Main Characters-
Samuel Sullivan
Hiro Nakamura
Peter Petrelli
Noah Bennet
Tracy Strauss
Ando Masahashi
Angela Petrelli
Ryan
Christina
Matt Parkman
Gabriel Sylar Gray
Recurring Characters-
Joshua Jackson
Lars
Rene
Claire Bennet
Lamar
Sparrow Redhouse
Sophia
Micah Saunders
Monica Dawson
Matty Parkman
Janice Parkman
Lauren Gilmore
Red Queen
Scowling Man
Damien
Emma Coolidge
Nurse Kelly Brooks
Sandra Bennet
Mr. Muggles
Chapter Two: Fault in Our Stars
[Hospital, New York]
(Peter is seen walking up to a receptionist's desk with a book in his hand and waves to the blonde receptionist whom has small earphones in her ear. She looks up at Peter and the two smile at one another.)
Peter: Hey! (Puts his book on the counter and communicates in sign language) I appreciate the book you recommended; very- (Gets stuck then says out loud) Insightful.
(The two laugh with one another.)
Emma: (In sign language) Your sign language is getting good. You almost got through a complete sentence.
Peter: (Smiles) Yeah well I figured it'd be a lot easier having someone else to talk to in a more- (Thinks for a moment then communicates to her in sign language) comfortable form of communication.
Emma: (Says to him) Thank you, Peter; but I am okay. I've grown up used to being alone. It's nice you think about me but don't go out of your way too much for me.
Peter: (Gives her a friendly smirk) Before I forget, I've got something for you. (Reaches into his bag and pulls out a small chapter book) Now that I've finished a book you recommended me; I've brought one for you. (Hands it to her)
Emma: (Examines the book) Thank you, Peter; I really appreciate that.
Peter: Yeah. (Closes up his bag) Let me know how you like it; it's a really good read. (In sign language) I will see you again later.
Emma: (In sign language) I will still be here.
(Peter walks off and after a few seconds, the nurse from earlier jumps in front of Emma aggressively once Peter is gone.)
Kelly: How do you do it?!
Emma: I'm sorry?
Kelly: How did you get him to be friends with you?! (Gasps) You like him, don't you?
Emma: I'm sorry; who are you?
Kelly: Nurse Kelly. You wanna date Peter; don't you?
Emma: Uh… Peter? (Looks where Peter walked off to then back to her) I mean, he's a nice guy and all but I don't think about that stuff.
Kelly: Oh, so you don't like him? Good; that would've been awkward asking the woman who liked the guy I like advice on how to get him. (Awkwardly chuckles)
Emma: (Gets serious with her) Just a head's up; if you go after him, be careful; he has a lot going on.
Kelly: Oh I bet; especially after hearing that a patient tried to sue him after Peter saved his life.
Emma: If you really want to talk to him, find a nice book that might catch his attention or maybe discuss medicine. He might be able to teach you a thing or two.
Kelly: Hey, yeah… Thanks so much, Ms.- (Looks at her name tag) Emma!
(Emma gives Kelly a nod and Kelly quickly runs off toward the exit of the hospital.)
[Yamagato Industries, Hiro Nakamura]
(Hiro has just seen disturbing images and videos of international riots and domestic crimes being inflicted upon various individuals around the world. A man in an all red hood with his face hidden in the shadows appears on screen.)
Distorted voice: The world is in chaos after the actions of Claire Bennet. She must be stopped. The world CANNOT recover from the damage she has done. Almost every country around the globe is in anarchy; because she revealed to the world people like us- (Screen fades out then back in) exist and now they are scared. People are dying, Hiro Nakamura, and unity will not be in the equation for the future. In order to stop this, you must go back and stop everything. (Video cuts out)
(Hiro is in shock by what he has just heard. Seconds later, his best friend Ando walks back in.)
Ando: (Closes the door then talks in Japanese) Hiro, I was able to calm Kimiko; this wedding is really stressful for her. Hiro? (Quickly stands beside him then glances at the blank screen) Hiro. (Snaps twice to get Hiro out of his trance)
Hiro: Oh… (Gathers his thoughts) Ando… when did you get here? (Nervously chuckles) Sorry, I was just- looking at something that was… addressed to me.
Ando: Hiro, you don't look good at all. What happened? Who sent you the email that has you looking so shaky? (Taps on Hiro's computer keyboard)
Hiro: (Grabs his hands and intensely looks Ando in the eyes) Promise me, you will never look at that file. (Lets go of Ando's hands) We've been in our fantasy world these last few weeks, not knowing that riots and chaos have been taking place all over this world!
Ando: Hiro, what riots? Do you see chaos in the street when you look out that window?! Hiro, please, I am your friend and your partner; you cannot keep secrets from me; what happened on that file?
Hiro: … (Aggressively stands out of his chair and stares at his reflection from the glass window high over the city) I must go back and stop everything. The trade off is worth it this time. I must go back and save this world from killing itself once again. (Turns to Ando, places his hand on his shoulder, and gives him a smile) No worries, my friend; we will save the world again.
Ando: Hiro… Hiro!
(Hiro takes a few steps back from Ando.)
Hiro: I will be back in the blink of an eye.
(Hiro tightly closes his eyes and vanishes in mid-air. Ando looks over at the computer and rushes straight toward the file he was nearly going to open moments earlier.)
[Unknown location]
(In a dark; poorly-lit prison facility, to guards guide an Irishman in a jump suit and cuffs down a long hallway. They place him into an isolated room away from all other prisoners, unlock his shackles and lock him in the small room. Without saying a word, the guards whistle and walk off, leaving him unattended. The Irishman looks behind him to find a bed a toilet and a chair which is tucked away in the shadowy corner. He looks between the bars of the door then plops his butt on the bed behind him. An uneasy sounding slightly inhuman voice from the shadows speaks to him.)
Voice: They don't even tell you when your next mealtime is- how rude.
(The Irishman turns to see a shadow figure sitting on the chair not too far from him but the room is so dark, that he is unable to make out his identity.)
Voice: Samuel Sullivan- the man with the vision to divide the world of ignorance and reconnect it through fear- what an honor meeting a real hero.
Samuel: "Real hero"; is that what I am? I could provide a reason or two as to how far from the truth that is, friend.
Voice: Every hero follows in the footsteps of the villain. That night in New York, your plan was to expose people with abilities to the world and have them fear us. However, Claire Bennet has taken that credit.
Samuel: Not that I'm not enjoying this conversation, but who exactly are you?
Voice: Just… a ghost… trapped in time; lost to history. I'm a wonderer doing what I must. As I have said before, the hero always follow in the steps of the villain, just with a more subtle approach- I however, have taken on both roles. I am what is necessary when it is necessary… like Sylar
Samuel: I see; are you a version of Sylar with Hiro's time travel?
Voice: A broken soul, lost, alone, misunderstood; desperate to find connection- we are all Sylar in some form; we just satisfy our hungers differently. (Changes his position on the chair and gets a bit more serious) Peter Petrelli made a mistake giving up your power for Hiro's. Your ability is very special, Samuel, and is the key to what is to come. At the moment, however- (Stands tall and approaches Samuel) your power is needed for everything to be put into motion. I've only got one chance to get this right, but if all goes smoothly, Nakamura should be traveling to the past right now to stop Claire from exposing us. I've got one time travel left, but it's not enough. Once I cut him off in the past, I will need permanent exposure to his power. Only you can provide that for me.
Samuel: Why not find me in the past and have me help you then?
Voice: Because, Mr. Sullivan- (Leans uncomfortable close to Samuel's face) This will not be the last time we work together as partners. As long as you are in this prison, opportunity arises to have you influence time at a minimum. You'll have moderate freedom as long as we remain partners. (Leans back and offers a handshake)
Samuel: Well… who could pass up an offer so fair. (Gives him a handshake) You've got yourself a deal.
Voice: And a power.
Narrator: Where does it come from- this hatred; this desire to destroy that which we do not understand and reject the unknown. Why do we cling to what is familiar; why do we fear change and how do we cope with change? Good and evil, change is inevitable, but what side will we choose to define us and which will we enforce? Can this be answered; is THIS the human heart?
[Los Angeles, Police Station]
(Officer Matt Parkman is seen sitting at his desk hard at work filling out paperwork when suddenly his superior approaches him at his desk.)
Captain: Parkman, what happened today? I heard you had Fleeter at gunpoint and for some reason decided to let him go. (Shrugs) Mind explaining what the heck happened out there? (Rests one side of his butt on the edge of the desk)
Matt: Uh- I just couldn't do it, sir. I couldn't shoot the man point blank like that.
Captain: (Glares at Parkman with a threatening scowl) The man was a criminal; he killed his own wife; stabbed her multiple times in cold blood with their 9 year old daughter in the other room. She may have not witnessed it, but it still takes a special kind of sick for someone to do something so cruel. I tell you this; if it were me on the other end of it, I wouldn't have had a second thought of pulling the trigger.
Matt: (Baffled by what he has just heard) Sorry, sir; it won't happen again.
Captain: (Slowly stands to his feet) You darn right it won't. You're beginning to be more trouble than you're worth, officer. (Takes a few minutes to let his words sink in) I want that report on my desk in one hour regarding that incident this morning with your neighbor. That needs to be on file. (Turns around)
Matt: (Quickly reaches for a file on the desk and stands to his feet) Actually, sir, it's already done. (Offers his superior the file) I've been working on it all day. I know you said not to worry about it, but I filled it out just in case.
(Matt stands confidently before his superior as the Captain turns his body to take the file and skim through it. Without saying a word, a light groan is heard and he rudely walks away from Matt. His partner, Mike then approaches him.)
Mike: I don't know about our Captain sometimes. It's best not to get on his bad side.
[Hospital Parking lot, Peter Petrelli]
(Peter is seen quickly pacing through the parking lot, with his stalker, Kelly, unbeknownst to him, hot on his trail. She gets close about 10 feet from him, then suddenly, his cell phone begins to ring. She comes to a sudden stop and rushes behind a parked car nearby as Peter turns around and answers his phone.)
Peter: (Confused) Hello?
Ando: Ah, Peter, Petrelli!
Peter: (Super confused) Ando?! (Glances at his phone) You can call internationally.
Ando: I'm with Sprint. Listen, I need your help with Hiro; I think he's gotten himself mixed up in something very bad!
Peter: (Looks behind him one last time before moving forward) Alright, start from the beginning; maybe I can do something.
(As Peter continues on his way, Nurse Kelly comes out of the bushes a bit embarrassed by what just happened. She counts her lost opportunity and walks back toward the hospital.)
[Carnival, 1 Month ago]
(Hiro appears in the middle of a carnival the night of the historical "event"..)
Peter: (Looks up at the Ferris Wheel) What does she think she's doing? She's gonna change everything.
Sylar: That's right… It's a brave new world… (Smiles)
(Present Day Hiro looks up to see Claire Bennet climbing the Ferris Wheel. He attempts to freeze time, but is hit in the back of the head and knocked out instantly. A Hiro Nakamura from the past, standing beside his best friend Ando, in the corner of his eye, sees himself getting knocked out and tries to save himself but quickly stops himself. He looks away and both he and Ando run toward Peter and Sylar.)
Past Hiro: Peter Petrelli!
Peter: Hiro, do you see this?! Claire's going to change the world as we know it; should we stop her?
Past Hiro: Shh, keep your voice down. I just saw- myself getting attacked not too far from here. (Adjusts glasses) I believe it was me from the future. (Offers his arm) Take my power. Copy it and when the time comes, return to this moment to see why I came back and figure out what I tried to stop.
(Peter grabs Hiro by the arm, and a light transfers from Hiro into Peter.)
Hiro: It is important that no matter what, you do not change history from this point on until we have answers.
Peter: (Glances over at Claire spreading her arms and preparing to jump) I'm trusting you, Hiro, but if she dies, I'm going back.
Hiro: (Bows his head) Now, we trust in fate.
(Hiro quickly moves back to where both he and Ando were standing before. Out in the shadows, a man wearing a red leather jacket with a hood veering his face is seen grabbing unconscious present day Hiro by the arm. A light transfers from Hiro's body to the hooded man's, then the man tosses Hiro over his shoulder. He looks over to see Peter and Sylar standing together as Claire jumps from the Ferris Wheel and into a large stack of hay in front of dozens of news reporters. Many people rush over to make sure she's okay, but after a few short seconds, she stands to her feet and pops her bones into place like nothing. Peter rushes closer to her but Sylar stops him while displaying a huge smile on his face. The man in the red hood approaches Sylar from behind.)
Sylar: Don't think I'm as gullible as Nakamura; I may be a changed man but don't think I'll hesitate kill you if that's necessary.
Red Hood Male Voice: You're the man with the clock; the man with infinite time. The one they call Sylar.
(The sound of clicking tocks is heard for a few short seconds.)
Sylar: Who are you? You seem familiar.
Red Hood Male Voice: You really think you're a changed man? It's only a matter of time before you change sides- again.
Sylar: As if you really know me. I've already done one heroic act today with the puppet man don't make me do a second with you; why are you here?
Red Hood Male Voice: Murder Claire Bennet… you know what she really is inside. She is me…
Sylar: (Clock sounds tick and slightly looks away) That's why you're familiar… When I dissected her brain and took her power, you were ther- (Quickly looks up to find the hooded man gone)
[Desert area]
(It is night time and a scary sand storm rages through an abandoned old town in the middle of nowhere. In an isolated barn, 6 individuals all in hoods stand in patience as the doors burst open and the 7th hooded individual drags Hiro in by his ankle. Two of the other hooded individuals close the door behind him as he drags Hiro to the center of the room. Almost all of the individuals remove their hoods but only one older gentleman has a familiar face.)
Damien: The time-traveler; Hiro Nakamura. His strength in his current state is superior to Arnold's. With the essence of his power, phase one of our plans shall begin. Everyone gather. Share our minds, and history shall be one with our will.
Red Hood Male: Hiro is now yours. I've copied his power and now I've got my own history to change. Don't worry; our alterations of time will be linear and the plan will still go according.
Hooded Leader: (Stands from a block of Hay) You are dismissed, brother. You see me as your leader, but I see you as equal. May the freedom of your will reign strong. (Taps his chest lightly with his fist)
(Hiro begins to regain consciousness and opens his eyes to catch a glimpse of the man who knocked him out.)
Hiro: (Distorted) Ergh… Pet-re-? (Fades out of consciousness again)
(Hiro sees what appears to be a scar going across his face. (Nods) Until next time. (Closes his eyes and teleports away)
(The sounds of terrifying winds are heard raging strong beyond the walls of the barn.)
Hooded Leader: (Stares down at Hiro Nakamura) They laughed at me; called me weak, but now, I will show them who the true gods of this world are.
Damien: (Terrified of the wind) The spirits are angry. These grounds are soiled with restless souls.
Hooded Leader: Our plans will help them move on as well as us. Begin the extraction.
(One of the other Individuals wearing a red hood drops what appears to be a necklace with a godsend crest at the end of it. The cultist appears female and she walks over toward Hiro aiming the crest at his chest. The sound of him screaming out through the storm is all that is heard.)
[Yamagato Industries]
(Ando impatiently paces back and forth in his office with his fiancée Kimiko sitting beside him.)
Kimiko: (Says in Japanese) Hiro will be fine; he is strong. If he can beat a stupid tumor, he can beat anything.
Ando: (In Japanese) I don't get it, if Hiro went back and changed time why is he not back yet? Why is everything still the same?
Kimiko: Ando! (Stands and grabs Ando by the face) Calm down; my brother will be ok. He will make it through this; have faith. Come on; let's go somewhere that'll help take your mind off things.
[Warehouse, outskirts of D.C.]
(Red Hood appears suddenly only to find a young woman attempting to free one of her captive friends from being tied against a chair and help hostage. She and a young gentleman are freed, and to other young women are still tied.)
Red Hood: I knew that fancy head of yours has knowledge of rope-tying. I'm just surprised it took you so long to make a move.
Young Woman: What do you want, you monster?! Let us go; we didn't do anything to you!
Red Hood: Of course not, I just needed you help hostage temporarily while your cousin helped me send out a few videos.
Young Woman: Micah would never work for someone like you! He's strong and smart! He knows better than to fall for whatever you had planned!
Red Hood: The deal is already done, Ms. Dawson. Micah has delivered the request; I'm only here to see the four of you make it out safe.
Young Man: Why should we believe you?!
Red Hood: For the simple fact that if I wanted you harmed, I would've already done it.
(The two young women sitting in wooden chairs extend their arms forward and realize their ropes are untied.)
Red Hood: Letting you go unscathed is a grace, Monica; for letting Niki die in your place.
(Red Hood disappears, leaving the rest of them with their freedom intact.)
Young Man: (Concerned for Monica) Monica…? Don't let what that creep said get to you; he's a mental case.
Monica: (Quickly turns to her group and attempts to ignore her feelings) Look, that creep can't make me feel anything I haven't already. This cookie don't break so easy, remember that. (Smiles) Now let's go check on Micah; he's probably been worried sick about us. It's almost dark; you two should head back to the base.
[Los Angeles, Matt Parkman]
(The sky is dark and the rain continues to fall. A vehicle parks in a motel parking lot and out comes Officer Matt Parkman wearing a heavy raincoat. He listens carefully to his surroundings and hears multiple voices and sounds going through his head. He closes his car door and heads toward a specific door. He knocks on it and the man from earlier whom he was chasing answers. The man lets Parkman in the room then sits on the bed slightly distraught. Matt makes sure the door is locked and the blinds are closed to avoid them being seen together.)
Fleer: Why are you helping me; I don't get it. Aren't you a cop?
Matt: Indeed I am and an honest one at that. (Takes a moment of silence) I know what it's like hurting those close to you because your power manifested in a weird way. I've made mistakes too, but you shouldn't have to pay for them with life in prison.
Fleer: So I'm basically a pity project?
Matt: Do you want your freedom or not? (Takes a seat next to Fleer) Look I don't know if what I'm doing is the right thing or not, but what I do know is you're not a criminal and I don't think it's fair for you to suffer the rest of your life over a mistake.
Fleer: Wait… how did you know I was here; is- is this a setup?!
Matt: Doesn't matter, look, I know someone who can help you, but you have to be discreet and you have to follow my exact instructions. (Pulls out a card) Go to this address; tell him I sent you; he'll take care of you from there.
Fleer: (Cautiously takes card) If this is legitimate and you're not setting me up; what'll happen to my daughter? She's only 11; she needs me.
Matt: And what you need to do is worry about getting yourself together first before you can worry about handling a child. She will be fine. All you can do right now is go to that address and tell him I sent you. Stay calm and don't do anything that might set him off; he's very "paranoid".
[Odessa, Texas, Morning]
(Both of the young high school students, Ryan and Christina are both in their individual rooms lying down on the bed. Ryan is seen staring blankly at the ceiling while Christina peacefully sleeps in her bed. Ryan leaves his bed and rushes out into the kitchen only to find his mother in the kitchen stressfully cooking and prepping for the next meal to cook.)
Ryan: Hey mom.
Mother: (Startled) AHH! (Sighs in relief) Ryan, don't do that; you nearly scared me half to death. (Collects herself and takes a breath; following an awkward smile) Sorry, honey; I'm just a little stressed right now. (Continues to ravage through the kitchen)
Ryan: Mom you know you don't have to cook all the time. It's nice but you didn't used to stress yourself out so much before Gene.
Mother: (Defensive) Okay, you know, Ryan; I'm really getting sick of you and bashing on this poor man. He's good; I wish you'd see that. (Places large black pan on the counter)
Ryan: (Stands closer to his mother as he talks to her) I'm just saying, I don't like you stressed is all. Don't think this is something you feel you have to do for us because we're not worth the stress. (Walks up to his mother and grabs her by her shoulder to calm her down) Mom, it's okay; slow down. You're good enough to be our mother, even without the breakfast; you don't have to work to be so perfect.
(Ryan stares deep into her eyes in hopes she gets it. She smiles at him and gently strokes her hand over his hair.)
Mother: Thank you, baby; you were always so sweet. (Kisses his forehead) Go get your sister up, okay; you know how long it takes for her to get up and I don't want you guys late for school today. (Slowly walks away and continues breakfast)
Ryan: Okay, mom. (Smiles and walks back a few steps) Love you…
(His mother stops what she's doing and gives off a smirk.)
Mother: You too, honey.
(Ryan smiles and happily takes off toward the stairs. Ryan makes it to his twin sister's room and knocks on the door twice. She lets out a squeal and a smack sound is heard.)
Ryan: (Slightly concerned) Uh… Am I interrupting something?
Christina: (Yells through the door) What do you want?! I said don't disturb me in the morning unless it's an emergency!
Ryan: Sorry, mom wanted me to get you up early because you have a hard time getting outta bed. She doesn't want us to be late today she said.
Christina: (Sighs) Hold on…
(The sound or rattling is heard for a few second. Ryan presses his ear against the door slowly, but then she quickly opens it seconds later; causing him to back off before she notices what he was doing.)
Ryan: (Awkwardly smiles at her) Hi. (Sniffs twice) What's that smell?
Christina: Nothing, I burned myself on- (Rolls her eyes slightly) something. What do you want?
Ryan: Mom.
Christina: Right, right, right… (Taps the door with her index finger) Right… Uh- give me a moment; I'll be right down; I just need some time to get myself together is all okay.
Ryan: Yeah, okay… Can I- come in please to talk.
Christina: You're talking right now, precocious little brother of mine.
Ryan: I had a dream last night-
(Christina sighs and rests her shoulder on the frame of the doorway.)
Ryan: (Doesn't want to be a burden) Actually, it's not- it's nothing. I'll talk to you at the table, okay. I'll give you your freedom now. (Takes a large step back)
Christina: Oh, why thank you, captain. (Solutes him) Thank you for granting me that privilege. (Backs up and slowly closes the door after giving him a wave)
(Ryan turns and sees Gene in his bedroom with the door wide open putting on a tie. Gene turns to Ryan and gives him a big smile.)
Gene: You good, son? Sorry- (Corrects himself) Ryan. Hey, you still have over an hour before school; I don't mind hearing you out; come on; what was your dream about?
Ryan: I think I'm fine, Gene; thanks. (Debates a few seconds before entering his bedroom) Yesterday you were a mechanic, now you're dressing up in a suit?
Gene: It was my off day. I went to one of my businesses to fill in is all. Today it's back to the company running the show from the offices.
Ryan: If you're rich, why do you own a car shop?
Gene: (Glances at him than back into the mirror) Because it's my passion, son- Ryan, sorry. It all started with cars and it'll end an empire. (Smiles and grabs a nearby Rolex watch to try on with his suit shirt and tie) I stared in my father's garage and once he died, he left me with- ALL of its luxuries and baggage. (Looks over at Ryan a few moments decided whether or not to continue) A lot of gang members and business men came to my father's garage and tried taking it from me. My father was a powerful man in the street, or so we thought. The neighborhood respected us and feared us as his family, but once he died, they all turned. Only a few were loyal and protected me, my mother, and 2 sisters. But gang wars didn't bless them with the same fate as my mother and I. (Takes tie off and grabs another one to put on while looking in the mirror) I fought like heck to keep that garage- my father's legacy, his empire, alive in our hands and nearly died doing it. It was the last piece of him I had left after our home was burned down. (Tightly secures his tie and properly tightens it) I had lost, but I did what I felt I had to, to get it all back, and when I got it, I made sure it was never lost to me again. (Takes a moment to reground his mental state and looks over that Ryan with a huge smile and open arms)
Ryan: You look like a corrupt corporate owner.
Gene: (Humorous) I Guess that means I've got the right look. (Laughs and grabs his suit jacket from the bed)
Ryan: Do you think your father would've been proud of what you did?
(Gene is slightly hit in a tender spot by this question, but that feeling quickly passes through him and he continues to put on the jacket.)
Gene: (Clears his throat) Not by the methods, no; maybe the determination, yes. I loved my father, and all he wanted was to keep the peace in gang filled neighborhoods. He did it the only way he knew how.
Ryan: By being the leader of a gang?
Gene: In Mexico, my father and uncle went their separate ways when they were young. My uncle became a priest and my father became a head of a gang. Through their attempt at reuniting over the years, but instead resulted in arguing, I learned that the difference between religious groups and a gang, is the one running the group. The two of them had the same goal but let the illusion of their methods cloud the shared vision they had for the world. Heck, if they'd work together, who knows what they could've accomplished.
Ryan: (Crosses his arms and leans in the door way debating whether or not to engage in conversation) Sometimes working together isn't always a good thing you know. I worked on a project with this other kid I went to school with and our ways of doing things were opposite. When our project was done, we got a low score. Sometimes working together holds the other person back.
Gene: (Shrugs) Yeah, very true. Maybe excelling in their own individual talents is what was necessary for their communities.
Mother: (Yelling from downstairs) Hey, Gene, honey; we're out of butter; I need to run to the store real quick-like okay.
Gene: Uh-oh; she's looking for a way out. (Winks at Ryan) No worries, honey; I'll go right now; I'm already dressed! (Says to Ryan) I'm glad we had this talk, son; you're alright. (Smiles and leaves the room)
(Ryan waits until Gene leaves then walks up to the mirror to look at his reflection.)
Ryan: Was it a dream?
[Odessa desert]
(Two older individuals are seen driving on the outskirts of a small town in Texas, Noah Bennet and Angela Petrelli, Peter Petrelli's wealthy mother. The car is awkwardly silent and the two seem a bit bothered by something.)
Bennet: I still remember the speech I gave the day I was hired. It was quite inspirational one might say.
Angela: (Smirks) Too bad you killed your boss; it would've been nice to hear his thoughts on it. You really did live the American dream in more ways than one, didn't you, Noah?
Noah: (Chuckles) It's amazing how on that same day I said those words, they came true and my fear came to past.
(A short time passes and their vehicle parks into a dirt lot. Another vehicle is there and an attractive blonde-haired woman is seen leaning against her car patiently waiting. The two get out of their car and approach her.)
Noah: (Nods) Lauren.
Lauren: Noah.
Noah: (Slides his Horn-rimmed glasses on) The history's already here so I figured why not start back up and keep this one of our main headquarters. Thanks to Angela here, funding won't be a problem for starting back up again.
Lauren: If you're starting up The "Company" again, I'd hope it won't be as… lucrative as before.
Noah: Well, you know how it goes, Lauren; we do what we need to in order to get the job done. If that means cracking a few spoiled eggs along the way, so be it. Before it was just us, but now, the world has gotten a taste of the idea that individuals with super powers exist. We don't know how the government will handle such a blow to human society but we've gotta be prepared for if things go sour.
Lauren: (Takes a hard deep breath) Honestly, Noah, I thought you were retired? e both agreed to retire. I'm with the CIA and that's how I want to keep things. Hey, maybe we can partner up again like the old times, but under big brother's watch. I'm sorry, Noah, I know you trusted me- but I'm not on board with this anymore. (Pulls out her cell phone and flashes it in front of them) You leave me no choice but to call this in to my superiors if you're serious about restarting The Company again.
Angela: (Smiles) Well, you drive a hard bargain there Nancy Drew. If I were 10 years younger, I'd have fun playing a game with such big risks, but I'm retired, so with that, I bid you a fair game and a good luck. (Turns around and walks back to the vehicle)
Noah: (In slight disbelief) Come on, Lauren.
(Lauren approaches Noah and just gives him a comforting hug.)
Lauren: You're scared, I know- for Claire. Because now she not only made herself and her ability public, but now FEDs have dictatorship over her life. If they decide they want to experiment on her, they will do so under their justifiable laws.
Noah: I'm sorry, is this supposed to be comforting, cause you're definitely not doing a great job at it.
Lauren: (Chuckles) Sorry, Bennet. (Waits for her smile to dissipate) I just want you to know I understand, but I also see it in your eyes that you don't want this. You don't want to start up the company again.
Noah: I just wanted a safety net for Claire, but uh- (Takes off his glasses and scratches his eye) I keep forgetting she's an adult capable of making her own decisions.
Lauren: I really hope we can still have dinner and watch cheesy horror flicks like Manos: The Hands of Fate. (Smirks)
Noah: Well… hopefully not that particular flick. I've already seen that movie one time too many.
(Lauren laughs in hope that all is normal again, but quickly she realizes the reality of what's going on and quickly attempts to have a heart-to-heart with him.)
Lauren: (Scratches her forehead with her pinky) You called me here with a pitch. What was the job you would've had me do if I agreed to work for you?
Noah: Well you've already proven you can't be trusted and I can't risk compromising such sensitive info.
(Lauren takes her phone and tosses it as far as she can out into the dirt. She then approaches Noah and stares him straight in the eyes.)
Lauren: No one's listening now.
Noah: (Stares back a few seconds and pulls a file out of his coat) After the incident at the carnival an organization, amongst many actually, were formed. Not to bore you with the details, but my contact in Los Angeles gave me a name of an "Evo" whose ability manifested and caused him to kill his wife. We were going to confront him.
Lauren: … (Takes a breath and a few steps back) I'm gonna play devil's advocate here, Noah. The CIA knows about this meeting so how about- we help each other out? Maybe I can tell the CIA about the person in question, we do this job together and if things go well, this job can go on your resume for if you ever decide to join me in my field.
Noah: (Smiles) I've only told you what the job would've been, but obviously things have changed.
Lauren: (Disappointed) Right… in that case, maybe we can just grab "coffee" for old time sake- one last cup; no wires attached.
Noah: (Smiles) One last cup, huh?
[Matt Parkman, Los Angeles]
(Matt sits on the couch with a large sandwich on a saucer. He places it on the coffee table in front of him and can't help but stare at it with disappointment. He opens up his thin bland looking sandwich and just tosses it aside out of shame. As he does so, his wife enters the room and sees it on the table.)
Janice: What is that?
Matt: My thoughts exactly! You must be able to read minds too!
Janice: Matt, if you were hungry, I would've made you something!
Matt: Every time I try to talk to you, it escalates into something more; I've got enough going on with me at the moment and I honestly don't think I can handle another argument.
(Janice just sighs in anger and storms off toward the kitchen.)
Matt: (Feeling slightly guilty) Honey, wait. (Groans)
(Matt looks over to see his son walk into the room and touch the T.V. screen. The T.V. turns on and sits directly in front of it with his legs crossed. Matt just looks at his son and watches as he blindly stares at the cartoons on the screen. He peaks around the corner to make sure his wife's out of sight then turns his head toward his son. He tries to read his mind to see what's going through his head while starring aimlessly at the screen and he begins to pick up voices; Strange sounds of creepy dark distorted voices go through his head unrelated to what's actually being presented on the screen. He hears one of the voices whisper out the sound of his last name then hears a loud buzzing. He yells out and jerks backward, startling his wife in the process whom is suddenly near him.)
Janice: Matt?! Matt?!
(Matt opens his eyes and looks up at Janice to see her holding her chest amd cringing away from him.)
Matt: Sorry, Janice. I- just- had a thing. Matty, hey, no more cartoons for the day, alright?
(His son turns around slowly and gives him a glare, then turns back to the T.V.)
Matt: Hey, now! (Grabs the remote and turns the T.V. off)
(Matty touches it and turns it back on to resume watching his show.)
Janice: Hey, Matty, listen to your father. Go to your room right now, okay.
(Without any retaliation, he stands to his feet, turns the T.V. off with his hand then leaves to his room.)
Janice: Close the door!
(The sound of the door closing is heard and Matt can't help but feel even more humiliated about the situation.)
Janice: (Angrily talks to Matt) Now, shut up! Don't say another word because you don't get to feel bad about what just happened! I'm scared now, Matt! I'm terrified! I'm scared to think; I'm scared of what might happen with you next! You keep having these "brain things" I'm sick of it! Your eyes turn white and you turning into a zombie at night is not a brain thing, Matt! You can't convince me otherwise!
Matt: Jani-
Janice: Shut up! (Stares at him in teary rage) You're not putting me through this again, Matt you're not! (Charges into a nearby bookshelf and pulls out a card which she brings back to Matt) Here! She's a therapist. I called to see if she's legit and she seems to be. Now I think it would be best if be both saw her but if you want us to talk to her separately or on your own, go ahead. Do what you feel is best, Matt, but please do something to fix this! (Grabs his hand) I know it takes two, but I am doing what I can right now, okay. I am taking charge by suggesting this. I can't do anything to help you if you aren't willing to help yourself. (Leaves the card in his hand) I'm leaving it up to you; whatever you wanna do. We can schedule an emergency session right now. (Leaves the room)
(Matt looks at the card and it shows a picture of a therapist named "Evelyn Mercer". A strange-looking S-shaped symbol is also on the card near the picture of her. Matt turns the card around and sees a phone number. He grabs his cell phone and begins putting in the digits when suddenly his phone rings. Matt answers it and a nervous young man responds.)
Guy: Ring, ring; I got two unmarked packages at my doorstep with your name on 'em.
Matt: Two?! What, no; there only should've been the one!
Guy: One regular, and a little one marked F.
Matt: His daughter. Alright, I'll be on my way now to pick 'em up.
Guy: Hurry, this package is getting pretty hot. (hangs up)
(Matt is a bit conflicted whether or not to call the therapist but instead he makes the decision to leave the house and deal with the new situation that has just presented itself.)
[Outskirts of Washington]
(In a small apartment, Monica, the strong-willed, young woman from before, and West, the young man who was with her earlier, enter an apartment and see a young man sitting on the floor in front of his television with a look of anguish on his face. As both Monica and West enter the apartment, the young man does not turn around to acknowledge them.)
Monica: (Concerned) Micah…? (Slowly walks up to her cousin) Hey, Micah; are you okay?
(Monica looks at the T.V. to see a news report of a flipped over bus surrounded by firemen trying their hardest to put the fire out. Monica grabs the remote nearby and turns the T.V. off. She looks over to West to silently tell him to leave the room.)
West: Micah- I'll be around in case you need me. Uh… (Awkwardly looks around before leaving the apartment)
(Monica kneels down beside Micah and places her hand on his shoulder.)
Monica: You miss him, I know. (Presses her head against the side of his) But hey, D.L. raised a good kid. (Smiles at him) If he saw you today he'd be proud. Remember that, Micah; he prepared you for this.
(Micah smiles at her and silently thanks her for her kind words.)
Micah: Thanks, Monica.
Monica: (Rubs his back and quickly stands to her feet) You know I gotcha back, cousin.
Micah: That guy- wearing the red hood. He said you wouldn't hurt any of you as long as I sent those fake videos to Hiro Nakamura's office. He didn't hurt you, did he?
Monica: … You don't ever gotta worry about be, Micah, okay? We got each other's backs. Have faith in your team.
Micah: (Smiles again) Okay. We have a job for tomorrow. I just got the email. Are you up for it?
Monica: Mm, I'd love to, cousin, but sweet overtime calls. Damon's been working part time but I'd hate to take advantage and short change Nana, ya know.
Micah: We're heroes, I can very easily get you guys the money.
Monica: Micah… (Gives him a family stare)
Micah: Okay… If you change your mind, I'm happy to help family.
(Micah's cell phone suddenly begins to ring in the kitchen. On the other end is a gorgeous blonde woman leaning against the railing of a fancy hotel balcony.)
Micah: (Voice over phone) Hello?
Tracy: Micah, you didn't answer me back about that job; is everything alright?
Micah: Y-yah. I'm okay, Aunt Tracy. I was talking to Monica right now about it, actually.
Tracy: That big time stock trader had plans to demolish an abandon complex which you were using as a hideout. I waited until I found something concrete before involving your team. Look, Micah, if you have any tech there, my advice is to relocate it. This man is losing money on a huge investment and these plans are the only thing keeping him from debt. I'm not stopping his plans, but this is a warning.
Micah: Thank you; I will let you know when the job tomorrow is done.
[Hiro Nakamura, Unknown location, Future]
(The sound of heavy wind blowing is heard and Hiro finally wakes from his unconscious state. He looks around to see 5 in hoods lying down on the ground with another individual standing over them flexing his fingers around their heads which transfers a bluish-white light. Hiro attempts to get up but another hooded individual stands over Him to hold him down. He lifts his finger up to his face and shushes him. He then walks over toward Damien who's transferring the light into the individuals.)
Red Hood Male 2: So, with HIM gone, there's only 7 of us left to make this plan work; do you think we can do this?
Damien: Why is that any of your concern? (Slowly walks over to the next person) You're agitated. What are you nervous about?
Red Hood Male 2: I'm starting to worry what my role in all of this is. We have Hiro Nakamura's power; you can send me back in time and I can help too.
Damien: (Lightly shushes him) This method requires focus, a steady mind, and still emotion. This necklace unifies abilities as long as they're compatible and right now using Hiro Nakamura's power along with mine takes a great deal of concentration.
Red Hood Male 2: If you're so worried about me messing things up, then why keep me alive?
Damien: (Sighs and takes a break from emitting the light) The truth is, you're dead in this timeline.
Red Hood Male 2: … What?
Damien: I don't know how, but in the past, you were killed. (Resumes transferring the light)
Red Hood Male 2: But how is that possible when I'm standing here now?!
Damien: I don't know, but if I send your subconscious into the past, who knows where it might go.
Red Hood Male 2: … Who told you I was dead?
Damien: (Slowly looks up at him then looks away) HE did.
Red Hood Male 2: So- if I'm dead in the past, how am I here now…?
Damien: It's a mystery-
(The hooded man turns to Hiro Nakamura and Hiro continues to pretend he is asleep.)
[Matt Parkman, Los Angles]
(Matt Parkman walks through an obviously bad neighborhood. All that's seen are shady individuals cautiously starring at him and the sound of dogs barking in the background are heard. Matt walks up to a screen door where 5 individuals are gathered around scowling at him. Matt knocks on the screen door 4 times; hesitates then knocks 2 more times. This is obviously a secret code as the 5 individuals look away from Matt and continue doing whatever task they were before. The door opens and it's a confident, yet slightly paranoid, young man. He opens the screen door for Parkman and Matt makes sure to close both doors behind him on his way in. Matt looks around and sees a disturbing display of 7 people total around the living room watching television and engaging in use and recreation of drugs.
Young Man: What's the matter, officer; you here to bust us or talk business? Let's go to the back. (Walks off)
(Matt follows him into the back room where they can speak in private. The young man goes straight to the top drawer of his dresser and searches for something.)
Matt: Lester, man; I told you about being around that stuff, I thought you were done with that that.
Lester: Look, I only met him once when I was a squirt, so I know for a fact, you a'int my pops. Don't tell me what I should and shouldn't be doing.
(The sound of loud bark followed by a growl is heard coming from the bed where a large dog is seen lying down looking at Parkman.)
Lester: (To dog) Shut up! (Says to Matt) Why'd you bring a hot package to my door step like that?
Matt: Look, the man accidentally killed his wife and I didn't know what else to do. I couldn't take him to jail. What he did was an accident.
Lester: (Leans his back against the dresser and puts something in his mouth, but then takes it out right away with paranoia) Look man, the cops are on this dude's trail, and not only did he disregard your instructions to come straight here, he disregarded mine and left with the little girl he was with.
Matt: What? Where is he now?!
Lester: You think he'd tell me? (Dog growls again) Shut up! (Leans forward and stands up straight before Matt) Look, I don't care how his ability manifested. If you want me to keep smuggling these people to safety you're gonna have to up the ante. This job is getting too dangerous for me man, and I don't think you can protect me when the feds come. Who's gonna protect me from them?
Matt: I will!
Lester: Who's gonna protect you from me…?
Matt: Look, what you're doing isn't wrong. Okay, you're helping people who've done bad things get a second chance at life. If I didn't feel what you were doing was right, I would've arrested you on drug charges a long time ago.
Lester: I kicked the stuff.
Matt: Yeah but you're still around it, which in my eyes is still possession and association.
Lester: (Smirks and scratches his head with his index finger) Look whatever man. I know you had it good with my cousin and all- wherever he may be, but it a'int like that with me. I don't have the same tolerance he does. Now I need better security, and I need to know you're not gonna send me anymore hot packages like that again, especially once that don't like to cooperate.
Matt: That's all you want; more security?
Lester: Like you said- what I'm doing a'int a bad thing. I just wanna make sure the business is protected.
Matt: No, hurting people is bad, which you obviously aren't doing. I trust you to always make the right choice, Lester. Growing up was rough, I know, but all the kids I've seen grow up without father's or male role models, you're one of the few who came out decent. The law is the law and I know that but the law wasn't made
Lester: The law is what it is, I know that. It wasn't made for people like us- who have to claw and survive. (Reaches into his drawer again and tosses his dog a doggy treat) I keep doing this, I'm gonna need more security.
Matt: I can see what I can do but no promises. I don't exactly have a resume of people with abilities looking to be bodyguards. If I find someone I'll let you know and I promise not to send anyone here who's too high on police radar.
Lester: All I ask is I'm taken care of; it's scary out there. (Takes out a call phone and tosses it to Matt) Your man is being tailed by one of my boys; he'll be calling on that phone when he gets to a stable location. Don't call out, you get one and you get two call-ins. (Points at Parkman) Don't test my trust again.
Matt: My man; you mean Fleer?
Lester: Yeah him. My man is going to call you on that phone so make sure you answer.
[Manhattan, Central Park]
(A woman with light red hair is seen jogging through the park listening to soothing meditation music with her corded earphones. As she jogs, she comes across a man walking in the opposite direction, scowling at her. She feels a sense of unease from him but ignores it to the best of her ability and continues on. As she jogs 1/10 of a quarter mile, she sees him again on a bench starring at her with a cold empty look on his face. She ignores him and continues on. The music continues to get louder and louder and she begins slightly losing control of her breathing. After an even shorter distance, she sees him again, only this time with a slight smile on his face and a gold watch on his left wrist. She stops, casually takes her earphones out and regulates her breathing before sitting beside the scowling man on the bench. The man patiently waits until she's grounded enough in herself to properly speak. The man reaches into his shirt, pulls out a phone and plays a video for her. The video appears to be a rally of individuals gathered together acting crazy and starting bonfires.)
Red Queen: Where is this?
Scowling Man: Texas.
(The woman continues watching the video to see various bodies thrown into the fire. She gets lost in the video and the flames reflect through the pupils of her eyes. After a short time, the man pulls the phone away from her and casually puts it back into his pocket, giving a friendly hello to a couple nearby riding their bikes together down the path.)
Red Queen: Was this made public?
Scowling Man: Not as of yet. The group is getting larger however. Soon these puppies will need to be leashed before they grow into rabid dogs.
Red Queen: (Sighs) I was hoping to enjoy my solitude in the shadows a bit longer but that's obviously not gonna happen. We need to treat this situation very delicately. Eventually, their hate-filled hearts will burn this world and I want to be the one to have raised it from the ashes. There are still a few pieces left which must be put on the board before everything is set into play. The biggest piece, our queen, for the time being, is The Company.
Scowling: Under ownership of one Angela Petrelli.
Red Queen: Then we get ownership, but be strategic about it. Where is Angela Petrelli now?
Woman: Don't boggle your heads too much; you won't have to look very far.
(The two look up to see Angela standing before them with two security guards around her. She gives them a smile and sits between the scowling man and the red-headed woman.)
Angela: Having the ability to dream of the future has its perks. One being- conveniently present when required.
Red: (Nods out of respect) Angela.
Angela: I warned you of a grim future where this country tore itself martial law. You did excellent by keeping those who hated "evos" under control but I'm afraid I cannot sell The Company nor its assets to you. The world is in a fragile state and The Company plays a heavy role for the future, you understand?
Red: (Smiles) I do Mrs. Petrelli.
Angela: Good. Now I must take my leave. It was a short visit but a productive one. We will be seeing each other again soon.
(Angela Petrelli stands to her feet and walks away along with her bodyguards. The Scowling Man silently turns to the red-haired woman.)
Red Queen: I'm a patient woman. We sit on this for now. We still have other pieces to invest in.
TO BE CONTINUED…