Chapter 75: Graduation
May 21, 1999 – Friday
Faith's Apartment
Buffy and Faith stood in the apartment that the Mayor had given to Faith, surrounded by scattered clothes, weapons, and packing boxes. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of tension and urgency, the very air thick with the weight of impending challenges. As a cat gracefully leaped onto the bed, its movements seemed almost surreal against the chaotic backdrop. Its presence, however, offered a momentary respite from the intensity that filled the room.
"Who's gonna look after him?" Buffy asked, her voice tinged with concern, her eyes fixated on the little feline navigating through the disarray
Faith walked up behind Buffy, her movements deliberate yet betraying a sense of inner turmoil. She gently corrected her, "It's a she. And aren't these things supposed to take care of themselves?"
Buffy, however, couldn't be deterred. She mused, "A higher power, guiding us?" Her words hung in the air, a contemplative whisper amidst the chaos.
Faith shook her head, her expression reflecting the burden of her responsibilities. "I'm pretty sure that's not what I meant. Seriously though, Hope gets her. Something to hold on to while I'm in jail, assuming we survive that is." Her gaze shifted toward the window, revealing a flicker of apprehension as she pondered the uncertain future that lay ahead—a future laden with danger and consequences.
"What about you?" Buffy asked, her voice softening with genuine concern. "Seriously, how are you doing?" There was an intimacy in her inquiry, a desire to delve beyond the surface of impending doom and unearth the emotions that lingered beneath.
Faith turned back to Buffy, her guard momentarily down. She let out a heavy sigh, allowing herself to be vulnerable for a moment. The weight of her decisions, the complexities of her past, and the impending separation from her sister cast shadows across her face. "It's hard. I won't say it's not. To have found Hope after so long. To have done the things that I did. To tell her I'm going away. I have to do it for her though. I have to show her that I'm not going to revert back. And paying for what I did is the best way I can do that."
"Faith, never think for one second that Willow wants you to do that," Buffy said firmly, her eyes locking with Faith's. In that moment, Buffy's gaze held an unwavering sincerity, a testament to the depth of her friendship and support.
Faith, caught between the currents of conflicting emotions, began, "Are you saying that as Hope's Whitelighter or..."
"As your friend," Buffy interrupted, a warm smile spreading across her face. The sincerity in her eyes transformed into a comforting assurance. "By the way, since Willow is a witch, it makes sense you have powers also. So I am your Whitelighter too. Anyways, Willow is your sister, and she'll stand by you no matter what. Believe me, I know."
Faith nodded, her voice tinged with determination and a hint of vulnerability. "Yeah, those cousins of yours are wonderful women. And I know Hope will stand beside me. But this is something I have to do."
Buffy's smile was both understanding and reassuring. "I understand, Faith. And you know what? I'll be waiting with Willow when you get out. I know we had a falling out, but I'd like to think we're still friends." The genuine warmth in Buffy's words bridged the gaps of the past, offering Faith a glimmer of hope in the face of the challenges that lay ahead.
Faith hesitated for a moment, her inner conflict evident in her eyes. Years of self-imposed isolation and guarded interactions had molded her into the kind of person who preferred the safety of nicknames and emotional distance. But there, in that moment, facing Buffy, she felt a yearning for something more. She wanted Buffy to be more than just another person in her life; she wanted her to be a true friend. After a brief internal struggle, she mustered the courage to open up.
"Sure, Buffy. We're still friends. The Chosen Two," she said, her voice soft but resolute. The weight of those words hung in the air, carrying an unspoken promise of camaraderie and shared destiny.
Buffy looked at Faith, genuinely surprised by the use of her real name. "You called me Buffy. You've never called me anything other than B before."
Faith's smile held a touch of vulnerability as she confessed, "True. I didn't used to let people in. Knowing I had a sister that was taken from me hurt."
"Because you were afraid of losing them like you lost Willow," Buffy filled in, understanding dawning in her eyes as she empathized with Faith's struggle. The unspoken pain of past losses lingered in the room, connecting the two women in a shared understanding.
Faith nodded, acknowledging the truth of Buffy's words. "I think it's time I changed that, let people in and hope that my past..."
"Doesn't define your future," Buffy finished for her, offering a reassuring smile.
Faith's gaze softened as she continued, "Anyways, it's the same reason I don't call Hope... Red anymore." A flicker of nostalgia crossed her face before she continued with an idea that had just occurred to her. "I just thought of something."
Curious, Buffy asked, "What?"
Faith moved closer to Buffy, her expression serious. "Human weakness. It never goes away. Even his."
"Human weakness? What would be his human weakness?" Buffy asked, her voice tinged with a mix of curiosity and determination.
"Me, of course. He treated me like the daughter he never had," Faith replied, her words heavy with emotional weight. The room seemed to grow quieter as the weight of their shared history with the Mayor loomed large. "If he sees me standing next to you, we might be able to play it."
The gravity of the situation settled upon them both, creating a palpable tension in the air. The realization that Faith's connection to the Mayor could be their best chance to defeat him hung between them like a delicate thread. Buffy, ever the strategist, recognized the tactical advantage in exploiting the Mayor's human weakness, even if it meant playing a dangerous game.
"So, what are you going to do with all this stuff?" Buffy inquired, her eyes scanning the scattered belongings around them, each item carrying a piece of Faith's turbulent past.
Faith's expression softened, a hint of melancholy in her gaze. "No use to me in prison. Take it home, it's yours. Well, except for the cat, that's Hope's."
Buffy shook her head, unsure of how to respond to Faith's generous offer. The room held a tangible history of struggles and victories, a collage of memories that Faith was now relinquishing. "I can't use all this."
Standing before Buffy, Faith looked at her with a quiet regard, as if understanding the depth of Buffy's feelings. "Just take what you need. Give the rest to Hope then," she suggested, her voice gentle yet firm. It was a gesture that spoke of Faith's desire to leave behind more than just material possessions—a tangible symbol of her commitment to building a new future.
Buffy nodded, touched by Faith's selflessness. She realized that her friend was not only trying to make amends for her past but was also willing to share a part of herself with those she cared about. The room, once filled with the echoes of battles and secrets, now stood as a testament to Faith's willingness to open up, to let others in.
"You ready?" Faith asked, breaking the emotional moment, focusing on the task ahead.
"We'll come back for the rest after we deal with the Mayor," Buffy said, her resolve returning. The urgency of their mission loomed, pressing them to prioritize the imminent threat that the Mayor posed.
Faith nodded, her determination mirrored in her eyes. "Sounds like a plan."
With a shared understanding, they each grabbed a box or two, the weight of the items symbolic of the emotional baggage they carried. The room, once a repository for Faith's history and struggles, echoed with the shuffling of belongings—the tangible remnants of a life left behind. As they headed out the door, boxes in hand, they walked side by side, their bond unbreakable, ready to face whatever challenges awaited them.
Gateway High School
In the library, Faith and Buffy stood at the center, addressing the eclectic group gathered – Xander, Willow, Oz, Cordelia, Angel, Giles, Prue, Piper, and Phoebe. The gang appeared a tad nonplussed, their expressions a mix of curiosity and apprehension as they absorbed the unconventional duo's plan.
"That's the basic plan. So. Are we crazy?" Buffy said, her gaze sweeping across the familiar faces, searching for signs of approval or skepticism.
"Well, 'crazy's' a strong word –" Willow began, attempting to soften the potential blow of her response.
"Hope!" Faith swiftly chastised her sister, a stern look that carried both authority and a hint of amusement. Willow, caught off guard, looked at Faith guiltily, realizing the need for a united front.
"Let's not rule it out though," Giles interjected with his characteristic dry humor, his British accent lending a touch of sophistication to the discussion. The statement was met with a few exchanged glances among the group, acknowledging the audacity of the proposed plan.
"You don't think it can be done," Buffy said, her voice cutting through the murmurs, directing her question to Giles. There was a hint of concern in her eyes, aware of the gravity of their mission.
"I didn't say that. I might, but I haven't yet," Giles said, his tone measured and thoughtful, as if carefully choosing his words to convey the gravity of the situation.
"Okay, well," Cordelia said, her skepticism evident in her raised eyebrow and crossed arms. "I personally don't think it's possible to come up with a crazier plan."
"We attack the Mayor with hummus," Oz offered, injecting a touch of dry humor into the discussion, his wry grin lighting up the room.
"I stand corrected," Cordelia admitted, a half-smile playing on her lips as she acknowledged the unexpected twist in the conversation.
Oz smiled, his calm demeanor unwavering. "Just keeping things in perspective."
"Thank you. My point, however, is crazy or not, it's pretty much the only plan. Besides, it's Buffy and Faith's and their slay-gal, you know. Miss Like-to-Fight, so..." Cordelia continued, her words laced with a hint of sarcasm, earning her a glare from Willow.
Willow's expression hardened as she shot Cordelia a reproachful look, her loyalty to Buffy and Faith evident in the protective glint in her eyes.
"I think there was a 'yea' vote buried in there somewhere," Xander said, injecting a note of humor into the serious discussion, his attempt at levity providing a momentary respite from the weight of their impending mission.
Buffy nodded appreciatively as she glanced at Xander and Prue. "Well, we need you all on board. Especially you two, Xander, Prue. You two are kind of the key to this figure here."
"Key? Me? Okay, pride... humility... and here's the mind-numbing fear," Xander quipped, his trademark humor masking the underlying tension in the room. Prue couldn't help but roll her eyes at Xander's theatrics, her bemused expression a testament to the familiarity she had developed with her baby sister's friends.
"What do we have to do?" Prue asked, her tone a mix of curiosity and determination, ready to contribute her strengths to the unfolding plan.
"Xander, do you still remember any of your military training from when you became soldier guy?" Buffy directed her question at her friend, a glint of anticipation in her eyes.
"Ooh! Rocket launcher?" Xander interjected with a mischievous grin, his mind already wandering to the more explosive possibilities.
Faith shook her head, dismissing the notion of a rocket launcher as a solution to their current predicament. "Rocket launcher is not gonna get it done," she declared with a conviction that spoke of her intimate knowledge of the Mayor's nature.
"Took a volcano to kill one of these things last time," Buffy added, her words carrying the weight of past battles and the realization that defeating the Mayor required a strategy far more nuanced than sheer firepower.
"Buffy, Faith, all of this is dependent on your being able to control the Mayor," Giles interjected, his voice a measured reminder of the centrality of their plan. "How do you plan to do that?"
Buffy looked to Faith, acknowledging the responsibility that rested on their shoulders. "It's your show."
Faith sighed, the weight of the task ahead evident in the lines on her forehead and the weariness in her eyes. "We're going to play on his human weakness. That's the way we're gonna get to him."
"The Mayor's weakness," Giles repeated, the phrase hanging in the air like a pivotal clue in a complex puzzle.
"Right," Buffy said, her response carrying a mix of determination and acknowledgment of the gravity of their situation.
"Which is what?" Giles questioned, his eyes narrowing as he sought further clarification on their plan.
"Me," Faith answered, her voice steady, revealing a layer of vulnerability beneath her tough exterior. "I'm his weak link. Ever since I started working for him. He always saw me as the daughter he never had."
The room fell into a contemplative silence as the weight of Faith's revelation settled on the group. The dynamics of their plan became clearer, the personal sacrifice required from Faith laid bare for all to see. The library, once a sanctuary of knowledge, now stood witness to the complexities of human relationships entangled with supernatural conflicts.
"Neither of you have an enormous amount of time," Wesley chimed in, his entrance unnoticed until his voice cut through the tense atmosphere.
"Hey, it's Mister States-the-Obvious!" Xander quipped, injecting a touch of humor into the room, attempting to diffuse the mounting tension.
Buffy shook her head, her resolve unwavering. "I think Faith and I are in agreement here that the Council isn't welcome here. We got no time for orders. We need someone to scream like a woman, we'll give you a call."
"Buffy's right; we don't need you," Faith declared with a steely resolve. "Plus, I don't trust you. If Buffy hadn't stopped you from calling them, you would have had me taken from my sister."
Wesley sighed, a tinge of remorse in his expression. "I'm not here for the Council. Just tell me how I can help."
"Oh, you are so classy," Cordelia remarked, her eyes scanning Wesley with a mix of skepticism and disdain. "Isn't he just so classy?"
"It's a start," Buffy acknowledged, attempting to ease the tension in the room. The atmosphere shifted, signaling a reluctant acknowledgment that, in the face of the impending threat, every available hand was needed.
"So, there is something I can do?" Wesley asked, a glimmer of hope in his eyes. "Besides scream like a woman?"
"There's plenty," Buffy responded, her tone softening as she recognized the sincerity in Wesley's desire to contribute. "Chores for everyone. Okay, this is how it's going to lay out..."
As Buffy began to outline the plan, assigning tasks and responsibilities, the library transformed into a makeshift command center. The initial animosity that had greeted Wesley's presence slowly dissipated, replaced by a sense of shared purpose. Each member of the group, regardless of their origin or past affiliations, found themselves united against a common enemy.
0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0
With a heavy heart, Wesley approached Faith, his footsteps measured and laden with remorse. His eyes, filled with regret, spoke volumes as he approached the Slayer. In his hand, he carried an envelope, the contents of which seemed to carry the weight of the world. Every step he took echoed the gravity of his emotions.
"Faith, I want to apologize to you," Wesley began, his voice a somber melody of regret and sorrow. "You and Buffy were right. What good is it to be in this war if whole families are ripped apart? It's why I got this for you." He gently handed her the envelope, his gaze a mixture of apprehension and hope.
Faith cautiously opened the envelope, her heart racing with a mixture of anticipation and fear. As her eyes fell upon the contents inside, her expression shifted from curiosity to disbelief and then to pain. "They took Hope from me? The Watcher's Council took my sister?" Her voice trembled, and her hands shook as she held the paper that revealed the stark truth of her sister's kidnapping.
Wesley sighed, nodding solemnly. "Yes, Faith. They thought she was you."
A growl of anger and frustration escaped Faith's lips, her emotions raw and unfiltered. "Those no-good..." Her words were laced with fury as she struggled to process the painful revelation. The betrayal, not just of the Council but of a system that claimed to protect, left her seething with righteous anger.
"Faith!" Willow's voice rang out, having caught snippets of the conversation. The red-haired witch rushed over to her sister, her eyes filled with empathy and love. She pulled Faith into a tight embrace, offering the comfort that only a sister could provide. "It's okay, we're together now," Willow reassured her, her own heart breaking for the pain Faith had endured.
Faith looked at Willow through tear-filled eyes and managed a weak smile. "You're right, Hope." In that moment, the name held not just a connection to Faith's sister but also a reminder of the hope that persisted against all odds. The weight of the past, the agonizing pain of separation, and the overwhelming joy of finally being reunited surged through her, creating a tempest of emotions that threatened to overwhelm Faith.
0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0
Later, everyone had divided into sections, each engrossed in discussions about their respective plans. Wesley had taken on the role of sharing critical information, reading from ancient texts that held the secrets to their impending battle. The atmosphere was tense, a tangible anticipation hanging in the air as the group absorbed the gravity of the situation.
"Darkness will follow, the day become night…" Wesley recited the ominous words from the ancient text.
"An eclipse," Buffy interjected, her eyes widening with realization.
Wesley nodded, confirming Buffy's deduction. "Standard procedure during an Ascension."
"That puts me back in the game," Angel declared, his resolve evident in his voice.
Buffy nodded, her gaze shifting between Angel, Xander, and Prue. "Yes, it does. I'll need you, Prue, and Xander working in sync here. Can you guys handle that?"
"No problem, Buffy," Prue assured her baby sister, a confident smile playing on her lips.
"Prue and I are still Key Guy, right?" Xander asked, seeking confirmation in the midst of the intricate planning.
Faith nodded, acknowledging his role. "Right."
"Great, then Angel — in his non-Key Guy capacity — can work with us," Xander suggested, a glimmer of mischief in his eyes.
"What fun," Angel remarked sarcastically, his dry humor punctuating the seriousness of the moment.
Prue couldn't help but roll her eyes, a wry smile playing on her lips. "You got that right, Angel." Her tone held a mix of amusement and camaraderie, acknowledging the inherent challenges that came with collaborating with the brooding vampire.
0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0
Later, Faith and Buffy approached Oz and Willow, their collective focus shifting to a crucial aspect of their plan. "How are we on volcano detail?" Buffy inquired, her eyes scanning the couple as they gathered in the midst of the library's organized chaos.
Oz, the master of understatement, replied with a calm assurance, "I think we can work it." His easygoing demeanor belied the complexity of the task at hand.
Willow, standing beside him, added a touch of enthusiasm to the discussion. "Fun with chemistry," she quipped, her eyes sparkling with a mix of excitement and determination.
Faith shook her head, a smirk playing on her lips as she directed her gaze at her sister. "Dang, Hope. You could give me a run for my money." The realization that her sister possessed a knack for the arcane arts, something Faith had not fully appreciated until now, added an unexpected layer of pride and amusement.
Willow chuckled at Faith's reaction, enjoying the banter between her and Faith. "Well…" she began, her mischievous smile hinting at the untapped potential within her.
Giles joined the group, his presence signaling a momentary shift from the light banter to the strategic discussions. "Xander should be able to locate the materials," Buffy said.
"Who's gonna stoke it up?" Oz asked, his calm demeanor cutting through the tension in the room.
Buffy turned to Giles, a silent question in her eyes. "Feel up to it?"
Giles, with a heavy sigh, accepted the responsibility. "I suppose it should be I. It's fitting, in a grotesque fashion." His admission carried the weight of the sacrifices they were all making, each task a reminder of the dire circumstances they faced.
"Okay," Buffy acknowledged, her gaze sweeping across the room to encompass everyone present. "You guys start reaching out." Her directive was clear, the urgency of their situation pushing them to coordinate their efforts.
Buffy then turned her attention to Giles. "Giles, weapons, weapons, weapons." The repetition emphasized the critical importance of arming themselves for the battle that awaited them. In the face of supernatural threats, their arsenal needed to be comprehensive and strategic.
She further addressed Prue, Phoebe, and Piper, recognizing the potent force they could become. "Time to start thinking Power of Three." Buffy's words were a rallying call, a reminder of the formidable strength that emerged when the Charmed Ones joined forces.
May 22, 1999 – Saturday
Gateway High School
Faith, Oz, and Willow worked in unison, hoisting sacks of fertilizer out of Oz's van and efficiently passing them over to Jonathan and Larry. The makeshift assembly line formed by the group functioned seamlessly, each member contributing to the task at hand. Jonathan and Larry, under Oz's watchful eye, carefully placed the sacks into a shopping cart, which now held a growing collection of others.
"Put these with the others. And don't touch anything," Oz instructed, his laid-back demeanor belying the gravity of the impending plan.
Larry nodded in acknowledgment. "We got it."
Jonathan, still eager to contribute, sought further guidance. "What do we do then?"
"Nothing," Faith interjected, her no-nonsense attitude taking charge. "Wait for Graduation to start."
"Faith's right, just relax, have a good time," Willow chimed in, her voice carrying a soothing tone as she sought to ease any lingering tension among the group.
"Uh, okay..." Jonathan said nervously, glancing around at the covert operation unfolding before him.
Larry, ever the conspirator, surveyed the surroundings with a hint of excitement. "It's clear. Let's move," he instructed Jonathan, and the duo skillfully drove the loaded cart away, disappearing into the shadows of the night.
"I guess that's it. Won't be long now," Willow remarked, a mixture of anticipation and anxiety lingering in her voice.
"Nervous?" Oz inquired, his calm demeanor a stark contrast to the tension that permeated the air.
"Only in a terrified way," Willow admitted, her honesty reflecting the gravity of their situation.
"It's good to be scared though," Faith chimed in, offering a perspective shaped by her own experiences in the world of the supernatural. "Helps to make sure you stay alive. Believe me, Hope. If you die, I'm going to raise you from the dead and kick your rear from here to eternity."
Willow smiled, a mix of gratitude and affection in her eyes as she looked at her sister. "Sure, Faith. And I'll enjoy it because it's my big sister doing it," she said, appreciating the unique blend of humor and reassurance that Faith brought to the tense moment. Faith, with a playful wink, moved purposefully toward the van's doors, ready to execute the next phase of their plan.
Oz, ever the calming presence, slid over beside Willow, offering a steady reassurance. "We'll make it through this."
"Are you sure?" Willow asked, her eyes reflecting the uncertainty that lingered in the air.
"I sound pretty sure, don't I?" Oz replied with a hint of a smile, his calm demeanor a comforting anchor in the midst of uncertainty. Faith grinned as she exited the van, her confidence radiating from every step.
Willow nodded, finding solace in Oz's words. "Yeah..."
"Then I must be sure," Oz affirmed, his response carrying a quiet confidence that resonated with Willow.
"Was that just a comforting way of not answering the question?" Willow asked, her curiosity evident in her expression as she sought clarification from Oz.
Oz, ever the master of non-verbal communication, stopped her gently by placing his hand against her face. With a tender look, he leaned in, bridging the gap between them with a passionate kiss. The kiss spoke volumes, a silent reassurance that transcended words and conveyed a shared understanding between them.
Faith, leaning against the side of the van, couldn't resist a teasing comment. "Don't do anything I wouldn't do, Hope," she playfully remarked to her sister as she casually slid the van door closed. Faith's smirk and suggestive remark had the desired effect, causing Willow's cheeks to flush with a mix of embarrassment and amusement.
Willow, still caught in the afterglow of the unexpected kiss, shot a playful glare at the van doors. "You're impossible," she called to Faith, the hint of a smile playing on her lips.
0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0
In Giles' office, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation as Angel meticulously arranged weapons on a table. The assortment of blades, stakes, and other supernatural paraphernalia lay in neat rows, a testament to the gravity of the impending battle. Buffy entered the room, a determined expression etched on her face, carrying something wrapped in an old rag.
"You get what you and Faith needed?" Angel inquired, his gaze shifting from the weapons to Buffy.
Buffy nodded, her eyes meeting Angel's. "I did." Faith entered the room just in time to catch the exchange. Buffy unwrapped the concealed object, revealing the knife the Mayor had given Faith. She handed it over to her fellow Slayer with a sense of solemnity. "Just what you ordered."
Faith took the knife, her eyes scrutinizing the weapon with a mixture of familiarity and appreciation. "One of the few toys he gave me that I like. It looks wicked, don't it?"
Buffy offered a small, understanding smile. "Yeah," she agreed, acknowledging the unique connection that warriors like them could have with their tools of the trade. As Buffy turned her attention back to the array of weapons, she moved past Angel, her mind already focused on the challenges ahead. "We're gonna need more than this."
Faith, sensing the shared urgency, turned and left the office, heading toward Prue, Piper and Phoebe.
"Giles is on it," Angel assured Buffy, his tone carrying a sense of confidence as he continued arranging the weapons with meticulous care.
Buffy, her demeanor briefly businesslike, shifted her focus to the critical details. "Have you, Prue, and Xander worked out your timing?" she asked, her commitment to the mission evident in her words.
"I'm not saying goodbye," Angel interjected, sensing the weight of the impending discussion. The mention of goodbyes prompted Buffy to drop her businesslike demeanor, and she looked at him, her expression softening. "We make it through this, I'm just gonna go. Do you understand?" he asked, seeking a confirmation that transcended words.
Buffy nodded, her gaze meeting Angel's. The unspoken understanding between them conveyed a depth of emotion that words couldn't capture. "There's just too much to–" Angel began, but Buffy raised her hand, interrupting him. She couldn't bear to delve into the emotional intricacies of their parting. Despite their mutual breakup, the love she felt for him lingered, making the impending separation challenging to navigate.
Angel, recognizing the unspoken turmoil, nodded in understanding. Turning his attention back to the weapons, he allowed Buffy a moment of respite.
As Angel exited the office, Buffy's gaze lingered on him. The weight of their shared history and the impending battle hung in the air, creating a poignant atmosphere in the room.
0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0
Faith approached Prue, Piper, and Phoebe, who were huddled together, deeply engrossed in crafting a Power of Three spell. She hesitated for a moment, aware that her request held weight and vulnerability. Clearing her throat, she addressed the Charmed Ones with a mix of sincerity and determination.
"Buffy said I might be a witch like Hope, Buffy, and you guys," Faith admitted, her voice carrying a note of uncertainty. "I'm going to turn myself in after this is all over and pay for my crimes. I was wondering, when I get out of prison, if you guys would help me discover my power and teach me what it means to be a witch."
There was a moment of thoughtful silence as Prue, Piper, and Phoebe exchanged glances, recognizing the gravity of Faith's request. The room seemed to hold its breath, the weight of Faith's past transgressions and her genuine desire for redemption hanging in the air.
Prue, the eldest and often the most pragmatic, nodded with a hint of empathy. "Discovering and harnessing your powers is a journey, Faith. It won't be easy, but we can help guide you."
Piper, the peacemaker of the trio, added, "Everyone deserves a chance at redemption. If you're committed to change, we'll be here to support you."
Phoebe, with her empathetic nature, offered a reassuring smile. "Magic can be a force for good. We'll help you tap into that energy and channel it positively."
Faith, relieved by their responses, nodded appreciatively. "Thanks. It means a lot. I want to make amends and be someone better."
Later, the graduation ceremony was underway, and the excitement in the air was palpable. Students filed into their seats, the band playing a lively processional as they made their way to their designated spots. Buffy, with a sense of purpose, took her place near the middle, the last to settle into her seat. Willow's seat awaited her next to Buffy, conspicuously empty, and on the other side, Faith sat, a subtle but supportive presence.
The music ceased, and Principal Snyder, seated on the stage with the Mayor and a few teachers, approached the microphone. His typically gruff demeanor persisted as he addressed the graduating class. "Congratulations to the class of 1999. You've all proved more or less adequate. This is a time for celebration, so sit still and be quiet." Snyder's attention shifted to a student chewing gum. "Spit out that gum. Please welcome our distinguished guest speaker, Sunnydale's own Mayor, Richard Wilkins III." He issued a warning to the gum-chewing student, "I saw that gesture. You see me after graduation," before taking his place by the diplomas.
Buffy kept a watchful eye on the Mayor as Willow scurried into her seat between Faith and Buffy. Buffy couldn't help but notice Willow's luxuriantly mussed hair, a testament to the hustle and bustle that no doubt occurred in preparation for the ceremony.
"Am I late? Did we fight?" Willow inquired, her eyes flickering between Buffy and Faith.
Buffy and Faith shook their heads, indicating that no confrontation had occurred. Buffy returned her attention to the stage, the Mayor taking the podium, his presence looming over the ceremony.
Faith leaned in to whisper in Willow's ear, "Did you and Oz do anything I wouldn't?"
Willow blushed at Faith's teasing remark, her playful response a testament to the camaraderie they had developed. "You are the worst sister ever," she teased, her eyes glinting with both embarrassment and affection.
Meanwhile, on the stage, the Mayor pulled out a stack of 3x5 cards and scanned them with a self-satisfied air. "Well. 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. Not a darn thing. 'Cause today something much more important happens. Today you all graduate from high school. Today all the pain and the work and the excitement is finally over, and what's a hundred years of history compared to that?"
As the Mayor continued his commencement address, Buffy's expression shifted from casual attention to growing dread. "My god... he's gonna do the whole speech."
Willow, sharing Buffy's sentiment, couldn't help but voice her impatience. "Oh, man... just ascend, already!"
"Evil," Faith added, her tone dripping with sarcasm.
"But you know what, kids?" the Mayor continued, his voice taking a more somber turn. "Maybe the two things are connected. Maybe you have 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's been achievement, joy, good times... and there's been grief. There's been loss. Some people who should be here today, aren't."
The Mayor's gaze fixed directly on Faith, who responded with a smirk and a wave.
"But we are. Journey's end. And what is a journey? Is it just distance traveled?" the Mayor continued, his voice carrying a measured gravitas. "Time spent? No. It's what happens on the way, it's the things that shape you. At the end of the journey, you're not the same. Today is about change. Graduation doesn't just mean your circumstances change, it means you do. You ascend to a higher level. Nothing will ever be the same. Nothing."
As the Mayor delivered his philosophical musings on change and transformation, an eerie shift in the atmosphere began to unfold. The sun, once bathing the ceremony in its warm glow, mysteriously disappeared, plunging the area into sudden darkness. A collective gasp rose from the assembled students and spectators. Buffy, Faith, and everyone else instinctively looked up, their eyes widening as they witnessed the unnatural occurrence of night falling upon them in the middle of the day.
The Mayor, sensing the beginning of his own transformation, felt the painful changes initiating within his body. Undeterred, he attempted to maintain composure and continue his speech. "So as we look back on..." he struggled to find the right words, his voice wavering. A murmur of unease spread among the students. "On the events that have brought us to this day... we..."
"Come on..." Buffy and Faith urged, their impatience evident.
"We must all... AHH. It has begun. My destiny. A little sooner than I expected," the Mayor confessed, fumbling with the 3x5 cards in his hands. "I had a whole section about civic pride, but..." He paused, his gaze lifting as an ominous realization set in. "I guess we'll just get to the big finish."
And then it happened—a grotesque transformation unfolded before their eyes. The Mayor's clothes ripped off him as he grew too large for them, morphing into an unholy, big-ass snake-like creature. The gasps from the crowd intensified as the true nature of the Ascension became horrifyingly apparent.
The students, initially frozen in shock, clamored to their feet, their faces a mix of awe and terror as they stared up at the Mayor's grotesque, transformed form. The once joyous graduation ceremony had devolved into a nightmarish spectacle, and the reality of the impending danger gripped the hearts of those assembled.
Principal Snyder, typically known for his strict adherence to rules, looked up as well, his usual veneer of authority slipping away in the face of the supernatural. "This is simply unacceptable," he muttered, his reason teetering on the edge of disbelief.
The parents, overcome with panic, turned and fled from the chaotic scene. However, three figures remained steadfast, standing their ground against the looming threat—the Charmed Ones, three of the most powerful witches in San Francisco.
As the chaos unfolded, twenty vampires, sensing the disturbance, formed a line, looking up the steps at the hapless graduating class. The Mayor, in his monstrous form, roared in triumph, reveling in the chaos he had unleashed.
In the midst of this pandemonium, Buffy and Faith, the seasoned warriors they were, exchanged a knowing glance. Without hesitation, they called out in unison, "NOW!"
In a coordinated and astonishing display of unity, the graduating class dropped their graduation gowns, revealing concealed weapons hidden underneath. Swords, stakes, crossbows—all manner of weaponry emerged as the students transformed from seemingly ordinary graduates into a formidable army, ready to face the supernatural threat before them.
"Flame units!" Buffy's command echoed through the chaos, cutting through the panic that gripped the students. At either end of the front row, two guys, one of them being Larry, wielded flame throwers. With a burst of flames, they aimed their fiery weapons at the Mayor, causing the monstrous creature to recoil and writhe in pain.
Seizing the moment, Buffy turned to Xander, who nodded in acknowledgment. Xander then glanced at Prue, receiving a confirming nod. In unison, Xander and Prue called out, "First wave!"
Students in the front row, armed with harpoon guns, spears, and crossbows, aimed their weapons at the Mayor. The air crackled with tension as the students prepared to unleash a barrage of projectiles in an attempt to subdue the formidable foe.
The Mayor, agile despite his monstrous form, swooped down, avoiding the flames that still licked at his towering figure. In a horrifying display of power, he grabbed a hapless student, making a meal of them with ruthless efficiency.
"Fire!" Prue and Xander called, their voices cutting through the chaos.
Assorted projectiles sailed through the air, propelled by the determined students. The weapons, ranging from harpoons to arrows, found their mark, some striking true and embedding themselves in the Mayor's scaly hide.
"Xander! Prue!" Oz's urgent call pierced through the chaos as he watched the line of vampires, ever vigilant for any signs of danger. His sharp eyes caught sight of a couple of students attempting to flee down the stairs, only to meet a gruesome end at the hands of the supernatural assailants.
"Bowmen!" Prue and Xander responded in unison, their voices cutting through the tumult.
Piper, with swift determination, moved over next to Oz. In a synchronized motion, a row of ten arrows was raised, their tips all aflame. The air crackled with anticipation as the fiery arsenal prepared to rain down upon the approaching vampires.
"Fire!" Piper's command echoed, and the volley of flaming arrows was released. The arrows found their marks, striking with precision. One vampire took a hit in the arm, another in the chest. The supernatural assailants stumbled back, momentarily disoriented and shielding themselves from the unexpected assault.
Undeterred, another row of flaming arrows was swiftly raised and shot toward the vampires. The relentless barrage forced the creatures to turn tail and run, unwittingly barreling straight into Angel, who stood ready for confrontation. Angel, flanked by Wesley, Percy, and six other robust students, blocked the vampires' escape route.
The vampires, cornered and outnumbered, came to a sudden halt. Angel, a confident smile playing on his lips, allowed his vampiric visage to emerge. With a swift charge, he engaged the vampires, effortlessly taking on a few while his companions, armed with stakes, did their best to dispatch the supernatural threats that dared to challenge the defenders.
Up front, the once-mighty flame thrower in Larry's hands puttered out, leaving him frustrated and vulnerable. "Dammit!" he exclaimed, dropping the malfunctioning weapon and hastily grabbing a fallen spear nearby. However, before Larry could make a move, the Mayor's tail lashed out with deadly force, slamming into him and sending him hurtling through the air. Larry's body hit the ground with a sickening crack, his neck snapping upon impact.
The gruesome scene unfolded as Larry's lifeless form lay on the ground, a stark reminder of the perilous battle being waged against the Mayor. Faith and Buffy, witnessing the tragedy, called out in unison, "Fall back!"
Principal Snyder, oblivious to the supernatural threat and more concerned with maintaining order, looked up at the Mayor and the chaotic scene with increasing irritation. "This is not orderly. This is not disciplined. You're on MY campus, buddy, and when I say I want quiet—" His admonishment was cut short as the Mayor, in his monstrous form, swiftly lunged and devoured the oblivious principal.
"Fall back! Get back!" Buffy urgently commanded, recognizing the escalating danger.
Faith turned to Willow, a mixture of determination and concern in her eyes. "Hope, go."
Willow nodded, briefly hugging Faith before breaking away. "Good luck. And Faith, you don't die."
Faith chuckled, warmly embracing Willow. "Not without your approval, little sis."
"And you will never have it," Willow replied with a determined glint in her eyes as she turned to follow Xander, joining the tactical retreat that Buffy had called for.
"Xander! Take 'em down," Buffy commanded, her voice cutting through the chaos. The urgency in her tone spurred Xander into action as he rallied the students.
"Prue, Piper, Phoebe, Power of Three spell. Protect them as they retreat!" Buffy instructed, recognizing the need for a strategic plan to ensure the safety of the retreating students.
Prue, Piper, and Phoebe took their positions, forming a protective triad. With a synchronized start, they began to chant, weaving a spell that would shield their fellow students from the impending danger.
"Everyone! Hand to hand!" Xander's voice rang out, and in response, the graduating class dropped their bows, harpoons, and ranged weapons, opting for stakes, axes, bats, and an array of improvised melee weapons. The transformation from a makeshift archery unit to a hand-to-hand combat force was swift and decisive.
As the Power of Three spell intensified, a magical barrier enveloped the retreating students, offering a protective shield against the supernatural threat that loomed ahead.
At the base of the stairs, Angel unleashed his formidable combat skills, kicking vampire ass with ruthless efficiency. The vampires, realizing the threat, found themselves torn between engaging with Angel and carrying out their sinister directive. Finally, one vampire called out, "Get the kids!" and led the charge up the stairs. The others swiftly followed, only to be met not only by a magical barrier conjured by the Power of Three spell but also by a tidal wave of students.
The entire graduating class, armed and determined, poured down the stairs with a battle cry that echoed defiance. Weapons in hand, they clashed with the approaching vampires in a scene reminiscent of Braveheart, a chaotic but resolute resistance against the supernatural invaders.
In the midst of the carnage, Willow, Oz, and Cordelia engaged vampires with skill and determination. The Charmed Ones, Prue, Piper, and Phoebe, continued their chanting as they followed the class down, their magical prowess adding a layer of defense to the chaotic battlefield.
Jonathan, surprisingly, managed to hold his own against the vampire onslaught, showcasing unexpected resilience in the face of danger. However, Harmony wasn't as fortunate, pulled aside as a vampire sunk its fangs into her.
Wesley, attempting to contribute to the fight, found himself knocked on his ass and landed painfully, struggling to regain his composure amidst the chaos.
Xander, demonstrating natural leadership, socked a vampire down the stairs and called out strategic instructions. "Right flank! Close on them! Close! Jason, Doug, you guys are the right flank! Willow, you got the left flank?"
Willow nodded with determination as Prue, Piper, and Phoebe joined her. "Got it, go Xander," she said, a sense of focus in her eyes as she prepared to assist with the magical barrier that protected the retreating students.
Xander swiftly moved to help the right flank, coordinating with Jason and Doug to fortify their defense against the approaching vampires. The teamwork displayed by the graduating class was a testament to their resilience and determination to protect each other.
Back in the courtyard, the Mayor finished devouring Snyder, the last remnants of the former principal disappearing into the monstrous entity that now stood before Buffy and Faith.
"Hey!" Buffy and Faith called out in unison, drawing the Mayor's attention to the two Slayers standing alone in the courtyard. Meanwhile, the rest of the class descended into the field below, ready to face the remaining vampires.
"Remember ME?" Faith taunted, brandishing the knife the Mayor had given her. "You gave me this when you thought of me as your daughter. Newsflash, old man, I'm not your daughter. In fact, I have a family, and it ain't you, Dick!"
The Mayor, fueled by his monstrous form, lunged at Buffy and Faith. With quick reflexes, the Slayers turned and ran, leading the Mayor away from the students. They sprinted through the arches and down the corridor, drawing the Mayor into a chase that diverted his attention from the vulnerable graduating class.
Buffy and Faith sprinted into the student lounge, the sound of their footsteps echoing through the hall. In a dramatic moment, the Mayor crashed through the window, relentless in his pursuit. The Slayers darted towards the library, their hearts pounding with the urgency of the chase. The Mayor, however, faced an unexpected obstacle at the library entrance—he got stuck in the doorway. Determined to continue the pursuit, he forcefully smashed his head into the door, breaking it off the wall and carrying it with him as he followed Buffy and Faith.
Inside the library, the Slayers raced through, utilizing their agility to leap to the second level and burst out the back door. They navigated through the empty stacks with precision, ultimately crashing through a window and landing in a roll at Giles' feet.
Back inside, the Mayor snaked his way through the library doors, entering the room just in time to witness a shocking sight—a multitude of big metal drums, bags of fertilizer, sticks of dynamite strapped to the railings, and numerous wires leading out the back of the room.
Outside Giles, holding a plunger in his hand, took a deep breath and, with a determined expression, pressed the button. The school erupted in a fiery explosion, engulfing the Mayor in flames and sending shockwaves through the air.
Giles, Faith, and Buffy stepped back, the play of light and wind on their faces revealing a mix of relief and accomplishment. Faith couldn't help but grin at Buffy. "Now, isn't that a pretty sight. Buffy, I can see why you like blowing things up."
Buffy chuckled. "I'm never going to live burning the gym at Hemery down, am I?" she asked as Faith shook her head.
Faith laughed, her amusement mixing with genuine camaraderie. "Nah, B, you've got a thing for fiery exits. But hey, it gets the job done, right?" She slapped Buffy on the back playfully, emphasizing the shared experience of the explosive escape from the school.
0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0
Later, in front of what's left of the school, the piercing wails of sirens filled the air, drowning out the crackling embers that once belonged to the place where memories were made. Firetrucks and ambulances, their vivid colors now stark against the backdrop of destruction, had converged on the scene. The acrid scent of burnt remnants lingered, and the school, now reduced to a smoking ruin, stood obscured behind the bustling emergency vehicles.
People moved with a sense of urgency and disarray, a tableau of both organized chaos and postwar shock. Some were actively engaged in helping the wounded into ambulances, their faces etched with worry and weariness. Others aimlessly wandered, lost in a daze of disbelief, their voices a muted hum of conversation punctuated by sobs and the occasional distant wail of sirens.
Wesley lay on a gurney, a tableau of pain etched across his face as he was gently loaded into an ambulance. "If I could just get something for the pain, it's rather a lot of pain... an aspirin... anyone... if I could just be knocked unconscious..." he pleaded, his words met with a deafening silence as he disappeared into the ambulance, ignored and alone with his suffering.
"We got off pretty cheap, considering," Xander's voice cut through the turmoil as he and Buffy navigated through the aftermath. Their surroundings were filled with the aftermath of a battle fought and won, yet the scars were etched in the charred remains of what once stood proudly.
"Seems like we did," Buffy replied, her eyes scanning the chaotic scene. Her gaze, however, was not fixed on the destruction around her, but rather, it searched for a familiar face, someone conspicuously absent in the aftermath of the chaos.
Xander picked up on Buffy's silent quest, understanding the unspoken worry etched on her face. "He made it through the fight," he reassured her, his words carrying a weight of uncertainty. "Guess maybe he took off after."
Buffy nodded, gratitude and anxiety warring in her expression. As they parted ways, she turned and collided with Giles and Faith, the latter surveying the scene with a mix of curiosity and concern. "How are you?" Giles inquired, his voice carrying a comforting undertone that resonated with the shared experiences of the night.
"Tired," Buffy confessed, her voice carrying the weight of not just physical exhaustion but the toll of battles fought on both mundane and supernatural fronts. Her gaze lingered on the devastation around them, a testament to the sacrifices made to protect the fragile balance between the living and the forces that sought to disrupt it.
"How are you, Faith?" Buffy redirected the question, a thread of concern weaving through her words.
"I could sleep for like a week," Faith replied, her response mirroring the fatigue etched in her every movement. The weariness of a warrior who had faced adversaries and demons alike, both external and internal.
"I'd imagine so," Giles chimed in, his tone tinged with understanding. "Quite a couple of days."
"My brain hasn't processed everything yet," Buffy admitted, her honesty a reflection of the mental fog that clung to her thoughts. "It's not really functioning at the higher levels; it's pretty much, 'fire bad, tree pretty'. Anything more complex..."
"Understandable," Giles acknowledged, his words a soothing balm to the overwhelmed minds of his slayers. "Well, when it starts working again, congratulate it on a good campaign. You did very well. In fact, you both did very well."
Faith, ever the stoic and pragmatic one, interjected with a touch of humor to deflect any sentimentality. "Don't go getting sentimental on me, G-man."
Giles, however, couldn't resist expressing his genuine appreciation. "Thanks," Buffy responded, the gratitude in her voice transcending the weariness that clung to her.
Giles reached into his pocket, his movements deliberate as he retrieved a slightly crumpled object from the wreckage. "I, uh, I ferreted this out of the wreckage for you. You may not have any interest, but..." His hand extended, offering a symbol of achievement amidst the chaos. Buffy's eyes widened as he presented her diploma, a piece of her past salvaged from the ruins. "I'd say you've earned it," he spoke, his words a quiet acknowledgment of her journey. Buffy took it gratefully, her fingers tracing the familiar parchment that bore witness to her struggles and victories.
He gazed out at the smoldering remains of the school, the landscape transformed by the violent dance of fire and battle. "There is a certain dramatic irony in the way things turned out. A synchronicity that almost borders on predestination, one might say."
"Fire bad. Tree pretty," Buffy interjected with a wry smile.
"Right. Sorry," Giles chuckled, a brief release of tension in the face of the surreal circumstances. "I'd best check on Wesley, see if he's still whimpering." His eyes shifted to Faith. "Faith, say the day after tomorrow? I will meet you at the police station like we discussed."
Faith nodded with a casual salute. "See you there, G-man."
"Tell Willow I said hello," Giles instructed before turning his attention back to Buffy. "And, Buffy, you do the same for me with Prue, Piper, and Phoebe."
Buffy and Faith shared a genuine smile, a momentary respite from the lingering tension that hung in the air like a heavy fog. "Will do," they said almost in unison, their voices a harmonious echo, as Giles moved away towards the awaiting ambulance. The flickering lights and the low hum of activity provided a surreal backdrop to their quiet exchange.
With Giles out of earshot, Buffy's gaze lingered on the crinkled diploma in her hands. The parchment, bearing witness to years of sacrifice and battles, held a weight that transcended its physical form. It was a testament to her resilience, a tangible reminder of her journey through the shadows.
Faith, ever the realist, nodded towards the diploma. "Kind of monumental, is that," she remarked, acknowledging the gravity of the document that symbolized Buffy's hard-fought victories. "Makes me think about maybe getting my GED."
Buffy's eyes shifted from the diploma to Faith, a flicker of surprise and encouragement in her expression. The chaos around them seemed to fade momentarily as they shared a connection, the camaraderie of fellow warriors contemplating their paths in the aftermath of battle.
"Yeah?" Buffy responded, her voice a blend of curiosity and support. "I think that's a great idea. Education opens doors, right?"
Faith's trademark smirk softened into a contemplative expression. "Yeah, maybe. Figure it's time to make some moves beyond the street smarts."
Buffy nodded in agreement, recognizing the quiet evolution in Faith's perspective.
Buffy's senses tingled with an almost electric charge as she felt the familiar aura that signaled Angel's presence. She turned on instinct, scanning the sea of people moving amidst the aftermath, until her eyes locked onto him. There, some twenty yards away, Angel stood, his gaze unwavering as it met hers. The world around them seemed to blur, and the ebb and flow of people passing between them created a surreal tableau.
Silent moments stretched between them, a communication that transcended words. In the wake of chaos and destruction, Buffy and Angel's eyes held a shared understanding, a connection forged through battles fought side by side and against each other. The weight of unspoken emotions lingered in the air, suspended like dust particles in the sunlight filtering through the remnants of the fire.
Then, with a graceful turn, Angel broke the gaze and started walking away, his figure gradually disappearing into the lingering smoke that wafted from the charred remains of the school. It was a departure without fanfare, a departure that echoed the somber reality of their intertwined destinies.
Faith observed the scene with a raised eyebrow, her eyes tracking Angel's retreating figure. "A little anti-climactic in a way. No long goodbyes," she remarked, her tone casual but not devoid of a perceptive edge.
"Getting sentimental, Faith?" Buffy teased, a half-smile playing on her lips as she kept her eyes on the dissipating silhouette of the vampire who had played a significant role in her life.
Faith grinned, her usually stoic expression softening. "I think Hope's rubbing off on me," she admitted, her words carrying a hint of self-awareness.
Buffy and Faith turned, their synchronized strides carrying them towards the curb where their friends awaited them. Oz, Willow, Xander, and Cordelia were gathered, their expressions a mix of relief and weariness in the aftermath of the chaotic events.
"Well, that was the most fun you can have without having any fun," Cordelia remarked, her words infused with a touch of sarcasm that barely masked the underlying tension.
"What about the part where we kicked demon ass?" Willow chimed in, her voice carrying a hint of satisfaction. "I didn't hate that."
Faith shook her head, a grin forming as she approached her sister-in-arms. She pulled Willow into a tight embrace, the bond between them solidified through battles fought and survived. In that fleeting moment, the camaraderie and unspoken understanding spoke louder than words. Faith's affectionate gesture was a testament to the shared journey that bound them together.
"Guys, we blew up the school! It's the best day ever!" Xander's enthusiasm broke through the tension, his words injected with a mix of adrenaline and relief.
Willow, released from Faith's hug, pondered a more philosophical question. "Why do demons even come here anymore? Don't they know how bad we, along with Prue, Piper, and Phoebe, are?"
"I think we've done pretty much everything we can," Buffy said, her voice a mixture of exhaustion and quiet resolution. The aftermath of the battle still echoed in the air, and the destruction left in their wake was a testament to the trials they had faced.
Faith, ever the provocateur, responded with a mischievous grin, "Oh, I think there is more damage we could do, you know, other schools we could burn down."
Buffy chuckled, the tension of the night momentarily lifted by Faith's irreverent humor. "You guys want to take off?" she asked, addressing the group as they stood amidst the remnants of the school.
"I'm for it," Cordelia declared, her expression a blend of fatigue and readiness to put the night behind them.
Willow, with a gentle concern in her eyes, turned her attention to Buffy. "You okay?"
Buffy considered the question, her gaze drifting over the ruins of the school. "Yeah. I'm okay. I just... I could use a little sleep." Her admission carried the weight of someone who had shouldered the responsibility of not just her own well-being but the safety of those around her.
"You and me both, Buffy. You and me both," Faith said, her smile reflecting a shared sense of relief and accomplishment. The weight of the night's events seemed momentarily lifted in the wake of their triumph.
Willow's smile mirrored Faith's as she embraced her fellow Slayer once more. "Yeah."
As the group shared a moment of connection, Buffy added a touch of humor to the atmosphere, her voice laced with a hint of sarcasm. "If somebody could just wake me up when it's time to go to college, that'd be great."
"Guys, take a moment to deal with this. We survived," Oz interjected, his calm demeanor cutting through the residual tension. His words were a reminder to savor the victory, to acknowledge the fact that they had faced the challenges thrown at them and emerged on the other side.
Faith nodded, her gaze reflective. "It was a hell of a battle."
Oz, ever the insightful one, shook his head with a wry smile. "Not the battle. High school." His words resonated with a blend of irony and truth, encapsulating the unique blend of mundane and supernatural challenges that defined their teenage years.
"Yeah, you did," Faith agreed, her acknowledgment carrying a sense of admiration for Willow's resilience. "And as I told Buffy, it makes me think about getting my GED."
Willow's smile widened at Faith's consideration. "You should."
Amidst the wreckage and the remnants of their battles, the group took a moment. "We're taking a moment." Oz's words lingered in the air, a gentle reminder to reflect on the journey they had collectively traversed over the last few months. The weight of the past, both mundane and supernatural, pressed down on them, and yet, there was a shared sense of accomplishment in the air.
"And we're done," Oz declared, the decision to move forward met with collective nods. As they headed off, the group left behind the charred memories of high school, walking away from the smoldering ruins that marked the end of an era.
"You know what the best part of high school was?" Xander posed the question as they walked, a hint of nostalgia in his voice.
"When we blew it up?" Faith and Buffy responded in unison, their voices carrying a mix of amusement and triumph.
"Yeah!" Xander exclaimed. "That ruled. 'Cause you know the thing that made it so special..."
"Was that the school that blew up?" Buffy asked, a mixture of disbelief and amusement coloring her expression.
Xander's smile widened, his eyes gleaming with mischief. "Exactly!"
Buffy shook her head, a playful frown forming. "I begin to find you troubling."
"Oh, come on, you know you're all thinking it," Xander retorted, his tone light and teasing as he reveled in the banter.
"Well..." Buffy began, a reluctant smile tugging at the corners of her lips.
Faith, standing beside her fellow Slayer, couldn't help but join in on the camaraderie. She smiled at Xander, a shared understanding passing between them. "Xan is right," she chimed in. "You were all thinking it. Shoot, so was I."
"I was," Willow confirmed, her voice carrying a note of nostalgia as she wrapped a comforting arm around Faith.
"Pretty much," Cordelia added, her tone laced with a blend of sarcasm and sentiment. The twists and turns of high school life, both mundane and supernatural, had left an indelible mark on each of them.
"Uh huh," Oz agreed, his succinct acknowledgment punctuating the shared sentiment that echoed in the group.
"Yeah," Buffy said, her gaze briefly lingering on a banner that lay on the ground, proudly announcing the 1999 graduation of Gateway High School. The banner, now discarded and trampled in the aftermath of the chaos, symbolized the culmination of their time in the institution.
May 24, 1999 – Monday
Willow and Faith found themselves standing outside the imposing San Francisco Police station. The weight of their emotions hung heavily in the air, intermingling with the city's chilly breeze. The imposing structure before them seemed to echo the gravity of the decision Faith had made.
"You don't have to do this, you know," Willow gently implored, her voice a soft undercurrent of concern and worry. Her eyes, filled with a mixture of sympathy and empathy, locked onto Faith's, searching for any sign of hesitation. "There's no evidence pointing towards you."
Faith sighed, her shoulders slumping under the weight of both her past and the impending legal proceedings. Her gaze briefly dropped to the ground before meeting her sister's eyes. "Just my confession," she replied somberly. "I have to do this, Hope. I doubt they'll throw the book at me. I was underage when it happened. Besides, I have the best lawyer money can't buy. G-man is going to represent me; he's going to get it so I spend a couple of years in Juvie, and I'm out when I turn 21. Then we'll have our whole lives to be sisters."
Willow's heart ached at the thought of her sister facing the consequences of her past actions. She nodded, struggling to hold back tears. "You'll have to add me to your visitor's list," she managed to say, her voice slightly choked.
Faith nodded in agreement, a flicker of gratitude in her eyes. "Sure thing, you and Buffy get an all-access pass."
"Buffy? You said Buffy, not B," Willow said, a note of surprise coloring her words. The unexpected change in reference caught her off guard, and she couldn't help but wonder about the significance of this subtle shift.
Faith's smile lingered, a genuine warmth returning to her eyes as she reminisced about the significant conversation with Willow. "Yeah, I did. Just before the fight with the Mayor, we talked. And not only about how to defeat the Mayor. I think we made up. I think we're friends. Only people I know who aren't close friends tend to get nicknames, which in the past was just about everyone. Friends and family don't. That's why I call you Hope now instead of Red."
Willow's lips curled into a soft smile. "So, I'm never going to get you to call me Willow?" she asked playfully, her attempt to lighten the mood and inject a bit of levity into the heavy conversation.
Faith shook her head affectionately, her gaze softening. "Nope. Hope was the name our mom gave you."
Willow playfully rolled her eyes, a teasing glint in her expression. "Well, technically, she named me Hope Willow," she corrected, her tone carrying a playful banter.
Faith chuckled softly, enjoying the light-hearted exchange. "True. But Hope is your first name, not Willow. So I'm always going to call you Hope. Even though you go by your middle name now."
As they approached the Police Station, Faith noticed Giles waiting for her inside. The vulnerability in her eyes was unmistakable as she turned to Willow. "Well, looks like it's time for me to go. Want to walk me inside?" she asked, a subtle request for support and solidarity in the face of the impending legal proceedings.
Willow nodded without hesitation, her commitment to offering support unwavering. "Of course."
Side by side, they walked together, the rhythmic sound of their footsteps echoing the weight of the situation. They crossed the street, the imposing façade of the Police Station looming ahead. Giles, a steady presence, awaited them, his expression a mix of concern and determination. As they joined him, a silent understanding passed between the trio, a united front in the face of the impending legal proceedings.
Faith's heart felt heavy, burdened by the weight of her past actions and the uncertainty of what lay ahead. However, the knowledge that she had her sister's love and acceptance accompanied her like a beacon of hope. The bond forged through shared battles and conversations, both heart-wrenching and healing, provided a glimmer of optimism for the future.
As they stepped inside the Police Station, the air inside seemed charged with tension. Willow, walking by Faith's side, silently vowed to stand by her sister through it all. The click-clack of their footsteps resonated through the stark corridors, each step a testament to their solidarity. Willow believed in the possibility of redemption, and she clung to the hope of a brighter tomorrow for her beloved sister.