Season Two-Episode One:Taketh Away
SEASON PREMIER
EPISODE 23:
“TAKETH AWAY”
RECAP OF SEASON ONE
COLD OPEN
FADE IN
INT. THE TAVERN
THE TAVERN is operating with a full house as AJAX serves a few guys that are at the BAR TOP as a LARGE GROUP has gathered and are drinking in celebration as AJAX comes over to a FEMALE BARTENDER who comes back with a tray full of empty glasses.
BARTENDER
These guys are drinking like no other, boss.
AJAX
More money in my pocket, and yours, sex yourself up a bit will ya.
BARTENDER
Aye aye.
AJAX smirks as he looks around and comes over to someone who was sitting at the edge alone, a few beers around him as AJAX pops the top of another one and sets it down.
AJAX
On the house, friend.
BENJAMIN looks up as he looks haggard and worn, BENJAMIN smirking as he takes it and nods at AJAX, AJAX patting the bar top as he comes back over to the more lively group as BENJAMIN drinks half of the bottle and goes back to looking lost in thought.
VOICE
(O.S.)
BENJAMIN...You look like shit.
BENJAMIN looks over as a UNDEAD MAN comes up to him, a coat thrown over his fine suit as he smirks at BENJAMIN who shakes his head.
BENJAMIN
LANCE...To what do I owe the pleasure of your presence.
LANCE REED, a UNDEAD TYCOON and BUSINESSMAN smiles as he sits down next to BENJAMIN.
LANCE
I just happened to hear about your plight, unfortunate business.
BENJAMIN
There something you need or are you just here to gloat.
LANCE
I'm here to applaud you BENJAMIN. I don't know all the circumstances, but I know that you standing against the SYSTEM like that, it had to have been worth it.
BENJAMIN
The SYSTEM needs change. If it doesn't, it'll be the death of us all.
LANCE
That's why I've come to you, BENJAMIN. You have afforded me an opportunity that I can not pass up, but I need you, I need your influence, and your council.
BENJAMIN
For what?
LANCE
For helping the first UNDEAD human soul in the FRINGE to become part of the SYSTEM.
BENJAMIN looks at LANCE surprised as LANCE smiles at him.
FADE OUT
OPENING CREDITS
FADE IN
EIGHT MONTHS LATER
INT. THE DINER
CINDY comes up as she wipes her hand on her apron as she comes and places a hand on a familiar shoulder.
CINDY
Been a while, hun. I was wondering if you were going to show up again.
CHARLES REID, the LEAD of the UNEVENTFULS smiles at her as he looks around with a large grin.
CHARLES
Glad to be back, took you guys long enough to get this place open.
CINDY
Yeah, we had a little trouble during the SYSTEM'S absence, but we've been open for about a month now, so no excuses.
CHARLES
Then I won't make any. I'll take a sweet tea and my usual jalapeno burger my dear.
CINDY
You got it, hoss.
CHARLES smiles as CINDY heads off, CHARLES staring her back side down for a moment before he checks his PHONE, CHARLES reading a text to himself before putting his phone away, thinking to himself before he hears the front door open.
CHARLES looks to see COLBY come in, COLBY looking his usual dapper self as COLBY comes over and takes a seat across from CHARLES as CHARLES and he shake hands.
CHARLES
COLBY.
COLBY
CHARLES.
COLBY hands CHARLES a FILE as CHARLES takes it and puts it to the inside of the table, CHARLES looking at COLBY as COLBY looks disturbed.
CHARLES
Is it true? Is the SYSTEM really considering giving LANCE a top tier position within the SYSTEM?
COLBY
He's been lobbying hard, he's got the influence.
CHARLES
BENJAMIN'S you mean.
COLBY
BENJAMIN was a good worker, and he left an undeniable impression on a lot of the people there, TERESA including, hell she's the one championing it.
CHARLES
Even knowing about...
COLBY
Yes, I've told her all the stories, showed her all the old case reports from when the THREE of us were RECLAIMING together, she says people change, cited me and you as prime examples.
CHARLES
That's bullshit...
COLBY
On paper the last eighty years, LANCE has been the model guy. His contributions, his support within the community, hell his construction and technology plants are partly responsible for all the advancements and reconstructions that the FRINGE has had over the last half a century. He's worked hard to build himself up to this point.
CHARLES
LANCE REED does nothing without a reason, and I can only imagine whatever scheme he's hatching for his own gain by doing so. Is there anyone opposing LANCE'S inclusion into the fold?
COLBY
Plenty. Mostly a demon named BURGY.
CHARLES
BURGY?
COLBY
She changed her name when she got here, it was some long, Latin sounding name, SYSTEM gave her the name JESSICA BURGY, so everyone calls her BURGY.
CHARLES
She must be a stone cold bitch.
COLBY
She can be, but she's reasonable.
CHARLES
Just doesn't like us UNDEAD.
COLBY
Most of the opponents to LANCE'S inclusion are, but BURGY takes on more of the stance of BENJAMIN'S involvement, and your fear of LANCE'S true intention.
CHARLES
I should meet this demon, sounds like my kind of gal.
COLBY
You couldn't handle someone like her.
CHARLES
Now it sounds like a challenge.
COLBY looks over to see CINDY bringing CHARLES his DRINK as AUSTIN comes in, AUSTIN carrying a five day shadow as his hair had been cut a bit shorter as he looked fit and like AUSTIN of old, but with tired eyes.
COLBY gets up as CHARLES watches him stand as CINDY waits as AUSTIN sits down beside CHARLES, CHARLES nudging him as AUSTIN makes an order to CINDY as COLBY points to CHARLES.
COLBY
Be seeing you around, if you get the chance, go see LANCE, he should be having a luncheon in a few days. He asked for you.
CHARLES
Guy can't pick up a phone.
COLBY
He never did before...
CHARLES
Yeah...
COLBY heads out as CHARLES looks as CINDY heads off.
AUSTIN
Boss.
CHARLES
AUSTIN, you just getting up?
AUSTIN
That obvious?
CHARLES
Are you still drinking yourself to sleep?
AUSTIN
No.
CHARLES
You're a horrible liar.
AUSTIN
What do we got?
CHARLES
Dunno, haven't looked at it yet.
AUSTIN
Well, can I?
CHARLES
You can wait for the others.
AUSTIN
I think it's just me and SHANE.
CHARLES
Why?
AUSTIN
NIKKI'S still working a shift at the hospital and they have EMMA on containment duty again.
CHARLES
Goddamnit. I know it was the right thing to do to have her register as a magic user, but...I can't even get her to work a case for us, let alone get her around us. If she's not at that STRONGHOLD she's working the TAVERN or with ANTHONY.
AUSTIN
Can you blame her?
CHARLES
No. I guess I can't. Still, she's gotta be fried.
AUSTIN
Yeah.
CHARLES
Well, where the hell is SHANE?
AUSTIN
We'll hear him.
CINDY brings CHARLES'S PLATE and AUSTIN'S DRINK as CHARLES winks at her as AUSTIN thanks her.
CHARLES
How is ANTHONY?
AUSTIN
Wounds are healed, the non lethal ones that is.
CHARLES
He's going to be the first of y'all to have to get a replacement soul protector.
AUSTIN
A what?
CHARLES
A new eye, boy.
AUSTIN
Just say eye, no one calls eyes soul protectors.
CHARLES
Just stating what it is.
AUSTIN
So you have one?
CHARLES
Left one here.
AUSTIN
Of course ANTHONY gets the cool scar before any of us.
CHARLES
He won't deal with it well at first.
AUSTIN
Will...will he wake up? I mean, it's been EIGHT MONTHS...
CHARLES
He will. Sooner rather than later.
AUSTIN
Just worried about him.
CHARLES
It could have been worse, AUSTIN.
AUSTIN
You sure about that?
CHARLES goes to say something but stops as he hears a loud muffler roaring up outside, AUSTIN smirking as he shakes his head.
AUSTIN
Told you we'd hear him.
EXT. THE DINER
A CUSTOMIZED MOTORCYCLE with the words TPM en-scrolled on the side surrounded by two PISTOLS and flames pulls up into a parking space as SHANE pulls his helmet off as he throws his hair back as he had had grown it long as comes just above his neckline, SHANE rocking a goatee as he looks like a scoundrel as he pulls a CIGARETTE from his jacket pocket and lights it, taking a drag as he sets his helmet on one of his handlebars as he takes his gloves off and tucks them into his pocket as he takes a few big drags and stomps it out as he unzips his jacket and heads in.
INT. THE DINER
SHANE walks by CINDY who gives him a look but smirks as SHANE winks at her, CINDY blushing as SHANE comes over and sits down across from AUSTIN and CHARLES who just stare at him.
AUSTIN
Well hello there, Han Solo.
SHANE
What up.
CHARLES
What's with your biker look now all of a sudden.
SHANE
You get a bike, sometimes you have to dress the part.
CHARLES
So you have to dress like a reject?
SHANE
I'm not rocking leathers, and tight denim.
AUSTIN
Fuck, might as well be. Queer.
CHARLES
Yeah, You're about one more rev of that bike out there from being an ass puncher.
SHANE
An ass puncher?
AUSTIN
Yeah, he's been using that a lot lately, so thank you for that.
CHARLES
I find it funny.
AUSTIN
For real, though, you look like a homo.
SHANE
I'm not really caring about your styling inputs.
CHARLES
Here.
CHARLES hands SHANE the FILE as CINDY comes over and hands AUSTIN his plate as she looks at SHANE.
CINDY
SHANE, loving the new look.
SHANE
Thank you, CINDY. A Dr. PEPPER for me is all. And will you tell these guys to lay off?
CINDY
Ooh, I can bring you the drink, can't help you with these guys though.
SHANE
Breaking my balls, love.
CINDY
You'd like that.
SHANE smirks as CINDY heads off, AUSTIN and CHARLES looking at each other as SHANE presents himself by running his hands over him.
SHANE
Chicks love the new SHANE.
AUSTIN
You're a monster now.
SHANE
You made me this way!
CHARLES
Alright, alright, SHANE what's the file got?
SHANE goes through it as AUSTIN and CHARLES take a few bites from their plates as SHANE pulls a file out and slides it towards CHARLES as SHANE reads the other ones.
SHANE
So that one in front of you is a REAP.
CHARLES
Oh my. ANTHONY'S out. The last three people I sent not named SHANE royally fucked up...I'm surprised that they gave us one so soon.
SHANE
What are we going to do about it?
CHARLES
What do you think? I'm going to send you.
SHANE
Really?
AUSTIN
I'm certainly not going. And no one else is around. So congrats bro, you get a solo reap.
SHANE
Yeah, by default.
CHARLES
No. You've worked your ass off since we took down the MISFITS. You deserve this. Just...don't fuck it up like this one here did.
AUSTIN
(Mouth full of food)
Hey!
CHARLES
Chew you animal.
SHANE
When do I go?
CHARLES
Don't matter to me. I trust you can handle it?
SHANE
I've only been on one reap.
CHARLES
You went with one of the bests. You can do it.
SHANE
Thanks, but what about this one?
CHARLES
What is it?
SHANE
A seize of ill gotten gains, specifically...
SHANE slides over a picture of a CRYSTAL ORB.
SHANE
A WITCHES CRYSTAL BALL.
CHARLES
Nothing AUSTIN and EMMA can't handle.
SHANE
You sure about that?
AUSTIN
How are you going to get EMMA off containment detail?
CHARLES
She's my RECLAIMER and this case has an element of containment that she can pull herself away from.
AUSTIN
If you say so.
CHARLES
We can handle it, SHANE.
SHANE
Fine.
SHANE finishes his drink as he stands and grabs his reaping file.
SHANE
I've got an appointment I have to keep with BRUTUS at the GARAGE, but after that I'll get right on it.
CHARLES
See ya around, son.
SHANE
AUSTIN, good luck. Tell the others Hi.
AUSTIN
Will do.
SHANE heads off as AUSTIN gathers the papers and pictures and puts it into the vanilla file, AUSTIN going back to his food as CHARLES looks out the window to see SHANE getting on his bike.
CHARLES
The kid is turning into a pretty damn good RECLAIMER.
AUSTIN
Eh, he's alright.
CHARLES
How many solo missions he pulled in the last eight months? 50? How many did you do? 12, 13 tops? Hell he's tagged along on most of the joint missions too.
AUSTIN
That's because you're the one giving them all to him. Hell I don't know if you're rewarding him, or punishing the guy.
CHARLES
I'm just catching him up to speed.
AUSTIN
Like all that shit with JARED and the MISFITS wasn't enough of a crash course?
CHARLES
Oh it was, but...we're going to need him more seasoned if things start going bad again.
AUSTIN
That's why you let EMMA...
CHARLES
EMMA registered as I told her, as long as her levels are being monitored and she doesn't dive off the deep end into the darker arts, then I've got no reason to be coddling her.
AUSTIN
I'm just saying.
CHARLES
Yeah, well, why don't you eat and then go do your job.
AUSTIN
What got your panties all bunched up.
CHARLES
Just...got some things on my mind that bothers me is all.
AUSTIN
Eight Months huh. I thought we'd have a longer peace.
CHARLES
Yeah, me too.
AUSTIN takes a drink as CHARLES grabs his burger and keeps eating as the TWO sit and eat in silence.
INT. BRUTUS'S GARAGE
SHANE pulls up as he parks his BIKE and comes in, unzipping his JACKET as he hangs it up as he comes over to BRUTUS the GIANT, BRUTUS handing him a dossier as SHANE takes it, reading it over as he nods as he comes over to the BIKE that was placed on the lift.
BRUTUS
By the looks of you, I can see that you are going to be off soon?
SHANE
They got me on a REAP. Wasn't going to balk on another appointment, BRUTUS. I'll take care of this.
BRUTUS
You are good lad, SHANE. Your loyalty has been much appreciated, that is why you BRUTUS'S favorite employee.
SHANE
I'm your only employee.
BRUTUS
That too.
SHANE
I'll check this out, see what I can do.
BRUTUS
Very good, lad.
BRUTUS heads off as he goes into the back office as SHANE comes over and climbs into his OVERALLS as he zips it up and and puts some degreaser on his hands and comes over to the LIFT, hitting the up button as the MOTORCYCLE lifts up to his eye level, SHANE looking around it as he whistles and shakes his head.
VOICE
(O.S.)
That bad, huh?
SHANE turns as a FEMALE comes over to him, SHANE notices the green tint in her eyes as SHANE looks at the biker as he steps back, coming over towards her.
SHANE
Your transmission is pretty shot.
The FEMALE comes over and looks at it as SHANE comes up next to her, looking her over as she was beautiful, fine features, with long raven hair.
SHANE smirks as he comes and points out the area.
SHANE
See that there.
FEMALE
Yeah, damn. I could tell by the noise it was making when I would clutch that something was wrong.
SHANE
How long have you had this model?
FEMALE
Couple years, six or seven.
SHANE
Ever had it fixed up, tuned up before?
FEMALE
I'm usually pretty good at self maintenance with it, I've also got guys who keep up with it, but sometimes even they aren't very good at identifying a problem. Hell you figured it out in just a few seconds.
SHANE
Well I've had a lot of practice with fixing up bikes the last couple months, what with me getting my own.
FEMALE
That your ride over there?
SHANE
Yes it is.
FEMALE
Very nice.
SHANE
SHANE...
SHANE holds a hand out to her as she looks at him and smiles, SHANE lowering it as she comes around her BIKE, looking it over as she comes back around to him, SHANE watching her closely as SHANE smirks at her.
FEMALE
So...you can fix it...that's good to know. The question is, can you make her ride better?
SHANE
Of course.
FEMALE
How?
SHANE
I tell you how, you give me your name.
FEMALE
Is that how we're going to do it?
SHANE
I think it's a fair trade.
FEMALE
We'll see.
SHANE nods as he looks everything over.
SHANE
I'll have to replace the transmission, and the clutch to be honest with you, probably add a larger bore and a verriable. I'd have to tighten the suspension up to compensate, especially when I bore out the motor, giving you a shit ton more of torque, and road life.
FEMALE smirks as she nods.
FEMALE
Well well, if you can pull all that off, I may go back to my guys with my status as Queen Bitch fully intact.
SHANE
You run a Biker Gang?
FEMALE
That I do.
SHANE
Anyone I've heard before?
FEMALE
There's not a lot of us.
SHANE
I'm still pretty new around here.
FEMALE
Most UNDEAD are.
SHANE
So you're a DEMON.
FEMALE
That obvious?
SHANE
I've gotten better with figuring out who is what.
FEMALE
Well. A deal is a deal.
SHANE
And you attend to keep it?
FEMALE
Yes, though If you can't pull off what you said you could I may have to come back with some of my guys and...teach you not to lie to a lady.
SHANE
Well...just fair warning, I'm pretty good at taking down folks who come at me wrong, so...
FEMALE
Haha, You got balls.
SHANE
And brains, can't discount that.
FEMALE
It's ANDI.
SHANE
ANDI, a DEMONESS named ANDI?
ANDI
It's just a shorter way of saying my full name.
SHANE
Which is?
ANDI
Nope.
SHANE
Hey, the deal was for a name.
ANDI
Which I gave.
SHANE
I guess I can't argue too much then.
ANDI
Thanks for the talk, SHANE. And for the Bike hook up.
SHANE
No problem.
ANDI
You should come by my place sometimes.
SHANE
Really?
ANDI
Not my place, not what you're thinking...my joint, my hangout. Where I keep my guys. You'll like it.
SHANE
I'm not sure a DEMONIC BIKER BAR is really my thing.
ANDI
It's just a hang out for scoundrels and lost souls like yourself.
SHANE
Me? A Scoundrel?
ANDI
The offers there. THE RIPTIDE, it's in QUADRANT B.
SHANE
That's not too far.
ANDI
Nope. Drop by sometime, be sure to pull in on your ride, and drop my name at the door.
SHANE
Yeah, yeah, I'll come by once I get back from...my other job.
ANDI
Makes no difference to me. Best get back to the lobby, let you get down to business.
SHANE
You could stick around, help me out.
ANDI
Like I said, I do self maintenance, not overhaul.
SHANE
Worth a shot.
ANDI
Ciao.
ANDI turns and walks off towards the LOBBY, SHANE cocking his head as he watches her hips sway as ANDI smirks to herself as she knows that SHANE is watching her go.
EXT. HOSPITAL
NIKKI comes out as she looks tired, NIKKI spotting AUSTIN as he is sitting against his CAR parked out in front as AUSTIN perks up when he spots her, NIKKI sighing under her breath as she comes over to him.
NIKKI
Are you here for me?
AUSTIN
Any other day, probably. But no, you said you worked a lot today, so, not here to Recruit you.
NIKKI
We got a job?
AUSTIN
Yeah. But I need EMMA for it.
NIKKI
What makes you think she's here?
AUSTIN
She wasn't at her Apartment, nor was she working with any of the CONTAINMENT UNITS she's been assigned with, so...she's here.
NIKKI
Well I haven't seen ANTHONY today, so, I guess I missed her.
AUSTIN
Yeah, that's why I'm out here, waiting for her to come down.
NIKKI
Still hard to see him like that?
AUSTIN
Very.
NIKKI
I don't know how EMMA does it everyday.
AUSTIN
Guilt.
NIKKI
Wasn't her fault.
AUSTIN
No, just the fucking PHANTOM who put two of our own in there.
NIKKI
We find a way to kill that guy yet?
AUSTIN
There is no record of anything that can kill a PHANTOM. PHANTOMS just...die when it's their time.
NIKKI
Comforting.
AUSTIN
Go home, NIKKI. You look exhausted.
NIKKI
I can tag along if you need me too...
AUSTIN
We're good.
NIKKI
AUSTIN...
AUSTIN
Seriously, we will be alright. Just an artifact grab.
NIKKI
Well, when you see CHARLES let him know I'll be available for the next few days without a shift.
AUSTIN
Okay.
NIKKI
Be careful?
AUSTIN
I'll try.
NIKKI nods and heads off towards the PARKING LOT, AUSTIN watching her go as he looks away after a moment, just as NIKKI had turned to look back at him.
EXT. PUBLIC FORUM-RALLY
CHARLES comes up to a LARGE CROWD that was gathered in a PUBLIC FORUM, CHARLES coming up to the back and not bothering to push forward as he watches the speaker carefully.
LANCE is rousing up the crowd as BENJAMIN stands beside him, smiling like a proud father as LANCE'S BODYGUARDS, a Taller, Lean one with a nasty disposition, and one that was a bit taller than LANCE who was shorter of the group, but looked more hardened.
CHARLES watches as LANCE is speaking out, scanning over the CROWD as LANCE finally see's CHARLES who was standing alone, LANCE smiling at him as CHARLES doesn't give a smirk back as LANCE puts a rush on the last part of his speech before pulling away from the podium, LANCE coming through the side of the CROWD as BENJAMIN and the GUARDS are keeping the CROWD at bay as LANCE hurries over and throws a hand forward, CHARLES taking it as LANCE pulls CHARLES into a hug.
LANCE
CHARLES! My friend, goddamn it's good to see you.
CHARLES
Likewise.
LANCE
Bullshit. I can see it all over your face, you come for the rally or to talk?
CHARLES
Both.
LANCE
Well, I know a little place for us to grab a quick drink, come on, you can ride with me.
LANCE heads towards a LIMO as CHARLES watches as the BODYGUARDS walk by him, eying him as BENJAMIN comes and stands beside CHARLES, the TWO looking at each other as they shake hands.
CHARLES
BENJAMIN.
BENJAMIN
CHARLES. Nice to see you again.
CHARLES
Likewise.
BENJAMIN
Come on, we'll catch up in the car.
BENJAMIN and CHARLES head towards the LIMO as the CROWD is strayed off by ARMED MEN.
INT. UPSCALE RESTAURANT
CHARLES sits at the BAR of an UPSCALE RESTAURANT in the nicest part of the FRINGE, LANCE sitting beside him as BENJAMIN was off speaking with a large table of fancy dressed ANGELS, and UNDEAD. CHARLES eyes the TWO BODYGUARDS as LANCE watches the BARTENDER set their drinks down.
CHARLES
The smaller one is an UNDEAD like ourselves, but I can't place my bet on what that stout fucker is?
LANCE
ERIC? We all call him E for short. He's an ANGEL.
CHARLES
An ANGEL?
LANCE
Mean looking son of a bitch ain't he.
ERIC stares CHARLES down as CHARLES looks at LANCE.
CHARLES
How the hell did you pull an ANGEL as a personal bodyguard?
LANCE
I run the biggest private technological and construction consulting firms in the FRINGE now, CHARLES, and believe it or not, even in the FRINGE money leads to power.
CHARLES
So I've gathered.
LANCE
Besides, ERIC was with me before I even got BENJAMIN and the God Squad to take heed.
CHARLES
Good for you, sounds like you've moved quite up in the world.
LANCE
This is the finest eating establishment in the FRINGE, no UNDEAD person ever stepped foot in here, until sixteen years ago, that person was me.
CHARLES
Only took you nearly sixty years.
LANCE
Progress takes time, my friend.
CHARLES
No kidding.
CHARLES and LANCE take a drink as LANCE pats CHARLES on the shoulder.
LANCE
I heard about LYDIA. Nasty business. I knew it was hard when we thought she was dead before, but finding out about her...and all that nasty stuff with those terrorists, just...horrible, just horrible, so my deepest condolences, CHARLES, truly.
CHARLES
Thank you, LANCE. Honestly it's...appreciated.
LANCE
I know she didn't care much about me...
CHARLES
No, you're wrong, she liked you. TERRANCE didn't like you.
LANCE
If I recall none of you guys liked me.
CHARLES
You were untrustworthy, LANCE.
LANCE
I don't recall ever doing anything to deserve that label.
CHARLES
You must have a short memory.
LANCE
The past is the past, sometimes you have to let things go.
CHARLES
Easier for you to say.
LANCE
Why'd you stay RECLAIMING, CHARLES? TERRANCE quit, COLBY went and let himself be mind wiped to be a HANDLER. I quit to...be an entrepreneur, make money, and you...you stuck around. I've always wondered, why?
CHARLES
You stick with what you're good at. You were good at making money apparently, COLBY was good at...giving orders instead of taking them, TERRANCE was just old and tired, and I'm just good at RECLAIMING.
LANCE
MM, If I recall you were okay at RECLAIMING, I mean COLBY and myself were more of the top dogs.
CHARLES
You TWO thought so, but...who was always pulling solo work, and who was always being baby sat?
LANCE
Ow, well I guess my memory isn't what I thought it was.
CHARLES
Too much forgetting could be bad for you.
LANCE
Haha. Surely.
LANCE takes a drink as CHARLES finishes his glass.
CHARLES
What I want to know is...and please, give me the sociopolitical runaround bullshit answer if you want, but I'll see right through it...
LANCE
That's rather hostile...
CHARLES
What the hell are you doing? Why are you lobbying so hard to join the upper echelons of the SYSTEM? What's it to you?
LANCE
What do you mean? The furtherance of UNDEAD kind within the FRINGE, we're good enough to work under them, to work for them to keep the peace alongside ANGEL and DEMON, to take up arms against any and all threats, but when it comes time to make decisions, to direct the masses, and see to it that things are done, the highest we can be placed is as HANDLERS? CHARLES, my friend it is time we get our due.
CHARLES
No no I get all that, I get the bullshit pandering that you're trying to sell that so many are buying. But I don't believe it. I know you, LANCE. Whether you like it or not, COLBY does too. And when we see this...this...TYCOON UNDEAD BUSINESS man, with all his wealth, and his private army...
LANCE
Heard about that huh?
CHARLES
It was pretty big news a few years ago, though word about it has slowly died, buried under your new-found influence I reckon.
LANCE
There a point to this?
CHARLES
I just have to wonder...what does a man like you really stand to gain...you have your hands in every cookie jar worth having your hands in around here, what would becoming the first UNDEAD SYSTEM'S OVERSEER do for you...
LANCE
Sometimes, CHARLES...I think you're too smart for your own good.
CHARLES and LANCE look at each other as CHARLES looks at LANCE'S BODYGUARDS and then over to BENJAMIN who was smiling and enjoying the company at the table as CHARLES looks back to LANCE.
CHARLES
What's BENJAMIN got to do with all of this?
LANCE
Just an ANGEL who understands that change needs to happen, that change is good.
CHARLES
He'll figure you out. And when he does, and god forbid something happens to him, I will kill you without hesitation, without backup, without authorization, I promise you that.
LANCE
I've heard your hollow threats a dozen times before, CHARLES. Never once have you followed through, hell I'm still here, ain't I?
CHARLES
After everything I went through with LYDIA, you think I won't drop you?
LANCE
Good point.
CHARLES
I'll be in touch, believe that.
LANCE
I hope you do, I hope one day, I will get your trust and friendship. Until then, feel free to drop a line, meet me for lunch in a few days, hell I love seeing all my old buddies, those still left that is.
CHARLES
It's just us three now.
LANCE
I know, tell COLBY Hi for me as well. But, as you can see with BENJAMIN over there, I have people to entertain, so CHARLES, until I see your again, get the fuck out of my sight.
LANCE finishes his drink and heads over to the table, the TABLE looking over and smiling and cheering as LANCE greets them with a winning smile as BENJAMIN starts to introduce him, CHARLES getting up as he comes and walks past TERRY and ERIC, CHARLES looking the TWO over as they stare at him as CHARLES walks out without saying a word.
EXT. THE OBELISK
SHANE puts the WRIST GUARD onto his LEFT WRIST as MULCIBER was the only TRIO member at his post in the OBELISK GATEWAY.
SHANE
Where's the rest of the TRIO?
MULCIBER
No idea, they've been putting us all over the place, updating new software, fixing things that were destroyed during the attacks all those months ago.
SHANE
So you got GATEWAY duty, today.
MULCIBER
As you can see. Your biometrics have completed, you're ready to pass through.
SHANE
Don't I need TERESA'S master code?
MULCIBER
She is currently preoccupied, but I did get an extra-net encrypted confirmation code from her earlier so you are good to go when you are ready.
SHANE
Thanks. MULCIBER you're a DEMON...
MULCIBER
Yeah...?
SHANE
You think DEMONS, a FEMALE one at that, you think one could...date a UNDEAD?
MULCIBER
Haha, you think cuz you grew your hair out and look a bit scragglier than normal you can hook up with one of us?
SHANE
Uh, sure.
MULCIBER
Few hundred years ago, I'd of said no way, told you to fuck yourself and get on with my day, but nowadays, Hell I couldn't even begin to guess. I just stick with angelic and demonic code and time and space based cross dimensional temporal algorithms.
SHANE
Good talk, MULCIBER.
MULCIBER
Happy REAPINGS.
SHANE
Thanks.
SHANE steps onto one of the CIRCULAR PLATFORMS in front of the GATEWAY as the GUARDS surround the area, SHANE turning his WRIST GUARD on as MULCIBER comes over to the COMPUTER and punches in some codes, SHANE watching as the WHITE LIGHT shoots up around him.
MULCIBER
Platform is clear. Uploading Destination Codex. Soul Signature and Gateway Compulsion connecting and stabilizing, uploading OVERSEER master passcode...OBELISK now online, transporting in three...two...one...
SHANE takes a deep breath as he watches the OBELISK turn on, growing and expanding towards him with a bright light as SHANE disappears into it before the flash encompasses the area for a split moment.
EXT. PARK-LIVING WORLD
SHANE appears as he begins coughing, SHANE spitting up some gunk as he shakes his head and stays on his knee for a minute as she stands up, SHANE taking deep breaths as he looks around.
SHANE
Well that was...better than last time...
BOY
Holy crap...that was awesome.
SHANE turns as he notices a boy, no older than ten years of age looking at him as SHANE looks around nervously, SHANE looking at the boy as he bends down to meet him at eye level.
SHANE
I don't know if this is luck...or a messed up set of circumstances...but your name wouldn't happen to be...CASEY DALDON would it?
CASEY
Yeah, that's me.
SHANE looks upset as he pulls up a folded piece of paper, SHANE reading the name on the REAP list as he looks at the boy and sighs as CASEY smiles at him.
SHANE
Shit.
INT. AUSTIN'S CAR
AUSTIN pulls up to a HOUSE that was on the top of a HILL near the edge of a small town within the FRINGE, AUSTIN looking over as EMMA was sitting in the passenger seat quietly, her demeanor was changed as she was rocking black jeans and a T-shirt as she wore a brown leather jacket and had a multicolored bracelet on her right hand that was constantly changing colors.
AUSTIN
I've never asked what this was.
EMMA
Hmm?
AUSTIN
Your bracelet or whatever.
EMMA
It's a warning guard, it...fluctuates my power so I don't over do myself.
AUSTIN
SYSTEM gave you that?
EMMA
No, they have a more stringent device, this was...
AUSTIN
Lemme guess, MEL gave it to you.
EMMA
More like showed me how to make it.
AUSTIN
How is she doing by the way?
EMMA
Good. We got all that business taken care of about you know, me saying she's dead and all.
AUSTIN
I didn't hear about that?
EMMA
I didn't tell anybody tell just now.
AUSTIN
And?
EMMA
There were gonna hit me pretty hard with some sanctions, but CHRISTIAN actually went ahead and took the blow for us, also helped that MEL was willing to come and assist with the CONTAINMENT stuff at the MISFITS STRONGHOLD, she was able to move and stabilize souls unlike any other. Cut out weeks worth of work in four hours.
AUSTIN
She's that powerful?
EMMA
She's a full blown witch. No restrictions, couple hundreds years on everyone else who's been wielding magic.
AUSTIN
Glad she's on our side.
EMMA
So who's protecting this CRYSTAL BALL? I didn't even think CRYSTAL BALLS are real.
AUSTIN
They weren't but some WARLOCK decided that in his death he wanted his essence, his power to continue on, however the CRYSTAL BALL got taken, and some guy in this building is using it. We don't know for what or why though.
EMMA
That's comforting, so we're going into this without any real inkling.
AUSTIN
Reports said that the guy never leaves, and that the object never leaves, people go in, some come out, some don't. Whoever came out was willing to cough up the location but not any more specifics, too afraid I guess.
EMMA
You want me to go in the back, sneak in while you go in guns blazing?
AUSTIN
Isn't that what we always do?
EMMA
Why stop doing what works?
AUSTIN
You're the one with the magic powers and shit now.
EMMA
Ah, you got it.
EMMA gets out of the car as AUSTIN rolls his eyes and gets out, AUSTIN following her as close as he can before she heads off towards the back, AUSTIN watching her go as he comes up to the FRONT DOOR, drawing his PISTOL as he goes to open the door but stops as he hears something in his mind.
VOICE
(O.S.)
It's offly rude to come into someone's home unannounced. Why not go ahead and ring the doorbell before letting yourself in, hmm?
AUSTIN looks about curiously for a moment before he nods and shakes his head, AUSTIN taking a moment to assess his situation before he pushes the doorbell listening to it ding dong a few times before the door slowly opens.
INT. HOUSE
AUSTIN steps in as he looks about to notice the VICTORIAN DECORUM as he looks about AUSTIN coming into the DINING ROOM as he looks to see the CRYSTAL BALL sitting in the middle of the TABLE, AUSTIN looking at it as before he looks around, AUSTIN putting his PISTOL away as he takes a seat, AUSTIN looking confused at his own action as he notices a figure appear suddenly from the end of the table, AUSTIN sneering as the FIGURE smiles at him.
FIGURE
That was quite cordial of you.
AUSTIN
Petty mind control...that's this thing's big bad powerful...
FIGURE
Hush.
AUSTIN'S mouth keeps going but no words come out as AUSTIN looks at himself surprised as the FIGURE smiles.
FIGURE
Do you know what I am?
AUSTIN nods as he can see the cataracts in the FIGURE'S eyes.
FIGURE
What am I? You can speak.
AUSTIN
...A REVENANT.
FIGURE
The eyes give it away huh.
AUSTIN goes to speak again but nothing else comes out as AUSTIN sneers at the REVENANT as he nods with a smirk.
WINSTON
WINSTON KING is the name. Was the name. I assume you know what this is.
WINSTON looks at the CRYSTAL BALL as AUSTIN sneers as WINSTON smirks.
WINSTON
My buddy was the WARLOCK'S adoptive son, the son didn't want to...have his father around, in essence, in that. His father begged him, the son refused. So then he begged me, and I didn't. The son was feral with anger, just mad when he found out...stabbed me twice with silver... I thought I was going to die...I was dying. And his father gave up the rest of his life...to save mine...what was left of him, I was still able to get placed into this...and with it...I tore his son in half. The power...it's an awesome, all encompassing force. Ain't that right, lass?
AUSTIN watches as The REVENANT pulls his hand forward and pulls EMMA from the SHADOWS of the dark of the next room, EMMA struggling as she tries to fight it as the REVENANT forces her into a chair near him, EMMA struggling to move as some force is binding her as WINSTON turns to AUSTIN.
WINSTON
So. I'm going to give you an option action hero. If you want to save the princess here. Cuz unlike my former friend, who didn't give me a choice when he shoved that silver knife twice in my chest, I always give intruders a choice.
AUSTIN looks over at EMMA who looks back at him equally skeptical as WINSTON smiles at them.
EXT. PARK
SHANE and CASEY sit on the bench as CASEY watches some kids run by as he swings his legs back and forth, SHANE looking around as CASEY looks up at him.
CASEY
So...no one can see you?
SHANE
Just you. And people...in your situation.
CASEY
So...I'm going to die?
SHANE
Maybe not today or tomorrow, or maybe today and tomorrow, truth is I...I don't know.
CASEY
You're not very good at this.
SHANE
It's only my second time, cut me a break.
CASEY
So you're like...like an angel or something?
SHANE
No, no Angels. Though they are real. So are Vampires, and Werewolves and Zombies. All real.
CASEY
Wow. So like...My imaginary friend was real when I was six?
SHANE
Can't say yes or no, really. Probably though.
CASEY
Awesome. What about like The Ninja Turtles? Or Batman?
SHANE
Uh, no. More scarier things. Religious things.
CASEY
Oh.
SHANE
Yeah, kind of a bummer.
CASEY
So what do people see when I'm talking to you?
SHANE
You, talking to yourself.
CASEY
So I look like a crazy person?
SHANE
Nah, just look like a kid.
CASEY
So are you like...the Grim Reaper?
SHANE
No, just a guy who died, having to do a job.
CASEY
Am I going to go where you go?
SHANE
Only if you don't let me mark your soul.
CASEY
Which will?
SHANE
Ensure that you go where you need to go. Up or Down, you being so young, and hopefully never have murdered anyone, my bets are on Up.
CASEY
Heaven?
SHANE
That's right.
CASEY
What's it like there?
SHANE
Wouldn't know. Never have been.
CASEY
So where do you come from?
SHANE
This...place called the FRINGE. It's like PURGATORY.
CASEY
What's PURGATORY?
SHANE
A long story kid.
CASEY
Okay.
CASEY looks down as he swings his legs, CASEY looking at SHANE as SHANE looks at him.
CASEY
Will...will it hurt?
SHANE
No, not if it's marked. If I don't...then yes it will. But when it happens and you shake my hand, you won't feel a thing.
CASEY
It's going to make my mom and dad sad isn't it?
SHANE
More and likely, I know it'd make me sad.
CASEY
Yeah.
SHANE
You're taking this offly well, kid. It's starting to freak me out.
CASEY
Do most people...not?
SHANE
Most people aren't kids.
CASEY
Well...I guess I'm a big kid.
SHANE
Yeah, yeah you are.
CASEY
I'm scared.
SHANE nods as he looks to see the kid finally seem to understand, his face sad as SHANE hesitates and puts a hand on him, SHANE smirking as he can pats him a few times.
CASEY looks at him as SHANE smirks.
CASEY
I thought you were like a ghost?!
SHANE
I can interact with those I'm supposed to.
CASEY
Cool.
SHANE
It's okay to be scared, CASEY. It's not going to be easy to live with knowing what you now know. I don't know if you could ever take solace in it. But...
CASEY
I don't know what you're saying.
SHANE
Neither do I sometimes.
CASEY laughs as SHANE smirks and then snickers to himself, CASEY holding a hand out to him as SHANE looks at him.
SHANE
This is the right thing to do, CASEY.
CASEY
Yeah, I know.
SHANE smiles as he shakes his hand, a GOLDEN LIGHT surging from SHANE into CASEY as SHANE watches CASEY'S FACE as it happens.
CASEY
Whoa!
SHANE
Haha, yeah.
CASEY
So...do you like...disappear now?
SHANE
No. I'll stay for a little bit.
CASEY
Well...I should probably go back and play. My MOM will be here soon. Will...
SHANE
Yeah go on, I'll be here, watching over ya till she gets back.
CASEY
It was nice to meet you, SHANE.
SHANE
You too, CASEY.
CASEY smiles as he runs back off towards the PLAYGROUND, SHANE watching as CASEY turns to him and waves, SHANE waving back as he watches with a heavy heart.
INT. HOUSE
AUSTIN and EMMA are still bound as WINSTON was looking between the TWO.
WINSTON
Now. My offer is simple. Either I kill you hero, and add your life force, your soul into my departed father figures life force here, or I take hers. Now I know that neither of these options are appealing, however one is going to happen, there is no third option. For I am endowed, with power unlike anything you've stood up against. So...
AUSTIN un tenses as WINSTON smirks at him.
WINSTON
What will it be?
AUSTIN looks at EMMA who nods at him as she moves her eyes down, AUSTIN looking at her wrist to see that she was not wearing her bracelet, EMMA nodding at him as AUSTIN smirks.
AUSTIN
Fine. Her.
WINSTON
Mr. HERO...That's not very heroic of you?
AUSTIN
I never claimed to be.
WINSTON
Well then, you get to live...and she...
EMMA
Is stronger than you...
The REVENANT turns as EMMA turns and throws her arm forward as WINSTON looks at her horrified as WINSTON is thrown out of his chair and pinned against the WALL, EMMA smirking as puts her free hand on the CRYSTAL BALL, AUSTIN looking at her in horror as AUSTIN watches the CRYSTAL BALL react to EMMA as EMMA'S veins began to bulge through her skin, EMMA shaking as she smiles as WINSTON was screaming as he looked at her in horror.
WINSTON
This can't be...no one can be this...
EMMA
I will give you a choice...you either can turn yourself in...or I splatter you all across these walls!
AUSTIN
EMMA...
WINSTON
Fine! Fine okay, I'll turn myself in...anything...
AUSTIN
EMMA get your hand off of the CRYSTAL BALL...
EMMA
I'm fine...
AUSTIN
Now.
WINSTON
Get this crazy bitch to let me down...
EMMA
I don't like your tone.
EMMA closes her fist as WINSTON SCREAMS and suddenly his body explodes into a bloody mess. AUSTIN watching horrified as WINSTON splatters all over the room, his body completely disintegrated as nothing but blood and meat were thrown about.
AUSTIN looks at EMMA who had an orgasmic look come across her face as AUSTIN comes over and goes to grab her hand but she turns and throws her hand at him, AUSTIN flinging across the room and slamming down the hallway as EMMA watches him land and heap up, EMMA looking horrified as she looks down and lets go of the CRYSTAL BALL, EMMA stepping away as she reaches into her pocket and pulls out her repressing ward bracelet, putting it on as she drops as the COLOR of the BRACELET turns red, EMMA screaming as AUSTIN stirs and looks to see EMMA in pain as her body was lit up and burning her, EMMA doing this for a few moments before she falls over and lays out flat, AUSTIN getting up as he rushes to her and grabs her, putting her head in his lap as he checks her pulse before he sighs and shakes his head.
EXT. PARK
NIGHT has fallen as SHANE is still sitting in the same place as he has his leg crossed over the other, SHANE rubbing his goatee as he doesn't notice someone approach him.
BARRY
(O.S.)
Well that's a fancy new look.
SHANE jumps when he hears BARRY'S voice but he smirks as he shakes BARRY'S hand who sits down next to him, SHANE still looking despondent as BARRY notices it.
BARRY
Now, this is twice that I've come to take you home, and twice that I've seen you look completely pathetic.
SHANE
I had to reap a kid.
BARRY
My word.
SHANE
I read it on the file, didn't even flinch. Didn't think anything of it, till I saw him. Then it hit. Then it bothered me.
BARRY
I'm not surprised. Kids have a very profound effect on those who have to reap them. I remember when ANTHONY first came here, did a kid, couldn't have been more then..oh, six or seven. The look on his face when I sent him back, damn near matched yours. That look of...anger, and sadness. But understanding, albeit a bit sour about it. How is he?
SHANE
Still in a COMA, last I checked.
BARRY
Damn. I heard a few years back, it's upsetting but...
SHANE
Years? What year is it right now?
BARRY
2018.
SHANE
Five years? Here I've been dead for five years?
BARRY
Next time you come back it may be two days after you died, or sixty years. You just never know.
SHANE
How are you everywhere at once?
BARRY
I wish I knew.
SHANE
Must be shitty.
BARRY
It is, but It's got to be done.
SHANE
I think I'm ready to get back, back to my new normal.
BARRY
That's good. Starting to fit in yet?
SHANE
More than I thought I would.
BARRY
Let me see your transponder.
SHANE holds it out to him as BARRY adds a code to the sequencer as BARRY does this for a few moments and then pulls away.
BARRY
If you see, ANTHONY, tell him I told him to get well.
SHANE
I will.
BARRY
Be seeing ya, SHANE.
SHANE
You too BARRY.
BARRY smiles as he looks away as SHANE is engulfed in a light for a few moments before only BARRY is left on the bench, BARRY smirking as he hums a tune to himself before he stands and walks off.
EXT. HOUSE
A CONTAINMENT unit and some ANGELIC SYSTEM FORCES are securing the area as AUSTIN is rubbing his chest as he finishes giving his statement to a RECLAIMER who takes it down as he keeps looking over at EMMA who is being checked over as AUSTIN excuses himself and goes over to her, EMMA looking away from him as he snaps his fingers and forces her to look at him.
AUSTIN
What the hell was that back there?
EMMA
I felt that thing...emitting...and I knew if I didn't take it off I...it would crush me...like you saw.
AUSTIN
I saw you enjoy what you did, I saw your face when you tore him apart.
EMMA
Not so loud!
EMMA and AUSTIN look around as no one hears as EMMA shakes her head.
EMMA
Look. I shouldn't have taken it off, I shouldn’t' of touched the damn thing, but I had to, if I didn't get the surge, when I put my bracelet on it would have...I don't know, but it would have ended badly for me. You saw how strong that thing was making him, I...
AUSTIN
Never again. Do you understand me? Never again, or I tell CHARLES, and I let him handle you himself. And I believe he has warned you about what happens if you let this power swallow you up.
EMMA
I know...
AUSTIN
Do you?
EMMA
Yes.
AUSTIN
Then I trust, we won't be having this conversation again.
EMMA
Why are you talking to me like I'm some bad guy?
AUSTIN
Cuz I don't know who you are anymore, EMMA.
AUSTIN heads off as EMMA looks at him hurt and surprised as EMMA checks her phone as she hears it go off, EMMA answering as she wipes her eyes.
EMMA
Hello?
MEL
(O.S.)
Hey, how'd it go?
EMMA
It went...as well as It could.
MEL
(O.S.)
Don't lie to me.
EMMA
I'll tell you about it at the HOSPITAL, are you there yet?
MEL
(O.S.)
Yeah, that's why I'm calling actually.
EMMA
Why? What happened?!
INT. ANTHONY'S ROOM
MEL looks over as a few DOCTORS are checking on ANTHONY as ANTHONY was looking about, hazed and drugged up as they were checking him over.
MEL
He's awake, EMMA.
INT. THE DINER
SHANE comes into the DINER on a clear and sunny day in the FRINGE as CHARLES was seated at his normal spot, eating his burger as SHANE finds CINDY up front and places an order, giving her a wink and a smile as he comes and sits across from him.
CHARLES
How'd it go?
SHANE
Turned in my file to COLBY this morning.
CHARLES
Should be getting the cash out then later on, solo reaps, good money. Gonna blow it on another frivolous buy like that loud piece of shit you ride around on now?
SHANE
What's with all my bike hate all of a sudden?
CHARLES
BIKERS in the FRINGE are composed mostly of savage degenerate DEMONS or low, ground sniffing UNDEAD, it's not a popular trend here as it was when you were alive I'm sure.
SHANE
Now that's a bit harsh, just the other day I met...
CHARLES looks at SHANE as SHANE looks away.
SHANE
Nothing.
CHARLES
No no go on, I want to hear this.
SHANE
It's nothing, CHARLES.
CHARLES
Oh, so you saw yourself a little degenerate mamacita huh, was she hot? Did she look like she didn't take a bath?
SHANE
Come' on man.
CHARLES
What just asking the hard questions?
SHANE
She was...a DEMON.
CHARLES
No way.
SHANE
Now...
CHARLES
Don't tell me you have the damn hots for some DEMON BIKER broad?
SHANE
Oh, cuz that's so bad, Mr. I was Married to a Vampire who wanted to destroy the world and want to be with an Angel who despises me.
CHARLES
Too far.
SHANE
You started it.
CHARLES
Have you ordered yet?
SHANE
Yeah.
CHARLES takes a bite as SHANE rubs his chin.
SHANE
I got the call this morning about ANTHONY. I think I shed a tear in happiness for that bastard.
CHARLES
You go by yet?
SHANE
No, I'm sure EMMA and NIKKI are smothering the hell out of him right now, thought I'd wait and go when you go, since I'm assuming you haven't seen him in a while.
CHARLES
I've been busy.
SHANE
Yeah what's with that?
CHARLES
Here's today's dossier. I trust you can handle it, if you need backup you got NIKKI and AUSTIN.
SHANE
What's going on, CHARLES? You know you're just going to have to tell us eventually.
CHARLES
Yeah well, until then, let me handle it.
SHANE
You're the boss.
CHARLES nods as he sets some money down and gets up, checking his phone as SHANE watches him as CHARLES puts it away and turns to SHANE.
CHARLES
I don't care who you love. Just be sure that it is someone in the end that you can trust.
SHANE
Who said anything about love?
CHARLES
It's just something I felt the need to share, as I wish someone had done so with me.
SHANE
It's funny, I go through a year here thinking I’ve learned so much, and yet you're still finding ways to lecture me and give me some good ole advice.
CHARLES
You'll never not learn something new, hell I still do everyday.
SHANE
That's gotta suck.
CHARLES
You've no idea. See you around, SHANE.
SHANE
Boss.
CHARLES heads out as CINDY brings over SHANE'S DRINK, SHANE looking out the window as CHARLES heads to his CAR, checking his PHONE again as SHANE looks concerned.
INT. APARTMENT
CHARLES comes down a hallway as he comes over to a middle door, CHARLES knocks a few times as he waits for a few moments before it answers.
CHARLES as a HALF NAKED WOMAN answers the DOOR.
WOMAN
Now aren't you a sight for sore eyes.
CHARLES
Hello, LAYLA.
LAYLA
Please tell me you've come looking for me this time.
CHARLES
Fraid not.
LAYLA
Figures.
CHARLES
I take it by the way you're dressed, that my buddy is home.
LAYLA
Come on in.
LAYLA steps aside as CHARLES looks her up and down and comes inside, coming into the shagging pad as CHARLES comes and sees a VAMPIRE sitting on a couch, playing a VIDEO GAME before he pauses it and stands up, smiling as he comes over and hugs CHARLES who hugs him back, LAYLA lighting a cigarette as the VAMPIRE smirks at him.
VAMPIRE
Brother of mine. Damn it's good to see you again.
CHARLES
DAMIEN, same here.
DAMIEN
I take it that you got my text?
CHARLES
I came by the other day and you weren't around. Thought you were bull shitting me, DAMIEN.
DAMIEN
Wouldn't bullshit you about leaving the homestead.
CHARLES
Why did you leave the UNDERWORLD?
DAMIEN
It's a long story, it's actually the reason I need you. I see you've met my lovely wife, LAYLA.
CHARLES
We uh...met yesterday.
DAMIEN
She's a bit...comfortable in her own skin.
CHARLES
Because...?
DAMIEN
She's a SKINWALKER.
CHARLES
I see.
DAMIEN
Look, brother. You know I was the only in the family who approved of you and LYDIA...
CHARLES
I know.
DAMIEN
So I need you to listen to me, and fly straight.
CHARLES
What's going on, DAMIEN?
DAMIEN
My FATHER found out what happened to LYDIA...
CHARLES
Did he now?
DAMIEN
Yeah.
CHARLES
So let me guess...He's gunning for me now?
DAMIEN
Yes. I tried to explain to him that you didn't have a choice, cuz I know you didn't, hell I heard everything that happened. But he didn't listen to me.
CHARLES
He ran you out?
DAMIEN
No, he tried to kill me.
CHARLES
Isn't there a war going on down there?
DAMIEN
Oh yeah, but DAD bowed out the second he found out about LYDIA. Fucking asshole disowns her when she marries you, knows she's still alive and does nothing, doesn't reach out, say anything. Then wants to place blame and seek vengeance when she turns up dead because of her own actions. A fucking hypocrite man.
CHARLES
So what's going to happen?
DAMIEN
He's going to send the family here, not all, but a good amount, fifty, maybe more.
CHARLES
I'm flattered.
DAMIEN
These are heavy hitters, CHARLES. I don't know when, I don't know how, but they'll come for you, and me. And everyone you care about.
CHARLES
Let him. I've been wanting to teach your DAD a lesson since he laid hands on me when we went to tell him.
DAMIEN
I told you about this because I still love you, you know that right?
CHARLES
Well that and you need me to save your ass.
DAMIEN
Well, you know, mutual benefit.
CHARLES
I'll be vigilant, anything comes across as weird, anything happens, you call me, don't text, you call me, and I'll come handle this. But you have to be okay with one thing before I get involved.
DAMIEN
Anything brother.
CHARLES
I loved your sister, but I had to kill her. I know you love your father, but if need be, I will kill him too. Can you understand that?
DAMIEN
Wouldn't be here if I didn't, brother.
CHARLES
Okay then, LAYLA, DAMIEN...till then.
CHARLES stands and heads out, DAMIEN looking to LAYLA who comes over to DAMIEN as DAMIEN nods. The TWO looking at each other before looking at the door as fear was slapped across their faces.
FADE OUT
END OF EPISODE