This fanfiction is exclusively dedicated to Buffy the Vampire Slayer, but it will also incorporate elements from other franchises.
AN: If you happen to develop a dislike for this narrative, please be aware that I strongly dislike this series as well. The sole reason I even contemplated writing this piece is because it was requested of me. Therefore, if you anticipate an identical rendition of that abysmal creation, I apologize, but I will introduce certain alterations. I kindly request that you express your opinions respectfully, as I understand that many individuals have grown fond of this chaotic disaster. However, this is not a novel occurrence, as someone had to appreciate it at some point.
The Goddess stood with bated breath, eagerly anticipating the arrival of her two devoted servants. Nearby, she engaged in lively conversation with a group of six exceptional women, each one hailing from different parts of the universe. The Goddess had a strong desire to send her finest duo to assist these remarkable women, as it was clear to her that the universe they inhabited was in urgent need of help.
Without a moment's hesitation, the Goddess felt certain that one of her servants would jump at the chance to explore this universe. His enthusiasm for the series that formed its foundation was unmatched, and he would gladly embrace any opportunity to dive into its fascinating world. In contrast, the other servant made no attempt to hide his strong dislike for the show. He openly stated his aversion, making it clear that he found the universe infinitely worse than Hell itself.
Despite their differing views, the two men had been the best of friends for countless millennia, embarking on countless missions together across numerous universes. The Goddess could easily count the number of universes that triggered such strong dislike from this servant. Now, she would have to add one more to that list—one intricately linked to the Buffy the Vampire Slayer series, including its comics and games. Hiro, the servant who adored the series, did not shy away from sharing his fervent love for it, proudly broadcasting his admiration to anyone within earshot.
Conversely, Hector, the man who loathed the series, was vocal about his feelings towards Hiro. He did not hold back when he called the show a massive pile of flaming garbage. This harsh criticism left Hiro in a state of fury, leading him to lock himself in a room with Hector for an entire marathon, spanning seven seasons. During this marathon, Hector went so far as to claim that he would prefer to listen to Montgomery Scott drunkenly sing Danny Boy than to endure the abominable show.
Frustrated with Hector's relentless negativity, the Goddess decided to confront him directly. She asked him why he held such intense animosity towards that specific show and its universe. It puzzled her that he could speak so freely about his opinions in front of six women connected to that very universe, especially since two of them were from alternate timelines. The Goddess pressed him for answers while Hiro continued to glare at Hector alongside four of the women.
Hector, deep in thought, recalled a time when he stumbled upon shows like Kim Possible and Totally Spies. He had no idea that soon he would be forced to endure all seven seasons of a show he couldn't help but describe as terrible. The only silver lining, he reflected, was that when compared to the series he so despised, those earlier shows seemed like absolute treasures.
As he began to explain his deep-seated loathing for what he called a "turd," Hector laid out his grievances. He had major issues with the so-called Watchers Council, the organization that was supposedly protecting humanity. To him, they were nothing more than self-serving fools. They were well aware of the dire consequences if the special person they were meant to protect was killed; yet they did absolutely nothing to help or train her. Instead, they provided her with inadequate supplies and weaponry, far less than what a soldier would have. Moreover, their actions often hindered her efforts, weakened her resolve, or even placed her in real danger.
Hector's passionate rant continued as he sought to convey the frustration that had been building within him. It was clear that this subject stirred something deep inside him, and he was determined to ensure that those who cared about the universe understood his perspective.
It is truly astonishing to consider that certain individuals hold the heavy burden of safeguarding humanity from unimaginable threats. In the universe where Buffy resides, the presence of a slayer is not just a luxury; it is a necessity for the survival of all. If there were no slayer, the entire world would face inevitable doom, and those in positions of power are acutely aware of this dire reality.
Buffy couldn't shake off these thoughts. She had been subjected to the worst experiences at the hands of those who were supposed to protect her. There were numerous occasions where they nearly ended her life, and they even resorted to poisoning her in an attempt to strip her of her incredible powers. The frustration peaked when she had to battle vampires on her own birthday—a day that should be about celebration, not combat. The whole situation felt completely outrageous to her.
Sunnydale, which appears to be an ordinary town on the surface, is actually under the sinister influence of Wolf Ram and Hart. This revelation means that many key roles in the community, including those of the mayor, the principal, and numerous police officers, are held by demons or individuals who worship them. One of the women in the group pointed out that this was not just a crazy theory; it's actually true. This led to a collective realization about why no one had ever raised the alarm about the dark alliances within their leadership.
This raises an unsettling question: why do people continue to live in such a hazardous environment? Once night falls, Sunnydale transforms into a perilous place where safety is a rare commodity. The only time it might feel somewhat secure is on Halloween, a holiday that seems to command a strange respect even from the most nefarious creatures. However, on any typical night, the risk of encountering vampires, werewolves, or other demons lurks around every corner. These monsters do not only threaten physical harm; they also pose a risk to one's very soul.
Take the case of Alexander. He is just an average guy trying to navigate life as best as he can. Yet, the only women who ever show real interest in him are not your everyday choices; he finds himself surrounded by demonesses, a vampire, an undead Incan princess, and even a ghost. This bizarre reality highlights how, in Sunnydale, logic seems to vanish. In such a place, good-hearted individuals often meet untimely ends or see their lives fall apart. A more fitting sign at the town's entrance might read: "Welcome to Sunnydale, where things are even worse than in Hell."
Suddenly, three of the women shot up from their seats, passionately opposing this claim. One of them exclaimed, "Alright, Cordelia twins, let's start with you two. You had the chance for a stable relationship with Xander, but what did you do? You dumped him and made it clear he wasn't your boyfriend. And now, look where you are—stuck with Buffy's leftovers at a law firm in Los Angeles. And you, Buffy, every time you need help or someone to save you, who do you call? Xander! He puts his life on the line for you repeatedly, yet you never seem to appreciate him. Instead, you fixate on that vampire, Angel, who is anything but angelic. Let's not forget that he was once the scourge of Europe!"
Sensing the rising tension in the room, Hector interjected to redirect the conversation. "Speaking of madness, Jenny, your people placed a curse on Angelus that not only punishes him but also endangers everyone else. All it takes is one moment of real happiness, and he loses his soul, allowing Angelus free rein to cause destruction once again. Have you ever considered how many scenarios could lead to true happiness? This curse doesn't just impact Angel; it complicates Buffy's life. If she falls in love and is with the person she truly cares for, he instantly becomes a violent monster. Yet, she can't bring herself to destroy him because her feelings run too deep. If I were in her shoes, given everything I've said, I would be staked in less than ten seconds."
He then looked at the women with disbelief. "Why is it that, instead of coming together as a united front against these supernatural threats, society expects one hormonal teenage girl to carry the weight of the world on her shoulders? There was an effort made by a group known as the Initiative, but instead of solving problems, they ended up creating a horrific demon-human hybrid. This creature makes Frankenstein's monster look like a saint. The only desire of this abomination is to exterminate humanity and turn their lifeless bodies into mindless slaves. The devastation it could cause leaves the world in utter shock."
Where are the exorcists when they are truly needed? Where can one find the dedicated warriors of the church, those members of the so-called holy order of Iscariot? In this chaotic time, I would even be open to the idea of an amnesiac version of Dracula, a vampire who, despite his memory loss, still remembers his own son's name and works for an organization run by the descendants of Van Helsing. It's puzzling and frustrating to see that those organizations responsible for tackling such significant global threats seem to be missing in action. Our world is in such a desperate situation that even the forces depicted in the movie Independence Day appear to be better prepared to confront the challenges we face. Yet, in the midst of this turmoil, the burden of combating these immense dangers is placed on the shoulders of a hapless teenager. It's ironic and a little absurd; most armed forces wouldn't even consider enlisting teenagers for such grave responsibilities.
Buffy reacted immediately and with great intensity to Hector's harsh accusations, her feelings evident in her fiery response. With her strong and determined stride, she moved closer to him, her eyes filled with a fierce anger. "Wait just a minute," she snapped with conviction, "that is absolutely not true. I have saved the entire human race and even the planet multiple times. I refuse to just sit here and let you say that I'm failing at being the Slayer, particularly after all the sacrifices I've made to uphold my duty."
Yet Hector stood firm in his criticisms, refusing to back down. He bluntly pointed out what he perceived to be her shortcomings in determination, discipline, and commitment to her responsibilities. He brought up moments when her feelings for Angel seemed to cloud her judgment, raising the stakes and potentially endangering innocent lives. He cited the tragic loss of Ms. Calendar, who suffered as a result of Angel's darker actions. Buffy, however, was not one to be easily swayed. She shot back that it was Angelus, not Angel, who was to blame for that tragedy.
At that tense moment, the Goddess reached her limit and chose to step in before the situation escalated any further. She recognized the deep-seated frustrations Hector harbored regarding their circumstances, revealing, "You truly never cease to amaze me, my dear husband. You are aware of the unnecessary suffering, the pain, and the anguish inflicted upon others. You genuinely detest the fact that Buffy finds herself being used as a pawn in a much larger game, without her consent, with no one considering her well-being. You've expressed your concerns about the curse affecting Angel, but your concerns have always been for her sake. If not for that aspect of the curse—that true happiness would cause it to shatter—she and Angel could have found happiness together. You may try to act indifferent, but deep down, you remain the kind-hearted fallen archangel I fell in love with all those years ago."
In that pivotal moment, Hiro experienced a profound realization that struck him like a bolt of lightning. He couldn't help but wonder aloud, "Just how old is Buffy, and what gives her so much knowledge?" His question hung in the air, full of curiosity and uncertainty. The Goddess, observing his inquisitive nature, found his inquiry amusing. With a gentle smile, she explained that their journey to her office had spanned a significant amount of time. To make the long trek more enjoyable and engaging, she had chosen to present them with special golden tokens. These tokens were not ordinary; they held the power to unlock memories tied to a particular universe where their friend Xander found himself trapped in a relentless time loop for more than a century.
As the implications of this began to sink in, Hector, feeling a wave of concern wash over him, spoke up. He expressed his worries, saying that the experience they might go through wouldn't be all that pleasant. He added that they would likely feel the need to confront Xander about the choices he made and the consequences of his actions during those seemingly endless loops of time. The Goddess, sensing the tension in the room, quickly intervened. She clarified that only four of them would receive the golden tokens and that even though they would embark on this journey, their memories of it would remain elusive. Upon their return, they would only retain faint snippets, much like distant dreams that come and go. These memories would be triggered at certain moments and locations, with particular significance on Halloween during the second year following Buffy's return to Sunnydale. The complexity of the situation deepened, yet the air was charged with an intriguing sense of adventure and mystery.
The other two individuals present did not require the tokens, as they were considered divine beings serving higher powers. One of the perks of their status was having complete knowledge of reality itself, so the Goddess didn't need to use a golden token on them. Hector expressed his dissatisfaction, pointing out that she had wasted four precious tokens. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that she had done so to prevent potential issues they might face later on. He accepted the high cost of each golden token, albeit reluctantly. Curious to understand more, Jenny inquired about the materials that made up these tokens. Hector elaborated that they were crafted from a mix of metals, primarily orichalcum. This explained their high value, as this rare metal was no longer found on Earth—its primary source being the lost city of Atlantis.
One of the women in the group asked a question that lingered in the air: what was the real reason behind the destruction of Atlantis? Hector took a moment to respond, explaining that Atlantis was actually more like a continent than just an island. He then pointed an accusing finger at Hiro, declaring that the blame lay squarely on his shoulders. Hiro, visibly annoyed by this accusation, shot back with a heated response, "I've told you countless times, I don't need to be reminded of that! I did nothing wrong, and you know it! That cursed place deserved its fate, and you damn well know why I did it. So just stop blaming me for it! Should I tell everyone here what you're called in other places we've been? They might start looking at you differently, especially considering what she said about you being a fallen archangel. Maybe you should apologize, play nice, and keep your reputation intact. Or do you want me to reveal the name that you desperately want to keep hidden?"
Hector was taken aback, unable to comprehend the words that had just been spoken. Buffy's accusation struck a nerve, implying that he was the very essence of evil. An anger surged inside him, a burning fire that demanded justice. How could she make such a wild claim without understanding the true story? It was clear he needed to correct the misunderstandings.
With a serious look, Hector met Buffy's gaze firmly. "Do you really think you know who I am? That I'm some sort of monster?" he replied, his voice rising with intensity. "Let me make this clear, Slayer. You don't have the slightest idea of what you're saying."
He paused, taking a deep breath to compose his thoughts before he continued. "Yes, I hold dark secrets within me, but those secrets do not define me. They do not make me Lucifer Morningstar." With each word, Hector's voice steadied, filled with conviction.
"In other worlds, I may be known by various names, but here, in this place, I am simply Hector. I am a man who prioritizes truth and honesty above everything else. Before you rush to judgment and label me as evil, maybe take a moment to reflect on yourself and the darkness that might be lurking inside you."
His bold statements lingered, urging Buffy to reconsider her quick and harsh accusations. Hector was determined not to allow her to tarnish his name any further. It was crucial for her to grasp the reality that appearances can often be misleading.
"I've never had to force anyone to do anything, as if I had the luxury of time to sit on people's shoulders like some mystical parrot, whispering wicked orders. I don't create evil; instead, I focus on punishing those who choose to do wrong. That's been my mission since the very start, and it will continue to be my mission until the end. But since you've been rather rude, I'll let you in on a little secret: I don't even have the power to decide who goes to Hell. That's not within my authority."
Just then, Jenny asked who was responsible for sending souls to Hell. Hector responded with a hint of a smile. "It's not me or anyone else; it's humans themselves who choose to enter Hell, weighed down by their own guilt. They walk into that place willingly, subjecting themselves to their own painful memories over and over. My role is to ensure there's a place for everyone, doing my job without any reward for the hard work I put in. And to make things a bit easier for you, the gates of Hell? They have no locks and are always open. You humans could leave whenever you wanted, but oddly enough, no one ever does. That said, meeting my daughter has given me a new reason to exist—my purpose is to heal the souls of the damned. Honestly, without her, I might never have discovered this vocation. Then again, I might just be saying that because I'm also an incredibly proud father."
Cordelia shifted her focus toward him, her curiosity piqued as she asked about his daughter's current situation. He responded with a notable sense of pride, stating, "She's taken over my previous role. It's quite likely she has become one of the new Archangels in Heaven." His voice conveyed a mix of admiration and concern as he elaborated, "But let me tell you, even with all the excitement and glamour that comes with that position, the weight of responsibility is truly heavy. The expectations placed on her are enormous, and the challenges she faces can be unyielding. Honestly, I would much rather channel my energy into running my own businesses, thank you very much."
Joyce, intrigued by his enthusiasm for entrepreneurship, leaned closer and encouraged him to explain more about the specific business that made him feel such pride. Without hesitating, he began to describe his venture located in the vibrant heart of Los Angeles. "In my world, I proudly own a charming and secure bar called Lux," he said. "It's not just an ordinary bar; it serves as a sanctuary where every detail of the atmosphere is carefully crafted. We have a set of essential rules that guide the behavior of all our patrons. We operate under a strict policy: no fighting and no drugs are allowed. As long as people can promise to uphold a standard of civility and avoid causing any disturbances, they can freely enjoy their drinks and the company of others."
He paused for a moment, letting the significance of his words resonate before adding, "However, if someone decides to break these basic rules, our bouncers are trained to have a serious conversation with them. This serves as a gentle reminder that such behavior is not acceptable and that there are consequences for their actions. It's very unlikely that anyone who crosses that line would ever be welcome back into the bar."
With a spark of determination in his gaze, he continued, "I operate my business like a finely-tuned machine, ensuring everything is correctly organized, impeccably clean, and running smoothly. I have a strong dislike for any kind of disruptions, and I have a zero-tolerance policy for trouble. Let's just say that I have no hesitation in administering an appropriate punishment for anyone who oversteps their boundaries. After all, I earned the title of judge of souls for a reason." His tone reflected both authority and a deep commitment to maintaining peace and order within his cherished establishment.
Buffy, intrigued by his story, couldn't resist asking if he had actually been cast out of Heaven. Hector confessed that for a long time, he had indeed felt that way. His feelings of anger, pain, and resentment toward his father had led to significant family issues. However, after going through therapy and having a heartfelt discussion with his father, he came to the realization that he had not been cast out at all. In reality, his father had placed him in this position because he believed it was Hector's true calling. His purpose was to guide troubled souls toward accepting their guilt, owning up to their wrongdoings, and helping them confront their pain and negative emotions. Once they achieved this, those souls would have a chance to enter the kingdom of Heaven and begin the process of rebirth. It offered them the opportunity to live once more, with the hope of avoiding the mistakes they had previously made.
"And let me be clear, I have a strong aversion to disruptions and troublemakers," he added. "So, if someone deserves a fitting punishment for their actions, I, as a judge of souls, will not hesitate to deliver it."
Buffy was curious about the mysterious conversation she overheard between Hector and her mother. Hector explained that for reasons he couldn't fully understand, Joyce was eager to learn how he had met the mother of his daughter. She also wanted to know why humans and angels are seen as completely different types of beings. He shrugged, trying to downplay the situation. "I don't get why you're so upset about it," he said. "Believe it or not, vampires and humans can actually have kids together too. Those kids are called Dhampirs. They can be quite unique and challenging for parents to raise. Dhampirs have all the strengths of vampires but don't carry any of their weaknesses. Once they grow up, they stop aging completely. They look like they are twenty-five for the rest of their lives, even while everyone else around them grows older and eventually passes away."
He then turned his attention back to Buffy and the others, his expression changing to one of deep thought. "After more than three thousand years of life, I finally grasped something that should have been obvious. Being a parent can create a stronger bond between partners, filling them with joy, pride, and a love that feels overwhelming. But let's not sugarcoat it; it's also a huge headache because every child goes through this annoying phase where they think they know everything. They believe they're right about everything, and their parents are just clueless. The moment I became a parent, it struck me. The reason parents are so eager for their kids to have children of their own is, in many ways, a form of revenge. They want their kids to face the same struggles they did while raising them. That's why parents often seem so cheerful—they're having a good laugh about it all."
He looked at Buffy earnestly. "One day, when you find yourself as a parent, you'll really understand the immense effort and sacrifices your own mother made to raise you. That moment of realization will help you see how deep her love for you runs. Even when she had to make really tough choices, like sending you to a mental health facility to keep you safe from a demon, she did it out of love, even though she didn't fully understand the reasons behind her actions. Buffy, deep down, I know you crave a regular life filled with friends, fun times, and excitement over the latest fashion trends. You don't want to deal with the supernatural horrors that hide in the shadows. You can still have that life, but it comes with consequences. Just remember, by choosing that path, you might be putting the entire human race—including yourself—at risk of a fate worse than Hell. From what I've seen and experienced, it's better to embrace your destiny and fulfill your duty. Shape your life around what you need to achieve your goals. If you don't, you may carry the heavy guilt of causing destruction on a global scale. Trust me, I know from experience what that feels like."
Hiro stepped forward, his eyes locking onto Buffy's with a look that mixed understanding and a firm resolve. He was determined to show her that there was still hope for her future. "Listen," he said with a steady voice, filled with certainty, "he's not saying you can't have a normal life." He paused for a moment, allowing the weight of his words to settle before continuing. "What he's really trying to tell you is that there's something you may not have thought about fully, an idea that might not be obvious to everyone else around you."
Hiro leaned in a little closer, making sure she understood how important his next words were. "It's actually a pretty simple idea, but it carries a lot of weight. What you really need in your life is to accept who you are, to embrace your unique role as the Slayer. This acceptance isn't just about recognizing your identity; it's about fully embracing it. Along with that acceptance, you must also find balance in your life—a concept that means more than it sounds at first."
He pauses for a moment, making sure that Buffy truly understands the importance of what he is about to convey. "When I talk about balance, I am not talking about the simple act of balancing a ball on your finger or performing an impressive dance routine," he clarifies, his voice sincere and full of passion. "I am referring to a deeper kind of balance, one that influences how you live your life every day. It's important to remember that you cannot be the Slayer all the time. You can't embody that role every single hour of every day. This is where moderation comes in; it is not just a suggestion, but something necessary for your well-being."
As he continues, Hiro paints a picture for Buffy, one that speaks to both realism and fulfillment. "You should set aside specific hours to engage in activities that truly make you happy. This could involve indulging in your interest in fashion or having vibrant conversations about the latest styles and trends that intrigue you." A small smile appears on his face as he thinks about her joy before he shifts to another crucial aspect of life. "At the same time, you need to reserve time for those more ordinary duties that can feel a bit less exciting, like attending school and focusing on your studies. These aspects of life are just as important; they keep you grounded and connected to the everyday world."
With a serious tone, Hiro stresses the necessity of her dedication to training: "And don't forget about the importance of consistently training as the Slayer. This training involves improving your fighting skills, but it's also about developing mental strength and resilience. It's a process that helps you grow into the best version of yourself." He concludes with a hopeful note, wrapping up his message with clarity: "By achieving this kind of balance, you can maintain your identity as the Slayer without missing out on all the beautiful experiences life has to offer."
Then, Hiro's voice shifts from calm to filled with enthusiasm, his excitement shining through as he shares a vision of what lies ahead for Buffy. "Soon enough," he exclaims, his imagination taking flight, "you could find yourself wandering through the spooky shadows of a local graveyard, where the air is thick with suspense and the thrill of mystery. Imagine this—a dramatic showdown with a bunch of monsters, fierce vampires, and all sorts of chilling horrors that are waiting just out of sight. It's a world where danger meets adventure, and every moment is packed with excitement. But if you are skilled and quick-thinking, you might just manage to carve out some time for yourself amidst all that chaos—time enough for a little playful flirting with your charming, yet undeniably undead boyfriend. Just imagine that prospect; it should fill your heart with joy and make you smile as you weave through all these supernatural encounters. And when it comes to sleep, you need not worry. Just a couple of hours will be plenty for you. With your amazing abilities, feeling tired will hardly be an issue."
His gaze locks onto Buffy's, brimming with unwavering belief in her latent abilities. "You possess an extraordinary strength within you, Buffy," he states earnestly. "You have the potential to lead a life that is both rich and fulfilling. Embrace the uniqueness that defines you, and if you strive to find that delicate balance between your extraordinary responsibilities and the life you crave, you will discover that a semblance of normalcy is not just a dream—it can be your reality."
Just then, Cordelia, her curiosity piqued, bursts into the conversation with an eager question about the identity of this mysterious undead boyfriend. Hiro's heart sinks a little as he realizes that Cordelia's sharp instincts for gossip have kicked into high gear. Normally, he would take the opportunity to clarify that he was talking about an ensouled demon-possessed undead being, emphasizing the nuanced details of Angel's situation. However, since vampires are generally classified as part of the undead category, it felt appropriate to use that term without going into all the complications. He was specifically thinking of Angel, whose identity and backstory are both captivating and complicated.
As Hiro looks at Cordelia, he notices that her reaction is far from surprised. After all, the magnetism of someone like Angel is hard to ignore. He exudes a charm that has drawn the attention and admiration of numerous girls, and Cordelia is no exception. It is as if the very idea of dating someone like him holds an irresistible allure that many would find hard to resist.
Yet, despite the intrigue, Hiro feels a tightening in his chest, a sense of caution that he can't shake off. He quickly speaks up, adding a warning to the mix. "Just remember," he cautions with a serious tone, "Angel's curse is like a shadow that never leaves him. Unless something changes, he will never experience true happiness. And that is a ticking time bomb — the moment he feels genuine joy, Angelus will come back." His voice carries the weight of the truth, a reminder of the danger that lurks beneath Angel's charming exterior. "And let's be honest, who in their right mind would choose to be around Angelus? Dating him would be a crazy decision; only someone who is reckless, unstable, or has questionable judgment would even think about it."
The seriousness of his words hangs heavy in the air, a stark reminder of the complicated and often perilous nature of relationships with the undead. The reality is that love and attraction can be deeply intertwined with risks that are not immediately visible, complicating the emotions involved.
