Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Summer Script Challenge
The Powers that Be Pro Temporae
Episode 6.13: Rifting
By Carl Aminaluvsworth (AminalLuv), SWSteve Deknight (SWS) and Marti Noggston (Noggins)
Woo hoo! The episode guest starring Metallica!!!!
GILES (V.O.)
Previously on Buffy the Vampire Slayer…
From The Point Of No Return:
LYDIA
The new Slayer… It's Dawn…
CUT TO: Spike in agony as a bright light envelops him.
LYDIA
He's human - he's got
a got a soul now.
From Behold The Power:
SPIKE
You don't know what it's like...
to see every face, to hear
every scream... and to know
that back then, you really didn't
give a rat's ass. And that eats at
you.
From Liberation:
Dawn jumps towards General Hicks. There's a gunshot.
CUT TO:
Willow with blood coming from her shoulder.
CUT TO: Spike talking to Buffy in the corner of Giles' living room.
SPIKE
Exactly. Well, maybe, you
know… you'd like to come
out on… y'know a date or
something?
From Fish In The Sea:
Buffy and Spike discussing their feelings for one another with Anya and Xander. Xander looks suspiciously at Anya and Spike talking.
TEASER
INTERIOR: BRONZE - night
The Scoobies are in the Bronze listening to the band onstage. The same band from several past episodes, Kresnik.
BUFFY
You know, I never thought
they'd be back here after
last week's fiasco.
XANDER
They obviously love the place.
The Hellmouth vibes are obviously
great for the rocking and the
rolling.
BUFFY
If that demon hadn't decided
to try to kill me instead they
wouldn't stand a chance.
TARA
Well, it's not the first time
they've diced with death.
XANDER
You mean with the drugs
and the booze?
ANYA
They were here when the
vamps attacked before we
brought Buffy back. They're
obviously very resilient.
Buffy nods as she watches the lead singer, JAMES, finishing the last song of their set.
ANGLE ON: JAMES. He shouts out over the applause.
JAMES
Thanks. Just remember we'll
be here again tomorrow night
and in the park for the last
night of the festival.
XANDER
(V.O., but not the only one)
Woo hoo!
JAMES
Damn right!
The band disappear behind the stage.
ANGLE ON: SCOOBIES. Buffy is holding hands with Spike above the table. She squeezes and smiles. He smiles back albeit a little nervously.
SPIKE
If I was anyone other than
me you'd have broken my
hand.
BUFFY
(suddenly realising)
Oh God! Sorry! I forgot!
SPIKE
Don't worry, luv. I'm not
complaining about the
vampire strength added
to this human package.
Buffy begins to get up.
SPIKE
Where you going?
BUFFY
Bathroom.
SPIKE
Female things?
BUFFY
If peeing counts…
SPIKE
Ah… I really have to learn not
to ask questions I don't want
answers to.
Buffy smiles and disappears away from the table. Spike's smiling, but as soon as she's out of sight, his head collides with the table.
SPIKE
Oh God!
ANYA
Are you okay?
SPIKE
You know, this incompatibility
thing is really getting to me
now. Sodding hell! And you
want to know what's worse?
(pause. Everyone shrugs)
She's really happy. The girl
who hated my guts for four
bloody years. I mean, I hate
myself. After all I've felt and
now… I just want to be mates…
WILLOW
Then you should talk to her.
SPIKE
And hurt her feelings? That's
last thing I want!
(Groans in pain)
Bloody soul! It had to go and
ruin everything!
Buffy comes back to the table.
BUFFY
Did I miss anything?
ANYA
Oh, just Sp… OW!
Anya reaches down to rub her foot, which Spike has just stomped on.
SPIKE
(interrupting)
Nothing, luv.
ANYA
(glares at him)
…Spike trying to steal your
drink.
BUFFY
Really?
(whispers to him with a wink)
We'll have to do something
about that later.
SPIKE
(really uncomfortable)
Um, yeah. But I really don't
think we're…
Anya knocks her drink off the table. Using his fast reactions Spike grabs it before it hits the ground.
ANYA
Thank you.
SPIKE
No problem, luv.
He puts it back on the table and she goes to take it back, her hand touching his. Nothing intimate just accidental but we realise Xander doesn't see it like that he watches jealously.
CUT TO:
EXTERIOR: CEMETERY - night
Dawn is out on patrol, fighting a huge demon with spines and blue scales and stuff. It punches at her but she expertly ducks before bringing her fist up to its chin.
The demon falls back into a tree. Dawn quickly jumps in with a flying kick to its throat. The demon falls to the ground seemingly dead.
LYDIA
Good show. I'm impressed.
Dawn goes through a bag at Lydia's feet and pulls out a knife.
LYDIA
(slightly nervously)
Wh-what are you doing?
The demon jumps back up and dives at Lydia. Dawn brings the knife up through its chest. It falls to the ground with a thud.
Dawn pulls the knife out then rips out its innards with her bare hands. Some of the blood splatters onto Lydia's face. Dawn hands the knife to her and the blood on it drips onto her immaculate white shirt. Lydia doesn't look amused.
LYDIA
Now I believe that was uncalled
for. Plegrath demons don't need
to have their intestines ripped
out to kill them…
Dawn shrugs as she makes her way to the exit.
DAWN
You should clean up. You look a mess.
(pause)
And don't forget the weapons.
Lydia watches her go with a shocked look on her face.
ACT ONE
INTERIOR: SPIKE'S CRYPT - day
Spike is in his crypt trying to make it look a little more comfortable. He now has sheets in his tomb that he is trying to smooth out.
SPIKE
(muttering)
Bloody thing. What I need's
a sodding bed…
VOICE (V.O.)
Well, I can think of a bed that's
in need of a person.
Spike turns around to see Buffy standing at the entrance.
SPIKE
Uh, sorry about that. Talking
to myself. First sign of madness…
BUFFY
Don't worry. I'd be the same
if I had to live on my own in
here. It's great for a vampire's
lair but since you're not inclined
that way anymore…
SPIKE
I'd get an apartment if I could
afford the bloody thing!
Buffy walks over to a lamp and examines the shade closely, pointedly not looking at Spike.
BUFFY
You know…
(beat)
You could stay at Giles' with
me. There's enough room
and you've stayed there
before…
SPIKE
I'm really not sure that's such
a good...
(thoughtfully)
Mind you… like I said, finding
housing isn't easy at the minute
without a job. Which is difficult
to get I might add…
BUFFY
(turns to him, eyebrow raised)
You're job hunting?
SPIKE
(a little offended, but joking)
Yes! Not exactly the strangest
concept is it? But I suppose
there's nothing around for a
bloke who's only qualifications
include drinking blood and being
a government lab rat.
BUFFY
I guess so…
SPIKE
Mind you, a free house would be…
(thinks again)
No. I can't… Giles would never agree.
BUFFY
Well, actually, he suggested it.
Since you're one of us now and you
have been quite a bit of help. But he
said that you were not allowed
to watch Passions while he was
In the room.
SPIKE
He did? Well… wow. Still, it wouldn't
work out. It'd be… uncomfortable.
BUFFY
Probably.
(perks up and says seductively)
We wouldn't want to give
Dawn the wrong idea.
SPIKE
(changing conversation rapidly)
How is Little Sis anyway?
Buffy looks down sadly. She sits on the side of Spike's tomb. He sits down next to her, close but not physically touching.
BUFFY
She's… too good.
SPIKE
That's a bad thing?
BUFFY
I'm just scared for her. The
idea of being a Slayer has
really got to her. She's thinking
of doing her job instead of
thinking about what she should
be doing.
SPIKE
She's just trying to catch up
with you.
BUFFY
But it's going to get her… or
someone else… killed.
Spike puts his arm affectionately around Buffy.
SPIKE
I'm sure it'll be okay.
Before he realises what he's doing and takes it away, she takes his hand in hers.
BUFFY
I hope so.
She leans forward to kiss him. Still not wanting to hurt her feelings he kisses her back.
INTERIOR: XANDER'S APARTMENT - day
Xander is in the kitchen, cooking lunch-type foods. Anya is sitting on the couch, morosely flipping through another wedding magazine. She keeps stopping at pages and sighing loudly. Finally, Xander slams down a pot and looks at her.
XANDER
Either tell me what's wrong,
or get the leak patched!
ANYA
It's just… nothing.
XANDER
If it's nothing, can you stop it?
ANYA
It's just… Spike and Buffy.
XANDER
What, they're in the magazines?
ANYA
Of course not! It's just, Spike
was given everything he ever
wanted, and it didn't turn out
perfect for him. I mean, aw hell.
XANDER
Oh. And who does he seem
right for?
Thus beginneth the argument.
INTERIOR: MAGIC BOX - afternoon
Giles is serving some customers in the magic shop. He puts an item in a bag.
GILES
Please come again. It's nice
to see regulars here.
CUSTOMER
Thanks. Will do.
The Customer opens the door to leave and Dawn comes storming through.
CUSTOMER
Excuse me!
DAWN
(not even turning)
Why? What did you do?
The Customer leaves in a bad mood as Dawn throws her school bag onto the table and thumps into the chair in an especially teenager way.
GILES
Dawn! That isn't the sort of
behaviour I appreciate around
here!
(Pause)
And shouldn't you be in school?
DAWN
What's the point? It's not like
it's gonna do me any good.
GILES
It does you a lot of good! Without
the proper education you won't
have the skills to pursue the career
you desire!
DAWN
What career? I have a career,
it's called a sacred duty. I
should be killing demons not
sitting around in a crowded
room being told things that
have no relevance to what
I've been destined to do!
GILES
(professional educator mode)
Well, that's not the excuse
most teenagers make for
skipping class…
(back to parental figure mode)
but that isn't the point. Buffy
went to school and continued
her slaying.
DAWN
Buffy got her priorities wrong.
Giles is clearly getting a little mad at her nonchalance and raises his voice.
GILES
(a little louder)
Now you just listen here…
I've been appointed your
legal guardian and I intend
to fulfil that role. You are
going to school even if I
have to close the shop and
drag you there myself!
DAWN
Oh please! You and what army?
Dawn grabs her bag. She doesn't even look at Giles who looks like he's on the verge of exploding.
DAWN
I'm glad you're not my watcher.
Lydia understands me!
She walks straight out of the shop leaving Giles looking and feeling pretty stupid.
EXTERIOR: BRONZE - night
Well, it's night again and here's our establishing shot. We can hear the music coming out of one of the open doors.
INTERIOR: BRONZE - night
ANGLE ON: THE STAGE. The band is playing their hearts out. Their name "Kresnick" can be clearly seen on a banner at the back of the stage. We can see the whole band now and not just James. On the bass we have JASON, lead guitar KIRT and drums LARS J.
ANGLE ON: THE SCOOBIES. They're watching the band again.
XANDER
You know… I'm beginning to
wonder if there are any other
bands in Sunnydale at the
moment.
BUFFY
We do seem to have seen a lot of
these guys in the last month or so.
XANDER
And not that I'm not a fan or
anything, but you can only
listen to a cover of 'Enter
Sandman' a certain number
of times before brain damage
sets in. Maybe it's time we go
and find a new venue.
ANYA
(eyeing the uncomfortable Spike and ecstatic Buffy)
Why bother? Here is comfortable.
Here we're happy. We're used to
here. Changing from here would
be bad and scary and wrong.
TARA
She has a point. They're
very… catchy.
SPIKE
You don't think they're evil
and are using their music to
hypnotise us into following
their nefarious plans do you?
Everyone turns to stare at him.
SPIKE
(C'tnd)
Well, this is the Hellmouth.
BUFFY
I think they're just very
good, Spikey.
EVERYONE
Spikey?!
BUFFY
Did I just say that?
(everyone nods)
I said that.
(pause)
Oh God. Sorry. Shoot me now.
SPIKE
(only half joking)
Just promise never to do it
again.
ANGLE ON: THE BAND. They finish their song with one loud drum solo. The cymbals crash and James moves closer to the microphone.
JAMES
We're taking a quick break
here. Hope you can live without
us.
SPIKE (V.O)
I'm sure we can try!
The band put down their instruments and disappear behind the stage.
ANGLE ON: SCOOBIES. Buffy punches Spike playfully in the arm but is going a little red.
BUFFY
That was just plain embarrassing.
SPIKE
(with a cocky smile)
Just voicing an opinion.
XANDER
(a little bitterly)
Well next time you feel the
need to… don't.
SPIKE
What the hell's got stuck up
your arse?
Before Xander can say anything that'll result in a fight there's a voice from behind them.
VOICE (O.S.)
Hey! It's our favourite groupies!
They all turn around and we see DEVON for the first time since Oz disappeared. He's looking as rock'n'roll as ever… and possibly slightly drugged up. Wait… they're the same thing aren't they. *ahem* I shall continue. (Remember, just say no! -Ed.)
WILLOW
Oh my God! Devon!
BUFFY
Hey there!
XANDER
Long time no see, bud.
DEVON
Uh, yeah. We've been kinda
busy. Y'know, with the playing.
XANDER
So the old rock and roll lifestyle
is treating you good?
DEVON
Well, we still suck.
XANDER
Hence the not being on stage?
DEVON
Nah. Apparently our brand of
suck is hip right now. We're
playing our set in the park
tomorrow. The big festival
finale, y'know.
All through this Willow is looking around expectantly. Half excited, half nervous.
WILLOW
(attempts nonchalance)
Is… is Oz here?
Tara gives her a nervous glance but Willow holds her hand reassuringly - she's just intrigued.
DEVON
He, uh, he left the band for
a while. Last time we saw
him he'd just come back
from Tibet. Kinda worried he'd
go all John Lennon on us.
XANDER
So he's not gone for good?
DEVON
Dunno.
(pause, then a little more excited:)
We got a new bassist though.
(downbeat again)
Dude never turns up for
practices…
BUFFY
I'm sure he knows what he's
doing.
DEVON
(Gives her a 'what band are you thinking of?' look)
I'm kinda scouting for a
replacement. The guy in
Kresnick, uh, Jason I think,
is great. I'm gonna talk to
him about it.
XANDER
You really think you can get
him playing with the Dingoes?
DEVON
Probably not…
Before he can say more a scream is heard off screen. Everyone looks up. Buffy jumps up.
BUFFY
I'll deal with this.
(to Spike)
We'll deal with this!
Spike gets up as Buffy runs in the direction of the scream. He quickly follows her.
BLACK OUT
ACT TWO
EXTERIOR: ALLEYWAY BEHIND BRONZE - night
Buffy runs out of the back door to see a Vampire disappearing into the Bronze. There's a girl lying on the floor, blood coming from her neck. Spike comes out quickly.
BUFFY
Stay with her!
Before Spike can say anything else Buffy runs in the direction of the vamp.
INTERIOR: BRONZE - BACKSTAGE - night
Buffy runs passed several people who are loitering backstage. She comes to where the band is having a few drinks and tuning their instruments.
BUFFY
Did… did you see anyone come
through here?
KIRT
Well there was this guy. He
went on stage.
JAMES
Looked pretty damn weird. Must
have been on some weird drug
or something
BUFFY
That's my guy.
Buffy runs towards the curtains that lead to the stage.
KIRT
(calling after her)
Can I have your number?
(she's gone, he turns to James)
The ones you want, they never
give their numbers…
INTERIOR: BRONZE - night
Buffy runs onto the stage and looks around.
BUFFY'S POV: She scans the whole of the dance floor and beyond but no one seems to be around.
NORMAL VIEW: Buffy is pretty pissed off at herself.
BUFFY
Damn it!
CUT TO:
EXTERIOR: ALLEYWAY BEHIND BRONZE - night
Buffy returns to the alley where she left Spike and the bitten girl. The rest of the Scoobies have come and are making sure she's OK.
BUFFY
How's she doing.
XANDER
Doesn't look like she was bitten
too badly. She's still conscious
and fairly…
GIRL
That guy bit me. Why would he
bite me?
XANDER
…alert. Maybe you and I should
take her to the hospital though
just in case. You want to come
Anya?
ANYA
No I think I'll stay here with
the people who want to see
me get married.
XANDER
I never said I didn't want to
get married. If I didn't want
to get married I wouldn't have
asked you in the… Listen Anya,
I love you and I do want to get
married to you, but this is not
the time for another argument.
We'll discuss this when I get back.
And while I'm gone do you think
you could refrain from flirting
with any ex-vampires, or anybody
else for that matter.
Xander glares at Spike and gives Anya a quick kiss. Then he and Buffy help the now-completely-confused girl to Xander's car. Once they are out of site Willow looks to Anya.
WILLOW
What was that all about?
ANYA
Xander doesn't want to get married
TARA
(shocked)
He told you that?
ANYA
Well, actually….no. But I can tell.
Spike is looking rather uncomfortable at being present for this "girl talk".
SPIKE
Umm, well I don't want to
intrude on your conversation
and I'm kinda beat. This whole
human thing's kind of like ultra
jet lag, with the whole change
in sleeping patterns and such,
leaves me pretty drained, so
maybe I should go.
The girls ignore Spike and go on with there conversation while Spike walks away out of the alley.
WILLOW
What do you mean you can tell,
What did he say?
ANYA
It's just that he won't make any
decisions and he wants to set the
date so far away. I mean he wants
to get married next March. That's
over a year away.
TARA
What's wrong with that? He
probably just wants a spring
wedding.
ANYA
Well what's wrong with this
spring? It's only February,
that gives us two months until
the end the end of March. Why
do we have to wait a whole year?
We've already been together for
over two years, plus one makes
three. Three years we'll have been
together before the wedding. I
can't wait that long.
WILLOW
I'm sure Xander just doesn't
want to rush things. It's not
easy to plan a wedding in just
a couple months, not a really
nice one anyway. And don't you
want a really nice wedding?
TARA
Anyway three years isn't that
long to wait before getting married.
Willow and I have been together
almost as long as you and Xander
have and we're not getting married.
ANYA
Maybe you should. Don't you want
to get married and have a big wedding
and let the world know that you love
each other?
Willow and Tara pass a look.
WILLOW
We don't have to get married to let the
World know that we're in love.
Tara squeezes her hand and they smile at each other.
TARA
(kind of an afterthought)
Besides, we can't really get married.
ANYA
Sure you can. There are some
states where it's not illegal.
INTERIOR: GILES'S HOUSE
Giles is sitting on the couch looking rather nervous. The lock clicks and the door opens. In walks Buffy.
BUFFY
Hey Giles. How are things doing
here on the home front?
Buffy makes a face as though she's listening for something and then continues.
BUFFY
(C'tnd)
Where's Dawn? I don't hear
her? She's not asleep already?
GILES
Well, actually, Buffy, the thing is…
Dawn's not here.
BUFFY
And by "she's not here" what you
really mean is she ran to the store
to get some milk and will be back
any second right?
GILES
Actually what I mean is… I
don't know where she is.
Buffy leans on the end table and pointedly looks at Giles. He shifts away from her. We see her knuckles are white as she grips the edge of the table.
BUFFY
I'm sorry I must have heard
wrong because I thought I
heard you say that you don't
know where my young, underage
sister who you have legal custody
of, is currently at.
GILES
No, I'm afraid you heard correctly.
BUFFY
(Something's about to get broken, will it be Giles?)
Giles, what happened to my sister?
GILES
She umm, well, she ran off.
BUFFY
She ran away?
GILES
Well not ran away exactly. I
have no reason to believe that
she won't be coming home. She
just kind of…stormed out. You
see she came to the magic shop
in the middle of the day and I
told her that she had to go back
to school. She got very defensive
and said that slaying was more
important and that she didn't
have time for school and then she
left in a huff.
BUFFY
Slaying, of course, that's
probably where she is now.
I'll go out to the graveyards
and look for her. You stay
here in case she comes home.
Buffy goes back out the door, and Giles leans over to inspect the ten finger-shaped indentations in the wood of the end table.
EXTERIOR: GRAVEYARD: NIGHT
We see Dawn walking around the graveyard alone, stake in hand. Buffy comes up beside her.
BUFFY
You having fun wandering the
graveyard alone looking for
things to kill?
DAWN
Just doing my job, unlike some
people.
BUFFY
I work hard at what I do, and
I'm good at it. But I'm not a just
a killer Dawn, we're not just killers.
There are other things in life for you.
DAWN
No. I don't have time for other
things and you shouldn't either.
We're slayers, we don't get time
off for school or hanging out at
night clubs. We're fighting a
battle that never ends. Evil doesn't
take a holiday and neither can we.
BUFFY
Taking time out can make you
a better slayer Dawn. If you
spend all your time fighting
then you have no time to find
out what it is you're fighting for.
Look at me. I've lived the longer
than any other slayer. It's
because I have ties to the world
that I fight to save every night.
DAWN
You haven't lived the longest
of any slayer. You've already
died…twice.
BUFFY
But I'm still here. My friends
made sure of that. They kept
me in this world, both literally
and figuratively.
A vampire suddenly jumps out of the bushes behind Buffy and knocks her to the ground. She wrestles with him as Dawn comes up behind them, and rather impatiently stakes the vamp.
DAWN
(mockingly)
Maybe you oughta leave. It's
getting passed your bed time.
BUFFY
(getting up and dusting herself off)
You just don't understand do
you? I had to learn things the
hard way. There was no one
around that had been through
this before when I first became
the slayer. No one to tell me
what to expect, no one to prepare
me for what I was facing. I was
hoping I could do that for you,
but I guess you'll just have to
learn it on your own. So go, learn
it on your own. Just be back at
Giles in an hour because Slayer
or not you are going to school
tomorrow.
Buffy turns and leaves. Dawn stands there, the picture of cool, then she turns and flings a stake violently at a nearby tombstone. It shatters into infinitesimally small splinters.
INTERIOR: HOSPITAL: DAY
Buffy and Giles are walking down the hallway, with all the hustle and bustle of a hospital. And trust me, it really exists.
P.A. SYSTEM (VO)
Would Mr. Assist please report to 3
North? Mr. Assist, 3 North.
Several people rush by them, including a kind of tall, dark haired white guy in scrubs. Buffy turns to watch him run past.
BUFFY
Woah. For a second I thought
that intern was Ben. Every time
I come in here I expect to see him
and then I'm like; oh yeah, dead.
I kinda feel bad for him. I mean,
all he wanted was to be a doctor.
GILES
That may have been all he wanted,
but that wasn't all he was. There
was true evil living inside him and
he had to die, for the sake of
the world.
(then quickly changing subjects)
This is the room. I hope this girl
can be of help to us.
They walk into the room and approach the girl's bed. She's staring up at the ceiling, and doesn't make any sign that she sees them.
BUFFY
Hi. Do you remember me? I
brought you here last night.
The girl is silent.
GILES
We were hoping you could give
us some information about the
thing that attacked you last night.
GIRL
(monotonously)
It wasn't a thing, it was a person.
BUFFY
Do you remember what the
person looked like?
GIRL
Why do you want to know?
BUFFY
We need to find him. He could have
hurt other people.
A new song comes on the radio and the girl starts screaming and crying. It's a cover of Enter Sandman.
BUFFY
Not a big fan of metal, are you?
Then Buffy realizes something.
BUFFY
(to Giles)
The band. This song is by the
band that was playing at the
Bronze last night when she got
attacked. When I ran after the
vamp I found the band. They
told me the vamp ran out on
stage but I got out there and
there were no vampires to be
seen.
GILES
So you think the band members…
BUFFY
…Are our fang gang. I can't believe
I couldn't tell they were vamps.
(not totally repentant)
Well I guess that means we're going to
the music festival tonight.
BLACK OUT
(End of Act Two)
ACT THREE
EXTERIOR: GRAVE YARD: DAY
Spike is walking back to his crypt with groceries when he sees Dawn sitting on a tomb. He goes to talk to her.
SPIKE
Hey Niblet. Why aren't you
at school? Does big sis know
you're cutting class?
DAWN
Doesn't matter if she knows or
not, I have a job to do and I'll
do it with or without her permission.
SPIKE
Well it's not like there are many
vampires roaming around in broad
daylight you know. So I think it
might be safe for you to leave the
graveyard for a little while.
DAWN
Just because vampires are
nocturnal doesn't mean all
demons are.
SPIKE
Nocturnal, fancy word. See,
you are learning something
important in school. Think of
all the other big words you
could be missing out on!
DAWN
Lydia told me there was a
demon that was going to rise
here today.
SPIKE
I haven't heard anything about
any demon risings around this
neck of the woods. And usually
I'm the first to know, this being
my home and all.
DAWN
Strange home for a human.
It's like you're still really a
vampire deep down.
SPIKE
(uncomfortably)
Yeah, well until I find somewhere
better it's the only place I've
got. Buffy… Buffy suggested I
stay at Giles' with you two
but…
DAWN
Why should I care?
SPIKE
(rather taken aback)
Well… I thought we were friends…
so I wanted to know if you didn't
mind…
Dawn says nothing in reply.
SPIKE
(con't)
Anyway, you didn't answer
my question about being in
school…
DAWN
School's a waste of time. What
am I going to do? Go to college
and get a degree in slaying?
It's pointless. You go to school so
you can find out what you're going
to do with your life. I already know.
SPIKE
You have to go to school.
It's about more then choosing
a career. You're a teenager,
you should be around other
teenagers.
DAWN
They're just a distraction.
SPIKE
You used to love hanging out
with the other kids. Seems like
you've changed a lot since you
became slayer and not necessarily
for the better.
DAWN
I take my calling seriously. What gives
you the right to judge me?
SPIKE
I'm not judging you, I just call it like
I see it. I'm worried about you is
all. I'm not the only one.
maybe it's the pressure of being
a Slayer… you know, trying to
be as good as big sis.
This really sets Dawn off.
DAWN
(aggressively)
I am better than Buffy! I haven't
got all the emotional attachments
she has. I'm just prepared for my
sacred duty. I'm the Slayer.
SPIKE
Wait… wait. No emotional
attachments? What about Buffy?
She's your sister! And I thought
I was your friend!
DAWN
Attachments should be dropped
when more important things
take over.
SPIKE
(totally hurt by this outburst)
Att-attachment? Is that all I am?
Dawn jumps from the top of the tomb and begins to make her way to the exit. Spike runs after her and grabs her arm.
SPIKE
Just wait a…
Dawn pulls her arm away and whips out a knife, which she holds at Spike's throat.
DAWN
Touch me again and this is
gonna be through your throat.
SPIKE
(shocked)
Y-you couldn't do it. I'm human.
You can't kill humans.
DAWN
(threateningly)
I can't kill innocents, Spike. And
last I heard you were far from that.
Spike looks dumbstruck as Dawn leaves the graveyard.
EXTERIOR - UC SUNNYDALE -Day
Buffy, Giles and Xander meet Willow and Tara on the quad. They walk across the grass.
WILLOW
It makes sense. Whenever the
band was around, there has been
an attack.
TARA
And there was nowhere for an
escaping Vamp to go. We just
took the band's word for it.
XANDER
I can't believe it took us this
long to figure it out!
BUFFY
I know. I'm starting to think Dawn's
right. Maybe I am getting too old
for this Slaying thing. I can usually
spot them a mile away.
TARA
You were just following normal
procedures. Usually the witnesses
aren't trying to misdirect you.
GILES
(WAITAMINUTE!)
If you're old, what does that
make me?
BUFFY
(offhandedly)
Well-preserved.
(To the Scoobies)
These guys are not local. We've got
to find where they've holed up.
WILLOW
I bet Devon knows.
BUFFY
Good, you take Xander and
Tara and find him. Giles and
I will go to the festival and
See what we can find out.
They split up, and we hear as they part…
GILES
Well preserved!?!
INTERIOR DEVON'S APARTMENT - afternoon
Willow, Tara and Xander knock on the partially opened door, and stick their heads in.
WILLOW
Hello? Devon?
The place is trashed. Things are broken, there's moulding food and empty booze bottles of varying descriptions laying about.
XANDER
Do you think something attacked
him?
WILLOW
(picking her way over trash)
No, it always looks like this.
Something about musicians
and cleaning supplies. They
just don't mix.
XANDER
Oz was never this bad.
We hear a faint, odd, plaintive wailing song. Xander sticks his hand out, stopping the two girls from going any further.
XANDER
Did you hear that?
TARA and WILLOW
Hear what?
This time we hear it clearly, it sounds like someone is strangling a cat with a laryngitical canary.
TARA
Sounds like someone's in trouble.
XANDER
Or something's in heat.
WILLOW
(really enthusiastic. Not.)
Well, we'd better go figure out
what it is.
They make their way into the other room, following the terrible sounds, until they come upon a person crouched over, his back towards them. The sounds are coming from him, he looks like he's in pain.
TARA
Hey, are you all right?
No answer, but suddenly feedback causes the three of them to cover their ears and emit various sounds of pain. The crouched over figure straightens up and flings earphones from his head. It's ERIC, the terrible guitarist.
ERIC
Stupid amp!
He takes a kick at it, misses, falls flat on his butt, and notices the three people standing there watching him. He looks up a little sheepishly.
ERIC
(Con't)
Hi…?
XANDER
I'm Xander…
ERIC
(to Willow)
And you?
(gets up, takes off his guitar and places it on the floor, and beelines to Willow)
I bet it's beautiful, since you're so pretty.
XANDER
(sarcastically, under his breath)
Wow. The poetry. I think we've
found the new Will Shakespeare.
WILLOW
(obviously uncomfortable)
I'm Willow…. We're looking
for Devon.
ERIC
Enchante.
Eric takes her hand and tries to kiss it, she yanks it away just before his lips can touch it. He doesn't get the hint, but instead steps in between Willow and Tara and puts his arms around both their shoulders.
ERIC
(con't)
What's your name?
TARA
Um, have you seen Devon?
ERIC
Forget about him, baby, you've
found yourself a real man now.
Both women duck out from under his arms, and Xander steps into his face.
XANDER
Yo, Mr. Hormone, we need to
talk to Devon. Do you know
where he is?
ERIC
Chill, really, man, share the wealth.
He's not talking about cash here.
XANDER
(through gritted teeth)
We. Want. To. Talk. To. Devon.
Where is he?
ERIC
He went out to look for someone.
XANDER
Someone? Who someone?
ERIC
I don't know. I'm not his mother.
(turns around, picks up his guitar again.)
I've gotta practice now, if you're
done wasting my time.
He unplugs the headsets, and begins to pluck away. Oh Goddess, the PAIN! THE PAIN! TUNE YOUR AXE, MAN! And PICK a KEY and stick with it!
The three flee before there is irreparable damage to their eardrums.
EXTERIOR: OUTSIDE DEVON'S APARTMENT - afternoon
Xander is clearing out his ears. He looks back towards the door and frowns.
XANDER
Now we know why Devon wants
another bassist. And from what
I've learnt about being around
a certain bassist is that you
need a bass amp to play a bass
guitar! Sheesh!
Willow and Tara are looking at Xander as if he's some great hero. He doesn't notice.
WILLOW
Thanks, Xander.
TARA
Yeah, thanks.
XANDER
(Puzzled)
For what?
TARA
For getting that guy off of us.
XANDER
(nonplussed)
No problem.
WILLOW
Oh, no!
XANDER and TARA
What?
WILLOW
Devon was looking for a new bassist.
XANDER
(wincing and clutching his ears again)
And not a moment too soon!
WILLOW
No! He was going to try and
recruit the bassist from Kresnick!
XANDER
Like I said… Oh God…
EXTERIOR - PARK Day
Devon is in the park where a stage is being set up for the last night of the music festival. He wanders behind it and the roadies to a couple of trailers parked in back. He looks at the number of a certain trailer on a piece of paper he has and is a little confused when he notices the windows are blacked out. He knocks on the door and waits. He knocks again.
MUFFLED VOICE (OS)
Who is it?
DEVON
I'm from Dingoes. I want to
talk to you guys.
The door opens and he's pulled in!
BLACKOUT
(End of Act Three)
ACT FOUR
INTERIOR: LYDIA'S APARTMENT - evening
Dawn has just left. Lydia watches her go and walks straight to the telephone. Se quickly presses several buttons and waits. The voice of a Receptionist can be heard.
RECEPTIONIST (V.O.)
Hello. This is Stanton Electronics.
How may I…
LYDIA
(interrupting)
Don't worry about the cover.
It's Lydia Barlow. I must speak
with Mr. Travers immediately.
RECEPTIONIST (V.O.)
Putting you through…
There's a click and Quentin Travers answers.
QUENTIN (V.O.)
Ah, Lydia. How are things?
LYDIA
I'm afraid things are getting
more and more tense here.
Dawn and Buffy… they've come
close to another confrontation…
Mr. Giles and myself are doing
all we can to calm things down…
they've already had one major
fight.
QUENTIN (V.O.)
Physical?
(pause)
Well, it's to be expected. There
was always the possibility of a
certain amount of rivalry between
the girls.
LYDIA
It's more than rivalry. Miss
Summers… Buffy… She doesn't
appreciate the effort Dawn is
putting into her duty…
QUENTIN (V.O.)
Things will level out eventually.
I shouldn't worry.
LYDIA
This may be too much for…
QUENTIN (V.O.)
You've been given an important
role. I'm sure you're more than
capable of keeping control. We
all have faith in you.
LYDIA
(a little painfully)
Faith… yes…
There's an uncomfortable silence, which is broken by Quentin being as professional as ever.
QUENTIN (V.O.)
Well, be sure to inform us
when any more developments
occur.
LYDIA
O-of course…
Quentin cancels the connection. Lydia slowly puts the receiver of her phone down slowly, nervously.
EXTERIOR: SUNNYDALE STREET - evening
Willow, Xander and Tara are walking through the street trying to find Buffy.
WILLOW
We have to find her quickly!
TARA
Devon doesn't stand a chance.
XANDER
He never was the brightest bulb
in the box.
WILLOW
(jokingly)
Well, he did used to date Cordelia…
XANDER
(a little offended)
Hey!
They walk on a little further. They see Buffy talking to someone.
XANDER
There she is!
WILLOW
Buffy! Buffy!
They walk towards her.
ANGLE ON: BUFFY. She's talking to a boy about fifteen.
BUFFY
Okay… Matt… Slow down.
What happened?
MATT
They… they got all funny… I
mean… their faces did. Like they
were… monsters or something.
BUFFY
And they tried to attack you?
MATT
They just jumped me. I had
to run…
The Scoobies catch up.
WILLOW
What's happening?
BUFFY
This is Matt… I bumped into
him. He was running from…
XANDER
Let me guess? The Hell Band?
BUFFY
(nods)
Yup.
(to Matt)
Where were you?
MATT
The park… I was at the music
festival… I went to the trees to…
y'know… call of nature… and
they appeared from nowhere.
BUFFY
The park it is.
(to the Scoobies)
You guys coming with?
XANDER
You bet.
WILLOW
They might have got to Devon
already. We have to get there
quickly…
They quicken their pace. The boy follows them.
EXTERIOR: SUNNYDALE PARK - evening
The four Scoobies and the boy arrive at the park just as the sun goes down. Some bands are practising on the stage while the crowds are beginning the fill the place up.
BUFFY
We'll never find them in here.
Willow notices something on the floor. She kneels over to pick it up.
TARA
What is it?
WILLOW
A piece of paper. With a number
of a trailer on it. Could mean
anything but… it looks like Devon's
handwriting. I helped him with
his homework back in high school
and his writing… well, put it this
way… it's very distinct.
XANDER
She means bad.
Buffy begins looking around.
BUFFY
We better split up. Will, Tara…
The boy seems to notice something and interrupts them.
MATT
(nervously)
What was that?
BUFFY
What?
MATT
Over there… I saw something
move. Maybe it's them.
BUFFY
I'm on it!
She runs off with the boy. Willow, Tara and Xander look at each other then run after Buffy.
CUT TO:
SECLUDED AREA
Buffy gets there first with the boy. She looks around.
BUFFY
Are you sure you saw…
Her voice trails off as she looks around. The three Scoobies catch up with them
BUFFY
(C'tnd)
…something?
About thirty vampires appear from all angles and surround them. They are lead by the members of the band. James looks at the boy.
JAMES
Good work. I'm impressed.
MATT
Do I get to join you now?
Like you promised?
JAMES
It's time.
James grabs the boy's head. Before Buffy can react, James breaks his neck and his body falls lifelessly to the ground.
BUFFY
You bastard!
JAMES
The kid probably downloaded
our songs without paying…
LARS
But we have some more loyal
fans here…
(to the Vamps)
Kill them!
The small army of vamped fans attack the Scoobies. Even Buffy is a little nervous about the odds.
BUFFY
Okay… guys… I suggest running…
XANDER
The odds aren't looking too good,
huh?
They all begin to back away. All except for Willow.
BUFFY
Will, c'mon. We can't face this now…
Willow's eyes suddenly turn black and the trees all around them start shaking.
TARA
(nervously)
Willow?
WILLOW
Detach!
Pieces of wood rip from the trees and float in mid air, aiming themselves at the vampires.
WILLOW
Fire!
The pieces of wood fly at the vamps and about twenty are dusted instantly. The others are in awe of her powers.
BUFFY
Go one girl slaying machine.
You wanna put me out of a
job.
WILLOW
(shrugs)
Just evening the odds a little.
ANGLE ON: TARA. She looks nervously at Willow but doesn't say anything - the last time she mentioned how scared she was they ended up arguing.
The four band members run off, leaving about five vamps to deal with the Scoobies. They attack and one is thrown into a tree by Buffy and staked almost straight away.
BUFFY
I'll go after the wannabe metal
gods. Reckon you guys can clean
up the mess?
XANDER
That's our job!
Buffy runs off in the direction of the band.
CUT TO:
MAIN AREA
The band run through, pushing the fans that are slowly gathering out of the way. Buffy is quickly following them.
CUT TO:
SECLUDED AREA
Xander stakes the last of the vamped fans. He turns to Willow and Tara.
XANDER
Well, it's up to Buffy now.
Willow nods. She looks up suddenly.
WILLOW
Devon!
The three of them run off as fast as they can.
INTERIOR: BAND'S TRAILER - evening
The door bursts open. We see Devon lying on the ground looking dazed and confused. He has several puncture wounds on his neck and arms. Willow gets in first.
WILLOW
Devon? Devon are you…
DEVON
Uuugh…
WILLOW
(to Xander)
He's lost a lot of blood. I'm
going to try a healing spell
but we still need an ambulance.
Tara…
Tara nods and runs off to find a telephone.
Willow holds her hands over Devon's wounds. Magical energy flows through them slowly getting healing them.
WILLOW
It's going to be okay…
DEVON
(looks at her)
Wh… what're you doing?
WILLOW
Shhh… It's all right.
Devon closes his eyes as he feels the pain a little.
DEVON
Wha-what were them things?
(half jokingly)
Vampires or something?
WILLOW
Uh, yeah actually.
DEVON
Wow. You live in a town your
whole life and miss out all the
weird stuff.
(pause, a little realisation)
Y'know, Oz always screwed up
our plans to have an outdoor
gig during the full moons…
you don't think…?
WILLOW
(smiles, shakes her head)
I try not to think too much.
EXTERIOR: SUNNYDALE PARK - BACKSTAGE - night
The band are still ahead of Buffy and one of them throws a set of drums in her path to stop her. She tumbles over as they get further ahead. She gets to her feet and notices something.
ANGLE ON: THE BAND. They're still running from her, pushing away the other musicians.
BUFFY (V.O.)
Hey!
The drummer, Lars turns around.
BUFFY
Give my regards to Denmark!
She throws a cymbal that decapitates him. He gets reduced to dust in seconds.
Buffy jumps up to the framework of the stage. She spins on it and comes back down between James who is still running and Jason and Kirk who suddenly stop as she lands in front of them. She pulls out two drumsticks that she plunges through their hearts at the same time. They're dusted.
James stops and looks at her, slightly in awe.
JAMES
I'm impressed.
BUFFY
You should be. Maybe next
time you'll try touring in towns
that don't have their own Slayer.
JAMES
You forget how easy to access
the food is around here.
BUFFY
(holds up drumstick)
And you're forgetting what
these things do to you.
JAMES
I haven't forgotten.
He dives at her with a growl. She moves out of the way. He hits the ground and rolls back onto his feet. Buffy punches at him several times but he blocks over attack and pushes her back.
James jumps at her with a kick. She grabs his foot and spins him around into the scaffolding holding the stage up. He starts to punch at her. She blocks a few then manages to get in one herself. He grabs his nose as he staggers backwards. Buffy throws the drumstick away and gets out a real stake.
BUFFY
This is how we do things
around here.
She's about to attack again when James is knocked to the floor in a blur. It's Dawn. She begins pounding James in the face as hard as she can. He pushes he off and jumps to his feet.
JAMES
What is this? A Slayer convention?
DAWN
Something like that.
BUFFY
What're you doing here?
DAWN
Kill now, inquisition later.
Buffy and Dawn launch into an attack, punching and kicking James from both sides. He tries to block but can't. He's still in shock when th two Slayers stake him from in front and behind.
When he turns to dust Dawn looks at Buffy and frowns.
DAWN
Sloppy.
BLACK OUT
EXTERIOR: SUNNYDALE PARK - night
Buffy, Dawn, Willow, Tara and Xander leave the music festival and watch Devon being taken away by an ambulance along with the other Dingoes.
BUFFY
Is he going to be okay?
TARA
Willow healed him so he
wouldn't lose any more
blood. Once they give him
a transfusion he'll be fine.
WILLOW
But he won't be back on
stage for a while.
XANDER
(smiles)
I'm sure the music industry
will be crapping themselves
about what to do without him.
They all smile. Suddenly Eric runs in, out of breath and carrying his guitar in heavy case.
ERIC
Am I late? What've I missed?
(sees the ambulance)
What's going on?
BUFFY
(taps him on the shoulder)
I think you've been fired.
Dawn shakes her head in dismay and walks on ahead of the others who quickly follow her.
ANGLE ON: THE STAGE
We see another band playing on the stage. The lead singer, BRUCE, vamps out momentarily then smiles as he begins to sing.
BLACK OUT
END
Summer Script Challenge
The Powers that Be Pro Temporae
Episode 6.13: Rifting
By Carl Aminaluvsworth (AminalLuv), SWSteve Deknight (SWS) and Marti Noggston (Noggins)
Woo hoo! The episode guest starring Metallica!!!!
GILES (V.O.)
Previously on Buffy the Vampire Slayer…
From The Point Of No Return:
LYDIA
The new Slayer… It's Dawn…
CUT TO: Spike in agony as a bright light envelops him.
LYDIA
He's human - he's got
a got a soul now.
From Behold The Power:
SPIKE
You don't know what it's like...
to see every face, to hear
every scream... and to know
that back then, you really didn't
give a rat's ass. And that eats at
you.
From Liberation:
Dawn jumps towards General Hicks. There's a gunshot.
CUT TO:
Willow with blood coming from her shoulder.
CUT TO: Spike talking to Buffy in the corner of Giles' living room.
SPIKE
Exactly. Well, maybe, you
know… you'd like to come
out on… y'know a date or
something?
From Fish In The Sea:
Buffy and Spike discussing their feelings for one another with Anya and Xander. Xander looks suspiciously at Anya and Spike talking.
TEASER
INTERIOR: BRONZE - night
The Scoobies are in the Bronze listening to the band onstage. The same band from several past episodes, Kresnik.
BUFFY
You know, I never thought
they'd be back here after
last week's fiasco.
XANDER
They obviously love the place.
The Hellmouth vibes are obviously
great for the rocking and the
rolling.
BUFFY
If that demon hadn't decided
to try to kill me instead they
wouldn't stand a chance.
TARA
Well, it's not the first time
they've diced with death.
XANDER
You mean with the drugs
and the booze?
ANYA
They were here when the
vamps attacked before we
brought Buffy back. They're
obviously very resilient.
Buffy nods as she watches the lead singer, JAMES, finishing the last song of their set.
ANGLE ON: JAMES. He shouts out over the applause.
JAMES
Thanks. Just remember we'll
be here again tomorrow night
and in the park for the last
night of the festival.
XANDER
(V.O., but not the only one)
Woo hoo!
JAMES
Damn right!
The band disappear behind the stage.
ANGLE ON: SCOOBIES. Buffy is holding hands with Spike above the table. She squeezes and smiles. He smiles back albeit a little nervously.
SPIKE
If I was anyone other than
me you'd have broken my
hand.
BUFFY
(suddenly realising)
Oh God! Sorry! I forgot!
SPIKE
Don't worry, luv. I'm not
complaining about the
vampire strength added
to this human package.
Buffy begins to get up.
SPIKE
Where you going?
BUFFY
Bathroom.
SPIKE
Female things?
BUFFY
If peeing counts…
SPIKE
Ah… I really have to learn not
to ask questions I don't want
answers to.
Buffy smiles and disappears away from the table. Spike's smiling, but as soon as she's out of sight, his head collides with the table.
SPIKE
Oh God!
ANYA
Are you okay?
SPIKE
You know, this incompatibility
thing is really getting to me
now. Sodding hell! And you
want to know what's worse?
(pause. Everyone shrugs)
She's really happy. The girl
who hated my guts for four
bloody years. I mean, I hate
myself. After all I've felt and
now… I just want to be mates…
WILLOW
Then you should talk to her.
SPIKE
And hurt her feelings? That's
last thing I want!
(Groans in pain)
Bloody soul! It had to go and
ruin everything!
Buffy comes back to the table.
BUFFY
Did I miss anything?
ANYA
Oh, just Sp… OW!
Anya reaches down to rub her foot, which Spike has just stomped on.
SPIKE
(interrupting)
Nothing, luv.
ANYA
(glares at him)
…Spike trying to steal your
drink.
BUFFY
Really?
(whispers to him with a wink)
We'll have to do something
about that later.
SPIKE
(really uncomfortable)
Um, yeah. But I really don't
think we're…
Anya knocks her drink off the table. Using his fast reactions Spike grabs it before it hits the ground.
ANYA
Thank you.
SPIKE
No problem, luv.
He puts it back on the table and she goes to take it back, her hand touching his. Nothing intimate just accidental but we realise Xander doesn't see it like that he watches jealously.
CUT TO:
EXTERIOR: CEMETERY - night
Dawn is out on patrol, fighting a huge demon with spines and blue scales and stuff. It punches at her but she expertly ducks before bringing her fist up to its chin.
The demon falls back into a tree. Dawn quickly jumps in with a flying kick to its throat. The demon falls to the ground seemingly dead.
LYDIA
Good show. I'm impressed.
Dawn goes through a bag at Lydia's feet and pulls out a knife.
LYDIA
(slightly nervously)
Wh-what are you doing?
The demon jumps back up and dives at Lydia. Dawn brings the knife up through its chest. It falls to the ground with a thud.
Dawn pulls the knife out then rips out its innards with her bare hands. Some of the blood splatters onto Lydia's face. Dawn hands the knife to her and the blood on it drips onto her immaculate white shirt. Lydia doesn't look amused.
LYDIA
Now I believe that was uncalled
for. Plegrath demons don't need
to have their intestines ripped
out to kill them…
Dawn shrugs as she makes her way to the exit.
DAWN
You should clean up. You look a mess.
(pause)
And don't forget the weapons.
Lydia watches her go with a shocked look on her face.
ACT ONE
INTERIOR: SPIKE'S CRYPT - day
Spike is in his crypt trying to make it look a little more comfortable. He now has sheets in his tomb that he is trying to smooth out.
SPIKE
(muttering)
Bloody thing. What I need's
a sodding bed…
VOICE (V.O.)
Well, I can think of a bed that's
in need of a person.
Spike turns around to see Buffy standing at the entrance.
SPIKE
Uh, sorry about that. Talking
to myself. First sign of madness…
BUFFY
Don't worry. I'd be the same
if I had to live on my own in
here. It's great for a vampire's
lair but since you're not inclined
that way anymore…
SPIKE
I'd get an apartment if I could
afford the bloody thing!
Buffy walks over to a lamp and examines the shade closely, pointedly not looking at Spike.
BUFFY
You know…
(beat)
You could stay at Giles' with
me. There's enough room
and you've stayed there
before…
SPIKE
I'm really not sure that's such
a good...
(thoughtfully)
Mind you… like I said, finding
housing isn't easy at the minute
without a job. Which is difficult
to get I might add…
BUFFY
(turns to him, eyebrow raised)
You're job hunting?
SPIKE
(a little offended, but joking)
Yes! Not exactly the strangest
concept is it? But I suppose
there's nothing around for a
bloke who's only qualifications
include drinking blood and being
a government lab rat.
BUFFY
I guess so…
SPIKE
Mind you, a free house would be…
(thinks again)
No. I can't… Giles would never agree.
BUFFY
Well, actually, he suggested it.
Since you're one of us now and you
have been quite a bit of help. But he
said that you were not allowed
to watch Passions while he was
In the room.
SPIKE
He did? Well… wow. Still, it wouldn't
work out. It'd be… uncomfortable.
BUFFY
Probably.
(perks up and says seductively)
We wouldn't want to give
Dawn the wrong idea.
SPIKE
(changing conversation rapidly)
How is Little Sis anyway?
Buffy looks down sadly. She sits on the side of Spike's tomb. He sits down next to her, close but not physically touching.
BUFFY
She's… too good.
SPIKE
That's a bad thing?
BUFFY
I'm just scared for her. The
idea of being a Slayer has
really got to her. She's thinking
of doing her job instead of
thinking about what she should
be doing.
SPIKE
She's just trying to catch up
with you.
BUFFY
But it's going to get her… or
someone else… killed.
Spike puts his arm affectionately around Buffy.
SPIKE
I'm sure it'll be okay.
Before he realises what he's doing and takes it away, she takes his hand in hers.
BUFFY
I hope so.
She leans forward to kiss him. Still not wanting to hurt her feelings he kisses her back.
INTERIOR: XANDER'S APARTMENT - day
Xander is in the kitchen, cooking lunch-type foods. Anya is sitting on the couch, morosely flipping through another wedding magazine. She keeps stopping at pages and sighing loudly. Finally, Xander slams down a pot and looks at her.
XANDER
Either tell me what's wrong,
or get the leak patched!
ANYA
It's just… nothing.
XANDER
If it's nothing, can you stop it?
ANYA
It's just… Spike and Buffy.
XANDER
What, they're in the magazines?
ANYA
Of course not! It's just, Spike
was given everything he ever
wanted, and it didn't turn out
perfect for him. I mean, aw hell.
XANDER
Oh. And who does he seem
right for?
Thus beginneth the argument.
INTERIOR: MAGIC BOX - afternoon
Giles is serving some customers in the magic shop. He puts an item in a bag.
GILES
Please come again. It's nice
to see regulars here.
CUSTOMER
Thanks. Will do.
The Customer opens the door to leave and Dawn comes storming through.
CUSTOMER
Excuse me!
DAWN
(not even turning)
Why? What did you do?
The Customer leaves in a bad mood as Dawn throws her school bag onto the table and thumps into the chair in an especially teenager way.
GILES
Dawn! That isn't the sort of
behaviour I appreciate around
here!
(Pause)
And shouldn't you be in school?
DAWN
What's the point? It's not like
it's gonna do me any good.
GILES
It does you a lot of good! Without
the proper education you won't
have the skills to pursue the career
you desire!
DAWN
What career? I have a career,
it's called a sacred duty. I
should be killing demons not
sitting around in a crowded
room being told things that
have no relevance to what
I've been destined to do!
GILES
(professional educator mode)
Well, that's not the excuse
most teenagers make for
skipping class…
(back to parental figure mode)
but that isn't the point. Buffy
went to school and continued
her slaying.
DAWN
Buffy got her priorities wrong.
Giles is clearly getting a little mad at her nonchalance and raises his voice.
GILES
(a little louder)
Now you just listen here…
I've been appointed your
legal guardian and I intend
to fulfil that role. You are
going to school even if I
have to close the shop and
drag you there myself!
DAWN
Oh please! You and what army?
Dawn grabs her bag. She doesn't even look at Giles who looks like he's on the verge of exploding.
DAWN
I'm glad you're not my watcher.
Lydia understands me!
She walks straight out of the shop leaving Giles looking and feeling pretty stupid.
EXTERIOR: BRONZE - night
Well, it's night again and here's our establishing shot. We can hear the music coming out of one of the open doors.
INTERIOR: BRONZE - night
ANGLE ON: THE STAGE. The band is playing their hearts out. Their name "Kresnick" can be clearly seen on a banner at the back of the stage. We can see the whole band now and not just James. On the bass we have JASON, lead guitar KIRT and drums LARS J.
ANGLE ON: THE SCOOBIES. They're watching the band again.
XANDER
You know… I'm beginning to
wonder if there are any other
bands in Sunnydale at the
moment.
BUFFY
We do seem to have seen a lot of
these guys in the last month or so.
XANDER
And not that I'm not a fan or
anything, but you can only
listen to a cover of 'Enter
Sandman' a certain number
of times before brain damage
sets in. Maybe it's time we go
and find a new venue.
ANYA
(eyeing the uncomfortable Spike and ecstatic Buffy)
Why bother? Here is comfortable.
Here we're happy. We're used to
here. Changing from here would
be bad and scary and wrong.
TARA
She has a point. They're
very… catchy.
SPIKE
You don't think they're evil
and are using their music to
hypnotise us into following
their nefarious plans do you?
Everyone turns to stare at him.
SPIKE
(C'tnd)
Well, this is the Hellmouth.
BUFFY
I think they're just very
good, Spikey.
EVERYONE
Spikey?!
BUFFY
Did I just say that?
(everyone nods)
I said that.
(pause)
Oh God. Sorry. Shoot me now.
SPIKE
(only half joking)
Just promise never to do it
again.
ANGLE ON: THE BAND. They finish their song with one loud drum solo. The cymbals crash and James moves closer to the microphone.
JAMES
We're taking a quick break
here. Hope you can live without
us.
SPIKE (V.O)
I'm sure we can try!
The band put down their instruments and disappear behind the stage.
ANGLE ON: SCOOBIES. Buffy punches Spike playfully in the arm but is going a little red.
BUFFY
That was just plain embarrassing.
SPIKE
(with a cocky smile)
Just voicing an opinion.
XANDER
(a little bitterly)
Well next time you feel the
need to… don't.
SPIKE
What the hell's got stuck up
your arse?
Before Xander can say anything that'll result in a fight there's a voice from behind them.
VOICE (O.S.)
Hey! It's our favourite groupies!
They all turn around and we see DEVON for the first time since Oz disappeared. He's looking as rock'n'roll as ever… and possibly slightly drugged up. Wait… they're the same thing aren't they. *ahem* I shall continue. (Remember, just say no! -Ed.)
WILLOW
Oh my God! Devon!
BUFFY
Hey there!
XANDER
Long time no see, bud.
DEVON
Uh, yeah. We've been kinda
busy. Y'know, with the playing.
XANDER
So the old rock and roll lifestyle
is treating you good?
DEVON
Well, we still suck.
XANDER
Hence the not being on stage?
DEVON
Nah. Apparently our brand of
suck is hip right now. We're
playing our set in the park
tomorrow. The big festival
finale, y'know.
All through this Willow is looking around expectantly. Half excited, half nervous.
WILLOW
(attempts nonchalance)
Is… is Oz here?
Tara gives her a nervous glance but Willow holds her hand reassuringly - she's just intrigued.
DEVON
He, uh, he left the band for
a while. Last time we saw
him he'd just come back
from Tibet. Kinda worried he'd
go all John Lennon on us.
XANDER
So he's not gone for good?
DEVON
Dunno.
(pause, then a little more excited:)
We got a new bassist though.
(downbeat again)
Dude never turns up for
practices…
BUFFY
I'm sure he knows what he's
doing.
DEVON
(Gives her a 'what band are you thinking of?' look)
I'm kinda scouting for a
replacement. The guy in
Kresnick, uh, Jason I think,
is great. I'm gonna talk to
him about it.
XANDER
You really think you can get
him playing with the Dingoes?
DEVON
Probably not…
Before he can say more a scream is heard off screen. Everyone looks up. Buffy jumps up.
BUFFY
I'll deal with this.
(to Spike)
We'll deal with this!
Spike gets up as Buffy runs in the direction of the scream. He quickly follows her.
BLACK OUT
ACT TWO
EXTERIOR: ALLEYWAY BEHIND BRONZE - night
Buffy runs out of the back door to see a Vampire disappearing into the Bronze. There's a girl lying on the floor, blood coming from her neck. Spike comes out quickly.
BUFFY
Stay with her!
Before Spike can say anything else Buffy runs in the direction of the vamp.
INTERIOR: BRONZE - BACKSTAGE - night
Buffy runs passed several people who are loitering backstage. She comes to where the band is having a few drinks and tuning their instruments.
BUFFY
Did… did you see anyone come
through here?
KIRT
Well there was this guy. He
went on stage.
JAMES
Looked pretty damn weird. Must
have been on some weird drug
or something
BUFFY
That's my guy.
Buffy runs towards the curtains that lead to the stage.
KIRT
(calling after her)
Can I have your number?
(she's gone, he turns to James)
The ones you want, they never
give their numbers…
INTERIOR: BRONZE - night
Buffy runs onto the stage and looks around.
BUFFY'S POV: She scans the whole of the dance floor and beyond but no one seems to be around.
NORMAL VIEW: Buffy is pretty pissed off at herself.
BUFFY
Damn it!
CUT TO:
EXTERIOR: ALLEYWAY BEHIND BRONZE - night
Buffy returns to the alley where she left Spike and the bitten girl. The rest of the Scoobies have come and are making sure she's OK.
BUFFY
How's she doing.
XANDER
Doesn't look like she was bitten
too badly. She's still conscious
and fairly…
GIRL
That guy bit me. Why would he
bite me?
XANDER
…alert. Maybe you and I should
take her to the hospital though
just in case. You want to come
Anya?
ANYA
No I think I'll stay here with
the people who want to see
me get married.
XANDER
I never said I didn't want to
get married. If I didn't want
to get married I wouldn't have
asked you in the… Listen Anya,
I love you and I do want to get
married to you, but this is not
the time for another argument.
We'll discuss this when I get back.
And while I'm gone do you think
you could refrain from flirting
with any ex-vampires, or anybody
else for that matter.
Xander glares at Spike and gives Anya a quick kiss. Then he and Buffy help the now-completely-confused girl to Xander's car. Once they are out of site Willow looks to Anya.
WILLOW
What was that all about?
ANYA
Xander doesn't want to get married
TARA
(shocked)
He told you that?
ANYA
Well, actually….no. But I can tell.
Spike is looking rather uncomfortable at being present for this "girl talk".
SPIKE
Umm, well I don't want to
intrude on your conversation
and I'm kinda beat. This whole
human thing's kind of like ultra
jet lag, with the whole change
in sleeping patterns and such,
leaves me pretty drained, so
maybe I should go.
The girls ignore Spike and go on with there conversation while Spike walks away out of the alley.
WILLOW
What do you mean you can tell,
What did he say?
ANYA
It's just that he won't make any
decisions and he wants to set the
date so far away. I mean he wants
to get married next March. That's
over a year away.
TARA
What's wrong with that? He
probably just wants a spring
wedding.
ANYA
Well what's wrong with this
spring? It's only February,
that gives us two months until
the end the end of March. Why
do we have to wait a whole year?
We've already been together for
over two years, plus one makes
three. Three years we'll have been
together before the wedding. I
can't wait that long.
WILLOW
I'm sure Xander just doesn't
want to rush things. It's not
easy to plan a wedding in just
a couple months, not a really
nice one anyway. And don't you
want a really nice wedding?
TARA
Anyway three years isn't that
long to wait before getting married.
Willow and I have been together
almost as long as you and Xander
have and we're not getting married.
ANYA
Maybe you should. Don't you want
to get married and have a big wedding
and let the world know that you love
each other?
Willow and Tara pass a look.
WILLOW
We don't have to get married to let the
World know that we're in love.
Tara squeezes her hand and they smile at each other.
TARA
(kind of an afterthought)
Besides, we can't really get married.
ANYA
Sure you can. There are some
states where it's not illegal.
INTERIOR: GILES'S HOUSE
Giles is sitting on the couch looking rather nervous. The lock clicks and the door opens. In walks Buffy.
BUFFY
Hey Giles. How are things doing
here on the home front?
Buffy makes a face as though she's listening for something and then continues.
BUFFY
(C'tnd)
Where's Dawn? I don't hear
her? She's not asleep already?
GILES
Well, actually, Buffy, the thing is…
Dawn's not here.
BUFFY
And by "she's not here" what you
really mean is she ran to the store
to get some milk and will be back
any second right?
GILES
Actually what I mean is… I
don't know where she is.
Buffy leans on the end table and pointedly looks at Giles. He shifts away from her. We see her knuckles are white as she grips the edge of the table.
BUFFY
I'm sorry I must have heard
wrong because I thought I
heard you say that you don't
know where my young, underage
sister who you have legal custody
of, is currently at.
GILES
No, I'm afraid you heard correctly.
BUFFY
(Something's about to get broken, will it be Giles?)
Giles, what happened to my sister?
GILES
She umm, well, she ran off.
BUFFY
She ran away?
GILES
Well not ran away exactly. I
have no reason to believe that
she won't be coming home. She
just kind of…stormed out. You
see she came to the magic shop
in the middle of the day and I
told her that she had to go back
to school. She got very defensive
and said that slaying was more
important and that she didn't
have time for school and then she
left in a huff.
BUFFY
Slaying, of course, that's
probably where she is now.
I'll go out to the graveyards
and look for her. You stay
here in case she comes home.
Buffy goes back out the door, and Giles leans over to inspect the ten finger-shaped indentations in the wood of the end table.
EXTERIOR: GRAVEYARD: NIGHT
We see Dawn walking around the graveyard alone, stake in hand. Buffy comes up beside her.
BUFFY
You having fun wandering the
graveyard alone looking for
things to kill?
DAWN
Just doing my job, unlike some
people.
BUFFY
I work hard at what I do, and
I'm good at it. But I'm not a just
a killer Dawn, we're not just killers.
There are other things in life for you.
DAWN
No. I don't have time for other
things and you shouldn't either.
We're slayers, we don't get time
off for school or hanging out at
night clubs. We're fighting a
battle that never ends. Evil doesn't
take a holiday and neither can we.
BUFFY
Taking time out can make you
a better slayer Dawn. If you
spend all your time fighting
then you have no time to find
out what it is you're fighting for.
Look at me. I've lived the longer
than any other slayer. It's
because I have ties to the world
that I fight to save every night.
DAWN
You haven't lived the longest
of any slayer. You've already
died…twice.
BUFFY
But I'm still here. My friends
made sure of that. They kept
me in this world, both literally
and figuratively.
A vampire suddenly jumps out of the bushes behind Buffy and knocks her to the ground. She wrestles with him as Dawn comes up behind them, and rather impatiently stakes the vamp.
DAWN
(mockingly)
Maybe you oughta leave. It's
getting passed your bed time.
BUFFY
(getting up and dusting herself off)
You just don't understand do
you? I had to learn things the
hard way. There was no one
around that had been through
this before when I first became
the slayer. No one to tell me
what to expect, no one to prepare
me for what I was facing. I was
hoping I could do that for you,
but I guess you'll just have to
learn it on your own. So go, learn
it on your own. Just be back at
Giles in an hour because Slayer
or not you are going to school
tomorrow.
Buffy turns and leaves. Dawn stands there, the picture of cool, then she turns and flings a stake violently at a nearby tombstone. It shatters into infinitesimally small splinters.
INTERIOR: HOSPITAL: DAY
Buffy and Giles are walking down the hallway, with all the hustle and bustle of a hospital. And trust me, it really exists.
P.A. SYSTEM (VO)
Would Mr. Assist please report to 3
North? Mr. Assist, 3 North.
Several people rush by them, including a kind of tall, dark haired white guy in scrubs. Buffy turns to watch him run past.
BUFFY
Woah. For a second I thought
that intern was Ben. Every time
I come in here I expect to see him
and then I'm like; oh yeah, dead.
I kinda feel bad for him. I mean,
all he wanted was to be a doctor.
GILES
That may have been all he wanted,
but that wasn't all he was. There
was true evil living inside him and
he had to die, for the sake of
the world.
(then quickly changing subjects)
This is the room. I hope this girl
can be of help to us.
They walk into the room and approach the girl's bed. She's staring up at the ceiling, and doesn't make any sign that she sees them.
BUFFY
Hi. Do you remember me? I
brought you here last night.
The girl is silent.
GILES
We were hoping you could give
us some information about the
thing that attacked you last night.
GIRL
(monotonously)
It wasn't a thing, it was a person.
BUFFY
Do you remember what the
person looked like?
GIRL
Why do you want to know?
BUFFY
We need to find him. He could have
hurt other people.
A new song comes on the radio and the girl starts screaming and crying. It's a cover of Enter Sandman.
BUFFY
Not a big fan of metal, are you?
Then Buffy realizes something.
BUFFY
(to Giles)
The band. This song is by the
band that was playing at the
Bronze last night when she got
attacked. When I ran after the
vamp I found the band. They
told me the vamp ran out on
stage but I got out there and
there were no vampires to be
seen.
GILES
So you think the band members…
BUFFY
…Are our fang gang. I can't believe
I couldn't tell they were vamps.
(not totally repentant)
Well I guess that means we're going to
the music festival tonight.
BLACK OUT
(End of Act Two)
ACT THREE
EXTERIOR: GRAVE YARD: DAY
Spike is walking back to his crypt with groceries when he sees Dawn sitting on a tomb. He goes to talk to her.
SPIKE
Hey Niblet. Why aren't you
at school? Does big sis know
you're cutting class?
DAWN
Doesn't matter if she knows or
not, I have a job to do and I'll
do it with or without her permission.
SPIKE
Well it's not like there are many
vampires roaming around in broad
daylight you know. So I think it
might be safe for you to leave the
graveyard for a little while.
DAWN
Just because vampires are
nocturnal doesn't mean all
demons are.
SPIKE
Nocturnal, fancy word. See,
you are learning something
important in school. Think of
all the other big words you
could be missing out on!
DAWN
Lydia told me there was a
demon that was going to rise
here today.
SPIKE
I haven't heard anything about
any demon risings around this
neck of the woods. And usually
I'm the first to know, this being
my home and all.
DAWN
Strange home for a human.
It's like you're still really a
vampire deep down.
SPIKE
(uncomfortably)
Yeah, well until I find somewhere
better it's the only place I've
got. Buffy… Buffy suggested I
stay at Giles' with you two
but…
DAWN
Why should I care?
SPIKE
(rather taken aback)
Well… I thought we were friends…
so I wanted to know if you didn't
mind…
Dawn says nothing in reply.
SPIKE
(con't)
Anyway, you didn't answer
my question about being in
school…
DAWN
School's a waste of time. What
am I going to do? Go to college
and get a degree in slaying?
It's pointless. You go to school so
you can find out what you're going
to do with your life. I already know.
SPIKE
You have to go to school.
It's about more then choosing
a career. You're a teenager,
you should be around other
teenagers.
DAWN
They're just a distraction.
SPIKE
You used to love hanging out
with the other kids. Seems like
you've changed a lot since you
became slayer and not necessarily
for the better.
DAWN
I take my calling seriously. What gives
you the right to judge me?
SPIKE
I'm not judging you, I just call it like
I see it. I'm worried about you is
all. I'm not the only one.
maybe it's the pressure of being
a Slayer… you know, trying to
be as good as big sis.
This really sets Dawn off.
DAWN
(aggressively)
I am better than Buffy! I haven't
got all the emotional attachments
she has. I'm just prepared for my
sacred duty. I'm the Slayer.
SPIKE
Wait… wait. No emotional
attachments? What about Buffy?
She's your sister! And I thought
I was your friend!
DAWN
Attachments should be dropped
when more important things
take over.
SPIKE
(totally hurt by this outburst)
Att-attachment? Is that all I am?
Dawn jumps from the top of the tomb and begins to make her way to the exit. Spike runs after her and grabs her arm.
SPIKE
Just wait a…
Dawn pulls her arm away and whips out a knife, which she holds at Spike's throat.
DAWN
Touch me again and this is
gonna be through your throat.
SPIKE
(shocked)
Y-you couldn't do it. I'm human.
You can't kill humans.
DAWN
(threateningly)
I can't kill innocents, Spike. And
last I heard you were far from that.
Spike looks dumbstruck as Dawn leaves the graveyard.
EXTERIOR - UC SUNNYDALE -Day
Buffy, Giles and Xander meet Willow and Tara on the quad. They walk across the grass.
WILLOW
It makes sense. Whenever the
band was around, there has been
an attack.
TARA
And there was nowhere for an
escaping Vamp to go. We just
took the band's word for it.
XANDER
I can't believe it took us this
long to figure it out!
BUFFY
I know. I'm starting to think Dawn's
right. Maybe I am getting too old
for this Slaying thing. I can usually
spot them a mile away.
TARA
You were just following normal
procedures. Usually the witnesses
aren't trying to misdirect you.
GILES
(WAITAMINUTE!)
If you're old, what does that
make me?
BUFFY
(offhandedly)
Well-preserved.
(To the Scoobies)
These guys are not local. We've got
to find where they've holed up.
WILLOW
I bet Devon knows.
BUFFY
Good, you take Xander and
Tara and find him. Giles and
I will go to the festival and
See what we can find out.
They split up, and we hear as they part…
GILES
Well preserved!?!
INTERIOR DEVON'S APARTMENT - afternoon
Willow, Tara and Xander knock on the partially opened door, and stick their heads in.
WILLOW
Hello? Devon?
The place is trashed. Things are broken, there's moulding food and empty booze bottles of varying descriptions laying about.
XANDER
Do you think something attacked
him?
WILLOW
(picking her way over trash)
No, it always looks like this.
Something about musicians
and cleaning supplies. They
just don't mix.
XANDER
Oz was never this bad.
We hear a faint, odd, plaintive wailing song. Xander sticks his hand out, stopping the two girls from going any further.
XANDER
Did you hear that?
TARA and WILLOW
Hear what?
This time we hear it clearly, it sounds like someone is strangling a cat with a laryngitical canary.
TARA
Sounds like someone's in trouble.
XANDER
Or something's in heat.
WILLOW
(really enthusiastic. Not.)
Well, we'd better go figure out
what it is.
They make their way into the other room, following the terrible sounds, until they come upon a person crouched over, his back towards them. The sounds are coming from him, he looks like he's in pain.
TARA
Hey, are you all right?
No answer, but suddenly feedback causes the three of them to cover their ears and emit various sounds of pain. The crouched over figure straightens up and flings earphones from his head. It's ERIC, the terrible guitarist.
ERIC
Stupid amp!
He takes a kick at it, misses, falls flat on his butt, and notices the three people standing there watching him. He looks up a little sheepishly.
ERIC
(Con't)
Hi…?
XANDER
I'm Xander…
ERIC
(to Willow)
And you?
(gets up, takes off his guitar and places it on the floor, and beelines to Willow)
I bet it's beautiful, since you're so pretty.
XANDER
(sarcastically, under his breath)
Wow. The poetry. I think we've
found the new Will Shakespeare.
WILLOW
(obviously uncomfortable)
I'm Willow…. We're looking
for Devon.
ERIC
Enchante.
Eric takes her hand and tries to kiss it, she yanks it away just before his lips can touch it. He doesn't get the hint, but instead steps in between Willow and Tara and puts his arms around both their shoulders.
ERIC
(con't)
What's your name?
TARA
Um, have you seen Devon?
ERIC
Forget about him, baby, you've
found yourself a real man now.
Both women duck out from under his arms, and Xander steps into his face.
XANDER
Yo, Mr. Hormone, we need to
talk to Devon. Do you know
where he is?
ERIC
Chill, really, man, share the wealth.
He's not talking about cash here.
XANDER
(through gritted teeth)
We. Want. To. Talk. To. Devon.
Where is he?
ERIC
He went out to look for someone.
XANDER
Someone? Who someone?
ERIC
I don't know. I'm not his mother.
(turns around, picks up his guitar again.)
I've gotta practice now, if you're
done wasting my time.
He unplugs the headsets, and begins to pluck away. Oh Goddess, the PAIN! THE PAIN! TUNE YOUR AXE, MAN! And PICK a KEY and stick with it!
The three flee before there is irreparable damage to their eardrums.
EXTERIOR: OUTSIDE DEVON'S APARTMENT - afternoon
Xander is clearing out his ears. He looks back towards the door and frowns.
XANDER
Now we know why Devon wants
another bassist. And from what
I've learnt about being around
a certain bassist is that you
need a bass amp to play a bass
guitar! Sheesh!
Willow and Tara are looking at Xander as if he's some great hero. He doesn't notice.
WILLOW
Thanks, Xander.
TARA
Yeah, thanks.
XANDER
(Puzzled)
For what?
TARA
For getting that guy off of us.
XANDER
(nonplussed)
No problem.
WILLOW
Oh, no!
XANDER and TARA
What?
WILLOW
Devon was looking for a new bassist.
XANDER
(wincing and clutching his ears again)
And not a moment too soon!
WILLOW
No! He was going to try and
recruit the bassist from Kresnick!
XANDER
Like I said… Oh God…
EXTERIOR - PARK Day
Devon is in the park where a stage is being set up for the last night of the music festival. He wanders behind it and the roadies to a couple of trailers parked in back. He looks at the number of a certain trailer on a piece of paper he has and is a little confused when he notices the windows are blacked out. He knocks on the door and waits. He knocks again.
MUFFLED VOICE (OS)
Who is it?
DEVON
I'm from Dingoes. I want to
talk to you guys.
The door opens and he's pulled in!
BLACKOUT
(End of Act Three)
ACT FOUR
INTERIOR: LYDIA'S APARTMENT - evening
Dawn has just left. Lydia watches her go and walks straight to the telephone. Se quickly presses several buttons and waits. The voice of a Receptionist can be heard.
RECEPTIONIST (V.O.)
Hello. This is Stanton Electronics.
How may I…
LYDIA
(interrupting)
Don't worry about the cover.
It's Lydia Barlow. I must speak
with Mr. Travers immediately.
RECEPTIONIST (V.O.)
Putting you through…
There's a click and Quentin Travers answers.
QUENTIN (V.O.)
Ah, Lydia. How are things?
LYDIA
I'm afraid things are getting
more and more tense here.
Dawn and Buffy… they've come
close to another confrontation…
Mr. Giles and myself are doing
all we can to calm things down…
they've already had one major
fight.
QUENTIN (V.O.)
Physical?
(pause)
Well, it's to be expected. There
was always the possibility of a
certain amount of rivalry between
the girls.
LYDIA
It's more than rivalry. Miss
Summers… Buffy… She doesn't
appreciate the effort Dawn is
putting into her duty…
QUENTIN (V.O.)
Things will level out eventually.
I shouldn't worry.
LYDIA
This may be too much for…
QUENTIN (V.O.)
You've been given an important
role. I'm sure you're more than
capable of keeping control. We
all have faith in you.
LYDIA
(a little painfully)
Faith… yes…
There's an uncomfortable silence, which is broken by Quentin being as professional as ever.
QUENTIN (V.O.)
Well, be sure to inform us
when any more developments
occur.
LYDIA
O-of course…
Quentin cancels the connection. Lydia slowly puts the receiver of her phone down slowly, nervously.
EXTERIOR: SUNNYDALE STREET - evening
Willow, Xander and Tara are walking through the street trying to find Buffy.
WILLOW
We have to find her quickly!
TARA
Devon doesn't stand a chance.
XANDER
He never was the brightest bulb
in the box.
WILLOW
(jokingly)
Well, he did used to date Cordelia…
XANDER
(a little offended)
Hey!
They walk on a little further. They see Buffy talking to someone.
XANDER
There she is!
WILLOW
Buffy! Buffy!
They walk towards her.
ANGLE ON: BUFFY. She's talking to a boy about fifteen.
BUFFY
Okay… Matt… Slow down.
What happened?
MATT
They… they got all funny… I
mean… their faces did. Like they
were… monsters or something.
BUFFY
And they tried to attack you?
MATT
They just jumped me. I had
to run…
The Scoobies catch up.
WILLOW
What's happening?
BUFFY
This is Matt… I bumped into
him. He was running from…
XANDER
Let me guess? The Hell Band?
BUFFY
(nods)
Yup.
(to Matt)
Where were you?
MATT
The park… I was at the music
festival… I went to the trees to…
y'know… call of nature… and
they appeared from nowhere.
BUFFY
The park it is.
(to the Scoobies)
You guys coming with?
XANDER
You bet.
WILLOW
They might have got to Devon
already. We have to get there
quickly…
They quicken their pace. The boy follows them.
EXTERIOR: SUNNYDALE PARK - evening
The four Scoobies and the boy arrive at the park just as the sun goes down. Some bands are practising on the stage while the crowds are beginning the fill the place up.
BUFFY
We'll never find them in here.
Willow notices something on the floor. She kneels over to pick it up.
TARA
What is it?
WILLOW
A piece of paper. With a number
of a trailer on it. Could mean
anything but… it looks like Devon's
handwriting. I helped him with
his homework back in high school
and his writing… well, put it this
way… it's very distinct.
XANDER
She means bad.
Buffy begins looking around.
BUFFY
We better split up. Will, Tara…
The boy seems to notice something and interrupts them.
MATT
(nervously)
What was that?
BUFFY
What?
MATT
Over there… I saw something
move. Maybe it's them.
BUFFY
I'm on it!
She runs off with the boy. Willow, Tara and Xander look at each other then run after Buffy.
CUT TO:
SECLUDED AREA
Buffy gets there first with the boy. She looks around.
BUFFY
Are you sure you saw…
Her voice trails off as she looks around. The three Scoobies catch up with them
BUFFY
(C'tnd)
…something?
About thirty vampires appear from all angles and surround them. They are lead by the members of the band. James looks at the boy.
JAMES
Good work. I'm impressed.
MATT
Do I get to join you now?
Like you promised?
JAMES
It's time.
James grabs the boy's head. Before Buffy can react, James breaks his neck and his body falls lifelessly to the ground.
BUFFY
You bastard!
JAMES
The kid probably downloaded
our songs without paying…
LARS
But we have some more loyal
fans here…
(to the Vamps)
Kill them!
The small army of vamped fans attack the Scoobies. Even Buffy is a little nervous about the odds.
BUFFY
Okay… guys… I suggest running…
XANDER
The odds aren't looking too good,
huh?
They all begin to back away. All except for Willow.
BUFFY
Will, c'mon. We can't face this now…
Willow's eyes suddenly turn black and the trees all around them start shaking.
TARA
(nervously)
Willow?
WILLOW
Detach!
Pieces of wood rip from the trees and float in mid air, aiming themselves at the vampires.
WILLOW
Fire!
The pieces of wood fly at the vamps and about twenty are dusted instantly. The others are in awe of her powers.
BUFFY
Go one girl slaying machine.
You wanna put me out of a
job.
WILLOW
(shrugs)
Just evening the odds a little.
ANGLE ON: TARA. She looks nervously at Willow but doesn't say anything - the last time she mentioned how scared she was they ended up arguing.
The four band members run off, leaving about five vamps to deal with the Scoobies. They attack and one is thrown into a tree by Buffy and staked almost straight away.
BUFFY
I'll go after the wannabe metal
gods. Reckon you guys can clean
up the mess?
XANDER
That's our job!
Buffy runs off in the direction of the band.
CUT TO:
MAIN AREA
The band run through, pushing the fans that are slowly gathering out of the way. Buffy is quickly following them.
CUT TO:
SECLUDED AREA
Xander stakes the last of the vamped fans. He turns to Willow and Tara.
XANDER
Well, it's up to Buffy now.
Willow nods. She looks up suddenly.
WILLOW
Devon!
The three of them run off as fast as they can.
INTERIOR: BAND'S TRAILER - evening
The door bursts open. We see Devon lying on the ground looking dazed and confused. He has several puncture wounds on his neck and arms. Willow gets in first.
WILLOW
Devon? Devon are you…
DEVON
Uuugh…
WILLOW
(to Xander)
He's lost a lot of blood. I'm
going to try a healing spell
but we still need an ambulance.
Tara…
Tara nods and runs off to find a telephone.
Willow holds her hands over Devon's wounds. Magical energy flows through them slowly getting healing them.
WILLOW
It's going to be okay…
DEVON
(looks at her)
Wh… what're you doing?
WILLOW
Shhh… It's all right.
Devon closes his eyes as he feels the pain a little.
DEVON
Wha-what were them things?
(half jokingly)
Vampires or something?
WILLOW
Uh, yeah actually.
DEVON
Wow. You live in a town your
whole life and miss out all the
weird stuff.
(pause, a little realisation)
Y'know, Oz always screwed up
our plans to have an outdoor
gig during the full moons…
you don't think…?
WILLOW
(smiles, shakes her head)
I try not to think too much.
EXTERIOR: SUNNYDALE PARK - BACKSTAGE - night
The band are still ahead of Buffy and one of them throws a set of drums in her path to stop her. She tumbles over as they get further ahead. She gets to her feet and notices something.
ANGLE ON: THE BAND. They're still running from her, pushing away the other musicians.
BUFFY (V.O.)
Hey!
The drummer, Lars turns around.
BUFFY
Give my regards to Denmark!
She throws a cymbal that decapitates him. He gets reduced to dust in seconds.
Buffy jumps up to the framework of the stage. She spins on it and comes back down between James who is still running and Jason and Kirk who suddenly stop as she lands in front of them. She pulls out two drumsticks that she plunges through their hearts at the same time. They're dusted.
James stops and looks at her, slightly in awe.
JAMES
I'm impressed.
BUFFY
You should be. Maybe next
time you'll try touring in towns
that don't have their own Slayer.
JAMES
You forget how easy to access
the food is around here.
BUFFY
(holds up drumstick)
And you're forgetting what
these things do to you.
JAMES
I haven't forgotten.
He dives at her with a growl. She moves out of the way. He hits the ground and rolls back onto his feet. Buffy punches at him several times but he blocks over attack and pushes her back.
James jumps at her with a kick. She grabs his foot and spins him around into the scaffolding holding the stage up. He starts to punch at her. She blocks a few then manages to get in one herself. He grabs his nose as he staggers backwards. Buffy throws the drumstick away and gets out a real stake.
BUFFY
This is how we do things
around here.
She's about to attack again when James is knocked to the floor in a blur. It's Dawn. She begins pounding James in the face as hard as she can. He pushes he off and jumps to his feet.
JAMES
What is this? A Slayer convention?
DAWN
Something like that.
BUFFY
What're you doing here?
DAWN
Kill now, inquisition later.
Buffy and Dawn launch into an attack, punching and kicking James from both sides. He tries to block but can't. He's still in shock when th two Slayers stake him from in front and behind.
When he turns to dust Dawn looks at Buffy and frowns.
DAWN
Sloppy.
BLACK OUT
EXTERIOR: SUNNYDALE PARK - night
Buffy, Dawn, Willow, Tara and Xander leave the music festival and watch Devon being taken away by an ambulance along with the other Dingoes.
BUFFY
Is he going to be okay?
TARA
Willow healed him so he
wouldn't lose any more
blood. Once they give him
a transfusion he'll be fine.
WILLOW
But he won't be back on
stage for a while.
XANDER
(smiles)
I'm sure the music industry
will be crapping themselves
about what to do without him.
They all smile. Suddenly Eric runs in, out of breath and carrying his guitar in heavy case.
ERIC
Am I late? What've I missed?
(sees the ambulance)
What's going on?
BUFFY
(taps him on the shoulder)
I think you've been fired.
Dawn shakes her head in dismay and walks on ahead of the others who quickly follow her.
ANGLE ON: THE STAGE
We see another band playing on the stage. The lead singer, BRUCE, vamps out momentarily then smiles as he begins to sing.
BLACK OUT
END