Episode 20: Recruited

EPISODE 20

“RECRUITED”

RECAP

OPENING CREDITS

MONTAGE-FRINGE

Acts of VIOLENCE are sprouting up all over the FRINGE, INNOCENT MEN and WOMEN of all variety of creature types are caught in the cross-airs of GUNFIRE, SAVAGE BEATINGS, BOMBINGS, and other forms of MAYHEM.

EXT. SKYSCRAPER-ROOF

JARED watches as EXPLOSIONS and the fires from previous ones are sprouting out all over the FRINGE, JARED watching carefully as the FIRES seem to gleam in his eyes as DREW stands next to him, a few ARMED SOLDIER'S around them as JARED looks at the RESPONSE beginning to sprout out around them.

JARED

Looks like our guests will be here soon.

DREW

You have to be willing to go as far as possible. We need the CATALYST.

JARED

I will do what needs to be done, I trust you will not be hasty?

DREW

I have been fine up to this point haven't I?

JARED

You have been most helpful. It's almost here. Do you feel it?

DREW

I do.

JARED

Then let's get ready.

DREW rounds his men up as JARED stares out over the FRINGE.

INT. CHARLES'S CAR

CHARLES is driving through the streets, weaving through the CHECKPOINTS as SHANE was sitting up front, NIKKI shaking her head as she crossed her arms in the back as SHANE watches a BUILDING burning down as the RESIDENTS were on the sidewalk, crying and looking distraught as FRINGE RECLAIMERS and GUARDS try and deal with the madness.

SHANE

An organized all out attack the second JARED get's sprung...a good way to throw everything back into fucking ANARCHY.

CHARLES

Still think he can be saved?

SHANE looks to see the scowl on CHARLES'S FACE as he says it, SHANE not wanting to look at him as NIKKI slams her hand against the back of the seat she was sitting on.

NIKKI

Goddamnit, why'd it have to be DREW!

CHARLES

I don't...we'll be sure to ask him.

NIKKI

I liked LINTON...

CHARLES

He was a good man, but we don't have time to mourn him.

NIKKI

How is TERESA and the others taking it?

CHARLES

As well as can be expected.

SHANE

We meeting the others there?

CHARLES

That's what I told them.

CHARLES pulls the CAR over as the THREE get out.

EXT. SKYSCRAPER

A BLOCKADE was set up around it as CHARLES, SHANE and NIKKI are scanned over by a few SYSTEM GUARDS before they are let into the area, CHARLES spotting COLBY as he waves them down, COLBY fighting through the mess of busy bodies as EMMA, AUSTIN, and ANTHONY come over to him as they look about.

CHARLES

COLBY, you see TERESA, BENJAMIN?

COLBY

They're around somewhere, with LINTON dead and DREW being the traitor, the top two guys who ran the majority of the FRINGE'S forces are...well.

CHARLES

Who's coordinating now?

COLBY

We've got multiple OVERSEER'S handling more than one group, and DAVIEL having to handle all of the LINTON'S forces as well as the SYSTEM'S, though BENJAMIN is doing what he can.

CHARLES

And you?

COLBY

I'll be handling a platoon to help put down some of the resistance and fighting going on in some of the QUADRANT'S with some other HANDLER'S, everyone's gotta share the load.

CHARLES

And us?

COLBY

I figure you'll be here, helping to take down JARED and DREW.

EMMA

We're sure they are here?

COLBY

They're here.

CHARLES

How do we know that?

COLBY

DREW left his decoder on.

SHANE

Why would he do a thing like that?

COLBY

I guess we will find out.

CHARLES

We'll go find out what's going on, be safe COLBY.

COLBY

Watch your ass.

COLBY shakes his hand as he heads off CHARLES facing the others as he notices AUSTIN'S bruised up and beaten face.

CHARLES

Are you going to be alright?

AUSTIN

I've been better, but I'll leave.

CHARLES

You and NIKKI go and find DAVIEL, help him with whatever he needs from us, ANTHONY I need you to find TERESA, get what she knows, and stay with her.

ANTHONY

You want me to babysit our boss?

CHARLES

I don't care what you want to call it, but I told you what you're doing.

ANTHONY

Okay.

ANTHONY heads off as EMMA and SHANE look at CHARLES, CHARLES looking at EMMA the longest.

EMMA

What?

CHARLES

I heard you.

EMMA

What?

CHARLES

Whatever it is you are doing, I know it involves magic. Nobody can scream in my mind from somewhere out of nowhere without dabbling. So me and you, we're going to have a little talk once this is taken care of.

EMMA

Boss...

CHARLES

You're with me. No but's.

CHARLES goes through a few men as he heads towards an area where a LARGE MACHINE was being set up, CHARLES coming up to the TRIO as JERRY, MULCIBER, and GAVIEL were typing and scanning through all kinds of code and information.

CHARLES

What's the situation?

JERRY

We've got multiple SQUADS on each floor, sentries more and likely, with DREW'S decoder locked in on the roof, along with a few other heat signatures.

CHARLES

Do we have any idea what they're planning?

MULCIBER

Nothing yet.

BENJAMIN

CHARLES.

CHARLES turns as BENJAMIN comes over, a tired and beaten look in his eyes as CHARLES comes over to him.

BENJAMIN

LINTON...and DREW...

CHARLES

I am sorry I have ever doubted you, BENJAMIN, but right now, I need you to be the stoic and unflinching ANGEL asshole I know you can be.

BENJAMIN

Such betrayal...such...

CHARLES

BEN!

BENJAMIN looks at CHARLES as CHARLES looks at him angrily.

CHARLES

Buck the fuck up. We have guys we have to take down, and a lot of answers to be trying to get, so what do we do?

BENJAMIN nods as SHANE comes over looking the SKYSCRAPER over as CHARLES and BENJAMIN look at it together, side by side.

BENJAMIN

I wish I knew. But as cunning and dangerous as JARED was on his own, DREW is an even more dangerous component added to this.

CHARLES

I don't believe that. I believe DREW has been helping cover all of JARED'S tracks since whatever this was began, I think the same amount of effort and cunning is the same that has been president since this started. We can't afford to think we cannot overcome them.

BENJAMIN

We can't storm, we can't just...demolish it. What course can we take?

CHARLES

Is DREW'S decoder still on?

BENJAMIN

JERRY?

JERRY

Yes, still active.

CHARLES

Can we com link to him using his DECODER?

JERRY

Of course.

CHARLES

Patch us a line, and let us know if you get a link.

GAVIEL

Doing it now.

EMMA comes closer to SHANE as they watch the TRIO work, CHARLES and BENJAMIN waiting as JERRY turns to them, nodding as CHARLES takes a breath.

CHARLES

DREW.

There are a few moments of silence as they await a reply, the group looking at each other as they hear a familiar chuckle.

DREW

It's about time, I thought leaving this one was going to be all for not.

CHARLES

Goddamnit, DREW...

DREW

CHARLES, I am sorry it had to be found out this way. Honestly, I truly am. What happened with LINTON...

BENJAMIN

You do not get to say his name!

DREW

I'm sorry, BENJAMIN. I am sure it is a very difficult death to deal with. But I offered him amnesty and he spit it back in my face.

CHARLES

What is it that you want, how are we going to end this?

DREW

I want to speak to you. And BENJAMIN, up close. Bring NIKKI and that SHANE fellow as well.

CHARLES

No.

DREW

Then we have nothing more to say.

CHARLES

You think I'm going to walk in there primed for a slaughter, to listen to you rant and rave madness to justify your actions, forget it!

DREW

Then you are a bigger fool than I thought. I am offering you a chance to get some answers, but if that's not what you want, then by all means, storm the building, do what you think you can, but the bloodshed...the destruction I will help coordinate will be more than you can handle. Remember, I know this CITY as well as anyone.

CHARLES

You son of a bitch, I'll kill you...

DREW

Call me back...when you're ready to see reason.

CHARLES listens as the line goes dead, CHARLES screaming in anger as he walks off, BENJAMIN and SHANE coming over to him as CHARLES stops and paces back and forth.

CHARLES

We're not doing it.

SHANE

So it's a trap, we know it's a trap, we can prepare for it.

CHARLES

No.

BENJAMIN

We can end this, tonight.

CHARLES

No, this is what they want. Everything, everything that we have done, has only been of benefit to them, why should keep helping them?!

EMMA

Because...we don't have a choice.

SHANE

They have us pretty badly by the balls, we go into a trap knowing it's a trap, or we take our chances, and let them keep...doing this, I mean boss, look around you.

CHARLES looks about as he notices the devastation, CHARLES shaking his head as BENJAMIN nods.

BENJAMIN

We can do this. Whether you want to come or not, I am going.

CHARLES

Not with my men, not without my consent.

BENJAMIN

I am an OVERSEER and HIGH COUNCILOR of the SYSTEM, all I need is an authorization from TERESA and I can order them with me.

CHARLES

You wouldn't dare.

BENJAMIN

I don't want to do this, but I will if I must.

CHARLES

Fine. SHANE call ANTHONY, have them bring TERESA.

SHANE

Boss...

CHARLES

He wants to go over me, let him do it, but I will not play into this madness, I am done with it.

CHARLES heads off as SHANE goes after him but EMMA stops him.

EMMA

He's stubborn, give him time.

SHANE

You didn't see the look I just saw.

EMMA

I've seen it plenty. Let him go. Call ANTHONY. I'll call NIKKI and AUSTIN back.

EMMA pulls her cell out as she heads off as SHANE looks at the SKYSCRAPER before he pulls his PHONE out.

INT. MISFIT STRONGHOLD-OFFICE

LYDIA watches the NEWS FEEDS as CASSIE comes in, DATAPAD in hand as she comes over and swipes the screen on the DATAPAD onto the TV PANELS, LYDIA watching as ZONES were marked over a MAP of the FRINGE.

CASSIE

The attacks all happened exactly as planned, it seems that DREW went ahead and sprung JARED.

LYDIA

Then that means we need to begin the final preparations.

CASSIE

Shall we send an extraction unit?

LYDIA

Have we gotten word that JARED has secured the CATALYST?

CASSIE

He said that regardless of whether or not he sends word, the CATALYST will be brought.

LYDIA

Then I suggest we get the extraction underway, and begin the preparations.

CASSIE

Yes, ma'am. Shall I forward this information to...?

LYDIA

I shall see it to him personally.

CASSIE

As you wish.

CASSIE pushes her glasses up and turns and heads off, LYDIA switching the screens back to the NEWSFEED of the devastation as a small smile passes between her lips.

LYDIA

Oh CHARLES...how frustrated and angry you must be...everything falling apart, people you trust turning on you...letting you down...I can feel your anger...I can see your hesitance. Will you be the man I once loved...will you crumble and rise, or will you be this new man I have tried for so long to hide from...cowardly...and cold.

LYDIA leans back on the desk as she goes quiet, watching the SCREENS in silence.

EXT. SKYSCRAPER

NIKKI comes over as she finds EMMA, EMMA waving her over as AUSTIN comes up to SHANE as NIKKI looks at CHARLES who was sitting off alone near a group of REFUGEE'S.

NIKKI

What's with him?

EMMA

He's not had a good day.

NIKKI

You're telling me.

EMMA

Any idea why this DREW guy asked for you specifically?

NIKKI

Probably has something to do with asking me out earlier.

EMMA

No way?!

NIKKI

Yeah, can you believe that fucking guy?

EMMA

Ha. Men.

NIKKI

No kidding.

SHANE

Uh, we're standing right here.

NIKKI

So?

AUSTIN shakes his head as SHANE looks at CHARLES.

SHANE

(To AUSTIN)

What the hell do we do about this man?

AUSTIN

If I knew, I wouldn't always be in the doghouse with him.

SHANE

He doesn't listen to anyone. I know exactly what they're going to do when we get up there, and he'll fight it tooth and nail, when I know it has to be done to give us a chance.

AUSTIN

What are you talking about?

SHANE

Nothing.

AUSTIN

You can't say all that and then try and take it back.

SHANE

I'm just saying, I don't know how else I can get him to trust me, to trust us.

AUSTIN

To be fair, before you got here, and pretty much since we've all found ways to let him down.

SHANE

But...

AUSTIN

It's the way it is my friend. Heads up.

ANTHONY and TERESA come up as TERESA looks at CHARLES as BENJAMIN comes to her.

BENJAMIN

I need you, TERESA.

TERESA

What is going on?

BENJAMIN

DREW has requested that myself, CHARLES, and two of his RECLAIMERS meet him. However CHARLES refuses, and will not allow his RECLAIMERS to accompany.

TERESA

And you are asking me what? Grant you permission as OVERSEER of the outfit?

BENJAMIN

Yes, but only if you can't talk him into coming with.

TERESA

You believe I can do that?

BENJAMIN

I believe I want to try and make this amicable, before having to use such discretionary powers.

TERESA

I will...see what I can do.

BENJAMIN

Thank you.

TERESA looks at the UNEVENTFUL'S who nod for her to go, TERESA walking to CHARLES as CHARLES doesn't acknowledge her, TERESA grabbing a seat as she pulls it up to him, taking a seat as she tries to get him to look her in the eyes but he doesn't meet her gaze.

TERESA

I know that it's been a rough few weeks. With EMMA, with everything that happened before the attacks. With CROWLEY for some reason...now with DREW'S BETRAYAL, with...I get it, CHARLES.

CHARLES

That's why you want to send my men into a trap...or to a situation we can't get out of...to further their cause. Or are you trying to convince me to see this through, that way BEN avoids having to be an asshole and...

TERESA

Stop it. Just stop. What are you? Are you a child? Look at you, sitting alone in a corner, pouting. You have men and women to lead. Even if you lead them into HELL itself you do it as a LEAD, as a MAN.

CHARLES

You think you're hurting my pride? Talking about being a LEADER, you sit behind a desk all day, pining to a SYSTEM who cares not for us, who cares only for their own decrees and laws. Divine mandates, and other useless bullshit. I've brought more men into battles, and to their deaths then I care to remember, and I will not do so for the benefit of madmen. If BEN wants to take them, let him, if they want to go, let them. I am done.

TERESA

What has happened to you? Where is the CHARLES I know? The CHARLES who confuses things for me, the CHARLES who stands up and fights no matter what, where is he?

CHARLES

He is here. Defeated.

TERESA

This cannot be what breaks you, what stops you in your tracks, this moment here...you cannot let this be it.

CHARLES

Oh? And why shouldn't it be?

TERESA

I don't know. Because it's a threat we've faced before. It's an era of bloodshed and violence and madness that we have seen before. This is nothing you haven't handled before.

CHARLES

No. No this is different...

TERESA

Because you feel like you have the most to lose...I've seen the way you look and treat your UNEVENTFUL...they are your family, more so than any group you've had before...ever since this TWELVE PAST MIDNIGHT, showed up, this SHANE, I have seen a look in your eyes I have not seen before. A look of solace. Of...being whole. I think you have the people in your life you desire to keep more than anything. So when they let you down, when they get hurt, or when they make choices you don't agree with, are put in situations you fear the worst of, there is a pain you have not dealt with in a very long time. A pain and fear of great loss. But you cannot succumb to this fear. Not you.

CHARLES looks at TERESA for a moment as she watches him closely, CHARLES lowering his head as TERESA doesn't know what else to say as she rings her hands and stands up, looking back at CHARLES one more time before she comes back over towards BENJAMIN.

TERESA

You have my consent as OVERSEER of the UNEVENTFUL to borrow those you need.

BENJAMIN

I am sorry it has come to this, TERESA.

TERESA

So am I.

TERESA walks off as ANTHONY goes to follow her, SHANE and AUSTIN looking at CHARLES UN sure as CHARLES continues to stare at the ground, seemingly lost in his own thoughts.

EXT. SKYSCRAPER-ROOF

JARED listens to DREW'S decoder go off, DREW looking at JARED for confirmation as JARED nods, DREW pressing a button as he clears his throat.

DREW

What have you decided?

BENJAMIN

(O.S)

Myself, And the TWO RECLAIMERS of CHARLES'S UNEVENTFUL'S will come up.

DREW

And CHARLES?

BENJAMIN

(O.S.)

He does not wish to be involved and whatever schemes and traps you are laying out for us.

DREW

CHARLES is too smart for his own good, makes me wonder why you THREE would still be as foolish to accept?

BENJAMIN

(O.S.)

We cannot take the risk of more chaos and violence...the FRINGE has seen enough of it these past few weeks.

DREW

And that is a wise choice to make, very reasonable, albeit craven.

BENJAMIN

(O.S.)

I care about people, care about them all to wish them no harm, unlike you.

DREW

I care more for the FRINGE then you could possibly fathom, that is why I am doing this.

BENJAMIN

(O.S)

Hollow words from a man who is destroying the very foundations of which he claims to love.

DREW

You will be allowed in without harassment, take the ELEVATOR to the top floor, and meet us on the ROOF, there we will be waiting.

DREW hangs up as he looks at JARED who just smiles, arms crossed.

EXT. SKYSCRAPER

BENJAMIN comes over to the TRIO as the TRIO are bringing up schematics of the SKYSCRAPER.

JERRY

There are six of them on the ROOF, this red blimp is DREW cuz of his decoder, but, I can't tell you who JARED would be.

BENJAMIN

What would the damage be if we took out the entire building?

SHANE

What?

BENJAMIN

You heard me. Is there any way to take this building down?

MULCIBER

Without demolitions we couldn't topple the building. And if we were spotted...well...who knows what they would retaliate with.

BENJAMIN

What about the ERADICATOR BEAM?

GAVIEL

No good, without the SYSTEM in charge, we couldn't draw in the energy.

SHANE

Eradicator Beam?

AUSTIN

It's like a world defense beam, they laser target a building, a place, or a person and it just...

SHANE

Gotcha, we have something like that?

AUSTIN

They only ever use it maybe once every few hundred years, when a rebellion becomes more unruly then they like.

SHANE

Huh...

AUSTIN

What?

SHANE

Just thinking.

AUSTIN

Don't strain yourself.

SHANE

Ha.

BENJAMIN

Is there any way to clear that BUILDING without wasting any of our FORCES?

MULCIBER

We do not have to FORCES to spare, unless you would like to send a requisition to HEAVEN or HELL?

BENJAMIN

No, we are not that desperate, this can be handled.

SHANE

You never know, maybe some hardcore ANGEL and DEMON back up would do us good?

BENJAMIN

It's too late for that.

SHANE

Are we going in?

BENJAMIN

No choice.

CHARLES

There is always a choice.

CHARLES comes over to them as BENJAMIN looks at CHARLES as CHARLES looks them over.

CHARLES

I'm not going to wait out here all day, it'll just change my mind, so if we're going to go, we better go now.

SHANE

Boss...

CHARLES

I can't stop you from going, and I sure as shit can't stop anything that's going to happen from this point forward, but if anything comes from this that gives us a chance, like you SHANE seem to think there is...then fine. I'll have to take it on faith that we can get it down.

SHANE

Are you saying...?

CHARLES

Only if it comes to it...

CHARLES goes to JERRY and whispers something into his EAR, JERRY looking at him as he nods as CHARLES comes back over and hands SHANE something before he walks towards the SKYSCRAPER, NIKKI and BENJAMIN following as SHANE looks in in his hand to see a SMALL BLACK DEVICE, SHANE nodding as he puts it in his mouth and swallows, it SHANE looking to JERRY who nods at him as SHANE goes to follow the others towards the SKYSCRAPER.

The GROUP look the SKYSCRAPER up and down as CHARLES comes up to the DOORS, looking at DREW'S GUARDS who smirk at him and open the DOUBLE DOORS, CHARLES walking past them as BENJAMIN, NIKKI, and SHANE follow. AUSTIN and EMMA watching as the GUARDS shut the doors and locked it, smiling at them as AUSTIN flips one of them off, EMMA holding AUSTIN back as they watch the GROUP make it to the ELEVATOR before the DOORS close up.

EXT. SKYSCRAPER-ROOF

INT. INFERNO

AZREAL takes a drink from his spot in his bar, letting one of his DEMONIC WOMEN nibble on his ear and kiss down his neck as he looks to see someone approach his table.

AZRAEL

Ah, and there you are. How can I help you?

CHRISTIAN looks around as he notices the DEMONIC WOMEN eying him with lustful eyes as CHRISTIAN smirks.

AZRAEL

I trust my information has been fruitful, yes?

CHRISTIAN

That it has.

AZRAEL

So...that brings me to the question of why you are here, risking our relationship and partnership?

CHRISTIAN

I need another one of your...”cocktails”.

AZRAEL

Is that so? What? Absorb one to many souls here lately, lad?

CHRISTIAN

I didn't realize the volume that was being intaked.

AZRAEL

No, I can see that.

CHRISTIAN'S veins were bulging from his body as he was red all over, seeming to glow almost.

AZRAEL

How many did you ingest?

CHRISTIAN

More than I've even done before.

AZRAEL

With all the years you've been...juicing I figured you'd have built up a better tolerance.

CHRISTIAN

I am not afraid of exploding if that's what you're hinting at.

AZRAEL

No?

CHRISTIAN

No. I...there...are people who question me, people who will be watching me closely, people I can't have finding me out, not yet.

AZRAEL

Ah, so you need my little drink to help with the concealment of your...indiscretions.

CHRISTIAN

I am needed to help finish off this...MISFIT scourge, but I can't do that...like this...

AZRAEL

You mean looking like a SOUL junkie.

CHRISTIAN

Give me the cocktail, AZRAEL.

AZRAEL

Alright, alright, so pushy you UNDEAD are. Sugar, make him his favorite.

One of the DEMONIC WOMEN heads off towards the BAR as AZRAEL offers CHRISTIAN her spot, CHRISTIAN sitting as AZRAEL takes a drink.

AZRAEL

I have never bothered to ask, but then again I do not care. But I feel that with all this madness going around as of late, that perhaps I should start asking more questions.

CHRISTIAN

The wrong questions could get you killed.

AZRAEL

Highly unlikely.

CHRISTIAN

So sure of yourself.

AZRAEL

With good reason. But back to my inquiry. Why are you consuming so much souls? It's the biggest no no in the entire FRINGE, and yet you, the FRINGE'S best and brightest RECLAIMER have been juicing them down for years. What are you planning?

CHRISTIAN

I have no plans. I am merely a tool, an instrument to be used for a greater purpose.

AZRAEL

But not the SYSTEM'S?

CHRISTIAN

For now I am the SYSTEM'S and I do this for them. But when the time comes...

The DEMONIC WOMAN comes back and puts down a TALL GLASS of a bubbling gold and green drink with smoke billowing from it, CHRISTIAN taking it down without hesitation as CHRISTIAN tenses up as he sets it down and lets out a tortured grunt as his body suddenly begins to resume its normal color as the veins and discoloration around his body disappear as CHRISTIAN looks like himself, CHRISTIAN opening eyes as he lets out a relieved sigh, CHRISTIAN looking himself over as he turns to AZREAL who smiles at him.

AZRAEL

Just remember who helps you, and who always has.

CHRISTIAN

That I shall not forget.

CHRISTIAN gets up and scoots out of the booth, heading out as AZRAEL watching him go, AZRAEL wrapping his arm around his DEMONIC LADY as she sits back down beside him.

EXT. SKYSCRAPER-ROOF

CHARLES opens the DOOR that leads up into the ROOF as CHARLES watches FOUR ARMED GUARDS aim at him, CHARLES sneering as he walks up without fearing them as BENJAMIN, NIKKI and SHANE bringing up the rear as JARED stands behind DREW who smiles at them.

DREW

I am glad you decided to come, CHARLES.

CHARLES doesn't say anything as he comes a few feet up to DREW, balling his hand into a fist as DREW looks to his MEN and nods, the FOUR ARMED GUARDS suddenly grabbing NIKKI as NIKKI strikes one in the nose, SHANE drawing but one of the ARMED GUARDS aims at him as the other THREE put their gun on NIKKI, one pushing his GUN to the side of her head as CHARLES looks back and sneers angrily as BENJAMIN and SHANE looks about UN sure as the GUARDS force NIKKI over towards JARED, NIKKI looking at JARED as JARED smiles at her and looks back towards CHARLES as CHARLES begins to shake.

DREW

No harm to be done, just insurance to make sure you aren't planning on doing anything...stupid.

CHARLES

This was stupid in itself coming here, why add to it?

DREW

As reasonable and calm as you and BENJAMIN try to be, you both possess a rather tenuous and...tenacious quality to you.

CHARLES

If you touch her...

DREW

Touch her?

DREW comes over to her as CHARLES goes to move but doesn't as one of the GUARDS aims at him as the other was still aiming at BENJAMIN and SHANE as TWO were aiming at NIKKI'S HEAD.

DREW looks at her as she sneers and looks away from him as he rubs his hand gently down her face, combing his hand over her body as NIKKI shakes as CHARLES looks like he is going to snap.

DREW

You mean like this?

CHARLES

You son of a bitch!

DREW

Relax, CHARLES. I have more respect for her than to try such naughty things, shame on you for thinking that I could.

NIKKI

You know you would if you could, you son of a bitch, you're just like every other piece of shit man.

DREW

Now now.

DREW slaps NIKKI across her face, CHARLES going to attack DREW but JARED cuts him off and elbows CHARLES in the chest, knocking CHARLES back as JARED hits CHARLES a few times before he kicks out CHARLES'S LEGS, CHARLES landing on his chest and face hard as JARED steps back, eying SHANE as SHANE shakes in rage as CHARLES slowly gets to his knees, DREW wiping NIKKI'S lip as the slap had cut her lip.

DREW

You shouldn't speak to me that way. It's not very attractive.

CHARLES

I swear to the creator I will...

DREW

You'll what? Kill me? Like I haven't heard that from you yet.

BENJAMIN

What is this all about, DREW? To toy with us? Congratulations you got to do it, now either attempt to kill us, or give yourself up.

DREW

Never not a moment to be direct, huh BENJAMIN? Must be an ANGEL thing.

BENJAMIN

And you're double crossing ways must be an UNDEAD HUMAN thing.

DREW

You hear that, CHARLES? Speaking down to me, to all of us, like we're a bunch of assholes? But I mean, that's how all ANGELS think of us UNDEAD, don't they? Lowering beings.

CHARLES

Maybe, but I'm pretty sure he's really just speaking in a generality about you and your lot you miserable fuck.

DREW

CHARLES...

DREW kicks CHARLES across the face, CHARLES falling over backwards from how he was sitting on his knees.

DREW

Let's try and keep this civil, shall we?

SHANE

We came just like you asked...What is this about?

JARED

Simple. We need a new volunteer to join our little club. And the four of you, are the most likely candidates.

BENJAMIN

You cannot be serious?

DREW

Very. We have been searching for unique people, people we admire, people who have a certain quality about them. The FOUR of you each have that quality. Now TWO of you are ringers, one of you is a dark horse, and the other...is whom we want. Now to get what we want. We will kill the rest of you, till that person can't say no. But we offer the chance to join amicably.

CHARLES

Go fuck yourself, DREW.

DREW

CHARLES, just for that, she'll be the first to go...

DREW comes over and punches NIKKI in the stomach, SHANE going to DRAW but the GUARD holds his GUN on him as DREW comes over and places his GUN to NIKKI'S LEFT EYE, one of the other GUARDS aiming at her RIGHT as SHANE and BENJAMIN watch on as CHARLES looks helpless.

JARED

SHANE...is this the price you're willing to pain for a no?

SHANE

You want me to join, that badly?

JARED

It's always been you, since the second I saw you tied up in that chair. Everything comes down to my belief in you. Join me, join us. Become part of something greater than anything you've done in your short tenor here. Be a part of the saviors of the FRINGE.

CHARLES

SHANE...don't...

SHANE

CHARLES...

CHARLES

I won't let you...

BENJAMIN

CHARLES look around you.

CHARLES looks to see everything around him as CHARLES looks UNsure.

JARED

Save your friends, let them cherish the final days together.

SHANE

So I can help you end their lives...everyone's life?

JARED

It's for a good cause. I promise you. I would not lie to you now. Not with all this. Not so close to the end.

SHANE

I don't have a choice.

JARED

You never did.

SHANE nods as he looks at BENJAMIN who looks at him and nods, SHANE looking over to NIKKI as she shakes her, mouthing the word “NO” but SHANE shakes his head as he comes over towards CHARLES, CHARLES looking at him as SHANE looks back, SHANE coming over towards JARED as CHARLES watches helplessly. DREW smiles as he lowers his GUN from NIKKI and blows a kiss at her, NIKKI looking away from him in disgust as SHANE comes up next to JARED.

SHANE

Fine. I'm in.

JARED

You know I can't just let you in without insurance.

SHANE

Fine.

JARED rolls his sleeve up and reveals a ward on his arm, JARED pulling a blade as he cuts into the skin, A BLUE and WHITE LIGHT beginning to shine through his arm and through his veins, JARED holding a hand out to SHANE as CHARLES goes to stand but one of the GUARDS hits CHARLES in the back of the head with MACHINE GUN, CHARLES reeling as SHANE looks at JARED UN-sure.

JARED

Shake my hands.

SHANE

What happens...?

JARED

This is a powerful binding spell. If you are true in intent of joining us with no intent of betrayal, or planning any kind of ruse, it will burn hot, but it will not kill you. If there is...and you plan on betraying me...if you plan on alerting your friends or anyone...it will destroy you, and then I will kill these three. So before you shake this hand...think long and hard...about where your loyalties lie.

JARED smirks at SHANE as SHANE looks at him and then at CHARLES, CHARLES looking at him with pleading eyes as JARED keeps his arm extended towards him, SHANE mouthing that he was “sorry” as he shakes JARED'S HAND, CHARLES watching horrified as SHANE and JARED are engulfed in a LIGHT that blinds everyone in sight for a few moments before dispersing, everyone who had looked away turning back to the sight as JARED opens his eyes, smiling as SHANE was still there.

JARED nods as he smiles and turns to the others.

JARED

Saddle up boys.

The GUARDS move in unison to stand beside JARED, JARED smirking as DREW winks at NIKKI before he comes and stands next to SHANE, DREW smiling at him as SHANE sneers as JARED rolls up his other sleeve and cuts into the hex seal on his other arm, a white and green light appearing as JARED holds his hands out, everyone taking a hold as CHARLES stands back onto his own two feet, NIKKI and BENJAMIN coming up next to him as JARED smiles as he reaches for SHANE'S HAND, SHANE taking it hesitantly.

JARED

Be with the ones you love. Hold them close and tight. For soon...we will all be embraced into the nothingness of oblivion.

The GROUP suddenly disappears in a blinding light as CHARLES rushes forward as the last thing he sees is SHANE'S FACE.

CHARLES

No!

CHARLES looks around as they are gone, CHARLES dropping to his knees as he looks defeated as BENJAMIN and NIKKI don't do anything but look dejected as CHARLES looks down and out, before he raises his head and smirks.

EXT. SKYSCRAPER

CHARLES comes bursting through the DOUBLE DOORS as AUSTIN and EMMA run up, BENJAMIN watching as all of DAVIEL'S FORCES were rounding up the GUARDS who were watching the floors inside the SKYSCRAPER.

AUSTIN

What the hell happened?!

EMMA

We saw the light from the roof and then all the guys inside the building just gave themselves up...?!

BENJAMIN

It was...something.

AUSTIN

SHANE, you, where's SHANE?

NIKKI

He...joined them.

EMMA

No...

AUSTIN

no fucking way.

BENJAMIN

He was left with no choice, but I am afraid it is true.

CHARLES says nothing as he comes up to the TRIO.

CHARLES

Tell me...?

JERRY

The signal is strong, should I turn on the location signal?

CHARLES

No. He shook on a binding spell.

MULCIBER

Good thing I talked you out of activating it as soon as he ingested it.

NIKKI

What is going on?

CHARLES

I knew that they were going for SHANE, and I knew that no matter what, they were going to take SHANE...SHANE knew it too, he'd been trying to tell me but I didn't want to listen but...TERESA really made me understand...

EMMA

Well I don't...

CHARLES

I gave SHANE a miniaturized locational transponder.

BENJAMIN

A tracking bug?

FLASHBACK- Showing SHANE ingest the SMALL BLACK DEVICE

CHARLES

I think SHANE knew what it was but convinced himself it wasn't what he thought.

NIKKI

That's why the binding spell didn't kill him...the guy has willpower.

CHARLES

Uncanny.

AUSTIN

So let's turn that bitch on, find out where they are at, and hit the son's bitches where it hurts, finally.

JERRY

No, the binding spell will have a residual lasting effect.

AUSTIN

How long do we have to wait before we can activate it?

MULCIBER

At the earliest? Two days, minimum.

EMMA

We can't leave SHANE with them for TWO days!?

CHARLES

We don't have a choice. He'll be alright, I believe in him.

BENJAMIN

What if they warp him? What if two days is all it takes to corrupt him?

CHARLES

Then we deal with him like we've dealt with everything else.

CHARLES faces everyone.

CHARLES

SHANE put himself in direct danger, both in his physical and psychological well being, to give us this chance, we will not waste it. I am tired of losing, I am tired of being caught off guard, it's our turn to hit them back, and hit them back hard. But I need you all with me on this.

CHARLES looks to see ANTHONY and TERESA coming up, CHARLES looking at TERESA the longest as they lock eyes for a moment before they pull away.

CHARLES

TWO days, we take out the MISFITS. Once and for all.

AUSTIN

Hell yeah.

NIKKI

Bout time.

EMMA

Anything to stop all this craziness.

ANTHONY

What'd I miss?

AUSTIN nudges ANTHONY as CHARLES smirks, everyone beginning to converse amongst themselves as TERESA comes up to CHARLES, CHARLES kissing her on the cheek as she looks thrown off, looking about to see if anyone noticed.

TERESA

What was...

CHARLES

For making me understand that some things are worth fighting for, even at the threat or cost of it.

TERESA

You shouldn't of never forget about this, you big idiot.

CHARLES

Sometimes it takes a good woman to pick you back up.

TERESA

My pep talk wasn't it.

CHARLES

No?

TERESA

No. I can only make you see what you can't see, you have to be the one to finally come to the conclusions you already know. I am your boss, and I need you to be the man I know you can be.

CHARLES

Ouch, and here I thought there was a chance for some kind of breakthrough.

TERESA

Do you think he'll be able to hold out?

CHARLES

They won't hurt him, they way JARED was talking to him, pining for him, it's like they need him for something...no he's too valuable for them to hurt.

TERESA

Then...do you trust him?

CHARLES

You don't?

TERESA

I don't know him well, and what I do know, he's cross, he's brash, and he bucks the rules.

CHARLES

So does everyone else in my UNIT.

TERESA

He's different.

CHARLES

Yeah, I'm starting to get that.

TERESA

Trust in him if you must, but I will be weary, one of us should...just in case.

CHARLES

Yeah. I guess so.

TERESA nods as she heads off, CHARLES watching her go as he looks about UNsure of what this was, a victory, or defeat.

INT. MISFIT STRONGHOLD

SHANE opens his eyes as he appears inside a LARGE HANGAR, MEN and WOMEN of all creeds and make up suddenly cheering and clapping as JARED steps forward, letting go of SHANE'S hand as he nods and waves about, DREW throwing his arms up in victory as the hundreds of mercenaries in the HANGAR were going crazy as CASSIE comes pushing her way through and up the steps towards JARED, meeting him as he was halfway down as SHANE was pushed towards a few men who were binding his arms.

CASSIE

The wards worked! Thank goodness.

JARED

Very good work, CASSIE.

CASSIE

The binding spell?

JARED

Worked as intended.

CASSIE

So he's?

JARED

All ours.

CASSIE

Even better.

JARED

Has LYDIA instilled the final preparations?

CASSIE

Yes, it's been authorized.

JARED

Excellent.

JARED turns to see the GUARDS rough SHANE up as they try to bind him, JARED quickly hurrying up as he knocks one GUARD down and away from SHANE as the others quickly back away.

JARED

Everyone listen up!

The HANGAR suddenly goes quiet as CASSIE and DREW stand side by side as JARED looks them in the face, SHANE looking confused as JARED grabs the BINDINGS and pulls them off of SHANE'S WRIST, SHANE looking UN sure as JARED holds the bindings up.

JARED

These bindings here...symbolizes everything we go against. From the SYSTEM...to the OUTSIDERS...and these bindings will not hold...someone who is now one of us.

JARED points to SHANE.

JARED

This man is our brother...but more importantly...our savior. The one who will see to our victory, the one who will usher in the light that will cleanse this world, and free us all from a future worse than any death. Brothers...sisters...I bring you, The CATALYST!

The MISFITS cheer rabidly as some even drop to their knees, thanking and praising SHANE as SHANE looks at JARED confused as JARED smirks at him.

JARED

Welcome to the MISFITS...brother.

SHANE looks around as everyone is smiling and cheering him on, SHANE feeling both unease and something that looks like pride as SHANE takes in the applause and praise, DREW, CASSIE, and JARED all joining in as SHANE'S rock-star treatment continues on.

INT. AUSTIN'S CAR

AUSTIN pulls up outside of the HANGOUT as CHARLES was sitting up front, ANTHONY and EMMA in the back as ANTHONY and EMMA get out, CHARLES not hurrying to get out as AUSTIN looks at his boss worried.

AUSTIN

I don't like it man. TWO days, that's...

CHARLES

I would trust in all of you. I'd have too. So we have too as well, for SHANE'S sake.

AUSTIN

I just wanna kill me some assholes.

CHARLES

We will.

CHARLES gets out as AUSTIN looks into the back seat, NIKKI not saying anything as AUSTIN thinks of something to say.

AUSTIN

So uh...

NIKKI

Just take us back to your apartment.

AUSTIN

Huh?

NIKKI

Look, it's been a rough few days...and I could use a screw.

AUSTIN

You make me sound so cheap.

NIKKI

You are. Now let's go.

AUSTIN

As you command.

EXT. THE HANGOUT

CHARLES watches as AUSTIN peels out as CHARLES shakes his head, ANTHONY going to his CAR as EMMA goes to follow but CHARLES stops her by catching up, ANTHONY turning as he spots CHARLES grabbing EMMA.

CHARLES

I told you, me and you were going to have a conversation.

EMMA

Right...

CHARLES

Witchcraft, EMMA...How stupid can you be to dabble in that, do you know where that road leads?

EMMA

I'm not touching the witchcraft, the spells, and hexes, potions, any of that. Strictly arts, combat and defensive magic. I'll even register if I have too...

CHARLES

You're going to have too, if they find out your learning dark arts without being approved they'll strip your RECLAIMER status and toss you into the street, and the second you use it outside your scope they will throw you into the darkest hole. EMMA, I know the attack made you...

EMMA

You don't know, CHARLES. You could never know. They didn't come for you, or AUSTIN...even NIKKI...they came for me, I was targeted as a weak link...who are you to judge me about reaching a breaking point when I've seen so many out of you these last few months.

CHARLES

But came back, as me, stronger and better for it. I never ran to hide behind magic.

EMMA

Well I'm not you, and I don't have your amazing resolve.

CHARLES

This witch or warlock whoever is teaching you, you can't trust them...sure this may be all they teach you now, but how would you know if you are you, and not becoming some puppet for some...

ANTHONY

It's not that way.

CHARLES

TONY, I don't remember bringing you into this conversation.

ANTHONY

Well I heard it, and I'm here anyways.

CHARLES

TONY...

ANTHONY

Listen. This witch can be trusted.

CHARLES

You've met her?

ANTHONY

Yeah, AUSTIN too, and we both vouch for her.

CHARLES

Haha, of course.

EMMA

She can be trusted, CHARLES.

CHARLES

None of them can!

ANTHONY

That's your own prejudice you need to work through, but you won't throw it onto me, or her, or any of us.

CHARLES

ANTHONY, I know you have your soft spot for EMMA...

ANTHONY

I do. And I came to her when she called. I didn't ignore it, like you apparently did.

CHARLES is caught off guard as EMMA looks surprised too as CHARLES looks between ANTHONY'S stern face and EMMA'S surprised.

CHARLES nods as he turns and begins towards the HANGOUT.

ANTHONY

So that's it? That's all you got to say about it?!

CHARLES

You've made your points. If anything befalls her, it's on her. And you. Keep that in mind. EMMA, you register first thing, or I turn you in.

EMMA

Yes, sir.

CHARLES heads inside, shutting the door without looking back as ANTHONY looks at EMMA who looks at ANTHONY with a smile.

EMMA

Wow.

ANTHONY

I'm gonna so pay for that somehow.

EMMA

Well...anyways, thanks. I'm sure MEL will appreciate it.

ANTHONY

Didn't do it for her. Well, the sticking up part, partly but...

EMMA

I know...either way. Thanks.

ANTHONY

We stick together.

EMMA

Yeah, I know we do.

ANTHONY

So...wanna grab a drink?

EMMA

Rain check, I've got to make sure my witch roommate is uh...okay.

ANTHONY

Oh, yeah...least I can do is drop you off?

EMMA

Thanks.

ANTHONY leads her towards his car as they walk side by side.

ANTHONY

So have you two like...made out yet or...?

EMMA nudges ANTHONY with her shoulder, ANTHONY stumbles a bit but doesn't fall as EMMA starts laughing as ANTHONY acts surprised by shouting “what” over and over with a laugh of his own.

INT. JARED'S ROOM

JARED pours SHANE a glass as SHANE looks at the modest decor of the room as SHANE takes the drink, JARED sitting across from him at a little table.

JARED

Don't drink too much, we got a big day tomorrow.

SHANE

Oh yeah?

JARED

We're throwing a...pretty modest little end of the world party, in your honor of course.

SHANE

Naturally.

The TWO drink as SHANE shakes his head.

SHANE

What the hell was that out there? How are so many of you drinking the kool aid of crazy?

JARED

You still don't even know what we know, so how can you judge them after everything we've fought and died for?

SHANE

It's not like I'm planning anything, nor could I do anything about it, so I mean, just tell me. What the hell is going on?

JARED

Tomorrow. You'll learn everything tomorrow.

SHANE

Why tomorrow?

JARED

Our leader wants to tell you personally.

SHANE

Leader? You're not?

JARED

No. I'm a leader, but not “the” leader.

SHANE

Wasn't expecting that.

JARED

So few people do in your position.

SHANE

You can at least tell me one thing, I hope.

JARED

Oh? Shoot.

SHANE

You called me that CATALYST? What the hell is that?

JARED

It's what you are.

SHANE

And that is?

JARED pours him a full glass, SHANE raising an eyebrow as JARED doesn't refill his.

SHANE

The hell?

JARED

You may want it after I tell you.

SHANE

Okay...?

JARED

The CATALYST is someone who will usher in the light. Who will free us, from any existence, and cleanse the FRINGE, into a blank state of nothing within the universe. A symbol, who will free us all from a fate worse than death.

SHANE

And...?

JARED

In a few days time, your soul will mix with others, mine, and everyone else who is here, and be the catalyst, for a blast so powerful it will wipe everything in this existence, into oblivion.

SHANE looks at JARED horrified as JARED smiles, SHANE quickly downing the rest of his drink as he looks stricken with terror over what he was just told.

FADE OUT

END OF EPISODE