**DISCLAIMER**This is a FanFic continuation of The Blacklist Season 3 after Ep. 8. and a plotbunny diving into what could happen with ep 9-10 and the rest of the season. The original characters are the sole property of NBC, Sony, Davis entertainment, and Jon Bokenkamp. Any new characters or plot ideas created are purely coincidental. This fan-fiction is for entertainment purposes only. The story is written in a transcript format deliberately so the reader can use their own imagination.

Post Office Blacksite.

[Ressler along with handpicked FBI agents, escort Liz into the building. Appearing like she's on death row, Liz takes the long walk to the protective box where FBI officers unchain her. Ressler gazes at her long, and hard through the glass as the doors seal shut.]

[Unable to take her wounded blue eyes off her former partner, Liz sits in the steel chair and sighs.]

Liz: "Well this is ironic. And it only took three years."

[A tongue-tied Ressler tries to reason with his prisoner.]

Ressler: "I'm doing this for your own good, Keen. As long as you're in there nobody can get to you because I'm the only one who has the code."

Liz: "The only way I'll be protected is for Karakurt to confess."

Ressler: [Shakes his head.] "We haven't been able to locate Karakurt."

Liz: [Without a beat.] "Tom did."

Ressler: [Tense] "Tom?"

Liz: "That's why he called me. Cooper hired Tom to find Karakurt and he is willing to confess to everything."

Ressler: [thrown] "Cooper never told me."

Liz: "I'm not surprised. Aram told me Tom came to you for help, and you turned him down."

Ressler: "Tom Keen is a murderer, Liz! How can you even trust him after everything he's done to you?"

Liz: "How can I trust you? I begged you to back off so I could clear my name! That's all I was trying to do!"

Ressler: "And look what happened? You killed the attorney General and shot an undercover cop!"

[The shame is all over Liz' face.]

Liz: "I didn't [long beat] I thought"[cuts off]

Ressler: "You thought what? That he was part of the Cabal? He was just doing his job, Liz![Beat] Bringing in a criminal! That's what we do, remember? The longer you remained out there, you would've been killed. Its a good thing I got to you when I did!"

Liz: [cold] "Thanks to Samar for telling you where I was."

Ressler: [Frustrated] "You think I wanted this? You put me in this position! You think it was easy for me to arrest you? [long beat] It kills me to see you in there."

[Liz, crushed by his words.]

Liz: "You're right."

[Ressler surprised by her reaction.]

Liz: "It is my fault. I don't know how things got so crazy. One minute I was one of the good guys doing my job, going after the bad guys, and the next minute, I'm now the criminal. I never wanted any of this."

Ressler: "I'll call Cooper and see if we can get a plea deal for Karakurt's confession."

Ressler turns to leave.

Liz: "Ressler."

[Ressler turns around.]

Liz: "You're angry with me because you let me go and I betrayed that trust by killing the Attorney General. That's what this is about, isn't it?"

[Ressler braces his hips, looks at the floor.]

Ressler: "We were partners, Keen. When you were in trouble with the Harbormaster, I covered for you. When Tom Keen attacked you I was there to help you pick up the pieces. I even went to Germany with Reddington to bring him Back! You reached out to everyone except me [beat] How do you think that makes me feel?"

Liz: "I saw the way you looked at me at the Russian Embassy. I know what you think [beat], the daughter of a Russian KGB agent. A traitor. I represent everything you hate."

Ressler: [hurt] "Trying to profile me Keen? Once again, not even close. You were framed, and I will do everything in my power to help clear your name. I will keep you safe, I promise."

[Liz watches him walk away.]

###

War Room

[Ressler feeling low passes Aram at his workstation.]

Aram: "Is Agent Keen all right?"

Ressler: "Yeah, she's fine. Has Reven Wright called?"

Aram: "No word. When are you transferring her to the courthouse?"

Ressler: "As soon as Reven calls. In the meantime, I need to go off site. I'm leaving you in charge. Keep an eye on her."

Aram: [cold] "Yes, sir, anything else?"

Ressler: "Look, Aram, I know you're upset about me letting go of Samar."

Aram: "Agent Ressler, I understand why you did it. But I also understand the circumstances around it. Now if you don't want my personal opinion, I suggest that you don't pry any further."

Ressler: [tense] "The only thing that matters to me, is Agent Keen's safety. Are we in agreement about that?"

[Aram nods]

Aram: "Perfectly [beat] sir."

[Ressler stung, gets on the service elevator.]

###

Lake Yvonne Cabin.

[Cooper, Tom and Charlene are held up inside, with Karakurt.]

[Wiping his brow, Tom stares at Cooper.]

Tom: "How much longer do we have to sit here?"

Charlene: "Good question. Harold?"

[Cooper still wounded by his wife's confession and the wound in his side, glances at the TV and sees Liz in custody.]

Cooper: "Keen."

VO- "In an astonishing turn of events, FBI Agent Elizabeth Keen, who authorities pronounced dead a few weeks ago was arrested by the federal officers in a small town outside of Virginia. We will keep you posted."

Tom: [horrified] "See that, your Dudley do right just arrested Liz! Tell me again why we should trust him? If Liz stays one minute in custody, they will kill her!"

[Phone rings. Cooper picks up]

Ressler: "Sir it's me. I have Keen in custody."

Cooper: "It was just on the news."

[Ressler shakes his head driving in the car.]

Ressler: "Dammit, the sheriff's dept told me it would be under the radar."

Cooper: "What about Reddington?"

Ressler: No he's still at large for now, probably plotting to get Liz out. She told me about Karakurt. Why didn't you tell me?"

Cooper: "I tried to discuss it with you yesterday but the minute you saw Tom Keen-"

Ressler: "Where are you? I went to your home, and the place is deserted."

Cooper: "The Cabal had a tracking device planted inside Karakurt's chest, but we removed it. We are at our neighbor's cabin in Lake Yvonne, three miles from the highway. 19024 Birmingham Way."

Ressler: "Got it, I'm on my way up there now."

Cooper: "Where's Keen?"

Ressler: "I put her inside the box. Aram is there. I'm trying to get ahold of Reven Wright, she was supposed to meet up with me after speaking to Laurel Hitchens regarding Solomon."

Cooper: "Solomon?"

Ressler: "Mattias Solomon. He's a former operative of the CIA and working with the Director to kill Keen and Reddington."

Cooper: "He must be the one who sent an extraction team after us."

Ressler: "Reven was supposed to speak to Laurel Hitchen about it and I haven't spoke to her since. I need her authorization to transport Keen to the courthouse."

Cooper: "I'll make a call and see what I can do. Donald, I am sorry for the secrecy. I just wanted to protect you from all this. The sooner we can make the plea deal, we can exonerate Keen."

Ressler: "That's all that matters, Sir."

###

[Outside, the city limits, Solomon pretending to be a friend of the Cooper's meets up with the neighbor's wife asking about the photograph, and plants the seed in her mind. She explains that is their cabin up at Lake Yvonne.]

###

[The Director meets with Laurel Hitchens inside his office.]

Laurel: "Now that Agent Ressler has Agent Keen in custody, what are we going to do about Cooper?"

The Director: "Solomon has sent an extraction team to retrieve Karakurt. This will be all over soon."

Laurel: "It better, Peter. Our associates are none too pleased. What about Raymond Reddington? I have only a limited amount of time before the president steps in. This whole thing could blow sky high. If you cannot deliver what you promised [beat] there's nothing I can do."

The Director: "Is that a threat?"

[Laurel Hitchen heads for the door.]

Laurel: "No. It's an order."

###

[Reddington meets with Agent Navabi in secret.]

Reddington: "Agent Navabi A little birdie told me that you're no longer part of the task force."

Navabi: "You provided me with the truth about my brother. I owed you for that. Unfortunately some decisions have consequences. Ressler fired me for helping Liz."

Reddington: "I'm truly sorry. Agent Ressler is all about principle and loyalty, and you demonstrated where yours lie."

Navabi: "I had no choice. I'm sorry."

Reddington: "Its fixable as long as you can help me with one little thing."

###

[Reddington inside his black Mercedes with the waiter Raphael. Raphael notices the helicopter land.]

Raphael: "He is waiting for you."

[Reddington exits and makes his way toward the 911 observation site.]

Reddington: "Thank you for meeting me. [Reddington hands Ira a decorative wood box filled with exotic fruit.] A token of my appreciation. Dragons Eggs. The professors at Ben-Gurion created a masterpiece cross breeding this delicate, but deadly beauty."

Ira: "You gave me Hassan, that deserves at least a response."

Reddington: "I think it deserves more than a response."

Ira: "Not when you're reputation is in question. Word is that you've been compromised by the Feds. How am I to trust what you say to me is true?"

[Reddington hands him a file.]

Reddington: "The Director is skimming the till, and making some shady business decisions that threaten our mutual business arrangements. Our friend Roger Hobbs paid the price. He is a liability."

Ira:"You are a liability. I told you. You're exposed all because of Elizabeth Keen. You're connection to this girl, is the risk."

Reddington: "She is a pawn in the Director's rigged chess match. All the players have no faces, no loyalties, and all the winners lose. I think that file will pique your interest as to why."

[Agent Navabi snaps pictures of Reddington's meeting with a telephoto lens.]

[Ira skims the file, appears stunned then closes it.] "Where did you get this?"

Reddington smiles. "From the Director's safety deposit box. The threat is real Ira. If he is not stopped, we are looking at another attack on American soil and the implications are cataclysmic. I don't think The Director serves anyone's interests let alone Israel's do you?"

Ira: [over a barrel] "What do you want?"

Reddington: Elizabeth Keen exonerated on all charges, and the Director removed. That leaves Kenneth Jasper to contend with, and puts you in an enviable position."

Ira: "I'll be in touch."

[Ira heads to his helicopter, makes a phone call.]

Ira: "We have a problem."

###

The Post Office.

[Aram running a search while sweater vest watches.]

Aram: [confused] "This can't be right. Where are the protocols for Agent Keen's transport to the federal courthouse? [Aram looks at sweater vest enter the building] What are you doing here?"

Sweater vest: "In light of Deputy Attorney General Wright's absence, Ms. Hitchen has signed off on the transfer per the Director."

Aram: [Stunned.] "The Director? But Agent Ressler said she's to remain here…"

Sweater vest: [grinning] "Change of plans."

[Aram disturbed.]

###

[Ressler arrives at the cabin. He enters shocked to see Karakurt with Tom Keen.]

Ressler: "That's not Karakurt."

Tom: "About time you got here you prick! You arrested Liz? Wow, big man. Now because he's the boss, he makes all the decisions."

[Ressler shoves him.]

Ressler: "I am not getting into this with you right now."

[Tom shoves back.]

Tom: "Oh yeah?"

Cooper: "Enough! All that matters is getting Karakurt safely back to DC."

Ressler: "That isn't him!"

Cooper: "Yes, it is. Karakurt has had extensive surgery.

[He hands Ressler Karakurt's FBI file Ressler skims it.]

Ressler: "So this is why you took the job to work at the CJIS. [He closes the file; trying to control his temper] How could you lie to me?"

Cooper: "I was trying to protect you. I figured if we could find Karakurt, we could clear Keen's name."

Ressler: "Protect me from what? And you trusted him of all people?"

Tom: "Unlike you I will do anything to protect Liz."

[Ressler holds his temper glares at Karakurt.]

Ressler: "How did you infect Agent Keen with the virus?"

Karakurt: "Union Station."

Ressler: "So it was you."

Cooper: "No it wasn't. Connolly ordered me to tell you and Keen to go to Union Station. Karakurt was at his apartment. Leboeoff dressed as Karakurt, knocked her down and infected her."

Ressler: "You're willing to make a deal?"

Karakurt: "I am an enemy of Russia. You need me to clear Agent Keen. I deal."

Ressler: "You don't have many options, pal."

Karakurt: "Neither do you Agent Ressler."

Cooper: "Agent Ressler, were you able to get a hold of Reven Wright?"

Ressler: "No, you?"

Cooper: "Not a word. Something's off I've known Reven for 20 years, she would not drop something of this magnitude."

Ressler: "What about Laurel Hitchen?"

Cooper: "She may be the president's advisor, but she is chummy with the Director.

[Phone rings]

Ressler: Aram what is it?"

Aram: "You are not going to believe this but all the protocols you put in place, have been rescinded."

[Ressler stunned.]

Ressler: "By whom?"

Aram: "Laurel Hitchen and she's put the Director in charge. I don't like this; sweater vest is back in here per authorization by Hitchen. This is bad bad bad."

Ressler: "Agent Keen?"

Aram: "Still in the box. What do you want me to do?"

Ressler: "Watch her and keep me posted. I'm on my way."

Aram: "Understood."

Ressler: "All the protocols I put in place for Keen's safety with Reven are now being done through Laurel Hitchen. What is happening?"

Cooper: "The Cabal."

[Fear creeps into Ressler's eyes.]

Cooper: "Donald, Its time to trust your instincts."

[Outside the cabin. Solomon sees the perfect opportunity to barricade it. He fires in tear gas then an explosive device.]

[Ressler drops for cover as Tom picks up his gun. The two cover the house along with Cooper and start shooting. Firefight picks up in the kitchen, leaving Ressler to take out three of the men, and Tom four but Solomon gets away.]

Ressler: "Here! [Hands Tom handcuffs] Get him to a safe place, I'll do the rest."

Tom: "What about Liz? She's a sitting duck in that place thanks to you! If anything happens to her…"

Ressler: "Nothing's going to happen to her! You have my word! [Looks at Cooper] Let's go!"

Charlene: "Harold-" [cuts off]

Cooper: "Its all right Charlene."

Charlene: "We need to talk!"

Ressler: "There's no time. We need to get karakurt back to DC before the Cabal reaches him.[Looks at Tom] That means you too!"

Tom: "Im not going anywhere with you."

Ressler: "Then its your funeral because I'm taking Karakurt, Cooper and Charlene with me. Now do you want to help Liz or not?"

[Tom grits his teeth and enters the escalade. Ressler drives.]

###

[Reddington and Navabi]

Navabi: "So he's the one who has my brother."

Reddington: "Yes. Whether he keeps him alive, I am not certain. But at least you have something to go on.

Navabi: "Thank You."

Reddington: "Ira is the key to dismantling the Director over seas, and in DC. The last thing he will want is Israel attacked."

Navabi: "I'll call my contacts at Mossad and see what I can do. I am truly sorry about Liz."

Reddington: "Well perhaps there is something that you can do."

Navabi: "What is it that you need?"

Reddington: "Access to the FBI's evidence vault."

Navabi: "Only way to gain access to evidence is through a crime scene investigation."

Reddington: "Yes, I know. You'll find one about three hundred feet in six hours."

###

The Post Office.

[Aram at his workstation shocked to see Hitchen and the Director entering the building.]

Aram: "Oh no."

The Director: "Agent Motjitabi, where is Agent Ressler?"

Aram: "Ah, he is off site locating Reven Wright."

Hitchen: "I see. Well that won't be necessary because I am here. Due to the delicacy of this situation, the CIA will be taking over Agent Keen's transport to the federal courthouse."

Aram: "Ah, well…"

Hitchen: "Is there a problem Agent Motjitabi?"

Aram: "Agent Ressler has the authorization code to release Agent Keen."

Hitchen: "Well get him on the phone please. Tell him that's a direct order."

[Aram stares at both of them as they head down to Liz. Panic stricken, he gets on the phone.]

###

Tom's Boat. [Ressler, Cooper, Charlene, and Tom secure Karakurt.]

Tom: "Okay, now what?"

Ressler: "We keep him here until I get Liz to the federal courthouse. Once she is secure, we bring in Karakurt. No one will know he has him here."

Cooper: "Good plan."

Charlene: "Harold when can we go home?"

Ressler: "I've arranged security, to take you home. You'll be safe."

Cooper: "Thank you."

[Ressler nods. Still wounded by Cooper's betrayal as they Cooper and Charlene leave.]

Ressler: "I need to get back. [Looks at Tom] Wait for my signal."

Tom: "Well I'll be damn. Agent Ressler isn't so squeaky clean after all. Working around the law, this is highly irregular."

Ressler: "I'm doing my job."

[Tom secures Karakurt.]

Tom: "No you're doing this for Liz [beat] and we both know why, don't we?"

Ressler: "She's my partner, and she's innocent. And she deserves a hell of a lot better than you."

Tom: "Oh and let me guess, like someone like you? [Ressler fuming, turns around and shoves Tom] Looks like I hit a nerve."

[He leaves the boat and heads for his escalade. Phone Rings]

Ressler: "Ressler?

Aram: "The Director is here with Laurel Hitchen. She said Attorney General Wright is indisposed for the rest of the day, and The Director will be looking over Agent Keen's transport. She wants the code."

[Ressler shaken turns on the vehicle]

Ressler: "She put that son of a bitch in charge? No!"

Aram: "Ah, let me see if I got this right. You want me to disobey a direct order? Are you sure you are Agent Ressler?"

Ressler: "Aram we have a breach! Stall and tell them that you could not get in touch with me. Did you get a hold of Reddington?"

Aram: "Not yet. But I think I know how."

Ressler: "Tell him, I need [long beat] his help.

###

Navabi: "Agent Navabi?"

Aram: "Hi ah…"

Navabi: "Aram?"

Aram: "I need to speak to Mr. Reddington. Agent Keen is in danger."

Navabi: "Is there something I can do to help?"

Aram [shrugs] "I don't think so." [Hangs up]

[Navabi [crushed] uses her contacts to release Dembe and get Reddington inside the evidence vault. He grabs the care package, as Navabi springs Dembe.]

Navabi: "Aram called he said it is urgent. Its about Liz."

Reddington: hangs up and dials. "Aram what is the status with Agent Keen?"

Aram: "Mr. Reddington, we've got a serious emergency here. Agent Ressler called. He said there's been a breach, and he needs your help in protecting Agent Keen."

Reddington: "Is the Director there?"

[Aram glares at the Director.]

Aram: "Yes, he is. But he can't get to Agent Keen."

Reddington: "How do you know that?"

Aram: "Because Agent Ressler has her inside the protective box."

Reddington: "Aram the Director doesn't care about protocols. He is there for one reason only and that is to kill Agent Keen. Whatever you do, don't leave him alone with her."

Reddington: hangs up and dials his phone.

Ressler: "Ressler?"

Reddington: "You need to get her out of there, now."

Ressler: "Without the code, the Director can't touch her."

Reddington: "Donald this is not a coincidence that all your provisions to keep Elizabeth safe, have vanished into thin air. I respect your volition on doing things by the book but this is not the time to trust the system. The Director has one agenda-preventing Elizabeth from talking. I cannot stress this enough. This is all in your hands. The Cabal will come for her. If they reach her, it will be the last time you ever see Elizabeth again."

[Rattled, Ressler steps on the gas.]

###

[Aram watches the Director confront Liz.]

The Director: "Agent Keen, at last we meet again. Comfy? It appears Agent Ressler doesn't seem to trust anyone with your safety."

Liz: "Agent Ressler has incredible instincts. He knew that you would try to take me that is why he put me in here."

[The Director laughs.]

The Director: "A person of Agent Ressler's caliber wouldn't think twice about defending A Russian Spy who murdered the Attorney General Of the United States."

Liz: "I am not a spy and you damn well know it!"

The Director: "That's what you told the Russian Embassy. Masha Rostova, a covert operative for the FSB."

Liz: "You're the terrorist not me! You tried to kill Reddington, you killed Senator Hawkins, and are responsible for the Orea Bombing!"

The Director: "Hm that's quite a story. And where does Tom Connolly fit into all this? Do you have any idea what we do to traitors in our country? [The Director motions to Sweater vest to turn on a switch. Liz at first notices she's having trouble breathing.] Unfortunately, we cannot seem to locate Agent Ressler, so I am now in charge."

Liz: "What have you done to him?" [Liz coughs] Transport will be here within the hour, if you can stand it."

Liz: "Aram! I can't…I can't breathe!"

[The Director Smirks]

The Director: "Oh dear. It appears Agent Ressler is the only one with the access code to let you out…and he isn't here."

[He walks away with Aram staring at Liz.]

Aram: "Agent Keen! Agent Keen! Oh God no!"

[Liz collapses to the floor.]

###

The Jene II Tom's Boat.

[Tom watching a handcuffed Karakurt.]

Karakurt: "So, you got plan for when this is over?"

Tom: [smirks] "Yeah I rescue the girl and live happily ever. You on the other hand" [Tom drags his finger across his neck.]

Karakurt: [chuckling] "You funny comedian. You killed Charlie. They will be coming for you."

Tom: "You think Charlie Volkin's gang scares me?"

Karakurt: "Cartel to a higher operation. They won't scare you. They'll kill you [beat] or your girl."

###

[Dembe meets up with Reddington in a safe house.]

Reddington: "Lizzy is in trouble. We need to act now."

###

War Room.

[Ressler gets off the elevator and spies the Director heading upstairs. He sneaks past him and sprints to Liz using the stairwell.]

[Aram frantic races toward sweater vest.]

Aram: "Turn it back on!"

Sweater vest: "I'm sorry that is not possible."

[Aram desperate pulls his gun.] "Turn it back on or so help me I'll put this bullet in between your argyle!"

[Sweater vest does what he's told checking the oxygen levels…he turns them back on, but Liz is not responding.]

Aram: "Agent keen, can you hear me? [Pounds on the glass. Liz doesn't move.] She's not moving!"

[Sweater vest tries to contact the director Aram locks his gun.]

Aram: "Do something before she dies!"

[Ressler sees Liz collapsed inside, and Aram holding sweater vest at gunpoint.

Ressler: "Oh my God!"

Aram: "They cut off her oxygen supply now she's unconscious. I need the code?"

Ressler: "Its Keen's name! [Ressler pounds on the glass] Liz!"

[Aram types in the code. In horror, Ressler unhinges slowly, desperation on his face, trying to get to her, flashes back to Tanida shooting Audrey. As the doors, finally open he jumps into action, giving her mouth-to-mouth, CPR.]

Ressler: "How long has she been unconscious?"

Aram: "A few minutes…"

Ressler: "That's too long! Liz stay with me…Liz…[He begins CPR.] "One, one thousand two one thousand three…[growing desperate gives mouth to mouth again.] "God what have I done? Aram call paramedics!"

[Close up of Liz' face.]

FTB

Scene opens on

Tom's Boat

[Tom taken aback by Karakurt's warning.]

Tom: "You threatening me?"

Karakurt: "You got blood on your hands."

Tom: "Yeah, well they don't know what I am capable of. If they even try to look at Liz, I'll kill them."

Karakurt: "You won't see it coming."

[Tom ready to lose it.]

Karakurt: "Neither will your ex-wife."

###

[Aram running down the stairs.]

Aram: "Paramedics are on their way."

Ressler: [frantic] "Liz, don't leave me please!" [He gives her oxygen again…suddenly Liz starts coughing. Relief in his eyes, Ressler cradles her as Liz gasps for air.]

[Aram in tears looks on.]

Aram: "Thank you God."

Ressler: [Emotional] "I got ya hon. You're safe [beat] and I'm never leaving you out of my sight again."

[Liz Coughing…clings to Ressler.]

Aram: "What do we do now?"

Ressler: "We get her the hell out of here."

Aram: "How? The Director is upstairs."

[Ressler looks up at the stairs wondering what move he should make next.]

###

[Reddington inside the car.]

[Phone rings]

Reddington: [listens on phone]

[Ressler taking a deep, breath, answers.]

Ressler: "I got her, she's okay. But the director is upstairs. I need a diversion to get her out of here."

Reddington: "I need you to do exactly as I say no matter how unorthodox it sounds."

[Ressler looks at Liz concerned]

###

[Paramedics placing an oxygen mask over Liz face, doing CPR as the Director watches.]

Paramedic: "Clear!" [Paddles zap. No response. Paramedic drapes sheet over her face.] "I'm sorry, we did everything we could."

[Ressler and Aram feign mourning, put on a show for the Director.]

[They escort Liz out of the building past the Director. They load her into a van as the Director watches in horror, demanding answers.]

The Director: "Agent Motjitabi what's going on?"

Aram: "Someone cut Agent Keen's oxygen supply inside the protective box. Any tampering of federal equipment is a federal crime. [Aram points to sweater vest] He! Is responsible! Agent Keen is dead."

Sweatervest: "He held me at gunpoint! I want him arrested!

The Director: [Looks over at Ressler] "Oh, what a shame. Perhaps you should've given me the code, Agent Ressler. At least Agent Motjitabi wouldn't be going to jail, and Agent Keen would still be breathing. I'm writing you up pending review."

The Director: [looks at the paramedics and FBI agents.] "Where are you taking Keen's body?"

Ressler: "To the morgue. You got a problem with that?"

The Director: "I never authorized such an order."

Ressler: "No. Reven Wright Did."

The Director: "You're lying."

Ressler: "Check it out yourself."

[Ressler walks off with the gurney.]

[Inside the vehicle, Dembe and Mr. Kaplan are revealed as the paramedics en route to a safe house. Mr. Kaplan removes Liz oxygen mask.]

Mr. Kaplan: "You're safe now dearie."

[Liz looks over at Ressler and grabs his hand.]

Liz: "Thank You."

[An unspoken moment. Ressler's phone breaks the tension.]

Cooper: VO: "Donald i'm watching the news, what happened?"

Ressler: "An attempt was made on Agent Keen's life. This was the only way to get her out of there. Once she receives medical treatment she will be transferred to an undisclosed location. Let Tom Keen know."

Cooper: "Will do. Agent Ressler, good work."

[He hangs up the phone. Looks at Dembe.] How soon until we get there?"

Dembe: "Six minutes."

###

[The Director making a call to the Justice Dept.]

The Director: "I want to know who authorized Elizabeth's Keen's transport!"

Justice rep: VO "Yeah hold on, [Long Beat] Deputy Attorney General Reven Wright did sir."

The Director: [stunned] "But That's…"

Justice rep: "I'm looking at the authorization in my hand right now, you calling me a liar?"

[The Director lowers his phone.]

###

[The Justice rep being revealed as Glenn. He chuckles then dials Nick's Pizza.]

Glenn: "Yeah its me, he bought it, I think he choked on it."

###

[Reddington's safe house in Bethesda. Mr. Kaplan, Dembe, enter with Liz and Ressler.]

Reddington: "Lizzy."

[Liz hugging him, overcome with emotion.]

Liz: "I was so scared."

[Ressler takes in Liz closeness with Reddington.]

Reddington: "Shh you're safe now. Everything is in motion."

Liz: But the care package, it was retrieved by the FBI.

[Red points over to the box. Ressler eyes steadily.]

Ressler: "That's evidence from where we arrested Keen. How did you-"

Reddington: "Donald, as much as this kills you, you're going to have to trust me. To defeat the director, and exonerate Elizabeth we need to operate outside of the system."

Ressler: "And this plan of yours, how do you plan to pull it off?"

[Red pats the briefcase.] "By leveling the playing field. Ready?"

Ressler: "Do I have a choice?"

###

Tom's Boat.

[Tom reeling over hearing about the attempt on Liz' life.]

Tom: "God Liz. But she's okay?"

Cooper: "Yes, she is fine. Agent Ressler is with her."

Tom: "I should be with her! Instead, I am just a puppet in this game of Reddington's and Ressler's."

Cooper: "You need to calm down. She is safe, that's all that matters. This tension between you and Ressler has a got to stop."

Tom: "Don't you see? He's doing all this because he wants Liz-"

Cooper: "To be safe, and get her name cleared."

Tom: "No! He's doing this because he wants Liz! Period! And I'm not gonna let that happen."

Karakurt: "If you're dead, there's not much you can do."

Tom: [Losing it] "Oh man that's [beat] you need to shut your damn mouth, all right?"

Cooper: "I told you to calm down!"

Tom: "Karakurt is threatening Liz!"

Cooper: "What?"

Karakurt: "I give him warning. He killed my brother in law [beat] make no mistake, they will come for him [beat] and kill him, like he killed the rich boy."

Cooper: [Disturbed] "What's he talking about? Tom what did you do?"

Tom: "Nothing. I did what you asked me to do I got Karakurt back."

Cooper: [Grabs Tom's arm] "This is serious! What did you do?"

Karakurt: "He killed rich boy, with knife." [Karakurt drags his finger across his throat]

Cooper: [Horrified] "You killed Asher Sutton?"

Tom: [embarrassed] "You told me to get Karakurt!"

Cooper: "Answer me! Did you kill Asher Sutton?"

Tom: "I had no choice. [Cooper closes his eyes in disgust.] They would've killed both of us if I hadn't done it!"

Cooper: [Resigned.] "I warned you, I wouldn't be able to help."

Tom: "Ressler can, right?"

Cooper: "You killed an innocent man! And this is not the first time you've done this! My God! [Beat] You compromised the mission! They're going to come for you and when they do, my hands are tied! I warned you not to do this!"

Tom: "Yeah well its done! I don't regret it! We got him, and he will clear Liz' name."

Cooper: "Karakurt isn't enough to clear Agent Keen's name. He exonerates her in the Orea bombing, and Senator Hawkins murder. He doesn't clear her against murdering the attorney General."

Tom: "What are you saying? Liz could go to prison anyway?"

Karakurt: "You're screwed."

[Tom out of control, takes his gun and pistol whips Karakurt. Cooper pulls him back.]

###

[Reddington dialing a number and puts it on speaker.]

Reddington: "Peter, you must be having a terrible day."

The Director: "On the contrary, I think it is you who is having a terrible day. Tragic news about Elizabeth Keen. I'm afraid Agent Ressler will face serious scrutiny after having a Russian terrorist die in his custody. You failed Reddington. I'll always be, three steps ahead of you."

[Ressler fuming, Reddington raises a hand directing Ressler to remain silent]

Reddington: "Karakurt, the Russian FSB agent that you hired to frame Elizabeth Keen for the Orea bombing, and murdering Senator Hawkins is safe in my custody. Solomon has failed, which means, the Cabal will be gunning for you. "

The Director: "You're bluffing."

Reddington: "Try me Peter. I beg you. Please…I warned you months ago that if you did not exonerate Elizabeth Keen your colleagues will abandon you. After tomorrow, this whole thing begins and there's nothing you can do to stop it. I call that checkmate."

###

[Montage. First Scene shows Cooper, Tom bringing in Karakurt to the FBI main building.]

[Security looks up.]

Cooper: "I need to speak with the Assistant director and Agent Donald Ressler."

Security: "Reason?"

Cooper: "Karakurt."

[Security officer gets on the phone, as Cooper appears hopeful as Tom guards Karakurt.]

###

Reddington's safe house.

[Ressler watches Liz sleeping peacefully. Amazement and wonder appear in his eyes as he caresses her hair. [Phone rings Answers phone, speaks softly. Hangs up and stares at Liz one last time before leaving the room.]

FTB.

[Scene opens the next day, the Director turns on the TV and realizes Karakurt is in custody, willing to make a full confession. The Director, shell-shocked, knees buckling, hears his phone buzzing on his nightstand. Panic sets in, but he reluctantly answers.]

The Director: "Yes Laurel?"

Hitchen: "I hope you have a logical explanation for this Peter. My phone is ringing off the hook."

The Director: "Not to worry, it will be Karakurt's word against a dead woman."

Hitchen: "Do you know for sure that Elizabeth Keen is dead, because I have serious doubts."

The Director: [hesitates] "Last night I called the DOJ and they said Reven Wright signed off on Agent Keen's transport to the morgue."

Hitchen: "Okay now I know she is alive. Peter. [Long Beat] You're on your own."

The Director: [appears over confident, unsure of himself.] "Linda!"

[Linda his wife appears from the bathroom, observing Peter pulling suitcases down from the closet shelf.]

Linda: "Peter what on earth-"

The Director: "Listen to me this is very [beat] very important. I want you to pack two suitcases go to the bank, and empty out our safe deposit box."

Linda: "Our savings? Peter what is going on?"

The Director: [grabs her shoulders] "Just do it."

###

[Liz groggy from sleep, awakens, looks around her surroundings before grabbing a robe on the bed. She enters the dining room where Red is having eggs benedict.]

Liz: [scratches her head]: "You look positively cheerful."

Reddington: [Staring at the newspaper headline all smiles folds it in half chuckling.] "Good morning, Lizzy. Today is a great day to destroy a man's life, and set you free."

Liz: "If you mean the director, believe me, I am all for it. I just want my life back. [Liz looks over toward the sofa and sees Ressler sound asleep.] He slept here last night?"

Reddington: "Agent Ressler is a man with unbridled principles. A true boy scout."

Liz: [grinning] "He looks so peaceful when he sleeps."

Reddington: "According to Dembe, he didn't sleep at all until three hours ago. He kept checking on you throughout the night."

Liz: "To see if I would escape."

Reddington: "No, to see if you were still breathing."

Liz: [turns her head back toward Ressler] "He saved my life last night. If he hadn't got to me I'd be dead right now…"

Reddington: "Donald has chased me all over the globe ever for his entire career. Like a dog with a bone all in the name of truth, justice and the American way. When he gives his word he will honor it no matter the consequences."

Liz: "He hasn't caught you yet."

Reddington: [chuckling] "Oh, one day perhaps. But why spoil all the fun?"

[Liz sips some juice watching Ressler stir then eventually wake up.]

Reddington: "Ah Agent Ressler. Just in time for eggs benedict. Try the Hollandaise sauce, it is Marcel's greatest achievement."

Ressler: "Keen you all right?"

Liz: [nods] "Yes, thank you."

Ressler: "Good. [Checks his watch] I agreed to follow your lead Reddington, but… We need to get to the courthouse."

Reddington: "Oh Donald she isn't going anywhere, let the woman eat first."

Liz: "You worried someone is going to find out I'm missing?"

Ressler: "No, I informed the DOJ that there was an attempt on your life and that you are in my protective custody. The sooner we get this over with the better because the world still thinks you're dead."

Dembe: "Phone for you."

Reddington: "Will you excuse me please."?

###

[Reddington on the phone]

Leonard: "Its done. He said he will do it for a substantial fee."

Reddington: "Of course he did. Set it up Leonard."

###

Ressler: "I liked it better when we knew what he was up to."

Liz: "You don't have to be so uptight."

Ressler: "For the record, I don't trust him."

Liz: "Well that's ironic. Because he trusts you."

Ressler: "That's only because he knows I'm doing this for you."

Liz: "I didn't say thank you last night."

Ressler: [puts on his suit jacket] "For what?"

Liz: [long pause] "For saving my life."

Ressler: "That's what partners do."

Liz: "You're more than just a partner to me."

[A long intense gaze is shared between them.]

Ressler: "The only thing that matters is clearing your name and reinstating Cooper. After that, we can get things back to normal."

Liz: "I don't even know what normal is anymore. Before all this, I was living out of my suitcase, in a motel, with my dog. I miss him. I don't have a home, no direction, and an uncertain future. But I've got Hope."

[Liz exits. Ressler looks on then joins Red in the dining room. Red looks up.]

Reddington: "Something wrong Donald?"

Ressler: [silent, conceals his emotions]

Reddington: [finishes eating] "You really should try the beignets, they were flown in from Café Dumonde in New Orleans. The crisp, buttery pastry adorned in powdered sugar, oozing in caramel, sauce…delicious. [Looks up] Some things are just too important to let go."

Ressler: [reaches for some juice.] "I'll stick to this. Less complicated."

Reddington: "That reminds me of the time I met this beautiful woman in the French Quarter. She had hair like spun gold, and curves that would shame Venus. [Beat] Blue eyes that sparkled like Paris in the springtime [beat closes his eyes] lips like the center of a rosebud [beat] fresh and inviting."

[Ressler intrigued, continued to listen.]

Reddington: "Every morning I'd sit at this quaint little cafe and there she would be, eating beignets, sipping freshly squeezed orange juice. At night, she'd sit inside of this swanky jazz club, across the street, dancing with a different stranger. For months, I'd take a seat in the corner, transfixed [beat] like some infatuated high school boy. Wondering if she ever recognized her own self worth for something greater. I wanted to sway against her like the Louisiana breeze teased the trees, and let the sounds of brass and percussion seduce us. She couldn't foresee the storm [beat] brewing in my eyes. But when she placed her tiny hand into mine [enchanted by the memory] our hearts were so close, in sync with the rhythm. I wanted to tell her how she made me feel, but my thoughts couldn't reach my lips. All that mattered was never extinguishing that passionate moment."

Ressler: [grinning] "Raymond Reddington in love. So then what happened?"

Reddington: "The song was over."

[Ressler stares at an emotional Red.]

###

[Liz and Ressler arriving at the courthouse.]

[FBI takes off the chains and leaves her in a protected room. Ressler and Liz share a long look, covering emotions neither can describe.]

Ressler: "You're safe in here. I've hand picked the guards and Reddington has his men in place."

Liz: "Thank you."

[The phone interrupts their moment. Ressler picks it up and walks.]

Ressler: "Ressler? [Long beat] I'll be right out. [Hangs up pauses] The press is outside. It's time. You ready?"

Liz: "Let's do it."

[Ressler outside the courthouse. The Press mobs him.]

Press: "Agent Ressler, we received an anonymous tip, is it true that your former partner, Elizabeth Keen is alive?"

Ressler: [Looks into the camera.] "Yes, Agent keen is still alive. [Press continue to bombard him with questions] There was an attempt made on her life, so for security purposes, she was secretly moved to a secure location until her trial."

###

[Laurel Hitchen staring at the TV in her home, curses under her breath.]

Laurel: "Son of a-"

Press: "Agent Ressler over here, is it true that FSB Russian agent Karakurt, an enemy of the United States, is in custody?"

Ressler: [On Television] "Yes, Karakurt is in federal custody, and like Agent Keen he is cooperating with authorities."

Press: "Agent Ressler, do you have any opinion on Agent Keen? She was your partner, do you believe she is guilty?"

Ressler: "No, Elizabeth Keen is innocent."

Press: "But you arrested her."

Ressler: "That is my job."

Press: "That must've been difficult for you."

Ressler: "I believe in the system, and everyone is innocent until proven guilty. Agent Keen is no different. Rest assured the truth will come out in that courtroom."

[Laurel grabs her phone, and dials. it rings, but no response.]

###

[As Ressler wraps up the press conference the Director frets in his office. [Phone buzzes] Instead of answering, he ignores it, and then dials a number.]

The Director: "Yes I need a private charter. [Long beat] As soon as possible.]

###

Courthouse.

[Tom confronts an exacerbated Ressler.]

Tom: "Hey! Is she inside?"

Ressler: [walking, stiffens.] "Yes."

Tom: "I want to see her."

Ressler: "That's not possible."

Tom: [grabs his arm] "The hell it isn't, you're using your authority to prevent me from seeing Liz!"

[Ressler glares.]

###

[Liz in her cell finds Aram looking back at her.]

Aram: [smiling] "I hope you don't mind, but I had to check up on you after last night."

Liz: [grins] "Thanks to Ressler I'm feeling better, Aram."

Aram: "He was just trying to protect you."

Liz: [nodding] "I know."

Aram: "Agent Keen, I've worked with Agent Ressler for a long time, and that was the first time, I've seen him so shaken up. If I didn't know any better I'd think…"

Liz: [curious] "What Aram?"

[Tom interrupts the moment. Liz' eyes light up in shock.]

Liz: "Oh my God, Tom. How did you-"?

Tom: "Ressler pulled some strings. [Beat] I only got a few minutes [beat] but I just wanted to see you."

Aram: "Ah, yeah, I'm gonna go out here and wait for court to commence."

[He leaves but runs into Samar. They share a look and Aram passes her by leaving Samar to feel dejected. She turns the corner and runs right into Ressler. They lock eyes.]

Ressler: [Reluctant.] "What are you doing here?"

Samar: "I'm here for Reddington. is that a problem for you?"

Ressler: "Not anymore."

Samar: "I told you if you brought Liz in she'd be in danger. I wasn't trying to hurt you."

Ressler: "I needed someone that I could trust that was on my side. I made the mistake to assume that would be you."

Samar: "I was on your side. We had the same goal. To protect Liz. You're angry with yourself because you were wrong."

Ressler: "No I am angry because I thought Cooper betrayed me. I was so messed up by that feeling low, I slept with you. When in truth, you were the reason that I was in pain."

[He walks off.]

###

[Liz and Tom]

Liz: [grins] "I can't believe you and Ressler are working together."

Tom: [raises his hand up in protest] "Don't remind me. If I didn't know any better, I'd say Ressler has a hidden agenda."

Liz: [raises her eye brow] "Like what he saved my life."

Tom: [rubs his chin] "Yeah, well had he not put you in danger in the first place, none of this would've happened."

Liz: "Come on, Tom. I can't blame every person for my mistakes. Its time I owned up to them. I'm in here because of my choices. Ressler blames himself because he let me get away, and I killed the Attorney General. He's helping me because its his job."

Tom: [shrugs] "No, that's not why he's doing it."

Liz: "You don't trust him."

Tom: "When it comes to you? No I don't."

Liz: "Ressler's my partner."

Tom: "If you were honest with yourself Liz, you'd admit that he's a helluva lot more than that. You know what, it doesn't matter because when this is all over, I'm going to kiss you, and we're gonna sail off into the sunset. That's what I want Liz."

Liz: [fretting] "Tom…I...I never meant to drag you back into this."

Tom: "You didn't."

Liz: "I need to face what I did."

Tom: "And I'll be right here. If that's what you want."

[Guard enters to take Liz to the courtroom.]

Guard: "Time's up."

[Liz looks at Tom while walking out, unreadable.]

###

[Ressler and Cooper in the courtroom. Ressler stews as Cooper gets off the phone.]

Ressler: "Any word? [Beat] What is it?"

Cooper: [frowning] "They just fished out Reven Wright's body."

Ressler: [goes pale.] "Where?"

Cooper: "Outside of DC near Maryland, south of the Potomac. Police say she was shot in the chest with a 44 magnum."

Ressler: [thrown] "Liz was right. They can make anything look like the truth."

Cooper: [fuming.] "The Cabal has declared war on each and every one of us, Donald, including Reven Wright. Everything isn't black and white anymore. If we want to survive this, we need to operate under a new set a rules."

[Ressler and Cooper lock eyes on Liz entering the Courtroom.]

[She sits, while Cooper and Ressler sit behind her. In the back, Reddington observes Tom enter the courtroom. He takes his seat behind Cooper and sits with Charlene. Samar enters the courtroom and sits behind Aram. Ressler notices. The federal prosecutor presents evidence against Liz. She sits in her chair frustrated, solemn, realizing her life is at stake. Liz' eyes drift toward the bench, and focuses on the judge. She turns pale.]

Liz: "I am so dead."

Ressler: [Leans toward her ear.]"What's wrong?"

Liz: [leans back] "That's Judge Denner from Lt. Ames case."

Ressler: [looks at the Judge.] "The Harbormaster?"

Liz: "The only reason I got off was because of Tom Connolly. [Eyes the judge] He's going to throw the book at me."

Judge Denner: "Elizabeth Keen. Well isn't this a surprise. Two years ago, you were facing murder one charges. But thanks to the Attorney General, you avoided them. Now you are back inside my courtroom for murdering the man who granted your freedom. Perhaps, there is such a thing as justice after all."

[Liz freezes.]

FTB.

Scene Opens inside Courtroom.

Judge Denner: "Will the defendant rise."

[Liz reluctantly rises.]

Judge Denner: "Elizabeth Keen, you are charged with two counts of first degree murder, against Senator Hawkins, and Attorney General Tom Connolly; [beat] three counts of espionage. An attempt to commit terrorism on American soil carries a maximum penalty of death. How do you plead?

Liz: [stutters, then finds her voice.] "Not guilty your honor."

[Courtroom erupts. Judge Denner pounds his gavel as Laurel Hitchen enters the courtroom. The Judge is about to reprimand Liz into custody until Ressler raises his hand to approach.]

Ressler: "You're honor, May I speak for a moment?"

The Judge: "Agent Ressler this is a hearing not a trial."

Ressler: "I realize that your Honor but there's new evidence that can exonerate Agent Keen."

The Prosecutor: "Where is this evidence Agent Ressler?"

Ressler: [picks up his file and hands it to the prosecutor] "Right here."

[The Prosecutor looks it over.] "I have no objections at this time your Honor."

The Judge: "Agent Ressler, you are the one who arrested Agent Keen, are you not?"

Ressler: "Yes, sir."

The Judge: "And yet you wish to speak on her behalf?"

Ressler [nods.] "Yes Sir. Deputy Attorney General Reven Wright, put me in charge of the task force because she trusted me to search for the truth about Agent Keen. Your honor, Deputy Attorney General Reven Wright is dead."

[Courtroom erupts again.]

###

[Laurel Hitchen, sitting in the back, uneasy, watching Ressler.]

Ressler: "The last conversation I had with her was in regards to this case. Your Honor, due to the fact that several attempts were made on Agent Keen's life, I have reason to believe Reven Wright was murdered to prevent the truth from coming to light."

The Judge: "You believe the Deputy Attorney General of the United States was murdered to conceal the truth? The truth of what?"

Ressler: "That Agent Keen was framed by the Director of the Clandestine Services."

[Laurel Hitchen furious taps her chin with her red-polished fingernail.]

[The courtroom erupts again.]

The Judge: [bangs gavel] "Order! That is quite a charge Agent Ressler. I'd advise you to have evidence to back it up."

Ressler: "I do your honor. Look, I've spent many moments with Agent Keen in life and death situations, and in every one, we had each other's back. She's not a Russian Spy or a terrorist. She didn't kill Senator Hawkins, nor was responsible for the Orea Bombing. I was with her that day, your Honor. There's no possible way she could've done it. Karakurt, a former FSB operative, hired by the Director, infected her with the rotovirus, to murder Senator Hawkins. The only reason I know this is because Tom Connolly confirmed this to Agent Keen and Agent Cooper, and Karakurt confirmed it to me."

[Laurel Hitchen checks her phone and sends a text.]

The Judge: "Agent Ressler I am not seeing your point here aside from advocating on Agent Keen's behalf. Which I find unusual considering it was you who arrested her. But let's say that your conspiracy theory is correct. What is the motive?"

Ressler: "The Cabal wants to start another cold war with Russia."

[The courtroom erupts again.]

Judge Denner: "I will have order in this court, or so help me, I'll close this down!"

Ressler: "Your honor, I have Karakurt in protective custody and he has confessed to everything."

[Laurel Hitchen turns white as a sheet.]

The Judge: "Is that so? A known enemy on American soil. And, is he willing to testify What makes you think he is trustworthy?"

Ressler: "Karakurt is an enemy of Russia so he has nothing to gain."

The Judge: "Except say anything to avoid deportation."

Ressler: "The entire time Agent Keen and Mr. Reddington were on the run, they had ample opportunities to leave the country for good. But Agent Keen worked to solve numerous cases pertaining to the Cabal in an attempt to find the truth and clear her name."

The Judge: "Is that why she went to the Russian Embassy and declared herself a covert operative for the FSB?"

Ressler: "She only did that to seek help in clearing her name. Once the Cabal discovered her whereabouts, they sent a compromised convoy to kill her."

The Judge: "Is this why you ran a diplomatic vehicle off the road?"

Ressler: "Yes and while I was in pursuit, the driver of the vehicle tried to kill me. Agent Keen, [looks at Liz] saved my life, like she's done many times before. She is no threat your honor she is a victim of a larger plot and deserves the benefit of the doubt."

The Judge: "This is quite a passionate plea, Agent Ressler. So you believe in her innocence."

Ressler: [looks at Liz] "I do, and I feel the Director would do anything to silence her, permanently. He tried last night, by cutting off Agent Keen's oxygen supply. Therefore I had Agent Keen moved to a secret location so she could testify."

[Moved by Ressler's testimony, Liz gazes at Ressler with different eyes.]

[Laurel Hitchen stands up and approaches the bench.]

Hitchen: "Thank You Agent Ressler, for your hard investigative work. Your Honor, may we speak in private?"

The Judge: [sighs] "Laurel Hitchen. I take it you're going to interrupt our proceedings."

Hitchen: [smiles slyly.] "I'm afraid I am. This is a case of national security and not for public consumption. We are aware of the accusations against the Director, and feel this is a delicate matter. On behalf of the President of The United States, I must insist that we move this hearing to closed doors and speak in private."

Judge Denner: "This court is in recess."

[Liz hopeful, locks eyes with Ressler while Cooper watches Laurel Hitchen accompany the judge.]

###

[Reddington spies Dembe signaling him in the courtroom. Reddington puts on his fedora and leaves with Dembe.]

Dembe: "There is a hit on the Director."

Reddington: [laughs.] "I'm sure he's looking for someone to give him safe passage out of the country."

###

[Laurel Hitchen inside The Judge's chambers.]

The Judge: [leans back in his chair] "Alright Laurel don't tell me, let me guess, [beat] you don't want Elizabeth Keen opening her mouth."

Hitchen: "It is a matter of national security, Richard."

The Judge: "Oh cut the crap. Keen murdered Connolly, and you want me to bury it because of our mutual interests."

Hitchen: "Richard, I've known you for twenty years. You've never been one that allows our security to be compromised. I am sure for the sake of our country [beat] you'll make the right decision, especially if you want the President to consider you as an appointee for the supreme court."

The Judge: "And if I don't?"

[Hitchen gets up and heads for the door.]

Hitchen: "You will [firmly] Richard. You will. [Smiles and closes the door.]

[Outside in the hall, Laurel runs into Cooper.]

Hitchen: "Agent Cooper, a word please?"

Cooper: "Yes Ms. Hitchen?"

Hitchen: "I am heartbroken over Reven's death. She was a dear friend to me, as to you. I am deeply deeply angry that the Director may be responsible for this."

Cooper: "We're all upset over this. Ms. Hitchen, Agent Keen is not a terrorist. She was framed by the Director and Tom Connolly was part of that. I have no doubt in my mind that if Agent Keen is able to testify to a jury, they'll clear her."

Hitchen: [Smiles weakly] "I believe you. I will take care of this. You're a good man Harold. The President needs someone he can trust. Someone like you."

[She walks off leaving Cooper curious]

###

[The Director during a montage [the song I Feel Free by Cream plays] packs frantically. Next frame The Director screams at his wife while driving in the car. Next frame at a bank, outside of DC withdrawing funds in his wife's name. Next frame the Director nervous, leaves the bank and enters the car with his wife. Next Frame shows the Director and his wife getting ready to board a private plane. She struggles in his grip as they sit down. Next frame shows Solomon smiling with his barretta 9m locked and aimed at the Director's head.]

Solomon: [Arms wide open] "Peter, you didn't think I'd let you leave without saying goodbye, did you?"

[The Director white as a sheet.]

Solomon: [sits down.] "Fasten your seatbelts."

[The plane takes off.]

###

[Reddington with Judge Richard Denner.]

Judge Denner: No thanks Julie; just have my car brought around this won't take long- [cuts off]

Reddington: [closes the door] Judge Denner is correct, this won't take long. After this meeting, Agent Keen will be exonerated on all charges."

Judge: "Raymond Reddington, as I live and breathe."

Reddington: "Hello Richard. You know I thought we could catch up and have a few laughs, discussing the good ol days. But unfortunately, I can't recall a single one. This is quite a step up from being just a state judge. I am sure that favor Tom Connolly provided did just that."

Judge: "I don't know what you're talking about.'

Reddington: [gives a sly grin] "Oh but you do. You're nothing but a shill for the Cabal, and were hand picked to push for Agent Keen's death sentence. I am here to inform you Richard, that will not be happening."

The Judge: "Oh, are you going to shoot me?"

Reddington laughs: "One less predator off the streets. Tempting, but that would be too easy. You know when I released the fulcrum last spring, as God as my witness I assumed that you'd see your name listed in the bold, fine print, I guess it slipped your mind. We both know you had no love for Tom Connolly, and you cannot stand The Director. But you will do whatever they say as long as they protect your secret."

The Judge: [rattled] "My secret?"

[Reddington stands, ogling the Judge's medals and the American flag.] "You know Richard, I would've thought that you of all people, had honor. Why, no one loves patriotism as much as you. I bet you have the stars and stripes decorated everywhere, ever since you won that medal of honor for Desert Storm. But you wanting to start a war with Russia, you're just like the rest of them. And your dark, twisted fantasies with the Djinn reveal something far more sinister. "

[The Judge laughs.] "I don't know what you're talking about."

Reddington: [turns and chuckles] "Why is it that the guilty always feign innocence? Well let me avoid the sermon and just come out and say it. You like to have sex with little boys."

[The Judge appears shaken]

The Judge: "I-How dare you!"

Reddington: [Stands up] "No how dare you. You sit in that courtroom like a tyrant propagandizing, being dogmatic while indulging in weekly brutal caprices. The Djinn supplied you with a harem of young, Middle Eastern boys to mollify your most loutish of cravings whetted inside your mouth. It's a mystery to me, that no matter how long they weep for justice, you say nothing. [Reddington tosses a paper on the judge's desk] Torn from the Djinn's journal with your name, and the dates for every time you called for her services. Your sin for adolescent flesh inspires me to chop off your penis with just one phone call."

[He gets up to leave.]

The Judge squirms: "Reddington, why are you attacking me! I had nothing to do with what happened to you!"

Reddington: "No."

The Judge: "Then what is this about?"

Reddington: You had Marvin Gerard disbarred and sent to prison so he wouldn't make it on the bench, so you could, didn't you Richard? Well, payback's a bitch because now I'm removing you from the bench."

The Judge: "Unless I exonerate Agent Keen."

Reddington: "On everything. Come now Richard, you're nothing but a tiny minnow in a toad's paradise. One is bound to gobble you up before the day is over."

[He leaves, as the Judge stews in disgust.]

###

[The Director on a hook as Solomon pulls out some barbaric sharp instrument with leather straps as the director's wife looks on.]

Solomon: "You do understand Peter, that this is not personal, its just business."

The Director: "If this is about that shank hook incident [Eyes Solomon] What are you doing?"

[Solomon nods for one of his men to grab the Director's wife. She screams]

Solomon: "The story is that you had the Assistant Attorney General Reven Wright killed, in your attempt to frame Agent Keen. Therefore, you and your wife tried to flee the country, but unfortunately there was this horrible, [beat] horrible accident. And there were no survivors."

Linda: "Oh God, please let us go! [Sobbing] Peter what have you done to us?"

Solomon: [Rolls up his sleeves, and puts on nitrile gloves.] "Tell her Peter. Tell [Caresses the side of her face with a shiny blade] your lovely wife, that you lost your entire life savings, set up Elizabeth Keen for the murder of Senator Hawkins, stole from the very organization bankrolling your agenda?"

Linda: [Confused] "Peter what is he talking about?"

[The Director twirls around on the meat hook as Solomon approaches with a devilish smile.]

The Director: [Solemn] "I'm so sorry Linda. This was not the life that I envisioned for us. [Looks at Solomon] Let her go, it's me that you want."

Solomon: [Gets up into his face.] "That [beat] lessons the pain for you, doesn't Peter? Wasn't it you who said, [beat] loyalty above everything?"

[Solomon turns and pulls Linda's head up to look at the Director. Holding the blade to her neck.]

Solomon: "You see, we cannot have any loose ends, so, I'm afraid, she has to go."

The Director: "No!"

[Linda screams as Solomon, grazes the blade across her neck, leaving the Director speechless. In tears, he breaks as his wife's lifeless body slumps to the floor, leaving a trail of blood traveling toward the Director's feet.]

Solomon: "Like I said, [shrugs] its nothing personal."

[The Director sniveling]

[With the blade, shreds the Director's shirt off his body; lets it fall to floor. He picks up a leather whip, with shank hooks and blades attached to the ends.]

Solomon: "But this is."

[Solomon thrashes the Director over and over, flesh tearing, ripping, causing The Director to scream, as blood splatters on Solomon's face, the table, and floor.]

###

Federal Courthouse.

[Judge sits down notices a courier enter and approach the prosecutor. The prosecutor appears stunned, looking over the information.]

Defense: "Your honor, this document from the Russian Ambassador Constantine Marauk states that Karakurt, a former operative for the FSB has confessed to all crimes against Elizabeth Keen. Agent Ressler is correct."

The Judge: "Mr. Barrett?"

Prosecutor: "Ah due to National Security, I need a short recess your Honor.

The Judge: "We just had one Mr. Barrett."

[Liz gasps.]

The Judge: "In light of this new evidence, Agent Ressler's testimony, and the interest of National Security, Miss Keen you are free to go. This court is adjourned."

[Liz stands there stunned. Ressler is about to approach her but Tom gets there first.]

Tom: "Oh Liz!"

[Liz looks over her shoulder as Ressler leaves the courtroom. Conflicted, she pulls apart from Tom.]

[Cooper embraces Liz.]

Cooper: "Congratulations Agent Keen."

Liz: "I cannot believe it is over."

Cooper: "You have quite a few guardian angels. You are blessed."

Liz: "Between you, Tom, Reddington freeing me, and Ressler…where is he I wanted to thank him?"

[Liz looks longingly at the door.]

###

[Ressler exiting the courthouse. He finds Reddington at the edge of the concrete steps.]

Reddington: "Job well done Agent Ressler. Your passionate testimony of Agent Keen made all the difference."

Ressler: "I think the evidence that was brought in at the last minute had something to do with it. You wouldn't know anything about that would you?"

Reddington [grins.] "Let's just say we can thank the Djinn."

Ressler: "So that's why you wanted the journal. The Judge was on the list."

Reddington: "He wasn't the only one. [Hands a file to him] Judge Denner is your worst kind of predator. If I were you, I'd arrest him before he does for the first time in his miserable life, the honorable thing."

Ressler: "Unbelievable. You blackmailed all these people in order to bargain for Keen's freedom?"

Reddington: "Donald, the world that you believe in is created by people in power. There are no sides, just players on a black and white chessboard, doing dastardly things all in the name of ideology. Without you, Elizabeth would have no chance in the name of public opinion. To the world, she's a Russian terrorist, a KGB agent [beat] a traitor, a murderer. You put your reputation on the line in order to save hers. That is something I nor anyone else could've done."

Ressler: "All I did was tell the truth."

Reddington: "Your word is like a golden world knows that, the DOJ knows that and now Elizabeth knows that. let's talk about truth. You pride yourself in everything about righteousness, and veracity. But in about three hours, Tom Keen is going to push for a reconciliation and whisk Elizabeth away on his boat, so they can ride off into the sunset."

Ressler: [Looks away] "She's making a mistake."

Reddington: "Yes, I agree. He is the wrong man for her. Elizabeth deserves someone who will respect her, and love her unconditionally."

Ressler: [sulking] "If your so against her being with Tom Keen, then why don't you stop him."

Reddington: [Stands up adjusts his hat, as a black Mercedes rolls up.] "Because that isn't my job. [Beat] It's yours."

Ressler: [turns] "Mine?"

Reddington: [Walks to the car as Dembe opens the door for him] "Elizabeth is swept up in the idea that she and Tom can start over as if the past three years never happened. But that won't last, because Tom Keen is his own worst enemy, and deep down Elizabeth knows that. Trouble will find him and she will once again take the fall."

Ressler: [Wheels turn in his head] "Like the Harbormaster."

Reddington: "Out of guilt, Elizabeth cleaned out her life savings and put it in a college fund for Lt. Ames daughter."

Ressler: "After everything she's been through, I can't see her leaving with him. [beat] But if she does, then its what she wants."

Reddington: "You want what Elizabeth wants because you're in love with her."

[Ressler slowly turns around]

Reddington: "When the time comes for Elizabeth to open her door to you, and trust me, she will, walk in."

[Reddington leaves leaving Ressler to ponder his words.]

###

Night. Warehouse.

[The Director, hanging in mid air, bloody, shivering, his black glasses, shattered on the ground, drowning in his wife's blood, barely alive.]

Solomon: [Out of breath, lifts a towel from the table and cleans the blood off his face. He chuckles sadistically.] "I'm sorry Peter, I guess I wasn't over it. [He squats and picks up the Director's glasses. He wipes them clean with a cloth and puts them back on his face, one lens cracked. Phone Buzzes. Solomon picks it up.] "Oh, you are not gonna like this. Elizabeth Keen was granted immunity, and there's a warrant for your arrest, Peter. So what should I do?"

[The Director: [Out of breath, chokes on his blood, spits.] "Why [long beat] am I still alive? You obviously want something for me, or Id be dead by now."

Solomon: [Clears throat.] "Actually yeah, there is one more, thing."

The Director: "What? Oh for God Sakes just kill me!"

[Reddington appears out of the shadows.]

Reddington: "My, are we anxious. [Walks over to the Director] You look terrible, Peter."

The Director: [Looks at Solomon] "You're working with him?"

Solomon: [Cocks head] "Its nothing personal, Peter. Just business."

Reddington: "Oh, but its very personal for me. See, I told you your colleagues would beg me to kill you. So, how did you enjoy your spanking, I heard that you like it rough. [Whispers in his ear] Thanks to a genie. What with you being Catholic and all I thought that you would appreciate a more biblical sentencing."

The Director: "It never had to come to this, Reddington."

Reddington: "No, it didn't. All you had to do was just exonerate Elizabeth Keen, then we wouldn't have had to go through all of this [Looks at Linda's lifeless body on the floor.] heartache. You had it all Peter. A beautiful wife, kids, a successful career, but that wasn't enough. You targeted Agent Keen in order to get to me. Well you know what, you have my attention, I'm listening. [Beat] Absolute power corrupts [beat] absolutely."

The Director: [Chuckles] "You can't stop it Reddington. Everything is set in motion."

Reddington: "The plot to burn the world down? I've seen it. There's no way in hell I'm going to let that happen."

The Director: "We've done it before. [Beat] On Christmas Eve, remember? The power you have is out of your hands. One day soon, you'll discover why."

Reddington: "This is the part where I ask if you have anything to confess?"

The Director: "Just one. [He whispers in Reddington's ear.]

[Reddington shell-shocked pulls back, desperate to remain in control. Eyes locked on his enemy, Reddington encloses his hands around a plastic bag and seals it over the Director's head, watching him choke to death. The Director dies, leaving Reddington to turn, take a deep breath and face Solomon.]

Reddington: [Grins] "I now I said I would let you kill him but, nothing personal."

Solomon: "None taken. So, our business is finished?"

Reddington: "Ours? [Nods] But not with him [Looks at Dembe appear out of the shadows.] See, I don't know why you would assume I am an honorable man, because I'm not. But Dembe is."

[Reddington pats Dembe on the shoulder and exits, as Dembe stares down Solomon]

###

Post Office.

[Ressler inside Director Cooper's office, cleaning out his belongings. Director Cooper enters.]

Ressler: "Sir, I was just cleaning out my things."

Cooper: "That won't be necessary Donald. I won't be returning."

Ressler: [closes a drawer.] "Not returning? But I thought…"

Cooper: "Because of your impromptu speech with the justice department and at the hearing, I've been reassigned. In light of Reven Wright's death, and the shake up at the CIA with the Director, the President wants someone he can trust. He's appointing me Assistant Attorney General."

Ressler: [stunned]. "Wow. Congratulations. If anyone deserves that position its you."

Cooper: "I am leaving you in charge of the task force. You're a good agent, Donald, and you're integrity is needed around here. With The Cabal still active and Reven's death, we need a team to trust. I still am not quite clear as to why you fired Agent Navabi."

[Ressler slams another drawer.]

Ressler: "She ran a search on my computer for Liz when they were on the run and lied to me about it. She was the one who tipped off Liz at Wing Yee."

Cooper: "So that's how you tracked them down. How did she get access to your computer?"

Ressler: [looks at the floor.] "You don't want to know."

[Cooper shakes his head]

Cooper: "You slept with her then fired her?"

Ressler: "It wasn't like that! It it just happened one night. That night."

Cooper: "The night you came to my house and got into a fight with Tom Keen?"

[Ressler nods]

Cooper: "Is it over?"

Ressler: "It was never a relationship."

Cooper: "You cannot be in charge of running this place if there's a conflict of interest. It breaks the entire team. You of all people should know that. This place is being monitored 24/7. Any slips up, the DOJ will shut it down for good. Got it?"

Ressler: [Scratches head] "Yeah, I got it."

Cooper: "As for Agent Keen [beat] I called her she should be on her way. The sooner we get her back in here, the quicker we can get things back to normal."

Ressler: "I doubt it."

Cooper: "Why?"

[Ressler slams a drawer]

Ressler: "Tom Keen is planning on sailing Liz off to some island of paradise."

Cooper: "I see. Agent Keen is really important to you, isn't she?"

Ressler: "She's my partner. I just don't want to see her get hurt again."

Cooper: "Well you're right about that. I informed Tom Keen that the job with Karakurt wasn't sanctioned by the Justice Dept."

Ressler: "When it comes to Tom Keen, I highly doubt it was a clean mission."

Cooper: "It wasn't."

[Ressler serious]

Ressler: "Naturally. And I suppose you want me to cover for him?"

Cooper: "No. Not about this. I warned Keen as he was going in. This is on him."

Ressler: "This is why I did not want to work with him. Even Reddington told me he'd drag Liz down again!"

Cooper: "It could. Be that as it may, it is still Agent Keen's decision."

Ressler: "Don't remind me."

Cooper: "Hmm. They're starting to show."

Ressler: "What is?"

Cooper: "Your feelings for Agent Keen."

[Ressler caught off guard by Cooper's words.]

[Liz knocks, and enters.]

Liz: "Hi I'm sorry, to interrupt but you wanted to see me, sir?"

###

Night. Marina. [Tom on his boat, waiting for Liz. A Russian hit man is inside a car monitoring him.]

Russian: "He's on the boat."

Other Russian on the phone: "Wait for the signal."

###

Post Office. Ressler's Office.

Cooper: "Keen, close the door. I was just informing Agent Ressler that the President is appointing me to Deputy Attorney General."

Liz: [All smiles] "That is incredible news. Congratulations. So who will be the new boss?"

[Ressler grins]

Cooper: "Agent Ressler will remain in charge."

Liz: [grins] "Well, congratulations sir."

Ressler: "Thank you."

Cooper: "Agent Keen, I've reinstated you effective immediately. [Hands her badge and piece.] I need a solid team here, one that I can trust. You and Agent Ressler do incredible work together."

Liz: "Sir, I…am honored, thank you. I know, that I let you both down, with what I did. [Beat] And I know that this is a big deal the both of you putting your faith in me, again. I just don't think I am deserving of it. My actions have done some serious damage [beat] and I'm not sure how I could fix it."

Ressler: "Sir may I have a word with Agent Keen?"

Cooper: "Certainly. I need to be getting home, anyway and tell Charlene the news. Agent Keen, its good to have you back on the right side [beat] where you belong."

[He closes the door. Liz tries to find the right words.]

Ressler: [Moves closer] "You okay?"

Liz: [Wipes her eyes] "Yeah. [beat] No, not really. I feel like I am living in an alternative universe, trying to find a way to fit. I [beat] wanted to thank you at the courthouse but you left."

Ressler: "I figured you'd want some time alone with your ex."

Liz: "You hate Tom."

Ressler: "Doesn't matter what I think."

Liz: "That's not true."

Ressler: "Yeah, how so? What is it that you want to know?"

Liz: "I don't know. [beat] Its been a long time since we...how are you?"

Ressler: [grinning] "Are you trying to say that you missed me Keen?"

Liz: [playfully slugs him] We were partners, right? I never considered how difficult all this was for you. And with..."

Ressler: "You want to know if I'm still sober."

Liz: "Are you?"

Ressler: "Yeah, I go to my meetings, went to quite a few recently. There were times where I felt like I was drowning and [beat] thought I might slip. But I didn't. I just concentrated on my job, and [beat] finding you. Nothing else mattered. Reven Wright trusted me to do a good job, and it cost her life. I owe it to her, and her family, to find her killer and give them a sense of peace."

Liz: "Ressler it wasn't your fault."

Ressler: "You know, I keep playing over in my head those final sixty seconds. Had I kept you from leaving, you wouldn't have killed Tom Connolly. But then I think if didn't…after what happened to you here…The thought of losing you…"

Liz: [gently touches his arm] "It is not your fault what I did. I had a choice not to pull that trigger."

Ressler: [Moves closer.] "Why did you?"

Liz: "One day, when I've had time to breathe, I promise, I'll tell you. I just hope…"

Ressler: "What?"

Liz: "That it won't change how you feel about me."

Ressler: [Chuckling.] "Too late. After three years and everything we've been through, I've seen you at your best, and your worst. And I'm still here."

[The moment building.]

Liz: "Your defense of me in court today…I don't know what to say…"

Ressler: "I just spoke the truth. Cooper had you reinstated because he believes in you. So do I. But this life is not normal, Keen. It does takes sacrifice, and upholding the law even when we feel it is not fair. You're a good Agent Liz. The best partner I've ever had. [Beat] I don't want to lose you."

Liz: [without thinking] "Tom wants me to leave DC with him."

[Ressler burning with envy stands up.]

Ressler: "Am I supposed to give a response to that?"

Liz: "Do you have one?"

Ressler: "Tom Keen wasn't acting under the protection of the bureau when he infiltrated Karakurt. Whoever he compromised, may come after him."

Liz: "What are you saying?"

Ressler: "If you choose him, just be prepared for the consequences."

[Liz heads for the door.]

Ressler: "Keen…"

Liz: [holding door open] "What?"

Ressler: "You're badge and fire arm."

[Liz looks down, takes her gun and badge hands touch, takes his fingers into hers.]

Liz: "Thank you."

[They share a long gaze.]

Ressler: "You're welcome."

[Overcome by the power of his eyes, Liz retreats slowly toward the door leaving Ressler to slink back into his chair. ]

###

War Room.

[Liz down the stairs looks up and watches Ressler through the glass. Aram catches up to her at the elevator]

Aram: "Agent Keen, welcome back." [Embraces Her]

Liz: "Oh, Thank You Aram. It feels good to be back. I'm just not sure for how long."

Aram. "Agent Ressler said that you might be leaving town."

Liz: "Yeah, Tom wants to start over…I haven't made up my mind yet, but…"

Aram: "Well I hope you make the right decision. For you I mean. We all do."

Liz: "Where is Samar?"

Aram: [forlorn like he lost his puppy] "She doesn't work here anymore."

Liz: [shocked] "Why?"

Aram: "Agent Ressler had her removed from the team."

Liz: "Removed? For what?"

Aram: "Its my fault that she is gone."

Liz: "Your fault? Oh, no did you two have a fight?"

Aram: "Not exactly. She and Agent Ressler did, but its my fault that she is gone so…"

Liz: "You okay?"

Aram: "Yeah, I am okay, I guess. This place just feels so different now. But if you come back, I think everything would be fine."

Liz: "You miss her."

Aram: "Is it obvious?"

Liz: "Its written all over your face. I don't what happened, but I am so sorry. I know how much you cared about her. But why give up? Just because she's not working here, doesn't mean you can't see her?"

Aram: "It's a little more complicated than that."

Liz: "Nothing is complicated unless we make it to be."

[Ressler from his office window looks down at Liz embracing Aram.]

###

Tom's boat

[Russian 1 named Boris dives into the harbor and rigs the boat motor with explosives.]

[Liz approaches the slip and sees that Tom has a romantic dinner set up.]

Tom: [appears over the side of the boat.] "Surprised?"

Liz: [all smiles.] "I am."

Tom: "I thought that…"

Liz: "That this would persuade me?"

Tom: "Well…Now that you're no longer with the bureau we can go where ever we want. Just name a place, Liz, and we can get out of here, forever."

Liz: [looks away.] "You mean run away."

Tom: "Well, yeah. That's what you wanted, right? [Beat] What's wrong?"

Liz: "The bureau reinstated me."

Tom: [Surprised] "Wow, but I thought you wanted to go…"

Liz: "I know I did but that was then. It's just..."

Tom: [Disappointed] "Yeah I get it. You can't let it go."

Liz: "The entire time I was a fugitive [beat] I ran away from who I am, and what I want. I've been running away my whole life, Tom. I don't want to run anymore I just want to embrace my life and live it no matter what happens. This is who I am, Tom. I love my job."

Tom: "Does this has do to with Dudley Do Right Agent Ressler?"

Liz: [eye brow raised] "Where did that come from?"

Tom: "Oh come on Liz! I see how he looks at you, and I saw the way you looked at him at the courthouse."

Liz: "Ressler does not [cuts off]

Tom: "Yeah keep telling yourself that! Just like you think Reddington is someone you can trust!"

Liz: "I owe him my life."

Tom: "No, Liz you don't owe him anything."

Liz: "Oh yes I do! You have no idea how much he's done for me!"

Tom: "He's the reason all of this happened to you, Liz! Why do you think the Cabal went after you because of your profiler skills? The sooner you are out from under his thumb, the better."

Liz: "Reddington is my friend. He's done so many things for me that you will never be able to understand. And I will not have you speak about him like that."

Tom: "Wow, you have changed. Is all this Reddington's doing?"

[Disgusted, Liz heads off the boat.]

Tom: "Where are you going?"

Liz: "I can't do this right now. It's too much, Tom. I just got my life back, and I need time to think."

Tom: "You still don't trust me."

Liz: "Its not just you. I don't even trust myself. I'm not the same naïve person that first met you. Pandora's box has been opened, and I can't close it."

Tom: "Liz! Come on Liz!"

[Liz heads off the pier toward her car. The Russians watch with interest.]

Boris: "That one."

Yuri: "I thought we are going after him for killing Charlie."

[Takes photographs]

Boris: "We are. [Boris pulls out his old cell phone and dials.] [In Russian] "Its me. We found her."

###

Reddington's Apartment.

[Reddington looking around his flat, gazing at the pictures, on the mantle and placing Liz' picture up. He takes a sip of his scotch, drifting in deep thought. He stares at Katrina's photo and sighs.]

Reddington: [turns around] "Lizzy. Are you all right?"

Liz: [Feeling lost] "Can I stay here, until I can find a new home?"

[Reddington over come with emotion embraces her and whispers.]

Reddington: "This is your home, Lizzy."

[Montage. The two of them on the sofa, and her head resting against his shoulder.

Liz: "How long does it take?"

Reddington: "What?"

Liz: "For things to get back to normal."

[Reddington strokes her hair.]

Reddington: "When it happens, you'll be the first to know."

End of Chapter.