Starved for cash, Buffy gets a job in a fast food restaurant where the weird manager and high turnover of employees has her more than a little suspicious. When co-workers start ending up in pieces, the mystery behind the "secret ingredient" comes into question. Willow works on staying clear of magic, but Amy gives her an unwanted gift and Willow is forced to make a big decision. A vengeance demon friend of Anya's visits and questions her relationship with Xander, leaving Anya doubtful about their soon-to-be-married life together.
Buffy Summer's journey as the Vampire Slayer begins when she moves to Sunnydale, a small Californian town that, unbeknownst to most residents, sits atop a Hellmouth - a portal to supernatural forces. She is discovered by Rupert Giles, the school librarian and her Watcher, whose role is to guide and train her as the Slayer. Alongside Giles, Buffy forms an eclectic group of friends, her "Scooby Gang", including Willow Rosenberg, a shy but highly intelligent witch; Xander Harris, Buffy's best friend and comic relief; and Cordelia Chase, a popular girl who becomes a reluctant ally.
Buffy's relationships with those around her, particularly romantic entanglements, are a major focus of the series. Her most notable love interests are Angel, a vampire with a soul, and Spike, who, despite being a villain, develops a complex and evolving bond with Buffy. The complexities of her relationships, particularly her love life, highlight the emotional weight of Buffy's duties as the Slayer and her desire for connection, love, and a sense of normalcy.