Date: 1997

The Scooby Gang faced their earliest and most existential threat in The Master, an ancient vampire imprisoned beneath Sunnydale. Bound by mystical forces, the Master worked through servants and prophecy to free himself and open the Hellmouth. The conflict escalated when an ancient prophecy foretold Buffy’s death at the Master’s hands. Despite efforts to avoid it, events unfolded as predicted. Buffy confronted the Master alone, was killed, and briefly fulfilled the prophecy. Resuscitated by Xander, she returned with renewed resolve, no longer ruled by fear. The final battle ended with the Master’s destruction and the temporary sealing of the Hellmouth. The Scoobies emerged changed, having learned that destiny could be challenged, death could be faced, and survival depended on standing together rather than bowing to prophecy.