What do you say?
WILLOW
I'm not sure what to say. Except for I'd be honored.
MADAME THERESA
Wonderful! Come, there is much to show you.
BUFFY
(Willow walks to the back of the store with Madame Theresa) Check that out…wonder if the girls are having as much luck as us?
WEAKENING WATERFALL—EARLY AFTERNOON
Billie, Faith, and Kennedy continue to battle with the seaweed monsters while struggling with their new found weakness. Billie swings her blade wildly taking off a creature's head before being grabbed from behind as Faith is surrounded and picked up by the throat. Kennedy gets knocked back into the water and sits back up in the shallows shaking her head clear while looking dizzy.
KENNEDY
I just realized something…we keep getting weaker.
FAITH (choking)
Ya think? (she coughs)
BILLIE
(she groans in pain) Ken! Get up on that pillar thing and get the crystal!
Kennedy looks towards the pillar and sees a wide open shot towards it as most of the remaining creatures are occupied by Faith and Billie. She shuffles to her feet quickly and impales one of her two katana into the rocky river bottom. She wades through the river as fast as she can to the ten foot pillar, suddenly being stopped when a ten foot tall seaweed creature rises from the water. Kennedy keeps her pace and slides through its legs reaching the base of the stone pillar. She starts climbing up and makes a stretch reach for the crystal at the top but the creature grabs around her ankle and tries to pull her down. She struggles with it until Faith and Billie come up behind the monster and jump on its back. It shuffles backwards, releasing Kennedy's foot allowing her to reach up and take hold of the crystal. She pulls it from its perch and it starts to glow and hum brightly. The river shakes and the creatures freeze in their place before disintegrating, causing Faith and Billie to fall face first into the water. They pop back above the surface and shake the water from their hair. Kennedy hops back down to the water looking at the still sparkling crystal while walking over to Billie and Faith who are now pounding water out of their ears.
FAITH
Figures I get knocked on my ass after we win…
BILLIE
Yeah, pretty depressing. You guys cool?
KENNEDY
(the crystal glows brightly making the girls glow brightly as well, they take a sharp breath as their power goes rushing back through them. Faith balls her hand into a fist and flexes her arm as Billie lifts up her sword easily and twirls it with her wrist as Kennedy slashes the water quickly with her katana) Now we are. (she holds up the yellow crystal as it starts to smoke)
FAITH
The hell is that?
KENNEDY
Proof we did the trial? (they walk out of the water and shake some of the excess wetness off)
BILLIE
Makes sense. (she fishes through her pocket and pulls out three pellets that glow red. She tosses one to Kennedy and Faith. The three toss it in their mouths and bite down on it causing them to react like they had just eaten a spoon full of hot sauce as they blow smoke out of their mouths. Their bodies glow red and the water left on them steams off and they reveal completely dry however still with a burning mouth)
FAITH
Damn! I don't do with the spicy…
BILLIE
(the girls put their jackets back on and strap their weapons back to themselves) Better then being drowned rats. What's the next trial?
Faith pulls the scroll out of her jacket as Kennedy puts the still smoking crystal in her own jacket pocket. The scroll reveals its map of Moonview showing a spark at the Weakening Waterfall with Faith's name by it. A picture of a cave appears at the edge of the mountains and 'Tunnel of Truth' traces itself in cursive script.
FAITH
Tunnel of Truth…doesn't sound so bad.
KENNEDY
Really? Something about Truth doesn't sound bad to the ex-con, demon, and boarding school brat?
BILLIE
(her and Faith think for a second) We're screwed.
FAITH
Definitely screwed.
MYSTIC'S GROTTO—AFTERNOON
Willow follows Madame Theresa around the store as Buffy and Xander sit at a table looking through a few books.
XANDER
You think Will can handle running a whole Magic shop?
BUFFY
I think if any of us can do it, it's gonna be Will.
XANDER
I'm starting to have flashbacks to when we were at the Magic Box.
BUFFY
I think this place is bigger than the Magic Box though. (she looks to the back of the store) The back room is definitely bigger. Oh! Giles was trying to convince Faith and me that letting a few Slayers come train with all of us would be good. Like a Senior Project at the end of their training at the Academy. We could bring them here.
XANDER
I'm just happy we have a new hangout away from the house…I was starting to feel like a one eyed hermit.
BUFFY
I thought you were gonna move in with Billie to her apartment?
XANDER
Well sure, but we are still gonna end up coming over every day. Did you forget that all of our best friends still live together?
WILLOW
(she runs over excited with a huge smile on her face) Isn't this awesome? I mean check this out! I'm gonna run a place filled with magic and be around it every day—(Buffy and Xander look at her with a teasing smile and she quickly turns wide eyed and starts rambling) Oh not that I'm gonna be addicted again! I think I'm past all that and I know how to control myself now. I'll stay away from the really dark stuff and I swear I wont go all…you know…grr—
BUFFY
Calm down Will, we're just kidding. Its great you're so excited.
XANDER
Yeah! And since I'm moving out and don't technically have to worry about it but I'm thinking taking care of this place is going to give you more to do then stay in bed all day with Kennedy doing what you think we all don't know you're doing. (Willow's face reddens)
BUFFY
Almost as red as your hair Will, you okay. (she smirks)
WILLOW
(she looks away) Coming Madame Theresa! (she scurries away)
XANDER
We're terrible
BUFFY
Yeah but she loves us. Really not sure what I'd do without you guys…Probably be dead by now
XANDER
Maybe, but you don't have to worry about that Buffster. (he puts his arm around her) You got way too good of friends for anything to happen to you now.
WILLOW
(she follows Madame Theresa behind the counter) He's right Buffy.
BUFFY
I know. Thanks. (The teens walk in the shop together)
DAWN
(she sits down across from Xander and Buffy at the table and sets her sword down with a clatter before laying her head down with a groan while rubbing her neck) Stupid vampires…
XANDER
Uh Dawnie…hate to tell ya this but it's the middle of the day.
DAWN
(she looks up and winces) Yeah, and we thought it was safe…until Krystal had a vision and we had to spring into action. (she winces again before taking a deep breath. Her necklace glows green and she pops her neck and sighs in relief as her necklace returns back to normal) Just so happens I ended up getting sprung into the wall of a crypt.
KRYSTAL
(she sits next to Dawn with an ice pack on her shoulder) Least you can super heal yourself. I still got the short end of the superhero stick.
LANDON
(he holds his spell book showing a large chunk burned and smoking) Madame Theresa…you wouldn't happen to have another copy of 'Battle Magicks of Avalon' would you? Mine is a little…(he touches the char mark and it sizzles making him yelp and pull back his hand) Burnt out.
MADAME THERESA (disappointed)
Landon…that's your third copy since before school let out.
LANDON
I know, I know. But when I get tackled to the ground in the middle of a spell they tend to get the magic backfire!
WILLOW
Let me take a look at it. (She moves down the counter as Landon walks over and sets his partially burnt spell book in front of Willow) Madame Theresa, what edition is this?
MADAME THERESA
Since Landon has gotten my last two copies either torn to shreds or…somehow staked—(she looks at Landon)
LANDON
Hey, a vampire stole Krystal's stake and decided he wanted to make me into warlock Swiss cheese.
KRYSTAL
Sooo not my fault you held up your spell book to stop it.
MADAME THERESA
Right…more to the point I had to give Landon one of my two first editions I have of this particular volume.
WILLOW
That's what I hoped. (she smiles and holds her hand over the charred leather bound book; it glows white as she chants) Fortis,hocmihinebulaedeAvalon,facio! (the book becomes encased in a soft purple sparkling mist that engulfs it. When Willow moves her hand the mist dissipates revealing a completely renewed spell book)
LANDON
Whoa! Its good as new! (he flips through the pages and looks back to Willow shocked) How'd you do that?
WILLOW
'Battle Magicks of Avalon' first edition are always actually brought in by dimension jumpers from Avalon itself, they're connected to the mists of the dimension that protect it from harm. All I had to do was call upon them and guide them to this dimension and into the book. It should be just about indestructible now.
XANDER
Cool trick, Will. I see you earned your fancy Goddess highlights.
MADAME THERESA
Very impressive. You will do great things here Little Goddess.
KRYSTAL
What do you mean here?
BUFFY
Willow is soon to be the owner of the Mystic's Grotto.
DAWN
Seriously? That's awesome!
LANDON
Not that I'm not entirely psyched for the massive amounts of free stuff I'm gonna get—
WILLOW
Not happening.
LANDON
Right…but where are you going Madame Theresa?
MADAME THERESA
I'm headed back to Romania with my sisters here. It's time I connected with where my powers truly come from
KRYSTAL
Deep stuff Madame T.
MADAME THERESA
Indeed, Little Prophetess. Where is the rest of your group?
DAWN
Good question.
XANDER
Our friends in the sky sent them on some quest…they need to go through trials to get new Prophecy Orbs for themselves or something.
MADAME THERESA
Goddess...that is a difficult task. I'm sure they are facing whatever it is with level heads and much fire in their hearts.
TUNNEL OF TRUTH—NIGHT
Kennedy and Faith each hold on to one of Billie's arms as she holds on for her life to prevent falling into the dark abyss under her. Kennedy and Faith lay on the edge of a crumbling crack in the cavern. The girls are a bit shaken up and Billie starts to freak as she looks down.
BILLIE (freaked)
Tunnel of Truth, Faith! Truth! As in don't lie so we don't die.
KENNEDY
(she chuckles nervously) Heh, don't lie so we don't die. Kinda catchy.
FAITH
Not the time Mini-me. (they pull Billie up and they roll away from the edge as it crumbles more to the dark nothingness below. They stand up and turn to face a large spine covered demon several yards away from them on what appears to be a safe platform with a torch on either side of him on the far wall of the cavern) There a reason you tried to play Humpty Dumpty with Billie? (he doesn't respond) Who is this guy?
JAL'KNESH
I am Jal'Knesh…keeper of the second stone you require for your quest. And as I said once…you only get it by speaking the absolute honesty from the deepest point in your soul. The more foul lies you spit from your lips the closer you will come to falling into the Abyss.
KENNEDY
What if we just come over there and take it? You don't look so tough. (the cave floor separating them and Jal'Knesh crumbles forcing them to step back)
BILLIE
(she looks at the two Slayers) Really…I'm the demon and you guys are the ones who keep lying?
JAL'KNESH
Which brings me back to my question. What do you desire?
FAITH
We desire to get what we need for the last trial. We're on a quest for the Powers that Be and they tend to be impatient. (the cavern rumbles causing the girls to flinch)
JAL'KNESH
Be proud you already used that lie…the cavern doesn't punish for repeated denial.
BILLIE
How about a more specific way of asking our desires?
JAL'KNESH
All you need to answer is the one question. Each of you. What is your one, true, deepest desire at the core of your every being.
FAITH
Why do you wanna know that anyway?
JAL'KNESH
If you are who you say you are then you know we cannot allow your Prophecy Orb to fall into wrong hands…knowing the future of a Champion is a great power, so you must prove you have the same desires shown in the Prophecy's of Faith Lehane, Kennedy Suarez, and Billie Cayne. If you want a hint, then I can tell you this. Most Champions have the same type of desire. They are, what we call, 'Selflessly Selfish'.
BILLIE (confused)
The hell…
FAITH
That's it…we're stuck here. (she sits down and lays back with her hands behind her head) Better get comfy chikas.
JAL'KNESH
Yes…because giving up says so much more about your character…
FAITH
(she looks to him annoyed) Hey, watch it big J…if I try talkin' first then this whole cavern is gonna come crumblin' down an' you with it. Bein' as honest as I can be…it's better if Kenny and Blondie go first.
JAL'KNESH
Very well. (he looks to Billie) You first Banshee.
BILLIE
Selflessly Selfish huh? (she thinks) I guess…I want to be with Xander for the rest of my life. He makes me feel whole and I want to make him happy. (The cavern shakes and some of the floor crumbles away) Oh come on! That was totally the truth!
JAL'KNESH
It may have been but it was not a truthful answer to my question. Your deepest desires…ones no one may even think haunt you.
KENNEDY
(her expression lights up and she looks to Jal'Knesh with a serious expression) I want to be the most powerful Slayer in the world.
FAITH
(she sits up with a raised eyebrow) Seriously? Hate to tell ya this Mini-me…but I don't see you kickin' me and B's ass.
KENNEDY (serious)
I know…doesn't mean that I don't wanna be more powerful then you guys. If I could…I'd take all the power I can get my hands on and then try for even more.
BILLIE
(she flinches and looks around the cavern) Suarez! That's a greedy desire ya idiot! We're supposed to be provin' that we're Champions here!
JAL'KNESH
(he smiles) Notice how the cave does not tremble.
FAITH
(she stands up and looks at Kennedy shocked) Damn…so you're on a power trip?
KENNEDY
I guess…but it's not to be some all mighty super Slayer if that's what you're thinking.
BILLIE
(she smiles sweetly) It's for Willow.
FAITH
Red?
KENNEDY (shyly)
(she looks down) Yeah…if I had all that power—I could make sure she was safe no matter what. Be sure that nothing bad ever happened to her ever again.
BILLIE
Must be the new tattoos, she's even more Willow whipped now. And for fricken eternity!
JAL'KNESH (pleased)
A passion for strength and a deep love for another. Well done young Champion, you shall go far I'd wager.
FAITH
Well Rockstar? How about you?
BILLIE
(she looks deep in thought as she sits down not looking at anything in particular) I wanna be Human.
FAITH
(her and Kennedy look around the cave and down at Billie on the ground as everything remains calm) Definitely didn't see that comin'…
KENNEDY
Billie…You're like a super Champion. You're been through so much and you finally found your inner peace. You got a mega power boost.
FAITH
No…it kinda makes sense. (Kennedy looks at her confused as Billie still stares off into space) I mean…no offense to her or anything but if she was human her dad would still be around. A whole mess of people would still be alive from her demon days, she wouldn't have that big cloud of guilt around her all the time—
BILLIE
I'd be able to grow old with Xander. (she stands up and looks at her friends who look curious) You guys don't think 'bout it much do ya? I'm 43 years old an I still look like I'm 23.
KENNEDY (realizing)
That's right…you're immortal.
JAL'KNESH
A Banshee. Born as a baby with an angelic appearance and a demons spirit, though still able to pass as human. They grow much as humans do, only as the years pass, they stop maturing at the age that suits them best.
BILLIE
I'm 'bout to marry a man that I'll outlive 'til somethin' comes along an' kills me. He'll get older an' I'll still just be—(she motions to herself) This. I try not to think about it…but it keeps poppin' in my head. I'm going to have to watch all 'a my friends age before my eyes while I'm still getting carded at bars. (she stops and looks away) I'll have to watch all 'a you die…
FAITH
Hey…(she puts an arm around Billie) You gotta promise me you stop thinkin' like that. We aren't goin' anywhere anytime soon…plus lets face it. I'll always be hot. (Billie chuckles)
JAL'KNESH
That took a lot to admit, Banshee. Your deepest desire is also one of your deepest fears.
BILLIE
So do we get the second stone?
JAL'KNESH
Not until the second Slayer relays her desire.
FAITH
What if I don't know what it is? (The floor crumbles)
JAL'KNESH
Obviously you do.
KENNEDY
Just say it Faith, it can't be that bad.
FAITH
Well I got a lot of desires, not sure what my deepest one would be though. (the cavern trembles and the floor continues to crumble around them)
BILLIE
You liar! You totally know what it is an' just won't tell us!
FAITH
Do not! That's such a cop out after you guys did it. (the ground crumbles more)
KENNEDY
See! You're lying!
FAITH
Am not!
JAL'KNESH
(the girls continue to argue as the floor around them continues to crumble closer to their feet as Jal'Knesh speaks to himself) And I thought they might actually succeed (the floor under Billie and Kennedy's feet crumbles and they start to fall. Faith reacts quickly and takes both their hands, struggling to hold onto them so they don't fall) I suggest not speaking unless you know for sure its honest.
FAITH
(she winces) Not too sure how long I can hold you two up.
BILLIE
I'm not a fan 'a that bein' the truth.
JAL'KNESH
The cavern reverts back to normal when the test is over Slayer…you only have one choice.
KENNEDY
Whatever it is Faith…we got your back. No matter what.
FAITH (desperate)
(she sees the floor remains and looks down at Billie and Kennedy's faces. They both nod to her and she sighs) Fine! I want Buffy okay! (the cave trembles as the chunks of floor fly back up from the abyss and assemble into the cave floor as Faith yanks Billie and Kennedy back up. They roll on the rocks as Faith sits up running a hand through her hair)
KENNEDY (confused)
I don't get it…you already have Buffy, Faith.
FAITH (rambling)
You don't know that…I don't know that…hell I don't even know if we're going to last.
BILLIE
How can you say that? You've been together for months.
FAITH
This might come as a shock…I'm not exactly stable relationship girl—and honestly neither is Buffy.
KENNEDY
I didn't think I was either—but now I have Will.
FAITH
That's a once in a lifetime thing Mini-me…you're lucky. I've never had luck in my entire life.
BILLIE
Well I'm Irish, therefore I'm lucky to be around. (Faith chuckles and looks away with a huff) There's more to it isn't there?
FAITH
(she is silent for a moment then speaks) I'm not ready for a full on life bonding commitment…not sure if I ever will be honestly. But I do know that I want Buffy in more ways then I ever thought I'd want anyone.
KENNEDY
Like?
FAITH
I just want to be around her all the time. (she thinks and smiles slightly) I wanna hold her at night, make her laugh when she needs it most and wipe away her tears then beat whoevers ass that gave 'em to her. (Kennedy and Billie smile as Faith continues) I wanna know everythin' about her…and tell her everythin' about me. I don't ever wanna know what it would be like without her in my life. I wanna really make up for the crap I've done and I wanna do it with her. (she looks up at Kennedy and Billie with a nervous expression) I want her to love me—like I'm pretty sure I love her.
JAL'KNESH
(Billie and Kennedy smile widely and dogpile Faith) Well done, all of you. (they look to him as he waves his hand and stone black as the Abyss beneath them appears. Faith takes ahold of it) That is your reward, the second stone of your Quest. I shall transport you to your next trial…be warned…it's possibly the most dangerous of them all.
KENNEDY
Great…
BILLIE
Just what we needed. (Jal'Knesh waves his hand and they disappear in a flash)
ANCIENT TRIBAL LABYRINTH—DAY
The Girls appear in a bright flash shocked and dazed at the beginning of an ancient crumbling stone labyrinth open to the bright blue sky. Over the horizon of the labyrinth they can see the tall stone step pyramid that is cracked and covered with overgrown forest vines much like the ancient walls of the maze they face. Several designs and inscriptions are inscribed into the walls. From the spot they stand there is a twenty foot ditch in the stone ground with walls on either side that start the maze. Faith stumbles and holds her head while Billie leans against the wall of the starting point holding her stomach while Kennedy stands completely unfazed searching their surroundings.
BILLIE
I…hate…teleporting!
FAITH
(she shakes her head clear) Damn…that was worse then when Cordy did it.
KENNEDY
Guys…where the hell are we?
BILLIE
(she looks around) No idea…(she sees the stone maze ahead of them) But we gotta go through that…and I'll bet that the Prophecy orbs are up there. (she points to the temple on the opposite end of the labyrinth)
KENNEDY
How long ya think it is? (Billie's eyes swirl blue as her tattoos trace through gold. She crouches and jumps up off the ground into the air to get a look at the labyrinth. When she reaches just above the height of the walls she hits a barrier and falls back down on her back with a groan) Nice one.
BILLIE
(she rubs her tailbone) Aw shut it Suarez!
FAITH
(she walks to the end of the long ditch and looks down to see spikes lining the floor after about a five foot fall. She whistles) One floor down equals shish-kabob us. (she walks over to the wall and pushes on it) Think these things are stable?
KENNEDY
Probably…these ancient people usually didn't spare much on the strong foundation crap.
Faith looks back to the ditch and takes a few steps back. She faces the right wall at an angle and takes a ready stance before taking a deep breath. She takes off on a full sprint and jumps up to the wall and runs across it. She kicks off it and lands opposite the spike pit in a crouch with a proud smirk. She looks back to Kennedy and Billie motioning for them to get across as well. Kennedy mirrors Faith and runs across the wall landing safely with a somersault at the opposite end as Billie runs and leaps across the pit. She lands in a crouch on a square designed plate in the ground.
BILLIE
Easy enough…(the plate suddenly sinks into the ground with a loud click. Billie's eyes go wide and Kennedy and Faith look around in shock as they continue to hear clicking noises as though things were falling in place) Uh oh…
KENNEDY
Billie!
FAITH
The hell did you do!
BILLIE
Maybe it's nothing…(suddenly little holes open up in the spirals of the wall designs beneath the forest overgrow and little arrowheads peak out of them) Move! (the arrows start shooting out as the girls run through the pass dodging them. They move frantically and try to block a few of them with their weapons)
FAITH
Good one Blondie! Ya sprung the booby traps!
BILLIE
Like I did it on purpose! (she stops suddenly as an arrow zips right in front of her throat actually blowing her hair across her shoulders. Billie freezes shocked and gulps loudly before Kennedy pushes her along, they dive to safety from the arrows around the first turn of the maze and catch their breath)
KENNEDY
That was close…(she leans her hand against a wall and a stone pushes in with a loud crack forcing the girls to freeze again. The animal carvings in the wall's mouths cave in along the stretch of the path they are in starting just behind them. The carvings begin to shoot fire lining in a chain down the path forcing the girls to run and dive to the ground as the fire shoots above them in spurts)
FAITH
Suarez! (they look up as they wait for an opening to run)
BILLIE
Oh this is gonna suck.
MOONVIEW STREETS—DAY
Buffy and Xander walk together through the downtown strip back to the Magic Shop holding carriers of various cups of coffee and a box of donuts.
XANDER
Ya didn't have to come on the coffee and donuts run ya know Buff. I coulda handled it.
BUFFY
True, but I think it was time to get away from all the creepy things floating in jars staring at me…
XANDER
Still freaked that jar of shrunken heads opened their eyes at ya huh?
BUFFY
Duh! (Xander chuckles and Buffy gives him an evil eye) Not funny! I had like ten little things givin' me the creeper stare…
XANDER
So you find the one eyed man who can only give you half the creeper stare more comforting?
BUFFY
When he give me promises of caffeine and sugary goodness…heck yes! (she looks around) I didn't even know this place was here
XANDER
Really? This is where I came for coffee and donuts our first night in town, remember?
BUFFY
Oh yeah! I ran into you here on my way to save Faith and Kennedy…(Xander nods and continues walking down the street silently as Buffy thinks and remembers) That was where you met Billie for the first time, wasn't it?
XANDER
(he smiles) Yeah.
BUFFY
(she looks like something is troubling her and she turns to Xander) Can I ask you a question Xand? (he looks at her waiting) You gotta swear not to get mad at me though…
XANDER
Uh oh…
BUFFY
Just promise? I really need to ask you.
XANDER
Alright, you have my Scooby word.
BUFFY
(she bites her lip putting the words together) Are you sure you're ready to marry Billie so soon? (he doesn't react and Buffy continues) Its not that I don't think you guys love each other…It's kind of obvious. I just mean…you haven't really known each other too long, just barely a year right? A-and you haven't lived together yet…plus she's an immortal demon and who knows if that's going to end well…(Xander stops and thinks and Buffy turns nervous) Okay please say something cause I feel really bad now…
XANDER
You've died before Buffy…so you know how it feels. (she looks at him confused) It's kind of like taking a nap with a headache…It hurts for a while then it's gone. You are just kind of…you don't even know where. Everything is quiet for a while, like you are only existing somewhere in the universe and then your life really does flash before your eyes. All the good, the bad, the ones you loved, the ones you lost…its when you are supposed to think—alright…I did what I was supposed to do and I'm proud with the life I just had. I saw how I saved your life in high school and helped you save the world. There was my friendship with Will and bringing her back from being evil just by loving her…all the good times with all our friends and even the bad ones. Losing Anya…then looking at the crater that was Sunnydale…it was like a sense of closure. I thought I was ready for the pearly gates to open up, and they almost did…but everything changed when I saw the last few visions…
BUFFY
(she smiles slightly to herself) Billie.
XANDER
Yeah. (he turns and smiles warmly at her as she listens happily) I saw spilling her cappuccino all over her, the little smiles we gave each other as I was working on her apartment, our first kiss when she agreed to go out with me, helping her find a way to balance her Banshee and Human spirits…but you wanna know the very last thing I saw? (Buffy waits curiously) I watched her play the song she wrote for me on Valentine's Day…I listened as she poured her heart into it and watched as I told her I loved her, and she said it back. That was the first night we made love and I remembered it like it was yesterday…and if it was possible I think my soul cried at the thought of never having that again because Billie's immortal.
BUFFY
(her eyes tear up before she blinks to keep them from falling. She sniffles and takes a deep breath) That's beautiful Xander
XANDER
I know. (he smiles at her again) That's why I was okay with not going to Heaven yet when you guys brought my soul back…I couldn't do it without being with Billie forever. (after a pause he turns more lighthearted) So yeah…I'm sure. (Buffy chuckles and Xander smiles at her) So waddaya say Buff? Wanna give me your blessing and be in my wedding?
BUFFY
(she smiles warmly) Of course. (they make it to the Magic shop and head inside)
MYSTIC'S GROTTO—DAY
Buffy and Xander walk in with their arm full of coffee and donuts to see Landon flying towards them.
LANDON
Ahhh! (he lands at Buffy and Xander's feet on his back with his legs in the air before they fall to the ground with a thud. Buffy and Xander look up to see Willow standing with her hand out looking shocked as Landon starts to sit up) Geeze Willow…where'd that come from?
WILLOW
I…have no clue. (she looks at her hand in shock then lifts up the streak of white in her hair and looks at it shocked) Guess Tara was right…I don't exactly have a handle on my powers yet.
BUFFY
Maybe we shouldn't give you this mocha. (her and Xander set everything down on the old wooden table)
LANDON
(from his spot on the floor he raises his hand while catching his breath) I'll take mine!
MADAME THERESA
If anything that just proves you have the power to protect the magics within these walls.
WILLOW
(she sits down nervously) Makes me a little worried though…I'm kinda back to not being able to control my power.
MADAME THERESA
But it's a good thing this time child. With your friends I'm confident you will be wonderful…perhaps when your Warrior returns you can ask her to take an interest and help you. I often see her oogling the weapons racks.
WILLOW
Nah, Ken gets really jumpy around too much magic stuff…like she's afraid she's gonna turn into a snail or somethin'.
BUFFY
Well you're gonna need someone to work with you Will…I'd do it but I kinda have the same issue Kennedy does.
XANDER
That…and when you tried working in the Magic Box you ended up in a time loop.
BUFFY
True.
WILLOW
Ken might help out once in a while…(she gets an idea and looks up to Landon who is finally getting to his feet) Hey Landon…want a job?
LANDON
(he sits up quickly) Seriously?
WILLOW
Well I need someone who knows something about this stuff. (she looks to Madame Theresa) What do ya think Theresa?
MADAME THERESA
So long as he doesn't destroy the place I see no harm.
XANDER
(he leans over and whispers to Buffy) Should we tell her Will has actually destroyed a magic shop?
BUFFY
(she whispers back) Probably not.
LANDON
I'd be honored! (he bows proudly with a wide smile)
KRYSTAL
Not too sure you know what ya just got yourself into Will.
DAWN
Nah, what's the worst that could happen?
ANCIENT TRIBAL PYRAMID—DAY
The exit to the labyrinth is slowly being closed off by a falling stone wall. As it nears the ground, Kennedy dives under it to safety. Soon after Billie rolls under as well with Faith following behind skidding feet first. She looks back under the nearly closed wall to see the Scroll and she reaches for it quickly pulling it to safety just as the labyrinth is sealed off. The three stand up brushing themselves off.
KENNEDY
Regular Indiana Jones moment there, Lehane! Nice!
FAITH
(she tucks the scroll away with a grin) Pretty slick, huh?
As the three stand up and brush themselves off, the crystals they collected begin glowing brightly in their pockets. Kennedy and Faith both remove them in awe as they begin to shake and emit a blinding glow. The stones fly out of their hands and latch into place at the top of two pillars at the foot of the pyramid. The entire structure shakes and rumbles as stairs begin to form in the steep incline that runs from the base to the top of the pyramid.
BILLIE
(she shields her eyes from the sun and looks up to the top of the stepping stone pyramid where she sees some sort of altar and points to it) Come on, we gotta head up there.
FAITH
(she looks in annoyance) What! We're supposed to get all the way up there! How dumb were these ancient advanced civilizations when they cant invent a fricken elevator!
KENNEDY
Come on Faith, man up. (her and Billie start for the pyramid) You're a Slayer, think you can handle it.
BILLIE
(they start running up the steps) This is gonna suck…
PYRAMID SHRINE—DAY
Faith, Kennedy, and Billie wearily reach the top shrine of the pyramid completely out of breath. Faith lays down dramatically, Kennedy doubles over with her hands on her knees and Billie sits down holding herself up with her arms behind her each of them gasping for air.
FAITH (out of breath)
Next time…you decide to…super change your destiny. (she takes a gulp of air) Try not to break my Prophecy thing with it.
KENNEDY (out of breath)
Amen to that.
BILLIE (out of breath)
Maybe you shouldn't…have your destiny so…close to mine.
KENNEDY
(she stands up getting a grip on her breathing) You think that they really were so close because our destinies are connected?
BILLIE
Kinda makes sense I guess. (her and Faith stand up and walk over to Kennedy)
FAITH
Guess that makes us Destiny buddies, huh?
KENNEDY
Great…I'm fated to be driven crazy by you guys for the rest of my life…(Billie and Faith give her a mock angry glare and she smiles) Guess it could be worse.
FAITH
(she puts her arms around Billie and Kennedy as they walk towards the shrine) Damn straight it could be worse! I could be in prison…instead I got me some best buds.
BILLIE
(she holds up her matching amulet with a proud smile) Champions 'a the Motor Joust.
KENNEDY
(she holds up her amulet with a matching smile) Most ass kickin' team around.
FAITH
(she holds her amulet up with a cocky grin) Evil bastards beware the chicks in leather!
The three jump up and hit their shoulders together again with a proud cheer. As they come back to the ground the pillared shrine starts shaking. They look forward and an altar rises from the center of it with three swirling crystal orbs sitting on stone pedestals. They look to each other serious then slowly walk towards the shrine. As they step up to get a better look they see images forming in the foggy swirls of each orb. Kennedy observes images of her sitting up embracing her Slayer strength in one, while Faith sees the night in the rain where Angel helped her realize she could be redeemed, and Billie sees herself embracing the three Banshee Relics and becoming the new Champion of Light. They slowly reach and pick up each Prophecy Orb and watch as the mist swirls and they start to glow brightly. The wind around the shrine whips about them blowing their hair and clothes about. As the wind fades to a gentle breeze they look back into the orbs as more images from before Cordelia, Anya and Tara materialize before them in a trail of twinkling white lights surprising them.
CORDELIA
I'd recommend not looking into those. (the three look up at the higher powers) It's almost as dangerous for you to know your exact fate as it is for someone evil.
ANYA
You know. Free will and all that.
BILLIE
Right. (her, Kennedy and Faith each hand over their Prophecy Orbs to their respective Overseer who smile at them proudly)
TARA
Great work. I have high hopes for you three.
FAITH
Thanks T. (she smiles brightly) Means so much to the ol' ex-con.
CORDELIA
Don't think like that Faith. (she holds up the orb and waves her hand over it causing the fog inside to swirl and show the image of Faith and Angel again) You saw this, right?
FAITH
Yeah, so?
CORDELIA
The first thing you see in your own Prophecy Orb is the point where your destiny last made a shift to the path it's on now…(she lets the image play again) What does this mean to you? (Kennedy and Billie both watch as the orb shows Faith pounding on Angel's chest before breaking down and falling to her knees in the pouring rain as Angel holds her. They turn to Faith who stares deeply before smiling slightly)
KENNEDY
What was that Faith?
FAITH
(still smiling slightly) The first second I wanted to change.
ANYA
That's your path now Faith, embrace it. You're on the right one. (Faith nods) So are you two. (Billie and Kennedy nod with small smiles as well)
TARA
We'll be in touch if we need to send anyone on another quest. But for now, be safe and stay together. (the three wave their hands in front of the girls, making them disappear in a flash)
MYSTIC'S GROTTO—EVENING
The group in the Magic Shop are going about their business. Dawn and Krystal are both studying a large text while Xander and Buffy play cards at the table. Madame Theresa stands behind the counter with Landon and Willow schooling them in 'how to run the shop 101'. The status quo is broken when Faith, Kennedy, and Billie appear in a flash in the center of the shop, Billie and Faith both lose their balance while Kennedy stands fine. The girls are covered in dirt and their clothing is tattered from their journey.
FAITH (uneasy)
Damn, I'm never gonna get used to that…
BILLIE (uneasy)
Yeah Ken, how can you still stand up every time we get zapped somewhere?
XANDER
Hey! Look who's back from the fancy Powers that Be quest
BUFFY
Wow…you guys look like you went through hell. (they look at her with a sarcastic eye)
FAITH (sarcastic)
Thanks babe…just what every girl wants to hear when they come home.
KENNEDY
Then again…you know we did fight giant seaweed monsters while reduced to less upper body strength then Landon.
LANDON (hurt)
Hey…
BILLIE
True, then there was the whole Tunnel of Truth an' the Abyss we woulda fallen in if we lied 'bout our deepest, darkest, desires.
MADAME THERESA (shocked)
Dear Goddess…
FAITH
Oh, then don't forget the freaky ancient maze thing that you two kept trippin' booby traps in.
KENNEDY
(she faces Faith) Us? Excuse me…who tripped the big ass swinging pendulum blades?
BILLIE
Yeah? Who started the flame throwers and almost got me tossed in a snake pit!
XANDER (shocked)
You almost got my fiancée tossed in a snake pit!
KENNEDY
Maybe…but Billie almost got me skewered on a spiked wall so I think we're even.
WILLOW (shocked)
What!
BUFFY
Geeze…what kinda mission did those three send you on?
FAITH
(she smiles knowingly at Buffy) Wish you coulda come huh?
BUFFY
Maybe…
KENNEDY
So…(she sits on a stool at the counter near Willow) What's new with you guys?
XANDER
(he smiles at Buffy who returns with a shy smile of her own) Just some good ol' fashioned bonding.
DAWN
Toasted a vamp nest earlier.
LANDON
I got a job.
FAITH
Check out Merlin, joinin' the workin' class! Welcome to the club, kid. What's the job?
WILLOW
Working for me.
KENNEDY (confused)
Doing what?
MADAME THERESA
Staying far away from the explosive ingredients and the Advanced Witchcraft section. (Landon nods to her in understanding while browsing through a shelf of ingredients)
WILLOW
Oh yeah…by the way honey, I'm sort of gonna be running the magic shop.
KENNEDY (lost)
Huh?
KRYSTAL
Madame Theresa is headin' back to Romania, she asked Willow to take over.
BILLIE
Nice Will!
XANDER
(he walks over and puts an arm around Billie) Can't think of a better job for the Willster.
KENNEDY
(she turns to Willow and speaks sweetly) Are you sure Will?
WILLOW
(she smiles widely and nods) Yeah, it feels right…like it's what I'm supposed to do next.
KENNEDY
Then I'm with you all the way. (Landon opens up a jar and peers inside only to have it explode in his face, the group jumps at the shock and turns to the young warlock who stands shocked with a blackened face. He turns with a guilty smile to Willow who shakes her head as Kennedy chuckles) That on the other hand…is all you…
MADAME THERESA
(she watches as the group converses in teasing Landon and shakes her head) The Champions of Good…(she smiles to herself and walks towards the back room) The world is in surprisingly good hands.
BLACK OUT
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