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.

CUSTOMERUmm....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.

DANNYWhere's your bathroom?!

The Customer is annoyed.

CUSTOMERHey! Wait your turn!

Cashier points to the direction of the bathroom.

CASHIERBathroom's over there.

DANNYThanks!

Danny begins to run for it.

CASHIERBut it's paying customers only!

Danny jerks to a stop and gives the Cashier a look of pleading disbelief.

DANNYWhat?

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.

CASHIERNuh-uh. My manager sees you go in there without paying, he'll chew me out.

DANNYBut I...!

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.

CUSTOMERHuhhh...is the fish sandwich good?

The Cashier shrugs.

CASHIERNever tried it.

Danny looks at his CELL PHONE in slight panic.

CUSTOMERWhat about the BBQ burger?

DANNYIt's delicious!

The Customer glares at Danny.

CUSTOMERHey, don't you rush me!

The Customer turns back to the Cashier.

CUSTOMER (CONT'D)I'll have the turkey melt.

CASHIERCombo or just the sandwich?

Danny's phone chimes. He looks at it and becomes more panicked.

CUSTOMERWhat's in the combo?

CASHIERFries and a drink.

3.

Danny is trying to seem calm. Not much success here.

CUSTOMERCan I just have the drink with the sandwich?

CASHIERSure, it'll cost less than the combo.

CUSTOMERCan I have a milkshake as a drink?

CASHIERThat'll cost more than the combo.

CUSTOMEROh, then just the sandwich.

Danny is almost pleading in his expression.

DANNYMa'am, please.

The Customer glares at him again.

CUSTOMERYou badgering me isn't making me go faster!

CASHIERDude, just go someplace else if you really have to go.

The Customer turns to the Cashier.

CUSTOMERHow much?

DANNYYou're the only place open in the next three blocks!

The Customer is pissed. Danny and the Cashier cringe as the Customer screeches.

CUSTOMERHow much?!

CASHIER$7.95!

(Under breath)Geez!

The Customer begins digging through her WALLET.

4.

CUSTOMEROkay, let's see...I have some Visa gift cards here. Can I use them?

CASHIERYeah.

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.

CUSTOMEROh for the love of...Hold on. I have another one.

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 kidner-

Danny goes over to the counter and slams down a TEN DOLLAR BILL.

DANNYHere! 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.

CUSTOMERWell! 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 STREAKIn the history museum.

MYSTICFIREAnd we're sure it's the Fire Eater?

GOLD STREAKPretty sure.

STEEL FISTSo what are we waiting for?

GOLD STREAKNot 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 GUARDGyuh....huff....s...sorry I'm late. *

Trick Shot goes over to help Night Guard onto the roof.

STEEL FISTAbout time!

Trick Shot flies behind Night Guard, lifts him up, and sets him gently onto the roof.

NIGHT GUARDThanks.

TRICK SHOTAny time.

Night Guard slumps forward, still looking like he's just run a ten mile marathon.

NIGHT GUARDAh god...just...just a second.

Steel Fist crosses his arms. He's not happy that he's got to wait even longer.

STEEL FISTFire Eater's attacking the history museum. We might not have a second, rookie.

Night Guard looks up, barely hiding contempt in his eyes.

NIGHT GUARDO-Okay...just...

6.

Night straitens himself.

NIGHT GUARD (CONT'D)Okay...

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 SHOTSo, you were waiting in line so you could change in the bathroom?

NIGHT GUARDYeah...

MYSTICFIREYou still have to do that?

NIGHT GUARDYeah, can't just instantly change into my costume yet.

MYSTICFIREYour powers are probably still coming in.

Steel Fist looks to Night Guard.

STEEL FISTSpeaking of, what can you do?

Night Guard glares at him.

NIGHT GUARDAre you being serious or mean?

STEEL FISTToo embaressed to say we'll probably have to save you again?

Trick Shot is offended by what he said.

TRICK SHOTAxel!

STEEL FISTGeez, 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 SHOTSorry, 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 ofartifacts, that deal. The theme of this exibit- mysticalhistory. Basically exploring supposed mysticalartifacts/groups/events in history. Hanging from the ceilingof this wing is a GIANT SOLAR SYSTEM MOBILE (will be importantsoon).

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-a-ast.

He sends a fire blast to the book, torching it. Gold Streak is heard from behind him.

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 EATERTck. 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 STREAKAnd did you seriously I can't be as quick as you when you fu-

The Fire Eater sends a fire blast, but Gold Streak runs out of it's way.

FIRE EATERNow we're talking!

Fire Eater tries to blast the other heroes. Mysticfire raises a shield to protect the others.

TRICK SHOTUgh, 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 FISTWhat'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 GUARDUh, yeah, at a closer range.

GOLD STREAKHuh...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.

NIGHT GUARDAh...okay.

9.

MYSTICFIREOkay, get ready to flank! And...

She sends the shield towards the Fire Eater. He crosses hisarms by the wrist in defense as he's knocked back. SteelFist and Gold Streak go for the Fire Eater, while Trick Shotflies above him, Mystic Fire readies another spell, and NightGuard stays by Mystic Fire.

MYSTICFIRE (CONT'D)Keep him busy!

STEEL FISTRight!

Gold Streak diverts the Fire Eater's blast by running aroundhim, causing the villain to try to shoot fire at him. TheFire Eater looks up and sees Trick Shot dive bombing in hisdirection. The Fire Eater blasts the heroine, but "she"fades away.

FIRE EATERCrap!

He looks in the other upwards direction and sees Steel Fist and Trick Shot about to pounce on him.

FIRE EATER (CONT'D)Crap!

Steel Fist hits the ground, causing a shock wave to knockthe Fire Eater off his feet. Trick Shot soars in for thekill, energy coming out of her hands. Fire Eater sends fireher way, which Trick Shot tries to counter with energy. Theforces 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 STREAKYou okay, man?!

STEEL FISTYeah...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.

MYSTICFIRENo! I'm not done with the spell!

Night Guard runs forward.

NIGHT GUARDTrick Shot!

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.

NIGHT GUARD (CONT'D)Yyyyyaaaa-

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.

NIGHT GUARD (CONT'D)-Aaagh?

The Fire Eater looks over, puzzled.

FIRE EATERUh...may I ask what you're doing?

Night Guard seems nervous, like a student standing up in front of class.

NIGHT GUARDUh...attacking you with a energy blast?

Fire begins forming in the Fire Eater's mouth, ready to blast Night Guard.

FIRE EATERHa, no.

Mysticfire, her spell completed, flies over.

MYSTICFIREReady!

11.

Steel Fist soars in, energy crackling in his hand.

STEEL FISTMake a hole!

The two heroes send their blasts. Night Guard has an "oh crap" look on his face.

NIGHT GUARD(Quietly)

Uh, guys?

There is a bright light.

Cut to the wing again. Fire Eater being taken into custodyby some cops. Fire fighters are putting some remaining flamesout. NINA NEWMAN (30, annoying Lois Lane-type), tape recorderin hand, runs up to the superheroes (Night Guard isn'tpresent).

NEWMANTeam 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 STREAKAh, Ms. Newman. So good to see you.

STEEL FIST(Quietly)

Not this chick again.

Trick Shot ribs Steel Fist.

GOLD STREAKI take it you want the details of the battle?

NEWMANWell, 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 STREAKNo, our line up is the same...

Trick Shot notices that Night Guard's not around and begins looking around for him.

NEWMANBut reports have it that Night Guard appears to be a different person.

12.

GOLD STREAKAh, can I discuss that matter with you later?

NEWMANI'd like to interview him.

Newman notices Night Guard's not there.

NEWMAN (CONT'D)Where ever his is.

GOLD STREAKHuh?

TRICK SHOTHe's not here.

Mysticfire hears something from above.

NIGHT GUARD (O.S.)(Quietly)

Um...guys.

She looks up.

MYSTICFIREUh, I think I found him.

Gold Steak looks over.

GOLD STREAKWhere?

Mysticfire points up. The other heroes look up and see Night Guard caught in the mobile. The tangled hero smiles nervously and waves.

NIGHT GUARDUh...little help?

Steel Fist facepalms. Trick Shot starts flying up. Mysticfire tries to stifle a smile. Gold Streak turns to Newman.

GOLD STREAKPlease don't write about that.

EXT. COLLEGE GROUNDS - MORNING

Spanning college grounds. Well kept. Obligatory founder'sstatues and fountain. Large spans of grassy fields. A clumpof old, brownstone school buildings here and there. Thereis also a CLOCK TOWER in the center of biggest cluster ofbuildings (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).

LYNNMorning, superman.

Danny's bolts up, a bit shocked at what Lynn just said and voice in a hushed whisper.

DANNYLynn! Careful what you say!

Lynn sits next to him, setting her BACKPACK down and not taking Danny worry seriously, but rather as a joke.

LYNNLighten up!

DANNYBut you need to...!

Lynn is still smiling, but not acting like Danny's fear is a joke.

LYNNOkay, I'm sorry.

She hands him the paper bag.

LYNN (CONT'D)Figured you'd be hungry.

Danny takes the bag and opens it.

DANNYYou figured right. Didn't have time to catch breakfast.

He smiles at the contents and pulls a BAGEL out.

LYNNOh, that might be mine.

Danny sniffs it and recoils.

DANNYUgh! Onion. Yeah, it's yours.

He hands Lynn the bagel, reaches in the bag, and pulls out another one. He sniffs it and smiles.

14.

DANNY (CONT'D)Sweet! 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.

LYNNWhoo...they worked you over good last night, didn't they?

DANNYActually, it's running to catch the damn bus that's got me so tired.

LYNNCan't you fly?

DANNYWell, you know what the Night Guard's powers are, don't you?

Lynn smiles and jokingly pats Danny's head.

LYNNThat nerdy stuff's your deparment, hon.

DANNYIt 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.

LYNNYou look like you're on your last leg.

DANNYI've got tonight off, though.

Lynn's relieved.

LYNNGood...what about your classes for today? What do you got?

DANNYJust one- Intro to Anthropology.

Lynn smiles at this.

15.

LYNNAh, 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?

LYNNDrawing II. Half an hour.

DANNYHm.

Lynn looks Danny over.

LYNNYou're thinking about being up there, aren't you?

DANNYYeah...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.

LYNNI miss you, y'know.

Danny, not hearing Lynn the first time, looks to her with some puzzlement.

DANNYHuh? I couldn't hear...

Lynn smiles, trying to hide her gloom.

LYNNI 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 anapartment in a suburban complex. There are some familypictures of a man, woman, and child.

16.

However, after the child reaches a certain age, the picturesonly have the woman and child in them.

YOUNG DANNY (11, a little gawky, but cute) is sitting on thefloor, staring at the clock in anticipation and TV REMOTE byhis side. It's similar to the last shot of the adult Dannylooking up at the sky. Young Danny glances over to an openwindow 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).

MRS. WILSONDanny? You still up, honey?

Young Danny looks to his mom, trying to seem nonchalant (moderate success).

YOUNG DANNYYeah, mom.

Mrs. Wilson looks at the clock.

MRS. WILSONIt's a little late, isn't it?

YOUNG DANNYI was just waiting for you to come home.

Mrs. Wilson sets down her purse and starts taking off her shoes and socks.

MRS. WILSONYou don't have to do that, sweetie.

Young Danny smiles, using the charm of his youth to his advantage.

YOUNG DANNYI know, but I didn't want to go to bed without saying goodnight.

Mrs. Wilson smiles and walks over to Danny.

MRS. WILSONMy little prince.

She kisses him on the forehead.

MRS. WILSON (CONT'D)Now scoot your boot to bed. You've got school tommorrow.

17.

YOUNG DANNYOkay.

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. WILSONI'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. He starts walking for the bathroom.

YOUNG DANNYI'll be okay, mom.

MRS. WILSONWell I'm at least gonna have her check in on you. She only lives a few doors down.

YOUNG DANNYBut isn't she really old and stuff?

MRS. WILSONYou hush. 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. WILSONOkay, 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. He glances over, there's no one by the window.

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 DANNYIt'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 GUARDHa, don't worry. I'll use my inside voice.

The Night Guard stares at Danny a bit, observing him. Danny looks a bit nervous.

ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARD (CONT'D)I got your letter.

Danny tenses up a bit, but still tries to play it cool.

19.

YOUNG DANNYO-Oh?

ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARDYeah...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.

YOUNG DANNYNo, sir.

ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARDMy I ask why you didn't?

YOUNG DANNYWell...it didn't seem like it would've been nice to tell people.

ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARDHuh...well, that was nice of you, Danny.

Danny smiles a big grin.

YOUNG DANNYTh-Thank you, sir.

Night Guard catches sight of the memorabilia of him.

ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARDOh, it seems your a fan of superheroes.

YOUNG DANNYY-Yes, sir. You're my favorite.

Night Guard smiles.

ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARDHeh, you're too kind.

YOUNG DANNYWell, you're awesome. You stop alotta bad guys and stuff...Plus your powers are cool.

ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARDMy powers are cool?

20.

YOUNG DANNYUh-huh. I escpecially like your flying.

ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARDIs that so?

YOUNG DANNYUh-huh, I mean...I'd like to fly.

ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARDHuh...

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 DANNYWhuh...? You mean....?

ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARDUnless 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 DANNYUh...I can't be out too long...

ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARDWe won't be. Just once around the neighborhood.

Danny looks at his door.

YOUNG DANNYWell...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 GUARDIt'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. He looks to the floor a bit.

YOUNG DANNY(Quietly)

Truth...

ORIGINAL NIGHT GUARDHm?

Danny looks up, trying to seem calm.

YOUNG DANNYNothin'...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.

YOUNG DANNYWhu...Whoa!

The two soar through the air. Young Danny's still overcome with excitement. As they fly, EASTON's voice is heard.

EASTON (O.S.)Mr. Wilson?

INT. LECTURE HALL - DAY

Lecture hall. Tiers of seats and desks with a chalk board and table of at the bottom.

EASTONMr. Wilson?

Danny snaps out of his daze and sees EASTON (47, clean cutand conservative all the way) standing in front of him, amoderately annoyed look on his face. He's not full-blownmad at Danny, just a little peeved. Other students look athim either wryly or plantively. In a higher row, LUKE (20,a spoiled rich boy who dresses and acts accordingly) issneering/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.

DANNYAh...s-sorry, Prof. Easton. I was just...y'know...absorbing the material into my mind.

Easton smiles wryly.

EASTONI see. Like you were doing so with the question I just asked you?

Danny becomes more nervous.

DANNYU-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.

EASTONWould you like for me to repeat it?

Danny smiles nervously.

DANNYThat would be nice.

EASTONVery well. Please name me the Mayan central world tree and it's function.

Danny thinks a bit.

DANNYUh...the Ceiba Tree. It, uh...it connected the underworld, the earth, and the sky.

EASTONGood, good. Could you name the concept that's connected with the tree?

Danny thinks a bit again.

DANNY...Yaaxche.

Easton is pleasently surprised at Danny's answer.

23.

EASTONAh, very good.

Luke smiles meanly.

LUKE(Quietly/sarcastic)

"Ah, very good."

Easton glares at Luke, fully-peeved.

EASTONDo you have something you want toadd, Mr. LaRue?

Luke looses the grin fast, loosing any defiance and replacingit with fear.

LUKEN-No sir...

Easton begins heading back down to the chalkboard.

EASTONAs I thought. Delayed in his answerhe may have been, at least I cantell Mr. Wilson is at least studyingthe material.

Easton glances back at Danny, a friendly smile on his face.

EASTON (CONT'D)Though mind you, it's impolite tonot pay attention to your teacher.

Danny smiles, while Luke gives Danny a narrowed-eye lookthat could kill.

DANNYYes, sir. Sorry.

EXT. CLASSROOM HALLWAY - DAY

A typical (older) college hallway. Students are walkingdown it. Fliers are on the walls advertising things likeclub meetings, local events, and things students are selling. The halls are spacious here, not to mention have a bit of arustic touch.

Danny is standing to the side, looking at his phone.

A text message on his cell phone says "Are you sure you don'twant to come along tonight?"

24.

Danny sighs and types in a new text- "I'm sorry. I don'twant 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'slooking at him. Sure enough, he looks over and sees Lukestaring at his neck.

DANNYWhat are you doing?

LUKEChecking for marks on your neck.

Danny's still confused.

DANNYFrom...?

LUKEFrom Easton's leash.

Danny starts walking away from Luke, turning his attentionto his phone and not trying to seem too mad.

DANNY(Sarcastic)

Oh, ha, I get it. Teacher's petjoke. Very funny. Not like I don'thear them often.

Luke follows Danny.

LUKEJust calling it like I see it, Dannyboy.

DANNYDon't you have better things to do,Luke?

LUKEBetter things that you do.

DANNYThen go do them.

LUKEHey, I've been meaning to ask you. How do you get the taste of ass outof your mouth? I mean, you mustspend all day kissing Easton's.

Danny stops and looks at Luke, annoyance on his face.

25.

DANNYY'know, I figured Prof. Easton likedme because I actually try to passhis class.

Luke's pride is hurt a bit, but his smugness tries to coverit up. He immediatley goes for the defensive.

LUKEReally? Didn't know day dreamingcounted as that.

DANNYLeast I'm not sitting back and waitingto fail the class for the third time.

Luke's phone beeps. He takes his PHONE out- it's the latestmodel and looks like it just came out of the package.

LUKEWell what do you know? I do havesomewhere better to be.

Luke begins walking away.

LUKE (CONT'D)Hope you get the taste of ass out ofyour mouth.

Danny glares at him as he walks away, but turns back to hisphone.

INT. SCHOOL COMMONS - DAY

One of the school's commons. Tables with chairs. Vendingmachines. 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 despiteher innocent look) (messing around on her laptop), and JAIMIE(20, lovable gamer dork) (working on a take-out chineselunch).

A text on Danny's phone says- "Sure. No prob. :)"

JAIMIEJesus, Douche Luke giving you troubleagain?

SAVANNAI thought we agreed on "DouchieLaRue."

JAIMIEEither one fits.

26.

DANNYWould it be selfish to think if hewas going after me on purpose?

SAVANNAAss goes after anyone who has a lowernet worth than him.

DANNYSo, pretty much everyone?

JAIMIEWelcome to college life. But I thinkhe goes after you because you'redating Lynn.

Danny smiles wryly.

DANNYC'mon. I'm not that hopeless...ButI never knew he had a thing for Lynn.

SAVANNAWell, he looks like he does. I'veseen him stare at her like a creepylittle stalker. Maybe she's one ofthe very few girls around here whomeets his oh-so-very high standards.

JAIMIEIs that why he doesn't have agirlfriend? I figured it was becausehe's an a-hole.

SAVANNAFor real, just because his daddy canpay for his tuition, he thinks hecraps diamonds or something.

JAIMIEOh god, you ever get caught in oneof his rants?

Danny's attention is caught by the word "power" that followsin the next line.

JAIMIE (CONT'D)It's like he has the power to believethe total opposite you do and be allpompous about it.

The word echoes in Danny's mind.

27.

SAVANNATell me about it. The other day, hecornered 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 somewhatfurnished with his decor (film and video game posters;pictures of him, his mom, and lynn; the like). There arestill opened-but-unpacked cardboard boxes.

Danny's walking around his room, talking on his cell phone.

DANNYHey mom. It's me. Just calling youback like you wanted....Yeah, I'mfor the night.

As he talks, he starts undressing for bed, getting down tohis boxers.

DANNY (CONT'D)Nothing much. You know how firstdays are. Meet the teacher and readthe syllabus. How was your day?... Oh, state was in. Did everything gowell?... No citations? Good.

As he talks, Mysticfire is approaching his window as sheflies through the air.

DANNY (CONT'D)Lynn? Oh, yeah, she's okay. Shetold me to say hi...Yeah, she's livingwith her parents...Ha, no, I don'tthink she'd want to move into-

Danny turns to the window and freaks out at the sight ofMysticfire floating outside.

DANNY (CONT'D)Gyaah! What the-?!

Mysticfire waves plaintively. Danny is silent for somemoments, then realizes he's probably freaking his motherout. He goes back to this phone, trying his hardest to seemcalm.

DANNY (CONT'D)Ah, it's nothing mom...just a...abug...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.

MYSTICFIREDanny Wilson?

DANNYUm...y-yeah...that's me...

MYSTICFIREForgive my intrusion. I would haveteleported in, but I figured thatwould be rude.

Danny looks Mysticfire over, remembering who she is.

DANNYI know you...You're Mysticfire, aren'tyou?

Mysticfire looks at some posters on Danny's wall.

MYSTICFIREYou know about me? I mean, thereare many heroes in the city....

DANNYI read about you in the paper. Howyou saved those kids...

Mysticfire allows a smile.

MYSTICFIREAh yes...Listen, Mr. Wilson. I havebeen sent to take you someplace.

DANNYUh...okay...

Danny realizes that he's half-naked and looks down at hisboxers.

DANNY (CONT'D)Um...maybe I should put on some pants.

Mysticfire looks at him, half-amused.

MYSTICFIREThat would be appropriate.

29.

EXT. IN THE CITY SKIES - NIGHT

Over the city again.

A fully-clothed Danny is being carried by Mysticfire. Helooks down with wonder, as apposed to childhood excitement.

DANNYWow...ha...I remember this. Thelast time I flew like this was with...

MYSTICFIRENight Guard?

Danny's eyes cloud over.

DANNYYeah...I haven't seen Kurt in yearsthough...We've been barely keepingcontact.

MYSTICFIREHm...I think he has a good reasonfor that.

Danny smile wryly.

DANNYYeah, sure. I mean, he's got a wholecity to look after.

Mysticfire is a little saddened.

MYSTICFIRENo, Danny...He's...

Danny sense something is wrong and looks at Mysticfire inconcern.

DANNYWhat? What's wrong?

Mysticfire stifles her sadness, trying to seem strong.

MYSTICFIREDon't worry about that now...He wantedto 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. A NURSE walks in. GoldStreak turns to her.

30.

GOLD STREAKHow is he?

NURSESteel Fist? He's still...well...

GOLD STREAKLeast we got the alcohol away fromhim...

Mysticfire is seen flying towards the apartment with Danny. When approaching the window, she teleports into the room ina puff of smoke. Danny's amazed by this.

DANNYWh-Whoa! That was...!

Danny looks up to Gold Streak and is surprised.

DANNY (CONT'D)Oh my god...Gold Streak!

Gold Streak smiles.

GOLD STREAKHello. You must be Mr. Wilson.

They shake hands.

DANNYY-Yeah...wow...two superheroes inone day....

MYSTICFIREMr. Wilson. Night Guard is waitingfor you in his room.

DANNYOh, right.

The nurse starts to guide him down a hall.

NURSEThis way.

DANNYThanks.

The nurse takes Danny out of the room. When Danny's out ofhearing 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. TrickShot walks out, sniffling and whiping away tears. The twolook each other in the eye, but say nothing. Trick Shotsmiles a sad smile and give a small wave to Danny. Dannysmiles nervously and gives a small wave back.

INT. KURT'S ROOM - DAY

Kurt's bedroom. Good contemporary decor. IV stand, heartmonitor, 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 bysickness) is lying in his bed. Kurt looks over and smiles.

KURTHello, Danny! Long time no see,boy!

Danny's shocked, but he tries to make it seem that all isright in the world.

DANNYH-hey, Kurt.

KURTHey, c'min! 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'sbed. Even sick, Kurt stil seems lively. Danny is tryinghis hardest to seem friendly and like nothing's wrong.

KURT (CONT'D)So, college man, eh? What are youstudying?

DANNYComputers.

KURTAh...Video games, right?

Danny scratches his head sheepishly.

32.

DANNYYeah...I just said computers becauseI know you don't really like videogames.

KURTHa...that's only because they screwedup the one based on me. I mean,they got the jumping wrong...

Kurt breaks out in a coughing fit.

DANNY(Quietly)

Oh god. Kurt...

KURTYou know lying's a bad thing to do,kid.

A spark of guilt enters Danny's expression, but Kurt doesn'tseem to notice this.

KURT (CONT'D)Never leads to good.

Danny glances at the floor.

DANNYYeah...right.

KURTDanny...I'll cut to the chase...I'mnot going to last long.

Danny's saddened by this.

KURT (CONT'D)And as you know, I have to give myNight Guard mantle to someone else. And as you know, I don't have anykids...

Danny's attention is grabbed. He looks at Kurt, knowingwhat is coming but still a little puzzled.

KURT (CONT'D)So...I was thinking I could picksomeone I know...

Danny stands in silence for some moments, not believing whathe's hearing.

DANNYYou mean me?

33.

KURTYou're the only one standing in theroom. Who else would I be talkingto?

Kurt struggles for words as he tries to speak.

DANNYKurt...I...I don't know what tosay...I mean...the only thing I everdid that was even close to this sortathing was hand around while you workedin your secret base...

KURTI can set up some training.

DANNYI just...Why me?

KURTWhy not? I'm convinced you have theright qualities.

DANNYBut shouldn't you give it to a familymember? I mean, that's how it'sbeen done before.

Kurt looks away from Danny in thought.

KURTDanny, have you seen the tabloids? True, I was able to keep my beingsick out of the news, but the exploitsof my family members...I respectthem, but I don't want people likethat in the costume...

Kurt turns back to Danny and smiles assuringly.

KURT (CONT'D)It's been done before. My familywasn't the first holder.

Kurt grabs Danny's arm assuringly. There is a glyph on hishand.

KURT (CONT'D)Besides, I know you'll do good withit...

Danny looks at Kurt, almost on the brink of crying.

34.

EXT. GRAVEYARD - DAY

A well kept graveyard. There is a funeral for Kurt goingon. There are many people attending the funeral- includingDanny and the members of Team Victory in their civilianclothes. Outside of the graveyard, reporters are clamoring.

Like with Danny's letter, there is a caption displaying Kurt'swill as the funeral is shown- this time in typed letters.

Text, "Last Will and Testimate- I, Kurtis Ashwood, being ofsound mind, hearby divide my remaining assets as following. I give 20 million dollars to each of the following bodies-the Families Without Homes Foundation, the Eastern CoastFood Bank Association, the Students Without AccessAssociation, the Wildlife Salvation Foundation, and theremaining 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, videogame controllers, and DVD's/Games lying around here and there. This is the home of two gamers, so there is a lot of focusin front of the TV regarding signs of having been used.

On the couch in front of the TV is Danny and Lynn. There isa campy 60's film playing on TV (in the vein of the old"Batman" TV series). Lynn is looking at the glyph on Danny'shand.

DANNYYeah, it does.

Danny makes it vanish. They turn back to the TV.

TV SIDEKICKHoly shooting stars, Blue Blast Man!

(MORE)

35.

TV SIDEKICK (CONT'D)This looks like the work of the LoanShark!

TV HEROThat dastardly banking foe. Whymust he prey on desperate collegestudents?!

Lynn looks over to Danny.

LYNNHey, do you wanna watch somethingelse?

Danny looks at her.

DANNYHuh? Oh, you don't like this?

LYNNNo, I just figured, y'know, you'rearound this all day...

Danny smiles assuringly at Lynn.

DANNYNah, I'm good.

Danny smiles wryly as he looks at the TV.

DANNY (CONT'D)Heh, I wish it was like this. Itwould be much more fun.

They watch TV for a bit.

TV HEROCome along, Red Rush Lad! There'strouble afoot!

TV SIDEKICKRight right, Blue Blast Man!

LYNNHey, if you-

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?

DANNYYou wanna fly too?

36.

Lynn leans on his, playful in her expression.

LYNNWeeell, you do talk about it a lot. A lot.

Danny kisses her head.

DANNYDeal.

LYNNAnd remind me not to wear a skirt. I don't want the city to see myunderwear.

DANNYI'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 leadingunderground. The streets are almost emply, save for a fewpeople.

There is a HOMELESS MAN (50's, swaying and looking ateverything like it's about to jump and kill him) sitting ona 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, butit's seen better days. There are only a few people sittingaround.

By the ticket cashier, the customer from the diner in theopening is back. This time, her target's a TICKET MASTER(tired from work and of dealing with customers).

CUSTOMERNow just hold on! I have my ID heresomewhere!

37.

DHOLE (19, goth/punk girl who is more of an animal pretendingto 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 reallyhave to check my ID?

Dhole looks at the clock.

TICKET MASTERIf you want the senior discount.

CUSTOMERRidiculous.

Dhole looks at the customer.

DHOLEMay I go ahead of you?

The Customer glares at Dhole, as offended.

CUSTOMERExcuse me?

DHOLEI need to catch the next train.

CUSTOMERThen use one of those darned machines.

DHOLEI only have cash. I need to talk toa ticket person.

The Customer has a sneer.

CUSTOMERThen wait your turn.

The customer turns back to the ticket person. Dhole looksback at the clock.

CUSTOMER (CONT'D)Now, you just hold on.

INT. TRAIN STATION, PLATFORM - NIGHT

Indoor train platform. Empty of human life. Dark, damp, andspacious; almost cavelike.

The Customer is standing by the platform, checking her watchand 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. After a few moments, Dhole isheard.

DHOLEYou made me miss my train.

The Customer, surprised, looks over to the path's entrance.

CUSTOMERHuh? Who's there?

Dhole is seen standing about twenty feet away from theCustomer, her facial features still barely seen.

DHOLEYou made me miss my train. The nextone won't be for an hour.

The Customer, though unnerved, tries to seem defiant.

CUSTOMERWell, the ticket person should'vemoved faster.

DHOLENo, it's your fault. You took tenminutes.

CUSTOMEROh really? Were you watching theclock?

DHOLEYes. Nothing else to do while youlooked for an ID you never evenfound...

Dhole approaches the Customer, malicious intent clear in hereyes 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 toapologize to me.

The Customer regathers her composure.

CUSTOMERAs I said- it's not my fault.

DHOLEYes, it is. Stop saying it's not. You're making me more mad.

39.

The Customer rolls her eyes.

CUSTOMERWell, sor-ry for inconveniencingyou. Maybe it was wrong of me touse the discount I was entitled to.

DHOLEHow much of a discount?

CUSTOMERTen percent.

Dhole doesn't move at first. Then she starts to giggle.

DHOLEHee 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'slaughter. She begins sneaking her hand into her purse.

DHOLE (CONT'D)Sooo funny. Just ten percent...Whata thing to lose your life over.

The Customer is surprised by this statment.

CUSTOMERWh-What?!

DHOLEI have to walk now, but I should atleast not do it mad, yes?

The Customer whips out some PEPPER SPRAY, but Dhole grabsthe wrist of that arm and picks the woman a few inches offthe ground by it. The pepper spray clatters away. Dhole'sgrin is seen, as are her sharp teeth.

DHOLE (CONT'D)Well? Don't you agree?

The Customer is freaking out.

CUSTOMERAhh-!

The act of violence itself is not directly seen. You mightbe able to see it from behind or a splatter of blood, butyou 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 intothe streets. It's war you mother...

Dhole looks at the guy, and his eyes widen in fear. Dhole'sinhuman eyes are wide and she smiles a wide, sharp toothgrin. There is some blood splattered by her mouth. Theguy's too scared to say anything.

DHOLEBlood? Everywhere?

Dhole begins walking away.

DHOLE (CONT'D)Hee hee...sounds nice.

The homeless guy just stares at Dhole as she walks away.

HOMELESS MANFucking demon...fucking wild dog...

The last shot is of Dhole walking down the street.

TO BE CONTINUED....