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DAWN: The Series
1x02 "Orientation"
Written By kungfubear
Created By kungfubear & Skinless
Based on characters created by Joss Whedon
TEASER
INT. LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
ANGLE ON: TV
A 60" LCD Wide-screen is mounted on the wall. On the screen, we see Daffy Duck being transformed into a four-legged, flower-headed creature (see "Duck Amuck").
REVERSE ANGLE ON: GROUP
DAWN, WILLOW & KENNEDY are seated on a big, comfy couch. They're all dressed in pajamas and staring at the cartoon, a bit awestruck.
KENNEDY
It's so...anamorphic.
WILLOW
I've seen my share of demons, vampires and even a flaying, but there's something about a five-foot tall Daffy that creeps me out.
BARRET enters from the kitchen, carrying a large bowl of popcorn. He sits down next to Dawn, placing the bowl in between them.
BARRET
Just be thankful it's not in high definition.
DAWN
(mouthful of popcorn)
I think it's cool.
BARRET
Ah, I knew there was a reason I bought all this crap. So, I hear Dawn's going to her first college party.
DAWN
(sarcastic)
Hooray.
BARRET
That doesn't sound good. If you're dreading the experience, then why go?
DAWN
I promised this giant bunny I'd show up.
Confused, Barret looks to Willow for answers.
WILLOW
A pledge invited her. He was wearing a costume.
Barret nods even though it's clear he doesn't fully understand.
BARRET
Of course.
KENNEDY
Trust me Dawn, after life in Sunnydale, big social gatherings are about as exciting as a PBS telethon.
WILLOW
(wounded kitten)
Hey, I like PBS.
KENNEDY
And I like you, so it all works out.
BARRET
Look on the plus side, you might meet someone at the party.
WILLOW
Hey, yeah. That guy Chase seemed interested.
Dawn starts warming up to the idea.
DAWN
Maybe. I still need to see him without the floppy ears and the cotton tail, though.
BARRET
We're still talking about the guy in the bunny suit, right?
DAWN
(smiling)
You know what? You guys are right. I should go out tomorrow and have fun. I mean, it's just a kegger. It's not like it's gonna kill me.
CUT TO:
INT. PHI OMEGA GAMMA HOUSE - BASEMENT - NIGHT
ANGLE ON: FLOOR
We see a series of glyphs painted on the dirty floor of the basement. Circled around these symbols, we see a group of FRAT BROTHERS. Among this group, we see GLENN. We center on JACOB, 24. He's short with wavy, blond hair.
JACOB
Welcome, Brothers. As you know, tomorrow night is our Annual Fish Tank Party.
A heavyset, buzz-cut Frat Guy cuts him off. This is Tug, 21.
TUG
Fiesta.
JACOB
Thank you, Tug. Good work on the flyers, by the way.
TUG smiles proudly.
JACOB (CONT'D)
This is also the last night of pledge week. Many of you will soon be branching out on your own, spreading the good word of our fraternity. While I do strongly advocate this form of networking, I've thought of a more efficient, local solution to strengthening our numbers.
(to Glenn)
Brother Glenn? The keg.
Glenn wheels in the massive keg we last saw in Chase's possession. He places it in the center of the circle and removes the lid, revealing gallons of beer.
JACOB (CONT'D)
There are those who do not understand our cause, which is why we must take a more secretive approach to paying it forward, so to speak.
As Jacob is talking, Glenn is handing out knives to each and every one of the brothers. Once they're all set, Glenn joins the circle as they all hold out their hands and proceed to cut into their palms.
JACOB (CONT'D)
Get your game faces on, boys.
With that, every member of the group goes Vamp Face on us.
JACOB (CONT'D)
Tomorrow night, we turn fish into sharks.
The brothers keep their hands out over the keg as blood begins to spill from their wounds.
JACOB (CONT'D)
Long live The Brotherhood.
THE BROTHERHOOD
(in unison)
Long live The Brotherhood!
OVERHEAD ON: THE KEG
We PUSH IN on the brew within the keg, as the blood and beer begin to mix.
BLACK OUT.
END OF TEASER
CUE MUSIC AND OPENING: "Tomorrow" by SR-71
ACT ONE
INT. KITCHEN - MORNING
ANGLE ON: REFRIGERATOR
Dawn opens the refrigerator, searching for some semblance of breakfast.
DAWN
Hey, has anybody seen my student ID? I can't find it.
Kennedy and Willow are already seated at the table.
WILLOW
I don't think you're gonna find it in there, Dawn.
KENNEDY
Don't be so sure. I got drunk once and left my keys in the dishwasher. They smelled like lemons for a month.
She spots a pizza box on the bottom shelf. She pulls it out and sets it on the table.
WILLOW
Pizza for breakfast?
KENNEDY
Correction. Cold pizza for breakfast.
DAWN
Hey, it's got all the four basic food groups.
Dawn is about to open the box, but Barret stops her.
BARRET
I wouldn't open that.
DAWN
Why, is it old and nasty?
BARRET
Well, you're half right.
Cautiously, Dawn opens the box. A big smile broadens across her face.
DAWN
(excited)
Anchovies! Score!
WILLOW
(queasy)
I'm suddenly the very opposite of hungry.
DAWN
Oh come on, Willow. Anchovies are awesome.
WILLOW
Really, that's okay. You go ahead and have an awesome time.
DAWN
Okay, more for me and Kennedy, then.
Kennedy pushes herself away from the table.
KENNEDY
Actually, that's all you, Kiddo.
DAWN
(shrugs)
You don't know what you're missing.
BARRET
Regurgitation, I'd imagine.
WILLOW
Oh God, don't say it!
Barret smiles. Dawn sits down and starts eating. So she doesn't have to watch it, Willow uses the lid from the box to block her view.
KENNEDY
Uncle Barret, why do you have that in your fridge if you've no intention of eating it?
BARRET
I bring food home from work all the time, only it wasn't until I got in last night that I realized why someone sent back an entire thin crust.
KENNEDY
Why were you working so late, anyway?
BARRET
My weekend regular didn't show up for work.
WILLOW
Does that happen a lot?
BARRET
This is a college town. What do you think?
KENNEDY
Do you need an extra pair of hands? I'd be happy to pitch in for a while.
BARRET
Yeah, definitely.
DAWN
(to Kennedy)
You used to deliver pizza?
BARRET
Better than that, she used to make them.
Suddenly, the doorbell rings.
BARRET (CONT'D)
Hold on. The mail is here.
Barret exits.
DAWN
(to Kennedy)
Did you get to wear one of those floppy, Chef's hats?
KENNEDY
(playful)
We had to flip a coin. Barret got the hat. I got the handlebar moustache.
Dawn closes the pizza box and stands up from the table.
DAWN
I have no idea what I'm gonna wear to this party tonight.
KENNEDY
Correct me if I'm wrong, but don't you have an overflowing closet full of the latest Italian fashions, actually purchased in Italy?
DAWN
Yeah, but that says "Italian Dawn". I'm looking for something that's totally not me. Something out of left field.
WILLOW
(beaming)
I have an idea. Come with me.
She grabs Dawn by the wrist and starts pulling her away.
CUT TO:
INT. WILLOW & KENNEDY'S BEDROOM - LATER
CLOSE UP ON: DAWN & WILLOW
They're both looking at something off screen. Willow looks a bit proud, while Dawn appears more taken aback than anything.
DAWN
What in the world are you doing with this in your wardrobe, or do I even want to know?
WILLOW
You said you wanted something out of left field. This goes all the way back to the parking lot.
WIDE ON: FULL LENGTH MIRROR
We get a full body view of Dawn in the mirror's reflection. She's wearing boots, a short, black leather skirt and a burgundy, long-sleeved, V-necked midriff-baring top. In fact, it's the costume Buffy had forced Willow to wear back in "Halloween" (re: production code 5V06).
DAWN
Don't you mean street corner?
WILLOW
Do you like it?
DAWN
(smiling)
It's perfect! I love it! Do you think it'll get me noticed?
WILLOW
I can almost guarantee you'll be the center of attention.
CUT TO:
INT. PHI OMEGA GAMMA HOUSE - BASEMENT - LATER
ANGLE ON: FLOOR
The basement floor is bare for only a moment. The body of the Young Woman from Glenn's room falls into frame. This was TINA, 21.
WIDE ON: BASEMENT
Glenn and Jacob are arguing. Tug is putting up decorations for the party. They're still in Vamp Face.
JACOB
All you had to do was keep your appetite in check until tonight.
GLENN
So, I had a little taste. What's the big deal?
JACOB
She's been tainted! She's useless to us now! I can't believe you sometimes!
TUG
Uh, guys. You're spreading a lot of bad energy around. This is supposed to be a party room, and I don't know how I'm gonna pull that off if you keep--
Annoyed, Jacob forcefully gives Tug a bottle. He examines it and is suddenly very happy.
TUG (CONT'D)
(gasps)
Glitter Glue!
This seems to satisfy Tug as he goes back to his decorations.
JACOB
(to Glenn)
This is never going to work if you can't learn to control yourself.
GLENN
Stop bitching, alright? Look where we are. A place like this is crawling with girls, and we can have our fill. It's totally catered.
JACOB
Yes, but we only need one specific girl. Things aren't like they used to be, or haven't you noticed? The longer we wait, the harder it is to find a girl of pure blood.
TUG
Why don't we just hit a convent or something?
GLENN
Tug, if you need a twenty, you don't try to break into the Federal Reserve.
TUG
I don't?
GLENN
Why go through the hassle when you could just pick someone's pocket?
TUG
Oh, right.
GLENN
(to Jacob, re: Glue)
He's not sniffing that stuff, is he?
JACOB
I'm more curious about you, right now. The sun is out, and we only have a handful of hours to find a replacement. How the hell could you be so careless?
Glenn has a knowing smirk on his face. Jacob catches it.
JACOB (CONT'D)
Unless, you weren't being careless.
He looks down at Tina's dead body and then back to Glenn.
JACOB (CONT'D)
(pointing)
You knew she was no good, didn't you?
(smiles)
Tell me you can get a replacement.
Glenn slaps his hand on Jacob's shoulder.
GLENN
Jacob, my friend, I won't have to.
He hands Jacob a small card.
GLENN (CONT'D)
Our replacement will come to us.
CLOSE UP ON: ID CARD
We see that the object Jacob is now holding, is Dawn's Student Identification Card, complete with her photo and home address.
BLACK OUT.
ACT TWO
INT. PHI OMEGA GAMMA HOUSE - NIGHT
HIGH ANGLE ON: DEN/LIVING ROOM
The Fish Tank Fiesta is in full swing. Much of the furniture has been cleared out to make room for the crowd. A makeshift stage has been set up in the corner, including a full bar off to the side. Guys are trying to pick up girls. Almost everyone is holding a drink. Those who don't, are dancing to some generic, punk rock. We CRANE DOWN through the masses to find Dawn and Willow entering.
DAWN
So, we're here. What now?
A beat. Willow looks around.
WILLOW
(pointing)
Oh, punch!
They make their way to a table where we see Tug, serving punch. He politely hands Willow a cup. He starts to pour one for Dawn. Willow takes a sip from her cup. She grimaces.
WILLOW (CONT'D)
(to Tug)
Ugh! What the hell is this?!
TUG
Cherry Hi-C...with a spark of Everclear.
(to Dawn)
Here, try it.
Happily, Dawn reaches out to take the cup. Willow quickly snatches it away.
WILLOW
No!
(to Tug)
She's not 21, and that's more than a spark, mister. It's a raging inferno.
TUG
I've got green apple, too.
WILLOW
Really? What's in that, Vodka?
TUG
Pretty much.
A beat.
WILLOW
Kitchen?
TUG
(pointing)
Through there.
INT. KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS
There's almost no one in the kitchen. For a fraternity, this room is surprisingly clean. Dawn and Willow enter. They make a bee line for the refrigerator.
DAWN
What are we doing in here?
WILLOW
Looking for something to drink that won't make us go blind.
Willow opens the fridge.
ANGLE ON: REFRIGERATOR
We see the shelves are packed with comical amounts of beer.
ANGLE ON: WILLOW AND DAWN
WILLOW (CONT'D)
(defeated)
I'd try the water faucet, but it's probably wine.
From behind Dawn, CHASE steps into the frame, handing her a can of soda. He's still wearing the bunny suit.
CHASE
It's not wine, but with all the mystery minerals floating around in it, I don't think you can legally call it water, either.
(to Willow)
Hey.
Chase also gives Willow a soda. He's halfway through his own.
WILLOW
Hi.
CHASE
I'm glad you two could make it. Anymore of this crap by myself and I was gonna start laying Cadbury eggs for my own amusement.
WILLOW
Don't you know anybody here?
CHASE
Sure, I know tons of people, that doesn't exactly make us friends.
DAWN
How much longer do you have to wear that thing?
CHASE
(raising the roof)
Tonight's my last night. After that, I'm a free man.
Dawn takes a drink of her soda.
DAWN
This is ice cold. Where did it come from?
CHASE
There's a whole cooler full of them in the attic. Glenn's got a secret stash of snacks and drinks up there. You wanna see?
DAWN
(worried)
That depends. He's not up there right now, is he?
CHASE
Nope, I checked. The entire second floor is empty, which is rare considering it has an air hockey table.
DAWN
(to Willow)
Hey, Kennedy loves air hockey. You should totally go call and tell her all about it.
WILLOW
(taking the hint)
Oh, yeah. Good idea because hey, air hockey on the second floor, pretty snazzy.
DAWN
And don't forget, you've got unlimited night time minutes on your phone.
WILLOW
Right, right. All those free minutes. It'd be a shame not to use ?em. I mean--
Dawn senses it's laying on a little thick now.
DAWN
Just go.
WILLOW
I'm gone.
Willow quickly exits, leaving Dawn and Chase alone in the kitchen. A beat.
CHASE
So, who's Kennedy? Is that her sister?
Chase takes a drink of his soda.
DAWN
(wicked smile)
She's her lover.
Chase abruptly chokes on his drink and goes into a coughing fit at this alarming news. Dawn grins, a little proud of herself.
CUT TO:
INT. MILANO'S PIZZA PALACE - NIGHT
CLOSE UP ON: PHONE
The phone is sitting on a counter, next to an open menu. The receiver has a few spots of flour on it from the dough. The phone rings. A hand comes into frame and picks it up. We WHIP PAN UP to see Kennedy. She's wearing a red apron that's more than a little dirty, and a goofy hat with a big, droopy foam rubber pizza slice on top.
KENNEDY
(into receiver)
Milano's Pizza Palace?
INT. PHI OMEGA GAMMA HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
We see Willow over by the punch table, talking into her cell phone. Behind her, Tug is mixing drinks.
WILLOW
(into phone)
Hey, baby.
INTERCUT WILLOW/KENNEDY
KENNEDY
Hey, how's the party?
WILLOW
It's okay, so far. Dawn ran into that guy Chase. I think they're really hitting it off. How's work?
KENNEDY
It's steady. What's he like, anyway?
WILLOW
Well, he's still wearing the costume, so he's got conviction and determination. Also, not afraid to look vulnerable. He seems thoughtful and polite enough.
KENNEDY
That almost sounds like Xander.
WILLOW
If I found him an eye patch, he might be able to pull that off, only shorter.
From behind Kennedy, we hear Barret's voice.
BARRET
(OS)
Order Up!
KENNEDY
Hey, business is picking back up. You want me to bring anything home for dinner?
WILLOW
Oh, do you have pasta?
KENNEDY
Sure, I can make some angel hair, if you want.
WILLOW
Sounds good. I'll see you later tonight, okay?
KENNEDY
Okay. Bye, sweetie. I love you.
WILLOW
(smiling)
Love you, too.
Willow hangs up her phone. Just then, the music in the place dies down.
ANGLE ON: STAGE
We see QUINN, stepping up onto the stage. He's wearing a suit and tie, a complete change from the last time we saw him. A microphone is in his hand. He speaks into it like some sort of circus ringmaster.
QUINN
(into microphone)
Good evening all you fine specimens out there. How is everyone tonight? Do you feel alive?!
The crowd cheers.
QUINN (CONT'D)
Come on, you can do better than that. I said, do you feel alive?!!!
The crowd cheers again, this time more passionately.
QUINN (CONT'D)
That's what I like to hear! Now folks, this past week has been very rough on you, I'm sure. Registrations, parking permits, freshman orientations, hazing, all of that crap. Believe me when I tell you, the weeks ahead don't get any prettier. So, in an effort to boost morale here tonight, the Phi Omega Gamma fraternity has asked me to give you a glimpse of something beautiful. Ladies and Gentlemen, what I'm here to bring you is not a quick fix, it is not an easy answer to your problems. Instead, I offer a simple pleasure, something that both men and women, can and will enjoy here tonight.
Quinn looks over the audience. Before he continues, his eyes are already locked onto Willow.
QUINN (CONT'D)
Folks, I'm a firm believer in audience participation. It is with that in mind that I ask for a volunteer to come up here and join me on this stage.
Many people raise their drinks, like children in a classroom raising their hands to be called upon.
QUINN (CONT'D)
Let's see, who will it be?
A beat.
QUINN (CONT'D)
(pointing)
You!
A path clears in the crowd as everyone turns to look at Willow. She's suddenly feeling very uncomfortable.
WILLOW
Who? Me?
Quinn makes a gesture with his finger for Willow to come forward.
WILLOW (CONT'D)
But, I didn't raise my hand.
QUINN
Which is exactly why you should come up here. Come on folks, give her a hand.
The crowd cheers. Reluctantly, Willow makes her way up to the stage. Quinn covers the microphone and whispers to her.
QUINN (CONT'D)
There's nothing to be afraid of.
WILLOW
You're not gonna ask me to sing, are you?
QUINN
No. All I ask is that you have a seat in that chair.
Willow looks past Quinn just in time to see someone setting a chair on the stage. After a moment of hesitation, she sits down, placing her hands neatly in her lap.
QUINN (CONT'D)
(into microphone)
And now, Ladies and Gentlemen, please show your love and affection for the main attraction of the hour, Cat!
Quinn quickly leaves the stage. Hard core dance music begins to pound out from hidden speakers. Out from behind a curtain, CAT enters onto the stage. She's wearing a glittered bikini, also looking drastically different from her first appearance. She proceeds to dance and gyrate in front of Willow. The crowd erupts with noise and applause. At one point, she gets so close to Willow, she could easily sit in her lap. Instead, she leans down and talks to Willow. The music is so loud, the crowd cannot hear them.
CAT
Hi there.
WILLOW
(nervous)
Hello again.
CAT
How's your night going so far?
WILLOW
Well, it's a bit shocking.
CAT
I hate to break it to you, but shocking isn't the word for it.
Cat continues moving about, circling the chair seductively.
WILLOW
What do you mean?
CAT
Very soon, you, me and my friend Quinn over there are about to become the only living people in this room.
A beat. Willow's not sure how to respond.
CAT (CONT'D)
I want you to listen to me very carefully.
CUT TO:
INT. ATTIC - LATER
The attic of this fraternity is set up like a spare bedroom. There's a bed, a cooler, a mini-fridge, a stereo and a TV. Dawn and Chase enter.
DAWN
Oh, cool. So, this is like your own personal hideaway.
CHASE
Well, actually Glenn set the place up. But, after I become a member of the POG house, this room becomes officially mine. And here's the best part.
With that, Chase flips a switch on the wall. A vast web of Christmas lights illuminate from the ceiling, giving the place a comforting glow. Dawn smiles at Chase's obvious attempt to charm her. Smiling back, Chase produces a remote from seemingly out of nowhere and aims it at the stereo. A couple of button presses later and sensuous, down tempo music fills the air.
DAWN
(re: the remote)
Where did that come from?
CHASE
This suit has pockets, too.
(holding out his hand)
Would you care to dance?
Dawn takes Chase's hand and the two begin to slow dance, barely a sliver of space between their bodies.
DAWN
I really didn't want to come to this party.
CHASE
Believe me, I know the feeling. It's not my idea of a good time, either. I'd much rather have a quiet evening alone.
EXTREME CLOSE UP: DAWN AND CHASE
Dawn stares at Chase for a moment.
DAWN
This is too weird.
CHASE
What's that?
She reaches up, pulls the hood of his costume down and is finally getting a good look at him.
DAWN
That's much better.
CHASE
I've been dressed like this for so long, I sometimes forget it's there.
DAWN
Seems to me like it would be a distraction.
CHASE
Not really. At least, not when I'm distracted by something much more...interesting.
Their faces are mere inches apart. In an attempt to diminish some of the mounting tension, Dawn turns around, pressing her back up against Chase's front.
DAWN
I still don't get you. If you're the quiet loner type, then why join a fraternity?
CHASE
There's a difference between being alone, and being lonely. But, I guess it is kind of a double edged sword.
DAWN
How so?
CHASE
Well, on the one end, I thought joining a fraternity would help me to meet women. On the other hand, a guy in a bunny costume isn't very popular with the ladies.
DAWN
Would you settle for at least one curious party?
Chase is basically whispering in Dawn's ear at this point.
CHASE
Oh, time with you isn't "settling" in my eyes.
Dawn turns back around. The two of them are face to face again.
CHASE (CONT'D)
I'm sorry, I didn't mean for that to sound like such a line.
DAWN
It's okay. I'm not stupid. Whether you believe it or not, you could get any girl you wanted up here. Instead, you asked me. And I said yes because I wanted to.
The two of them are getting closer.
CHASE
I didn't mean to be so presumptuous. I have a tendency to take what I don't deserve. I guess that makes me somewhat of a thief.
Dawn closes her eyes. Their noses meet.
DAWN
It isn't stealing, if you have permission.
Suddenly, Dawn's eyes snap open. She takes in a sharp breath as if she's about to speak. Instead, her eyes close again and she passes out. Her body goes limp in Chase's arms. We see behind Dawn's back, in Chase's left hand is a syringe.
CHASE
Good to know.
BLACK OUT.
ACT THREE
INT. PHI OMEGA GAMMA HOUSE - BASEMENT - LATER
DAWN'S POV: CHASE
Everything is blurry at first as Chase's image slowly comes into focus.
CHASE
Oh good, you're awake.
WIDE ON: BASEMENT
Dawn awakens to find herself in the basement with some of the frat brothers. She's tied down to a chair. Jacob, Tug and Glenn are standing over by the keg.
DAWN
What's going on? Where am I?
CHASE
You're in the basement. I figured it only fitting since you've already seen the attic.
Dawn tries to struggle free of the ropes, but they're too tight.
JACOB
Don't bother wasting your energy. Tug here doesn't know much, but he knows how to tie a girl up.
TUG
(smiling)
I was an eagle scout, until I ate my troop.
DAWN
(disgusted)
Who the hell are you people?
JACOB
I'm sorry. In all the illegal excitement, I guess we forgot to introduce ourselves. My name's Jacob.
(points to Tug)
That's Tug. You already know Glenn and his pledge, Little Bunny Fu Fu.
Jacob moves in close to Dawn. He gets his Vamp Face on.
JACOB (CONT'D)
So, in a way, that makes you a helpless field mouse.
CHASE
So, we're good, right? Am I in?
DAWN
What?! You did this so you could get into a stupid frat?
CHASE
Come on, Jacob.
JACOB
(to Chase)
Well, I will admit you did come through for us.
(looks at Dawn)
The brothers and I are more than pleased.
Glenn holds up Dawn's ID card.
GLENN
What about me? I'm the one who picked her pocket.
JACOB
(rolls his eyes)
Yes, Glenn. We're all very impressed with your slight of hand. David Copperfield's got nothing on you. Can we please stay focused here?
GLENN
I just like being appreciated is all.
JACOB
Chase appreciates you.
(to Chase)
Don't you, Chase?
CHASE
Oh, you bet. Putting me through seven circles of hell, all while I get to wear such a fine outfit.
Jacob moves past Dawn and to the back wall. On the wall is a large tapestry with the university logo on it. Jacob snatches the tapestry down off the wall to reveal a wide display of various weapons. He takes down a large axe and offers it to Chase.
JACOB
Because of your loyalty and devotion these past two weeks, I think you've more than earned a place within the highest ranks of The Brotherhood.
Chase takes the axe into his grasp and holds it proudly as if he's won some award.
JACOB (CONT'D)
Are you ready to perform this final task towards full membership?
Chase steps in front of Dawn, his axe held out before him. Dawn cringes, afraid of what's coming.
CHASE
Definitely.
Without another word, Chase swings the axe around while turning to face Glenn, who had been standing behind him. The blade decapitates Glenn in a single, smooth motion, immediately turning him to dust. The ID card falls to the floor, next to a newly deposited pile of ashes.
CHASE (CONT'D)
Damn, that felt good!
JACOB
I'll bet. Pretty good for someone who's never swung an axe before.
Chase hands the axe back to Jacob.
CHASE
Thanks. Does this mean I get his room?
JACOB
Of course, you've earned it. Glenn's been with our fraternity almost since its conception, and he's never been able to bring us a single virgin sacrifice.
DAWN
(urgent)
Oh, I'm not a virgin!
Everyone in the room turns to look at Dawn, startled by her sudden outburst.
DAWN (CONT'D)
Yeah, I'm a total slut. Ask anyone. I mean seriously, would a virgin dress this way?
The guys look at each other and then back at Dawn.
JACOB/TUG/CHASE
(in unison)
Yeah.
DAWN
(desperate)
Well, I'm still a tramp. I guess that puts a damper on your use for me, so if you could just untie me--
CHASE
(brush off)
She's lying. This girl's definitely pure. I can totally smell it on her.
DAWN
(disgusted)
You can smell that?! That's so gross!
Just then, we hear the simultaneous alarms from the wristwatches of each Brotherhood member.
JACOB
(looking at watch)
That will be last call for drinks upstairs. We should probably finish up.
The guys gather around the keg. They join hands and form a semi-circle. Chase stands by Dawn for a moment, watching the others.
CHASE
(laughs)
The only thing we're missing are some hooded robes.
The Brothers begin chanting in an ancient language, quietly. Chase looks to Dawn for approval of his sense of humor. She's not amused, but rather worried.
CHASE (CONT'D)
Hey, cheer up, Dawn. You're about to be part of something really special.
DAWN
What are you talking about?
CHASE
I'm talking about the gift of eternal life. No more dying of old age. No more waiting in line to die because you're at the bottom of a five mile donor list. No more dying of cancer and disease. Hell, no more dying, ever. The best part, it's total equality. No discriminations. No special requirements. Everyone qualifies as a member. We're gonna sire that entire room of folks upstairs, and we're gonna do it from down here.
A beat.
CHASE (CONT'D)
Neat, huh?
DAWN
How?
CHASE
Normally, a true magician never reveals his secrets, but you're gonna die soon, so I don't see the harm in it. It's an old trick, passed down through generations of the undead. Every person up there with a drink in their hand has tasted our blood and they don't even know it. A few incantations and the proper ingredients mixed into the source, and you can spread the effect from person to person. All you need is a virgin's blood. Vampires in the know used to do it all the time. But, with the world we live in today, finding a chaste and virtuous girl such as yourself is exceedingly difficult.
DAWN
(struggling)
No. You can't do this. I won't let you!
CHASE
I admire your persistence Dawn, but you've just gotta face it.
Chase holds up a vile of Dawn's blood.
CHASE (CONT'D)
We are doing this.
A beat.
CHASE (CONT'D)
(smiling)
I told you. I'm a thief.
With that, Chase steps up to the keg. He pours the contents of the vile into the mixed brew. The liquid begins to turn from a frothy amber to a glowing red.
JUMP CUT TO:
INT. PHI OMEGA GAMMA HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
ANGLE ON: FLOOR
A cup drops to the floor, spilling the glowing beverage onto the carpet. We WHIP PAN UP to see a random student instantly turning into a vampire. All around, throughout the room, dozens of people are going Vamp Faced. The few designated drivers of the party who didn't drink are being bitten. We CRANE PAST the crowd to the stage where we see Quinn, Cat and Willow. They're bracing themselves for the fight that's about to come.
QUINN
Now!
Cat starts lighting a few Molotov cocktails and throwing them into the crowd. The vampires who get hit with the bottles burst into flame. A spring-loaded, collapsible cross emerges from within the sleeves of Quinn's jacket. The ends of each cross have been sharpened to fine points. He proceeds to stake and dust any vampires that get close enough to him. Meanwhile, Willow is producing self contained balls of fire and sending them into any approaching threat.
The three of them do a decent job of keeping their enemies at bay for some time, but they're outnumbered. More vampires continue to rush the stage, forcing our heroes to move further back, trying to keep their distance.
INT. PHI OMEGA GAMMA HOUSE - BASEMENT - CONTINUOUS
Back with Dawn and the Brotherhood. Chase is listening to the screams and commotion coming from upstairs. He circles around Dawn like a shark before facing her again.
CHASE
(smiling)
You hear that, Dawn? That's the sound of evolutionary progression, and it's all because of you.
Chase's features morph into a Vamp Face.
CHASE (CONT'D)
I just wanted you to know that before I killed you.
He lunges at Dawn and manages to sink his teeth into her neck. Dawn cries out from the pain.
CLOSE UP: CHASE
Chase starts to drink the life from Dawn, when suddenly, his eyes open in shock and he spontaneously turns to dust. A silence hangs in the air for a moment. The Brothers stare at Dawn, confused. She looks down at the dust on the floor, equally just as confused.
TUG
(dumbfounded)
Uh, Chase exploded, Jacob.
JACOB
(frozen)
Yes I see that, thank you, Tug.
The door to the basement busts open. Willow, Cat and Quinn enter.
TUG
Are they gonna kill us, Jacob?
JACOB
It looks that way.
Quinn aims both his crosses at the two befuddled vampires.
TUG
I hate college.
Quinn thumbs back a small release on each device, which sends the longer ends harpooning into Jacob and Tug, dusting them both. Cat quickly unties Dawn.
WILLOW
(hugging Dawn)
Are you okay?
DAWN
Yeah, I think so.
WILLOW
Did they hurt you?
Dawn shows Willow the bite marks on her neck.
DAWN
That guy Chase bit me.
WILLOW
(looking around)
Where is he? Did he get away?
Dawn says nothing.
WILLOW (CONT'D)
(concerned)
Dawn?
We hold on Dawn's expression, her eyes trying to find answers to a thousand new questions.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. MILANO'S PIZZA PALACE - LATER
WIDE ESTABLISHING: RESTAURANT
The parking lot is empty, except for the Minivan. The lights for the sign are currently off. It's late.
INT. MILANO'S PIZZA PALACE - CONTINUOUS
CLOSE UP: BANDAGE
Being applied to the wound on Dawn's neck.
KENNEDY
(OS)
There we go. Good as new.
ANGLE ON: GROUP
Our gang is gathered inside the restaurant, by the register. While Kennedy patches Dawn up, Willow is at a small table eating a plate of pasta. Barret is sort of just hanging back. A broom is in his hands, having recently finished cleaning up for the night.
BARRET
(to Dawn)
I want to make sure I understand this right. You say he bit you and then basically went poof?
DAWN
Basically? Yeah.
WILLOW
I don't think I've ever heard of anything like that happening before.
KENNEDY
Do you think Giles might, in one of his books, maybe?
WILLOW
It couldn't hurt to ask. Besides, I know he'll be real interested to hear this one.
DAWN
Willow? Can you make sure he doesn't say anything to Buffy, not yet anyway?
WILLOW
If Buffy knew about this, I'd be in as much trouble as you. You're all tied up in a basement being sacrificed and where was I? Blabbin' away on the phone to my girlfriend and getting lap dances from stripper waitresses.
Dawn, Kennedy and Barret stare at Willow, who suddenly goes five shades of red.
WILLOW (CONT'D)
(small)
Didn't I mention that part before?
DAWN/KENNEDY/BARRET
(in unison)
No.
Willow kind of shrinks back to the girl she was in high school for a moment and then concentrates very hard on her food.
WILLOW
This is really good pasta.
DAWN
It wasn't your fault, Will. How was I supposed to know there would be vampires here?
BARRET
The nearest Hellmouth is in Cleveland, right? Maybe this is some kind of mystical convergence residue, except, not so much with the converging part.
DAWN
Sometimes I wonder if I attract this kind of thing.
WILLOW
You've gotta stop thinking like that. Xander thought the same thing about himself, but he doesn't anymore, because he knows better now. You do, too.
DAWN
I know, and you're right. But, what if my problem is I spent so much time figuring out who I am, that I forgot to think about what I am?
BARRET
Well, maybe that's why we're here, to help you figure that out.
DAWN
You really believe that?
BARRET
Well, what the hell else am I gonna do with myself? If my purpose in this world is to help you find yours, then that suits me just fine, Dawn.
DAWN
(smiling)
Thanks, you guys.
KENNEDY
Speaking of purpose, I can think of at least one we should all tackle together.
WILLOW
What's that?
BARRET
Eating the loaf of cinnamon bread that came out of the oven about fifteen minutes ago.
They all freeze for a moment before racing towards the kitchen in the back. We don't follow them. Instead, we CRANE DOWN onto the counter, by the register. Sitting on the counter is Dawn's ID card. We PUSH IN on the name, Dawn Summers.
BLACK OUT.
EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS
skinless
kungfubear
THE END.
1x02 "Orientation"
Written By kungfubear
Created By kungfubear & Skinless
Based on characters created by Joss Whedon
TEASER
INT. LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
ANGLE ON: TV
A 60" LCD Wide-screen is mounted on the wall. On the screen, we see Daffy Duck being transformed into a four-legged, flower-headed creature (see "Duck Amuck").
REVERSE ANGLE ON: GROUP
DAWN, WILLOW & KENNEDY are seated on a big, comfy couch. They're all dressed in pajamas and staring at the cartoon, a bit awestruck.
KENNEDY
It's so...anamorphic.
WILLOW
I've seen my share of demons, vampires and even a flaying, but there's something about a five-foot tall Daffy that creeps me out.
BARRET enters from the kitchen, carrying a large bowl of popcorn. He sits down next to Dawn, placing the bowl in between them.
BARRET
Just be thankful it's not in high definition.
DAWN
(mouthful of popcorn)
I think it's cool.
BARRET
Ah, I knew there was a reason I bought all this crap. So, I hear Dawn's going to her first college party.
DAWN
(sarcastic)
Hooray.
BARRET
That doesn't sound good. If you're dreading the experience, then why go?
DAWN
I promised this giant bunny I'd show up.
Confused, Barret looks to Willow for answers.
WILLOW
A pledge invited her. He was wearing a costume.
Barret nods even though it's clear he doesn't fully understand.
BARRET
Of course.
KENNEDY
Trust me Dawn, after life in Sunnydale, big social gatherings are about as exciting as a PBS telethon.
WILLOW
(wounded kitten)
Hey, I like PBS.
KENNEDY
And I like you, so it all works out.
BARRET
Look on the plus side, you might meet someone at the party.
WILLOW
Hey, yeah. That guy Chase seemed interested.
Dawn starts warming up to the idea.
DAWN
Maybe. I still need to see him without the floppy ears and the cotton tail, though.
BARRET
We're still talking about the guy in the bunny suit, right?
DAWN
(smiling)
You know what? You guys are right. I should go out tomorrow and have fun. I mean, it's just a kegger. It's not like it's gonna kill me.
CUT TO:
INT. PHI OMEGA GAMMA HOUSE - BASEMENT - NIGHT
ANGLE ON: FLOOR
We see a series of glyphs painted on the dirty floor of the basement. Circled around these symbols, we see a group of FRAT BROTHERS. Among this group, we see GLENN. We center on JACOB, 24. He's short with wavy, blond hair.
JACOB
Welcome, Brothers. As you know, tomorrow night is our Annual Fish Tank Party.
A heavyset, buzz-cut Frat Guy cuts him off. This is Tug, 21.
TUG
Fiesta.
JACOB
Thank you, Tug. Good work on the flyers, by the way.
TUG smiles proudly.
JACOB (CONT'D)
This is also the last night of pledge week. Many of you will soon be branching out on your own, spreading the good word of our fraternity. While I do strongly advocate this form of networking, I've thought of a more efficient, local solution to strengthening our numbers.
(to Glenn)
Brother Glenn? The keg.
Glenn wheels in the massive keg we last saw in Chase's possession. He places it in the center of the circle and removes the lid, revealing gallons of beer.
JACOB (CONT'D)
There are those who do not understand our cause, which is why we must take a more secretive approach to paying it forward, so to speak.
As Jacob is talking, Glenn is handing out knives to each and every one of the brothers. Once they're all set, Glenn joins the circle as they all hold out their hands and proceed to cut into their palms.
JACOB (CONT'D)
Get your game faces on, boys.
With that, every member of the group goes Vamp Face on us.
JACOB (CONT'D)
Tomorrow night, we turn fish into sharks.
The brothers keep their hands out over the keg as blood begins to spill from their wounds.
JACOB (CONT'D)
Long live The Brotherhood.
THE BROTHERHOOD
(in unison)
Long live The Brotherhood!
OVERHEAD ON: THE KEG
We PUSH IN on the brew within the keg, as the blood and beer begin to mix.
BLACK OUT.
END OF TEASER
CUE MUSIC AND OPENING: "Tomorrow" by SR-71
ACT ONE
INT. KITCHEN - MORNING
ANGLE ON: REFRIGERATOR
Dawn opens the refrigerator, searching for some semblance of breakfast.
DAWN
Hey, has anybody seen my student ID? I can't find it.
Kennedy and Willow are already seated at the table.
WILLOW
I don't think you're gonna find it in there, Dawn.
KENNEDY
Don't be so sure. I got drunk once and left my keys in the dishwasher. They smelled like lemons for a month.
She spots a pizza box on the bottom shelf. She pulls it out and sets it on the table.
WILLOW
Pizza for breakfast?
KENNEDY
Correction. Cold pizza for breakfast.
DAWN
Hey, it's got all the four basic food groups.
Dawn is about to open the box, but Barret stops her.
BARRET
I wouldn't open that.
DAWN
Why, is it old and nasty?
BARRET
Well, you're half right.
Cautiously, Dawn opens the box. A big smile broadens across her face.
DAWN
(excited)
Anchovies! Score!
WILLOW
(queasy)
I'm suddenly the very opposite of hungry.
DAWN
Oh come on, Willow. Anchovies are awesome.
WILLOW
Really, that's okay. You go ahead and have an awesome time.
DAWN
Okay, more for me and Kennedy, then.
Kennedy pushes herself away from the table.
KENNEDY
Actually, that's all you, Kiddo.
DAWN
(shrugs)
You don't know what you're missing.
BARRET
Regurgitation, I'd imagine.
WILLOW
Oh God, don't say it!
Barret smiles. Dawn sits down and starts eating. So she doesn't have to watch it, Willow uses the lid from the box to block her view.
KENNEDY
Uncle Barret, why do you have that in your fridge if you've no intention of eating it?
BARRET
I bring food home from work all the time, only it wasn't until I got in last night that I realized why someone sent back an entire thin crust.
KENNEDY
Why were you working so late, anyway?
BARRET
My weekend regular didn't show up for work.
WILLOW
Does that happen a lot?
BARRET
This is a college town. What do you think?
KENNEDY
Do you need an extra pair of hands? I'd be happy to pitch in for a while.
BARRET
Yeah, definitely.
DAWN
(to Kennedy)
You used to deliver pizza?
BARRET
Better than that, she used to make them.
Suddenly, the doorbell rings.
BARRET (CONT'D)
Hold on. The mail is here.
Barret exits.
DAWN
(to Kennedy)
Did you get to wear one of those floppy, Chef's hats?
KENNEDY
(playful)
We had to flip a coin. Barret got the hat. I got the handlebar moustache.
Dawn closes the pizza box and stands up from the table.
DAWN
I have no idea what I'm gonna wear to this party tonight.
KENNEDY
Correct me if I'm wrong, but don't you have an overflowing closet full of the latest Italian fashions, actually purchased in Italy?
DAWN
Yeah, but that says "Italian Dawn". I'm looking for something that's totally not me. Something out of left field.
WILLOW
(beaming)
I have an idea. Come with me.
She grabs Dawn by the wrist and starts pulling her away.
CUT TO:
INT. WILLOW & KENNEDY'S BEDROOM - LATER
CLOSE UP ON: DAWN & WILLOW
They're both looking at something off screen. Willow looks a bit proud, while Dawn appears more taken aback than anything.
DAWN
What in the world are you doing with this in your wardrobe, or do I even want to know?
WILLOW
You said you wanted something out of left field. This goes all the way back to the parking lot.
WIDE ON: FULL LENGTH MIRROR
We get a full body view of Dawn in the mirror's reflection. She's wearing boots, a short, black leather skirt and a burgundy, long-sleeved, V-necked midriff-baring top. In fact, it's the costume Buffy had forced Willow to wear back in "Halloween" (re: production code 5V06).
DAWN
Don't you mean street corner?
WILLOW
Do you like it?
DAWN
(smiling)
It's perfect! I love it! Do you think it'll get me noticed?
WILLOW
I can almost guarantee you'll be the center of attention.
CUT TO:
INT. PHI OMEGA GAMMA HOUSE - BASEMENT - LATER
ANGLE ON: FLOOR
The basement floor is bare for only a moment. The body of the Young Woman from Glenn's room falls into frame. This was TINA, 21.
WIDE ON: BASEMENT
Glenn and Jacob are arguing. Tug is putting up decorations for the party. They're still in Vamp Face.
JACOB
All you had to do was keep your appetite in check until tonight.
GLENN
So, I had a little taste. What's the big deal?
JACOB
She's been tainted! She's useless to us now! I can't believe you sometimes!
TUG
Uh, guys. You're spreading a lot of bad energy around. This is supposed to be a party room, and I don't know how I'm gonna pull that off if you keep--
Annoyed, Jacob forcefully gives Tug a bottle. He examines it and is suddenly very happy.
TUG (CONT'D)
(gasps)
Glitter Glue!
This seems to satisfy Tug as he goes back to his decorations.
JACOB
(to Glenn)
This is never going to work if you can't learn to control yourself.
GLENN
Stop bitching, alright? Look where we are. A place like this is crawling with girls, and we can have our fill. It's totally catered.
JACOB
Yes, but we only need one specific girl. Things aren't like they used to be, or haven't you noticed? The longer we wait, the harder it is to find a girl of pure blood.
TUG
Why don't we just hit a convent or something?
GLENN
Tug, if you need a twenty, you don't try to break into the Federal Reserve.
TUG
I don't?
GLENN
Why go through the hassle when you could just pick someone's pocket?
TUG
Oh, right.
GLENN
(to Jacob, re: Glue)
He's not sniffing that stuff, is he?
JACOB
I'm more curious about you, right now. The sun is out, and we only have a handful of hours to find a replacement. How the hell could you be so careless?
Glenn has a knowing smirk on his face. Jacob catches it.
JACOB (CONT'D)
Unless, you weren't being careless.
He looks down at Tina's dead body and then back to Glenn.
JACOB (CONT'D)
(pointing)
You knew she was no good, didn't you?
(smiles)
Tell me you can get a replacement.
Glenn slaps his hand on Jacob's shoulder.
GLENN
Jacob, my friend, I won't have to.
He hands Jacob a small card.
GLENN (CONT'D)
Our replacement will come to us.
CLOSE UP ON: ID CARD
We see that the object Jacob is now holding, is Dawn's Student Identification Card, complete with her photo and home address.
BLACK OUT.
ACT TWO
INT. PHI OMEGA GAMMA HOUSE - NIGHT
HIGH ANGLE ON: DEN/LIVING ROOM
The Fish Tank Fiesta is in full swing. Much of the furniture has been cleared out to make room for the crowd. A makeshift stage has been set up in the corner, including a full bar off to the side. Guys are trying to pick up girls. Almost everyone is holding a drink. Those who don't, are dancing to some generic, punk rock. We CRANE DOWN through the masses to find Dawn and Willow entering.
DAWN
So, we're here. What now?
A beat. Willow looks around.
WILLOW
(pointing)
Oh, punch!
They make their way to a table where we see Tug, serving punch. He politely hands Willow a cup. He starts to pour one for Dawn. Willow takes a sip from her cup. She grimaces.
WILLOW (CONT'D)
(to Tug)
Ugh! What the hell is this?!
TUG
Cherry Hi-C...with a spark of Everclear.
(to Dawn)
Here, try it.
Happily, Dawn reaches out to take the cup. Willow quickly snatches it away.
WILLOW
No!
(to Tug)
She's not 21, and that's more than a spark, mister. It's a raging inferno.
TUG
I've got green apple, too.
WILLOW
Really? What's in that, Vodka?
TUG
Pretty much.
A beat.
WILLOW
Kitchen?
TUG
(pointing)
Through there.
INT. KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS
There's almost no one in the kitchen. For a fraternity, this room is surprisingly clean. Dawn and Willow enter. They make a bee line for the refrigerator.
DAWN
What are we doing in here?
WILLOW
Looking for something to drink that won't make us go blind.
Willow opens the fridge.
ANGLE ON: REFRIGERATOR
We see the shelves are packed with comical amounts of beer.
ANGLE ON: WILLOW AND DAWN
WILLOW (CONT'D)
(defeated)
I'd try the water faucet, but it's probably wine.
From behind Dawn, CHASE steps into the frame, handing her a can of soda. He's still wearing the bunny suit.
CHASE
It's not wine, but with all the mystery minerals floating around in it, I don't think you can legally call it water, either.
(to Willow)
Hey.
Chase also gives Willow a soda. He's halfway through his own.
WILLOW
Hi.
CHASE
I'm glad you two could make it. Anymore of this crap by myself and I was gonna start laying Cadbury eggs for my own amusement.
WILLOW
Don't you know anybody here?
CHASE
Sure, I know tons of people, that doesn't exactly make us friends.
DAWN
How much longer do you have to wear that thing?
CHASE
(raising the roof)
Tonight's my last night. After that, I'm a free man.
Dawn takes a drink of her soda.
DAWN
This is ice cold. Where did it come from?
CHASE
There's a whole cooler full of them in the attic. Glenn's got a secret stash of snacks and drinks up there. You wanna see?
DAWN
(worried)
That depends. He's not up there right now, is he?
CHASE
Nope, I checked. The entire second floor is empty, which is rare considering it has an air hockey table.
DAWN
(to Willow)
Hey, Kennedy loves air hockey. You should totally go call and tell her all about it.
WILLOW
(taking the hint)
Oh, yeah. Good idea because hey, air hockey on the second floor, pretty snazzy.
DAWN
And don't forget, you've got unlimited night time minutes on your phone.
WILLOW
Right, right. All those free minutes. It'd be a shame not to use ?em. I mean--
Dawn senses it's laying on a little thick now.
DAWN
Just go.
WILLOW
I'm gone.
Willow quickly exits, leaving Dawn and Chase alone in the kitchen. A beat.
CHASE
So, who's Kennedy? Is that her sister?
Chase takes a drink of his soda.
DAWN
(wicked smile)
She's her lover.
Chase abruptly chokes on his drink and goes into a coughing fit at this alarming news. Dawn grins, a little proud of herself.
CUT TO:
INT. MILANO'S PIZZA PALACE - NIGHT
CLOSE UP ON: PHONE
The phone is sitting on a counter, next to an open menu. The receiver has a few spots of flour on it from the dough. The phone rings. A hand comes into frame and picks it up. We WHIP PAN UP to see Kennedy. She's wearing a red apron that's more than a little dirty, and a goofy hat with a big, droopy foam rubber pizza slice on top.
KENNEDY
(into receiver)
Milano's Pizza Palace?
INT. PHI OMEGA GAMMA HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
We see Willow over by the punch table, talking into her cell phone. Behind her, Tug is mixing drinks.
WILLOW
(into phone)
Hey, baby.
INTERCUT WILLOW/KENNEDY
KENNEDY
Hey, how's the party?
WILLOW
It's okay, so far. Dawn ran into that guy Chase. I think they're really hitting it off. How's work?
KENNEDY
It's steady. What's he like, anyway?
WILLOW
Well, he's still wearing the costume, so he's got conviction and determination. Also, not afraid to look vulnerable. He seems thoughtful and polite enough.
KENNEDY
That almost sounds like Xander.
WILLOW
If I found him an eye patch, he might be able to pull that off, only shorter.
From behind Kennedy, we hear Barret's voice.
BARRET
(OS)
Order Up!
KENNEDY
Hey, business is picking back up. You want me to bring anything home for dinner?
WILLOW
Oh, do you have pasta?
KENNEDY
Sure, I can make some angel hair, if you want.
WILLOW
Sounds good. I'll see you later tonight, okay?
KENNEDY
Okay. Bye, sweetie. I love you.
WILLOW
(smiling)
Love you, too.
Willow hangs up her phone. Just then, the music in the place dies down.
ANGLE ON: STAGE
We see QUINN, stepping up onto the stage. He's wearing a suit and tie, a complete change from the last time we saw him. A microphone is in his hand. He speaks into it like some sort of circus ringmaster.
QUINN
(into microphone)
Good evening all you fine specimens out there. How is everyone tonight? Do you feel alive?!
The crowd cheers.
QUINN (CONT'D)
Come on, you can do better than that. I said, do you feel alive?!!!
The crowd cheers again, this time more passionately.
QUINN (CONT'D)
That's what I like to hear! Now folks, this past week has been very rough on you, I'm sure. Registrations, parking permits, freshman orientations, hazing, all of that crap. Believe me when I tell you, the weeks ahead don't get any prettier. So, in an effort to boost morale here tonight, the Phi Omega Gamma fraternity has asked me to give you a glimpse of something beautiful. Ladies and Gentlemen, what I'm here to bring you is not a quick fix, it is not an easy answer to your problems. Instead, I offer a simple pleasure, something that both men and women, can and will enjoy here tonight.
Quinn looks over the audience. Before he continues, his eyes are already locked onto Willow.
QUINN (CONT'D)
Folks, I'm a firm believer in audience participation. It is with that in mind that I ask for a volunteer to come up here and join me on this stage.
Many people raise their drinks, like children in a classroom raising their hands to be called upon.
QUINN (CONT'D)
Let's see, who will it be?
A beat.
QUINN (CONT'D)
(pointing)
You!
A path clears in the crowd as everyone turns to look at Willow. She's suddenly feeling very uncomfortable.
WILLOW
Who? Me?
Quinn makes a gesture with his finger for Willow to come forward.
WILLOW (CONT'D)
But, I didn't raise my hand.
QUINN
Which is exactly why you should come up here. Come on folks, give her a hand.
The crowd cheers. Reluctantly, Willow makes her way up to the stage. Quinn covers the microphone and whispers to her.
QUINN (CONT'D)
There's nothing to be afraid of.
WILLOW
You're not gonna ask me to sing, are you?
QUINN
No. All I ask is that you have a seat in that chair.
Willow looks past Quinn just in time to see someone setting a chair on the stage. After a moment of hesitation, she sits down, placing her hands neatly in her lap.
QUINN (CONT'D)
(into microphone)
And now, Ladies and Gentlemen, please show your love and affection for the main attraction of the hour, Cat!
Quinn quickly leaves the stage. Hard core dance music begins to pound out from hidden speakers. Out from behind a curtain, CAT enters onto the stage. She's wearing a glittered bikini, also looking drastically different from her first appearance. She proceeds to dance and gyrate in front of Willow. The crowd erupts with noise and applause. At one point, she gets so close to Willow, she could easily sit in her lap. Instead, she leans down and talks to Willow. The music is so loud, the crowd cannot hear them.
CAT
Hi there.
WILLOW
(nervous)
Hello again.
CAT
How's your night going so far?
WILLOW
Well, it's a bit shocking.
CAT
I hate to break it to you, but shocking isn't the word for it.
Cat continues moving about, circling the chair seductively.
WILLOW
What do you mean?
CAT
Very soon, you, me and my friend Quinn over there are about to become the only living people in this room.
A beat. Willow's not sure how to respond.
CAT (CONT'D)
I want you to listen to me very carefully.
CUT TO:
INT. ATTIC - LATER
The attic of this fraternity is set up like a spare bedroom. There's a bed, a cooler, a mini-fridge, a stereo and a TV. Dawn and Chase enter.
DAWN
Oh, cool. So, this is like your own personal hideaway.
CHASE
Well, actually Glenn set the place up. But, after I become a member of the POG house, this room becomes officially mine. And here's the best part.
With that, Chase flips a switch on the wall. A vast web of Christmas lights illuminate from the ceiling, giving the place a comforting glow. Dawn smiles at Chase's obvious attempt to charm her. Smiling back, Chase produces a remote from seemingly out of nowhere and aims it at the stereo. A couple of button presses later and sensuous, down tempo music fills the air.
DAWN
(re: the remote)
Where did that come from?
CHASE
This suit has pockets, too.
(holding out his hand)
Would you care to dance?
Dawn takes Chase's hand and the two begin to slow dance, barely a sliver of space between their bodies.
DAWN
I really didn't want to come to this party.
CHASE
Believe me, I know the feeling. It's not my idea of a good time, either. I'd much rather have a quiet evening alone.
EXTREME CLOSE UP: DAWN AND CHASE
Dawn stares at Chase for a moment.
DAWN
This is too weird.
CHASE
What's that?
She reaches up, pulls the hood of his costume down and is finally getting a good look at him.
DAWN
That's much better.
CHASE
I've been dressed like this for so long, I sometimes forget it's there.
DAWN
Seems to me like it would be a distraction.
CHASE
Not really. At least, not when I'm distracted by something much more...interesting.
Their faces are mere inches apart. In an attempt to diminish some of the mounting tension, Dawn turns around, pressing her back up against Chase's front.
DAWN
I still don't get you. If you're the quiet loner type, then why join a fraternity?
CHASE
There's a difference between being alone, and being lonely. But, I guess it is kind of a double edged sword.
DAWN
How so?
CHASE
Well, on the one end, I thought joining a fraternity would help me to meet women. On the other hand, a guy in a bunny costume isn't very popular with the ladies.
DAWN
Would you settle for at least one curious party?
Chase is basically whispering in Dawn's ear at this point.
CHASE
Oh, time with you isn't "settling" in my eyes.
Dawn turns back around. The two of them are face to face again.
CHASE (CONT'D)
I'm sorry, I didn't mean for that to sound like such a line.
DAWN
It's okay. I'm not stupid. Whether you believe it or not, you could get any girl you wanted up here. Instead, you asked me. And I said yes because I wanted to.
The two of them are getting closer.
CHASE
I didn't mean to be so presumptuous. I have a tendency to take what I don't deserve. I guess that makes me somewhat of a thief.
Dawn closes her eyes. Their noses meet.
DAWN
It isn't stealing, if you have permission.
Suddenly, Dawn's eyes snap open. She takes in a sharp breath as if she's about to speak. Instead, her eyes close again and she passes out. Her body goes limp in Chase's arms. We see behind Dawn's back, in Chase's left hand is a syringe.
CHASE
Good to know.
BLACK OUT.
ACT THREE
INT. PHI OMEGA GAMMA HOUSE - BASEMENT - LATER
DAWN'S POV: CHASE
Everything is blurry at first as Chase's image slowly comes into focus.
CHASE
Oh good, you're awake.
WIDE ON: BASEMENT
Dawn awakens to find herself in the basement with some of the frat brothers. She's tied down to a chair. Jacob, Tug and Glenn are standing over by the keg.
DAWN
What's going on? Where am I?
CHASE
You're in the basement. I figured it only fitting since you've already seen the attic.
Dawn tries to struggle free of the ropes, but they're too tight.
JACOB
Don't bother wasting your energy. Tug here doesn't know much, but he knows how to tie a girl up.
TUG
(smiling)
I was an eagle scout, until I ate my troop.
DAWN
(disgusted)
Who the hell are you people?
JACOB
I'm sorry. In all the illegal excitement, I guess we forgot to introduce ourselves. My name's Jacob.
(points to Tug)
That's Tug. You already know Glenn and his pledge, Little Bunny Fu Fu.
Jacob moves in close to Dawn. He gets his Vamp Face on.
JACOB (CONT'D)
So, in a way, that makes you a helpless field mouse.
CHASE
So, we're good, right? Am I in?
DAWN
What?! You did this so you could get into a stupid frat?
CHASE
Come on, Jacob.
JACOB
(to Chase)
Well, I will admit you did come through for us.
(looks at Dawn)
The brothers and I are more than pleased.
Glenn holds up Dawn's ID card.
GLENN
What about me? I'm the one who picked her pocket.
JACOB
(rolls his eyes)
Yes, Glenn. We're all very impressed with your slight of hand. David Copperfield's got nothing on you. Can we please stay focused here?
GLENN
I just like being appreciated is all.
JACOB
Chase appreciates you.
(to Chase)
Don't you, Chase?
CHASE
Oh, you bet. Putting me through seven circles of hell, all while I get to wear such a fine outfit.
Jacob moves past Dawn and to the back wall. On the wall is a large tapestry with the university logo on it. Jacob snatches the tapestry down off the wall to reveal a wide display of various weapons. He takes down a large axe and offers it to Chase.
JACOB
Because of your loyalty and devotion these past two weeks, I think you've more than earned a place within the highest ranks of The Brotherhood.
Chase takes the axe into his grasp and holds it proudly as if he's won some award.
JACOB (CONT'D)
Are you ready to perform this final task towards full membership?
Chase steps in front of Dawn, his axe held out before him. Dawn cringes, afraid of what's coming.
CHASE
Definitely.
Without another word, Chase swings the axe around while turning to face Glenn, who had been standing behind him. The blade decapitates Glenn in a single, smooth motion, immediately turning him to dust. The ID card falls to the floor, next to a newly deposited pile of ashes.
CHASE (CONT'D)
Damn, that felt good!
JACOB
I'll bet. Pretty good for someone who's never swung an axe before.
Chase hands the axe back to Jacob.
CHASE
Thanks. Does this mean I get his room?
JACOB
Of course, you've earned it. Glenn's been with our fraternity almost since its conception, and he's never been able to bring us a single virgin sacrifice.
DAWN
(urgent)
Oh, I'm not a virgin!
Everyone in the room turns to look at Dawn, startled by her sudden outburst.
DAWN (CONT'D)
Yeah, I'm a total slut. Ask anyone. I mean seriously, would a virgin dress this way?
The guys look at each other and then back at Dawn.
JACOB/TUG/CHASE
(in unison)
Yeah.
DAWN
(desperate)
Well, I'm still a tramp. I guess that puts a damper on your use for me, so if you could just untie me--
CHASE
(brush off)
She's lying. This girl's definitely pure. I can totally smell it on her.
DAWN
(disgusted)
You can smell that?! That's so gross!
Just then, we hear the simultaneous alarms from the wristwatches of each Brotherhood member.
JACOB
(looking at watch)
That will be last call for drinks upstairs. We should probably finish up.
The guys gather around the keg. They join hands and form a semi-circle. Chase stands by Dawn for a moment, watching the others.
CHASE
(laughs)
The only thing we're missing are some hooded robes.
The Brothers begin chanting in an ancient language, quietly. Chase looks to Dawn for approval of his sense of humor. She's not amused, but rather worried.
CHASE (CONT'D)
Hey, cheer up, Dawn. You're about to be part of something really special.
DAWN
What are you talking about?
CHASE
I'm talking about the gift of eternal life. No more dying of old age. No more waiting in line to die because you're at the bottom of a five mile donor list. No more dying of cancer and disease. Hell, no more dying, ever. The best part, it's total equality. No discriminations. No special requirements. Everyone qualifies as a member. We're gonna sire that entire room of folks upstairs, and we're gonna do it from down here.
A beat.
CHASE (CONT'D)
Neat, huh?
DAWN
How?
CHASE
Normally, a true magician never reveals his secrets, but you're gonna die soon, so I don't see the harm in it. It's an old trick, passed down through generations of the undead. Every person up there with a drink in their hand has tasted our blood and they don't even know it. A few incantations and the proper ingredients mixed into the source, and you can spread the effect from person to person. All you need is a virgin's blood. Vampires in the know used to do it all the time. But, with the world we live in today, finding a chaste and virtuous girl such as yourself is exceedingly difficult.
DAWN
(struggling)
No. You can't do this. I won't let you!
CHASE
I admire your persistence Dawn, but you've just gotta face it.
Chase holds up a vile of Dawn's blood.
CHASE (CONT'D)
We are doing this.
A beat.
CHASE (CONT'D)
(smiling)
I told you. I'm a thief.
With that, Chase steps up to the keg. He pours the contents of the vile into the mixed brew. The liquid begins to turn from a frothy amber to a glowing red.
JUMP CUT TO:
INT. PHI OMEGA GAMMA HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
ANGLE ON: FLOOR
A cup drops to the floor, spilling the glowing beverage onto the carpet. We WHIP PAN UP to see a random student instantly turning into a vampire. All around, throughout the room, dozens of people are going Vamp Faced. The few designated drivers of the party who didn't drink are being bitten. We CRANE PAST the crowd to the stage where we see Quinn, Cat and Willow. They're bracing themselves for the fight that's about to come.
QUINN
Now!
Cat starts lighting a few Molotov cocktails and throwing them into the crowd. The vampires who get hit with the bottles burst into flame. A spring-loaded, collapsible cross emerges from within the sleeves of Quinn's jacket. The ends of each cross have been sharpened to fine points. He proceeds to stake and dust any vampires that get close enough to him. Meanwhile, Willow is producing self contained balls of fire and sending them into any approaching threat.
The three of them do a decent job of keeping their enemies at bay for some time, but they're outnumbered. More vampires continue to rush the stage, forcing our heroes to move further back, trying to keep their distance.
INT. PHI OMEGA GAMMA HOUSE - BASEMENT - CONTINUOUS
Back with Dawn and the Brotherhood. Chase is listening to the screams and commotion coming from upstairs. He circles around Dawn like a shark before facing her again.
CHASE
(smiling)
You hear that, Dawn? That's the sound of evolutionary progression, and it's all because of you.
Chase's features morph into a Vamp Face.
CHASE (CONT'D)
I just wanted you to know that before I killed you.
He lunges at Dawn and manages to sink his teeth into her neck. Dawn cries out from the pain.
CLOSE UP: CHASE
Chase starts to drink the life from Dawn, when suddenly, his eyes open in shock and he spontaneously turns to dust. A silence hangs in the air for a moment. The Brothers stare at Dawn, confused. She looks down at the dust on the floor, equally just as confused.
TUG
(dumbfounded)
Uh, Chase exploded, Jacob.
JACOB
(frozen)
Yes I see that, thank you, Tug.
The door to the basement busts open. Willow, Cat and Quinn enter.
TUG
Are they gonna kill us, Jacob?
JACOB
It looks that way.
Quinn aims both his crosses at the two befuddled vampires.
TUG
I hate college.
Quinn thumbs back a small release on each device, which sends the longer ends harpooning into Jacob and Tug, dusting them both. Cat quickly unties Dawn.
WILLOW
(hugging Dawn)
Are you okay?
DAWN
Yeah, I think so.
WILLOW
Did they hurt you?
Dawn shows Willow the bite marks on her neck.
DAWN
That guy Chase bit me.
WILLOW
(looking around)
Where is he? Did he get away?
Dawn says nothing.
WILLOW (CONT'D)
(concerned)
Dawn?
We hold on Dawn's expression, her eyes trying to find answers to a thousand new questions.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. MILANO'S PIZZA PALACE - LATER
WIDE ESTABLISHING: RESTAURANT
The parking lot is empty, except for the Minivan. The lights for the sign are currently off. It's late.
INT. MILANO'S PIZZA PALACE - CONTINUOUS
CLOSE UP: BANDAGE
Being applied to the wound on Dawn's neck.
KENNEDY
(OS)
There we go. Good as new.
ANGLE ON: GROUP
Our gang is gathered inside the restaurant, by the register. While Kennedy patches Dawn up, Willow is at a small table eating a plate of pasta. Barret is sort of just hanging back. A broom is in his hands, having recently finished cleaning up for the night.
BARRET
(to Dawn)
I want to make sure I understand this right. You say he bit you and then basically went poof?
DAWN
Basically? Yeah.
WILLOW
I don't think I've ever heard of anything like that happening before.
KENNEDY
Do you think Giles might, in one of his books, maybe?
WILLOW
It couldn't hurt to ask. Besides, I know he'll be real interested to hear this one.
DAWN
Willow? Can you make sure he doesn't say anything to Buffy, not yet anyway?
WILLOW
If Buffy knew about this, I'd be in as much trouble as you. You're all tied up in a basement being sacrificed and where was I? Blabbin' away on the phone to my girlfriend and getting lap dances from stripper waitresses.
Dawn, Kennedy and Barret stare at Willow, who suddenly goes five shades of red.
WILLOW (CONT'D)
(small)
Didn't I mention that part before?
DAWN/KENNEDY/BARRET
(in unison)
No.
Willow kind of shrinks back to the girl she was in high school for a moment and then concentrates very hard on her food.
WILLOW
This is really good pasta.
DAWN
It wasn't your fault, Will. How was I supposed to know there would be vampires here?
BARRET
The nearest Hellmouth is in Cleveland, right? Maybe this is some kind of mystical convergence residue, except, not so much with the converging part.
DAWN
Sometimes I wonder if I attract this kind of thing.
WILLOW
You've gotta stop thinking like that. Xander thought the same thing about himself, but he doesn't anymore, because he knows better now. You do, too.
DAWN
I know, and you're right. But, what if my problem is I spent so much time figuring out who I am, that I forgot to think about what I am?
BARRET
Well, maybe that's why we're here, to help you figure that out.
DAWN
You really believe that?
BARRET
Well, what the hell else am I gonna do with myself? If my purpose in this world is to help you find yours, then that suits me just fine, Dawn.
DAWN
(smiling)
Thanks, you guys.
KENNEDY
Speaking of purpose, I can think of at least one we should all tackle together.
WILLOW
What's that?
BARRET
Eating the loaf of cinnamon bread that came out of the oven about fifteen minutes ago.
They all freeze for a moment before racing towards the kitchen in the back. We don't follow them. Instead, we CRANE DOWN onto the counter, by the register. Sitting on the counter is Dawn's ID card. We PUSH IN on the name, Dawn Summers.
BLACK OUT.
EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS
skinless
kungfubear
THE END.