The man explains that he is a member of an ancient order of monks. They were the protectors of "The Key," a mystical energy source that can unlock the barriers between dimensions. Glory, a hell-god, is searching for the Key to return to her home dimension, an act that would tear the fabric of reality apart.

The episode ends with Buffy looking at Dawn , who is innocently doing her homework. Despite knowing the truth, Buffy realizes that the monks' spell worked too well: she loves Dawn as a sister, and she will do anything to protect her from the divine wrath of Glory.

Buffy is forced to reconcile her deep, protective love for Dawn with the knowledge that, until a few weeks ago, Dawn never existed. Every childhood memory, every sibling squabble, and every family photo is a fabrication designed to anchor the Key to Earth.