Mohinder Narrating: When major decisions in our lives are made, how do they affect those around us? How do they affect those who oppose us and those who are for us?
[Yoga Studio, Peter Petrelli]
(Peter enters a yoga studio and sees multiple individual in strange stances lifting their arms and controlling their breath work.)
Yoga Instructor: Good, good, now breathe in those life-fulfilling ideas and thoughts, hold them in your body for 5 seconds; let your body get used to the energy so that it could create a foundation for sustaining this new version of yourself you envision. (Inhales then slowly exhales through her mouth) Exhale all of that which you no longer need which holds you back from growing into this new version of you. (Opens her eyes and sees Peter awkwardly standing at the door) Continue our routine breathing exercises; I shall be with you all again shortly. (Bows to them and walks to Peter)
Peter: Hi, uh…
Instructor: Hi. (Smiles and chuckles)
Peter: I helped your assistant once and I came by to see how she was doing.
Instructor: My assistance? Oh yes; Chelsey has moved on to better more fulfilling things. She has decided to live in her own happiness.
Peter: (Smiles) Aren't we all in pursuit of being happy.
Instructor: Ah… and that is where most individuals get trapped into the cycle. Chelsey has decided to live her happiness; not pursue it. The difference is that one is actively attempting and the other is just presently being. Which are you, Mr….
Peter: Peter.
Instructor: (Takes a deep breath while her eyes are closed) I sense a great deal of turmoil in you… Peter. You are not actively pursuing nor are you presently being. You, in fact are running. Interesting. (Walks over to her desk and grabs a card to hand Peter) If you would like to know more, join my program sometime. You'd be surprised how well it has worked for some people.
Peter: That's it; you're not going to further elaborate what I'm running from?
Instructor: (Smiles) Do you wanna know why psychics are so intimate when they read people? It is because they are not afraid to see in others what their clients themselves are not willing to, or are unable to, see within themselves. It is when we connect with outside sources that our inner selves make themselves aware to us to be healed. You on the other hand seem to be afraid of all forms of intimacy and that blocks you from healing whatever turmoil you are holding on to. Intimacy is so important because it is the essence of life and life is healing.
Peter: (A bit defensive) If life is healing, then why do so many suffer?
Yoga Instructor: Because there is no growth in life without some loss. Even when our muscles grow, what holds them together breaks apart and becomes stronger. Most of us, however, get stuck in the loss and experiences of living become jaded. You asking that question only means you're ready to accept an answer but anger only protects what truths we hold on to. (Bows to him) I hope to see you soon for a session.
(Peter looks down at the card and a strange "S" like symbol is on the top right corner.)
[Heroes , Created By Tim Kring]
[Paris, France]
(In a nearby bar, a blonde is seen in a bar drinking what seems to be her third drink.)
Blonde: Bar man. (Looks at his ID as he approaches) Lucas. Would you mind hitting me with a refill, this one's about done.
Bartender: Mademoiselle, I'm afraid you have reached your limit for the day. Would a water, suit your satisfaction instead?
Blonde: (Sighs and signals him to go away) This place wasn't that great anyway.
(She finishes her drink and reaches down for her bag only to find it's missing. A man appears beside her almost instantly and she looks to see him holding her large white sack of goodies.)
Claude: Lose something, sweetness?
Blonde: (Smiles) I stole those goods fair and square so they're mine.
Claude: And I stole them from you, so I guess no they're mine.
Blonde: (Gives him an evil smile) You don't wanna get on my bad side.
Claude: Of course not, Ms. Sanders. (Offers her the bag back)
Sanders: (Grabs the bag and places it on the counter) Who are you exactly?
Claude: The Invisible Man and you must be She-Hulk. I heard about your work back in Vegas; scary stuff.
Sanders: Makes sense why you gave up the bag so easily.
Claude: What do your bosses want with that bag anyway?
Sanders: Not for the bosses; all for moi fortunately.
Claude: What, you stole all that stuff and fled from your team , is that it?
Sanders: Exactly. (Examines her empty cup hoping for another sip) They wanted me to go back to that prison. I figure, hey, you only live twice, why not make the second one count?
Claude: Tell me about those disgusting pigs you work for?
(The blonde gives him a friendly smile.)
Sanders: You first.
Claude: I am the disgusting pig.
Sanders: So you work for yourself; that's how I prefer it also.
Claude: First order of business, let's get that load off your hands; it's a liability, especially for a runaway.
[Mohinder, Chennai]
(In Chennai, India, Mohinder sits in front of an audience of over 100 people in an auditorium.)
Mohinder: Yes, man is a narcissistic species by nature, but now that a new breed of special individuals co-exist in our world, conflict will ensue both outward and in. Not only do these special individuals live amongst us, they bare a curse, a virus which strips them of their powers and leads to their eventual death. There is a plague which targets only these unique individuals and threatens to eradicate them all and in doing so deprives our species of its own evolutionary advancement. Without these advancements, the challenges of the modern world seem insurmountable.
(A female student raises her hand.)
Mohinder: A question, yes.
Female Student: This virus that you speak of, does it have the potential to be a worldwide epidemic and what exactly is this virus?
(The alarm on Mohinder's watch beeps and he enthusiastically turns it off after a few seconds.)
Mohinder: My apologies, but it seems we're out of time.
(After the speech, Mohinder exits the lecture and walks down a flight of stairs. A man in a suit and glasses approaches him with a high, yet untrusting sense of energy.)
Business Man: Dr. Suresh! Wonderful speech out there, I feel you really connected with the audience and your words were very moving! I feel your talents are wasted here. (Pulls out a card) I'm in the business of making the world a better place and I feel as though our talents together can forge an easier or smoother path to getting there. Now, of course it's gonna take time but If I connect you to the right people and you inspire the right groups, the process in making the world a better place can go by a lot smoother.
(Mohinder gives the man a fake smile and takes the card he offers.)
Mohinder: Well, the offer does seem tempting. I'll definitely give you a call if I decide to take you up on that.
(Mohinder walks pass him to hurry down the stairs.)
(Mohinder leaves the building and after a short time finds his way to a small restaurant. Moments later, Lars sits beside him at the restaurant.)
Mohinder: On my way here, I was offered 4 different jobs being a speaker for various companies. Why do people want me so bad?
Lars: (Spreads butter on his bread and takes a bite) Because you have the resources and the experience to help guide the direction of this new world. To higher up society business men this means opportunity and money. Don't think for a second that 1 politician will pass up the opportunity to get to you and your (Makes fun of his accent) Father's Research. (Chuckles and takes another bite) Whether you like it or not, people will keep throwing themselves at you, Dr. Suresh but you've gotta decide what it is you want.
Mohinder: … I want to help.
Lars: As long as your heart remains true to that, always follow it. But don't get lost in its ambitions.
Mohinder: So when does my new job start and where?
Lars: You and I are only the beginning. (Smiles) We're going to America to set up a headquarters.
Mohinder: Wait, you mean it's just us?
Lars: For now, but we'll have connections soon. (Gives him a friendly tap on the shoulder)
[Ruidoso, New Mexico]
(Knox parks his car on the side of the road and gets out to check their map. Elle gets out and is astonished by how amazing the scenery around them looks and smells.)
Elle: (Inhales deeply) Ah, this is what I'm talking about; fresh air, pine trees everywhere you look; mountains! This makes life worth living.
Knox: Yeah, well it also makes following directions 10 times harder. He said at the 4th tree with a scar down the middle.
Elle: So, simple directions to follow if you ask me.
Knox: You see how much bird poop is on the trees that look like scars?
Elle: I guess we better start looking at 'em up close then. (Smirks)
Knox: Go right ahead, I need to take a leak.
Elle: I've never peed out in nature before- at least not that I remember. I bet it's exciting!
Knox: (Chuckles) I used to be scared, but once I got over that, I felt- empowered.
Elle: From peeing outside?! Wow, I can't wait to be so enlightened like you. (Laughs)
(Suddenly, a young man approaches the two of them.)
Young man: (Adjusts glasses) You've got good timing. You got here before me.
Knox: You Woolsly?
Alex: Your cousin told me to come pick you up to make sure everything was legitimate. He's worried someone might've tried setting him up. He is on the run of course.
Knox: How do we know you're not a setup?
Alex: Not very many people know about your cousin's existence. Mentioning him should be a good indicator I have no ill intention.
Elle: I'm kinda hoping you're wrong cause I could use a little excitement.
Alex: Shall we go; the boss is waiting? I kinda sounded like a mobster there. (Laughs)
[Los Angeles]
(In Los Angeles California, Matt Parkman meets with his old partner Audrey at a coffee shop. He enters the shop and sees Audrey sitting in the corner wearing shades. She gives him the signal to sit down and Matt quickly sits at the table.)
Matt: What're you like the Men-In-Black or something? (Sarcastic) Obviously you're not here to attract any attention.
Audrey: … (Quickly takes the shades off) Do the glasses bother you, Parkman, cause I can take them off if they bother you.
Matt: No, no- Sorry, just- sorry. Uh, so I thought about your offer and-
Audrey: Why are you so nervous? You're making me nervous.
Matt: Just a lot has been going on and the past few months I haven't been able to keep my head straight is all.
Audrey: Like the headaches?
Matt: Yeah, the headaches, but, it's a little more than that.
Audrey: (Puts her shades back on) As long as you feel it won't effect your work performance, your business is yours. Now what do you got for me?
Matt: I've been having bad dreams almost every night of homeland security or the government kicking down my front door and taking away me and my son Matty.
Audrey: (Leans back in her chair and sighs) Wow, so he was yours after all. You wanna be a good father I understand that.
Matt: I need to know why the FBI decided to pick me.
Audrey: Because of our history, but not only that, it's also because of your mojo brain thing. The FBI branch I work for feels as though you could be of great use.
Matt: Really, and why would that be? Is it to further serve their agenda or do something meaningful and for the world?
(Audrey hesitates to answer that question. She slowly leans forward toward him, takes her glasses off yet again, folds them and gently places them on the table.)
Audrey: Be honest with me, Parkman, would any answer I give you change the way you feel about the opportunity?
Matt: Yes, ma'am it would.
Audrey: (Leans back in her chair) Okay. Would either answer I give you change your answer on ACCEPTING this job or not? I Honestly don't think so Matt. Now I've known you for only a few months and I know that's only so much time you have to get to know a person, but what I do know about you is that you're a good man and I know you're a good father. I know you'll make the right choice whether to accept this job or not.
Matt: All I care about now is protecting my family. They are all that matter to me.
Audrey: What about being a hero and standing up for the little guy?
Matt: I was the little guy! Ironically… and I decided to take matters into my own hands. Look I don't know what's right or wrong, but what I do know is that I want to protect what is precious to me and the people I love. That's all I have, Audrey and that's all I want. I will join the FBI-
Audrey: Only because you're scared of what might happen. You wanna be good with the government so that if anything goes wrong and people with powers start getting locked up, you'll have your golden ticket to a secure future.
Matt: That is exactly what I want to do. I can't keep standing between worlds; I need to pick a side and that side is my wife and son.
Audrey: (Slides her glasses over to Matt) Congratulations, you're hired.
Matt: Just like that?
Audrey: Just like that, but of course you understand there's more to this job then what I can say in public.
Matt: Does it have to do with people with abilities?
Audrey: Yes.
Matt: If the FBI is working it, it must be something pretty big.
Audrey: Don't forget your iced coffee; it's on me. (Stands and walks away after gently tapping his chest)
Matt: Wait iced coffee, is that like a new age thing or what?
[Tokyo Japan]
(In Tokyo Japan, Kimiko walks into the head office and slaps a small stack of files on the table in front of Hiro and Ando.)
Kimiko: Whew! That was some rush! I've never seen so many people lined up for job.
Ando: (Typing on the computer) A few of the people we interviewed said the job offer came from a source.
Hiro: We've been researching trying to find it and we got something very interesting.
Kimoko: Eh?! Really? Let me see. (Quickly jumps behind the laptop)
Ando: Someone in America advertised our company as being The Hall of Justice for special people with abilities.
Hiro: Whoever advertised this sent it worldwide. (Nods his head in epiphany) AH, so that's why foreigners were coming in!
Kimiko: (Sighs) Oh, big brother, if mother and father could see what you've done to their company.
Ando: Please, Kimiko, Hiro is only trying to expand business. With this many potential clients, business could be big in no time!
Kimiko: And what happens when we get one bad seed who gives the company a bad name?! What happens when we hire dozens of people and all of them fail?! The issues is we do not know who these people are and we are giving them the keys to the front door of our business. I love you, baby brother, but sometimes you don't think.
Ando: Egh. Alright, so what should we do then, Hiro? Do you think we can trust these people?
Hiro: … No, Kimiko's right. We need trust if we're to have a successful business. First, we must get the word out that Dial-A-Hero will no longer be taking interviews. For now we stay local.
Ando: I understand there is a thin line between using talents to help people and using talents for profit, but we are running a business. I heard a rumor on the street that people with abilities are forming a group to try and fight the larger gangs in Japan. I don't know if it's true but if it is, it may be happening in other countries as well. Maybe we can expand to other countries and see where things go from there.
(The phone begins to ring. Hiro quickly answers it.)
Hiro: Hello, Dial-A-Hero, how may we save your day?!
Woman: (Talking in Japanese) My restaurant is in the middle of a turf war, please stop this at once!
[Newark, New Jersey]
(A mother finishes her cooking and sets up two large plates for lunch. She walks over to the table and places a plate on one side of the table and places another in front of her depressed-looking son. She then takes a seat and tries to calm her nerves.)
Mary: I'm really- glad you came home, Luke. (Smiles big and exhales) I worried so much.
Luke: Yeah… I just came by to make sure you weren't dead is all, I'm not staying. Thanks for the food though. (Grabs his fork and pokes at his food)
Mary: (Slightly freaks out) Um… (Holds herself back)
Luke: (Sighs) Fine… (Drops fork and crosses his arms) Uh… thank you for this food and… for life…
Mary: (Opens her eyes and smiles) Amen. (Clears her throat and begins eating) So, I'm excited to hear all about where you've been and what's been going on?
Luke: (Eating) Ah, well I found a guy- Samson.
Mary: Oh no, Luke.
Luke: Before you say anything, I'm not under your roof anymore, so whatever you have to say, it doesn't really matter to me.
Mary: (Silently continues to eat) Okay…
Luke: (Deeply exhales) Ah, let's see… went on a few hikes, met some hippies, which I didn't know still existed, uh, murdered a girl, met a Native Americ-
Mary: W-what? A-are you joking right now, Luke?
Luke: Nope, I really did go out on a few hikes and became one with nature.
Mary: No you- killed someone?
Luke: Oh yeah, that. Um… yeah. I guess I finally found that thing I was missing all this time.
Mary: (Shivering) Who?! Who did you kill?
Luke: (Thinking hard) Some college girl from Virginia. We hoped she would lead us to someone else we were trying to get but nothing came of it so we just had to kill her and get it over with.
Mary: Luke, N- no. How could you do something so-
Luke: Fun, enthusiastic?! Believe it or not, sitting around the house listening to you complain and boss me around all the time like I'm your slave, isn't a fun existence.
Mary: (Slightly angered but timid) But murder is?!
Luke: It's something away from this boring existence you put upon me and claimed was you loving me. If love was really something you had for me, why did I feel so lifeless and dead the entire time I was in this house, huh? Your love is something I don't need nor want so, no thanks.
Mary: Luke, please, I tried to give you everything. I tried my hardest with you without your father.
Luke: You took your frustrations you had for dad out on me! All of your past relationships left you miserable and broken inside and you threw all of that pain out on me! You're a horrible mother. That's all there is to it. (Shrugs) Oh well, not my problem anymore after today.
Mary: Lu-! (Calms herself down and breathes) Luke, I never wanted you to go down that dark path. Loneliness, anger, depression, powerless, confusion, hungered for recognition- I can see you have all those things too. (Sheds a tear) I never wanted you to take on my demons, but I see now… that in me trying to take you away from that, only pressed you more into it. Luke- (Grabs her son's hand) I am the same way inside. I am so sorry I destroyed that baby boy I cherished so much. Please, Luke, let me fix this.
(Luke remains conflicted for a very short few seconds which feel much longer to him in his head.)
Luke: (Pulls his hand away quickly) I didn't come here to make up with you, because I'm gone and I don't need to come back.
Mary: Okay, okay, fine, but… Son, I love you, and I don't have a reason to go on living without you. (More tears fall) Please, let me work with you on healing these shadows because I'm dealing with them too. (Offers her hand) We can work together on this.
(Luke looks down at his mother's hand and stares at it a few seconds. He raises his hand and locks it with hers.)
Mary: (Breathes with relieve with tears continuing to fall) Thank you, Luke. I appreciate this so much.
(Luke clenches his mother's hand tighter and she begins screaming loudly. He continues to clench harder and his mother struggles greatly for about 8 seconds before he drops her to the floor. She holds her hand up and sees it's been badly burned.)
Mary: (Tears burst from her eyes) No- Luke…! Why did you do that?
Luke: Because you're someone close by that I hate, and I ran out of college girls.
Mary: (In disbelief) No, Luke.
Luke: I came by to make sure you weren't dead because, well. (Shrugs) I wanted to do it myself. Don't worry, this'll only hurt a lot. I'll try to use full blast so it'll be done quicker.
(Luke lifts his hand to his mother and releases a microwave blast of radiation.)
[Tokyo Japan]
(Out in the streets, people are pressed back by the police as 4 ordinary people between the ages of 24 to 45 faceoff against a gang of 7 leather-suited gangsters firmly holding swords in hand.)
Gangster 1: You want to go to war with us? You are stupid for doing so. You mess with us- you're already dead.
Older Male Vigilante: We'll see about that.
(The older male waves his arms and begins creating cyclones. He shoots one at the group of gangsters and they all quickly jump out of the way and charge the vigilantes. One of the younger males creates a sword out of his arm and blocks two swords which are slashed at him. He quickly kicks them away. Three gangsters go after the teenage girl vigilante and she places two fingers on the temple of her head. She begins seeing every outcome of her attackers' moves and as they furiously swing their swords at her, she's able to dodge all of them. The last person tries to stab her and she's able to counter and disarm him. She flips him around and knocks him out with the back of her sword. Another gangster with a sword tries attacking another older male but his reflexes are sharp and he continuously dodges and hits him with jabs when the opportunity is presented. Out in the distance, Both Ando and Hiro appear on Hiro's motorcycle. Ando takes his helmet off and the two go rushing through the crowd to see the conflict from the front of the line.)
Ando: Hiro, we've got to do something; they're already fighting!
Hiro: Uh… Uh…
(Hiro squints his eyes and shakes his head until time itself freezes. Hiro quickly runs out into the field and one-by-one pushes the vigilantes together. He holds their hands together and makes sure they're all touching.)
Hiro: This time traveling thing really comes in handy.
(Hiro hears a scrap behind him and quickly turns in a panic.)
Hiro: Hello?! Is someone there?!
(A small flyer glides from the crowd beside Hiro as if the wind was pushing it. Hiro quickly runs over and picks it up. There's a strange symbol on the bottom of the paper, as well as a copy of a news article. He continues to read the article and is shocked by what he sees. He hears a scream and jerks forward a bit.
Ando: H-Hiro!
(Hiro looks down and sees a blade going through the side of his lower stomach. He looks around and he starts to get dizzy. Time seems to have unfrozen somehow.)
Hiro: But- I never unfroze time… (Falls to the ground unconscious)
(The gangster who accidentally stabbed Hiro yells at his crew to stop attacking and to back away. He looks down at Hiro to make sure he's still alive. After a short time, he yells at his crew to run away a second time and they all take off down an alleyway. Ando quickly rushes over to Hiro and lifts his head up to his lap.)
[Ruidoso, New Mexico]
(Alex Woolsly and Knox park their vehicles in front of a home surrounded by gorgeous fully developed green trees. Elle cannot help but be astounded by the view. They all exit their vehicles and walk toward the front door and as they do, it opens and standing in the doorway is none other than Lamar, Knox's cousin. A huge smile is slapped across their faces the moment they see each other.)
Lamar: Been a long time, Cuz. Glad you you're still alive.
Knox: Good to see family again.
(There is a moment of silent awkwardness.)
Elle: You two gonna make-out or what?
(Both Knox and Lamar rush in to greet each other with a long awaited hug. Time passes and the 4 of them sit around the living room of the cabin along with two other individuals whom obviously have abilities themselves.)
Lamar: We thought it was a conspiracy but it turns out it's a group of individuals- Americans, firefighters, Mailmen, Lawyers; you name 'em, they're a member. They've been kidnapping people with abilities and using them for underground dogfights and other twisted inhuman rituals. Speaking of rituals, another group calling themselves The Believers worship people like you.
Knox: You mean people with powers? What, like we gods or something?
Lamar: Exactly like gods.
Elle: Where can I find these people and where can I get my free massages?! (Says in English accent) Goddess Elle would like her glorious feet rubbed.
Knox: I guess gods have accent now, huh?
Lamar: Like with most belief systems though, there's a struggle amongst their community whether or not people with abilities should be praised or sacrificed.
Elle: Sacrificed?! What nut jobs.
Lamar: But it's true. The extremists have been doing things like harvesting organs in order to fill themselves with the "essence" of what gives Evos their powers.
Elle: Here we thought the government was the worse we had to lookout for.
Lamar: It's gets a little more crazy than that. (Stands and walks over to a nearby dresser) It's nothing solid but I figured you should be aware of this guy.
(Lamar pulls out a picture and walks over toward the rest of the group to show them the picture.)
Lamar: This cat's name is Lars, just Lars apparently. I guess he had a disagreement with The Believers and banned him from participating in anything the group was involved in. Last he was heard from, he was going to India. My guess is he's looking for Suresh, a geneticist. He may not have any abilities that we know of, but he's knowledgeable and that makes him a target. We need someone to keep an eye on him.
Knox: (Slightly confused) W-wait, you want us to do it?
Elle: Us? Hey I'm not a sidekick.
Lamar: (Sits down comfortably and sighs) The task is yours if you want it, cousin, but if not, I've got my other two girls here who'll be happy to help.
Hippy Girl: Sup.
Knox: … I don't know, man, I'm free; I'm away from The Company. I don't wanna risk getting locked up again.
Hippy Girl: So what if they lock you up and put you in the stripes? Our rebellion will just bust you out, WHOA! Hold it- is Rebel short for Rebellion?! Ah-haaa, See I am smart.
Korean Girl: Yes Bebe; you are smart.
Lamar: What's it gonna be, cousin? I'm not gonna force you out there; I got love for you no matter, but you gotta let me know if you onboard.
Knox: (Swaying his body back and forth) I don't think so, man. I think I just wanna kick it here and not push my luck. I'm safe and since I've been out, this is the only time I've actually felt like things are alright, ya know?
Lamar: No judgment, fam. (Gently slaps his cousin's arm)
Elle: Cool! Well, this was a blast but I guess I better be heading down the ole dusty trail. (Stands) Do you got a shower or do you just use one of those outhouse half hot tub things?
Lamar: (Holding his fingers together up to his mouth and resting his elbows on his knees) We got a shower.
Bebe: Who needs a shower when you got NATURE BABY, WHEW!
Knox: (Points at her for a second) Does she do that all the time, cause I don't think I could get used to that.
Korean Girl: We do not judge here. Here, we are all family. Even with my- broken- English… they are patient.
(Everyone looks over to see Elle already half way undressed.)
Lamar: Whoa… (Raises his hand to block his view of her)
Kristen: No judgment, right? Where's that shower again so I could rest up and get rested up for a hike tomorrow.
Knox: I thought you were headed out?
Kristen: (Stretching) Changed my mind; I wanna enjoy this country life while I can cause I probably won't be back here. On second thought, why don't I go look for that bathroom myself; I could use the adventure. (Walks off)
Korean: (Slightly uncomfortable) I will show you to the shower room. (Quickly gets up and escorts Elle)
[Claire and Brandon, highway]
Brandon: So we're driving across the country in a semi-tuned car and we have nothing but time on our hands. Is there any place on the map where you'd like to detour?
Claire: We're on an important mission to see the president to talk to him about the future of not only this country but possibly others, I don't think sightseeing should be our priority.
Brandon: (Laughs joyfully) Enjoy the sights while they're here, Claire, one of these days, they may no longer exist.
(Brandon rolls down his window and yells out to the world. Claire can't help but to smile at his enthusiasm. She looks down at her cell phone and sees that her father is once again trying to call her. Her smile slightly goes away but before it fully does, she puts the phone back in her pocket and yells alongside Brandon.)
[Present day]
(Brandon is revealed to be having a flashback and sits a diner watching the news about a heated protest happening in France. He takes a sip of his drink and soon after, Rene comes by to take a seat beside him.)
Brandon: I think I know why you don't speak- because words have power and when you carelessly throw them around, your whole world could create all sorts of chaos. (Smirks) As a politician, I once- (Shape shifts into Nathan) gave hope to the people- their dreams, their ambition. I really thought I was doing the right thing. (Looks up at the television) But I guess the right thing- were the not so often times I did things out of character.
(The Haitian takes a silent breath and gives him all of his attention.)
Nathan: Sorry, I can't help but wonder what my life amounted to and if I was significant. My daughter is stuck with the burden of being in politics, My brother, of course, went off the hinges and started a war which spiked all the way in France, and my mother is left alone in that mansion. Why is it that when my family needs me most, I'm unable to help them? I ask you this, because the few times you have broken silence, it was always impactful and I need to feel the gravity of the answers to come crashing down if they're going to destroy these soul crushing questions.
Rene: … We do not always have answers, but what you left behind will have to be enough for your family to pick up the pieces. (Hands him an envelope)
Nathan: (Glances inside of it) My new identity. Interesting- I always saw myself as a Chuck.
Rene: You are dead and it is time to move on to your next life.
Nathan: Are you the angel of death or something?
Rene: That was my father.
(Nathan silently turns to Rene and as the waitress comes by to talk, Nathan quickly shifts back into Brandon.)
Waitress: You need a refill, hun, you look like you've had a pretty stressful day?
Brandon: I… (Looks into empty cup) I think I've had my fill; thank you, though.
(The Waitress winks at him and walks off.)
Waitress: I'll get you one to go; no charge.
Brandon: This ability, Rene, is a curse. I absorb souls and I feel their pain, their unfulfilled desires, and the moments they left their bodies un-peacefully echoes inside of me. I thought I just had the gift to control souls, but it's much more than that- I see souls; I absorb them; I… feel all of them.
(Brandon looks over and sees a woman wearing old clothing staring down at a loving couple sitting in a booth in sorry. She looks over and makes contact with Brandon and a rapid flow of blood falls from her chest.)
Brandon: These souls wanna move on and some don't but either way it still haunts me.
Rene: You see death once you become death.
(Rene stands to his feet and walks off only to see another Haitian man standing where Rene once was. Something, however, is very unsettling about this Haitian man and a weird feeling cannot help but to come over Brandon.)
Brandon: You're an un-tethered soul.
Haitian Man: My soul is troubled…
[Manhattan, NY]
(Peter and his partner Hesam are driving around the city patrolling for any nearby emergencies. Peter sits in the passenger's seat eating a burrito.)
Hesam: So let me ask you something, Peter, how do you feel about all these young people coming into the hospital because of these "coming out" videos? It breaks my heart honestly. I understand you wanna feel alive and not so sheltered in but I mean man, at what price?
Peter: I don't know, Hesam; I guess it's just the way of the world. (Takes a bit of his burrito)
(Peter gives himself a moment to actually process the question and gives himself a few seconds to formulate a legitimate response.)
Peter: they've just felt like caged in animals, ya know? It's not easy living a lie when something you have no control over shapes the very foundation of who you are. It makes you think that maybe what you are is wrong or deserves to be caged up. These people just found a way out of the cage and they're empowered now.
Hesam: I guess so. Wow, I never thought about it; that's deep.
Peter: Not deep, just from the heart that's all. (Takes a bigger bite of his burrito)
Hesam: You know you used to be very dismissive. Before you would barely hold conversations or just dismiss them all together, but now you're really opening up.
Peter: We've gotta lookout for our surroundings, you never know when one of these impressionable young kids might be getting harassed on the street.
Hesam: Ah, that still puzzles me too. (Makes a smooth left turn) People with super powers exist; it's like something out of a comic book.
Peter: Yeah, exactly that.
Hesam: Yeah? (Peaks over at peter) What do you mean by that?
(Peter takes his time chewing his food to give his mind time to process a response.)
Peter: Well, I knew a guy who was a comic book artist and a painter who had the gift to- make comic book stories, and one day he realized his artworks were really happening.
Hesam: What, for real? No way, Peter when was this?
Peter: (Tries to be dismissive) Ah… It was a long time ago. Before I'd ever met you, I was working in hospice around the time taking care of dying people. His name was Isaac. I wonder what he'd think of the world now that characters from his comics are out in the open.
(Peter looks out the window and sees a man on a street corner blowing bubbles out of his hands to entertain the people before him.)
Radio: We need any available vehicles near lower east Manhattan to respond to a distress call!
Hesam: We'll save the pep-talk for another time; duty calls.
(Peter quickly grabs the radio and responds to the call.)
[India]
(Mohinder sits with his office getting his things together with Lars picking at files and searching through Mohinder's father's old things.)
Lars: This is an interesting list of names, Matt Parkman, Hiro Nakamura, D.L. Hawkins; Charlie Andrews. Ooh, Sparrow Redhouse; that's a cool name.
Mohinder: It was a list of potential individuals who had abilities. Of course as you may or may not know, some of those individuals are recently deceased, if not nearly all of them.
Lars: Really? I wonder who on this list are still among us.
Molly: I can tell you.
(Mohinder and Lars looks in the doorway and see Mira and Molly standing there. Mira looks a bit nervous.)
Mira: Sorry, we were just walking past and overheard.
Molly: I can tell you where those people are and how to find them.
Mohinder: Molly, no this is adult conversation.
Molly: But I never get to use my ability for anything and I really, really wanna use it, even just for a moment, pleeease?!
(Mohinder peaks over at Lars and Lars shrugs his shoulders.)
Lars: Hey, why not?
Mohinder: Okay, just don't go too far okay.
Molly: (Excited) Yes! Don't worry, Mohinder, I won't!
(Molly rushes over to Lars and he hands her the file with the list of people. She flips through the file and sees a few pictures of some of the names.
Molly: Hm, Hey I remember this man; I helped in a long time ago at Kirby Plaza. (Flips the page) And this is his wife. (Closes her eyes for a second) I see she's in France.
Mohinder: (Slightly confused) Impossible, it must be her sister Tracy.
Lars: Could you see if you can find Matt Parkman?
Molly: Sure, that one's easy! (Closes her eyes and focuses a few seconds) He's in California.
Lars: Okay, how about Isaac Mendez, can you find him?
Molly: (Closes her eyes) Um… Yeah- he's on his way somewhere. He's taking a plane.
(Both Mohinder and Lars look at one another in shock.)
Mohinder: Isaac, Mendez?
Molly: Yeah, his picture is right here, this is his face.
Mohinder: Okay… Uh, M-Molly can you find Niki Sanders' exactly location in France?
Molly: (Closes her eyes again and tries to track Niki) I see people- a man is there- Two men are there but one… I can't see him but I know he's there.
(Mohinder is a bit uncomfortable about the whole thing keeps his arms crossed as he paces.)
Mohinder: What about Mr. Hawkins, can you find him?
Molly: (Closes her eyes) Mm.. It's foggy. I'm not seeing clearly. (Relaxes and opens her eyes) There's something weird blocking me from finding him.
Lars: (Takes a nervous deep breath) Okay, Molly, can you find Sue Landers for me?
(Molly finds her picture and focuses on her, but after a few seconds she doesn't pick up anything.)
Molly: I'm sorry, she's gone. She's dead.
Mira: Okay, I think that's enough, Molly come with me. (Grabs Molly's hand)
Lars: (Covers his face with his palm) Okay. Well, rest in peace to Sue. She was a good woman.
Mohinder: I could tell her death someone is affecting you. I'm sorry for your loss. I know loss isn't easy.
Lars: For us or for them? (Sighs) This really breaks my heart… But you know, I'll get over it. We should prepare for departure in the morning.
(Lars gives Mira a smile and a gentle nod before walking passed her.)
Mohinder: (Awkward) They must've felt really close.
(In New York, Angela is seen standing on a rooftop looking down at the city. Beside her is a unique looking round statue with a large hole in the center. A man comes walking out of the shadows from inside the building and he stands beside her with his hands crossed in front of him and his eyes drifting out into the city.)
Bennet: The FBI, huh?
Angela: The Company is still the same, only with government resources and FBI assistance. Face it, Noah, this is how it was always going to turn out.
Bennet: I think we could both use a drink right now. (Presents a bottle of wine to her and a smile on the side)
Angela: (Smiles back at him) Both of our worlds are falling around us, Noah, and there's no way of fixing it.
(The two of them listen to the peaceful ambient sounds of sirens and loud machinery throughout the city.)
Angela: Everything my friends and I have fought for and sacrificed for has either died or moved on under better management. Makes one think what they truly spent their life building. I love my children but what would my life be if I didn't have them? What am I really, without them?
Bennet: A woman with a strong heart who fought the good fight.
(Angela turns to Noah.)
Angela: (Playful flirting) Why, Noah, are you trying to flatter an old woman?
Bennet: Only if it gets you to have a drink with me. (Gives a charming smile)
(The two of them sit together in an isolated kitchen sharing the bottle of wine.)
Noah: Maybe deep down I am afraid. (Tops off his glass) Life before Claire- darkness ensued. Before dark clouds, I was your typical average American man. Life has taken me in so many turns I guess I never really though where I'd end up after it stopped.
Angela: We're still alive, you and I, Noah- veterans in the world of constant change. Even so, we still have the chance to be something good in this world outside of our children.
Noah: I still fight the good fight. Even if I'm wrong, being the company man is all I live for aside from Claire.
Angela: (Sighs) I have to give up everything I've cared for in every way. One son to grief, another son has created a new life for himself. My grandchildren are growing up and moving on; the company I dedicated my soul to has died and has been taken under new guidance. I have y soul for myself now, Noah, but it's been taken from me for so long, I don't know what to do with my life now that I have it back.
Noah: I guess now is the perfect opportunity to figure that out. It's never too late until you're in the ground.
[France]
(A protest continues out in the street but not too far, a French man stares out of his window watching as things look as though they're going to quickly escalate.
Voice: Mate.
(He quickly turns around startled to see Claude and the blonde from the bar holding a large sack in her hands.)
Antoine: J'ai ete surpris. Why do you do this? Are you sick in the head or something, like a Steven King?!
Claude: You should be used to it by now, Napoleon.
Antoine: I told you about calling me those names. What do you want and who's the splendide madem behind you?
Claude: This here is a temporary partner of mine. She's looking to get out of the country and load some weight off her shoulders.
Antoine: (Unsure) Speak more about this; what kind of weight exactly?
Sanders: I stole some ancient artifacts and need them pawned.
Antoine: What is this, you brought another crazy one to my home?! My evening was fine, why do you bring these people to me of all places?!
Claude: You wanna talk about crazy, I see that twinkling little look in your eye. You're planning on going out to that protest again, aren't you?
Antoine: … I figure I can help someone or everyone if things go wrong. I feel today might really be the day.
Claude: If things get bad, you get out. Trust me, being a hero in a human affair will only end you in being dead or the bad guy. Do not get yourself too involved.
Antoine: (Sighs and looks at Sanders) I can't help you sell that stuff, but I can refur you.
Claude: She's actually a runaway.
Antoine: (Annoyed) Which one- Believers, Extremists, Underground?
Claude: The ones who go unnamed.
Antoine: (Nervously grabs a nearby cup and takes a big drink of liquor) So she has one of those tracking devices, yes? (Stares out of the large window emotionless)
Claude: They haven't blown her head off yet, so I'm guessing they haven't reported her gone yet or they're waiting to see where she goes.
Antoine: (Turns around and finishes off his drink) The other 3 have been tracked to this location before seeing the doctor and the device disappearing. They are probably keeping her alive to find the person removing the trackers from their escaped prisoners. You led danger to my door.
Claude: And I do apologize for that, but this one will be the last I'm sure.
Antoine: (Sighs) We will perform the minor surgery now, but after, we are done with this and I am going to the protest to assure as many people possible are safe.
Claude: Do as you will, but remember what I said. It might change your life.
Sanders: Hold on- surgery?
[Tokyo Japan]
(In Tokyo Japan, Hiro lies in a hospital bed resting while both Ando and his lover Kimiko impatiently sit outside the door. Ando hands Kimiko a warm drink.)
Ando: Hiro has been through much worse than this; he will be okay.
Kimiko: This Dial-A-Hero thing is stupid. It's for kids. You idiots should've never started this thing.
Ando: Would you stop calling us idiots. We do our best and we work hard same as you, Kimiko. I know you're a little upset you don't have the company, but that means you have more free time to think of good creative ideas for our company. If you were the CEO of Yamagato Industries, you wouldn't be able to think so clearly because of paperwork.
Kimiko: … Ando, I just don't want my brother to die. Last year we almost lost him to a tumor, now- when is he going to realize he can't be a kid forever?
(Ando pulls her in and gives her a comforting hug.)
Ando: I don't think he ever will, that's what makes him Hiro.
(Ando's arms begin to spark red and Kimiko quickly jerks away from him.)
Kimiko: Ando what is that?!
(Ando's arms begin going crazy and sparking with red lightning. He quickly stands to his feet.)
Ando: I don't know; my ability just started acting on its own. I can't control it!
(The lights in the building start flickering in and out in the hospital. The doctors and patients begin slightly panicking do to the unknown phenomenon.)
Kimiko: Ando, stop this right now!
Ando: I don't know what's going on; it's not me!
(The building begins to shake and there is slight earthquake which shoots through the building. Most of the staff in the building fall to the floor and the lights shut off completely. Ando rushes into Hiro's room and when the lights come back on, he sees that Hiro's body is gone.)
Ando: Hiro…? Hiro?!
TO BE CONTINUED…