Offspring

As Angel (David Boreanaz) exhibits a glimmer of romantic feelings for Cordelia (Charisma Carpenter), the gang begins to research a prophecy about the looming arrival of an evil being who will play a pivotal role in the battles to come. A more immediate arrival, however, causes an instant battle. Darla (Julie Benz) shows up and reveals not only her pregnancy, but also the details of her night of empty passion with Angel (see "Reprise"). Cordelia, furious that Angel has lied to her, immediately takes Darla's side. As thanks, the expectant vampire mother bites her, though not fatally. The ravenous Darla, suffering the vampire equivalent of cravings for pickles and ice cream, escapes to an arcade and nearly succeeds in killing a little boy. Angel intervenes and prepares to stake Darla, who cries out for him to go ahead. Just then, Angel realizes that Darla's child has a heartbeat and must therefore be human -- and have a soul. He brings her back to the hotel and begins to accept the fact that he's going to be a father. Meanwhile, flashbacks chronicle one of the many run-ins between Angel and Darla and relentless 18th century vampire hunter Holtz (Keith Szarabajka), their most bitter victim and fiercest enemy. Originally broadcast November 5, 2001, on the WB network, "Offspring" marked season three, episode seven of the supernatural comedy drama. The first installment in a four-part sequence, this story line continues in "Quickening.", Fred causes Angel to question his feelings for Cordelia. Meanwhile, Darla returns to confront Angel with the consequences of their last meeting.