It must state somewhere in the Watcher's Handbook that preparation is key. Both Merrick and Giles made it a point to stress it — always be prepared, Buffy, never be caught off guard (The difference being that Giles eventually realized the futility of his efforts, while Merrick never had the chance.) It isn't that she prefers to be unprepared, but a life of looking over her shoulder has never appealed to Buffy, and she would almost prefer surprise to that perpetual state of paranoia. Still, just because it's almost impossible to always be prepared and lead a normal life doesn't mean that's the end. In her experience, quick thinking and a little creativity go a long way in the face of sudden danger, which brings her to today's lesson.

Spread out across the class space are household objects of varying shapes and sizes, from coat hanger to broomstick to plastic fork. Every one of these objects can become a weapon if needed, which is what she intends to teach her class today. Maybe it's a bit unorthodox, but that's always been Buffy's slayer motto, and it's worked well for her so far. She's testing the swing velocity of a hardcover book when Sookie first speaks, and what should be a small, barely noticeable jump sends the volume hurling across the room. With a startled laugh, Buffy turns toward the door, mouth still agape (albeit with more amusement than embarrassment). "It looks like I might," she admits, waving hello. "What's up? Didn't anyone tell you that showing up early to class is a social faux pas? Not that I'm complaining, but I happen to be a huge supporter of sleeping in as long as possible."