This is an older fanfic I had that I thought I would share. It is a
crossover based in the time just after Cordy became part demon but has
decided to keep it from the others until she knows more.. Buffy has just
come back and turns to Spike for comfort. I tried to keep it somewhat
similar to storylines up until that point.
Interior: Cordelia's apartment
She's sleeping fitfully, tossing and turning.
{Cordy and Angel are training in the basement. They trade blows in basic hand to hand. He is backing her against the wall when something flashes in her eyes and she lunges with renewed energy. Angel smiles with pride at first but quickly realizes that her actions are not that of the same Cordy. Something else is behind her punches and its strength is greater than Angel has ever witnessed. He frowns when his retaliatory punch is deflected and is caught off guard by Cordy's guttural growl as she connects with a frighteningly solid roundhouse left. Angel falls backwards and Cordy pounces to finish him off.
Angel: Cordy!
She hears his voice and a glimmer of recognition passes over her features. She comes to a halt straddling him with her arms raised over her head. She studies his face for a split second.
Cordy: I always hated when you called me that...
She prepares to deliver the fatal blow when Angel suddenly vamps out...}
Cordy screams and sits bolt upright in bed drenched with sweat. The sound of water turning on in the bathroom is the only thing heard over her rapid breathing. The water shuts off and a floating glass of water appears next to her.
Cordy: Thanks.
She takes the glass from Dennis and sips it slowly, still shaking.
Interior: Willows room
She is sleeping as well though she appears to be perfectly calm.
{Willow is standing in a pitch black room searching for signs of movement. Without warning a forceful wind pushes her from behind and she spins to face it.
Willow: Oh God.
Cut to Oz standing in front of her.
Willow: Oz?
Oz: Kind of an obvious answer there isn't it?
Willow smiles at his typical remark and he grins back at her.
Willow: What are you doing here?
Oz: I was wondering that myself. I'm assuming with the darkness and all this could be either of us dreaming.
Willow: So you still have the issues too?
Oz: I left to learn to live with them. That's the only option. Issues kind of come with the territory.
Willow: Territory?
Oz: Werewolf...witch.(Oz points from himself to Willow)
Willow: Yeah.(Willow nods in agreement.) So why are we here?
Oz: I'll tell you that as soon as you tell me where here is.
Willow looks around the darkness again trying to find the answer. Confusion is evident on her features. Suddenly, a voice speaks out.
Voice: I brought you here.
Out of the shadows steps Tara. Willow and Oz look at her.
Oz: Didn't we already do the confrontation thing?
Tara: This isn't for you, it's for me. And Willow.
Willow: Tara, what is this?
Tara: This is what you did. This is what you've been doing since he left you. I've seen it but didn't understand it until now.
Oz: Once again, why am I here?
Tara: Because you did this to her. You left her because you had a dark side. One that you didn't want her to see. So she made her own. She kept that part of you for herself and turned it into hers. She created a dark side of herself to feel closer to you.
Willow: Tara that's crazy! I never wanted to...
Tara: Don't!
Willow stops and looks at Oz who is watching her intensely.
Oz: Is that true Willow? Did my leaving make you turn into this?
He swings his arms around the darkness.
Willow: No! I'm not dark! I stopped! Tara, I promise I stopped!
Tara shakes her head and looks past Willow. Willow turns around to see a mirror. But it's not her reflection she sees. Instead she sees the reflections of her friends watching her with pity. Buffy looks almost disgusted and slowly turns her back to her. The others follow suit.
Willow: Wait! What's wrong? I haven't done anything! Don't do this!
Willows voice begins to change from pleading to anger.
Willow: I'm tired of defending myself. You've all made mistakes! Why can't I? WHY CAN'T I?
She screams the last words and the mirror suddenly shakes uncontrollably for a moment before shattering into a million pieces.}
Cut to Willow opening her eyes still lying on the bed in the exact same position. Her eyes are the only thing that moves as they dart from side to side. Her breathing is slow and labored. She finally looks up above her to the ceiling. Her mouth opens slightly as she begins to speak.
Willow: Buffy.(Her first attempt is barely audible) Buffy! (this ones louder) BUFFY!
The door swings open and Dawn rushes in.
Dawn: Willow what's wrong?
Willow: Where's Buffy?
Dawn: Hang on. (She runs out and returns seconds later) She's not in her room. What's wrong?
Willow: Dawn, find Buffy. Call Xander and Anya...now.
Dawn: You're scaring me Willow. Get up.
Willow: Dawn call them.(When Dawn doesn't move Willow turns her head ever so slightly to look her in the eye) Dawnie, I can't move... Interior: Xander and Anya's place-Xander walks to the door hearing loud knocking.
Dawn: Xander! Anya! Wake up! He swings the door open to find a frantic Dawn on the verge of tears.
Xander: Have I told you lately how much I hate the late night chats? They never bring happy thoughts.
Dawn: (pushing past him into the room) Where's Anya?
Anya: I'm here. (Anya is sitting in bed with the covers over her)
Dawn: Oh...right. Get dressed! (She spins to face Xander) Have you seen Buffy?
Xander: No, you're the only Summers girl visit I've had tonight. Why?
Dawn: We have to find her and get back to Willow. I left her in bed. She needs help!
Xander: Willow needs help in bed? Anya: (Walking around to stand by Xander while slipping a shirt over her bra) I don't think Xander can help with that.
Dawn: Not IN bed. She needs help getting OUT of bed. (The couple stares at Dawn in confusion) She's paralyzed!
Xander/Anya: What?
Dawn: She woke up screaming for Buffy a while ago and said she can't move. We have to find Buffy and help her. NOW!
Xander: Okay calm down. Anya, you take Dawn and get back to Willow. I'll find Buffy.
Anya: You know where she is?
Xander: I have an idea. Now go.
The three head out into the night.
Cut to LA
Exterior: Pier
Angel walks alone staring out at the ocean. The moonlight bounces off the water.
Voiceover:
Whistler: You can go either way friend. What's it gonna be?
Buffy: One of us has to walk away here.
Angel: What are you afraid of...me...us?
Buffy: When I kiss you, I want to die.
Angel: You deserve more than this freak show.
Buffy: What? Don't love you? I'm sorry I didn't know I got a choice in that.
Xander: Well its good to know when the chips are down and things look grim, you'll feed off the girl who loves you to save your own ass.
Angel: I'm not gonna say goodbye. When this is over, if we survive, I'll just go. There's just too much...
Doyle: Look High schools over, boy. It's time to make with the grown up talk.
A hand touches Angel's shoulder from behind and he startles. He turns to see Cordelia.
Angel: Cordy? What are you doing here?
Cordy: I couldn't sleep. Dreams.
She looks past him out to the shimmering waves.
Cordy: What about you? I know it's like your work day now and all but what brings you out here?
Angel: (Mumbles) Grown up talk.
Cordy: Excuse me?
Angel: Never mind. It's not important right now. So what kind of dream did you have that you couldn't go back to sleep?
Cordy: (looks at him strangely) Speaking of not important.
Angel: Hmm?
Cordy: Nothing. Can we just walk?
Angel: (looks at her in his own strange way) Sure.
Just as they step off the pier and onto the street. A woman's scream penetrates the silence. Angel takes off in its direction and Cordy only hesitates for a split second before she follows.
Interior: Cemetery Xander is standing at the door to Spike's crypt.
Xander: I don't mind if I'm wrong you know. He speaks to no one in particular before pushing the heavy door inward.
Spike appears out of nowhere stopping Xander's entrance.
Spike: I may not be able to fight you people but can you tell me when I instituted the open door policy?
Xander: It must have been about the same time you instituted the 'I'm Buffy's new best friend' attitude. So where is she?
Spike: As much as I like the sound of your petty jealousy, she's not here. And I don't know where she is either. So if you'll excuse...
Xander: (Pushing harder against the door) Listen Spike, Willow's in trouble. If you know where she is or if you happen to run into her, could you please tell her we'll be waiting at her house?
Spike: What's wrong with Red?
Xander: I'm not sure yet. I'm going there now. Something about being paralyzed.
Spike: Paralyzed eh? That's new.
Xander: Um...yeah.
He turns away in annoyance and heads out of the cemetery. Spike closes the door and turns to see Buffy looking very angry.
Spike: What? I didn't let our little secret out.
Buffy: I don't have time Spike. Willow needs me.
She grabs her jacket and darts past him before he can respond.
Spike: (staring after her) And what do you need slayer?
Cut to Lorne in Hyperion
He's pacing the floor holding a fussy Connor.
Lorne: I've tried singing, I've tried jokes, how does your Dad calm you down in times like these?
Fred: He turns into a vampire.
Lorne: What? Now that I can't do.
Fred: (smiling) He doesn't do it often, just in emergencies. Here let me try.
She takes Connor and begins to shush him. After a moment, Connor stops fussing and begins to drift off.
Lorne: It's the woman's touch every time. And kid, that won't leave for the rest of your life.
Fred: (blushing) Lorne! Don't talk about those things to him! Angel wouldn't like it. He doesn't like s-e-x talk around the baby.
Lorne: Well s-e-x is what brought the baby here so...at least I think that's what brought it here.
Fred: Very funny.
Lorne: Any who, why don't you try singing to the little one? He'll go to sleep and I'll read your aura. I've been jonesing since I haven't had the club in months.
Fred: I don't think so.
Lorne: Come on, nobody's around and I'll never tell.
Fred thinks for a minute and when Connor begins to stir she gives in. A sweet song begins to escape her lips... Exterior: Alley
Angel runs toward a girl lying on the pavement. He bends over her just as Cordy arrives.
Cordy: What is it? Is she dead?
Angel: No, she's unconscious. He looks around for whatever caused the girl's state and sees nothing. He picks her up and begins walking toward the street. Cordy walks beside him.
Cordy: Where are we going?
Angel: I was thinking hospital.
Cordy: Right. We'll drop her so they can take care of her. I don't think she's been hurt by the dark forces. I'm not getting anything from her. She probably just got mugged.
Angel: Maybe. Let's just get her there and go home. Connor will be waking up soon.
Cut to Hospital
Angel and Cordy watch as a doctor looks at the girls bruised face. She begins to stir and they turn to leave.
Doctor: You're in the emergency room. You were in an accident. Can you tell me your name?
Girl: (moaning, then struggling to form the word) Tara.
Angel and Cordy are already gone.
Interior: Willows room
Buffy arrives and sees Willow laying on the bed perfectly still while Dawn, Xander and Anya surround her.
Willow: Buffy?
Buffy: I'm here Will. (She sits down next to Willow) Tell me what happened.
Willow: I don't know. I was sleeping, I woke up, I couldn't move. It's been over an hour now Buffy. What's happening?
Buffy: Don't worry. We'll figure it out. (Looks at Xander) You know what to do?
Xander: I'm guessing research.
Buffy: Yes. This has to be mystical. Anya, have you ever seen a demon do something like this?
Anya: I don't think so. There was one time I was able to freeze a guy, but it was only to ensure he got caught in the act if you know what I mean. It was pretty funny actually, this guy was sleeping with his boss' wife and when his girlfriend found out she didn't want to just leave him...
Xander: We get it honey. (He puts a hand on her shoulder to shut her up)
Anya: Oh, okay. Umm...no, this doesn't look like the work of a demon.
Buffy: Good enough. One less suspect group. So like I was saying, it has to be mystical. Xander, you and Anya go down to the magic shop and bring back all the books you can find on mystical forces and spells.
Xander: Sure thing. Back in a jiff. Hang in there Will.
Willow: That shouldn't be a problem.
Dawn: Buffy, what if its not in there?
Buffy: It will be. But just to be safe, I'll call for back up. Dawn, you stay with Willow. (looks at Willow) I'm calling Giles. He might know of something we don't.
Willow: Good idea. I'm all for back up. Even if it is all the way in England. (Buffy starts to stand) Um, Buffy?
Buffy: (Looking down at Willow) Could you maybe go fast? I'm really not liking the bedridden.
Willows eyes are tearing up and Buffy's face softens as she bends down to kiss her on the forehead.
Buffy: Slayer speed Will. (She smiles and exits the room)
Dawn takes her place on the bed beside Willow and smiles encouragingly.
Cut to LA
Interior: Baby's room
Lorne is listening to Fred sing to Connor when his face suddenly distorts and he becomes alarmed. Fred doesn't notice and finishes the song noting that Connor is sleeping.
Lorne: (Watches her lay Connor in the bassinet) I guess yours are the pipes of sleeping.
Fred: (Smiling at Lorne) Is that good or bad?
Lorne: (frowns) Let me get back to you on that. Will you excuse me, I have to go...do...a thing.
He doesn't wait for an answer before taking off.
Cut to Lobby
Angel and Cordy walk in the door just as Lorne races down the stairs. He almost crashes into them in his haste to get out.
Angel: (Putting up his hands to catch Lorne before he runs into them) Whoa there green boy. What's the emergency?
Lorne: (looking nervously between the two) Emergency? No emergency. Just dying for a taste of the hot stuff. (Sees Angel and Cordy aren't understanding) Mexican? Spicy food? Am I the only one that fancies themselves the rainbow coalition of the culinary arts? Some days its Chinese, others Italian, occasionally French, and very rarely Pylean. But I'm working on that. Any who, tonight it's the Mexican that's calling me, so...
Cordy: (Steps aside with a grand gesture) By all means. Wouldn't want to interrupt your (looks at her watch) 2AM feeding.
Lorne attempts to smile as he pushes past them.
Angel: Speaking of feeding...
Cordy: (Smiling) Go. I'll just be down here not sleeping.
Cut to Sunnydale
Buffy is on the phone in kitchen
Buffy: No, it's silly for you to come all this way now. I'm sure we can figure it out.(Pause) Okay, if Willows not fixed by morning, I'll call.(pause) What good would he be? (Pause) Alright, I'll mark that as a last, just before death resort. (Pause) I know Giles. I'm sure he's just as qualified as you. (pause) Well don't insist on my approval if you can't handle the concept. (Smiles) Okay, I think I hear Xander. (pause) I miss you too. Thanks.
She hangs up the phone just as Xander and Anya enter struggling to hold all the books they've returned with.
Buffy: So, I guess a quick search is out of the question.
Xander: This is just the books on mystical affecting the physical. Hey listen to me with the Dr. Seuss.
Anya: What?
Xander: Never mind.
Buffy: So these are all about physical manifestations of spells?
Anya: Pretty much. If we can't figure out what caused it, we should at least be able to find a spell to fix it.
Buffy: Good. Anya you look for cures. Xander you look for causes. I'll send Dawn to help. (Starts to head upstairs when there's a knock on the door)
She opens the door to find Spike.
Buffy: What is it?
Spike: I'm not always here for you Slayer. I happen to be checking on Red. How is she?
Buffy: Still not of the moving. But thanks for caring.
Spike: Let's not get ahead of ourselves, love. I'm not sure if I like the sound of me and caring in the same sentence.
Buffy rolls her eyes and turns back towards the stairs.
Spike: It was a joke!
He calls after her but she ignores him and he shakes his head as he closes the door behind him.
A moment later Dawn descends the stairs and sees Spike sitting in the living room.
Dawn: Spike! (Spike stands and Dawn runs to him throwing her arm around him for comfort)
Spike: (Uncomfortable) There there Little Bit. Willows not dead or anything. No need for tears.
Dawn: (Raising her head to look at Spike) I'm glad you came.
Spike drops his hands and steps back from Dawn.
Spike: I didn't have any previous engagements.
Xander: Imagine that.
He has entered the room carrying a book and Spike levels a bored gaze at him.
Cut to LA
Exterior: Street in an East LA barrio
Lorne is scanning the darkened houses for something. After several seconds, he comes upon a single story run down home with a dim glow peeking through the curtains in the window.
Lorne: (Frowns) Now, what do you have to do with Fred?
He hesitates before taking a deep breath and tipping to the window to try and glimpse inside... Interior: Willow's room
Buffy has taken a seat next to her on the bed. The two are holding hands.
Willow: Buffy, I'm so tired. I feel like I want to sleep forever.
Buffy: It's going on three in the morning. That's normal. Why don't you just try and get some rest. We'll keep working on it.
Willow: I'm afraid. I'm afraid if I go to sleep I might never wake up. I feel like this is my deathbed and my mind just doesn't know it yet.
Tears fall from Willows eyes and mark a path towards the pillow. Buffy reaches her free hand to wipe them away.
Buffy: Shh. Don't talk like that. I know you're scared but you're not going to die. Do you understand me?
Willow nods weakly trying to smile. Xander enters the room.
Xander: Willow, Anya's close to finding a spell to fix this. And Spike, Dawn and I are working on the why. I just wanted to check on you.
Willow: I'm good.
Buffy: Have you found anything at all?
Xander: Just a reference to sleepwalking.
Willow: Don't think anything to do with the walking is going to apply here Xander.
Xander: I know. It just had some comments about sleepwalking is often mistaken for possession or something like that. Someone has a dream that they can't move and then they really can't. I don't know, Spike's looking at it.
Willow: Look at you working with Spike. (She smiles)
Xander: What can I say? This is how much I love you. (smiles back)
Buffy: I'm going to stay here with Will for a few more minutes. Can you call me if there's anything new?
Xander: Sure.
He leaves and Buffy squeezes Willow's hand reassuringly.
Buffy: Okay, work is in progress, so do me a favor and close your eyes. You don't have to sleep, just try and relax.
Willow slowly closes her eyes and takes a deep breath while still holding onto Buffy's hand. Within minutes of watching her, Buffy's eyes become heavy themselves. Soon, her head drops onto the bed and comes to rest on their intertwined fingers.
Cut to LA
East LA-house
Lorne has made it unseen to a window on the side of the house where the glow is apparent. He raises on tiptoe trying to get a better angle between the narrow opening of the drapes.
Lorne: Why can't the bad guys ever leave a curtain open?
He continues trying to sneak a peek when suddenly the front door opens and someone exits the house. Lorne crouches down behind a hedge and waits.
Man: How did I let you talk me into this?
Woman: Because you know we're doing the right thing. This guys got some serious dark mojo on his side and its working for the righteous. What better to fight vampires with than another vampire?
Man: So we're going to convince this righteous vampire to come to the dark side.
Woman: Stop asking so many questions. You just need to worry about your assignment. Get the girl here. She's the best shot we have.
Man: Yeah, yeah. I'm going. And what about the rest of them?
Woman: Leave that to me. You see, they don't know it yet, but they've already started our work for us. The woman begins to chuckle in a most sinister way and Lorne bristles at the sound. He waits till he hears the man footsteps fade and the woman return into the house.
Lorne: Okay, if I can't see what you're doing in there, then I guess I have to watch what you're doing out here.
He begins to follow the man that just left.
Cut to Sunnydale
Buffy's kitchen
Anya: Xander, I think you better see this.
Xander walks over to peer over her shoulder at the book she's reading.
Spike: Well? What is it? No secrets.
Xander: It's not a secret. It's a spell.
Dawn: What kind of spell?
Anya and Xander exchange a look.
Xander: There's a lot of spells that can be used for multiple purposes Dawn.
Dawn: And?
Anya: And just because one's used for one thing doesn't mean it would have the same result in a different instance.
Dawn stares at them blankly. Spike huffs and walks over to push the two aside to have his own look at the book. He reads and then raises an eyebrow as he looks at Anya and Xander.
Spike: A resurrection spell?
Dawn: What did you say?
Interior: Cordelia's apartment
She's sleeping fitfully, tossing and turning.
{Cordy and Angel are training in the basement. They trade blows in basic hand to hand. He is backing her against the wall when something flashes in her eyes and she lunges with renewed energy. Angel smiles with pride at first but quickly realizes that her actions are not that of the same Cordy. Something else is behind her punches and its strength is greater than Angel has ever witnessed. He frowns when his retaliatory punch is deflected and is caught off guard by Cordy's guttural growl as she connects with a frighteningly solid roundhouse left. Angel falls backwards and Cordy pounces to finish him off.
Angel: Cordy!
She hears his voice and a glimmer of recognition passes over her features. She comes to a halt straddling him with her arms raised over her head. She studies his face for a split second.
Cordy: I always hated when you called me that...
She prepares to deliver the fatal blow when Angel suddenly vamps out...}
Cordy screams and sits bolt upright in bed drenched with sweat. The sound of water turning on in the bathroom is the only thing heard over her rapid breathing. The water shuts off and a floating glass of water appears next to her.
Cordy: Thanks.
She takes the glass from Dennis and sips it slowly, still shaking.
Interior: Willows room
She is sleeping as well though she appears to be perfectly calm.
{Willow is standing in a pitch black room searching for signs of movement. Without warning a forceful wind pushes her from behind and she spins to face it.
Willow: Oh God.
Cut to Oz standing in front of her.
Willow: Oz?
Oz: Kind of an obvious answer there isn't it?
Willow smiles at his typical remark and he grins back at her.
Willow: What are you doing here?
Oz: I was wondering that myself. I'm assuming with the darkness and all this could be either of us dreaming.
Willow: So you still have the issues too?
Oz: I left to learn to live with them. That's the only option. Issues kind of come with the territory.
Willow: Territory?
Oz: Werewolf...witch.(Oz points from himself to Willow)
Willow: Yeah.(Willow nods in agreement.) So why are we here?
Oz: I'll tell you that as soon as you tell me where here is.
Willow looks around the darkness again trying to find the answer. Confusion is evident on her features. Suddenly, a voice speaks out.
Voice: I brought you here.
Out of the shadows steps Tara. Willow and Oz look at her.
Oz: Didn't we already do the confrontation thing?
Tara: This isn't for you, it's for me. And Willow.
Willow: Tara, what is this?
Tara: This is what you did. This is what you've been doing since he left you. I've seen it but didn't understand it until now.
Oz: Once again, why am I here?
Tara: Because you did this to her. You left her because you had a dark side. One that you didn't want her to see. So she made her own. She kept that part of you for herself and turned it into hers. She created a dark side of herself to feel closer to you.
Willow: Tara that's crazy! I never wanted to...
Tara: Don't!
Willow stops and looks at Oz who is watching her intensely.
Oz: Is that true Willow? Did my leaving make you turn into this?
He swings his arms around the darkness.
Willow: No! I'm not dark! I stopped! Tara, I promise I stopped!
Tara shakes her head and looks past Willow. Willow turns around to see a mirror. But it's not her reflection she sees. Instead she sees the reflections of her friends watching her with pity. Buffy looks almost disgusted and slowly turns her back to her. The others follow suit.
Willow: Wait! What's wrong? I haven't done anything! Don't do this!
Willows voice begins to change from pleading to anger.
Willow: I'm tired of defending myself. You've all made mistakes! Why can't I? WHY CAN'T I?
She screams the last words and the mirror suddenly shakes uncontrollably for a moment before shattering into a million pieces.}
Cut to Willow opening her eyes still lying on the bed in the exact same position. Her eyes are the only thing that moves as they dart from side to side. Her breathing is slow and labored. She finally looks up above her to the ceiling. Her mouth opens slightly as she begins to speak.
Willow: Buffy.(Her first attempt is barely audible) Buffy! (this ones louder) BUFFY!
The door swings open and Dawn rushes in.
Dawn: Willow what's wrong?
Willow: Where's Buffy?
Dawn: Hang on. (She runs out and returns seconds later) She's not in her room. What's wrong?
Willow: Dawn, find Buffy. Call Xander and Anya...now.
Dawn: You're scaring me Willow. Get up.
Willow: Dawn call them.(When Dawn doesn't move Willow turns her head ever so slightly to look her in the eye) Dawnie, I can't move... Interior: Xander and Anya's place-Xander walks to the door hearing loud knocking.
Dawn: Xander! Anya! Wake up! He swings the door open to find a frantic Dawn on the verge of tears.
Xander: Have I told you lately how much I hate the late night chats? They never bring happy thoughts.
Dawn: (pushing past him into the room) Where's Anya?
Anya: I'm here. (Anya is sitting in bed with the covers over her)
Dawn: Oh...right. Get dressed! (She spins to face Xander) Have you seen Buffy?
Xander: No, you're the only Summers girl visit I've had tonight. Why?
Dawn: We have to find her and get back to Willow. I left her in bed. She needs help!
Xander: Willow needs help in bed? Anya: (Walking around to stand by Xander while slipping a shirt over her bra) I don't think Xander can help with that.
Dawn: Not IN bed. She needs help getting OUT of bed. (The couple stares at Dawn in confusion) She's paralyzed!
Xander/Anya: What?
Dawn: She woke up screaming for Buffy a while ago and said she can't move. We have to find Buffy and help her. NOW!
Xander: Okay calm down. Anya, you take Dawn and get back to Willow. I'll find Buffy.
Anya: You know where she is?
Xander: I have an idea. Now go.
The three head out into the night.
Cut to LA
Exterior: Pier
Angel walks alone staring out at the ocean. The moonlight bounces off the water.
Voiceover:
Whistler: You can go either way friend. What's it gonna be?
Buffy: One of us has to walk away here.
Angel: What are you afraid of...me...us?
Buffy: When I kiss you, I want to die.
Angel: You deserve more than this freak show.
Buffy: What? Don't love you? I'm sorry I didn't know I got a choice in that.
Xander: Well its good to know when the chips are down and things look grim, you'll feed off the girl who loves you to save your own ass.
Angel: I'm not gonna say goodbye. When this is over, if we survive, I'll just go. There's just too much...
Doyle: Look High schools over, boy. It's time to make with the grown up talk.
A hand touches Angel's shoulder from behind and he startles. He turns to see Cordelia.
Angel: Cordy? What are you doing here?
Cordy: I couldn't sleep. Dreams.
She looks past him out to the shimmering waves.
Cordy: What about you? I know it's like your work day now and all but what brings you out here?
Angel: (Mumbles) Grown up talk.
Cordy: Excuse me?
Angel: Never mind. It's not important right now. So what kind of dream did you have that you couldn't go back to sleep?
Cordy: (looks at him strangely) Speaking of not important.
Angel: Hmm?
Cordy: Nothing. Can we just walk?
Angel: (looks at her in his own strange way) Sure.
Just as they step off the pier and onto the street. A woman's scream penetrates the silence. Angel takes off in its direction and Cordy only hesitates for a split second before she follows.
Interior: Cemetery Xander is standing at the door to Spike's crypt.
Xander: I don't mind if I'm wrong you know. He speaks to no one in particular before pushing the heavy door inward.
Spike appears out of nowhere stopping Xander's entrance.
Spike: I may not be able to fight you people but can you tell me when I instituted the open door policy?
Xander: It must have been about the same time you instituted the 'I'm Buffy's new best friend' attitude. So where is she?
Spike: As much as I like the sound of your petty jealousy, she's not here. And I don't know where she is either. So if you'll excuse...
Xander: (Pushing harder against the door) Listen Spike, Willow's in trouble. If you know where she is or if you happen to run into her, could you please tell her we'll be waiting at her house?
Spike: What's wrong with Red?
Xander: I'm not sure yet. I'm going there now. Something about being paralyzed.
Spike: Paralyzed eh? That's new.
Xander: Um...yeah.
He turns away in annoyance and heads out of the cemetery. Spike closes the door and turns to see Buffy looking very angry.
Spike: What? I didn't let our little secret out.
Buffy: I don't have time Spike. Willow needs me.
She grabs her jacket and darts past him before he can respond.
Spike: (staring after her) And what do you need slayer?
Cut to Lorne in Hyperion
He's pacing the floor holding a fussy Connor.
Lorne: I've tried singing, I've tried jokes, how does your Dad calm you down in times like these?
Fred: He turns into a vampire.
Lorne: What? Now that I can't do.
Fred: (smiling) He doesn't do it often, just in emergencies. Here let me try.
She takes Connor and begins to shush him. After a moment, Connor stops fussing and begins to drift off.
Lorne: It's the woman's touch every time. And kid, that won't leave for the rest of your life.
Fred: (blushing) Lorne! Don't talk about those things to him! Angel wouldn't like it. He doesn't like s-e-x talk around the baby.
Lorne: Well s-e-x is what brought the baby here so...at least I think that's what brought it here.
Fred: Very funny.
Lorne: Any who, why don't you try singing to the little one? He'll go to sleep and I'll read your aura. I've been jonesing since I haven't had the club in months.
Fred: I don't think so.
Lorne: Come on, nobody's around and I'll never tell.
Fred thinks for a minute and when Connor begins to stir she gives in. A sweet song begins to escape her lips... Exterior: Alley
Angel runs toward a girl lying on the pavement. He bends over her just as Cordy arrives.
Cordy: What is it? Is she dead?
Angel: No, she's unconscious. He looks around for whatever caused the girl's state and sees nothing. He picks her up and begins walking toward the street. Cordy walks beside him.
Cordy: Where are we going?
Angel: I was thinking hospital.
Cordy: Right. We'll drop her so they can take care of her. I don't think she's been hurt by the dark forces. I'm not getting anything from her. She probably just got mugged.
Angel: Maybe. Let's just get her there and go home. Connor will be waking up soon.
Cut to Hospital
Angel and Cordy watch as a doctor looks at the girls bruised face. She begins to stir and they turn to leave.
Doctor: You're in the emergency room. You were in an accident. Can you tell me your name?
Girl: (moaning, then struggling to form the word) Tara.
Angel and Cordy are already gone.
Interior: Willows room
Buffy arrives and sees Willow laying on the bed perfectly still while Dawn, Xander and Anya surround her.
Willow: Buffy?
Buffy: I'm here Will. (She sits down next to Willow) Tell me what happened.
Willow: I don't know. I was sleeping, I woke up, I couldn't move. It's been over an hour now Buffy. What's happening?
Buffy: Don't worry. We'll figure it out. (Looks at Xander) You know what to do?
Xander: I'm guessing research.
Buffy: Yes. This has to be mystical. Anya, have you ever seen a demon do something like this?
Anya: I don't think so. There was one time I was able to freeze a guy, but it was only to ensure he got caught in the act if you know what I mean. It was pretty funny actually, this guy was sleeping with his boss' wife and when his girlfriend found out she didn't want to just leave him...
Xander: We get it honey. (He puts a hand on her shoulder to shut her up)
Anya: Oh, okay. Umm...no, this doesn't look like the work of a demon.
Buffy: Good enough. One less suspect group. So like I was saying, it has to be mystical. Xander, you and Anya go down to the magic shop and bring back all the books you can find on mystical forces and spells.
Xander: Sure thing. Back in a jiff. Hang in there Will.
Willow: That shouldn't be a problem.
Dawn: Buffy, what if its not in there?
Buffy: It will be. But just to be safe, I'll call for back up. Dawn, you stay with Willow. (looks at Willow) I'm calling Giles. He might know of something we don't.
Willow: Good idea. I'm all for back up. Even if it is all the way in England. (Buffy starts to stand) Um, Buffy?
Buffy: (Looking down at Willow) Could you maybe go fast? I'm really not liking the bedridden.
Willows eyes are tearing up and Buffy's face softens as she bends down to kiss her on the forehead.
Buffy: Slayer speed Will. (She smiles and exits the room)
Dawn takes her place on the bed beside Willow and smiles encouragingly.
Cut to LA
Interior: Baby's room
Lorne is listening to Fred sing to Connor when his face suddenly distorts and he becomes alarmed. Fred doesn't notice and finishes the song noting that Connor is sleeping.
Lorne: (Watches her lay Connor in the bassinet) I guess yours are the pipes of sleeping.
Fred: (Smiling at Lorne) Is that good or bad?
Lorne: (frowns) Let me get back to you on that. Will you excuse me, I have to go...do...a thing.
He doesn't wait for an answer before taking off.
Cut to Lobby
Angel and Cordy walk in the door just as Lorne races down the stairs. He almost crashes into them in his haste to get out.
Angel: (Putting up his hands to catch Lorne before he runs into them) Whoa there green boy. What's the emergency?
Lorne: (looking nervously between the two) Emergency? No emergency. Just dying for a taste of the hot stuff. (Sees Angel and Cordy aren't understanding) Mexican? Spicy food? Am I the only one that fancies themselves the rainbow coalition of the culinary arts? Some days its Chinese, others Italian, occasionally French, and very rarely Pylean. But I'm working on that. Any who, tonight it's the Mexican that's calling me, so...
Cordy: (Steps aside with a grand gesture) By all means. Wouldn't want to interrupt your (looks at her watch) 2AM feeding.
Lorne attempts to smile as he pushes past them.
Angel: Speaking of feeding...
Cordy: (Smiling) Go. I'll just be down here not sleeping.
Cut to Sunnydale
Buffy is on the phone in kitchen
Buffy: No, it's silly for you to come all this way now. I'm sure we can figure it out.(Pause) Okay, if Willows not fixed by morning, I'll call.(pause) What good would he be? (Pause) Alright, I'll mark that as a last, just before death resort. (Pause) I know Giles. I'm sure he's just as qualified as you. (pause) Well don't insist on my approval if you can't handle the concept. (Smiles) Okay, I think I hear Xander. (pause) I miss you too. Thanks.
She hangs up the phone just as Xander and Anya enter struggling to hold all the books they've returned with.
Buffy: So, I guess a quick search is out of the question.
Xander: This is just the books on mystical affecting the physical. Hey listen to me with the Dr. Seuss.
Anya: What?
Xander: Never mind.
Buffy: So these are all about physical manifestations of spells?
Anya: Pretty much. If we can't figure out what caused it, we should at least be able to find a spell to fix it.
Buffy: Good. Anya you look for cures. Xander you look for causes. I'll send Dawn to help. (Starts to head upstairs when there's a knock on the door)
She opens the door to find Spike.
Buffy: What is it?
Spike: I'm not always here for you Slayer. I happen to be checking on Red. How is she?
Buffy: Still not of the moving. But thanks for caring.
Spike: Let's not get ahead of ourselves, love. I'm not sure if I like the sound of me and caring in the same sentence.
Buffy rolls her eyes and turns back towards the stairs.
Spike: It was a joke!
He calls after her but she ignores him and he shakes his head as he closes the door behind him.
A moment later Dawn descends the stairs and sees Spike sitting in the living room.
Dawn: Spike! (Spike stands and Dawn runs to him throwing her arm around him for comfort)
Spike: (Uncomfortable) There there Little Bit. Willows not dead or anything. No need for tears.
Dawn: (Raising her head to look at Spike) I'm glad you came.
Spike drops his hands and steps back from Dawn.
Spike: I didn't have any previous engagements.
Xander: Imagine that.
He has entered the room carrying a book and Spike levels a bored gaze at him.
Cut to LA
Exterior: Street in an East LA barrio
Lorne is scanning the darkened houses for something. After several seconds, he comes upon a single story run down home with a dim glow peeking through the curtains in the window.
Lorne: (Frowns) Now, what do you have to do with Fred?
He hesitates before taking a deep breath and tipping to the window to try and glimpse inside... Interior: Willow's room
Buffy has taken a seat next to her on the bed. The two are holding hands.
Willow: Buffy, I'm so tired. I feel like I want to sleep forever.
Buffy: It's going on three in the morning. That's normal. Why don't you just try and get some rest. We'll keep working on it.
Willow: I'm afraid. I'm afraid if I go to sleep I might never wake up. I feel like this is my deathbed and my mind just doesn't know it yet.
Tears fall from Willows eyes and mark a path towards the pillow. Buffy reaches her free hand to wipe them away.
Buffy: Shh. Don't talk like that. I know you're scared but you're not going to die. Do you understand me?
Willow nods weakly trying to smile. Xander enters the room.
Xander: Willow, Anya's close to finding a spell to fix this. And Spike, Dawn and I are working on the why. I just wanted to check on you.
Willow: I'm good.
Buffy: Have you found anything at all?
Xander: Just a reference to sleepwalking.
Willow: Don't think anything to do with the walking is going to apply here Xander.
Xander: I know. It just had some comments about sleepwalking is often mistaken for possession or something like that. Someone has a dream that they can't move and then they really can't. I don't know, Spike's looking at it.
Willow: Look at you working with Spike. (She smiles)
Xander: What can I say? This is how much I love you. (smiles back)
Buffy: I'm going to stay here with Will for a few more minutes. Can you call me if there's anything new?
Xander: Sure.
He leaves and Buffy squeezes Willow's hand reassuringly.
Buffy: Okay, work is in progress, so do me a favor and close your eyes. You don't have to sleep, just try and relax.
Willow slowly closes her eyes and takes a deep breath while still holding onto Buffy's hand. Within minutes of watching her, Buffy's eyes become heavy themselves. Soon, her head drops onto the bed and comes to rest on their intertwined fingers.
Cut to LA
East LA-house
Lorne has made it unseen to a window on the side of the house where the glow is apparent. He raises on tiptoe trying to get a better angle between the narrow opening of the drapes.
Lorne: Why can't the bad guys ever leave a curtain open?
He continues trying to sneak a peek when suddenly the front door opens and someone exits the house. Lorne crouches down behind a hedge and waits.
Man: How did I let you talk me into this?
Woman: Because you know we're doing the right thing. This guys got some serious dark mojo on his side and its working for the righteous. What better to fight vampires with than another vampire?
Man: So we're going to convince this righteous vampire to come to the dark side.
Woman: Stop asking so many questions. You just need to worry about your assignment. Get the girl here. She's the best shot we have.
Man: Yeah, yeah. I'm going. And what about the rest of them?
Woman: Leave that to me. You see, they don't know it yet, but they've already started our work for us. The woman begins to chuckle in a most sinister way and Lorne bristles at the sound. He waits till he hears the man footsteps fade and the woman return into the house.
Lorne: Okay, if I can't see what you're doing in there, then I guess I have to watch what you're doing out here.
He begins to follow the man that just left.
Cut to Sunnydale
Buffy's kitchen
Anya: Xander, I think you better see this.
Xander walks over to peer over her shoulder at the book she's reading.
Spike: Well? What is it? No secrets.
Xander: It's not a secret. It's a spell.
Dawn: What kind of spell?
Anya and Xander exchange a look.
Xander: There's a lot of spells that can be used for multiple purposes Dawn.
Dawn: And?
Anya: And just because one's used for one thing doesn't mean it would have the same result in a different instance.
Dawn stares at them blankly. Spike huffs and walks over to push the two aside to have his own look at the book. He reads and then raises an eyebrow as he looks at Anya and Xander.
Spike: A resurrection spell?
Dawn: What did you say?