Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Summer Script Challenge
The Powers that Be Pro Temporae
Episode 6.22: Today We Stand
By Noggins and Me
Some dialogue by Carl Ellsworth (from Halloween), David Greenwalt (from "Faith, Hope and Trick") and Douglas Petrie ("This Year's Girl")
TEASER
INTERIOR: MAGIC BOX - MAIN - day
We're in the same positions we left the Scoobies in before. Spike still has his arm in a sling. They all think Buffy has lost it.
WILLOW
Buffy! You can't be serious!
SPIKE
Oh, she's serious all right. And
I don't blame her one little bit.
XANDER
(gives Spike a dirty look)
You can't kill Dawn! It's not
right! This isn't Dawn that's
doing this!
WILLOW
I don't care what you think...
There is some way to help her.
BUFFY
Guys, Dawn's gone. You
know that.
SPIKE
She killed Lydia... she killed
Pike. All that's left is a sick
killer. Not even a Slayer.
BUFFY
Our Dawn is gone... She went
after our trip to England. The...
thing I kill now won't be Dawn...
the Council made sure of that
for me a long time ago.
The Scoobies still refuse to listen to what she's saying.
XANDER
No! There has to be another
way. There's always another
way.
ANYA
Last year you were willing
to risk the end of the world
to save her. What's happened
to you?
BUFFY
(weakening)
You don't understand this!
This isn't Dawn... I-I don't
know what it is we're facing...
but it's not Dawn... I don't
want to lose her but I think
we already have.
TARA
Faith... sh-she was getting
help before she died... and
she was getting better.
XANDER
Exactly! She wasn't evil
anymore!
GILES
But you must remember that
Faith still had some humanity
in her.
WILLOW
Giles! Don't tell me you agree
with all of this!
XANDER
(bitterly)
Of course he does! He wanted
to kill Dawn when Glory took
her! He wants to do it again!
Giles walks towards Xander who suddenly regrets his words. He's about to snap but calms himself down at the very last second.
GILES
I don't want to hurt Dawn.
I've looked after her... cared
for her... for the last year. I
love her as a daughter... but
Buffy's correct. Faith had
humanity... I'm not even sure
if Dawn knows what that is
anymore.
CUT TO:
EXTERIOR: SUNNYDALE - MAIN ROAD - day
Dawn rides passed the "Welcome to Sunnydale" sign on Pike's motorbike. She zooms ahead towards her destination...
CREDITS
ACT ONE
INTERIOR: MAGIC BOX - MAIN - day
Buffy and Spike are taking out weapons ready to fight while they discuss a plan of actions. Willow and Tara look a little disgusted that they're going to do this. Giles appears indifferent. Xander and Anya aren't present.
SPIKE
If we try to get her into the
training room it might stop
us making a mess of this place.
BUFFY
I want more room. She seems
to be stronger when fighting
up close. If I can get the space
I should be able to swing it to
my advantage.
SPIKE
So crossbows are in order?
BUFFY
I think so.
Willow speaks out for the first time. Her face shows that she doesn't like what she's hearing.
WILLOW
You can you talk like this?
You're planning to shoot her!
BUFFY
She stabbed me.
SPIKE
(flashes his arm)
And notice the twice broken
arm!
WILLOW
So it's personal now? It's not
for her good any more?
SPIKE
I didn't mean it like that!
WILLOW
It sure as hell sounded like
you did!
Buffy steps away from what she's doing and puts her arms on Willow's shoulders.
BUFFY
Will, none of us want to do
this but we have any choice
in the matter. She's coming
for us as we speak. I may be
her main target but you know
that she doesn't care about
whether or not she takes you
down in the process.
WILLOW
I still don't like it.
BUFFY
I'm not asking you to.
Buffy motions towards Spike.
BUFFY
Come with me.
She walks into the training room and Spike quickly follows. Willow turns to the others remaining pitifully.
WILLOW
She can't do this...
TARA
She may have to...
GILES
She may not. I know Buffy
isn't in the state of mind to
listen to anything I have to
suggest right now but I hope
you will...
WILLOW
You and Anya figured something
out? Please say you did...
GILES
It's a long shot...
TARA
A long shot is better than any
shot Buffy or Spike will make...
Giles walks over to a book. He flicks through it.
WILLOW
That's one of mine...
GILES
Exactly. Look at this...
He points something out. Willow reads.
WILLOW
I cast this on Buffy. To bring
her out of the coma she was
inlast year. You really think
this could help?
GILES
It would require some adapting
but...
WILLOW
(interrupting, thoughts flowing)
If I use myself as a link between
Buffy and Dawn's minds I could
help Buffy to find the real Dawn...
TARA
(Continuing)
And cast out the Slayer spirit.
GILES
Precisely. Do you think you
could do it?
WILLOW
I'll make sure I can...
CUT TO:
EXTERIOR: MAGIC BOX - ROOF - day
On the roof of the shop, Xander and Anya are keeping a look out for Dawn. Xander is looking through a set of binoculars, his mind set on his job.
XANDER
(Re: Dawn)
She's gonna be here any minute...
ANYA
Xander...
XANDER
(still looking out)
Yeah?
ANYA
Look at me!
Xander slowly turns and puts the binoculars down.
ANYA
(C'tnd)
You we've been engaged for
a year now...
XANDER
Ahn... I want to talk about this...
but I have to keep a look out
for Dawn.
ANYA
This is about Dawn...
Xander waits for her to begin again.
ANYA
(C'tnd)
We're gonna be married soon.
And I know that it's going to
be wonderful. With flowers and
dresses and other pretty things.
But...
XANDER
(takes her hand in his)
Yeah?
ANYA
I want Dawn to be a part of
it. I want her to be one of the
people in the pretty dresses...
as long as she doesn't look
prettier than me... I want her to
be there to catch the bouquet
because it wouldn't make sense
if it was Willow or Tara... And I
want her to...
Xander kisses Anya affectionately on the forehead. She stops talking.
XANDER
She will...
ANYA
(almost breathlessly)
Not if Buffy does what she's
planning. And I can't let her
do that because I love Dawn.
She may not like me and don't
say she does because I know
you'd just be lying to make me
feel better...
XANDER
(interrupting)
Ahn... Everything will be okay.
I know they'll find a way to stop
this. I have faith in all of those
guys down there. If anyone can
save Dawn it's them.
ANYA
I really hope so...
Xander moves closer to Anya and are about to kiss when he hears something - Dawn's bike coming around the corner.
XANDER
She's here!
The two of them jump to their feet and run to tell the others.
ANGLE ON: DAWN. The bike skids to a halt outside the Magic Box. She gets off, throws the helmet down and walks towards the door.
INTERIOR: MAGIC BOX - MAIN - day
Xander and Anya come running from the training room (where there's a ladder leading up to the roof - or so I've just decided :)). They are out of breath. Buffy and Spike follow them out into the main part of the shop.
BUFFY
What is it? Is she here?
The door is thrown from its hinges and Dawn walks through the debris towards them.
XANDER
I think the flying door said
it a lot better than I could've.
Buffy and Spike run forward with weapons ready. Dawn pulls a broadsword out from a scabbard at her back and blocks both of their attacks. She pushes forward with all of her strength sending Buffy back into a display case.
Dawn and Spike continue to fight. She notices that he's holding his weapon in his left arm - his right still being broken. She exploits this by holding his weapon arm out of the way with her sword and bringing her knee up to kick his broken arm. He drops his weapon and grasps it in pain. Before he can realise the mistake of his reflex action, she sends into the wall.
DAWN
So who's next?
Xander runs forward, quickly followed by Anya.
ANYA
Xander! No!
Dawn grabs Xander and hurls him aside. Anya comes to a quick stop. Dawn throws a few dummy punches at her that Anya only just manages to block. Dawn brings her fist up and it collides with Anya's stomach. She falls to the floor in pain.
BUFFY (O.S.)
No more.
Dawn turns around to see Buffy ready to fight.
DAWN
I was hoping you'd come
back to your senses, sis...
BUFFY
At least you're accepting
that you used to be my sister.
DAWN
Wha...?
BUFFY
Not anymore!
Buffy dives at Dawn, pushing her into the training room.
INTERIOR: MAGIC BOX - TRAINING ROOM - day
Buffy rains punch after punch down on Dawn who's trying to block them all. Several manage to connect.
BUFFY
I'm doing what you wanted
me to. I'm fighting back?
How'd you like it?
Dawn pushes Buffy back and grabs and axe from the wall.
DAWN
I'm impressed.
She hacks forward forcing Buffy to jump back several steps.
INTERIOR: MAGIC BOX - MAIN - day
Willow and Tara are looking for the spell they'll need. Willow is quickly jotting down note to adapt it. Xander is checking on Anya and Spike is getting back to his feet. He's about to run back into the training room but Giles stops him.
GILES
No... Not now!
(to Willow)
Willow, get in there now!
WILLOW
But we need to...
GILES
Tara and myself can do that.
You have to stop it before
either Buffy or Dawn gets the
upper hand.
TARA
That is a good idea...
Willow nods and runs to the training room.
INTERIOR: MAGIC BOX - TRAINING ROOM - day
The two Slayers are fighting even more violently. They both have axes and every time they clash, sparks are being sent in all directions.
DAWN
(almost impressed)
See? You're learning! It's a
shame you're showing spirit
a little too late!
BUFFY
It's never too late...
DAWN
You seem to think so.
(ducks Buffy's axe)
See? You almost had my head
off there! All you need now is
to forget these losers...
(indicates Willow)
WILLOW
Hey!
BUFFY
They're my friends... they're
your friends. You've just forgotten.
Buffy kicks Dawn to the floor. Dawn throws the axe in Buffy's direction. She jumps up in time to avoid it. It imbeds itself in the wall.
DAWN
I haven't forgotten anything!
I've just learnt to put the past
behind me.
Buffy kicks in Dawn's direction but she flips back onto her feet.
DAWN
(C'tnd)
Y'know, it's a good thing that
mom died before I became the
Slayer - it's one less attachment.
Silence. Willow looks from Dawn to Buffy in shock, just waiting for what's going to happen next.
ANGLE ON: BUFFY. She's trying to stay calm but the anger is building up more than before.
BUFFY
(between each punch)
Take... that... back...
DAWN
Why should I? I mean it.
Buffy moves forward quickly, pushing Dawn into the wall with a loud thud, cracking the plaster. She throws Dawn to the floor then dives on top of her. Grabbing her sister's top, Buffy begins to pound the hell out of her. Blood begins to come from Dawn's nose and lip and her face begins to bruise quickly.
WILLOW
Separado!
{Translation: Separate!}
With Willow's words, Buffy is thrown into the opposite wall.
BUFFY
You shouldn't have done
that, Will...
Dawn gets back to her feet. Buffy is about to attack her again.
WILLOW
Congele-os!
{Translation: Freeze them!}
Both Buffy and Dawn suddenly find themselves unable to move.
DAWN
Get this off me! Now!
BUFFY
You heard her, Will... She
wants me to...
WILLOW
Will you two just shut up?
Willow is having trouble keeping her spell on. The sheer strength of both Slayers is clearly overwhelming her.
WILLOW
(to herself)
A bit of black magic wouldn't
hurt right about now... But no...
Tara and Giles arrive with the spell. Anya and Xander are close behind.
TARA
We've got it!
WILLOW
Give it here...
Tara hands the sheet of paper to Willow.
BUFFY
What are you doing? This
won't work!
ANYA
I wouldn't be too sure about
that.
Willow begins to recite the spell.
WILLOW
Goddess do destiny eu chamo-o.
Traga estas duas mentes junto.
Deixe-me ser a ligação. Traga-os
junto para a definição.
{Translated: Goddess of destiny
I call you. Bring these two minds
together. Let me be the link. Bring
them together for resolution.}
She closes her eyes and the energy comes from her hands and envelops Buffy and Dawn.
Suddenly the freezing spell breaks. Buffy and Dawn dives at each other with murderous intent. There's a huge flash of light as they collide.
WHITE OUT
(End of Act One)
ACT TWO
EXT. BUFFY'S HOUSE - SIX YEARS PREVIOUSLY - DAY
A car pulls up outside the Summers' house and a younger Buffy and Dawn, along with Joyce emerge to greet their new house for the first time.
JOYCE
Here it is. Our new home.
I think you're going to like it...
BUFFY
Wow... it's a lot... smaller than
the old one.
JOYCE
Yeah, well there's only one
person paying the mortgage
now. You'll learn about that
stress in due course...
They begin to walk to the door and Joyce takes the key out. They turn to see that Dawn is staying next to the car.
JOYCE
What's wrong Dawnie?
DAWN
I wanna go back. I want my
old friends.
JOYCE
But we had to move...
DAWN
'cuz Buffy got kicked out
of school.
Dawn glares at Buffy who looks rather annoyed.
BUFFY
That wasn't my fault!
DAWN
Was so!
BUFFY
Was not!
JOYCE
Girls, girls...
(shakes her head)
You two are going to be
the death of me.
(she kneels down in front of Dawn)
Buffy isn't the reason we've
moved. We want to make a
fresh start.
DAWN
(a little sadly)
Because of dad...?
Joyce nods too. She hugs Dawn.
JOYCE
You'll both get to see him...
you know that. And he loves
you both.
BUFFY
(bitterly)
He just doesn't want us
around all the time.
JOYCE
Buffy!
BUFFY
Sorry!
She smiles at Dawn to cheer her up.
BUFFY
C'mon Dawnie... let's go inside.
Dawn takes Buffy's hand as they walk to the door.
BUFFY
I'm actually quite hopeful about
this place.
The two of them walk through the front door into the house as flash forward to...
INTERIOR: BUFFY'S HOUSE - HALLWAY - day
Buffy walks in first followed by Xander and Willow (season 1). She's introducing them to her house.
BUFFY
So, uh, this is the hall.
XANDER
And a very nice hall it is.
Very hall-like. I'm impressed
by the sheer hall-ness of it.
BUFFY
Uh, thanks.
XANDER
So do we get to see your room?
BUFFY
Xander!
Willow nudges Xander as they make their way to the kitchen.
XANDER
Ah... even better. Food.
BUFFY
Doesn't your mother feed you?
WILLOW
Sure. So does my mom...
and anyone else who he
can convince...
They walk through into:
INTERIOR: BUFFY'S HOUSE - KITCHEN
Joyce is preparing something at the oven as the three walk in.
BUFFY
Mom! Willow and Xander are
here!
JOYCE
Oh. Hello... so you're Buffy's
new friends? Nice to meet you.
Joyce stops what she's doing and walks towards them. She puts her hand out to shake then realises that they're covered in dough.
JOYCE
Well, maybe that's not such
a good idea.
WILLOW
It's okay Mrs Summers...
JOYCE
Call me Joyce.
(pause)
So have you met the rest
of the family?
XANDER
Rest of...
Joyce goes out into the hall and shouts upstairs.
JOYCE
Dawn!
WILLOW
(to Buffy)
Dawn?
BUFFY
Yeah. I kind of have a sister.
She's a real pain. I was hoping
she'd stay in her room forever
or something.
XANDER
And I thought I was the only
one who wanted to forget he
had relatives.
A young, 10-year-old Dawn comes charging down the stairs. She comes into the kitchen and stops, eyeing Xander and Willow up carefully.
DAWN
Who are they?
JOYCE
Dawn! Be polite.
BUFFY
Dawn... this is Willow and
Xander...
XANDER
(smiles at Dawn)
So this is the poor kid Buffy
keeps locked away.
(jokingly looks her over)
Looks normal enough. Possible
cute factor going on.
(whispers to Dawn)
You know what? I think big sis
is just jealous of you.
Dawn giggles. Buffy grabs Xander's arm.
BUFFY
Xander, how about not making
my sister think she's got another
ally in her anti-Buffy campaign.
ANGLE ON: DAWN. She watches as Xander and Buffy talk.
XANDER (O.S.)
Heh. I'd love to have had a
little brother or sister?
BUFFY (O.S.)
Do you want her?
XANDER (O.S.)
(Pause)
So anyway... Where's the food?
Dawn watches Xander and smiles.
EXTERIOR: DAWN'S MIND - no specific time
As we flash back to what is more or less the present (given that this all takes place in Dawn's mind) we see Dawn as she is now and PULL BACK to see her and Buffy standing on a stone platform held up a massive stalagmite. Around them and below is a swirling black mass.
Dawn shakes her head, trying to forget the memories that Buffy is forcing back into her head.
DAWN
No... no...
BUFFY
No what? You can't face them?
DAWN
Get them out of my head!
BUFFY
This has nothing to do with me!
Dawn lunges at Buffy, pushes her to the ground just at the edge of the platform. Buffy looks down and sees nothing below her but the darkness. Dawn is strangling her hard.
DAWN
Get them out! Get them...
Buffy kicks back and pushes Dawn off her.
BUFFY
Why? It's just you... your
memories.
DAWN
They're not real!
BUFFY
That doesn't matter.
DAWN
No. You're right. It doesn't.
All that matters is that I'm
the Slayer!
Dawn begins to punch at Buffy who manages to counter the blows.
DAWN
Even if they were... I was a
different person back then...
BUFFY
No. You... Dawn... are the
same person you've always
been. It's the... the Slayer
Spirit inside you that wants
you to forget that.
Dawn runs forward screaming...
DAWN
No! It's not true!
...and takes Buffy by surprise, pushing her off the platform.
We flash forward again to...
INT. ETHAN'S COSTUME SHOP - FLASHBACK ("HALLOWEEN") - DAY
The store is full of mothers with their kids looking for Halloween costumes. Buffy has just noticed the 18th century dress on display. Ethan takes the dress off of its dressmaker's mannequin.
BUFFY
Oh, i-it's...
ETHAN
Magnificent. Yes, I know. There.
He holds it up to her in a mirror.
ETHAN
(C'tnd)
My. Meet the hidden princess.
I think we found a match. Don't
you?
BUFFY
Oh, uh, I-I'm sorry. There's
no way I could ever afford this.
ETHAN
Oh, nonsense. I feel quite
moved to make you a deal
you can't refuse.
She looks back into the mirror, takes the dress from Ethan and smiles dreamily as she holds it up to her chin. Her face suddenly changes.
BUFFY
Dawn!
XANDER
(spins around)
Where?
WILLOW
Xander! You look terrified.
XANDER
That kid follows me everywhere
I go! You don't suppose...?
Buffy begins to look through the other costumes.
BUFFY
I promised mom that I'd pick
up Dawn's costume. Hold this!
She hands the dress she's holding to Xander who looks at and has a "hmmm" expression on his face then shakes his head - going in drag is beyond even him. Willow goes after Buffy.
WILLOW
So what does she want
to go as.
BUFFY
You're never gonna guess...
WILLOW
A vampire?
BUFFY
(damn it!)
Ah. So you did guess.
(beat)
It's like she's out to bug me
on purpose.
WILLOW
It's not like she knows you're
the Slayer...
BUFFY
I'm beginning to wonder... I
don't even know how Xander
and Angel managed to talk her
into believing the Master was
just some ugly guy when she
saw him.
CUT TO:
INT. BUFFY'S HOUSE - FLASHBACK ("HALLOWEEN") - NIGHT
Angel has just arrived to see Cordy and Xander and Buffy (sans memory) in the house.
ANGEL
Okay, somebody wanna fill
me in?
XANDER
Do you live here?
ANGEL
No, and you know that. Buffy,
I'm lost here. You... What's up
with your hair?
CORDELIA
They don't know who they are,
everyone's turned into a monster,
it's a whole big thing.
(smiles)
How are you?
Angel looks around.
ANGEL
Where's Dawn?
CUT TO:
EXT. SUNNYDALE STREET - FLASHBACK ("HALLOWEEN") - NIGHT
Dawn is out and talking to Spike as they walk down the street.
DAWN
...and she comes into my
room all the time... I hate
that! And you know what
else?
SPIKE
What, niblet?
DAWN
She always steals things... and
I know she's read my journals.
It's the sort of thing she does?
Spike puts his hand on her shoulder.
SPIKE
Y'know what I find gets rid of
all that tension?
DAWN
What?
SPIKE
(morphs into game face)
A bloody good kill!
Dawn looks at him and smiles before her face changes until she appears as a vampire.
DAWN
Sounds almost like a plan.
CUT TO:
INT. WAREHOUSE - FLASHBACK ("HALLOWEEN") - NIGHT
Spike and Dawn are about to bite the still memory-less Buffy.
WILLOW (O.S.)
Now that guy you *can* shoot.
We hear Xander get his gun ready but...
XANDER (O.S.)
What the...
KID (O.S.)
I'm scared! I want my mommy!
Spike looks back at them and straightens up. Dawn gets ready to bite into Buffy's neck. Spike pulls on Buffy's hair to pull her up and finds he just has a wig in his hands. He looks at Buffy. She gets up off of the crate and smiles at him.
BUFFY
Hi, honey. I'm home.
Buffy pushes Dawn out of the way as she jumps at Spike. She punches him hard in the face.
BUFFY
That's for messing with my
sister!
SPIKE
Sh-she's your sister?!?!
BUFFY
And don't you forget it!
She continues to beat the crap out of him with a metal pipe. She knocks him backward then stops. Buffy is through fighting. Spike gets up and growls at her, then makes a hasty retreat. Buffy drops the pipe and turns to the others. Xander comes over to her.
XANDER
Hey, Buff. Welcome back.
BUFFY
Yeah! You, too.
CORDELIA
You guys remember what
happened?
XANDER
It was way creepy. It's like
I was there, but I couldn't
get out.
CORDELIA
Yeah, I know the feeling.
This outfit's totally skin-tight.
Buffy notices Dawn who's looking pretty freaked out.
BUFFY
Dawn? Dawnie? Are you okay?
Dawn turns to her and looks pretty freaked out.
DAWN
What's a Slayer?
(End of Act Two)
ACT THREE
INTERIOR: MAGIC BOX - TRAINING ROOM - day
In the shop, the Scoobies are watching Willow sitting between Buffy and Dawn. All three of them are under the influence of the spell.
ANYA
Are they okay?
GILES
I wish I knew...
EXTERIOR: DAWN'S MIND - no specific time
Dawn looks over the edge of the platform to see if Buffy's still there. She doesn't seem to notice Buffy swinging up behind her from the other side. She walks closer to Dawn but is too late to realise she's been discovered.
Dawn spins around and punches at Buffy who ducks in time. She follows up with a kick that knocks Buffy backwards. She flips to her feet and attacks again.
Suddenly the screen is enveloped in white and we FLASH to:
INTERIOR: SUNNYDALE HIGH - LIBRARY - FLASHBACK (SEASON 2) - evening
Dawn is in the library with the Scoobies. The school is closed and they're loitering as usual. Buffy is trying to explain the whole Slayer thing to her. Dawn is quickly questioning everything Buffy tries to say like a typical 11-year-old.
DAWN
So you go around poking
ugly people like the guy
in the cave last year with
a pointy stick?
BUFFY
It's a lot more complicated
than that, Dawn!
DAWN
Doesn't sound like it.
BUFFY
It is! It's my birthright.
DAWN
What's that mean?
BUFFY
It means I was born to do it.
DAWN
Why you?
Buffy sighs. She's getting more than a little wound up.
BUFFY
Because I was chosen.
DAWN
Who chose you?
BUFFY
I don't know!
DAWN
Then how do you know
you're the person.
BUFFY
Because I'm strong.
DAWN
I bet I could knock you out.
BUFFY
I bet you couldn't.
DAWN
Bet I could!
BUFFY
Couldn't!
DAWN
Could!
BUFFY
Cou... I really don't have time
for this!
Dawn grins at her. Buffy shakes her head in dismay.
BUFFY
I don't care if you believe
me or not... but no one can
know! Don't tell a soul!
DAWN
(shrugs)
Sure.
BUFFY
Dawn...
DAWN
I won't!
BUFFY
Not even mom...
DAWN
Girl scout's honour.
BUFFY
Since when were you...?
DAWN
Geeze! Okay, I won't tell her!
Buffy glances behind Dawn's back.
BUFFY
Were your fingers crossed?
DAWN
(guiltily)
No.
BUFFY
They were. I saw...
The library doors burst open. Angel comes running in.
BUFFY
Angel!
ANGEL
Buffy! I've got some news on
the Grallik demon rising in the
cemetery on Main Street!
GILES
The Grallik? Are you sure?
They don't tend to come forth
in graveyards. They prefer to
appear where there are living
creatures to feed on straight
away...
ANGEL
I know. I wasn't sure whether
or not to believe my contact...
but he's usually spot on.
BUFFY
Then we go!
Buffy and Angel grab some weapons and go to the door. Buffy turns to Dawn.
BUFFY
Stay here until I get back.
DAWN
Where else am I supposed
to go anyway?
BUFFY
I don't know! Just stay!
Buffy and Angel run out.
CORDELIA
Something tells me that our
demon friend won't be the
only thing rising...
XANDER
Oh, you're giving the two of
them a little too much credit.
Bet they won't even make
it to the cemetery. God!
I hate that guy!
DAWN
Yeah! He's such a moron!
Everyone looks at Dawn. They didn't really expect her to have an opinion on Angel.
DAWN
Well he is!
XANDER
That's my girl!
DAWN
What is it with him anyway?
CUT TO:
EXT. SUNNYDALE STREET - FLASHBACK (SEASON 2) - NIGHT
Dawn is walking home from a friend's house. She crosses the street and we realise a figure is following her. She keeps looking back over her shoulder and walks into...
DAWN
Angel!
ANGELUS
Hello Dawnie.
DAWN
(frowns at him)
What're you doing lurking around
here?
ANGELUS
(desperately)
I need to talk to Buffy. Urgently.
DAWN
I don't think so.
Dawn begins to walk away but Angelus grabs her shoulder.
ANGELUS
I have to speak to her!
Dawn stops talking. She pulls away from him and stares angrily into his eyes.
DAWN
Look... Buffy's been really
Depressed recently and I
know something happened
between the two of you...
ANGELUS
(smirks)
You could say that...
DAWN
And I don't want anything
to do with you!
She begins to walk away again but Angelus morphs into game face and pulls her back violently. She tries to scream but her covers her mouth.
ANGELUS
That's not a good idea. I
don't want Buffy to get
that kind of message. I
was just hoping for her to
find you in... say... thirty
minutes with all your blood
drained out.
As he moves for her neck she wriggles to break free of his grasp, constantly moving her neck away from him teeth. He grabs her head to steady it.
XANDER (O.S.)
Get your hands off her!
Angelus looks up to see Xander running in his direction with a cross in one hand and a stake in the other. Angelus growls at him but lets Dawn go. She runs to Xander.
ANGELUS
You're next, boy.
Angelus cuts his losses and goes.
XANDER
And stay gone!
Dawn wraps her arms around Xander.
DAWN
Thank you! Thank you! Thank
you! Thank you!
XANDER
(warily, looking back)
No probs. Just... we gotta get
you back home in case *it*
comes back.
DAWN
What... what's happened to him.
XANDER
Long story. But it'll be okay.
Willow's going to stop him
getting into your house.
EXT. DAWN'S MIND - no specific time
Dawn and Buffy continue fighting, mainly blocking each other's moves - seemingly at a stalemate.
DAWN
You should've killed him you
know... as soon as you found
out he was a vampire... It
would have solved so many
problems... and deaths.
BUFFY
I loved him!
DAWN
No! A Slayer shouldn't love.
BUFFY
You can't stop it...
DAWN
It's too emotional. A Slayer
can't be...
BUFFY
Emotional? You think you can
go around talking about how
bad emotional attachments are?
Well, maybe we're forgetting
a few things...
FLACHBACK TO: (SEASON THREE - FAITH, HOPE AND TRICK)
INT. BUFFY'S HOUSE - DINING ROOM - NIGHT
Joyce is piling Faith's plate with food. Buffy sits nearby, her own plate empty. Dawn is with them too, looking at Faith as if she's some huge hero figure.
JOYCE
So you're a slayer, too.
Isn't that interesting. Do
you like it?
FAITH
I love it.
BUFFY/DAWN
(gesture with their own empty plates)
Mom...
JOYCE
Just a sec, girls.
(to Faith)
Buffy never talks that way,
why do you love it?
FAITH
When I'm fighting, the whole
World goes away and I only
know one thing: I'm gonna
win and they're gonna lose.
I like that feeling.
Buffy finally starts dishing up her own supper as:
BUFFY
Well sure, it's better than
that dead feeling you get
when they win and you lose.
FAITH
I don't let that kind of
negative thinking in.
JOYCE
Right, right, that could get
you hurt. Buffy can be awfully
negative sometimes.
(turns to Buffy)
See, honey, you gotta fight that.
BUFFY
I'm trying.
JOYCE
Faith, can I get you another soft drink?
FAITH
You bet, thanks.
Joyce heads for the kitchen.
FAITH
She's cool.
BUFFY
Best mom ever. Excuse me.
Buffy leaves to follow Joyce to the kitchen. Dawn stays with Faith.
DAWN
Buffy never lets me go patrolling
with her.
FAITH
Hey, she's just worried about
her little sis. And you are a
little young.
DAWN
I reckon I could beat up a
vampire. All you do is poke
them with a pointy stick.
FAITH
It takes a little more skill
than that.
(looks up to make sure Buffy isn't looking)
Well, maybe one day I can
bring you along with me.
Dawn looks at Faith, wide-eyed and with envy.
DAWN
Really? Cool.
CUT TO:
INT. DAWN'S MIND - no specific time
Buffy is getting the upper hand in the fight. She knocks Dawn back and she hits the floor. She looks a little defeated.
BUFFY
Please... tell me it's over...
BLACK OUT
(End of Act Three)
ACT FOUR
EXT. SUNNYDALE PARK - FLASHBACK (LATE/MID SEASON 3) - NIGHT
Faith and Dawn are walking through the park together. Faith is a little edgy around Dawn.
FAITH
Y'know you really should be
off home. I don't think...
DAWN
(interrupting)
No. You don't.
(beat)
But we have to talk.
FAITH
Look, kid... I... I can't change
what's happened.
DAWN
You killed someone... I overheard
Buffy and Giles talking about it
but I still haven't got why.
FAITH
I just thought he was...
DAWN
I mean why you don't care.
How can you kill someone
and not care?
They stop at the swings. Faith sits down on one and Dawn on the other.
FAITH
(shrugs)
I just don't.
DAWN
Can't you change? Can't you,
y'know, give yourself up?
Faith doesn't look at her. She just swings herself a little with her feet. She tries to say something but stops herself. Dawn turns to look at her.
FAITH
Things are happening... bad
things... Me and Buffy is not
a friendship that's got a future.
DAWN
(a little teary)
And us?
FAITH
When big sis finds out... stuff...
I don't she's gonna want me
anywhere near you. I may be
in fear of my life if I do.
DAWN
I could sneak out. Like I do
now.
Faith puts her hand on Buffy's shoulder.
FAITH
Don't. It may reach the point
where I'd have to use you as
bait to get Buffy to me...
Dawn smiles then realises Faith is serious.
FAITH
It's complicated, kiddo... but
I still love you like a little sister...
the little sister I never had...
but I've chosen my path now.
DAWN
And you won't tell me where
it's leading?
FAITH
No can do. Like I said, there's
a lotta things happening. But...
whatever you hear... I still care
for you no matter what I may
end up telling B at some point.
Dawn says nothing. She shrugs Faith's hand from her shoulder.
FAITH
C'mon Dawnie.
DAWN
You just don't wanna be my
friend anymore.
FAITH
That's not true. I want to
be... I just can't...
DAWN
Sure.
Dawn jumps from the swing and walks off into the darkness. Faith watches her disappear out of sight and rests her head on one of chains of the swing and frowns.
INT. BUFFY'S HOUSE - FLASHBACK ("THIS YEAR'S GIRL") - NIGHT
Faith has Dawn on the bed, threatening her.
FAITH
You're thinking...
(bad drama)
"You'll never get away with this."
Warm?
JOYCE
Actually, I was thinking, "My
daughter will kill you soon."
FAITH
Is that a fact?
JOYCE
More like a bet.
FAITH
Whoa, you got a pair on you,
Joyce. I like seeing that in a
woman your age.
(then)
Guess you can afford to talk that
way. In the "World According to
Joyce," Buffy's gonna come
crashing through that door any
minute.
The door suddenly bursts open. Faith swings around to see... Dawn.
DAWN
What's all the noise in...
JOYCE
Dawn! Get out of here!
Dawn turns and sees Faith. The two look at each other. There's a connection.
FAITH
Hey D.
We CLOSE IN on Dawn's face. She doesn't know what to think as we flash forward to...
INT. DAWN'S MIND - no specific time
Dawn in on the floor in front of Buffy. Buffy looks down at her, a little defensive and ready to fight again.
BUFFY
Is it? Is it over?
DAWN
(sorrowful)
She died. She died and I
become the Slayer...
BUFFY
Faith?
Dawn nods sadly.
DAWN
I... I've done bad things haven't I?
BUFFY
No. *You* haven't.
DAWN
It was my body...
Buffy rushes to embrace Dawn but a huge blast blows them apart. Buffy is sent hurting backwards and lands on her back. Dawn is knocked over the edge of the platform and only just grabs it in time.
BUFFY
Dawn!
As Buffy runs forward to Dawn she is punched back by another figure that has just appeared. Buffy looks at it.
BUFFY
You...
INT. MAGIC BOX - TRAINING ROOM - DAY
Willow concentrates on keeping up the link between Buffy and Dawn. Giles, Xander, Anya and Tara watch silently. Buffy and Dawn begin to convulse suddenly and Willow begins to be covered by powerful electric-like energy. She screams in pain. Xander runs forward to pull them apart.
GILES
(stopping him)
No! Don't!
TARA
If you pull them apart the
connection could be broken.
Buffy will be trapped in Dawn's
mind and her body will...
XANDER
Die?
TARA
Uh-huh.
INT. DAWN'S MIND - no specific time
Dawn, struggling to pull herself back onto the platform looks in fear as she sees what has just appeared.
Buffy gets ready to fight. It's the PRIMITIVE SLAYER.
PRIMITIVE
No! You can't take her!
BUFFY
Wanna try and stop me?
PRIMITIVE
Her soul must die. The Slayer
will take over.
BUFFY
Over my dead body.
PRIMITIVE
So be it.
The Primitive launches herself at Buffy, pushing her towards the edge of the platform. She begins to kicks and punch as fast as she can. Even though Buffy manages to block her she is being forced closer to the edge. Her foot nearly slips but she rights herself.
BUFFY
I'm guessing falling down this
little pit equals death... even
though this isn't real.
PRIMITIVE
Death... to the soul.
The Primitive moves forward to fight but Buffy punches her square in the face. Buffy gets the upper hand and hits her back.
PRIMITIVE
You can't understand.
BUFFY
I understand perfectly. What
is with you and destroying
my friends and family?
PRIMITIVE
If I am destroyed, the line
of Slayers will follow!
ANGLE ON: Dawn struggles back onto the platform. She watches Buffy and the Primitive fighting. She runs towards the Primitive who swings her arm and punches her backwards.
BUFFY
(pissed off)
You just hit my sister.
PRIMITIVE
She must die for the Slayers
to continue!
BUFFY
Then I'm sorry but she isn't
gonna die.
Buffy dives at the Primitive.
INT. MAGIC BOX - TRAINING ROOM - DAY
The energy that is attacking Willow has spread to Buffy and Dawn. Willow struggles to maintain contact. The energy shoots out in all directions, hitting Xander in the chest. He flies into a wall.
INT. DAWN'S MIND - no specific time
Buffy punches and kicks at the Primitive who manages duck and dive over all of her blows. She kicks back at Buffy and pulls out a knife, stabbing her in the side. Buffy staggers back and looks at the wound. Black energy like that surrounding them begins to stream out of it.
The Primitive dives on top of her and begins to strangle her. Buffy struggles to break free but she's too strong. She begins to get weaker.
BUFFY'S POV: Her eyesight gets blurry as she sees the Primitive tightening her grip. Just as she blacks out she sees the Primitive being pulled off her...
...by Dawn. She throws the Primitive to the floor and kicks her in the side.
DAWN
You seem to be forgetting
you're dealing with two Slayers,
not one.
PRIMITIVE
(shakes her head)
Not Slayer...
The Primitive grabs Dawn's throat and lifts her into the air with ease. She carries her over to the edge of the platform and prepares to drop her.
DAWN
(weakly)
No...
ANGLE ON: Buffy opens her eyes slowly and sees Dawn dangling over the edge.
The Primitive lets go of Dawn. Buffy comes running forward and pushes the Primitive off the edge. Buffy falls to the ground and holds her hand out as far as she can and just manages to grabs Dawn's hand. She begins to pull her back up when there's an extra weight. The Primitive is trying to climb up Dawn.
PRIMITIVE
Girl dies. Slayer lives.
BUFFY
Forget it!
Buffy punches the Primitive in the face and she lets go of Dawn, falling into the dark swirling mass of energy, which envelops her and rips her to pieces.
PRIMITIVE (V.O.)
(fading into nothingness)
The lineage is no more.
With every ounce of strength, Buffy pulls Dawn onto the platform. She wraps her arms around her sister and both begin to cry.
The entire screen is filled with a bright white light.
INT. MAGIC BOX - TRAINING ROOM - DAY
Buffy and Dawn in the same position as they were in the dreamscape, holding onto each other tightly and in tears. Willow falls backwards, totally exhausted as all of the energy goes straight into her.
DAWN
I'm so sorry. I'm sorry...
BUFFY
It's okay, Dawnie.
DAWN
I... I've hurt people...
BUFFY
Sssh... ssshhh...
DAWN
I'm not worth it... you ended
the Slayer line for me...
BUFFY
You are... you are worth it!
DAWN
You should've just killed me.
Another Slayer would have
come...
BUFFY
I would have... if Willow hadn't
given me hope.
(to the others)
If you all hadn't.
Tara is looking after Willow who is looking dazed and confused.
WILLOW
D-did it w-work?
BUFFY
(nods, still hugging Dawn)
It worked.
Anya has helped Xander to his feet. Along with Giles they gather around Buffy and Dawn who refuse to let go of each other.
We PULL BACK slowly showing all of the Scoobies together with Buffy and Dawn in the centre until we fade to black...
END
AUTHOR'S NOTE: Although this is the end of this season, there'll be another project called Cyber Scripts that I'm involved in starting in the summer - continuing the current Buffy season 6 and not this one and will also include seasons of Angel and Ripper. It's an epic project with loads of writers...
If any authors here want to join the new project's site is: http://www.tbns.net/cyberscripts/cyberscripts.htm - it'll give you any info you need to take part in this...
I (Noggins) do intend to write more in here - possibly a mini series continuing this arc (no more than 12 episodes) during my breaks from uni - the first episodes may even be done before January 14th (when I'm due back in college). Once the new project is started I'll add a note to the end of one of the fics to tell you the FF.net account the new stuff will be on!
Summer Script Challenge
The Powers that Be Pro Temporae
Episode 6.22: Today We Stand
By Noggins and Me
Some dialogue by Carl Ellsworth (from Halloween), David Greenwalt (from "Faith, Hope and Trick") and Douglas Petrie ("This Year's Girl")
TEASER
INTERIOR: MAGIC BOX - MAIN - day
We're in the same positions we left the Scoobies in before. Spike still has his arm in a sling. They all think Buffy has lost it.
WILLOW
Buffy! You can't be serious!
SPIKE
Oh, she's serious all right. And
I don't blame her one little bit.
XANDER
(gives Spike a dirty look)
You can't kill Dawn! It's not
right! This isn't Dawn that's
doing this!
WILLOW
I don't care what you think...
There is some way to help her.
BUFFY
Guys, Dawn's gone. You
know that.
SPIKE
She killed Lydia... she killed
Pike. All that's left is a sick
killer. Not even a Slayer.
BUFFY
Our Dawn is gone... She went
after our trip to England. The...
thing I kill now won't be Dawn...
the Council made sure of that
for me a long time ago.
The Scoobies still refuse to listen to what she's saying.
XANDER
No! There has to be another
way. There's always another
way.
ANYA
Last year you were willing
to risk the end of the world
to save her. What's happened
to you?
BUFFY
(weakening)
You don't understand this!
This isn't Dawn... I-I don't
know what it is we're facing...
but it's not Dawn... I don't
want to lose her but I think
we already have.
TARA
Faith... sh-she was getting
help before she died... and
she was getting better.
XANDER
Exactly! She wasn't evil
anymore!
GILES
But you must remember that
Faith still had some humanity
in her.
WILLOW
Giles! Don't tell me you agree
with all of this!
XANDER
(bitterly)
Of course he does! He wanted
to kill Dawn when Glory took
her! He wants to do it again!
Giles walks towards Xander who suddenly regrets his words. He's about to snap but calms himself down at the very last second.
GILES
I don't want to hurt Dawn.
I've looked after her... cared
for her... for the last year. I
love her as a daughter... but
Buffy's correct. Faith had
humanity... I'm not even sure
if Dawn knows what that is
anymore.
CUT TO:
EXTERIOR: SUNNYDALE - MAIN ROAD - day
Dawn rides passed the "Welcome to Sunnydale" sign on Pike's motorbike. She zooms ahead towards her destination...
CREDITS
ACT ONE
INTERIOR: MAGIC BOX - MAIN - day
Buffy and Spike are taking out weapons ready to fight while they discuss a plan of actions. Willow and Tara look a little disgusted that they're going to do this. Giles appears indifferent. Xander and Anya aren't present.
SPIKE
If we try to get her into the
training room it might stop
us making a mess of this place.
BUFFY
I want more room. She seems
to be stronger when fighting
up close. If I can get the space
I should be able to swing it to
my advantage.
SPIKE
So crossbows are in order?
BUFFY
I think so.
Willow speaks out for the first time. Her face shows that she doesn't like what she's hearing.
WILLOW
You can you talk like this?
You're planning to shoot her!
BUFFY
She stabbed me.
SPIKE
(flashes his arm)
And notice the twice broken
arm!
WILLOW
So it's personal now? It's not
for her good any more?
SPIKE
I didn't mean it like that!
WILLOW
It sure as hell sounded like
you did!
Buffy steps away from what she's doing and puts her arms on Willow's shoulders.
BUFFY
Will, none of us want to do
this but we have any choice
in the matter. She's coming
for us as we speak. I may be
her main target but you know
that she doesn't care about
whether or not she takes you
down in the process.
WILLOW
I still don't like it.
BUFFY
I'm not asking you to.
Buffy motions towards Spike.
BUFFY
Come with me.
She walks into the training room and Spike quickly follows. Willow turns to the others remaining pitifully.
WILLOW
She can't do this...
TARA
She may have to...
GILES
She may not. I know Buffy
isn't in the state of mind to
listen to anything I have to
suggest right now but I hope
you will...
WILLOW
You and Anya figured something
out? Please say you did...
GILES
It's a long shot...
TARA
A long shot is better than any
shot Buffy or Spike will make...
Giles walks over to a book. He flicks through it.
WILLOW
That's one of mine...
GILES
Exactly. Look at this...
He points something out. Willow reads.
WILLOW
I cast this on Buffy. To bring
her out of the coma she was
inlast year. You really think
this could help?
GILES
It would require some adapting
but...
WILLOW
(interrupting, thoughts flowing)
If I use myself as a link between
Buffy and Dawn's minds I could
help Buffy to find the real Dawn...
TARA
(Continuing)
And cast out the Slayer spirit.
GILES
Precisely. Do you think you
could do it?
WILLOW
I'll make sure I can...
CUT TO:
EXTERIOR: MAGIC BOX - ROOF - day
On the roof of the shop, Xander and Anya are keeping a look out for Dawn. Xander is looking through a set of binoculars, his mind set on his job.
XANDER
(Re: Dawn)
She's gonna be here any minute...
ANYA
Xander...
XANDER
(still looking out)
Yeah?
ANYA
Look at me!
Xander slowly turns and puts the binoculars down.
ANYA
(C'tnd)
You we've been engaged for
a year now...
XANDER
Ahn... I want to talk about this...
but I have to keep a look out
for Dawn.
ANYA
This is about Dawn...
Xander waits for her to begin again.
ANYA
(C'tnd)
We're gonna be married soon.
And I know that it's going to
be wonderful. With flowers and
dresses and other pretty things.
But...
XANDER
(takes her hand in his)
Yeah?
ANYA
I want Dawn to be a part of
it. I want her to be one of the
people in the pretty dresses...
as long as she doesn't look
prettier than me... I want her to
be there to catch the bouquet
because it wouldn't make sense
if it was Willow or Tara... And I
want her to...
Xander kisses Anya affectionately on the forehead. She stops talking.
XANDER
She will...
ANYA
(almost breathlessly)
Not if Buffy does what she's
planning. And I can't let her
do that because I love Dawn.
She may not like me and don't
say she does because I know
you'd just be lying to make me
feel better...
XANDER
(interrupting)
Ahn... Everything will be okay.
I know they'll find a way to stop
this. I have faith in all of those
guys down there. If anyone can
save Dawn it's them.
ANYA
I really hope so...
Xander moves closer to Anya and are about to kiss when he hears something - Dawn's bike coming around the corner.
XANDER
She's here!
The two of them jump to their feet and run to tell the others.
ANGLE ON: DAWN. The bike skids to a halt outside the Magic Box. She gets off, throws the helmet down and walks towards the door.
INTERIOR: MAGIC BOX - MAIN - day
Xander and Anya come running from the training room (where there's a ladder leading up to the roof - or so I've just decided :)). They are out of breath. Buffy and Spike follow them out into the main part of the shop.
BUFFY
What is it? Is she here?
The door is thrown from its hinges and Dawn walks through the debris towards them.
XANDER
I think the flying door said
it a lot better than I could've.
Buffy and Spike run forward with weapons ready. Dawn pulls a broadsword out from a scabbard at her back and blocks both of their attacks. She pushes forward with all of her strength sending Buffy back into a display case.
Dawn and Spike continue to fight. She notices that he's holding his weapon in his left arm - his right still being broken. She exploits this by holding his weapon arm out of the way with her sword and bringing her knee up to kick his broken arm. He drops his weapon and grasps it in pain. Before he can realise the mistake of his reflex action, she sends into the wall.
DAWN
So who's next?
Xander runs forward, quickly followed by Anya.
ANYA
Xander! No!
Dawn grabs Xander and hurls him aside. Anya comes to a quick stop. Dawn throws a few dummy punches at her that Anya only just manages to block. Dawn brings her fist up and it collides with Anya's stomach. She falls to the floor in pain.
BUFFY (O.S.)
No more.
Dawn turns around to see Buffy ready to fight.
DAWN
I was hoping you'd come
back to your senses, sis...
BUFFY
At least you're accepting
that you used to be my sister.
DAWN
Wha...?
BUFFY
Not anymore!
Buffy dives at Dawn, pushing her into the training room.
INTERIOR: MAGIC BOX - TRAINING ROOM - day
Buffy rains punch after punch down on Dawn who's trying to block them all. Several manage to connect.
BUFFY
I'm doing what you wanted
me to. I'm fighting back?
How'd you like it?
Dawn pushes Buffy back and grabs and axe from the wall.
DAWN
I'm impressed.
She hacks forward forcing Buffy to jump back several steps.
INTERIOR: MAGIC BOX - MAIN - day
Willow and Tara are looking for the spell they'll need. Willow is quickly jotting down note to adapt it. Xander is checking on Anya and Spike is getting back to his feet. He's about to run back into the training room but Giles stops him.
GILES
No... Not now!
(to Willow)
Willow, get in there now!
WILLOW
But we need to...
GILES
Tara and myself can do that.
You have to stop it before
either Buffy or Dawn gets the
upper hand.
TARA
That is a good idea...
Willow nods and runs to the training room.
INTERIOR: MAGIC BOX - TRAINING ROOM - day
The two Slayers are fighting even more violently. They both have axes and every time they clash, sparks are being sent in all directions.
DAWN
(almost impressed)
See? You're learning! It's a
shame you're showing spirit
a little too late!
BUFFY
It's never too late...
DAWN
You seem to think so.
(ducks Buffy's axe)
See? You almost had my head
off there! All you need now is
to forget these losers...
(indicates Willow)
WILLOW
Hey!
BUFFY
They're my friends... they're
your friends. You've just forgotten.
Buffy kicks Dawn to the floor. Dawn throws the axe in Buffy's direction. She jumps up in time to avoid it. It imbeds itself in the wall.
DAWN
I haven't forgotten anything!
I've just learnt to put the past
behind me.
Buffy kicks in Dawn's direction but she flips back onto her feet.
DAWN
(C'tnd)
Y'know, it's a good thing that
mom died before I became the
Slayer - it's one less attachment.
Silence. Willow looks from Dawn to Buffy in shock, just waiting for what's going to happen next.
ANGLE ON: BUFFY. She's trying to stay calm but the anger is building up more than before.
BUFFY
(between each punch)
Take... that... back...
DAWN
Why should I? I mean it.
Buffy moves forward quickly, pushing Dawn into the wall with a loud thud, cracking the plaster. She throws Dawn to the floor then dives on top of her. Grabbing her sister's top, Buffy begins to pound the hell out of her. Blood begins to come from Dawn's nose and lip and her face begins to bruise quickly.
WILLOW
Separado!
{Translation: Separate!}
With Willow's words, Buffy is thrown into the opposite wall.
BUFFY
You shouldn't have done
that, Will...
Dawn gets back to her feet. Buffy is about to attack her again.
WILLOW
Congele-os!
{Translation: Freeze them!}
Both Buffy and Dawn suddenly find themselves unable to move.
DAWN
Get this off me! Now!
BUFFY
You heard her, Will... She
wants me to...
WILLOW
Will you two just shut up?
Willow is having trouble keeping her spell on. The sheer strength of both Slayers is clearly overwhelming her.
WILLOW
(to herself)
A bit of black magic wouldn't
hurt right about now... But no...
Tara and Giles arrive with the spell. Anya and Xander are close behind.
TARA
We've got it!
WILLOW
Give it here...
Tara hands the sheet of paper to Willow.
BUFFY
What are you doing? This
won't work!
ANYA
I wouldn't be too sure about
that.
Willow begins to recite the spell.
WILLOW
Goddess do destiny eu chamo-o.
Traga estas duas mentes junto.
Deixe-me ser a ligação. Traga-os
junto para a definição.
{Translated: Goddess of destiny
I call you. Bring these two minds
together. Let me be the link. Bring
them together for resolution.}
She closes her eyes and the energy comes from her hands and envelops Buffy and Dawn.
Suddenly the freezing spell breaks. Buffy and Dawn dives at each other with murderous intent. There's a huge flash of light as they collide.
WHITE OUT
(End of Act One)
ACT TWO
EXT. BUFFY'S HOUSE - SIX YEARS PREVIOUSLY - DAY
A car pulls up outside the Summers' house and a younger Buffy and Dawn, along with Joyce emerge to greet their new house for the first time.
JOYCE
Here it is. Our new home.
I think you're going to like it...
BUFFY
Wow... it's a lot... smaller than
the old one.
JOYCE
Yeah, well there's only one
person paying the mortgage
now. You'll learn about that
stress in due course...
They begin to walk to the door and Joyce takes the key out. They turn to see that Dawn is staying next to the car.
JOYCE
What's wrong Dawnie?
DAWN
I wanna go back. I want my
old friends.
JOYCE
But we had to move...
DAWN
'cuz Buffy got kicked out
of school.
Dawn glares at Buffy who looks rather annoyed.
BUFFY
That wasn't my fault!
DAWN
Was so!
BUFFY
Was not!
JOYCE
Girls, girls...
(shakes her head)
You two are going to be
the death of me.
(she kneels down in front of Dawn)
Buffy isn't the reason we've
moved. We want to make a
fresh start.
DAWN
(a little sadly)
Because of dad...?
Joyce nods too. She hugs Dawn.
JOYCE
You'll both get to see him...
you know that. And he loves
you both.
BUFFY
(bitterly)
He just doesn't want us
around all the time.
JOYCE
Buffy!
BUFFY
Sorry!
She smiles at Dawn to cheer her up.
BUFFY
C'mon Dawnie... let's go inside.
Dawn takes Buffy's hand as they walk to the door.
BUFFY
I'm actually quite hopeful about
this place.
The two of them walk through the front door into the house as flash forward to...
INTERIOR: BUFFY'S HOUSE - HALLWAY - day
Buffy walks in first followed by Xander and Willow (season 1). She's introducing them to her house.
BUFFY
So, uh, this is the hall.
XANDER
And a very nice hall it is.
Very hall-like. I'm impressed
by the sheer hall-ness of it.
BUFFY
Uh, thanks.
XANDER
So do we get to see your room?
BUFFY
Xander!
Willow nudges Xander as they make their way to the kitchen.
XANDER
Ah... even better. Food.
BUFFY
Doesn't your mother feed you?
WILLOW
Sure. So does my mom...
and anyone else who he
can convince...
They walk through into:
INTERIOR: BUFFY'S HOUSE - KITCHEN
Joyce is preparing something at the oven as the three walk in.
BUFFY
Mom! Willow and Xander are
here!
JOYCE
Oh. Hello... so you're Buffy's
new friends? Nice to meet you.
Joyce stops what she's doing and walks towards them. She puts her hand out to shake then realises that they're covered in dough.
JOYCE
Well, maybe that's not such
a good idea.
WILLOW
It's okay Mrs Summers...
JOYCE
Call me Joyce.
(pause)
So have you met the rest
of the family?
XANDER
Rest of...
Joyce goes out into the hall and shouts upstairs.
JOYCE
Dawn!
WILLOW
(to Buffy)
Dawn?
BUFFY
Yeah. I kind of have a sister.
She's a real pain. I was hoping
she'd stay in her room forever
or something.
XANDER
And I thought I was the only
one who wanted to forget he
had relatives.
A young, 10-year-old Dawn comes charging down the stairs. She comes into the kitchen and stops, eyeing Xander and Willow up carefully.
DAWN
Who are they?
JOYCE
Dawn! Be polite.
BUFFY
Dawn... this is Willow and
Xander...
XANDER
(smiles at Dawn)
So this is the poor kid Buffy
keeps locked away.
(jokingly looks her over)
Looks normal enough. Possible
cute factor going on.
(whispers to Dawn)
You know what? I think big sis
is just jealous of you.
Dawn giggles. Buffy grabs Xander's arm.
BUFFY
Xander, how about not making
my sister think she's got another
ally in her anti-Buffy campaign.
ANGLE ON: DAWN. She watches as Xander and Buffy talk.
XANDER (O.S.)
Heh. I'd love to have had a
little brother or sister?
BUFFY (O.S.)
Do you want her?
XANDER (O.S.)
(Pause)
So anyway... Where's the food?
Dawn watches Xander and smiles.
EXTERIOR: DAWN'S MIND - no specific time
As we flash back to what is more or less the present (given that this all takes place in Dawn's mind) we see Dawn as she is now and PULL BACK to see her and Buffy standing on a stone platform held up a massive stalagmite. Around them and below is a swirling black mass.
Dawn shakes her head, trying to forget the memories that Buffy is forcing back into her head.
DAWN
No... no...
BUFFY
No what? You can't face them?
DAWN
Get them out of my head!
BUFFY
This has nothing to do with me!
Dawn lunges at Buffy, pushes her to the ground just at the edge of the platform. Buffy looks down and sees nothing below her but the darkness. Dawn is strangling her hard.
DAWN
Get them out! Get them...
Buffy kicks back and pushes Dawn off her.
BUFFY
Why? It's just you... your
memories.
DAWN
They're not real!
BUFFY
That doesn't matter.
DAWN
No. You're right. It doesn't.
All that matters is that I'm
the Slayer!
Dawn begins to punch at Buffy who manages to counter the blows.
DAWN
Even if they were... I was a
different person back then...
BUFFY
No. You... Dawn... are the
same person you've always
been. It's the... the Slayer
Spirit inside you that wants
you to forget that.
Dawn runs forward screaming...
DAWN
No! It's not true!
...and takes Buffy by surprise, pushing her off the platform.
We flash forward again to...
INT. ETHAN'S COSTUME SHOP - FLASHBACK ("HALLOWEEN") - DAY
The store is full of mothers with their kids looking for Halloween costumes. Buffy has just noticed the 18th century dress on display. Ethan takes the dress off of its dressmaker's mannequin.
BUFFY
Oh, i-it's...
ETHAN
Magnificent. Yes, I know. There.
He holds it up to her in a mirror.
ETHAN
(C'tnd)
My. Meet the hidden princess.
I think we found a match. Don't
you?
BUFFY
Oh, uh, I-I'm sorry. There's
no way I could ever afford this.
ETHAN
Oh, nonsense. I feel quite
moved to make you a deal
you can't refuse.
She looks back into the mirror, takes the dress from Ethan and smiles dreamily as she holds it up to her chin. Her face suddenly changes.
BUFFY
Dawn!
XANDER
(spins around)
Where?
WILLOW
Xander! You look terrified.
XANDER
That kid follows me everywhere
I go! You don't suppose...?
Buffy begins to look through the other costumes.
BUFFY
I promised mom that I'd pick
up Dawn's costume. Hold this!
She hands the dress she's holding to Xander who looks at and has a "hmmm" expression on his face then shakes his head - going in drag is beyond even him. Willow goes after Buffy.
WILLOW
So what does she want
to go as.
BUFFY
You're never gonna guess...
WILLOW
A vampire?
BUFFY
(damn it!)
Ah. So you did guess.
(beat)
It's like she's out to bug me
on purpose.
WILLOW
It's not like she knows you're
the Slayer...
BUFFY
I'm beginning to wonder... I
don't even know how Xander
and Angel managed to talk her
into believing the Master was
just some ugly guy when she
saw him.
CUT TO:
INT. BUFFY'S HOUSE - FLASHBACK ("HALLOWEEN") - NIGHT
Angel has just arrived to see Cordy and Xander and Buffy (sans memory) in the house.
ANGEL
Okay, somebody wanna fill
me in?
XANDER
Do you live here?
ANGEL
No, and you know that. Buffy,
I'm lost here. You... What's up
with your hair?
CORDELIA
They don't know who they are,
everyone's turned into a monster,
it's a whole big thing.
(smiles)
How are you?
Angel looks around.
ANGEL
Where's Dawn?
CUT TO:
EXT. SUNNYDALE STREET - FLASHBACK ("HALLOWEEN") - NIGHT
Dawn is out and talking to Spike as they walk down the street.
DAWN
...and she comes into my
room all the time... I hate
that! And you know what
else?
SPIKE
What, niblet?
DAWN
She always steals things... and
I know she's read my journals.
It's the sort of thing she does?
Spike puts his hand on her shoulder.
SPIKE
Y'know what I find gets rid of
all that tension?
DAWN
What?
SPIKE
(morphs into game face)
A bloody good kill!
Dawn looks at him and smiles before her face changes until she appears as a vampire.
DAWN
Sounds almost like a plan.
CUT TO:
INT. WAREHOUSE - FLASHBACK ("HALLOWEEN") - NIGHT
Spike and Dawn are about to bite the still memory-less Buffy.
WILLOW (O.S.)
Now that guy you *can* shoot.
We hear Xander get his gun ready but...
XANDER (O.S.)
What the...
KID (O.S.)
I'm scared! I want my mommy!
Spike looks back at them and straightens up. Dawn gets ready to bite into Buffy's neck. Spike pulls on Buffy's hair to pull her up and finds he just has a wig in his hands. He looks at Buffy. She gets up off of the crate and smiles at him.
BUFFY
Hi, honey. I'm home.
Buffy pushes Dawn out of the way as she jumps at Spike. She punches him hard in the face.
BUFFY
That's for messing with my
sister!
SPIKE
Sh-she's your sister?!?!
BUFFY
And don't you forget it!
She continues to beat the crap out of him with a metal pipe. She knocks him backward then stops. Buffy is through fighting. Spike gets up and growls at her, then makes a hasty retreat. Buffy drops the pipe and turns to the others. Xander comes over to her.
XANDER
Hey, Buff. Welcome back.
BUFFY
Yeah! You, too.
CORDELIA
You guys remember what
happened?
XANDER
It was way creepy. It's like
I was there, but I couldn't
get out.
CORDELIA
Yeah, I know the feeling.
This outfit's totally skin-tight.
Buffy notices Dawn who's looking pretty freaked out.
BUFFY
Dawn? Dawnie? Are you okay?
Dawn turns to her and looks pretty freaked out.
DAWN
What's a Slayer?
(End of Act Two)
ACT THREE
INTERIOR: MAGIC BOX - TRAINING ROOM - day
In the shop, the Scoobies are watching Willow sitting between Buffy and Dawn. All three of them are under the influence of the spell.
ANYA
Are they okay?
GILES
I wish I knew...
EXTERIOR: DAWN'S MIND - no specific time
Dawn looks over the edge of the platform to see if Buffy's still there. She doesn't seem to notice Buffy swinging up behind her from the other side. She walks closer to Dawn but is too late to realise she's been discovered.
Dawn spins around and punches at Buffy who ducks in time. She follows up with a kick that knocks Buffy backwards. She flips to her feet and attacks again.
Suddenly the screen is enveloped in white and we FLASH to:
INTERIOR: SUNNYDALE HIGH - LIBRARY - FLASHBACK (SEASON 2) - evening
Dawn is in the library with the Scoobies. The school is closed and they're loitering as usual. Buffy is trying to explain the whole Slayer thing to her. Dawn is quickly questioning everything Buffy tries to say like a typical 11-year-old.
DAWN
So you go around poking
ugly people like the guy
in the cave last year with
a pointy stick?
BUFFY
It's a lot more complicated
than that, Dawn!
DAWN
Doesn't sound like it.
BUFFY
It is! It's my birthright.
DAWN
What's that mean?
BUFFY
It means I was born to do it.
DAWN
Why you?
Buffy sighs. She's getting more than a little wound up.
BUFFY
Because I was chosen.
DAWN
Who chose you?
BUFFY
I don't know!
DAWN
Then how do you know
you're the person.
BUFFY
Because I'm strong.
DAWN
I bet I could knock you out.
BUFFY
I bet you couldn't.
DAWN
Bet I could!
BUFFY
Couldn't!
DAWN
Could!
BUFFY
Cou... I really don't have time
for this!
Dawn grins at her. Buffy shakes her head in dismay.
BUFFY
I don't care if you believe
me or not... but no one can
know! Don't tell a soul!
DAWN
(shrugs)
Sure.
BUFFY
Dawn...
DAWN
I won't!
BUFFY
Not even mom...
DAWN
Girl scout's honour.
BUFFY
Since when were you...?
DAWN
Geeze! Okay, I won't tell her!
Buffy glances behind Dawn's back.
BUFFY
Were your fingers crossed?
DAWN
(guiltily)
No.
BUFFY
They were. I saw...
The library doors burst open. Angel comes running in.
BUFFY
Angel!
ANGEL
Buffy! I've got some news on
the Grallik demon rising in the
cemetery on Main Street!
GILES
The Grallik? Are you sure?
They don't tend to come forth
in graveyards. They prefer to
appear where there are living
creatures to feed on straight
away...
ANGEL
I know. I wasn't sure whether
or not to believe my contact...
but he's usually spot on.
BUFFY
Then we go!
Buffy and Angel grab some weapons and go to the door. Buffy turns to Dawn.
BUFFY
Stay here until I get back.
DAWN
Where else am I supposed
to go anyway?
BUFFY
I don't know! Just stay!
Buffy and Angel run out.
CORDELIA
Something tells me that our
demon friend won't be the
only thing rising...
XANDER
Oh, you're giving the two of
them a little too much credit.
Bet they won't even make
it to the cemetery. God!
I hate that guy!
DAWN
Yeah! He's such a moron!
Everyone looks at Dawn. They didn't really expect her to have an opinion on Angel.
DAWN
Well he is!
XANDER
That's my girl!
DAWN
What is it with him anyway?
CUT TO:
EXT. SUNNYDALE STREET - FLASHBACK (SEASON 2) - NIGHT
Dawn is walking home from a friend's house. She crosses the street and we realise a figure is following her. She keeps looking back over her shoulder and walks into...
DAWN
Angel!
ANGELUS
Hello Dawnie.
DAWN
(frowns at him)
What're you doing lurking around
here?
ANGELUS
(desperately)
I need to talk to Buffy. Urgently.
DAWN
I don't think so.
Dawn begins to walk away but Angelus grabs her shoulder.
ANGELUS
I have to speak to her!
Dawn stops talking. She pulls away from him and stares angrily into his eyes.
DAWN
Look... Buffy's been really
Depressed recently and I
know something happened
between the two of you...
ANGELUS
(smirks)
You could say that...
DAWN
And I don't want anything
to do with you!
She begins to walk away again but Angelus morphs into game face and pulls her back violently. She tries to scream but her covers her mouth.
ANGELUS
That's not a good idea. I
don't want Buffy to get
that kind of message. I
was just hoping for her to
find you in... say... thirty
minutes with all your blood
drained out.
As he moves for her neck she wriggles to break free of his grasp, constantly moving her neck away from him teeth. He grabs her head to steady it.
XANDER (O.S.)
Get your hands off her!
Angelus looks up to see Xander running in his direction with a cross in one hand and a stake in the other. Angelus growls at him but lets Dawn go. She runs to Xander.
ANGELUS
You're next, boy.
Angelus cuts his losses and goes.
XANDER
And stay gone!
Dawn wraps her arms around Xander.
DAWN
Thank you! Thank you! Thank
you! Thank you!
XANDER
(warily, looking back)
No probs. Just... we gotta get
you back home in case *it*
comes back.
DAWN
What... what's happened to him.
XANDER
Long story. But it'll be okay.
Willow's going to stop him
getting into your house.
EXT. DAWN'S MIND - no specific time
Dawn and Buffy continue fighting, mainly blocking each other's moves - seemingly at a stalemate.
DAWN
You should've killed him you
know... as soon as you found
out he was a vampire... It
would have solved so many
problems... and deaths.
BUFFY
I loved him!
DAWN
No! A Slayer shouldn't love.
BUFFY
You can't stop it...
DAWN
It's too emotional. A Slayer
can't be...
BUFFY
Emotional? You think you can
go around talking about how
bad emotional attachments are?
Well, maybe we're forgetting
a few things...
FLACHBACK TO: (SEASON THREE - FAITH, HOPE AND TRICK)
INT. BUFFY'S HOUSE - DINING ROOM - NIGHT
Joyce is piling Faith's plate with food. Buffy sits nearby, her own plate empty. Dawn is with them too, looking at Faith as if she's some huge hero figure.
JOYCE
So you're a slayer, too.
Isn't that interesting. Do
you like it?
FAITH
I love it.
BUFFY/DAWN
(gesture with their own empty plates)
Mom...
JOYCE
Just a sec, girls.
(to Faith)
Buffy never talks that way,
why do you love it?
FAITH
When I'm fighting, the whole
World goes away and I only
know one thing: I'm gonna
win and they're gonna lose.
I like that feeling.
Buffy finally starts dishing up her own supper as:
BUFFY
Well sure, it's better than
that dead feeling you get
when they win and you lose.
FAITH
I don't let that kind of
negative thinking in.
JOYCE
Right, right, that could get
you hurt. Buffy can be awfully
negative sometimes.
(turns to Buffy)
See, honey, you gotta fight that.
BUFFY
I'm trying.
JOYCE
Faith, can I get you another soft drink?
FAITH
You bet, thanks.
Joyce heads for the kitchen.
FAITH
She's cool.
BUFFY
Best mom ever. Excuse me.
Buffy leaves to follow Joyce to the kitchen. Dawn stays with Faith.
DAWN
Buffy never lets me go patrolling
with her.
FAITH
Hey, she's just worried about
her little sis. And you are a
little young.
DAWN
I reckon I could beat up a
vampire. All you do is poke
them with a pointy stick.
FAITH
It takes a little more skill
than that.
(looks up to make sure Buffy isn't looking)
Well, maybe one day I can
bring you along with me.
Dawn looks at Faith, wide-eyed and with envy.
DAWN
Really? Cool.
CUT TO:
INT. DAWN'S MIND - no specific time
Buffy is getting the upper hand in the fight. She knocks Dawn back and she hits the floor. She looks a little defeated.
BUFFY
Please... tell me it's over...
BLACK OUT
(End of Act Three)
ACT FOUR
EXT. SUNNYDALE PARK - FLASHBACK (LATE/MID SEASON 3) - NIGHT
Faith and Dawn are walking through the park together. Faith is a little edgy around Dawn.
FAITH
Y'know you really should be
off home. I don't think...
DAWN
(interrupting)
No. You don't.
(beat)
But we have to talk.
FAITH
Look, kid... I... I can't change
what's happened.
DAWN
You killed someone... I overheard
Buffy and Giles talking about it
but I still haven't got why.
FAITH
I just thought he was...
DAWN
I mean why you don't care.
How can you kill someone
and not care?
They stop at the swings. Faith sits down on one and Dawn on the other.
FAITH
(shrugs)
I just don't.
DAWN
Can't you change? Can't you,
y'know, give yourself up?
Faith doesn't look at her. She just swings herself a little with her feet. She tries to say something but stops herself. Dawn turns to look at her.
FAITH
Things are happening... bad
things... Me and Buffy is not
a friendship that's got a future.
DAWN
(a little teary)
And us?
FAITH
When big sis finds out... stuff...
I don't she's gonna want me
anywhere near you. I may be
in fear of my life if I do.
DAWN
I could sneak out. Like I do
now.
Faith puts her hand on Buffy's shoulder.
FAITH
Don't. It may reach the point
where I'd have to use you as
bait to get Buffy to me...
Dawn smiles then realises Faith is serious.
FAITH
It's complicated, kiddo... but
I still love you like a little sister...
the little sister I never had...
but I've chosen my path now.
DAWN
And you won't tell me where
it's leading?
FAITH
No can do. Like I said, there's
a lotta things happening. But...
whatever you hear... I still care
for you no matter what I may
end up telling B at some point.
Dawn says nothing. She shrugs Faith's hand from her shoulder.
FAITH
C'mon Dawnie.
DAWN
You just don't wanna be my
friend anymore.
FAITH
That's not true. I want to
be... I just can't...
DAWN
Sure.
Dawn jumps from the swing and walks off into the darkness. Faith watches her disappear out of sight and rests her head on one of chains of the swing and frowns.
INT. BUFFY'S HOUSE - FLASHBACK ("THIS YEAR'S GIRL") - NIGHT
Faith has Dawn on the bed, threatening her.
FAITH
You're thinking...
(bad drama)
"You'll never get away with this."
Warm?
JOYCE
Actually, I was thinking, "My
daughter will kill you soon."
FAITH
Is that a fact?
JOYCE
More like a bet.
FAITH
Whoa, you got a pair on you,
Joyce. I like seeing that in a
woman your age.
(then)
Guess you can afford to talk that
way. In the "World According to
Joyce," Buffy's gonna come
crashing through that door any
minute.
The door suddenly bursts open. Faith swings around to see... Dawn.
DAWN
What's all the noise in...
JOYCE
Dawn! Get out of here!
Dawn turns and sees Faith. The two look at each other. There's a connection.
FAITH
Hey D.
We CLOSE IN on Dawn's face. She doesn't know what to think as we flash forward to...
INT. DAWN'S MIND - no specific time
Dawn in on the floor in front of Buffy. Buffy looks down at her, a little defensive and ready to fight again.
BUFFY
Is it? Is it over?
DAWN
(sorrowful)
She died. She died and I
become the Slayer...
BUFFY
Faith?
Dawn nods sadly.
DAWN
I... I've done bad things haven't I?
BUFFY
No. *You* haven't.
DAWN
It was my body...
Buffy rushes to embrace Dawn but a huge blast blows them apart. Buffy is sent hurting backwards and lands on her back. Dawn is knocked over the edge of the platform and only just grabs it in time.
BUFFY
Dawn!
As Buffy runs forward to Dawn she is punched back by another figure that has just appeared. Buffy looks at it.
BUFFY
You...
INT. MAGIC BOX - TRAINING ROOM - DAY
Willow concentrates on keeping up the link between Buffy and Dawn. Giles, Xander, Anya and Tara watch silently. Buffy and Dawn begin to convulse suddenly and Willow begins to be covered by powerful electric-like energy. She screams in pain. Xander runs forward to pull them apart.
GILES
(stopping him)
No! Don't!
TARA
If you pull them apart the
connection could be broken.
Buffy will be trapped in Dawn's
mind and her body will...
XANDER
Die?
TARA
Uh-huh.
INT. DAWN'S MIND - no specific time
Dawn, struggling to pull herself back onto the platform looks in fear as she sees what has just appeared.
Buffy gets ready to fight. It's the PRIMITIVE SLAYER.
PRIMITIVE
No! You can't take her!
BUFFY
Wanna try and stop me?
PRIMITIVE
Her soul must die. The Slayer
will take over.
BUFFY
Over my dead body.
PRIMITIVE
So be it.
The Primitive launches herself at Buffy, pushing her towards the edge of the platform. She begins to kicks and punch as fast as she can. Even though Buffy manages to block her she is being forced closer to the edge. Her foot nearly slips but she rights herself.
BUFFY
I'm guessing falling down this
little pit equals death... even
though this isn't real.
PRIMITIVE
Death... to the soul.
The Primitive moves forward to fight but Buffy punches her square in the face. Buffy gets the upper hand and hits her back.
PRIMITIVE
You can't understand.
BUFFY
I understand perfectly. What
is with you and destroying
my friends and family?
PRIMITIVE
If I am destroyed, the line
of Slayers will follow!
ANGLE ON: Dawn struggles back onto the platform. She watches Buffy and the Primitive fighting. She runs towards the Primitive who swings her arm and punches her backwards.
BUFFY
(pissed off)
You just hit my sister.
PRIMITIVE
She must die for the Slayers
to continue!
BUFFY
Then I'm sorry but she isn't
gonna die.
Buffy dives at the Primitive.
INT. MAGIC BOX - TRAINING ROOM - DAY
The energy that is attacking Willow has spread to Buffy and Dawn. Willow struggles to maintain contact. The energy shoots out in all directions, hitting Xander in the chest. He flies into a wall.
INT. DAWN'S MIND - no specific time
Buffy punches and kicks at the Primitive who manages duck and dive over all of her blows. She kicks back at Buffy and pulls out a knife, stabbing her in the side. Buffy staggers back and looks at the wound. Black energy like that surrounding them begins to stream out of it.
The Primitive dives on top of her and begins to strangle her. Buffy struggles to break free but she's too strong. She begins to get weaker.
BUFFY'S POV: Her eyesight gets blurry as she sees the Primitive tightening her grip. Just as she blacks out she sees the Primitive being pulled off her...
...by Dawn. She throws the Primitive to the floor and kicks her in the side.
DAWN
You seem to be forgetting
you're dealing with two Slayers,
not one.
PRIMITIVE
(shakes her head)
Not Slayer...
The Primitive grabs Dawn's throat and lifts her into the air with ease. She carries her over to the edge of the platform and prepares to drop her.
DAWN
(weakly)
No...
ANGLE ON: Buffy opens her eyes slowly and sees Dawn dangling over the edge.
The Primitive lets go of Dawn. Buffy comes running forward and pushes the Primitive off the edge. Buffy falls to the ground and holds her hand out as far as she can and just manages to grabs Dawn's hand. She begins to pull her back up when there's an extra weight. The Primitive is trying to climb up Dawn.
PRIMITIVE
Girl dies. Slayer lives.
BUFFY
Forget it!
Buffy punches the Primitive in the face and she lets go of Dawn, falling into the dark swirling mass of energy, which envelops her and rips her to pieces.
PRIMITIVE (V.O.)
(fading into nothingness)
The lineage is no more.
With every ounce of strength, Buffy pulls Dawn onto the platform. She wraps her arms around her sister and both begin to cry.
The entire screen is filled with a bright white light.
INT. MAGIC BOX - TRAINING ROOM - DAY
Buffy and Dawn in the same position as they were in the dreamscape, holding onto each other tightly and in tears. Willow falls backwards, totally exhausted as all of the energy goes straight into her.
DAWN
I'm so sorry. I'm sorry...
BUFFY
It's okay, Dawnie.
DAWN
I... I've hurt people...
BUFFY
Sssh... ssshhh...
DAWN
I'm not worth it... you ended
the Slayer line for me...
BUFFY
You are... you are worth it!
DAWN
You should've just killed me.
Another Slayer would have
come...
BUFFY
I would have... if Willow hadn't
given me hope.
(to the others)
If you all hadn't.
Tara is looking after Willow who is looking dazed and confused.
WILLOW
D-did it w-work?
BUFFY
(nods, still hugging Dawn)
It worked.
Anya has helped Xander to his feet. Along with Giles they gather around Buffy and Dawn who refuse to let go of each other.
We PULL BACK slowly showing all of the Scoobies together with Buffy and Dawn in the centre until we fade to black...
END
AUTHOR'S NOTE: Although this is the end of this season, there'll be another project called Cyber Scripts that I'm involved in starting in the summer - continuing the current Buffy season 6 and not this one and will also include seasons of Angel and Ripper. It's an epic project with loads of writers...
If any authors here want to join the new project's site is: http://www.tbns.net/cyberscripts/cyberscripts.htm - it'll give you any info you need to take part in this...
I (Noggins) do intend to write more in here - possibly a mini series continuing this arc (no more than 12 episodes) during my breaks from uni - the first episodes may even be done before January 14th (when I'm due back in college). Once the new project is started I'll add a note to the end of one of the fics to tell you the FF.net account the new stuff will be on!
