NIGHT GUARD ISSUE ONE- "The Latest Night" (Draft Two) (VOL. 1, PART 1) Written by Kera Hildebrandt
Kera Hildebrandt 14701 Boyle Lake Rd. Buchanan, MI 49107 1(269)326-0126 kerahildebrandt@yahoo.com
INT. DINER - NIGHT An average all-night eatery in the city. Not fancy, but not a dump. Any theme to this place is a standard "this is our city"/"I Heart Our City" deal. Only a few patrons and workers at this late hour. The CASHIER (32, doesn't like his job and lets the world know it) is waiting (clearly annoyed) as a CUSTOMER (64, the sort of vulture-like lady who screams at people for no good reason) stares blankly at the menu. CUSTOMER Umm....I think I'll have....no... The Cashier, bored out of his mind, lets his eyes drift towards the windows leading to the street. Suddenly his attention is peaked. Through the window DANNY (20, a gamer nerd but also has the aura of a nice guy) is seen running down the sidewalk, urgency on his face and DUFFLEBAG around his shoulder. Danny runs through the door and up to the cashier. DANNY Where's your bathroom?! The Customer is annoyed. Hey!
CUSTOMER Wait your turn!
Cashier points to the direction of the bathroom. CASHIER Bathroom's over there. Thanks!
DANNY Danny begins to run for it. CASHIER But it's paying customers only! Danny jerks to a stop and gives the Cashier a look of pleading disbelief. What?
DANNY The cashier holds the bathroom key up, dangling it almost like a treat for a dog.
2. DANNY (CONT'D) Look, I really have to go! Cashier frowns, already annoyed at the Customer to begin with. CASHIER Nuh-uh. My manager sees you go in there without paying, he'll chew me out. But I...!
DANNY The Cashier has a stern look. He's not budging. Knowing this, Danny sighs and gets behind the Cutstomer, who is still looking at the menu blankly. CUSTOMER Huhhh...is the fish sandwich good? The Cashier shrugs. CASHIER Never tried it. Danny looks at his CELL PHONE in slight panic. CUSTOMER What about the BBQ burger? DANNY It's delicious! The Customer glares at Danny. CUSTOMER Hey, don't you rush me! The Customer turns back to the Cashier. CUSTOMER (CONT'D) I'll have the turkey melt. CASHIER Combo or just the sandwich? Danny's phone chimes. panicked.
He looks at it and becomes more
CUSTOMER What's in the combo? CASHIER Fries and a drink.
3. Danny is trying to seem calm.
Not much success here.
CUSTOMER Can I just have the drink with the sandwich? CASHIER Sure, it'll cost less than the combo. CUSTOMER Can I have a milkshake as a drink? CASHIER That'll cost more than the combo. CUSTOMER Oh, then just the sandwich. Danny is almost pleading in his expression. DANNY Ma'am, please. The Customer glares at him again. CUSTOMER You badgering me isn't making me go faster! CASHIER Dude, just go someplace else if you really have to go. The Customer turns to the Cashier. How much?
CUSTOMER DANNY You're the only place open in the next three blocks! The Customer is pissed. Customer screeches. How much?!
Danny and the Cashier cringe as the
CUSTOMER CASHIER $7.95! (Under breath) Geez! The Customer begins digging through her WALLET.
4. CUSTOMER Okay, let's see...I have some Visa gift cards here. Can I use them? Yeah.
CASHIER The Customer gives the Cashier a GIFT CARD. The Cashier slides it through the register, only for it to beep and make him frown. CASHIER (CONT'D) It says there's no money on it. The Customer digs though her wallet again. CUSTOMER Oh for the love of...Hold on. have another one.
I
Danny frowns; he's just about had enough. CUSTOMER (CONT'D) Now it's in here somewhere. Oh I swear...No, not it...Not here...Here it-! Oh, wait, that's a picture of my grandson. He just started kidnerDanny goes over to the counter and slams down a TEN DOLLAR BILL. Here!
DANNY I am a paying customer!
The Cashier hands the key to Danny, who runs for the bathroom like a madman. DANNY (CONT'D) Keep the change! The bathroom door opens and slams. The Cashier shrugs the endeavor off, while the Customer treats it as if she's been directly insult. Well!
CUSTOMER I swear! Where's the fire?!
EXT. BUILDING ROOF TOP - NIGHT An empty building roof top overlooking the big city. On it are four heroes- GOLD STREAK, STEEL FIST, TRICK SHOT, and MYSTICFIRE.
5. GOLD STREAK In the history museum. MYSTICFIRE And we're sure it's the Fire Eater? Pretty sure.
GOLD STREAK STEEL FIST So what are we waiting for? GOLD STREAK Not what so much as who. Huffing and puffing are heard from off panel. Everyone turns to the edge. After some more huffing, a hand makes its way up and grasps the side of the roof. Danny climbs onto the roof's edge, now dressed as NIGHT GUARD. NIGHT GUARD Gyuh....huff....s...sorry I'm late. Trick Shot goes over to help Night Guard onto the roof. About time!
STEEL FIST Trick Shot flies behind Night Guard, lifts him up, and sets him gently onto the roof. Thanks. Any time.
NIGHT GUARD TRICK SHOT Night Guard slumps forward, still looking like he's just run a ten mile marathon. NIGHT GUARD Ah god...just...just a second. Steel Fist crosses his arms. to wait even longer.
He's not happy that he's got
STEEL FIST Fire Eater's attacking the history museum. We might not have a second, rookie. Night Guard looks up, barely hiding contempt in his eyes. NIGHT GUARD O-Okay...just...
*
6. Night straitens himself. Okay...
NIGHT GUARD (CONT'D) EXT. IN THE CITY SKIES - NIGHT The heroes are flying over the city. (Trick Shot is carrying Night Guard and Mysticfire is carrying Gold Streak as they fly alongside Steel Fist.) TRICK SHOT So, you were waiting in line so you could change in the bathroom? Yeah...
NIGHT GUARD MYSTICFIRE You still have to do that? NIGHT GUARD Yeah, can't just instantly change into my costume yet. MYSTICFIRE Your powers are probably still coming in. Steel Fist looks to Night Guard. STEEL FIST Speaking of, what can you do? Night Guard glares at him. NIGHT GUARD Are you being serious or mean? STEEL FIST Too embaressed to say we'll probably have to save you again? Trick Shot is offended by what he said. Axel!
TRICK SHOT STEEL FIST Geez, get a grip Trick Shot. You're losing focus; you called me by my real name. Trick Shot's ego is hurt by this.
7. TRICK SHOT Sorry, Steel Fist. Steel Fist focuses in his flight. Trick Shot turns back to Night Guard, sympathy in her expression. TRICK SHOT (CONT'D) (Quietly) Don't worry, Danny. You'll get your powers soon. Danny looks down to the ground. He glances up to the sky, a flicker of hope in his expression. But the hope dies, and Danny looks back in to the ground in gloom. INT. HISTORY MUSEUM - NIGHT A typical, spacious museum wing. Marble walls, cases of artifacts, that deal. The theme of this exibit- mystical history. Basically exploring supposed mystical artifacts/groups/events in history. Hanging from the ceiling of this wing is a GIANT SOLAR SYSTEM MOBILE (will be important soon). Walking through the halls and looking at the displays is the FIRE EATER. FIRE EATER (Quietly/Singing) Monday morning comes too fast. Stumble down the diamond path. Something catches his eye- a book in a display with a sign reading "Randolph Bannister Text." A wicked grin crosses his face. FIRE EATER (CONT'D) (Quietly/Singing) And every step could be your la-a-aast. He sends a fire blast to the book, torching it. is heard from behind him.
Gold Streak
GOLD STREAK (O.S.) Well geez, Fire Eater... He turns to see Team Victory in a fighting position. GOLD STREAK (CONT'D) If you wanted a book, why not try the library?
8. FIRE EATER Tck. Did you really just say that line? Gold Streak suddenly runs up to Fire Eater and punches him, causing Fire Eater to crash into a display. GOLD STREAK And did you seriously I can't be as quick as you when you fuThe Fire Eater sends a fire blast, but Gold Streak runs out of it's way. FIRE EATER Now we're talking! Fire Eater tries to blast the other heroes. a shield to protect the others.
Mysticfire raises
TRICK SHOT Ugh, this is unfair! I was waiting for a month to come to this exhibit and this creep tries to burn it the night before it opens! STEEL FIST What's the plan, Goldie?! GOLD STREAK (Quietly) Dammit don't call me that! (Normal) Flank him and take him down! Gold Streak looks at Night Guard. GOLD STREAK (CONT'D) You can send blasts right? NIGHT GUARD Uh, yeah, at a closer range. GOLD STREAK Huh...okay...Stick with the others. Let them deal with him for the most part. Only attack him he corners you. Night Guard's a bit taken aback by this. Ah...okay.
NIGHT GUARD
9. MYSTICFIRE Okay, get ready to flank!
And...
She sends the shield towards the Fire Eater. He crosses his arms by the wrist in defense as he's knocked back. Steel Fist and Gold Streak go for the Fire Eater, while Trick Shot flies above him, Mystic Fire readies another spell, and Night Guard stays by Mystic Fire. MYSTICFIRE (CONT'D) Keep him busy! Right!
STEEL FIST Gold Streak diverts the Fire Eater's blast by running around him, causing the villain to try to shoot fire at him. The Fire Eater looks up and sees Trick Shot dive bombing in his direction. The Fire Eater blasts the heroine, but "she" fades away. Crap!
FIRE EATER He looks in the other upwards direction and sees Steel Fist and Trick Shot about to pounce on him. Crap!
FIRE EATER (CONT'D) Steel Fist hits the ground, causing a shock wave to knock the Fire Eater off his feet. Trick Shot soars in for the kill, energy coming out of her hands. Fire Eater sends fire her way, which Trick Shot tries to counter with energy. The forces are evenly matched. FIRE EATER (CONT'D) You illusionist bitch! Gold Streak goes for a punch, but Fire Eater rolls aside, causing Trick Shot's energy to crash into the ground and in turn making Gold Streak trip and skid across the ground. Steel Fist goes to punch the Fire Eater, but the villain lifts him up and throws the hero at Trick Shot. Trick shot dodges the hero. Steel Fist goes through a few walls. INT. ANOTHER MUSEUM WING - NIGHT He crashes through a wall before sliding onto the ground and to a stop. Gold Streak runs in.
10. GOLD STREAK You okay, man?! STEEL FIST Yeah...let's kick this jerk-off's ass! Back to Mysticfire and Night Guard. The Fire Eater turns his attention to the two remaining heroes. No!
MYSTICFIRE I'm not done with the spell!
Night Guard runs forward. Trick Shot!
NIGHT GUARD Trick shot sends a blast to Fire Eater. The two duel energies again. Night Guard runs up to the villain, shadow energy gathering by his balled fists. Yyyyyaaaa-
NIGHT GUARD (CONT'D) He's a few feet away from Fire Eater. He holds his palms out, trying to send a blast. Only an amorphous blob of shadow forms in front of his palms. -Aaagh?
NIGHT GUARD (CONT'D) The Fire Eater looks over, puzzled. FIRE EATER Uh...may I ask what you're doing? Night Guard seems nervous, like a student standing up in front of class. NIGHT GUARD Uh...attacking you with a energy blast? Fire begins forming in the Fire Eater's mouth, ready to blast Night Guard. Ha, no.
FIRE EATER Mysticfire, her spell completed, flies over. Ready!
MYSTICFIRE
11. Steel Fist soars in, energy crackling in his hand. Make a hole!
STEEL FIST The two heroes send their blasts. crap" look on his face.
Night Guard has an "oh
NIGHT GUARD (Quietly) Uh, guys? There is a bright light. Cut to the wing again. Fire Eater being taken into custody by some cops. Fire fighters are putting some remaining flames out. NINA NEWMAN (30, annoying Lois Lane-type), tape recorder in hand, runs up to the superheroes (Night Guard isn't present). NEWMAN Team Victory, a few words? Team Victory isn't too happy to see Newman, but Gold Streak puts on the most pleasent, professional face he can. GOLD STREAK Ah, Ms. Newman. So good to see you. STEEL FIST (Quietly) Not this chick again. Trick Shot ribs Steel Fist. GOLD STREAK I take it you want the details of the battle? NEWMAN Well, yes, but I also wanted to discuss the rumors that you've replaced one of your heroes. The heroes each have a small emotional sting. GOLD STREAK No, our line up is the same... Trick Shot notices that Night Guard's not around and begins looking around for him. NEWMAN But reports have it that Night Guard appears to be a different person.
12. GOLD STREAK Ah, can I discuss that matter with you later? NEWMAN I'd like to interview him. Newman notices Night Guard's not there. NEWMAN (CONT'D) Where ever his is. Huh?
GOLD STREAK TRICK SHOT He's not here. Mysticfire hears something from above. NIGHT GUARD (O.S.) (Quietly) Um...guys. She looks up. MYSTICFIRE Uh, I think I found him. Gold Steak looks over. Where?
GOLD STREAK Mysticfire points up. The other heroes look up and see Night Guard caught in the mobile. The tangled hero smiles nervously and waves. NIGHT GUARD Uh...little help? Steel Fist facepalms. Trick Shot starts flying up. Mysticfire tries to stifle a smile. Gold Streak turns to Newman. GOLD STREAK Please don't write about that. EXT. COLLEGE GROUNDS - MORNING Spanning college grounds. Well kept. Obligatory founder's statues and fountain. Large spans of grassy fields. A clump of old, brownstone school buildings here and there. There is also a CLOCK TOWER in the center of biggest cluster of buildings (this will be very important in the finale).
13. Lying in the grass and looking up to the clear sky is Danny, lost in thought and listlessness caused by fatigue. A MESSENGER BAG is lying nearby. Suddenly, a hand holds a BROWN PAPER BAG above his face. Danny looks over to see LYNN (20, a artist girl experimenting with a sort of earthy style; cute, but not drop-dead hot). LYNN Morning, superman. Danny's bolts up, a bit shocked at what Lynn just said and voice in a hushed whisper. Lynn!
DANNY Careful what you say!
Lynn sits next to him, setting her BACKPACK down and not taking Danny worry seriously, but rather as a joke. Lighten up!
LYNN DANNY But you need to...! Lynn is still smiling, but not acting like Danny's fear is a joke. LYNN Okay, I'm sorry. She hands him the paper bag. LYNN (CONT'D) Figured you'd be hungry. Danny takes the bag and opens it. DANNY You figured right. Didn't have time to catch breakfast. He smiles at the contents and pulls a BAGEL out. LYNN Oh, that might be mine. Danny sniffs it and recoils. Ugh!
Onion.
DANNY Yeah, it's yours.
He hands Lynn the bagel, reaches in the bag, and pulls out another one. He sniffs it and smiles.
14. Sweet!
DANNY (CONT'D) Cheddar and herb! Thanks!
He starts eating it. Lynn looks Danny over, taking note of the darkness under his eyes and wrinkles caused by lack of sleep. LYNN Whoo...they worked you over good last night, didn't they? DANNY Actually, it's running to catch the damn bus that's got me so tired. LYNN Can't you fly? DANNY Well, you know what the Night Guard's powers are, don't you? Lynn smiles and jokingly pats Danny's head. LYNN That nerdy stuff's your deparment, hon. DANNY It depends on the person. Kurt(Catching himself) Uh, the last one could. So hopefully, I can too. Lynn lets some concern leak through her expression. LYNN You look like you're on your last leg. DANNY I've got tonight off, though. Lynn's relieved. LYNN Good...what about your classes for today? What do you got? DANNY Just one- Intro to Anthropology. Lynn smiles at this.
15. LYNN Ah, no worries then. The teacher in that class likes you. When's it start? Danny looks up to the sky in thought. DANNY 'Bout an hour. What about you? Drawing II.
LYNN Half an hour. DANNY
Hm. Lynn looks Danny over. LYNN You're thinking about being up there, aren't you? DANNY Yeah...I hope I'll be able to fly. Lynn leans over and kisses Danny on cheek, causing him to put his arm around her shoulder while still looking at the sky. A few moments pass, Lynn becomes a little sad. LYNN I miss you, y'know. Danny, not hearing Lynn the first time, looks to her with some puzzlement. Huh?
DANNY I couldn't hear...
Lynn smiles, trying to hide her gloom. LYNN I said- you're living the dream, right? I mean, you've always wanted to be a super hero. Danny kisses Lynn on the head then looks up back to the sky. The scene ends with a shot of Danny looking at the sky, lost in thought. INT. LIVING ROOM - NIGHT An average living room of a kid and his mom. It's in an apartment in a suburban complex. There are some family pictures of a man, woman, and child.
16. However, after the child reaches a certain age, the pictures only have the woman and child in them. YOUNG DANNY (11, a little gawky, but cute) is sitting on the floor, staring at the clock in anticipation and TV REMOTE by his side. It's similar to the last shot of the adult Danny looking up at the sky. Young Danny glances over to an open window in the other room, then back at the clock. The lock of the front door is heard being unlocked, causing Young Danny to quickly grab the remote and switch the TV on. The front door opens and in walks MRS. WILSON (32, dressed as a nurse and somewhat aged by her job). Danny?
MRS. WILSON You still up, honey?
Young Danny looks to his mom, trying to seem nonchalant (moderate success). Yeah, mom.
YOUNG DANNY Mrs. Wilson looks at the clock. MRS. WILSON It's a little late, isn't it? YOUNG DANNY I was just waiting for you to come home. Mrs. Wilson sets down her purse and starts taking off her shoes and socks. MRS. WILSON You don't have to do that, sweetie. Young Danny smiles, using the charm of his youth to his advantage. YOUNG DANNY I know, but I didn't want to go to bed without saying goodnight. Mrs. Wilson smiles and walks over to Danny. MRS. WILSON My little prince. She kisses him on the forehead. MRS. WILSON (CONT'D) Now scoot your boot to bed. You've got school tommorrow.
17. Okay.
YOUNG DANNY Young Danny runs into his bedroom and shuts his door. Mrs. Wilson goes to the kitchen and gets a can of pop from the fridge. She calls out to Young Danny. MRS. WILSON I'm going to have to work a long shift again, so you'll have to let yourself in again. I can get Mrs. Schreiber to come over if you'd like. Danny walks out of his room, dressed in night clothes. starts walking for the bathroom.
He
YOUNG DANNY I'll be okay, mom. MRS. WILSON Well I'm at least gonna have her check in on you. She only lives a few doors down. YOUNG DANNY But isn't she really old and stuff? You hush.
MRS. WILSON She can still walk.
Danny's in the bathroom. MRS. WILSON (CONT'D) You brushing your teeth? YOUNG DANNY (From the bathroom) 'Bout to. MRS. WILSON Okay, do that and I'll tuck you in. INT. DANNY'S CHILDHOOD ROOM - NIGHT A kid's bedroom. Filled with action figures and poster. Much of this is memorabilia of the ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARD (32, wears same costume Danny wears on patrol, but fills it out better). Young Danny is lying in his bed, look at his window, expecting to see someone. No one's there. In some handwriting-looking text in some captions; the words being from a letter Danny wrote.
18. Text, "Dear Mr. Ashwood, My name is Danny Wilson, and I'm writing you about something I figured out." Danny turns away from his bed. one by the window.
He glances over, there's no
Text, "Before you get worried, I didn't tell anyone. I'm only writing you to tell you that you need to be careful about leaving clues." Danny turns away and closes his eyes. After a while, there's a squeak in the room. Danny's eyes snap open. ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARD (O.S.) Danny Wilson? Danny looks over to the window. Text, "I mean..." By the window is the Original Night Guard. Danny's eye are wide and his mouth is hanging on it's hinges; he is looking at his hero after all. Text, "I was able to figure out you were a super hero by clues you left behind." Danny only stares in shock at his hero for a few moments. YOUNG DANNY It's...It's you...The Night Guard. Danny look over to his door, slightly worried. YOUNG DANNY (CONT'D) Uh...you might need to be quiet. Mom might hear you. She's been taking these self-defense classes with her friends at work... Night Guard walks over and kneels in front of the ground. The air about him is friendly. He smiles with amusement at what Danny said. ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARD Ha, don't worry. I'll use my inside voice. The Night Guard stares at Danny a bit, observing him. looks a bit nervous. ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARD (CONT'D) I got your letter.
Danny
Danny tenses up a bit, but still tries to play it cool.
19. O-Oh?
YOUNG DANNY ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARD Yeah...Did you really figure out who I am? Danny nods. ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARD (CONT'D) But you didn't tell anyone? Danny shakes his head. No, sir.
YOUNG DANNY ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARD My I ask why you didn't? YOUNG DANNY Well...it didn't seem like it would've been nice to tell people. ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARD Huh...well, that was nice of you, Danny. Danny smiles a big grin. YOUNG DANNY Th-Thank you, sir. Night Guard catches sight of the memorabilia of him. ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARD Oh, it seems your a fan of superheroes. Y-Yes, sir.
YOUNG DANNY You're my favorite.
Night Guard smiles. ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARD Heh, you're too kind. YOUNG DANNY Well, you're awesome. You stop alotta bad guys and stuff...Plus your powers are cool. ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARD My powers are cool?
20. Uh-huh. flying.
YOUNG DANNY I escpecially like your
Is that so?
ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARD YOUNG DANNY Uh-huh, I mean...I'd like to fly. Huh...
ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARD Night Guard goes to the window and offers his hand. ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARD (CONT'D) Well, I woke you up. Least I can do is give you a chance to live that wish out. Danny's suprised at this. YOUNG DANNY Whuh...? You mean....? ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARD Unless you want to get some sleep before you have to go to school. Danny scrambles to his feet and goes over to the superhero. He hesitates a bit. YOUNG DANNY Uh...I can't be out too long... ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARD We won't be. Just once around the neighborhood. Danny looks at his door. YOUNG DANNY Well...mom said not to go with strangers...I mean, I know you're a hero, but I've never met you before... Night Guard kneels down to Danny's level. ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARD It's alright if you don't want to. I understand. But if you do, I'll bring you back safe and sound. Night Guard lifts his hand like a person taking an oath in court.
21. ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARD (CONT'D) I speak the truth. Danny is a bit troubled by the statement. floor a bit.
He looks to the
YOUNG DANNY (Quietly) Truth... Hm?
ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARD Danny looks up, trying to seem calm. YOUNG DANNY Nothin'...Okay, I'll do it. EXT. DANNY'S OLD NEIGHBORHOOD - NIGHT A mostly-suburban, a little-urban area. Very few people are out and about. Lights glimmer in the area. The Night Guard gentley flies through the air with Danny holding his hand. Danny looks down, overwhelmed with amazement as he and Night Guard fly through the air. Whu...Whoa!
YOUNG DANNY The two soar through the air. Young Danny's still overcome with excitement. As they fly, EASTON's voice is heard. Mr. Wilson?
EASTON (O.S.) INT. LECTURE HALL - DAY Lecture hall. Tiers of seats and desks with a chalk board and table of at the bottom. Mr. Wilson?
EASTON Danny snaps out of his daze and sees EASTON (47, clean cut and conservative all the way) standing in front of him, a moderately annoyed look on his face. He's not full-blown mad at Danny, just a little peeved. Other students look at him either wryly or plantively. In a higher row, LUKE (20, a spoiled rich boy who dresses and acts accordingly) is sneering/smiling at Danny. EASTON (CONT'D) I see my lesson isn't exciting enough for you.
22. Danny sends a hand through his hair, trying to recover from his blunder. DANNY Ah...s-sorry, Prof. Easton. I was just...y'know...absorbing the material into my mind. Easton smiles wryly. EASTON I see. Like you were doing so with the question I just asked you? Danny becomes more nervous. DANNY U-Uh...yeah... Easton and Danny stare at each other bit, the former waiting for an answer that doesn't come. The silence lasts for some moments. EASTON Would you like for me to repeat it? Danny smiles nervously. DANNY That would be nice. EASTON Very well. Please name me the Mayan central world tree and it's function. Danny thinks a bit. DANNY Uh...the Ceiba Tree. It, uh...it connected the underworld, the earth, and the sky. EASTON Good, good. Could you name the concept that's connected with the tree? Danny thinks a bit again. ...Yaaxche.
DANNY Easton is pleasently surprised at Danny's answer.
23. EASTON Ah, very good. Luke smiles meanly. LUKE (Quietly/sarcastic) "Ah, very good." Easton glares at Luke, fully-peeved. EASTON Do you have something you want to add, Mr. LaRue? Luke looses the grin fast, loosing any defiance and replacing it with fear. LUKE N-No sir... Easton begins heading back down to the chalkboard. EASTON As I thought. Delayed in his answer he may have been, at least I can tell Mr. Wilson is at least studying the material. Easton glances back at Danny, a friendly smile on his face. EASTON (CONT'D) Though mind you, it's impolite to not pay attention to your teacher. Danny smiles, while Luke gives Danny a narrowed-eye look that could kill. Yes, sir.
DANNY Sorry.
EXT. CLASSROOM HALLWAY - DAY A typical (older) college hallway. Students are walking down it. Fliers are on the walls advertising things like club meetings, local events, and things students are selling. The halls are spacious here, not to mention have a bit of a rustic touch. Danny is standing to the side, looking at his phone. A text message on his cell phone says "Are you sure you don't want to come along tonight?"
24. Danny sighs and types in a new text- "I'm sorry. I don't want to fall behind in class. You guys will be ok w/out me, right?" Danny glances up a bit. He's got that feeling that someone's looking at him. Sure enough, he looks over and sees Luke staring at his neck. DANNY What are you doing? LUKE Checking for marks on your neck. Danny's still confused. From...?
DANNY LUKE From Easton's leash. Danny starts walking away from Luke, turning his attention to his phone and not trying to seem too mad. DANNY (Sarcastic) Oh, ha, I get it. Teacher's pet joke. Very funny. Not like I don't hear them often. Luke follows Danny. LUKE Just calling it like I see it, Danny boy. DANNY Don't you have better things to do, Luke? LUKE Better things that you do. DANNY Then go do them. LUKE Hey, I've been meaning to ask you. How do you get the taste of ass out of your mouth? I mean, you must spend all day kissing Easton's. Danny stops and looks at Luke, annoyance on his face.
25. DANNY Y'know, I figured Prof. Easton liked me because I actually try to pass his class. Luke's pride is hurt a bit, but his smugness tries to cover it up. He immediatley goes for the defensive. LUKE Really? Didn't know day dreaming counted as that. DANNY Least I'm not sitting back and waiting to fail the class for the third time. Luke's phone beeps. He takes his PHONE out- it's the latest model and looks like it just came out of the package. LUKE Well what do you know? I do have somewhere better to be. Luke begins walking away. LUKE (CONT'D) Hope you get the taste of ass out of your mouth. Danny glares at him as he walks away, but turns back to his phone. INT. SCHOOL COMMONS - DAY One of the school's commons. Tables with chairs. Vending machines. TVs on the wall. Students hanging around. At one of the tables is DANNY (looking at his phone), SAVANNA (20, a smaller young woman whose eyes speak trouble despite her innocent look) (messing around on her laptop), and JAIMIE (20, lovable gamer dork) (working on a take-out chinese lunch). A text on Danny's phone says- "Sure.
No prob. :)"
JAIMIE Jesus, Douche Luke giving you trouble again? SAVANNA I thought we agreed on "Douchie LaRue." JAIMIE Either one fits.
26. DANNY Would it be selfish to think if he was going after me on purpose? SAVANNA Ass goes after anyone who has a lower net worth than him. DANNY So, pretty much everyone? JAIMIE Welcome to college life. But I think he goes after you because you're dating Lynn. Danny smiles wryly. DANNY C'mon. I'm not that hopeless...But I never knew he had a thing for Lynn. SAVANNA Well, he looks like he does. I've seen him stare at her like a creepy little stalker. Maybe she's one of the very few girls around here who meets his oh-so-very high standards. JAIMIE Is that why he doesn't have a girlfriend? I figured it was because he's an a-hole. SAVANNA For real, just because his daddy can pay for his tuition, he thinks he craps diamonds or something. JAIMIE Oh god, you ever get caught in one of his rants? Danny's attention is caught by the word "power" that follows in the next line. JAIMIE (CONT'D) It's like he has the power to believe the total opposite you do and be all pompous about it. The word echoes in Danny's mind.
27. SAVANNA Tell me about it. The other day, he cornered a freshman... Danny's stream of thought takes over the scene. INT. DANNY'S DORM ROOM - NIGHT Danny's bedroom. He has a room all to himself. It's somewhat furnished with his decor (film and video game posters; pictures of him, his mom, and lynn; the like). There are still opened-but-unpacked cardboard boxes. Danny's walking around his room, talking on his cell phone. DANNY Hey mom. It's me. Just calling you back like you wanted....Yeah, I'm in for the night. As he talks, he starts undressing for bed, getting down to his boxers. DANNY (CONT'D) Nothing much. You know how first days are. Meet the teacher and read the syllabus. How was your day?... Oh, state was in. Did everything go well?... No citations? Good. As he talks, Mysticfire is approaching his window as she flies through the air. DANNY (CONT'D) Lynn? Oh, yeah, she's okay. She told me to say hi...Yeah, she's living with her parents...Ha, no, I don't think she'd want to move intoDanny turns to the window and freaks out at the sight of Mysticfire floating outside. Gyaah!
DANNY (CONT'D) What the-?!
Mysticfire waves plaintively. Danny is silent for some moments, then realizes he's probably freaking his mother out. He goes back to this phone, trying his hardest to seem calm. DANNY (CONT'D) Ah, it's nothing mom...just a...a bug...Hey, I'll call you tomorrow, okay?... L-Love you too. Night.
28. Danny hangs up and stares at Mysticfire, lost for words. After some moment, Mysticfire points to the window's bottom, making Danny snap out of his shock and rush to the window. DANNY (CONT'D) Oh, s-sorry... Danny opens the window and backs up.
Mysticfire climbs in.
MYSTICFIRE Danny Wilson? DANNY Um...y-yeah...that's me... MYSTICFIRE Forgive my intrusion. I would have teleported in, but I figured that would be rude. Danny looks Mysticfire over, remembering who she is. DANNY I know you...You're Mysticfire, aren't you? Mysticfire looks at some posters on Danny's wall. MYSTICFIRE You know about me? I mean, there are many heroes in the city.... DANNY I read about you in the paper. you saved those kids...
How
Mysticfire allows a smile. MYSTICFIRE Ah yes...Listen, Mr. Wilson. I have been sent to take you someplace. Uh...okay...
DANNY Danny realizes that he's half-naked and looks down at his boxers. DANNY (CONT'D) Um...maybe I should put on some pants. Mysticfire looks at him, half-amused. MYSTICFIRE That would be appropriate.
29. EXT. IN THE CITY SKIES - NIGHT Over the city again. A fully-clothed Danny is being carried by Mysticfire. He looks down with wonder, as apposed to childhood excitement. DANNY Wow...ha...I remember this. The last time I flew like this was with... Night Guard?
MYSTICFIRE Danny's eyes cloud over. DANNY Yeah...I haven't seen Kurt in years though...We've been barely keeping contact. MYSTICFIRE Hm...I think he has a good reason for that. Danny smile wryly. DANNY Yeah, sure. I mean, he's got a whole city to look after. Mysticfire is a little saddened. MYSTICFIRE No, Danny...He's... Danny sense something is wrong and looks at Mysticfire in concern. What?
DANNY What's wrong?
Mysticfire stifles her sadness, trying to seem strong. MYSTICFIRE Don't worry about that now...He wanted to see you. INT. KURT'S PENTHOUSE - NIGHT A very nice, modern art deco penthouse overlooking the city. The living room area. Sitting in a chair is Gold Streak. Streak turns to her.
A NURSE walks in.
Gold
30. GOLD STREAK How is he? Steel Fist?
NURSE He's still...well...
GOLD STREAK Least we got the alcohol away from him... Mysticfire is seen flying towards the apartment with Danny. When approaching the window, she teleports into the room in a puff of smoke. Danny's amazed by this. DANNY That was...!
Wh-Whoa!
Danny looks up to Gold Streak and is surprised. DANNY (CONT'D) Oh my god...Gold Streak! Gold Streak smiles. Hello.
GOLD STREAK You must be Mr. Wilson.
They shake hands. DANNY Y-Yeah...wow...two superheroes in one day.... MYSTICFIRE Mr. Wilson. Night Guard is waiting for you in his room. Oh, right.
DANNY The nurse starts to guide him down a hall. This way. Thanks.
NURSE DANNY The nurse takes Danny out of the room. When Danny's out of hearing range, Gold Streak leans over to Mysticfire. GOLD STREAK (Quietly) So that's him. The wonder boy.
31. MYSTICFIRE (Quietly) Yes...He seems nice. GOLD STREAK (Quietly) Yeah, but can he do the job? Danny is taken by the bathroom, whose door is shut. Trick Shot walks out, sniffling and whiping away tears. The two look each other in the eye, but say nothing. Trick Shot smiles a sad smile and give a small wave to Danny. Danny smiles nervously and gives a small wave back. INT. KURT'S ROOM - DAY Kurt's bedroom. Good contemporary decor. IV stand, heart monitor, and table of meds are by his bed. Danny comes into the room and is surprised. A sickly KURT (40's, a once-handsome, fit man that has been weakened by sickness) is lying in his bed. Kurt looks over and smiles. KURT Hello, Danny! Long time no see, boy! Danny's shocked, but he tries to make it seem that all is right in the world. H-hey, Kurt. Hey, c'min!
DANNY KURT C'min!
Danny walks into the room, shutting the door behind him. A bit of a time jump. Danny is sitting in a chair by Kurt's bed. Even sick, Kurt stil seems lively. Danny is trying his hardest to seem friendly and like nothing's wrong. KURT (CONT'D) So, college man, eh? What are you studying? Computers.
DANNY KURT Ah...Video games, right? Danny scratches his head sheepishly.
32. DANNY Yeah...I just said computers because I know you don't really like video games. KURT Ha...that's only because they screwed up the one based on me. I mean, they got the jumping wrong... Kurt breaks out in a coughing fit. DANNY (Quietly) Oh god. Kurt... KURT You know lying's a bad thing to do, kid. A spark of guilt enters Danny's expression, but Kurt doesn't seem to notice this. KURT (CONT'D) Never leads to good. Danny glances at the floor. DANNY Yeah...right. KURT Danny...I'll cut to the chase...I'm not going to last long. Danny's saddened by this. KURT (CONT'D) And as you know, I have to give my Night Guard mantle to someone else. And as you know, I don't have any kids... Danny's attention is grabbed. He looks at Kurt, knowing what is coming but still a little puzzled. KURT (CONT'D) So...I was thinking I could pick someone I know... Danny stands in silence for some moments, not believing what he's hearing. You mean me?
DANNY
33. KURT You're the only one standing in the room. Who else would I be talking to? Kurt struggles for words as he tries to speak. DANNY Kurt...I...I don't know what to say...I mean...the only thing I ever did that was even close to this sorta thing was hand around while you worked in your secret base... KURT I can set up some training. DANNY I just...Why me? KURT Why not? I'm convinced you have the right qualities. DANNY But shouldn't you give it to a family member? I mean, that's how it's been done before. Kurt looks away from Danny in thought. KURT Danny, have you seen the tabloids? True, I was able to keep my being sick out of the news, but the exploits of my family members...I respect them, but I don't want people like that in the costume... Kurt turns back to Danny and smiles assuringly. KURT (CONT'D) It's been done before. My family wasn't the first holder. Kurt grabs Danny's arm assuringly. hand.
There is a glyph on his
KURT (CONT'D) Besides, I know you'll do good with it... Danny looks at Kurt, almost on the brink of crying.
34. EXT. GRAVEYARD - DAY A well kept graveyard. There is a funeral for Kurt going on. There are many people attending the funeral- including Danny and the members of Team Victory in their civilian clothes. Outside of the graveyard, reporters are clamoring. Like with Danny's letter, there is a caption displaying Kurt's will as the funeral is shown- this time in typed letters. Text, "Last Will and Testimate- I, Kurtis Ashwood, being of sound mind, hearby divide my remaining assets as following. I give 20 million dollars to each of the following bodiesthe Families Without Homes Foundation, the Eastern Coast Food Bank Association, the Students Without Access Association, the Wildlife Salvation Foundation, and the remaining to be distributed equally among the public schools, youth clubs, and housing projects in the Hubbardvile area. I leave my position as CEO of my company to my partner, Jonathan Perkins." There is a focus on Danny, who is sad and lost in thought. Text, "To my old friend, Daniel Wilson, I leave $40,000..." The glyph that was on Kurt's hand appears on Danny's. Text, "...and a special responsibility." Lynn is heard. LYNN (O.S.) I think it looks cool. INT. DANNY'S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT The living room of Danny's dorm. Being shared with Jaimie, the room is a bit unkept, with some wrappers, pop-cans, video game controllers, and DVD's/Games lying around here and there. This is the home of two gamers, so there is a lot of focus in front of the TV regarding signs of having been used. On the couch in front of the TV is Danny and Lynn. There is a campy 60's film playing on TV (in the vein of the old "Batman" TV series). Lynn is looking at the glyph on Danny's hand. DANNY Yeah, it does. Danny makes it vanish.
They turn back to the TV.
TV SIDEKICK Holy shooting stars, Blue Blast Man! (MORE)
35. TV SIDEKICK (CONT'D) This looks like the work of the Loan Shark! TV HERO That dastardly banking foe. Why must he prey on desperate college students?! Lynn looks over to Danny. LYNN Hey, do you wanna watch something else? Danny looks at her. Huh?
DANNY Oh, you don't like this?
LYNN No, I just figured, y'know, you're around this all day... Danny smiles assuringly at Lynn. DANNY Nah, I'm good. Danny smiles wryly as he looks at the TV. DANNY (CONT'D) Heh, I wish it was like this. would be much more fun.
It
They watch TV for a bit. TV HERO Come along, Red Rush Lad! trouble afoot!
There's
TV SIDEKICK Right right, Blue Blast Man! Hey, if you-
LYNN Lynn stops herself, realizing what she's about to stay. LYNN (CONT'D) I-I mean, when you learn how to fly, promise to take me on a flight, okay? DANNY You wanna fly too?
36. Lynn leans on his, playful in her expression. LYNN Weeell, you do talk about it a lot. A lot. Danny kisses her head. Deal.
DANNY LYNN And remind me not to wear a skirt. I don't want the city to see my underwear. DANNY I'll make sure. Danny watches the TV show and all it's campiness. DANNY (CONT'D) (Quietly) Yeah...If only the job was like this. EXT. TRAIN STATION - NIGHT An old train station in the city; basically stairs leading underground. The streets are almost emply, save for a few people. There is a HOMELESS MAN (50's, swaying and looking at everything like it's about to jump and kill him) sitting on a bench near by. He glares into space. HOMELESS MAN (Quietly) It's war, bastards. Fuckin' war. Blood. Carnage. It's all your fault. Reaper's coming, you rotten bastards. INT. TRAIN STATION - NIGHT A less-than-upkept train station. Not a total dump, but it's seen better days. There are only a few people sitting around. By the ticket cashier, the customer from the diner in the opening is back. This time, her target's a TICKET MASTER (tired from work and of dealing with customers). CUSTOMER Now just hold on! I have my ID here somewhere!
37. DHOLE (19, goth/punk girl who is more of an animal pretending to be a human) walks over and stands behind the customer, her face never completely seen here. CUSTOMER (CONT'D) Just hold your horses...Do you really have to check my ID? Dhole looks at the clock. TICKET MASTER If you want the senior discount. Ridiculous.
CUSTOMER Dhole looks at the customer. DHOLE May I go ahead of you? The Customer glares at Dhole, as offended. Excuse me?
CUSTOMER DHOLE I need to catch the next train. CUSTOMER Then use one of those darned machines. DHOLE I only have cash. I need to talk to a ticket person. The Customer has a sneer. CUSTOMER Then wait your turn. The customer turns back to the ticket person. back at the clock.
Dhole looks
CUSTOMER (CONT'D) Now, you just hold on. INT. TRAIN STATION, PLATFORM - NIGHT Indoor train platform. Empty of human life. spacious; almost cavelike.
Dark, damp, and
The Customer is standing by the platform, checking her watch and sighing, as if offended that the train has not arrived. She glances over to the pathway leading to the entrance.
38. Nobody's there. She goes back to her watch. heard.
After a few moments, Dhole is
DHOLE You made me miss my train. The Customer, surprised, looks over to the path's entrance. Huh?
CUSTOMER Who's there?
Dhole is seen standing about twenty feet away from the Customer, her facial features still barely seen. DHOLE You made me miss my train. one won't be for an hour.
The next
The Customer, though unnerved, tries to seem defiant. CUSTOMER Well, the ticket person should've moved faster. DHOLE No, it's your fault. minutes.
You took ten
CUSTOMER Oh really? Were you watching the clock? DHOLE Yes. Nothing else to do while you looked for an ID you never even found... Dhole approaches the Customer, malicious intent clear in her eyes and body language. This unsettles the Customer a bit, but not enough to make her loose control. DHOLE (CONT'D) And I do believe that you've yet to apologize to me. The Customer regathers her composure. CUSTOMER As I said- it's not my fault. DHOLE Yes, it is. Stop saying it's not. You're making me more mad.
39. The Customer rolls her eyes. CUSTOMER Well, sor-ry for inconveniencing you. Maybe it was wrong of me to use the discount I was entitled to. DHOLE How much of a discount? Ten percent.
CUSTOMER Dhole doesn't move at first.
Then she starts to giggle.
DHOLE Hee hee hee... Dhole goes into full-blown laughing. DHOLE (CONT'D) Kya ha ha ha! The Customer is annoyed, yet a little troubled, by Dhole's laughter. She begins sneaking her hand into her purse. DHOLE (CONT'D) Sooo funny. Just ten percent...What a thing to lose your life over. The Customer is surprised by this statment. Wh-What?!
CUSTOMER DHOLE I have to walk now, but I should at least not do it mad, yes? The Customer whips out some PEPPER SPRAY, but Dhole grabs the wrist of that arm and picks the woman a few inches off the ground by it. The pepper spray clatters away. Dhole's grin is seen, as are her sharp teeth. DHOLE (CONT'D) Well? Don't you agree? The Customer is freaking out. Ahh-!
CUSTOMER The act of violence itself is not directly seen. You might be able to see it from behind or a splatter of blood, but you don't see Dhole biting the woman's neck.
40. EXT. TRAIN STATION - NIGHT Back to the homeless guy. HOMELESS MAN (Quietly) Bastards...all of you... Dhole walks past, her face still unseen.
He glares at her.
HOMELESS MAN (CONT'D) (Quietly) Blood's gonna come. Gonna wash into the streets. It's war you mother... Dhole looks at the guy, and his eyes widen in fear. Dhole's inhuman eyes are wide and she smiles a wide, sharp tooth grin. There is some blood splattered by her mouth. The guy's too scared to say anything. Blood?
DHOLE Everywhere?
Dhole begins walking away. DHOLE (CONT'D) Hee hee...sounds nice. The homeless guy just stares at Dhole as she walks away. HOMELESS MAN Fucking demon...fucking wild dog... The last shot is of Dhole walking down the street. TO BE CONTINUED....