Episode 8: Last Kind Words
EPISODE 8
“LAST KIND WORDS”
FADE IN
RECAP
COLD OPEN
INT.
EMMA is behind the COUNTER as AJAX hands her a ring of KEYS, EMMA looking over as CHARLES, SHANE, ANTHONY, and NIKKI were sitting in a booth, AUSTIN not far from them as he was conversing with some LADIES a few booths down as other then them were some stragglers here and there.
AJAX
You make sure you close this place up, and make sure none of your friends break anything.
EMMA
That happened once...
AJAX
Fourteen times.
EMMA
Okay, fourteen times...but boss, I got it.
AJAX
Alright. Behave yourself.
EMMA
Aye aye.
AJAX salutes her and heads out as some of the PATRONS clap and wave him off, AJAX waving back as he heads out the door as CHARLES shakes his head as ANTHONY gets up.
ANTHONY
I'm getting the next round.
SHANE
See...that's a good man right there.
CHARLES
One of the good ones.
ANTHONY gets up and heads toward the BAR as NIKKI nudges SHANE with her elbow.
NIKKI
How's the new place?
SHANE
It's nice. It's small...and quaint compared to some of your guys pads but it's good for me.
CHARLES
When's the house warming party?
SHANE
Haha, this is it.
ANTHONY takes a seat at the BAR as EMMA gives a drink to a guy near the end of the BAR as she comes over and sets a tray down, filling some MUGS with an ALE as she smiles at ANTHONY.
EMMA
You guys are drinking like horses to water tonight, what's the special occasion you're excluding me from?
ANTHONY
Excluding? You're the one whose working, besides, it's not that busy you could hang for a bit.
EMMA
I could...but that defeats the purpose of working...I don't have the cushy lush job of sitting in a chair on a set and barking orders all day, eh?
ANTHONY
Haha, darling it's in no way cushy.
EMMA
Coulda fooled me.
EMMA pushes the TRAY over towards ANTHONY who takes it and winks at her, EMMA smiling as AUSTIN notices it from a few tables back as he smirks and goes back to conversing to the three women at the table he was talking too.
As ANTHONY begins walking a MAN bursts through the door, ANTHONY stopping as everyone looks up at him as he is out of breath and bewildered looking.
MAN
Lock this place down, now!
EMMA
Whoa...hold on...
EMMA reaches under the BAR as she goes for her RECLAIMER'S PISTOL, CHARLES doing the same from his spot at the table as SHANE and NIKKI watch carefully.
MAN
You don't understand, it's coming...
EMMA
What is...?
MAN
It's a SERVERIAN!
CHARLES
EMMA, shutters!
EMMA goes and smacks a large button behind the LIQUOR CABINET as CHARLES rushes to the DOOR and locks, SHANE getting out of the booth as he runs over and comes to look outside as CHARLES was watching carefully as SHANE raises an eyebrow.
SHANE
What the fuck...?
As the SHUTTERS began to lower all around the TAVERN, CHARLES and SHANE watch as ELECTRICAL CURRENTS were dancing and firing from all over the FRINGE as POWERFUL GUSTS OF WIND, RAIN, AND LIGHTNING were crashing down all about as the SHUTTERS cut off their vision to the outside world.
FADE OUT
OPENING CREDITS
FADE IN
INT. TAVERN
PEOPLE are chattering as the TAVERN was being ravaged and pelted against by the INTENSE STORM outside as CHARLES was conversing with some people as SHANE comes over to NIKKI who was sitting at the BAR with ANTHONY as EMMA sat on the counter top.
SHANE
Okay, what the hell is going on?
NIKKI
It's a storm.
SHANE
I saw that...but that's one hell of a storm.
ANTHONY
Storm's like this...they're called SERVERIAN'S. We don't know why, ANGELS coined it. It's an every few years event.
EMMA
It's mostly the world's own energy turning on itself, it's gotta displace it, keeps the world level, once it's done, the FRINGE continues to roll on as usual.
SHANE
So this is some freak super storm that is what, recharging itself?
NIKKI
In a nutshell.
SHANE
So why the lock-down?
ANTHONY
Out there, that's pure energy. Getting caught up in that, is suicide.
NIKKI
Just for us though. The original inhabitants, the Vampires, and Werewolf's and all those guys, they're completely unaffected. Just us UNDEAD, and ANGELS and DEMONS.
CHARLES
Which is why it's imperative that we keep a watchful eye on those few over there...
CHARLES walks up as he was looking past them, the GROUP turning to see TWO VAMPIRES talking amongst themselves, as AUSTIN was also conversing with a WOMAN who was a GHOUL.
SHANE
Why would we need to be watching them?
CHARLES
This storm makes CREATURES here go bold. If they wanted to they could unlock the SHUTTERS and let the storm over take us, and then we would all be dead.
SHANE
Okay, noted. So what happens now?
CHARLES
Wait it out, nothing we can do.
EMMA
The power grid is gonna overload. You hear that? That's some powerful currents out there.
CHARLES
How long?
EMMA
Not long.
SHANE
How long does this storm last?
NIKKI
Depends. Could be two hours...sixteen hours...a week.
ANTHONY
Longest recorded was a...CHARLES, how long was that one?
CHARLES
Seven weeks.
SHANE
Oh fuck.
EMMA
The shutters will hold.
SHANE
Yeah, but...will we?
SHANE looks between the GROUP as they don't seem to have an answer, AUSTIN coming over as he reaches over the COUNTER and grabs a bottle of VODKA, EMMA grabbing his arm as he tries to pull it back.
EMMA
What the hell are you doing?
AUSTIN
I'm trying to get the GHOUL chick over there to loosen up so I can score with her UNDEAD PALS, this SERVERIAN is going to get someone here laid. And I prefer that person to be me.
EMMA
You're not getting a bunch of drunk chicks drunk when we don't even know how long this goddamn storm is going to last?!
AUSTIN
EMMA...just...okay.
AUSTIN pulls his arm free and waltzes back over to the group of WOMEN as SHANE comes over to CHARLES.
SHANE
Why the hell was there no warning? Don't you think the SYSTEM should have like a storm warning, or a TORNADO siren or something going for it?
CHARLES
We do, though the technology itself isn't exactly foolproof. It's a cosmic and systematic world realignment. It can't really be figured out, because there is no set pattern, it just occurs when the world is off balance.
SHANE
What causes it?
CHARLES
Influx. To many souls coming in, not enough going out, too many deaths, not enough. It's a collection of things, if we knew for sure, then we would be able to figure out when these are bound to happen.
SHANE
What happens...to the people who were caught outside when it started?
CHARLES
They'd be okay. It's not too harmful at first, but as the storm rages, it's power and intensity grows. Don't worry, most people got themselves into some shelter prior. Casualties in the SERVERIAN aren't from people being caught off guard...
SHANE
It's from the CREATURES trying to...
CHARLES
Ssh. Yes.
SHANE nods as he notices the VAMPIRES were eying them from afar, CHARLES not drawing attention to himself as he comes back over towards the COUNTER as EMMA was laid out.
EMMA
This sucks.
NIKKI
It's only been twenty minutes.
EMMA
That doesn't mean this still doesn't suck a bag of dicks.
ANTHONY
Suck a bag of dicks.
EMMA
Yep, learned that from SHANE.
SHANE
Hey, don't go blaming me for your use of exceptionally foul language. And you're welcome.
CHARLES
We'll be alright. We've faced these storms together, nothing bad is going to happen.
EMMA rolls her eyes as SHANE takes a seat as the MAN who had come running inside goes towards the back, heading into the RESTROOM.
INT. TAVERN RESTROOM
The MAN goes to the TOILET as he hears the rattling of the STORM against the SHUTTERS outside as he does his business, The MAN reeling as flushes and comes over to the SINK, stopping as he notices something watching him from the far end of the BATHROOM, the MAN looking closer as he doesn't see anything before he tentatively turns the sink on, not noticing the swirling black smoke forming behind the back of his legs as it slowly began to form into a shape behind him, The MAN washing his hands before he turns to the SINK off and turns to leave, stopping cold as a BLACK SMOKE SHAPED MONSTER screeches and lashes out forward, slamming it's clawed hands into the MAN'S EYES as the MAN couldn't usher out a scream as the CREATURE began to morph and turn more solid, long BLACK WINGS begin to protrude and appear as the MAN was being drained as white light was being sucked into it's dark frame.
THREE HOURS LATER
The TAVERN was in the dark as the SERVERIAN was raging on outside, some of the groups were still intact as they were keeping to themselves, as others were taking naps or passed out as EMMA laid in NIKKI'S lap in a booth as ANTHONY was over with AUSTIN chatting up with the ladies as CHARLES looked on point, keeping his eyes on everything as SHANE aimlessly paced about.
SHANE
I'm going to go ahead and throw this out there, this fucking blows.
EMMA
Amen, brother.
CHARLES
Nothing we can't handle.
EMMA
I'm hungry.
CHARLES
We have nuts.
EMMA
CHARLES?!
CHARLES
Peanuts, bar nuts, dear lord EMMA get your mind out the gutter.
NIKKI
I was thinking the same thing...
SHANE
Yeah me too...
CHARLES
Enough.
EMMA laughs as NIKKI smirks, rubbing her head as SHANE cracks his neck as ANTHONY looks over at them as AUSTIN pours another shot.
AUSTIN
Might as well keep getting loaded, TONY.
ANTHONY
I think I'm good.
AUSTIN
Well these ladies are still ready to party aren't you gals?
The TWO UNDEAD LADIES, KATHY and BELLA let out little party girl screams as the GHOUL, CARRIE watches her friends cheer, drawing the attention of the others as AUSTIN laughs and takes a shot as ANTHONY pushes his back.
BELLA
So which one is the one you like? The smaller one?
AUSTIN
No, that's NIKKI, he's in love with the BARTENDER.
BELLA
Oh she's cute! You should totally ask her out.
ANTHONY
It's not that easy, and keep your fucking voice down, damn.
AUSTIN
He's still working on telling her that he even likes her.
BELLA
Oh...oh hun haha.
KATHY
It's pretty simple actually just plant your feet, look her in the eyes and say “Bitch, me and you were made for two”.
ANTHONY
Wow...just...awful.
AUSTIN
Better than sitting here pinning in front of beautiful ladies like a little bitch.
ANTHONY
What is this? Two weeks ago you're sitting there at that very booth asking me about what the hell should be done about you and NIKKI and now you're sitting here calling me a bitch, to what? Impress some drunk hussies during a SERVERIAN? The fuck's the matter with you man?
AUSTIN
ANTHONY...whoa, hey...
ANTHONY scoots out of the booth as AUSTIN looks at the WOMEN for a moment before scooting out and coming over to him, grabbing ANTHONY by the arm as CHARLES watches the TWO carefully as CHARLES notices a VAMPIRE going into the BATHROOM, CHARLES going back to AUSTIN who hadn't let go of ANTHONY'S ARM yet.
ANTHONY
Let go of me.
AUSTIN
Next time you want to cause a scene for me, why not be a man and finish what you start, huh?
ANTHONY
You think you're some tough guy don't you? Yeah, while there's drunk easy poontang sitting a few feet away it's real easy to be acting all Alpha Male, but have none of that around and you're contemplating life with NIKKI like a pussy.
AUSTIN
Keep talking, asshole...
ANTHONY
Take your fucking hand off me!
ANTHONY pulls his arm free from AUSTIN who gets into his face as EMMA had sat up as NIKKI was watching carefully, CHARLES hurrying over as SHANE got there as well getting between them as AUSTIN pushes SHANE back.
AUSTIN
Get the fuck back.
SHANE
The hell is wrong with you, dude? Relax!
AUSTIN
This ain't got nothing to do with you, SHANE, so back the fuck off!
CHARLES
AUSTIN, chill out, now.
AUSTIN
Fuck you, stay out of this!
CHARLES
The hell did you just say to me?
ANTHONY
With all due respect, sir, this is about me and him.
CHARLES
You two dip shit's aren't going to make a scene right now over a goddamn pissing contest.
AUSTIN
The fuck would you care? You think you're the boss of us, twenty four seven, you're not CHARLES, let us handle our problem.
SHANE
What problem?
AUSTIN
And you...don't test me.
SHANE
The fuck does that mean?
NIKKI
What's going on?
AUSTIN
You know exactly what that means, ever since you showed up here you've been CHARLES'S favorite new toy, getting the easy missions, getting to go to the LIVING WORLD when me and NIKKI clearly had earned our turn.
CHARLES
Don't start on that...
AUSTIN
No, no why not? Ever since he showed up you've treated us like shit, and put him on a goddamned pedestal, and that's bullshit.
CHARLES
I have not.
EMMA
Uh, you have a little.
NIKKI and EMMA had come over as SHANE looked confused as CHARLES was noticing everyone watching them.
CHARLES
We can do this some other time...
AUSTIN
No let's do this right now, where the fuck are we gonna go?!
ANTHONY
Stop being a dickhead, AUSTIN.
AUSTIN
You shut the fuck up!
NIKKI
Stop it! You guys are sounding like a bunch of whiny assholes!
AUSTIN
Who the fuck asked for your input?!
NIKKI
The fuck did you just say to me?!
SHANE
Whoa!
SHANE stops NIKKI from coming over towards AUSTIN as AUSTIN and ANTHONY get back into each other's face as CHARLES pushes them apart this time.
CHARLES
Stop!
AUSTIN
Fuck you CHARLES! You think you stand above us all, looking down because you were some Alpha level douche-bag from hundreds of years ago, get the fuck over yourself! You lied to us, been lying to us, why not tell us about your wife LYDIA?! Or what happened and why COLBY went and turned himself over to the SYSTEM, or anything for that matter!
EMMA
Because he doesn't have to...
AUSTIN
Oh no, he does, because eventually, some of this, if not all of this will come back and bite us in the ass, and then what?! We're just supposed to trust his leadership then!
CHARLES
Get it all out then, might as well.
AUSTIN
Yeah, yeah, okay. You're a piece of shit CHARLES. Everything you do and say is all bullshit, you prance around here, acting like your the big dog of the yard, when what you really are is a broken man, with nothing going on in his life, you were a failure in your old unit, and how many of us have you got killed...?
NIKKI
That's enough...
AUSTIN
No, he told me to tell so I'm telling him! How many of us have you gotten killed? JASPER? COLTON? MILLS? FRANKLIN. DONNA. EMMITT. I could go on and you know it too. And your whole thing with TERESA, fucking pathetic.
ANTHONY
Oh, like you're one to talk, Mr. Oh I Love NIKKI, But She Won't Commit To Me.
NIKKI
TONY, shut up.
ANTHONY
Now you're defending him? No wonder he's all fucked up and confused, you wishy washy bitch.
EMMA
The fuck did you go there for, TONY!?
SHANE
This...this isn't right...something's off...
AUSTIN
Shut up, SHANE! Stay the fuck out of this newb, you don't have a say in any of this, just be the good little pet, and keep your fucking mouth shut.
SHANE
Hey, fuck you asshole, you think cuz your some chiseled chinned pretty boy, I can't fuck you up?!
AUSTIN
I'd like to see you try!
SHANE
Don't push me asshole.
AUSTIN
Try me then! Maybe you'd actually get what you want out of this, by the way, how'd finding your wife go CHARLES?
CHARLES rears back and punches AUSTIN across the jaw, dropping him hard as everyone looks on shocked as AUSTIN gets up a few moments later, spitting some blood out as CHARLES keeps his fist balled.
CHARLES
You're done talking.
AUSTIN
I've not even started...
A SCREAM RINGS out, breaking the tension as the GROUP turns and notices a MAN running out of the BATHROOM pointing at it as he drops to his backside and scoots away.
MAN
They're dead...they're all dead?!
INT. TAVERN BATHROOM
CHARLES rushes over as AUSTIN and NIKKI were close by, EMMA grabbing her RECLAIMER PISTOL as CHARLES comes to the door and waits a moment before AUSTIN and NIKKI draw their PISTOLS, CHARLES nodding as he pushes the door open, the TWO quickly going inside as they aim about before stopping, NIKKI covering her mouth as AUSTIN look on stunned as CHARLES pushes the door open and comes inside, stopping in his tracks as ANTHONY, SHANE and EMMA come in around him, stopping as the GROUP watch as FOUR BODIES were laid on top of each other, their skin compressed against their skeletal frame as they were completely drained.
INT. TAVERN
The TAVERN PATRONS are all huddled together, screaming and freaking out as EMMA jumps on the COUNTER and gets their attention, calming them down as CHARLES clears his throat.
CHARLES
I know we're all a bit freaked out right now, and I know that...this SERVERIAN is not helping matters, us all being trapped inside here, but I promise you, if you stay together, and in here, we'll be alright. Whatever it is, hasn't come after us because we've been locked down in here together, not splitting up. So keep close to the light, and do not go off alone, if at all. I'll get back to everyone once we have some more to work off of, I promise.
The PATRONS head back to their spots together as some small groups had joined up with others, AUSTIN speaking to the girls who looked shaken up as SHANE and NIKKI come over to CHARLES as EMMA gets down off of the counter beside him.
SHANE
Okay, what the hell is going on? Those guys were UNDEAD, one of them a VAMPIRE, and they were all...dead, drained.
CHARLES
I was there.
SHANE
Their eyes were intact, how could they be dead if their eyes were intact?
NIKKI
The eyes are the windows to our souls, yes, that's true but if this soul is destroyed, or...taken, it could still kill us.
SHANE
What do you mean, taken?
NIKKI
Yeah.
SHANE
I'm confused.
CHARLES
Some creatures here have the capabilities to drain or suck our very life force...or soul, from our celestial bodies. It leaves the body itself intact, but the soul, the essence of what we are, we're gone.
SHANE
So what the hell is this? What's in here, coming after us?
NIKKI
I have a theory, but we're not going to like it.
CHARLES
If you're thinking about what I think it is...
SHANE
The suspense is killing me, spit it out.
NIKKI
It's a BELKER.
SHANE
A what?
NIKKI
A BELKER. It's a smoke, shapeless creature, that feeds on souls, and gathers energy from it.
CHARLES
The more it takes and devours, the more powerful it becomes, gaining strength and near immortality. It'll also become more solid, which is the good thing for us.
SHANE
How do you figure that?
EMMA
You can't destroy a creature made of smoke, SHANE. But a CREATURE turning itself into real flesh and blood, that can be killed.
SHANE
How many souls would it have to consume to do that?
CHARLES
Depends. But this is a perfect feeding zone.
NIKKI
It is. Trapped in patrons, can't leave, very few weapons to harm it. I think all we have is our PISTOLS.
CHARLES
Yeah...not good.
SHANE
So we don't know if this thing is smoke or solid?
CHARLES
It can interchange itself at will between the two forms, however the more souls it consumes the longer it can stay in its solid form.
SHANE
Why would it want to stay solid?
CHARLES
BELKER'S are creatures that base itself off of emotions. There are many types. Some feed off fear, others on love, lust, greed, happiness. Whatever.
SHANE
And this one is getting off on what?
NIKKI
Aggression.
CHARLES
That explains a lot.
SHANE
Talk to me, the new guy, hello?!
EMMA
BELKER'S can manipulate the emotions it needs to feast off of, if AUSTIN'S outburst, and our reactions to it are of any indication, then this thing is using anger, and aggression as it's source.
CHARLES
And believe me, we don't want a BELKER loose in here, hopped up on angered and pissed off souls.
SHANE
So what do we do?
CHARLES
We're going to have to hunt this thing down.
SHANE
Didn't you just say to have everyone...
CHARLES
Yes, them. But we can take care of ourselves...right?
SHANE
Of course.
CHARLES
EMMA, what's the layout around here?
EMMA
Well...you got the loading dock, take the right hallway and go all the way down, it opens up into a big area.
CHARLES
And down here?
CHARLES points down the left hallway leading into the back of the TAVERN.
EMMA
Storage and AJAX'S OFFICES.
CHARLES
Okay. SHANE you, NIKKI, and EMMA take the Back Offices and the Storage area, I'll take AUSTIN into the LOADING DOCK.
NIKKI
Boss...
CHARLES
We'll be okay, promise.
EMMA
What about ANTHONY?
CHARLES
Someone needs to look after the flock.
CHARLES goes over to ANTHONY and AUSTIN as NIKKI draws her PISTOl, looking over at SHANE who looks nervous.
NIKKI
This thing is pretty scary, but nothing we can't handle.
SHANE
It's not really it that I'm worried about.
NIKKI
I know.
ANTHONY comes over, clearly agitated as AUSTIN draws his PISTOL and reassures the ladies he was with before coming over to CHARLES who gives him a look before the TWO begin towards the RIGHT HALLWAY, CHARLES reaching behind the counter and grabs a FLASHLIGHT.
ANTHONY
I'm seriously supposed to sit here and watch the drunk scared people?
NIKKI
No, not alone. EMMA you're staying here.
EMMA
What?!
NIKKI
Trust me...If you hear anything you break away, and you come to our aid, otherwise, you help ANTHONY watch these people.
EMMA
Yeah...okay.
EMMA storms off as ANTHONY gives NIKKI a look, NIKKI nodding at him as she comes over and walks past SHANE towards the back.
NIKKI
Let's go.
SHANE follows close behind as ANTHONY and EMMA take a seat at the counter, not saying anything as the PATRONS stay huddled together.
INT. RIGHT HALLWAY-TAVERN
CHARLES holds the FLASHLIGHT up as AUSTIN has his PISTOL drawn, the TWO slowly making their way down the HALLWAY as they can see the LOADING DOCK FLAPS not too far ahead of them.
AUSTIN
CHARLES...about earlier...
CHARLES
Don't worry about it.
AUSTIN
No...look...I didn't mean what I said...
CHARLES
Yes you did...you just weren't going to say it to any of us.
AUSTIN
If it's true that this thing is a BELKER...you understand...right?
CHARLES
Yeah. I understand.
AUSTIN
So...how the hell do we kill this thing? I've never gone up against one of these things before.
CHARLES
Me either. My best guess would be that if it were in its solid form we blast the hell out of it, and if that doesn't work...we'll improvise.
AUSTIN
That's comforting...
INT. LOADING DOCK
The TWO enter the LOADING DOCKS as CRATES and BARRELS of LIQUOR and BEER were stacked up all about as the main docking area was completely clear as most of the pallets were moved about along the walls of the area as CHARLES lowers the FLASHLIGHT.
AUSTIN
Hey, what are you doing?
CHARLES
It's not in here.
AUSTIN
How would you know, we haven't even looked?
CHARLES
Trust me...
CHARLES turns and clocks AUSTIN across the chin again, AUSTIN dropping as CHARLES kicks AUSTIN'S PISTOL away, CHARLES sneering as he grabs AUSTIN pulls him up.
AUSTIN
CHARLES, Stop! This isn't you!
CHARLES head butts AUSTIN, AUSTIN reeling as CHARLES let's him go and front kicks AUSTIN in the chest knocking him back as AUSTIN hits the far wall hard, AUSTIN leaning over as he spits up some blood as CHARLES rushes towards him, AUSTIN quickly rushing forward as he hits CHARLES twice across the cheeks before he sidekicks CHARLES in the chest knocking him down.
AUSTIN
CHARLES this is that thing's aggression manipulation jacking you up!
CHARLES
So what if it is!
CHARLES kicks up and hits AUSTIN in the LEFT KNEE, forcing AUSTIN back as AUSTIN screams in pain as he holds a hand up towards CHARLES who gets up.
AUSTIN
Look I know you're pissed off, I'm sorry I said the things I did but you have to believe me, I'm sorry!
CHARLES
Try again!
CHARLES uppercuts AUSTIN across the JAW, knocking AUSTIN back as AUSTIN falls over, reeling in pain as CHARLES looks feral as he breathes heavy.
INT. LEFT HALLWAY-TAVERN
SHANE and NIKKI check about the OFFICES as SHANE keeps his PISTOL at his side as NIKKI has her's still leveled.
SHANE
I kinda wish this was another pissed off VAMPIRE...or at least something not as fucked up.
NIKKI
It's a new thing for me...I've heard about them though.
SHANE
Ever hear how to kill them?
NIKKI
They vary in theory. Some say you can just blow them away, others say you have to burn them, or freeze them. I guess we'll find out.
SHANE
Yeah...
The TWO hear something ruffle and not moving the TWO give each other a look before they turn and aim their PISTOLS at ANTHONY, ANTHONY throwing his arms up as the TWO huff loudly and shake their heads.
SHANE
What the hell?!
ANTHONY
EMMA told me to come help you guys out, said she got it out there.
NIKKI
ANTHONY...when I tell you something, next time fucking...
SHANE
NIKKI...
NIKKI catches herself as SHANE shakes his head at her, ANTHONY watching her as she closes her eyes and takes a breath nodding as she opens them.
NIKKI
This thing has it ratcheted up...I almost lost my shit over you just showing up...
SHANE
And we let CHARLES and AUSTIN go alone..
NIKKI
Come on.
SHANE, NIKKI and ANTHONY break from the OFFICES and run down the corridor that leads over into the RIGHT HALLWAY.
INT. LOADING DOCK
CHARLES punts AUSTIN across the face as AUSTIN was spitting out blood, AUSTIN reeling as CHARLES bends down and pins his knee onto AUSTIN'S LEFT HAND, AUSTIN reeling as CHARLES grabs AUSTIN by his face and forces him to look up at him.
CHARLES
You think you can talk that way to me? To show me up in front of my crew, MY CREW!
AUSTIN
CHARLES...
CHARLES
I'm talking!
CHARLES punches AUSTIN in the nose, AUSTIN shutting up as he reels in pain as CHARLES rears back and hits him three more times, each hit afterwards more violent and hard hitting.
CHARLES
You want to prove how tough you are to me, to everyone, here you go hot shot! This has been a century in the making, and you know it!
AUSTIN
This isn't you...this is your...anger...it's using your anger...
CHARLES
So what if it is! You dare bring up my dead wife...
AUSTIN
I didn't...know she was dead CHARLES...I didn't know because you didn't tell us...
CHARLES
That's...that's still no excuse!
AUSTIN
Stop...please.
CHARLES sneers but suddenly looks dejected as he un balls his fist, AUSTIN reeling as CHARLES goes to set him down but suddenly balls his fist back up and screaming, he punches AUSTIN in the face again, AUSTIN reeling as CHARLES rears back again but ANTHONY and SHANE grab his arm, hoisting him back as CHARLES screams and tries to fight out of their hold as NIKKI comes over and checks on AUSTIN.
NIKKI
Holy shit...
AUSTIN
I'm fine...just...we gotta calm him down before he kills all of us...
ANTHONY grabs CHARLES and tries to hold him but CHARLES elbows him back, knocking ANTHONY off of him as SHANE rears back and goes to hit CHARLES but CHARLES blocks it and knife hand chops SHANE in the throat, SHANE reeling as CHARLES grabs SHANE and slams his face into the wall, SHANE falling over with a bloody nose as NIKKI watches CHARLES kick ANTHONY across the face before he marches back over towards AUSTIN, NIKKI getting up as CHARLES stops before reaching them.
CHARLES
Get out of my way, NIKKI...you saw how he talked to me...the things he brought up!
NIKKI
I know, boss...but you know this is what the BELKER want's!
CHARLES
I don't care! Get out of my way...
NIKKI
No...
CHARLES
What?
NIKKI
I said no, goddamnit!
CHARLES sneers as he comes over towards NIKKI, throwing a punch at her but she ducks from it and hits CHARLES in the jaw with her own, CHARLES reeling as SHANE runs up from behind and knees CHARLES in the back, CHARLES falling over forward as NIKKI runs and slide kicks CHARLES in the head when he landed, NIKKI forcing her foot to slam his head into the side of the wall, CHARLES going limp on impact as NIKKI gets up and stands ready, SHANE doing so as well as ANTHONY comes over, AUSTIN holding his arm as he watches as CHARLES hadn't moved.
SHANE
I think we knocked him out.
NIKKI
Maybe it'll help him calm...
CHARLES
Ow...what the fuck..
The FOUR reel as CHARLES stirs, CHARLES looking around as he grabs his head and goes to his feet, SHANE watching closely as NIKKI balls her fists as CHARLES looks hazy as he cracks his neck.
CHARLES
Who kicked me into the wall?
NIKKI
Are you...you?
CHARLES
Yeah...I think so.
NIKKI
What the hell boss?
CHARLES
I don't know...I...I felt like I was there but I wasn't...I was...so fucking angry. I couldn't control myself. AUSTIN...
AUSTIN
I'm fine. Taken worse.
CHARLES
I'm sorry...
NIKKI
This thing is strong...it didn't take much to almost set me off...
CHARLES
We have to find it...and quickly...
INT. TAVERN
EMMA is talking to some patrons as KATHY and BELLA are talking to themselves as CARRIE shakes her head.
CARRIE
Oh my god, who cares about how that fucking douche is doing!
KATHY
CARRIE!
CARRIE
No, I've had to sit here all goddamn night listening to you two prattle on like a bunch of drunk sorority girls when I could go out in this storm no problem and be home. You know what, that's exactly what I'm going to do...
BELLA
CARRIE, CARRIE!
EMMA watches as the GHOUL begins towards the BAR, EMMA quickly breaking away as she hops the COUNTER and cuts CARRIE off as she went around and was going towards the SHUTTER CONTROL.
EMMA
What are you doing?
CARRIE
I'm leaving.
EMMA
I can't open that SHUTTER you know that.
CARRIE
Well I can.
EMMA
Back off.
CARRIE
You really think a pretty girl like you can take me.
KATHY and BELLA come over towards the COUNTER as they look concerned.
BELLA
CARRIE, just stop, okay, we're sorry...
CARRIE
Shut up, BELLA.
EMMA
You're not touching that button.
CARRIE
Care to try me?
EMMA
I'm a RECLAIMER...not just a pretty face.
CARRIE
You think highly of yourself don't you? God, is that all you human's can do? Is be self absorbed...
EMMA
You need to calm down, and get back around the counter. Last time.
CARRIE
I'm leaving.
EMMA draws his PISTOL as KATHY and BELLA don't notice the SMOKE beginning to form under their legs.
CARRIE sneers as she takes a step towards it, EMMA taking a step as well as she holds her PISTOL up.
EMMA
I take a shot, you go down, permanently.
CARRIE
You wouldn't dare.
EMMA
You are threatening more then just my life, you're threatening every other living thing in here because you can't stay still for a few hours, will tough tits, suck it up, and sit the fuck down bitch!
CARRIE
Why you stupid little fucking cun...!
CARRIE rushes EMMA but as KATHY and BELLA scream for her to stop, EMMA fires a round that hits her point blank in the head, CARRIE throwing her head back as her eyes gloss over before she falls awkwardly backwards, dead, EMMA huffing a few times as the PATRONS were watching on in shock as one of them SCREAMS, EMMA turning as the BELKER appears nearly formed behind KATHY and BELLA, EMMA screaming at them to “duck” but they don't as the BELKER stabs into their backs with its TWO CLAWWED HANDS, EMMA jumping the counter as the PATRONS began to panic and scream.
INT. LOADING DOCK
CHARLES hears the commotion first as the others look towards it as well, No one saying a word as CHARLES, SHANE, and NIKKI break for the front of the TAVERN as ANTHONY helps AUSTIN up as he scoops his PISTOL up and follows behind.
INT. TAVERN
EMMA fires relentlessly into the BELKER as it drains the life out of KATHY and BELLA, EMMA unable to do anything as their bodies were being sucked dry in front of her as she keeps shooting it the BELKER not seeming to mind as CHARLES pushes some of the PATRONS away from him as he takes aim and also begins firing at the creature, the BELKER dropping the TWO now dead UNDEAD GIRLS as it looks at CHARLES, SHANE and NIKKI coming up next to him as the THREE open fire, hitting it as it covers itself with its wings before screeching loudly, EMMA aiming at it but no longer firing as she was in shock as the CREATURE begins walking towards the THREE, SHANE eying CHARLES in panic as CHARLES keeps firing just as it got a few feet away and slams it's wing to the side, knocking all three to the LEFT as CHARLES lands on NIKKI, SHANE hitting the far wall over some PATRONS, knocking into them as he fell as BELKER watches as a PATRON tried to run past it but it snags the UNDEAD MAN by the throat and stabs its claws into its head, beginning to drain him dry as CHARLES reels and checks on NIKKI who was out cold, CHARLES cursing as ANTHONY and AUSTIN come up to him, ANTHONY checking NIKKI as AUSTIN hobbles up next to CHARLES who watches as the BELKER takes out another PATRON after tossing the last dead one down.
AUSTIN
The guns?
CHARLES
Pissed it off?
AUSTIN
Then what now?
SHANE
Fire...
SHANE reels as he gets up.
SHANE
Let's burn the fucking thing.
AUSTIN
I don't have anything that...
The THREE look at the LIQUOR bottles everywhere, AUSTIN nodding at CHARLES as CHARLES runs over towards it as he tackles the BELKER, EMMA screaming as she watches it land near them, EMMA stepping back in horror as AUSTIN and SHANE began grabbing LIQUOR bottles.
CHARLES
Any time now!
The BELKER turns into SMOKE and CHARLES goes through it, hitting the floor as he quickly turns and throws his knees up as it solidifies and jumps on top of CHARLES, snapping it's hideous face at him before going to stab it's claws into his chest but EMMA quickly runs and wraps herself around it's arm, pulling it back as it screeches and throws her off, slamming her into the wall as she hits a booth hard.
CHARLES
Now!
AUSTIN and SHANE begin peltering it with bottles, the BELKER screeching as it is dosed in liquor, CHARLES covering up from the glass as he quickly scoots back as it turns its attention on the two as it screeches and begins towards them, AUSTIN and SHANE still hitting it with bottles as CHARLES watches as it turns into SMOKE, as they toss two more bottles which sail through it, hitting the far wall as it appears and stabs its hands into both of their chests.
CHARLES
No!
AUSTIN and SHANE reel as they feel the BELKER'S CLAW deep in their chests, draining them as CHARLES stands and goes to fire but as he does he watches NIKKI beside the counter and toss a ZIPPO at it, The BELKER suddenly engulfed in flames as it pulls out of SHANE and AUSTIN, the two dropping back as they gasped for air as the BELKER screams in agony before suddenly turning into SMOKE, the GROUP watching as the FIRE burns in the air for a moment before dispersing.
The GROUP watch in horror as the BELKER begins to re form, CHARLES looking about as AUSTIN and SHANE were still reeling, holding their chests as NIKKI looks at CHARLES in horror as EMMA hadn't moved yet.
NIKKI
What the hell do we do?!
CHARLES
I...don't know.
ANTHONY
CHARLES!?
AJAX
Burn it!
The GROUP watch as AJAX comes from the LEFT HALLWAY, The BELKER screeching as AJAX had a lit MOLOTOV in hand already as CHARLES watches with a confused look as the BELKER screams and turns towards him as AUSTIN grabs SHANE and pushes him to the far side of the COUNTER as AJAX tosses the MOLOTOV, the BOTTLE hitting the BELKER as the BELKER screeches before being engulfed in fire but this time, the FIRE BURNS BLUE and GREEN, the BELKER screeching in agony as it goes into its SMOKE FORM but continues to burn as it switches back and forth as it screeches and flails about, AUSTIN scooting back away as ANTHONY grabs SHANE and pulls him away as CHARLES runs over and gets AUSTIN, helping him up as the TWO come by AJAX who steps and watches the BELKER burn to death as CHARLES looks at AJAX before looking back at the BELKER as it screeches one more time before bursting into a ball of GREEN BLUE and WHITE LIGHT, everyone shielding their eyes before looking about to see it gone.
AJAX hurries over to EMMA as EMMA is stirring, the PATRONS still alive looking horrified as NIKKI comes over to SHANE, checking him on and his wound as SHANE winces in pain.
NIKKI
How deep is it?
SHANE
Deep...it got a bit but...I think I'll live...
NIKKI
You're lucky you know that.
SHANE
I guess so.
AUSTIN looks at CHARLES who was staring AJAX down, AUSTIN patting him on the shoulder as CHARLES looks to AUSTIN with a concerned look.
CHARLES
Are you okay...?
AUSTIN
Your ass whooping was worse.
CHARLES
...We're not done with that.
AUSTIN
I...yeah, okay.
CHARLES comes over to AJAX as EMMA is reeling as AJAX smirks at her as she looks up at him confused.
EMMA
Hey...
AJAX
I thought I asked you not to let your friends break anything in my bar?
EMMA
We had an incident...
AJAX
I saw. You let a BELKER in here too, come on EMMA.
EMMA
Seriously...?
AJAX
It's okay. I'm just...probably a bad time to joke.
EMMA
Ya think.
CHARLES hands AJAX a bottle, AJAX handing it to EMMA who puts it to her forehead as AJAX stands and comes around, looking at the various dead bodies and damage.
AJAX
You're lucky you're here as often as you are, or else I'd be pretty pissed with you right now.
CHARLES
This place has seen worse.
AJAX
That it has.
CHARLES
How did you get in here...? During the SERVERIAN?
AJAX
It's tapering off, should die down here in a few.
CHARLES
But EMMA closed the SHUTTERS?
AJAX
I know how to get into my own place, CHARLES.
CHARLES
What...
NIKKI
CHARLES.
CHARLES looks over to NIKKI as he glares at AJAX for a moment before coming back over towards NIKKI who was looking confused.
NIKKI
What uh...what just...
CHARLES
I don't know. I don't.
NIKKI
Is that thing...dead?
CHARLES
I think so.
NIKKI
Okay, then that begs the question, what the fuck?
CHARLES
I wish I knew.
NIKKI
SHANE and AUSTIN should be fine, the wound is deep but nothing some all natural healing couldn't fix, or at least a trip to the HOSPITAL.
CHARLES
Once the SEVERIAN clears up, take 'em.
NIKKI
Will do.
CHARLES looks about as the PATRONS were discussing what had happened loudly as CHARLES looks around for a bit before he hears the BANGING and STRIKING of the STORM outside suddenly go quiet, EVERYONE going quiet as they looked about and heard it for themselves as CHARLES looks to NIKKI and nods, NIKKI going over and hitting the button to the SHUTTERS as they listen to the SHUTTERS begin to raise, CHARLES and AUSTIN going over towards the door as they wait for the SHUTTERS to be raised before noticing that STREETS were now calm, as a DAWN was rising, people from all over coming out as CHARLES and AUSTIN look at each other before looking at AJAX who wasn't interested in the storm as he was still with EMMA.
SOME TIME LATER
A ANGEL leaves with some MEN who were wheeling out the DEAD BODIES that were now put away in STRANGE CLEAR BAGS with SYMBOLS ALL AROUND THEM as CHARLES was helping clean up some of the GLASS and DEBRIS as EMMA was sitting at the BAR, a rag to her head as the power was back on, AJAX cleaning up behind the counter as ANTHONY was helping him out as CHARLES hears his cell phone go off, CHARLES answering it on the third ring.
CHARLES
Yeah...? Okay that's good. Thanks, NIKKI.
CHARLES hangs up as EMMA looks over at him.
CHARLES
AUSTIN and SHANE are going to be okay.
ANTHONY
That's a good thing.
CHARLES
Yeah.
EMMA rubs her temples as CHARLES comes over and rubs her shoulders.
CHARLES
TONY, you think you can take EMMA home?
ANTHONY
Uh, yeah...I can.
EMMA
Boss, I'm fine.
CHARLES
You need to go home, get some rest. I'll see you later on, okay?
EMMA
Ugh...fine.
CHARLES
TONY.
ANTHONY
Boss.
ANTHONY comes around the counter as he heads over and helps EMMA as the TWO head off, AJAX looking at CHARLES as CHARLES takes a seat, staring him down.
AJAX sets a bottle down as he grabs TWO GLASSES, the two not saying anything as he fills the glasses up halfway, pushing one towards CHARLES as CHARLES takes it, AJAX putting the bottle away as he and CHARLES lock eyes.
CHARLES
What are you?
AJAX
I'm just a man running a TAVERN, CHARLES. Nothing more, nothing less.
CHARLES
I'd like to believe you. But I'm having some trouble. That storm was still raging. And then you somehow found a way into this building.
AJAX
As I said...
CHARLES
I heard what you said...but that's not what gave you away. We already burned it. Dosed it in alcohol and set it ablaze...all it did was smoke out of it. Then you show up...throw one Molotov...and that thing burned...hotter....and more intense and different then anything I've ever laid eyes on...and fella, I've been here a very long time. So I know that you aren't an UNDEAD, like we all assumed you were. Damn thing is...
CHARLES takes a swig.
CHARLES
I don't know what the hell you are?
AJAX smirks but it quickly goes away as he notices CHARLES'S hard gaze.
CHARLES
But hey...if you're not going to tell me...I guess I will have to find out one day...but you better listen to me about this and listen well...EMMA...that child...
AJAX
I'm going to stop you. See, you couldn't comprehend what I am. You could...but the idea would...it would hurt you...to know of such power standing before you.
The TWO stare each other down intensely.
AJAX
Now before you go threatening me about the safety of one of your crew under my watchful eye, you should know...that if anyone here should be making such a threat, it should be me. See I have the means...and the ways to protect her from far more things then you could possibly ever dare to stop on your own. Things you couldn't stop with an entire army, that I can stop single handedly, so let this be made clear. If anything should befall her, harm her in any serious fashion under your watch...me and you...we will have more than just a conversation...am I understood?
CHARLES doesn't say anything as he finishes his drink and stands, heading towards the door as AJAX finishes his drink and clears his throat, CHARLES stopping as AJAX waits a moment before speaking.
AJAX
I trust her with you. I do. I need you to trust her with me. If we can come to that agreement. I think things can easily go back to normal.
CHARLES turns around as AJAX smirks.
CHARLES
I guess I don't have much of a choice.
AJAX
Not really.
CHARLES
How old are you...?
AJAX
Old enough that what I've seen...what I know...could be valuable one day.
CHARLES
I assume AJAX isn't your real name?
AJAX
One of many.
CHARLES
I...
AJAX
Stop. You'd only be wasting your time trying to dig into my past. Let's just say, I burned it all away. When I'm ready to be found out...or tell you...you'll know.
CHARLES nods and turning he walks out without a second glance back, AJAX looking about his TAVERN as he huffs and rubs his face, nodding as he leans back and closes his eyes.
EXT. DINER
A FEW DAYS LATER
AUSTIN comes up towards the DINER, stopping as he had the PHONE to his ear as he had some bandages wrapped around his chest that can be seen through his shirt.
AUSTIN
Do I have to do this...?
ANTHONY
(O.S.)
He brought you to a public area, I doubt he's going to beat your ass in front of everyone.
AUSTIN
I know but...
ANTHONY
(O.S.)
Just hear him out...bury the hatchet, turn a phase not a real one, and just...move on.
AUSTIN
Yeah...yeah, I guess so. Alright, if you don't see me in a few days come find me.
ANTHONY
(O.S.)
Yeah, good luck bro.
AUSTIN
Oh man.
AUSTIN hangs up as he goes inside.
INT. DINER
AUSTIN scans about and finds CINDY, heading over towards her as he sees her talking to CHARLES, who has a smile on his face as he already had half of his plate finished, AUSTIN taking a seat opposite of him as CINDY turns and smiles.
CINDY
Hey, Sugar.
AUSTIN
CINDY. Can I get a COKE?
CINDY
Of course.
CINDY smiles and heads off as CHARLES goes back to his plate, taking a bite of his burger as AUSTIN looks about nervously.
AUSTIN
Uh...CHARLES, hey look I know that this is about what happened a few days ago back at the TAVERN so...
CHARLES
It is...and it isn't.
AUSTIN
I don't follow...?
CHARLES
I don't like people talking to me the way you did, but you know what, you're right. I have made mistakes. I have gotten a lot of us UNEVENTFUL'S killed. I wasn't the best team mate, or husband...or friend, and I'm certainly not claiming to be any better at being a leader or a group. Cuz in reality, I'm not.
AUSTIN
Uh...okay.
CHARLES
But you...
AUSTIN
Huh?
CHARLES
You can say what you want about me, how I lead, how I do things, but do you think you are any better? You dogged your team out, threw as many of them under the bus as you could. You pine over NIKKI and mood swing the hell out of yourself because of her, you threw SHANE under the bus, you tried to fist fight ANTHONY and make him feel small because of his feelings for EMMA, and all the while, had the nerve to say I was a bad leader and team mate for not sharing things? You are an arrogant, self centered, emotional narcissist, who cares only about one thing, himself. Of all those dead reclaimers you named off, can you name any of their last names? Or even their death names? Because I can. Because I care, because their deaths are etched into my brain...but not you, you only remember what you need to to use it against me, or TONY, or EMMA, even NIKKI. You're the best Reclaimer I have ever had, AUSTIN. But you're also the worst. No small feat mind you.
CINDY sets AUSTIN'S drink down as CHARLES smiles at her and stops talking until she leaves, AUSTIN not even caring to go for it as AUSTIN just stares at CHARLES, a look of hurt in his eyes.
CHARLES
I know you care about them, I do, but at the end of the day, you're not the guy to throw his life for them, not if it puts your life in direct danger. You don't take the bullet for your friends and family, and that makes you...to me...expendable.
AUSTIN
What are you saying....CHARLES?
CHARLES
I need your head on straight. And I need you to really contemplate if this group is whom you want to be with...
AUSTIN
I can't join another group...not with my...our...background.
CHARLES
Exactly. You either want to be with us...or not. You're fired, AUSTIN.
AUSTIN
Boss...I...you can't...
CHARLES
I just did.
CHARLES stands and throws some money down, AUSTIN looking on stunned as CHARLES pats him on the shoulder, holding it as he looks hurt by saying what he did.
CHARLES
Your place is with us...always has been...but you have to come to that conclusion for yourself. When you're ready...I'll reinstate you. But until then...goodbye, AUSTIN.
CHARLES heads out of the DINER as AUSTIN sits there, everything quieting and blacking out around him as he stares forward blankly, tears in his eyes as thoughts go coursing through his head before a single tear falls out.
FADE OUT
END CREDITS
END OF EPISODE