Characters and Plot

Plot Point: This story takes place between The Zeppo and Bad Girls. There was almost a world ending Apocalypse, Xander and Cordelia have broken up which has put her on the outs with the group, Buffy is hanging out more with Faith straining her friendship with Willow, and Willow is getting more into magic causing concerns from everyone.

At this point of the series Mr. Trick is still alive, Faith is still 'good', and Balthazar and the El Eliminati are about to show up.

Plot Changes: Here are the elements that differ from what would have been true at this point of the show.

Dawn lives with Buffy and Joyce. In this version the monks created a version of Dawn already aged up so she could better fit in and protect herself. She originally lived with their Dad who sheltered her, so she still comes off as a bit naive compared to everyone else.

Wesley has arrived a little bit early.

Characters

Xander: You. A fairly normal guy, surrounded by the supernatural, including your friends who frequently have superpowers compared to you having nothing special.

Buffy: The Slayer. Once in a generation. Also, the girl you've lusted after since the moment you saw her.

Cordelia: The social queen of Sunnydale and your ex-girlfriend. Cheerleader, entitled, and obsessed with her looks and status.

Willow: Your best friend since you could remember, and also the reason for your break up because you suddenly became attracted to each other.

Dawn: Buffy's 'little' sister, despite being taller and practically the same age.

Anya: A former demon, just now getting used to being human again.

Faith: The most recent Slayer, called after Kendra died. She is a wild girl and far more aggressive and reckless than Buffy. The two of you recently had sex after rescuing her from a group of demons.

Harmony: A mini version of Cordelia. She used to follow Cordelia in everything, until Cordelia started dating you and then Harmony tried to become the new queen of Sunnydale.

Angel: A vampire with a soul. Buffy's love, but they can't have sex, or he goes evil.

Oz: Willow's boyfriend, guitar player, and werewolf. Unlike Cordelia, he forgave Willow for cheating with you.

Wesley: The new Watcher, just arrived. Intelligent, but pompous with no real world experiences.

Giles: The librarian and former Watcher, though still serves as a leader.