Episode 19 - Take Two
ACT THREE
INT. BUFFY'S HOUSE/BATHROOM - NIGHT
.. from where we left off. Natasha stares at Sasha
through the glass window. The interaction proceeds as
if Natasha is talking to her reflection in a mirror.
Sasha speaks in a raspy, predatory voice throughout..
quite unlike Natasha's.
SASHA
Hello sister.
Natasha stares at Sasha for a beat, her face
unreadable.. then..
NATASHA
You should have warned me about
tonight.
SASHA
No time. Besides, it kept you awake
didn't it? I imagine life as a human
must be..
(pauses to search for a
word)
mundane.
NATASHA
This isn't working. I want to
return.
SASHA
Not yet. Not until you find out
where the amulet is.
NATASHA
They're not going to tell me.
SASHA
They will. Once you have gained
their trust. Our plan is working,
don't you see? They believe you are
an innocent. And after out little
charade tonight, it won't be long
until they embrace you as one of
them.
Natasha looks unsure.
SASHA
Oh! By the way. Kudos to you for
saving the slayer's sister. One of
our new recruits was a little over-
zealous and strayed from the plan
but you.. you stepped right up there
didn't you? I always knew we were
smart. You're sure to gain their
trust now.
NATASHA
You don't understand. I can't exist
like this.. living in this body.
Having these thoughts.. these
memories.
Natasha shuts her eyes for a beat and composes
herself. Then opens her eyes to Sasha.
NATASHA
(an accusing glare)
The things you did.
SASHA
The things we did. You and I are
one, remember?. We are inseparable.
Every drop of blood spilt has dried
on your hands as well as mine.
NATASHA
I can't do it. I can't..
SASHA
(angrily)
Oh stop whining! All these years,
I've had to live with you inside me.
Squeaking away like a trapped rat.
(more calmly)
Just block out those human
frailties. They will soon go away.
Natasha considers for a beat, but begins to shake her
head.. everything too much to bear.
NATASHA
No, no.
(more forceful)
Take me back now, or else..
SASHA
(scoffingly)
Or else?
NATASHA
I will end us. I will slice my
throat and you will die with me.
SASHA
(laughs)
You? I don't think so. You see, it
takes a certain amount of courage to
face eternity in darkness,
especially for those of us who
ruminate upon it so. You don't have
it in you.. I should know.
(more serious)
Remember.. I'm the one who has given
us strength all these years. You
would be nothing without me.
Natasha looks down.. looking defeated.
SASHA
(patronising)
Oh, don't be glum. Such a pretty
face should never be spoiled so.
Once it's done.. once you have
betrayed them, we will be as one
again. We will be a family once
more.
Natasha looks up at Sasha.
SASHA
But you have to find the amulet
first. However long it takes.
Sasha smiles at Natasha and dissapears from the
window. Natasha looks distressed.
INT. BUFFY'S HOUSE/DAWN'S BEDROOM - DAY (DAY THREE)
ANGLE ON : BEDROOM WINDOW
with the sun streaming through. All is serene. A few
birds chirp away in the background. We slowly PAN form
the window towards the bed where we see Natasha
sleeping.
CLOSE ON : NATASHA'S CLOSED EYES
where we see frantic movements of her eyes under her
eyelids.. obviously dreaming. All is not serene in
Natasha's world.
Natasha wakes up again in a start, her eyes popping
open. She bolts upright from her bed, breathing
heavily. She takes a look around her.. regaining her
bearings.
With her right hand, she reaches over and presses the
bandaged wound on her left arm. She closes her eyes,
feeling the pain. This seems to calm her down as her
breathing slows.
After a beat, she gets up out of bed and slowly takes
a tour around the room. She heads over to the dresser
where she sees various pictures of Dawn and Buffy and
Dawn and the rest of the Scoobs stuck to a mirror.
Natasha takes a close look at all the pictures.
INT. BUFFY'S HOUSE / UPSTAIRS HALLWAY - DAY
as we see Natasha emerge from Dawn's room and walk
silently down the hallway. She takes a peek into
Joyce's room and sees Willow and Tara sleeping on the
bed.
She walks further down the hallway and sees Xander and
Anya sleeping rather uncomfortably on Buffy's bed.
XANDER
(talking in his sleep)
No Spock! The plasma inverters won't
take it.
Anya, her eyes closed and still asleep, reaches over
and stuffs a pillow clumsily over Xander's face.
Neither person stirs. All is again silent.
INT. BUFFY'S HOUSE / FOYER - DAY
as we see Natasha descend the staircase to the foyer.
She looks to the living room where she sees Dawn
asleep on the couch with a blanket on top of her and
Giles asleep on a chair.
INT. BUFFY'S HOUSE / LIVING ROOM - DAY
as Natasha silently enters the living room, walking
over to stand over the couch. She looks down at the
slumbering Dawn on the couch. Her face grows ever so
subtly softer.
BUFFY (O.S.)
Hey
Startled, Natasha turns to her left to see Buffy
sitting on a chair in the corner of the living room.
NATASHA
Hi.
Buffy looks a little weary but alert.
NATASHA
Did you sleep?
BUFFY
Did you?
Natasha's eyes are drawn to the stake resting on top
of a bureau next to Buffy. Buffy takes a peek over at
the stake herself, then turns back to Natasha. Natasha
notices the bandages under Buffy's top.
NATASHA
(re Buffy's wound)
I'm sorry about that.
BUFFY
(in a hard voice)
Are you? Are you sorry about Chris?
Are you sorry about all those people
you've killed in the last hundred
years?
NATASHA
That wasn't me.
(a beat, then looking away
from Buffy)
It isn't me.
BUFFY
And what are you?
Natasha looks up at Buffy.. the question striking at
the very core of her troubles.
NATASHA
(obviously pained but
covering with a slight
smile)
I don't know.
Buffy regards Natasha for a beat, sensing her
discomfort. She softens her harsh countenance a
little.
BUFFY
I'll go make breakfast.
Buffy gets up and starts to head to the kitchen. She
stops and turns back to Natasha.
BUFFY
Thanks..
(nods to Dawn)
for looking after her last night.
Natasha nods in acknowledgement. Buffy turns and
leaves. Natasha turns away and takes a look outside
the window.. a world outside filled with light.
EXT. STREET - DAY
ANGLE ON : A BLUE VAN
parked by the side of a road.. looking suspicious with
its darkened windows.
We PAN across the road to Buffy's house.
INT. BUFFY'S HOUSE / FOYER - DAY
ANGLE : BUFFY AND GILES
silently conversing off in the distance in the dining
room.
DAWN (O.S.)
So, what was he like?
We PAN over from the dining room to Natasha, just
silently standing in the foyer by a wall, watching
Buffy and Giles. She turns slowly away towards the
living room, hiding behind the wall.
INT. BUFFY'S HOUSE / LIVING ROOM - DAY
where we see Dawn, Willow, Tara, Xander and Anya
sitting on the couch and chairs.
WILLOW
Just imagine a talking..
(a beat; searching for the
right word)
blob.
TARA
A talking, singing blob.
DAWN
Singing?
TARA
..with a side order of flies.
WILLOW
And your choice of any of a hundred
different infectious diseases.
ANYA
See, now you've made me hungry.
(looks around)
Where's that pie?
Anya gets up and exits off-screen, in search of the
pie.
DAWN
(to Willow)
Do you really think he could do it?
WILLOW
He's apparently "the guy".
XANDER
He's so the guy, if ever there was a
guy who's the guy.
WILLOW
Well, I still think me and Tara
would have clued it out eventually.
And we could have performed the
spell too, you know, except for the
whole scrambled magical power thing.
XANDER
Still no luck with the magic huh?
TARA
We're getting there.
WILLOW
Meanwhile, I've got about as much
magical ability as ol' Uncle Ed who
comes around every Thanksgiving and
plucks coins from my ears.
Anya returns, munching on a slice of pie.
ANYA
Coins? Real coins? And you get to
keep them?
XANDER
(noticing Anya eating the
pie)
Hey. Don't hog the pie. I spent all
that time making sure I put it in
the microwave correctly.
ANYA
(insulted)
I don't hog. I may occasionally
squirrel away for winter.. but I
don't hog.
Xander gets up from the couch and walks over to a
small table by the wall. There is a pie and a knife on
top of the table. He uses the knife to cut a slice for
himself, then walks away.. happily munching on the
pie.
ANGLE : NATASHA
warily watching Xander's back as he walks away and
then leaning over to get a better view of the table.
ANGLE ON : THE PIE AND THE KNIFE
The large knife sticking up from the pie. Its blade
glistening from the sunlight.
Natasha looks over her shoulder to her right to see
Buffy and Giles still chatting in the dining room. She
turns back to the living room to see the four Scoobs
talking away with their backs to her.
She takes one careful step into the living room. She
slowly reaches out for the knife. Her hand drawn to it
as if an overwhelming force is pushing her towards the
blade. Her hand begins to tremble as it nears the
knife.
ANGLE : NATASHA
her face clearly displaying the struggle she's having.
Should she take the knife or not?
Finally, with a quick sharp movement, she withdraws.
Stepping back around the corner.. back into the foyer
and leaning her back against the wall. Again, she
reaches over and presses on her bandaged wound. She
winces and closes her eyes for a beat.
She opens her eyes and looks straight at the front
door. She hesitates for a second, then steps over
slowly to it and turns the knob. She opens the door.
GILES (O.S.)
Natasha?
Natasha spins around to face Giles.
NATASHA
I thought I'd just go get some fresh
air.
Giles comes over to her and closes the door.
GILES
Best we stayed inside just for the
moment.. until it is safe.
NATASHA
(a little laugh to
herself)
Safe? What's that?
Natasha looks thoughtful.. as if considering her own
question.
GILES
Anything the matter?
Natasha breaks out of her reverie. She straightens
herself up and looks at Giles confidently.
NATASHA
(smiles)
Nothing Rupert. It's an adjustment.
I'll be fine.
She turns her back to Giles and looks idly at random
items on a table in front of her.
GILES
Don't worry. Things will soon be
back to the way they were.
NATASHA
(an ambivalent expression
hidden from Giles)
I know.
Natasha turns back to Giles.
NATASHA
You shouldn't worry about me Rupert.
You've already done more than
enough. I imagine taking me in like
this doesn't exactly make your life
easier.. what with the General after
the amulet as well.
GILES
Well, you need not concern yourself
about that.
NATASHA
But is it safe? I can't imagine what
would happen if the General got hold
of it.
GILES
You know, it would help us a great
deal if you could perhaps remember
something about the General's plans.
NATASHA
(caught a little off-
guard)
What?
GILES
When and where he intends to perform
the ritual? The layout of his
mansion? Even the smallest detail
could help us defeat him.
NATASHA
(looking pale)
I.. I can't remember. I don't want
to remember.
(looks earnestly at Giles)
There were things that were done..
when I was.. her.
Natasha looks away in apparent shame.
GILES
You're not her.
(steps over closer to
Natasha)
I believe you to be a good person
Natasha.
Natasha looks up at Giles.. surprised at the word.
NATASHA
Good?
(a little derisory chuckle
to herself)
I don't think I can even remember
how to be a person, let alone a good
one.
(a beat)
Not that I ever was.
Natasha smiles to herself and shakes her head slowly.
She looks up at Giles.
NATASHA
So, what happens now?
GILES
We wait for Fnat-chu to contact us.
It will be sometime today.
NATASHA
(almost shocked)
Today? I didn't realise it would be
so.. soon.
Giles notices Natasha's uncertainty. He walks over
closer to her and holds her hand comfortingly.
GILES
Believe me Natasha. This is a good
thing.
Natasha looks a little unsure about Giles holding her
hand. She looks like she might pull away for a second,
then softens. The two share a moment, looking at each
other. Natasha looks both hopeful and terrified.
Suddenly, a shriek from off-screen. Natasha and Giles
break apart and rush away towards the sound.
INT. BUFFY'S HOUSE/KITCHEN - DAY
ANGLE : DAWN
looking at something in shock. We see the rest of the
Scoobs pile into the kitchen behind her.
BUFFY
Dawn, what is it?
DAWN
(pointing)
The window.
ANGLE ON : THE MAIN KITCHEN WINDOW
swarming with flies.
XANDER
Okay, who left the back door open?
TARA
No, it's Fnat-chu.
WILLOW
He's trying to tell us something.
BUFFY
What, that we need a new fly-screen?
DAWN
No, look.
ANGLE ON : THE MAIN KITCHEN WINDOW
as the large number of flies begin to move and form
patterns.. to form words on the window.
They form the word "Holloway".. then they break apart
and reassemble to form the word "Park".
XANDER
(staring in awe)
This is totally freaking me out.
The flies break apart once more and reassemble to form
"7 pm".
BUFFY
Well, I think it's safe to say our
demon guy just got in touch.
DAWN
This is like the most amazing thing
I've ever seen.
The group continues to stare at the flies.
ANGLE ON : THE MAIN KITCHEN WINDOW
where the flies still form "7 pm" on the window.
Unmoving for a long beat.
The group stares.. waiting for more. A few
uncomfortable shuffles of the feet as nothing happens
for a long beat. No one sure what to do now.. except
for..
ANYA
I'll get the bug spray.
Anya exits off-screen. The rest gradually follow as
they head back out to..
INT. BUFFY'S HOUSE / LIVING ROOM - DAY
Everyone milling loosely around the living room.
XANDER
So, looks like the Scooby Gang
scored themselves a date for
tonight. We must be the cool kids of
the Hellmouth. All the demons wanna
ride the party train with us.
WILLOW
Yeah, party dresses all around.
XANDER
I'm more of a pink ruffles guy
myself.
BUFFY
I'd hardly call it a date. I mean,
he's not even gonna pick us up in a
limo or anything.
WILLOW
(to Xander)
Believe me, you don't want a corsage
from this guy.. or him
propositioning you with a song for
that matter.
XANDER
Okay, I don't think I'll be getting
any corsages from any guy anytime
soon.. but I kinda like the sound
of the second thing. I mean, who
hasn't dreamt of being serenaded by
a five-hundred pound troubadour.
DAWN
(to Tara)
So, he can really do this right?
TARA
(with a smile)
Hey, I say if the guy can wrangle
flies, he can pretty much do
anything.
WILLOW
(with the snark)
Yeah, his capabilities are obviously
limitless.
Willow leaves slightly petulantly. Tara gives Dawn a
smiling exasperated look and follows Willow. Dawn
spots Natasha hanging slightly away from the group and
leaning against the wall, looking thoughtful. She hops
over excitedly to her.
DAWN
Natasha! Did you hear?
NATASHA
(smiles)
I heard.
DAWN
Isn't it great? And after? You could
totally hang here for as long as you
want.. you know, until you like..
figure things out.
Natasha nods with a smile. Dawn smiles and excitedly
runs off-screen, heading up the stairs.
ANGLE : BUFFY
standing with Xander. She stares at Natasha, having
noticed the exchange between Dawn and her... a
slightly jealous glare.
Anya walks past Xander and Buffy, holding a bug-spray
can with intent.. heading towards the kitchen. The two
look at her strangely, then at each other. Xander
quickly scoots off, chasing her.
XANDER
Um.. An.. wait.
Xander dissapears off-screen. Natasha looks up towards
Buffy. Buffy ignores her and exits off-screen. Natasha
looks off into the distance, deep in thought. She
looks worried. Giles, standing quietly at the doorway
to the kitchen, notices Natasha's demeanour. He comes
over to her.
GILES
Don't worry. It'll be over soon.
NATASHA
(ambiguously)
I know.
Giles rubs Natasha's arm to comfort her. He then walks
off towards the foyer. Natasha looks at the departing
figure of Giles, then back towards the empty living
room. She looks very unsure, her eyes darting around.
ANGLE : NATASHA
from side-on, leaning her head back against the wall.
After a beat, she turns and heads away from the
camera, walking off-screen to the foyer, running her
hand lightly against the wall as she walks. We slowly
TILT down to look at the small table by the wall. We
see the half-eaten pie. The knife is missing.
EXT. HOLLOWAY PARK - NIGHT
ANGLE : BUFFY AND XANDER
all rugged up for the cold, night air. Xander carries
a crossbow. They walk warily, side by side. Everything
is dark, and no one is around.
XANDER
(looking around)
So.. you sure this is the right
place?
BUFFY
Let's see. It's dark.. dank.. big
with the creepy. Of course it's the
right place.
XANDER
(nervous glances here and
there)
You know where I'd rather be right
now?
BUFFY
Not the right place?
XANDER
..preferably with central heating.
Buffy and Xander come to a stop. They look down at
something.
BUFFY
Well, your luck's out cause I get a
feeling this is it.
ANGLE : BUFFY AND XANDER
from behind. We CRANE up and over then to look down at
what they're looking at. A music bowl. A large stage
set at the bottom of a gentle hill. Built into the
hill is the cement auditorium for the audience. Steps
lead down towards the stage.
ANGLE ON : A CAR
parked by the side of the road. We see two occupants
inside.
INT. GILES' CAR - NIGHT
where we see Giles at the driver side seat and Natasha
at the passenger side. Both quietly look out the
passenger side window, out at the dark. They wait.
Giles takes a look at Natasha. She looks troubled..
pale and nervous.
GILES
You're shaking.
NATASHA
(turning back to Giles;
defensive)
No I'm not.
She looks down at her hands on her laps. They are
indeed shaking a little. She clenches her fists and
puts her hands at her side.
NATASHA
It's cold.
GILES
What is it? You can tell me.
NATASHA
(with a quick, dismissive
laugh)
I don't need a confessor Rupert.
Giles just calmly watches Natasha, patiently waiting.
Natasha takes a few quick glances at Giles, feeling
uncomfortable at being watched. After a beat, she
relents.
NATASHA
I'm not sure I want to go through
with this. I'm not sure if this is
what I want.
GILES
I don't understand.
Natasha looks away from Giles. As if ashamed.
NATASHA
(shakes her head)
These memories. I still keep seeing
and hearing these things in my
head..
GILES
I told you. That wasn't you.
NATASHA
(turning to Giles;
earnestly)
But it was. Don't you see?
Natasha takes a beat to calm down.
NATASHA
(calmer)
And every day, I hear them screaming
in pain.. screaming for vengeance.
What if I hear them for the rest of
my life? I can't do it. I can't live
like that.
GILES
Nobody's saying it's not going to be
difficult for a while. I can only
imagine what you're going through.
But you can get through it Natasha.
I know it. And we'll all be there to
help you.
NATASHA
I don't have the strength for it
Rupert. You don't know me. I'm not
strong like your slayer.. like you.
Whatever strength you think you've
seen from me was Sasha's.
GILES
I don't believe that.
NATASHA
This isn't some silly fairy tale
with a happy ending. There is
nothing in me you can count on.
There is nothing in me worth saving.
All my strength dissapeared when I
was separated from her. I'm the weak
one.. remember?
Natasha smiles and shakes her head, looking down.
NATASHA
You should have seen me in St
Petersburg. A vain, spoilt child
living in the body of an adult. A
glittering veneer of confidence..
but oh so fragile. Always afraid to
take that first step. Always afraid.
Giles considers for a beat, his eyes never wavering
from Natasha.
GILES
Perhaps you were never tested. I
think you'll find that courage and
strength arises when one needs it
the most. No, I don't think I've
misjudged you Natasha.
(a beat)
And I would have liked to have seen
you in St Petersburg.
Natasha looks up slowly at Giles; staring him in the
eyes.
NATASHA
Why do you care so much?
GILES
Because everyone deserves a second
chance.
The two look at each other for a quiet beat.
ANGLE : BUFFY AND XANDER
still standing at the top of the hill, looking down at
the auditorium. Xander looks edgy.
Off in the distance, an owl hoots. Xander spins around
in shock and aims the crossbow at it. He only just
stops himself from firing. The owl hoots again.
Xander turns back sheepishly towards Buffy.
BUFFY
What is it with you and owls?
XANDER
They hoot. It's just unnatural.
Buffy turns back towards the auditorium.
BUFFY
Wait here.
XANDER
..just became my two favourite
words.. well, next to Haagen-Dazs.
Buffy begins to walk down the steps towards the
auditorium. All is quiet. All we hear are Buffy's
footsteps echoing around the music bowl. The stage
itself is dark.
Suddenly, a drumroll can be heard. Buffy stops in her
tracks.
ANNOUNCER (O.S.)
And now, the Sunnydale Music Bowl is
proud to present, for one night
only.. the great, the incomparable..
Fnat-Chu!
The stage illuminates with a multitude of spotlights,
revealing a small, well-dressed band which begins
playing some light music. A bandleader leads them.
Behind them is garish, sparkly background and a giant
neon sign which proclaims "Fnat-Chu". A swarm of flies
fly towards the centre of the stage and circle around
each other, forming a kind of black whirlwind. After a
beat, the flies separate again to reveal Fnat-chu in
all his blobulous glory, with a microphone in his tiny
hand. The flies hang around.. some making lazy circles
above Fnat-Chu.. some landing on him and crawling
around.
FNAT-CHU
(addressing the invisible
audience.. and Buffy)
Thank you, thank you. It's great to
be here in this lovely little town.
You know, I've played all the big
cities, from New York to Vegas but
there's nothing like coming to a
small town and getting in touch with
the common people that invigorates
an old singer's soul.
BUFFY
Oh brother.
FNAT-CHU
(hearing)
Why, thank you. You're a great
audience. But I sense some of you
are getting restless for the show to
start. So why don't we?
Xander comes down the stairs and stands beside Buffy,
slightly in shock at the sight of Fnat-chu.
XANDER
This is the guy?
BUFFY
(morosely)
If ever there was a guy.
ANGLE : FNAT-CHU
as he slides very slowly and very slightly towards the
bandleader with feet we can't see, blocked by his
enormous belly.
FNAT-CHU
I'd like to kick things off with an
old favourite. I hope you'll enjoy
it as much as I do.
(to the bandleader)
Hit it Tony.
The bandleader starts the band into a song.
FNAT-CHU
(singing)
Come fly with me, let's fly, let's
fly away.. If you can use some
exotic booze, there's a bar in far
Bombay.. Come fly with me, let's
fly, let's fly away.
ANGLE : BUFFY AND XANDER
looking at each other in bewilderment.
FNAT-CHU
(singing)
Come f..
Fnat-chu breaks into another violent coughing fit. A
fly comes zipping out of his mouth.
XANDER
(watching the fly in
shock)
Fly!
FNAT-CHU
(struggling to continue to
sing)
..with me.
More coughs, more flies.
BUFFY
(disgusted; to Fnat-Chu)
Okay, you gotta stop doing that.
Fnat-chu recovers and straightens up.
FNAT-CHU
Kids these days. No appreciation.
Fnat-chu sees Xander standing besides Buffy.
FNAT-CHU
(re Xander)
Is this her?
XANDER
Hey!.. and while you're at it, why
don't you lose the lounge act.
FNAT-CHU
(with a smile)
Fine.
Fnat-chu clicks his fingers. The bandleader, the band
and their instruments dissapear, as does the garish
background and the neon sign. All is again dark and
quiet.
ANGLE : XANDER
now in his underwear..a singlet and boxers.
XANDER
(oblivious)
That's better.
BUFFY
(noticing)
Xander.
XANDER
Huh?
(then looking down)
Hey!
He frantically tries to cover himself with his hands.
He looks terribly embarassed. Buffy looks away.
XANDER
(to Fnat-Chu; yelling)
Why am I always the one that gets
picked on? What, did someone pin a
note on my back that says "Comic
relief"? Why can't you pick on Buffy
for once. Go zap her clothes!
Buffy turns to Xander and levels him a questioning
glare.
XANDER
(off Buffy's look;
immediately flustered and
apolegetic)
Not that I would want to look at you
without your clothes..
(off Buffy's second look)
Not that you wouldn't look good
without your clothes on..
(off Buffy's third look)
Not that I've ever imagined you
without..
BUFFY
Xander.. stop.
XANDER
(chagrined)
Another two fine words.
Buffy turns back to Fnat-chu.
BUFFY
Okay, can we stop with the games
cause I'm kinda all played out.
FNAT-CHU
(sighs)
Your wish is my constant, unbearable
headache.
Fnat-chu snaps his fingers. Xander's pride.. and
clothes.. restored. Xander looks relieved.
BUFFY
(to Fnat-chu)
Now.. are we ready?
INT. GILES' CAR - NIGHT
ANGLE : NATASHA
sitting quietly.. contemplatively in the car. She sits
very still, staring off into space.
Giles looks out the window for a beat, then turns his
attention to Natasha. Natasha remains perfectly still,
her eyes transfixed on a distant point in space. The
only sign we see that she is still alive are the wisps
of breath emanating slowly from her mouth and nose.
A moving light in the distance captures Giles'
attention. The light moves left to right, as
if someone is waving it.
GILES
It's time.
Natasha turns to Giles and then to the light. Giles
gets out of his side of the car. Natasha watches Giles
exit, then walks around the front of the car to her
passenger side door. Giles opens the door. Natasha
looks up at Giles, reluctant to move. She looks
nervous.
GILES
(reaching out with his
hand)
Come.. Take that first step with me.
Natasha looks at Giles, then at his outstretched hand.
She slowly reaches out and takes his hand with hers,
then exits out of the car. They walk off-screen.
ANGLE : XANDER
standing and waiting nervously in the middle of the
park. We see Xander waving a torchlight lazily to and
fro.
XANDER
(to himself)
He is a beacon to the world. Lonely,
yet proud. Forever shining the way
for others to follow. And yet, few
will ever know that his heroic and
noble endeavours were powered by
nothing but a couple of D batteries
and an eight dollar torch from K-
mart.
Buffy comes up next to him.
BUFFY
Xander.
Xander almost jumps out of his skin. He turns to face
Buffy while continuing to point his torchlight away
from him.
XANDER
Geez Buffy.. could we dial down the
sneaking?
BUFFY
What's with the jumpy?
XANDER
I'm not jumpy.
Xander turns back to see..
REVERSE ANGLE : GILES
in extreme close up; weirdly and creepily illuminated
by the light from the torch.
XANDER
Aargh!
Giles sighs again. Xander fumbles and switches the
torch off after a beat, regaining his composure.
XANDER
Sorry. It's not you. The torch was
highlighting the wrinkles.
Giles ignores Xander.
GILES
(to Buffy)
Where is he?
BUFFY
Oh, he's coming.
XANDER
The guy loves an entrance.
We hear a low buzzing sound as a swarm of flies
approach. Buffy, Giles, Xander and Natasha watch the
sky.
The flies descend on them in two streams, combining in
a circle and forming a whirlwind. It dissipates to
reveal Fnat-chu in all his glory.
FNAT-CHU
(theatrically)
Ta-da!
Fnat-chu scans the faces before him. He settles his
gaze upon Natasha as flies circle him.
FNAT-CHU
(re Natasha)
Aah, here's our girl. And how is
this new world treating you?
GILES
May we possibly dispense with the
pleasantries, however genuine I'm
sure they are, and get on with it?
Fnat-Chu raises an eyebrow, then turns to Buffy.
FNAT-CHU
You two must be related.
(back to Giles)
You have my money?
GILES
As soon as the spell is succesfully
completed.
Fnat-chu smiles and turns to Natasha. He beckons her
over with his tiny hands. Natasha hesitates, then
slowly walks towards him.
FNAT-CHU
(to Natasha)
Now little one, you have to be sure.
Once the spell is done, there is no
going back. Choose who you want to
be.
Natasha looks uncertain. She crosses her arms, as if
bracing herself against the cold. We see the fingers
on her right hand slowly reach over and push down on
the wound on her left arm.
She looks at Giles who stares back meaningfully. She
seems to gain strength from this.. straightening up
ever so slightly and turning back to Fnat-chu.
NATASHA
I want to do it.
FNAT-CHU
Then, let us begin.
Fnat-chu raises his tiny arms, closes his eyes and
starst to chant in some unknown dialect. A pale blue
light envelops Natasha and a wind blows around her,
roughly disturbing her hair.
As Fnat-chu's chant becomes more fervent, the light
becomes brighter and the wind stronger. Natasha looks
scared as she senses something happening to her. She
turns to Giles.
ANGLE : GILES
looking concerned.. his face illuminated by the blue
light.
Natasha stares at Giles for a beat, then turns away
and closes her eyes.. letting the spell begin to take
effect.
ANGLE : BUFFY
as she is distracted by a rustling sound in the trees.
She looks up at one of the trees.
REVERSE ANGLE : TREE FOLIAGE
from Buffy's POV, looking up at its dark outline
against the sky. Nothing happens for a beat. Then,
more rustling as we see something moving fast..
gracely skipping from one tree to the next.
ANGLE : BUFFY
still looking up.
BUFFY
Giles.
GILES
(still focusing on
Natasha; not turning)
I know.
Buffy looks at Giles and sees him reaching into his
coat pocket and getting his stake out, all the while
keeping his eyes on Natasha. Xander clues in to the
danger and lifts his crossbow, frantically scanning
the treetops. Xander and Buffy back up towards Giles,
forming a tight triangle.. their backs to each other.
BUFFY
(to Fnat-Chu)
Hurry!
A dark shadow leaps out of the treetops; brandishing a
shiny silver sword and screaming like a banshee. Sasha
lands in the middle of the three, quickly knocking all
three aside, one after the other.. sending them flying
through the air. She ends up in a half-crouching
position, with one hand on the ground.. looking like
she's ready to pounce on the next victim.
Fnat-chu opens his eyes and sees Sasha. He breaks the
spell in shock.
The blue light surrounding Natasha dissapears and she
falls heavily to the ground like a rag doll. She
begins to groggily get up but can't quite get to her
feet. She looks up at Sasha.
Sasha, still in her half-crouching position, smiles at
Natasha and slowly wags her middle finger with her
free hand.. as if reprimanding a naughty child.
ANGLE : GILES AND BUFFY
as they slowly recover.. getting up from the grass.
Giles looks up at something.
REVERSE ANGLE : SASHA AND NATASHA
from side-on in a wide shot. A crouching Sasha at the
left hand side of the screen staring at Natasha on the
right side of the screen, who is on her hands and
knees staring back at Sasha. Like two halves of a
mirror.
GILES
(crying out)
Natasha!
Both Natasha and Sasha turn to Giles. Sasha smiles at
Natasha and bounds towards Giles.
NATASHA
No!
Sasha attacks Giles. Giles engages in the fight but is
clearly outmatched against the speed and power of
Sasha. She knocks him aside.
Buffy immediately leaps into the fray. These two are
more equally matched as we see a blindingly fast
display of kicks and punches. Buffy deftly avoids
Sasha's sword while Sasha similarly expertly deflects
Buffy's attempt to stake her.
Xander holds up the crossbow and aims it towards Buffy
and Sasha but can't find a clear shot. Giles gets up
from the ground a second time. He sees Natasha wearily
struggling to get to her feet.
GILES
(calling out)
Xander!
Xander turns to Giles.
GILES
(re Natasha)
Get her out of here!
Xander hesitates, then nods to Giles. He rushes over
to Natasha and helps her to her feet. Natasha looks
back over her shoulder to Buffy and Sasha, then at
Giles. Giles looks back. Xander then drags her away
from the fight as they dissapear into the darkness.
ANGLE : BUFFY AND SASHA
as Buffy lands a few good punches on Sasha. As Buffy
swings again with the stake, Sasha drops to her knees
and hits Buffy flush on her wound at her side. Buffy
winces. Sasha, from the ground, kicks Buffy in the
chest, sending her flying.
Sasha stands and proudly surveys the battlefield. She
doesn't see Natasha anywhere but then fixes her gaze
on Fnat-chu who is still standing there, watching in
shock. Sasha smiles with an evil grin.
Fnat-chu's eyes widen as he lets out a falsetto
scream. As Sasha bounds towards him, Fnat-chu opens
his hands. A swarm of flies descend upon him just as
Sasha closes. She stops in her tracks.. slightly
confused as she watches the flies circle around Fnat-
chu and hide him from view.
The flies then take off into the air, leaving no trace
of Fnat-chu. Sasha looks up in the air towards the
swarm of flies as they speeds away. She runs and
follows.
Giles helps Buffy to her feet and together, they chase
after Sasha.
ANGLE : SASHA
as she chases hard.. her eyes on the sky above her.
ANGLE : BUFFY AND GILES
similarly chasing Sasha hard.
Sasha comes to a stop when she sees the swarm of flies
break into two streams and slowly descend towards the
ground, circling each other and forming a whirlwind.
She walks slowly towards the flies and smiles for a
beat, then spins around just in time to block Buffy's
stake. Giles joins in the fight. Sasha expertly and
efficiently handles her two foes.
She keeps them at bay while her back is to the swarm
of circling flies.
The flies separate again to reveal Fnat-chu who is
shocked to see Sasha's back right in front of him. He
reaches out with his tiny arms again and opens his
hands. Sasha, sensing his presence, quickly spins
around and swings her sword towards Fnat-chu. Fnat-chu
screams in pain as Sasha spins back to face Buffy and
Giles.
ANGLE ON : THE GRASSY GROUND
as one of Fnat-chu's now dismembered hands falls into
frame.
Buffy and Giles close in urgently on Sasha. Sasha
leaps up into the air and cartwheels over Fnat-chu,
landing square behind him. She places and arm around
Fnat-chu's neck and places her head next to his,
looking at Giles.
SASHA
You want to save me Rupert?
Giles looks back, helpless.
SASHA
How are you going to save me now?
Fnat-chu suddenly screams in pain as his body arches
forward.
GILES
No!
Fnat-chu's heavy body falls to the ground to reveal
Sasha standing with her sword outstretched. We see
flies flying out of Fnat-chu's body as it begins to
shrink smaller and smaller, finally dissapearing into
nothing as all the remaining flies fly away into the
night sky.
As Giles and Buffy stare at the ground in shock, Sasha
quickly reachs behind her back and, in one motion,
flings a small knife towards Giles, heading for his
chest. Giles sees the knife and turns just in time to
hide his chest. The knife buries into his arm. Giles
lets out a cry of pain and drops to his knees. He
pulls out the knife and throws it away.
BUFFY
Giles!
Giles raises a hand to tell her he's okay.
Buffy, her face hardened and cold, slowly turns
towards Sasha and launches into another attack. This
time, Buffy fights with measured precision, control
and determination.. not letting her emotions get the
better of her. Sasha flails away with her sword but
Buffy avoids each swing. She lands one punch, then
another.. then a kick. Sasha reels backwards. Sasha
swings again. Buffy kicks the sword out of her hand
and it flies through the air, landing far away.
Sasha and Buffy stare at each other, both taking in
this new development. Sasha growls and attacks again,
leading with her claws and fangs. Sasha manages to get
in a few punches as she fights with renewed vigour.
She aims a round-house kick towards Buffy which Buffy
catches with her hand.. and holds on tight. Sasha
stares wide-eyed at Buffy as she hops on one leg.
Buffy smiles and in one quick movement, pulls the
caught leg hard towards her. Sasha falls onto her back
on the ground. Buffy jumps on top of her and raises
her stake. She plunges it down towards Sasha.
GILES
(yelling urgently)
Buffy!
Buffy stops the motion just as the stake is about to
penetrate Sasha's chest. She holds the stake above
Sasha's chest for a beat, deliberating on what to do.
We see a gradual realisation cross Buffy's face as she
relaxes her grip on the stake ever so slightly. Sasha,
in one blinding movement, knocks the stake away from
Buffy's hand and rolls up, sending Buffy rolling away
from her.
Sasha gets up and winks at Giles, then leaps up into a
tree, dissapearing into the foliage. We hear her
leaping away quickly from tree to tree.. a shrill
laugh fading away in the darkness.
Giles, with one hand holding on to his wound, comes
over and helps Buffy slowly to her feet as they watch
Sasha dissapear.
BUFFY
(eyes on the trees)
I had her.
(then turning to Giles)
I had her.
GILES
I know.
EXT. OUTSIDE GILES' APARTMENT - NIGHT
to establish.
INT. GILES' APARTMENT/LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Where we see Giles sitting on a chair, rolling up his
sleeve to adjust the bandage now on his arm. Giles'
attention is drawn to someone humming a tune. {Play
midi file of tune}
Giles follows the sound to..
INT. GILES' APARTMENT/BEDROOM - NIGHT
The lights have been turned off inside this room.
ANGLE : NATASHA
sitting on the bed, looking out the window as she
continues to hum the tune quietly to herself. Giles
watches from the doorway. The tune ends.
GILES
What is that?
Natasha turns to Giles, looking a little surprised.
She offers a small smile, then looks back down at the
bed. We can see an open first aid kit and some old
bandages on the bed.. Natasha obviously having just
finished dressing her wound.
NATASHA
Something my mother used to sing to
me.
GILES
Do you remember her?
NATASHA
Not much.. but more than I used to.
It's funny the little things I can
remember now.. of my previous life?
Like the lullaby. Like how being
inside a ballroom in St Petersburg
was like dancing inside a diamond.
There was so much I had forgotten.
GILES
It's a good sign.
Natasha turns to Giles.
NATASHA
(with a sad smile)
Only little things.
Natasha spots the bandage on Giles' arm.
NATASHA
(re the bandage)
It's coming loose. Here, let me
redress that.
Giles takes a look and gently pats the bandage.
GILES
It's not necessary. It'll be fine.
NATASHA
(patting the spot on the
bed next to her; in a mock
serious tone)
Sit.
Giles relents and comes over to sit next to Natasha.
Natasha begins to redress Giles' bandage. Giles
watches how delicately and gently Natasha goes about
the process.
GILES
You do it very well.
NATASHA
(while rebandaging)
I can remember doing this for my
sister, when she would get her bumps
and scrapes..
(with a warm smile; as if
fondly remembering)
and she used to get them a lot. I
would never let the servants touch
her. This was something she needed
me to do.
(becoming reflective)
It's funny. When someone close to
you falls ill, and you're there for
them.. to comfort them and to heal
them.. It's like, it heals you too.
Natasha grows quiet for a beat.
NATASHA
But then, sometimes they don't get
better, and there's nothing you can
do. Not for them then, and not for
the pain it leaves behind.
Natasha hangs on the thought for a beat, growing more
sombre. She then breaks out of her reverie and looks
up to Giles with a small smile.
NATASHA
(re the wound)
Anyway, this isn't serious.
Giles looks at Natasha as if he's trying to figure her
out. Natasha looks uncomfortable as Giles stares at
her. She continues to bandage Giles' arm.
NATASHA
(trying to change the
mood)
I seem to recall we've done this
before Rupert. Only that time, you
were treating my hand.
GILES
I remember.
Giles quietly watches Natasha for a beat.. then..
GILES
Is it true what you said then? Have
you wondered what kind of life you
might have had?
Natasha finishes dressing Giles' wound.
NATASHA
There's no point dwelling on things
that aren't going to happen.
GILES
(more insistent)
But you can have it. It's right
there in front of you.
NATASHA
Rupert.
GILES
It isn't over. We'll find another
shaman to perform the spell, and if
we can't do that, we'll find another
way.
NATASHA
And how long will it take? A day? A
month? A year? Am I to suffer the
screaming in my head till then? I
can't do it. It's too far away.
Natasha takes a deep breath as she looks at Giles.
NATASHA
And it's not just that.
(she turns to the window)
Somewhere deep inside of me, I know
this is where I belong.
GILES
(confused)
Sunnydale?
NATASHA
(turning back to Giles)
Night.
Giles is taken a little aback.
GILES
(derisive)
So, you think it is better to become
a vampire. That's your answer.
NATASHA
It's not a choice Rupert. I am one.
Natasha should never have existed.
She doesn't really exist now. Her
empty, shallow life ended a long
time ago.
GILES
(more agitated)
But you're here. You're sitting on
this bed talking to me. Just before,
you were remembering things about
your life.
NATASHA
Don't you see? They're remnants..
memories of a life long dead. And I
am simply a memory no one holds.
Natasha stands up and walks away from Giles, towards a
window.
NATASHA
And I know the brave thing to do
here is to end my life.. and
Sasha's. To rid this world of this
dark shadow.
(turning to Giles; her
face pained)
But I can't. I could never face it.
That darkness waiting for me. It is
the most horrifying.. lonely thing.
At least this way, it will be Sasha
who'll have to face it.
(a derisive laugh to
herself)
The coward's way out.
GILES
(adamant)
No. I won't let you do this. You're
human Natasha. There is so much in
you that is good and..
NATASHA
(snapping)
Don't do that! Assume I'm good.
Sometimes, I still feel the urge.
That poisonous urge that Sasha must
feel every night. Sometimes, when I
look at you, all I can think of is
the blood pumping through your
veins. The thoughts just don't go
away like that.
Natasha walks into a part of the room covered in
shadow.
NATASHA
(hidden in shadow; her
voice becoming more
menacing)
Sometimes, I still remember the
kill.. the pleasure of it. Like a
warm blanket I can take comfort in.
(steps out of the shadows
towards Giles)
I am a danger to you Rupert. You
don't know how much.
Giles stands.. almost as if challenging Natasha.
GILES
You deserve another chance. After
what was taken from you? Don't you
see? This your second chance
Natasha. To heal all the pain that
has come before.
Natasha looks curiously at Giles, as if sensing
something.
NATASHA
What is it Rupert? Where is all this
coming from?
Giles doesn't answer.
NATASHA
What have you done?
Giles looks turns his head slightly to avoid looking
Natasha in the eye.. looking slightly ashamed. Natasha
reaches out with her hand and places it under Giles'
chin, gently turning his head back to face hers.
NATASHA
Tell me Rupert. Is this my second
chance?
(a beat)
Or am I your second chance?
Giles looks at Natasha hard. He contemplates the
question and silently finds his answer. He nods
slightly to Natasha.
Natasha smiles compassionately. She closes in and
kisses Giles gently on the lips. Giles kisses back.
Two damaged souls seeking comfort. Natasha closes her
eyes as they kiss again.
FADE OUT to black for a beat. A jarring CUT to..
ANGLE ON : NATASHA'S CLOSED EYES
as they open wide suddenly as we hear a loud, jarring
violin shriek.
Music filled with discord plays through this scene.
Always putting us on edge.
Natasha springs upright from her bed. It is later in
the night and Giles is no longer in the room. She
breathes hard, trying to catch her breath.
She grabs her head, as if trying to silence the voices
inside her. She lets out a low cry of pain as she
starts to rock her body.
She grabs at her wound and closes her eyes.. waiting
for the relief. None is forthcoming. She presses on
the wound, harder and harder. Blood begins to seep
through from underneath the bandage.
She emits a pitiful, distressed wimper as she opens
her eyes. She begins to panic. Her eyes fervently
scanning the room. Looking for a way to stop the
pain.. to stop the voices.
She reaches under her mattress and pulls out a knife.
She looks at it strangely.
INT. BUFFY'S HOUSE / LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
as Natasha stumbles out of her room, looking
disoriented. She carries the large knife menacingly in
her hand.. looking like she could lash out with it at
any second.
Still breathing heavily, she scans the room. She spots
something. We WIDEN to show what she is looking
at. Giles sleeping on the couch in the foreground.
Natasha walks slowly up towards Giles. The knife
dangling loosely in her hands. The music builds.
CLOSE ON : NATASHA'S FACE
as she studies the sleeping body beneath her. Her eyes
are wild and red. Her face distorting to an expression
of fear and menace.
ANGLE : GILES
sleeping and oblivious to the danger.
ANGLE ON : THE KNIFE
as Natasha slowly lifts it.. the blade catching the
moonlight.
Music builds to a crescendo..
FADE TO BLACK
END OF ACT THREE
CONTINUE TO ACT FOUR