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EPISODE 6 - PART I
FADE IN
... on a pair of feminine hands, one holding down a baby marrow, the other sheathed in a fingerless biker glove and deftly chopping said marrow into thin slices with a large kitchen knife. Our POV moves to a smaller pair of hands next to them, one also holding a (smaller) knife, if in a noticeably stiff manner, the other reaching into a plastic box and taking out a tomato. It is placed on a cutting board, and the knife is about to be brought down on it, when the other pair of hands suddenly stop in their tracks and the right one makes a 'halt' gesture.
We are in...
INT. TORY'S APARTMENT - MORNING
TORY
No! Not this one. (she dips her hand in the box; takes out a tomato with a couple rather unappetizing gray spots) This one's about to go bad. Get the ones like it outta the way first.
TONY
Ok.
He takes the sickly tomato from her, his attention is drawn to the glove on her hand.
TONY
Why are you wearing a glove?
TORY
It's noth... Actually, it's because I've cut myself and it keeps the bandaids in place. It's pretty yuck, trust me.
TONY
Oh, I'm sorry.
TORY
Don't worry, I'll be fine. But let it remind you that if I can cut myself, then so can you, so careful with that knife.
TONY
I'm careful.
TORY
And don't tell mom about this, I don't want her to be worried.
TONY
Yes, Tory.
He proceeds to cut the tomato in two, but applies too much pressure, and when the veggie's skin is pierced, a gush of juice and seeds splurts from the cut onto TONY's face. TORY is also hit by a few stray droplets.
TORY
HEY! Careful with that! Watch what you're doin' before you do more harm than good, alright?
TONY
(looking at the floor) I am sorry, I didn't mean to...
TORY sees his pained expression, and a faint look of shame registers on her as well.
TORY
(soothingly) Hey, don't worry, it's nothing. Here. (she rips a piece of paper towel from a roll, hands it to TONY) Wipe that snot off you, or are you still a snotty baby, huh?
He dabs the towel on his nose and eyes, a shy smile appears fleetingly.
TONY
Thanks, sis.
TORY
Sorry for lashing out.I, uh... I've just been feeling edgy lately.
TONY
Was that how you cut your hand?
TORY
No no, it had nothing to do with... wait, you being cheeky with me, bro?
TONY shakes his head vigorously, but the twinkle in the eye and unsuccessfully suppressed smile say it all. TORY ruffles his hair in mock outrage.
TORY
Got me this time, smart ass. But don't you think you're gonna get away with it!
TONY tears his head away, chuckling lightly. The two return to slicing and dicing their respective veggies. Afterwards they empty their boards into a bowl filled with other finely chopped ingredients. TORY adds white sauce from a plastic bottle and mixes the bowl's contents with a wooden ladle. She motions TONY to bring a plate, puts the salad on it, picks up a spoon from a drawer, and proceeds to walk to the adjoining room, TONY in tow.
We CUT to MARY's bedroom. We see a drip stand next to the bed, a drip tube going into the exposed narrow bicep of MARY - a dark haired (though with plentiful gray streaks) woman, who, judging by her worn and haggard complexion, is in her mid fifties at least. Looking behind the web of lines and wrinkles and the rash of age spots (all made the more prominent by the sunlight coming through the open shutters), one can discern what once must have been elegant and delicate features. Her still thin nose is 'adorned' by another tube, her sunken brown eyes look on drowsily, half shut. Below her sagging neck, her body is entirely (save for the arm) concealed by thick sheets. Her reaction to Tory entering the room is barely perceptible.
TORY approaches the bed, trying to force a smile. Halfway through she remembers her glove, abruptly stops, turns, and shoves the plate into TONY's hands.
TORY
(under her breath). Hold this. (turns back to MARY, putting her gloved hand behind on her waist) How are you feeling, mom?
MARY rotates her head about 5° in TORY's direction.
MARY
(belabouredly) Oh, Tory. I... I feel... it's... (she pulls her other arm free of the sheets and mimes scratching herself).
TORY
You feel tingling, is that it? Where?
MARY
My right. (she indicates with her head the side of her body she is lying on) Can you... help me...
TORY nods without waiting for her to finish, walks over to the bed, pulls back the sheets, slides her hands underneath MARY's hip and shoulder, and gently rolls her mother flat on her back. Then she adjusts the pillows under her head and shoulders, and pulls her into more of a sitting position.
MARY
Thank you...
TORY
No problem, mom. Anything else I can do for you?
MARY
Thank you, it's... it's alright.
TORY
You sure? You don't feel pain anywhere?
MARY
No, really, I'm... alright.
TORY
Ok then. Well, Tony and I made a salad for you (she motions to TONY, who comes closer with the plate in his extended hands like an offering to the altar of same pagan deity). Will you have some? You've got to eat, you know.
MARY
Oh, that's so... kind of you. Maybe I can... eat a little.
TORY
Great. Tony, come sit with mom and help her out with this, will you?
TONY nods eagerly and does as instructed. He holds the plate under MARY's chin and helps her quivering hand guide the spoonful of salad to her mouth.
TORY
Small bites, remember.
MARY starts chewing, her jaw movements sluggish. After a while she undertakes to swallow, but once the food goes down, she starts choking. TORY moves onto her instantly.
TORY
(to TONY) Get off!
TONY jumps away from the bed, barely managing not to spill the plate's contents. TORY grabs MARY's shoulders and pulls her in to make her lean down.
TORY
C'mon, mom, spit it out.
MARY's cough is severe, but it is not until TORY gives her a few hearty slaps between the shoulderblades that a half-chewed piece of marrow drops on the sheets.
TORY
There you go! Ok, that piece was too big, my bad, sorry.
MARY
(breathing heavily) No, no... I'm sorry... I'm sorry I... gave you a scare.
TORY
Oh don't be silly, nothing to be sorry for. Tony, from now on first check if it's all been chopped up properly before you feed mom.
TONY
Ok, I will.
TONY returns to his spot and the feeding resumes without further incidents. It is a prolonged process. Eventually, MARY gestures for TONY to stop.
MARY
Thank you... my darling... It's enough.
TORY
Alright, Tony, take the plate back to the kitchen. And mom, if you need anything it all, just hit the buzzer and me or Tony will be here in a flash.
MARY
Thank you honey... thank you. (her voice breaks) Without you I don't know...
TORY
(moves in and hugs her over her shoulders) No need to say anything, mom. I'm here for you, always. (she kisses her forehead) I love you, and we will get through this, alright? Trust me.
MARY
(sad smile, tears trickling) I trust you, Tory. You were always... the strong one.
TORY
Well I had to have got it from someone, didn't I? You are strong too, mom, I know you are. And now I need you to know it too, do you hear me?!
MARY
I hear you, honey... It's just... so hard to believe...
TORY
I believe it, but it won't do any good if you don't, alright? You must believe too, for all of us. Can you do that, mom?
MARY
Yes, you are right... I will...
She nods, raises her hand feebly and grasps TORY's hand, now resting on MARY's cheek. She lets out a sob, their foreheads touch, and the two stay motionless for a while...
Once TORY leans away, MARY's expression takes on a more stern aspect.
MARY
Tory?
TORY
Yes, mom?
MARY
What happened to your hand?
TORY
(flustered, trying to feign surprise) Oh, this... Nothing, mom, I've cut myself, is all.
MARY
Tory, have you... been getting into trouble?
TORY
(looking down, shaking her head) No, mom, it was just an accident, nothing for you to worry about.
MARY nods in assent, but at the same time a deep sadness creeps over her features.
MARY
Please... look after yourself, honey.
TORY
I will mom, I promise.
She leans in to kiss her on the forehead again. MARY receives it resignedly.
CUT TO TORY walking out of MARY's bedroom, heavyhearted. TONY is looking at her expectantly.
TORY
Tony, clean up in the kitchen, I've got to get ready for work.
TONY
Ok I will, but can you play Life with me first?
TORY
(frustrated) C'mon, Tony, I don't have time for this!
TONY
Please, just a few turns! It's been so long since the last time...
TORY
Oh boy, aren't you too old for this game anyway?
TONY
Pleeease, or I will be too old by the time we finish!
TORY
(rolls her eyes) Alright, but just a few turns, got it?!
TONY grins and nods vigorously, then runs to his corner of the room where the boardgame has already been laid out. We see the board is smudged and taped together in places. The toy cars representing the players have been placed roughly third of the way to the finish line.
TORY comes to sit on the floor by the board opposite TONY.
TORY
Ok, so whose turn is it?
TONY
It's yours. Go on, spin!
She gives the attached spinner a shove, then moves her car (with a single pink peg in it) the given number of spaces. Along the way, she arrives at crossroads and makes a turn for the 'risky' path. Her car lands on the 'vacation' spot.
TONY
(pushing the 'vacation' card deck towards her) Hey, you get to go on holidays!
TORY
(skeptically) Do I? (she lays out the cards from the deck, her attention is drawn to the "Dubai Amusement Park" card, her face drops a little)... Guess I'll check that place out.
TONY
That sounds cool. You know Dubai has the tallest skyscraper in the world?
TORY
Really? Guess someone felt like compensating. (sees TONY's blank expression) Nevermind, your turn, (she sees his car already has 3 pegs in it) family guy.
TONY spins the wheel, moves his car, audibly counting the spaces, lands on the "Payday" spot.
TORY
Oh, you've hit payday, good for you. Now what's your job again?
TONY
I'm a doctor, but I cure everyone, even if they don't have money.
TORY
Well aren't you a philanthropist. You must have plenty of patients? (TONY nods) How do you find time for your family then?
TONY
(shrugs) My wife is a doctor, too. We cure people together.
TORY
Huh. Guess you've got it all worked out then.
She pushes the spinner, then moves her car. It comes to a 'Stop' spot.
TORY
Oh, looks like I've got to pump the brakes here. What's this about?
TONY
You've graduated college. It's time to pick your job.
He hands her the 'Jobs' deck. TORY examines her choices - a Superstar, a Fashion Designer, an Athlete, a Police Officer...
A CLOSE UP on TORY's face, looking absent-minded, her eyes staring at the cards, but evidently seeing something else entirely.
FADE IN on TORY as a child, approx. TONY's age. She is hunched over a bowl of soup, stirring it unenthusiastically with a similarly absent-minded expression. Her mother, looking easily two decades younger, bustles around in the kitchen. It is the same apartment, though more orderly and with less worn furnishing. It is late evening. Suddenly, screams can be heard outside. TORY drops her spoon and jumps up from her seat, turning towards the door.
TORY
DAD?!
She runs to the door. MARY, with a panicked expression, goes to intercept her, but her very pregnant belly impedes her movement.
MARY
NO! HONEY, DON'T GO OUT THERE!
TORY ignores her, goes out the door and onto the courtyard, to see a thin smart-dressed man, TORY'S FATHER, feebly attempting to free himself from being restrained by two GANGBANGERS wearing wifebeaters and with shaved heads, their faces twisted with sadistic glee. She and the FATHER exchange looks of terror.
FATHER
TORY! GET BACK INSIDE NOW!
TORY
(hysterical) DAD! WHAT'S HAPPENING?!
FATHER
GET BACK TO YOUR MOM...
He is silenced and doubled over by a violent punch between the ribs. TORY recoils, but before she can get back into the house, a heavy hand coils around her neck and pushes her into the wide bulky chest of a...
GANGBANGER #3
Hey, look what we have here. Here, little birdie. Come to daddy!
[NOTE: GANGBANGER #3's face remains obscured throughout the scene]
TORY writhes in his grasp, but succeeds in little more than amusing him. Suddenly, the GANGBANGER #3's mug is seized by the outstretched fingers of...
MARY
LEAVE HER ALONE YOU BASTARD!
The fingers rake the man's face. He releases his hold on TORY, who leaps away, then thrusts his elbow backwards with all his might, hitting MARY right in her swollen belly. She gets flung back with a gasp, strikes the doorframe, and slumps downward, clutching her belly. Silent.
TORY
MOM!
She runs around the man and clings to her mother, now looking dazed, only to be wrenched away by her hair. The man flashes a blade before her face.
GANGBANGER #3
Now you stop futzing around, little birdie, or I'm gonna cut your pretty face into a jigsaw, capiche?
He forcefully turns her head towards the other men. TORY's DAD has ceased struggling, reduced to merely looking with dismay at the scene unfolding.
GANGBANGER #3
Now, we're gonna teach this little one what happens when you try to dodge your debts, aren't we, boys?! About time someone taught her a thing or two about life, huh? Can't count on this deadbeat to do that!
The other GANGBANGERS nod, grinning. One of them brings TORY'S FATHER to his knees by kicking his shin.
GANGBANGER #3
(flicking the knife closed and back open)... and I'm gonna make sure she doesn't blink and miss it. Now hold your eyes open, little birdie, or they're gonna stay closed forever.
He puts the tip of the blade underneath TORY's tightly shut eyelid, then raises it forcing it open. A drop of blood runs down the knife's edge. A slightest movement would now lead to her eye getting sliced. Panting, she holds her head rigid, beholding her FATHER now getting sprawled on the ground with a kick to the back of his head. One of the GANGBANGERS reaches down, grabs his hand, and drags it to the curb. Then he lays his foot on the man's wrist to keep the hand in place. The other GANGBANGER assumes the position, while TORY'S FATHER mumbles something indistinctly, his face pressed into the ground.
GANGBANGER #3
(grinning) Lesson one, little birdie. And no flinching!
MARY
(weakly) Please, stop, don't hurt him. My water is breaking. We have to go to the hospital!
GANGBANGER #3
Oh, that's just swell! You wait a minute, lady. I'm sure daddy's gonna want to tag along.
He gives a nod to the other GANGBANGER, who proceeds to raise and then bring his foot down onto the FATHER's outstretched hand...
A CLOSE-UP on TORY's face, shuddering with lips clenched and every facial muscle strained to the maximum, as a sickening crunch of bones followed by a nerve-shattering scream resounds...
The camera pans down, onto the GANGBANGER #3's belt. As the screen fades, we see a cop's badge tucked behind it...
FADE BACK to the present day TORY, holding the Police Officer job card in a tight grip, her mind evidently still lost in the memory.
TONY
(puzzled by her apparent mental lapse) You want to join the police, Tory?
TORY
(finally breaking out of her stupor by making a slow shaking movement with her head) No.
She puts the card down, and picks another at random, landing on the fashion designer card.
TONY
Oh, this job makes a lot of money, but it's harder to marry with it.
TORY
Yeah, with the kind of men that are in this business I'd imagine... Listen, Tony, we'll finish some other time, I've gotta get ready for work.
TONY protests, but TORY hardly pays attention to him. She gets up from the floor, moves briskly to the bathroom and shuts the door behind her. Inside, she regards her reflection pensively for a moment, before reaching for her make-up kit. She starts dyeing her eyelashes as we pan slowly towards the sink. Shortly after the sink is zoomed in on completely, we see a black dye-stained tear fall on its surface, followed by the brush, followed by TORY's hands slamming onto its sides. We hear an anguished sob...
CUT TO
INT. WEST VALLEY HOSPITAL - MIDDAY
We see MIGUEL and DEMETRI walking down a hospital hallway, maneuvering around (mostly elderly) patients wearing hospital gowns and plaster casts, and strolling feebly about with the help of walking frames and crutches. The two look intently at the numbers affixed to the doors they are passing by, until they finally arrive at the desired number. MIGUEL walks to the door and is about to pull the handle when he hears female voices coming from the inside, which leads him to knock gently on the door first. Upon opening the door, he stops suddenly, one foot across the threshold.
Inside the room, he is met by the placid stare of a bronze snorkel-nosed turtle, keeping vigil near the left side of the doorframe. On the other side, a three-legged toad has assumed its post, resting on a hemmed pillow, its back to the door. On the window sill a similarly bronze rooster with a centipede in its beak stands frozen mid-strut, flanked on both sides by pots with red flowers. A bell, also bronze, sways gently by the window, tied to a metal beam under the ceiling. A dried bottle gourd covered with intricate designs takes up most of HAWK's bedside table. On the opposite bed, otherwise unoccupied, a pair of elephants have taken up residence, and are now sternly watching their human roommate.
In the midst of this scene, walking softly as if careful not to disturb the painstakingly woven design, there is MOON, coming towards MIGUEL with a slightly alarmed expression, while holding a wooden rabbit in her hands. Behind her on the bed we can see HAWK with his cast, looking a twinge embarrassed, and his MOTHER, ANASTASIA, sitting at the edge of his bed.
MOON
Oh! Miguel... Demetri! Hi! Nice to see you! Come in, but please be careful not to knock any of the guys over.
MIGUEL answers and completes the step with increased caution, as if mindful not to provoke the room's unusual guardians. DEMETRI follows him in. They look around in bewilderment and notice a bagua mirror hung above the doorframe. ANASTASIA rises from the bed.
ANASTASIA
So glad to see you all come to visit my poor Eli! Demetri! I haven't seen you come around for ages! You were such a good influence on him, and now look what happened! And all because Eli got himself into some stupid drag racing contest! If you only had been there to talk him out of that craziness! You were always the voice of reason for him!
DEMETRI, MIGUEL and HAWK all exchange meaningful looks.
DEMETRI
Yeah, I'm sorry, Mrs Moskovitz. I guess we kinda went our separate ways recently, but... (he spreads his arms out) I'm here now to talk sense!
HAWK
(cynical) Woo-hoo, let's ring that bell to celebrate. And mom, don't talk as if he were my big brother... he's neither of these things. And it was just an accident, that's all!
ANASTASIA
Huh! "Just an accident"?! Young man, your motorcycle's been reduced to a ball of tangled scrap! Do you realize it's a miracle you got off as lightly as you did?! And I'm surprised we haven't yet got a call to pay damages from whoever was that unfortunate soul you rammed into!
HAWK
It was me that was rammed into, mom, but whatever. I don't think you'll be hearing from that guy...
ANASTASIA
Why?! You haven't beaten the poor man up or anything, I hope?!
HAWK
No, he ran away before I even had the chance. I'm thinking I was profiled. He must have been mohawk-phobic.
MIGUEL
(chortling) Well, we're happy to hear you're ok, Hawk. (looks at his cast) Mostly... But (glances at Demetri) speaking of sense (looks around again), I can't make any of what's going on here.
MOON
Oh, Miguel, don't say you've never heard of feng-shui?!
MIGUEL
(frowning) Well, I did, but... not like that!
MOON
Then you haven't heard of the real feng-shui! That's how it looks like when you don't half-ass it. I've just about finished routing the positive chi to our patient, and at the same time blocking the bad chi from getting access to him.
DEMETRI
Oh, so that's what the three-legged frog and the turtle are for? To prevent bad energies from entering?
MOON
At the risk of oversimplifying things, yes, pretty much. The turtle is for protection, and the toad for purification. Not just that, of course. The elephants are for strength, as you may have guessed...
DEMETRI
And the cock?
MOON
(looks at the window behind her) Oh, yes, the rooster reaches outside and draws the good chi in, but I wasn't really keen on placing him here, to be honest...
MIGUEL
Why not?
MOON
The main function of the rooster is to get rid of bad love... (looks at HAWK tellingly) Not really something he's got to worry about right now. But he forced me to put him here.
HAWK
I said I wanted some badass bird to be by my side...
DEMETRI
(to MOON) And a cock was the best you could come up with?
MOON
Well, it was that or mandarin ducks. There are no birds of prey in feng-shui.
DEMETRI
(to HAWK) So you didn't want another duck to play with in the bath?
HAWK
(staring daggers) Demetri, I'm warning you, we're two levels above ground and there are no trampolines to save you this time...
ANASTASIA
Eli! Why do you act so mean to your friend?!
DEMETRI
Right, come on, bro, we could at least behave ourselves around ladies! Besides, you shouldn't complain. You should be glad it's you Moon's giving the cock to!
ANASTASIA
(aghast) Demetri?!
DEMETRI
Sorry, Mrs Moskovitz...
MOON
(shaking her head) Very funny, boys. Anyway, we've reached a bitter compromise. Hawk gets the co... rooster, and he lets me put the rabbit (she motions to the figurine in her hand) in his peach blossom spot.
MIGUEL
In his what?!
DEMETRI
His peach blossom spot?! Is there something you'd like to tell us, Hawk?
HAWK
No, but you may want to tell us your last will, and fast.
MOON
(rolls her eyes) Peach blossom spot is an area in your living room that you pinpoint based on your Chinese horoscope sign. Now this isn't exactly a living room, but we've gotta make do with what we have. Once located, the spot needs a special feng-shui treatment to ensure good fortune in the inhabitant's... emotional life. And it absolutely won't be complete without an object representing his horoscope sign... (hesitates) And it so happens that Hawk's sign is a...
DEMETRI
(cutting in) A bunny rabbit?
MOON nods.
HAWK
(red-faced) This is a joke! No way is my spirit animal a goddamn bunny! This whole China horoscope must be out of whack! I'm not some carrot-munching coward!
DEMETRI
(mock-scoldingly) There, there, Hawk, carrots are good for you!
MOON
(exasperated) Besides, rabbit doesn't stand for cowardice! That's a western stereotype that has nothing to do with feng-shui.
MIGUEL
So what does the rabbit stand for in feng-shui? Potency?
ANASTASIA
Ok, this talk is getting too high school locker room for me, I'll see myself out. You guys stay as long as you like of course, I'm sure Eli will appreciate you keeping him company. (she leans towards HAWK and kisses him on the cheek, to his evident displeasure) You take care, sweetie, you'll be home soon. Now have fun with your friends, I'll call later.
HAWK
(coldly) See you, mom.
He looks at the gathering with a "not a goddamn word" expression.
ANASTASIA
Oh, and Moon, thank you so much for telling me all this about feng-shui. Truly fascinating stuff , hope you come by sometime and help me try my hand at this.
MOON
Oh, you can totally count on that! I'd be delighted to help! Goodbye, Mrs Moskovitz!
HAWK
(under his breath) Terrific, more junk in the house coming up...
ANASTASIA walks out of the room.
MOON
Anyway, the rabbit. You were actually right in a manner of speaking, Miguel. Potency isn't the word I'd use, but vitality, enjoyment of life, absolutely. Also loyalty to your close ones, personal integrity, and charm. Does it sound so unlike you, Hawk?
HAWK
(shrugs) Guess not.
DEMETRI
Oh, Hawk certainly enjoys life whenever he's around someone he can mess with. And he sure can be a loyal pain in the ass.
HAWK
(smirks) Right, and your ass is gettin' an integrity test from me in short order, Demetri.
DEMETRI
And now that trademark charm! Right on cue!
MIGUEL
That description actually fits you pretty well, Hawk.
HAWK
Maybe, but still I'd rather go with some different animal.
DEMETRI
C'mon, don't get so hung up on the poor bunny. Think about it - keep him around and when a physician comes in you can be like "what's up, doc?!" and then blame it on him!
MOON
(shakes her head) Laugh it up, guys! It's good for you after all. Now you little fella... (she addresses the rabbit in her hand)... are going here.
She puts the rabbit in the corner near the turtle.
MOON
The spot could use flowers too. Guess I'd better get some more.
DEMETRI
If that bunny's meant to be Hawk, then my guess is he's going to challenge that turtle to a drag race before we know it.
MOON
(looks at DEMETRI with satisfaction on her face) Well, as long as they race along the chi lines, they should be good to go.
MIGUEL
(to MOON) You sure sound like you know what you're doing, but is the hospital staff ok with this?
MOON
I've had a little talk with the ward nurse, and let's just say she won't be sending the janitors after these guys. Now of course the doctors will be thumbing their noses at it, but to hell with them!
DEMETRI
Right... What sane person's going to care what a bunch of doctors have to say?! What do they know? Of course it makes more sense to cure a guy with Chinese home decor than with whatever the hell they're using. I hope you've ordered some rhino horn powder for him on AliExpress too while you're at it?
MOON
(outraged) HEY! Don't conflate these things! Those 'remedies' made from animal parts are barbaric and have no true basis in tradition, Chinese or otherwise. Now feng-shui is an art that's been refined for thousands of years, and I can personally attest to its effectiveness!
MIGUEL
You've treated yourself with that stuff?
MOON
Think I'd be so irresponsible as to administer the treatment to someone else without first testing it on my own person? This is no laughing matter, if I focused negative chi on Hawk by accident, that could really do a number on him. And yes, I was going through a pretty rough patch not too long ago, and once I balanced out the energies at home, I experienced a truly remarkable turnaround.
DEMETRI
You sure you haven't just been dealt better quality weed?
MOON
(looks at him icily) My weed is always top quality.
DEMETRI
Oh, looks like I've prodded at a sensitive spot. Sorry about that.
MOON
(proudly) Not really. It's just the truth. In fact, I've got a girlfriend working at lab who was able to confirm that my dope is indeed one hundred percent pure.
DEMETRI
(raising hands in defeat) Alright, my bad... Anyway, your girlfriend, the name's Piper, right? Now how is she doing?
MOON
She's uh... she's doing just fine I'm sure.
MIGUEL
You don't sound very convinced.
MOON
(forces a smile) Nothing to worry about, she's just taken up with her internship, I assume. Haven't been hearing a whole lot from her lately... anyway, I'm gonna go get some orchids. You guys be extra careful here, alright? Don't knock any of my pups and disrupt the chi flow.
DEMETRI
Hey, you got it. Let me just bring my wires and I'm gonna hoist myself to the ceiling Ethan Hunt style.
MOON
Appreciate your commitment, but... that will not be necessary. As long as you keep your eyes open and keep from doing karate here, it'll be fine. Ok, gonna leave you to do man talk. (to HAWK, soothingly) I'll be back soon.
HAWK
No rush, there's stuff I have to talk over with the guys.
They exchange friendly (or are they?) kisses, and MOON walks out, waving the others goodbye. HAWK watches her go with evident self-satisfaction.
DEMETRI
Would you look at that, seems like someone knows exactly what treatment our patient needs.
MIGUEL
You were right there was no need for doctors, you can see he's getting better by the minute with her around.
DEMETRI
Yeah, that reminds me, actually. When I gave you that advice on getting her back, I didn't expect you'd take it so literally! Nor that it'd work so well!
HAWK
True, it is shocking to think that your relationship advice worked at all for once. Not that I wanted her to even see me like this...
MIGUEL
Which brings us to the question of how you ended up like this in the first place. Safe to say it was no accident, right?
HAWK
(shrugs) Well, I didn't lie about that part. I just left out a couple details.
MIGUEL
Namely?
HAWK
Namely that I had no choice but to get in the way of that car. It was that or getting run over.
MIGUEL
Jesus... bastards! You saw them?
HAWK
Sure did. But it wasn't them I saw, it was her...
MIGUEL
(his face drops) Oh damn it...
DEMETRI
Shit! I said to her face I'll have your back! Now I'm left looking like a fool...
HAWK
Looking like a fool? You? Oh don't worry, there's a first time for everyone. Anyway, no need to kick yourself over it, who could have guessed she would show up there and then? The other guys with me certainly didn't, so she got a drop on them. She chased me down on Assface's bike, but when that crash failed to take me out, I managed to whisk her out of her seat, took the wind right outta her sails.
MIGUEL
And then what happened?
HAWK
I dared her to come at me, and she scurried away like a rat. Figures she would do that once she could no longer play dirty.
DEMETRI
Maybe she thought you meant something else when you said "come at me" and that's what scared her off?
HAWK just gives him a frosty look.
MIGUEL
Sounds like it was quite a scene...
HAWK
Honest to God Fast n' Furious' kinda shit. And I'm tellin' ya right now it ain't over, not by a long shot.
MIGUEL
Well, what do you intend to do?
HAWK looks at him gravely, then after a brief pause resumes speaking.
HAWK
I'll tell you what I'm gonna do, and since she was your girl once, I'm gonna be extra clear with you on that. (he raises his cast) Once I'm out of this, I'm going after the bitch, and once I get to her she's a corpse. She... and everyone standing between me and her.
MIGUEL
(shaking his head in dismay) Hawk, listen, I know you've got a damn good reason to be pissed, but this isn't the way to solve this. We've got to...
HAWK
DON'T GIVE ME THAT SHIT, SERPIENTE! This is the way, the only way! Guess you didn't get the memo, but we're at war! And I'm gonna fight it the way Sensei's taught us.
MIGUEL
Sensei wouldn't want us to kill each other!
HAWK
Yeah, well, he wouldn't want us to be pissed on and pretend it's raining either!
DEMETRI
Oh you think he would judge you for this kink? Isn't he like into tentacles and...
MIGUEL
Demetri, shut up! (to HAWK) Look, you started questioning Cobra Kai after you broke his arm, didn't you? Why not give the others there a chance to come to their senses too?!
HAWK
What, you gonna compare her to me?! I never started shit with anyone who hadn't started shit with me or Cobra Kai first...
MIGUEL
... and Tory thinks you started shit with CK by turning your back on them. You didn't use to be so different here, Hawk... Look, let me try and talk to her, there's gotta be a way to settle this without more violence...
HAWK
(sneers) Right, talk to her. I'm sure you've had talking to her on your mind ever since you got your lower half back in order.
MIGUEL
Damn it, it's not about that! I just... I don't want you guys to ruin your lives over Kreese's bullshit!
HAWK
It's gone beyond Kreese at this point, Serpiente. Shit's got personal. You do what you want. Go grovel before Tory and the rest of them if that's your style now. Maybe apologize to Kyler for all these times you've kicked his ass, too. I'm sure that's gonna work wonders. But I ain't lettin' this slide. I ain't lettin' these scumbags come out thinkin' they own the streets. When I'm through with them, the streets will be wiped clean.
DEMETRI
Jesus, he really thinks he's the Punisher... or wait, are we live now? Is this your campaign speech for the town's mayor? Because I think republicans already picked their candidate...
HAWK
Difference is I do more than talk, as you will soon see.
MIGUEL
Not with that arm you aren't, and I hope you cool off before you get to actually try anything.
HAWK
Well, you know what they say about vengeance...
MIGUEL
I know what the Lord said - "vengeance is mine".
HAWK
Nice quote, think I'm gonna steal it.
Before MIGUEL can reply, he is interrupted by the sound of the door opening, followed by the voice of...
SAM
What, he's giving you Bible lessons too now?
MIGUEL
Oh, hi Sam.
SAM
Hi, Miggy, Demetri... (to HAWK) Hope you don't mind me showing up here.
HAWK
(awkward)... No, not at all, uh come in Sam... Glad you're ok after yesterday.
SAM
Oh, thanks, but never mind me. Glad you've come out of that crash in one piece. The whole school's been buzzing about it. They say your bike was scattered all over the street... (she walks inside, looks around) Wait, what is all this?!
DEMETRI
Uh, these are Moon's friends she left here to assist in Hawk's therapy. I'm sure she'll be happy to talk your ear off about them when she's back.
SAM
Moon's around here?! That's awesome! (she notices the frog, chuckles) And yeah, she's got some explaining to do. Anyway, have I interrupted you guys talking about something important? You sounded pretty worked up.
MIGUEL
Not really, no. I was just telling Hawk that, uh...
DEMETRI
...He shouldn't feel vengeful towards the guy that smashed into him.
MIGUEL
(beaming) Exactly.
SAM regards their forced 'cool' smiles with suspicion. Suddenly, MIGUEL's phone starts ringing.
MIGUEL
(looking at the screen) It's Sensei. Excuse me, guys.
He walks out. SAM looks at him go, and then gives DEMETRI a telling look.
DEMETRI
(catching the cue) Uhh, you know what, I'm going to look for the bathroom. Don't go anywhere while I'm gone.
HAWK
Don't worry, not gonna leave you all alone in a big scary hospital. Just don't get lost on the way.
DEMETRI points a fingergun at him, then leaves. SAM waits until he closes the door behind him.
SAM
So... how is it?
HAWK
Oh, the hand? No big deal, sure has fared better than the bike.
SAM
Yeah, I can see it didn't have to be sewn back in. Can you move it?
HAWK
(shakes head) Nah, it's limp like a... well, you get the idea.
SAM
Rrright. So how long is it going to be like that?
HAWK
A few months... according to the doc anyway.
SAM
So that means the tournament... is no longer on the table?
HAWK
The tournament, right. Well, I'm gonna keep preparing for it in any case.
SAM
Sounds like a good mindset. And with your Sensei's training methods, it seems that half our team will be wearing casts by the time the tournament rolls around, if we're going to field a team at all.
HAWK
Yeah, well, I don't think Sensei's gonna go soft again, so...
SAM
Going soft is one thing, flaunting safety precautions is quite another... I would be lying next door now if it hadn't been for you.
HAWK
Oh... Uh, come on, it was my fault you almost fell in the first place.
SAM
You were just using our position to your advantage, there wasn't anything wrong with that. It wasn't your fault the whole place didn't pass muster in the... structural integrity department.
HAWK
Didn't have to go as far as I did.
SAM
Going all in is your style, isn't it? Can't really blame you for that after I pulled a fast one on you during our sparring.
HAWK
... maybe not... but that was one hell of a punch, actually.
SAM
Having an Okinawa karate master-trained dad's got its perks. Still wasn't fair of me to bring it out. You could have got my legs knocked out in a more permanent manner in return, but you saved my butt instead. I didn't have a chance to thank you for that, so, uh, that's why I came.
HAWK
(embarrassed) ... It was nothing, really. Don't... don't even mention it.
SAM
(moves closer, puts her hand on HAWK's cast) It meant something to me. It made me realize I was wrong to have judged you the way I did. I'm sorry for that.
HAWK
...I'm sorry too, for... riling you up before.
SAM
(smiles faintly) I think this is a good opportunity to put all this behind us, what do you say? But to finish up on the matter of apologies, my dad is also sorry for snapping at you the way he did. He told me to bring you this, along with an invitation to rejoin our dojo as soon as you're able.
She reaches into a plastic bag she has been holding this whole time, to HAWK's puzzled expression. She takes out a...
... bonsai tree.
SAM
Something to add to the clutter here. Hope it doesn't interfere with the Chinese magic going on. You may recognize it as the symbol of Miyagi-Do.
HAWK
It's real nice, thanks.
SAM
It's not just for show, either. (she brings out a pair of scissors). You can... customize it to fit your beauty standards. Doing that is actually part of Miyagi-Do training, believe it or not. May be harder with just your left hand, but I'm sure together we'll manage. Wanna give it a makeover?
HAWK gives an uncertain nod.
SAM
Alright! You work the scissors, and I'll hold the branches for you. Just please be mindful of my fingers. Now the first thing is to picture in your head how you want it to look.
HAWK
(a mischievous smile creeping up on his lips) Yeah, I think I've got a plan for this one already...
CUT TO MIGUEL in the hallway on his phone. A flashcard accompanies the transition - A FEW MINUTES EARLIER.
MIGUEL
Hello? Yes, Sensei, what's up?... Wait, tell you what?!
He looks guiltily towards the door to HAWK's room, then slaps his forehead.
CUT TO
INT. HOSPITAL'S LOBBY (FLASH CARD: A FEW MINUTES EARLIER STILL)
We cut to JOHNNY stepping into the hospital's reception area. He walks briskly over to the ADMISSIONS CLERK. It's a different one from yesterday. From the look she gives him, we may glean that it is not their first encounter.
ADMISSIONS CLERK
Yes?
JOHNNY
I, uh, came to see a buddy of mine. Was hoping you could give me directions.
ADMISSIONS CLERK
His name?
JOHNNY
(trying to play it cool) He checked in yesterday, young dude with a mohawk. I'm sure you know who I'm talking about. Probably the only one with that hair in town.
ADMISSIONS CLERK
I wasn't here yesterday, mister. Nor do I know what every patient here looks like. What's his name?
JOHNNY
(visibly uneasy now) Uhh, look, the thing is, I only ever call him by his nickname, and that's probably not the name he checked in under. Where do you guys keep, like, car wreck victims and the like?
ADMISSIONS CLERK
We place patients in units based on the type of their condition, not the cause behind it. And what kind of buddy of yours is he anyway if you can't even tell me his actual name?!
JOHNNY
Hey! My memory isn't what it used to be, alright? Don't blame the guy for letting stuff slip his mind once in a while!
ADMISSIONS CLERK
That sounds quite concerning, mister. Brain trauma, perhaps? Maybe I could suggest checking into our rehabilitation ward?
JOHNNY
C'mon, it's not that bad. Besides, my last brain trauma happened right here in this hospital. Should have sued, come to think of it.
ADMISSIONS CLERK
Well in that case I'm afraid I cannot help you, mister.
JOHNNY
Oh give me a break! I'm sure I've told you enough, just point me in the general direction and I'll find my way myself, can't have that many cripples around here, am I right?
ADMISSIONS CLERK
Oh nonono, just about the last thing our patients need is to have their peace disturbed by some hob...vagrant bumbling through their rooms.
JOHNNY
Who you calling vagrant, lady?! What's with the attitude, did being a harpy come with the job training, or was it already on your resume?... I wanna speak to the manager!
ADMISSIONS CLERK
(snorts) And I wanna be John D. Rockerfeller's long lost heir. You obviously have no business here, mister. Now leave before I call security.
JOHNNY
Alright, alright, god damn it, I'll give you his name, just give me a sec, ok?!
He steps back, away from the reception desk, takes out his phone, and angrily dials MIGUEL's number.
JOHNNY
Miguel? Sensei here... Uhhh, tell me real quick what's Hawk's full name?... Hawk's name, yes... Eli what?! Muscovite?... Musk-howitz, ok thanks. Didn't know he was Russian... You in there already?... Alright, cool, I'll be there in a moment, as long as I manage to get past that bitch of a...
He abruptly goes silent upon seeing the person behind him walk over to the desk. It is...
KREESE
Afternoon, Ma'am. I'm here to see my student, Mr Eli Moskovitz. I believe he has just been admitted here. Would you be so kind as to tell me his room number?
ADMISSIONS CLERK
(beaming) Certainly, Mister. Just a minute, please.
JOHNNY
(pointing at KREESE, outraged) HEY! What in the hell are you doing here?! (to the CLERK) You can't let him in there! He ain't Hawk's teacher! He's a fraud! A snake! And a vagrant, too! Yeah, now here's your vagrant, lady!
KREESE
(turns towards him) How very eloquently put, Johnny, You've sure made your case loud and clear to everybody. But do keep your voice down; we're in a house of healing, not fighting after all.
JOHNNY
Yeah, that ain't gonna help you if you don't get your slimy ass out of here right now! The hell do you want with Hawk, anyway?!
KREESE
(shrugs) I am merely paying a visit to one of my students, checking in on how he's doing, as is fully within my rights to do.
JOHNNY
(through gritted teeth) Hawk's not part of your gang anymore!
KREESE
Is he? As far as I know his contract with our dojo is still on. I'll of course make sure to terminate it and refund him if what you say is the case, but... you'll forgive me if I clear the matter up with him first... personally.
JOHNNY
(furious) You ain't stepping foot near him, you rotten son of a b...
ADMISSIONS CLERK
HEY! Enough of this lunacy! Security! Escort this man out of the building! (to KREESE) Sir, you can find Mr Moskovitz in room 209 at the rehabilitation unit. Have a nice visit!
KREESE
Thank you, Ma'am. (to JOHNNY, now rapidly approached by a burly SECURITY GUARD) See you around, Johnny.
JOHNNY
(as KREESE walks off) You try to poach my student and I'll make you pay, Kreese, you hear me?!
SECURITY GUARD
Alright, fella, that's enough. Time for you to go!
JOHNNY
(raises his hands) Fine, I'll go, cool it, big guy. I'm not here to start anything. But it's him you should be keepin' tabs on. This man's bad news, you know what I mean?
SECURITY GUARD
Yea, whatever. Move it, asshole.
JOHNNY
I'm movin', chill! But seriously, John Kreese is a... a bad influence, you know?! He shouldn't be let near kids!
The SECURITY GUARD pays no apparent attention to JOHNNY's jabbering, shoving him inexorably towards the door. JOHNNY seemingly relents, but about halfway through a look of realization comes over his face.
JOHNNY
(quietly, to himself) Shit, Miguel's there too. Can't leave them like that.
Suddenly, the GUARD's next shove seemingly makes JOHNNY trip and sprawl over the floor. With a sigh, the man leans over him...
SECURITY GUARD
C'mon, man, get up!
... only to have his knee karate-chopped for the effort. The man gasps, and as the knee gives out, he topples onto the spot occupied milliseconds earlier by Johnny, who has now deftly rolled out of his way and sprang onto his feet.
JOHNNY
Sorry buddy, I was out of options. Now stay down, don't move, and you'll be ok.
He runs towards the stairway where KREESE disappeared earlier. He moves past the reception desk, where the CLERK stands speechless and transfixed with a horrified expression.
JOHNNY
And you! Go to him and start massaging his leg, right now! It's either that or amputation!
The woman's eyes bug out at him. Otherwise no discernible reaction.
JOHNNY
Well what are you standing like that for, mouth gaping like a fly trap?! Get over there and help him out!
She finally scampers away in the direction of the entrance. JOHNNY goes in the opposite direction, and starts sprinting up the stairs.
CUT TO
INT. REHABILITATION UNIT HALLWAY (FLASHCARD: A MOMENT EARLIER)
We see Miguel holding his phone with a confused expression as JOHNNY's muffled, unintelligible shouts are coming from the other end.
MIGUEL
Sensei? Sensei, what's going on in there?! SENSEI?!
He ends the call in frustration, which quickly morphs into concern, and starts walking down the corridor, wading his way through the elderly inmates. Suddenly, he freezes and his eyes go wide, as he spots KREESE entering the hallway at the other end. In short order the two of them lock eyes. KREESE reacts with a sly grin.
KREESE
Well, well, who do we have here, our star student! Pleasure to see you, my boy.
MIGUEL
Spare me the pleasantries, Kreese. Why are you here?
KREESE
You know full well why I'm here. But seeing as you're here, too, that means I'm both in the right place and at the right time.
MIGUEL
So you know what happened?
KREESE
I do indeed. But my concern is about what's going to happen next.
MIGUEL
What's going to happen next?
KREESE
Well, that depends. Our future is not set in stone, is it?
MIGUEL
Depends on what?
KREESE
On whether you, Hawk, the rest of your side heeds my message. And my message is simple - let go, don't try to retaliate. You will save yourself a lot of suffering this way.
MIGUEL
Yeah, that's not a message Hawk needs to hear from you. Plus that's pretty rich coming from you, asking for a ceasefire after what... your student did. You know all about what she did, which means you put her up to that, didn't you?
KREESE
(chuckles) You think Ms Nichols has to hear my express orders to act? No, son, the initiative's been all hers... in both cases.
MIGUEL
Not orders. I've learnt by now how you operate, you sly bastard. You manipulate her, exploit her insecurities...
KREESE
I'm flattered to hear you attribute to me such power. But rest assured, I do no more than prod her here and there... (with a smug look) Gently, of course.
MIGUEL
(fuming) You're gonna pay for this, I swear!
KREESE
I pay dearly with every breath I take, my boy. I do what I do to make sure I have no more mistakes to pay for. But I can see it now, the fire in your eyes. You still care about her, don't you? Well, it's not too late for you to come back, be there to help her pick the right path...
MIGUEL
Go to hell.
KREESE
Already scratched that one off the bucket list. One tour was quite enough. Consider my words, know that the girl is up for grabs still. And now get out of my way.
MIGUEL
No.
His pose stiffens, his hands curl into fists, he takes a step towards...
KREESE
(bellowing laughter) Oh, so that's the way you want it to go?! Very well then, let's see if your accident hasn't taken the edge off you.
He walks casually to meet his challenger, who is now charging at him full steam ahead. MIGUEL throws the first punch... and the second and the third, while KREESE focuses on blocking and parrying, though without the effortlessness seen in Johnny against Robby. MIGUEL succeeds in landing a number of hits to KREESE's flanks and chest, though without eliciting more than mild annoyance.
Finally, KREESE manages to grab hold of MIGUEL's wrist, and pulls him right into his incoming elbow. MIGUEL's body spins from the blow and he staggers back, but rather than try and halt the movement, he hurls himself to the floor and does a back sweep from a half-prone position. KREESE moves out of the sweeping leg's range, but the rapidity of the attack makes him lose balance, which MIGUEL takes advantage of by leaping at him from the floor and delivering a kick to the sternum.
KREESE is pushed back violently, only managing to stop himself from falling down by grabbing onto a frail OLD LADY with a crutch, who has been watching the events unfold uncomprehendingly. The LADY is nearly brought down by KREESE's bulk herself, but in the shock of the impact doesn't utter more than a weak gasp.
KREESE
Excuse me, Ma'am. Better move back. Oh, and I'll borrow this if you don't mind.
With a forceful movement he tears the crutch out of the LADY's grasp, to which she reacts by flailing her arms wildly in panic, until she drops butt-first onto a bench lining the wall. KREESE's body twists and he swings the crutch mightily at MIGUEL, who gets caught off-guard and is hit above the ear by the cane's tip. His head jerks to the side, and he takes a few groggy steps backwards, his hands raised defensively.
KREESE has now regained his composure and the smug smirk. He spins the crutch in his hand, and points it at MIGUEL, while putting his other arm behind his back, making him appear like some geriatric fencer.
KREESE
En garde!
He makes thrusting motions with the crutch at MIGUEL, who looks at him with fury and disbelief, and is evidently at loss on how to react. The hallway is too narrow to give him enough room to dodge, KREESE's pointy thrusts - aimed at his ribs, shins, face, poking here and there in a rapid succession - too swift to try and deflect them with his bare hands, and the older man's grip on his makeshift weapon too strong to try to wrench it away. KREESE advances on MIGUEL after the latter's few ineffective dodges, making him fall back, until with the corner of an eye MIGUEL notices a walking frame parked by a bench unoccupied. He lunges at it, grabs the frame with both hands, and with all his strength hurls it at KREESE, who ducks underneath it, but is still hit on the forehead by the frame's jutting leg.
MIGUEL wastes no time watching KREESE get momentarily dazed, and rushes him with an angry roar, lunges at his unsteady figure, and pins KREESE to the floor, the crutch now lying perpendicular to the two of them.
CUT TO HAWK, now holding the scissors in his healthy hand, and the bonsai tree's branch in his teeth, carefully clipping it to his design, the scissor blades inches from his face, when the double acoustic impact of MIGUEL's roar and the clang of the frame landing on the floor gives him a jolt leading to the scissors pricking him in the nose.
HAWK
OW, DAMMIT! What the hell was that?!
SAM
Oh my God, are you ok?! That sounded like Miguel! What's he doing?!
HAWK
(grabs his bleeding nose) I'll be fine, come on, let's see what's goin' on.
CUT TO MIGUEL pressing on KREESE's throat with his forearm, while trying to force the man's crutch-holding hand to the ground. KREESE is gasping for breath, but he manages to raise the hand enough to put the crutch across MIGUEL's back, within reach of his other hand, which grabs the cane's tip, and lifts the whole thing up vertically, to then bring it down on MIGUEL's shoulderblades. MIGUEL groans and loses his grip on KREESE's hand, which darts for the crutch. Holding the opposite side of the tool now with each hand, KREESE brings it down again on MIGUEL's back, while simultaneously drawing up his knees - MIGUEL's torso is shoved onto them by the blow, taking the boy's breath out of his lungs. KREESE lets go of the crutch, closes his grip on MIGUEL's collarbone, forces him away, and with the help of his leg pushes him off himself. MIGUEL staggers back and bumps into a hospital trolley. Before he regains composure, KREESE, now crouching, sweeps him up, making him fall onto the trolley, and gives the trolley a hefty crouching kick, sending it racing into a wall. The trolley smashes into it and topples over, spilling its contents, including MIGUEL, onto the floor.
MIGUEL is spent. He tries sluggishly to lift himself up, but in a flash he is pinned back down again, with the crutch's forearm cuff wrapped around his neck.
KREESE
(wiping the blood off his lips, then rubbing his throat) Stay down, little cobra. I handle deadlier snakes than you on a daily basis.
SAM/HAWK
HEY! LEAVE HIM ALONE!
The pair charges into the scene, stopping within striking distance of KREESE.
KREESE
Oh, well met! I'd be glad to do so, provided the little rogue promises to behave. I've been merely defending myself here from his unwarranted aggression, you see.
HAWK
Yeah, right! Get off of him, Kreese!
KREESE
(in conciliatory tone) Very well. Have it your way.
He removes his hold on MIGUEL and takes a step back, the crutch's tip still tentatively raised. MIGUEL slowly gathers himself up, eyeing KREESE with unadulterated hatred.
KREESE
Let this be a proof I've come here with good intentions. In fact, I just wanted to see you, Hawk. What happened to your nose?
HAWK
That's none of your...
JOHNNY
KREESE!
Everybody turns to see JOHNNY rushing towards them, redfaced and panting heavily. He points his finger at KREESE.
JOHNNY
You've got about... five seconds... before I throw your crinkly old ass down the stairs... so help me God.
KREESE
(raises his hands in surrender) No need for violence, Johnny. I'm going. It's a shame to see such an opportunity to talk, with so many of us in one place, go to waste, but...
MIGUEL
Forget it, Kreese. No one here's gonna listen to your poison.
KREESE
Fail to heed my words at your own peril. You especially. You're a cobra at your very core, that much is clear. I'd recommend you come to terms with this fact without delay. Otherwise you won't like what's in store for you.
JOHNNY
What the hell is that supposed to mean?!
KREESE
Just that our champ is about to be reminded of who he truly is real soon. The truth is going to come knocking, and there is nothing any of us here can do about it.
JOHNNY
Alright, I've heard enough of this prattle. Get out before I lose my patience.
KREESE
Johnny Lawrence losing his patience? I'm almost tempted to stay just to witness such momentous event, but I'll do as you wish...
He walks away, only stopping by the OLD LADY, who has been watching the confrontation from her bench, motionless.
He hands her the crutch.
KREESE
I believe it is yours, Ma'am.
He resumes walking without waiting for the answer. (not that any was forthcoming) Before he moves out of sight, we see him cross paths with the SECURITY GUARD. The man hobbles past him, hunched, a baton in hand, paying him no attention. His eyes lock on JOHNNY and his features twist in anger.
SECURITY GUARD
YOU! OH YOU'RE GONNA GET IT NOW, YOU SON OF A BITCH!
He steps out of the stairs and into the hallway, dragging his still not wholly recovered leg in dogged determination, slowly closing in on the group.
MIGUEL
You did that to him?
JOHNNY
Yea, didn't have time for persuasion. Couldn't let Kreese get away.
MIGUEL
You still took your sweet time.
JOHNNY
Uuh, I got lost, alright?! Didn't catch the room number.
MIGUEL
So what are you going to do now?
JOHNNY
Dunno, does this place have a fire escape?.
MIGUEL
No clue.
JOHNNY
Then I guess this is the end of the line...
The GUARD is now halfway from them, slowed down by patients swarming him with cries for help. He brushes them off, making another couple of steps, when suddenly the bathroom door next to him swings open, slamming into his forward leaning forehead, knocking him out cold. From the bathroom emerges...
DEMETRI
(sees the group, shudders demonstrably) Bwah, guys, you wouldn't believe how much paper I had to use to make that toilet seat sanitary. Like I had to pile on layer upon layer! With hygiene like that around here, I'm surprised anyone ever leaves this place... Wait, did something go down while I was there?
He is answered by laughter resounding in the hall; a laughter of mirth and relief.
CUT TO the door of HAWK's hospital room opening partway. We hear JOHNNY's voice inside.
JOHNNY
Take care, chief. And come back to train asap, we gotta show these Miyagi sissies nothing's ever gonna bring us down. And don't worry about the arm. We'll figure something out.
HAWK
Thanks, Sensei. I'll be back.
JOHNNY
That's what I like to hear! And don't let the orderlies shave these spikes!
HAWK
No way! They'd have to cut all my remaining limbs first!
JOHNNY
That's my man! See you, Hawk.
HAWK
See you, Sensei, thanks for coming.
JOHNNY
Don't mention it.
He steps out and closes the door behind him. He starts walking down the hallway, sneaking a peek on the way to another room where the SECURITY GUARD is now lying in bed with his forehead bandaged and his leg suspended at 45 degree angle. Having passed the room, JOHNNY pulls out his phone and dials the number of...
INT. LARUSSOS' HOUSE - DINING ROOM - AFTERNOON
DANIEL
Hello? Yes, Johnny, what's up?
JOHNNY
Something's up alright. You heard about Hawk?
DANIEL
Nnno, did something happen?
JOHNNY
You could say that, I just came see him in the hospital. He came out pretty well all things considered, but it's safe to say he's not going to be back in shape for the tournament.
DANIEL
Back in shape?! What are you saying?! What happened?!
JOHNNY
Well that's the tricky part. The kid insists it was just an accident, that he just happened to run the red light and get totaled by a car.
DANIEL
Dear God, that sounds horrible! How is he?!
JOHNNY
Yeah, well, he's one broken arm short of being ok, so it ain't too bad. Oh yeah, he's got a nosebleed too, but I think it's unrelated. That said...
DANIEL
Nosebleed? Maybe he's got brain damage?!
JOHNNY
Nah, it's nothing like that, trust me. Anyway, he put up quite a show for me, but I ain't buying it. He's hiding something, and I'm pretty sure it wouldn't take Lieutenant Columbo to figure it out.
DANIEL
So you think it was...
JOHNNY
My good ol' dojo puttin' out a hit, yeah.
DANIEL
You've got anything to back that up?
JOHNNY
Nothing specific. I mean call it a hunch if you want. Just strikes me as something they'd do. Oh by the way, did I mention our mutual friend came to pay him a visit, too?
DANIEL
Kreese?! That son of a bitch! I told him to keep away from our kids!
JOHNNY
Guess he's got a different definition of our kids. Anyway, he was out of luck since I was there to keep him out. Had some help there, actually. Still, you gotta admit the timing here is interesting, seeing as it was just the other night that Hawk got into his "accident".
DANIEL
That does seem suspicious, true. So what do you suggest we do about it?
JOHNNY
Well, I'd say we gotta be ready for anything at this point. After all, from what I've been hearing this is not the only stunt they've pulled on us recently.
DANIEL
What do you mean, Johnny? What other stunt?
JOHNNY
Well, you would know about that one. I mean, it happened at your dealership...
DANIEL
You're saying Cobra Kai was involved with... Hold on! How do you even know anything about that, let alone who did it?!
JOHNNY
(smirks) I've got friends around the block telling me things. A little bird may sing something to me once in a while, too.
DANIEL
Alright, Johnny, I can tell you're having fun here, but this is no time for clowning around! You better tell me everything you know about this case and pronto!
JOHNNY
Calm down, Dan. All I could really tell you is that it's Cobra Kai that is behind the mess at your dealership. I don't know how they orchestrated it, but I've heard enough to know it's them.
DANIEL
Heard from whom?! You've got a witness? Because having some actual lead here would really help, you know.
JOHNNY
I do have a witness, yeah. But I'm afraid... he's not willing to come forward, not now anyway.
DANIEL
Johnny, it is extremely important that you tell me who it is. An innocent man may land in jail because of this!
JOHNNY
Sorry, Dan, no can do. Can't break my word here. You'd understand if you were in my shoes. But hey, now that you know it's CK, you can better prepare for their next move, think how we can counterpunch instead of sitting on our asses waiting for them to strike again.
DANIEL
Johnny, listen to me...
JOHNNY
Gotta go, Dan. We'll talk tomorrow. Don't worry, I've got your back here.
DANIEL
Oh well, that's just wonderful!
The call is broken up on JOHNNY's end. We see DANIEL looking at the phone screen, shaking his head in disbelief. Eventually, he is taken out of his contemplation by the sound of someone entering the house. He looks towards the sound - we can see a sudden thought entering his head, making his face grow sterner.
DANIEL
Sam, is that you?!
SAM
Yup. Hi dad!
DANIEL
Honey, come over here, will you?
SAM
(guardedly) Ok...
A moment later SAM enters the room.
SAM
Hey, any good news at the police station?
DANIEL
(shakes his head)No, they've been cross-questioning me and Louie almost till the wee hours of the morning. They seem to think we may have actually assisted Anoush in this. Can you imagine that?!
SAM
Gosh. This whole case is like some sick joke.
DANIEL
With us being the butt of it, yeah. It's mind-boggling how Tom Cole's been leading on the cops here. Friggin' Tom Cole, of all people!
SAM
Maybe it's not just him...
DANIEL
(perks up) What do you mean?
SAM
(thrown off-balance) N-nothing. Just a thought.
DANIEL
Well, it sure doesn't seem like he could've done it by himself. Now I'm hearing our computers weren't hacked, no one connected to them remotely. They were accessed on site, and the footage was deleted manually.
SAM
But who could've done it?!
DANIEL
Now that's the question I want answered, Sam.
SAM
I... I wish I had the slightest idea here.
DANIEL
... Of course, honey, how could you have? You don't even work at the dealership after all. Anyway, how's school? You've come home later than usual...
SAM
School's fine, dad. I mean, there's some tension with how many kids are at Cobra Kai now, but our pack sticks together for the most part. I kinda miss hanging out with other girls. Most seem to stay clear of me ever since the school fight. But the guys make up for it, I guess. This actually brings me to the reason why I've come so late today. I made a couple extra stops after school... It was about Eli.
DANIEL
(feigns surprise) Oh, really? What about him?
SAM
He had an accident. Crashed his motorbike and broke his arm. He's in the hospital. I...I figured I'd pay him a visit.
DANIEL
Oh, that's... very considerate of you. Especially since I doubt he'd do the same if the roles were reversed.
SAM
(bites her lip) Dad... I think I there's something you should know.
DANIEL
(genuinely surprised now) Well, with the way you've just put it you're probably right about that.
SAM
Don't worry, it's nothing serious. It's about our yesterday field trip.
DANIEL
You mean the one where you did a little light and harmless sparring in the woods, as you have all solemnly assured me?
SAM
Well, it was a bit more than that. I mean we didn't lie to you about any of it. It was sparring and it was in the woods, and no one was hurt. We just left out the part about it being a fair bit above ground.
DANIEL
(facepalms) Et tu, Brute? I fully expect Johnny to leave out 'small details' like that, but you? Is there anyone on this earth I can trust?!
SAM
Don't freak out, dad. We kept that to ourselves because we didn't want you two to bicker with each other again. Besides... it was fun.
DANIEL
So what was it about? Did he tell you to fight while climbing trees or something?
SAM
He took us to a rope park.
DANIEL
Oh, I think I know the one you're talking about. That sounds better, but... how could you be sparring there, what with the instructors and all?
SAM
Uh, no instructors, we were given the park all to ourselves. I think Sensei pulled some strings there... no pun intended.
DANIEL
But you guys wore harnesses, right?
SAM
Uhh, well...
DANIEL
You guys wore harnesses, RIGHT?!
SAM
Um, we had trampolines on the ground. Sensei really got a lot of them hauled there.
DANIEL
Trampolines...
SAM
Well, they did their job... mostly. You see, I decided to tell you about all this because of what happened there with me and Eli...
DANIEL
(resigned) I'm all ears...
SAM
We were on opposite teams and were fighting on a wobbly bridge when the beam I was standing on split in two... now that wasn't anyone's fault, no one could have known it'd happen.
DANIEL
Right, that's one reason why you wear harnesses there.
SAM
There were trampolines under us, of course, but during our fight the bridge got to rocking so hard that I may have missed them on my way down...
DANIEL
That's it. Last time I let Johnny do anything with you on his own.
SAM
... but then Ha... Eli caught me and hauled me back up... It was a pretty risky move for him, too.
DANIEL
(his eyes widen) Did he? Well, that's the first positive surprise I've heard from you today. Thought he had a grudge against LaRussos.
SAM
So did I, he even taunted me during the fight. But when he saw me dangling there in real danger... (softer voice) I guess something shifted inside of him... Anyway, I didn't even get to talk to him afterwards, so when I heard he was in hospital I figured I had to go and see him. I also got an idea for a little gift.
DANIEL
Really, what was it?
SAM
A bonsai tree I swiped from the dealership. Hope you don't mind.
DANIEL
(chuckles) Rather have this theft than a gift like the one from Cole.
SAM
I also said to Eli it was your idea. Hope you don't mind that, either.
DANIEL
Well... no, I don't, but... why not tell him the truth?
SAM
I... I'd have felt a bit awkward telling him it was from me. Besides, I figured it'd be nice for him to get a sense that you'll welcome him back.
DANIEL
You're probably right about that, actually. So did he like it?
SAM
Oh yeah, I showed him how to trim it and he really got into it. Thought at first he'd need my hand to hold it steady, but I soon found out he could do it just as well with his teeth instead.
DANIEL
Wow, now that's an interesting picture. Kid doesn't lack in resolve, got to give him that. Wouldn't have stuck by Johnny for so long otherwise, I guess... So you guys are on good terms now.
SAM
(smiles) Yeah, sure feels like it. Wouldn't have believed you if you'd told me two days ago it'd happen, yet here we are...
DANIEL
Then I am glad for you. Can only hope this will translate into smoother sailing for me in turn. Once he gets better, that is.
SAM
I'm sure it will. Just please don't confront Sensei Lawrence about this.
DANIEL
Sensei Lawrence... We'll see. Now, on the subject of Sensei Lawrence, it's my turn to make an admission - I've heard about Eli, just before you came home in fact. Johnny called me from the hospital. It was nice of him to tip me off, but that's not the interesting part.
SAM
So what was the interesting part?
DANIEL
Apparently, Johnny Lawrence knows about the trouble we're having at the dealership, and what's more, he seems to know things about it that we don't.
SAM
(feigning shock) Like what?
DANIEL
He told me Cobra Kai was behind the break-in. Said he had a witness, but wouldn't reveal who. Now what do you say to that?
SAM
Well, that's... kinda mindblowing, really.
DANIEL
He shouldn't even know we have a problem here, much less be further along the case than we are!... He said a "little bird" sings to him about stuff. I wonder, who may have given him the heads-up on this?
SAM
Well, are you suspecting anyone?
DANIEL
I don't know what to think, Sam. Are you sure you didn't let anything slip about this matter in his presence?
SAM
(pretending to find the idea ridiculous) Let anything slip?! C'mon, dad! you think I'd be talking about personal stuff with him?
DANIEL
(shrugs) I don't know. It does seem to me like you two have built a bit of rapport...
SAM
A bit, but not like that. I mean, it's not like I meet him for drinks after training. (laughs, just a trifle forced) Just thinking about it, me going out with my boyfriend's Sensei? That sounds... vaguely incestuous.
DANIEL
(smiles with his mouth, no so much his eyes) Haven't thought about that from this angle. Alright, Sam, I'm not accusing you of anything, just really trying to figure out if Johnny actually has some super secret source of intel.
SAM
I really wish I could be of help here, dad, but I'm as baffled as you are.
DANIEL
I know you do, Sam. Alright, run along now... unless you'd like something to eat?
SAM
Uh, I will go refresh myself first, no need to wait for me.
DANIEL
Fine, suit yourself then.
She smiles, nods, turns around and walks out of the room, only to reveal ANTHONY snooping around the corner.
SAM
Anthony?! What are you doing?!
ANTHONY
Why, Sam, just listening to you being completely full of crap, of course!
SAM
What the hell you're talking about?!
ANTHONY
Ow, don't play cute with me! You know damn well what I mean, and so does dad! But hey, don't worry, I'm not gonna judge!... sensei smoochie.
SAM
(frowning) Screw you, Anthony! You keep your fantasies to yourself if you don't want me to karate chop that filthy mouth of yours!
ANTHONY
Uhh, you itching to show the moves Sensei's taught ya ... or maybe you're itching to learn new ones?!
SAM
(gravely) Anthony, I warn you...
DANIEL
(from the dining room) Anthony, cut it off, stop goading your sister!
ANTHONY
(nauseatingly smarmy) Sorry, dad! (winks at SAM) Good hunting, sis!
He darts away from her. She shakes her head and heads for the stairs. We cut to DANIEL, pretending not to have paid attention to the exchange, his eyes lowered, his expression downcast.
CUT TO SAM entering her room. She throws her backpack onto the bed, then takes out her phone from its front pocket. She sees a video message notification - it's from MIGUEL, and it is a hefty one.
She taps it with visible concern on her face. The video starts, showing MIGUEL sitting on his bike outside his apartment complex. He is obviously uneasy.
MIGUEL
Hi, Sam. You may be wondering why I'm sending you this message when we only just talked. Well... it's because I had to think long and hard about how I would break this to you. And still I'll consider myself lucky if you're not out to skewer me after listening (chuckles). Ok, let's cut to the chase - Hawk's accident? Not an accident, surprise surprise. It was Tory, and from what Hawk's said, it could have ended far worse than it did... So it's clear as day it's not going to stop, not before another tragedy happens, anyway. (his expression grows resolute) Which means that, well, someone has to do something about it, and Hawk isn't going to the cops... When you're listening to this, I'll probably be on my way to Tory's place. I'm going to talk to her, one on one, face to face, ask her, plead with her to see reason before it's too late and something irreversible happens. (smiles ruefully) You're probably thinking I'm crazy now, and maybe you're right, but... after I got the feeling in my legs back, I couldn't shake off the question why, why did I get that second chance, what had I done to deserve this? Then it began to dawn on me that maybe it's not about what I had done, but what I could still do. That I had this brush with death, and life in a wheelchair, for a reason, so that I could save others from having their lives ruined the way mine almost was... Ok, I realize I'm not making much of a case for me not being crazy, but you have to understand, I wouldn't be able to forgive myself for just standing by and doing nothing, especially since, to some extent, all this is my fault too. I have to go there and confront her, and do it on my own. If there's anyone among us that can get through to her, it's going to have to be me, however remote the chance. And I do believe she's not wholly lost, I can't abandon this hope just yet. So I'm sorry for the secrecy, but I know you wouldn't let me do it this way, you wouldn't let me put myself at risk like that. You'd have great reasons for that, too, but this is simply something I have to do, a matter of clear conscience if you will. So wish me luck here, I'm going to need it. My phone will be turned off until it's over, so don't worry if you can't reach me. I'll stop by at your house the first thing after, I think worst case you'll have a good laugh at my expense. Love you Sam, bye.
Cut to SAM, her pallor deathly pale, her eyes wide as saucers, her hand wrapped tightly around her mouth. Her other hand drops limp onto her lap, clutching the phone, screen displaying a freeze-frame of MIGUEL, trying to smile reassuringly, but not very convincing at that...
THE END OF PART I
FADE TO BLACK