Episode 16: No Justice, No Peace.
EPISODE 16
“NO JUSTICE, NO PEACE”
FADE IN
RECAP
COLD OPEN
INT. CHARLES'S APARTMENT
CHARLES sits on the edge of his bed as he holds the HOLOGRAPHIC DISC that CROWLEY gave him as he thumbs his finger over it, CHARLES looking over at the clock as it read 3:12 AM.
CHARLES sets it down as his phone goes off, CHARLES answer it as he lets out a tired grumble.
CHARLES
CHARLES...whoa, hey, NIKKI, calm down...what happened...?
CHARLES listens for a few moments before CHARLES looks rocked.
CHARLES
I'm on my way.
CHARLES hangs up and drops the phone as he stands, and then falls over, CHARLES clenching his fist as he begins to cry as he screams in anger.
FADE OUT
OPENING CREDITS
FADE IN
INT. HOSPITAL LOBBY
CHARLES hurries in as hurries around the front desk by quickly hanging up, CHARLES watching as she cuts him off, CHARLES trying to move past her but she stops him.
JOSEPHINE
CHARLES, please, I need you to calm down.
CHARLES
Where is she!
JOSEPHINE
She is in intensive care right now.
CHARLES
How...how bad?
JOSEPHINE
If whoever did it wanted to kill her, they could've easily. She was beaten, very very badly. The extent of her serious injuries will heal in a few days but the psychological damage...
CHARLES
Is she going to be okay, yes or no?
JOSEPHINE
She's in a coma right now...but she should come out of it soon, we hope.
CHARLES
Where is she?!
JOSEPHINE
Third floor, but just...
CHARLES hurries towards the ELEVATOR as JOSEPHINE can only watch on.
CHARLES reaches the floor after a few moments and spots AUSTIN pacing about angrily as NIKKI is trying to calm him down, SHANE leaning against the wall with an scowl on his face as tears are in his eyes as NIKKI spots CHARLES and pats AUSTIN on the chest, AUSTIN looking at him as CHARLES comes over towards them and goes to look into the ROOM but stops himself as he can't, NIKKI coming over to him as she pulls him into a hug as CHARLES breaks down, SHANE and AUSTIN looking dejected as ANTHONY can hear CHARLES outside the room as he has tears in his eyes as he sits in the chair beside EMMA, who looks badly beaten as she was laying in the HOSPITAL BED, hooked up to a breathing machine.
INT. TERESA'S OFFICE
TERESA flips through some files as COLBY comes into the OFFICE, TERESA looking at him as she swipes her screen away.
TERESA
What's going on?
COLBY
EMMA was...attacked.
TERESA
Oh no...
COLBY
She was beaten into a coma. They didn't want to kill her, but they...wanted to send a message, so we're thinking.
TERESA
The MISFITS?
COLBY
We can't be sure. The QUADRANTS are still in chaos, it could've been anyone.
TERESA
This is not good...you need to get down there, and keep them all together no matter what you cannot let them go and play vigilante.
COLBY
I am not sure I am going to be able to stop that...
TERESA
You need to try, or we're going to have a pile of bodies piling up.
COLBY
I'll see what I can do...I'm guessing you haven't heard about CROWLEY?
TERESA
What about him?
COLBY
He's dead.
TERESA
What? How!?
COLBY
You'd have to ask BENJAMIN.
TERESA
Goddamnit. I am, just go and find CHARLES. And do not tell him about CROWLEY.
COLBY
Yes, ma'am.
COLBY heads out as TERESA stands and grabs her suit jacket, putting it on as she quickly hurries out and down the hall, storming into BENJAMIN'S OFFICE as BENJAMIN, LINTON, DREW and a few other MEN were shuffling papers and screens about trying to get something in order.
BENJAMIN
TERESA, this is not the time...
TERESA
When was I or anyone else going to find out that CROWLEY was murdered under our very own noses!?
DREW
TERESA...
TERESA
DREW, I am glad to see you back and that you are well, but even...
DREW
Right now, we are trying to find a mole.
TERESA
What?
BENJAMIN
Word is not going around because someone scrubbed the security feed, and killed all 12 GUARDS that were watching CROWLEY after he or she killed CROWLEY. Now seeing that you now know, I'm guessing someone else outside of this room caught wind and is telling people so we'll have to come clean in a moment, but we have to keep it as internal as we can right now.
TERESA
You really think someone here is helping the MISFITS?
DREW
As of right now, we have to assume that.
TERESA
There were a lot of people who wanted CROWLEY killed.
DREW
True enough. But this job was inside, and to kill someone who was helping us shut down the CODEX leads us to believe this was some sort of premeditated hit. Someone who knew that he'd be held here, someone with full access to the entire SYSTEM and someone with authority to send the GUARDS out.
TERESA
That couldn't be a whole lot of people.
BENJAMIN
Fifteen to be exact. Including everyone in this room.
TERESA
And me...?
DREW
We're sorry, we wanted to check on everybody who didn't know yet...
TERESA
While now I do, and now I can help.
BENJAMIN
TERESA...
TERESA
There is no but's, someone is helping the MISFITS, or doing this on their own accord and we have to snuff it out. And I want to help.
BENJAMIN
Alright. You can start by giving us your clearance codes and any video feeds your ID number may have popped up on. Then join us back in here.
DREW smiles at her as TERESA nods and heads back towards her office as BENJAMIN looks at LINTON who shrugs as BENJAMIN goes back to adding data and times into a large COMPUTER that was feeding information back towards data-pads.
INT. THIRD FLOOR-HOSPITAL
AUSTIN slams his hand against the wall as NIKKI and CHARLES look over to him as CHARLES was watching EMMA from the WINDOW that looks into the ROOM.
AUSTIN
This is bullshit!
CHARLES
You need to calm the fuck down!
AUSTIN
This is what you call justice! Us sitting here while someone who did this to EMMA walks around out there!
SHANE
How do we not even know that it wasn't the MISFITS!
CHARLES
We are not going to fall apart right now.
AUSTIN
Who said anything about falling apart?! I just want to find the guy who did this!
CHARLES
Off what leads? Off of what evidence, off of what, AUSTIN!?
AUSTIN
I don't know! But it's better than sitting outside of her goddamn hospital room, doing nothing!
CHARLES
AUSTIN...
SHANE
He's right...we have to do something.
CHARLES
SHANE...
NIKKI
Listen to you guys, you guys sound so moronic right now. We have to be here for her, to make sure that it was just a random attack, before we can do anything about it. What if they come back here to finish the job? We don't know enough.
AUSTIN
If you want to stay here, I don't blame you, but I'm going to find some fucking answers.
SHANE
I'll go with you.
CHARLES
I said no.
AUSTIN
This isn't about rank! Or orders, this isn't a fucking mission! This is personal, and if I want to go and get some fucking peace and mind for my friend in there I will!
NIKKI
AUSTIN!
AUSTIN waves her off and heads off as NIKKI looks at SHANE, pleading with him with just a look as SHANE looks away from her and heads towards the ELEVATOR with AUSTIN, CHARLES rushing over towards SHANE as NIKKI gave him a desperate look.
CHARLES
SHANE, listen to me...
SHANE
If someone doesn't go with AUSTIN it could get out of control, I'm just going to keep an eye on him, and maybe find something we can use...besides some of us need to stay here just in case NIKKI is right and they are coming to finish the job.
CHARLES
SHANE, I want to believe that you're thinking on a level head, more so than AUSTIN is but I can't...
SHANE
I'm going whether you want me to or not.
CHARLES
SHANE don't make me stop you.
SHANE
Try.
CHARLES sneers as SHANE stares him down, SHANE heading off as CHARLES curses to himself as NIKKI watches the DOOR open and ANTHONY come out, not saying a word as he walks by CHARLES and towards the ELEVATOR, SHANE holding it as ANTHONY gets in and stays silent, CHARLES looking defeated as SHANE lets the doors close as NIKKI shakes her head and goes into the room as CHARLES leans against the wall, grabbing his head as he holds it and winces, closing his eyes.
EXT. THE TAVERN
AUSTIN looks over EMMA'S CAR, rubbing his hand against the DENTS and the cracked in DRIVER'S SIDE MIRROR, ANTHONY not saying anything as he stands beside SHANE who watches as the TAVERN is operating as normal.
SHANE
So what are we doing? We don't have anything or anyone to go off of.
AUSTIN
There's always ways to figure something out around here, SHANE. We could get a WARLOCK to cast some kind of tracking spell or have the TRIO work on a mind probe so we can replay through EMMA'S memories, but that'll have to wait till she wakes up, and we don't have that kind of time.
SHANE
So what are you suggesting?
AUSTIN
See this?
AUSTIN bends down as he touches a spot where there is some blood, SHANE looking at it but looks away as AUSTIN stands and rubs his fingers.
AUSTIN
I bet there's a scent here, a lingering one. One that maybe...a certain inhabitant of the FRINGE could help us locate.
SHANE
Huh?
ANTHONY
Werewolves.
AUSTIN
Precisely. We find us a WEREWOLF, make him use his nose and help us sniff the guy's trail out as far as it goes, and then we go from there.
ANTHONY
Sounds good.
ANTHONY heads inside the TAVERN as SHANE looks at AUSTIN who goes to follow.
SHANE
So what, we're just gonna beat some WEREWOLF into submission till he helps us?
AUSTIN
Not unless we have too.
SHANE
AUSTIN...
AUSTIN
You don't hear ANTHONY complaining about it do you? No, because me and him, we care about EMMA, we've known her longer than you so you don't get to...
SHANE punches AUSTIN across the jaw, AUSTIN reeling as SHANE sneers at him, AUSTIN stepping back as he shakes his head and rubs his jaw, but nods.
AUSTIN
I was out of line...
SHANE
You're fucking right you were. Don't think for a second that she doesn't matter to me as much as she does to you because I'm the “new” guy. I've been here, I’ve gone through all this madness with you guys, and I will be damned if you try and make me feel like I don't care enough. I just don't want to turn this into something that we can't come back from...
AUSTIN
This ain't like when we were alive, SHANE...There isn't a judicial system...there is no innocent until proven guilty. No justice, no peace. Those things are up to us to achieve. Now, let's go make nice with a WEREWOLF.
AUSTIN heads in as SHANE looks about and shakes his head, heading in soon afterwards.
INT. THE TAVERN
ANTHONY is at the BAR TOP as a BARTENDER he'd never seen before was behind the bar, AUSTIN and SHANE coming over as ANTHONY turns to him.
ANTHONY
BARTENDER'S an UNDEAD.
AUSTIN
Where's AJAX?
ANTHONY
Said he took the night off because of what happened to EMMA.
AUSTIN
Well, least he's not as big an asshole as we thought.
ANTHONY
Didn't get much else.
AUSTIN
Spot anyone we need?
ANTHONY
Left row, three booths down, TWO wolves, an UNDEAD and a zombie.
SHANE
You mean a GHOUL?
ANTHONY
No zombie, I know the differences between the TWO...
SHANE
I wasn't...
AUSTIN
Let's just...go ask.
AUSTIN heads over towards the BOOTH as ANTHONY and SHANE give each other a stern look as they cover up behind AUSTIN.
AUSTIN grabs a CHAIR and pulls it up to the BOOTH, the FOUR FRIENDS looking at AUSTIN as AUSTIN smirks at them.
AUSTIN
Howdy.
WEREWOLF 1
Got something you wanna sell us or?
AUSTIN
I used to be an insurance salesman, but...not a whole lot of that demand around here.
ZOMBIE
Guy, get out of here, we're just trying to hang out, just us.
AUSTIN
I'm not looking to make friends, I need one of you two's help.
AUSTIN points at the TWO men who he knew were werewolf's by their yellow wolf like eyes.
AUSTIN
So, I am asking nicely.
WEREWOLF
The fuck are you going on about?
SHANE
Look, the woman bartender who works...
ZOMBIE
The Brunette with the fine body?
ANTHONY
Watch your fucking mouth!
SHANE
ANTHONY...
SHANE pushes ANTHONY back as ANTHONY had lunged at them, AUSTIN throwing his arms out to stop the FOUR from attacking ANTHONY as AUSTIN pushes the ZOMBIE away from him as he had kept on.
AUSTIN
Look...someone...attacked her last night...Beat her into a fucking coma.
WEREWOLF
Sounds like she's still breathing and ain't dead, not our problem guy.
AUSTIN
See...I was being nice until that...
SHANE
AUSTIN...
AUSTIN grabs the WEREWOLF and pulls him forward slamming his head against the TABLE BOOTH before the ZOMBIE goes for AUSTIN'S JUGULAR but SHANE draws and plugs the ZOMBIE in the head, the ZOMBIE falling over dead as the PATRONS look over and jump in shock at the gunshot as AUSTIN punches the UNDEAD FRIEND in the face before he draws his PISTOL and aims at the WEREWOLF as he keeps his arm slammed against the table, the other WEREWOLF not moving as he was screaming and holding his hair in shock as the ZOMBIE lay dead on the floor.
AUSTIN
Now...I guess you're the unlucky motherfucker who's going to help us find the asshole who hurt our friend...
WEREWOLF
I'm going to kill you for what your friend there did to mine...
AUSTIN
We'll see.
AUSTIN pulls him up and pushes the WEREWOLF over towards SHANE, SHANE holding his gun on him as the WEREWOLF sneers and stares at SHANE with tears in his eyes as he looks at the body of his friend before he walks past SHANE.
AUSTIN
SHANE you keep that gun on him, and take him outside, ANTHONY cool off with SHANE and watch our friend there.
The UNDEAD FRIEND and the other WEREWOLF don't move as AUSTIN looks around as the PATRONS were watching AUSTIN.
AUSTIN
I didn't ask for much. Most of you know EMMA, hell, everyone likes her. She didn't deserve what happened to her, and what happened to him (pointing at the ZOMBIE) was unfortunate...but it was on him. And on his little clique here.
UNDEAD FRIEND
Fuck you!
AUSTIN
I deserve it. I'm sorry for your friend...but that other friend of yours out there, he ain't gonna last through the night, not with that look in his eyes. So I apologize for whatever I may have to do to him in advance. Now you two guys, I don't expect you to forgive or to understand, but when you're ready to come for me, my name is AUSTIN BLACK, RECLAIMER, from the UNEVENTFUL'S. Come and find me, and try and kill me if you think you can.
AUSTIN puts his PISTOL away as he turns and leaves, the TWO FRIENDS UNsure of what to think as the PATRONS go back to their conversing and drinking, The FRIENDS looking on bewildered as no one seems to care for their dead friend on the ground.
EXT. THE TAVERN
SHANE keeps the PISTOL aimed at the WEREWOLF'S HEAD as AUSTIN comes out, ANTHONY pacing back and forth as AUSTIN comes over to SHANE as the WEREWOLF astutely just stares them down.
AUSTIN
How's our new best friend?
ANTHONY
A fucking asshole is what he is!
AUSTIN
ANTHONY, take a five.
ANTHONY
Don't fucking boss me around, not now AUSTIN...
AUSTIN
Take a five! You need to calm down. So whether you think I'm bossing you or not, I'm asking you, as your friend, to go walk around the block.
ANTHONY shakes his head and curses as he walks off, SHANE catching the WEREWOLF'S GAZE as he had not taken them off of SHANE.
SHANE
I know you want to tear my head off...
WEREWOLF
I'm not going to do that, I'm going to tear you completely apart, then I'm going to eat you, slowly.
AUSTIN
Because of that ZOMBIE asshole? Come on, it's not like...
WEREWOLF
He was my friend! What gives you the right to do anything you want to find out what happened to your friend, that it takes away mine!
AUSTIN
Tell you what, you just lend us that little nose of yours, and help us get a beat, and my friend here, lowers his gun on you, and you two can...hash out your little differences.
SHANE
What the fuck?!
AUSTIN
We have a deal?
SHANE
AUSTIN, a word.
SHANE hurries AUSTIN over to the side as the WEREWOLF watches as SHANE keeps his gun aimed at him, the WEREWOLF smirking as AUSTIN stares him down as SHANE snaps his fingers in front of his face.
AUSTIN
Don't fucking do that, it's annoying.
SHANE
And so is you signing me up for a death-match with a WEREWOLF, and I don't even know how to kill one!?
AUSTIN
You don't?
SHANE
No, surprisingly we've dealt more with killing DEMONS and VAMPS since I've been here if you want to be honest.
AUSTIN
Oh...
AUSTIN looks at the WEREWOLF before looking back at SHANE.
AUSTIN
Lycanthropes got a bit shafted, compared to VAMPIRES. They’re fairly easy to kill.
SHANE
Okay...?
AUSTIN
Decapitation is the surefire way.
SHANE
Like a VAMPIRE.
AUSTIN
Yep. Or destroy their heart.
SHANE
Like a vampire?
AUSTIN
Yes, like a goddamn vampire. Except a lot more fucking easier. Their chest wall isn't four times thick. They're a little more ferocious and faster but...
SHANE
Only if they shed their skins, go full wolf?
AUSTIN
Exactly.
SHANE
So kill him while he's still like that?
AUSTIN
Best chance.
SHANE
What happens if he wolfs out?
AUSTIN
Then you gotta kill them like in the legends.
SHANE
Silver?
AUSTIN
Silver.
SHANE
Do we have silver?
AUSTIN
There's a setting on all RECLAIMER pistols that is marked with a little image of a WOLF'S HEAD...left side of your grip.
SHANE does a quick glance and notices the small image near the mechanism.
SHANE
These PISTOLS are awesome.
AUSTIN
So like I said...easy.
AUSTIN pats SHANE across the face and heads over towards the WEREWOLF who hadn't attempted to flee.
AUSTIN
Seeing how you're still here and didn't try to run, I'm assuming you're okay with the terms?
WEREWOLF
I know trusting you word is probably futile seeing how all of you UNDEAD are the same...sans my friend in there...
AUSTIN
I was about to say.
WEREWOLF
So if you promise me I get your friend there one on one, once my part is over with. I'll help you out.
AUSTIN
You don't have to take the deal. You could just help us out, out of the kindness of your heart, and let what happened go.
WEREWOLF
If I had done what I did to your friend there, or the one you sent on the little power walk around the building, would we even be having this conversation?
AUSTIN
Probably not.
WEREWOLF
Then consider yourself lucky.
AUSTIN
I still feel there's such an impersonal feel to our new found friendship. What's your name?
WEREWOLF
Why should I even tell you?
AUSTIN
Look, I'm giving your free reign to attack and possibly kill my friend here, I just had to talk him into it, so the least you could do, is give me your fucking name.
SHANE eyes the WEREWOLF who looks at him and smirks before he looks back at AUSTIN who stared at him angrily.
WEREWOLF
VIN, short for VINNY.
AUSTIN
VIN the WEREWOLF. I'm AUSTIN, this is SHANE, my pal doing the power walk is ANTHONY. We're RECLAIMERS, and we're looking for a man, or woman who attacked our friend last night, right here, at the very same spot that you're standing on.
VIN looks behind him to see he was leaning against EMMA'S CAR, VIN looking it over as he sniffs a few times.
VIN
If you want my help tell your pal there to lower the cannon, me and him will settle our differences soon enough.
AUSTIN
SHANE...
SHANE
AUSTIN, come on...
AUSTIN
He's not lying, nothing to be gained by holding the man hostage at this point.
ANTHONY appears from the other side of the TAVERN as SHANE nods and puts his PISTOL away, VIN nodding as he touches EMMA'S car, sniffing as he comes to the ground.
VIN
Her scent is overwhelming, and there have been many people who have come through this area...
AUSTIN
Narrow your smell...I know you can do that.
VIN
I can...
AUSTIN
Can you smell from when her first scent arrived near here...
VIN
Yes.
AUSTIN
Then there should be...something or someone else...
VIN
There is...
SHANE
There is?
SHANE hurries over as ANTHONY reaches them.
VIN
Male...An old scent...not old as in elderly, but...a soul who has been here a very long time.
AUSTIN
Anything else specifics?
VIN
It's not that good of a trait, guy.
AUSTIN
Can you...get a lock on it?
VIN
It's distant...faint, but I could follow it.
AUSTIN
Then let's go.
ANTHONY
We got a lead?
AUSTIN
We got a lead.
AUSTIN heads towards his car as he and ANTHONY turn their backs on VIN as SHANE doesn't, VIN walking up next to SHANE as SHANE and VIN lock eyes before walking side by side towards the CAR as AUSTIN starts it up.
INT. HOSPITAL-THIRD FLOOR.
COLBY crosses his arms as he shakes his head.
COLBY
So we have your three male RECLAIMERS out there on some...vendetta spree. That's just great, CHARLES.
CHARLES
Hey, don't come crashing this down on me! Acting like we've never stepped outside the lines of this world in the interests of revenge.
COLBY
I remember all too well, CHARLES. That's why I am here in the position I am.
CHARLES
Did you see her in there?
COLBY
It is a...rough sight yes.
CHARLES
And that's from you, someone close enough to care, but never around to really love. We love her, this was not some random attack, it's got the smell of one, the feel of one. But this was meant to throw us off. To focus our attention elsewhere. My men took that bait, but I didn't, NIKKI didn't, and we're here aren't we? If you want to kill DREW, or LINTON and bring my guys in to do it, but give them some time...
COLBY
I can't do that, The longer I allow them to do whatever it is they're doing the harder it is going to be to clean up the mess.
CHARLES
There is no SYSTEM in place, this mess like every other mess right now in each of the QUADRANTS will be swept under a rug and hidden from the SYSTEM.
COLBY
CHARLES, goddamnit.
CHARLES
Just give them a few hours, a head start at the very least.
COLBY
So they can do what? Mount up some bodies, some property damage, what? Huh?
CHARLES
They'll find something. Besides, I got other things, leads.
COLBY
On the MISFITS?
CHARLES
Mhm.
COLBY
Why didn't you say anything to me or TERESA?
CHARLES
TERESA knows.
COLBY
About?
CHARLES
LYDIA is alive.
COLBY
CHARLES...
CHARLES
She's alive. CROWLEY confirmed it, part of the deal of giving me the MASTER CODE to turn off the CODEX.
COLBY
Did he now.
CHARLES
Yeah. Everything I found out was all a big red herring on her end, to keep me from finding out that she's been alive this whole time...
COLBY
Illegally feasting...
CHARLES
Yes, that...and that she's working for the MISFITS.
COLBY
Christ.
CHARLES
Yeah. Of course it's CROWLEY'S word but...
COLBY
I'd trust it, It's a little far fetched even for me...but...trust it.
CHARLES
What's got you so certain?
COLBY
CROWLEY is DEAD.
CHARLES looks shocked and horrified at the news as COLBY nods.
COLBY
This is top level classified, no one outside of the SYSTEM is supposed to know about it...
CHARLES
How?!
COLBY
They're pretty positive it's an inside job...
CHARLES
No shit...Fuck!
CHARLES strikes the wall as he shakes his head in disbelief.
CHARLES
Why tell me? You, the stickler to the rules, why risk the demerit?
COLBY
Because I'm positive, as is everyone else that it was in connection to the MISFITS, and if CROWLEY was running from them, and knew that LYDIA is one of them...not to mention that our group and the MISFITS have a open relationship, and now you and your ex wife are connected on both sides of the fence...just seemed like something you needed to know.
CHARLES
Now I can't trust anyone in that damn building, COLBY. Well, less than I already did.
COLBY
Which means you'll be able to objectively keep your head above the political run around.
CHARLES
COLBY for someone who acts like he gives a shit about the SYSTEM, you sure do buck against it for me and mines benefit.
COLBY
You are my responsibility, and you reflect upon TERESA. However, blind obedience has gotten more RECLAIMERS killed than anything else. I do not want that for you guys. You are my closest...hell, only friend. We've been through a lot, and there's still...a lot of shit left for us to wave through, but we're gonna come out on top. We always have.
CHARLES
Thanks, COLBY.
COLBY
Don't try and run me off, I ain't got anywhere to be.
CHARLES
Thanks.
CHARLES pats COLBY on the shoulder as the TWO lean against the wall, crossing their arms as they don't say anything for a few moments.
CHARLES
Member when RAMERIEZ got into that car accident with that strung out VAMPIRE and we...
COLBY
Let's not go rehashing old wounds from when we were hot shot, shit head RECLAIMERS...
CHARLES
Alright, alright...
COLBY shakes his head as he smirks to himself as CHARLES notices it and doesn't say anything.
EXT. INFERNO BAR
AUSTIN watches the DEMONIC BAR carefully as ANTHONY shakes his head.
ANTHONY
You sure about this?
VIN
This is where it's led me.
SHANE
Goddamnit, I did not want to come back here again.
AUSTIN
I'm guessing you didn't get off on the right foot with AZRAEL either?
SHANE
Nope.
AUSTIN
Well, then this should be interesting.
SHANE
What's our play?
AUSTIN
We follow VIN'S nose, and then we hope we get our guy.
VIN
Let's hurry up, I want to get this over with.
AUSTIN
I like the hustle, after you then.
VIN opens his door as SHANE and the others get out and follow him towards the BAR.
INT. INFERNO BAR
All EYES land on them the second they walk in as SHANE and ANTHONY try to turn and walk right back out but AUSTIN grabs them and forces them back in, VIN sniffing a few times as he looks about and comes over towards the corner and points.
VIN
Scent ends there. Corner, back booth. About six hours ago.
SHANE
Fucker was just here...
AUSTIN
I'll go ask the BARTENDER.
AUSTIN goes over to the BAR TOP as VIN looks about and notices SHANE and ANTHONY watching each other's back.
AZRAEL
(O.S.)
Now I know that's not who I think it is, having the audacity and the tenacity to show back here after our last encounter not so very long ago...
SHANE
Hello, AZRAEL.
SHANE turns as AZRAEL was seated where they had last seen him, with the same TWO DEMONIC BEAUTIES.
SHANE comes over as ANTHONY follows, AUSTIN working on the BARTENDER as AZRAEL leans back and lights a cigarette.
AZRAEL
You have balls, I give you that.
SHANE
We're not here to start shit with you, we have our own problems right now, and it just so happens it's come this way. Nothing more, nothing less.
AZRAEL
You say that, yet last time I saw you, you were too busy killing off some of my patrons.
SHANE
That you sent after us, lest one forget.
AZRAEL
Of course. I can be a bit overzealous, look over the truth and what not, it's that FALLEN spirit I guess.
SHANE
Or it could just mean that you're an asshole.
AZRAEL
So you're seeking something may I ask why?
SHANE
What's it to you?
AZRAEL
You're in my house, encroaching in a place you do not belong. If I say it's my business, then IT'S MY FUCKING BUSINESS!
SHANE smirks as he nods.
SHANE
Fair enough. Someone attacked our friend. A female RECLAIMER that we work with.
AZRAEL
That's a shame, women are such delicate creatures, are they not? That's why they need us.
AZREAL gently strokes his hand down the chin of one of the BEAUTIES as ANTHONY rolls his eyes.
AZRAEL
I hope you find the person responsible, I really do. But it seems like your hands are about to be busy, so I will say, don't let the door kick you on the way out, and happy hunting.
SHANE
The hell are you talking about?
AZREAL wags his finger behind SHANE, SHANE slowly turning around as VIN, completely transformed into his full WEREWOLF FORM, was standing behind SHANE, breathing heavily as ANTHONY turns and goes for his PISTOL.
SHANE
Oh VIN, you couldn't just wait till we got outside?
VIN howls and roars at the same time as he back hands SHANE across the room, SHANE hitting and slamming into a few tables as ANTHONY goes to set his PISTOL but VIN grabs ANTHONY and bites ANTHONY on the shoulder, ANTHONY screaming as BLOOD gushes out of his wound as the DEMONS are cheering as AUSTIN doesn't even look back at them as he was still chatting up the BARTENDER.
SHANE draws his fires a few times, hitting VIN in the back as VIN pulls his JAWS away from ANTHONY and knocks ANTHONY across the room, ANTHONY slamming into the WALL, as SHANE looks at AUSTIN.
SHANE
I could use some help!
AUSTIN
I'm working on getting a description of the guy, SHANE, just keep him busy, set your PISTOL to WEREWOLF and just cap the fucker.
SHANE notices AUSTIN not even turn around as SHANE flips the little lever on the side to the WEREWOLF IMAGE but the PISTOl begins to make the recharging sound, SHANE looking at it as he noticed it was slowly changing over as SHANE notices VIN quickly come upon him.
SHANE
Shit.
EXT. INFERNO BAR
SHANE comes sailing through the WINDOW, SHANE rolling a few times as he winces in pain as he sees VIN step out of the WINDOW, striding towards him.
SHANE
This has not been a good week for me.
VIN punches SHANE in the face a few times, SHANE reeling as VIN goes to bite SHANE on the arm but SHANE rolls out of the way and grabs his PISTOL, pulling the trigger but still gets the charging dings, SHANE cursing himself as VIN runs and tackles SHANE down, SHANE throwing his arms up to cover his face and eyes as VIN starts violently slashing and biting at SHANE'S ARMS, SHANE screaming as flesh and skin were being torn asunder on his arms as SHANE knees up and hits VIN right in the back, VIN loosing his balance as he knocks forward as SHANE spins and stands, VIN quickly catching his balance as SHANE watches VIN charge him, SHANE pulling his other PISTOL out as he opens fire, hitting VIN multiple times as VIN reels and roars with each shot as SHANE fires to keep VIN back as SHANE hears his other PISTOL ring out that it was charged.
SHANE quick draws it and aims at VIN'S HEAD, VIN turning as SHANE smirks and fires at him, but as he did VIN suddenly dropped to all fours and rolled to his left side, SHANE surprised that he missed as SHANE takes aim to fire again but VIN is already on him, front kicking him with his back legs as SHANE goes sailing again, rag dolling down the road as he looks up at VIN as VIN was slowly crawling towards him, VIN opening his jaws as goes to snap at SHANE'S HEAD, SHANE barely able to move but as he does VIN is rocked by five shots, VIN squealing as he whimpers and scampers back as AUSTIN appears from the BROKEN WINDOW PANE, SHANE standing as VIN was crying softly as he was bleeding out, AUSTIN putting his gun away as SHANE winces and grabs his arms.
SHANE
Took your sweet ass time.
AUSTIN
Well here I was thinking you could handle one WEREWOLF. Jesus SHANE you look like you shit.
SHANE
It's been a rough week, okay. Just...What do we do about him?
AUSTIN
I don't care, you killed his ZOMBIE pal. I didn't shoot him in any vital places, so you can be his maker if you choose.
SHANE
We learn anything?
AUSTIN
I have a lead.
SHANE
Why don't you...get our buddy and I meet you in the car.
AUSTIN
Seriously...step up, son.
SHANE
Fuck off, AUSTIN.
AUSTIN heads back inside as SHANE comes over to VIN, who is now back in human form, bleeding from his bullet wounds as he is now completely naked.
VIN shakes his head as SHANE pulls his PISTOL out.
VIN
Go ahead...nothing stopping you now..,
SHANE
I didn't want to do this...and if your friend didn't attack my friend back at the bar, maybe he'd still be alive...
VIN
Just kill me...
SHANE
Fine.
SHANE aims down at VIN'S HEAD, SHANE watching as VIN puts his head up and puts his forehead to the barrel.
SHANE goes to pull the trigger but doesn't as he puts his pistol away.
SHANE
I'm sure I'm going to regret this. But I'm not going to put you down...like a dog. You're not a dog, despite the prior appearance.
VIN
I'll find you...I'll heal...and I'll remember your face.
SHANE
I hope you don't. Because the next time we meet, It won't end well for you. Next time maybe you don't attack me from behind, and next time, I doubt it'll take these babies so long to load up.
VIN
Till then? Yeah...
SHANE
If you make it.
SHANE aims and shoots VIN in the leg, VIN screaming as SHANE turns and heads towards AUSTIN'S CAR, SHANE listening as VIN screams at him , AUSTIN looking at SHANE as ANTHONY'S shoulder was no longer bleeding but still showing the puncture wounds.
AUSTIN
You should've just killed him.
SHANE
You spared his friends, I spared theirs. Least we could do.
AUSTIN
He just whooped your ass.
SHANE
Get in the car.
SHANE gets inside as AUSTIN starts his car as he drives off without a glance back.
INT. SYSTEMS BUILDING-WAR ROOM
BENJAMIN pauses on a SCREEN that was marked from a day earlier, followed by static, this few frames repeats over and over.
BENJAMIN
We have tape on everything in this entire building, until this period. 11:34 PM to 12:04 am. Every single video feed in this building from that thirty minute window is gone. Completely scrubbed.
DREW
How is that possible?
BENJAMIN
We don't know, we have the TRIO looking into it, but we have to remember, we do not have sole control of the OPERATING SYSTEMS in the FRINGE, that includes even our own security codes, camera feeds, you name it.
DREW
I thought the TRIO had most of that under control.
BENJAMIN
Each hour goes by more and more in our favor, but this event happened nearly 24 hours ago, so even the ground we've covered in a day still wouldn't have been completely under our control.
LINTON
Is it possible that with their access into the OPERATING SYSTEMS that the MISFITS were able to obtain someone's code, and send someone in to handle the job?
BENJAMIN
It seems likely, and plausible and could be the lead they want us to chase, but then we'd just be falling into their plan, and we're not going to do that.
DAVIEL
But going around accusing someone in this building of High Treason is the better option?
BENJAMIN
It's not an option I enjoy entertaining, but this amount of detail to keep the identity hidden, means that someone was ordered to allow the CODEX to be turned off, and then to kill CROWLEY. If they could have done this amount of cover work at any given time, why wait for as long as they did? No, this was planned, and someone here was biding time to carry it out.
DREW
A damning accusation. But one I can't refute.
TERESA
So that begs the question, of the Dozen or so people in this room with high level access and clearance into that room. Who was the last to enter?
DREW
All indications say you were TERESA, when you allowed CHARLES in, however even that data was erased, leaving the last logged entry into that holding cell from sixteen years ago.
BENJAMIN
So...the question poised is this. Out of everyone in this room, one of us is working with the MISFITS. So, why would anyone in here need to kill CROWLEY after he ensured the CODEX was off, allowing the SYSTEM to upstart?
No one speaks up as BENJAMIN looks around at everyone as everyone looks about skeptically at one another.
INT. AUSTIN'S CAR
AUSTIN watches an APARTMENT BUILDING as SHANE and ANTHONY look it over, AUSTIN studying it a few moments before he leans back in his car seat.
AUSTIN
Alright, are we ready to do this?
SHANE
Who the hell lives here?
AUSTIN
BARTENDER said the guy we're looking for wasn't a DEMON, wasn't anyone he'd seen before, but that he was there with another guy, a regular there, for about an hour. That guy hung around after our guy left, and picked up a broad about forty minutes before we showed up. Took some convincing and a...dinner date, but the guy was nice enough to give me his regular's nearby address.
SHANE
A dinner date?
AUSTIN
Don't ask.
SHANE
You're going on a date with a Male Demon?
AUSTIN
It's not like that, it's...a favor.
ANTHONY
AUSTIN what did you get yourself into?
AUSTIN
Don't worry about it, let's just go do this.
AUSTIN gets out of the CAR as SHANE and ANTHONY give each other a look before they bust out laughing.
INT. APARTMENT
A MALE DEMON is on top of a FEMALE, thrusting in rhythmic motions as the FEMALE DEMONS moans and locks eyes, their GREEN tinted EYES embraced in a lustful passion as the MALE DEMON buries his head into her neck and begins kissing it as he thrusts harder, the DEMON WOMAN scratching his bare back as she wails out loudly as suddenly the DOOR into the APARTMENT KICKS IN, AUSTIN stepping in quickly as the MALE DEMON jumps off of his lover, allowing her to cover up as he goes for his GUN that was in a holster on his pants that was thrown in the corner but as he does AUSTIN rushes over and strikes the DEMON a few times in the chest before he kicks him in the chest near the WINDOW, the MALE DEMON sailing out of it as he screams bloody murder all the way down before the loud and sickening thud can be heard of him hitting the pavement.
The FEMALE DEMON screams and grabs her head at the sight, letting the SHEET fall from her NAKED BODY as AUSTIN notices it and smirks as he gives her a quick glance over.
AUSTIN
Goddamn you're hot...sorry about that, I'll uh...be...
AUSTIN ganders for a few more moments before he turns and heads out.
EXT. APARTMENT
ANTHONY whistles at the sight of the MALE DEMON who was still alive but in considerable pain as his legs were broken and shattered, his right arm was completely torn off at the shoulder, where he had landed.
SHANE
Damn, that fall fucked you all up.
MALE DEMON
What the hell did I ever do to you UNDEAD fucks! I didn't deserve this...ow...goddamnit I need to go to the hospital.
SHANE
Relax guy, Not like your dying.
MALE DEMON
Asshole! This still hurts like hell!
SHANE
Oh I don't doubt that at all.
ANTHONY
Look guy, just answer us a few questions and we'll get you to the HOSPITAL.
MALE DEMON
I ain't going to say nothing...
ANTHONY
Really now?
ANTHONY stomps on one of the MALE DEMONS SHATTERED LEGS, the DEMON screaming as loud as he could as SHANE looks around to see if anyone was looking at the commotion but he saw no one as the MALE DEMON shakes his head.
MALE DEMON
Okay, okay! Fuck stop!
ANTHONY
Tell us what we need to know!
MALE DEMON
What then?!
ANTHONY
The man you were talking to at INFERNO, who or what is he?!
MALE DEMON
Oh, fuck no I can't tell you that...
ANTHONY stomps on the LEG AGAIN, SHANE grabbing ANTHONY as the MALE DEMON screams loudly in more agony as AUSTIN appears from the APARTMENT, AUSTIN strolling towards the MALE DEMON as he looks at AUSTIN.
MALE DEMON
Stay away from me!
AUSTIN
Easy fella, just need to know who you were chatting up at the DEMON BAR is all.
MALE DEMON
If I tell you, he'll come back for me, he'll kill me, I've been his go to guy for a long time, you can't just expect me to turn on him...
ANTHONY
You son of a...!
ANTHONY goes to stomp again but SHANE shoulders him back, AUSTIN coming over as he grabs ANTHONY and pushes him against his car.
AUSTIN
Get a hold of yourself!
ANTHONY
He knows the guy who attacked EMMA! He just admitted it's his fault!
AUSTIN
I didn't hear anything like that.
SHANE
ANTHONY...
MALE DEMON
He attacked a woman?
AUSTIN
What's it to you!?
MALE DEMON
Son of a bitch...looked me right in the face and lied...
AUSTIN throws an eyebrow up as ANTHONY looks at him confused, the THREE coming back over towards the DEMON as he winces in pain.
MALE DEMON
I usually find him wet work, mostly protection and retrieval missions, but never anything involving murder or...beatings.
AUSTIN
Why?
MALE DEMON
Not how my service operates. Protection and Retrieval, nothing more.
AUSTIN
This guy...who is he?
MALE DEMON
Never got a name, only an alias. Been working with him for a few weeks. Seemed off, but stuck to parameters.
AUSTIN
Why'd he attack our friend?
MALE DEMON
I don't know. You'd have to ask him.
AUSTIN
Where can we find him?
MALE DEMON
How badly was she injured?
SHANE
Badly.
MALE DEMON
Then do the same to him, or worse. I won't tolerate such a thing.
SHANE
We need to find him.
MALE DEMON
He stays in a LOFT about six blocks west of here, off Third. I don't know which loft, but that's the building you'll find him in.
SHANE
Thank you...
MALE DEMON
Call me a damn ambulance, you got what you wanted.
AUSTIN
I'm on it.
AUSTIN goes to his CAR and gets in, pulling his CELL out as ANTHONY gets in, SHANE turning but the DEMON grabs his leg, stopping him as SHANE looks back down at him.
MALE DEMON
If I had gotten wind of what he did, I would've tried to kill him myself.
SHANE
I believe you. But why? Why care if he hurts UNDEAD like us?
MALE DEMON
Because I am not a savage. I may be a DEMON, but ask yourself who threw who through a window tonight?
SHANE
True enough.
MALE DEMON
He's a FREELANCER, but when he signed up to my OUTFIT he took the vow not to engage in violent acts. If word gets out that someone in my crew works like that, it looks bad on me.
SHANE
We'll get him.
MALE DEMON
Don't be so sure. He may be UNDEAD, but he's...not normal.
SHANE
What do you mean?
AUSTIN
Hey, let's go!
SHANE looks at AUSTIN who nods for him to get in, SHANE looking at the MALE DEMON one more time before he goes around the CAR and gets into the PASSENGER SEAT.
INT. EMMA'S HOSPITAL ROOM
NIKKI sits in the chair that was close to EMMA'S BED, NIKKI yawning as she fights to stay awake as CHARLES comes into the ROOM, NIKKI looking at him as he smirks and comes over to EMMA, staring at her lovingly as he shakes his head and touches her hand, looking to see if she'd react as he grabs the other CHAIR in the corner and pulls it up over towards NIKKI, CHARLES taking a seat as NIKKI rubs her forehead as she stops herself from yawning.
CHARLES
You should get some sleep, we've been here all day.
NIKKI
I'm fine, If I pass out, at least I'll be here, next to her.
CHARLES
You work here, outside of working for me, I think you'd get tired of this place.
NIKKI
If I really want to sleep there's an on call room with some beds I could crash for a few there.
CHARLES
Go then.
NIKKI
Why are you trying to push me out of here?
CHARLES
I'm not. COLBY is getting me and him a COFFEE, we're a little more alert and you've been up all day. I just think you should get some sleep.
NIKKI
If there's something on your mind, CHARLES just say it.
CHARLES
I want to say something to her. Okay? I don't think I could say it with you in the room, and with COLBY gone for the moment, this would be the best time for me to say what...
NIKKI
Was that so hard? I'm not going anywhere, but I'll be right outside. Okay?
CHARLES
Thank you.
NIKKI
Of course, boss.
NIKKI stands as she pats him on the shoulder and exits the room, CHARLES scooting over to NIKKI'S chair as he pulls it up directly to the bed, CHARLES looking about as he grabs at her hand, taking it into his.
CHARLES
I've spent a lot of time in this fucking place. Between myself, and NIKKI with her job, and every guy I've ever worked with, worked under, and all in between. But I gotta tell ya kid, being here right now, with you, seeing you like this...it...it breaks my fucking heart...
CHARLES tears up as he takes deep breaths and stops himself from hyperventilating.
CHARLES
I should've been there...I should've known they were going to try and do something I should've...I wasn't a vigilante. And this is on me...I know it is...and it's fucking tearing me apart. You're my responsibility, all of you are. And every turn I take, every twist in the road I keep finding ways to let you down, or to have you all let me down, I keep failing, and I can't find a way to stop the bleeding. I don't know how. You're like a daughter to me, EMMA. My princess, I swore that I'd never let anything bad happen to you, and yet here we are. I think CROWLEY being killed, and knowing what I know about him now, it just opened my eyes to a lot of things. So you pull through this...I know you will, cuz you're tough. And they didn't do a lot of damage to your eyes, so that works in your favor (snickers) But you're going to change after this. So I'm mourning. That's what this is, if I'm being honest to you...and me. I'm mourning you, because I know the girl I love, and treat like my own, is never going to be the same again. And I just wanted to tell you, that I'm sorry. I'm sorry...I'm sorry...
CHARLES can't hold it back as he leans his head onto EMMA'S hand, crying as he repeats that he was sorry, not knowing that NIKKI was standing right outside in earshot, tears streaming down here face.
EXT. LOFT APARTMENTS
AUSTIN, SHANE and ANTHONY look the place over as SHANE checks the registry on the doors.
SHANE
Say's only four people stay here in this six loft apartment complex.
AUSTIN
All Male?
SHANE
Two females, one male. And a couple.
ANTHONY
Guys name?
SHANE
MICHAEL YOUNG.
ANTHONY
That assholes the one who attacked EMMA...
SHANE
How do we want to do this?
AUSTIN
I'll take a frontal approach, draw his attention, SHANE you take the back fire escape and work your way up there, bust in there in case I'm getting my ass kicked.
ANTHONY
What about me?
AUSTIN
You may want to hang back, in case this guy gets away from us.
ANTHONY
No! Fuck that, you're not keeping me from ripping this assholes head off!
AUSTIN
Fine, then you're with me, stay behind me, and don't get yourself killed.
SHANE
I'm heading round back now.
SHANE heads off as AUSTIN pulls his PISTOL and hands it to ANTHONY, ANTHONY pulling his own out as he nods at AUSTIN, who nods back at him as he heads into the LOFT.
INT. LOFT APARTMENT
AUSTIN looks about the LOBBY as he notices the ELEVATOR, AUSTIN looking about for a STAIRCASE and finds it in the back corner.
AUSTIN
Okay, ANTHONY, see this staircase?
ANTHONY
Yeah.
AUSTIN
Take it to the third floor, that's where this guy is.
ANTHONY
You're going to take the ELEVATOR? Doesn't that lead right up into the fuck's APARTMENT?
AUSTIN
Yep, so now we'll have you and SHANE surprising the bastard.
ANTHONY
I don't like this...
AUSTIN
Me either, but if you want to get this guy, and be alive long enough to finish “BULLET EXPRESS” you go up that fucking staircase.
ANTHONY
I'll be right there.
AUSTIN
Stay vigilant, pal.
ANTHONY heads off to the back as AUSTIN pushes the BUTTON for the THIRD FLOOR, AUSTIN stepping in as he takes a deep breath and watches the LIFT move up, AUSTIN cracking his neck as he hears it reach and the SLIDING DOORS open.
AUSTIN steps in as he notices the PANEL DOOR was open, leading into a DARK APARTMENT with no LIGHTS ON.
AUSTIN
Expecting us?
VOICE
(O.S.)
I had a feeling someone would find out sooner rather than later that I knocked that bitch around. I am surprised you found me as soon as you did.
AUSTIN
Calling my friend a bitch was your first mistake of the night, on top of everything else you've done...MICHAEL.
MICHAEL
I knew I shouldn’t have registered that name, but what can you do?
AUSTIN
Yeah well...
AUSTIN notices a SHADOW move behind him, AUSTIN turning but finds nothing.
MICHAEL
Jumpy?
AUSTIN
The hell are you?
MICHAEL
Whatever do you mean?
AUSTIN
Show yourself!
AUSTIN looks about as he doesn't notice the FIGURE standing up behind him, AUSTIN smirking as he turns and throws a punch but the FIGURE suddenly disappears from sight, AUSTIN turn to his right as he sees the FIGURE kick him in the chest, AUSTIN reeling backwards as he lands hard against a TABLE as the FIGURE is upon him throwing a few punches as AUSTIN blocks a few and counter strikes the FIGURE in the head, knocking the HOOD off as MICHAEL winces and smirks, AUSTIN noticing that his mouth was loose skin that didn't belong to him, MICHAEL smirking as he peels it off, revealing that his real mouth was nothing but fleshed over skin.
AUSTIN
You're a fucking PHANTOM.
MICHAEL
Good eye.
As MICHAEL spoke his words came out clear, but there was no mouth to move.
ANTHONY
What the hell is he?
AUSTIN
He's a PHANTOM!
ANTHONY
I didn't think we had any more PHANTOMS?!
AUSTIN
I'm starting to think that there's at least a few of everything still left around this place.
MICHAEL
I like your observations.
ANTHONY turns and gets off a shot but MICHAEL disarms him and strikes him several times in the face and body as AUSTIN tackles MICHAEL off of ANTHONY, ANTHONY reeling as AUSTIN throws a few more punches hitting MICHAEL in the head and chest a few more times but MICHAEL blocks him and kicks him up, knocking him off with a pushed up dropkick that sends AUSTIN flying.
MICHAEL stands up groggily as AUSTIN reaches his feet at the same time, MICHAEL winking at him as he disappears into the shadows, AUSTIN cursing as he looks about and goes to ANTHONY.
AUSTIN
ANTHONY, you okay?
ANTHONY
I've felt better.
AUSTIN
This guy has a temporary ability to shadow blend, that's why EMMA probably didn't see him or his face.
ANTHONY
Fucking PHANTOMS...How do we kill him?
AUSTIN
We can't.
ANTHONY
What?
AUSTIN
Watch out!
AUSTIN pushes ANTHONY down as MICHAEL appears between them, kicking AUSTIN in the chest as AUSTIN goes sailing backwards, tumbling hard as MICHAEL turns to ANTHONY, ANTHONY throwing a punch but MICHAEL blocks it and palm strikes ANTHONY in the shoulder where VIN bit him, ANTHONY screaming as MICHAEL knocks him around a few more times before he pulls a modified SINGLE SHOT PISTOL, putting it to the side of ANTHONY'S FACE.
MICHAEL
I get the feeling that if I don't take care of you now...you and me...are going to have a long history together. Call it...an preemptive intuitive kill.
SHANE
My thoughts exactly.
MICHAEL looks up as ANTHONY looks up as well, SHANE firing twice as each round hits MICHAEL in the eyes, MICHAEL letting ANTHONY go as SHANE draws his other PISTOL and begins unloading into MICHAEL, hitting him in the face, the chest, the eyes again, the area around his heart, more times in the face, AUSTIN stirring as ANTHONY watches SHANE empty two entire charges from his PISTOLS into MICHAEL, who doesn't fall over.
SHANE watches on horrified as MICHAEL begins snickering, MICHAEL stand up straight as he flexes and shows SHANE the bullet wounds suddenly heal up instantly, SHANE looking on shocked as MICHAEL throws his hood up over his head and puts his fingers like a gun at SHANE, MICHAEL smirking at him as he dashes out through the fire escape, SHANE reeling as he stands as ANTHONY comes over to him, AUSTIN needing help up as SHANE looks about bewildered.
SHANE
What the fuck was that?! I thought he was an UNDEAD?!
AUSTIN
PHANTOM...he's a PHANTOM.
SHANE
The fuck is a PHANTOM?
ANTHONY
That...was a PHANTOM. That thing...attacked EMMA, and we couldn't do a fucking thing against him.
AUSTIN
We'll find a way to ice that fucker...I get the feeling we'll be seeing him around again.
ANTHONY
Yeah...and when we do, I'll kill him...I'll kill him myself.
SHANE and AUSTIN notice the look on ANTHONY'S FACE as ANTHONY comes over to the WINDOW look about at the NIGHT as he tries to find MICHAEL, ANTHONY nodding as SHANE helps AUSTIN up.
INT. HOSPITAL-THIRD FLOOR
CHARLES paces back and forth as he rubs his head.
CHARLES
You're sure about that...Okay, yeah, wow. At least we got a name, and what he is...it's a start. No, no you guys get some rest, I'm a stay over, just in case he tries anything. She's fine, she's sleeping in the on call room a few floors down. If you want to go to the HANGOUT and use the DATABASE you can, but I rather you guys get some sleep, clear your heads, you've had an...eventful day. Okay, yeah, see you tomorrow, okay, bye. Yeah, bye.
CHARLES hangs up as he comes over to COLBY.
COLBY
Well?
CHARLES
A PHANTOM. They hired a PHANTOM to attack EMMA.
COLBY
A PHANTOM? Of course they would.
CHARLES
How many registered PHANTOMS do you think there are?
COLBY
A couple dozen maybe, but most of them died out, they don't have life expectancy.
CHARLES
Can they be killed? I've never heard of anything that can kill a PHANTOM.
COLBY
Far as I know there isn't. They live only to about...forty fifty years tops, universe sorta spawns a few here and there, they're a unique byproduct of this world, they're attached to the FRINGE in a way that only a few species are. I can have the TRIO look into it, but I can't promise anything.
CHARLES
Anything will help. Like we didn't have enough bullshit to worry about. Now a fucking PHANTOM...great.
COLBY
We both knew it was only going to get worse before it gets better.
CHARLES
But, COLBY. Is this just the start...? Is this just the beginning of something even we can't overcome?
COLBY
We can't think like that.
CHARLES
Yeah...I'm going to go get some fresh air, can you watch her for a bit?
COLBY
Sure thing.
CHARLES
Thanks.
CHARLES heads to the ELEVATOR as he pushes the DOWN button, CHARLES waiting a few moments as the DOORS open and he steps, moving to the side as MICHAEL stands next to him, the lower half of his face covered, but it was unmistakable that it was him.
MICHAEL
Sorry, this is going up a few more floors?
CHARLES
It's alright.
MICHAEL
You look rough.
CHARLES
It's been a night.
MICHAEL
I can see that, you got those eyes. You know, the worn eyes.
CHARLES
Yeah, been a rough few days.
MICHAEL
Yeah, been pretty crazy around here.
CHARLES
Fifth floor? Intensive care unit.
MICHAEL
Yeah, I got a friend up there, took a nasty fall, messed him all up.
CHARLES
I'm sorry to hear that.
The ELEVATOR reaches the floor as the DOORS open and MICHAEL steps out.
MICHAEL
I hope your friend pulls through.
CHARLES
She will.
MICHAEL
A she? Pretty thing?
CHARLES
All women are pretty in some form.
MICHAEL
Haha, that they are. You have a good night, try not to worry, she'll be fine I'm sure.
CHARLES
Thanks, same to you.
MICHAEL
I have a feeling he'll be okay. Ciao.
MICHAEL heads off as CHARLES pushes the GROUND FLOOR button, MICHAEL smirking as he throws his HOOD up over his head as he peels off the false mouth and throws the skin into a TRASH CAN as he finds a room and looks about, looking to see the MALE DEMON in a BED, asleep as the lights were off, MICHAEL looking around as he suddenly appears in the room, hovering over the MALE DEMON like a specter of death.
EXT. HOSPITAL
CHARLES heads out of the front of the HOSPITAL as he comes to an area and lights a cigarette, CHARLES taking a few drags before he tenses up as he notices someone walk up a few paces beside him.
CHARLES
Knew you'd show up sooner rather than later.
AJAX appears as CHARLES notices the anger in his eyes.
CHARLES
Come to kill me?
AJAX
I don't know...I want too, I had every intention of doing so, after I specifically told you what would happen if you let anything like this happen to her...
CHARLES
I wouldn't fault you. Thought I'd have to fight you, I don't want too, and I'd probably lose...but I have to see this through.
AJAX
What do you know?
CHARLES
You heard of the MISFITS?
AJAX
Who hasn't.
CHARLES
They're gunning for us. Trying to hurt us, throw us off, keep us busy, I don't really know what the fuck they want with us, but they ain’t interested in killing us, not yet at least. I don't share the same mentality. I want them dead.
AJAX
They the ones who hurt her?
CHARLES
Not directly, indirectly yes.
AJAX
How so?
CHARLES
They hired a PHANTOM.
AJAX
A PHANTOM?
CHARLES
Yeah.
AJAX
Fuck.
AJAX shakes his head as he comes over towards CHARLES. CHARLES holding his CIGARETTE PACK towards him as AJAX takes one and CHARLES lights it for him, AJAX taking a drag as he and CHARLES don't say anything for a moment.
AJAX
I am a man of my word, but I give you reprieve, only because I know it couldn't have been helped...and because I still have to come to terms that she is in her line of work for a reason, reasons I can't control. So I do my best when I can to keep myself in control, to keep my...rage in check. I'll never take it out on her, but you, you're just the easiest target cuz you're her boss.
CHARLES
You could direct that anger at the people responsible.
AJAX
There's always a higher chain of command, a shadow figure working everything for some purpose you or me or anyone has yet to understand. So I focus on the leader I do know. I can't help you, like I used to. I'm far...too old.
CHARLES
Still haven’t told me what the hell you are.
AJAX
Never will.
CHARLES
So what are we talking for?
AJAX
If this ever happens again, whether it was in your control or not, If I have to see her...in that state...There will be no reprieve, there will be no warning, no face to face, I will kill you, and take her away from all of this.
CHARLES
You're not her father. Or her protector, she's her own woman, she doesn't need us, like we think she does. No, we need her, we need the illusion of her needing us to be these white knights.
AJAX
You can think like that, but I can't. I come from a different time, from a different way of life. I trust you, CHARLES. I do. But...you're leading them to war with an enemy you don't know. Stop pursuing ghosts.
CHARLES
And what? Let the ghosts keep coming at us, left and right?
AJAX
No. You'll have to fight back, but do so when you have something to go off of.
CHARLES
Easier said than done.
AJAX
Of that, I have no doubt.
AJAX puts his cigarette out as CHARLES watches AJAX turn and head off back towards the way he came.
CHARLES
Not going to go up there and see her?
AJAX
What makes you think I haven't?
CHARLES
We've been here all day?
AJAX
I'm the one who found her...It's a sight I don't want to...see again.
CHARLES
I understand.
AJAX
See you around, CHARLES.
CHARLES
You too.
AJAX brushes past ANTHONY, ANTHONY looking at him as AJAX nods and keeps walking. ANTHONY coming over to CHARLES as CHARLES looks him over.
CHARLES
You look like shit.
ANTHONY
I got bit by a werewolf, and beat down by a PHANTOM. It was a long night.
CHARLES
COLBY'S up there if you want to go ahead and go up.
ANTHONY
Yeah, thanks.
CHARLES
You should get some sleep.
ANTHONY
I will.
ANTHONY heads up as CHARLES smirks, lighting another CIGARETTE.
INT. MISFIT STRONGHOLD
LYDIA sits on the edge of JARED'S DESK as MICHAEL stands by the WINDOW, his HOOD covering his face as he has his arms crossed.
LYDIA
You did well.
MICHAEL
Is that what you call it? Because I had three of them find me, granted it wasn't all that difficult to get past them, but...
LYDIA
In any regard, they should be more motivated in finding you than worrying about us.
MICHAEL
Don't sell them short. You undersold them to me, and under certain circumstances they could've bested me.
LYDIA
I seriously doubt that.
MICHAEL
You know what they're capable of.
LYDIA
What will you do now? We could use you here.
MICHAEL
No thanks, I'm not privy to your lot's grand design.
LYDIA
We're not the enemy here.
MICHAEL
I don't know that yet. I did this because I owed you. And that's where it stands, should I find a reason that you stand against me, or in my way, I will go through you all.
LYDIA
Is that a threat?
MICHAEL
A vague one. But yes, it was.
LYDIA
Then we stand as opposition.
MICHAEL
Unfortunate, but not a surprise.
LYDIA
Tell me one thing before you go.
MICHAEL
Yes.
LYDIA
Did you see CHARLES?
MICHAEL
I did as a matter of fact, ran across from him at the HOSPITAL.
LYDIA
Why were you there?
MICHAEL
Tying up a loose end that likes to talk.
LYDIA
I see...
MICHAEL
He looked good, a little haggard and worn down, but not beaten. No, there was a resolve there.
LYDIA
Not surprised. He was always that way.
MICHAEL
He is wavering though. If you're doing this to break him down, you're succeeding.
LYDIA
Thank you, MICHAEL. Hopefully, we never see each other again.
MICHAEL
I have a feeling I'll be around.
MICHAEL disappears into the SHADOWS as LYDIA nods to herself, looking about as she reaches for a LOCKET on her chest.
INT. HOSPITAL-EMMA'S ROOM
CHARLES is fast asleep as ANTHONY is still awake but drowsy looking, ANTHONY not noticing as EMMA'S hand twitches, ANTHONY nodding a bit as EMMA slowly opens her eyes, reeling a bit in pain as she coughs and takes a few breaths which alert ANTHONY, ANTHONY perking up as he scoots his chair closer to her as EMMA closes her eyes and smiles, reaching a hand out towards ANTHONY who takes it and kisses it, ANTHONY holding her hand in his as EMMA notices the tears in his eyes as she can't help but smile at her, EMMA smirking back as the TWO share a moment.
FADE OUT
END OF EPISODE.