William The Bloody Is Back


It is dark with fires burning all around the alley of the battle Spike was last seen in. Bodies of demons of all sorts lay round as Spike is laying on the ground face-up bloody and bruised from the long battle. He is not quite dead yet but is barely conscious out of any energy to carry on the fight. Standing ten feet away are two demons talking about what they are going to do with Spike.

Dioxin: Let’s finish him off and dust him now.

Shlareth: No, that is too quick of death for him. We should make him suffer for thinking he could take on the Black Thorn.

Dioxin: What exactly do you have in mind for our hero?

Shlareth: Oh I have the perfect plan for revenge...

Cut to:
Buffy is living a normal life in Rome or as normal as it gets for Slayers. She spends her time during the day in the Slayer school training the new Slayers who are discovered and brought in from all over the world. It was her dedication to her work which caused the end of her relationship with The Immortal. Also contributing to their doom was the never ending dreams or nightmares about Spike which would creep into her system at least twice a week. Dreams or nightmares which she would call out his name as she would awaken from her sleep still happen to her even though it has been so long since she last saw him. But as she wakes up she tries to ignore it and gets ready for her day of teaching Slayers of all ages and backgrounds. She walks into her office in the Slayer school and calmly asks her assistant Jamie if she has any messages.

Buffy: Anything new to report.

Jamie: Same ole same ole.

Buffy: Right no apocalypses today.

Jamie: None so far but it is still early its only 9 o’clock.

Buffy walks into a gym full of Slayers which acts as her classroom as she imparts knowledge of all the times she saved the world and how her training has helped her. The Slayers are in awe of the stories she is telling. After a long session Buffy tells them all to take a lunch break. Buffy returns to her office and takes a seat at her desk tired of what is almost becoming the same old routine. She teaches the Slayers all she knows then sends them to Giles for the second part of their training which takes place in the afternoons. Suddenly Jamie comes in with a message.

Jamie: This just came in from LA something about a vampire on a rampage and is piling a nice lil body count.

Buffy: (half-listening) How many we talking here.

Jamie: About three dozen mostly women and a lot of them young too.

Buffy: Well just send some newbie to check it out and report back to us.

Jamie: How bout Karen she has been itching for some action.

Buffy: (getting up) Fine whatever tell me if she has gotten anything worthwhile.

Jamie: Righty-o-then

Buffy leaves to the kitchen to get something to eat. Semi-retirement has her bored as she no longer goes on patrol. She leaves that for the other Slayers to do. She only fights in battles where it is the end of the world type of thing which only a few has come up in the past year or so. Fighting only when she feels it is needed and her experience with preventing the many apocalypses she has encountered over her years as the Slayer will come in handy.

Cut to:
Several days have passed and Buffy repeats the same routine but with some slight differences so she knows the days aren’t repeating like the mummy hand incident. Buffy is sitting alone in her office going over a list of Slayers who will be arriving in a few days when Jamie walks in.

Jamie: Still no word from Karen.

Buffy: (sighs) She had better not be partying in LA she knows that work comes first.

Jamie: What do you want me to do about it?

Buffy: (now standing) I should have never sent a newbie to LA it was only a matter of time before something like this was gonna happen.

Jamie: Not her fault, she probably took care of the vampire and went to check out the club scene there.

Buffy: Look I am going to set her straight once she gets back here. I mean when I was the Slayer as in the only Slayer I always knew that work came first. (under her breath) I just knew how to get away with it better.

Jamie: What was that?

Buffy: Uh…nothing. I’ll get a Vet to bring her back here. Who’s around?

Jamie: Rona just got back in this morning everyone else is out on assignment.

Buffy: Alright I’ll go have a talk with her.

Cut to:
Buffy is sleeping and has a nightmare where she dreams she is fighting Spike but not as herself as she would often dream but through the eyes of the first Slayer Spike killed. She is staring at Spike as she is just the spectator in the fight between the Chinese Slayer and Spike. Finally the fight reaches its climax and the Slayer dies. Buffy wakes up in a panic not realizing what just happened. The next day Buffy is anxiously awaiting a phone call from Rona so she can tear into Karen. She sent Rona to bring back Karen and to find out what happened to the vampire. Buffy is sitting in a meeting room which is used to hand out assignments to Slayers. Buffy’s cell phone rings.

Buffy: Rona is that you put Karen on the line so I can give her the scolding of a lifetime.

Rona: Fraid I can’t do that Buffy. I just found her― she’s dead.

Buffy: (horrified) What!

Rona: Looks like she has been dead awhile and whoever did this had his way with her. He must have tortured her before he killed her. She’s a mess Buffy.

Buffy: What could have done this to her?

Rona: I don’t know must have been that vampire (inspects Karen’s pockets) I found something, a note. (reads it) It says “Slayer #3 Courtesy, William the Bloody” (crumbles the note) wait that name sounds familiar isn’t that…

Buffy: No it’s not him (shakes uncontrollably) it can’t be him.

Rona: (angry) I don’t know who it is but I swear I will kill him.

Buffy: Don’t! (calms herself) I mean we need to gather some more intel because we don’t know exactly what we are dealing with.

Rona: I don’t care! He killed a Slayer…

Buffy: Look we don’t go carrying out revenge…we don’t work that way.

Rona: You don’t maybe but I…

Buffy: Please listen to me just calm down and see what else you can find out and don’t go after him until we know for sure who is doing this…that’s an order.

Rona: Fine…whatever you say but don’t talk to me like I’m a newbie I can take care of myself.

Buffy: (stands) Ok then, call me if you find out anything.

Suddenly it her that name “William the Bloody” only one vampire went by that name― Spike. She sits back down unable to comprehend what has just happened. Some vampire was able to take out a Slayer and is calling himself “William the Bloody” this just doesn’t make sense she thought. Spike is gone so it can’t be him but why would another vampire kill in the name of someone else. Earlier she had read through the stories of bodies turning up in LA of all the people killed who were all tortured to death and had bite marks on their necks. The papers called it some sick serial killer. But Buffy was still unable to think clearly decides that she needs to do some research on Spike’s past to see if she can learn anything new.

Jamie: Something happen, did you get a call from Rona yet.

Buffy: (choked up) Yeah Karen is dead.

Jamie: Oh my God how did this happen.

Buffy: Vampire got her, the one she was looking for. I need you to send someone to pick her up and bring her back. Cuz I need Rona to keep looking for this vampire.

Jamie: Right. Right away. Going as we speak.

Buffy: Not moving.

Jamie: Oh sorry (leaves).

Buffy: (to herself) I can't think right now. I need to get the Hell out of here.

Cut to:
Buffy is walking home and decides that she needs help to relax a bit so she walks into the first bar she sees. She walks up to the counter and takes a seat. There are people scattered around the bar mostly people sitting and having idle conversations. She orders a drink from the bartender.

Bartender: What can I get you young lady?

Buffy: Jack.

Bartender: You sure that is mighty strong for a lil ole girl such as yourself.

Buffy: Just leave the bottle willya.

Bartender: Sure you’re the boss (places a bottle in front of her and a shot glass).

Buffy: (removes the spout and proceeds to drink straight from the bottle) Ahh…better.

Behind Buffy are two demons wearing trench coats and hats sitting at a table talking and having a good time. Buffy now bored listens to their conversation after something catches her attention.

Demon 1: …Yeah I still think you should have taken that job at Wolfram & Hart.

Demon 2: I would have but too much corruption even for me to deal with.

Demon 1: Didn’t they say they were going to transfer you to their LA branch.

Demon 2: That’s what they said but I heard too many stories about that place especially with that psycho running the joint.

Demon 1: Yeah who the Hell did he think he was going up against the Black Thorn as if he could make a dent in them and live to tell about it?

Demon 2: I didn’t know having a soul would let you grow another pair you know what I mean.

Demon 1: I know I have enough pairs as it is.

Demon 2: They got what was coming to them besides I gotta go the smell of humans is making me sick.

Demon 1: Fine but you’re paying this time.

The demons get up to leave and as they pass Buffy one says something that has her thinking.

Demon 2: …and to think he went down with his old partner in crime…

Cut to:
Back in Buffy’s apartment she is getting ready to go to sleep. She lifts the covers for her bed and crawls in. She reaches under her mountain of pillows and reveals Mr. Gordo dressed in a leather duster reminiscent of the one Spike used to wear. She gives him a squeeze as she goes to sleep. A new nightmare for Buffy begins as she is fighting Spike in the eyes of Nikki Wood. She is helpless as she watches the fight go back and forth until Spike finally snaps her neck. Again she wakes this time her hands firmly clenched around Mr. Gordo. She drops him onto the bed as she gets up deciding that she can’t get anymore sleep tonight.

Cut to:
Outside Willow’s apartment building is Buffy who needs someone to talk to. Plus she knew that she could always come to Willow. Willow like Buffy was in semi-retirement only helping out when needed. She only stayed in Rome because Buffy wanted her there in case of the end of the world scenario. She stays with Kennedy who works at the Slayer training school when an extra Slayer was needed. Buffy calls Willow’s phone.

Willow: Hello.

Buffy: It’s me Will do you think we can talk.

Willow: Now as in now…now uh I guess so. Can it wait until tomorrow?

Buffy: I didn’t wake you did I?

Willow: No, not at all you would be surprised what good movies are on this late at night.

Buffy: Great I’m coming over.

Buffy two minutes later shows up at Willows apartment door and knocks.

Willow: That was fast.

Buffy: Kinda in the neighborhood.

Willow: Come in…

Buffy: (she walks in and waves to Kennedy) Hiya there. Uhm do you think that me and Willow can talk privately it’s kinda personal.

Kennedy: Sure just bring her back in one piece now (walks away).

Buffy: (sits on the couch) Will something has come up and I’m not sure what to do.

Willow: (sits next to Buffy) What is it this time demons of the flying kind…cuz those were a real pain in the ass last time…

Buffy: No nothing like that it is a vampire.

Willow: Well that’s definitely new and scary never seen one of those before.

Buffy: Totally not the same. This one has left a trail of three dozen people that we know of so far including a Slayer.

Willow: Oh…just one vampire though.

Buffy: Yeah but for some strange reason this one is going by the name “William the Bloody”.

Willow: Sure that’s original I mean why I don’t steal a name like “Sabrina”. I mean didn’t he have that name trademarked.

Buffy: Don’t think so, plus I never heard of any vampire killing in the name of some other vampire.

Willow: At least we know it’s not the original, because Spike is dead (Buffy glaring at Willow)…or I mean he’s in a better place.

Buffy: Yeah but this one is killing just like the old Spike because back when he was trying to kill me he would taunt me telling me how he would torture people before he killed them. This vampire must have known Spike before because he is copying him down to every last detail.

Willow: Some kind of copycat maybe.

Buffy: Something like that plus there is all of this other stuff going on. I overheard these two demons talking about Wolfram & Hart and Angel getting himself into trouble against the Black Thorn. But something else they said really got to me they said his old partner in crime came back.

Willow: You mean when he was evil, could they mean Drusilla they were part of the gruesome foursome. But why would she help Angel now I mean she wasn’t always on the sanity wagon.

Buffy: No, Drusilla is a complete loon and there is no way she would help Angel do any good. But the only person who would help Angel would have to be…Spike.

Willow: You of all people should know that he gave his life to close the Hellmouth. You were last one to see him down there (Buffy looks hurt) you never told me what actually happened down there.

For Buffy talking about Spike was a tough subject and has never said his name out loud since Sunnydale. Her constant dreams and nightmares about him were nothing compared to Buffy reliving their last moment in the Hellmouth together. Nothing hurt her more thinking about Spike than the last things they said to each other “I love you” “No you don’t, but thanks for saying it”. Buffy would never tell anyone what happened down there because it was too painful even now.

Buffy: Uh…nothing…nothing just uh do you think you can come by and help with serious research mode.

Willow: Sure no problemo but do you think I can maybe get some sleep now.

Buffy: I’d better go but thanks Will…

Willow: Hey what are best buds for.

Cut to:
Buffy returns home to her apartment opens the door and turns on the light and sees Dawn standing there with a glass of water and one hand on her hip.

Dawn: And where have you been sneaking out in the middle of the night. I went to get a glass of water and looked in your room and saw you weren’t there…so what’s his name…

Buffy: What no…no guy I just couldn’t sleep and needed to go for a walk. Since when do I have to sneak out or ask for your permission?

Dawn: That’s all. You just couldn’t sleep.

Buffy: No, that’s not completely true…

Dawn: Aha so it is guy then.

Buffy: No not exactly it’s a vampire.

Dawn: Another one, Buffy you have issues. Serious I need a vampire in my life issues.

Buffy: Nothing like that, it’s about Spike.

Dawn: What do you mean?

Buffy: There’s some vampire in LA calling himself “William the Bloody” and is on a killing spree.

Dawn: That’s was Spike’s name before back when he was evil. I don’t get it why does someone want to call himself that.

Buffy: It’s not just the name he is killing just like Spike used to and I don’t know what to think.

Dawn: This is so weird this is the first time we’ve said his name since we left Sunnydale Buffy. It was like he never existed...like he never sacrificed himself to close the Hellmouth.

Buffy: (closing her eyes unable to speak) It’s not like that it’s just…I better get some sleep (walks past Dawn to her room).

Cut to:
Buffy walks into her office in the morning ready to get down to research about “William the Bloody”. She puts her things down and walks out of her office and sees Willow.

Buffy: I didn’t expect to see you this early.

Willow: You know me nothing like research to get the juices flowing…I mean the neurons firing.

Buffy: Thanks Will I gotta talk to Giles.

Cut to:
Buffy walks down to the gym where Giles is teaching basic training to the Slayers when she walks in.

Giles: (to the slayers) Yes, why don’t you all take a breather? (to Buffy) Yes Buffy is there something wrong?

Buffy: I need to know if you ever heard of any vampires who steal another one’s identity or kills in the name of someone else.

Giles: Well in all my research the closest thing I have ever encountered to that would be this clan of vampires in 1600’s. This group of about seven vampires all assumed the same name, clothes, and nearly everything else as their leader. They all claimed one name and killed under that name. From my understanding they all committed suicide once their leader died thirty years after they formed. May I inquire to the reason for this knowledge?

Buffy: You sure that’s it no other cases.

Giles: None that I know of. Again I ask?

Buffy: Someone in LA is calling himself “William the Bloody” and I want to know why.

Giles: I see…and this struck a nerve with you I’d imagine.

Buffy: (angry) Look can you just help out with the research. I already got Willow helping out and I just…

Giles: Ok Buffy as soon as I finish up here I’ll come up.

Cut to:
Buffy walks back to the meeting room where she sees Willow and then notices Dawn trying to hide behind a book.

Buffy: What exactly are you doing here and don’t tell me you are doing research because I can see that.

Dawn: Today is a school holiday that is only celebrated in Europe. It’s called bring your sister to work day.

Buffy: I believe that just like I believe “my dog ate my homework” we don’t even have a dog.

Dawn: This is about Spike or somebody pretending to be him or the him he used to be. I need to be here. I wanna help.

Buffy: Fine but once this is over…

Dawn: Back to school got it.

Buffy: (Giles walks in) So what have you got so far.

Willow: Nothing much about vampires copying other vampires except this one case in the 1600’s about this group of…

Giles: Right I am well aware of that and have already told Buffy about it.

Willow: Way to steal my thunder and hello to you too Giles.

Suddenly Buffy’s cell phone rings and it’s Rona on the line. She answers the phone.

Buffy: Rona what have you got.

Rona: I know who has been doing this and it’s― Spike.

Buffy: (shocked) What!

Rona: Look this vampire is a total Spike freak he has got the same bleached hair and the same leather jacket as Spike. He evens smokes cigarettes just like Spike. I didn’t get a look at his face though I just saw him walking away from another victim. The sun was about to rise and I lost him.

Buffy: Are you sure it was Spike?

Rona: I don’t know if it was Spike or just someone looking like him but from the back it sure looked like Spike to me.

Buffy: Uh just see what else you can find out ok gotta go (hangs up).

Willow: Did she just say― Spike? As in “William the Bloody” Spike.

Dawn: Spike is he…

Giles: This must be some sort of mistake.

Buffy: I’m heading to LA. I have to see this for myself.

Giles: I don’t think that is entirely wise. We still don’t know who we are dealing with.

Buffy: You don’t understand whoever this vampire is he’s good and I have to stop him because he’s already killed one Slayer. Willow I need you to check on this Black Thorn and Dawn I need you to check what happened at Wolfram & Hart and Giles I need you to check on any more vampire copycats.

Dawn: Got it.

Willow: Uhm Ok.

Giles: I totally disagree with this course of action…we should…

Buffy: I’m not asking Giles (walks out).

Cut to:
Buffy arrives at Rona’s hotel room the next day and notices that the door is unlocked as she enters. It’s nighttime in LA and she cautiously turns on the lights and has a quick look around. She finds no one in sight so she decides to clean up a bit after her long flight from Europe. After cleaning up she walks out of the bathroom and sees Rona entering stake in hand and jumps at the sight of Buffy.

Rona: Whoa there, what are you doing here? I saw the lights on and I knew that they keep the light on for you but not after you checked in. I just thought that you were maybe… nevermind, again what are you doing here, and I have everything under control.

Buffy: Why was the door unlocked I could have been God knows what and gotten in here.

Rona: I leave it unlocked because I always forget where I put my key besides I’m a big girl now and a Slayer.

Buffy: Being a Slayer doesn’t give you permission to be reckless. Just tell me what else you’ve found out.

Rona: Are you here because you needed to hear this in person or are you looking over my shoulder again?

Buffy: Look I’m just here…

Rona: This Spike guy has left two more corpses since we last talked and I haven’t seen him since. I found a couple of demon bars and someone calling himself “William the Bloody” is saying he’s back and loving it.

Buffy: Some vampire calling himself…

Rona: No, this vampire is saying he is the original “William the Bloody” not some copycat or wannabe.

Buffy: Kay we need to split up in the morning and see what else we can dig up. I’m going to give Willow a call to see what they’ve come up with.

Buffy gives a call back to Willow in Europe.

Willow: Yeah Buffy uhm we’ve don’t have much at the moment but here’s what we got so far. This group the Black Thorn from what I can tell is a group of very powerful demons not much else is known about them. Dawn was able to find a connection between Wolfram & Hart and the Black Thorn. It seems that Angel and a group of people took them on and pissed off a whole lot of demons. Giles wasn’t able to dig up anymore instances of copycat vampires in recent history. Buffy hold on a sec Giles wants to talk to you (Buffy hangs up).

Buffy: So from what they can tell so far there is some connection between Wolfram & Hart and this Black Thorn group. We just got to find out what the deal is with this vampire pretending to be Spike.

Rona: Maybe this vampire has a Spike fetish wouldn’t be the only person I know with one.

Buffy: (glaring at Rona) Totally not the same and we’ll go out at sunrise but I need some rest. From now on I’m in charge and we do things my way.

Rona: (under her breath) Wouldn’t be the first time…

Buffy: (walking to the only bed) What was that?

Rona: Nothing and on my bed. I was here first, I called it.

Buffy: (lying down) Just get some rest I’m too tired to argue.

Cut to:
Buffy is asleep and Rona is lying uncomfortably on the floor tossing and turning. She sits up angrily and looks at Buffy.

Rona: (getting up) Fine while you are on my nice comfy bed sleeping I gotta vampire who needs dusting (walks out).

Buffy has another dream but this time it’s about the Slayer Karen who just died. The dream puts Buffy in the eyes of Karen who is following Spike through a dark abandoned warehouse. There are desks scattered around and tall columns filling the warehouse. Karen is stalking Spike about thirty feet away and there is scattered bits of moonlight shining through the broken windows of the warehouse. Spike is walking smoking a cigarette when suddenly he stops dead in his tracks as he catches a scent that is familiar to him. Karen watches him stop and runs and ducks behind a desk for cover. Spike smiles as he recognizes the scent and drops his cigarette. Karen waits a few moments and peeks around the desk and finds Spike gone. Looking around she doesn’t see him so she gets up and slowly pulls out her stake and walks toward the spot he was last seen. She looks down at the cigarette puzzled then she looks up and Spike drops down on her from a beam from the ceiling and knocks the stake out of her hand.

William: Funny thing about Slayers you all smell the same like newborn kittens who are just begging to be eaten.

Karen: I’m here to stop you!

William: (smiles) So were the other two Slayers I’ve killed. So where are your manners Slayer do you have a name or shall I call you Slayer number three. But before you tell me I’ll tell you mine…I am William the Bloody a name that has been forgotten too long but will be feared again.

Karen: You’ve killed two Slayers before?…well I have been trained by the best and I’m gonna…

William: Doesn’t matter whose trained you…you’ve all fell at my hands. Your blood is boiling as we speak and I look forward to tasting it (lunges at her).

This is a tough battle between Karen and Spike but with Spikes knowledge and experience fighting Slayers he has the upper hand most of the battle and is able to counter almost everything that Karen throws at him. Suddenly Karen does a leg sweep and catches Spike off guard and Spike lands on the floor. Karen pulls out her back-up stake and aims for Spikes chest. Spike crosses his arms and blocks it and smiles knowing that was her last move in her bag of tricks. He grabs hold of her wrists and wrestles the stake from her and proceeds to savagely beat her. She is lying on the floor barely conscious and barely breathing and barely alive.

William: Now is where the fun truly begins…do you know how much I can drink from you and you would still be alive. Now scream for me Slayer number three.

He picks her up and holds her up with his right arm as she is limp unable to fight back. Spike sinks his teeth into her neck but she doesn’t scream so he uses his free hand to break her arm. She finally lets out the scream he was looking for and he’s in total bliss. He has his way with her until she lets out her final scream and Karen is dead. He drops her and lets out a big laugh as the blood drips from his mouth.

William: Someone must like me up there (looks up) or maybe not. But three Slayers in one lifetime I must be lucky. How did I ever get so lucky? I must commemorate this occasion and leave a note for the world to see. (writes a note and places it in her pocket) The world will forever remember that the great William the Bloody has bested three Slayers.

Buffy wakes up from her nightmare panting and shaking. It really is Spike who is back but he must have lost his mind again she thinks to herself. Spike thinks he’s still William the Bloody. He died the day he got his soul back. But now he’s back here in LA killing after closing the Hellmouth. This is too much for Buffy to take in right now. She walks to the bathroom and splashes water on her face and looks in the mirror wondering what all this means. Buffy walks out the bathroom and calls out for Rona.

Buffy: Get up Rona I just had this dream and uh (notices she gone) damn it Rona what are you thinking are you trying to get yourself killed. (picks up her phone and calls Willow) Will I need you to do a locater spell and find Rona.

Willow: You’re talking about some serious long distance mojo here Buffy. I mean I’ve never done one so far away before and I…

Buffy: Will!

Willow: Alright, alright I’ll call you once I’ve got something.


Continued in part 2...Guess Who?...

Rona is checking out the demon bar scene looking for Spike and catches a glimpse of him leaving a demon bar and she follows. She notices that he is heading back toward the same warehouse that he killed Karen in. She stays a good distance behind and follows him until he reaches the warehouse. He reaches the door to the warehouse and enters. Rona pauses for a moment then follows after him. She carefully stays in the shadows and looks around for Spike and sees him in the same spot where he killed Karen. Reminiscent of the earlier scene where he is smoking his cigarette as he catches a familiar scent and smiles. Rona walks out toward him.

William: Another Slayer cometh my fortunes do improve much (turns around) I must be famous rather a grand celebrity or some such.

Rona: Spike is that you what has gotten into you and how are you back?

William: Well no my name is William the Bloody and you do rightly to remember that and for the second part of your question don’t remember much as to how I got here.

Rona: Don’t you remember me and all the fighting we did against The First? The closing you did of the Hellmouth in Sunnydale? Any of this rings a bell? Don’t you even remember Buffy?

William: Me fighting on your side against The First?! You must be off your rocker Slayer…closing the Hellmouth doesn’t sound like something I’d do…but Buffy is another story.

Rona: So you do remember her?

William: Fraid so, she was the only Slayer I wasn’t able to best…she still haunts me in my nightmares me doing all this and that…enough to drive a fellow bonkers.

Rona: Is that all you remember Spike?

William: I am William the Bloody and you are Slayer number four so let’s just start the game shall we.

Rona: Look Spike I don’t know what has gotten into you but this is one black chick who’s not gonna end up another dead Slayer.

They fight and have a ferocious battle that Rona holds her own against a bloodthirsty Spike. But Spike is still able to take the upper hand in the battle in which he is all too familiar with Slayers. Rona hurting runs for cover from Spike as he tries to look for her but initially can’t find her. Rona is able to sneak around back of him as he stops to try and pick up her scent. She pulls out her stake and runs to tackle Spike as he turns around. She has him on the floor but hesitates for a fraction of a second giving Spike the time he needs to block her attempt to dust him. He fights her off and puts her in a choke hold as he stands over her.

William: Still one bit of info I still need from you. Where’s Buffy?

Rona: (struggling to speak) She’s here in LA.

William: Why don’t you give her a ring on the telly?

Rona: Why should I?

William: Because if you don’t I will make your death…nice…and…slow. So give her a ring than and I will finish you quick, a man of my word I am.

Rona: You’re no man. You’re a sad lost little boy and you’ll get yours.

William: Hush up now. No need for name calling are you gonna make that call or not.

Rona: Fine (reaches in her pocket for her phone calls Buffy) Buffy its Spike and he’s…

Buffy: Rona, what’s going on, where are you?

William: (grabs the phone) Hello there sunshine always knew we’d meet again. I’ve got another Slayer here that was no match for William the Bloody. But there’s one more Slayer I need to kill to rid myself of these nightmares…and that’s you.

Buffy: (shocked unable to speak) Spike…?

William: No, not Spike will you bleeding people stop calling me that. I’ll be seeing you soon…Buffy (hangs up) Thank you Slayer much obliged… (snaps Rona's neck) kept my word didn’t I, Slayer number four. Four Slayers soon to be five how have I’ve gotten so lucky (sinks his teeth into Rona).

Buffy is unable move and unable to speak. Just hearing Spike’s voice again has Buffy’s head spinning. She has a million emotions running through her right now but tries to focus on finding him first. Buffy calls Willow looking for Rona.

Buffy: Will I need that locator spell now!

Willow: I’m just about to right now Ok but what’s going on.

Buffy: It’s Spike and he’s got Rona. Will just tell me where!

Willow: Ok I did a locator spell for Slayers in LA and I read you bright orange but I barely see Rona. She is about twelve blocks north of your location…I think something’s happened to her. Buffy about Spike… (Buffy hangs up).

Buffy runs full-speed north toward the warehouse. Her heart sinking into her stomach as she gets closer to the warehouse. Not stopping even to catch her breath as she reaches the front of the warehouse and throws open the door. Feeling her heart pounding in her chest nearly ready to burst if not for the fact she was a Slayer. Emotions of all kinds filling her as she walks in looking for Rona. Suddenly a light turns on in the dark warehouse over Rona’s body and Buffy goes to her and checks to see if she is still alive. Buffy realizes she’s dead and the emotion of anger fills her as she senses that Spike is still lurking in the warehouse.

Buffy: I know you’re still here Spike come out so I can beat some sense into you.

Spike smoking a cigarette steps out toward Buffy but in the shadows where only his face is hidden. He brings up the cigarette to his mouth which slightly lights up his face and takes a deep drag. He exhales and slowly lowers the cigarette.

William: That scent of yours it’s somehow different than the other Slayers. It’s more of a stray cat than a newborn kitten. Been through much more than the other Slayers I gather. But it all has to come to an end sometime and I am your ending.

Buffy: Spike your back and killing. What the Hell is the matter with you? You don’t remember? You were the one who let yourself burn to death so you could close the Hellmouth and save everyone.

William: (angry) Why must you all keep calling me that. That name Spike doesn’t have any meaning for me. I am William the Bloody you be good to say it right for the rest of your life (smiles) which I don’t see for being much longer. And well I am dead because of the non-beating heart of course (pats himself on the chest) but still got all my fleshy parts on the bone.

Buffy: (pleading) Spike listen to me this isn’t you I know there is some part of you that remembers who you really are and all the good you’ve done after getting your soul.

William: You know something Slayer you might have a point there. You see I been having these nightmares ever since I woke up in LA. I woke up a broken and bloody mess with no idea how I got that way. Since then I’ve been having nightmare after nightmare of all sorts. Been thinking I was going mad with the things I seen. You and me were fighting the good fight. You and me having sodding sex in every which way imaginable (smiles) well those weren’t too bad actually (shakes his head). And yes the whole getting a soul bit seems vaguely familiar but last time I checked no soul in here. Wouldn’t want one of those bleeding things anyway. Do I look like that soft wanker Angel. Anyways Slayer it’s come down to you and me once more but I won’t go down like before. I’m quite full after Slayer number four over there but there is always room for Buffy… (walks toward her in full view).

Buffy: Spike…don’t…not like this…

Spike lunges toward Buffy whose instincts take over and they fight an epic battle. Spike with the bloodlust in his eyes and Buffy with pain in hers square off. The battle rages back and forth with neither able to gain an advantage. They fight with every blow precise and bruising into each other. Finally Buffy pulls out a stake from her pocket and Spike just laughs it off. They continue fighting with the pain in Buffy’s eyes still visible. Eventually Buffy lands an unexpected punch on Spike while he’s taunting her. He lands on the floor and Buffy quickly gains the advantage by placing her hand on his throat choking him and pointing the stake just above his heart. Knowing that she can’t watch herself dust Spike she closes her eyes raises the stake and plunges toward his heart. Spike with all of his strength is able to throw her off him and she lands ten feet away. Both fighters are bloody, beaten, and exhausted from the hard fought battle. Buffy stands and looks at Spike as he gains his footing.

Buffy: I can’t… (drops the stake).

William: Fine by me…Slayer number five.

He runs toward her and with one Slayer move dodges his attempt to tackle her and he crashes head first into a column. Spike is dazed for a moment. Buffy seizes the opportunity and picks him up and with the entire Slayer strength left in her body punches him square in the face knocking him out cold. He falls to the ground in a thud and Buffy soon follows void of any energy to be able to stand on her feet. She sits up looks over at the unconscious Spike and breaks into tears. Knowing that it’s all over for the moment she uses the opportunity to let all of her emotions out and cries for what seemed like hours. With so much happening at once all she could do was cry. Minutes fall off the clock as she sheds tears by the gallons until she is able to gather the strength to call Willow.

Buffy: (composing herself slightly but still sniffling) Willow I need your help…I need you to do some sort of transportation spell or something…and bring all three of us back home.

Willow: Whoa now you said a whole lot there Buffy what is going on first. What happened to Rona? And is Spike…there?

Buffy: (trying to remain calm) Willow, Spike has been the one killing here in LA and he killed Rona too…I just need you to bring us back somehow, as in now.

Willow: But Buffy, Spike is back killing? How…is that possible? I mean…you know…

Buffy: (dragging Spike next to Rona) I don’t know Will he doesn’t seem to know who he is…but I’ve got to help him. I need to bring him back so I can figure out what’s going on.

Willow: Uhm about that Buffy you are talking some serious mileage here and I’m not talking about frequent flyer here. A transportation spell would take some serious…I mean I would have to send something huge over there to trade places with three people and…

Buffy: Will just get it done! (hangs up).

Cut to:
Giles, Willow and Dawn in Europe trying to figure out what’s going on.

Willow: (to herself) Okey Dokey. I’m right on it. (to Dawn) Dawn what’s about the size of three bodies put together.

Dawn: It that a serious question?

Willow: Well yes Dawny I need something that size to transport over to LA to bring Buffy, Rona and Spike back here.

Dawn: Spike!? He’s coming back here?

Willow: Never mind I’ll just use Buffy’s couch here stand back while I do the spell. (chants) I hope this works.

Suddenly the couch outside Buffy’s office disappears in a cloud of smoke. Seconds later Buffy, Rona and Spike appear where the couch was. Everyone is shocked to see each other and amazed that the spell worked then everyone’s attention turns to Rona and Spike.

Buffy: Thanks Will (hugs Willow) I need you and Dawn to take care of Rona and Giles we need to lock up Spike downstairs until we can figure what’s going on.

Giles: Buffy if he’s killing again why haven’t you taken care of him. He’s too dangerous to be kept alive.

Buffy: This is no different than when The First had him killing all those people. There is something causing him to do this…if you won’t take him downstairs…than I will.

Giles: As you wish Buffy… (picks up Spike and drags him away).

Dawn: Is that really Spike? Not some copycat or Doppelganger or some evil clone from another dimension? Maybe some evil robot?

Buffy: No…it’s Spike but he’s not himself. He keeps calling himself “William the Bloody” like he forgot who he was. That’s why we’ve gotta help him.

Willow: Ok Buffy we’ll get right on it but you need to rest you look terrible.

Buffy: I’m fine, I’ve been through way worse like that time… (sighs) just I need to help Spike.

Willow: You’ve given plenty of orders tonight missy now it’s time for you to take one― get some sleep. If you don’t go willingly you know I am a witch and can make you have a nice long nap just by twitching my nose you know.

Buffy: Fine I’ll be on the couch. (looks where the couch should be) let me guess you traded us for my couch.

Willow: Guilty as charged just go lay down on Giles couch.

Cut to:
Buffy is exhausted after her long night and immediately falls asleep once she lies down on Giles couch. Buffy has another dream this time and it has her in the eyes of Rona repeating the events that just happened. The fighting goes back and forth until the end where Spike forces Rona to call Buffy. Then Spike snaps her neck and then Buffy wakes up. She didn’t get much more than a few hours sleep. She leaves Giles office and sees the light on in the meeting room where everyone else is and decides she needs to go downstairs and see Spike. She walks down into the basement where they keep supplies and sees Kennedy sitting in a chair watching over Spike. Spike is chained up against the wall similar to the same chains he was in back in the Summers house in Sunnydale. Buffy walks over to Kennedy.

Buffy: Didn’t expect to see you here.

Kennedy: Willow said that she needed my help with something I just didn’t think it would be watching over a guy who I thought was dead. But who is unconscious at the moment. Funny how things turn out you die to save the world, next thing you know you come back reeking havoc on it.

Buffy: I know he’s not the one doing this. I mean something else has him killing people. He wouldn’t just go back to doing that.

Kennedy: I still don’t trust him.

Buffy: I don’t need you to I just need you to watch him. But do you think you can give me sec with him. I need to do something.

Kennedy: Sure go right ahead I don’t think he’ll mind (walks away).

Buffy walks up to Spike and touches him on the cheek.

Buffy: (to Spike) There’s something different about you Spike. I can feel it there is something making you do this and I’m gonna stop it. I don’t care what I have to do or who I have to go through but I’m not letting all the good you’ve done get thrown away by this. Whatever or whoever is making you do this I know you’re fighting it Spike with your soul. I still believe in you Spike… (Spike wakes up).

William: (groggy) Where am I. (pulls against his chains) You, you're still alive and I’ll bet your having laugh ain’t ya. Got William all chained up just to poke fun at him. (pulls harder on his chains) Slayer these won’t hold me forever and when I get out we’re gonna finish this… (Buffy walks away) hear me Slayer this isn’t over (to himself) Oh bollocks.

Buffy: (to Kennedy) He’s awake please don’t listen to anything he says. Call me if you need me.

Kennedy: (sighs) Buffy you sure about this (Buffy turns and goes up the stairs).

Cut to:
Buffy goes to the meeting room where everyone is and opens the door.

Willow: You’re up already, I’m ready to give you the little nose twitch sleepy time.

Buffy: I’ve had enough sleep as I’m gonna get. So has anybody had any progress?

Giles: We’ve exhausted all of our current resources Buffy the only one who knows what’s going on is Spike. And I don’t think he will cooperate.

Buffy: Guys I’ve been having these dreams lately and they’ve all been about Spike. I’ve been dreaming about the others Slayers that Spike has killed and watching him do it. Not just the one’s he’s killed before but Karen and Rona just now. I don’t know what they mean but they’ve gotta mean something. Will I need you to check something real quick. I need you to run a revealing spell on Spike to see if he has been under some sort of spell which is making him do this.

Willow: Be back in a jiffy (leaves).

Cut to:
Willow returns after doing a revealing spell on Spike.

Willow: I was able to find out that he is not under any mind control or anything like that (Buffy looks disappointed) but I was able to find out that there was some sort of mystical spell done to him I just don't know what. But from what I can tell it is some powerful black magic.

Buffy: (to Willow) I need you to check one more thing and that’s to see if he still has a soul.

Willow: (shocked) What do you mean?

Buffy: He told me that he didn’t have a soul and for some reason I believe him.

Willow: Uhm I guess I could check for you (leaves).

Giles: Do you believe that he somehow lost his soul in his resurrection.

Dawn: Maybe he came back wrong (Buffy glares at her).

Buffy: I just don’t know anymore and I think if he still had his soul there would be no way he could live with himself. All the killing he’s been doing he seems to be enjoying it.

Giles: We still don’t know how or why he’s back and if his purpose has been only to kill again.

Dawn: Are we so sure that this is the Spike we knew. Maybe if he didn’t get that chip in his head and the soul the Spike we see now is the real Spike.

Buffy: No, people change and he’s changed he’s not “William the Bloody” anymore he’s just Spike…the only thing different is… (Willow interrupts).

Willow: …He doesn’t have a soul…

Buffy: (in disbelief) What!? Are you sure?

Willow: I’m sure, did the spell twice.

Dawn: See I told you he came back wrong.

Buffy: You just don’t lose a soul like you lose a wallet or keys or a sock. What could have done this to him?

Giles: Perhaps that mystical spell that Willow picked up on has something to do with it.

Dawn: Or maybe he just came back wrong (notices that no one is paying attention to her) fine don’t listen to what I have to say.

Buffy: The only who knows for sure is Spike. Willow I need you to do a mind read on Spike and see if there is anything in his memory that could tell us what’s been happening to him.

Willow: I don’t know that I want to be going in there and I don’t know what I’m gonna see especially with him being crazy and evil an all.

Buffy: (sighs) Fine let me go inside his head just let me take a tour in there.

Giles: Buffy this is far too dangerous you’re not trained for this sort of thing. You could get hurt.

Buffy: Let’s go Will (grabs Willow by the wrist and pulls her away).

Cut to:
Everyone is downstairs in front of Spike and he is staring back at them very unhappy.

William: Please tell me I’m in Hell. I’m chained up in a building that stinks of Slayers and I can’t do a bloody thing about it. Not only that no one will tell me how I got here and I got a witch doing her spells on me with no sodding idea what any of the side effects could be. And to top it off I’ve got Buffy wanting to take a bike ride inside my noggin. Bloody must be Hell.

Giles: Can someone please gag him so we don’t have to listen to his complaining.

Kennedy: Do you want to be the one to put the gag on him cuz if you do go right ahead.

Buffy: Willow are you ready to go.

Willow: I’m trying to focus in on his most recent memories and sent you in there.

William: If I get the chance to kill you in my mind I will (not sure if what he said makes sense) Slayer.

Willow: Here we go Buffy (chants).

Cut to:
Buffy is now in Spike’s mind is watching like a ghost his memories as they happen. First Buffy watches Spike as he is stalking Buffy as he’s planning to kill her back in Sunnydale.
Cut to:
Buffy and Spike fighting.
Cut to:
Buffy and Spike literally bringing the house down.
Cut to:
Spike killing people under control of The First.
Cut to:
Spike burning away in the Hellmouth after Buffy leaves him there.
Cut to:
Spike appearing in Angel’s office at Wolfram & Hart.
Cut to:
Angel explaining his plan against the Black Thorn.
Cut to:
Spike fighting off lots of Demons and killing many but eventually is overwhelmed by numbers.
Cut to:
Spike is lying bloody on the floor and Buffy sees him and goes over to him to touch him but her hand goes right through him. Buffy’s attention shifts over to the two demons standing away from Spike.

Dioxin: Let’s finish him off and dust him now.

Schlareth: No, that is too quick of death for him. We should make him suffer for thinking he could take on the Black Thorn.

Dioxin: What exactly do you have in mind for our hero?

Schlareth: Oh I have the perfect plan for revenge...

Dioxin: I’m all ears.

Schlareth: We should return him to his former self and take away all the good that has corrupted him. Not only that we must strip him of his soul and all of his memories of the good deeds he has done.

Dioxin: That’s it what kind of punishment is that for him.

Schlareth: No you didn’t let me finish. I’m talking about returning him to “William the Bloody” and letting him loose here in LA. Soon after he kills enough people he will draw the attention of one Slayer…his slayer. She’ll have no choice but to dust him. He’ll be killed by the woman he loves so much and holds so dear. It’s perfect!

Dioxin: I agree, let’s get started then. I’ll have my warlock perform the deed. (calls for his warlock) I want you to remove his soul and all his memories of being a champion. Make him what he was; make him “William the Bloody”!

Buffy watches in horror as the spell is performed and the warlock holds up a sphere in his hand the size of a baseball and chants. Suddenly from Spike’s body an orange light leaves his chest and enters the sphere. Then a blue light from his head leaves and enters the sphere. The sphere the warlock holds glows alternating between orange and blue pulses. The warlock hands over the sphere to Dioxin and leaves.

Schlareth: Now destroy that sphere and gone forever will be champion of the people.

Dioxin: No I intend to keep this as a trophy a sign of our victory (walks over to Spike) remember this once you awaken you are “William the Bloody” (laughs) she’ll see you soon.

Cut to:
Spike killing victim after victim and then the two Slayers before his fight with Buffy.

Cut to:
Buffy wakes from her trance and realizes what has happened with Spike. Before anyone can speak she motions for everyone to follow her upstairs except Kennedy who has to watch after Spike. They all are in the meeting room and Buffy explains everything that she saw in Spike’s head.

Giles: So you say this demon is holding Spike’s soul and memories as a trophy.

Buffy: You see he wasn’t doing this on purpose it was “William the Bloody” and not Spike.

Dawn: So I guess he didn’t come back wrong (Buffy staring angrily at her).

Willow: So can you clue me in to what this demon looked like?

Buffy: He looks just like that guy Darth Maul from Star Wars Episode One.

Willow: I heard that movie sucked.

Buffy: Only watched it because Andrew said it was good and a classic or something.

Dawn: Dumbass loves Stars Wars.

Buffy: Enough about Andrew lets find out where this demon is hiding so I can get Spike’s soul back.

Giles: I know there’s no use arguing with you Buffy so I’ll help with the research on this demon.

Buffy: Good I’m going to talk to Spike and fill him in to what’s going on.

Giles: Buffy… (she looks at him) right then I’ll just start on the research.

Cut to:
Buffy walks down to talk to Spike and she begins to explain to him what happened.

Buffy: Spike I know what happened to you and we’re going to get back everything that was taken from you.

William: (half listening) And what would that be Slayer?

Buffy: Your soul and all your memories of the champion that you are.

William: So all those nightmares I’ve been having were true. Me and you fighting side by side for the people was that true. What about having a soul why would I do such a thing? So I guess than us showing the Karma Sutra a few new tricks must be sodding true also (she looks down). What a stupid wanker I’ve become.

Buffy: Your not, (looks up) you’re a champion…you’re my champion.

William: (laughs) Oh that makes it all better then.

Buffy: I gotta go… (walks back up the stairs).

William: So long sweetie…

Cut to:
Buffy goes to the meeting room and meets up with everyone.

Willow: So I’ve got a bit of info about this demon you described. Turns out he lives in another dimension the same Hell dimension that Glory was from. The only other thing that we found out about him was that he comes to this dimension once a month to eat a particular kind of cow. Supposedly it’s his favorite meal.

Dawn: So where’s the beef?

Buffy: Don’t think that’s the same thing Dawn. So is there any way to know when he is going to show up next this month?

Willow: No, it seems that he comes at random times of the month.

Buffy: Then I’ll just go in after him and take back Spike’s soul from his dimension.

Giles: Do you know what you are saying? The dangers involved in going into another dimension let alone a Hell Dimension are uncharted.

Buffy: He would do the same for me, so Will do you think that you can open a portal to that dimension.

Willow: (sighs) More with the mojo, I’m starting to wish I was an amateur witch again. Going back to floating pencils and making rabbits disappear and making simple love spells which turn out to make everyone fall in love with somebody which by the way was an accident.

Buffy: Please if not for Spike than for me.

Willow: Alright I just can’t say no to a buddy especially best buddies.

Cut to:
Willow and Buffy are alone in the gym area preparing to open a portal to the Hell dimension.

Willow: …Just need a drop of your blood to channel its energy I need to open the door.

Buffy: (cuts herself and lets a few drops of blood on the floor) Is that enough because I’m tried of using my blood to open or close portals.

Willow: (chants) Here we go (a portal opens in front of them) I don’t know what’s in there Buffy or how you’re gonna find where he’s keeping it.

Buffy: I have a nose for these kinds of things (jumps into the portal).


Continued in Part 3...Hell & Back...

Dawn walks into the basement and sees Spike and Kennedy arguing about something.

Kennedy: …those damn union blossoms are not better than jalapeño poppers…now I know you’ve gone completely insane.

William: Piss off, those jalapeño poppers taste worst kangaroo blood. But union blossoms they even rival newborn kittens in terms of taste.

Dawn: Gross Spike. Has that what you’ve been eating since you’ve been back besides people.

William: Lil bit, what brings you down here. Come to poke fun at a helpless vampire.

Dawn: No, not exactly but did you just call me “lil bit”.

William: And what’s it to ya. Don’t like being called lil bit anymore. No apologies here.

Dawn: You remembered what you used to call me. What else do you remember?

William: Stuff here and there mostly of me being a soft stupid wanker. Finding out that all this sodding stuff is true. Not sure how I feel about that anymore.

Dawn: Soon as Buffy gets back everything will go back to the way it was.

William: …tired of not knowing who I am and which me is me.

Dawn: (starts to leave) See you later Spike.

William: (starts having convulsions) Bloody Hell…

Dawn: (worried) Spike what’s wrong!

William: (convulsions intensify) Need…some…Uhh…

Dawn: Kennedy I think he needs some blood or something.

Kennedy: I’ll go get some (leaves).

William: (convulsions hit their peak and Spike passes out) Uhh…

Dawn: (instinctively walks up to him) Spike it’s gonna be Ok. We’re getting some blood right now. (touches him) Spike…?

Dawn stands in front of Spike touching his shoulder and suddenly he smiles. Before Dawn can react Spike jumps up and wraps the chain around her neck and holds her close to him.

William: Sorry lil bit I know exactly who I am…and that life you people keep telling me about I don’t want any part of.

Kennedy comes down the stairs with a cup of blood and drops it at the sight of Spike choking Dawn.

Kennedy: Let her go or your dust…Spike.

William: Will do right soon as you unchain me here. Cuz if you don’t (vampire face) I just might have to have a taste of lil bit here.

Kennedy: I don’t trust you for a second.

William: Sorry lil bit your Slayer friend here prefers that you die (opens his mouth and bites Dawns neck lightly).

Kennedy: Stop…Ok.

Kennedy reaches for the keys on a nearby desk and walks slowly toward Spike who is still holding Dawn. Spike unwraps the chain around Dawn’s neck and instead uses his arm to hold her close. Kennedy unlocks the chains around his feet then the ones on his wrist releasing him. He walks while dragging Dawn with him until he reaches the stairs with Kennedy keeping a good distance away. Spike then throws Dawn in Kennedy’s direction with Dawn hitting her head on the desk and Kennedy runs to check on her. Spike runs up the stairs and makes his way out of the building.

Cut to:
As soon as Buffy steps into the Hell dimension she hears nothing but screams of pain and suffering and has to cover her ears for a moment. She looks around and sees rocks and lava surrounding her. Small pathways of rocks form the roads to this place and she sees demons of all sorts stuck in the walls of rock. Their bodies are halfway into the rocks and are unable to move. All they can do is screaming and the screams are endless. She sees a temple in the distance and carefully makes her way toward it. As she approaches the temple she can see a demon guard at the entrance. He is holding a staff and is about twice the size of Buffy with many horns sticking out of his neck. He notices Buffy coming toward the entrance and blocks it before she enters.

Demon: Who are you? You do not belong in this place. Leave if you cherish your life.

Buffy: Why don't you take a break bozo, I just need a word with your boss.

Demon: Who seeks the great Dioxin? You, you pathetic little human? How did you find this place. No one enters.

Buffy: Didn’t know I needed an appointment. Does he have a secretary where I can leave my name and number? If not than I’m Buffy as in the Slayer and I’m here to take back something he stole.

Demon: (firmly) No one enters.

Buffy goes and trips the demon who crashes to the ground. In one swift move she grabs the staff from midair and plunges it into the chest of the Demon who melts away into goo. Buffy enters the temple with staff in hand and finds Dioxin sitting at his throne apparently sleeping. Buffy bangs the staff on the floor to wake him up.

Buffy: Special delivery. We’ve got one fine tasting cow here. Who’s gonna sign for it?

Dioxin: (waking up) You must be his precious Slayer. Is he dust now and on his way here. Tell me I must know.

Buffy: Where is it? Where are you keeping it?

Dioxin: Do you even know where you are…this is no ordinary Hell dimension. I was the one who returned it to the way it was, the way Glory wanted it. Ever since Glory was banished from here there has been struggle for supremacy. As you may have noticed I now rule over this place.

Buffy: And that matters to me why?

Dioxin: Do you know what happens to demons once they die? Their essence arrives here for all that they have done. Only those who unset the balance of evil by either doing too much or too little arrive here. They are to spend the rest of eternity in a constant state of pain and suffering. But for those special cases I make sure they get something appropriate.

Buffy: I don't care about any of that.

Dioxin: You still don’t get it. There are some people here who are very familiar with you and who would like nothing better than a battle with you. You see if I release them and let them go they will find you. They can not die here since they are already dead but you on the other hand if you die here you spend eternity with me. I give the word Slayer and it’s all over for you.

Buffy: Just give me Spike’s soul and I won’t have to kill you.

Dioxin: (laughs) Listen Slayer once your friend arrives here I’ve got something very special planned for him. (reaches next to him and pulls a black cloth covering Spike’s soul) This I’ve seen and know what his personal Hell is. It’s you. (Buffy shocked) You don’t understand do you. His Hell shall be you and spending the rest of eternity with you. It will happen because of all the pain and suffering you’ve caused him is worst than anything I could ever do to him.

Buffy: (angry) You’re wrong.

Dioxin: His destiny is this place and he was here before briefly although I had no idea what kind of Hell would best suit him until now. Nothing he does in your world can change it. He can’t undo the past and his future lies here. His image of you will haunt him forever while he’s here. But I’ve seen all I need to see from this (picks up the sphere) now there is no need for me to keep this. Take it back if you wish but I will see him again. And he’ll see you again Slayer.

Buffy walks up and takes the sphere from his hand and walks away from him.

Dioxin: You wish to return it to him (laughs and then Buffy turns around) it will make it all the more fun once he gets here. His soul will eat away at him while he’s here you best do him a favor and destroy it instead of returning it to him. I can see it in your eyes if you do care for him you will destroy it and make his stay here a little bit easier.

Buffy: He’s a better man than you will ever know and a champion. He won’t end up here like you. (she throws the staff and it plunges directly into his chest) What your still…

Dioxin: (pulls out the staff) Did you think you could kill me in my own dimension. I can not die in this world. I grow bored of this. I look forward to Spike coming here. Now leave, I will give you a head start before I release a friend of yours.

Buffy runs out of the temple and heads back for the portal entrance with the sphere. Suddenly Dioxin says something in a demon language and someone appears in a cloud of smoke. It’s Adam and Dioxin smiles.

Dioxin: Listen Adam you have one chance to escape this place and you must follow the Slayer to get there.

Adam leaves and runs after Buffy. Buffy hears a roar behind her as she’s carefully running toward the portal. She looks behind her and she sees Adam and picks up the pace.

Adam: I remember you Slayer you are saved on my memory systems. I will terminate your programming for sending me here.

Buffy is moving as fast as she can to avoid any contact with the lava around her. While Adam runs without stopping feeling no pain as he comes in contact with the lava. Buffy is almost at the portal when she trips and lets go of the sphere. The sphere lands on a rock and is rolling toward the lava. Buffy takes a dive for the sphere and catches it before it sinks into the lava. Quickly Buffy gets up and dives head first into the portal. Adam is fast approaching the portal.

Buffy: We need to close the portal now Adam is coming.

Willow: Wait you mean cyborg Frankenstein Adam.

Buffy: Willow, close it now!

Willow: I need more of your blood to close it.

Buffy cuts herself and throws her blood into the portal. Just before the portal closes Adam sticks his arm into the portal and it closes around him which cuts off his arm. Adam’s arm flops on the floor for a few seconds before it disappears.

Willow: Some major déjà vu here Buffy. What was in that place and is that Spike’s soul?

Buffy: Do you think that you can reverse the spell and give him back his soul and memories.

Willow: Sure it’s not like I haven’t returned someone’s soul before.

Cut to:
Buffy and Willow walk toward the stairs and see Kennedy carrying an unconscious Dawn up the stairs. Without asking they know what happened just by looking at each other.

Buffy: Any idea where he went?

Kennedy: Not a clue.

Buffy: Dammit Spike I’ve got it all right here. I’m going to go look for him. Will I’ll call once I found him and I’ll keep him busy till you get there (runs off).

Willow: (to Kennedy) Let’s bring Dawny for Giles to look after.

Cut to:
Buffy runs outside and follows her instincts to Spike. She heads toward a nearby park a few blocks away. The park is dark with lots of grass and trees filling it. There are scattered lights poles barely illuminating the park. Also there is a fountain in the middle of the park. Buffy sensing he’s nearby calls Willow to tell her where she is. As she hangs up Spike steps out from behind a tree.

William: Nearly sunrise luv, don’t have much time to finish this. So let’s us be quick about it got places to see and people to kill.

Buffy: You don’t understand (holds out the sphere) this is you. This is your soul and memories. You’ll remember who you truly are.

William: Not another word about a soul or memories or sodding helping people. They can all piss off for all I care. I am “William the Bloody” and no soul will ever change that…shall we dance Slayer.

Buffy puts the sphere back in her pocket knowing the fight is inevitable and Spike rushes toward her. Again they fight with as much intensity as the earlier battle. But Spike is much more on the offensive while Buffy is trying to block and counter Spike’s attacks. Eventually she has to fight back and does so with some hesitation as she is not trying to kill him. Meanwhile Willow is almost there and running as fast as she can. Spike gains the advantage because of Buffy’s hesitation and is able to put her in a choke hold. He reaches into her pocket for the sphere as she struggles against him. He takes it out and laughs as he tosses it aside. Willow shows up and immediately starts chanting.

William: I’ve waited too long for this moment and I’m going to enjoy drinking from you.

Spike wants to snap her neck but just as the sphere flashes bright orange and catches his attention. He turns to look at it then suddenly an orange light shoots toward his chest. He glows bright orange as he drops Buffy. Staggering, a blue light shoots toward his head. He tries to stand but instead falls to the ground and is knocked unconscious. Buffy motions to Willow to come over to help carry him back before sunrise.

Cut to:
Buffy is sitting in a chair beyond tired and beyond exhausted from the events that have taken place. Next to her is Spike laid out on a couch and is still unconscious. A smile creeps over Buffy’s face as she is unable to resist. She has been sitting by his side all day not moving until he wakes. Hours have past and she is still waiting patiently for him to wake up. Everyone knows to not interrupt their first moment together since the Hellmouth. The others are not happy with Spike but are beginning to realize it was “William the Bloody” killing all those people and not Spike. Buffy is willing to forgive him as she believes he was not in control of his actions. The demon inside him was unleashed and it took Spike to stop him. She’s happy knowing that what she did was worth it to get Spike back. Then something in her system starts to creep louder in her head. What did Dioxin mean when Buffy was the cause of so much pain and suffering for Spike. Was them being together really Hell for Spike and could have all the times she rejected his pleas of love for her caused this. Was this the reason he stayed behind in the Hellmouth when he knew he wouldn’t make it out of there. She closes her eyes with pain and hurt as she remembers the last thing she said to him “I love you”. Was his response “No you don’t, but thanks for saying it” his way of rejecting her declaration of love as she so often did his. She loved him for a long time but didn’t want to admit it to herself. When she was finally able to tell him he just rejected it and didn’t believe her. Plus Dioxin said that once he dies he would end up in his dimension with her as his personal Hell. She didn’t want that for Spike but Dioxin said there is nothing he can do from now on that can change it. It is all too much but right now she only wants to see him wake up. He starts to wake up and she clasps her hand around his hand reminiscent of their last moment in the Hellmouth. He opens his eyes and Buffy gives him a smile.

Spike: Buffy…

Buffy: Spike…

Spike: Where am I? (starting to remember) Oh God what have I’ve done.

Buffy: Spike it’s alright no one is blaming you for that. I know you are a better man than that.

Spike: Still I’ve killed again and there’s more blood on my hands.

Buffy: That doesn’t matter now that was the past. You’re back now let’s just move on.

Spike: To what exactly I’ve been in two more battles in which I didn’t expect to live through. And I keep coming back. This time as “William the Bloody” somebody must have be having a sodding laugh bout now.

Buffy: I’m happy to have you back isn’t that enough (smiles and squeezes his hand).

Spike: So how exactly did you get it back…eBay.

Buffy: A bedtime story for another time (Spike gives a sinuous smile).

Spike: Speaking of which I need a ride to LA got me a nice lil bird who missing me bout now.

Buffy: (lets go of his hand) What?!

Spike: Sweet bird who digs the bad boy thing you understand. Been keeping a fellow warm for awhile now…bit taller than you though and a bit more meat on her bones.

Buffy: (obviously jealous) You should know big things come in small packages and I…I bet that she can’t cook or dress for any occasion or come up with a witty remark at will.

Spike: Not much for someone who can cook always been able to find my own meals. She leaves barely enough for the imagination when we go out. Besides don’t care for those bloody witty remarks, more annoying than anything. (Buffy clearly upset) I’m just pulling your chain luv no one waiting for me in LA. Just trying to make you jealous is all…is it working.

Buffy: (innocently) No, I mean…maybe little.

Spike: So where do we go from here pet?

Buffy: (quietly) I was thinking to my place…

Cut to:
Buffy and Spike are in her bedroom and getting ready to get some much needed sleep. Buffy has slept only a few hours in the past couple of days. Buffy is sitting up on the far side of her bed with Spike standing a few feet away.

Spike: You sure about this luv. I could always sleep on the couch. Not much for couches but would do me just fine.

Buffy: I’m not asking for anything but…can you just hold my in your arms again. I was just so happy being you’re your arms that night.

Spike: Kay Buffy I just need to clean up a bit is all (walks into the bathroom).

Buffy pulls the covers over her legs and reaches behind her for something. She pulls out Mr. Gordo from under her pillows and holds him up in front of her.

Buffy: (to Mr. Gordo) You knew he was back all along didn’t you (touches him on the nose). Shame on you (tucks him safely away behind her pillows).

Cut to:
Spike is inside the bathroom and splashes water on his face and looks up at the empty reflection in the mirror as he dries himself off with a towel.

Spike: (to himself) You can do this Spike…don’t be a soft wanker now (leaves).

Buffy is eagerly waiting for Spike as he crawls into bed. They give each other a glance that says more than words can ever say. She turns away from him but moves closer to him so he can wrap his arms around her. They are snuggling close to each other with Buffy stroking him arm as they lay together. They are in complete harmony being in each other arms.

Cut to:
An hour before sunrise Buffy wakes up smiling and turns over to Spike who is missing. She sits up wondering where he is and checks the bathroom. It’s empty so she goes completely around the apartment and no sign of Spike. Confused she goes back to her room and notices an envelope next to the bed that must have fell once she got out. She picks it up which it says Buffy on the front. She opens the envelope and reads a letter:


Dear Buffy,

Please don’t hate me for this but I think it is for the best. I had a dream last night or more like a nightmare. I died and returned a ghost but was unable to touch you and unable to hold you. You were devastated having lost me again and I just can’t put you through that once more. Also I know it was just a dream but someone somewhere sure doesn’t like me. When my end comes in this existence I know that there was no greater pleasure for a bloke like me than loving you. I love you Buffy and I know that you can never truly love me back. Our last moment in the Hellmouth when you told me those three little words I couldn’t believe I was hearing it. Especially after all those times you said that you hated me and could never love me. Now I do believe that you love me after what you did for me no one on this planet would have done. But Buffy my love for you is one of great love and passion that consumes and burns for you. The love you have for me is not the same. I’m sure someday you will find someone to love as I love you. I may never see you again as I know where my afterlife is destined for. You for sure shall rise to the heavens. I am ticketed to spend eternity in Hell. I will spend the rest of my days helping people and carrying on the good fight alone. No attachments as no one could ever come close to meaning as much to me as you do. Buffy you have to live and go on without me.

Courtesy,
Spike


Cut to:
Spike is outside Buffy’s apartment building with one foot inside the cab and tears in his eyes as he steps in and closes the door. He orders the driver to take him to the airport and out of Buffy’s life forever. He gives one last look at her window as the cab pulls away trying to hold back tears.

Cut to:
Buffy after reading the letter has her heart ripped out as she feels pain of an unimaginable degree. Immediately she burst into tears unable to stop herself as she squeezes the letter to her chest. Feeling pain thousands times over any pain she has ever experienced. Spike had hurt her in a way no other person can or ever will. She was left alone again but this time it was Spike who left her. In the Hellmouth it was Buffy who left Spike. She cries for hours before she eventually crumbles up the letter in anger and throws it across the room. She lies back down in bed on the side Spike was sleeping on and grabs a pillow and holds it tight.

Cut to:
Morning has arrived and Dawn quietly sneaks toward Buffy’s door and places her ear on the door to see if she could hear anything. When she hears silence she just strolls on by to the kitchen. Buffy hasn’t moved since last night in a sort of trance as she holds the pillow staring blankly ahead. Millions of thoughts and feeling are going through her but nothing shows on the outside. Dawn comes back and knocks on the door.

Dawn: Do you two want some breakfast even though it’s technically lunchtime… (no response from Buffy). Ok than I guess you two want some more alone time I’ll just hang out at the school then (leaves).

Buffy gets up still in a trance goes and locks the door and then goes back to bed in the same position as earlier. She just lays there holding the pillow.

Cut to:
Dawn comes back home and notices no lights on and goes back to Buffy’s room.

Dawn: You know you two should take a timeout or something to get some fresh air (still no response) Uhm I’m just gonna watch some TV before I go to bed.

Cut to:
The next day Buffy hasn’t slept or moved since yesterday. Dawn knocks and still gets no response so she decides to go back to the Slayer school and talk to Willow.

Cut to:
Dawn sees Willow at the Slayer school still helping out because she is bored and just can’t go back to doing nothing for awhile after everything that has happened.

Dawn: You know those two are gonna set a world record or something for the way they have been going at it.

Willow: What do you mean are they that loud and keeping you up at night?

Dawn: That’s the weird thing every time I go to knock or listen in, its complete silence. Like they tired themselves out so much that they passed out or something.

Willow: Well after sex you can get pretty tired (Dawn raises an eyebrow) I mean it’s not something that you should know anything about missy.

Dawn: The weird thing too it’s like they haven’t even left the room to eat or anything.

Willow: Maybe we should go check on them and strictly for health reasons of course.

Dawn: Of course.

Cut to:
Willow and Dawn show up in front of Buffy’s room and they both try to listen in.

Dawn: (whispering) Can you have sex and be that quiet.

Willow: (whispering) Doubt it and not any of the fun kind.

Dawn: Buffy…can we talk for a sec (no answer).

Willow: Is everything alright in there…no injuries or anything (no response). I don’t like this. Ok Buffy, Spike we’re coming in (turns the knob and its locked).

Dawn: (knocking) Something’s wrong.

Willow: (chants and unlocks the door) I unlocked the door and I’m turning the knob.

Willow tries to push Dawn away but she resists as Willow uses one of her hands to cover her eyes as she opens the door. Willow opens the door completely and sneaks a look through her fingers and only sees Buffy.

Willow: Where’s Spike…is he in the bathroom or something.

Dawn: (looks inside the bathroom) Did he leave while we were gone.

Both of them sit next to Buffy and notices that she is in a trance.

Willow: Oh my God Buffy what happened.

Dawn: Was the sex that awful?

Finally Buffy responds and cries as they both try to comfort her. She squeezes the pillow harder as she cries.

Willow: What…what’s going on?

Buffy: (crying) He left me…again.

Dawn: Why?

Buffy: This time he let me go instead.

Willow: What do you mean…

Buffy: Cuz he said that I don’t love him like he loves me…but I do love him more than he knows. And now he’s gone…

Willow: What do you want me to do a locator spell or a…

Buffy: No, just go both of you and close the door on your way out. I want to be alone for awhile.

Dawn: Sure if you need anything just ask (pulling Willow away who is still trying to comfort Buffy).

Buffy still crying doesn’t watch them leave. She reaches for Mr. Gordo but can’t find him. Angry, she throws off all of her pillows off the bed revealing Mr. Gordo. She grabs him and squeezes him tight and holds him there as she talks to him.

Buffy: (to Mr. Gordo) He left me again Mr. Gordo what was he thinking (he doesn’t answer) you would think going to Hell and back for him would prove that I love him. This isn’t over Mr. Gordo. It’s not going to end like this. This is not the end…

Buffy pulls the covers over herself and is completely covered. She is still holding Mr. Gordo and crying staying in her own little world…


fin


Well there you have it my first FanFic and I hoped that you all enjoyed it. I was bored one day and dreamed up this story and decided what the hell and write a FanFic. I welcome all of your criticisms whether good or bad. Tell me if you loved it or if you hated it. But if you want to comment I only ask that you be specific as to what was you loved or hated. I am very critical of my own work and know that I need some improvements but after all this is my first FanFic. So once I get some feedback and I keep making some improvements I will decide if I am any good at this and if I will write another one. If enough people say they liked it than I will write some more. If you all hate it than I will keep any more FanFics to myself. (Note: This story is part 1 of a trilogy as a reader has commented that I should write a sequel. This was meant to be a standalone story but I eventually turned it into a trilogy. The next story is "The Thin Line Between Love & Hell".) Thanks for reading.










Buffy: I just don’t know anymore…what am I suppose feel…all these things are telling me something different…I know in my head what I should be feeling…but something else in the pit of my stomach tells me I should vomit at the thought…but who am I to deny my heart again after everything that’s happened with all the other men in my life…why does this have to happen to me now…he has done so much to make me hate him…but…he also has done so much good…could this be…am I still…yes…


I decided to add this scene at the last minute. I wanted to try something different and I don’t know if it has been done before or not in FanFics. This scene is meant to be an after credits scene like at the end of some movies. I left it ambiguous for a reason because I wanted the reader to take away from it what they wanted. That’s why there is no setting or place in time in which this happens. You can do with it what you please.