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Lie To Me Written by: Joss Whedon |
| Teaser |
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EXT. PLAYGROUND - EVENING We see a little merry-go-round turning absently in the (sorry, Gareth) foggy dark. A set of swings, also empty, also pushed slightly by the night wind. A jungle gym sits nearby, eight year old JAMES hanging sullenly on it. He sits inside it, looking out at the park.
Come on, Mom… He cranes around but there is no Mom in sight.
She's always late. As he hangs, we see a figure moving slowly toward him from behind. DRUSILLA. Her ethereal figure moves unsteadily, a faint and senseless smile on her lips. The boy makes her weak with hunger.
Are you lost? The boy turns, startled but not particularly scared. He climbs out of the jungle gym, which stands between them as he replies:
No. My Mom's supposed to pick me up is all.
Do you want me to walk you home?
No, thank you. I'm supposed to wait. She reaches the gym and starts coming slowly around, running her fingers along the bars. James begins to get slightly creeped, taking a step back.
'Cause my Mom is coming.
My mummy used to sing me to sleep at night. "Run and catch, run and catch, the lamp is caught in the blackberry patch". She had the sweetest voice, like cherries. What will your mummy sing when they find your body? Okay, now he's creeped. She is on the same side as him now, standing still, smiling still.
I'm not… I'm not supposed to talk to people.
Oh, I'm not a person, so that's just-- A dark figure APPEARS right before James. He jerks back, looking up to see the dark and glowering face of ANGEL
Run home. James does. Drusilla makes a whimpering growl. Angel turns to face her-- and her face lights up.
My Angel.
Hello, Drusilla.
(comes slowly to him) Do you remember the song mummy used to sing me? Pretty. She would sing me to sleep, and the fairies and sprites would bit at my heels.
I remember.
Yes…you do…
Drusilla, leave here. I'm offering you that chance. Take Spike and get out.
Or you'll hurt me? He looks down.
No. No, you can't. Not anymore.
If you don't leave… it'll go badly. For all of us.
My dear boy's gone all away, hasn't he? To her.
Who?
The girl. ANGLE: BUFFY The girl herself, patrolling on a nearby rooftop. She spots the two of them, looks down, uncertain. ANGLE: HER POV Of Angel and another woman. Too close for Buffy's comfort. The woman puts her hand on Angel's chest.
The Slayer. Your heart stinks of her. Poor little thing. She has no idea what's in store. She stops -- actually sensing Buffy watching. She glances at the girl, smiling to herself.
This can't go on, Drusilla. It's gotta end.
Oh, no, my pet… She leans in for what looks to Buffy like a kiss, whispers in Angel's ear:
This is just the beginning. She drifts back, away from Angel. He watches her go. So does Buffy. BLACK OUT.
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| Act One |
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INT. HALL - MORNING GILES is talking to JENNY, as they walk toward the library.
It's a secret.
What kind of secret?
The kind that's secret. You know, where I don't tell you what it is.
But I just think it's customary, if two people are going out on an evening, for the both of them to know where they're going.
Oh, come on! Where's your sense of adventure?
But, I -- how will I know what to wear?
(re: his tweedy look) Do you own anything else?
Not as such.
You're just gonna have to trust me, Rupert.
All right. I put myself in your hands.
Now that sounds like fun. An intimate moment is interrupted by:
Hey guys. She approaches them -- glum, exactly, but a tad distracted.
I gotta take off. Tomorrow, 7:30. Right?
Yes. She takes off. Giles turns to Buffy and they start down the hall.
Did we hunt last night?
Did a couple of quick sweeps, you know, downtown.
No encounters?
Nothing vampiry.
Well, I've been researching our new friend Spike. The profile is fairly unappetizing -- but I still haven't a bead on why he's here.
You'll figure it out.
Are you all right? You seem a bit glum.
I'm okay.
Well, why don't you take the night off?
That's be nice.
Yes, even I realize a young person like yourself can't spend all her time fighting the forces of darkness. No slaying this evening. Perhaps you can concentrate on your homework instead. She peers at him
Do they know about "fun" in England?
Yes, but's considered very poor taste to have any. Very well. Do whatever it is you like. You could spend some time with Angel.
I don't know. He might have other plans. INT. CLASSROOM - DAY CLOSE ON: A PIECE OF PAPER Unfolded to read, in Willow's script: "Do you know who she was?" A WIDER ANGLE reveals the girls bear the back during class. XANDER is next to CORDELIA, who sits a bit in front, actually participating. Buffy scribbles a reply, as Cordelia holds forth:
I just don't see why everyone is always ragging on Marie Antoinette. I can so relate to her. She worked really hard to look that good. People don't appreciate that effort. Buffy writes out: "No. Dark hair, old dress. Pretty." She hands the note to WILLOW.
And I know, the peasants were all depressed.
I think you mean "oppressed."
Whatever. They were cranky. So they're like, "let's lose some heads now." Oh, that's fair. And Marie Antoinette cared about them. She was gonna let them have cake!
Well, that's one way to look at it… Willow scribbles, hands back. Buffy opens to see: "Vampire?" Over which the BELL RINGS, signaling the end of class. The kids rise and gather their books. Buffy turns to Willow. INT. HALL - DAY As they exit:
I don't know. I don't think so -- I mean, they seemed pretty friendly.
Who's friendly?
No one.
Angel and a girl.
Will, do we have to be in total share mode?
Hey, it's me. If Angel's doing something wrong I need to know. 'Cause it gives me a happy.
I'm glad someone has a happy.
Aw, you just need cheering up. And I know just the thing. (a few wild moves) Crazed dance party at the Bronze!
I don't know.
(restrained moves) Very calm dance party at the Bronze. (no moves) Moping at the Bronze.
I'd suggest a box of Oreos dunked in apple juice…but maybe she's over that phase. He's standing behind Buffy smiling. A charming and innocuous senior, Billy Fordham, known as FORD, waits for Buffy to turn. Which she does, wonder blossoming on her face.
Ford? She sees him and throws her arms around him. He gives her a big friendly hug.
Ford!
Hey, Summers. How you been?
What are you doing here?
Matriculating.
Huh?
I'm finishing out my senior year at Sunnydale High. Dad got transferred.
That's great!
I'm glad you think so. Wasn't sure you'd remember me.
Remember you? Duh, we were in school together for seven years. You were my giant fifth grade crush. Remember.
So, you two know each other?
Oh! I'm sorry. This is Ford. Uh, Billy Fordham. This is Xander and Willow.
Hi.
Hey.
Nice to meet you.
Ford and I went to Hemery together, in L.A. (to Ford) And you're here? For real?
Dad got the transfer, boom -- just dragged me out of Hemery and put me down here.
This is great! I mean, It's hard, sudden move, all your friends, delicate time very emotional but let's talk about me this is great!
So you guys were sweeties in fifth grade?
Not even. Ford wouldn't give me the time of day.
Well, I was a manly sixth grader, couldn't be bothered with someone that young.
It was terrible. I moped over you for months. Sitting in my room listening to that Divinyls song, "I touch myself". (suddenly sheepish) Of course, I had no idea what it was about.
It's fun to meet someone who knew Buffy from before she was the -- (off Buffy's glare) -- the here-being girl.
(less enthused) Yeah, it's fun.
Hey! Are you busy tonight?
I'm hoping you'll tell me that I am.
We're going to the Bronze. It's the local club and you gotta come.
I'd love to, but if you guys had plans - would I be imposing?
Only in the literal sense.
You're coming. I have spoken.
Okay, then. I gotta find the admissions office, get my papers in order.
I'll walk you. See you guys in French.
Good meeting you. They take off, Xander watching them go as Willow works something out in her head.
"This is Ford, my bestest friend of all my friends". Jeez. Didn't she know any fat guys?
(gets it) Oh! That's what that song's about? INT. BRONZE - NIGHT The usual suspects mill about, dance, talk. Cordelia is on the dance floor, rockin' out. Buffy enters, cranes about for her peoples. She spots them on a couch. Ford is with them already, talking, making Willow laugh and Xander smile politely. Buffy crosses to them.
Hey, you got here.
Wasn't that hard to find.
Buffy, Ford was just telling us about the ninth grade beauty contest. And the, uh, swimsuit competition?
Oh, God. Ford! Stop that! The more people you tell about it, the more people I have to kill.
You can't touch me, Summers. I know all your darkest secrets.
Care to make a small wager on that?
I'm gonna grab a soda. Ford, try not to talk. She crosses to the bar. As she arrives the man in front turns to go, drink in hand. It's Angel.
Oh!
Hey. I was hoping you'd show.
You drink? Drinks? I mean, non-blood things.
Yeah. I eat, too. Not for nutritional value -- it just kind of passes the time.
Oh. Who knew?
There's a lot about me you don't know.
I believe that. ANGLE: WILLOW, XANDER AND FORD Look over at the two of them.
That's Angel.
He's Buffy's beau. Her special friend.
He's not in school, right? He looks older than her.
You're not wrong ANGLE: BUFFY AND ANGEL
So, what'd you do last night?
Nothing.
Nothing at all? You ceased to exist?
No, I mean I stayed in. Read.
Oh. Her face hardens at the lie. She turns and joins her friends.
Didn't want that soda after all?
Not that thirsty. Angel has come up behind her.
Hey, Angel.
Hi.
This is Ford. We went to school together in L.A. They shake hands.
Nice to meet you.
Whoah. Cold hands.
You're not wrong.
So, you're visiting Buffy?
No, I'm actually here to stay. Just moved down.
Well, Sunnydale is a fun town to live in. If you're a small patch of moss.
Angel, do you want to sit?
It's so crowded in here. I'm hot. (to Ford) Do you want to go for a walk?
Uh, sure. That'd be nice. The rise. Angel steps back for them to pass.
I'll see you all tomorrow.
Good night.
Take care. Awkward silence follows this awkward scene.
Okay, once more, with tension. Cordelia joins the group, eyes on the departing figures.
Who's the tasty treat?
Buffy's oldest and dearest.
He just moved here?
Yeah. And boy, does he move fast. Not what Angel wanted to hear.
Well, Angel, you can still hang out with us -- But he's gone.
(to Xander) See? You made him do that thing where he's gone. EXT. ALLEY - NIGHT As Buffy and Ford walk, not talking just now. After a bit:
So, that was your boyfriend?
No. Well, yeah. Well, maybe. Let's lay off the tough questions for a while.
Sorry. So, what else do you do for fun around here? As he is saying this, Buffy hears a SCUFFLE around the corner. She grabs Ford.
Um, Uh, my purse! I left it at the Bronze. Would you get it for me? Thanks.
Uh, okay.
Good. Run. Thanks. Confused, he starts off. Buffy runs around the corner. ANGLE: FORD Stops, turns back. What's going on here? He starts moving slowly toward the alley. The SOUNDS of fighting emerge. Then a woman emerges, running away in terror. Ford keeps inching closer - as a trash can emerges on the fly. Just misses him. He runs the corner to see: ANGLE: BUFFY As she stakes a vampire. He turns to dust right in front of Ford's eyes. Buffy turns, is startled.
Oh! You're back.
What's going on?
There was a cat. A cat here and then there was, another cat. And they fought, the cats, and then they left.
Oh. I thought you were just slaying a vampire.
What? Whatting a what?
I know, Buffy. You don't have to lie. I've been trying to figure out the right time to tell you. I know you're the Slayer. Off Buffy's look: INT. WILLOW'S BEDROOM - NIGHT She is on the phone.
Just like that? He told you? INTERCUT WITH: INT. BUFFY'S KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS -NIGHT Buffy is on the cordless, sitting on the counter.
Just like that. Said he found out right before I got booted from Hemery.
Wow. It's neat. Is it neat?
It…yeah, I guess it is . it's nice to have someone else that I can open up to. No more hiding. EXT. URBAN DISTRICT - NIGHT (Okay, it's our damn alley.) Ford walks cheerfully along. Comes to a door in what appears to be a pretty rundown building. Over the large metal door is a painted sign: no words, just a picture of a setting sun. Ford pounds on the door. A little window in the center slides open. A GUY of about 25 -- strong, tattooed and suspicious, peers out. The little window slides closed -- and the door opens. Ford enters: INT. HALL - CONTINUOUS - NIGHT A small hall, painted black and leading to another, even heavier metal door. INT. THE SUNSET CLUB - CONTINUOUS - NIGHT And he's in another world. The Sunset Club is dark, fairly Goth and very lively. It's like a giant underground bunker done up for permanent Halloween. The door opens onto a balcony that rings the top of the large space. There is a bridge of metal grill work that spans the space up here as well, and steps leading down into the main floor, which divides into various lung spaces, dance areas, and small private rooms. There's maybe thirty people here, all corsets and velvet and black lipstick. The MUSIC is loud and pulsing. Lights flicker and swirl across Ford's face as he looks about him. ANGLE: WELDER GUY. He's got black hair, black lips, and dark goggles on as he works on the metal door hinge, crouching in a shower of sparks. Ford nods at him (we cannot tell exactly what the man is doing), then starts down the stairs. As he reaches the bottom he is accosted by DIEGO, a true vampire wannabe. His ruffled shirt and velvet cape only accentuate his nerdliness. If this group has a leader, Diego is it.
Ford. Ford!
Hey. As always, Ford is fairly dismissive of Diego.
Well? How did it go?
Went good.
Good? That's it ? Well, when --
Soon.
You know, you could give me a little more information here. I'm trusting you, I'm out on a limb here -- not to mention the lease is almost up on this place and who's gonna cover that, my dad's not sending me another dime --
Marvin --
Diego. Come on, it's Diego now.
Diego. Ritalin. Everything's gonna be fine. A slinky goth girl, CHANTARELLE (formerly Joan), glides up to the boys with a couple of goblets. Ford takes one. He pops open a prescription bottle and washes down a pill, then continues:
Just make sure you're ready when I say. True believers only.
I can't wait. Ford's attention is caught by the movie playing against a nearby wall. It's on a big monitor -- and on another behind Ford. Ford seems mesmerized as he sips from the goblet.
Well, I still think I should be in on the plan.
(eyes on the movie) Diego, you gotta trust me. A couple more days and we'll get to do the two things every American teen should have the chance to do. Die young… He turns to Diego and Chantarelle, smiling.
…and stay pretty. He turns back to the movie. Watches, mouthing every line as it's spoken. We see him and the second vid screen behind him, as both he and Jack Palance intone:
So, you play your wits against mine. Me, who commanded armies hundreds of years before you were born. Fools! There is no way in this life to stop me… BLACK OUT.
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| Act Two |
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INT. WILLOW'S BEDROOM - NIGHT Willow comes out of the bathroom, brushing her hair out. She passes the French doors -- and starts, as she sees Angel standing behind them.
Oh! Angel. She looks over at her door, slightly open -- no parent noises -- then opens the French doors.
What are you doing here?
I wanted to talk to you.
Well, oh. She pulls the door all the way open, waits for him to step in.
Well?
I can't… unless you invite me. I can't come in.
Oh! Okay. Uh, I invite you. To come in. He does. Willow goes over to her bed. She spots her bra lying on it. In a panic, she stuffs it under her pillow. Turns to him.
If this is a bad time…
No, I just… I'm not supposed to have boys in my room. And she clearly hasn't, by her nervous demeanor.
Well, I promise to behave myself.
Okay, good.
I guess I need help. And you're the first person I thought of.
Help? You mean like on homework? No, 'cause you're old and you already know stuff.
I want you to track someone down. On the net.
Oh! Great. I'm so the net girl. She crosses to her desk, boots up.
I just want to find everything I can. Records, affiliates -- I'm not even sure what I'm looking for yet.
What's the name?
Billy Fordham. She stops. Then, typing, says:
Um, Angel, if I say something you don't really wanna hear, do you promise not to bite me?
Are you gonna tell me that I'm jealous?
Well, you do sometimes get that way.
You know, I never used to. He sits on the bed behind her.
Things used to be pretty simple. A hundred years just hanging out, feeling guilty. I really honed my brooding skills. Then she comes along… Yeah, I get jealous. But I know people and my gut tells me this is a wrong guy.
Okay, well, you've got a smart gut I guess. But if there isn't anything weird - hey, that's weird. He rises, comes behind her.
What?
I just checked the school records. He's not in them. Usually they transfer your grades and stuff, but… he's not even registered. She starts typing fast.
He said he was in school with you guys, right?
Okay, there's no Fordham listed in Sunnydale. Curiouser and Curiouser. Let me see if I can --
Willow? Are you still up?
Ack! Go! He glides to the French doors, Willow up to close them.
(calls out:) I'm just going to bed now, Mom. I'm very sleepy. (to Angel) Come by at sunset tomorrow. I'll keep looking.
Don't tell Buffy what we're doing, all right?
You want me to lie to her? It's Buffy. Besides, I don't lie good. I lie bad.
Just don't bring it up 'til we know what's what.
Okay. It's probably nothing.
That'd be nice. EXT. SCHOOL - FOUNTAIN QUAD - DAY Buffy and Ford are sitting and talking.
And then everything was Vampires. I slacked utterly in school -- and my social life pretty much dried up and blew away.
You made quite a hit at the prom.
Oh, God, the prom. What a disaster.
Wasn't dull, though. Watching the gym go up in flames… it was like a movie. Life isn't nearly enough like a movie, don't you think?
I think that was the worst night of my life.
You saved a lot of people's lives. I know it - I bet there's others who do too.
It's good to hear. And it's good to be able to talk to someone who knows. Who knew me before, and… well. During.
You know, one minute you're a kid, living in your safe kid world, and then - truth hits you in the face. Vampires. I'll never forget that night BELL RINGS. They get up and head inside. OMITTED
Most everybody else did.
What's with that? Nobody would say a word.
People ignore truths they don't like. Cordelia comes up to them, all smiles.
Buffy, you haven't introduced me to your new friend.
Yeah, isn't that weird? She blows by her, Ford in tow.
Who was that?
A truth I like to ignore. INT. SCHOOL LOUNGE - DAY Buffy and Ford enter, pass Willow.
Will! What's up?
Nothing. She's a little jumpy, afraid of being found out.
You wanna hang? We were cafeteria bound.
I'm going to work in the computer lab. On school work that I have. So I could not hang just now. Hi Ford.
Morning.
Okay, Will. Fess up.
(scared) What?
Were you drinking coffee again? 'Cause we've talked about this.
Ha ha ha ha! (to Ford) It makes me jumpy. (to both) I have to go. Away. She does.
Nice girl.
There aren't two of those in the world. Giles approaches.
Buffy. Ms. Calendar and I are going… somewhere … tonight. She's given me her beeper number in case you need me for any… (glances at Ford) …study help. Suddenly.
He knows, Giles.
What?
Ford. He knows I'm the Slayer.
I know.
Oh. Very good then. (pulls Buffy aside) Buffy, you aren't by any chance giving away your secret identity just to impress cute boys, are you? She smiles.
I didn't tell him. He knew.
All right. Well, remember, if you need me --
Go. Experience this thing called fun. I'll try not to have a crisis. EXT. FRONT OF SCHOOL - NIGHT Buffy and Ford have been walking together for a while.
And on your right, once again -- the beautiful campus. You've seen pretty much everything there is to see in Sunnydale.
Well, it's really…
Feel free to say 'dull'.
Okay. Dull works. Buffy spots something out of the corner of her eye: ANGLE: TWO VAMPS are sneaking towards the administration building. Ford follows Buffy's gaze and sees them.
Or maybe not so dull… Is that more vampires?
Must be the weather. She pulls a stake and a cross out of her pocket, hands Ford the cross. He produces a rather hastily carved stake of his own from his pocket.
Stick close to me. She sneaks toward the building, up the stairs, toward the corner. Looks around. There are no vampires to be seen.
Maybe they were just passing through.
I don't think so. The smaller vampire, JULIA, JUMPS Buffy from the bushes. Buffy easily throws her, but the second much bigger vampire, LEAPS OUT and takes Buffy over the balcony. ANGLE: JULIA Lays on the ground catching her breath, when Ford JUMPS on her. He holds the stake to her chest, the cross to her face.
You've got one chance to live. Tell me what I want to know, and I let you go. ANGLE: BUFFY As she takes out the bigger vamp. Having done so, she crests the stairs to find Ford, all alone. He is breathing hard, winded.
Where's the other one?
I killed her. (he coughs) I killed her and she just turned to dust. It was amazing. Off his gleeful smile we cut to: EXT. URBAN DISTRICT - NIGHT Willow, Angel and Xander head for the sunset Club.
The only thing I could track down were some E-mails to a guy called Diego. And this address. The sunset Club. I still didn't find anything incriminating.
He leaves no paper trail, no record. That's incriminating enough.
I'm gonna have to go with Dead Boy on this one.
Could you not call me that? Angel knocks on the door. The little window slides open.
We're friends of Ford's. He said we should come by. A beat, then the window slides shut. The door opens. INT. THE HALL - CONTINUED - NIGHT The three file in, head for the big iron door. Door Guy watches them suspiciously. They enter: INT. SUNSET CLUB - NIGHT same crowd, same beat. Xander, Willow and Angel stand at the entrance, taking it in.
Boy, we blend right in.
In no way do we stick out like a sore thumb.
Let's look around. You guys check out downstairs.
Sure thing, Bossy the cow. He and Willow start down the stairs as Angel makes his way around the balcony.
Okay, but do they really stick out?
What?
Sore thumbs. Do they stick out? I mean, have you ever seen a thumb and gone "wow, that baby is sore".
You have too many thoughts. ANGLE: ANGEL makes his way around upstairs, looking about with increasing suspicion. ANGLE: XANDER AND WILLOW Cruise about the downstairs.
Okay, are we noticing a theme here?
Like, as in, "Vampires Yay"?
That's the one. Chanterelle approaches them.
You guys are newbies, I can tell.
Oh, no. we come here all the time.
My corset's just at the cleaners.
Don't be ashamed. It's cool that you're open to it. We welcome anyone who's interested in the Lonely Ones.
The Lonely Ones?
Vampires. He's come up to them, not looking particularly amused.
Oh. We usually call them the nasty pointy bitey ones.
So many people have that misconception. But they who walk with the night are not interested in harming anyone. They're separate from humanity, and must carry the burden of immortality. They are creatures above us. Exalted.
You're a fool. Even his companions are thrown by the harshness of his tone.
You don't have to be so confrontational about it. Other viewpoints than yours may be valid, you know. Chantarelle wanders off, hurt.
Nice meeting you…
(to Angel) Boy, you're really a people person.
Nobody's gonna talk to us now.
I've seen enough. And I've seen this type before. They're children, making up bedtime stories about friendly vampires to comfort themselves in the dark.
Is that so bad? I mean the dark can get pretty dark, sometimes you need a story.
These people don't know anything about vampires. What they are, how they live, how they dress… The same moment he says that a club member walks by in THE EXACT SAME OUTFIT that Angel is wearing. Angel looks sheepish for a moment as Xander and Willow eye him sardonically.
You know, I love a good diatribe, but I'm still curious why Ford, the bestest friend of the Slayer, is hanging with a bunch of vampire wannabe's.
Something's up with him. (to Angel) You were right about that. INT. LIBRARY - NIGHT Giles and Jenny enter with Buffy.
Sorry to beep you guys in the middle of stuff, but this did seem a bit weird.
No, you did the right thing.
(to Giles) You hated it that much?
No! But -- vampires on campus -- there could be implications… very grave…
Why didn't you say something?
No, honestly, I've always been interested in… monster trucks. I swear.
You took him to monster trucks?
I thought it would be a change.
It was a change.
We could have just left.
And miss the nitro burning funny cars? Couldn't have that. Best part.
Okay, can we get back on the vampire tip? These guys were here with a purpose.
And we have to figure out what that purpose is.
Where's your friend?
I sent him home.
Good. The less he's mixed up in this, the safer he'll be.
Well, he did bag a vamp his first time out. You gotta give him credit for… that… Something on the table catches her eye.
Something wrong?
Who is this? She picks up an old DAUGUERREOTYPE portrait which has been stuck between the pages of a book.
She's called Drusilla. A sometime paramour of Spike's.
Not sometime. Nowtime.
She was reported killed by an angry mob in Prague.
Well, they don't make angry mobs like they used to cuz this girl's alive. I saw her with Angel.
With Angel?
Isn't he supposed to be a good guy?
(quietly, as the implication sinks in) Yes. He is.
I think maybe we need to read up on this nice lady. Giles crosses to his office.
Some of my newer volumes might be helpful. My own research has -- Vampire Julia JUMPS at him as he nears the door. She has an old book in her hands. She grabs him and hurls him into Buffy, knocking her down. She races to the back, leaping first on the table and then to the balcony, disappearing into the stacks. Buffy stares after her as Giles gets up.
You guys okay?
A book. It took one of my books.
Well at least someone in this school is reading…
He said he killed it. (turns to them) That's the vampire Ford said he killed.
He lied? A beat, as it sinks in.
Why? INT. THE FACTORY - NIGHT Drusilla is talking softly to something. We pull back to reveal a birdcage…
You sing the sweetest little song. Won't you sing for me? Don't you love me anymore? …and an entirely dead bird lying on the bottom. SPIKE comes up behind her.
Darling, I heard a funny thing just now. Lucius told me you went out for a hunt the other night.
(focussed on the bird) My tummy was growly. And you were out. (to the bird) Come on. I will put if you don't sing…
You, uh, run into anyone? Anyone interesting? (she doesn't answer) Like Angel?
Angel.
Yeah. What might you guys have to talk about then? Old times? Childhood pranks? It's a little off, you two so friendly, him being the enemy and all that.
(to the bird) I'll give you a seed if you sing…
(losing patience) The bird's dead, Dru. You left it in the cage and you didn't feed it and now it's all dead. Just like the last one. She makes that noise she makes when she's unhappy and may cry. He softens instantly, wrapping his arms around her.
I'm sorry, baby. I'm a bad, rude man, I just don't like you going out. You are weak. Would you like a new bird? One that's not dead?
This is so cool! Spike spins, murder on his (NOW VAMPIRE) face. Other vampires gather, menacing.
I would totally live here. (points to the rolly ramp) Do you ever slide down that thing? I bet you do.
Do I have anyone on watch here? It's called security, people. Are you all asleep? He crosses to Ford, a smile working across his lips.
Or did we finally find a restaurant that delivers. Ford, for all his bravado, is clearly nervous -- and clearly high on that adrenaline.
I know who you are.
Yeah, I know who I am, too. So what?
I came looking for you. Spike. You are Spike, right? William the Bloody?
You've got a real death wish. It's almost interesting. Vampire Julia enters with the book. Spike sees, signals for her to come over. He takes the book, leafs through it.
This is great. This will be very useful. (not looking up) So, how'd you find me? Julia looks at Ford in fear. She's dead if he gives it away.
That doesn't matter. I've got something to offer you. Spike looks up, lays the book on a table.
I'm pretty sure this is the part where you take out a watch and say I've got thirty seconds to convince you not to kill me . it's traditional.
Well, I don't much go for tradition. He grabs Ford and moves to bite -- Ford's eyes widen with fear -- but a hand on Spike's shoulder stops him. It's Dru.
Wait, sweetie. He stops, stares at Ford. Lets go.
Well?
Come one. Say it. It's no fun if you don't say it.
What? Oh. (rolls his eyes, then very flatly) You've got thirty seconds to convince me not to kill you.
Yes! This is the best. I wanna be like you. A vampire.
I've known you for two minutes and I can't stand you. I don't really feature you living forever. (to Dru) Can I eat him now, love?
Well, feature this. I'm offering a trade. You make me a vampire. And I give you the Slayer. He has their attention. BLACK OUT.
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| Act Three |
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INT BUFFY'S KITCHEN - NIGHT Buffy is making a mug of cocoa in the kitchen when Angel appears at the door.
Buffy. May I come in?
Sure. I thought once you'd been invited you could always just walk in.
I can. I was being polite.
Oh.
We need to talk.
Do we?
It's about your friend Ford. He's not what he seems.
Well, who is these days?
Willow ran him down on the computer.
Willow? She turns and crosses into: INT. DINING ROOM - CONTINUOUS - NIGHT Where her homework is laid out. She puts the cocoa down as Angel follows her in.
We found this address. We checked it out with Xander and it turned out to --
And Xander? Wow, everybody's in. It's a great big exciting conspiracy.
What are you talking about?
I'm talking about the people I trust. Who's Drusilla? Angel's face falls.
And don't lie to me. I'm tired of it.
Some lies are necessary.
For what?
Sometimes the truth is worse. You live long enough, you find that out.
I can take it. I can take the truth.
Do you love me?
What?
Do you?
I love you. I don't know if I trust you.
Maybe you shouldn't do either.
Maybe I'm the one should decide. He waits a beat. Then:
I did a lot of unconscionable things when I became a Vampire. Drusilla was the worst. She was… an obsession of mine. She was pure, and sweet and chaste.
You made her a vampire.
First I made her insane. Killed everyone she loved, visited every mental torture on her I could devise. She eventually fled to a convent and the day she took her holy orders I turned her into a demon. For a moment Buffy can't say a thing. Can't even look at him.
Well, I asked for the truth…
Ford's part of some society that reveres vampires. Practically worships them. I don't know what he wants from you. But you can't trust him. Off her stare we cut to: EXT. SCHOOL - FOUNTAIN QUAD - DAY Buffy walks along, alone with her thoughts, till she sees Ford coming. She steels herself.
Buffy!
Ford. She tries to smile. His own smile seems suddenly predatory, cold. The CAMERA circles them as they talk.
I had a great time last night. Well, an interesting time.
I'm glad.
I'm probably presumptuous here but do you want to go out again tonight?
I'm not busy.
I sort of had an idea. It's a secret - I kind of want to surprise you.
I like surprises.
Cool. You know that place you were telling me about, the burger joint that got condemned? Can you meet me there?
Sure.
At nine?
At nine.
It's gonna be fun. He takes off. Buffy watches him. INT. SCHOOL LOUNGE - DAY Cordelia sits with Xander and Willow, pressing them.
Come on, can't you tell me anything about him?
Why are you so interested in Ford?
In case you haven't noticed there is a devastating cute guy shortage right now. The government is calling for rationing so why does Buffy get to hoard them all? She has Angel. So come on, what's Ford interested in?
Vampires.
(deflated) oh great. That's Buffy's best subject. You sure he doesn't like clothes? Buffy enters. Her friends accost her.
Hey Buffy. Did, uh, Angel -
He told me. Everything. Her voice is pretty cold. Willow looks done.
I'm sorry we kept stuff from you.
(almost means it) It's okay.
When Angel came to my room he was just really concerned for you. And we didn't want to say anything in case we were wrong. Buffy softens - puts her hand on Willow's arm.
Did you find out what Ford is up to?
I will. She takes off. They watch her go. After a beat:
Angel was in your bedroom?
(nods) Ours is a forbidden love. INT. THE SUNSET CLUB - AFTERNOON There are only twelve or so people here now -- the True Believers. Ford enters, goes down to Chantarelle.
Chantarelle. Is everything ready?
(approaching) Of course it's ready, I took care of it. I always take care of it.
Is it time? Tonight?
Are you nervous?
Yes. No. I'm ready for the change. Do you really think they'll bless us?
I know they will. Everything's falling into place.
What about your friends? Are they coming? I don't think it's fair -- they're not true believers.
What are you talking about?
Your friends. They came last night. Two guys and a girl.
One was mean.
That's not the point. They weren't even dressed right. Plus they didn't know the password so officially they really shouldn't have been here.
Oh, Christ. Why didn't you tell me about this?
I have to do everything, okay Mister flawless plan guy? So maybe it slipped my mind.
(worried) It's gonna be all right, isn't it? They're not gonna let us down?
It's gonna be fine.
I need them to bless me.
It's gonna be fine.
It's really not. They turn to see her coming down the steps. Door guy is a few steps above her, nursing a broken nose. Ford's face hardens upon seeing her. He glances at Diego.
It's kind of drafty in here. Diego sidles off as Buffy approaches.
I'm sorry Ford, I just couldn't wait till tonight. I'm rash and impulsive -- it's a flaw.
We all have flaws.
So I'm constantly learning. I'm still fuzzy on exactly what yours is. I think it has to do with being a lying scumbag.
Everybody lies.
But not everybody is a lying scumbag. There's a difference.
Yeah, I guess there is.
What do you want, Ford? What's this all about?
I really don't think you'd understand.
I don't need to understand. I just need to know.
I'm gonna be one of them.
One of them. You want to become a vampire.
I'm going to.
Vampires are kind of picky about who they change. (realizes) So you were gonna offer them a trade.
I don't think I want to talk anymore She slams him up against the wall, hand to his throat.
Well, I still feel kind of chatty. You were gonna give them me. Tonight.
Yes.
What, lure me into the old building, leave me there for them?
Something like that.
You had to know I'd figure it out, Ford.
(smiles) Actually, I was counting on it. She steps back, wary. Her mind working.
What's supposed to happen tonight?
This is so cool! This is just like it played in my head. The part where you ask me what's supposed to happen. It's already happening. She looks around. Dark spaces, weird people looking at her. Sussing the nature of the trap, she steps back. She looks up: ANGLE: THE DOOR Diego swings it shut. We hear large locks THUD into place. The handle on his side has been removed. A thick panel welded shut over it. Buffy races up the stairs. Pulls at the door. Nothing. She turns back to Ford. He's halfway up, others grouped behind.
Rigged it up special. Once it's closed, it can only be opened from the outside. As soon as the sun sets, they'll be coming.
Ford, if these people are still around when they get here --
We'll be changed. All of us.
We're going to ascend to a new level of consciousness. Become like them, like the Lonely Ones.
This is the end, Buffy. He smiles at her, amidst his flock.
No one gets out of here alive. BLACK OUT.
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| Act Four |
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INT. THE SUNSET CLUB - SECONDS LATER- AFTERNOON Buffy races down the stairs, looks around for an alternate exit. Ford is on her heels.
There's gotta be a way out of here.
This is a bomb shelter, Buffy. I knew I wasn't gonna be able to overpower you. But this is three feet of solid concrete. Trust me when I say we're here for the long haul.
At least let these people out of here.
No way! No fair! We're a part of this, you promised.
It doesn't matter. There's no key, there's no exit… let's all just sit back and relax. Buffy slaps him in the face.
You have an interesting way of relaxing.
Do you have any idea what you've done?
I do what I have to.
What you have to?
Why are you fighting it? It's what we want.
It's our chance for immortality.
This is a beautiful day! Can't you see that?
What I can see is that right after the sun goes down Spike and his friends are gonna be pigging out at the all-you-can-eat moron bar!
That's it. I think we should gag her.
(gives him the look) I think you should try.
She's an unbeliever. She taints us.
I'm trying to save you! You're playing in some serious traffic here, do you understand that? You're gonna DIE. The only hope you have of surviving is to get out of this pit right now and my God could you HAVE a dorkier outfit?
Gotta back her up, D. You look like a big ninny. A little ALARM goes off. Ford digs into his pocket, pulls out a pager. Smiles.
6:27. Sunset. INT. THE FACTORY - 6:27 (NIGHT) Spike sits at the head of the table, feet up. He holds an antiques pocket watch, the face dangling in front of his. Reads it. Closes it.
So. Who's hungry? INT. SAME - SECONDS LATER - NIGHT Its' a sudden flurry of activity, as Vampires come downstairs and out from the shadows, ready for the hunt. (There are three besides Spike, Dru and Julia). They all head to the door at which Drusilla waits.
When we get there, everybody spread out. Two men on the door. First priority is the Slayer, everything else is fair game but let's remember to share, people. He comes abreast of Dru.
Sure you're up for this?
I want a treat. I need a treat.
And a special one you'll have. Lucius! Spike holds up a set of keys, tosses them to a vampire.
Bring the car 'round. INT. THE SUNSET CLUB - NIGHT Buffy is still intent on finding a way out. She ascends to the metal bridge, eyes on the bricked-up windows. Ford follows.
Man, you never give up, do you?
No, I don't.
That's a good quality in a person. Too many people, they just lay back and take it. But us --
Us? We have something in common now?
More than you think.
Let me explain this to you. You're what we call the bad guy.
I guess I am. Cool.
These people aren't gonna get changed, are they? You, maybe, in exchange for me, but the rest of them -- they're just fodder.
Technically, yes. But I'm in. I will become immortal.
I got a newsflash, braintrust. That's not how it works. You die. And a demon sets up shop in your old house. It walks and talks and remembers your life but it's not you.
It's better than nothing.
Your life is nothing? He laughs a bit, bitterly.
Ford, these people don't deserve to die.
Neither do I! But apparently nobody took that into consideration, 'cause I'm still dying. This stops her.
I look good, don't I? Let me tell you something. I got maybe six months left and by then what they bury won't even look like me. It'll be bald and shriveled and it'll smell bad. Not human. I'm not going out that way. Off her reaction.
I'm sorry, Summers, did I screw up your righteous anger riff? Does the nest of tumors liquefying my brain kind of spoil the fun?
I'm sorry. I had no idea… But this is still very wrong.
Okay, well, you try vomiting for twenty four hours straight because the pain your head is so intense and then we'll discuss the concept of right and wrong. (indicating the others) These people are sheep. They want to be vampires 'cause they're lonely, or miserable, or bored. I don't have a choice.
You have a choice. You don't have a good choice: what's behind door number three is pretty much a dead fish but you have a choice. You're opting for mass murder here and nothing you say to me is gonna make that okay.
You think I need to justify myself to you?
I think this is part of your little fantasy drama. Isn't this just how you imagined it? You tell me how you've suffered and I feel sorry for you. Well I do feel sorry for you and if those vampires come in here and start feeding I'll kill you myself. For a moment, Ford betrays an entirely genuine affection. He almost smiles, and quietly says:
You know what, Summers? I really did miss you. There is a NOISE behind the iron door. Of people approaching.
Ford, please. Help me stop this. He just stares at her. She heads around the balcony and down the stairs. A few have gathered on them, the others clustered behind.
Listen to me. This is not the mothership, okay? This is ugly death come to play. If we can barricade the door maybe we can hold them off and try to find another -- WHAM! Ford slams her in the back of the head with a crowbar. Whatever emotion he was battling has left the building. His face is cold. Buffy drops to her knees as people scatter. She rises, turns -- Ford hits her again and she goes over a couch. ANGLE: CHANTARELLE Looks at Ford in fear and confusion. She starts up the stairs for the door. ANGLE: THE DOOR - Swings open. Spike and his cronies step in. He comes face to face with Chantarelle. He's not quite what she expected. He grabs her, snarls, bares his fangs. She goes white with terror.
(to his men) Take them all. Save the Slayer for me! His men charge down the steps and wade into the now panicking throng. Spike buries his fangs in Chantarelle's neck. As Ford comes around the couch for a third hit. She grabs the bar, wrenches it free and slams Ford head first into a pillar. He drops like a sack of unconscious person. Buffy looks at the scene: Vamps chase or wrestle with various True Believers. Buffy looks up to see: ANGLE: DRUSILLA Who has wandered in last, and stands on the balcony a ways away from the busily feeding Spike. Without hesitation Buffy runs - jumps onto the banister, thence to the balcony with impossible (and wire-gag-free) strength. She lands by Drusilla and grabs her, whips out a stake and palaces it at Dru's heart.
Spike! He stops. Fear blossoms on his face and he lets go of Chantarelle, who can barely stand.
Everybody STOP! Everybody does.
Good idea. Now they all walk out or your girlfriend fits in an ashtray.
Spike…
It's gonna be all right, baby. (To his men) Let them go. The True Believers waste no time in going, Diego pushing his way to the front. The last of them stops to help Chantarelle out. Buffy starts pushing Dru toward the door.
(to Spike) Down the stairs. Do it now. He doesn't.
You think I'm joking? You think I'm feeling jolly right now? He does. Buffy reaches the door. A moment. Then she hurls Drusilla down at Spike. Spike catches Dru as a couple of vampires rush Buffy. She grabs the door and steps out, slamming it shut behind her. Spike races up to the door with his men, looks at it. Pauses.
Uh, where's the doorknob? EXT. STREET - CONTINUOUS - NIGHT Buffy steps out to find Xander, Angel and Willow there. Angel is heading inside as Xander and Willow tend the wounded. Angel stops upon seeing Buffy.
You guys got here just in time… to be late.
Why didn't you tell us you were coming here? She just looks at him.
Are there vampires --
They're contained. They'll get out eventually, though. We should clear out. We can come back when they're gone.
Come back for what? Buffy turns to look inside.
For the body. INT. THE SUNSET CLUB - NIGHT As Ford stands groggily up, looks around him.
What happened? Spike turns, looking bloody-minded.
We're stuck in the basement.
Buffy?
She's not stuck in the basement.
Hey, well, I delivered. I handed her to you.
Yes, I suppose you did.
So what about my reward? Spike stares at him. INT. THE SUNSET CLUB - AFTERNOON We can actually see light streaming in through the door -- which is ripped mostly off its hinges. Buffy enters, walks slowly down the stairs. The body is on the floor. She stands over it. EXT. GRAVEYARD - SUNSET The last rays of the sun are glancing off the trees as Buffy stands at Ford's grave, Giles beside her.
I don't know what I'm supposed to say.
You don't need to say anything.
It'd be simpler if I could just hate him. I think he wanted me to. I think it made it easier for him. Be the bad guy. The villain of the piece. But really, he was scared.
I suppose he was.
You known it's just, like, nothing's simple. I'm always trying to work it out. Who to hate, or love … who to trust… it's like the more I know, the more confused I get.
I believe that's called growing up.
(little voice) I'd like to stop, then. Okay?
I know the feeling.
Well, does it ever get easy? Ford BURSTS from the grave, a snarling VAMPIRE, and lunges at Buffy -- who plants a stake firmly in his chest. She doesn't even look as he explodes into dust.
You mean life?
Yeah. Does it get easy?
What do you want me to say. She thinks about it a moment.
Lie to me.
Yes. It's terribly simple. As they start out of the graveyard:
The good-guys are stalwart and true. The bad-guys are easily distinguished by their pointy horns or black hats and we always defeat them and save the day. Nobody ever dies…and everybody lives happily ever after. BLACK OUT.
(with weary affection) Liar.
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