"Blood Money"
At Cordelia's, Wes and Gunn are squaring off over a board game. A roll of the dice gives Gunn the advantage. He can't resist rubbing that in.
Cordelia comes into the room in her bathrobe. She says it's getting late. Wes notes that it's only 7:30. Cordelia tells them both to get out. Wes wonders what happens if she has a vision. Cordelia assures him she'll call. Gunn wonders what happens if Angel calls.
Cordelia doesn't want to hear the "A word". Gunn says that's fine, they won't say his name they'll just hang around waiting for a call. Wesley says he fired them, he's not going to call. They're working independently now, "fighting the good fight."
Gunn reminds him they have no plan, no office, not even their own business cards. Wes reluctantly concurs that Angel isn't going to call. He figures it's time to get things in order and the first thing he suggests is ditching the "stupid business cards" as he pulls one out.
Cordelia doesn't appreciate her design being dissed. Her cards aren't "stupid". Wesley reminds her the Angel represented is something they don't have anymore.
Gunn takes the card. He thinks the angel looks more like a "lobster with a growth." He suggests they need to come up with their own logo. Wes agrees.
While Gunn and Wesley are preoccupied brainstorming logos, Cordelia gets a vision. The guys finally notice when she falls on the floor. Gunn asks what she saw. She answers that she saw a huge two headed something that breathes fire and is in the sewers beneath a girls school.
Wes and Gunn head out to deal with it. Cordelia calls after them that they shouldn't do it alone.
Angel is walking down the street, he runs into a young woman carrying a large box, knocking it out of her hands. He apologizes and helps her pick things up. She says it was her fault, she couldn't see over the top of the box, she was in a hurry, she's late for work.
Angel picks up a colorfully ugly bit of clothing that fell out of the box, looks at it and asks her if she works as a clown. She laughs and tells him it's clothes that got donated. He mentions a teen center. The woman looks at him apprehensively. He tells her he read it on the side of the box.
They finish cleaning things up, Angel hands her the box back. She tells him the stuff is for the kids, there's always a rush when some new stuff comes in.
Angel asks her if she works with runaways. She says some are, others are local kids who don't have anywhere to go. The shelter provides clothing, food and a place to stay for those who need it. Angel says that's good work to do.
The woman smiles and says she's late, she'll see him around. They both go their separate ways.
Back in his room at the hotel, Angel takes the woman's wallet out of his pocket and lays it on the table. The wallet is open, revealing her driver's license. On the table and the wall are photographs strewn about of the young woman. Angel's eyes scan the photos coming to rest on a picture of her with Lindsey. He stares intensely at it.
Gunn and Wes enter the sewer tunnel. Gunn is reciting what they know, it's big, has two heads and breathes fire. Wesley knows this, he doesn't need to be reminded. Gunn starts to say what he'd like to have to help them at this point but before he can finish, Wes cuts him off and says he's not there and wishing he were won't make it happen. Gunn says he was thinking they could use some explosives.
They hear growling and slowly advance to a junction in the tunnel, carefully looking around a corner. They see what they're after and withdraw to regroup. Gunn points out that the sewer tunnel is 20 feet high and the thing was crouching to fit. Wes suggests they take another look. Gunn figures they're going to get themselves killed.
As they peer around the corner a second time, Gunn starts to make a move. Wes holds him back and tells him to wait until the creature's back is to them. They then charge toward it only to be forced back by a large fireball. Gunn says he thought Cordelia said it breathed fire as they both charge toward it.
In a rundown building, Merl is headed toward the door of his apartment. The door opens and slams him in the face. Angel is on the other side. Merl wants to know what he wants. He lets Angel know he's not getting an invitation to enter.
Angel walks in, reminding Merl he doesn't need an invite into another demon's dwelling. Merl thinks that's just impolite. Angel wants to know if Merl is avoiding him. Merl denies it. Angel reminds him he asked for a favor and now Merl seems to be scarce. He doesn't think that's very polite. Merl reminds him he was nearly drowned in the sewer and left hanging, which is also pretty impolite.
Angel concurs they've both been rude, he can deal with that. Right now he wants to know if Merl has the information he needs or if he's going to have to crack Merl's head to get it.
Merl tells him he checked out the young woman, she's changed her name a couple of times but she doesn't have a record. Angel wants to know how she's connected to W&H.
Merl says that she runs a teen shelter. A while ago the center almost lost the lease on the building, W&H took the case for free and cleared it up. That's pretty much the tale. Angel notes that she's still working for W&H. Merl notes that if Angel already has the answers, he doesn't need him. Angel figures there has to be an angle in this for W&H since they handled the matter for free. Merl figures there probably is somewhere but as far as he knows, the center is legitimate.
Angel starts to leave. Merl wants to know where his money is. Angel tells him he'll owe him as he looks around the shabby apartment at a couple of bean bag chairs in the corner. He suggests Merl use the money for some furniture.
Angel walks into the teen center, carrying a bag. The young woman greets him and introduces herself as Anne. He introduces himself in return and tells her he brought some things for the center. She thanks him, takes the bag and sets it down. She pulls an ugly patterned blouse from it, looks at Angel and wonders if it doesn't fit anymore.
Angel says a friend left some things at his place and since he won't be seeing her anytime soon he thought he'd donate the stuff. Anne wonders if it belongs to an ex-girlfriend. Angel's face registers an 'are you kidding?' kind of look as he responds, "God, no!"
Anne tells him the donation is appreciated. Angel says he wishes there was something more he could do. Anne offers to give him a tour of the place. He accepts. She shows him into the office. She says she isn't in there much. Angel notes the bed in the corner and wonders if she just comes in to nap. She says she works so late sometimes, there's no point in going home so she just stays there.
Angel wonders if the place runs entirely on donations. Anne confirms that's true. Angel thinks it must be difficult, keeping up. Anne tells him they have a "guardian angel" in W&H. She says they've been very helpful to them. They've kept them from being evicted and defended a couple of the kids who got into trouble. She says they came up with the idea for "the big holdup".
Angel wonders what that's about.
Anne explains that it's a charity ball to raise funds for the center. It's a western themed event where celebrities go around pretending to "rob" the guests of their donations.
Angel asks if W&H are footing the bill. Anne confirms that they are paying for everything. She figures it's good PR for the firm, the theme is a bit lame, but whatever it takes to keep the center open.
Merl heads for his door, only to have it opened just as he gets to it and slammed into his face, knocking him to the floor. A large, ugly demon walks in. He's looking for Merl. Merl says his name is Ed Silverman, he doesn't know any Merl.
Demon guy knows Merl is "Angel's lackey." Merl starts to deny that but demon guy stepping on his fingers causes him to reconsider. Demon guy wants to know what Merl does for Angel as Merl's fingers crunch under the pressure of demon guy's shoe.
Merl says he takes pictures, surveillance type stuff, checks people out, that kind of thing. He asks demon guy who he is. Demon guy tells Merl that he and Angel have a history, "an unfinished history." He wants to know about the people Merl checks out for Angel. Are they friends? Enemies? What is it that Angel cares about?
Merl tells him the last job he did was follow a woman who does charity work. Demon guy wants to know why. Merl says it's not about the woman, it's about W&H.
Demon guy wants to know about W&H.
Merl tells demon guy that it's a law firm, more like "evil incorporated." Angel has been after them, a couple of their attorneys in particular.
Demon guy grabs Merl by the throat. He wants to know about the attorneys.
In the parking garage of W&H, Lilah is walking toward her car. She gets in, checks the rear view mirror, sees nothing. She turns her head to back out and sees Angel sitting in the back seat, directly behind her.
Angel offers congratulations on her recent promotion. He figures she deserved it, among other things. He says it makes him feel good to know that in some small way he was responsible for it.
Lilah makes a move to open the door, but Angel stops her. Lilah assures Angel that things will be different now that she and Lindsey are making the policies.
Angel gets it now. Lilah wonders exactly what it is that he gets. He understands the game now and he finds it rather enjoyable once the rules are understood. The rules being that there are no rules. They've messed with him over and over and now he finally gets to mess with them in return. He's looking forward to that.
Lilah starts to say something, but all she gets out is "please --" Angel says begging is for later and disappears.
Lilah is in Lindsey's office, visibly shaken. She tells him that Angel was in her car. Lindsey doesn't see the big deal, she's still alive. Lindsey says Angel was just trying to scare her. Lilah confirms it worked. Lindsey reminds her she has nothing to be afraid of, Angel doesn't kill humans. Lilah tells him things have changed.
At Cordelia's, Gunn and Wes are detailing their adventures in the sewer tunnel, clearly having done some bonding over demon killing. Cordy asks if they weren't a little scared. They both acknowledge they were scared spitless, actually. Cordelia notes that they defeated it in spite of that. Gunn points out they all did.
Cordelia says she's started looking for an office for their new business. She's found a place nearby. They head out to look at it. Wes thinks the Wyndham-Price agency is the perfect name. Cordelia thinks it's stuffy. Chase agency sounds better. Gunn figures he has the best name for the agency. His own. Wes still prefers Wyndham-Price.
Merl walks into his apartment and is immediately grabbed and thrown against the wall. He assures Angel he didn't tell the demon anything. Lilah tells him to "shut up". Merl is released and turns to see Lilah, accompanied by a couple of burly bodyguards. Merl's thinking it's time he found a new place to live.
Lilah introduces herself then tells Merl she wants to know exactly what favors he does for Angel. Merl says he doesn't sell out his friends, then asks how much she's willing to pay. One of the burly guys punches Merl in the face. Lilah figures Merl will find their offer competitive.
Merl tells Lilah that Angel has had him following a young woman. Lilah wants to know who.
Anne is working in the office of the teen center. She hears something and steps out into the main area to check it out. Angel calls her name. She asks what he's doing there. He says he needs to talk to her. Anne half-jokingly asks if he's stalking her. Angel tells her that he has been. He lays down the pictures he had taken of her and offers her wallet back, admitting he stole it when he bumped into her.
Anne figures it's time to call the cops. Angel tells her he isn't going to hurt her, he just didn't want to keep lying to her. He admits he's been following her but not for the reason she thinks. She wants to know why. He tells her it's about W&H. They don't care about her or the teen center. They'll use the center for PR, offer to host a fundraiser and when the money comes in, they do the tally. They'll hold back money from the beginning. Then they'll bill her for various expenses until she's lucky if there's 5% left for the center, W&H taking the rest.
Anne wonders why she should believe him considering he's followed her, stole her wallet and lied to her.
Angel tells her W&H aren't what they appear to be. To the world, they appear to be one thing, in reality they are something quite different. He can prove it.
Lindsey comes into the teen center, playing up his concern for Anne's safety. He assures her he would have come sooner if he'd known Angel was in contact with her. He's thankful he got there before anything happened to Anne. Lindsey smirks at Angel as he plays his role. Angel thinks Lindsey is a little over the top, he needs to work on his compassionate routine.
Lindsey tells Anne that Angel is dangerous. Angel assures him he hasn't seen anything yet. Lindsey lets him know he's got something for Angel as well as Boone enters the center. Lindsey tells Anne he brought protection.
Angel recognizes Boone by name. He's surprised he'd associate with W&H. He thought Boone had honor. Boone assures him he does. He pushes his arms downward as metal coils snake around his hands. A demon version of brass knuckles. He and Angel fight it out, going back and forth, Angel is clearly outmatched. Angel decides a strategic retreat is the best option and runs out of the center.
Boone starts to head out after him but Lindsey stops him, telling him what matters is that their client is safe. He whispers to Boone "not here" then tells him to meet him outside at the car.
Lindsey assures Anne she's safe.
Anne notes that the guy who beat Angel up wasn't human. Lindsey starts to explain about otherworldly things but Anne cuts him off. She's aware of this. Lindsey tells her that Angel isn't human either. He's a vampire and he's crazy. Anne informs him that Angel told her W&H were planning to steal the fundraiser money.
Lindsey tells her that Angel lied to her. She knows how it works, there are expenses involved with any kind of fundraising event.
There are legitimate expenses but W&H don't steal.
Anne tells Lindsey that Angel said he could prove it.
That takes Lindsey aback some, but he covers, telling Anne that Angel lied about that as well. He wonders who Anne thinks is more trustworthy, the psychotic vampire or the firm that has worked tirelessly to put this charity event together to raise money for the center and those who benefit from it. He doesn't want the kids to lose out because Anne made a bad decision.
Anne wants to know Lindsey is certain Angel doesn't have proof of any W&H wrongdoing. Lindsey says he couldn't have.
Lindsey and Lilah are walking on the promenade, Lindsey has just told her Angel claims to have proof of W&H's misdeeds regarding the fundraising. Lilah is nervous about that bit of news. She wants to know if Lindsey thinks Angel really has proof. Lindsey says it's possible but everything will work out. Lilah wants to know how things are going to work out when they're involved in a scam to steal $2 million from the teen center. Lilah wants to know how Angel could have come by proof.
Lindsey is sure if Angel has anything, it's Lilah's fault. She must have talked to someone and Angel likely got it on tape. Lilah figures maybe Lindsey is to blame, considering his occasional "death wish" maybe this is just a part of that but she doesn't appreciate being dragged along for the ride.
Lindsey assures her it wasn't him because he only spoke of it to her in his office which is swept for bugs several times a day. He loudly declares that he never discussed stealing the money in public.
Lilah looks around the crowded promenade and points out that may have been the case, "until now." Lilah figures Angel's got them on tape. Lindsey figures Angel will use it to humiliate them somehow. Lilah thinks he'll probably give it to a news organization and they'll be the subject of national coverage.
Lindsey doesn't think that's likely. He figures that's too impersonal. Angel would want to be up close, enjoying them squirm with the bosses watching.
He pulls out his cell phone and makes a call, ordering increased security at the charity event and the presence of a vampire detector.
Anne is in the office of the teen center. Angel comes in. She figured he'd be back. He asks if she's okay. She says she wasn't the one getting beaten up. Angel wants to know what Lindsey told her about him.
Anne says Lindsey told her Angel was bad, a psycho vampire who took off Lindsey's hand, harasses his employers and is borderline schizophrenic. She offers that is the condensed version of what Lindsey said.
Angel wonders if she believes that. Anne believes the vampire part. A human couldn't have taken the beating he did. Angel wonders if she's afraid. Anne says at one time she thought vampires were cool, then she met one. Angel notes that she isn't afraid of him. Anne has seen worse things on the streets. She's not concerned with vampires, demons and the like. She only cares about the teen center and those who need it. If W&H are going to help her raise $2 million for the shelter, that's all that matters.
Angel reminds her she'll probably only see 5% of that. Anne says that's more than they could raise in two years.
Angel asks her about the other 95%. He wonders if she cares where that money goes and who may get hurt by it. He tells her the money has blood on it and asks if she has become the kind of person who can just ignore that. He doesn't think she has.
Anne says he has no idea what it takes to run a shelter. Angel asks for her help in getting inside. He holds up a small cassette and tells her if he plays it, the world gets a whole new view of W&H.
Anne wants to know why she should do this. Angel tells her it's the right thing to do and in the long run, it's for the best. Anne points out that too many of the kids who depend on the shelter don't have that "long run". She refuses.
The charity ball is in full swing. A tape of Holland Manners is playing for the guests. Holland, doing his best Mister Rogers impression, is making the case for contributions to the teen center.
Lilah is approached by an older, bald man who asks her how things are going. Lilah says it's a simple formula. Rich people pay to meet famous people, the cameras catch it all, it's profitable and plays as a good deed made possible by the generosity of W&H.
Lilah sees Anne and calls her over. She introduces her to the bald man, Nathan Reed, one of Lilah's bosses at W&H. Nathan shines Anne on a bit, telling her what a wonderful job she's done. Lilah tells Anne to reserve time for interviews. She should never underestimate the power of positive press.
On the upper floor overlooking the ballroom, Lindsey is accompanied by a security guard. A robed, vampire sensing shaman is sitting in the corner. Lindsey tells security to make sure the shaman remains there. He wants to be certain all other security measures are in place. The guy assures Lindsey everything is covered. The security people are in contact with each other via radio and when the vampire gets within 100 feet, the shaman will sense him. Lindsey tells him to be sure to alert Boone as soon as the shaman senses the vampire's presence.
In the ballroom, the tribute to Holland tape is finishing up. Lilah introduces the 'bandits' who will be taking donations. As they roam the crowd, dressed in western wear playing stickup, guests drop donations ranging from bulging envelopes of cash to jewelry, into bags.
One of the security guards gets an "all clear" on the radio as he looks up toward a figure in a shaman's hooded robe standing on the floor above, overlooking the ballroom.
At a table, bags of money and other valuables are dropped off and collected by W&H representatives. The security guy approaches Lindsey and tells him there's been no sign of Angel.
On the balcony, the shaman removes his hood. It's Angel.
As Angel turns, Boone calls him by name. He wonders if Angel is ready to finish their business.
In the ballroom, Lilah thanks the contributors for their generosity and their contributions toward making the world a safer place.
The crowd's attention is attracted to the sounds of fighting coming from the floor overlooking the main ballroom. Angel and Boone are going at each other. They tangle and fall over the side, down to the ballroom floor. The fight continues there.
A couple of security guards grab Angel. Lindsey wonders if Angel thought they wouldn't be prepared for him to show up as he frisks him looking for the tape. He doesn't find it. He wants to know where it is.
Boone steps from behind Lindsey and stands next to Angel, telling Lindsey Angel doesn't have the tape. Boone asks Angel if he's all right, saying he tried to break the fall. Angel assures him he'll be fine.
Lindsey realizes he's been had. Angel thanks Boone for getting him in. He tells Lindsey security was really tight. Lilah wants to know what's going on. Lindsey clues her in. Angel and Boone were working together all along. Angel says he's just there for the show as he looks toward the large video screen.
Lilah realizes that Anne has the tape that allegedly provides proof of the scam. Anne removes the tape from her bag and slowly and deliberately approaches the video equipment as Lindsey and Lilah rush full speed across the ballroom to stop her. The crowd looks on, as do the cameras. They don't get there in time. Anne puts the video in the machine and hits 'play.'
Lindsey and Lilah halt mid-step as the tape plays. Images of Wesley and Cordy arguing over the proper use of the video camera, Cordelia practicing auditioning and Wesley doing a clumsy strip routine play out on the big screen in the ballroom.
Lilah and Lindsey realize they've been bested again. Anne looks on, confused. Angel notes to Lilah and Lindsey they were acting like lunatics, and points out that it all played out for the cameras. He's amused by the turn of events. Lilah looks like she'd like to sink into the floor. Lindsey looks annoyed.
Lindsey now knows Angel never had any proof. Angel confirms he doesn't have a thing. It's pretty tough to get evidence on tape when dealing with people as paranoid as they are. Lindsey tells Lilah it was a setup. Lilah realizes Angel hired Boone. Angel informs her that actually they hired him and for a very hefty fee.
Lindsey and Lilah realize Angel is referring to the donations and race across the ballroom to the table where the cash and valuables were. Nathan Reed looks on.
Lilah and Lindsey reach the table and find the guards unconscious, the cash and valuables gone. Nathan wants to know what's going on. Lilah tells him the money was stolen.
As Angel exits the building, Anne grabs him. He turns around and she slaps him hard across the face. She's angry that she risked everything and Angel had no intention of exposing W&H. Angel tells her they would have covered themselves. He just wanted to rattle them some. It's a start.
Anne wants to know about the money. Angel tells her it was tainted. Anne says she doesn't care about that. Angel believes that she does and points out therein lies the difference between them. She still cares about something. He doesn't. He walks away.
In Lindsey's office at W&H, Nathan isn't happy that the firm was embarrassed by the evening's events. Lindsey and Lilah not only cost them over $2 million intended for the firm but violated policy by hiring someone to kill Angel. Worse, that someone actually turned out to be working with Angel.
Lilah offers an apology. Nathan doesn't find that acceptable. Nathan believes Holland had a "soft spot" for Lindsey and Lilah that compromised his judgment. He assures them it's an affliction he doesn't suffer from. He strongly suggests that the two of them need to start getting some victories, and quickly.
Lindsey wants to know how they are supposed to succeed when they are hamstrung by "idiotic rules" protecting Angel. Lilah steps away from Lindsey and looks the other way, almost as if she's expecting he's going to meet Lee Mercer 's fate at any moment.
Nathan asks if Lindsey said something. Lindsey bulls ahead, pointing out that Angel is an obstacle to everything they do. He wants one reason why they don't just kill him.
Nathan finally reveals a bit about W&H's plan. He tells Lindsey that Angel is a major player in the Apocalypse. The prophecies all agree that when the final battle is fought, Angel's role is key. Which side he's on is the "gray area" and they intend to keep it "as gray as possible."
Lilah thinks that sounds good.
Nathan points out that if Angel's obsession with Lilah and Lindsey leads him to actually kill them, that would play into W&H's hands. It would be a sign that Angel would be on the way to joining them and he informs them that as difficult as it is to replace good lawyers, both Lilah and Lindsey are expendable. Angel is not.
Back at the hotel, Angel looks briefly at the photo of Anne and Lindsey, then tosses it into the trash. He heads for the door but stops, sensing something. Without turning, he says he thought this someone would be out of town by now. He turns to see Boone standing on the other side of the lobby.
Boone doesn't believe Angel really thought that. He tosses the bag full of cash and valuables onto the floor. Angel asks how much. Boone says all totaled, over $2.5 million. Angel figures that's a pretty big bet. Boone is willing to make the wager, he has to know.
Boone extends his hands which wrap in the metal coils as he and Angel face each other. Boone takes a flying leap toward Angel.
Angel drops the bag containing the cash and valuables on the desk in the office of the teen center as Anne looks on. Angel's face bears the marks of a recent fight. Anne takes out bundles of cash. Angel tells her it's all there, "a little more than 5%." He warns her there will be trouble for her if W&H find out. She assures him she can hide it. Angel starts to leave. Anne notices a stain on some of the cash. She touches it, asks what it is. Angel tells her it's blood. Anne looks at it a minute and says it will clean up as she continues removing the contents of the bag.
Site design ©2000 TAO Designz
All Rights Reserved
Written by: Shawn
Ryan & Mere Smith |
Original Air Date: January 23, 2001 |
At Cordelia's, Wes and Gunn are squaring off over a board game. A roll of the dice gives Gunn the advantage. He can't resist rubbing that in.
Cordelia comes into the room in her bathrobe. She says it's getting late. Wes notes that it's only 7:30. Cordelia tells them both to get out. Wes wonders what happens if she has a vision. Cordelia assures him she'll call. Gunn wonders what happens if Angel calls.
Cordelia doesn't want to hear the "A word". Gunn says that's fine, they won't say his name they'll just hang around waiting for a call. Wesley says he fired them, he's not going to call. They're working independently now, "fighting the good fight."
Gunn reminds him they have no plan, no office, not even their own business cards. Wes reluctantly concurs that Angel isn't going to call. He figures it's time to get things in order and the first thing he suggests is ditching the "stupid business cards" as he pulls one out.
Cordelia doesn't appreciate her design being dissed. Her cards aren't "stupid". Wesley reminds her the Angel represented is something they don't have anymore.
Gunn takes the card. He thinks the angel looks more like a "lobster with a growth." He suggests they need to come up with their own logo. Wes agrees.
While Gunn and Wesley are preoccupied brainstorming logos, Cordelia gets a vision. The guys finally notice when she falls on the floor. Gunn asks what she saw. She answers that she saw a huge two headed something that breathes fire and is in the sewers beneath a girls school.
Wes and Gunn head out to deal with it. Cordelia calls after them that they shouldn't do it alone.
Angel is walking down the street, he runs into a young woman carrying a large box, knocking it out of her hands. He apologizes and helps her pick things up. She says it was her fault, she couldn't see over the top of the box, she was in a hurry, she's late for work.
Angel picks up a colorfully ugly bit of clothing that fell out of the box, looks at it and asks her if she works as a clown. She laughs and tells him it's clothes that got donated. He mentions a teen center. The woman looks at him apprehensively. He tells her he read it on the side of the box.
They finish cleaning things up, Angel hands her the box back. She tells him the stuff is for the kids, there's always a rush when some new stuff comes in.
Angel asks her if she works with runaways. She says some are, others are local kids who don't have anywhere to go. The shelter provides clothing, food and a place to stay for those who need it. Angel says that's good work to do.
The woman smiles and says she's late, she'll see him around. They both go their separate ways.
Back in his room at the hotel, Angel takes the woman's wallet out of his pocket and lays it on the table. The wallet is open, revealing her driver's license. On the table and the wall are photographs strewn about of the young woman. Angel's eyes scan the photos coming to rest on a picture of her with Lindsey. He stares intensely at it.
Gunn and Wes enter the sewer tunnel. Gunn is reciting what they know, it's big, has two heads and breathes fire. Wesley knows this, he doesn't need to be reminded. Gunn starts to say what he'd like to have to help them at this point but before he can finish, Wes cuts him off and says he's not there and wishing he were won't make it happen. Gunn says he was thinking they could use some explosives.
They hear growling and slowly advance to a junction in the tunnel, carefully looking around a corner. They see what they're after and withdraw to regroup. Gunn points out that the sewer tunnel is 20 feet high and the thing was crouching to fit. Wes suggests they take another look. Gunn figures they're going to get themselves killed.
As they peer around the corner a second time, Gunn starts to make a move. Wes holds him back and tells him to wait until the creature's back is to them. They then charge toward it only to be forced back by a large fireball. Gunn says he thought Cordelia said it breathed fire as they both charge toward it.
In a rundown building, Merl is headed toward the door of his apartment. The door opens and slams him in the face. Angel is on the other side. Merl wants to know what he wants. He lets Angel know he's not getting an invitation to enter.
Angel walks in, reminding Merl he doesn't need an invite into another demon's dwelling. Merl thinks that's just impolite. Angel wants to know if Merl is avoiding him. Merl denies it. Angel reminds him he asked for a favor and now Merl seems to be scarce. He doesn't think that's very polite. Merl reminds him he was nearly drowned in the sewer and left hanging, which is also pretty impolite.
Angel concurs they've both been rude, he can deal with that. Right now he wants to know if Merl has the information he needs or if he's going to have to crack Merl's head to get it.
Merl tells him he checked out the young woman, she's changed her name a couple of times but she doesn't have a record. Angel wants to know how she's connected to W&H.
Merl says that she runs a teen shelter. A while ago the center almost lost the lease on the building, W&H took the case for free and cleared it up. That's pretty much the tale. Angel notes that she's still working for W&H. Merl notes that if Angel already has the answers, he doesn't need him. Angel figures there has to be an angle in this for W&H since they handled the matter for free. Merl figures there probably is somewhere but as far as he knows, the center is legitimate.
Angel starts to leave. Merl wants to know where his money is. Angel tells him he'll owe him as he looks around the shabby apartment at a couple of bean bag chairs in the corner. He suggests Merl use the money for some furniture.
Angel walks into the teen center, carrying a bag. The young woman greets him and introduces herself as Anne. He introduces himself in return and tells her he brought some things for the center. She thanks him, takes the bag and sets it down. She pulls an ugly patterned blouse from it, looks at Angel and wonders if it doesn't fit anymore.
Angel says a friend left some things at his place and since he won't be seeing her anytime soon he thought he'd donate the stuff. Anne wonders if it belongs to an ex-girlfriend. Angel's face registers an 'are you kidding?' kind of look as he responds, "God, no!"
Anne tells him the donation is appreciated. Angel says he wishes there was something more he could do. Anne offers to give him a tour of the place. He accepts. She shows him into the office. She says she isn't in there much. Angel notes the bed in the corner and wonders if she just comes in to nap. She says she works so late sometimes, there's no point in going home so she just stays there.
Angel wonders if the place runs entirely on donations. Anne confirms that's true. Angel thinks it must be difficult, keeping up. Anne tells him they have a "guardian angel" in W&H. She says they've been very helpful to them. They've kept them from being evicted and defended a couple of the kids who got into trouble. She says they came up with the idea for "the big holdup".
Angel wonders what that's about.
Anne explains that it's a charity ball to raise funds for the center. It's a western themed event where celebrities go around pretending to "rob" the guests of their donations.
Angel asks if W&H are footing the bill. Anne confirms that they are paying for everything. She figures it's good PR for the firm, the theme is a bit lame, but whatever it takes to keep the center open.
Merl heads for his door, only to have it opened just as he gets to it and slammed into his face, knocking him to the floor. A large, ugly demon walks in. He's looking for Merl. Merl says his name is Ed Silverman, he doesn't know any Merl.
Demon guy knows Merl is "Angel's lackey." Merl starts to deny that but demon guy stepping on his fingers causes him to reconsider. Demon guy wants to know what Merl does for Angel as Merl's fingers crunch under the pressure of demon guy's shoe.
Merl says he takes pictures, surveillance type stuff, checks people out, that kind of thing. He asks demon guy who he is. Demon guy tells Merl that he and Angel have a history, "an unfinished history." He wants to know about the people Merl checks out for Angel. Are they friends? Enemies? What is it that Angel cares about?
Merl tells him the last job he did was follow a woman who does charity work. Demon guy wants to know why. Merl says it's not about the woman, it's about W&H.
Demon guy wants to know about W&H.
Merl tells demon guy that it's a law firm, more like "evil incorporated." Angel has been after them, a couple of their attorneys in particular.
Demon guy grabs Merl by the throat. He wants to know about the attorneys.
In the parking garage of W&H, Lilah is walking toward her car. She gets in, checks the rear view mirror, sees nothing. She turns her head to back out and sees Angel sitting in the back seat, directly behind her.
Angel offers congratulations on her recent promotion. He figures she deserved it, among other things. He says it makes him feel good to know that in some small way he was responsible for it.
Lilah makes a move to open the door, but Angel stops her. Lilah assures Angel that things will be different now that she and Lindsey are making the policies.
Angel gets it now. Lilah wonders exactly what it is that he gets. He understands the game now and he finds it rather enjoyable once the rules are understood. The rules being that there are no rules. They've messed with him over and over and now he finally gets to mess with them in return. He's looking forward to that.
Lilah starts to say something, but all she gets out is "please --" Angel says begging is for later and disappears.
Lilah is in Lindsey's office, visibly shaken. She tells him that Angel was in her car. Lindsey doesn't see the big deal, she's still alive. Lindsey says Angel was just trying to scare her. Lilah confirms it worked. Lindsey reminds her she has nothing to be afraid of, Angel doesn't kill humans. Lilah tells him things have changed.
They are interrupted by the clearly nervous voice of Lindsey's secretary
on the speaker, telling him his 10 o'clock appointment is there. Lindsey
says he doesn't have a 10 o'clock. The secretary says she's not going
to be the one to tell him that.
Lindsey opens the door, demon guy is standing on the other side. He
enters without waiting for an invitation and tells Lindsey to close
the door.
Demon guy introduces himself as Boone. Lilah tells him they run the
special projects division. She wonders if he has a project. Boone
says it's more like a grudge, with someone named Angel.
Boone says he and Angel last saw each other in Mexico, back in "the
20's". They had a fight over a woman that went on for over three
hours. Lindsey wonders how they both survived that fight. Boone says
he'd been drunk for several days so he wasn't at his best.
Lilah asks how things ended.
Boone says he let Angel go when the sun came up.
Lilah wonders why he'd do such a thing.
Boone repeats that the sun came up. When it's clear Lilah and Lindsey
are clueless, he explains that it would have been too easy and that
wouldn't have been honorable. He figured he and Angel would cross
paths again. He was in the karaoke bar and heard about Merl who does
favors for the souled vampire. He found Merl and got the info from
him about Angel's intentions to take down Lindsey and Lilah.
Lindsey wants to know if Merl mentioned just how Angel intended to
do that. Boone says he doesn't know or particularly care, but when
Angel comes looking for the two of them, he'll be waiting.
Lindsey likes this idea. He asks how much Boone wants to be paid.
Boone is rather insulted by the offer, telling Lindsey it's not about
money, it's about knowing which of them is better.
Lilah tells him if this is about killing Angel they can't go along
with that. Lindsey pulls her out of the office and tells her he's
bringing Boone into it. Lilah reminds him that the senior partners
don't want Angel dead. She wonders what Lindsey thinks will happen
if Boone kills him. Lindsey assures her there wouldn't be any crocodile
tears from him. Lilah reminds him they are both in charge of things
and if Lindsey's plan blows up, they'll both pay the price.
Lindsey figures if Angel wants to play by new rules, he can do so
as well.
At Cordelia's, Gunn and Wes are detailing their adventures in the sewer tunnel, clearly having done some bonding over demon killing. Cordy asks if they weren't a little scared. They both acknowledge they were scared spitless, actually. Cordelia notes that they defeated it in spite of that. Gunn points out they all did.
Cordelia says she's started looking for an office for their new business. She's found a place nearby. They head out to look at it. Wes thinks the Wyndham-Price agency is the perfect name. Cordelia thinks it's stuffy. Chase agency sounds better. Gunn figures he has the best name for the agency. His own. Wes still prefers Wyndham-Price.
Back at his place, Angel is looking at the surveillance photos of
Anne on the wall. He looks down at her driver's license. He removes
the pictures from the wall.
Merl walks into his apartment and is immediately grabbed and thrown against the wall. He assures Angel he didn't tell the demon anything. Lilah tells him to "shut up". Merl is released and turns to see Lilah, accompanied by a couple of burly bodyguards. Merl's thinking it's time he found a new place to live.
Lilah introduces herself then tells Merl she wants to know exactly what favors he does for Angel. Merl says he doesn't sell out his friends, then asks how much she's willing to pay. One of the burly guys punches Merl in the face. Lilah figures Merl will find their offer competitive.
Merl tells Lilah that Angel has had him following a young woman. Lilah wants to know who.
Anne is working in the office of the teen center. She hears something and steps out into the main area to check it out. Angel calls her name. She asks what he's doing there. He says he needs to talk to her. Anne half-jokingly asks if he's stalking her. Angel tells her that he has been. He lays down the pictures he had taken of her and offers her wallet back, admitting he stole it when he bumped into her.
Anne figures it's time to call the cops. Angel tells her he isn't going to hurt her, he just didn't want to keep lying to her. He admits he's been following her but not for the reason she thinks. She wants to know why. He tells her it's about W&H. They don't care about her or the teen center. They'll use the center for PR, offer to host a fundraiser and when the money comes in, they do the tally. They'll hold back money from the beginning. Then they'll bill her for various expenses until she's lucky if there's 5% left for the center, W&H taking the rest.
Anne wonders why she should believe him considering he's followed her, stole her wallet and lied to her.
Angel tells her W&H aren't what they appear to be. To the world, they appear to be one thing, in reality they are something quite different. He can prove it.
Lindsey comes into the teen center, playing up his concern for Anne's safety. He assures her he would have come sooner if he'd known Angel was in contact with her. He's thankful he got there before anything happened to Anne. Lindsey smirks at Angel as he plays his role. Angel thinks Lindsey is a little over the top, he needs to work on his compassionate routine.
Lindsey tells Anne that Angel is dangerous. Angel assures him he hasn't seen anything yet. Lindsey lets him know he's got something for Angel as well as Boone enters the center. Lindsey tells Anne he brought protection.
Angel recognizes Boone by name. He's surprised he'd associate with W&H. He thought Boone had honor. Boone assures him he does. He pushes his arms downward as metal coils snake around his hands. A demon version of brass knuckles. He and Angel fight it out, going back and forth, Angel is clearly outmatched. Angel decides a strategic retreat is the best option and runs out of the center.
Boone starts to head out after him but Lindsey stops him, telling him what matters is that their client is safe. He whispers to Boone "not here" then tells him to meet him outside at the car.
Lindsey assures Anne she's safe.
Anne notes that the guy who beat Angel up wasn't human. Lindsey starts to explain about otherworldly things but Anne cuts him off. She's aware of this. Lindsey tells her that Angel isn't human either. He's a vampire and he's crazy. Anne informs him that Angel told her W&H were planning to steal the fundraiser money.
Lindsey tells her that Angel lied to her. She knows how it works, there are expenses involved with any kind of fundraising event.
There are legitimate expenses but W&H don't steal.
Anne tells Lindsey that Angel said he could prove it.
That takes Lindsey aback some, but he covers, telling Anne that Angel lied about that as well. He wonders who Anne thinks is more trustworthy, the psychotic vampire or the firm that has worked tirelessly to put this charity event together to raise money for the center and those who benefit from it. He doesn't want the kids to lose out because Anne made a bad decision.
Anne wants to know Lindsey is certain Angel doesn't have proof of any W&H wrongdoing. Lindsey says he couldn't have.
Lindsey and Lilah are walking on the promenade, Lindsey has just told her Angel claims to have proof of W&H's misdeeds regarding the fundraising. Lilah is nervous about that bit of news. She wants to know if Lindsey thinks Angel really has proof. Lindsey says it's possible but everything will work out. Lilah wants to know how things are going to work out when they're involved in a scam to steal $2 million from the teen center. Lilah wants to know how Angel could have come by proof.
Lindsey is sure if Angel has anything, it's Lilah's fault. She must have talked to someone and Angel likely got it on tape. Lilah figures maybe Lindsey is to blame, considering his occasional "death wish" maybe this is just a part of that but she doesn't appreciate being dragged along for the ride.
Lindsey assures her it wasn't him because he only spoke of it to her in his office which is swept for bugs several times a day. He loudly declares that he never discussed stealing the money in public.
Lilah looks around the crowded promenade and points out that may have been the case, "until now." Lilah figures Angel's got them on tape. Lindsey figures Angel will use it to humiliate them somehow. Lilah thinks he'll probably give it to a news organization and they'll be the subject of national coverage.
Lindsey doesn't think that's likely. He figures that's too impersonal. Angel would want to be up close, enjoying them squirm with the bosses watching.
He pulls out his cell phone and makes a call, ordering increased security at the charity event and the presence of a vampire detector.
Anne is in the office of the teen center. Angel comes in. She figured he'd be back. He asks if she's okay. She says she wasn't the one getting beaten up. Angel wants to know what Lindsey told her about him.
Anne says Lindsey told her Angel was bad, a psycho vampire who took off Lindsey's hand, harasses his employers and is borderline schizophrenic. She offers that is the condensed version of what Lindsey said.
Angel wonders if she believes that. Anne believes the vampire part. A human couldn't have taken the beating he did. Angel wonders if she's afraid. Anne says at one time she thought vampires were cool, then she met one. Angel notes that she isn't afraid of him. Anne has seen worse things on the streets. She's not concerned with vampires, demons and the like. She only cares about the teen center and those who need it. If W&H are going to help her raise $2 million for the shelter, that's all that matters.
Angel reminds her she'll probably only see 5% of that. Anne says that's more than they could raise in two years.
Angel asks her about the other 95%. He wonders if she cares where that money goes and who may get hurt by it. He tells her the money has blood on it and asks if she has become the kind of person who can just ignore that. He doesn't think she has.
Anne says he has no idea what it takes to run a shelter. Angel asks for her help in getting inside. He holds up a small cassette and tells her if he plays it, the world gets a whole new view of W&H.
Anne wants to know why she should do this. Angel tells her it's the right thing to do and in the long run, it's for the best. Anne points out that too many of the kids who depend on the shelter don't have that "long run". She refuses.
The charity ball is in full swing. A tape of Holland Manners is playing for the guests. Holland, doing his best Mister Rogers impression, is making the case for contributions to the teen center.
Lilah is approached by an older, bald man who asks her how things are going. Lilah says it's a simple formula. Rich people pay to meet famous people, the cameras catch it all, it's profitable and plays as a good deed made possible by the generosity of W&H.
Lilah sees Anne and calls her over. She introduces her to the bald man, Nathan Reed, one of Lilah's bosses at W&H. Nathan shines Anne on a bit, telling her what a wonderful job she's done. Lilah tells Anne to reserve time for interviews. She should never underestimate the power of positive press.
On the upper floor overlooking the ballroom, Lindsey is accompanied by a security guard. A robed, vampire sensing shaman is sitting in the corner. Lindsey tells security to make sure the shaman remains there. He wants to be certain all other security measures are in place. The guy assures Lindsey everything is covered. The security people are in contact with each other via radio and when the vampire gets within 100 feet, the shaman will sense him. Lindsey tells him to be sure to alert Boone as soon as the shaman senses the vampire's presence.
In the ballroom, the tribute to Holland tape is finishing up. Lilah introduces the 'bandits' who will be taking donations. As they roam the crowd, dressed in western wear playing stickup, guests drop donations ranging from bulging envelopes of cash to jewelry, into bags.
One of the security guards gets an "all clear" on the radio as he looks up toward a figure in a shaman's hooded robe standing on the floor above, overlooking the ballroom.
At a table, bags of money and other valuables are dropped off and collected by W&H representatives. The security guy approaches Lindsey and tells him there's been no sign of Angel.
On the balcony, the shaman removes his hood. It's Angel.
As Angel turns, Boone calls him by name. He wonders if Angel is ready to finish their business.
In the ballroom, Lilah thanks the contributors for their generosity and their contributions toward making the world a safer place.
The crowd's attention is attracted to the sounds of fighting coming from the floor overlooking the main ballroom. Angel and Boone are going at each other. They tangle and fall over the side, down to the ballroom floor. The fight continues there.
A couple of security guards grab Angel. Lindsey wonders if Angel thought they wouldn't be prepared for him to show up as he frisks him looking for the tape. He doesn't find it. He wants to know where it is.
Boone steps from behind Lindsey and stands next to Angel, telling Lindsey Angel doesn't have the tape. Boone asks Angel if he's all right, saying he tried to break the fall. Angel assures him he'll be fine.
Lindsey realizes he's been had. Angel thanks Boone for getting him in. He tells Lindsey security was really tight. Lilah wants to know what's going on. Lindsey clues her in. Angel and Boone were working together all along. Angel says he's just there for the show as he looks toward the large video screen.
Lilah realizes that Anne has the tape that allegedly provides proof of the scam. Anne removes the tape from her bag and slowly and deliberately approaches the video equipment as Lindsey and Lilah rush full speed across the ballroom to stop her. The crowd looks on, as do the cameras. They don't get there in time. Anne puts the video in the machine and hits 'play.'
Lindsey and Lilah halt mid-step as the tape plays. Images of Wesley and Cordy arguing over the proper use of the video camera, Cordelia practicing auditioning and Wesley doing a clumsy strip routine play out on the big screen in the ballroom.
Lilah and Lindsey realize they've been bested again. Anne looks on, confused. Angel notes to Lilah and Lindsey they were acting like lunatics, and points out that it all played out for the cameras. He's amused by the turn of events. Lilah looks like she'd like to sink into the floor. Lindsey looks annoyed.
Lindsey now knows Angel never had any proof. Angel confirms he doesn't have a thing. It's pretty tough to get evidence on tape when dealing with people as paranoid as they are. Lindsey tells Lilah it was a setup. Lilah realizes Angel hired Boone. Angel informs her that actually they hired him and for a very hefty fee.
Lindsey and Lilah realize Angel is referring to the donations and race across the ballroom to the table where the cash and valuables were. Nathan Reed looks on.
Lilah and Lindsey reach the table and find the guards unconscious, the cash and valuables gone. Nathan wants to know what's going on. Lilah tells him the money was stolen.
As Angel exits the building, Anne grabs him. He turns around and she slaps him hard across the face. She's angry that she risked everything and Angel had no intention of exposing W&H. Angel tells her they would have covered themselves. He just wanted to rattle them some. It's a start.
Anne wants to know about the money. Angel tells her it was tainted. Anne says she doesn't care about that. Angel believes that she does and points out therein lies the difference between them. She still cares about something. He doesn't. He walks away.
In Lindsey's office at W&H, Nathan isn't happy that the firm was embarrassed by the evening's events. Lindsey and Lilah not only cost them over $2 million intended for the firm but violated policy by hiring someone to kill Angel. Worse, that someone actually turned out to be working with Angel.
Lilah offers an apology. Nathan doesn't find that acceptable. Nathan believes Holland had a "soft spot" for Lindsey and Lilah that compromised his judgment. He assures them it's an affliction he doesn't suffer from. He strongly suggests that the two of them need to start getting some victories, and quickly.
Lindsey wants to know how they are supposed to succeed when they are hamstrung by "idiotic rules" protecting Angel. Lilah steps away from Lindsey and looks the other way, almost as if she's expecting he's going to meet Lee Mercer 's fate at any moment.
Nathan asks if Lindsey said something. Lindsey bulls ahead, pointing out that Angel is an obstacle to everything they do. He wants one reason why they don't just kill him.
Nathan finally reveals a bit about W&H's plan. He tells Lindsey that Angel is a major player in the Apocalypse. The prophecies all agree that when the final battle is fought, Angel's role is key. Which side he's on is the "gray area" and they intend to keep it "as gray as possible."
Lilah thinks that sounds good.
Nathan points out that if Angel's obsession with Lilah and Lindsey leads him to actually kill them, that would play into W&H's hands. It would be a sign that Angel would be on the way to joining them and he informs them that as difficult as it is to replace good lawyers, both Lilah and Lindsey are expendable. Angel is not.
Back at the hotel, Angel looks briefly at the photo of Anne and Lindsey, then tosses it into the trash. He heads for the door but stops, sensing something. Without turning, he says he thought this someone would be out of town by now. He turns to see Boone standing on the other side of the lobby.
Boone doesn't believe Angel really thought that. He tosses the bag full of cash and valuables onto the floor. Angel asks how much. Boone says all totaled, over $2.5 million. Angel figures that's a pretty big bet. Boone is willing to make the wager, he has to know.
Boone extends his hands which wrap in the metal coils as he and Angel face each other. Boone takes a flying leap toward Angel.
Angel drops the bag containing the cash and valuables on the desk in the office of the teen center as Anne looks on. Angel's face bears the marks of a recent fight. Anne takes out bundles of cash. Angel tells her it's all there, "a little more than 5%." He warns her there will be trouble for her if W&H find out. She assures him she can hide it. Angel starts to leave. Anne notices a stain on some of the cash. She touches it, asks what it is. Angel tells her it's blood. Anne looks at it a minute and says it will clean up as she continues removing the contents of the bag.
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