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Post by Beck on Jan 23, 2007 12:50:00 GMT 10
TEASER
~L.A. 1996~Pike sat at the head of the dining table in his parents’ house. His fingers were laced together on the table and he was staring at them. His father, Trevor, stood at the refrigerator, not looking at him or anyone else in the kitchen. His mother, Serene, was behind Pike, leaning weakly against the counter. PIKE: I’ve made my decision. I’m leaving. TREVOR: When? PIKE: My bus is leaving tonight. TREVOR: For how long? PIKE: I don’t know. I haven’t thought that far ahead yet. SERENE: Well, you better! You can just leave like that without telling us when you’re coming back! TREVOR: Serene, please. Calm down. SERENE: I will not calm down. How can you expect me to calm down when my 16 year old son is leaving and not planning to come back? PIKE: (sighed) What do you want me to say then, Mom? That I actually want to stay here? That I love my life so much that I want to stay here till I die? SERENE: That’s a good start. TREVOR: Serene, that’s enough. I can take that crap from Tabitha but not from you. (to Pike) Son, I don’t really know what you’re going through but I’m going to do my very best to understand. So will your mom. PIKE: Dad, I’ve already made up my mind. I’m not changing it. TREVOR: Well, I’ve made up my mind too. Both your mom and I did. We’ve been talking about this and…(sighed) I’ve already set up an appointment with Dr. Charles this weekend. You’ll be seeing him at ten in the morning. Pike looked up at his father in surprise. PIKE: I thought we agreed that we are not going back to him. TREVOR: I know. But this has been going on long enough. We’ve consulted Dr. Charles and he said that it was the wise thing to do. You’re getting admitted to the hospital tomorrow. I suggest you go pack. Pike stared at his father. PIKE: You’ve got to be kidding me. Pike’s father didn’t look at his son as he left the kitchen. His mother followed shortly behind. Pike sat in the kitchen for as long as he could, staring at the wall across from him. ###############################################
~HADES VALLEY, PRESENT DAY~
~kitchen~TABITHA: So I told Oliver, “I’m never gonna call you Pike. You sound like some kind of a dog!” And guess what I bought for him for his birthday that year. XANDER: A leash? ANDREW: A flea collar? ASTA: A chew toy? TABITHA: (grinned) All of the above! The three of them burst out laughing as Pike blushed deeply. The bell to the front door rang twice, interrupting their conversation. TABITHA: I’ll get it. (to Pike) And no stories about me until I get back. PIKE: (smiled) I’ll try. Tabitha got up from the dinner table and went to the front door. She swung it open and froze when she saw who was standing before her. Serene and Trevor Pike smiled back at her. Without a word, she slammed the door shut. CUT TO BLACK OPENING CREDITS ROLL THEME SONG “Club Foot” by Kasabian Starring: Jewel Staite as Asta Dawson Nicholas Brendon as Xander Harris Tom Lenk as Andrew Wells Cillian Murphy as Oliver Pike Ashley Scott as Tabitha Pike Guest Starring: Dean Cain as Ashley/Astwihad Kristian Alfonso as Serene Pike Richard Burgi as Trevor Pike Edward Kerr as Jeff/Je’ffeo Created by Irene Issac with Beck Schwarz Based on the hit television show “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” END OF CREDITS
DISCLAIMER: ASTA is created by Irene (shred) and Beck (Radient Evil). All original characters belong to us and us alone. All other characters and the slayverse, however, belong to Joss Whedon and we are just borrowing them. If you want to use this series or any of the original characters, ask and you shall receive. This series is set during the 5th season of ANGEL. |
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Post by Beck on Jan 23, 2007 12:53:53 GMT 10
ACT 1
~KITCHEN~
Serene and Trevor Pike were seated side by side at the dining table while Andrew and Asta sat across from them. Xander, Pike and Tabitha stood around them.
Tabitha had her arms folded across her chest and didn’t look the least bit happy. Pike looked uncomfortable as he shifted his weight from one foot to the other. Asta and the rest felt awkward in the uncomfortable silence that descended on them.
A moment more of the silence and Andrew broke it by clearing his throat loudly.
ANDREW: Well. It’s certainly nice to meet you both, Mr. and Mrs. Pike. Pike and Tabitha certainly told us…nothing about you.
SERENE: (laughed) There’s really nothing much to know about us really. And it’s a pleasure to meet you all too. You’re friends of Oliver and Tabitha?
XANDER: We know Pike’s ex girlfriend.
SERENE: Oh, that’s nice. Such a small world.
ANDREW: (smiled) Indeed.
XANDER: Are you guys here on holiday?
TREVOR: We were. We are on our way to back to L.A so we thought we would stop by.
XANDER: That’s great. I’m sure you’ll have a great time catching up with Tabitha and Pike while you’re here.
TABITHA: Ok, cut the crap. Why are you really here?
Everyone, including Pike, turned to look at Tabitha, surprise at her sudden outburst.
SERENE: Tabitha, we’re here to visit.
TABITHA: Bullshit! You haven’t stepped foot here for more than 5 years!
TREVOR: Tabitha! Is that how you speak to your mother?
TABITHA: After what you both have done, I honestly think this is not enough.
Xander clapped his hands together to stop the oncoming conflict from going any further. He stepped forward.
XANDER: It’s late, we are all tired. How about we continue this very thrilling conversation later? (to the parents) Andrew will show you both to the guest room while I talk to your daughter.
ASTA: Erm…the guest room?
XANDER: You’ll take my bed and I’ll take the couch.
He walked behind Andrew, grabbed him by the shoulder and pulled him to his feet.
XANDER: Andrew, would you mind taking our guests to their room now?
ANDREW: Erm…sure. Right this way, folks.
XANDER: Asta…
ASTA: I’ll go set up the couch for you.
As Asta, Andrew and the guests left the kitchen; Xander turned towards Pike and Tabitha and jerked his thumb towards the back door.
XANDER: Outside. Now.
Tabitha stalked towards the backdoor and flung it open. Xander followed shortly with Pike in tow.
The air was chilly outside and all none of then had their jackets on. Closing the door softly behind him, Xander stuffed his hands into the pocket of his jeans and stood before Pike and Tabitha. Pike rubbed his hands together and blew into them, trying to warm himself up.
XANDER: So. It looks like you don’t want your parents here.
TABITHA: (snapped) You think?
XANDER: Look, I don’t know what happened between you guys and I don’t really think I want to get involved. But can we get through the night without any verbal matches between you and them?
TABITHA: They are not staying here, Xander. I’m leaving if they are.
XANDER: We can’t chase them out. It’s late and it’s going to be tough for them to find a motel room at this hour.
TABITHA: Do I look like I care?
XANDER: (sarcastically) With that tone of voice? It’s hard to tell.
PIKE: It’s just one night right?
XANDER: Just one night, then we’ll ask them to leave. (pause) Or you both will ask them to leave. I’ll stay out of it.
TABITHA: I cannot believe this. (to Pike) I thought you of all people would back me up on this.
PIKE: I am. I just don’t think it’s a good idea to start anything now.
TABITHA: (muttered) Whatever.
XANDER: It’s just one night, Tabitha. I promise.
TABITHA: This is my house, Xander. I make the decisions on who stays and who goes.
XANDER: You’re right. Guess you should make the decision then.
There was silence as Xander and Pike waited for Tabitha to make her final say. Her gaze flickered from Xander and then to Pike. She ran her hand through her dark hair and sighed.
TABITHA: If they are not gone by tomorrow morning, I’ll leave. I’m not kidding.
XANDER: Fair enough. Now, I’m going to see if your parents have settled in.
He laid a comforting hand on Tabitha before going back into the house. Pike let out a breath, a puff of smoke coming out from his mouth.
PIKE: Wow.
Tabitha glared at Pike.
TABITHA: You’re unbelievable.
PIKE: I’m trying to be a better man here, Tabby.
TABITHA: After what they did to you?
PIKE: It was a long time ago.
TABITHA: This is my life, Oliver! One thing I don’t want them to take away from me. I know why they are here. They want to take this life from me. This is the only thing they couldn’t touch and it’s bothering them.
PIKE: Maybe they are here for something else.
TABITHA: Like what? Asking for forgiveness? Wanting to be my parents again? News flash, Oliver, not gonna happen.
PIKE: They might have changed.
TABITHA: (scoffed) And pigs fly.
PIKE: Just give them a chance. They might surprise you.
Tabitha narrowed her eyes at her brother.
TABITHA: Who are you and what did you do to my brother?
PIKE: I’m just saying that maybe you’re being a bit too hard on them.
Tabitha threw up her hands in the air and let out a cry of exasperation.
TABITHA: I cannot believe that you’re actually defending them.
PIKE: I’m not defending them. Just…
TABITHA: Just what? They ruined your life, Oliver. Don’t you remember?
PIKE: Trust me, I do.
TABITHA: Then why are you talking about them like they were the world’s greatest parents?
PIKE: (sighed) I don’t know. I guess time does heal all wounds.
TABITHA: Whatever makes you happy.
PIKE: But I don’t understand why you’re getting so worked up over this. They didn’t do anything to you.
TABITHA: My life revolved around yours, Oliver, or did you forget about that too? When they ruined your life, they ruined mine as well.
Tabitha came up to him, seething in anger.
TABITHA: And unlike you, I will never forgive them for what they did.
With that, she stalked back towards the house without a backward glance. The back door slammed shut a moment later.
###############################################
~CEMETERY~
~night~
A stake dangled loosely from Asta’s hand as she trudged through the cemetery. She was tired and her eyes were yearning for sleep. She yawned loudly. Forcing herself to stay alert, her eyes wandered around the area tiredly, checking out the tombstones, mausoleums and trees for anything out of ordinary.
After making her rounds, she sat down on the steps that led to a small mausoleum. Placing her elbow on her knee and her chin in her hand, she looked out at the cemetery in front of her.
A large bouquet of beautiful yellow roses popped out in front her. She lifted her head and blinked at them, a smile tugging at her lips. Turning around to look over her shoulder, she saw Ashley grinning down at her.
The smile on her face vanished, a scowl replacing it. She stood up and placed her hands on her hips.
ASTA: What do you want?
ASHLEY: I’m here to say sorry.
ASTA: I thought I told you to stay away from me.
ASHLEY: Yeah, I know. But I’m sorry.
ASTA: And I thought I told you I didn’t want you talking to me.
ASHLEY: Did I mention that I’m sorry?
ASTA: Did I mention that I would kick your ass if you came near me again?
ASHLEY: (laughed) One thing you need to know about me, Asta, is that I’m a stubborn person. It takes more than words to get rid of me.
ASTA: Want me to try beating the crap out of you? Just like I did to that mugger?
ASHLEY: You mean that monster.
ASTA: (sternly) Leave.
ASHLEY: Why can’t you see that I’m a friend? I’m on the same side as you. Why are you so afraid to trust me?
ASTA: Cause you lied to me. Want me to refresh your memory for you, Ashley? If that’s even your real name.
ASHLEY: Look, I didn’t lie. I just left some information out. I knew you would flip out if I came up to you and told you that I know you’re the slayer and that I know monsters exist. I needed you to trust me first before I told you that. So this is the part where you forgive me.
ASTA: No, this is the part where you leave. I’m tired and I really don’t want to deal with you right now. So please leave before I kill you.
Asta whirled around and started heading towards the exit of the cemetery.
ASHLEY: Asta! Wait!
He jogged up to her, grabbed her hand and pulled her to a stop.
ASHLEY: You don’t know what you’re missing out. I can help you. I can train you, teach you how to fight, help you fight monsters…
ASTA: I have friends who help me do all of that.
ASHLEY: Yeah? Then where are they now?
ASTA: I don’t need –
ASHLEY: I’ll watch your back every second. I’ll make sure you’ll live.
ASTA: I don’t need you to stay alive. I can handle myself pretty well, thank you very much.
She pulled her hand from his grip and folded her arms.
ASTA: But tell me this, Ashley. Why do you want to help me anyway? What’s in it for you?
ASHLEY: (shrugged) Nothing. I just want to save the world – just like you.
ASTA: (sighed) I don’t know whether I can trust you.
Ashley took her hand and stared into her eyes.
ASHLEY: You don’t have to trust me – not yet. Just let me help you harness your power and become the person that you really are.
Asta stared back at him, a thoughtful expression on her face.
###############################################
~STREETS OF HADES VALLEY~
A scantily dressed woman strolled down the street that lead to a motel, swinging her sparkly black purse at her side. She was dressed in a black leather mini skirt and a matching halter top with a plunging neckline. Her black stiletto heels clicked against the pavement as she walked, her hips swaying seductively.
As she walked down the pathway, passers-by glanced and eyed her. Some of the boys even whistled at her. The woman took it all in her stride, raising her head high.
The woman entered the motel and headed straight towards the reception counter. A balding, potbellied, middle aged man, who was seated behind the counter, looked up from the small television that was tucked away in the corner of the counter when the woman stood in front of him.
WOMAN: Hey Frank. Got anything for me?
RECEPTIONIST/FRANK: Yup.
He opened up the top drawer and took out a piece of paper.
FRANK: Says his name is Jeff. He’s from Chicago and says he’s feeling lonely without his wife.
WOMAN: (smiled) A married man. My favourite type.
FRANK: I knew you’d like him. He’s waiting for you in Room 117.
Frank handed her a key and she took it with a sultry smile.
WOMAN: Thanks Frank. I owe you one.
FRANK: I’ll be waiting next door.
The woman laughed as Frank winked at her. With a wave, she left the reception area and walked the hallway that led towards the rooms. Five minutes later, she stopped in front of room 117. She adjusted her top, smacked her lips together and fluffed her hair before knocking on the door.
WOMAN: Knock, knock. Room service.
A moment later, she heard the lock being unlocked and the door opened. A tall, blonde man looked at her nervously.
MAN: Hi. Are you Lisa?
WOMAN/LISA: The one and only. Can I come in?
MAN/JEFF: Of course.
He moved out of the way and allowed Lisa to enter the room. She shut the door behind her and surveyed her surroundings.
JEFF: It’s not much of a room…
LISA: As long as there’s a bed, honey, we will be alright.
Jeff laughed nervously.
JEFF: Right. Of course.
Lisa set her purse down on the dresser table and studied the man in front of her. He wasn’t all that good looking. His blonde hair was fading and thin and his blue eyes were light and didn’t have any sparkle in them. He was wearing a rumpled blue suit, with a loose tie around his neck. Jeff looked like an overworked businessman that needed fun badly.
LISA: You don’t do this often do you?
JEFF: Not really. I go to strip clubs whenever I’m away for business but that’s as far as it gets.
LISA: Yeah? So why the sudden change of direction?
Lisa started taking out her earrings as Jeff spoke.
JEFF: I just feel…
LISA: Don’t worry, Jeff, I won’t make you say it.
Lisa slipped her shoes off and placed them aside. She sauntered towards him and started unbuttoning his shirt.
LISA: Just relax and I’ll do all the work.
JEFF: Erm…ok.
Lisa pulled his shirt open and started kissing his neck.
LISA: (whispered) You need all the fun you can get, Jeff, and I’m going to make sure that you do.
Jeff closed his eyes and relaxed. He smiled a little as Lisa continued kissing his neck and bare chest. A moment later, Jeff opened his eyes and his expression completely changed. The nervous façade melted away and a determined expression appeared on his face. He lifted up his hands and long claws were seen. His smile grew wicked. He no longer looked like the nervous man that he was moments before. He looked like a killer.
Jeff took Lisa by her shoulders and gently pulled her away.
LISA: What’s wrong, honey?
JEFF: Nothing. I just want to thank you for satisfying my hunger.
Lisa laughed. She didn’t seem to notice the claws that were around her shoulders.
LISA: Hunger? Is that what you kids are calling it these days?
Without another word, Jeff swiped his claws across her neck. Lisa’s eyes widened in shock, her hands flying to her neck. Red crimson blood poured down her neck as she gurgled and gagged.
JEFF: It’s your blood that I want. Not your body, sweetheart.
He grabbed the back of her head and brought her up to his mouth. A long, black tongue snaked out and wrapped itself around the wound. He started drinking her blood.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~LATER~
Jeff opened the door of his room, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand. He froze when he saw someone leaning against the wall across from him. He was dressed all in black and had his arms across his chest. Astwihad smiled at Jeff. He peered around Jeff’s shoulder before Jeff closed the door behind him and locked it.
ASTWIHAD: Wow. You’re one clean eater. I like that in a demon.
JEFF: Who are you?
ASTWIHAD: I am here to offer you a job.
JEFF: No, thanks. I work alone.
ASTWIHAD: Ahriman won’t be happy if you decline his offer, Je’ffeo.
Jeff looked up at Astwihad in surprise.
JEFF: You work for Ahriman?
ASTWIHAD: I do. And he personally asked for you. So will you take the job?
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Post by Beck on Jan 23, 2007 12:55:44 GMT 10
ACT 2
~HADES VALLEY, 1997~
~a few days later~
The sound of the door bell resounded all the over the house. It came again and again. The visitor was not patient.
TABITHA: (o.s) Alright! I’m coming. Keep your pants on!
Tabitha hurried out of her living room and pulled the door open before the person could press the doorbell again. Tabitha blinked in surprise when she saw who was at the door. Pike stood on the porch with a grin on his face. A duffle bag was slung over one shoulder.
TABITHA: Oliver.
PIKE: Hey sis.
TABITHA: What the hell are you doing here? Are you lost?
PIKE: (chuckled) No. I thought I’d come and visit you. Aren’t you going to let me in?
TABITHA: Not until you tell me why you’re really here.
PIKE: I’m here to visit you.
TABITHA: You didn’t call.
PIKE: Must your own brother call just to visit you?
TABITHA: Well…yes!
Pike sighed and rubbed the back of his neck.
PIKE: Can you just let me in?
Something in her brother’s voice made her listen to him. She moved out of the way and allowed him in. Pike smiled gratefully at her.
PIKE: Thanks.
Tabitha shut the door behind him and folded her arms across her chest.
TABITHA: Uh-huh. So what are you doing here?
Pike set his duffle bag down and looked around the house. He looked back at her and gave her an approving smile. Pike went into the living room, ignoring her question. Tabitha followed closely behind.
PIKE: How many rooms do you have here?
TABITHA: Three. And I don’t have room for you in case you’re wondering.
Pike left the living room and headed towards the kitchen. Tabitha stayed close to him.
PIKE: Do you have a basement?
TABITHA: It’s…flooded. Sorry.
PIKE: Your living room is pretty spacious actually.
TABITHA: But not spacious enough for a grown man to be sleeping there.
PIKE: I can manage.
TABITHA: Damn it, Oliver!
She grabbed her brother’s arm and pulled him to a stop before he could climb up the stairs to the second level.
TABITHA: What are you doing here?!
PIKE: I’m here –
TABITHA: No! Don’t! Don’t you dare say you’re here to visit me.
Tabitha narrowed her eyes at him, tightening her grip on his arm a little.
TABITHA: Is mom and dad with you? You didn’t bring them here did you?
PIKE: No, I came alone.
TABITHA: Why?
PIKE: (sighed) Something happened.
Tabitha stared at him, silently urging him to continue. When he didn’t, Tabitha rolled her eyes in exasperation.
TABITHA: So? Spill. Now.
Pike pried Tabitha’s fingers from his arm.
PIKE: They wanted to send me away.
TABITHA: Away? What do you mean by away? Away as in away to our grandparents place or away as in far, far away?
PIKE: Away as in away to an institution.
Tabitha’s jaw dropped in disbelief.
TABITHA: Institution? The mental institution?
PIKE: Apparently…
TABITHA: What? They can’t do that! (pause) Can they?
PIKE: Apparently…
TABITHA: That’s ridiculous. Your own parents can’t send you away to a mental institution. It’s against the family code.
PIKE: Family code?
TABITHA: Yeah. You know, like, the sister has to love her brother because he’s her brother and the eldest always gets first priority because she’s older and all that. That family code.
PIKE: (frowned) Is that why you always got whatever you wanted and I didn’t?
TABITHA: Look, what I’m saying is that they can’t send you away. You’re their son.
PIKE: And that didn’t really matter to them cause they can and they did. I was supposed to go there today.
TABITHA: But you came here instead.
She shook her head in disappointment.
TABITHA: Not very smart, Ollie.
PIKE: (glared) Hey, it’s not like I had a choice ok?
TABITHA: Couldn’t you at least talk to them about it?
PIKE: You think I didn’t try?
Tabitha raised her eyebrows.
TABITHA: Knowing you? No. You’re also taking the dramatic and crazy way out of things so it’s no surprise that you would pull this crazy stunt.
PIKE: (scowled) I’m not crazy.
Tabitha shook her head. She couldn’t believe that this was happening.
TABITHA: This is so wrong. Did mom and dad tell you why they were sending you away?
PIKE: (quickly) Nope.
Tabitha cocked her head at him, realization dawning upon her. Pike brushed past her, making his exit.
TABITHA: Hold on a minute there, little brother. You do know why they are doing this.
PIKE: I don’t. What makes you think I do?
He left the kitchen and went to the front door where his bag was. He picked it up.
TABITHA: Because you are not looking at me and I saw you tensing when I brought the subject up.
He ran a free hand through his hair. Tabitha touched him arm, softening her voice.
TABITHA: Oliver, if you don’t tell me, how am I supposed to help you?
PIKE: (snapped) I don’t need your help.
TABITHA: Right. That’s why you’re in my house in Hades Valley.
Pike leaned against the front door and leaned his head back. He squeezed his eyes shut.
PIKE: It was because of her alright? They found out that her parents sent her to the mental institution and they wanted to do the same for me because they think I’m suffering from the same condition they think she is.
Tabitha raised her eyebrows.
TABITHA: Are you?
Pike’s eyes snapped open and he shot her a glare.
PIKE: I can’t believe you asked me that.
TABITHA: I’m sorry, Oliver, but sometimes I wonder…she had a big influence on you and you guys were dating and…
PIKE: Well, I’m not crazy alright. And neither is she.
The two of them said nothing for a few moments. Tabitha stuffed her hands in the pockets of her jeans.
TABITHA: So…you’re staying here till mom and dad call off the search party?
PIKE: I guess. Maybe longer. I can’t go back there. They…they told me not to come back.
TABITHA: I can call them –
PIKE: No, don’t. I won’t go back there.
TABITHA: So what are you going to do? You can stay here, I guess, but you need to chip in for rent.
Pike smiled at Tabitha gratefully. He reached out for her hand. Tabitha took it and gave he gave her hand a squeeze.
PIKE: I’ll try to get out of here as soon as I find a place. You don’t have to worry about me.
TABITHA: I’ll try not to.
She pulled him towards herself and hugged him.
TABITHA: I missed you, little brother.
Pike smiled as he hugged his sister back. He closed his eyes.
PIKE: Me too.
###############################################
~HOUSE, PRESENT DAY~
~morning~
Tabitha’s eyes fluttered opened and she groaned as sunlight hit her face. She turned away from the window and stared up at the ceiling. Pressing the heels of her palm against her eyes, she let out a groan.
She threw her thick, cream coloured covers off and climbed out of bed slowly. She trudged towards the stairs muttering softly under her breath.
TABITHA: Coffee. I need coffee. Coffee…
She stopped at the top of the stair when her gaze caught sight of the door of the guestroom. She frowned as she stared at it for a moment. She looked down at the stairs and then back to the door.
TABITHA: Coffee? Or curiosity?
Before she could change her mind, Tabitha turned and slowly made her way towards the door of the guest room. She knocked on the door a couple of time before waiting for an answer. When none came, she tried again.
TABITHA: Weird. Don’t tell me Mr. and Mrs. we-wake-up-when-the-rooster-crows are still sleep.
Tabitha heard movement behind her and she glanced over her shoulder. Pike came shuffling out of his room, yawning loudly. His long hair was sticking out in all direction and he was bare-chested – he was only wearing his smiley face boxer shorts.
Pike looked at Tabitha and raised an eyebrow.
PIKE: What are you doing?
She looked at the door of the guest room.
TABITHA: Are they still asleep?
Pike walked up to his sister and stood beside her. He, too, stared at the door.
PIKE: I’m not sure. It’s nearly ten in the morning and usually they are up by now.
TABITHA: Usually. Shall we take a look inside?
Pike didn’t reply immediately as he thought about the question.
PIKE: Do we need to?
TABITHA: No. But maybe we should, just to make sure that they are still alive.
The two of them fell silent.
PIKE: What’s the worst that could happen?
TABITHA: I have a few scenarios in mind.
PIKE: If the words “naked” and “bed” comes out from your mouth, I will have no choice but to rip your tongue out.
Tabitha reached out and placed her hand on the doorknob. She twisted it and pushed the door open. Tabitha and Pike blinked in surprise at what they saw.
The bed was neatly made and the room was spotless. No Serene or Trevor in sight. Neither were their bags.
PIKE: They left.
TABITHA: I must be dreaming.
PIKE: (grinned) Want me to punch you?
She ignored her brother and stepped into the room.
TABITHA: I cannot believe that they actually listened to me. They actually left.
PIKE: It is pretty amazing.
TABITHA: I wonder where they went.
Pike came into the room and went to one of the bedside tables.
PIKE: They left a note.
He picked up a small yellow post-it and read it out loud.
PIKE: “We are at the Hades Valley Motel. We will call you with the room number as soon as we check in. Mom and Dad.”
TABITHA: Wow.
Pike folded the note and placed his hands on his hips. He looked around the room.
PIKE: You can say that again.
TABITHA: Wow.
Pike took one last look at the bed before making his way out of the room.
PIKE: Come on. Let’s get some coffee. We got a big day ahead. We are going to the Hellmouth tonight.
###############################################
~OUTSIDE THE MONASTERY~
~night~
Asta stood outside of an old monastery and stared at its towering frame. Xander and Andrew were on the either side of her while Tabitha and Pike were standing behind them.
XANDER: This is a Hellmouth?
PIKE: Yup.
ANDREW: And it’s in a monastery?
TABITHA: Yup.
ASTA: And the monastery is on one of the busiest streets in Hades Valley?
PIKE: Yup. But the monastery has been closed for over 80 years now. The only people who go in there are teenagers looking for cheap thrill…and people battling red demons.
ASTA: So is the Hellmouth the monastery itself or underneath it?
TABITHA: It’s underneath it. We don’t really know whether there’s a reason for building the monastery on the Hellmouth though.
ASTA: We could ask Brother Tam. He was one of the monastery’s keepers.
XANDER: Yeah. That sounds like a good idea.
The four of them stood staring at the monastery, not saying a word. Asta turned and looked at Pike and Tabitha.
ASTA: So are we going to just stand here or are we gonna take a look at the Hellmouth?
PIKE: Not unless you want to dig out tons of concrete and dirt.
ASTA: Oh. Right.
XANDER: Is this Hellmouth as active as the one in Sunnydale?
TABITHA: Well, we haven’t exactly experienced any apocalypses yet. Things have been relatively quiet. We have the usual high vamp activity and some random demon stirring up trouble but that’s about it.
ANDREW: That’s not unusual. Usually, only a few hellmouths are active while the rest stay dormant.
XANDER: But now that the one in Sunnydale is closed…
ANDREW: We might be seeing a peak in activity but only time will tell. We should monitor this Hellmouth. We have to be prepared if there’s a sudden burst of activity. Who knows what would happen if this Hellmouth wakes up.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~INSIDE THE MONASTERY~
Jeff got down on one knee in front of the massive, black being and bowed his head low. Astwihad stood to the side, an amused smile on his handsome face.
JEFF: I’m honoured to be in the presence of Ahriman. It gives me great pleasure and joy. I am at your service.
AHRIMAN: Arise.
Jeff obeyed. He got to his feet but kept his head bowed low.
AHRIMAN: What is your name, lowly creature?
JEFF: I am called Je’ffeo. But in this dimension I am known as Jeff.
AHRIMAN: And what is it that you do?
Astwihad stepped forwards, stopping the other creature from replying.
ASTWIHAD: Je’ffeo is one of a kind. His kind has a taste for the blood of the female.
Ahriman turned to Astwihad. He sounded annoyed as he spoke.
AHRIMAN: Let the creature speak, Astwihad.
Astwihad blinked at the being in front of him. He caught Jeff smirking and he gritted his teeth in anger. Astwihad smiled brightly so that he didn’t look bristled at Ahriman’s brush off. He stepped back and let Jeff take the floor again. He stuffed his hands into the pockets of his pants.
AHRIMAN: (to Jeff) How long have you been in this dimension?
JEFF: About half a century now.
Ahriman turned to Astwihad. His red eyes dimmed.
AHRIMAN: (angrily) Is this the best you can do?
ASTWIHAD: Well, he was the only ruthless demon around at the time and I was…desperate. Besides, I don’t really see a problem. He has a taste for females and the witch – last I heard – was a female.
Ahriman turned his attention back to Jeff and stroked his chin.
AHRIMAN: Very well. (to Jeff) You know what you’re required to do.
JEFF: (nodded) Astwihad has filled me in on the details.
AHRIMAN: Good. Then you know what I expect.
JEFF: I do. And I won’t fail you.
ASTWIHAD: Just don’t take too long. We are on a tight schedule.
JEFF: I won’t.
Astwihad looked at Ahriman and grinned happily.
ASTWIHAD: This is going to be so much fun!
Ahriman didn’t reply. Instead he cocked his head, staring hard at something on his left.
AHRIMAN: My dear Asta…
Astwihad frowned. Ahriman’s voice sounded dreamy, like he was thinking of a long lost lover. Astwihad’s head snapped towards the closed front door and he sneered.
ASTWIHAD: Is here.
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Post by Beck on Jan 23, 2007 12:58:36 GMT 10
ACT 3
~OUTSIDE THE MONASTERY~
The heavy wooded door of the monastery burst open, taking the five of them outside by surprise. A demon stood at the doorway. His claws gleamed under the moonlight while his long, black tongue snaked out.
PIKE: What the –
XANDER: Holy Mary!
Andrew looked at Pike, confused.
ANDREW: I thought you said nobody was in there?
PIKE: (grimly) Guess I was wrong.
The demon stretched out his arms and clicked his claws together. He smiled wickedly at the five of them.
DEMON: I’m Jeff. Wanna know what I do for fun?
TABITHA: That does not sound good.
Jeff turned his attention to the slayer.
JEFF: You must be Asta. I heard a lot about you.
ASTA: Ok…so he knows my name now.
TABITHA: That can’t be good either.
XANDER: Instead of standing here and talking, how about we kick his ass?
PIKE: Sounds like a good plan.
Pike pulled out a small dagger from the inside of his coat. Gripping it in his right hand, he rushed the demon. As soon as Pike was about to reach him, Jeff bent slightly at his knees and jumped up high into the air. Two large wings unfolded from his back. Jeff hovered about the ground, eyeing his opponents. He set his sights on Tabitha and swooped in for her.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~HADES VALLEY, 1997~
~night~
~cemetery~
Pike got down on one knee and stretched out his hands, lacing his fingers together. He looked up at his sister.
PIKE: Here, I’ll give you a boost.
Tabitha looked down at her brother incredulously.
TABITHA: What?
PIKE: The gate’s locked. I think the authorities heard about the empty graves. So the only way to get in is over the gate.
TABITHA: What?
PIKE: (sighed) Just put your on feet on my hand and I’ll boost you up. Once you’re up there, reach down and help me up. Understand?
Tabitha placed her hands on her hips and glared at Pike.
TABITHA: I’m not breaking and entering.
PIKE: Technically, we are not breaking.
TABITHA: But we are entering – without permission.
PIKE: Look, I know how this looks but I have a good reason for doing this.
TABITHA: Really? Please do enlighten me. I got all night.
Pike sighed and stood up.
PIKE: There have been reports of empty graves in this cemetery. Authorities say that it’s grave-robbing. It’s not.
TABITHA: So what is it then, Sherlock?
PIKE: Vampires.
Tabitha stared at him. Then she burst out loud laughing.
TABITHA: Are you serious? Vampires?
PIKE: Yes, I’m serious. And I brought you here to see them for yourself, so you wouldn’t think I’m crazy.
TABITHA: A bit too late for that.
PIKE: Just trust me on this one ok?
TABITHA: If we get caught, I’m telling on you and I’m not visiting you in jail.
PIKE: (grinned) Deal.
He knelt down again and offered his hands.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~HADES VALLEY, PRESENT~
~outside the monastery~
Xander slammed into Tabitha and tackled her to the ground just at the flying demon swooped over their heads. Tabitha stared back up at Xander, the wind knocked out of her.
XANDER: You alright?
TABITHA: Did it just try to attack me?
XANDER: It did.
A scowl formed on her face.
TABITHA: I don’t like it when demons make me their target.
Xander stood up and pulled Tabitha to her feet. They looked up and saw Jeff getting ready to come at them again.
XANDER: Asta?
ASTA: Behind you.
Xander looked over his shoulder and saw Asta jogging up to him.
XANDER: The demon is after Tabitha.
Asta kept her eyes on Jeff above her head. The others around her were doing the same. The demon was circling them and at that moment there was nothing they could do but to watch and wait for its next move.
ASTA: Do we know why?
XANDER: No. But we need a plan to take him down. Standing here and gawking at him won’t give us any miracles.
Asta’s brow furrowed as she tried to think up a plan. But Xander spoke up before she could think of anything.
XANDER: Duck!
Xander grabbed Asta’s arm and pulled her to the ground as Jeff flew over them. At the corner of her eye, Asta saw Tabitha rolling out of the way while Andrew and Pike scrambled for cover behind a tree.
Jeff laughed as he circled the air.
XANDER: This dude is playing with us.
He glanced over at Asta.
XANDER: A plan right now would be nice before he decides playing with his food isn’t fun anymore.
ASTA: Right. Of course. Erm…Tabitha and I can keep him distracted…
XANDER: What about the rest of us?
ASTA: Take him down when he has his back turned.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~1997~
Tabitha watched as her brother dropped to the ground almost soundlessly. He pulled out a thick, wooden stick.
PIKE: Stay close to me and look out for anything suspicious.
TABITHA: Suspicious? Like a brother and sister walking around with a wooden stick?
PIKE: No, like him.
Pike nodded somewhere towards her left. She turned and spotted a man dusting dirt off his clothes.
PIKE: Come on.
Grabbing her hand, Pike pulled her sister towards the man. He was bent low and was being very quiet. Tabitha followed suit.
TABITHA: (softly) Have you ever wondered that maybe he could be a security guard doing – god forbid – his rounds?
Pike crouched down behind a tall tombstone, pulling Tabitha down with him.
PIKE: Look at what’s his wearing.
Tabitha squinted at the darkness, trying her best to make out what the man was wearing.
TABITHA: A tux?
PIKE: Exactly. Name me one security personnel that wear a tux.
TABITHA: Jay and Kay in Men in Black?
Pike threw his sister a smirk over his shoulder.
PIKE: In this case, we are the men in black and he is…
TABITHA: The scum of the universe.
PIKE: Damn right.
He handed her his stake and Tabitha took it, a skeptical look on her face.
TABITHA: You want me to use this wooden stick? Is it magical?
PIKE: I’ll fight this guy and when you see him that I got him cornered, you come in and stab him with that stake. Make sure you stab his heart.
Tabitha looked at her brother in surprise.
TABITHA: His heart?
PIKE: You ready?
TABITHA: But –
PIKE: Let’s go.
Without waiting for her, Pike got up and ran towards the man.
TABITHA: But I failed Biology!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~PRESENT DAY~
Asta hurried away from Xander and went to Tabitha. She grabbed Tabitha’s upper arm and dragged her away from the monastery.
TABITHA: This guy is too fast and if he stays up in the air like that, we are not going to get him.
ASTA: No problem. We just make sure that he is only after us.
TABITHA: (grimly) That won’t be a problem.
VOICE: (o.s) Tabitha?
Tabitha whirled around in surprise when she heard the voice and cursed under her breath when she saw her parents standing across the street. Her dad was gawking at the demon.
TABITHA: Now, that is going to be a problem.
ASTA: What are they doing here?!
TABITHA: I’m not going to take the time to find out.
Tabitha looked around for her brother. She spotted him coming from behind a tree, trying to sneak up to Jeff.
TABITHA: Oliver! Get mom and dad!
Pike looked at her and then at the direction she was pointing to. He swore loudly.
PIKE: What the hell are they doing here?
TABITHA: (snapped) Do you see a sign on my forehead saying I know the answer? Just get them!
PIKE: Here, take this.
Pike tossed the dagger he was holding to Asta and then ran across the street to get his parents. At that point of time, Jeff roared and came diving towards Tabitha and Asta. Asta shoved Tabitha out of the way and as soon as Jeff was almost on top of them, she jumped as high as her slayer powers enabled her.
Asta grabbed onto Jeff’s waist and clung on. Not expecting the sudden increase in weight, Jeff lost flight and the two crashed to the ground. Somewhere along the way, the dagger slipped out of Asta’s hand and went missing. Not wasting any time, Asta got to her feet and faced the demon. Jeff was still on the ground, having the wind knocked out of him. He got onto his hands and knees slowly.
Asta aimed a sharp kick at his abdomen, causing Jeff to roll a few feet away from her. As he tried to pick himself up, Asta did a quick scan of the ground around her in search of Pike’s lost dagger. A dull gleam of a blade near a tree a few meters away caught her eye. She was about to make dash for it when the sound of running feet stopped her. She looked up and saw Jeff rushing towards her. Jeff slammed into Asta and brought her down to the ground. Straddling her, Jeff struck her across her face. He grabbed the front of her sweatshirt that she was wearing and lifted her off the ground.
With a roar, he threw her against a tree. Asta’s back hit the trunk of the tree hard and she fell to the ground unconscious. Jeff turned and looked around for Tabitha. All he saw was her brother talking animatedly to an older couple. Smiling, Jeff spread his wings and made a beeline towards them.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~1997~
TABITHA: Any moment now, the zombies from Thriller are going to make an appearance, I’m sure.
Tabitha stood at a safe distance and watched her brother in amazement. Pike punched the vampire twice and aimed a kick in its groin. Pike spun around and gave a roundhouse kick across the vampire’s face.
TABITHA: Where the hell did he learn how to do that?
Pike ducked a punch and gave another one of his own. Snarling in frustration, the vampire rushed him and the two of them fell to the ground. Tabitha tried her hardest to keep up with the punches and kicks that were exchanged and who was winning but she couldn’t as things were going way to fast for her.
TABITHA: Pike! I hope you’re winning!
The only response she got was a grunt and someone crying out in pain. Then Pike and the vampire were on their feet, circling each other.
TABITHA: Do you have him cornered? Do I need to come in stakes a-stabbing?
PIKE: Just give me a minute.
The vampire swung a huge fist towards Pike’s face. He caught it easily and in one fluid motion, twisted the vampire’s arm back his back. Pike wrapped his free hand around the vampire’s neck and held on tight.
PIKE: Tabby! Stake him!
Tabitha hurried over to them, hesitating only for a second. The vampire saw her coming towards him with the stake in the air and he growled. He snarled and snapped his sharp teeth at her, causing her to jump back in surprise.
PIKE: Hurry up! I can’t hold him much longer!
The vampire was now struggling violently against Pike’s grip. Tabitha was finding it hard to aim the stake at his heart. Tabitha started to panic.
TABITHA: Could you keep him…it…still? It’s hard to stab the heart with him moving like that. And did I tell you I failed my Biology?
Pike was panting heavily and it didn’t look like he could hold onto the creature any longer.
PIKE: Just pick out the center of his chest and start stabbing until you get it right.
TABTIHA: (muttered) Ok, ok. I can do this.
Tabitha studied the vampire’s chest, picked out the center and got ready to plunge the stake in.
TABTIHA: Here goes.
Tabitha raised her hand and brought it down with as much force she could muster. At that moment, the vampire used Pike’s grip on him to hold him up as he lifted both of his legs and kicked Tabitha.
The force sent Tabitha reeling back into the ground. She landed on her back, knocking the air out of her.
PIKE: Tabby!
The vampire reached up, grabbed the back of Pike’s t-shirt and flipped him over his shoulder. He scowled at the teenager.
VAMP: There’s a reason why there’s no slayer here, dumb ass. It’s our town.
The vampire looked over at Tabitha and grinned. She started to scramble away when she saw the vampire coming towards her.
TABTIHA: Get away from me you freak!
But the vampire was too fast for her. He grabbed her arm and pulled her towards him.
VAMP: You are such a pretty dinner.
TABTIHA: (shock) You want to eat me? Ewww! That’s disgusting!
The vampire blinked at her.
VAMP: But you’re food. Vampires drink blood - human blood.
TABITHA: Ok, that’s even more disgusting. I mean, do you actually bite us and drain us dry?
VAMP: Yeah. (pause) You’re new to this, are you?
Tabitha smiled nervously.
TABTIHA: A little.
The vampire grinned and spun her around, holding her tight against his chest. He looked over at her brother who was still on the ground, exhausted. He looked up at them.
VAMP: Come near me and I’ll kill your girlfriend.
TABTIHA: Sister.
VAMP: Sister.
PIKE: It’s me you want to fight. Let her go.
VAMP: Nah. I prefer to take her on instead. After I’m done with her, I’ll come get you.
The vampire laughed before backing away towards the cemetery’s exit. Pike watched helpless from the ground as Tabitha struggled and screamed.
TABTIHA: Oliver!
PIKE: Oh crap.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~PRESENT~
Pike ran towards his parents as fast as he could. As soon as he reached them, he grabbed both theirs hands and started dragging them down the street, away from the monastery and the fight.
PIKE: You guys have to get out of here. Go back to the motel or back to the house, I don’t care. Just get out of here.
SERENE: Oliver, what’s going on? Who is that man you’re fighting with?
PIKE: You wouldn’t believe me if I told you, mom.
Serene pulled her hand away and stopped in her tracks.
SERENE: Well, we are not going anywhere unless you explain to us what’s going on.
Pike looked at them and sighed. He cast a glance over at the fight. Asta looked like she had the demon under control but he didn’t know for how long.
PIKE: That guy my friend is fighting? He’s a demon. Yes, demons do exist and unlike what you thought years ago, I’m not crazy then and I’m not crazy now. If you don’t leave, the demon will see you and come after you. (pause) Is that explanation enough?
Serene and Trevor looked shocked as they stared at their son.
TREVOR: I don’t know what to say.
PIKE: You don’t have to say anything. Just leave.
Before Pike could do anything else, his mother let out an earth shattering scream. Pike spun round but it was too late, the powerful flap of Jeff’s wings caused him to fly backwards, away from this parents. Groaning, Pike looked up and watched helplessly as the demon brushed his father aside and grabbed his mother. The demon looked at Pike and grinned.
JEFF: Your sister’s life for hers.
PIKE: Oh crap.
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Post by Beck on Jan 23, 2007 13:04:09 GMT 10
~ACT 4~
Asta groaned as her eyes fluttered opened. Andrew was beside her, a concerned look etched on his face.
ANDREW: Hey, you alright?
Asta nodded. With the help of Andrew, she slowly got to her feet. She looked around.
ASTA: What happened? Did we kill the demon?
Andrew looked over at where the demon was. Tabitha, Pike and their father stood before him.
ANDREW: No. But he has Tabitha’s mom and from the looks of it, I think he wants a trade.
ASTA: What? Why?
ANDREW: (looked at Asta) He’s a demon. Demons always come up with weird things.
Xander came up to them. He had scratches on his face and he was cradling his right arm. Asta looked at him in concern.
ASTA: Are you alright?
XANDER: I’ve been worse.
Xander nodded towards Jeff, Pike and Tabitha.
XANDER: That can’t be good.
ASTA: No…but…but I think I've got a plan.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
TABITHA: You want me? Then come and get me.
JEFF: It’s not that easy, little lady.
TABITHA: For goodness knows why, this is between you and me so how about we leave my mom out of it.
JEFF: Sure. Right after I rip her throat out and drain her dry.
SERENE: What? No!
PIKE: It’s alright, mom. This will be all over soon.
Tabitha stepped forward, stretching her arms out.
TABITHA: Alright, here I am. I’m weaponless and defenseless. So let my mom go and take me.
Out of nowhere, Andrew came running between them, yelling on top of his voice.
ANDREW: Timothy Dalton is the best James Bond ever!
Tabitha and Pike exchanged looks.
PIKE: What the hell is he doing?
ANDREW: He should have won an Oscar.
PIKE: He’s going to get himself killed.
TABITHA: Well, it was nice knowing him.
At that moment, Xander popped up between Pike and Tabitha. He grabbed Tabitha’s arm.
XANDER: We gotta go.
TABITHA: Where?
XANDER: Anywhere but here. (to Pike) Help Andrew.
PIKE: To do what?
Xander didn’t answer. He pulled Tabitha away from Jeff and Pike. Pike turned and saw an irritated Jeff coming towards Andrew.
JEFF: Get out of my way!
He used his free hand and grabbed Andrew by his shirt and tossed him away. As soon as the demon saw that Tabitha wasn’t around, his irritation turned into anger. He pushed Pike’s mother away from him and stalked towards Pike.
JEFF: Where is she?
ASTA: (o.s) Hey! Jeff! Behind you!
Jeff turned and saw Asta standing a few meters away from him. Without a moment’s hesitation, she raised up her hand and threw Pike’s dagger end over end straight towards Jeff. The dagger struck its target, sticking out of the demon’s forehead. Jeff’s eyes rolled back into his head and collapsed to the ground.
ASTA: I’m getting good at this. (to Tabitha) Tabitha! Torch him.
Tabitha took a moment to recover before she raised both her hands and muttered under her breath. A second later, the demon went up in flames.
Asta hurried towards Mrs. Pike.
ASTA: Mrs. Pike, are you alright?
Serene nodded, rubbing her neck.
SERENE: I’m fine. Who was that man? And how did he –
ASTA: He was a demon.
Tabitha, Xander, Andrew, Pike and Trevor came running up to them.
PIKE: Everyone ok?
ANDREW: Thanks to Asta.
Serene grabbed Pike’s hand.
SERENE: We must call the police and let them know what happened. He tried to kill me!
PIKE: Mom, he was not a man. He was a demon. I thought the wings and those claws kinda gave it away. And bringing in the police won’t be a good idea.
SERENE: Don’t be silly, dear. There’s no such thing as demon.
Tabitha sighed.
TABITHA: Yes, mom, there’s no such thing as demons. What you saw there was a cheap Hollywood stunt. Come on, let’s head home.
###############################################
~1997~
Tabitha thrashed hard against her captor.
TABITHA: Let me go, you jerk. I’ll scream.
The vampire chuckled.
VAMP: That’s not going help you, little girl.
Tabitha screamed. Loudly. Growling, the vampire slapped a giant, cold hand across her mouth.
VAMP: Shut up!
Tabitha bit his hand, hard, causing the vampire to roar in pain. The grip around her loosened and Tabitha took this moment to struggle out of his hands. Breaking free, Tabitha moved away from and raised her hands up in front of her.
TABITHA: You don’t want to mess with me. I know karate.
The vampire, holding his injured hand, scowled at her.
VAMP: You don’t know squat!
TABITHA: I do! So for you own safety, you better stay away from me.
VAMP: Oh yeah? What are you going to do, little girl?
Tabitha looked at the vampire, her gaze hardening and a determined expression on her face.
TABITHA: This!
Without hesitation, Tabitha broke into a run, running back to where her brother and the vampire were fighting earlier on.
VAMP: Hey!
A second later, Tabitha heard the sound of pounding footsteps behind her. Risking a glance over her shoulder, she saw the vampire giving chase. The vampire was fast and he was almost on top of her.
TABITHA: Pike! If you want to play hero, now is a good time!
PIKE: Duck!
Tabitha dropped to the ground just as she saw a thick branch whiz above her head. She heard a crunching sound a moment later. Tabitha glanced over her shoulder and saw the vampire falling to the ground, his nose bleeding badly.
Pike came out of hiding and towered over the creature, which was writhing on the ground in pain. In Pike’s hand was a long, thick branch.
PIKE: This is for attacking my sister.
Pike lifted the branch and plunged it deep into the vampire’s chest. The vampire cursed out loud before exploding into a cloud of dust. Tabitha, from the ground, stared at where the spot where the vampire was a minute ago in shock.
TABITHA: What the hell just happened?
PIKE: That was a vampire dying.
TABITHA: But…but…he just exploded!
PIKE: Yup. Vampires tend to do that.
TABITHA: This is so wrong. This must be some kind of a nightmare.
Pike looked at her sister and frowned.
PIKE: You ok?
Tabitha climbed to her feet and dusted herself off.
TABITHA: No, I’m not ok! I mean, it’s not everyday when your brother brings you out to a cemetery, you fight with a vampire, get captured by one and then see it disappear in a cloud of ashes!
PIKE: I know this is a lot to take in but I needed you to see this. So that you would know that you don’t have a nutcase as a brother.
Tabitha stared at Pike.
TABITHA: Do you do this everyday?
PIKE: (shrugged) I try anyway.
TABITHA: Wow. (pause) Are you going to make me do this everyday?
PIKE: (chuckled) Not if you want don’t want to. I just…wanted you to know. You can help me if you want but I’m not forcing you to. You can help me do research and stuff.
TABITHA: Research?
PIKE: There are times when I came across demons that I never seen before. So you can do research on that demon and tell me how to kill it. I got books.
TABITHA: That sounds safer but not any less weird.
Pike shrugged, stuffing his hands into the pockets of his jeans.
PIKE: Well, you don’t have to do it, if you don’t want to. I thought it would be nice to have some help.
TABITHA: No, I didn’t mean that. I’ll help you but only because it’s important to you.
Pike smiled gratefully at his sister.
PIKE: It is.
TABITHA: Well. Now that that is settled, how about we get some supper? Being captured by a vampire certainly makes you hungry.
PIKE: Sounds like a plan.
Tabitha linked arms with her brother and the two of them headed towards the exit of the cemetery.
TABITHA: So tell me, where did you learn how to fight like that? Is it easy to learn? And when did you get so smart? I would have never thought of using that branch.
###############################################
~MONASTERY~
Astwihad screamed in anger as he smashed an old pot against the wall.
AHRIMAN: You should calm down.
Astwihad shot a dirty look at Ahriman.
ASTWIHAD: Calm down? Did you just see what happened? That demon was supposed to be the best!
AHRIMAN: There’s always another time. We can pay attention to that Watcher of hers in the meantime.
ASTWIHAD: I hope you have some bright ideas on how to get rid of him.
AHRIMAN: I do.
Astwihad smoothed out his suit and hair.
ASTWIHAD: Will there be blood involved?
Ahriman’s red eyes got brighter.
AHRIMAN: Of course.
Astwihad grinned.
###############################################
~HOUSE~
Serene and Trevor stood at the front door with Tabitha and Pike. The rest waited in the living room, giving them some privacy. The front door was open and a car was running outside.
The four of them shifted awkwardly, not sure what to say to each other.
SERENE: Well.
TABITHA: Yeah.
SERENE: It certainly has been an interesting visit.
Tabitha and Pike didn’t say anything. They both stared at the ground. Tabitha cleared her throat.
TABITHA: You should hit the road before it gets too late.
SERENE: Yes, you are right.
She turned to her husband.
SERENE: I’ll wait for you in the car.
She gave a tight smile towards Tabitha and Pike before stepping out of the house and walked towards their car. Tabitha scowled after her.
TABITHA: I can not believe she didn’t thank me for saving her life.
TREVOR: She’s still…in denial over everything that has happened.
He stepped forwards and hugged Tabitha.
TREVOR: But thank you.
Tabitha wrapped her hands around her father and gave him a quick squeeze.
TABITHA: You’re welcome, dad.
The two of them broke apart.
PIKE: You know, you guys never told us why you came here in the first place.
Trevor smiled sadly.
TREVOR: We were hoping to resolve things between us. It didn’t seem the letters were working so we thought we would come down and do it personally.
Tabitha stared at their parents’ car wistfully.
TABITHA: After everything that has happened, I don’t think things will ever be ok between us anymore.
Trevor sighed as he ran his hand through his hair.
TREVOR: I know…I just wish things were different. I want us to be a family again.
PIKE: Things could have been different. You both just have to accept what you’ve seen.
TREVOR: I don’t think we both can and that’s the problem.
TABITHA: Until you do, things will never be ok between us. This demon fighting thing is our life now.
TREVOR: That’s what I figured. (pause) Well, I better get going. I hope to see you both soon.
PIKE: Can’t promise anything.
TREVOR: Yeah.
His gaze lingered a little longer on his children.
TREVOR: Take care of yourselves. And if you need anything, give me a call. I won’t tell your mother.
Pike and Tabitha chuckled.
PIKE: Thanks.
The three of them didn’t move for a moment.
TREVOR: Yes…well. Goodbye.
With that, he turned and left the house, making his way towards the car. Tabitha went to the front door and stood at the threshold, watching her father get into the car.
PIKE: I’m going to take a shower. I’ll see you in the morning.
TABITHA: Hmmm.
Her parents’ car came to life and started to pull away from the curb. A few minutes later, the taillights blinked away in the distance.
ASTA: (o.s) You know, it’s interesting how one moment you hated them so much you would have let a demon eat them up and the next, you were so adamant in saving your mom.
Tabitha glanced over her shoulder and saw Asta standing behind her. The young slayer came up to Tabitha and stood beside her, gazing out into the dark.
TABITHA: I guess it’s my way of showing affection.
ASTA: Do you forgive them? For what they have done?
TABITHA: But that’s the thing, they didn’t do anything. They just made a very bad decision.
ASTA: Then why are you both so angry with them?
TABITHA: I’m not angry just…unforgiving. They wanted to send Oliver to a mental institution. He was only 16. Both our lives changed drastically. I had to quit college for him. (pause) He came out here just to get away from them. No son should be running away from his parents. No son should be scared of his parents.
ASTA: Then shouldn’t Pike be the unforgiving one?
Tabitha smiled fondly. She looked at Asta.
TABITHA: He can’t. It’s not in his nature.
ASTA: So what happened exactly?
Tabitha leaned against the door frame, facing Asta.
TABITHA: When Pike came here, my parents kept calling and threatening me. They told me to bring Pike home or they would cut us out of their lives. I knew what they would do if I brought him back so I didn’t. The calls stopped coming until a few years ago when they started sending us letters. I thought they were back to their old tricks again so I didn’t bother replying to them. We already have a good life going for us here. I had a well-paying job, we were battling demons without getting killed; I was getting good with the witch stuff…
ASTA: But then they showed up here.
TABITHA: Yup. Pike told me that no matter what he wouldn’t go back to them. He can’t trust them anymore and neither can I. After all those years living by ourselves, we realized that we don’t need them. As long as I have Oliver, I’m happy.
Tabitha smiled at Asta.
TABITHA: All we need is each other.
She pushed herself away from the door frame and made her way upstairs. Asta watched as the other girl climbed up the steps and disappeared. Asta closed the front door a minute later.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~PIKE’S ROOM~
When Tabitha entered Pike’s room, he was pattering around with only a towel around his waist. He looked like he was getting ready to grab a shower.
TABITHA: Hey.
Pike looked up in surprise. He frowned.
PIKE: Hey. Everything alright?
Tabitha smiled, her eyes tearing a little.
TABITHA: It is now.
Pike cocked his head.
PIKE: Are you ok?
TABITHA: Yeah. I just wanted to tell you…
PIKE: What?
TABITHA: That I love you. You know that right?
Pike cracked a smile, he blushed slightly.
PIKE: Yeah…yeah, I do.
TABITHA: We don’t need them. All we have is each other and that’s all we need.
Pike came up to her.
PIKE: Yeah.
TABITHA: You’re all that I need, Oliver.
PIKE: Ditto.
Pike pulled her into a hug and held her tight.
PIKE: I love you too.
The two of them held each other, not letting go until they were ready to.
CUT TO BLACK
END CREDITS
Written by
Irene Issac
Story Editor
Beck Schwarz
Special Thanks To
Everyone and anyone who helped in making this episode a success
A BECK TO SHREDS production. © 2006 Irene Issac
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