Big Wolf on Campus
Jordan Dawkins
By: Sarah Lane
Scene 1: Tommy's bedroom, evening. The Dawkins home is filled with the sound of the Simpson's playing from the family room T.V. and the phone ringing.
Dean: (annoyed) Hey, wanna answer that little bro? (laughs) Bart Simpson, you little scamp!
Tommy: (shouts down to Dean) Yeah, I got it Dean. (Quickly picks up the receiver of his baseball phone.) Hello?
Girl's voice: Hey, how's my favorite cousin?
Tommy: Jordan? Oh man, how are you? (Grabs a football from one of his many sports attired shelves. Begins to toss it around while sitting in a basketball beanbag chair.)
Jordan: Oh, I'm pretty good. I have some even better news...
Tommy: Yeah? What's up?
Jordan: My dad and I are moving back home to Pleasantville. We want to be closer to the family, now that moms gone. We especially want to be near you and Uncle Bob. I convinced dad that it would be best for me mentally, emotionally, physically and most important academically if I were back home with you.
Tommy: That's great! This is so awesome! I've missed you a lot and now you can finally meet Lori!
Jordan: Yeah, I can't wait. Let Merton know I'm coming okay?
Tommy: Sure, anything you want. Is there anything else I can do? Anything at all?
Jordan: (laughs) No, Tommy. But thank you. I have to go for now, but I will talk to you really soon. Oh, dad says 'hi!'
Tommy: Hey, Uncle Bill!
Jordan: Goodnight, Tom.
Tommy: Night, Jay.
(hang up) (end of scene)
Scene 2: Jordan's house, just after talking to Tommy. She begins to have sharp shooting pains from her elbows to her fingertips. The pain is agonizing and excruciating; a pain she has only recently been introduced too. She bends over in pain as her eyes well with tears.
Jordan: Oh, not again. Please no. (she runs into the bathroom, slams the door behind her locking it, and sits on the toilet, crying) What is wrong with me?! Tommy, I hope you guys can help me... (close up of her hands as her fingers begin to glow and spark like lightning bolts.)
(fade to opening credits)
Scene 3:
A shot of the outside of Pleasantville High is shown, early Monday morning just before the days start. Tommy and Merton are at their lockers talking of the weekend's activities at the Factory.
Tommy (V.O.): Merton's not the socially accepted type, which doesn't bother either of us much these days. So, we usually talk about the more unusual goings on in Pleasantville and he doesn't usually get into social activities having to do with the students of Pleasantville. There is the rare occasion however, when he does and it's kind of cool...
Tommy: I can't believe T-n-T were trying out for the Factory's new live band.
Merton: No, kidding. They sounded like you during flea season. Or worse, you when I'm giving you a flea dip during flea season.
Tommy: (smirks) Yeah, well I'd like to see YOU not squirm and howl if I give YOU a bath...
They look at each other for a brief, uncomfortable moment before quickly changing the subject.
Tommy: Oh, I forgot to tell you. My cousin called last night. She and my uncle are moving back to Pleasantville. I guess they want to be closer to the family now that my Aunt is gone.
Merton: Aww, that's so sad. What happened?
Tommy: Ah, she was a real flake and talk about your use of clichés. She ran off with their milkman...
Merton raises an eyebrow to that.
Tommy: I can't wait to see her. (grins) We go way back!
Merton: Tommy, maybe it's because she's your cousin.
Tommy: What?
Merton: What?
Tommy: Huh?
Merton: Huh?
Tommy: What are you talking about?
Merton: What are YOU talking about?
Tommy: (shrugs) I forgot...
Merton: Anyways...so which cousin is it? Do I know her? Have we met? (getting extremely excited) Is she...HOT?! (giggles)
Tommy: (smacks Merton) She's my cousin, Merton! C'mon!
Merton: Right. (calming down) Sorry.
Tommy: But, if she weren't my cousin, then she'd be really hot!
They both giggle.
Merton: When will she be here?
Tommy: (ponders) You know...she didn't say...
Tommy (V.O.): ...and then as usual, the occasion does a one eighty and goes back to the usual unusual...
Merton: (jaw drops) Jordan Dawkins? (points) You didn't tell me it was your cousin that I had a crush on in elementary school!
Tommy: (Turns to see his awaited cousin strolling toward them. Her long, curly, chestnut hair flowing behind, she sports knee high, black leather, 3inch heel boots, black pantyhose, a black mini skirt, a metallic purple sleeveless top and a black leather jacket. Tommy's jaw mimics Merton's.) Oh, my gosh! Jordan!
Jordan sees Tommy running toward her and she gallops toward him.
Jordan: (raises arms in the air) Ta daa! I'm home!
Tommy: (giving Jordan a warm hug) You didn't tell me you were coming home today!
Jordan: I wanted to surprise you!
Tommy: Well, I'm surprised! Hey do you wanna see Merton? I think he's a little excited to see you too...
Both turn to see Merton contently peeking at them from behind his open locker.
Jordan: I would love to see him again.
Both walk to Merton.
Jordan: Hey, Merton! Wow, you sure have grown up since 5th grade. (touches his hair) oooo...sexy...
Merton: (giggling nervously) Y-yeah...you've grown...too...heh!
Jordan: Nice threads. You've got great taste. I think our friendship is going to regrow pretty quickly. (lies right arm around Merton's neck facing Tommy.)
Merton: (smiling gaily) So, what brought you back to Pleasantville?
Tommy: Merton, I already told you... (stops in mid-sentence as Merton stomps on Tommy's foot, casually. Tommy quietly growls as his eyes begin to glow and he starts to wolf out. He runs into a nearby restroom to unwolf.)
Jordan: Cool! I haven't seen him...(whispers)...wolf out...yet. I can't wait to see him in total wolf form.
Lori over hears Jordan talking to Merton. She walks sternly up to her, ready for action.
Lori: (grasping Jordan's neck, ever so firmly...) Who are you and what do you know about the Pleasantville werewolf?
Jordan: Whoa, Lori. Calm down. Tommy was right; you are a feisty one.
Lori: (removes hand from Jordan's neck confused.) What?
Merton: (excited) Lori. This is Tommy's cousin, Jordan Dawkins!
Lori: Really? (Jordan nods in assurance) So he told you?
Jordan: (proudly) I've know from the beginning.
Lori: Hmmm...I'm sorry about before, then.
Lori looks at Merton confused. Merton shrugs, as if to say he is just as confused as she.
Jordan: No prob. I understand.
Tommy returns from restroom.
Tommy: Nice Merton. (gives Merton a look of sarcastic appreciation.) Hey, Lori. Have you met Jordan?
Lori: Yes I have. And it's a pleasure, but I think you owe Merton and I some serious explaining.
Tommy: (confused) She's my cousin. What's there to explain?
Jordan: Tom, I think what they mean is, why weren't they informed that I knew about you?
Tommy: Oh...that. Right. (Lori and Merton wait patiently) Well guys, I mean she has known from the beginning.
Merton: (smacks Tommy) You said you wouldn't tell anyone else. You don't know who could get a hold of that information!
Jordan: Merton, its alright. I have never told another living soul. (puts arm around Tommy's neck) Tom's my buddy. He's my closet cousin and one of my best friends. I love him more than life itself and I worship the ground on which he walks. There is nothing I wouldn't do for this guy. I trust him with my life and he knows he can trust me the same. I would never betray a friend's confidence like that. Especially Tommy's.
Tommy: (nods smiling) And that's why I told her. I also needed her guidance when the transformation first happened. I knew she would believe me and at the time she was the only one I really trusted. I hardly knew you Merton. I was really confused, and Jordan was there when I needed her. She helped me a lot.
Lori: Well, I guess we can't argue with that. Right, Merton?
Merton: (sighing dreamily, looking at Jordan) Naw...I think we can trust her.
(smiles at her flirtingly, batting his eyes.)
Jordan: (grins back at Merton.) So, my first class is...(pulls out schedule)...literature, with Mrs. McNally. Any of you in that class.
Merton: (happily) Ooh, yes. That would be me!
Jordan: Awesome.
First bell rings
Merton: (holding out an arm for Jordan) Shall we?
Jordan: (taking arm) We shall. (smiles sweetly at Tommy and Lori.) Catch you two later.
Tommy & Lori Chorus: Bye!
(each go their separate ways; end of scene)
Scene 4:
(Jordan and Merton walk into a classroom. Cat calls and whistles are heard from various students, such as T-n-T and other jocks.)
Tim: Hey, Trav? Isn't that the infamous Jordan Dawkins?
Travis: Yes, little broskie, and my has she grown!
(Jordan bows sarcastically while Merton rolls his eyes annoyed at the male students, and takes a seat.)
Jordan: (walks to Mrs. McNally who is busy writing last minute notes to last weeks lecture) Hello, I'm Jordan Dawkins. I'm transferring from Philly. I will be in this class for the remainder of the year. (offers Mrs. McNally a hand to shake)
Mrs. McNally: (Shaking Jordan's offered hand) Oh yes! I am Mrs. McNally, and you are related to Thomas, is that correct?
Jordan: (politely) Yes, ma'am, it is.
Mrs. McNally: That is nice dear. You may take a seat wherever you please. I will have to get you a book tomorrow, but you may share with someone today.
Jordan: No problem. (turns and looks at the class. T-n-T gesture for Jordan to sit next to them. Other jocks do the same.) Sorry, fellas. I'm taken! (smiles and heads toward Merton who is sitting in the far right corner, with empty seats all around him. Jordan sits in front of him as he smiles at her.) Why are you by yourself? You should sit with your friends.
Merton: What friends? (looks down at his desk sadly)
Jordan: (realizing what she has said) Me! I'm glad you sat alone. That way we can sit by ourselves without the interruptions of stinky jocks and bubblegum cheerleaders. (winks and smiles sweetly, hopping to cheer him up.)
Merton: (perking up) Yeah, well. I don't like to be bothered when I'm with the lady folk. (smiles with a giddy expression.)
Jordan: (laughing) That is so sweet! (kisses his cheek and turns back around as the whole class begins to stare their way.)
Travis: Aww, JD. What are you doin' kissin' Dingle?
Tim: Yeah, I thought you were cool, bein' a Dawkins and all.
Jordan: (looks directly at them with attitude) To me, bein' "cool" isn't harassing the brilliant president of the Gothic Fantasy Guild, or disrespecting the teacher by interrupting her class (Mrs. McNally smiles in appreciation), while disrespecting a girl with cat calls and whistles when stepping into a room. T-n-T. Still the same couple of Bozo's I knew in elementary school. Thought you two would have grown up by now. Get a life fellas. When you find one, let me know and I just might let you acknowledge my bud Merton again. (Oh's, Ooh's, and comments such as "she burned you" and "she punked you" flutter the classroom as T-n-T look hurt.)
Merton: (over Jordan's shoulder) That was really cool. Thanks.
Jordan: (looking back, grabbing Merton's face, Jordan gently kissed his cheek again.)
(end of scene) (commercial break)
Scene 5:
The empty halls of Pleasantville High are shown, just before the last bell of the day is rung. As soon as the bell is heard, the halls quickly fill with students. Merton and Jordan stand at Merton's open locker.
Jordan: Thank you so much for letting me use your locker. Hugo said mine should be ready by the end of the week.
Merton: It's my pleasure. (he replies with a sexy grin)
Jordan: Have you seen Tommy? I wanted him to come over and help with some of the heavy furniture.
Merton: Usually he's here, but he left early. I didn't catch it all, but I think he was wolfing out. That happens quite often.
Jordan: (sadly) Oh...
Merton: I could come over...
Jordan: (grinning) Yeah? (Merton nods) Does heavy furniture bother you?
Merton: (unconfidently) Of course...not...
Jordan: (happily) Great!
Merton: (casually asking Jordan on a date) Afterward would you like to go to the Factory? I am supposed to meet Tommy and Lori there...so...(grinning nervously)
Jordan: That sounds like so much fun. I would love to join you. (emphasizing "you")
Merton: (nervous grin turns to a confident one) Do you need a ride home? (dangles keys in front of Jordan's face)
Jordan: (growing excited and wide-eyed) Do you still have the hearse?!
Merton: I sure do.
Jordan: (squealing) LETS GO!! (grabs Merton's arm and runs out of the building)
Scene 6:
Merton and Jordan walk up to the path toward Jordan's front door.
Merton: Isn't that funny? Your house is just across the street from mine.
Jordan: Isn't that funny? (smiles) Lets go in the house.
They continue to walk up the path and they reach the door. Jordan unlocks it and walks inside followed by Merton.
Jordan: Daddy! I'm home! (walks to the dinning room where her father sits doing some paper work) Hi, Daddy. (kisses his cheek hugging him) This is Merton.
Bill: Ah, yes I remember you. You were always so nice to Jordan and polite to me.
Merton: It's nice to see you again Mr. Dawkins. (holds out a hand to shake)
Bill: And you're still polite. (shakes his hand) Please, call me Bill.
Merton: Okay...Bill..
Bill: Where's Tommy? Didn't he want to see his old uncle?
Jordan: Of course he wants to see you Daddy. He just had a few obligations he had to attend to. So Merton said he would come over and help us.
Bill: Well, thanks Merton. We could use another hand.
Merton: (smiling) Anytime.
Jordan: I'm going to change into my sweats. I'll be right back.
Jordan runs upstairs and Bill talks to Merton about Jordan more personally.
Bill: So, Merton. I saw the way you were looking at my daughter.
Merton: (nervous and taken off guard) Oh sir, I didn't mean any disrespect what so ever. I think Jordan is a beautiful girl, and she has been nothing but sweet to me. I wouldn't dream of being disrespectful toward her or you for that matter.
Bill: (laughs) Don't worry about it Merton. I was simply saying that I think you have a crush on her. Don't you Merton?
Merton: (grinning) Actually, I do. I have since the first time I saw that long wavy brown hair blowing in the wind at recess while her green eyes shimmered in the sunlight. I always knew she was special.
Bill: Well then, I think you should let her know. She appreciates honesty, especially when it comes to feelings.
Merton: I don't know. I highly doubt she would like me back. It would just be to humiliating.
Bill: Well, my Jordan isn't the type to humiliate anyone. But it's up to you. It took me two years before I could even talk to her mother. Timing is everything. Just make sure the time is right when you decide to go for her.
Merton nods thinking about what Bill has said.
Jordan: (calls down) Merton, would you come up here and help me?
Merton: Coming right up! (jumps up)
Bill: Merton?
Merton: Yes?
Bill: Remember what I said.
Merton: I will. Thanks. (jogs up the stairs to meet Jordan)
(end scene)
Scene 7:
Jordan's bedroom
Jordan: I really appreciate you doing this for me. It's just my father and I now, so things are a little tough for us.
Merton: I understand. (nods briskly) Anything I can do to help, just gimme a holler.
Jordan: Could you hand me that lamp over there? (points to the lamp in the far corner)
Merton: (picks up the lamp and begins to carefully analyze it from top to bottom. The lampshade is shimmery silver with silver fringes and moon and star cut outs to make neat patterns of light beams on the wall. The base is black marble with an elegant hourglass figure.) Hey, this is cool. Did you order it from Fangoria?
Jordan: Yes, I did. I have a subscription and I love some of the collectibles they have.
Merton: (handing Jordan the lamp)Wow, me too. What a coincidence.
Jordan: (takes the lamp looking at it for a moment) I've always loved this lamp. It just stood out from the rest. I don't know why, but it always has. I was lucky to find it when I did. It was a special edition, so if anything happens to it, it will be impossible to replace. It's so beautiful. A lot of my old friends thought it was hideous. But my fashion sense was always different than theirs. I always thought of myself as having a more sophisticated style.
Merton: (nods again briskly) I've always thought that of myself as well.
Jordan proceeds to plug in the Fangoria lamp, but drops it and collapses when a lightning bolt from the outlet shocks her. Merton, without processing any thought, jumps to the rescue and saves Jordan's precious lamp from an untimely demise. He sets the lamp on the ground rushing to the unconscious Jordan.
Merton: Jordan?! (checks her pulse) Oh thank goodness, you're alive! Man was that ever weird...that certainly wasn't normal. (taking his right hand, he holds it about half an inch from Jordan's arm. The hair on her arm raises as the area between his hand and her arm begins to spark, as well as her finger tips.) Whoa! I'd better get her back to the lair. This is definitely a new one...
Merton wraps Jordan up in a jacket to keep the mysterious electricity under wraps. He bolts down the stairs yelling to Bill...
Merton: I'm taking Jordan to check out my lair. (trying his best to sound like Jordan, or at least a girl) I'll be home around 11, bye Daddy! (He rushes out the door, opens the passenger door of the hearse and sits Jordan down. He shuts the door and hops in the driver's side, starting the engine and roaring home...which is just across the street.)
(end of scene; commercial break)
Scene 8:
A shot of Merton's house is shown. And then the lair with Jordan lying on Merton's bed yet unconscious and Merton, Tommy and Lori hovering over her.
Tommy (V.O.): None of us were quite sure what happened to Jordan and I was really worried about her. I knew I could count on Merton though, to figure it out...
Tommy: So Merton, what do you know about this? Can we help her?
Merton: Well, I don't know much of anything yet. I need her to wake up first, so I can talk to her about it. I've tried everything from a cool washcloth to violent shaking.
(Tommy and Lori look at Merton shocked and mortified)
Lori: Merton, you shook her violently?!
Tommy: (smacks the back of Merton's head) What's the matter with you?!
Merton: (looking ashamed) I'm sorry. I'm just very frustrated and at a lose of what to do.
(Jordan wakes up slowly and peers at her hovering friends)
Jordan: (confused) What's going on, and were in the world am I?
Merton: You're in my lair, and you were somehow...shocked by a bolt of lightning from the outlet in your bedroom.
Jordan: (slightly embarrassed, sitting up) Oh, that. Yeah, that tends to happen sometimes...
Tommy: Are you telling us that's normal for you?
Jordan: Pretty much. I was hopping you guys could help me. I don't know what it is or where it came from. It's really creepy and I'm scarred of what it might do to someone. I mean, I could of hurt Merton if he were any closer.
Merton: Hey, don't worry. I'm fine, and I saved your lamp.
Jordan: My lamp?
Merton: The Fangoria one. You dropped it when you were shocked.
Jordan: Aw, Merton! Thank you so much. (hugging him) That is my favorite lamp and I don't know what I'd do if I broke it.
Merton hugs her tight, grinning cheekily from ear-to-ear.
Lori: Sorry to interrupt this Hallmark moment, but don't you think we should figure this out?
Merton: Lori's right, we should figure out what's wrong with you. That was quite a close call back there, wouldn't you say?
Jordan: Yeah, you're right. So where do we begin?
Merton: Well, when did this all begin?
Jordan: About a year ago, just before my seventeenth birthday. I blew up the VCR. Freaked me right the heck out...
(Tommy, Merton and Lori all stare at Jordan in awe)
Merton: Did anything else unusual happen around that time?
Jordan: No, not that I can recall.
Merton: (unsure) So, you just developed this uncontrollable electricity surge out of nowhere?
(Jordan nods)
Merton: This is just like the 2000 movie, X-Men, based on the Marvel Comics comic, the X-Men.
Lori: What happened?
Merton: Well, some say that the film didn't capture some of the characters quite the same way and was a let down to others because of the lack of a few main characters all together. But all-in-all it was a big hit, intelligent and creative.
Tommy: (smacks Merton upside the head) What happened in the movie?
Merton: (winces) Right...well, the X-Men are a band of youngsters who have developed mutated genes and are gifted with powers such as Jordan's. When first developed, it is impossible to control them, but with time and training, they are easily mastered and used for the good of mankind.
Jordan: So, once I master my new found mutation, I can help mankind? Kinda like Tommy?
Merton: Well, nothing like Tommy, he is a werewolf, and lycanthropes are much different. But you sure would be a help to us. A naturally electrocized ally, if you will.
Everyone stares at Merton
Chorus: What?
Merton: Never mind. Now what we need to do is find a way to help you control your gifts and learn to use them.
Jordan: Well, I find that when I get excited or upset or real emotional at all, it starts to act up...and then during a lightning storm, or sometimes when I'm by something electrical, especially an outlet, I will get zapped, or zap someone else. Sometimes it's not so bad. Other times, it knocks me unconscious. Like before. Luckily, the only time it has happened in front of anyone besides Merton, my dad just figured I ran into the brick wall of our house...
Tommy: I wolf out under pretty much any of those situations.
Merton: Yeah...Tommy, maybe you're leading onto something...(goes to his computer, searches for 'gene mutations') Okay...let's see here...it says that at first, when the gifts are unable to be controlled, they are sensitive to large amounts of emotional, mental and/or physical states.
Lori: Which means...
Merton: Which means, that under any of those situations, like Jordan suggested, the gifts... (air quotes)...reveal themselves.
Tommy: Okay, so once she can control her gifts they won't... (air quotes)...reveal themselves, under stressful situations?
Merton: According to genemutations.com, they won't. It also says that to begin training, you should be in a calming, relaxing place where you feel the most comfortable. All clothing should be natural, such as cotton, and they should be comfortable and have room to move, such as jogging pants and t-shirts.
Jordan: Right. But what exactly do we have to do? And can you all help me, or do I need help from another mutant?
Merton: Well, it says that normal mortals can help and I am assuming lycanthropes are fine, but it is a little bit more difficult.
Lori: I'm always up for a challenge. I'd love to help, Jordan.
Tommy: And you know I'm here for ya.
Merton: (confidently) And I'm always the brains behind it all...so I guess you need me...(grins)
Jordan: Thanks you guys. It means a lot. What do you say about a group hug?! (spreads arms, smiling)
Merton: (giggles, arms open) I'm always up for a group hug!
Tommy: (spreading arms, grabbing Jordan in one arm and Lori in the other) Me too!
Lori: Oh, who's got the garlic breath? (waves hand in front of face)
Merton: Sorry...I had a garlic on rye sandwich for lunch. The smell always tends to linger.
Everyone laughs and hugs Merton.
(end of scene) (commercial break)
Scene 9:
Merton's lair. Tommy, Lori and Merton are training with Jordan.
Tommy (V.O.): So, we got busy right away with Jordan's training. So far so good. She has her gifts under better control now, and sometimes uses them to her advantage...
Jordan lightly sends a soft bolt of electricity up Merton's spine. Merton jumps and giggles as it tingles his spine.
Tommy (V.O.): I think they like each other...how about you?
Scene 10:
The Factory. Jordan appears on stage singing, while Tommy and the gang sit in the front row cheering her on.
Tommy (V.O.): Well, it finally looks like the Factory found it's new local act. It's a good thing too, because I don't think anyone could stand to hear T-n-T sing one more David Hasselhoff tune...and Jordan is pretty darn good...
The song ends as the Factory explodes in a loud cheer of enthusiasm. Jordan takes a bow as the scene fades out.
Jordan Dawkins
By: Sarah Lane
Scene 1: Tommy's bedroom, evening. The Dawkins home is filled with the sound of the Simpson's playing from the family room T.V. and the phone ringing.
Dean: (annoyed) Hey, wanna answer that little bro? (laughs) Bart Simpson, you little scamp!
Tommy: (shouts down to Dean) Yeah, I got it Dean. (Quickly picks up the receiver of his baseball phone.) Hello?
Girl's voice: Hey, how's my favorite cousin?
Tommy: Jordan? Oh man, how are you? (Grabs a football from one of his many sports attired shelves. Begins to toss it around while sitting in a basketball beanbag chair.)
Jordan: Oh, I'm pretty good. I have some even better news...
Tommy: Yeah? What's up?
Jordan: My dad and I are moving back home to Pleasantville. We want to be closer to the family, now that moms gone. We especially want to be near you and Uncle Bob. I convinced dad that it would be best for me mentally, emotionally, physically and most important academically if I were back home with you.
Tommy: That's great! This is so awesome! I've missed you a lot and now you can finally meet Lori!
Jordan: Yeah, I can't wait. Let Merton know I'm coming okay?
Tommy: Sure, anything you want. Is there anything else I can do? Anything at all?
Jordan: (laughs) No, Tommy. But thank you. I have to go for now, but I will talk to you really soon. Oh, dad says 'hi!'
Tommy: Hey, Uncle Bill!
Jordan: Goodnight, Tom.
Tommy: Night, Jay.
(hang up) (end of scene)
Scene 2: Jordan's house, just after talking to Tommy. She begins to have sharp shooting pains from her elbows to her fingertips. The pain is agonizing and excruciating; a pain she has only recently been introduced too. She bends over in pain as her eyes well with tears.
Jordan: Oh, not again. Please no. (she runs into the bathroom, slams the door behind her locking it, and sits on the toilet, crying) What is wrong with me?! Tommy, I hope you guys can help me... (close up of her hands as her fingers begin to glow and spark like lightning bolts.)
(fade to opening credits)
Scene 3:
A shot of the outside of Pleasantville High is shown, early Monday morning just before the days start. Tommy and Merton are at their lockers talking of the weekend's activities at the Factory.
Tommy (V.O.): Merton's not the socially accepted type, which doesn't bother either of us much these days. So, we usually talk about the more unusual goings on in Pleasantville and he doesn't usually get into social activities having to do with the students of Pleasantville. There is the rare occasion however, when he does and it's kind of cool...
Tommy: I can't believe T-n-T were trying out for the Factory's new live band.
Merton: No, kidding. They sounded like you during flea season. Or worse, you when I'm giving you a flea dip during flea season.
Tommy: (smirks) Yeah, well I'd like to see YOU not squirm and howl if I give YOU a bath...
They look at each other for a brief, uncomfortable moment before quickly changing the subject.
Tommy: Oh, I forgot to tell you. My cousin called last night. She and my uncle are moving back to Pleasantville. I guess they want to be closer to the family now that my Aunt is gone.
Merton: Aww, that's so sad. What happened?
Tommy: Ah, she was a real flake and talk about your use of clichés. She ran off with their milkman...
Merton raises an eyebrow to that.
Tommy: I can't wait to see her. (grins) We go way back!
Merton: Tommy, maybe it's because she's your cousin.
Tommy: What?
Merton: What?
Tommy: Huh?
Merton: Huh?
Tommy: What are you talking about?
Merton: What are YOU talking about?
Tommy: (shrugs) I forgot...
Merton: Anyways...so which cousin is it? Do I know her? Have we met? (getting extremely excited) Is she...HOT?! (giggles)
Tommy: (smacks Merton) She's my cousin, Merton! C'mon!
Merton: Right. (calming down) Sorry.
Tommy: But, if she weren't my cousin, then she'd be really hot!
They both giggle.
Merton: When will she be here?
Tommy: (ponders) You know...she didn't say...
Tommy (V.O.): ...and then as usual, the occasion does a one eighty and goes back to the usual unusual...
Merton: (jaw drops) Jordan Dawkins? (points) You didn't tell me it was your cousin that I had a crush on in elementary school!
Tommy: (Turns to see his awaited cousin strolling toward them. Her long, curly, chestnut hair flowing behind, she sports knee high, black leather, 3inch heel boots, black pantyhose, a black mini skirt, a metallic purple sleeveless top and a black leather jacket. Tommy's jaw mimics Merton's.) Oh, my gosh! Jordan!
Jordan sees Tommy running toward her and she gallops toward him.
Jordan: (raises arms in the air) Ta daa! I'm home!
Tommy: (giving Jordan a warm hug) You didn't tell me you were coming home today!
Jordan: I wanted to surprise you!
Tommy: Well, I'm surprised! Hey do you wanna see Merton? I think he's a little excited to see you too...
Both turn to see Merton contently peeking at them from behind his open locker.
Jordan: I would love to see him again.
Both walk to Merton.
Jordan: Hey, Merton! Wow, you sure have grown up since 5th grade. (touches his hair) oooo...sexy...
Merton: (giggling nervously) Y-yeah...you've grown...too...heh!
Jordan: Nice threads. You've got great taste. I think our friendship is going to regrow pretty quickly. (lies right arm around Merton's neck facing Tommy.)
Merton: (smiling gaily) So, what brought you back to Pleasantville?
Tommy: Merton, I already told you... (stops in mid-sentence as Merton stomps on Tommy's foot, casually. Tommy quietly growls as his eyes begin to glow and he starts to wolf out. He runs into a nearby restroom to unwolf.)
Jordan: Cool! I haven't seen him...(whispers)...wolf out...yet. I can't wait to see him in total wolf form.
Lori over hears Jordan talking to Merton. She walks sternly up to her, ready for action.
Lori: (grasping Jordan's neck, ever so firmly...) Who are you and what do you know about the Pleasantville werewolf?
Jordan: Whoa, Lori. Calm down. Tommy was right; you are a feisty one.
Lori: (removes hand from Jordan's neck confused.) What?
Merton: (excited) Lori. This is Tommy's cousin, Jordan Dawkins!
Lori: Really? (Jordan nods in assurance) So he told you?
Jordan: (proudly) I've know from the beginning.
Lori: Hmmm...I'm sorry about before, then.
Lori looks at Merton confused. Merton shrugs, as if to say he is just as confused as she.
Jordan: No prob. I understand.
Tommy returns from restroom.
Tommy: Nice Merton. (gives Merton a look of sarcastic appreciation.) Hey, Lori. Have you met Jordan?
Lori: Yes I have. And it's a pleasure, but I think you owe Merton and I some serious explaining.
Tommy: (confused) She's my cousin. What's there to explain?
Jordan: Tom, I think what they mean is, why weren't they informed that I knew about you?
Tommy: Oh...that. Right. (Lori and Merton wait patiently) Well guys, I mean she has known from the beginning.
Merton: (smacks Tommy) You said you wouldn't tell anyone else. You don't know who could get a hold of that information!
Jordan: Merton, its alright. I have never told another living soul. (puts arm around Tommy's neck) Tom's my buddy. He's my closet cousin and one of my best friends. I love him more than life itself and I worship the ground on which he walks. There is nothing I wouldn't do for this guy. I trust him with my life and he knows he can trust me the same. I would never betray a friend's confidence like that. Especially Tommy's.
Tommy: (nods smiling) And that's why I told her. I also needed her guidance when the transformation first happened. I knew she would believe me and at the time she was the only one I really trusted. I hardly knew you Merton. I was really confused, and Jordan was there when I needed her. She helped me a lot.
Lori: Well, I guess we can't argue with that. Right, Merton?
Merton: (sighing dreamily, looking at Jordan) Naw...I think we can trust her.
(smiles at her flirtingly, batting his eyes.)
Jordan: (grins back at Merton.) So, my first class is...(pulls out schedule)...literature, with Mrs. McNally. Any of you in that class.
Merton: (happily) Ooh, yes. That would be me!
Jordan: Awesome.
First bell rings
Merton: (holding out an arm for Jordan) Shall we?
Jordan: (taking arm) We shall. (smiles sweetly at Tommy and Lori.) Catch you two later.
Tommy & Lori Chorus: Bye!
(each go their separate ways; end of scene)
Scene 4:
(Jordan and Merton walk into a classroom. Cat calls and whistles are heard from various students, such as T-n-T and other jocks.)
Tim: Hey, Trav? Isn't that the infamous Jordan Dawkins?
Travis: Yes, little broskie, and my has she grown!
(Jordan bows sarcastically while Merton rolls his eyes annoyed at the male students, and takes a seat.)
Jordan: (walks to Mrs. McNally who is busy writing last minute notes to last weeks lecture) Hello, I'm Jordan Dawkins. I'm transferring from Philly. I will be in this class for the remainder of the year. (offers Mrs. McNally a hand to shake)
Mrs. McNally: (Shaking Jordan's offered hand) Oh yes! I am Mrs. McNally, and you are related to Thomas, is that correct?
Jordan: (politely) Yes, ma'am, it is.
Mrs. McNally: That is nice dear. You may take a seat wherever you please. I will have to get you a book tomorrow, but you may share with someone today.
Jordan: No problem. (turns and looks at the class. T-n-T gesture for Jordan to sit next to them. Other jocks do the same.) Sorry, fellas. I'm taken! (smiles and heads toward Merton who is sitting in the far right corner, with empty seats all around him. Jordan sits in front of him as he smiles at her.) Why are you by yourself? You should sit with your friends.
Merton: What friends? (looks down at his desk sadly)
Jordan: (realizing what she has said) Me! I'm glad you sat alone. That way we can sit by ourselves without the interruptions of stinky jocks and bubblegum cheerleaders. (winks and smiles sweetly, hopping to cheer him up.)
Merton: (perking up) Yeah, well. I don't like to be bothered when I'm with the lady folk. (smiles with a giddy expression.)
Jordan: (laughing) That is so sweet! (kisses his cheek and turns back around as the whole class begins to stare their way.)
Travis: Aww, JD. What are you doin' kissin' Dingle?
Tim: Yeah, I thought you were cool, bein' a Dawkins and all.
Jordan: (looks directly at them with attitude) To me, bein' "cool" isn't harassing the brilliant president of the Gothic Fantasy Guild, or disrespecting the teacher by interrupting her class (Mrs. McNally smiles in appreciation), while disrespecting a girl with cat calls and whistles when stepping into a room. T-n-T. Still the same couple of Bozo's I knew in elementary school. Thought you two would have grown up by now. Get a life fellas. When you find one, let me know and I just might let you acknowledge my bud Merton again. (Oh's, Ooh's, and comments such as "she burned you" and "she punked you" flutter the classroom as T-n-T look hurt.)
Merton: (over Jordan's shoulder) That was really cool. Thanks.
Jordan: (looking back, grabbing Merton's face, Jordan gently kissed his cheek again.)
(end of scene) (commercial break)
Scene 5:
The empty halls of Pleasantville High are shown, just before the last bell of the day is rung. As soon as the bell is heard, the halls quickly fill with students. Merton and Jordan stand at Merton's open locker.
Jordan: Thank you so much for letting me use your locker. Hugo said mine should be ready by the end of the week.
Merton: It's my pleasure. (he replies with a sexy grin)
Jordan: Have you seen Tommy? I wanted him to come over and help with some of the heavy furniture.
Merton: Usually he's here, but he left early. I didn't catch it all, but I think he was wolfing out. That happens quite often.
Jordan: (sadly) Oh...
Merton: I could come over...
Jordan: (grinning) Yeah? (Merton nods) Does heavy furniture bother you?
Merton: (unconfidently) Of course...not...
Jordan: (happily) Great!
Merton: (casually asking Jordan on a date) Afterward would you like to go to the Factory? I am supposed to meet Tommy and Lori there...so...(grinning nervously)
Jordan: That sounds like so much fun. I would love to join you. (emphasizing "you")
Merton: (nervous grin turns to a confident one) Do you need a ride home? (dangles keys in front of Jordan's face)
Jordan: (growing excited and wide-eyed) Do you still have the hearse?!
Merton: I sure do.
Jordan: (squealing) LETS GO!! (grabs Merton's arm and runs out of the building)
Scene 6:
Merton and Jordan walk up to the path toward Jordan's front door.
Merton: Isn't that funny? Your house is just across the street from mine.
Jordan: Isn't that funny? (smiles) Lets go in the house.
They continue to walk up the path and they reach the door. Jordan unlocks it and walks inside followed by Merton.
Jordan: Daddy! I'm home! (walks to the dinning room where her father sits doing some paper work) Hi, Daddy. (kisses his cheek hugging him) This is Merton.
Bill: Ah, yes I remember you. You were always so nice to Jordan and polite to me.
Merton: It's nice to see you again Mr. Dawkins. (holds out a hand to shake)
Bill: And you're still polite. (shakes his hand) Please, call me Bill.
Merton: Okay...Bill..
Bill: Where's Tommy? Didn't he want to see his old uncle?
Jordan: Of course he wants to see you Daddy. He just had a few obligations he had to attend to. So Merton said he would come over and help us.
Bill: Well, thanks Merton. We could use another hand.
Merton: (smiling) Anytime.
Jordan: I'm going to change into my sweats. I'll be right back.
Jordan runs upstairs and Bill talks to Merton about Jordan more personally.
Bill: So, Merton. I saw the way you were looking at my daughter.
Merton: (nervous and taken off guard) Oh sir, I didn't mean any disrespect what so ever. I think Jordan is a beautiful girl, and she has been nothing but sweet to me. I wouldn't dream of being disrespectful toward her or you for that matter.
Bill: (laughs) Don't worry about it Merton. I was simply saying that I think you have a crush on her. Don't you Merton?
Merton: (grinning) Actually, I do. I have since the first time I saw that long wavy brown hair blowing in the wind at recess while her green eyes shimmered in the sunlight. I always knew she was special.
Bill: Well then, I think you should let her know. She appreciates honesty, especially when it comes to feelings.
Merton: I don't know. I highly doubt she would like me back. It would just be to humiliating.
Bill: Well, my Jordan isn't the type to humiliate anyone. But it's up to you. It took me two years before I could even talk to her mother. Timing is everything. Just make sure the time is right when you decide to go for her.
Merton nods thinking about what Bill has said.
Jordan: (calls down) Merton, would you come up here and help me?
Merton: Coming right up! (jumps up)
Bill: Merton?
Merton: Yes?
Bill: Remember what I said.
Merton: I will. Thanks. (jogs up the stairs to meet Jordan)
(end scene)
Scene 7:
Jordan's bedroom
Jordan: I really appreciate you doing this for me. It's just my father and I now, so things are a little tough for us.
Merton: I understand. (nods briskly) Anything I can do to help, just gimme a holler.
Jordan: Could you hand me that lamp over there? (points to the lamp in the far corner)
Merton: (picks up the lamp and begins to carefully analyze it from top to bottom. The lampshade is shimmery silver with silver fringes and moon and star cut outs to make neat patterns of light beams on the wall. The base is black marble with an elegant hourglass figure.) Hey, this is cool. Did you order it from Fangoria?
Jordan: Yes, I did. I have a subscription and I love some of the collectibles they have.
Merton: (handing Jordan the lamp)Wow, me too. What a coincidence.
Jordan: (takes the lamp looking at it for a moment) I've always loved this lamp. It just stood out from the rest. I don't know why, but it always has. I was lucky to find it when I did. It was a special edition, so if anything happens to it, it will be impossible to replace. It's so beautiful. A lot of my old friends thought it was hideous. But my fashion sense was always different than theirs. I always thought of myself as having a more sophisticated style.
Merton: (nods again briskly) I've always thought that of myself as well.
Jordan proceeds to plug in the Fangoria lamp, but drops it and collapses when a lightning bolt from the outlet shocks her. Merton, without processing any thought, jumps to the rescue and saves Jordan's precious lamp from an untimely demise. He sets the lamp on the ground rushing to the unconscious Jordan.
Merton: Jordan?! (checks her pulse) Oh thank goodness, you're alive! Man was that ever weird...that certainly wasn't normal. (taking his right hand, he holds it about half an inch from Jordan's arm. The hair on her arm raises as the area between his hand and her arm begins to spark, as well as her finger tips.) Whoa! I'd better get her back to the lair. This is definitely a new one...
Merton wraps Jordan up in a jacket to keep the mysterious electricity under wraps. He bolts down the stairs yelling to Bill...
Merton: I'm taking Jordan to check out my lair. (trying his best to sound like Jordan, or at least a girl) I'll be home around 11, bye Daddy! (He rushes out the door, opens the passenger door of the hearse and sits Jordan down. He shuts the door and hops in the driver's side, starting the engine and roaring home...which is just across the street.)
(end of scene; commercial break)
Scene 8:
A shot of Merton's house is shown. And then the lair with Jordan lying on Merton's bed yet unconscious and Merton, Tommy and Lori hovering over her.
Tommy (V.O.): None of us were quite sure what happened to Jordan and I was really worried about her. I knew I could count on Merton though, to figure it out...
Tommy: So Merton, what do you know about this? Can we help her?
Merton: Well, I don't know much of anything yet. I need her to wake up first, so I can talk to her about it. I've tried everything from a cool washcloth to violent shaking.
(Tommy and Lori look at Merton shocked and mortified)
Lori: Merton, you shook her violently?!
Tommy: (smacks the back of Merton's head) What's the matter with you?!
Merton: (looking ashamed) I'm sorry. I'm just very frustrated and at a lose of what to do.
(Jordan wakes up slowly and peers at her hovering friends)
Jordan: (confused) What's going on, and were in the world am I?
Merton: You're in my lair, and you were somehow...shocked by a bolt of lightning from the outlet in your bedroom.
Jordan: (slightly embarrassed, sitting up) Oh, that. Yeah, that tends to happen sometimes...
Tommy: Are you telling us that's normal for you?
Jordan: Pretty much. I was hopping you guys could help me. I don't know what it is or where it came from. It's really creepy and I'm scarred of what it might do to someone. I mean, I could of hurt Merton if he were any closer.
Merton: Hey, don't worry. I'm fine, and I saved your lamp.
Jordan: My lamp?
Merton: The Fangoria one. You dropped it when you were shocked.
Jordan: Aw, Merton! Thank you so much. (hugging him) That is my favorite lamp and I don't know what I'd do if I broke it.
Merton hugs her tight, grinning cheekily from ear-to-ear.
Lori: Sorry to interrupt this Hallmark moment, but don't you think we should figure this out?
Merton: Lori's right, we should figure out what's wrong with you. That was quite a close call back there, wouldn't you say?
Jordan: Yeah, you're right. So where do we begin?
Merton: Well, when did this all begin?
Jordan: About a year ago, just before my seventeenth birthday. I blew up the VCR. Freaked me right the heck out...
(Tommy, Merton and Lori all stare at Jordan in awe)
Merton: Did anything else unusual happen around that time?
Jordan: No, not that I can recall.
Merton: (unsure) So, you just developed this uncontrollable electricity surge out of nowhere?
(Jordan nods)
Merton: This is just like the 2000 movie, X-Men, based on the Marvel Comics comic, the X-Men.
Lori: What happened?
Merton: Well, some say that the film didn't capture some of the characters quite the same way and was a let down to others because of the lack of a few main characters all together. But all-in-all it was a big hit, intelligent and creative.
Tommy: (smacks Merton upside the head) What happened in the movie?
Merton: (winces) Right...well, the X-Men are a band of youngsters who have developed mutated genes and are gifted with powers such as Jordan's. When first developed, it is impossible to control them, but with time and training, they are easily mastered and used for the good of mankind.
Jordan: So, once I master my new found mutation, I can help mankind? Kinda like Tommy?
Merton: Well, nothing like Tommy, he is a werewolf, and lycanthropes are much different. But you sure would be a help to us. A naturally electrocized ally, if you will.
Everyone stares at Merton
Chorus: What?
Merton: Never mind. Now what we need to do is find a way to help you control your gifts and learn to use them.
Jordan: Well, I find that when I get excited or upset or real emotional at all, it starts to act up...and then during a lightning storm, or sometimes when I'm by something electrical, especially an outlet, I will get zapped, or zap someone else. Sometimes it's not so bad. Other times, it knocks me unconscious. Like before. Luckily, the only time it has happened in front of anyone besides Merton, my dad just figured I ran into the brick wall of our house...
Tommy: I wolf out under pretty much any of those situations.
Merton: Yeah...Tommy, maybe you're leading onto something...(goes to his computer, searches for 'gene mutations') Okay...let's see here...it says that at first, when the gifts are unable to be controlled, they are sensitive to large amounts of emotional, mental and/or physical states.
Lori: Which means...
Merton: Which means, that under any of those situations, like Jordan suggested, the gifts... (air quotes)...reveal themselves.
Tommy: Okay, so once she can control her gifts they won't... (air quotes)...reveal themselves, under stressful situations?
Merton: According to genemutations.com, they won't. It also says that to begin training, you should be in a calming, relaxing place where you feel the most comfortable. All clothing should be natural, such as cotton, and they should be comfortable and have room to move, such as jogging pants and t-shirts.
Jordan: Right. But what exactly do we have to do? And can you all help me, or do I need help from another mutant?
Merton: Well, it says that normal mortals can help and I am assuming lycanthropes are fine, but it is a little bit more difficult.
Lori: I'm always up for a challenge. I'd love to help, Jordan.
Tommy: And you know I'm here for ya.
Merton: (confidently) And I'm always the brains behind it all...so I guess you need me...(grins)
Jordan: Thanks you guys. It means a lot. What do you say about a group hug?! (spreads arms, smiling)
Merton: (giggles, arms open) I'm always up for a group hug!
Tommy: (spreading arms, grabbing Jordan in one arm and Lori in the other) Me too!
Lori: Oh, who's got the garlic breath? (waves hand in front of face)
Merton: Sorry...I had a garlic on rye sandwich for lunch. The smell always tends to linger.
Everyone laughs and hugs Merton.
(end of scene) (commercial break)
Scene 9:
Merton's lair. Tommy, Lori and Merton are training with Jordan.
Tommy (V.O.): So, we got busy right away with Jordan's training. So far so good. She has her gifts under better control now, and sometimes uses them to her advantage...
Jordan lightly sends a soft bolt of electricity up Merton's spine. Merton jumps and giggles as it tingles his spine.
Tommy (V.O.): I think they like each other...how about you?
Scene 10:
The Factory. Jordan appears on stage singing, while Tommy and the gang sit in the front row cheering her on.
Tommy (V.O.): Well, it finally looks like the Factory found it's new local act. It's a good thing too, because I don't think anyone could stand to hear T-n-T sing one more David Hasselhoff tune...and Jordan is pretty darn good...
The song ends as the Factory explodes in a loud cheer of enthusiasm. Jordan takes a bow as the scene fades out.