The Past Never Dies

By Shattered Faith

< We Open with an establishing shot of a general busy street in L.A. Nameless people prowl the streets, faces expressionless and eyes empty. Suddenly, out of the crowd comes a very dark intense man. Wearing a trench coat and keeping his eyes down and anonomys, he makes his way through the crowd trying his best to fit in and not be noticed. Moving swift and with purpose, he obviously had a destination. He comes to an apartment and enters through the main doors and keeps walking as he fishes through his pocket for keys. He locates them right as he approaches his door, twists the key in the lock and enters, shutting the door quickly behind him. Once safely inside, the man relaxes his shoulders and ambles into his kitchen. A man and a woman are sitting at the table and the Man stops in his tracks. >

Angel :: Cordelia, Wesley. You two are kind of early .. < Trailing off in confusion. >

Cordelia :: ( Looks up at Angel, worry and concern plaguing her face. ) I had a vision.

Angel :: ( Sets his keys on the kitchen table and regards Cordelia. ) Okay . .( Holds out his hands, used to having to prod her for information. )

Cordelia :: It was about . ( Hesitates, bites her bottom lip. ) .. Drusilla.

< Wesley, having arrived in Sunnydale after Drusilla’s stay, looked rather confused, however thoughtful and eager to learn about this new crisis. )

Angel :: ( Stands up straight, his one and only facial expression looked just a bit more somber than usual. ) Drusilla. ( Avoids looking in Cordelia’s eyes. ) What about her?

Cordelia :: ( Glances over at Wesley for support, but once again Wesley’s limited amount of thinking time was spoiled by his attraction to her and he had a day-dreamy look on his face and it was obvious he was going to be of no help. Looks back to Angel. ) She was, well she was here, and, she had you and Buffy tied up and was, um, taking blood from both of you.

Angel :: ( Has a confused look on his face. ) Drinking from us?

Cordelia :: No, um, gathering it. A lot of it.

< Spike’s POS car pulls down a busy LA.street trying desperately to be the car it once was and keep up with the rest of them. At a nameless gas station, Spike pulls into the lot and steps out of the car. He looks around and lights a cigarette. >

Spike :: Home sweet-

< Just then, a car speeds by Spike and almost hits him but he jumps out of the way. The angry man hangs his head out the window. >

Man :: Get out of the way, you Moron!

Spike :: ( Lands hard on his shoulder but scrambles back up in time to growl at the already retreating car. Looks back to his car and to Drusilla laying in the backseat and sighs with annoyance ) –Home.

OPENER – ANGEL THEME

< Riley and Buffy tooled down the same anonyms busy street in Riley’s old fashioned Pickup. Riley’s eyes were straight on the road and an uncomfortable tension was apparent between the two. Buffy glances at Riley, concerned but yet defensive. She quickly returns her gaze back to the road in front of them. >

Riley :: Where exactly are we headed from here?

Buffy :: ( Picks at her fingernails, pretending not to fidget. ) Um, there’s a building up ahead with a big bush in front of it, turn left and then right at that one big rock. Then it’s the building right after that with the stop sign in front of it.

Riley :: ( Turns his head to look at her, obvious completely confused. ) You lost me at ‘um.’

Buffy :: ( Sighs, sits up, strains her eyes. ) Okay, right up there. Turn left.

< With Buffy speaking a bit late, Riley swerved around the turn and a fast coming car came within an inch of their front bumper. The angry driver honked his horn harshly at them and Riley sank down in his seat, overwhealmed with these big city drivers. >

Riley :: Whoa! Buffy, can you give me a little warning next time?

Buffy :: ( Half scowls. ) Sorry. It’s the next right.

< Buffy and Riley safely make it around the next corner, and when Riley realizes he is still safe and alive he turns back to Buffy. She purses her lips. >

Buffy :: ( Points. ) Right there.

< Riley checks behind him and slows down, pulling over next to the sidewalk. Buffy immidiatly undoes her seatbelt and starts to get out of the car. >

Riley :: ( Watches her with concern, turns off the engine and gets out, jogging to keep up with her. ) Buffy I-

Buffy :: ( Whirls around to face Riley, anger blazing in her eyes. ) Riley, this is Angel’s life we’re talking about here. ( Turns back around and walks towards Angel’s, Riley following in hot pursuit. )

< At Angel’s, Angel, Cordelia and Wesley are sitting at the table, all looking somber and deep in thought. Suddenly there is a tentative knock on the door, and Angel almost jumps out of his seat. He gives Cordelia and Wesley a knowing glance, and walks cautiously towards the door. He steps to the side and opens it slightly to see who it is. Suddenly, Angel sighs deeply and opens the door all the way to reveal Buffy and Riley. >

Angel :: ( Steps aside so they can both enter. ) Hi, Buffy. ( Nods. ) Riley.

Buffy :: ( Looks away, fiddles and bites her bottom lip. ) Hi.

< Riley nods quickly in recognition. Both Buffy and Riley dutifully walk over to the table. >

Buffy :: Hello Cordelia, Wesley.

Cordelia :: Hi. ( Looks over to Riley, smile wide. ) And, Hello.

Riley :: Hello.

< Angel sits back down and Buffy and Riley stand by the table, all three of them obviously looking uncomfortable. >

Wesley :: < Shifts in his chair. > Yes, um, hallo Buffy. Now, Cordelia has seen something . . .um ..

Cordelia :: < Turns around and rests her arm on the back of the chair. Frowns at Buffy. > Hi Buffy. Okay, so like, Drusilla was here, and she had you and Angel tied up or something and she was, actually I don’t know what she was doing, but it looked gross.

Buffy :: ( Looks surprised.) Cordelia, as much as I miss these little chats of ours, I really need to know specifically what you saw.

Cordelia :: Well these lovely little visuals I get, they are accompanied by intense headaches. That’s all I remember, so don’t yell at me if I cant remember the color, style and brand of the shirt you were wearing at the time, okay!?

Buffy :: ( Grits her teeth. ) Okay. You know what, I don’t need this. Angel, Drusilla’s in town and she needs your blood again. We need to find her, now.

Angel :: ( Sighs. ) Buffy, did you listen to Cordelia? She said that you were part of it. That Drusilla needed you, too.

Buffy :: ( A look of slow recognition and quiet shock plays across her face.) Oh. I didn’t, know about that part.

< Riley puts his arms protectively around Buffy’s shoulders, and Angel tries not to glare at the other man, touching His girl. >

Wesley :: Well first things first, we must discover exactly what is going on here.

Buffy:: ( Frowns.) It’s Drusilla, she has aids.

Angel :: ( Looks very confused. ) What?

Buffy :: She, came back to Sunnydale I think wanting to kill me, but she was playing dolls or something with this one guy and he had aids. She, contracted it. From his blood.

Angel :: ( Rises slightly in his chair, looks harshly and Buffy. ) Why didn’t you tell me right away when Drusilla was back?

< Buffy looks away and shifts her weight uncomfortably, Riley does the same. >

Buffy :: There, um, well there was no point at that time, we thought we wouldn’t have a problem getting rid of her.

Angel :: Buffy, you know how dangerous Drusilla is. You should have phoned me.

Cordelia :: Well now that Buffy has her new Man, I’m sure she thought she had everything under control.

< Everyone turns to stare at Cordelia with accusation and embarrassment. Riley gulps and looks around desperately for something to focus on, Buffy glares harshly at Cordelia. >

Buffy :: Cordelia, for once in your life, try and use some tact!

Cordelia :: Ugh, what?? He looks strong and, big and, well, capable!

< Riley looks away and flushes slightly, obviously uncomfortable in this situation. >

Angel :: ( Stands up. ) Okay. So we know Drusilla is in town. We know that she’s sick, and that she needs both me and Buffy for her cure. We know she probably isn’t doing this alone.

Buffy :: Spike’s with her. She whistled for him, and he crawled back to her like a faithful little puppy dog.

< A pang of concern stretches across Angel’s face. >

Angel :: But, isn’t Spike, um, vamp-o-tent?

< Cordelia tries to muffle a snicker, Wesley slightly smiles but wipes it off his face right away. >

Buffy :: Yeah, he is. And we all took care of him. This is how he repays us, but catering to his Psycho-chick.

Angel :: I mean, those two alone can’t hope to take us both, Buffy.

Buffy :: ( Frowns. ) I know. They must have found, some lackies or something. I don’t know who.

< Spike is pacing back and forth in a damp, musky enclosure similar to where Angel was being tortured in “In the Dark.” He sighs heavily and scatches his chin. Camera pans back a bit to show Drusilla laying on an old icky mattress. >

Drusilla :: ( Squeezes her eyes shut. ) Spoike . .!

Spike :: ( Rushes over to her, kneels down. ) Pet?

Drusilla :: Spoike . .( Tosses her head. ) Moi tummy ‘urts .. ooo . .

Spike :: ( Frowns. ) I know Luv, Daddy’s workin’ on it.

Drusilla :: Where’s Moi Angel?

Spike :: ( Narrows his eyes, obviously upset by that comment but trying to keep his temper. ) Ducks, Angel is probably sitting on ‘is bum right now trying to think up new ways to save the bloody environment. Daddy will get him, bring ‘im here, and then we’ll make you better.

Drusilla :: ( Smiles, stretches her arms. ) The Slayer, too?

Spike :: Yes. The Slayer, too. They will bleed, and they will die, so that you will be well. ( Smiles flirtatiously, crawls on the bed. Has a pange of guilt about killing the Slayer, but does not let Dru see it in his face. )

Drusilla :: ( Giggles with delight. ) And ..the moon will give us light and shine down . . blessing uss with extacy!

Spike :: ( Chuckles. ) Yes, pet. It will.

< The three familiar Vampires walk in, and Spike turns around. >

Vampire 1 :: Is the Slayer here yet, Spike?

Spike :: Have some bloody patience!

Vampire 2 :: ( Looks angry. ) We don’t need patience. We kept up our end of the bargain and helped you with ( Points. ) Her. So where is our Slayer?

Spike :: You aren’t getting this. This Slayer is stronger than any Slayer that any vampire has Ever faced. If you even think about just rushing her, you’ll loose. You need a clever plan. That’s where I come in.

Vampire 2 :: Look here, you bleach blonde Brit. We didn’t ask for your opinion, only your deliverance. When do we get our Slayer?

Spike :: ( Growls, gets off the bed and steps forward. ) You’ll get your Slayer when I get her blood for Dru. Now listen here, we don’t need to kill her yet. We need to capture her first, Alive. And I’ll need your help for that. And, when I’m done, she’s all yours. Kill her, do her, I don’t care.

Drusilla :: Spoike .. made ‘er gone all gone ..

< Spike turns to look at Drusilla. >

Drusilla :: ( Grinns, tilts her head. ) For me .. ?? For PrinCess . .??

< The other three vampires stop to watch this string-tied drama between Spike and Dru in facination. >

< Back at Angel’s place with Angel, Buffy, Cordelia, Riley and Wesley. Angel scratches his chin, deep in thought. Riley puts his arm protectively around Buffy’s shoulder. >

Buffy :: ( Sighs. ) First things first, we should find them before they find us. ( Look of determination on her face. ) Let’s not give them a chance to attack us first.

Angel :: ( Stands up, sighs. ) I’m going to go see Kate then. If there are any murders she’ll know about them and maybe we’ll be able to trace where Spike and Drusilla are staying.

Buffy :: Not alone, you’re not.

< Angel tosses his head and sighs, Cordelia stands up. >

Cordelia :: Angel, Spike and Dru are obviously out for your blood. ( Pauses. ) But I don’t know why anyone would want vampire’s blood anyway, I mean, you’ve been dead for a ton of years and it must be cold and icky ..

Angel :: Cordelia-

Cordelia :: Anyway Buffy’s right, you shouldn’t go anywhere alone.

Buffy :: I’ll-

< Wesley’s head darts over and he finally decides to speak up. >

Wesley :: No. That would be like a double target, and we have no idea who or what is helping these lucid vampires. ( Looks over to Riley. ) Why don’t you go with Angel? They don’t need you for anything.

Cordelia :: Oh, that’s real nice Wesley. Just tell Buffy’s Man right to his face that he’s expendable.

Welsey :: ( Looks embarrassed. ) Oh, no. I only meant that-

Riley :: No, actually that’s a good idea. Buffy should stay here, ( Notices Buffy glaring at him. ) To be albe to protect you and Cordelia in case of trouble. I’ll go with Angel.

Wesley :: ( A slight look of relief on his face. ) Y-yes. Very good.

Buffy :: ( Frowns. ) And while you’re doing that, we’re just supposed to sit here?

Angel :: ( Shifts his eyes. ) I’ll phone you from the station, with Kate’s resources we may know something right away. ( Looks at Buffy with concern and regret, grabs his coat. )

Riley :: ( Does the same, sighs heavily. ) Buffy, I- ( Stops himself. ) Take care of yourself.

Buffy :: ( Purses her lips tight, audience can feel a slight chill from her body expression. ) I’ll be just fine.

< Riley and Angel both look at Buffy with the same silent love in their eyes, and turn and walk out the door. Buffy sighs, and plops down in a chair. She looks uncomfortably at Cordelia and Wesley. >

Wesley :: So, um, yes, how have you been?

< The three familiar vampires are standing together in the shadows hidden, near Angel’s place. They see in the distance Angel and another man walking out together, and they look at each other and smile. >

Vampire 3 :: Hey Toby, who’s that other one?

< Vampire 1 > Toby :: I think that’s the Slayer’s boyfriend.

Vampire 2 :: Oh, what are we waiting for? The Slayer’s away from him, let’s go get her Now.

Vampire 3 :: ( Growls softly. ) Have patience. Remember what Spike said? This slayer won’t be so easy to take. We aught to listen to him, he’s hung around her. He knows her.

Toby :: ( Chuckles softly. ) Yeah, remember, he was the Slayer’s housepet. She may put up a good fight, but she obviously has a lot of empathy. ( Raises his eyebrows and scratches his chin thoughtfully. ) Hey . . if that guy with the Soul Happy Vampire is the Slayer’s Man ..

< The other vampires turn to him, waiting expectedly for his idea. >

Vampire 3 :: Hmm .. a lot of empathy. I wonder what she’d do, to save him.

Toby :: ( Chuckles again. ) Oh so noble. It would most definitely save us the trouble of having to go get her. She’d come right to us.

< The three vampires all giggled and huddled together to continue talking and add the details to their new plan. >

< Angel and Riley walk up to the police station and go inside. Angel doesn’t even glance at Riley, and he walks with a purpose all the way over to Kate’s desk. Riley looks a bit frazzled, and he moves swiftly to keep up. Kate is digging through a pile of paperwork, but she looks up as footsteps approach her desk. >

Kate :: Angel, hi. Angel :: ( Frowns. ) Hi.

Kate :: Here on business? ( Sees Riley, and immediately gives him a little fake smile. ) Hello. ( Looks at Angel with questioning eyes. )

Angel :: He’s Buffy’s boyfriend.

Kate :: Oh. . ( Looks confused. )

Angel :: We have a problem.

Kate :: ( Scoots her paperwork aside and folds her hands under her chin. Thoughtful look on her face. ) What’s wrong?

Angel :: ( Eyes shift uncomfortably.) Um, there’s a few new Vampires in town, I don’t have time to get into the whole story, but they’re dangerous. I need to find out where they’re staying, can you maybe pull up recent files and see if there are any murders that track?

Kate :: ( Looks at his suspiciously. ) Um, ( Shifts eyes to quickly glance at Riley. ) Sure. (Looks down, starts typing away at her computer.)

< Riley looks around curiously, eyeing the place and trying to get a feel for it. Angel sighs impatiently and looks around also, but with nervousness and not curiosity. >

Kate :: ( Frowns. ) Hm.

Angel :: ( Head snaps back to focus. ) What did you find?

Kate :: Well, apparently early this morning and yesterday, there were two bodies found at two different times at the ally near the abandoned building across the street from Micky’s. Both deaths were due to severe neck trauma.

Angel :: ( Nods and looks to Riley. ) Sounds like it’s a pretty safe assumption.

Riley :: Well, you know the place better than I do.

Kate :: So, what’s the deal with these vampires? Why are they here?

Angel :: ( Shifts his eyes uncomfortably. ) Well basically they’re here to cure a sick vampire. They need my blood, and the blood of the Slayer to do it ( Looks down. ). Buffy’s blood.

Kate :: ( Slowly nods. ) Okay . .

Angel :: The vampire they’re trying to cure is very dangerous. Insane. We can’t let them have a chance.

Kate:: Need some backup? Are you going to head down there right now?

Angel :: Um .. . I think we should maybe . . go back to my place first-

Riley :: Buffy’s there.

Kate :: ( Raises her eyebrows, looks at Angel quizzically. ) Oh ..

Angel :: This doesn’t feel right. Like, it’s some sort of trap.

Riley :: ( Eyes dart over to Angel, with accusation and worry. ) We need to get back there. Now.

Kate :: ( Looks at Angel, pleadingly and with some hurt. ) Do you need backup?

Angel :: Um, ( Looks to Riley. ) Yeah. When it comes to Drusilla, we need all the help we can get.

< Kate stands up and begins straightening her desk quickly. She puts on her coat and stuffs a few police essentials in her pockets. Riley looks at Angel questioningly, but Angel refuses to meet his eyes. >

Kate :: Alright, let’s go.

< The three walk out of the police building. >

< Back at the dingy hideout with Spike and Drusilla. Spike is sitting by the mattress holding Drusilla’s hand, but he quickly gets up and straightens his shoulders as the three vampires enter. >

Toby :: < Smiles. > Well we saw that the Slayer brought along her new guardian.

Spike :: < Grins and chuckles. > Oh she did, did she? Hmm. This aught to be interesting .

< The other vampires look confused, not understanding what Spike is finding humorous about this. >

Spike :: The Soul Happy vampire we’re after and the Slayer used to be lovers. ( Chuckles again. ) Oh yeah, Angel’s bound to be Jealous. ( Frowns and glances at Dru, obviously remembering how jealous Angel had made him. Suddenly smiles again. ) Yeah, we could play this out mighty well, have ourselves a good ol’ time! ( Looks away, once again, guilt in his eyes. )

Vampire 2 :: ( Growls. ) All I care about is that one way or another, the Slayer dies.

Vampire 3 :: ( Looks at Vampire 2 ) Have patience, Quervo. She will die.

Spike :: Yeah, mate. Now don’t go killin’ ‘er before I cure Dru. She’s First Priority here, got it?

Quervo :: ( Throws his head back and laughs. ) And if I do, what are you going to do about it, eh? From what I hear, you’re just as worthless now as your Lover over there. ( Points to Drusilla. )

< Spike fumes and looks as if he’s about to attempt to attack Quervo, but Vampire 1 steps in between them. >

Toby :: Hey! We don’t need this, you hear? If we want the Slayer dead, we all have to work together, ( Glances at Spike. ) Worthless or not.

< Quervo fumes, but doesn’t make another move towards Spike. Spike keeps his stance however and continues to glare. >

Spike :: I won’t have ‘im talkin’ that way about Dru. ( Looks over at Drusilla. )

Toby :: ( Turns to both Spike and Quervo. ) Just, back off a little alright? We’re all friends here.

< Both Spike and Quervo look angry, but turn away. Vampire 1 smiles. Spike turns to Vampire 1. >

Spike :: So, you got a plan?

Toby :: < smiles > I say we take the Slayer’s New Man. If what you say about the Slayer and the other vampire, she’ll want to come here and get him, and the other vampire will be jealous. The tension will throw them off.

Spike :: < smiles > I like the way you think. Reminds me of, well, Me.

FADE TO BLACK

< Buffy, Cordelia and Wesley are still sitting at the table in Angel’s apartment. The door opens, and Buffy literally jumps out of her chair. Angel, Riley and Kate enter. Buffy looks at Kate with suspicion and curiosity. >

Angel :: < Looks from Buffy to Kate. > Um, Buffy this is Kate. She’s an officer, she .. helps me from time to time with . .cases.

< Kate turns to look at Angel, a bit hurt by his casualty towards her. >

Buffy :: ( Looks away, trying not to show her slight pangs of hurt and jealousy. ) Oh.

Angel :: She knows.

Buffy :: ( Twiddles her thumbs, feeling stupid and not quite knowing what to say. ) Oh. ( Looks away. )

Wesley :: ( Looks from Kate to Buffy, then from Angel to Riley. ) Yes, well, did you find out any useful news?

Angel :: Yeah. We’re pretty sure we know where they’re staying.

Buffy :: ( Purses her lips. ) Well like I said before, they don’t need the first advantage. I say we go over there right now, and take ‘em down.

Angel :: Buffy, we have no idea who Spike recruited, or how many, or even what their actual plans are.

Buffy :: I just want to get this over with. And this time, no more Nice Buffy.

Riley :: ( Tilts his head. ) Are you going to kill hos- I mean, Spike?

Buffy :: We took him in. Fed him. Helped him get on his own two feet, and this is how he repays us. By trying to kill us, again. You’d better believe I’m gonna kill him.

Kate :: ( Looks confused. ) Okay, well we have no idea what we’re up against, so I say we do a stakeout.

< Angel, Riley and Buffy share a look of amusement at her choice of words. >

Angel :: I’ll go.

Riley :: ( Looks at Buffy. ) I should go, too.

Buffy :: Well-

Kate :: And, you guys shouldn’t stay here. If they come looking, Angel’s will most likely be the first place they’ll come.

Cordelia :: Well we can go to my place, but I just scrubbed the floor so Shoes Off!

Angel :: That’s a good idea.

Buffy :: So what, I’m just supposed to sit around again while you guys go out and spy on Spike? I’m the Slayer here!

Riley :: Buffy, we can’t all go, in case something happens.

Kate :: ( Feeling a bit out of place. ) And I’ll just. . ( Looks over at Angel. )

Angel :: You should go back to the station, keep an ear tuned for any new information.

Kate :: ( Frowns, a bit disappointed. ) Yeah, I can do that.

< Everyone begins gathering their things. Angel and Buffy both look at each other with hurt expressions regarding Riley and Angel. Angel sighs and glances at Riley, a slight hint of a coming on frown apparent on his face. >

Angel :: Let’s go.

< Riley sighs and gives Buffy a caring and loving look before he head out the door with Angel. Kate looks around, a bit hurt that Angel didn’t even say goodbye to her. >

Kate :: I’ll just, be back at the station if anyone needs me. ( Hurries out the door. )

Buffy :: ( Hardens her face, looks over at Cordelia and Wesley. ) Let’s go. ( Refuses to meet their eyes or wait for either of them, goes out the door without looking back. )

< Wesley and Cordelia follow suit, sharing a look of knowing all too well what Buffy’s problem was. >

< A young girl, appearing in her late teens / early twenties, is walking along the familiar ally near Spike and Dru’s hideout. She is walking fast, obviously quite apprehensive and very jittery. Her eyes dart to the right, left, behind her, and suddenly out of seemingly nowhere, Vampire 1 lurches forward and grabs her from behind. Her eyes bulge wide open in paralyzed fear, but by the time she attempts to scream he has already clamped a hand over her mouth. >

Toby :: Quiet if you want live. Now.

< The girl’s incessant whimpering immediately hushed, and she didn’t move an inch. The two vampires stepped out of the shadows. Quervo frowned. >

Quervo :: Is this charade really necessary? I’m hungry and I say we eat her.

Vampire 3 :: ( Turns to Quervo. ) Why is it that you constantly insist on being a pain? All we need is a simple diversion. An innocent girl is perfect in that capacity.

Toby :: ( Slightly jerks the girl, trying to scare her even more. ) She’s not expendable, yet. Trust me, they’ll come to us.

< Camera pans away from the ally, showing Angel and Riley both walking towards it. They both straighten their shoulders as if in silent competition with each other over who is the best one. >

Angel :: We’re close.

Riley :: ( Glances at Angel. ) What’s the plan?

Angel :: Just .. .watch. See who’s coming and going.

Riley :: And if we see the vampires? What, are we just supposed to watch them too?

Angel :: ( Looks annoyed. ) We’re not here to fight. Yet.

< They begin to approach the corner of the ally, camera moves ahead back to the vampires and their hostage. >

Vampire 3 :: I hear footsteps.

Toby :: ( Head jerks up, looks towards Quervo. ) Man your position!

< Quervo snarls but backs up to the corner by the dumpster, completely hidden by the shadows and the dark. Right afterwards, Angel and Riley round the corner. They see the two vampires, one with the girl in his hand, and stop short. Toby grins. >

Riley :: ( Glances at Angel. ) I’m not waiting. ( Lunges forward at Toby, but is tackled quickly by Vampire 3.)

< Angel looks at Riley for a split second with anger and disbelief, but having no choice joins in to fight. Angel of coarse runs to the vampire who is holding the hostage and delivers a quick but effective blow to the vampires face, forcing him to fall back and loosen his grip on the girl. His hand falls from her mouth and she lets out a piercing scream. Angel grabs her, wrenches her out of the vampires grasp and shoves her towards the exit. >

Angel :: Run!

< The girl screams again and starts to run to safety, but Vampire 3 runs after her. Angel with his one track mind runs after the vampire in pursuit of the frightened girl. Riley is about to run to Vampire 1 and stake him, but just then, when his back is turned to the dumpster, Quervo steps out of the shadows and leaps apon Riley’s back. Riley has no time to fling him off before the angry vampire sinks his teeth into Riley’s neck, and begins to drink.

Angel catches up to Vampire 3 and stakes him, and the girl continues to run blindly down the LA street. Angel frowns and stops running, but still stares at her quickly retreating form until he can see her no more. Suddenly, his mind snaps back to reality and he runs back to the ally to aid Riley. When he gets there however, Riley and the two other vampires are gone. >

FADE TO BLACK

< Buffy, Cordelia and Wesley walk into Cordelia’s apartment, Cordelia casually throws her keys down on the table and sighs. >

Cordelia :: Well I don’t really have any food so if you’re hungry, um, too bad. The tv works though.

< Buffy and Wesley remove their shoes loyally at the entrance mat and gingerly step inside. Buffy looks around her nice apartment with curiosity, and perhaps a slight pang of jealousy. >

Buffy :: Nice place you got here, Cordy.

Cordelia :: ( Picks up on Buffy’s slight attitidude, whirls around and grins widely. ) Yeah, it is isn’t it. Angel pays me well.

< Buffy rolls her eyes and grimaces. Wesley goes over to sit on the couch. He clears his throat. Buffy looks around in the uncomfortable silence and heaves a sigh. >

Buffy :: Now what are we supposed to do?

< Wesley picks up the remote from the desk and turns on the tv, starts casually channel surfing. >

Buffy :: ( Frowns. ) Well, at least we can see if there’s any relevant news on. ( Joins Wesley on the couch. )

< Cordelia opens the nearly bare fridge and takes out a carton of skin milk, opens it and drinks from the carton. Buffy looks over at her and makes a distasteful face. >

Cordelia :: What? It’s my house, the other occupant doesn’t eat, and, oh did you want some?

< Buffy shakes her head at Cordelia, grossed out slightly. Suddenly, the door burst open and Angel stands in the entrance looking very upset. Buffy nearly leaps off the couch.>

Buffy :: Angel . .what is it?

Angel :: We have a problem. A big one.

< At the dingy hideout, the other two vampires enter, dragging the barely conscious Riley in with them. Spike is sitting next to Drusilla again attempting to comfort her in her pain, but he immediately leaps up. He peers at the vampires. >

Spike :: Where’s the other one?

Quervo :: ( Snarls angrily at Spike. ) He didn’t make it, thanks to you.

Spike :: ‘Ey! It wasn’t my doing if your boy couldn’t hold his own. Besides, we got what we needed. For now.

< The two vampires drop Riley’s form in a crumpled heap right in front of Spike. >

Quervo :: Get some rope, and we’ll tie him up.

< Spike looks from Riley to Quervo, and bursts out laughing. Quervo fumes. >

Quervo :: What’s so funny, Lapdog?

Spike :: ( Continues to chuckle while he speaks. ) Rope? This really is a new game for you, isn’t it mate? Rope’ll hold ‘im for maybe .. .a few seconds before he breaks loose and stakes us all. What we need . .. ( Goes over to the wall and tugs free a coil of metal. ) is Chains.

< Quervo continues to fume at Spike, but Spike ignores him and hands Toby the chains. >

Vampire 1 :: ( Looks to Quervo. ) Let’s chain ‘im up.

< The vampires work together and manage to get the chains wrapped very tightly around Riley, his arms, legs, waist, ect. >

Drusilla Voice :: Spoike. . ?

< Spike’s amused look changes soft again as he turns his head over to Drusilla. >

Spike :: We’ve got him, Luv. Now the Slayer and Angel, will come right To us.

Drusilla :: MM. . bring ‘im over here.

Spike :: ( Frowns, suspicious about her request but drags Riley’s form over to Dru. ) You wanted to see ‘im?

Drusilla :: ( Struggles to sit up, grins. ) Yess. . . ( Runs her nail over his cheek. Riley slowly blinks but is still very weak and barely aware of what is going on around him. ) MM. .. ‘e reeks .. of Her .. of the Slayer. . mm . .

< Spike frowns, not appreciating or trusting the fact that Dru is once again amusing herself with another Male. He cuts in front of Riley and shoves Drusilla back down apon the bed rather harshly. She slightly moans in pain, but then giggles and grabs Spike’s head. >

Drusilla :: Spoike. .mm .. you know what Oi loike ..

< Spike smiles and kisses Drusilla rather roughly, she throws her head back and cries out, and he begins kissing down her neck. The other two vampires turn their heads away in discust. >

Quervo :: ( Snarls under his breath. ) I don’t like them. I say we stake them both now. They are of No Use to us.

Toby :: ( Shakes his head. ) They’re amusing. Leave them be. Plus, their place in this whole thing will help throw the Slayer off balance. Make her an easier kill.

Quervo :: Why should we have to put up with them? We have what the Slayer wants, those two should be taken out of the equation.

Toby :: NO. I have heard of this, ( Points to Drusilla. ) Vampire before. When she is at full strength, she is very powerful. She killed a Slayer.

Quervo :: ( Raises his eyebrows with interest and slight doubt. ) Are you sure? She looks like a fruitcake to me.

Vampire 1 :: I’m sure. Spike, when she is cured, I don’t care if he lives or dies, but Her, from what I hear, she is worth curing.

< Quervo looks over at Drusilla again with interest, then back at Toby, signifying that the argument was over. The two would live, for now. >

Buffy :: ( Screams out in agony. ) How could you let them do this??

Angel :: They had a girl Buffy, I was trying to get them away from her. I just assumed Riley could take care of himself, I guess ..

Buffy :: Why didn’t you go after them??

< Buffy sobs, her knees give way and Angel rushes to catch her. She pulls away from him like he’s on fire. >

Buffy :: Don’t touch me!

Angel :: ( Stands back up, looks hurt. ) Buffy I’m really sorry, I- there was no body. I think he’s still alive.

Buffy:: You think?? YOU THINK ?? I LOVE HIM, AND HE COULD BE DEAD! I CANT TAKE THIS AGAIN! ( In a desperate attempt to get away from the situation, Buffy stumbles frantically to her feet and runs to the nearest bedroom that she sees. )

< Cordelia and Wesley both give Angel a look of disbelief and shock. >

Cordelia :: You let Vampires get Buffy’s Man? What were you thinking?

Angel :: ( Turns on Cordelia angrily. ) Cordelia! ( Narrows his eyes. )

Cordelia :: Ugh, What? I’d be mad if I were her, too!

< Angel looks as if he’s about to go off on Cordelia, but Wesley steps in to interlude. >

Wesley :: Um, yes. Well perhaps we should, discuss what to do now.

Cordelia :: Alright, alright. ( Rolls her eyes. )

Angel :: Um, when I made it back to the ally, Riley and the other two vampires were gone. I’m pretty sure they took him, alive.

Wesley :: What would they want with Riley?

Angel :: ( Frowns. ) I’m not sure.

Cordeelia :: ( Sighs. ) Well, I’m going to go check on Buffy, make sure she’s still breathing. ( Looks to Angel. ) You know what I mean. < Cordelia exits down the hallway and out of view. Angel and Wesley look at each other apprehensively. >

Cordelia :: ( Wraps lightly on her bedroom door. ) Buffy ? ( Frowns when she hears no reply. Tries the knob and since the door isn’t locked, carefully and slowly opens it.)

< Buffy is curled up on Cordelia’s bed in a ball, eyes squeezed shut and a tear trying to squeeze its way out. Cordelia frowns and walks softly over to where Buffy is. >

Cordelia :: Buffy?

< Buffy slowly lifts her head up and looks at Cordelia. >

Buffy :: How could he do this?

Cordelia :: I’m sure it was an accident, and besides, Angel said that Riley is probably still alive. Just a prisoner is all.

Buffy :: ( Opens her eyes, looks at Cordy with disbelief. ) You know Cordelia, your quote should be “Things can’t possibly get any worse, until I talk.”

Cordelia :: Hey! I’m just trying to help! You don’t have to jump down my throat you know!

Buffy :: ( Closes her eyes briefly and sighs, then stretches her legs out and forces herself to get off the bed. Wipes away her forming tears and sets a look of pure determination upon her face. ) Takes a stake out of her pocket and twirls it around in her hand, looks up at Cordelia and wryly smiles. )

Cordelia :: ( Eyes widen. ) Whoa, no! Buffy it was an accident, you don’t have to stake him for it!

< Buffy Looks at Cordelia confused, but shakes her head and walks past her hurridly out the bedroom door. Cordelia follows Buffy in hot pursuit. >

Cordelia :: ( Yells.) Angel watch out, she’s really mad and I think she’s gonna-

< Buffy hurries past Angel and Wesley and heads towards the door with a purpose. Cordelia stops in her tracks looking very confused, as does Wesley. Angel however does’nt appear to be confused. He rushes to the door. >

Angel :: Buffy, no!

Buffy :: ( Angrily shoves Angel away and flings open the door. ) I’m going to save MY boyfriend. Don’t do my any favors, Angel.

Angel :: ( Heaves, frowns. ) Buffy, you can’t go there alone!

Buffy :: ( Doesn’t look back.) I’m a big girl now Angel, and I don’t need you to protect me. I’ve been doing perfectly fine WITHOUT you. ( Walks off. )

< Wesley looks at Angel with disbelief. >

Cordelia :: You know-

Angel :: Cordy, not now. I have to go after Buffy.

Wesley :: Do you think that’s wise, Angel? She doesn’t appear to exactly want your company.

Angel :: Well I’m not concerned right now about what Buffy wants. I’m concerned about what she needs. ( Leaves. )

< Cordelia and Wesley exchange a look of overwhelmed exasperation. >

< At the warehouse, Quervo, Toby and Spike are all gathered in a cluster, discussing their plans. >

Vampire 1 :: ( Peers with paranoia around the corner. ) They should be comin’, soon.

Quervo :: ( Throws his head back and laughs. ) Yeah, I’ll Our Little Slayer isn’t too happy with our Soul Happy vampire. He did in fact, let us take her boyfriend.

Toby :: ( Frowns. ) Yes, and I’ll bet she’s not exactly pleased with anyone. The only problem with this is, true that this ( Points to Riley ) guy is good bait, but we are going to be dealing with one Extra ticked off Slayer.

Spike :: ( Sighs heavily. ) Yeah, and let me tell you, mate, when the Slayer gets ticked, she’s quite the firecracker.

Quervo :: ( Sizes Spike up. ) You tryin’ to scare us?

Spike :: Jus’ lettin’ you know what we’re gonna be dealin’ with.

< Riley’s eyes slowly blink open, and his head slowly comes up. He takes in his surroundings. Drusilla notices that Riley is awake. >

Drusilla :: < Claps hands exitedly. > OOO ooo oo! Look, ‘e’s awake all awake!

Spike :: ( Looks over towards Dru and frowns. Walks over to the two of them. ) Well, ‘ello Riley.

Riley :: ( Looks up at Spike with hatred and resent. ) Spike. ( Struggles against the tight chains. )

Spike :: Sorry, don’t think that’s goin’ t’work, mate.

Riley :: Buffy pitied you.

Spike :: ( Looks away, but tries to cover up his slight pang of guilt by snidely laughing. ) Well when it’s a contest between Drusilla and Buffy, Dru is First Priority.

< Drusilla looks at Spike oddly, not quite fully understanding what Riley was talking about but not liking the sound of it. >

Drusilla :: Spoike. . . you didn’t . . not with Her .. not with the Slayer. . ( Begins to shake her had violently.) Nooo o . . no ooo .. .

Spike :: ( Jumps up to cradle and comfort her. ) No Ducks, Never.

< Drusilla continues to slightly struggle against Spike’s attempts. >

Drusilla :: Oi knew Oi could smell ‘er. . on you ..

Spike :: ( Eyes widen in fear. ) Pet, NO! I never touched ‘er, you know Daddy wouldn’t do that. Daddy loves you, Princess.

< Drusilla slowly stops struggling, and eventually let Spike comfort her. All the while, Riley is watching this with interest and thought, an idea forming in his mind. >

Riley :: Don’t listen to him. He did touch her, in fact a while ago, she was going to marry him! I saw them kissing with my own eyes!

Drusilla :: ( Head snaps back to look at Spike with spite. ) You .. lied to me. . lied to PrinCess. . .

Spike :: ( Shoots Riley a searing glare. ) No Ducks, ‘e’s lyin.’ ‘E’s tryin’ to get you to hate me so that we’ll fight, so he has a better chance to escape.

< Drusilla looks from Spike to Riley and back to Spike, trying to decide whom to believe.>

Spike :: ( Frantic ) Ducks, ( Cradles her face in his palms. ) Luv, you know I would NEVER kiss the Slayer!

Riley :: Oh yeah, tongue and all-

< Spike punches Riley, then immediately grabs his head and cries out in pain. >

Riley :: You see? He can’t even hit anyone anymore! What good is he to you, Dru? How can you even think of trusting someone like that?

Spike :: SHUT UP !! ( Almost hits Riley again, but stops himself in time. )

< Spike quickly turns to the other vampires, silently pleading for some help. They both look quite amused by the situation. >

Spike :: ( Grabs Riley’s chains and drags him away from Drusilla. ) That’s enough of your mouth.

< The other vampires both look at each other with obvious amusement twinkling in their eyes. >

Quervo :: ( Breaks the stare with Vampire 1. ) Well, the Slayer’ll be arrivin’ soon with the Soul Happy vampire. Best get prepared.

< Wesley is pacing nervously back and forth in Cordelia’s apartment, and Cordy is sitting on the couch uneasily resting her head on her hand. >

Wesley :: ( Finally stops pacing. ) We cannot sit her and allow Angel and Buffy to walk into potential great danger.

Cordelia :: Well I told him not to go, but no, he just Had to follow his precious Buffy!

Wesley :: ( Frowns, grabs his coat. )

Cordelia :: What are you doing?

Wesley :: I’m going to get help. I’m going to the station to get Kate.

Cordelia :: Oh, good idea! ( Tilts her head. ) Why didn’t I think of that?

< Cordelia jumps up and grabs her coat as well, and her and Wesley hurry out the door. >

< Buffy is walking swiftly down the LA street with a purpose, hardened, hurt but determined look on her face. Her stake is poised in her right hand, out and ready to strike. Her eyes are glued straight in front of her, too infuriated to glance around at her surroundings. Angel, still a distance behind her, is briskly jogging in an attempt to catch up with her. >

Angel :: Buffy! Wait!

< Buffy ignores Angel, not showing the slightest hint of recogniton of her ex lover. >

Angel :: BUFFY! YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT YOU”RE DOING!

Buffy :: < Whirls around. > GO HOME, ANGEL!

Angel :: No. I’m not letting you go there alone. Sick or not, anything involving Drusilla is dangerous.

Buffy :: Quit trying to protect me! If you really cared about me, you would have at least kept an eye on Riley! But no, you were too busy sticking to the written rules of your Sacred Duty! YOU MAY HAVE GOTTEN MY BOYFRIEND KILLED!

Angel :: They didn’t kill him, I’m almost sure of it-

Buffy :: ALMOST? ALMOST??? I Love him, Angel!

Angel :: ( Looks down. ) I’m sorry, Buffy. I should’ve been more careful.

Buffy :: ( Purses her lips stubbornly. ) Yeah, you should’ve. ( Turns back around. )

Angel :: Buffy, wait!

Buffy :: No. I’m going to save my boyfriend, and get rid of Drusilla and Spike once and for all.

Angel :: Not alone.

Buffy :: ( Stops, rolls her eyes to cover up the pain. ) Fine. ( Walks forward again, but does’t turn around to face Angel. )

< At the police station, the night action appears desolate until the doors once again burst open and Cordy and Wesley enter. A few of the police at their desks get up, but neither Cordelia nor Wesley even glance at them. Kate sees them coming and stands up expectantly. >

Cordelia :: ( Bursts out.) The vampires took Riley and Buffy got mad about it so she left to fight them, and Angel ran after her.

Kate :: Oh my god.

Wesley :: Yes, well, they need help.

Kate :: ( Hands flutter to shakily throw her paperwork into a messy pile. Looks up at Cordelia and Wesley. ) I’m headed over there.

Wesley :: Now, this could be very dangerous-

Kate :: ( Opens her drawer, takes out her gun, And a stake. ) Well you know what they say, Danger’s my middle name.

Cordelia :: ( Looks from Wesley to Kate. ) Do you even know how to Use that?

Kate :: ( Ignores Cordelia, throws on her coat. ) You two go back to where it’s safe. Now. ( Brushes past the two and hurries out the door. )

< Cordelia and Wesley share a look of exasperation and disbelief. >

Cordelia :: Ok . .

Wesley :: Right then, let’s be on our way.

< Back at the hideout, Drusilla is once again laying on the bed. Riley is in chains hidden in the shadows in the corner, barely able to be seen. Spike is with him in the corner, half of his figure light and the other half overcast by shadows. Vampire 1 and Quervo are standing expectedly to each side of the entrance holding rope. Camera pans up to reveal a net strung across the ceiling. Both vampires share a look of self- satisfaction. >

< Camera switches to outside, where Buffy and Angel are slowly and cautiously approaching the entrance of the hideout. Buffy has her eyes narrowed determinedly, and Angel is trying his best to keep up with her. It is obvious she is still making a contious effort to ignore him. >

Buffy :: ( Whispers. ) So, this is it.

< Angel’s eyes darted around with curiosity and paranoia. Buffy begins to walk up to the door, but Angel leaps forward and puts a hand on her shoulder. Buffy pulls away from him like he’s on fire. Angel regards her with a hurt expression, but hardens his face so he can concentrate on the current situation. >

Angel :: Wait. Something’s not right. ( Looks around again. ) It’s quiet. Too quiet.

Buffy :: ( Sighs in annoyance. ) You know what? I don’t have time for this. Riley’s life may be in danger.

< Angel makes another move towards Buffy, but once again she leaps forward and busts through the door. >

Angel :: Buffy, no!

< Angel leaps forward after her, and suddenly a massive net is dropped on Buffy and Angel, and as soon as it does, the two vampires leap forward and hit Buffy and Angel hard over the head. They both fall unconscious. >

< Kate is walking down the LA street, alert and slightly paranoid. A few random bums jump back as she walks by, but she doesn’t even give them a second glance. Kate approaches the ally, and her pace slows down a bit with caution. She throws her head to the left, to the right, and frowns at the eerie silence and lack of clues of ‘evil doing.’ >

Kate :: Great. A guessing game.

< Kate slowly approaches the door to the hideout. She takes out her gun and leaps to the side of the door, poised and leaning against the door to try and hear what is going on inside. There are no voices, but she hears a muffled “clang.” She purses her lips and pats her other pocket that contains her stake in it. She bursts through the door. >

< In the hideout, The vampire immediately grab the two unconscious bodies even through the net and Spike grabs another handful of chains off the wall. >

Spike :: ‘Urry up, mate. These two won’t stay immobile for long.

< The vampires quickly chain up their new prisoners, right through the net. They obviously don’t plan on taking any chances. Suddenly the door burst open and an angry looking young woman bursts through the door. The vampires jump back in surprise. >

Kate :: Alright, party’s over.

Quervo :: ( Raises his eyebrows at her curiously, not intimidated by her. ) Looks like we got ourselves a crasher! Darn, and right when we had everything going to plan! ( Sarcastically )

< Toby stands up straight, trying to look powerful and confronts Kate. She looks back at him with an even expression and poises the stake so he can get a clear picture of what she intended to do. Toby snickers. >

Toby :: Naw, I’d say the party is just beginning!. ( Grins widely, holds hands up in a “bring it on” fashion. )

< Kate narrows her eyes, and makes the mistake of glancing over to where Angel and Buffy’s forms lay chained up. Vampire 1 takes that opportunity to lunge forward at her, knocking her off her feet. Spike smiles with relief. >

Spike :: Well now, what do we ‘ave here? ( Steps forward, regards the fallen woman with curiosity. )

< Kate leaps up again and scans the room with caution and fear. Quervo and Vampire 1 were in full fighting stance, ready for her to strike at anytime. Spike, knowing full well he couldn’t fight, kept his distance. Dru sat up in bed, keeping silent but on nervous alert. >

Kate :: ( Looks right then left, trying desperately to decide whom to attack. Seeing the vampires in position, she realizes that she is surrounded. She lowers her stake a fraction of an inch. ) Pieces of . . ( She trails off. )

< The two vampires smiled triumphantly, knowing that the woman knew there was no way out for her. Kate twitches nervously and shifted her weight. Quervo took a cautious step forward. >

Quervo :: There’s no way out for you, so you have Two choices. First, I can kill you and drink your blood right now, or, we can just chain you up, and kill you and drink your blood as a quick appetizer before I kill the Slayer.

Kate :: ( Glares at Quervo. ) No one will Ever be drinking from me.

Quervo :: ( Chuckles. ) Is that so?

Toby :: ( Takes a confident step towards her. ) Playtime’s over.

< Kate frantically looks for a way out and even though she doesn’t see one, she knows it’s either Fight or Die. She leaps forward at Toby and attacks him. >

< Cordelia and Wesley are back at Cordelia’s apartment. Cordelia is sipping coffee out of a mug, and Wesley is sitting on the couch appearing to be deep in thought. >

Wesley :: I don’t like this.

Cordelia :: Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t have any cream. ( Tilts her head. ) Do you know how many calories are in cream?

Wesley :: ( Looks at her as if she was speaking Greek. ) I meant this whole thing with Angel.

Cordelia :: Oh. Well Angels fought lots of, nasty gooey creatures before, he can handle a few vampires.

Welsey :: It’s been too long. Angel usually would have checked in by now.

< Cordelia glances at the phone and bites her bottom lip. >

Cordelia :: You’re right, but if he’s fine and we get all worried over nothing-

Wesley :: I think we should go, um, check it out.

Cordelia :: ( Makes a surprised face. ) We? If Angel, Buffy, Riley AND Kate are all captured or something, what are WE going to do about it?

Wesley :: ( Sighs. ) Well we can’t just leave them, and we can’t just keep sitting here while they may be in danger.

Cordelia :: ( Groans. ) Ok, ok, but if I get captured I’m going to be very upset!

Wesley :: Do you have any, um, supplies?

Cordelia :: A few, but the load is at Angel’s.

Wesley :: ( Gets up off the couch. ) Then we’ll head there first.

Cordelia :: Do we even have a plan?

Wesley :: A plan? Um, why, yes. We-

< Cordelia makes a face at Wesley. >

Wesley :: Right then, let’s go.

< Cordelia and Wesley put on their coats and head out the door. >

< At the hideout, Riley, Buffy, Angel and Kate are all chained up and slung against the damp wall. The two vampires are standing near them, looking very proud of themselves. All four prisoners are conscious. Spike is sitting near Drusilla, lovingly stroking her forehead. >

Spike :: Won’t be long now, Luv.

Drusilla :: Oi can smell ‘er .. mm. . Oi can smell ‘er blood . .

Spike :: Yes, she has a cut on ‘er. ( Glances towards Buffy, frowns. ) But she’ll soon ‘ave more, won’t she.

Drusilla :: MM .. yess .. . ( Closes her eyes and smiles in imaginary bliss. )

< Camera turns to Buffy, her faze blazing with anger. >

Buffy :: Spike.

< Spike turns around to stare at the Slayer, looking almost afraid over whatever is soon to come out of her mouth. >

Spike :: What is it, Slayer?

Buffy :: You know she’ll leave you as soon as you make her better.

Spike :: ( Glares at Buffy. ) Will not. Me n’ Dru are back for good.

Buffy :: ( Snickers. ) Yeah right. Are you planning to wake up from this dream any time soon, Spike?

Spike :: ( Fumes.) Shut up!

< Drusilla throws her head back against the pillow in pain again. Spike frowns and stands up, looking at Quervo and Vampire 1. >

Spike :: We about ready, here?

Vampire 1 :: ( Glances again at the ‘prisoners.’ ) Oh, I think so.

< Spike pulls out a dingy book and opens it to a folded down page. He looks up at Angel and Buffy and grins evilly. They all glare back at him with hatred. He looks away. >

Spike :: Alright then. ( Reaches under the mattress and pulls out a large dagger. )

< Quervo backs up, eyeing the dagger with admiration. Vampire 1 looks indifferent and impatient. Spike then takes out a chalice. Walks over to Vampire 1 and hands him the supplies, then goes over to Dru and slowly helps her off the bed. >

Drusillla :: OO oo .. . . ( In slight pain. )

Spike :: It’s almost over, Pet. You’ll be well again.

Drusilla :: ( Looks at Spike, smiles. ) Yess . . .. .Oi’ll be all better .. mmm . ..

Buffy :: She’ll never be well, Spike. You might make her healthy, then she’ll leave you again. You know that, Spike.

Spike :: ( Glares at Buffy, but then looks away in shame. Growls softly. ) How many times do I have to say it? Me and Dru are back for good.

Buffy :: Don’t lie to yourself, Spike.

Angel :: ( Glares at Spike. Suddenly, he leaps up and tears the chains off the wall. )

< Spike jumps back quickly to avoid being rammed and looks desperately to the vampires for help. Both of them lunge forward towards Angel, but he turns swiftly and kicks them both back harshly. They land with a big ‘oof.’ >

Drusilla :: Nooo . . no . .< Shakes her head violently. > Angel ..

< Spike fumes, purses his lips harshly. Pulls Dru backwards. Suddenly, the door bursts open and Wesley runs in. Everyone stops their impending action and turns to stare at him, confused and amused. He holds up a stake and a cross, breathing heavily in fear, trying desperately to be brave. >

< Wesley Glances at Angel, eyes dart frantically in distress, he obviously has no clue what to do. Cordelia cautiously steps in behind him holding her own stake and cross, and she immediately wrinkles her nose. >

Cordelia :: Ew, my god, do you guys even OWN a windex bottle? An Air freshener? ANYTHING?

< The vampires all turn to look at her, confused by her offbeat comment. >

Cordelia :: I guess not. Gross. ( Suddenly seems to realize that there are five vampires in the room, and suddenly puts on a straight face and holds up her cross and stake protectively. )

< Angel glances at Wesley as he carefully backs the chain’s latch up against a pipe without any of the confused vamps seeing it. The chains break loose with a long CLINK and he breaks free. The vampires don’t have time to react before he was on them. Angel whipped the stake from Wesley’s hand and quickly placed it through the heart of Toby. Quervo however proved more difficult. Angel wrestled and punched and picked with him. Spike rushed a protesting and moaning Dru out of the way and all he could do was watch the fight in distress and try to hold a weakened and angered Drusilla back. Buffy strained violently against the chains, desperately trying to break free but Riley tried to reach out to her. >

Riley :: Buffy, no! This is Angel’s fight.

< Buffy stopped to look at Riley with confusion and admiration, then whipped her head back to where the fight gravitated. Cordy and Wesley both leapt way back far out of the way, accompanied by a loud yelp from Cordelia. Finally, Quervo made the fatal mistake of being a bit too cocky. He thought he had a good punch coming, but instead impaled himself right onto Angel’s stake. He turned to dust, but Angel wasn’t finished yet. Fully vamped, he turned to face Spike. Spike took a step backwards, trying to block off Dru. >

Spike :: Angel, mate, you wouldn’t ‘urt me!

Angel :: I told you a long time ago, Spike, to take Dru and leave. I gave you more than enough chances. Buffy gave you chances too, and without a second glance you were going to kill us both.

Spike :: ( Eyes rolling frantically. ) Angel, mate, don’t do anything rash now, ( Holds his palms out. )

Angel :: ( Quickly glances at the stake in his hands. )

Riley :: Stake them, Angel. We can’t afford to let anyone else get hurt.

< Drusilla put her hand over her forehead and moaned loudly, obviously trying to gain Spike’s attention and sympathy. >

Buffy :: Look at what she’s doing, Spike! She’s playing you! If she hadn’t fed off that guy and gotten aids, do you even think she would have given you the time of day?

Spike :: Dru loves me. ( Obviously uncertain. )

Buffy :: Dru used you. Just like she has in the past, just like she will in the future.

Dru :: Spike .. you luv your PrinCess . .

< Spike turns from Buffy to Dru, obviously overwhelmed. He lifts up his hand and places it over Dru’s, eyeing Angel with fear. Cordelia and Wesley stay far back in the shadows, watching the unfolding scene with intensity and concern. >

Angel :: This can’t go on. For either of you.

Spike :: Angel-

Angel :: Spike, Drusilla left you when you were weak, Buffy took care of you. What Slayer would take care of a vampire other than Buffy? If not for her, then for yourself.

Spike :: ( Lifts up Drusilla’s hand to his lips and tenderly kisses it. Takes a deep unneeded breath. ) I’m sorry, Ducks. I’ve been all wrong headed. I loved you.

Drusilla :: S- Spoike . . ??

Spike :: I’m sorry. I love you too much to let you hurt me again. You’re better off without me. I’d only drag you down.

< Drusilla suddenly lunges forward and grabs the stake out of Angel’s hands. He jumps back at first thinking that she was going to try and stake him, but instead she crumples down to her knees, half sobbing. She runs her hand lightly over the ground. A single tear runs down her cheek. Spike starts to take a step towards her but her head snaps up. >

Drusilla :: As a li’l girl, Oi always wanted to be a Princess. Spoike told me Oi was . .< smiles > .. an’ that we’d live forever. . in a castle. . < giggles > ..and that we’d ‘ave dollies .. . lots of them. And birds . .that would sing for me . .

< Spike looks at her with pity and shame, trying desperately to hold his composure. >

Drusilla :: And Oi’d ‘ave a kitty . . < Slowly turns the stake around, and her eyes grow dark. > Oi would’ve been ‘appy . . .< Spike suddenly realizes what she was doing, and rushes forward to stop her but she was too quick, and swiftly drives the stake into her heart. For a split second, she looks up at Spike, and then her tortured body turned to ash and covered the ground like a blanket of eternity. Angel, Buffy, Riley, Kate, Cordelia and Wesley could do nothing for several moments but stare at the ashes of and their tragedy. Spike suddenly falls to his knees and starts to weep, running his hands over the ashes that used to be Drusilla.>

< Back at Angel’s apartment, everyone is there. Buffy, Riley and Spike appear as though they’re getting ready to leave. Everyone appears forlorn and uncomfortable. Riley and Buffy share an emotional hug, and then Buffy slowly pulls away. She looks at Riley knowingly, and slowly turns and walks to Angel. She forces her head up. >

Spike :: Slayer, I-

Buffy :: You don’t have to say anything.

Spike :: ( Sighs. ) I’m sorry. I loved ‘er. I still love ‘er. I’ll always love ‘er.

Buffy :: ( Frowns. ) I know. But I’m glad you came through in the end.

< Spike nods, and tries to keep himself from tearing up. Riley slowly walks over to where Angel, Buffy and Spike are standing. Riley purses his lips and looks at Angel with uncertainty, but slowly holds out his hand. Angel looks at him surprised, but slowly extends his hand as well. They shake, both knowing the immense significance this handshake brings to their truce. They simultaneously drop hands. Riley glances at Angel one last time, then turns to Buffy. >

Riley :: We should, go.

Buffy:: ( Looks down. ) Yeah. We need to get back.

< Buffy and Angel share a look of sadness, then Buffy takes Riley’s arm. Kate, Wesley and Cordelia all respectfully keep their distance. >

Buffy :: We’ll phone you if, if we need anything.

Angel :: ( Looks ANYWHERE but at Buffy. ) Okay.

Buffy :: See ya. ( Allows Riley to walk her out, Spike following with his head hung low. They softly shut the door behind them. )

< An awkward silence follows afterward, and Angel’s longing eyes are glued to the door. Kate sighs and walks over to Angel, putting her arms around him and resting her chin up on his shoulder. Angel closes his eyes in pain. Cordelia watches Angel and bites her bottom lip in concern. Wesley sighs and puts his arm around Cordelia too, and the two couples sit in silence. >

END OF ANGEL

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