Exterior: LA
Spike has just dropped the vamp off in one of the local vamp hangouts that he remembers from his time searching for the ring. Buffy and him begin the walk back to the hotel.
Buffy: You're sure he'll be safe there?
Spike: Safe yes. I don't reckon any of the other blokes will be itching to get to close to every vamps version of hell.
Buffy: Huh?
Spike: To be immortal and young forever is one thing Buffy. But to be immortal and reduced to a walking scar is quite another. I think you would have been doing that one a favor to let me go ahead and kill him.
Buffy: I'll never understand how a group of people who can't even see what they look like anymore could be so vain.
Spike: We don't have to see how we look love. We know how we looked before we were changed. Its pretty simple really.
Buffy: Yeah, well forgive me for not agreeing with you about the better off dead theory.
Spike: No worries. I would be positively beside myself if you ever agreed with me about anything. (Stops and smiles) Well at least when it comes to killing.
Buffy: (Looks at him and realizes his meaning) You've got to be kidding. (Starts to walk again but Spike grabs her arm)
Spike: Listen here damn it! I think I've been the model of patience and tact since we began our little trip to LA. But you can't expect me to keep watching you pretend like you're right back in your silly world of Angel and all previous bets are off.
Buffy: This is my world Spike. (Pulls her arm loose) When are you going to get that? It's not about Angel and me and it sure as hell isn't about you and me. It's about me trying to figure out why I'm getting pulled back into this pain that I spent years trying to escape. Don't you get it? If I don't finish this, I'll never know if anything outside of it is real.
Spike: And what might you be referring to Slayer?
Buffy: It's not your problem. If you don't want to be here, I'm sure there's plenty to occupy you elsewhere. I'm going back to the others.
With that she marches away quickly. Spike watches her for a second before swearing and following begrudgingly.
Cut to Hyperion
Gunn and Wes are sitting in his office.
Wes: We have to find a way to interrupt their plans. So far, Justine has managed to make all the plays. Leaving us to play catch up.
Gunn: Well you know what they say. The best defense is a good offense.
Wes: You're suggesting we go after her?
Gunn: (Shrugs) Seems to me she likes playing antagonist. Whatever her and Holtz are cooking up, I'm sure it depends on us being caught unaware. So why should we make it that easy? What if they are the ones caught unaware for once?
Wes doesn't reply as he ponders the possibilities.
Cut to Angel's room
He's changing shirts and is bare chested when Cordy walks in.
Cordy: Oh! (Averts her eyes) Sorry.
Angel: (Slipping a clean shirt over his head) What's with the shyness? I think you've cleaned enough wounds on me to be used to seeing me without a shirt.
Cordy: (Looking at him) Yeah, I guess you're right. Instinct I guess.
Angel smiles and begins to walk past her but she puts a hand on his chest to stop him.
Cordy: What did you mean Angel?
Angel: What?
Cordy: Don't play dumb. You said I was more important than either of us wanted to admit. What does that mean?
Angel: (Reaches up to push her hand away) Oh, so now you want to talk? I don't think this is the time.
Cordy: I can't keep watching you with her! (Stops when she seems surprised by her own words) I mean...
Angel: I know what you mean Cordelia. It's not exactly what I had planned either, but she's here. She knows about Connor and I think it's the right thing. It had to be done.
Cordy: I'm not talking about that. I'm talking about the crying and the holding and the private looks. I thought you had worked through all that. You said when you got back that there was nothing to talk about.
Angel: I said there was nothing I WANTED to talk about. There's a difference.
Cordy: So what does that mean? You and Buffy are going to be like you were in high school forever? Geez, I thought we had grown. I thought...
Lorne: ANGEL! (Calling from lobby)
Angel glances at Cordy before taking off in the direction of his voice.
Cordy: Great. Why do I even bother?
Cut to Lobby
Angel runs in to see Lorne standing with Fred at the counter. Gunn and Wes enter from his office as Cordy walks down the stairs.
Angel: What is it? Did you find Holtz?
Lorne: Not exactly. But I think I know where we can find out his exact location.
Wes: And?
Fred: Lorne called on one of his associates in the barrio where I was taken before. Justine just got back to the house.
Lorne: Can you leave just a little thunder for me sweetie? So she's back in the same house and this time she and her friendly humans, and I use that term lightly, brought some party favors.
Gunn: And those would be?
Lorne: More vamps. My guy counted three maybe four. I'd say they plan on creating some more vamp-o-grams for you Angel.
Cordy: So is that really a problem? I mean, it's not like they're going after innocents here.
Wes: Cordelia, any group targeted for torture just for fun are victims. However the circumstances might imply otherwise.
Gunn: So I'd say we'll be killing two birds with one stone if we go with plan A Wes.
Buffy: (Standing on landing with Spike) We have a Plan A?
Angel: Finally! Where did you two go?
Spike: (Smirks)Wouldn't you like to know?
Buffy: (Punches him lightly in the gut to shut him up and Spike doubles over from her strength) Shut up Spike.
Angel smiles at the scene and waits for Buffy to join him at his side before turning back to Wes.
Angel: So?
Wes: Um, yes. (Looks at everyone in the room quickly before continuing) Well, Gunn suggested that we take the initiative here. Perhaps catch Justine off guard as she has done us for so long. Now that we know she will be occupied with her sick games, it might prove helpful in our mission.
Cordy: I'm not seeing the mission guys. So far I hear, we go into a house we know is full of Angel haters and yell Surprise! Am I the only one who sees a flaw?
Lorne: She has a point.
Gunn: Let us finish. Maybe if we give this girl a taste of her own medicine, she won't be so quick to judge. Or better yet, she could lead us to Holtz. We know she has to be in contact with him.
Angel: I think it can work. But we have to choreograph this perfectly. There's too many of us for Buffy and I to watch and still be effective. We have to split into groups. Hit them in waves so to speak.
Spike: Why do I get the feeling that you and Buffy are going to be riding the first wave together?
Fred: They are the strongest of us all.
Cordy: Speak for yourself.
Spike smiles at Cordy's words.
Buffy: Okay, here's the deal. Spike and I don't know LA. We certainly will be of no use to any of you if we pair up and get lost. Does that make sense to anyone?
Angel: (Answers for everyone) Yes. So here's how it's gonna work...
Cut to Sunnydale
Xander: We're protecting Angel's kid? That's the plan? Leave the spawn of Angelus with the witch who can't practice, an ex-demon, a teenager, a sometime werewolf, and...me? This was Buffy's idea of safety?
Willow: Well when you put it that way.
Oz: It's fine. We're weeks away from a full moon and nobody knows who or where we are. How could we not be safe? Angel and Buffy and the others are the ones who have to face off with that sadist freak. I think we got the good end of the deal.
Anya: Why do we always baby-sit? The longer I'm around you people, the more domestic I become. And I'm not ready to be domestic! I'm not even married yet! It's one thing to watch a teenager, but now it's a baby!? Who among us has experience with an infant?
At that moment Connor begins crying and everyone looks uncertainly at the squirming child in Willow's arms.
Cut to House in Barrio
Justine is listening to the sound of burning flesh as one of her enlisted pours holy water down the back of a vamp tied to a chair. He's screaming in agony so no one notices the door open.
Buffy: (cheerfully) You got room for one more?
Justine spins in anger and surprise and doesn't recognize who's standing in front of her.
Justine: I don't think you want to stick around here friend.
Buffy: really? Cause I was just thinking how it wouldn't be a good vamp attack without a slayer? I mean, you're okay and all, but I'm the chosen one.
Justine: Slayer? I don't believe you.
Buffy: No problem. It's been a while since somebody questioned my destiny. It's kind of refreshing. So how about if I prove it?
Justine: (Smiling) I get it. You want in. You want to get some practice on our guests. (motions to the three vamps tied up on the floor in the corner)
Buffy: (glances at them) You know, I never thought I'd be saying this...much less doing this, but...(Walking over to the scared undead) who wants to get out of here first?
Justine explodes in anger and screams for assistance. In an instant, four more humans rush Buffy. She sidesteps their advance and they all fall over each other. She hastily unties the vamps and turns to face Justine.
Justine: You're no slayer! You're helping them! You fool! Did you think you were actually going to make friends with them?
Behind Buffy the first vamp growls and charges. Buffy doesn't break eye contact with Justine as she removes a stake form her pocket and flips it backwards into the heart of the first vamp. It turns to dust inches from her and she catches the stake before it falls to the ground.
Buffy: (Putting her hands on her hips) I don't need any more friends. But I don't like to go after the defenseless.
She senses the next attack and bends to the ground as he flies over her. Suddenly there's a crash as Gunn and Spike burst through the two windows left in the room. Gunn lands inches from the tumbling vamp and quickly stakes him and stands.
Buffy: See? It's much more fun when it's justified. But maybe that's just not your thing. (Shrugs and kicks her leg out in a roundhouse kick that connects with the third vamp trying to attack. He doubles over and before anyone can touch him, he stakes himself on a broken piece of the broken windowsill that Spike just crashed through.
Spike: What? none for me?
Justine: Okay, I don't know who you freaks are, wait, (sees Gunn) I do know you. So that means, you're all with him? My God, what does this guy have?
Cordy: (Stepping through the door) I'd bet a lot more than you.
Justine: You people have no idea what you're up against. Holtz is out for more than blood. And if I were you,. I'd try and get as far away from your leader as you can when it finally happens. From what I hear, he's quite the sight when he loses his soul.
Gunn: So it is the soul.
Buffy: What?
Gunn: Your friend Willow said that it seemed like they might be out to make Angel lose his soul again.
Buffy: Really? (Walks up to Justine to smile in her face) You're going after the wrong emotion then.
Justine: (smiles back) That's what we want him to think.
Spike: Can we please get to the fighting?
Buffy: (turning to the humans) Listen up folks, I'm sure you all have your reasons for wanting to exact revenge on all demons and vamps. I can relate. it's my job. But might I suggest you rethink that unless you're prepared to kill an awful lot of humans on your path to vengeance? If I understand correctly, you're in this for the sake of the loved ones you've lost. I don't think they'd like the idea of you killing and maiming more innocents in their name hmmmm?
The group looks to one another and then Justine before taking off out the door.
Justine: Where are you going!? You insipid fools, why would you listen to one who frees those who are out to kill us all?
Buffy: I don't think they're interested right now.
Justine: Fine! So what next? Are you going to sacrifice me to your vampire leader? Where is he anyway? I'd love to be the one to tell him.
Cordy: Tell him what?
Cut to Alley behind house
Tara: Angel, I'm sorry if I've been wrong all this time.
Angel: You don't have to be sorry. I know you're wrong. But if this is what we need to clear up any doubt, let's just do it.
Fred: Are you sure? I mean what if...?
Angel: (Shakes his hands against the shackles around his feet and hands) Buffy knows what she's doing with these things. We've been there before.
Fred: (Thinks and her eyes grow wide as she blushes) Oh!
Angel: (realizing) No Fred! My God, not like that. I mean, before, when I came back. I was a little wild. it was to protect us.
Fred: (Smiling-embarrassed) Oh I'm sorry Angel. I...
Angel: Forget it. Let's just get this done. I heard fighting once already. I have to get in there.
Tara: Okay, here we go.
She begins a chant and Angel closes his eyes. Tara recites a reversal spell from the gypsies that she met on her quest. If the words don't have an effect on Angel, she knows that it means his curse was not restored properly. If they do, his soul would begin to disappear. Fred holds a vial of liquid that would cancel out any mystical energy that Tara creates if that begins to happen. The shackles are just a precaution just in case Fred's not quick enough. In that event his soul would be gone until the liquid worked it's will throughout the energy surrounding the trio.
Fred: Angel? (Weakly)How you feeling?
Tara and Angel both seem to be oblivious as a low hum grows louder and louder beneath the words in Tara's voice. Angel grimaces once and Fred reaches to remove the vial's lid. Suddenly, Tara's voice changes and she flies backwards against the wall. Angel's eye's open suddenly and Fred sees them begin to glow.
Tara: Fred now!
Fred's hands shake as Angel moans loudly and the glow grows brighter just as the liquid hits his face and eyes. A strange wave in the air swirls around Angel and back to Tara as his arms shake with the strain of trying to come loose. Fred backs up wondering if she messed it up when Angel finally takes a deep breath and collapses onto the ground.
Fred: Tara? Did you see that? Is he...?
Tara struggles to her feet and walks slowly to stand over Angel. She bends down to turn him over and his eyes open slowly.
Tara: Angel? Is it you?
Angel: (Painfully sitting up) Yeah, it's me.
Fred: Oh thank goodness! I don't think I could have handled it if I had messed it up.
Tara: I'm the one that messed up. (She walks away ashamed) I thought for sure this was the answer.
Angel: (Waiting for Fred to finish unlocking the shackles) It's okay Tara. I'm glad you tried. At least we know. It may not be what you wanted for Willow, but she'll be okay. I know her. She's strong. She can beat this thing.
Tara: I hope you're right Angel. I really hope you're right.
Cut to house
Justine: Well? Isn't anyone going to tell me why your sainted hero isn't here himself? What has he resorted to sending out the lambs to be slaughtered in his place?
Angel: (From doorway) What's that about a slaughter?
Cordy: Angel! (Looking closer) It's Angel right?
Angel: Yep, it's me. (Looks at Buffy before walking inside further) So I see you crashed her party.
Buffy: (Shrugs) You know me. I hate not being invited to these things.
Justine: Oh don't worry, the party's just getting started.
Gunn: You really don't like admitting defeat do you?
Spike: That's just as well. I think we could have quite a party here with our new friend. (He shakes his head and vamps out to Justine's surprise)
Buffy: Weren't expecting that one were you? Yep, we're all one big happy family here. A slayer, two vamps, a couple warriors, a bit o demon...(Wes and Lorne come running in out of breath)
Angel: How did you know Lorne was coming?
Buffy: I did...
Cordy: She didn't expect that Lorne and Wes could stay away!
Buffy realizes that she almost slipped up and sends Cordy an apologetic glance.
Cordy: So you two couldn't stand being out of the action could you?
Lorne: Oh we've got action baby. Not in the good way either.
Angel: What does that mean?
Wes: Justine, you knew all along didn't you? You wanted us to come after you.
Justine: We do like to stay one step ahead...
Buffy: Anyone want to explain what's going on?
Justine: Oh please let me. (Smiles) So Angel, you really came through didn't you? You figured out what I was doing and came down here with your little gang to stop me huh? But what you missed was what the plan was really aimed at all along.
Angel: I don't like long soliloquies from stupid women.
Wes: Angel, there was a message delivered to the hotel only moments ago.
Angel: What was it?
Wes hands Angel a piece of paper and Angel looks down to read it. He looks up to see Justine trying not to laugh. He growls and vamps out in the same instant he speeds to wrap his hands around her throat. Buffy is shocked and rushes to pull him off her.
Cordy bends to retrieve the paper from the floor and read it.
Buffy: Angel, what are you doing? This isn't you! Tara, I thought he would only be freed if the spell could be broken.
Tara: It was! I swear. He has a soul! He never lost it! Willow did it right the first time!
Buffy: Angel, why are you doing this?
Justine still smiles even as the life slips from her body.
Cordy: Buffy, leave him alone.
Buffy: (Stops and looks at her) Have you lost your mind?
Cordy: How's the weather in Sunnydale?
Buffy: What?
Gunn: Oh God.
Fred: No. Not Connor.
Cordy: Buffy, they went to Sunnydale. This note says it sure is nice in Sunnydale this time of year. It's signed Holtz.
Buffy: oh God no. (Looks at Angel) Angel, listen to me. She's not important. She doesn't know anything. We can take her with us, but we have to go now. They have no one there to protect them. We have to go now.
Angel hears her words and drops the unconscious girl on the ground.
Wes: We've got the car. We can leave now.
Angel doesn't respond as he strides out the door followed closely by the others.
Cut to Summers house
Willow walks downstairs after getting Connor to sleep.
Xander: So he's out?
Willow: Yep. He's the sweetest thing really. I can't believe Angel has a...
Xander: Don't! I swear when I hear those words my ears start to bleed. How is it possible that the undead of our high school gang is the first to produce offspring? I swear that guy lives to rub my face in it.
Oz: I'm sure Angel had you in mind the night he decided to bed...who did he bed?
Anya: You mean he didn't tell Buffy yet?
Willow: I guess we kind of kept getting sidetracked. Unless he told her when we were in the office.
Oz: I don't think so. I think we would have heard that tidbit if it became known.
A knock on the door startles them and they each look at one another trying to decide how to proceed.
Dawn: Would you all stop acting like you've seen death and he's coming for a visit? Geez, it's probably just a...
She opens the door before finishing and the words fade from her mouth.
Willow: Dawnie? What is it?
She stands up to see why there's silence and freezes in her tracks.
Dawn: Why do I feel like this can not be good news?
Cut to house
Justine regains consciousness and manages to stand in the empty room just as Holtz enters.
Holtz: What happened?
Justine: They bought it. Hook, line and sinker.
Holtz: Most excellent. Now all I have to do is be there when it happens.
Justine: I thought for sure he was going to kill me. (She rubs her throat)
Holtz: No. I knew that he would not, not as long as the soul is intact. But in a matter of hours, it might be a very different story.
Justine: I really hope you know what you're doing.
Holtz: I'm doing what should have been done centuries ago. I'm destroying Angelus.
Cut to Angel speeding down the highway in his car. Buffy is at his side and they're alone. The others are in a vehicle behind them.
Buffy: Angel, it could be a trick. They could be bluffing. How could they know about me? About us?
Angel: I was stupid. The man has had decades to study my existence. Of course he would know about you now. Once he learned I had a soul, he would only have to track my past a matter of years to find you. How could I have sent my son into a trap?
Buffy: They will protect him Angel. I swear it. I told Willow to treat him as if he were my own. She will die before anything happens to Connor.
Angel: That's what I'm afraid of.
Buffy: You have to trust me Angel. We always trusted each other. Remember? That will never change. You'll see. Everything's going to be fine.
Angel: Nothing would make me happier than to have that be true Buffy. Nothing in this world could bring me such relief.
Buffy bristled at the words remembering the last time he had felt his happiest and what had come next. Something was nagging at her but she couldn't place it. She tried to calm herself as they sped down the highway. Interior: Summers house
Willow: Why are you here?
Dawn: Where are the others?
Tara: I'm not here, and they're coming.
Dawn: What? I'm looking at you.
Oz: (walking up behind Willow) Hey. Where's Buffy and Spike?
Willow: They're on their way with Tara.
Xander: (joining the group) Hey Tara. Why are we all just standing here? What's with the doorbell? Come on in. You must be beat.
Tara: I can't stay long. We'll be here soon. Willow you have to get the baby.
Oz: Am I missing something?
Willow: Tara and I have always been able to communicate with each other no matter where we are. Although this is the first time in a while. And she's never managed the astral plane before.
Tara: (Shyly) I've had some free time lately to study.
Oz: Well, call me crazy, but this has to mean something. Willow and I sure never shared anything like this.
Xander: Not many do.
Willow and Tara exchange a slight smile.
Tara: I have to go. Willow, get him now!
She disappears as everyone stares into the empty porch. Willow finally turns to race up the stairs.
Cut to Buffy and Angel still driving.
Buffy: Angel, maybe we should at least give this whole thing some thought. Justine said they wanted you to think something. As in the wrong thing. What if this is some kind of set up?
Angel: I don't care what sick game she's playing, I just want my son. Don't ask me to put off finding him.
Buffy: No of course not! But what about Doyle? He said someone was coming. I thought you said it had something to do with that night.
Angel: I guess I misunderstood his cryptic speech. not the first time believe me. He was obviously referring to Holtz.
Buffy: Maybe. But why get me involved? What purpose could I serve that the rest of your team couldn't? What did Doyle think that I could offer?
Angel: I don't know Buffy. (Looks at her for a second before returning his eyes to the road) I don't have all the answers. Maybe Spike was right. Maybe all this is just some weird coincidence that we overreacted to. We kind of tend to act on instinct when it comes to stuff like this. Maybe we should have thought it out better. It doesn't matter now. All that matters is that I get Connor and get back to our life in LA and leave you alone. I've screwed things up enough.
Buffy: Angel you didn't screw anything up. I don't have all the facts straight in my head. I guess I haven't had time to process everything, but the bottom line is, he's your son. And that's all I need to know.
Angel takes his hand off the steering wheel to cover Buffy's as he continues speeding down the highway.
Cut to Wes' vehicle
Tara opens her eyes
Tara: Okay, they know.
Spike: Great, so what does that mean?
Cordy: Yeah, I don't think anyone in that house has much to offer in the way of protection. Wes how much longer?
Wes: Just twenty miles or so. And by the speed Angel left us in the dust, I would imagine Tara's message will only be moments before his and Buffy's arrival.
Spike: I don't understand why you all were so bloody agreeable when the two of them suggested the seating arrangements. (looks at Cordy) Especially you.
Gunn: And what would you have suggested? You riding along so you could keep an eye on them to prevent any breaks for the happy? You don't know Angel anymore man. His kid is his life.
Cordy: That's right! Buffy is only there for support if needed. Slayer strength and all. Stop being so presumptive of what's going on in that car!
No one speaks leaving Cordy to wish she hadn't been so vocal. Fred, Gunn and Lorne exchange a look.
Cut to Summers house
Willow and Oz are preparing to leave again.
Dawn: I don't understand this. What are we supposed to tell Angel when they get here?
Xander: (sarcastically) My how I've missed the days of life revolving around Angel.
Anya: I don't think it's his fault this time honey.
Xander: Of course not. It never is, is it?
Willow: When Buffy gets here, just tell her that she can find us where no one's home.
Dawn: What does that mean?
Oz: I have to second that question Will. Are you sure it will be enough for her?
Willow: Listen, if Tara's right and some one is after Connor, then the less you guys know the better. Trust me, Buffy will figure it out.
Xander: Once again, we're the 'in the dark guys'.
Oz: You're not the only one.
Willow pulls Oz out of the house. Unbeknownst to them, a car follows the van as it pulls away.
Xander and the others are barely sitting down after they leave when the sound of screeching tires signals the arrival of Buffy and Angel.
Buffy: (running through the door) Where is he?
Angel: Where's my son?
Xander: Good to see you too Angel.
Buffy: Xander...not the time.
Dawn: They just left to take Connor somewhere safe.
Angel: So Holtz is here?
Anya: Who? Tara was here.
Buffy: Tara was with us.
Xander: Not astral she wasn't.
Angel: what?
Dawn: Tara warned Willow, so her and Oz took Connor somewhere safe. She said to give you a message.
Buffy: Which was?
Xander: She said she would be where no one was home.
Angel: Excuse me?
Xander: Lookie there? Angel's in the dark guy too!
Buffy: Willow said she'd be where no one was home?
Anya: Yes. We tried to tell her that wasn't enough for you to...
Buffy: Angel let's go!
The two of them run back out and the others stare after them.
Xander: Why can't Angel ever be an 'in the dark guy'?
Wes pulls up with his group seconds after Angel's car disappears in the distance. They all jump out and run up the porch to find Xander, Dawn and Anya standing on the porch.
Cordy: Where are they? Where's Connor? Where's Angel?
Anya: We don't know.
Gunn: What do you mean you don't know. Angel was ahead of us.
Xander: Yes and apparently he still is. (Points in the direction he and Buffy left) They just left.
Fred: With the baby?
Dawn: No. He's with Willow and Oz.
Xander: So why don't we all head inside and have a soda?
Spike: You must have lost your mind. I'm going to find her.
Cordy: I'm with Spike.
Xander: now those are three words I never thought I'd hear.
Wes: Cordelia, I don't think running about Sunnydale will help anything. Buffy and Angel are the best team to confront this issue. We will only be in the way.
Spike: That's fine by me. It's my favorite place to be.
With that, he strides off in the direction Angel and Buffy left.
Cordy watches him for a second before looking back at Wes. Wes shakes his head in warning but Cordelia only sends an apologetic glance before calling Spike's name to make him let her catch up.
The others watch the two leave and tepidly go inside the house.
Spike has just dropped the vamp off in one of the local vamp hangouts that he remembers from his time searching for the ring. Buffy and him begin the walk back to the hotel.
Buffy: You're sure he'll be safe there?
Spike: Safe yes. I don't reckon any of the other blokes will be itching to get to close to every vamps version of hell.
Buffy: Huh?
Spike: To be immortal and young forever is one thing Buffy. But to be immortal and reduced to a walking scar is quite another. I think you would have been doing that one a favor to let me go ahead and kill him.
Buffy: I'll never understand how a group of people who can't even see what they look like anymore could be so vain.
Spike: We don't have to see how we look love. We know how we looked before we were changed. Its pretty simple really.
Buffy: Yeah, well forgive me for not agreeing with you about the better off dead theory.
Spike: No worries. I would be positively beside myself if you ever agreed with me about anything. (Stops and smiles) Well at least when it comes to killing.
Buffy: (Looks at him and realizes his meaning) You've got to be kidding. (Starts to walk again but Spike grabs her arm)
Spike: Listen here damn it! I think I've been the model of patience and tact since we began our little trip to LA. But you can't expect me to keep watching you pretend like you're right back in your silly world of Angel and all previous bets are off.
Buffy: This is my world Spike. (Pulls her arm loose) When are you going to get that? It's not about Angel and me and it sure as hell isn't about you and me. It's about me trying to figure out why I'm getting pulled back into this pain that I spent years trying to escape. Don't you get it? If I don't finish this, I'll never know if anything outside of it is real.
Spike: And what might you be referring to Slayer?
Buffy: It's not your problem. If you don't want to be here, I'm sure there's plenty to occupy you elsewhere. I'm going back to the others.
With that she marches away quickly. Spike watches her for a second before swearing and following begrudgingly.
Cut to Hyperion
Gunn and Wes are sitting in his office.
Wes: We have to find a way to interrupt their plans. So far, Justine has managed to make all the plays. Leaving us to play catch up.
Gunn: Well you know what they say. The best defense is a good offense.
Wes: You're suggesting we go after her?
Gunn: (Shrugs) Seems to me she likes playing antagonist. Whatever her and Holtz are cooking up, I'm sure it depends on us being caught unaware. So why should we make it that easy? What if they are the ones caught unaware for once?
Wes doesn't reply as he ponders the possibilities.
Cut to Angel's room
He's changing shirts and is bare chested when Cordy walks in.
Cordy: Oh! (Averts her eyes) Sorry.
Angel: (Slipping a clean shirt over his head) What's with the shyness? I think you've cleaned enough wounds on me to be used to seeing me without a shirt.
Cordy: (Looking at him) Yeah, I guess you're right. Instinct I guess.
Angel smiles and begins to walk past her but she puts a hand on his chest to stop him.
Cordy: What did you mean Angel?
Angel: What?
Cordy: Don't play dumb. You said I was more important than either of us wanted to admit. What does that mean?
Angel: (Reaches up to push her hand away) Oh, so now you want to talk? I don't think this is the time.
Cordy: I can't keep watching you with her! (Stops when she seems surprised by her own words) I mean...
Angel: I know what you mean Cordelia. It's not exactly what I had planned either, but she's here. She knows about Connor and I think it's the right thing. It had to be done.
Cordy: I'm not talking about that. I'm talking about the crying and the holding and the private looks. I thought you had worked through all that. You said when you got back that there was nothing to talk about.
Angel: I said there was nothing I WANTED to talk about. There's a difference.
Cordy: So what does that mean? You and Buffy are going to be like you were in high school forever? Geez, I thought we had grown. I thought...
Lorne: ANGEL! (Calling from lobby)
Angel glances at Cordy before taking off in the direction of his voice.
Cordy: Great. Why do I even bother?
Cut to Lobby
Angel runs in to see Lorne standing with Fred at the counter. Gunn and Wes enter from his office as Cordy walks down the stairs.
Angel: What is it? Did you find Holtz?
Lorne: Not exactly. But I think I know where we can find out his exact location.
Wes: And?
Fred: Lorne called on one of his associates in the barrio where I was taken before. Justine just got back to the house.
Lorne: Can you leave just a little thunder for me sweetie? So she's back in the same house and this time she and her friendly humans, and I use that term lightly, brought some party favors.
Gunn: And those would be?
Lorne: More vamps. My guy counted three maybe four. I'd say they plan on creating some more vamp-o-grams for you Angel.
Cordy: So is that really a problem? I mean, it's not like they're going after innocents here.
Wes: Cordelia, any group targeted for torture just for fun are victims. However the circumstances might imply otherwise.
Gunn: So I'd say we'll be killing two birds with one stone if we go with plan A Wes.
Buffy: (Standing on landing with Spike) We have a Plan A?
Angel: Finally! Where did you two go?
Spike: (Smirks)Wouldn't you like to know?
Buffy: (Punches him lightly in the gut to shut him up and Spike doubles over from her strength) Shut up Spike.
Angel smiles at the scene and waits for Buffy to join him at his side before turning back to Wes.
Angel: So?
Wes: Um, yes. (Looks at everyone in the room quickly before continuing) Well, Gunn suggested that we take the initiative here. Perhaps catch Justine off guard as she has done us for so long. Now that we know she will be occupied with her sick games, it might prove helpful in our mission.
Cordy: I'm not seeing the mission guys. So far I hear, we go into a house we know is full of Angel haters and yell Surprise! Am I the only one who sees a flaw?
Lorne: She has a point.
Gunn: Let us finish. Maybe if we give this girl a taste of her own medicine, she won't be so quick to judge. Or better yet, she could lead us to Holtz. We know she has to be in contact with him.
Angel: I think it can work. But we have to choreograph this perfectly. There's too many of us for Buffy and I to watch and still be effective. We have to split into groups. Hit them in waves so to speak.
Spike: Why do I get the feeling that you and Buffy are going to be riding the first wave together?
Fred: They are the strongest of us all.
Cordy: Speak for yourself.
Spike smiles at Cordy's words.
Buffy: Okay, here's the deal. Spike and I don't know LA. We certainly will be of no use to any of you if we pair up and get lost. Does that make sense to anyone?
Angel: (Answers for everyone) Yes. So here's how it's gonna work...
Cut to Sunnydale
Xander: We're protecting Angel's kid? That's the plan? Leave the spawn of Angelus with the witch who can't practice, an ex-demon, a teenager, a sometime werewolf, and...me? This was Buffy's idea of safety?
Willow: Well when you put it that way.
Oz: It's fine. We're weeks away from a full moon and nobody knows who or where we are. How could we not be safe? Angel and Buffy and the others are the ones who have to face off with that sadist freak. I think we got the good end of the deal.
Anya: Why do we always baby-sit? The longer I'm around you people, the more domestic I become. And I'm not ready to be domestic! I'm not even married yet! It's one thing to watch a teenager, but now it's a baby!? Who among us has experience with an infant?
At that moment Connor begins crying and everyone looks uncertainly at the squirming child in Willow's arms.
Cut to House in Barrio
Justine is listening to the sound of burning flesh as one of her enlisted pours holy water down the back of a vamp tied to a chair. He's screaming in agony so no one notices the door open.
Buffy: (cheerfully) You got room for one more?
Justine spins in anger and surprise and doesn't recognize who's standing in front of her.
Justine: I don't think you want to stick around here friend.
Buffy: really? Cause I was just thinking how it wouldn't be a good vamp attack without a slayer? I mean, you're okay and all, but I'm the chosen one.
Justine: Slayer? I don't believe you.
Buffy: No problem. It's been a while since somebody questioned my destiny. It's kind of refreshing. So how about if I prove it?
Justine: (Smiling) I get it. You want in. You want to get some practice on our guests. (motions to the three vamps tied up on the floor in the corner)
Buffy: (glances at them) You know, I never thought I'd be saying this...much less doing this, but...(Walking over to the scared undead) who wants to get out of here first?
Justine explodes in anger and screams for assistance. In an instant, four more humans rush Buffy. She sidesteps their advance and they all fall over each other. She hastily unties the vamps and turns to face Justine.
Justine: You're no slayer! You're helping them! You fool! Did you think you were actually going to make friends with them?
Behind Buffy the first vamp growls and charges. Buffy doesn't break eye contact with Justine as she removes a stake form her pocket and flips it backwards into the heart of the first vamp. It turns to dust inches from her and she catches the stake before it falls to the ground.
Buffy: (Putting her hands on her hips) I don't need any more friends. But I don't like to go after the defenseless.
She senses the next attack and bends to the ground as he flies over her. Suddenly there's a crash as Gunn and Spike burst through the two windows left in the room. Gunn lands inches from the tumbling vamp and quickly stakes him and stands.
Buffy: See? It's much more fun when it's justified. But maybe that's just not your thing. (Shrugs and kicks her leg out in a roundhouse kick that connects with the third vamp trying to attack. He doubles over and before anyone can touch him, he stakes himself on a broken piece of the broken windowsill that Spike just crashed through.
Spike: What? none for me?
Justine: Okay, I don't know who you freaks are, wait, (sees Gunn) I do know you. So that means, you're all with him? My God, what does this guy have?
Cordy: (Stepping through the door) I'd bet a lot more than you.
Justine: You people have no idea what you're up against. Holtz is out for more than blood. And if I were you,. I'd try and get as far away from your leader as you can when it finally happens. From what I hear, he's quite the sight when he loses his soul.
Gunn: So it is the soul.
Buffy: What?
Gunn: Your friend Willow said that it seemed like they might be out to make Angel lose his soul again.
Buffy: Really? (Walks up to Justine to smile in her face) You're going after the wrong emotion then.
Justine: (smiles back) That's what we want him to think.
Spike: Can we please get to the fighting?
Buffy: (turning to the humans) Listen up folks, I'm sure you all have your reasons for wanting to exact revenge on all demons and vamps. I can relate. it's my job. But might I suggest you rethink that unless you're prepared to kill an awful lot of humans on your path to vengeance? If I understand correctly, you're in this for the sake of the loved ones you've lost. I don't think they'd like the idea of you killing and maiming more innocents in their name hmmmm?
The group looks to one another and then Justine before taking off out the door.
Justine: Where are you going!? You insipid fools, why would you listen to one who frees those who are out to kill us all?
Buffy: I don't think they're interested right now.
Justine: Fine! So what next? Are you going to sacrifice me to your vampire leader? Where is he anyway? I'd love to be the one to tell him.
Cordy: Tell him what?
Cut to Alley behind house
Tara: Angel, I'm sorry if I've been wrong all this time.
Angel: You don't have to be sorry. I know you're wrong. But if this is what we need to clear up any doubt, let's just do it.
Fred: Are you sure? I mean what if...?
Angel: (Shakes his hands against the shackles around his feet and hands) Buffy knows what she's doing with these things. We've been there before.
Fred: (Thinks and her eyes grow wide as she blushes) Oh!
Angel: (realizing) No Fred! My God, not like that. I mean, before, when I came back. I was a little wild. it was to protect us.
Fred: (Smiling-embarrassed) Oh I'm sorry Angel. I...
Angel: Forget it. Let's just get this done. I heard fighting once already. I have to get in there.
Tara: Okay, here we go.
She begins a chant and Angel closes his eyes. Tara recites a reversal spell from the gypsies that she met on her quest. If the words don't have an effect on Angel, she knows that it means his curse was not restored properly. If they do, his soul would begin to disappear. Fred holds a vial of liquid that would cancel out any mystical energy that Tara creates if that begins to happen. The shackles are just a precaution just in case Fred's not quick enough. In that event his soul would be gone until the liquid worked it's will throughout the energy surrounding the trio.
Fred: Angel? (Weakly)How you feeling?
Tara and Angel both seem to be oblivious as a low hum grows louder and louder beneath the words in Tara's voice. Angel grimaces once and Fred reaches to remove the vial's lid. Suddenly, Tara's voice changes and she flies backwards against the wall. Angel's eye's open suddenly and Fred sees them begin to glow.
Tara: Fred now!
Fred's hands shake as Angel moans loudly and the glow grows brighter just as the liquid hits his face and eyes. A strange wave in the air swirls around Angel and back to Tara as his arms shake with the strain of trying to come loose. Fred backs up wondering if she messed it up when Angel finally takes a deep breath and collapses onto the ground.
Fred: Tara? Did you see that? Is he...?
Tara struggles to her feet and walks slowly to stand over Angel. She bends down to turn him over and his eyes open slowly.
Tara: Angel? Is it you?
Angel: (Painfully sitting up) Yeah, it's me.
Fred: Oh thank goodness! I don't think I could have handled it if I had messed it up.
Tara: I'm the one that messed up. (She walks away ashamed) I thought for sure this was the answer.
Angel: (Waiting for Fred to finish unlocking the shackles) It's okay Tara. I'm glad you tried. At least we know. It may not be what you wanted for Willow, but she'll be okay. I know her. She's strong. She can beat this thing.
Tara: I hope you're right Angel. I really hope you're right.
Cut to house
Justine: Well? Isn't anyone going to tell me why your sainted hero isn't here himself? What has he resorted to sending out the lambs to be slaughtered in his place?
Angel: (From doorway) What's that about a slaughter?
Cordy: Angel! (Looking closer) It's Angel right?
Angel: Yep, it's me. (Looks at Buffy before walking inside further) So I see you crashed her party.
Buffy: (Shrugs) You know me. I hate not being invited to these things.
Justine: Oh don't worry, the party's just getting started.
Gunn: You really don't like admitting defeat do you?
Spike: That's just as well. I think we could have quite a party here with our new friend. (He shakes his head and vamps out to Justine's surprise)
Buffy: Weren't expecting that one were you? Yep, we're all one big happy family here. A slayer, two vamps, a couple warriors, a bit o demon...(Wes and Lorne come running in out of breath)
Angel: How did you know Lorne was coming?
Buffy: I did...
Cordy: She didn't expect that Lorne and Wes could stay away!
Buffy realizes that she almost slipped up and sends Cordy an apologetic glance.
Cordy: So you two couldn't stand being out of the action could you?
Lorne: Oh we've got action baby. Not in the good way either.
Angel: What does that mean?
Wes: Justine, you knew all along didn't you? You wanted us to come after you.
Justine: We do like to stay one step ahead...
Buffy: Anyone want to explain what's going on?
Justine: Oh please let me. (Smiles) So Angel, you really came through didn't you? You figured out what I was doing and came down here with your little gang to stop me huh? But what you missed was what the plan was really aimed at all along.
Angel: I don't like long soliloquies from stupid women.
Wes: Angel, there was a message delivered to the hotel only moments ago.
Angel: What was it?
Wes hands Angel a piece of paper and Angel looks down to read it. He looks up to see Justine trying not to laugh. He growls and vamps out in the same instant he speeds to wrap his hands around her throat. Buffy is shocked and rushes to pull him off her.
Cordy bends to retrieve the paper from the floor and read it.
Buffy: Angel, what are you doing? This isn't you! Tara, I thought he would only be freed if the spell could be broken.
Tara: It was! I swear. He has a soul! He never lost it! Willow did it right the first time!
Buffy: Angel, why are you doing this?
Justine still smiles even as the life slips from her body.
Cordy: Buffy, leave him alone.
Buffy: (Stops and looks at her) Have you lost your mind?
Cordy: How's the weather in Sunnydale?
Buffy: What?
Gunn: Oh God.
Fred: No. Not Connor.
Cordy: Buffy, they went to Sunnydale. This note says it sure is nice in Sunnydale this time of year. It's signed Holtz.
Buffy: oh God no. (Looks at Angel) Angel, listen to me. She's not important. She doesn't know anything. We can take her with us, but we have to go now. They have no one there to protect them. We have to go now.
Angel hears her words and drops the unconscious girl on the ground.
Wes: We've got the car. We can leave now.
Angel doesn't respond as he strides out the door followed closely by the others.
Cut to Summers house
Willow walks downstairs after getting Connor to sleep.
Xander: So he's out?
Willow: Yep. He's the sweetest thing really. I can't believe Angel has a...
Xander: Don't! I swear when I hear those words my ears start to bleed. How is it possible that the undead of our high school gang is the first to produce offspring? I swear that guy lives to rub my face in it.
Oz: I'm sure Angel had you in mind the night he decided to bed...who did he bed?
Anya: You mean he didn't tell Buffy yet?
Willow: I guess we kind of kept getting sidetracked. Unless he told her when we were in the office.
Oz: I don't think so. I think we would have heard that tidbit if it became known.
A knock on the door startles them and they each look at one another trying to decide how to proceed.
Dawn: Would you all stop acting like you've seen death and he's coming for a visit? Geez, it's probably just a...
She opens the door before finishing and the words fade from her mouth.
Willow: Dawnie? What is it?
She stands up to see why there's silence and freezes in her tracks.
Dawn: Why do I feel like this can not be good news?
Cut to house
Justine regains consciousness and manages to stand in the empty room just as Holtz enters.
Holtz: What happened?
Justine: They bought it. Hook, line and sinker.
Holtz: Most excellent. Now all I have to do is be there when it happens.
Justine: I thought for sure he was going to kill me. (She rubs her throat)
Holtz: No. I knew that he would not, not as long as the soul is intact. But in a matter of hours, it might be a very different story.
Justine: I really hope you know what you're doing.
Holtz: I'm doing what should have been done centuries ago. I'm destroying Angelus.
Cut to Angel speeding down the highway in his car. Buffy is at his side and they're alone. The others are in a vehicle behind them.
Buffy: Angel, it could be a trick. They could be bluffing. How could they know about me? About us?
Angel: I was stupid. The man has had decades to study my existence. Of course he would know about you now. Once he learned I had a soul, he would only have to track my past a matter of years to find you. How could I have sent my son into a trap?
Buffy: They will protect him Angel. I swear it. I told Willow to treat him as if he were my own. She will die before anything happens to Connor.
Angel: That's what I'm afraid of.
Buffy: You have to trust me Angel. We always trusted each other. Remember? That will never change. You'll see. Everything's going to be fine.
Angel: Nothing would make me happier than to have that be true Buffy. Nothing in this world could bring me such relief.
Buffy bristled at the words remembering the last time he had felt his happiest and what had come next. Something was nagging at her but she couldn't place it. She tried to calm herself as they sped down the highway. Interior: Summers house
Willow: Why are you here?
Dawn: Where are the others?
Tara: I'm not here, and they're coming.
Dawn: What? I'm looking at you.
Oz: (walking up behind Willow) Hey. Where's Buffy and Spike?
Willow: They're on their way with Tara.
Xander: (joining the group) Hey Tara. Why are we all just standing here? What's with the doorbell? Come on in. You must be beat.
Tara: I can't stay long. We'll be here soon. Willow you have to get the baby.
Oz: Am I missing something?
Willow: Tara and I have always been able to communicate with each other no matter where we are. Although this is the first time in a while. And she's never managed the astral plane before.
Tara: (Shyly) I've had some free time lately to study.
Oz: Well, call me crazy, but this has to mean something. Willow and I sure never shared anything like this.
Xander: Not many do.
Willow and Tara exchange a slight smile.
Tara: I have to go. Willow, get him now!
She disappears as everyone stares into the empty porch. Willow finally turns to race up the stairs.
Cut to Buffy and Angel still driving.
Buffy: Angel, maybe we should at least give this whole thing some thought. Justine said they wanted you to think something. As in the wrong thing. What if this is some kind of set up?
Angel: I don't care what sick game she's playing, I just want my son. Don't ask me to put off finding him.
Buffy: No of course not! But what about Doyle? He said someone was coming. I thought you said it had something to do with that night.
Angel: I guess I misunderstood his cryptic speech. not the first time believe me. He was obviously referring to Holtz.
Buffy: Maybe. But why get me involved? What purpose could I serve that the rest of your team couldn't? What did Doyle think that I could offer?
Angel: I don't know Buffy. (Looks at her for a second before returning his eyes to the road) I don't have all the answers. Maybe Spike was right. Maybe all this is just some weird coincidence that we overreacted to. We kind of tend to act on instinct when it comes to stuff like this. Maybe we should have thought it out better. It doesn't matter now. All that matters is that I get Connor and get back to our life in LA and leave you alone. I've screwed things up enough.
Buffy: Angel you didn't screw anything up. I don't have all the facts straight in my head. I guess I haven't had time to process everything, but the bottom line is, he's your son. And that's all I need to know.
Angel takes his hand off the steering wheel to cover Buffy's as he continues speeding down the highway.
Cut to Wes' vehicle
Tara opens her eyes
Tara: Okay, they know.
Spike: Great, so what does that mean?
Cordy: Yeah, I don't think anyone in that house has much to offer in the way of protection. Wes how much longer?
Wes: Just twenty miles or so. And by the speed Angel left us in the dust, I would imagine Tara's message will only be moments before his and Buffy's arrival.
Spike: I don't understand why you all were so bloody agreeable when the two of them suggested the seating arrangements. (looks at Cordy) Especially you.
Gunn: And what would you have suggested? You riding along so you could keep an eye on them to prevent any breaks for the happy? You don't know Angel anymore man. His kid is his life.
Cordy: That's right! Buffy is only there for support if needed. Slayer strength and all. Stop being so presumptive of what's going on in that car!
No one speaks leaving Cordy to wish she hadn't been so vocal. Fred, Gunn and Lorne exchange a look.
Cut to Summers house
Willow and Oz are preparing to leave again.
Dawn: I don't understand this. What are we supposed to tell Angel when they get here?
Xander: (sarcastically) My how I've missed the days of life revolving around Angel.
Anya: I don't think it's his fault this time honey.
Xander: Of course not. It never is, is it?
Willow: When Buffy gets here, just tell her that she can find us where no one's home.
Dawn: What does that mean?
Oz: I have to second that question Will. Are you sure it will be enough for her?
Willow: Listen, if Tara's right and some one is after Connor, then the less you guys know the better. Trust me, Buffy will figure it out.
Xander: Once again, we're the 'in the dark guys'.
Oz: You're not the only one.
Willow pulls Oz out of the house. Unbeknownst to them, a car follows the van as it pulls away.
Xander and the others are barely sitting down after they leave when the sound of screeching tires signals the arrival of Buffy and Angel.
Buffy: (running through the door) Where is he?
Angel: Where's my son?
Xander: Good to see you too Angel.
Buffy: Xander...not the time.
Dawn: They just left to take Connor somewhere safe.
Angel: So Holtz is here?
Anya: Who? Tara was here.
Buffy: Tara was with us.
Xander: Not astral she wasn't.
Angel: what?
Dawn: Tara warned Willow, so her and Oz took Connor somewhere safe. She said to give you a message.
Buffy: Which was?
Xander: She said she would be where no one was home.
Angel: Excuse me?
Xander: Lookie there? Angel's in the dark guy too!
Buffy: Willow said she'd be where no one was home?
Anya: Yes. We tried to tell her that wasn't enough for you to...
Buffy: Angel let's go!
The two of them run back out and the others stare after them.
Xander: Why can't Angel ever be an 'in the dark guy'?
Wes pulls up with his group seconds after Angel's car disappears in the distance. They all jump out and run up the porch to find Xander, Dawn and Anya standing on the porch.
Cordy: Where are they? Where's Connor? Where's Angel?
Anya: We don't know.
Gunn: What do you mean you don't know. Angel was ahead of us.
Xander: Yes and apparently he still is. (Points in the direction he and Buffy left) They just left.
Fred: With the baby?
Dawn: No. He's with Willow and Oz.
Xander: So why don't we all head inside and have a soda?
Spike: You must have lost your mind. I'm going to find her.
Cordy: I'm with Spike.
Xander: now those are three words I never thought I'd hear.
Wes: Cordelia, I don't think running about Sunnydale will help anything. Buffy and Angel are the best team to confront this issue. We will only be in the way.
Spike: That's fine by me. It's my favorite place to be.
With that, he strides off in the direction Angel and Buffy left.
Cordy watches him for a second before looking back at Wes. Wes shakes his head in warning but Cordelia only sends an apologetic glance before calling Spike's name to make him let her catch up.
The others watch the two leave and tepidly go inside the house.