Episode 6: Holiday
EPISODE 6:
“HOLIDAY”
FADE IN
OPENING CREDITS
INT. DINER
CHARLES is eating as EMMA and AUSTIN come into the DINER, scooting into the booth opposite him as CHARLES looks the two over as EMMA smiles at him with a huge grin.
CHARLES
I know that smile...what the hell happened?
AUSTIN
Uh, did you forget what today is?
CHARLES
Uh...?
EMMA
It's OCCUPATION DAY!
CHARLES
Oh shit...
EMMA
You didn't forget it was OCCUPATION DAY...you couldn't have...
CHARLES
Well...that depends...
EMMA
CHARLES!?
CHARLES
I've had a lot on my plate, EMMA.
EMMA
I can see that you fucking fat-ass!
CHARLES
Whoa!
AUSTIN
Hey!
EMMA crosses her arms and pouts as AUSTIN and CHARLES exchange glances as AUSTIN shakes his head.
AUSTIN
She was expecting her present.
CHARLES
Oh god, are you two four years old? I don't have to get you presents every OCCUPATION DAY, it's bullshit.
AUSTIN
Well you get accustomed to it after a few decades...
CHARLES
Yeah, well...
EMMA
What's so goddamn important that I don't get my present on OCCUPATION FUCKING DAY!
CHARLES
That algorithm of yours to hack through the angelic encryption worked. We know what the codex is for.
AUSTIN
And?
CHARLES
An EMP BOMB. Specifically designed to shut down the entire SYSTEM.
AUSTIN
Good god...
EMMA
Why would they ever make something like that?
CHARLES
I don't know if it was actually commissioned or if it was just fully designed and the codex is the step by step byproduct of that. Fact is this thing is now in the wrong hands. It's not on my mind easily. Nor I'm sure NIKKI'S.
AUSTIN
Is that why she's been all “meh” lately? She's never taken this many straight shifts at the hospital before.
CHARLES
Maybe. What about SHANE? Anyone heard from him? It's been four days since they got back.
AUSTIN
ANTHONY says SHANE is gone before he gets up and asleep when he gets home. Been working, MECHANIC hired him.
CHARLES
Good.
AUSTIN
Why haven't you gone to talk to him yet?
CHARLES
He's working out things for himself.
EMMA
Boss, this is his first...real breakdown about what it means to be here. You said yourself you were more worried about how well he was coping, now he's having a hard time and you're going to ignore him? You're an asshole.
CHARLES
I will ignore that, knowing that you're just in a hissy fit mood, but yes, I am aware that I had those initial worries. I will see him in time. But I am waiting on someone, and if you don't mind, I would like for this to get on well enough without me being in a bad fucking mood!
EMMA huffs and scoots out of the booth, hurrying out of the DINER as AUSTIN shakes his head.
AUSTIN
Happy OCCUPATION DAY, boss.
CHARLES
Yeah.
AUSTIN heads out along with EMMA as CHARLES goes to take another bite but pushes his plate away as he throws his fork down onto the plate.
CHARLES
Son of a bitch.
INT. BRUTUS'S SHOP
SHANE gets out from under the back end of a car as he looks around to see UNDEAD, ANGELS, and DEMONS streaming decorations, ornaments and all kinds of other festive decorum about the portion of the city he was in as SHANE gets up and comes around the front of the car where the GIANT BRUTUS was working on the interior of the CAR.
SHANE
Hey, boss.
BRUTUS
Da?
SHANE
What the hell is going on out there? I saw it this morning coming in but it's really picking up with all the decorations and shit.
BRUTUS
It is the SYSTEM setting up the parade and party banners for the celebration tonight.
SHANE
Of what?
BRUTUS
You do not know? Oh, yes you have not been here long. It is a holiday here in the FRINGE. OCCUPATION DAY.
SHANE
Ha.
BRUTUS
You do not agree?
SHANE
That they should be celebrating the day they won their war or whatever. No, it's just very human of them.
BRUTUS
Not the SYSTEM'S idea. UNDEAD ambassadors and people wanted to appease the ANGELS and DEMONS, so they set this up a few hundreds years ago. The SYSTEM has begun embracing it more and more each year.
SHANE
Vanity before the fall...
BRUTUS
Come again?
SHANE
Old saying. I fixed the axle the best I could but there's way too much structural damage for me to work on.
BRUTUS
Da, I am very concerned with the motor here. Come look.
SHANE comes over and whistles as BRUTUS nods, standing a good three feet above SHANE.
SHANE
Fuck.
BRUTUS
Da.
SHANE
I think this car is uhh...what's the saying...
BRUTUS
Kaput.
SHANE
Exactly.
BRUTUS
I will let the owner know.
CHARLES
And here I thought putting you two together would be able to produce miracles.
SHANE closes his eyes as BRUTUS smirks and comes over towards CHARLES shaking his hand as SHANE waits a few moments before coming around.
BRUTUS
You found me a good lad, he works long and hard, and works well. I need more of him, but he will do it for now.
CHARLES
I told you I owed you one.
BRUTUS
Da, I suppose I still owe you then?
CHARLES
Nah, call us even.
BRUTUS
SHANE, you are free for the rest of the day.
SHANE
Well sir, if it's no inconvenience to you, I'd rather stay and work the rest of the day...
BRUTUS
No no, you go and enjoy OCCUPATION DAY, besides, CHARLES no come here to merely chit chat. He would just take you away regardless. Consider the day holiday pay.
SHANE
Thank you sir.
BRUTUS
Da, go.
BRUTUS heads off inside the offices as SHANE looks at CHARLES bemused.
CHARLES
Wow, not only did your ass completely clinch up, but you tried to blow me off at the same time. Now I don't know what I did to upset you, but I think I deserve a little bit more respect than that, huh?
SHANE
What do you want, boss?
CHARLES
What the hell is going on with you? I understand some hard truths kinda got dropped on you back there in the living world but everything has a rhyme and reason, and from what it sounds like, the reason was justified.
SHANE
I don't want to talk about it...
CHARLES
You will soon enough. I had to blow someone very important off for this so, come on you're with me today.
SHANE
Blew someone off...hope he got his money's worth.
CHARLES
Not oral sex you fucking pervert. I...never-mind you know what I meant goddamnit. Come' on, I got places to show you.
SHANE
If it's alright with you, I'd rather not celebrate a worthless fucking holiday.
CHARLES
I never said we were celebrating. I just said we got places to go. So drop the attitude for five fucking minuets and follow me.
CHARLES turns and heads out onto the street as SHANE sigh's and follows.
INT. THE TAVERN
EMMA comes around the BAR as an OLDER STOUT MAN was knocking down a few shots with some patrons as EMMA puts her apron on.
ALEX “AJAX” JACKSON, the TAVERN OWNER comes over and pats EMMA on the shoulders.
AJAX
What are you doing here? I gave you today off, I'm going to need you tonight for the big party.
EMMA
Well my afternoon plans kinda got shot so I figured why not come in and get the night started a little early you know.
AJAX
EMMA, go home. Go have fun.
EMMA
It's not been a good day so far, AJAX, so could you just...okay...
AJAX
What's wrong princess?
EMMA
I don't know.
AJAX
You'll come around. And hey...you!
AUSTIN looks around as he comes in, AJAX pointing straight at him as AUSTIN comes over and sits across from him and EMMA as he still has the confused look on his face.
AUSTIN
What?!
AJAX
I don't mind letting you and the others in your little group staying around late or even closing the damn place when me or EMMA isn't here, but if I find another goddamned entire bottle of my azalea red sky vodka missing, I will end you.
AUSTIN
Why the fuck do you assume it's me?
EMMA looks away as AUSTIN catches her looking away at the same time that AJAX had coyly turned to her.
AUSTIN
Oh you fucking Judas.
EMMA
It's been a bad day, AUSTIN!
AUSTIN
That was like six months ago!
AJAX
You've been warned, shit stain.
AUSTIN
Yeah, alright.
AJAX heads back over towards his older crowd as EMMA sets a glass down and a bottle of whiskey.
EMMA
Can you believe, CHARLES!
AUSTIN
It's just a present, EMMA...
EMMA
It's not that...Okay it's partially that, look, I don't want to tell us right away about the EMP thing...that...that bothers me deep down you know.
AUSTIN
Yeah...NIKKI knew and we didn't.
EMMA
Right, we put our lives on the line for that information as well you know, we deserved to have a little fucking follow through. But on top of all that, SHANE'S going through that rough patch, that patch we all went through, that CHARLES was there for, helped us all through, and he's just fucking...
AUSTIN
Yeah.
EMMA
I mean, I like SHANE. He's a good guy, he's a good addition to this crew...and we're taking him completely for granted. We're keeping things from him, we're not giving him the best knowledge upfront, we're neglecting him when he needs us, and we're forcing him onto everyone else when he needs some air to breath and I don't know. I don't know what's been going on with CHARLES but...something's off you know.
AUSTIN
Yeah, been off. Even prior to SHANE.
EMMA
Do you think it's TERESA?
AUSTIN
I wouldn't put all my eggs into that basket...but it's a high possibility.
EMMA
I mean he's pined after her for god, how long...
AUSTIN
Longer then we've been around.
EMMA
Couple years ago all that happened...and now...it's like I don't know, like he won't accept it and move on, but she's not better for it either. God, is our...you know what, that good to you guys that it completely fucking morphs you guys into useless sacks of shit?
AUSTIN
Uh, speaking to the professional man whore, I would not be the best person to ask such questions too.
EMMA
Please, if NIKKI came in here and threw her shit on you you'd be bowing down and puppy sick like every other fucking man.
AUSTIN
What's with the feminist militant EMMA all of a sudden? OCCUPATION DAY brings the weird out in you. I'm not taking you to the hospital again if you get as drunk as you did last year either, that shit was ridiculous and you were on the clock mind you.
EMMA
If I throw my snatch on your face you'd fucking take me to the goddamn moon.
AUSTIN
Well our moon ain't real, so suck on that hun.
EMMA
You'd take me to the fake moon, I don't give a shit, pussy is power, darling.
AUSTIN
Yeah, okay, how about you use some of that pussy power of yours and pour me a scotch and soda?
EMMA fights a smirk as she shakes her head and goes to smack AUSTIN but AUSTIN leans back and laughs as EMMA lets out a loud muffled scream and goes to get his drink.
INT. HOSPITAL
NIKKI heads over towards a set of FLY LIKE CREATURES, handing them a few bottles with strange liquid in them as she pets the head of a small child like creature as NIKKI says something in a strange language before heading back over to the desk, yawning as she touches her face as JOSEPHINE comes over and pats her on the head.
JOSEPHINE
You need to go home, you've worked four straight 14 hour shifts. You're no good to us right now.
NIKKI
I'm fine, JOSEPHINE...
NIKKI winces as she grabs her arm, JOSEPHINE comes around the corner as she checks on her arm, NIKKI looking at the swell as it is still visible as JOSEPHINE shakes her head.
JOSEPHINE
This has looked better.
NIKKI
Well I've never had it break like how he did before, the bones were completely snapped.
JOSEPHINE
You got some shots in though, right?
NIKKI
Of course.
JOSEPHINE
Look, it's OCCUPATION DAY, I'm sure your friends are going to be wanting to see you.
NIKKI
I just...
JOSEPHINE
No buts. I'm kicking you out of here. Go home, go to sleep, have fun, do whatever you want. Just don't be here till I call you in.
NIKKI
This is not fair...
JOSEPHINE
Go!
JOSEPHINE smacks her on the ass with a clipboard as NIKKI looks at her confused and shakes her head as she heads out with a smirk on her face as JOSEPHINE goes around the desk and back to her work.
EXT. BATH HOUSE
CHARLES brings SHANE up towards a grittier side of town, CHARLES stopping SHANE as SHANE looks about confused.
SHANE
Where the hell are we?
CHARLES
I'm here to show you, SHANE. Something a lot of people don't see...don't want to see. But I figure...hey, you're one to pout and be upset. I'll give you a reason.
SHANE
What?
CHARLES
In you go.
CHARLES opens the door as SHANE looks confused and heads inside.
INT. BLOODBATH HOUSE
SHANE and CHARLES step into a dimly lit BATH HOUSE but CHARLES watches as SHANE looks about appalled as aqueducts were placed all about the room pouring blood into bath's as VAMPIRES were bathing and drinking form goblets, fucking women and doing assortment of weird gas like drugs from Hookah's as SHANE takes a step and stops as the marble floor was completely slicked with blood.
CHARLES walks pass SHANE and heads towards the back as SHANE follows, watching as the VAMPIRES gaze and watch them carefully as CHARLES and SHANE head towards the back room, CHARLES knocking twice before opening the door.
A VAMPIRE with a small aqueduct that lead into a fountain where he had goblets placed all about as WOMEN were dressed in lacy bras and panties laid about on silk pillows stained with blood as the VAMPIRE look startled before settling into his chair as he was getting oral sex from a WOMAN.
VAMPIRE
Well, CHARLES REID.
CHARLES
ULRIC. SHANE this is PIETRO ULRIC, the owner of this fine establishment.
ULRIC
Pleasure to meet one of CHARLES'S young and fruitful little lackeys.
SHANE
What the fuck is this place...
ULRIC
Couldn't see that with your own eyes?
CHARLES
It's a bathhouse, SHANE.
ULRIC
Correction.
CHARLES
Blood Bath House. A sorta...orgy den for the splurging and the...hierarchy of the vampire clans. ULRIC here represents the base of the FRINGE'S most prominent family, the ULRIC'S.
SHANE
And the SYSTEM just...lets them have this...?
ULRIC
We keep the peace up here in the FRINGE, while the other VAMPIRE CLANS grovel for power below in the UNDERWORLD, we uphold the truce set after the OCCUPATION WAR. We are allowed our little splurges, as long as we pay for the blood...
SHANE
So for your family you can feed and splurge all you want, and the vampires who don't, they what, they have to follow the rules!
ULRIC
Pretty much.
SHANE
You fucking sicken me.
ULRIC
You wouldn't be the first or last. CHARLES, may I entertain the nature of this visit?
CHARLES
I just wanted to see how the family's black sheep was doing. Making sure things are square, you know how OCCUPATION DAY brings up some bad memories...
ULRIC
Bad for most, not bad for us. As you can see, business is going well. Now I'm trying to bust a very important nut here.
CHARLES
Well we wouldn't want to be...interfering in that.
ULRIC
Be seeing you?
CHARLES
Yeah.
CHARLES pats SHANE on the shoulder as SHANE looks around disgusted as he follows out.
EXT. BLOOD BATH HOUSE
SHANE storms out, shaking as he checks himself over as CHARLES lights a cigarette as SHANE comes over and smacks it out of his mouth.
CHARLES stares at SHANE a bit surprised as SHANE is red faced and shaking as he puts a judging finger in his face.
SHANE
Why in the fuck! Would you take me there...?
CHARLES
You see this mood you're in. This fragile baby bunny timid deer attitude that you're posting up with. It's unbecoming of you. SHANE, I know that TONY dropped some truth bombs on you back in the LIVING WORLD in regards to how we reap, and what that details, but it is a way of life here. Now look at this place that you just walked out of. A fucking blood bath house, a orgy den of decadence and horror that the SYSTEM freely allows because of the VAMPIRE FAMILY that keeps the good faith up here with the rest of the VAMPIRES. Do you know whose blood and what blood that is pouring freely and easily down those fountains? It's...
SHANE
No...don't tell me...
CHARLES
You sure? Because I know what it is. Doesn't make it easier to cope with...but it's what I know.
SHANE
What's the point to this, CHARLES...?
CHARLES
For every horrible truth you find out, for every truth that you think is the shaking rod of your very foundation. Just look behind me...there will always be something worse...that someone will drop on you...that you'll find out on your own. What separates the weak from the strong, is how we take that...and move forward. I'm not asking you to be okay with what you learned, and what you just saw. Frankly I'm hoping it does eat at you for a good long while. But you need to start pulling yourself out of this...pity despair party you've been having for yourself and start looking at the facts.
SHANE
That being?
CHARLES
You are not alive, this is not a world where justice is just and unjust. There is no innocence until proven guilty, and there are no black and white answers, only gray. I am sorry, SHANE...but this is what your UNDEAD life is.
SHANE doesn't know what else to say as CHARLES comes over and turns him towards the other end of the street as he starts walking.
CHARLES
Come on, we're going to miss the parade.
INT. THE TAVERN
UNDEAD young and old are singing their hearts out to a jaunty tune as EMMA is on the bar, downing a shot before kicking her legs up with some other women as the MEN are all crowded in around the BAR TOP, AJAX singing along as he hands out some more beers as AUSTIN was making out with a BEAUTIFUL WOMAN as EMMA lets out a loud cheery scream as NIKKI comes inside, NIKKI laughing as she notices EMMA sing her out with the off key patrons as NIKKI comes over and stops as she see's AUSTIN macking away with the full figured beauty, NIKKI looks a little taken back by it but before she can turn and walk out she notices EMMA smiling and waving at her, NIKK waving back as EMMA nods for her to come over towards her, but NIKKI shakes her head, EMMA giving her a look as she looks down and notices AUSTIN.
EMMA throws her head back and gives NIKKI a look, almost pleading with her but NIKKI just shakes her head and leaves, EMMA stopping as everyone around her keeps singing and dancing, EMMA getting off the bar as she slaps AUSTIN across the back of his head, AUSTIN pulling away from his girl as he watches EMMA storm through the crowd towards the bathrooms, AUSTIN throwing a finger up towards the beauty before he follows through quickly.
INT. BATHROOM
EMMA was leaning against the sink, balling her eyes out as AUSTIN barges in, EMMA looking at him as she comes over and pushes him hard, AUSTIN looking surprised still as EMMA comes over and turns the faucet on, as AUSTIN shakes his head.
AUSTIN
Okay, what the fuck is wrong with you now!
EMMA
You're such an asshole.
AUSTIN
What why now?!
EMMA
NIKKI just came in and...
AUSTIN
Oh, goddamnit...
AUSTIN hurries out as EMMA shakes her head and grabs some paper towels, wiping her eyes as she looks at herself in the mirror.
EXT. STREET
NIKKI walks with purpose quickly away from the TAVERN but as she does, she hears AUSTIN'S voice growing from faint to louder. NIKKI holds back her emotions the best she could as she passes by some people who are cheering and dressed up as NIKKI stops as AUSTIN runs past her a few feet, holding his arms up towards her.
AUSTIN
Okay, what the hell, why didn't you say you were coming?
NIKKI
What does it matter?
AUSTIN
I don't know.
NIKKI
Look it's been a long day...I don't know, just let me go home, AUSTIN.
AUSTIN
What do you want from me? Just tell me, and I'll do it, I just...I need to know, NIKKI, I'm drowning here.
NIKKI
There's nothing to be said.
AUSTIN
Oh stop it! Stop acting like there is nothing when there clearly is! I've got you on the verge of tears, I've got EMMA in the bathroom bawling her eyes out, just...tell me you want from me and I can be more, NIKKI...
NIKKI
We're nothing, AUSTIN. Flings...here and there. That's all we can be, cuz that's all you're capable of.
AUSTIN
That's fucking bullshit! You're not even giving me a chance.
NIKKI
What would be the point...
AUSTIN
You know what, fine! There is no fucking point, I'm not gonna keep myself up all night trying to figure you or any of this all out, and I'm damn sure not gonna feel bad for doing me and being me when you don't even know what the fuck it is you want for your goddamn self! You want me, you can have me, you've always known that, but you just wont let what is be, and that's your fucking loss, not mine! I'm done! I'm done being the post of your blame and even EMMA'S! Fuck you, and her, and good luck with whatever the fuck you do end up wanting in this miserable fucking existence. But I'll tell you this right now, you could have something real and great with me...you're just to fucking stubborn!
NIKKI
Listen to you, trying to sound more intelligent and honest then you really are, but deep down you and me both know you're nothing more then a fuck up, and a whore. And this commitment you think you can have with others, is a fantasy you've created within yourself because the truth is, no matter who comes along, the only person who can ever stand to be with you, and love you, and be committed with you...is you. You love yourself too much to truly care about anyone else. And you're right, it's my fault for thinking that at any point and time I can come into a bar...and find you...waiting...and wanting me to come through that door...instead of your tongue down some whore's throat...Scuse me.
NIKKI pushes past AUSTIN as AUSTIN looks stunned as he doesn't know what to say as NIKKI hurries out of his sight as AUSTIN grabs his head and curses loudly, drawing attention to himself as he heads back towards the TAVERN in a slow walk.
EXT. MAIN STREET
SHANE and CHARLES watch from the top of a building along with some more rowdy patrons as CHARLES watches the PARADE go off without a hitch, SHANE watching as everyone was enjoying themselves with glee as CHARLES reaches into his pack and goes to light his cigarette but stops as he eyes SHANE, who looks at him confused as CHARLES holds it towards him.
CHARLES
Are you going to knock this one out as well, or can I enjoy this one?
SHANE
Knock yourself out.
CHARLES
The great thing about these here in the FRINGE, no cancer. The same calming effect, same feel and taste and all that bullshit, but no drawback. Least none I know about yet.
CHARLES watches as a float comes by with some scantily clad UNDEAD WOMEN dressed as ANGELS as SHANE watches even the actual ANGELS and DEMONS seem to be enjoying themselves.
SHANE
I've never seen the tight asses let loose.
CHARLES
Rare, rare occasions. This is their day though.
SHANE
That doesn't bother you? Them celebrating a day where they...drove the rightful owners away into some forsaken underworld?
CHARLES
Did you celebrate INDEPENDENCE DAY back when you were alive?
SHANE
Yes but...
CHARLES
The context, though different in subtle ways, is absolutely the same when put into context here. I was not alive nor around when the OCCUPATION WAR went down, and to be honest, from whatever side of the coin you hear about it, no one was good and no one was bad in that WAR, in the end one side “won” but there was no real victory, only an agreement.
SHANE
Doesn't seem like the creatures got a very fair deal.
CHARLES
How would you know?
SHANE looks at CHARLES who raises an eyebrow to him before a WOMAN comes over and throws some beads around his neck, CHARLES smiling as he nods and nods his chin towards SHANE as the GIRL runs over and after a few moments of SHANE trying to avoid it, she forces a few of them over his head, SHANE shaking his head as he looks at CHARLES who smiles at him as SHANE nods, a smirk coming over on his face as CHARLES waves at some people from below as more people on the ROOF were now throwing BEADS and other decorations from off of the building.
INT. ANTHONY'S APARTMENT
ANTHONY sits on his couch, a glass of wine in hand as he hands the bottle over towards a SLIGHTLY OLDER MAN who pours the rest into his glass.
MATTHEW “MATT” BARRETT, a producer on ANTHONY'S film watches as ANTHONY rubs his chin, stacks of script papers spread about on the table as ANTHONY takes another drink.
ANTHONY
I still think SCENE 34B can be shot in the day, it's not clearly stated that it has to be a night shot.
MATT
You wanna go in there and tell the others to push back the shot again for another few days. That's fine by me, but I can't guarantee that it'll be met with the same enthusiasm.
ANTHONY
This is not our first movie we've worked together MATT, all I'm asking is that we do the scene some service, and get some fucking light in there, natural light, not the artificial shit, the whole purpose is to establish FULKNERS “metaphorical” realization of transition from a world of darkness to light, that I thought, implied that the scene transition from night to day, and not just take place entirely on one night.
MATT
You're the writer, and the director, you could've made that more clear when we were putting the scene schedule together months ago.
ANTHONY
I...know..
MATT
What's going on with you, TONY? You've been overloading yourself on this issue the last few days.
ANTHONY
Just had a...bad reap a few days back.
MATT
You do not get the soul?
ANTHONY
I did. It's just...I took the new guy on it, and...I threw a lot on him...but that's not what bugs me. I mean, I know the guy'll get over it, but...it was his son...the guy I was reaping. He was taking the boy to karate practice, the boy was only like Six years old...and I just...I saw the loss in that boy's eyes...he had lost his mother to a...defaulted reap.
MATT
Suicide. Fuck.
ANTHONY
Yeah. So of course I can't let that happen again, I can't let that guy default on his kids...and so I tell him about his wife.
MATT
Damn.
ANTHONY
That boy is going to have no parents...and I have the audacity to think that me taking the father my way is going to be any better or easier on that boy...what a piece of fucking work I am, ya know?
MATT
You do what you gotta do, ANTHONY. It's part of your RECLAIMING. Besides...you know when these...episodes occur you usually write some pretty power stuff. I can assume after BULLET EXPRESS, we're going to be going to more arthouse, a traditional drama?
ANTHONY
Maybe. I have been working on something a little more science fiction...a space opera.
MATT
Is that so?
ANTHONY finishes his drink as he sets it down on the papers.
ANTHONY
Yea. I don't think they'd be quite ready for how amazing it is, MATT.
MATT
You gonna fill me in on it or what? You can't drop me on a line like that and leave me out to dry.
ANTHONY
Alright, but you better go to the bathroom, cuz this shit is an adventure.
ANTHONY smiles as MATT finishes his drink and stands, heading towards the bathroom as ANTHONY nods to himself, a look of both solace and pain,
EXT. STREET
CHARLES and SHANE walk past some screaming teenagers as they are decked out in beads and costumes as SHANE laughs as he was still wearing his beads, as was CHARLES. NIGHT finally begins to set in around the FRINGE as CHARLES leads SHANE through a more suburban area of the CITY.
SHANE
Why don't I see more of this...quiet...normal looking neighborhoods.
CHARLES
There's plenty, you just have to be looking for them.
SHANE
What we were doing here anyways, I was kinda starting to get into that party back there.
CHARLES
Got one more thing to do and then I'm setting you loose. A couple I want to introduce to you too.
SHANE
You fucking know everyone don't you?
CHARLES
Just about.
CHARLES heads up into a driveway before opening a screen door and knocking on the door a few times, CHARLES watching as the porch light comes on before the door opens and a PREGNANT WOMAN gives him a huge smile and hug, CHARLES hugging her back as SHANE looks at her confused as a MAN appears and shakes CHARLES'S HAND, CHARLES smiling as he steps to the side, SHANE stepping up as CHARLES introduces them.
CHARLES
EDWARDO, CECILIA, This is SHANE, he is one of mine. SHANE, this is the ALVAREZ'S.
EDWARDO
How are you?
SHANE
Good, thanks nice to meet you both.
CECILIA
It is our pleasure, please come in.
SHANE shakes their hands as she waddles out of the way and heads towards the living room as CHARLES steps in first, SHANE following as EDWARDO closes the door.
INT. ALVAREZ HOME
CECILIA takes a seat in a chair as EDWARDO motions for CHARLES and SHANE to sit in their guest couch as CHARLES smiles as CECILIA looks at him with a huge smile.
CECILIA
CHARLES, it's been too long, you look really good.
CHARLES
Thanks.
CECILIA
Still smoking I see.
CHARLES
It's not like I was just gonna stop.
CECILIA
Well, none of that once this kid is born.
CHARLES
Of course.
SHANE
So what are you guys? I mean, I hope that's not too personal, but I know that UNDEAD can't procreate here, so I guess that would make you...
CECILIA
I am a VAMPIRE, hun.
EDWARDO
WEREWOLF.
SHANE looks at CHARLES as CHARLES smiles as SHANE looks confused but has a small smirk on his face.
SHANE
So...uh...hybrids exist here...?
CECILIA laughs as EDWARDO shakes his head with a chuckle, SHANE looking over at CHARLES as CHARLES was laughing as well.
CECILIA
You really are new here huh? No dear, cross breeding here in the fringe doesn't produce any hybrids...least none that we have heard about.
EDWARDO
Usually a predominant gene takes shape when conception happens, and that ultimately becomes the species of the baby.
CECILIA
And seeing how 95% of anything that breeds with a WEREWOLF is born a werewolf, we're expecting the kid to be a lycan just like it's daddy.
SHANE
That's...incredible, truly. I'm happy for you guys. But I'm assuming this isn't a common marriage.
CECILIA
Wouldn't be wrong there.
CHARLES
Werewolf and Vampires spawning together is a taboo subject, it's caused it's fair share of wars, fights and all in between over the years. The UNDERWORLD has become a little more tolerable about it...
EDWARDO
Bah.
CHARLES
But it's still heavily frowned upon, and illegal amongst VAMPIRE SECTS.
SHANE
I take it you know them because of one of these little rifts?
EDWARDO
Me and CECILIA met up years ago in the UNDERWORLD, fell madly in love...
CECILIA
Sure did...
EDWARDO
I got her out, but I myself was not as lucky. Her clan got a hold of me, was keeping me caged and locked away until my family would come to...punish me their own way. Thankfully, it never came to pass.
CECILIA
I found CHARLES and some of his friends and they...they were incredible.
EDWARDO
Busted me out, brokered a peace, least for our families to exile us here, and...been happy ever since. All thanks to him.
SHANE
You don't...miss your families?
EDWARDO
Family is who wants to be in your life. Who supports you and cares for you and wishes your happiness. For you and yours. I have no family, and neither does CECILIA. But we have each other...and soon...
He touches CECILIA'S stomach as she smiles and rubs his arms.
EDWARDO
We will have a family to call our own. And of course we have CHARLES here.
CHARLES
Me? Nah, I'm just the whacky house guest who shows up every now and then to make sure you two love birds are alive and well.
CECILIA
This one here, is one good man, SHANE. You couldn't have gotten a better boss.
SHANE
Yeah? Jury's still out on that...but so far I can't disagree.
CHARLES smirks as he stands, SHANE doing the same as EDWARDO comes over.
CHARLES
We didn't want to keep you up, I just wanted to drop by before it got too late while I was in the area, I'll be by though once that kid is born, you be sure to call me when she goes into labor.
EDWARDO
You will be the first to know, my friend.
CHARLES
Take care of yourselves, EDWARDO, Bye CECILIA.
CECILIA
You be careful out there, CHARLES, SHANE, watch his back, and yourself too, okay?
SHANE
I will, thank you.
SHANE shakes EDWARDO'S hand as he heads out with CHARLES.
EXT. STREET
CHARLES begins down the street as SHANE hurries over to him.
SHANE
I know what that was about.
CHARLES
Do you now?
SHANE
That was your way of saying...showing...me that for every bad fucked up weird thing about this place there's something equally wonderful, and...pure. Good. Right? Or am I just that far off fucking base?
CHARLES
No, you're pretty much in the wheelhouse. Besides, I was in the area, and when I get in the area I tend to drop by there.
SHANE
Why do you?
CHARLES
What's that?
SHANE
You did your duty, you got him out, you did whatever was asked of you, and apparently even more, so...why keep the tabs?
CHARLES
Some people you just can't shake from your life. Some people are beacons of good things you've done in your life that you need around...just because there are just as many equal reminders walking about...to remind you of all the bad you've done and seen. You'll have yours soon enough, I reckon.
SHANE
I guess...So where to now?
CHARLES
Nowhere kiddo. You are officially off the hook, go and have some fun.
SHANE
And what about you?
CHARLES
I'm going to go and do that very thing...see you around, kid.
CHARLES waves him off as he heads down the street alone, SHANE shaking his head as he smirks and heads towards the way they had come towards the moving crowds that were going to the city for the night life as CHARLES whistles as he walks into the darkness of the neighborhood.
INT. THE TAVERN
AUSTIN is drinking alone as AJAX was wiping the counter down before a man down the end of the bar spills his beer all over the counter, AJAX looking at him disdainfully before looking over towards AUSTIN who was ignoring the festivities around him as EMMA was out on the floor, serving drinks and doing her best to look happy.
AJAX comes over to AUSTIN and pours him another shot, before grabbing a shot glass and filling one out for himself as well.
AJAX
Drink with me...on three...let's go, one two three.
AUSTIN and AJAX take it down the hatch as AUSTIN winces as AJAX just shakes his head and sets the bottle down as he leans on the counter.
AJAX
You're not the one I ever expect to see sitting here at this bar top, on this night, pouting like a schoolgirl bitch.
AUSTIN
It's not the time for this.
AJAX
You need to hear a little wisdom from an old timer when it comes to women, you fucking whore, now look at me.
AUSTIN looks at AJAX as AJAX pats him and squeezes him on the shoulder.
AJAX
I don't know what you did to piss EMMA off, but that girl over there ain't herself, and I'll be damned If I’ll have my best bartender in a funk because of something you did. Now I know all about this will they won't they romance you got going on with that other RECLAIMER in that group of yours, yes women talk, loudly and often.
AUSTIN
Goddamnit.
AJAX
All I'm saying is this...You don't get very many chances in life or in death...to say you're sorry. And to mean it. But if you have the time...and you want to be more then... nothing...you'll do the right thing.
AUSTIN
What if you don't know...what that is?
AJAX
All you can do is try.
AUSTIN nods as he pats AJAX and stands up, scooting away from the bar as AJAX smirks and watches AUSTIN go over towards EMMA, AJAX watching as AUSTIN says something into her ear for a few moments before pulling away, EMMA nodding with a smile as she hugs him, AUSTIN patting her on the back as he looks at AJAX who holds up a shot and downs it, AUSTIN nodding as EMMA pulls away and gently touches his face before slapping him on the butt and pushing him towards the door at the same time, AUSTIN taking the hint as he hurries out of the bar, EMMA looking over at AJAX with some tears in her eyes as she mouths the words “thank you” to him, AJAX nodding at her as he mouths “you're welcome”.
EXT. TERESA'S APARTMENT
TERESA answers the door after a series of quick knocks in rapid succession, TERESA looking at CHARLES confused as he pulls her into a KISS, TERESA not resisting as she grabs CHARLES by his shirt and pulls him into the APARTMENT, CHARLES using his leg to kick the door close behind.
EXT. MAIN STREET
SHANE is partying it up with a group of COLLEGE aged CREATURES and UNDEAD as the MARDI GRAS like party rages on through out the night as SHANE was smiling from ear to ear as he gets more beads thrown at him as he looks confused before shrugging and putting them on anyways.
EXT. NIKKI'S APARTMENT
NIKKI opens the door as AUSTIN stands there timidly, NIKKI not sure what to say or do as AUSTIN rubs his chin and looks about before speaking.
AUSTIN
I don't know what I could say to make this alright...or what I can say to tell you I can be different but...I guess I can start by saying that I'm sorry...and that...
NIKKI lets a tear fall from her eyes as she grabs AUSTIN and the two begin to kiss passionately, AUSTIN picking her up by her legs as she wraps them around him as he walks into her apartment, closing the door behind him as they continue to embrace.
The SUN is beginning to rise as time passes throughout the FRINGE as the clean up crews were working hard and early to clean up the messes left behind by the party goers.
INT. TERESA'S BEDROOM
TERESA sits up, covering herself with the sheet as CHARLES was already dressed but sitting on the edge of the bed near her, CHARLES reaching over and kissing her hand as she leans up and scoots over to him, wrapping the sheet around her as she kisses him, CHARLES holding it for a few moments before pulling away.
CHARLES
Sorry, but I have to go.
TERESA
Couldn't have woken me up first?
CHARLES
I tried, you were pretty out.
TERESA
Umm...you tend to do that.
CHARLES
Haha, thanks I guess.
TERESA
Why do you keep doing this? I should be asking myself why I keep letting it happen...
CHARLES
Force of habit? I don't know what you want me to say.
TERESA
I just...I can't keep letting myself tie my feelings into what we used to be...had.
CHARLES
I know.
CHARLES takes her left leg and lays little kisses up and down it as she smiles and pushes his head up to look at her.
TERESA
That's not gonna work this time.
CHARLES sets her leg down as she gives him a serious expression.
TERESA
I'm trying to find that place, that place where we can have what we want and be able to coexist in our workforce but...we can't separate the two, CHARLES you know this.
CHARLES
I do, but that doesn't change that I still....
TERESA
Don't...don't say it.
CHARLES
TERESA...
TERESA
What happened last night, was...nice. It was fun, and needed for sure, at least for me. But...today, once you leave...it's back to how it has to be...and don't expect me to answer that door the next time you come knocking.
CHARLES
Yeah. I figured as much.
CHARLES stands, and leaning over he kisses her on the head and heads to her door, waiting a moment before opening the door and heading out as he closes the door softly, TERESA grabbing her hair as she falls back onto her bed, a confused expression on her face.
INT. ANTHONY'S APARTMENT
SHANE wakes up groggily as he looks about to see he was passed out on the couch, ANTHONY cooking in the kitchen as he comes in and sets a glass down in front of him, SHANE looking at it suspiciously.
SHANE
The hell is that...?
ANTHONY
It'll help with the hangover...and god knows whatever else was wrong with you.
SHANE
What?
ANTHONY
I suspect you probably partied a little too hard last night. Maybe I slipped some shit you didn't know of...least that's the impression I got when you come home and dry humped my couch near death before passing out on it.
SHANE
Oh...shit...
ANTHONY
It's alright, I was a bit amused at first...then it got....weird.
SHANE
Why'd you keep watching me?
ANTHONY
...You want some toast?
SHANE
Uh, no I'm good.
SHANE sits up, moaning loudly as he takes the glass and swallows the concoction down as he stands and stretches, feeling himself crack and stretch as he heads over and takes a seat at the counter top by the KITCHEN.
ANTHONY
Are...uh, are we good? I know we haven't talked much, if at all since we got back and I just...
SHANE
It's alright, TONY. We're good, promise. I had a rather...interesting experience with CHARLES yesterday.
ANTHONY
Thank god. I couldn't handle this awkward silent shit.
SHANE
Yeah, about that...I think I'm a move out.
ANTHONY
What?
SHANE
Yeah, It's been awesome kicking it with you man, And I appreciate everything, but I'm going to be getting a pretty good check coming from BRUTUS, and with the cut we got from the reap, I was able to look around and find a place. Put the down payment down yesterday before I went into work. I meant to tell you but...
ANTHONY
It's fine man. I'm happy for you, it's going to be good for you. Better yet, you can take the bed.
SHANE
I can't do that man.
ANTHONY
Before you I never had anyone come over and stay the night anyways, and besides that'll save ya a good chunk of cash and it's a pretty good thread count too, so take it man.
SHANE
Thanks, TONY.
ANTHONY
Sucks your leaving man. But if we're cool, I gotta help a brother out.
SHANE
Family?
ANTHONY
You know it.
ANTHONY holds a fist out towards him and SHANE smirks and pounds it with his own, ANTHONY pulling up a piece of toast as he takes a large bite out of it as SHANE shakes his head and moans as he lays his head on the counter.
INT. NIKKI'S BEDROOM
NIKKI and AUSTIN stare into each other's eyes as they were nearly nose to nose in her bed, the TWO not saying anything as they looked into each other's eyes, a look of understanding...and of sadness.
INT. DINER
EMMA was chatting up with CINDY as CHARLES comes in, CHARLES coming over as he pinches CINDY on her arm as she jumps and turns, smiling as she slaps him gently on the chest as CHARLES smirks and scoots in across from EMMA, EMMA rolling her eyes as she had her plate of food already as CHARLES declines to order as CINDY heads off.
CHARLES
You don't look worse for wear, I take it you didn't get as sloshed as normal?
EMMA
Wasn't in the festive mood.
CHARLES
Okay...I know I hurt your feelings. But I took care of some things. I spent most of the day with SHANE, took him around, showed him a thing or two.
EMMA
And?
CHARLES
You'll see him around more I think.
EMMA
Thank you...you did it with us, didn't make sense to hold off with him.
CHARLES
I know.
EMMA
What's been going on with you? You've been...
CHARLES
In time, kiddo. I got you something...
EMMA looks at him confused as CHARLES pulls out a small jewelry box and slides it over towards her.
EMMA smiles and opens it up, looking down at a NECKLACE with her name engraved on it as it was encrusted with rubies as she looks at CHARLES who gets up out of the booth and comes around, kissing her on the top of her head as she stares at the present with tears forming in her eyes.
CHARLES
Happy OCCUPATION DAY, princess.
EMMA
CHARLES...
CHARLES
That's the most expensive you're going to get out of me for a while, just wanted you to know that.
EMMA
Where are you going?
CHARLES
I blew someone off yesterday to make sure SHANE was okay, now I gotta go grovel and hope they'd talk to me today. Tell the others I said “have a good day”.
EMMA
I will.
CHARLES
Love ya, kid.
CHARLES heads off as EMMA smiles and looks down at the NECKLACE, nodding as she wipes her eyes and closes the jewelry box.
EMMA
Love you too...
EXT. DINER
CHARLES lights a cigarette and begins down the street, walking with purpose as he goes about the area for what seems like a good while before he comes to a stop outside of a DERELICT BUILDING.
He knocks on the LARGE DOOR a few times before waiting a few moments before the door opens and a MAN steps forward.
MAN
CHARLES REID...
CHARLES
ALISTAR CROWLEY.
ALISTAR CROWLEY, a High Level Demon looks CHARLES up and down before smirking.
CROWLEY
You were late yesterday, stood me up even.
CHARLES
Would work better if you had a phone.
CROWLEY
Seeing how I don't do business more than once, I am making one hell of an exception, so I suppose you best get to telling me what it is you're coming to me for, and please make it worth my time.
CHARLES
What do you know about a “PROJECT DECONSTRUCTION?”
CROWLEY
That? Oh I know a little about a lot of that. But that's neither here nor there. I want the juicier detail, I know that's not all you have for me, cuz if that is, I mean come on...
CHARLES
Fine...I need your help...
CROWLEY
Oh...with?
CHARLES looks around to make sure no one was around before he steps forward.
CHARLES
I need you to find my wife..
CHARLES looks at CROWLEY as CROWLEY absorbs the information before smiling to himself as he gestures for CHARLES to come inside, CHARLES doing so as CHARLES doesn't notice EMMA watching him from the end of the street corner, EMMA looking concerned as she wears her hurt and confused expression clear on her face, the necklace he just gave her placed around her neck.
FADE OUT
END OF EPISODE.