Thank you for your support, but I must conclude this story. Hopefully
sometime soon I will be able to write another one, whooptydoo, but I think
that it's time for this one to come to an end. Oh well . . . sniff, sniff.
One more chapter left! Please excuse any grammatical errors. Thanks, and
enjoy!
I own none of the characters in this story except for Dana, Tonya, Sky- Anne, Gabrielle and the occasional extra or two. Other characters are all owned by Telescene. In other words, not me!
CHAPTER 25: LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON
(School cafeteria. Tommy and Merton sit at a table, poking their food unenthusiastically. Sky-Anne approaches them and sits down across from them.)
Sky-Anne: Still distracted?
Tommy & Merton: What?
Sky-Anne: I'll take that as a yes. I wonder what's going on in the demon world. I mean, we should have heard something by now. The Master should be trying to gain power again . . .
Tommy: Look Sky-Anne, can we not talk about this?
Sky-Anne: Sure. We can talk later.
Tommy: No, I mean can we NOT talk about this?
Sky-Anne: Oh . . . yeah, fine . . . sorry. Anyway, I've been looking up some stuff on your cure Merton. I haven't really had any luck, but I might have a lead on something. What do you think? (Merton doesn't answer) Merton? (Still no answer) Merton?!
Merton: What?
Sky-Anne: Fine. You both seem to have crappy moods right now so I'll leave it alone, but if you don't get over it soon we're going to be in deep if a sudden incident does occur. I know things look really bad now, but you know as well as I do that things could get a lot worse.
Tommy: Are you finished?
Sky-Anne: With you? Yes.
(Sky-Anne storms off.)
Merton: What's her problem?
(Monastery Hall. Monks are scrambling about in chatter.)
Monk: Brother John is taking care of the situation.
Monk2: I don't know Brother James, perhaps this is an ungodly presence we should shun from the sanctuary.
Brother James: We must not Brother William; it is our duty to accept anyone who asks for our hospitality.
Brother William: Yes, but did this child even ask to be brought here? Brother John stated that the child had been abandoned.
Brother James: Well surely you don't believe that we can turn away an innocent creature and allow it to wither and die do you?
Brother William: This is not an ordinary child. There must be an acceptation when it comes to sparing our doom, is there not?
Brother James: And what sort of doom is this I ask you?
(A man's screaming can be heard in a nearby room.)
Brother William: I believe that is your answer Brother James. Was that not the wail of Brother John in the room containing that demon?
Brother James: I know your mind is fearful brother, but we must discover what the situation has become.
Brother William: You, brother, may allow yourself to open that door, but I will not.
Brother James: So let it be.
(Brother James walks towards the door and opens it. Right as he does, a dagger is sent right into his chest in midair. Brother William runs away, but he is stabbed in the back by the dagger. As he falls to the ground, a child's laughter is heard echoing off the monastery walls. Camera changes to Pleasantville Park, daylight. Sky-Anne sits on a bench.)
Sky-Anne: (Reading a book) I know you're there.
Gabrielle: (Trying to hide under the shade of the tree) Damn, what gave it away?
Sky-Anne: Ironically your breathing. By the way, why do you even do that?
Gabrielle: Don't know. I guess it makes us feel alive. You humans take it for bloody granted.
Sky-Anne: That we do.
(She continues to read her book. Gabrielle sits down next to her, still in the shade. Some seconds pass.)
Gabrielle: Okay, not that I care, but seeing as I'm stuck here until dark, what's wrong?
Sky-Anne: What do you mean?
Gabrielle: So far in our lil' conversation you haven't yelled, scratched, or bit once.
Sky-Anne: I just don't feel very catty tonight, sorry.
Gabrielle: It's alright, just as long as it's not a fulltime thing.
Sky-Anne: I'm sure it won't be. (Seeing Gabrielle struggle to keep out of the sun) Look, I have this amulet thing; it's supposed to help with the sunlight and all. Here.
(She hands him the amulet.)
Gabrielle: (Putting it on) Wow, umm, thanks. Now I can actually enjoy the sunshine without bursting into flames.
Sky-Anne: (Smiling) Glad I could help.
Gabrielle: But really what's the big bad?
Sky-Anne: I don't know. I'm trying to get the gang back together. Everything's gone so, well, wrong since last Friday. We have to find a cure for Merton and keep updates on the Master or we could end up screwed.
Gabrielle: Again.
Sky-Anne: Exactly! But it's hard. I don't want to push the two, because they've both lost so much and at the same time I know if I don't push them they might not get pushed back to where they need to be.
Gabrielle: Well, sounds like you're in a sort of a pickle darlin'.
Sky-Anne: What should I do?
Gabrielle: I wouldn't know. I'm just a vampire. If I want to do something, I bloody well do it. I don't ask any questions.
Sky-Anne: Hmm . . . well that's an interesting way of looking at things.
Gabrielle: Exactly what I've tried saying.
(Merton's Lair. Merton opens the door. Dana is standing right outside of it.)
Dana: I didn't even knock.
Merton: I know. I just sensed you . . . that's all. I didn't think you'd show back up anytime soon.
Dana: Well, when you got nowhere else to go . . .
Merton: Gee, I feel so loved. But hey, why not crash at your good buddy the Master's place?
Dana: You know I can't do that Merton.
Merton: Oh right. I keep forgetting. You go from one side to another so quickly these days.
Dana: Look, if you don't want me to stay I understand.
Merton: No! I mean, well, I just wanted to taunt you a bit. But if you need some place to stay . . .
Dana: Thanks.
Merton: (Letting her in) So . . . umm, what's up?
Dana: (Sighing and putting her jacket on a chair) Nothing really. If you don't mind, I think I'd like to get some sleep. Is it okay if I take a shower?
Merton: Uh . . . yeah, sure.
Dana: Thanks. (She starts toward the bathroom, then stops) You're sure this is alright?
Merton: Yeah. It's no trouble at all. You'll be safe here.
(Dana closes the bathroom door. Merton collapses on his bed.)
Merton: (Talking to himself) A girl is taking a shower in my bathroom . . . my girlFRIEND is taking a shower in my bathroom . . . my girlfriend is taking a shower in my bathroom and didn't lock the door!
(He springs up and heads toward the bathroom door.)
Tommy: (Entering the Lair) Hey Merton, what's up?
Merton: (Retreating) Umm, nothing. Nothing whatsoever . . . why do you ask?
Tommy: I don't know, maybe I was just trying to be friendly.
Merton: Oh . . . right.
Tommy: Merton, is that your shower running?
Merton: Huh? Umm, yes, it is.
Tommy: Why?
Merton: Well, for your information I was planning on taking a shower nosy.
Tommy: Sheesh, sorry, I'll just wait out here then.
Merton: No!
Tommy: No? You want me to leave then?
Merton: Umm . . . well, no, not exactly.
Tommy: Merton . . . you don't want me to wait out here, you don't want me to leave . . . umm, buddy, you're not expecting me to take a shower WITH you, right?
Merton: No! Of course not . . . heh, I just, umm, yes, just wait out here, I'll be out in a minute. (Starts backing up inside the bathroom) Just wait out here . . . don't go anywhere, and, umm . . . don't come in either.
(Merton shuts the door.)
Tommy: (Sitting down on a chair) Ookay.
(Camera changes to inside the bathroom. The room is really steamy. The shower is running, and the shower curtain is closed.)
Dana: (Head popping out from behind the curtain) Merton? What are you doing in here?
Merton: (Turning his back and closing his eyes) I can explain everything!
Dana: You better. Just, wait a minute. Let me at least put on SOMETHING.
(Merton smirks. The shower stops)
Dana: (Coming out from behind the curtains covered in a towel) Okay. (Merton turns back around) Look Merton, I know we've gotten really close in our relationship, but this is abs-
Merton: Tommy's outside.
Dana: So?
Merton: Sooo . . . he doesn't know you're still alive.
Dana: Wait. You did tell him that you didn't kill me, right Merton?
Merton: Well . . . those weren't really the actual words-
Dana: Merton! What were you thinking? Now he won't even trust you much less trust me.
Merton: I was protecting you. If I had told him that you were still alive he might have gone after you . . . and the baby.
Dana: Why? If we weren't hurting him-
Merton: I didn't get to really explain things. Tonya was killed during the struggle.
Dana: Now you tell me.
Merton: He kinda took it personally.
Dana: But I didn't kill her!
Merton: No, but your Shamnian friends did.
Dana: Crap, I need to get out of here.
Merton: You can't! He's outside, remember?
Dana: Then what do we do?
Merton: We? Couldn't it just be you?
Dana: Merton!
Merton: Okay, okay. I'll just . . . think of something.
(Merton leaves. Dana sighs.)
Merton: (Shutting the bathroom door.) Hey Tommy.
Tommy: Hey. Umm, you're done already?
Merton: What? Oh . . . no, I umm, decided that one shower a day is good enough. Wow, hmm, aren't you thirsty?
Tommy: Not really, thanks anyway.
Merton: Well I am, so, umm, why don't you get me a drink?
Tommy: You can't get it?
Merton: Uh, well, I thought that you could use all the exercise you can get, being a football player and all.
Tommy: Riiight . . . yeah, I guess I could.
Merton: (Moving Tommy towards the door leading to the stairs) Thanks buddy really appreciate it.
(Merton shuts the door behind Tommy.)
Merton: (Rushing to the bathroom door) Okay Dana, hurry up.
Dana: (Opening the door. Fully clothed) Is he gone?
Merton: For right now? Yes. Now hurry before he gets back.
Dana: Merton, I uh-
Merton: What? What is it?
(Dana quickly kisses Merton and then pulls away)
Dana: Meet me at the park after sunset.
Merton: (Dazed) Sure?
(Dana leaves right as Tommy comes back inside from the other door)
Tommy: Okay Merton. (Holds out a Yoohoo) Here you go.
Merton: (Heading towards his computer) No thanks, I'm not thirsty.
Tommy: (Rolling his eyes) Whatever. (Spotting Dana's jacket) Merton, isn't this Dana's?
Merton: What? Uh . . . yeah.
Tommy: What's it doing here?
Merton: She must have left it behind . . . before all that stuff happened.
Tommy: Merton, it wasn't here last week.
Merton: Oh . . . well-
Tommy: Merton, what's going on?
Merton: Okay Tommy, I'll tell you the truth, but don't get upset. I didn't know what to do and well . . . (finally blurts) Dana's still alive.
(Merton tenses up. Tommy stares at him blankly)
Merton: (Sensing no reaction) You . . . did hear me didn't you?
Tommy: Yeah . . . yeah, I did.
(Tommy sits down.)
Merton: And you're not mad? You didn't even wolf out!
Tommy: I can't really blame you Merton. If I could've saved Tonya . . . if I could have done anything to prevent . . . (sighing) so, no, I'm not mad.
Merton: Well, okay, as long as we're on this little path of understanding, I have to mention some flu shot deadlines that seem to be coming up soon and-
Tommy: Don't push it.
Merton: Right! No pushing . . . got it.
Tommy: Where is she?
Merton: Not here. She was, but uh, she left.
Tommy: Shower?
Merton: Umm, yeah.
Tommy: (Smiling) And you walked in on her didn't you?
(They both start giggling, clear their throats, and become serious. Camera changes to Sky-Anne and Gabrielle. The sun is starting to set.)
Gabrielle: So then the guy turns to me and says, "That's no Slimerot demon, that's my daughter!
(Both burst into laughter)
Sky-Anne: No, no. I've got an even better one. There was this one time a group of friends and I took a summer trip to Montreal. Well, Maria was trying to carry on a conversation in French with these really hot guys, but she ended up quoting the lines from that Lady Marmalade song-
Gabrielle: Bloody teenyboppers. Oh, sorry, I didn't mean you.
Sky-Anne: (Trying to recover from the laughing) That's okay. It was really pathetic.
Maria: Well we can't all be perfect like you Sky-Anne.
(Sky-Anne and Gabrielle jump up. The same group of teenagers that attacked Sky-Anne before stand behind Maria)
Sky-Anne: No, but you can try.
Gabrielle: Friends of yours?
Sky-Anne: Let's just say the last time I saw these guys they revealed that now they're into worshiping evil instead of boy bands.
Maria: At least I'm not hiding in the nighttime with weird guys all alone.
Sky-Anne: Beats hanging out with cheap sluts like you.
Maria: (Glaring) Talk is cheap.
Sky-Anne: Then why is your mouth still moving?
(The teenagers attack Sky-Anne and Gabrielle)
Gabrielle: Well, I can tell this won't be fun. It's never sportin' when you're outnumbered.
Sky-Anne: No, just makes things a little more interesting.
(All of a sudden the teenagers are blasted everywhere. They all land on the ground unconscious.)
Gabrielle: Who did that? Did you do that?
Sky-Anne: No, but I wish I had.
(Sky-Anne and Gabrielle look around. Sky-Anne turns around and jumps. A pale, dark-haired boy [looks to be about five] wearing all black gazes up at her with an innocent expression.)
Sky-Anne: Oh, you surprised me. Are you lost?
(The boy shakes his head)
Gabrielle: What the bloody hell are you doin' out here?
(The boy just stares at them)
Sky-Anne: Well, do you talk?
(The boy shakes his head)
Gabrielle: He doesn't talk then. Do you do anythin' other than stare at people and freak them out?
(The boy still stares)
Sky-Anne: He might be shy.
Gabrielle: Well, let's go before these weirdoes wake up. Go back to your mom or whoever looks after you laddy.
(The boy looks around and then turns back to them)
Sky-Anne: I don't think he has anybody.
Gabrielle: Well too bad for him. Now let's get a move on.
Sky-Anne: We can't leave him here all by himself.
Gabrielle: No, but I can. C'mon now, you can't just take home a kid you don't own. You don't even know where he's been!
Sky-Anne: You're so childish. (Turning to the boy) You can come with me.
(The boy follows her as she starts off.)
Gabrielle: Wait love.
(Sky-Anne stops and turns around)
Gabrielle: Now don't do anythin' rash. Those boys aren't concerned with being safe, but it doesn't mean you shouldn't be.
Sky-Anne: What are you my father now?
Gabrielle: Just warnin'.
(Camera changes to Merton's Lair. Sky-Anne enters the room. The boy follows.)
Tommy: (Sitting on the couch, turning from the TV) Hey Sky-Anne just in time, Rocky Horror Picture Show is on in five. Who's the kid?
Sky-Anne: That's what I'd like to know . . . wait, when did you start watching the Rocky Horror Picture Show?
Tommy: (Caught off guard) Uh . . .
Sky-Anne: Never mind. Where's Merton?
Tommy: Making popcorn. He should be back in a while. Do you think the kid should be watching this?
(Sky-Anne rolls her eyes. Merton strolls in with a bowl of popcorn, but once he catches sight of the kid he throws the bowl up in surprise. Popcorn goes flying everywhere.)
Tommy: Hey dude, I was actually getting hungry.
Merton: Sky-Anne, who is that?
Sky-Anne: Seems to be the question of the hour. I don't know.
Merton: Is it just my imagination, or does he have a devilishly handsome yet striking resemblance to me?
Sky-Anne: Yeah. I suppose. Why?
Merton: (Scrounges for a picture in a photo album. Finally he finds what he's looking for and takes it out) Oh no reason at all. Just that he looks exactly like me thirteen years younger.
Tommy: What? Lemme see that! (Tommy grabs the picture from Merton and looks back and forth at the picture and the boy) Wow.
Sky-Anne: Is he a relative of yours?
Merton: Uh no. I have no cousins.
Tommy: Are you sure?
Merton: Yes I'm sure! Besides, have you ever heard of cousins looking exactly the same?
Tommy: (Shrugging) It could happen.
Sky-Anne: Then, is he you? (Addressing the boy) Are you him?
(The boy shakes his head)
Sky-Anne: He's not you.
Merton: Of course he's not me! He can't be me because I'M me!
Tommy: Relax buddy. Maybe he's just a clone or something.
Merton: Thanks Tommy, really comforting.
(The boy walks over to the bowl of spilled popcorn. He looks around and then concentrates on the bowl. All of a sudden the bowl starts to float in midair, and the popcorn pieces fly back into it. When all of the popcorn is back inside the bowl, the bowl floats to the hands of the boy.)
Sky-Anne: You guys just saw that, right?
(The boy hands the bowl to Merton and smiles)
Merton: Heh, thanks?
(Merton gives a nervous look to Tommy and Sky-Anne. The boy then gives a small black blanket to Merton.)
Merton: (Eyes widening) Oh no!
Tommy: What? What is it?
Merton: It's . . . it's my . . . nothing. It's nothing.
Sky-Anne: Merton?
Merton: (Taking the kid to the exit door) I'm sorry kid, you have to get out of here. Just, go somewhere, not here.
(He shoves the kid outside, shuts the door fast, and locks it. He then sighs in relief)
Sky-Anne: Merton?! How could you?
Merton: I know what it looked like, but believe me, it's for the best.
Tommy: Who was that kid Merton?
Merton: I don't know! Why would I know who he is?
Sky-Anne: Well you did point out that he looks exactly like you, and when he gave you that blanket you started freaking out.
Merton: I wasn't freaking. I was, umm . . . panicking!
Tommy: Why?
Merton: That's no kid out there. That's . . . that's . . .
Tommy: You can't be serious.
Sky-Anne: What? What's wrong?
Merton: Tommy, I'm sorry I couldn't-
Tommy: First Dana, now this? Merton, I'm really trying to be understanding right now but I just can't-
Merton: I know! I know! I just couldn't do anything. He was all-
Tommy: Evil Merton!
Sky-Anne: No . . . no way. Merton, how could you?
Tommy: You've put the whole world in danger!
Sky-Anne: Not to mention us.
Merton: Me? You're the one who brought him here Sky-Anne!
Sky-Anne: (Disgusted) Oh please. I was just trying to help an-
Merton: Innocent kid! Exactly!
Tommy: But she didn't know he was evil Merton; you did!
Merton: But, he might not really be evil. I mean, we could make him good, we just have to-
Tommy: Merton, you said it yourself. Dana told you his soul was the same as the Master's.
Merton: Okay, so he might be evil. But did he attack any of us? Hmm? He was perfectly well mannered.
Sky-Anne: He did show up out of nowhere right after Maria's gang was suddenly knocked out.
Merton: See?
Tommy: No. I don't. I'm going out there Merton. Somebody's got to find this kid before something bad happens.
(Tommy leaves slamming the door. Sky-Anne starts to head towards the door.)
Merton: Where are you going?
Sky-Anne: I'm going somewhere safe.
(Sky-Anne slams the door too. Merton tightens his fists and suddenly transforms. He gazes at a nearby mirror observing his reflection. Filled with anger, he smashes the mirror with his hand. Camera changes to Pleasantville Park. The sun has finally set. Dana sits on a park bench.)
Dana: (Looking around) Come on Merton. (She hears rustling in the bushes next to the bench.) Merton it that you?
(The boy steps out from the bushes. Dana looks surprised)
Dana: Do . . . do I know you?
(The boy starts to cry. He runs to her and clutches her tightly)
Dana: (Shocked) There, there. It'll be alright.
(He stares at her. She sees his big, glassy blue eyes.)
Dana: Oh my God. How did you get here? Where are the monks?
(The boy starts crying again.)
Dana: Don't cry. Please don't. Do you know who I am?
(The boy stares at her again and nods.)
Dana: Everything's going to be alright. Merton, umm . . . your father . . . he should be here very soon.
(The boy stares at her. All of a sudden a wave of energy flows over him and he becomes two years older)
Dana: Well, umm . . . there's something you don't see every day.
Boy: Mommy?
Dana: Uh . . . yeah?
Boy: Why don't you love me?
Dana: I do! I just couldn't keep you. It was for your own safety. I'm so sorry.
(She hugs him. He grins evilly. He takes a dagger out and stabs it in her back. Her eyes open wide in surprise. She stares at the boy bewildered.)
Boy: (Grinning) Pleasant dreams Mummy Dearest.
(She slowly falls down in pain.)
Boy: Your friends will soon be joining you. You can guarantee that, especially your dog-friend.
(He looks over his shoulder)
Boy: Oh look . . . Daddy's home.
(He quickly vanishes. Merton runs to Dana.)
Merton: I saw you when I was walking to here. What happened?
Dana: (Smiling) Merton, you came.
Merton: Yeah. I came. Just what happened?
Dana: You're in danger. Tommy . . .
(Dana's eyes start to close.)
Merton: No! No, stay conscious. Don't go!
(Camera changes to Pleasantville Hospital. Merton sits by Dana's bedside holding her hand. Tommy and Sky-Anne come rushing in.)
Sky-Anne: Merton, we came as soon as we got the message.
(Merton jumps up and slams Tommy against the wall.)
Merton: How could you? She's in a coma! She's in a coma you bastard!
Sky-Anne: (Trying to pry Merton off) Merton, please.
Merton: (Shaking her off) Get off of me!
(He lets go of Tommy. He starts to walk off.)
Tommy: Merton, I'm sorry this happened, but I didn't do anything.
Merton: Right. Sure. I was just fantasizing you storming out of my lair searching for Dana and the kid only an hour before this happened.
Tommy: I wasn't searching for Dana, and you know that.
Merton: You know what? Maybe I do. I just find it all very funny that if a girl becomes evil and doesn't go out with you, she must be evil forever huh?
Tommy: Don't you talk about her! Don't you even talk about Tonya!
Merton: What's a matter Tommy? Strike a nerve? Maybe because you know it's true.
Sky-Anne: Both of you . . . just . . . just shut up! Look, we all are saying things we don't mean right now. Merton, we need to find you a cure-
Merton: No one cares Sky-Anne! I mean, YOU didn't even need help to become evil.
Tommy: Leave her alone Merton.
Merton: Heh. You know what? Forget it. Forget the both of you. Dana was right all along. You don't think I can do this all by myself. You all think I'm "Poor Merton. Nice guy, but can't even save his own neck."
Tommy: No, we don't think that.
Merton: Oh really?
Tommy: The way you've been acting, you're not even nice anymore.
Merton: (Nodding, biting his lip) Thanks. Thanks a lot.
Nurse: Excuse me, I was just concerned. A lot of noise seems to be coming from this room. Is everything alright?
Merton: No, everything isn't. But don't worry Ma'am. We're through . . . we're all through . . . for good.
(Merton passes the nurse and leaves the room.)
Nurse: (Addressing Tommy and Sky-Anne) I'm sorry, was it something I said?
(Outside Pleasantville Hospital. Merton walks out of the building still pretty upset.)
Merton: (Stopping) What did I just do?
Boy: (Coming out from the dark) You listened to your heart.
Merton: So, I guess you still grow pretty fast then.
Boy: Mommy's gone. The bad man hurt her.
Merton: I know.
Boy: When she left me, she gave them a letter. It said that when it was safe I could come back.
Merton: It's never safe in Pleasantville kid.
Boy: She said you would protect me.
Merton: For a kid who doesn't talk you sure are doing a lot of it. Look, I can't do anything. I'm sorry, I just can't-
Boy: I'm scared. He hurt Mommy. What happens if he comes after me next?
Merton: He won't. I won't let him hurt you . . . umm . . . heh . . . did she ever name you?
(The boy nods his head)
Boy: Daniel. She named me Daniel.
Merton: Daniel . . . Danny . . . hmm, why does that name sound familiar?
(Merton shrugs it off)
Danny: Will you come with me? I know a place that we can both be together. Mommy prepared it for us. When she wakes up, she can join us too.
Merton: You are talking about that evil castle right?
Danny: There isn't evil or good, only choices. (Pause) What choice will you make? (Holds out his hand for Merton's) Father?
Merton: (Looking back at the hospital. Smiles) C'mon. You're going to catch a cold out here.
(Merton takes his hand and Danny leads him away.)
TBC
Okay, okay . . . I know this one was really freaky, hmm, must be the Nyquil. Anyway, remember there is still more to come, though not a lot! Please leave detailed reviews, thanks! (
I own none of the characters in this story except for Dana, Tonya, Sky- Anne, Gabrielle and the occasional extra or two. Other characters are all owned by Telescene. In other words, not me!
CHAPTER 25: LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON
(School cafeteria. Tommy and Merton sit at a table, poking their food unenthusiastically. Sky-Anne approaches them and sits down across from them.)
Sky-Anne: Still distracted?
Tommy & Merton: What?
Sky-Anne: I'll take that as a yes. I wonder what's going on in the demon world. I mean, we should have heard something by now. The Master should be trying to gain power again . . .
Tommy: Look Sky-Anne, can we not talk about this?
Sky-Anne: Sure. We can talk later.
Tommy: No, I mean can we NOT talk about this?
Sky-Anne: Oh . . . yeah, fine . . . sorry. Anyway, I've been looking up some stuff on your cure Merton. I haven't really had any luck, but I might have a lead on something. What do you think? (Merton doesn't answer) Merton? (Still no answer) Merton?!
Merton: What?
Sky-Anne: Fine. You both seem to have crappy moods right now so I'll leave it alone, but if you don't get over it soon we're going to be in deep if a sudden incident does occur. I know things look really bad now, but you know as well as I do that things could get a lot worse.
Tommy: Are you finished?
Sky-Anne: With you? Yes.
(Sky-Anne storms off.)
Merton: What's her problem?
(Monastery Hall. Monks are scrambling about in chatter.)
Monk: Brother John is taking care of the situation.
Monk2: I don't know Brother James, perhaps this is an ungodly presence we should shun from the sanctuary.
Brother James: We must not Brother William; it is our duty to accept anyone who asks for our hospitality.
Brother William: Yes, but did this child even ask to be brought here? Brother John stated that the child had been abandoned.
Brother James: Well surely you don't believe that we can turn away an innocent creature and allow it to wither and die do you?
Brother William: This is not an ordinary child. There must be an acceptation when it comes to sparing our doom, is there not?
Brother James: And what sort of doom is this I ask you?
(A man's screaming can be heard in a nearby room.)
Brother William: I believe that is your answer Brother James. Was that not the wail of Brother John in the room containing that demon?
Brother James: I know your mind is fearful brother, but we must discover what the situation has become.
Brother William: You, brother, may allow yourself to open that door, but I will not.
Brother James: So let it be.
(Brother James walks towards the door and opens it. Right as he does, a dagger is sent right into his chest in midair. Brother William runs away, but he is stabbed in the back by the dagger. As he falls to the ground, a child's laughter is heard echoing off the monastery walls. Camera changes to Pleasantville Park, daylight. Sky-Anne sits on a bench.)
Sky-Anne: (Reading a book) I know you're there.
Gabrielle: (Trying to hide under the shade of the tree) Damn, what gave it away?
Sky-Anne: Ironically your breathing. By the way, why do you even do that?
Gabrielle: Don't know. I guess it makes us feel alive. You humans take it for bloody granted.
Sky-Anne: That we do.
(She continues to read her book. Gabrielle sits down next to her, still in the shade. Some seconds pass.)
Gabrielle: Okay, not that I care, but seeing as I'm stuck here until dark, what's wrong?
Sky-Anne: What do you mean?
Gabrielle: So far in our lil' conversation you haven't yelled, scratched, or bit once.
Sky-Anne: I just don't feel very catty tonight, sorry.
Gabrielle: It's alright, just as long as it's not a fulltime thing.
Sky-Anne: I'm sure it won't be. (Seeing Gabrielle struggle to keep out of the sun) Look, I have this amulet thing; it's supposed to help with the sunlight and all. Here.
(She hands him the amulet.)
Gabrielle: (Putting it on) Wow, umm, thanks. Now I can actually enjoy the sunshine without bursting into flames.
Sky-Anne: (Smiling) Glad I could help.
Gabrielle: But really what's the big bad?
Sky-Anne: I don't know. I'm trying to get the gang back together. Everything's gone so, well, wrong since last Friday. We have to find a cure for Merton and keep updates on the Master or we could end up screwed.
Gabrielle: Again.
Sky-Anne: Exactly! But it's hard. I don't want to push the two, because they've both lost so much and at the same time I know if I don't push them they might not get pushed back to where they need to be.
Gabrielle: Well, sounds like you're in a sort of a pickle darlin'.
Sky-Anne: What should I do?
Gabrielle: I wouldn't know. I'm just a vampire. If I want to do something, I bloody well do it. I don't ask any questions.
Sky-Anne: Hmm . . . well that's an interesting way of looking at things.
Gabrielle: Exactly what I've tried saying.
(Merton's Lair. Merton opens the door. Dana is standing right outside of it.)
Dana: I didn't even knock.
Merton: I know. I just sensed you . . . that's all. I didn't think you'd show back up anytime soon.
Dana: Well, when you got nowhere else to go . . .
Merton: Gee, I feel so loved. But hey, why not crash at your good buddy the Master's place?
Dana: You know I can't do that Merton.
Merton: Oh right. I keep forgetting. You go from one side to another so quickly these days.
Dana: Look, if you don't want me to stay I understand.
Merton: No! I mean, well, I just wanted to taunt you a bit. But if you need some place to stay . . .
Dana: Thanks.
Merton: (Letting her in) So . . . umm, what's up?
Dana: (Sighing and putting her jacket on a chair) Nothing really. If you don't mind, I think I'd like to get some sleep. Is it okay if I take a shower?
Merton: Uh . . . yeah, sure.
Dana: Thanks. (She starts toward the bathroom, then stops) You're sure this is alright?
Merton: Yeah. It's no trouble at all. You'll be safe here.
(Dana closes the bathroom door. Merton collapses on his bed.)
Merton: (Talking to himself) A girl is taking a shower in my bathroom . . . my girlFRIEND is taking a shower in my bathroom . . . my girlfriend is taking a shower in my bathroom and didn't lock the door!
(He springs up and heads toward the bathroom door.)
Tommy: (Entering the Lair) Hey Merton, what's up?
Merton: (Retreating) Umm, nothing. Nothing whatsoever . . . why do you ask?
Tommy: I don't know, maybe I was just trying to be friendly.
Merton: Oh . . . right.
Tommy: Merton, is that your shower running?
Merton: Huh? Umm, yes, it is.
Tommy: Why?
Merton: Well, for your information I was planning on taking a shower nosy.
Tommy: Sheesh, sorry, I'll just wait out here then.
Merton: No!
Tommy: No? You want me to leave then?
Merton: Umm . . . well, no, not exactly.
Tommy: Merton . . . you don't want me to wait out here, you don't want me to leave . . . umm, buddy, you're not expecting me to take a shower WITH you, right?
Merton: No! Of course not . . . heh, I just, umm, yes, just wait out here, I'll be out in a minute. (Starts backing up inside the bathroom) Just wait out here . . . don't go anywhere, and, umm . . . don't come in either.
(Merton shuts the door.)
Tommy: (Sitting down on a chair) Ookay.
(Camera changes to inside the bathroom. The room is really steamy. The shower is running, and the shower curtain is closed.)
Dana: (Head popping out from behind the curtain) Merton? What are you doing in here?
Merton: (Turning his back and closing his eyes) I can explain everything!
Dana: You better. Just, wait a minute. Let me at least put on SOMETHING.
(Merton smirks. The shower stops)
Dana: (Coming out from behind the curtains covered in a towel) Okay. (Merton turns back around) Look Merton, I know we've gotten really close in our relationship, but this is abs-
Merton: Tommy's outside.
Dana: So?
Merton: Sooo . . . he doesn't know you're still alive.
Dana: Wait. You did tell him that you didn't kill me, right Merton?
Merton: Well . . . those weren't really the actual words-
Dana: Merton! What were you thinking? Now he won't even trust you much less trust me.
Merton: I was protecting you. If I had told him that you were still alive he might have gone after you . . . and the baby.
Dana: Why? If we weren't hurting him-
Merton: I didn't get to really explain things. Tonya was killed during the struggle.
Dana: Now you tell me.
Merton: He kinda took it personally.
Dana: But I didn't kill her!
Merton: No, but your Shamnian friends did.
Dana: Crap, I need to get out of here.
Merton: You can't! He's outside, remember?
Dana: Then what do we do?
Merton: We? Couldn't it just be you?
Dana: Merton!
Merton: Okay, okay. I'll just . . . think of something.
(Merton leaves. Dana sighs.)
Merton: (Shutting the bathroom door.) Hey Tommy.
Tommy: Hey. Umm, you're done already?
Merton: What? Oh . . . no, I umm, decided that one shower a day is good enough. Wow, hmm, aren't you thirsty?
Tommy: Not really, thanks anyway.
Merton: Well I am, so, umm, why don't you get me a drink?
Tommy: You can't get it?
Merton: Uh, well, I thought that you could use all the exercise you can get, being a football player and all.
Tommy: Riiight . . . yeah, I guess I could.
Merton: (Moving Tommy towards the door leading to the stairs) Thanks buddy really appreciate it.
(Merton shuts the door behind Tommy.)
Merton: (Rushing to the bathroom door) Okay Dana, hurry up.
Dana: (Opening the door. Fully clothed) Is he gone?
Merton: For right now? Yes. Now hurry before he gets back.
Dana: Merton, I uh-
Merton: What? What is it?
(Dana quickly kisses Merton and then pulls away)
Dana: Meet me at the park after sunset.
Merton: (Dazed) Sure?
(Dana leaves right as Tommy comes back inside from the other door)
Tommy: Okay Merton. (Holds out a Yoohoo) Here you go.
Merton: (Heading towards his computer) No thanks, I'm not thirsty.
Tommy: (Rolling his eyes) Whatever. (Spotting Dana's jacket) Merton, isn't this Dana's?
Merton: What? Uh . . . yeah.
Tommy: What's it doing here?
Merton: She must have left it behind . . . before all that stuff happened.
Tommy: Merton, it wasn't here last week.
Merton: Oh . . . well-
Tommy: Merton, what's going on?
Merton: Okay Tommy, I'll tell you the truth, but don't get upset. I didn't know what to do and well . . . (finally blurts) Dana's still alive.
(Merton tenses up. Tommy stares at him blankly)
Merton: (Sensing no reaction) You . . . did hear me didn't you?
Tommy: Yeah . . . yeah, I did.
(Tommy sits down.)
Merton: And you're not mad? You didn't even wolf out!
Tommy: I can't really blame you Merton. If I could've saved Tonya . . . if I could have done anything to prevent . . . (sighing) so, no, I'm not mad.
Merton: Well, okay, as long as we're on this little path of understanding, I have to mention some flu shot deadlines that seem to be coming up soon and-
Tommy: Don't push it.
Merton: Right! No pushing . . . got it.
Tommy: Where is she?
Merton: Not here. She was, but uh, she left.
Tommy: Shower?
Merton: Umm, yeah.
Tommy: (Smiling) And you walked in on her didn't you?
(They both start giggling, clear their throats, and become serious. Camera changes to Sky-Anne and Gabrielle. The sun is starting to set.)
Gabrielle: So then the guy turns to me and says, "That's no Slimerot demon, that's my daughter!
(Both burst into laughter)
Sky-Anne: No, no. I've got an even better one. There was this one time a group of friends and I took a summer trip to Montreal. Well, Maria was trying to carry on a conversation in French with these really hot guys, but she ended up quoting the lines from that Lady Marmalade song-
Gabrielle: Bloody teenyboppers. Oh, sorry, I didn't mean you.
Sky-Anne: (Trying to recover from the laughing) That's okay. It was really pathetic.
Maria: Well we can't all be perfect like you Sky-Anne.
(Sky-Anne and Gabrielle jump up. The same group of teenagers that attacked Sky-Anne before stand behind Maria)
Sky-Anne: No, but you can try.
Gabrielle: Friends of yours?
Sky-Anne: Let's just say the last time I saw these guys they revealed that now they're into worshiping evil instead of boy bands.
Maria: At least I'm not hiding in the nighttime with weird guys all alone.
Sky-Anne: Beats hanging out with cheap sluts like you.
Maria: (Glaring) Talk is cheap.
Sky-Anne: Then why is your mouth still moving?
(The teenagers attack Sky-Anne and Gabrielle)
Gabrielle: Well, I can tell this won't be fun. It's never sportin' when you're outnumbered.
Sky-Anne: No, just makes things a little more interesting.
(All of a sudden the teenagers are blasted everywhere. They all land on the ground unconscious.)
Gabrielle: Who did that? Did you do that?
Sky-Anne: No, but I wish I had.
(Sky-Anne and Gabrielle look around. Sky-Anne turns around and jumps. A pale, dark-haired boy [looks to be about five] wearing all black gazes up at her with an innocent expression.)
Sky-Anne: Oh, you surprised me. Are you lost?
(The boy shakes his head)
Gabrielle: What the bloody hell are you doin' out here?
(The boy just stares at them)
Sky-Anne: Well, do you talk?
(The boy shakes his head)
Gabrielle: He doesn't talk then. Do you do anythin' other than stare at people and freak them out?
(The boy still stares)
Sky-Anne: He might be shy.
Gabrielle: Well, let's go before these weirdoes wake up. Go back to your mom or whoever looks after you laddy.
(The boy looks around and then turns back to them)
Sky-Anne: I don't think he has anybody.
Gabrielle: Well too bad for him. Now let's get a move on.
Sky-Anne: We can't leave him here all by himself.
Gabrielle: No, but I can. C'mon now, you can't just take home a kid you don't own. You don't even know where he's been!
Sky-Anne: You're so childish. (Turning to the boy) You can come with me.
(The boy follows her as she starts off.)
Gabrielle: Wait love.
(Sky-Anne stops and turns around)
Gabrielle: Now don't do anythin' rash. Those boys aren't concerned with being safe, but it doesn't mean you shouldn't be.
Sky-Anne: What are you my father now?
Gabrielle: Just warnin'.
(Camera changes to Merton's Lair. Sky-Anne enters the room. The boy follows.)
Tommy: (Sitting on the couch, turning from the TV) Hey Sky-Anne just in time, Rocky Horror Picture Show is on in five. Who's the kid?
Sky-Anne: That's what I'd like to know . . . wait, when did you start watching the Rocky Horror Picture Show?
Tommy: (Caught off guard) Uh . . .
Sky-Anne: Never mind. Where's Merton?
Tommy: Making popcorn. He should be back in a while. Do you think the kid should be watching this?
(Sky-Anne rolls her eyes. Merton strolls in with a bowl of popcorn, but once he catches sight of the kid he throws the bowl up in surprise. Popcorn goes flying everywhere.)
Tommy: Hey dude, I was actually getting hungry.
Merton: Sky-Anne, who is that?
Sky-Anne: Seems to be the question of the hour. I don't know.
Merton: Is it just my imagination, or does he have a devilishly handsome yet striking resemblance to me?
Sky-Anne: Yeah. I suppose. Why?
Merton: (Scrounges for a picture in a photo album. Finally he finds what he's looking for and takes it out) Oh no reason at all. Just that he looks exactly like me thirteen years younger.
Tommy: What? Lemme see that! (Tommy grabs the picture from Merton and looks back and forth at the picture and the boy) Wow.
Sky-Anne: Is he a relative of yours?
Merton: Uh no. I have no cousins.
Tommy: Are you sure?
Merton: Yes I'm sure! Besides, have you ever heard of cousins looking exactly the same?
Tommy: (Shrugging) It could happen.
Sky-Anne: Then, is he you? (Addressing the boy) Are you him?
(The boy shakes his head)
Sky-Anne: He's not you.
Merton: Of course he's not me! He can't be me because I'M me!
Tommy: Relax buddy. Maybe he's just a clone or something.
Merton: Thanks Tommy, really comforting.
(The boy walks over to the bowl of spilled popcorn. He looks around and then concentrates on the bowl. All of a sudden the bowl starts to float in midair, and the popcorn pieces fly back into it. When all of the popcorn is back inside the bowl, the bowl floats to the hands of the boy.)
Sky-Anne: You guys just saw that, right?
(The boy hands the bowl to Merton and smiles)
Merton: Heh, thanks?
(Merton gives a nervous look to Tommy and Sky-Anne. The boy then gives a small black blanket to Merton.)
Merton: (Eyes widening) Oh no!
Tommy: What? What is it?
Merton: It's . . . it's my . . . nothing. It's nothing.
Sky-Anne: Merton?
Merton: (Taking the kid to the exit door) I'm sorry kid, you have to get out of here. Just, go somewhere, not here.
(He shoves the kid outside, shuts the door fast, and locks it. He then sighs in relief)
Sky-Anne: Merton?! How could you?
Merton: I know what it looked like, but believe me, it's for the best.
Tommy: Who was that kid Merton?
Merton: I don't know! Why would I know who he is?
Sky-Anne: Well you did point out that he looks exactly like you, and when he gave you that blanket you started freaking out.
Merton: I wasn't freaking. I was, umm . . . panicking!
Tommy: Why?
Merton: That's no kid out there. That's . . . that's . . .
Tommy: You can't be serious.
Sky-Anne: What? What's wrong?
Merton: Tommy, I'm sorry I couldn't-
Tommy: First Dana, now this? Merton, I'm really trying to be understanding right now but I just can't-
Merton: I know! I know! I just couldn't do anything. He was all-
Tommy: Evil Merton!
Sky-Anne: No . . . no way. Merton, how could you?
Tommy: You've put the whole world in danger!
Sky-Anne: Not to mention us.
Merton: Me? You're the one who brought him here Sky-Anne!
Sky-Anne: (Disgusted) Oh please. I was just trying to help an-
Merton: Innocent kid! Exactly!
Tommy: But she didn't know he was evil Merton; you did!
Merton: But, he might not really be evil. I mean, we could make him good, we just have to-
Tommy: Merton, you said it yourself. Dana told you his soul was the same as the Master's.
Merton: Okay, so he might be evil. But did he attack any of us? Hmm? He was perfectly well mannered.
Sky-Anne: He did show up out of nowhere right after Maria's gang was suddenly knocked out.
Merton: See?
Tommy: No. I don't. I'm going out there Merton. Somebody's got to find this kid before something bad happens.
(Tommy leaves slamming the door. Sky-Anne starts to head towards the door.)
Merton: Where are you going?
Sky-Anne: I'm going somewhere safe.
(Sky-Anne slams the door too. Merton tightens his fists and suddenly transforms. He gazes at a nearby mirror observing his reflection. Filled with anger, he smashes the mirror with his hand. Camera changes to Pleasantville Park. The sun has finally set. Dana sits on a park bench.)
Dana: (Looking around) Come on Merton. (She hears rustling in the bushes next to the bench.) Merton it that you?
(The boy steps out from the bushes. Dana looks surprised)
Dana: Do . . . do I know you?
(The boy starts to cry. He runs to her and clutches her tightly)
Dana: (Shocked) There, there. It'll be alright.
(He stares at her. She sees his big, glassy blue eyes.)
Dana: Oh my God. How did you get here? Where are the monks?
(The boy starts crying again.)
Dana: Don't cry. Please don't. Do you know who I am?
(The boy stares at her again and nods.)
Dana: Everything's going to be alright. Merton, umm . . . your father . . . he should be here very soon.
(The boy stares at her. All of a sudden a wave of energy flows over him and he becomes two years older)
Dana: Well, umm . . . there's something you don't see every day.
Boy: Mommy?
Dana: Uh . . . yeah?
Boy: Why don't you love me?
Dana: I do! I just couldn't keep you. It was for your own safety. I'm so sorry.
(She hugs him. He grins evilly. He takes a dagger out and stabs it in her back. Her eyes open wide in surprise. She stares at the boy bewildered.)
Boy: (Grinning) Pleasant dreams Mummy Dearest.
(She slowly falls down in pain.)
Boy: Your friends will soon be joining you. You can guarantee that, especially your dog-friend.
(He looks over his shoulder)
Boy: Oh look . . . Daddy's home.
(He quickly vanishes. Merton runs to Dana.)
Merton: I saw you when I was walking to here. What happened?
Dana: (Smiling) Merton, you came.
Merton: Yeah. I came. Just what happened?
Dana: You're in danger. Tommy . . .
(Dana's eyes start to close.)
Merton: No! No, stay conscious. Don't go!
(Camera changes to Pleasantville Hospital. Merton sits by Dana's bedside holding her hand. Tommy and Sky-Anne come rushing in.)
Sky-Anne: Merton, we came as soon as we got the message.
(Merton jumps up and slams Tommy against the wall.)
Merton: How could you? She's in a coma! She's in a coma you bastard!
Sky-Anne: (Trying to pry Merton off) Merton, please.
Merton: (Shaking her off) Get off of me!
(He lets go of Tommy. He starts to walk off.)
Tommy: Merton, I'm sorry this happened, but I didn't do anything.
Merton: Right. Sure. I was just fantasizing you storming out of my lair searching for Dana and the kid only an hour before this happened.
Tommy: I wasn't searching for Dana, and you know that.
Merton: You know what? Maybe I do. I just find it all very funny that if a girl becomes evil and doesn't go out with you, she must be evil forever huh?
Tommy: Don't you talk about her! Don't you even talk about Tonya!
Merton: What's a matter Tommy? Strike a nerve? Maybe because you know it's true.
Sky-Anne: Both of you . . . just . . . just shut up! Look, we all are saying things we don't mean right now. Merton, we need to find you a cure-
Merton: No one cares Sky-Anne! I mean, YOU didn't even need help to become evil.
Tommy: Leave her alone Merton.
Merton: Heh. You know what? Forget it. Forget the both of you. Dana was right all along. You don't think I can do this all by myself. You all think I'm "Poor Merton. Nice guy, but can't even save his own neck."
Tommy: No, we don't think that.
Merton: Oh really?
Tommy: The way you've been acting, you're not even nice anymore.
Merton: (Nodding, biting his lip) Thanks. Thanks a lot.
Nurse: Excuse me, I was just concerned. A lot of noise seems to be coming from this room. Is everything alright?
Merton: No, everything isn't. But don't worry Ma'am. We're through . . . we're all through . . . for good.
(Merton passes the nurse and leaves the room.)
Nurse: (Addressing Tommy and Sky-Anne) I'm sorry, was it something I said?
(Outside Pleasantville Hospital. Merton walks out of the building still pretty upset.)
Merton: (Stopping) What did I just do?
Boy: (Coming out from the dark) You listened to your heart.
Merton: So, I guess you still grow pretty fast then.
Boy: Mommy's gone. The bad man hurt her.
Merton: I know.
Boy: When she left me, she gave them a letter. It said that when it was safe I could come back.
Merton: It's never safe in Pleasantville kid.
Boy: She said you would protect me.
Merton: For a kid who doesn't talk you sure are doing a lot of it. Look, I can't do anything. I'm sorry, I just can't-
Boy: I'm scared. He hurt Mommy. What happens if he comes after me next?
Merton: He won't. I won't let him hurt you . . . umm . . . heh . . . did she ever name you?
(The boy nods his head)
Boy: Daniel. She named me Daniel.
Merton: Daniel . . . Danny . . . hmm, why does that name sound familiar?
(Merton shrugs it off)
Danny: Will you come with me? I know a place that we can both be together. Mommy prepared it for us. When she wakes up, she can join us too.
Merton: You are talking about that evil castle right?
Danny: There isn't evil or good, only choices. (Pause) What choice will you make? (Holds out his hand for Merton's) Father?
Merton: (Looking back at the hospital. Smiles) C'mon. You're going to catch a cold out here.
(Merton takes his hand and Danny leads him away.)
TBC
Okay, okay . . . I know this one was really freaky, hmm, must be the Nyquil. Anyway, remember there is still more to come, though not a lot! Please leave detailed reviews, thanks! (