One Girl in All the World

by Brenna's Urbangirl Projects

"Buffy," Giles repeated, as if memorizing it. "You know the prophecy." "'One girl in all the world,'" Buffy repeated, a sharp hint of irony to her tone. "You think maybe fate crossed a wire in there somewhere?"

41. Chapter 41: Graduation

Chapter 41: Graduation

May 18, 1999 – Tuesday

Sunnydale High School

In the heart of the school's bustling lounge, a long table was adorned with navy blue caps and gowns, neatly stacked and ready for the eager hands of graduating students. The student volunteers who sat behind the table handed out the caps and gowns to the students who came to pick them up. The room buzzed with the palpable excitement of this momentous day, a day that marked both an end and a new beginning.

Among the sea of students, Xander and Cordelia stood side by side, their emotions as vivid as the crimson gown Cordelia had longed for. As they reached for the sign-up sheet, Cordelia couldn't help but express her frustration.

"I can't believe this loser look," Cordelia lamented, her voice dripping with disappointment. "I lobbied so hard for the red, but no one listens to me, lone fashionable wolf."

Xander, on the other hand, seemed unfazed as he picked up his navy-blue cap and gown. "I like the blue. Has more dignity," he replied, his tone carrying a hint of sincerity that contrasted with Cordelia's sarcasm.

"Dignity? You? In relation to clothes?" Cordelia teased, raising an eyebrow. "I'm awash in a sea of confusion."

Xander's gaze shifted to the gown he held, and he let out a sigh. "I just want to look respectable in this... considering I'm probably gonna die in it."

Cordelia's eyes widened in surprise. "'Scuse me?"

Xander leaned in closer, his voice filled with an eerie premonition. "I'm telling you; I woke up the other day with this feeling in my gut, I just know. There's no way I'm getting out of this school alive."

Cordelia's playful banter suddenly gave way to concern. She studied Xander's face, searching for any sign that he might be joking. "Well, you've certainly mastered the power of positive giving up."

Xander's gaze remained fixed on the gown, his thoughts heavy with the weight of the impending future. "I've been lucky too many times. My number's coming up. And I was short! One more rotation and I'm shipping stateside! You know what I mean?"

Cordelia's hand gently touched Xander's arm, a rare moment of tenderness between them. "Seldom if ever," she whispered, her eyes reflecting a mixture of sympathy and worry, as they both faced the uncertain horizon of their impending graduation.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

Amidst the lively chaos of students signing yearbooks, Willow sat at a table, her pen dancing across the pages as she wrote heartfelt messages. Around her, many other kids were engrossed in the same yearbook-signing ritual, a bittersweet reminder of the impending separation that graduation brought.

With a warm smile, Willow finished signing a yearbook and handed it back to the boy it belonged to. "Bye, let's keep in touch," she said, her voice carrying a hint of nostalgia and the hope of lasting connections.

As Willow leaned back, lost in thought, Harmony approached her, yearbook in hand. "Oh, Willow, will you sign my yearbook?"

Willow's face lit up at the request. "Oh, yeah - and you have to sign mine too!" she replied eagerly, her eyes reflecting a genuine desire to connect.

They exchanged yearbooks, and as Willow carefully inscribed her message, Harmony spoke from the heart. "You know, I really wish we had gotten to know each other better."

Willow nodded in agreement, a wistful smile on her lips. "Me too."

Harmony's tone softened as she expressed her admiration. "You're so smart. I always wanted to be like that."

"Thanks," Willow replied, touched by the compliment. "You're so sweet."

With their yearbooks now filled with heartfelt words, Harmony and Willow exchanged them with a sense of genuine affection. Harmony's words held a hopeful note as she said, "I hope we don't lose touch."

Willow reassured her with sincerity. "No, we'll hang out!"

As Harmony bid her farewell, the two girls shared a poignant moment, a snapshot of the friendships they had forged during their school years, with the promise of staying connected as they stepped into the unknown future. "Bye!" Harmony called out, her voice echoing the mix of emotions that hung in the air.

As Harmony walked away, lost in the sea of yearbook signatures, Buffy approached Willow, having observed the touching exchange with a puzzled expression on her face.

Willow, still wrapped in a cocoon of emotion, confessed, "Oh, I'm gonna miss her..."

Buffy, unable to hide her surprise, couldn't help but question, "Don't you hate her?"

With a mixture of affection and nostalgia, Willow replied, "With a fiery vengeance, she picked on me for ten years, the vacuous tramp." She turned to Buffy, her eyes reflecting her helplessness against the current of sentiment. "It's like a sickness, Buffy, I'm just missing everything. I miss gym!"

Buffy, her thoughts lingering on the impending graduation, chimed in, "Well, I think it's contagious. The whole senior class has turned into... the 60's. Or, what I imagine the 60's to have been like, except without the war and the hairy armpits."

Willow couldn't contain her yearning, and her voice held a touch of longing as she asked, "Well, don't you feel it?"

They strolled over to the soda machine, and Buffy shared her thoughts about graduation, her tone surprisingly nonchalant. "I don't. I mean, I'll miss stuff, but graduating just isn't that big of a deal to me. You get a piece of paper and nothing changes. I don't even think I'm gonna go."

A soda can emerged from the machine, and Willow took it, her voice filled with sentiment as she addressed the faithful dispenser. "Oh, trusty soda machine... I push for root beer and you give me Coke." She then turned to Buffy, seeking to understand her friend's perspective. "Not gonna go? Why not?"

Buffy brought up the impending threat as she and Willow walked over and sat down on one of the couches, her voice carrying a blend of determination and a hint of apprehension, "Ascension? Mayor becoming demon, snacking upon populace? I was planning to fight him."

"You can't do both?" Willow asked, her voice tinged with a hopeful yearning, just as Xander pulled up a chair next to her, his presence injecting a sense of camaraderie into the conversation.

Confusion filled Xander's eyes as he asked, his voice tinged with intrigue, "Both what?"

"Go to graduation and fight The Mayor," Buffy informed him obligingly, her tone a mix of duty and resolve.

"The Mayor?" Xander questioned surprised as he glanced at both girls, his surprise reflecting in his eyes. "What, you guys didn't hear?"

"Hear what?" Buffy asked, wondering what else could possibly go wrong to make her life even harder than it already was right now, her voice carrying a note of apprehension.

"Guess who our commencement speaker is?" Xander said pointedly, a sense of impending doom lingering in his words.

Buffy got what he meant right, away but Willow looked at him thoughtfully. "Siegfried?" Willow guessed with a tiny glimmer of hope.

Xander shook his head, a sense of realism in his response. "No."

Willow tried again, "Roy?"

Again, Xander denied it, his tone grounded in practicality. "No."

With a playful touch of humor, Willow made a final guess, "One of their tigers?"

Xander gently brought her back to reality, his voice filled with affection and concern. "Come out of the fantasy, Will."

"I don't believe this." Buffy muttered moodily a frown darkening her face.

Xander couldn't help but interject, lending credence to his ominous theory, "Lends credence to my whole 'I'm gonna die' theorem, doesn't it?"

With the Mayor's sinister plans looming large, Buffy's concern deepened as she wondered aloud, "The Mayor at graduation. A hundred helpless kids to feed on. He got any other surprises for us?"

Summers Home

Faith, Dawn, and Elizabeth sat in the dimly lit living room, their faces etched with a mix of determination and concern, as Buffy relayed the unsettling news. Her voice held a touch of weariness, a heavy burden of responsibility weighing on her shoulders.

Elizabeth, her eyes wide with disbelief, spoke with a trembling voice, "He's speaking at your graduation." Her words carried a sense of disbelief, a realization of the impending danger.

Buffy's response, though resolute, was tinged with a hint of vulnerability, her emotions laid bare for her friends to see. "Yeah. We know thanks to your undercover work, Faith, that Ascension is on Graduation day. But I was kind of hoping it was going to happen after the ceremony." Her voice cracked ever so slightly, revealing her desire for a moment of normalcy before facing the impending chaos.

Dawn's youthful innocence contrasted with the gravity of the situation, her voice soft and worried as she suggested a plan. "Maybe Elizabeth and I should try and get Mom out of town?" Her words were filled with a sisterly concern, the idea of protecting their family forefront in her mind.

Faith, her gaze fixed on Buffy, her girlfriend, held a mix of admiration and uncertainty. Her voice was filled with genuine concern as she posed a crucial question. "That would leave us one Slayer down. Could we do it just the two of us, babe?" The love she felt for Buffy shone through, but so did the realization of the immense challenge ahead.

Buffy's response carried the weight of a leader making a difficult decision for the greater good. Her voice quivered with a mix of determination and fear. "I don't know. But I think we will have to. I think I would rather have Elizabeth with Dawn and Mom for safety."

May 19, 1999 – Wednesday

Sunnydale High School

Buffy's and Faith's faces paled as they continued to stare at the newspaper headline about the murder of Lester Worth. Faith's brows furrowing with concern, and her voice carried a tone of unease that matched the growing dread in the room. "The Mayor," she said, her voice almost a whisper, filled with uncertainty and fear.

Giles and Wesley pranced around in a straight line on the main library floor as they fenced, their swordplay now juxtaposed with the grim conversation. "You sure?" Giles asked, his voice quivering slightly as he thrust forward with his rapier, the weight of the situation affecting his concentration.

Faith nodded, her expression grave, as Buffy handed the paper off to Giles. "Before you guys got me out, I heard rumors that the Mayor was concerned about him."

Giles peered over the paper, holding it with one hand as he parried Wesley's attacks. "Brutally stabbed... Lester Worth, visiting professor of geology," he read aloud. He looked up at Buffy and Faith, his eyes reflecting the gravity of the situation. "There's nothing in here that bellows 'motive.'"

Faith spoke up, her voice laced with a hint of frustration. "I don't know what to tell you," she said, her words tinged with a hint of exasperation. "I remember him mentioning this guy. If I hadn't been revealed to be a spy, I think he was going to have me kill him. So, it makes sense that he sent one of the vampires on his payroll."

Giles stopped sparring and turned to Buffy and Faith, his expression that of dawning realization, his eyes narrowing in thought. "The Mayor wanted the good professor out of the way."

Buffy's brows knitted in frustration, her voice carrying a mix of confusion and determination as she voiced the perplexing question on everyone's mind. "Which leads to the question, 'how come?'" She shook her head, trying to make sense of it. "I'm about to destroy the entire city, but I take the time to kill Harmless Lester first?"

Giles chimed in with a thoughtful suggestion, his voice carrying the weight of a mind piecing together a puzzle. "Tying up loose ends," he offered. "Lester had something, or knew something..."

Faith didn't hesitate to volunteer herself and Buffy for the mission. "I think Buffy and I should check it out," she declared.

"Ah," Wesley said, catching on, his voice showing a glimmer of understanding. "By attempting to keep a valuable clue from us, the Mayor may have inadvertently led us right to it!"

Buffy gave Wesley a bemused look, her voice tinged with exasperation. "What page are you on, Wes?" she asked, clearly ahead in the conversation. "We got there already."

"Yes, well," Wesley muttered, slightly embarrassed and attempting to regain his composure. "You two will go tonight, look over his apartment. Anything at all worth noting, you report back here."

Faith glanced at her girlfriend, a mischievous grin playing on her lips. "Don't you just love it when he takes charge?" she asked sarcastically.

Wesley, confused by Faith's remark, looked over at Giles, seeking clarification. "Was that a yes? I can't keep track."

"We'll go," Buffy informed the slightly frazzled Watcher, her voice carrying a mixture of reassurance and impatience as she silently wondered how long it would take him to understand American slang.

Giles nodded, his concern etched on his face as he looked between the couple. "Be careful," he urged, his voice tinged with worry. "The Mayor could have someone watching."

Faith offered a reassuring nod, her confidence unwavering. "I don't think he will," she said, her tone resolute. "The deed's already been done. He has no reason to think there is anything for us to find."

"Nonetheless, keep watch," Giles insisted, emphasizing the importance of caution. "With you no longer undercover, Faith, he has us at a disadvantage."

"We hear you," Buffy responded, determination in her voice. "One of us will stand guard while the other checks out the apartment," she assured, ready to face whatever lay ahead with unwavering determination.

The door to the library swung open, breaking the intense atmosphere, and Xander marched in, dragging a reluctant Anya through the door with him. "You guys want to know about the Ascension?" Xander asked as he pushed Anya forward. "Well, meet the only living person who's ever been to one."

Faith, Buffy, Giles, and Wesley stared at the two in shock for a long moment, their expressions a mix of disbelief and surprise. After all the challenges they had faced, it was difficult to fathom that this unexpected turn of events was actually happening.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

Anya sat at the library table, her story holding everyone's rapt attention as they gathered around her, eager to learn more about the Ascension. "About eight hundred years ago," she began, her voice laced with a mixture of fascination and amusement. "In the Kastka Valleys above the Urals, there was a Sorcerer there who achieved Ascension. Became the embodiment of the demon Lo-Hash. I was there cursing a shepherd who had been unfaithful," she continued merrily. "His wife had wished that all his sheep would lie with…"

Buffy interrupted, her impatience showing. "Can we get back to the chase?" she said, her tone firm, certain that she didn't want to know how the story ended.

"Sorry," Anya apologized, her demeanor shifting to a more somber note. "Lo-Hash was... it decimated the village within hours. Maybe three people got out." She shook her head in remembered horror. "I've seen some horrible things in my time. I've been the cause of most of them, actually," she added with a hint of pride. "But this..."

Wesley, attempting to add to the discussion, interjected, "Ahem, sorry. But Lo-Hash was a four-winged soul killer, am I right?" Giles nodded in confirmation, and Wesley continued, "I was given to understand that they're not that fierce. Of all the demons that we've faced..."

Buffy and Giles exchanged a knowing glance, but Anya promptly cut Wesley off, her tone firm and assertive. "You've never seen a demon," she said flatly, her words emphasizing the true nature of these otherworldly beings.

Faith glared at Anya, her protective instincts kicking in. "Uh, excuse me? My fiancée has been killing them for the last four years. And I've been doing it for a year," she retorted, her voice laced with a touch of annoyance.

Anya shook her head, as if correcting a misconception. "All demons that walk the earth are tainted. Are human hybrids like vampires. The Ascension means that a human becomes a pure demon. They're different."

"Different?" Giles murmured questioningly; his Watcher's curiosity piqued by the notion.

Buffy and Faith exchanged curious glances, eager to learn more. "How?" they asked in unison, their interest evident.

"Well, for one thing, they're bigger," Anya began, starting with what seemed like the least important detail in her explanation.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

Snyder walked alongside Mayor Wilkens on the school grounds, where rows of chairs were being set up for the students and their parents. He pointed towards a section of chairs that were still being arranged. "Kids are here," Snyder indicated. "Parents off to the side there. We'll go up, they'll play the processional, and then you'll give the address."

Wilkens surveyed the scene, nodding with satisfaction. "It all looks wonderful," he assured the smaller man, taking in the arrangement and the multitude of chairs being set up.

Snyder, however, couldn't help but express his concerns. He looked up at the Mayor with a frown, his thoughts immediately going to the troublesome blonde that had been a constant headache for him since taking over as Principal of Sunnydale High. "As long as nobody makes any trouble," he grumbled, his frustration evident.

"Oh, stop worrying," Wilkens dismissed Snyder's concerns with a jovial tone. "You just make sure the kids show up. Anybody who doesn't feel like coming to graduation, well, they'll just have to live without a diploma." His smile remained, but it was clear that Mayor Wilkens had a plan in motion, and Snyder was merely a pawn in his grand scheme.

"They'll be here, sir," Snyder assured, his mind calculating the last part of Wilkens' sentence. The idea of using the threat of withholding diplomas as a means to ensure attendance at the ceremony was already taking shape in his thoughts.

"Call me Richard," Wilkens said, standing with Snyder and looking down at him with a certain camaraderie. "You've done a great job here in Sunnydale. We've both seen all sorts of things. What's important is that we keep it under control, and that's what you've done," the Mayor commended.

"I believe in order," Snyder replied humbly, giving a small shrug.

"Sunnydale owes you a debt. It will be repaid," Wilkens assured with a smile. "Yes, sir, we'll mark that invoice paid in full." With that, Wilkens walked away, heading towards the school, his attention focused elsewhere. He didn't notice the worried expression on Snyder's face as he watched the Mayor's departure.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

Willow and Oz entered the library, their expressions shifting from casual to shock as they laid eyes on Anya sitting at the table, surrounded by the other members of their small group. Both of them came to a sudden stop, their bewilderment evident as Anya finished listening to Wesley and Giles' explanation of the ritual.

Anya shook her head, voicing her concerns, "It doesn't sound like Lo-Hash. The rituals are all different."

"I wish that was a relief," Giles muttered wearily, the weight of their situation clearly taking a toll on him.

Oz, his curiosity piqued, asked, "What's going on?" His eyes darted from one person to the next, searching for an explanation.

Willow, her initial shock giving way to a guarded demeanor, narrowed her eyes as she glanced at Anya. She harbored a small amount of jealousy and a certain distaste for sharing her close-knit group with anyone, especially someone who had once been evil. "How come evil girls in the mix?" she asked, her tone laced with suspicion.

Giles stepped in to provide some context, recognizing the need for clarity. "Anya witnessed an Ascension," he explained, trying to ease the tension in the room.

Willow relaxed slightly, her guard not fully down but willing to set aside her concerns for a more pressing matter. "Oh, okay then," she conceded, acknowledging the significance of Anya's presence in their current situation.

"There must be something more useful you can tell us," Wesley prodded, his inquisitive nature pushing him to find valuable information. Then, an idea sparked in his mind. "How did they kill it?"

Anya paused for a moment; her expression thoughtful. "You know anyone who lives in the Koskov Valley?" she asked, her question hanging heavily in the air.

Wesley's realization washed over him as he understood that no one survived to tell the tale of how they had defeated the demon.

Faith, remembering the mysterious box of spiders from their previous encounter with The Mayor, interjected, "What about the spiders?"

"The Mayor had a box of spiders that he had to eat," Buffy added. "The Box of..." She turned to Giles, seeking confirmation. "I want to say Grav-Locks?"

"Gavrock," Giles corrected automatically.

Anya shook her head, her memory drawing a frustrating blank. "It doesn't ring a bell."

Buffy, growing increasingly impatient with the lack of progress, muttered, "Well, there must be something that you can remember that would be helpful." She felt as if they were constantly hitting dead ends, and it was taking a toll on her patience.

Their tension-filled huddle was abruptly interrupted when the library door opened once more. Willow and Oz entered, pulling up short when they saw Mayor Wilkens entering their sanctuary, exuding an aura of confidence and ease. Buffy quickly slipped the newspaper she and Faith had been perusing earlier out of sight, not wanting to give Wilkens any hint that they were onto his secrets.

Mayor Wilkens surveyed the group, who stood tense and glaring at him. "So, this is the inner sanctum," he mused, his gaze lingering on Faith. "You told me this is where they like to hang out, concoct their little schemes. I tell you, it's just nice to see that some young people are still interested in reading in this modern era." He casually glanced around at the books. "So, what are kids reading nowadays?" he asked, his tone calm as he walked over to the table and picked up a book.

Faith glared at the man who had thought of her as a daughter during her time undercover in his office. Giles stood beside her, resolute and unyielding, his warm blue eyes now flashing with cold hatred.

Mayor Wilkens read aloud from the open book, "'The beast will walk upon the earth, and darkness will follow. The several races of man will be as one in their terror and destruction.'" He looked up from the book, a chilling smile on his face. "Aw, that's sweet. Different races coming together."

Buffy glowered at him, her patience worn thin by his words. "You never get even a little tired of hearing yourself speak, do you?" she muttered, her hazel eyes flashing with annoyance.

The Mayor chuckled, his attention shifting to Faith. "That's one spunky girl you've got there, Faith. I'm gonna eat her."

Faith let out a low guttural growl as she swiftly picked up Wesley's sword from the table and, with a swift, efficient movement, thrust it through Wilkens' chest. He staggered back, a look of surprise on his face.

"Whoa!" Wilkens cried, looking down at the sword sticking out of his chest. "Well now, that was a little thoughtless." He pulled the sword out, and a disturbing calmness returned to his demeanor. "Violent outbursts like that, in front of your girlfriend? You know, Faith, what must Buffy think of you?"

Buffy took a step forward, her body tense with the desire to protect Faith. "Get out," she said forcefully, her voice unwavering.

The Mayor glanced around at them, his gaze filled with an eerie smile as he wiped the blade clean of his blood with his handkerchief. "I smell fear. That's smart. Some of your deaths will be quick, if that's worth anything. Well, see you at graduation." He tossed the sword back to Faith, who caught it with a practiced movement. "You don't want to miss my commencement address." With a final chilling remark, the Mayor turned and began making his way towards the door. "It's going to be one heck of a speech." He called over his shoulder to them as he walked out of the library doors.

Summers Home

Elizabeth moved from the open suitcase on her mother's bed to her mother's open wardrobe, hurriedly folding clothes and placing them into the suitcase. As she worked, she heard her mom call out to her and her sisters. "Elizabeth, Dawn, Buffy," their mother's voice echoed through the house. "I'm home. Do you all want to go to uh…"

Joyce paused as she entered her room, her concern mounting as she took in the sight of her daughters packing her clothes. "What are you doing?" she asked, her voice filled with worry. "What are you doing with my clothes, Elizabeth?"

"Mom, you're leaving town tonight with me and Dawn," Elizabeth explained amid her bustling, the urgency in her voice apparent.

Joyce, still shocked by the unexpected turn of events, responded with a hint of rebuke, "Elizabeth, I'd miss Buffy's graduation."

Buffy and Faith entered the room, joining the conversation. "Yeah," Buffy chimed in, her tone echoing her mother's disbelief. "That's sort of the idea."

Joyce, unwilling to accept the plan, held her ground. "There's no way. I wouldn't dream…" she insisted as Dawn walked into the room from the bathroom. Dawn put some of her toiletries into the suitcase.

Buffy cut her mother off, her voice resolute and matter-of-fact. "Mom, graduation is a pointless ceremony where you sit around and listen to a bunch of boring speeches until someone hands you a piece of paper that says you graduated, which you already know. Maroon does nothing for my complexion, so don't argue, okay?"

"What, is some terrible demon going to attack the school?" Joyce asked sarcastically, an amused smile playing on her face. Her attempt at humor was met with a heavy silence from Buffy, Faith, Dawn, and Elizabeth, each of them glaring at her but not offering any response to her sarcastic conclusion.

Joyce eventually sank down on her bed, a somber realization dawning on her as she fiddled with her bedspread. "Oh, I see," she murmured, her voice heavy with understanding. "Oh, you know Buffy, Dawn, looking back on everything that's happened, maybe I should have sent you two to a different school."

Elizabeth couldn't help but respond, her voice tinged with melancholy. "Mom, if you had done that, you would have seen what my world was like. You and Buffy were dead, remember? I lost my Buffy because people can be cruel. Because they didn't want to accept her as being transgender. Then I lost you because you blamed yourself for her death." Her words carried the weight of her past, a testament to the hardships she had endured.

Faith turned to her hopefully soon-to-be mother-in-law with a determined look, addressing her with a sense of urgency. "Mrs. S.," she began, "we need you to go for your safety. Elizabeth and Dawn are going with you, not only for their safety but for your protection. You know we wouldn't send a Slayer with you if we didn't think the situation is bad."

Joyce shook her head as she looked at Buffy and Faith, her determination matching theirs. "I'm not leaving you two to face an awful monster. If I go anywhere, you both are coming with me."

Buffy, her voice heavy with resignation, tried to make her mother understand. "You know that we can't."

"Well, then I can't either," Joyce declared firmly, her love for her daughters unwavering.

Buffy's shoulders slumped, and she continued, her words carrying a heavy burden of honesty. "Mom, I know that sometimes you wish Elizabeth, Dawn, and I were different."

"Buffy, no," Joyce gasped, shaking her head in denial, refusing to acknowledge the truth of Buffy's sorrowful statement.

"Buffy's right, Mom," Dawn interjected, not allowing her mother to dwell on the past. "We all wish things could have been different. Buffy could have been born in the right body. I could have been a star athlete. Anything. But we're not, and that, in a way, thanks to you. You may have had trouble with Buffy being the Slayer and me being a Potential in the beginning. You may have had trouble with Buffy being trans in the beginning. But you want to know something? You're also proud of us because we have this destiny hanging over our heads. Buffy and Faith have to fight this thing, and you, Elizabeth, and I have to go. If we don't, Buffy won't get her happily ever after."

Faith chimed in, emphasizing the importance of their mission. "Dawn's right. If you stay, sure, we will have three Slayers instead of two, with Elizabeth at our side. But at the same time, Buffy and Elizabeth would be worrying about you, which could get them killed. You have to trust us, Joyce, to end this threat so you can come back and see me and Buffy get married."

Joyce was silent for a long moment, contemplating their words, before reluctantly nodding her head. She stood and folded her eldest daughter and Faith in her arms, a mixture of love and concern in her embrace. "When I come back, you two better be here to greet me. I don't want to have to bury my eldest daughter or her girlfriend a month before their wedding." The weight of the situation hung heavily over them, and they each understood the sacrifices they were making for the sake of their family and the world.

Lester Worth's Apartment

Buffy and Faith stood in Professor Worth's apartment; their attention focused on a table in front of them. They were in the process of filling a file box with papers and books they believed might be useful for their mission. Angel entered the room, his entrance far from graceful, as he knocked his shoulder against the door frame, eliciting a reflexive "Ow."

"Stealthy," Faith commented, her tone laced with sarcasm.

Buffy turned to face Angel, a paper folder in her hand, and continued working. "Not my best entrance," Angel admitted, glancing back at the door. "I think they were mopping in the halls."

Faith handed Buffy another file, and then she asked Angel, "What are you doing here?" Her gaze briefly shifted to him as he moved to stand beside her and Buffy.

Angel shrugged. "I checked in with Giles, and he asked me to back you two up." His presence was a reassurance, even if his entrance left something to be desired.

"He's worried that the Mayor will send someone after us," Faith explained, her tone conveying the seriousness of their situation.

Angel raised an eyebrow, looking over the couple. "And, you're not, I take it." He was trying to gauge the level of danger they might be in.

"Not after his threat today," Buffy admitted, providing Angel with the context he needed. "He threatened to eat me come Graduation. Neither of us sees him sending someone after us until then. He probably wants the joy of making a snack out of us after his Ascension."

Angel, understanding the situation better now, glanced down at the papers Faith had just handed Buffy. "What's that?" he asked, changing the subject and sensing that there was nothing more to be said about the Mayor's threat.

Buffy looked down at the report in her hands. "A report. Excavation of some old lava bed. The guy was a volcanologist, or something."

As Angel stepped behind Buffy, his chest lightly brushing her back, Buffy couldn't help but shiver uncontrollably at the close contact. The subtle physical reaction didn't go unnoticed by Faith.

"Angel, would you back up?" Faith snapped; her glare directed at the vampire. "Buffy's mine now."

Angel quickly complied, taking a step back from Buffy, mindful of the territorial claim Faith had staked. "Sorry," he apologized, not wanting to cause any tension.

Buffy gathered herself, her love for Faith at the forefront of her mind, reminding herself of their upcoming wedding. "I looked through it, but the only thing I understood were the commas. Faith and I are gonna bring it to Giles, see if he can do better," she explained, moving to pick up the box.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

As Buffy, Faith, and Angel stepped outside, a sinister atmosphere hung in the air. The night was thick with tension, setting the stage for a dangerous encounter. Suddenly, a dreadful sound echoed through the darkness, and an arrow found its mark, mercilessly penetrating Faith's shoulder.

"Ow..." Faith winced in agony, her voice trembling with pain, as her body instinctively began to give way beneath the assault.

"Faith!" Buffy's shock was palpable, her wide eyes reflecting a mixture of fear and anger. She swiftly handed the box she was carrying to Angel, who took it with a concerned expression.

Buffy managed to catch Faith just in the nick of time, her hands trembling with a mix of fear and determination. She held her friend close, shielding her from further harm, as their eyes locked in a moment of shared vulnerability amidst the chaos.

Amidst the eerie silence, behind a flickering neon sign atop a nearby building, a malevolent vampire stood, his cold, mocking smirk casting an eerie glow on his face. With a callous tone, he declared, "One down," reveling in the turmoil he had unleashed.

Buffy's heart raced as she scanned the empty, desolate streets, her senses on high alert. The night seemed to conspire against them, offering no clues to the identity of their attacker. Frustration welled up within her, but she couldn't afford to lose focus. "Oh God," she muttered, her voice laced with worry and determination.

Not finding any immediate threats, she shifted her attention back to Faith, her expression softening with concern. She could feel the weight of responsibility settling on her shoulders as she realized that Faith was depending on her for help.

Angel, always a pillar of strength in the face of danger, stepped forward, his actions speaking louder than words. He handed the box back to Buffy, a subtle reassurance in his eyes, before gently lifting Faith into his arms. "Let's get her to Giles," he urged, his voice steady, and his resolve unwavering.

Sunnydale High School

In the dimly lit room, Faith sat in a chair, her face etched with pain, and her breathing labored. Her eyes fixated on the front of the arrow that had caused her so much agony. The atmosphere was thick with tension, but it was also filled with a deep sense of trust and camaraderie.

Giles had just deftly cut the back of the arrow with a knife. "There," he declared, his voice holding a mix of relief and concern.

Buffy stood by Faith's side, offering comfort and support. She placed her hand on the arrow's front, the concern in her eyes matching the love that flowed between them. "Okay. You ready?" Buffy asked, her voice filled with gentle reassurance.

Faith, despite her weakened state, managed a weak nod. "Yeah," she replied, her voice shaky but determined.

Buffy took a deep breath, her heart pounding, and began the countdown. "On three. One..." She never reached "two." With a swift, determined motion, she tore the arrow out, causing Faith to hiss in agony as a wave of pain washed over her.

Through gritted teeth, Faith managed to speak, her love and frustration evident in her voice. "I knew you were gonna do that..."

Giles, always the practical observer, chimed in, diverting their attention from Faith's pain. "Not too much blood back here..." he noted, his voice calm and measured.

Buffy's gaze shifted from Faith to Angel, who stood nearby, a silent pillar of support in their trying times. In the depths of her eyes, she conveyed a heartfelt gratitude for his presence, a wordless acknowledgment of his unwavering commitment.

She returned her attention to Faith, her worry still etched on her face. "I have to admit I am glad whoever shot you has sucky aim," she admitted with a small, relieved smile, the tension of the moment momentarily giving way to a hint of levity.

Angel's voice cut through the room, his ominous presence contrasting with his calm tone. "Has to be someone the Mayor sent," he surmised, his experience and insight coming to the fore.

Giles, the ever-curious scholar, sought clarification. "We're sure he sent someone?" he inquired, a hint of concern in his voice.

"I believe so," Angel replied with a hint of certainty. "I believe you were correct in your worry that someone might target them."

Wesley, immersed in his reading, suddenly chimed in with a note of intrigue. "Fascinating..." he muttered, momentarily oblivious to the current conversation.

Giles, ever the pragmatist, couldn't help but inquire, "What?"

Wesley, engrossed in his findings, continued, "It seems our Mr. Worth headed an expedition on Hawaii, digging through old lava beds near a dormant volcano."

Buffy, not one for subtlety, glanced at Wesley, her impatience evident. "I'm not fascinated yet," she muttered hotly.

Undeterred, Wesley pressed on, "He found something underneath—a carcass, buried in the eruption."

"Carcass?" Giles inquired as he moved over to Wesley.

Wesley nodded; his voice tinged with excitement. "A very large one," he said as he scanned the page. "Mr. Worth posits that it might be some heretofore undiscovered dinosaur."

As the weight of this revelation settled in, Faith, now standing weakly, interjected. "A demon?"

Giles, the voice of reason, addressed the growing concerns. "Well, yes, there's something the Mayor would want to keep secret," he acknowledged. "If this is the same kind of demon he's turning into and it's dead, then that means he's only impervious to harm until the Ascension. In his demon form, he can be killed."

Buffy couldn't help but inject a touch of sarcasm into the conversation. "Great," she said sarcastically, her hand clenching around the arrow shaft. "And all we need is a million tons of burning lava. We're saved."

Angel, however, was about to offer a more thoughtful response when Faith suddenly faltered, stumbling against the table. The room fell silent as all eyes turned to her.

"Faith?" Buffy's worry deepened as she turned back to her girlfriend, her features etched with concern. She noted the sheen of sweat on Faith's forehead, the dizziness that clouded her gaze.

Faith, struggling to focus on Buffy's face, managed to utter a single word. "Damn." And with that, she collapsed, the room descending into chaos as they scrambled to tend to her.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

Giles, the ever-resourceful Watcher, examined the arrow carefully and took in its scent. "We'll have to run some tests," he concluded, his voice tinged with concern as he began to formulate a plan.

Meanwhile, Faith, still seated on the floor, leaned against the counter, her face flushed with fever. Buffy tenderly held her hand to Faith's head, her worry deepening. "Faith, you're burning up," she whispered, her voice filled with both love and distress.

Faith, her shoulder numb and her strength waning, was acutely aware of the danger they faced. "It's poison. I can feel it," she confessed, the pain etched across her face.

Giles, displaying his usual level-headedness, offered a practical suggestion. "I'll call the others, get them here. Then I think we should move Faith to her bed," he proposed, his concern for her comfort evident in his voice.

Angel, ever the vigilant protector, offered to take on a crucial task. "I will go see what I can find out about the vampire that shot Faith," he stated, his voice resolute. "See if I can find out what poison she might have been shot with."

Wesley, the scholar with access to invaluable resources, promised to contribute to their efforts. "The council has all the known toxins on file, mystical or otherwise," he noted. "I'll contact them immediately."

Buffy nodded appreciatively at Wesley, and then turned her gaze back to Faith, their love shining brightly even in the midst of adversity. "You're gonna be okay," she assured her with a reassuring smile.

Faith, though weakened, managed to offer a loving smile in return, her hand reaching for Buffy's, their connection unbreakable in the face of danger.

Rosenberg Residence

Willow and Oz found solace in each other's presence, nestled in a moment of intimacy. Oz's hand stroked her hair gently, and a warm smile graced Willow's face. She couldn't help but express the rush of thoughts and emotions that filled her.

"I feel different, you know," she began, her voice soft and filled with curiosity. "I-I guess that makes sense. Do you feel different?" Her nervous babble flowed like a stream, her words tumbling out before she realized that Oz had been through this transformation before. "Oh no, you've already, probably, no big change for you," she corrected herself, her anxiety evident.

"It was nice. Was it nice?" Willow inquired, still uncertain, her words pouring forth like a cascade. "Should this be a quiet moment?" She mused, suddenly aware of the verbal flood she'd unleashed. With effort, she managed to rein in her words, breaking free from her own barrage of questions.

Oz, ever calm and understanding, responded affectionately. "I know exactly what you mean," he murmured, his touch and presence reassuring her.

Willow gazed at him with a mixture of relief and adoration. "Which part?"

"Everything from 'it's different,'" Oz replied, drawing a radiant smile from Willow. Their connection deepened, and they shared a sweet kiss, filled with warmth and promise, before their moment was interrupted by a ringing phone.

Willow's expression shifted as she answered the call, her brow furrowing as she listened to Giles on the other end of the line. Without a word, she hung up the phone, knowing that the situation required their immediate attention.

"We've got to go," Willow told Oz, her previous warmth now replaced by a sense of urgency.

Oz, sensing the sudden shift in mood and the urgency in Willow's voice, couldn't help but ask, "What is it?"

Willow's eyes held a trace of worry as she quickly explained the situation. "Faith was shot with an arrow laced with poison," she relayed, her voice carrying the weight of concern for their friend. Oz nodded in understanding, realizing that their peaceful moment had been abruptly interrupted by the dangerous world they were a part of.

Sunnydale High School

Amidst the scientific equipment, Oz was focused on his examination of the arrow. He carefully swabbed some of Faith's blood from the tip, a look of concentration on his face as he transferred it onto a glass slide. The stark reality of the situation hung in the air, and every moment counted.

Meanwhile, Willow, determined to unravel the mystery of the poison that threatened their friend, was deep in conversation with Xander. She handed him a list and explained their next steps. "They should have all of this at the magic shop. I can run an aural analysis, see if it's a mystical poison."

Xander, always ready to support his friends in times of need, looked up from the list, his expression somber. "I'm a little short on cash," he confessed.

Willow, however, offered a simple solution with a reassuring smile. "Just tell them it's for me."

Xander nodded with gratitude, understanding the urgency of the situation, and swiftly made his way out of the chemistry lab, carrying with him the hope that they could uncover the nature of the poison coursing through Faith's veins and find a way to save her.

Summers Home

Buffy sat at the edge of the bed, her heart heavy with concern, her eyes fixated on her beloved girlfriend, Faith. The room was dim, the only sound the labored breathing and the occasional groans of pain from Faith, whose fever showed no signs of breaking. Buffy dipped her hand into a bowl of cool water, the cloth clenched in her grip, and gently dabbed at Faith's feverish face. Her other hand held onto Faith's with a loving, unwavering grasp.

She continued to dip the cloth into the water, dabbing gently at Faith's chest, careful to avoid the red and angry wound from the arrow. The blue veins spreading from the wound were a haunting testament to the deadly poison coursing through her girlfriend's system. The Mayor's vampire had left a malevolent mark, and Buffy felt the weight of helplessness bearing down on her.

Buffy looked back at Faith's face, her heart aching as she saw her eyes flutter open. She offered a soft smile, trying to hide the fear and anguish that threatened to consume her. "Hey," she whispered, her voice filled with love and concern.

Faith grimaced deeply, her face contorting in pain, and Buffy could only offer soothing words and a cooling touch. "It'll be okay," she reassured, bringing the cloth back up to Faith's face to ease her suffering. "You'll be okay," Buffy murmured, but the pain she felt watching Faith suffer far surpassed any she had ever known.

The sound of the front door opening and closing caught Buffy's attention. She turned to Faith, trying to comfort her. "Shh, it's alright. It's probably only Wes, coming back with what we need to know to make you better," she whispered, her touch gentle as she stroked Faith's forehead. She wanted to go investigate, hope blossoming in her chest, but Faith clung to her hand, holding her back.

Buffy reassured her, "It's alright, I'll be back with news in a moment. I swear." After a brief pause, Faith let go, allowing Buffy to leave the room.

Faith watched Buffy leave and then closed her eyes, gritting her teeth to stifle the unbearable pain and anguish that threatened to consume her.

Buffy entered the living room, her worry etched on her face, and Giles stood there, pacing nervously. He had refused to leave her alone in this trying time, sharing her anxiety. As they both turned their attention to Wesley's entrance, the atmosphere in the room became heavy with anticipation.

Giles wasted no time in getting to the point. "Did you reach The Council?" he inquired; his gaze unwavering as he assessed the expression on Wesley's face.

Wesley's voice held a note of defeat as he delivered the news. "Yes," he admitted, his tone weighed down by disappointment. "They—they couldn't help."

Buffy raised her eyebrows, her anger simmering just below the surface. "Couldn't?" she probed, her voice tinged with frustration and growing suspicion.

Wesley, with a reluctant sigh, confessed to the underlying truth. "Wouldn't," he admitted, his shame evident. "It's not Council policy to save Slayers who die in the pursuit of their duty."

Giles, who had more experience with The Council, looked at Wesley with a mix of understanding and surprise. "Did you explain that Faith is the current active Slayer? That should she die, her replacement is only thirteen years old?" he questioned, knowing the potential consequences.

Wesley shook his head, his indignation clear. "Not under any circumstances," he interrupted, bitterness in his voice as he recalled The Council's response. "And yes, I did try to convince them."

Buffy looked at him stony faced. "Try again," she demanded.

Wesley looked at the transgender Slayer. "Buffy they're very firm. We're talking about laws that have existed longer than civilization."

"I'm talking about watching the woman I love die! I don't have a clue what you're talking about, and I don't care!" Buffy's anger flared, her words a defiant proclamation of her priorities.

Giles, ever the voice of reason, attempted to reassure her. "Buffy, we'll find a cure," he promised, his voice filled with determination.

Wesley, however, tried to redirect the conversation, focusing on The Council's orders. "The Council's orders are to concentrate on—"

But Buffy, her patience exhausted and her emotions raw, cut him off with a cold, unwavering gaze. "Orders?" she challenged; her voice laced with defiance. "I don't think I'm gonna be taking any more orders. Not from you, not from them," she asserted firmly, her voice quivering with the depth of her emotion.

Wesley's shock was palpable as he looked at Buffy, his belief in the importance of The Council clashing with her newfound resolve. "You can't turn your back on The Council," he protested, his voice filled with disbelief.

Buffy's response was unwavering, her determination clear. "They're in England. I don't think they can tell which way my back is facing," she declared, leaving no room for doubt that her loyalty now lay solely with Faith and her fight for survival.

Wesley turned to Giles, expecting support in this critical moment. "Giles, talk to her," he urged, his desperation clear in his eyes.

Giles, however, offered a simple response as he walked over to stand by Buffy's side. "I've got nothing to say right now," he stated plainly, his loyalty firmly aligned with Buffy and Faith in this difficult decision.

Wesley, feeling the ground slipping beneath him, looked at Giles in shock. He had counted on the older Watcher's guidance, and now his world was unraveling.

Buffy, not one to waver in her resolve, addressed Wesley with a steely determination. "Wesley, go back to your Council and tell them, until the next Slayer comes along, they can close up shop. Faith and I are not working for them anymore."

Wesley was overwhelmed, facing a situation he had never anticipated, and the gravity of Buffy's words weighed heavily on him. He desperately tried to reason with her. "Don't you see what's happening? The Mayor poisoned Faith in hopes of distracting you, to keep you out of The Mayor's way, and it's working. You need a strategy."

Buffy, however, regarded Wesley with unwavering condemnation, her eyes mirroring the disdain she had shown Quentin Travers when he had been in town. "I have a strategy. You're not in it."

Wesley's distress reached its peak, and he cried out, "This is mutiny!"

Buffy held a cold, determined smile as she locked eyes with Wesley. "I like to think of it as graduation. Giles, I can't stay here any longer. I'm gonna go see if I can help the others. I want you to stay here, just in case."

Giles, ever the supportive figure in her life, nodded with understanding. "Of course," he agreed, his voice filled with assurance. "I'll call you if there seems to be any change."

Buffy expressed her gratitude with a nod and turned her attention to the stairs she had descended from.

Wesley, still unable to accept the turn of events, couldn't help but cry out, "Buffy, you don't know what you're doing," his voice filled with concern and desperation as she mounted the stairs to inform Faith of her departure.

Buffy's patience had worn thin, and she snarled at Wesley, her voice filled with anger. "Get out of my house!" she commanded, her final words echoing through the room as she disappeared upstairs.

Wesley stood there, stunned and uncertain, before turning to Giles, who met his gaze with a momentary coldness. "I suggest you call The Council and inform them that their lack of cooperation and understanding has cost them a job for as long as Faith and Buffy are alive," Giles said, his tone carrying a firm resolve. "And for your sake, you better hope we find a cure for Faith because if she dies, I can't guarantee what Buffy will do, losing not only her lover but one of her allies in her journey as a transgender woman."

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

Faith stirred and opened her eyes, wincing as she felt Buffy's weight dip on the bed, sending waves of pain through her body. Buffy offered a gentle smile, and Faith, despite her discomfort, attempted a faint one in return. "Hey. I told you I'd be back."

Faith's raspy voice carried a question as she asked, "Who was it?"

Buffy scowled as she recounted Wesley's visit. "Wes, but you knew that already, Miss super hearing," she said, trying to inject a touch of humor into the moment, though it faltered in the face of the dire circumstances.

Faith chuckled softly. "I didn't think The Council would help. Not after what they put us through when you turned eighteen."

Buffy continued to dab at Faith's forehead, her smile more subdued now. "Well, at least we won't have to put up with that lot anymore, huh? We're going solo." She looked down and took Faith's hand in her free one. "I have to leave now. I have to help the others find the cure for whatever it is you have. I have to feel like I'm doing something to help." Buffy's touch turned affectionate as she caressed Faith's cheek with the back of her hand. "I'm not leaving you alone though. Giles is going to be here just waiting out in the living room. I'll be back as soon as I have the cure, alright."

Faith's doubt crept in, and she muttered, "If there is a cure."

Buffy's scowl deepened, and her determination flared. "Don't talk like that! Don't you dare talk like that! There's a cure, and hell or high water, I'm going to find it!" she growled, her resolve unshaken by Faith's uncertainty.

Sunnydale High School

Buffy stood on the other side of the lab table, her eyes focused on Willow and Oz as they sifted through books, their expressions a mix of concentration and concern. Xander and Angel leaned against high-back chairs, their collective attention fixed on the matter at hand.

Willow, always the source of knowledge, began to explain, "Finding the poison wasn't that hard. It's a mystical compound. The Latin name translates roughly to 'Killer of Slayers.'"

Angel added to the information. "It's designed specifically to kill anyone who is a Slayer, created by a vampire named Lilitu. She's believed to be the biblical Lilith, though there's no concrete proof of her true identity."

"And the cure?" Buffy inquired; her determination unwavering as she sought a way to save Faith.

Willow responded with a shrug, her tone apologetic. "There aren't a lot of instances of it being cured."

"But there are some?" Buffy pressed, a glimmer of hope in her eyes.

Angel nodded as he shared a piece of obscure history. "One that I know of, though it was before my time. I only know of her because of Darla. She used the poison on a Slayer in the early 1700s. How she came across the poison, I have no idea. I also don't know how that Slayer survived; Darla never said."

"How is she?" Willow inquired, her concern for Faith evident in her voice.

Before Buffy could respond, Oz interjected, catching something crucial. "Hold it," he said, his eyes locked onto a promising paragraph.

Xander leaned in, curiosity piqued. "You got something?"

Oz continued to read, his uncertainty giving way to growing confidence. "Not sure," he began, his gaze fixed on the text. "Be sure," Buffy urged, her eyes never leaving him.

"Okay. 'Killer of Slayers,'" Oz read aloud, pointing to the relevant passage. "That's our boy, and here's a Slayer that walked away from it."

Buffy's eyes were locked on Oz, her anxiety palpable. She was all desperate for information that could lead to Faith's cure.

Willow, sharing in the tension, asked, "Does it talk about the cure?"

Oz's frustration became evident as he muttered, "Damn."

Buffy's impatience was growing. "Nothing?" she questioned; her frustration clear.

Oz attempted to reassure her, but his uncertainty left her even more anxious. "No, it's in here," he began, causing a deep frown to appear on Buffy's face as she waited impatiently. "But…" Oz trailed off, and the room fell into an apprehensive silence.

Willow walked over to Oz, reading over his shoulder. Her gasp and the look she exchanged with Buffy conveyed the urgency of the situation. "Wait, completely reversed the effects. Oh!" Willow exclaimed, her gaze turning to Buffy with a nervous expression, realizing the enormity of the potential solution.

"What?" Buffy growled impatiently, her anxiety mounting as she waited for the crucial information.

Xander, attempting to lighten the tension, quipped, "Come on, guys, can't you see the suspense is killing Buffy here?" He gestured to the dark scowl that had now settled on her.

Oz continued to read reluctantly; his words heavy with the weight of the revelation. "The only way to cure this thing is the creation of an eternal bond through a sacrificial act."

All eyes in the room turned to Buffy, a heavy silence hanging in the air as the weight of the solution settled upon her shoulders. The room was filled with the realization that the cure for Faith could come at an immeasurable cost.

"Okay, Buffy," Willow began, her voice gentle and reassuring, as she spun Oz's book so that Buffy could read the details of the ritual. "The ritual is incredibly powerful. This is not something to be taken lightly."

Buffy nodded as she read the words on the page. "I understand, Willow."

Willow smiled softly, understanding the gravity of the situation. "So, first things first, you will need to ensure that you're in the right frame of mind and heart. The ritual's success depends on your unwavering commitment to Faith."

Buffy met Willow's gaze, her hazel eyes filled with love and determination. "Is there any doubt about my unwavering commitment to Faith?" she asked with a hint of a smile. "After all, I'm getting married to her next month. It's okay; I'd do anything for her."

Willow nodded approvingly. "Now, the ritual requires a deep connection, one that goes beyond words. You and Faith will need to be emotionally open and vulnerable with each other. It's about baring your souls, sharing your fears, and your dreams."

Buffy took a deep breath, mentally preparing herself for the emotional intensity of the ritual. "I'm not afraid of that, Will. We've been through so much together. I trust her with everything."

Willow nodded in understanding. "Good. And during the ritual, when you offer a part of your essence, it'll be symbolized by a vial of a special elixir. It's a powerful act, Buffy, and it represents your life force. It must be done with full commitment and love."

Buffy nodded once more, acknowledging the gravity of the task ahead. "I understand. I'll do whatever it takes."

Willow smiled; her eyes filled with unwavering support for her friend. "Lastly, Buffy, remember that this is not just a bond of love but one of destiny. You'll be bound together through all of life's trials and tribulations. The consequences will be far-reaching, so be prepared to face whatever comes your way."

Buffy reached out and took Willow's hand, grateful for her friend's guidance and encouragement. "I'm ready. Faith and I will face whatever challenges come our way, together."

Xander, Angel, and Oz had been listening attentively to Buffy and Willow's discussion about the ritual, and they were fully aware of the gravity of the situation. Now, it was their turn to show their unwavering support.

Xander stepped forward, a determined look on his face. "Buffy, we're here for you. We'll do anything we can to help, and if that means dealing with the consequences of this ritual, we're ready for it. You and Faith have our support."

Angel, who had his own experiences with matters of destiny and love, added, "You don't have to face this alone, Buffy. We'll stand by your side, no matter what."

Oz, the quiet yet steadfast presence in the room, nodded in agreement. "We're a team. We face the tough stuff together. Always."

Summers Home

Buffy entered her house, her heart heavy with worry. She glanced at Giles, her eyes filled with a mix of fear and hope. "Hey, Giles," she began, her voice trembling with concern, "I've got the cure. How's Faith doing?"

Giles, who had been vigilantly tending to Faith, looked up at Buffy, his expression a mix of exhaustion and concern. His words carried the weight of the situation. "Buffy, it's been touch and go. The poison... it's powerful. She's a fighter, but it's been a difficult battle. We've done everything we can."

Buffy's chest tightened, and she swallowed hard, her eyes brimming with tears. "Giles, you know Faith, she's strong. She can't... She can't leave me now. Not like this." Her voice quivered as she spoke, the emotional strain evident in her every word.

Giles nodded, his features showing the deep affection he held for both Slayer and former Slayer. "I know, Buffy. She's been holding on, but we're running out of time. The antidote, we need to give it to her quickly."

"It's not so much an antidote," Buffy admitted. "The cure the gang found. To save Faith I have to offer a part of my essence, my life force to Faith, binding us together in an eternal bond."

Buffy's confession hung heavy in the air, her words infused with a profound mix of love and fear. The room seemed to close in around them as Giles absorbed the gravity of her sacrifice. He spoke with a quiet urgency, his voice full of concern. "Buffy, are you sure about this? It's an immense risk, giving up even a small part of your life force like that."

Buffy's gaze remained fixed on Faith, the woman she loved more than anything in the world. Tears welled up in her eyes as she responded, her voice quivering with raw emotion. "I'm sure, Giles. I can't imagine a life without her. We've been through so much together. I can't lose her now."

Giles nodded solemnly, understanding the depth of Buffy's devotion. "Very well, Buffy. If this is what you want, we'll make it happen. But we need to be prepared for the consequences. Are you ready to take that risk?"

Buffy took a deep breath, her determination shining through her tears. "I'm ready, Giles. I'll do whatever it takes to save her. Faith means everything to me."

Buffy looked up the stairs, her hand going to her neck. She wiped at a couple of stray tears that had fallen down her cheeks, her heart heavy with worry for Faith. With a determined stride, she mounted the stairs and walked into their bedroom. Faith lay on the bed, her expression troubled, and her body drenched in sweat.

Buffy made her way to the bed and sat down in the spot she had vacated hours ago. The bed dipped, and Faith slowly opened her eyes to look at her. Buffy smiled softly as she brushed the hair sticking to Faith's forehead.

"Buffy? Is that you?" Faith asked, her voice weak, as she squinted up at her, wanting to make sure that she wasn't just a figment of her dreams.

"It's me," Buffy assured her with a weak smile. "I have the cure."

Buffy took a deep breath, her eyes locked onto Faith's as she began to explain. "Faith, we have a plan to save you. It's a ritual, a powerful one, but it's not without risks. It's a ritual of true love. We have to create a deep, emotional connection, and I have to offer a part of my essence, my life force, to heal you."

Faith's eyes widened as she processed this information. "You're going to sacrifice a part of yourself to save me?" she asked weakly.

Buffy nodded, her hand reaching out to gently cup Faith's cheek. "Yes, Faith. I'm willing to do it because I love you, and I'll do whatever it takes to keep you safe. We're in this together, and I'll do everything in my power to make sure you're okay. Our destinies are bound, and nothing can break our connection."

City Hall

The Mayor paced back and forth in his office, his face contorted with anger and frustration. He couldn't believe the mess that had been created. His plan had been to eliminate Buffy, the thorn in his side, not to harm Faith. The vampire who had shot Faith stood before him, trembling under the Mayor's seething gaze.

"Can someone please explain to me," the Mayor hissed, his voice laced with venom, "why in the world you would harm Faith? She's like family to me, you imbecile!"

The vampire stammered, trying to find the words to explain. "I... I thought... I thought it would weaken Buffy, make her vulnerable. I didn't know it would hurt Faith. I swear!"

The Mayor's anger flared even brighter. "You thought, you thought? You were supposed to follow my orders precisely! Faith was not to be harmed; do you understand? I love that girl like she's my own flesh and blood. You've jeopardized everything!"

The vampire cowered under the Mayor's rage, realizing the gravity of his mistake. "I'm sorry, sir. I didn't mean to cause any harm to Faith. I thought I was doing what you wanted."

The Mayor took a deep breath, attempting to regain his composure. His love for Faith was genuine, and he couldn't bear the thought of losing her. "You've put us in a difficult position. You better hope that Buffy finds a way to save Faith. And make no mistake, if Faith dies, I will make you suffer like you've never imagined."

Summers Home

Buffy stood by the door of hers and Faith's bedroom, her heart heavy with worry for her beloved girlfriend. Faith was weakened by the poison from the mystical arrow, making this sacrificial act all the more crucial and perilous. In the center of the room, the circular symbol representing their eternal bond awaited her.

Faith, pale and fragile, sat on the bed, her eyes reflecting both determination and vulnerability. This was a profound and potentially dangerous ritual, and Buffy was acutely aware of the risks involved.

With gentle steps, Buffy approached the center of the symbol. She held in her hand a small, clear vial containing a shimmering, golden liquid. This was the elixir Willow said would represent a part of her own essence, her life force.

Buffy's voice trembled as she recited the ancient incantation, taking into account Faith's weakened state. "By the light that guides us, and the love that unites us, I offer this part of my essence, my very life force, to merge with Faith, my eternal love. With the strength of our bond, let this elixir heal her and bind us forever." Her voice carried a mixture of love, determination, and vulnerability as she spoke the words that would bind their destinies together.

As the incantation left her lips, Buffy uncorked the vial, and a warm, golden glow emanated from the liquid within. She carefully poured it onto a small, silver bowl at the center of the symbol, where it transformed into a delicate mist.

The mist swirled and enveloped Faith, its soothing light caressing her like a gentle breeze. Faith's weakened form began to regain strength, her vitality returning as the mystical elixir mended the damage caused by the poison.

With newfound strength, Faith got off the bed and moved closer to Buffy, her eyes filled with gratitude and love. Together, they touched the silver bowl, their fingers intertwining as they sealed the ritual with a kiss, their lips meeting in a sweet and passionate embrace.

The mist expanded, surrounding them both and forming an unbreakable bond between their souls. Their destinies were now intertwined on a deeper level, a connection that transcended time and space.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

Giles stood just outside the bedroom door, hidden in the dimly lit hallway. He had watched the entire ritual with a mixture of apprehension and awe. The sight of Buffy and Faith coming together in such a profound and selfless way had left him in quiet amazement.

As the mystical mist enveloped the two young women, Giles could feel the immense power of their bond. It was a testament to their love, determination, and willingness to sacrifice for each other. The ritual had forged an eternal connection between them, one that transcended the physical realm.

Giles's heart swelled with pride for both Buffy and Faith. They had faced insurmountable challenges and dangers throughout their lives as Slayers, and now they had willingly taken on this extraordinary burden to ensure their love was eternal. It was a testament to their courage and the depth of their feelings for each other.

After the mist had fully dissipated and the ritual was complete, Giles took a step back, allowing them their privacy. He knew that their journey was far from over, and that this new bond would come with its own set of challenges. But with the strength of their love and the power of the ritual, he had no doubt that Buffy and Faith would face whatever lay ahead with unwavering determination.

Buffy is on her feet, in her street clothes. Entering the room to find it empty.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

Faith and Buffy stood close, their arms wrapped around each other in a warm, comforting embrace. Faith's voice was soft and filled with contemplation as she spoke.

"I know you were worried about me," Faith murmured, her breath brushing against Buffy's cheek. "But it gave me time to think about the Mayor."

Buffy looked into Faith's eyes, her love and concern evident in her gaze. "What about him?" she inquired.

Faith let out a quiet sigh, her fingers tracing patterns on Buffy's back. "Human weakness," she confessed. "It never goes away. Even his."

"Human weakness?" Buffy repeated, her curiosity piqued. "What would be his human weakness?"

Faith met Buffy's eyes with a hint of vulnerability. "Me," she admitted. "I'm his weak link. He thought of me as his daughter."

Buffy's brow furrowed as she processed the revelation. The idea that the Mayor had a personal weakness was both surprising and intriguing. It gave them a glimmer of hope in their battle against him.

Faith continued; her voice laced with determination. "If we can find a way to use that against him, exploit his love for me, we might have a chance to stop him."

Sunnydale High School

As Buffy, Faith, and Giles entered the library, their eyes immediately locked onto Xander, Willow, and Oz gathered around the table. The tension in the room was palpable, and it was clear that something significant was unfolding. Xander paced back and forth with an anxious energy that filled the room.

Willow and Oz, seated in chairs, looked up in unison when they noticed Buffy and Faith's arrival. Relief washed over Willow's face as she called out, "Faith!" Her voice trembled with a mix of fear and hope.

Xander, his pacing interrupted, turned to Faith with a worried expression and asked, "Are you okay?" The concern in his voice was tinged with a touch of guilt, as if he felt responsible for what had happened.

Oz, ever the observant and empathetic one, immediately inquired, "How do you feel?"

Faith's eyes flickered with a mix of emotions as she stood there. She took a deep breath, her voice laced with gratitude and a touch of vulnerability as she responded, her gaze never leaving Buffy. "I feel... alive," she whispered, her voice carrying a profound sense of relief and awe. "Thanks to Buffy, I'm better than okay. I'm here, and I'm... really grateful, you guys."

Buffy's voice resonated with a mix of relief and excitement as she confirmed, "The ritual worked, just like you said it would, Will. Thanks for finding it, guys."

Willow, Xander, and Oz exchanged glances, their expressions softening with the knowledge that their efforts had brought Faith back from the brink. Willow spoke up, "We're just glad it worked, Buffy."

Buffy's thoughts then turned to Angel, and she inquired about his whereabouts, "So where is Angel?"

Oz answered with his usual calm demeanor, "He's at the mansion. He wanted to wait, but it got sunny."

Willow added, her tone filled with understanding, "He did want us to tell you, Faith, that he's happy you're alive." Her eyes met Faith's with a reassuring smile. "And that while he had held out some hope that he and Buffy might get back together, he can see now that you and Buffy were always meant to be together."

Faith's heart swelled with gratitude for Angel's understanding. She looked at Buffy with a profound sense of love, knowing that they were, indeed, meant to be together, and whispered, "We are, Buffy."

Buffy's voice was resolute as she said, "Okay. Get everyone. Faith and I are ready."

Willow couldn't hide her confusion and concern, and she inquired, "Ready for what?"

Buffy and Faith exchanged a determined look, their voices merging as they responded in unison, "War."

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

Buffy snuggled up with Faith, finding comfort in her embrace as she settled into her girlfriend's lap. With a hint of doubt, she looked around at Giles, Willow, Oz, Xander, Angel, and Cordelia, and asked, "So, are we crazy?"

Willow, always the voice of reason, replied cautiously, "Well, crazy is such a strong word." Her tone suggested that she might be leaning toward exactly that conclusion.

Giles, the wise watcher, chewed gently on one of the arms of his glasses, deep in thought. "Let's not rule it out though," he said, his words carrying a sense of prudence.

Buffy, determined to explore all possibilities, questioned, "You don't think it can be done?"

Giles met her gaze and responded thoughtfully, "I didn't say that. I might, but not yet." He considered the weight of their plan and the odds of success.

Cordelia, standing in the sunlight and adding her signature dose of honesty, chimed in, "I personally don't think it's impossible to come up with a crazier plan." She crossed her arms under her chest.

Oz's usually calm demeanor was broken as he looked up at Cordelia from his chair by the table, his voice deadpan, "We attack The Mayor with hummus." His words hung in the air, drawing everyone's attention, and a moment of stunned silence followed.

Cordelia, in a rare moment of humility, admitted, "I stand corrected."

Oz simply shrugged. "Just trying to keep things in perspective."

Cordelia rolled her eyes and huffed, but a hint of gratitude shimmered beneath her exasperation. "Thank you. My point, however, is, crazy or not, it's pretty much the only plan we've got. Besides, it's Buffy and Faith's, and they're slay gals, you know, Ms. Like-To-Fight. So..."

Xander, always quick with a quip, interrupted Cordelia's rambling speech, saying with a grin, "I think there was a 'yea' vote buried in there somewhere."

Faith, recognizing the need for unity in their mission, spoke up, "Well, Buffy and I are going to need every single one of you on board." Her gaze swept over their eclectic group, a silent plea for their support and commitment to the impending battle against The Mayor.

Buffy locked her eyes onto Xander, her expression earnest. "Especially you, Xander. You're sort of the key figure here," she informed him.

"Key?" Xander gulped, his anxiety bubbling to the surface. He took a deep breath and attempted to lighten the mood, saying with a hint of self-deprecating humor, "Ok, pride, humility, and here is the mind-numbing fear."

But then, he turned serious, letting out a sigh as he faced the daunting responsibility ahead. "What do I have to do?"

Buffy's hopeful question hung in the air, and she searched for any glimmer of military knowledge that Xander might possess. "Do you remember any of your military training from when you became soldier guy?"

Xander perked up with a hint of optimism. "Uh, rocket launcher?"

Faith shook her head regretfully, her voice tinged with realism. "Rocket launcher's not going to get it done."

Buffy concurred; her voice filled with a sense of foreboding. "Faith's right. It took a volcano to kill one of these things last time."

Giles, the ever-cautious watcher, rose from his perch and walked over to Buffy and Faith, his demeanor marked by a touch of concern. "Um all this is rather dependent on you two being able to control The Mayor."

Faith's confidence shone through as she spoke, "We're going to play on his human weakness."

Giles muttered softly to himself, acknowledging the complexity of the task at hand. "His weaknesses."

Buffy and Faith nodded in agreement. "Right."

Giles looked at them pointedly. "Which is...?"

Faith retrieved a knife that the Mayor had given her, a symbol of the connection they had shared before he discovered her true allegiance. "Me," she answered, her voice carrying a hint of sadness. "He gave this to me before he learned that I was a spy. He thought of me as a daughter."

Buffy, with a determination in her eyes, added, "We might be able to use his feelings for Faith."

Angel's voice cut through the tension as he spoke up, his unwavering gaze fixed on Buffy and Faith. "I agree with Buffy and Faith. When he believed he had turned me, I could tell he cared for Faith. I think Faith is going to be the way to get to him."

Just as the group absorbed Angel's insight, the door swung open, and Wesley walked in. His calm demeanor was a stark contrast to the turmoil in the room, and he addressed the group with a touch of nervousness, "You haven't an enormous amount of time."

Xander, always quick with a quip, couldn't help but make a sarcastic remark. "Hey, it's Mr. States-the-Obvious."

Buffy's voice was cold and unwelcoming as she declared, "The Council is not welcome here." She didn't even turn to look at Wesley.

Faith's response was equally disdainful, her snarl revealing her anger. "I have to second that. We have no time for orders, especially when you wanted to let me die. If we need someone to scream like a woman, we'll give you a call."

Wesley stopped in his tracks as he stood beside Buffy and Faith's chairs, fully aware that the room's attention was centered on him, except for Buffy and Faith. He then surprised everyone by saying, "I'm not here for The Council. Just tell me how I can help."

Buffy and Faith exchanged a significant glance before slowly turning their attention to Wesley, their piercing gaze searching for any sign of deceit in his expression.

Cordelia couldn't help but express her admiration for Wesley, her voice dripping with affection, "That is so classy." She sought agreement from the others in the room, scanning their faces for confirmation.

Faith, always cautious, muttered her response, choosing her words carefully, "It's a start."

Wesley beamed at her, eager to prove his sincerity. "So, there is something I can do… beside scream like a woman." He attempted an American-style joke, and it managed to bring a slight twitch of a smile to Buffy's lips.

Buffy and Faith rose from their chairs, feeling reenergized, and Buffy declared, "There is plenty. Chores for everyone." She glanced around the room, a sense of determination and unity filling the space. " Okay, this is how it's going to lay out…"

City Hall

"The transformation should begin at exactly 3:28," the Mayor declared as he paced his office, his vampire minions gathered around him, ready to ensure order among the other vampires. "I'll just be finishing my speech, you know. It's too bad you fellows have to miss that because I think it speaks to every one of us." Wilkins smiled with a sense of pride. "I mean, heck, I've been working on it for a hundred years. It better be good." He chuckled.

"They'll try to run, of course," he continued, "and this is when I'll need you boys in flanking position."

"But, Sir," one of the vampires protested, concern etched on his undead face. "The sun!"

The Mayor's response carried an eerie confidence that left the vampires perplexed. "Not a problem." His cryptic words raised puzzled looks among the undead creatures, as they wondered what he had up his sleeve.

Sunnydale High School

Wesley sat by the table, holding the pages that Willow had ripped from the books of Ascension, his expression etched with concern and determination. The room seemed to grow darker as he read aloud, his voice laced with an undercurrent of foreboding. "Darkness will follow and day becomes night."

Buffy, standing next to him, acknowledged the gravity of the situation with a solemn nod. "An eclipse."

Wesley nodded in agreement, his anxiety palpable as he considered the implications. "Standard procedure for an Ascension," he confirmed.

Angel, ever the brooding figure, stepped over to them, his presence casting a shadow over the group. He hovered close to Buffy, his voice carrying a sense of resolute purpose. "That puts me back into the game," he said, his words carrying the weight of his responsibility and the urgency of the moment.

"Yea, it does," Buffy replied, her gaze shifting from Angel to Xander and back again. She regarded them both with a piercing stare, her voice holding a note of frank seriousness. "You and Xander are going to have to work together now." Her eyes bore into them, emphasizing the gravity of the situation, her frustration mingling with her determination. "Can you guys handle that? Cause seriously, Faith and I don't have time to babysit you."

Xander turned his eyes to Buffy, his anxiety evident as he contemplated the prospect of working closely with Angel. His voice wavered as he sought reassurance, "But, I'm still key-guy, right?"

Buffy nodded, her expression softening as she acknowledged Xander's concerns. "Right."

Xander took a deep breath and mustered the courage to propose a compromise. "Then Angel, in his non-key-guy capacity… can work with me."

Angel, ever the sarcastic figure, couldn't resist a snort of disapproval. "What fun," he muttered, his reluctance clear in his voice.

Xander, not one to back down, pointed a finger at Angel with determination. "Hey! Key-guy is still talking…"

Buffy's patience was wearing thin, and she couldn't hide her frustration. She interjected with an accusatory tone, "Oh, good, let's bicker!" Her eyes shifted from Angel to Xander, disappointment evident in her gaze. "That'll work great." She saw both Angel and Xander with shameful looks on their faces, her words striking a chord. "You're like little old ladies."

City Hall

The Mayor pointed with purpose at the sewer entrance on the map, his finger tracing the path with a calculated intent. "You come up through the sewers here. The important thing is containment. I'll need to feed. It's crucial in the first few minutes to sustain the change."

The vampires under his command were fixated on the map, a mix of fear and reverence in their undead eyes. They hung on the Mayor's every word, knowing the consequences of failure in this dark endeavor.

The Mayor locked eyes with the vampire, his gaze penetrating their very core. "What does that mean?" His finger wagged accusingly, and the vampires met his intense stare, their unspoken understanding weighing heavily in the room. "No snacking. I see blood on your lips, it's a visit to the woodshed for you boys. Kill. Don't feed."

Sunnydale High School

Faith strode over to the library table on the main floor, her presence exuding an air of confidence as she approached Willow and Oz. She peered over their shoulders, her curiosity evident as she leaned in to see the books they had scattered around them. "So, how are we coming on volcano detail?" she asked, her voice carrying a hint of excitement for the impending mission.

Oz, usually the man of few words, looked up at her, his calm demeanor a stark contrast to Faith's energy. "I think we can work it out," he informed her, glancing back down at the books, his focus unwavering.

Willow's face lit up with enthusiasm, her passion for knowledge evident. "Fun with chemistry," she beamed, her eyes dancing with curiosity.

Buffy, always ready for action, joined the group, offering some crucial information. "Xander said he should be able to get the materials."

Oz's curiosity got the best of him as he inquired, "Who's going to stoke it up?"

Faith turned to look at Giles, who had just walked over to the group. Her tone was laced with a mix of respect and concern. "You feel up to it?"

Giles removed his glasses, his expression a mix of resignation and acceptance. "Ah, I suppose it should be I. It's strangely fitting in a grotesque fashion," he murmured, his voice tinged with a touch of melancholy. He then put his glasses back on, allowing himself a moment to look nostalgically around at his library, which had been the epicenter of countless battles and revelations.

"Okay, guys, start reaching out," Buffy instructed, her voice snapping everyone back to the task at hand.

Faith, with her signature determination, turned to the former Watcher. "Giles, weapons, weapons, weapons," she urged, her gaze steady and unwavering as she made her way toward the library door.

Giles couldn't help but be curious about her plan. "Ah, what about you?" he asked, his brow furrowed as he watched Faith closely.

Faith paused for a moment, her demeanor shifting to a hint of vulnerability. "Well, I think I need to be dressed up for my girl's graduation," she admitted before exiting the library entirely, leaving behind a trail of intrigue.

Giles considered her words as he turned to Buffy. "She's thinking…"

Buffy completed his thought, her eyes filled with determination. "My fiancée has more than one reason to get dressed up. If she's going to play to the Mayor's weakness, she needs to look the part."

City Hall

The Mayor's voice was filled with authority and anticipation as he addressed his minions, the weight of their dark mission looming over them. "Remember, fast and brutal," he instructed, his words laced with an eerie excitement. "It's going to be a whole new world come nightfall; we don't want to weaken now."

The vampires nodded in acknowledgment, their faces twisted into sinister grins, fully aware of the significance of the night's events. They then turned as a group and began heading towards the office door, their steps echoing with a sense of purpose and malevolence.

The Mayor, however, couldn't resist imparting some additional directives. "And boys?" He called after them, his tone a mix of fatherly concern and ruthless determination. "Let's watch the swearing." He was torn between his affection for Faith and his fear that she could pose a threat to his grand plans. "And you leave Faith alone. If anyone is killing her, it will be me."

Summers Home

Faith stood in the dimly lit bedroom she shared with Buffy, a sense of purpose in her movements as she prepared for a momentous occasion. Sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a soft, warm glow over the room. She looked at the dress she had chosen for the day, a delicate and elegant creation that was a stark contrast to her usual attire. The dress was a rich shade of deep red, with intricate lace details that added a touch of sophistication.

As she slipped the dress on, Faith's fingers moved with a deftness that belied her tough exterior. She adjusted the straps, ensuring the dress hugged her form perfectly. The fabric rustled as she moved, the soft sound a reminder of the transformation she was undergoing for the sake of their mission.

Faith gazed at her reflection in the mirror, her expression a mixture of determination and vulnerability. She had fought demons, both inner and outer, throughout her life, but this was different. Today, she was playing a part, infiltrating the enemy's world by becoming the very thing he cherished most.

With a deep breath, Faith took a moment to collect herself. She knew the risks, the potential for exposure and danger. But she was ready. For Buffy, for their friends, and for the world they were fighting to protect.

Sunnydale High School

Percy stood in front of a full-length mirror, his friends gathered around him, and a deep frown etched on his face as he examined his reflection. "Are they serious?" he asked them, disbelief evident in his voice. "I'm going to look stupid in this!"

Just as his uncertainty mounted, Willow entered the room, relieved to have finally located him. "Percy!"

Upon hearing his name, Percy turned to look at her, his expression still clouded with doubt. "Do I look stupid in this? Be honest."

Willow's eyes moved up and down, taking in Percy's appearance, and a warm smile spread across her face. "You look great," she assured him, her words sincere. She then gestured for him to step closer. "You got a sec?"

Percy nodded, grateful for Willow's reassurance, and followed her, setting aside his apprehension for the moment as he prepared to listen to what she had to say.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

Xander's frustration was evident as he walked into the classroom and spotted Harmony in the midst of her shallow social circle. With a resigned sigh, he approached her, mentally preparing himself for the impending encounter. "Harmony," he called, his voice cutting through her gossip with her friends. "Listen, I need to talk to you for a second."

Harmony's expression shifted from indifference to slight shock as she regarded Xander. She glanced at her friends, who mirrored her surprise, before responding with a hint of disdain, "You mean in front of other people?" The very idea of engaging in a conversation with someone she considered a social reject in front of her peers was utterly distasteful to her.

Xander let out another exasperated sigh, his patience wearing thin, and he gently took her by the arm, leading her out of the classroom to a more private spot.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

Outside Oz's van, the operation was in full swing, with Larry holding a trolley while Jonathon anxiously watched for any approaching individuals. From within the van, Willow passed heavy, oversized bags to Oz, who, in turn, handed them over to Larry. The bags were loaded meticulously into the trolley, a sense of urgency and caution prevailing.

"Okay," Oz said when the trolley was loaded to its limit. He turned to Larry and Jonathon, his tone serious. "Put these with the others. Don't touch anything." His words were a warning, emphasizing the importance of their tasks.

Jonathon looked at Oz with uncertainty, seeking guidance. "Uh, wha-what do we do then?"

"Nothing," Oz replied succinctly, offering little room for interpretation.

Willow, ever the calming presence, smiled at the nervous young boy. "Just relax. Have a good time," she reassured him, her words meant to ease his anxiety.

Jonathon nodded nervously, finding a semblance of comfort in Willow's assurance. "O-ok."

Larry, the watchful sentinel, surveyed the area once more. "Okay, it's clear," he informed Jonathon. "Let's move." He took charge and started pushing the trolley in the direction of the school library. As Jonathon began to follow him, he closed the sliding van door.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

Buffy hesitated at the threshold of Giles' office, her heart heavy with unresolved emotions, her mind a battleground of conflicted feelings. When she saw Angel inside, sorting through weapons, her uncertainty grew. She contemplated whether to leave or carry on with her original intention. Slowly, she decided to enter, her steps measured and cautious.

Angel inquired with a degree of apprehension, "Is Faith back?"

Buffy came up by the desk Angel was using, and her worry was palpable. "Yea, she's in the bathroom finishing up," she replied with a faint mutter, her gaze shifting to the array of weapons laid out before her. "This isn't going to be enough," she observed, her concern etched on her face.

Angel reassured her, "Giles is on it." His gaze followed Buffy as she turned to leave, but he couldn't let her go without asking a question that weighed heavily on his mind. "How are you?" He turned to face her, his expression sincere and filled with longing.

Buffy's response was laden with complexity, mirroring the intricate web of emotions between them. "You mean in general, with you, or with what happened to Faith?" she asked, seeking clarity.

Angel's answer was open-ended, allowing her to choose the path of their conversation. "All of the above, none, you choose."

"In general, I'm good," Buffy began, her voice carrying a note of gratitude for the stability she had found in her life. "With you, in the time since I told you I can't trust you after what happened when you turned. I have since come to trust you again, Angel." She paused, her eyes locked with his, conveying her vulnerability. "I just wanted to tell you that in case we don't make it out of this alive."

Angel's eyes softened as he responded to Buffy's declaration of hope. "We will," he assured her, his voice imbued with a deep sense of determination. He reached into his pocket, pulled out a thick envelope, and handed it to her.

Buffy's eyes filled with a mix of surprise, gratitude, and a touch of vulnerability as she examined the contents of the thick envelope. The reality of the situation sank in, and her heart swelled with emotion. "What's this for?" she asked, her voice trembling slightly, her curiosity mingled with a profound sense of appreciation.

Angel met her gaze with a warm, reassuring smile. "I talk to Giles, you know," he explained gently. "He told me that you wanted to get gender-affirming surgery, but because your mother was paying for yours and Faith's wedding, you had planned to put it off. You don't have to now. I called a doctor I know in Boston. He's expecting you in July. All the information is in the envelope."

Tears welled up in Buffy's eyes as she processed his words. Her hands shook slightly, and she attempted to hand the envelope back to him. "I can't take this, Angel," she protested, her voice filled with emotion, her heart touched by his incredible generosity.

Angel, however, was unwavering in his support. "I won't take no for an answer, Buffy," he stated firmly, reaching for her hand to offer comfort and reassurance. "Think of that as my wedding gift for the most remarkable woman I've ever known." His words were a testament to the depth of his feelings for her and his desire to see her truly happy and fulfilled.

Buffy's eyes shimmered with gratitude and disbelief as she absorbed Angel's unwavering support. The weight of his gift, which would allow her to take an important step towards her true self, was almost too much to bear. She blinked back tears, her voice a fragile whisper. "Angel, this... I can't express how much this means to me."

Angel's eyes held a mixture of tenderness and determination as he gently squeezed her hand. "You don't have to," he replied, his voice soft and reassuring. "Just promise me you'll use it for what it's meant for, and that you'll keep moving forward with all the courage you've shown."

Buffy nodded; her emotions too intense for words. She hugged the envelope to her chest, a symbol of the profound support and love she had found in Angel. It was a gift that transcended material value, a promise of a brighter future, and a testament to the strength of their bond.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

Buffy stood amidst the bustling crowd of students, her gaze shifting uneasily between the empty chair beside her and the bustling activity around her. She hadn't seen Willow since they got ready for the graduation ceremony, and her absence was beginning to concern her.

As she scanned the crowd, her eyes fell upon Faith, sitting with the parents, her radiant smile catching Buffy's attention. Buffy couldn't help but admire her girlfriend's stunning dress. With a mischievous glint in her eye, she mouthed, "You look beautiful. I look forward to taking it off you later," a teasing promise that made Faith blush in response.

The music came to a halt, and in perfect unison, the students took their seats as Principal Snyder took the podium. "Congratulations to the class of 1999. You all proved more or less adequate. This is a time of celebration, so sit still and be quiet." His eyes narrowed on a particular student who was defiantly chewing gum, and he snapped, "Spit out that gum." His voice was laced with irritation as he half-turned to gesture to Mayor Wilkens. "Please welcome our distinguished guest speaker, Richard Wilkens the 3rd."

However, his patience wore thin when the same gum-chewing student made a rude gesture in response. "I saw that gesture. You see me after graduation," Snyder threatened, his eyes flaring with anger. But the student responded with a dismissive "pfft" gesture, clearly unimpressed by the authority figure. Snyder turned away, attempting to rally the students, who half-heartedly followed his lead as Mayor Wilkens rose from his seat, ready to address the graduating class.

As Willow and Oz rushed down the walkway between the two sections, Willow quickly took the empty seat beside Buffy. Buffy's smile of relief was evident as she glanced over at her, her worry fading at the sight of her friend. "Am I late? Should we fight?" Willow asked, a little flustered as she looked up at the podium, where Mayor Wilkens and Principal Snyder were shaking hands.

The Mayor stepped up to the podium, cue cards in hand, and addressed the mass of students, parents, and teachers with a smile that masked his nefarious plans. "Well," he said clearing his throat. "What a day this is! Special day. Today is our centennial, the one hundredth anniversary of the founding of Sunnydale, and I know what that means to all you kids." His smile widened. "Not a darn thing, because today something much more important happens. Today you all graduate from high school. Today all the pain, all the work, all the excitement is finally over. And what's a hundred years of history compared to that? You know what, kids..."

Buffy and Willow exchanged horrified glances, realizing that The Mayor intended to deliver the entire speech. Buffy muttered in disbelief, "Oh my God. He's going to do the entire speech."

Willow shared her anxiety, muttering anxiously, "Man. Just ascend already." The prospect of the Ascension couldn't come soon enough for them.

Buffy shook her head slightly, her frustration evident. "Evil!" she muttered, the idea of enduring the entire speech before the crucial part of their plan kicked in was almost unbearable.

Behind the podium, The Mayor continued with his speech, his words weaving a narrative of history and change. "… For all of you, it may be that there is a place in Sunnydale's history, whether you like it or not. It's been a long road getting here. For you… for Sunnydale. There has been achievement, joy, good times… and there has been grief." His smile faded, and his eyes locked onto Buffy, their gaze unwavering. Buffy stared back, her determination evident, refusing to show any weakness. "Here we are. Journey's end. And what a journey?"

The Mayor's smile returned when he spotted Faith in her dress, his tone almost fatherly. "Is it just… distance travelled? Time spent?" He shook his head. "No. it's what happens on the way, it's the things that happen to you. At the end of the journey, you're not the same. Today is about change."

Willow listened to his words with a serious expression, the underlying truth in his message resonating with her, despite the dire circumstances they faced.

"Graduation doesn't just mean your circumstances change, it means you do. You ascend to a higher level," the Mayor continued. His words were a stark contrast to the impending danger they all knew was lurking.

Xander and Cordelia, on the other hand, frowned up at him impatiently, waiting for the action to begin.

The Mayor continued with his speech, attempting to push through the waves of pain that wracked his body. "Nothing," he muttered, his voice strained. As a shadow fell over him, the students in the audience instinctively looked up, noticing the sudden darkness as the sun was blotted out. The Mayor flinched once more as a fresh wave of agony struck him, causing him to swallow thickly.

After a moment, he managed to regain his composure, albeit briefly, and looked down at his cue cards. "And so, we look back on the events that brought us to this day…" He was abruptly interrupted as a violent and more intense wave of pain rocked through him. The internal changes were causing his body to shift painfully from the inside, and he struggled to maintain his position. He leaned heavily on the podium, using it to keep himself upright.

Faith muttered impatiently, "Come on," sitting up straighter in her chair, her eyes locked onto The Mayor.

The Mayor attempted to press on once more. "We," he continued, but he was forced to stop as the excruciating pain once again overwhelmed him. He gritted his teeth, and the tension in the audience grew, with the students watching him intently, waiting to see if this was indeed the onset of the transformation they had been warned about.

"We must all…" The Mayor's voice began to waver, and then he screamed in agonizing pain, causing unease to sweep through the crowd. Fear pulsed through the hearts of the students, parents, and teachers as they exchanged uneasy glances, their anticipation turning to dread.

The Mayor, his face twisted in pain, glanced at his watch and, remarkably, managed to smile through the torment wracking his body. "It has begun. My destiny," he declared, looking out at the crowd. "It's a little sooner than I expected. I had this whole section on civic pride…" He trailed off as he shuffled through his cue cards, reaching the final one. He read the ominous words aloud, "Ascend onto the higher level."

Faith, Buffy, and Willow watched in sheer horror as The Mayor's smile transformed into a grimace of pain. His body began to stretch and grow, his face contorting as his insides went through a horrific transformation, pushing their way out. The Mayor's suit split apart, revealing the grotesque metamorphosis happening beneath.

The crowd, including Principal Snyder, leaned back in shock and terror as they witnessed The Mayor's human form turning into a gigantic serpent. His body expanded until he stood taller than the school buildings, his form now that of a monstrous, serpentine creature with long clawed mandibles surrounding a gaping, rounded mouth.

In a collective surge of courage and determination, the graduating class of students stood up as one, their resolve unwavering. The faculty, on the other hand, fled from their seats, except for Principal Snyder, who remained in shocked disbelief, staring up at the colossal snake demon that had once been the esteemed Mayor of Sunnydale.

Parents in the back rows began to scramble down the stairs, desperate to escape the horrifying sight before them, never imagining that their children would remain behind. As they descended, they unwittingly left their offspring behind to face the impending danger.

The loyal vampires, who had served The Mayor, swiftly ascended the stairs, sealing the students within and trapping them.

Buffy gazed up at the monstrous serpent that Richard Wilkens had Ascended into, as it roared in rage and hunger. "Now!" Buffy and Faith shouted in unison, and the graduating class responded immediately. They threw off their graduation robes, revealing crosses, axes, and an assortment of weapons they had discreetly concealed beneath their gowns.

"Flame units," Buffy and Faith commanded, and Larry, along with several other students who had been assigned flamethrowers, stepped forward. They activated the devices, unleashing a torrent of searing flames that lashed out at The Mayor's lower body. The serpentine beast he had become wailed in agony as the intense heat and fire licked at its form.

Buffy then turned to Xander, who had mounted his chair, ensuring he could be clearly seen by the students and herself. She exchanged a nod with him, acknowledging his crucial role in their plan.

Xander's orders were swift and decisive as he raised his arm, signaling the first wave of attack. Willow and a group of other students aimed their bows, loaded with lance points, at the towering serpent that The Mayor had become. At Xander's command, they released a volley of arrows aimed at the creature.

Some of the arrows found their mark, causing The Mayor to cry out in fresh agony. However, the serpent reacted in an unexpected and horrifying way. It lunged down and swiftly devoured a student from the first row, swallowing them whole. The shock and terror of the event left Buffy and Faith exchanging stunned glances. The idea that The Mayor would resort to such brutality had not crossed their minds.

Students in the front row, who were not equipped with flamethrowers, scattered in fear, screaming as they fled. Panic and chaos began to ensue among the graduates.

Principal Snyder, still sitting in his seat, snapped out of his horrified shock, his beady eyes glaring up at the monstrous serpent with a mixture of anger and outrage. "This… this is simply unacceptable!" he cried, his voice shaking with indignation as he addressed the towering beast.

In the back row, three students overwhelmed by the horror of the situation turned and fled, only to run straight into the group of waiting vampires. The vampires fell upon them, and their screams echoed through the chaos.

Oz, hearing the screams behind him, turned to look at the horrifying scene. He quickly glanced back at Xander, shouting to be heard over the cacophony. "Xander?"

Xander quickly assessed the situation as the vampires approached. "Arm bowmen," he shouted, and Oz and the small group surrounding him picked up long bows and fitted their arrows. The vampires advanced up the steps, their menacing presence now clearly noticed by the students. The students, determined to defend themselves, lit the ends of their arrows with lighters and took aim at the approaching demons.

"Fire!" Xander commanded when they were all ready. Without hesitation, the students released a volley of burning arrows, which found their marks among the advancing vampires. Several vampires ignited, screaming in agony as they were reduced to ashes.

As Xander focused on the confrontation with the vampires, he suddenly turned his attention back to the students fighting The Mayor. The sight of Jonathon being hurled through the air, landing on top of some students, knocked them all to the ground. The danger was increasing, and the students were struggling to hold their ground.

Faith joined Buffy; her concern evident. "They're going to get slaughtered," she said to her girlfriend.

Buffy nodded in agreement as she observed the chaotic scene of the makeshift army that had gathered. Realizing the students' lives were in grave danger, she issued a decisive order. "Fall back!" she called out, standing her ground as the students began to retreat, seeking safety in numbers.

Xander looked behind him and, seeing the vampires regrouping, shouted, "Fire," once more. The bowmen unleashed another volley into the massing group of vampires, doing their best to hold the approaching threat at bay.

The vampires, who had initially expected an easy meal and a chance to wreak havoc, quickly realized that their escape was blocked. A determined group of students led by Wesley, and with Angel standing alongside them, had positioned themselves in the way. The prattle of teenagers' voices filled their ears, a stark contrast to the terrified silence that had now fallen upon the students who were confronted by the vampires. The sight of this fearless group of students and a fierce Angel caused nervous fear to engulf the vampires.

Angel surveyed the vampires who had aligned themselves with The Mayor. He growled with a menacing intensity and stepped forward, initiating the attack by swiftly snapping the neck of the first vampire he encountered. The students, inspired by his courage, followed his lead, launching their assault on the vampires who had once served The Mayor.

As the battle raged on, Wesley, wielding his weapon, moved forward with determination, ready to engage the vampires. However, his advance was abruptly halted as he ran into the outstretched arm of a vampire. The vampire's arm struck Wesley's neck, sending him crashing to the ground with a startled cry.

Angel, deeply engrossed in the battle, unleashed his ferocity upon the vampires. He threw one vampire into another, before delivering a powerful punch that incapacitated a third. Angel displayed his formidable combat skills, easily holding his own in the fight.

Larry, having noticed that his flamethrower had choked and ceased to function, desperately attempted to revive it by pressing the lever multiple times. When it became clear that the device wouldn't work, he discarded it and charged at The Mayor with a war cry, a lance clutched in his hand. The Mayor, catching sight of the approaching student, reacted swiftly. He whipped his tail around and ensnared Larry by the neck, flinging him violently into the ground. Larry landed harshly, his vacant eyes staring into nothingness as blood oozed from his mouth, his neck having been fatally broken.

Angel, engaged in a brutal confrontation, managed to shove one vampire away before dealing a devastating backhand to another. However, he was taken to the ground from behind as a vampire tackled him. Angel swiftly retaliated, plunging his hand through the vampire's chest and ripping out its heart, causing the vampire to disintegrate into dust. He then flipped to his feet, his demon visage having surfaced in the heat of the battle, ensuring he maintained control and didn't become a target for the students.

Faith, standing on a chair, shifted her attention to The Mayor, who loomed above them. She noticed Principal Snyder, who had climbed onto a chair as well, now yelling up at the giant serpent demon and shaking his fist in a display of anger and frustration. "This is not orderly. This is not discipline!" Snyder shouted up at The Mayor. "You're on my campus, buddy."

The Mayor's serpentine head turned in search of the source of the voice. "And when I say I want quiet, I want quiet. I want…" Snyder's indignant speech was cut short as The Mayor responded with a high-pitched whine; his attention momentarily directed at the furious principal. The chaotic battle raged on, and the students faced a dire situation with each passing moment.

The Mayor abruptly lunged toward Principal Snyder, cutting him off mid-sentence. In a horrifying display, the serpent demon swiftly engulfed the short man, his legs kicking as they dangled from the serpent's mouth for a brief moment before being swallowed down. Faith, Buffy, and Xander watched in a mixture of shock and horror. While none of them had particularly liked Principal Snyder, they had never wished for him to meet such a gruesome fate.

Buffy surveyed the students who were still clustered around her and Faith, their eyes fixed on the horrifying spectacle. With urgency in her voice, she shouted, "Fall back! Get back!" She recognized the pressing danger and knew that the students needed to retreat to safety.

Faith turned to Willow, who had remained by her side, and urged her to leave. "Go," she insisted, conveying the urgency of the situation.

Willow looked at Buffy and Faith, her uncertainty evident for a moment. She then shifted her gaze to the immense serpentine beast that had just devoured her former principal before turning her attention back to Buffy and Faith. "Good luck," she said with genuine feeling before she pivoted and made her way toward the other students who were awaiting Xander's orders.

Buffy glanced back at Xander, who remained perched on his chair to maintain a good vantage point of the ongoing battle. "Xander, take 'em down," she ordered, her determination unwavering.

Xander promptly pulled a stake from his back pocket and stepped forward. "Everyone," he shouted, raising his voice to address the students around him. "Hand to hand." He leaped down from the chair, following his troops as they began descending the steps. "Everyone! Let's go! Move! Move!" he yelled, urging the students to action as they charged toward the vampires.

Amidst the chaos and battle, Angel exhibited his strength and combat prowess, sending a vampire hurtling into three others, knocking them down. In quick succession, he broke the necks of two additional vampires, significantly thinning the vampire ranks. His small group of students, following his lead, managed to drive the remaining vampires back up the steps.

One of the vampires, sensing the tide turning against them, turned on his heel and yelled, "Get the kids!" The other remaining vampires hesitated, unsure of their next move. However, their pause was short-lived as they were soon met by a determined group of students who charged down the steps, armed with baseball bats, axes, crosses, and stakes, shouting war cries as they went.

Amid the melee, Harmony cried out in pain and fear as a vampire grabbed her from behind and sunk its fangs into her neck, disregarding The Mayor's orders about not feeding. A courageous female student and a friend of Harmony's swung her baseball bat at the attacking vampire, forcing him to release Harmony. The two girls then pounced on the vampire, fighting back with determination.

Jonathon, displaying unexpected bravery, leaped into the fray, tackling a vampire and sending them both tumbling down the steps.

Xander grappled with a vampire that was attempting to bite him. "Right flank, close in! Close!" he shouted as he pushed the vampire off him. "Jason and Paul, you guys are right flank!" Startled but eager to follow Xander's instructions, the two boys led their respective groups into the battle, renewing the attack on the surprised vampires.

Amidst the fierce battle, Angel exhibited impressive combat skills, punching a charging vampire before swiftly dodging an attack from behind. He turned with a snarl and delivered a powerful punch to the vampire's gut, followed by a lethal neck-breaking move that reduced his opponent to a cloud of dust.

Cordelia, while making her way down the stairs, staked a vampire that had come after her, wincing as dust covered her clothes in the process.

Wesley, on the other hand, lay prone on the ground, having not moved an inch after being knocked down. Struggling to get someone's attention, he raised his arm and groaned in pain. "How about some help here…" he called out, but his pleas fell on deaf ears as people continued to run past him without stopping, leaving him to his plight.

Faith, carrying a knife she had retrieved from her purse, stood alongside Buffy amidst the chaos of tipped-over chairs and discarded weapons. She waved the knife in an attempt to gain the attention of The Mayor, the colossal serpentine beast towering over them. "Hey!" Faith shouted, holding up the knife and gesturing with it to engage the creature's attention. "You remember this, don't you?"

The Mayor's gaze fixated on the knife, his eyes locked onto Faith as she continued to speak. "You gave this to me when you thought of me as your daughter. Guess what? I'm not your daughter, and I was never going to be your daughter," Faith declared coldly.

In response to Faith's words, The Mayor emitted a growl of anger, gnashing the long-clawed mandibles around his mouth. Faith taunted him further, daring him to try to take the knife back. "You want to get it back from me… Dick?" Faith challenged, her words brimming with defiance.

The Mayor made a guttural, howling sound, and Buffy and Faith swiftly turned and ran toward the school building, knowing they had successfully captured his attention. The serpentine beast lunged after them with surprising speed for its size, crashing through the doors in relentless pursuit. Its massive body smashed through walls and hallways as it relentlessly followed the two Slayers.

Buffy and Faith dashed down the hall, eventually bursting into the library as they sought to reach their destination. They turned a corner and collided with the library, making their way to the center of the main floor. Faith dropped the knife to the ground in front of a set of explosives that had been prepared earlier.

They quickly vaulted over a banister; their eyes locked on The Mayor as he crashed through the library doors. Without hesitation, Buffy and Faith took a running leap out of an open window that had been rigged for their escape, leaving The Mayor behind to survey the array of explosives, fuel barrels, and flammable materials strategically placed around the library.

The Mayor looked around in bewilderment at the potential devastation that surrounded him. "Well, gosh," he muttered, clearly taken aback by the dire situation he now found himself in.

Buffy and Faith crouched down beside Giles, who had a plunger in front of him. "Do it," Buffy ordered, her eyes locked onto the library window through which they had made their escape.

Without hesitation, Giles pushed down the plunger, igniting the explosives that had been strategically placed in the library. There was an immediate, thunderous explosion, and a massive cloud of smoke and shrapnel burst through the roof of the school library, which had been obliterated by the powerful blast.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

Buffy and Faith walked alongside Xander just outside the school grounds, their gazes resting on Wesley as he was wheeled toward an awaiting ambulance on a gurney. Wesley, in his usual verbose manner, tried to request pain relief from the paramedics, but his pleas seemed to go unanswered as he was loaded into the ambulance. "If I could-could just get something for the pain. It's rather a lot of pain, actually. Aspirin? If you would… uh…ah," he whined, the doors of the ambulance closing behind him. "Perhaps if I could just be knocked unconscious," he suggested as the vehicle drove away.

Buffy and Faith exchanged glances, somewhat indifferent to Wesley's plight. Xander, on the other hand, continued to watch the scene with amusement, finding some satisfaction in the chaos and absurdity they had just experienced. He turned to Buffy and Faith, sharing his perspective. "We got off pretty cheap… considering."

Buffy nodded in agreement but appeared distracted, her eyes scanning the surroundings as she searched for a familiar face.

Faith placed a comforting hand on her fiancée's shoulder, understanding the reason behind Buffy's search for Angel. Despite the events and the imminent wedding between her and Buffy, she knew that Angel still held a special place in Buffy's heart, and that connection was not something that could be easily dismissed or forgotten.

"He made it through the fight," Xander remarked, his words carrying the unspoken understanding of why Buffy was searching for Angel. He knew that Angel had been Buffy's first love since she had come out as transgender, and his support held deep meaning for her. "I guess he took off somewhere afterwards," Xander added before walking away, giving Buffy and Faith a moment of privacy.

Buffy turned her attention to Faith, her gratitude and a sense of longing evident in her expression. "I just wanted to thank him again," she told Faith, her voice soft and filled with emotion. "And to say goodbye."

Faith was curious, unsure of what Buffy wanted to thank Angel for, and she raised an eyebrow in question. "Thank him for what?" she wondered.

In response, Buffy pulled out the envelope Angel had given her and handed it to Faith. "It's for my bottom surgery," she explained, her eyes locked on Faith's, her vulnerability and appreciation evident in the gesture.

Faith examined the contents of the envelope, taking in the sight of the substantial wad of cash. "Wow," she remarked, clearly surprised and appreciative of the generous gift from Angel. It was a significant contribution towards Buffy's bottom surgery, and the gesture wasn't lost on her.

Giles approached Buffy and Faith, concern etched on his face as he placed a hand on each of their shoulders, showing his genuine care. "Are you two alright?" he asked, taking in their exhausted expressions.

Buffy responded, tilting her head slightly. "I'm tired," she admitted, her weariness evident in her voice.

Faith chimed in, clutching the envelope close to her chest. "So am I," she added, her emotions still in turmoil from the recent events.

Giles nodded, understanding their exhaustion. "I should imagine so. It's been quite a couple of days."

Buffy offered a tired but genuine smile. "I think Faith will agree that we haven't processed everything yet. That our brains aren't really functioning on the higher levels. It's pretty much: fire bad; tree pretty," she quipped, and Faith nodded in agreement.

"Understandable. Well, when they're working again, congratulate them on a good campaign. You two did very well," Giles praised them with sincerity, acknowledging their accomplishments in the face of adversity.

Faith smiled warmly at Giles. "Thank you. We will."

Giles adjusted his glasses and then continued. "I managed to ferret this out of the wreckage. Now it may not interest you, but…" He reached into his jacket and produced Buffy's neatly rolled-up diploma, tied with a ribbon. "I'd say you earned it," he said, handing the diploma to Buffy.

Buffy accepted the diploma, looking at it for a moment before responding with a wry smile. "Yeah, Faith and I blew up my second high school," she remarked, reflecting on the peculiar circumstances of their graduation.

Giles took a deep breath and glanced back at the demolished school. "There is a certain… dramatic irony that's attached to all this. A synchronicity that borders on… on predestination, one might say."

Faith grinned at him, amused by the situation. "Fire bad; tree pretty," she interjected, emphasizing the simplicity of their current priorities in the midst of the chaos.

Giles nodded and smiled warmly at Buffy and Faith. "Yes, s-sorry," he apologized as he put his glasses back on. "I'm going to see to Wesley, see if he's… is still…" He couldn't help but chuckle. "Whimpering." With that, he turned and walked away, heading for the ambulance where Wesley was being treated.

Buffy called after him, "Hey, see you in a few weeks!"

"I look forward to it," Giles replied, understanding the reference to her and Faith's upcoming wedding. He continued on his way to check on Wesley.

Faith spotted something off to the side. "I'll be right back," she told her girlfriend.

Buffy followed Faith's gaze and spotted Angel standing a small distance away from them looking at them as wisps of smoke blew around him. "Tell him thank you, and goodbye."

Faith's heart raced as she approached Angel, her steps quickening with gratitude. "Hey," she said, her voice laced with genuine appreciation.

Angel's somber expression softened as he met Faith's gaze. "Hey," he replied, his eyes carrying the weight of his unspoken feelings.

Faith's eyes dropped to the envelope still clutched in her hand, her emotions welling up. It was a precious gift, far more than the sum of money inside. "I just wanted to tell you thank you," she began, her voice trembling with sincerity. "I know this means the world to Buffy, that she's going to get to finally be her true self."

Angel nodded, his gaze never leaving Faith's. "She and you are both welcome, Faith," he said, his voice tinged with a mix of melancholy and happiness. He knew this moment marked a profound shift in their lives. "While that money is for her surgery, it is my wedding gift to the both of you. Have a long, happy life with her, Faith."

Tears welled up in Faith's eyes, and she blinked them back, not wanting to show any weakness in front of Angel. She cleared her throat, her voice filled with a mix of emotions as she managed to say, "Thank you, Angel, for everything. We'll cherish your gift, and we'll make sure to have that long, happy life you wished for us." With a heartfelt nod, she turned away, rejoining her girlfriend, who had been patiently waiting.