(Angel is branded with the sign of the Circle of the Black Thorn)

IZZY: The circle entwined.

GROUP: (chanting a response) Embrace this worthy son.

IZZY: The thorn draws blood.

GROUP: (chanting a response) The thorn is the power, and the power is absolute.

IZZY: Welcome to the fold.

(Angel shakes hands, the lights come up and the demons demask. Familiar faces all around, including Archduke Sebassis, Cyvus Vail, Sentaor Brucker, and others.)

VAIL: Well done, Angel.

IZZY: See? Didn't I tell you it was gonna happen? And how about that lamb we got you for the slaughter, any idea who that was?

ANGEL: Drogyn. The battlebrand.

IZZY: Damn straight. We got you some supercharged warrior juice, not some schmuck. You must feel great. OK, let me introduce you around to a few people. Some of these folks you know, some you don't. Of course, you're acquainted with the Archduke.

SEBASSIS: Kudos, child. I must say, it's gratifying to see you've returned to form, Angelus.

ANGEL: It's still Angel.

SEBASSIS: Ah. Well, what's in a name, eh? In the spirit of our new alliance, you must allow me to throw a dinner party in your honor.

ANGEL: You know how I love parties.

SENATOR: It's nice to see you again so soon, Angel.

ANGEL: Senator. I had no idea you were so well...connected.

SENATOR: Well, I'm not gonna take the White House in 2008 on just my sparkling wit and funding from hostile governments. (chuckles)

ANGEL: (chuckles) I expect not.

IZZY: Excuse us, Helen. Angel, I've got someone here who'd like to pay his respects.

ANGEL: Vail.

VAIL: You've been looking for me.

ANGEL: Actually, I've been looking like I'm looking for you. Appearances, you know.

(Vail laughs, wheezing)

IZZY: See, Cyvus?, I told you it was all good. Now why don't you two shake hands? Come on.

VAIL: No hard feelings then?

ANGEL: Ultimately, everything worked out for the best.

VAIL: Oh. Your son, he kills quite well.

ANGEL: Thanks.

IZZY: Got a great turnout for your initiation.

ANGEL: Really?

IZZY: Oh, yeah. Everybody's here. Here, let me freshen that up.

(takes Angel's drink. Angel looks around the room, noting the other members.)

written by: David Fury; Original transcript by CariCranberry. Edited & formatted by me.. Full transcript at:
http://www.buffyworld.com/angel/season5/transcripts/5x21_tran.php