(In a small room, a group of 12 individuals, some gloomy, some resolving, are sitting in a circle. 11 of the individuals are giving one young man all their undivided attention as he apparently tells a sob story.)
Young Male: I still remember to this day the moment I burned myself. I lied to my parents about what happened to me; told them I was playing with the oven, but really it was this- thing. (Smirks) 20 Years I felt like a freak, radiating heat from my body and burning my own flesh in the process. I couldn't tell my parents the truth. But that day on December 10th a revelation came over me. I realized I wasn't alone. I had support; people like me who've endured such traumatizing experiences. I'm here today to express hope that my happiness and acceptance of myself can help other people find some kind of uh- acceptance within themselves as well- And also to help share my peace. Uh- closing; I'm done.
(Everyone begins lightly clapping.)
Lamar: Yuki, how about you? I know you've got an interesting story to tell.
Yuki: Yes, uh, my name is Yukio and my parents- do not understand… me. Sorry forgive me, my English is not very good.
(Everyone nods and moans to assure her it's ok. Yuki looks around at all the faces fully supportive of what it is she has to say.)
Yuki: My parents are proud of me for not being different, but I am different. I am the same as you… uh, we are all the same. But I tried to tell my mother I was different and she was afraid- of my dad, that he disowned me. She was shameful of me and my dad found out my mom was keeping my secret. He became very- mean and he blame my mother for birthing me. I never showed my gift, so I told them I was only making a joke because I wanted attention. I was punished very badly but I saved my parent's marriage by lying.
Lamar: Wow, that's cold. (Says in Chinese) The ones who're supposed to be there to hold us up are usually the ones who hold us down. (Says in English) Stay strong, little one.
(Everyone gives a short applause. A man in blue overalls lifts his hand and suspiciously looks around at everybody.)
Man: I've got one. (Lets out a light cough followed by deep exhale) I struggled to take care of my family, and even found a good job many years down the line. I did factory work and often- nearly every night, I went to bed in fear for when I'd lose that job and would be unable to support my family. That day came when people will powers started showing up. People with abilities were more efficient at jobs and therefore when they were hired that meant people like me were outta jobs. It wasn't an economic collapse or machines or even illegal immigrants; it was you. I lost everything, my family had to stay at motels, even that got expensive; eventually went to robbing and was caught. I served my time, went to jail, and when I finally got out, my wife was remarried to someone else who gave her the life I couldn't and gave my son opportunities I couldn't even imagine unless they were fairytales in a book. You people took everything from me and now I wonder what can I do next with this so called life of mine? Where do I possibly go from here?
(Everyone stares at him with saddened looks on their faces and loss for words. Many are speechless but one person has the courage to say something.)
Yuki: Family isn't always your life. You have opportunity now to live your life and become you inside… outside. You- (Slightly frustrated with herself) can start better…
Lamar: I think what Yuki's trying to say here is that it can't get worse. You're at the bottom now but all you can go is up from here; build a life for yourself. Now that your family has moved on, you can focus on your own skills and forge a future for you out of your skills. It doesn't matter how old you are, what matters is that you're still kicking and can do something. Live life by your own terms not anyone else's.
Man: Yeah…? (Softly rubs his sweat hands together and debates)
Lamar: It takes a leap of faith, man, but you got this; no one's got your back during those first steps but you. (Leans forward and gets personal with him) Now, you can choose to make that mistake a second time and go back to jail with tallies on your record when you get to the gate, or you can pick up what chu got left and try to make something out of it. (Leans back in his chair) At the end of the day the choice is yours, man… no one else's.
Man: And what about you? When you made this choice what did you think would happen?
Claire: … I thought we could live happily together. I just wanted people to live in peace; I wanted people like me to not be so afraid to be ourselves.
Man: People don't even know how to be themselves, what made you think piling on superhuman freaks would make things better?!
Claire: My mind was only focused on one thing.
Man: I guess… all I can do is focus my mind on one thing then; as much as I'd rather not.
[Heroes: Created by Tim Kring]
[Los Angeles, Matt Parkman]
(There is a crowd of individuals outside of the Los Angeles police station protesting. A woman wearing a blue beanie is seen yelling into the microphone behind the small gate between them and a line of officers. [On the side of the microphone the title "Voice of Our Image" is displayed] Parkman is able to sneak passed the crowd, make his way to the other side safely, and into the station. As he enters, he sees his boss waiting for him at the entrance.)
Captain: Parkman!
Matt Parkman: (Confused) Sir, what is this; what's going on here?
Woman in Blue Beenie: (Yelling in microphone) Unarmed innocent people with abilities have been getting shot and killed by officers all over the country! Just because you wear the badge, that doesn't give you permission to get away with cold blooded murder! Evo's are people too!
(The crowd starts going crazy; letting out random quotes and sayings about injustices through the system.)
Matt: I guess that about sums it up.
Captain: Follow me, Parkman.
(The Captain quickly walks away and Parkman is quick to follow behind, desperately trying to keep up with the Captain as the two walk through the station.)
Captain: New aged young punks; It's like the hippie age all over again.
Matt: Sir, what're they talking about? What murders?
Captain: You must not be keeping up with the news, Parkman.
Matt: No, sir, I haven't. I've been desperately trying to keep my marriage on track and avoiding any outside distractions when I can.
Captain: And you don't do the social media thing too, I assume. (Sighs, stops, and turns around to face Matt) Basically there have been countable number of unarmed individuals being murdered. Around the country, a movement called Unity has come out in retaliation against law enforcement.
Matt: What?! You'd think all law enforcement would know about it.
Captain: We're telling you now Parkman. (Resumes walking with Parkman) We're having a meeting with the press shortly about the matter, in the meantime, I'm going to be giving the rest of the officers a quick update on the situation and the protocols of how we should be handling our daily tasks.
(They get to a meeting room where other officers are gathered and the Captain once again walks off. Matt approaches his partner Mike.)
Matt: Mike, Hey. This is crazy isn't it?
Mike: I never thought I'd live to see a day like this, to be honest. At any moment, those protestors might get bold and make a move at the stations.
Matt: I don't think so. These people are just defending their constitution the best way they know how. They're not going to do anything too violent.
Mike: I wanna believe that, man; I do, but we got people out there who can do things modern science or religion just can't explain and at any moment, they can start a war. (Puts his hand on his gun) All I know is if we are instructed not to shoot, I don't know if I'd be able to abide by that order.
(Matt looks at his partner then out where the protestors are, thinking of the possibilities of what could happen.)
[New York]
(Peter and dozens of other paramedics are rushing out in the middle of street surrounded in blazing fire, and destruction of shops, vehicles, and many other properties. Badly injured people are lied out on the ground all over the street with terrible concussions and blunt force trauma to their heads. Peter finds a man sitting on the side walk with a bleeding head and he quickly kneels down to attend his wounds.)
Peter: Hey, you're going to be alright, okay, just stay calm. Can you hear me okay? (He lightly nods) Okay, look at my fingers, can you count them?!
(Peter raises up a few fingers and the man's eyes slowly look up at them while his face displays a gazed look. He tries to reach out to grabs Peter's hands like a child and quickly two other paramedics with equipment rush to them.)
Hesam: We got this, Peter; go see if anyone else needs any help. Don't forget your kit.
(Hesam hands Peter an AED kit and Peter quickly takes it. He runs out in the middle of the street toward the fire, but then everything changes. Time itself seems to be an illusion and the entire city is quiet. Cars are in perfect condition but abandoned and parked in random places all over the block. No fires are seen but Peter does see people starring at him with scared concerned looks on their faces. Boots are seen walking in close up and Peter looks over at the woman approaching him in them. It's a dark skinned-toned woman with curly flowing hair and gorgeous green eyes.)
Peter: Simone…? You're dead.
Simone: Why would you do it, Peter? Why would you let it happen?
Claire, Ando, Hiro, Tracy, Micah, Claude, Simone, Matt, Molly, D.L., Samuel, Joshua Jackson, Sylar, Angela, Ryan, Christina, Lars: (Whispering repetitively in echo) How could you do this? How could you do this to us? How could you let us die? How could you let us die? You weren't strong enough. You didn't have the strength. I should've killed you when I had the chance. You're worthless. You weren't strong enough. If I had your power-. Die…
(The sky grows dark and flames consume streets once again.)
Voice: And the flames of your own hatred consume your being.
Peter: No… no! What is this?! Get outta my head!
(A loud explosion is heard many blocks down the road. A powerful earthquake is felt beneath his feet and everyone disintegrates to ash. Peter looks around to see all of the buildings crumbling and falling apart like sand followed by the ground cracking through the streets and splitting open, revealing the boiling lava beneath the earth. A futuristic Hiro appears before him with a sword in hand and a look of anger in his eyes.)
Hiro: You've killed us. You are a terrorist, fighting for them. You have scarred this world and now you must live with that reminder.
Peter: I deserve it. (Gets on his knees) I left a scar on this world because I wasn't good enough. I deserve to wear my sin and bare my cross publically.
(The Haitian stands next to Hiro as Hiro draws his sword, slashing Peter across the face. Peter wakes on the ground in the middle of the street and looks around at the few people who have not yet been helped. Peter quickly rushes over toward a woman but comes to a sudden stop. He looks around in haste and sees the man from before with the Red Hood standing in an alleyway with his face hidden in the shadow of his hood. Red Hood turns toward a wall and phases right through it. Peter then quickly rushes back to the injured who require his assistance.)
[Petrelli Mansion, Angela Petrelli]
(In an office room, Angela Petrelli sits at a desk going through old paperwork. Suddenly, she grabs her phone to make a call.)
Tracy: I'm flattered- the great Angela Petrelli graces me with a call. I thought we agreed never to establish contact again?
Angela: Oh, Tracy. That was the original agreement, but now things have changed. This man, Jacob Kurtzberg is a lawyer who has been making a ruckus on the news lately in an attempt to get Samuel out of private custody.
Tracy: And you want me to handle him?
Angela: I want you to scare him into backing down. With your political strings, I know you can find where he is.
Tracy: … What's in it for me?
Angela: Private funding to keep the school up and running.
Tracy: (Sighs) You got a deal, Ms. Waller. (Hangs up) Jacob Kurtzburg- he's a problem.
Rene: We need to keep him in prison at all cost.
Tracy: We call to get him released but once he's on public ground, we get Kurtzburg to change his mind somehow and make it a public announcement that Samuel was too unstable mentally to be released to the public. It is important for the public to think he was given a chance to be free. Let's make some calls? (Smirks)
(Rene gives her a nod.)
[Petrelli and Hesam]
(Peter and Hesam are in the back of an ambulance stabilizing an individual after receiving a blow to the head. They seem conscious and fully aware of what's going on but the two make sure to check for the patience vitals anyhow.)
Peter: You hanging in there?
Young Woman: (Exhales) Am I going to be ok?
Peter: Hey you're going to be fine, don't worry. But you're an intelligent young girl; you've got a whole life to look forward too.
Young Woman: Look I don't need a lecture- from you, ok! Just do your job and make sure I get to the hospital alive. (Exhales in disappointment)
(The Ambulance becomes silence for a moment except for the sound of it accelerating.)
Peter: I know it's frustrating- seeing things not right. You know, it sucks putting all your effort into doing something significant only to feel like it wasn't enough. (Checks the monitor beside her) I'm not gonna say feeling bad for yourself is the wrong thing to do cause I'm there too, but I will say that hating yourself for not being good enough doesn't change the reality that your efforts did make an impact. Keep fighting and don't give up.
Young Woman: (Anger) Don't you for a second DARE think you know me or what I've done!
Peter: You're right; I don't know what you've done, but I do know this- it's too easy to hate yourself for not doing better, but you don't have anything to prove.
Young Woman: I HAVE EVERYTHING TO PROVE!
(Vitals begin to rapidly spike.)
Hesam: (Calm) P-Peter…
Peter: Maybe you feel you do, but you're never going be satisfied until you drive yourself to the ground or take your victories in your efforts. You showed up here today and that's what mattered- you had heart to.
Young Woman: (Angry) I'm going to do better next time…
Peter: Next time you could be killed. Keep that in mind. Whatever you need to prove, make sure it's for the right reasons.
[Petrelli Mansion, Angela Petrelli]
(Angela watches the news from her office at the display of riots appearing in random places around the country. She stands with a blank look on her face, making it difficult to know what she's exactly feeling. Her phone rings and Angela slowly grabs reaches it up to her ear after answering.)
Voice: Kurtzburg has made his case. He was persistent. Samuel will be in an interrogation room for preparation within the hour.
Angela: It seems my efforts have only postponed what was inevitable. Samuel getting a trial will only result in him getting out. Under no circumstances do we allow that.
Voice: Yes, Mrs. Petrelli. Tracy and I have a plan to incarcerate him again.
Angela: (Smirks) Thank you, Rene. (Hangs up her phone)
(Both The Haitian and Tracy are seen sitting in Tracy's large silver SUV.)
Rene: She took the news well, but Kurtzberg has to be persuaded into dropping this pursuit to let Samuel out of custody.
Tracy: Do I need to work my magic?
(Rene just gives her a stare.)
Tracy: What, I have this body, might as well use it for something. We've been on babysit detail for 2 weeks; I'm ready to get back to my life. (Sighs) I think I can get a hold of someone who might be able to help.
(Tracy pulls her phone out and makes a call to a man named Edgar.)
Edgar: This an emergency?
Tracy: You told me only to call you if it was.
Edgar: What's this about, Samuel?
Tracy: Actually yes. Kurtzberg is planning to get him out. In a very short time, Samuel will be released for two reasons- one reason being that he's been asked to have a meeting with Claire Bennet and also for psyche evaluation. The evaluation will be at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in McLean. Basically, Edgar, we need you to scare him into faking the evaluation results and sending him back into a private prison.
Edgar: Sure, just give me the address and time and I'll be there.
[Claire Bennett, Chicago]
(Claire makes her way back to the home of Yukio. She approaches the front door and knocks on it. The mother opens the door and gives her a friendly smile.)
Mother: Oh, hello; how're you today? (Chuckle) Who are you?
Claire: (Confused) Hi, uh; I'm Claire. I just dropped your daughter off about 20 minutes ago.
Mother: (Confused) Hmm? Yukio? Yukio has been home the entire time. She never went anywhere.
Claire: Oh, umm...
Man: (Standing behind Claire in the yard) Claire.
(Claire turns around to see a tall Haitian man standing behind her about 8 feet.)
Haitian: I think we have the wrong house. (Looks at the mother) Our apologies, ma'am.
Mother: Oh no worries, no worries. (Closes the door after entering her home)
Claire: Rene? What's you doing here? Are you with my dad?!
Haitian: It would be better if we spoke someplace more private, but no, your father did not send me. Come before we attract any attention.
(Claire and the Haitian leave the yard and enter an SUV parked in front of the house. Brandon is seen in the back seat. Claire gets into the back seat and the Haitian gets into the passenger seat. They put their seatbelts on and the person driving is a very attractive woman with long blonde hair.)
Claire: I never thought I'd see you again.
(The blonde woman doesn't show her face, she just puts the vehicle in drive and takes off down the street.)
[Matt Parkman, Los Angeles]
(Matt Parkman is seen talking with his Captain in his office alongside his partner Mike.)
Mike: Sir, is there a specific reason you brought us here?
Captain: How far does the term "partner" go for the two of you?
Matt: Well, sir, the two of us have important jobs in society and mutual understanding of our importance in it. I believe through that respect we accomplish what needs to be accomplished.
Captain: Parkman, do you trust Mike?
Matt: As much as any partner relationship, yet, sir. When my life is on the line, this is the man who'll protect me in arms.
Captain: In that case I think it'd be more beneficial to let you both in on the secret. Parkman, I understand some issues happened between you and your contact; have you heard anything from him again?
Matt: He broke into my home, and threatened my family. I don't think the two of us will be having a friendly reunion anytime soon.
Captain: (Turns away unhappy) of course; the time I decide to recruit you, which was a rather difficult decision to make, you lose the one benefit you had. But I still think you could be of great use. Mike, the truth is, Parkman has agreed to work with me on a side project obtaining these evos. Some of them are just too dangerous to go to regular prison and although the government is finding alternative ways to detain the criminals, this is the best we can do for now.
Mike: And you're asking me to- help with this? Is this some kind of promotion?
Captain: I would like you to join us, Mike; we could use a man with your motivation; your drive.
(Matt is hesitant to speak, he feels himself choking and he wants to keep his mouth shut but he knows that honesty is the best policy for who he is and who he's trying to be. Even though his voice shakes, he speaks from the heavens.)
Matt: Actually sir- what this is; what you've offered- I don't think it's right.
Captain: You think what we're doing is illegal?! How dare you make such an accusation!
Matt: (Tries to keep the situation calm) Sir… it's not just that, I just don't think it's humane. As a cop you trust your gut and I feel in my gut that something's not right about this.
Captain: (Grunts and gives Matt an evil glare) Just when I was beginning to have hope for you, Parkman; you let me down. (Nervously rubs his hands together) Don't forget what I've got on you. I think it'd be best if you took the day off.
Matt: What? Sir, I don't think-
Captain: GET OUT OF MY PRECINCT!
(Matt just gives him a nod then walks out of the office.)
[Claire Brandon, outskirts of a city]
(At an isolated gas station, Brandon is seen opening a honey bun as he leans against the car. Claire leans up next to it and smiles at him.)
Brandon: I can't tell if you're smiling at me or my honey bun.
Claire: Oh the Honey Bun definitely. Sorry, but you don't look half as good as that does right now.
Brandon: (Smiles and offers it to her) Here, you go; all yours. (Gives her the whole thing and reaches into his back pocket for something)
Claire: Oh, I didn't mean it like that. I mean-
Brandon: (Cracks a smile and pulls out a small blue meter) It's okay, I actually shouldn't be eating all those sweets anyhow. I'm kinda diabetic. (Shoots his finger with the meter to test his blood)
Claire: You're diabetic, since when?
Brandon: Ah, don't worry about it. It's just something I live with. (Smiles)
(The moment becomes slightly awkward and silent. Brandon pulls out a candy bar and snacks on it as he chuckles at Claire. Claire awkwardly takes a bite of her Honey Bun. Tracy walks up to the two of them and stares at them with disbelief.)
Tracy: Um, where's mine?
Claire: You can have some of my honey bun if you'd like. (Awkwardly offers some to Tracy)
Tracy: Um, no thanks, girlie.
Claire: (Relieved) Yes… (Takes a bite)
Haitian: (Approaches them) We're going to a motel for the day. Something in the air does not feel right.
(The Haitian approaches the three of them with an unsettled look on his face.)
Haitian: We have trouble.
(A fancy black SUV parks in the gas station and remains stationary.)
Tracy: We drive off and stay low. Let's head out.
[Angela Petrelli, Petrelli mansion]
(Angela continues to stare at the T.V. before her yet again to see riots happening out in the street. Peter is revealed to suddenly be behind her.)
Angela: What are you doing here, Peter?
Peter: I had a dream; I'm not sure how, but it was the world falling apart. There was an earthquake. The only person I know capable of something like that is Samuel. Where is he, Ma, I need to speak with him.
Angela: I can't give you that information, Peter.
(Peter angrily walks up to his mother, gets on one knee and shoves his face close to hers.)
Peter: I thought we were done with this ma- with the secrets? I need to know where he is!
Angela: And do what exactly, convince him not to destroy the world. Forget it, Peter; not going to happen.
Peter: Eventually, I will find him. I just figured you'd make it much easier.
Angela: (Takes a breath) You want to find him so bad, fine. But don't say I didn't warn you when I say you can't possibly do anything to change his ways.
(Peter just looks at his mother impatiently waiting for her to tell him what he wants to hear.)
Angela: Claire will be meeting with Samuel soon...
Peter: What, where?!
[Outskirts of the City]
(Tracy is seen driving off down the street in her vehicle. Not too far behind her are two government issued vehicles on their tail. Tracy presses on the gas to go faster and as expected, after a short while the four of them try to think of a plan.)
Claire: Wait, why are we running? Shouldn't we go with them? I'm sure the president isn't going to try anything, not when we agreed to meet him.
Haitian: We can't take that chance, Claire. For all we know, they're a new threat.
(Tracy hits the brakes and the three passengers nearly fly out of their seats.)
Claire: A little warning next time would be great.
(Tracy takes off her seatbelt and exits the vehicle. The two agent vehicles behind them stop and out comes two individuals obviously undercover in government uniforms. Tracy takes a deep breath and exhales a powerful supersonic which nearly deafens the two agents and shatters the windows of their cars. She extends her arm forward and pushes one vehicle into the one behind it. Tracy boldly walks closer to the agent vehicles.)
Claire: (Freaked out) I didn't know she could do all of that.
Haitian: (Trying to stay calm) She can't. That is not Tracy.
Claire: What, then where is she?!
(The two agents from the first vehicle exit the car and Tracy uses telekinesis to bash their heads into the cars, knocking them out. The car in the back suddenly turns into pure ice in seconds and the door is kicked open. Out comes a second Tracy wearing handcuffs around her wrists. She freezes them and breaks them with ease. She looks up at the fake Tracy with a slight look on confusion on her face. Out of the silver SUV comes Claire, The Haitian, and Brandon. They wait to see what happens next. The fake Tracy shifts into a new person and Claire begins to freak out.)
Claire: Sylar…
(The man before her named, Sylar pops his neck and loosens his muscles.)
Sylar: Wow, Blondie, you have quite a unique body structure.
Tracy: Sylar… What're you doing?
Sylar: Honestly I took a break from my current mentor and decided to hang out for a bit.
Claire: SYLAR! Tell us what you're doing here right now or we will kill you now!
Sylar: Goons were sent to collect you and I disguised myself as one of them. They captured Tracy at the gas station.
Claire: Again, why are you here?!
Sylar: My partner and I have been tracking a group of people bent on making sure we're all taken out of existence. They killed the government agents sent to watch after you and were planning on kidnapping you, so I stopped them.
Claire: (Sarcasm) Oh how kind. You're obviously lying.
Sylar: Honestly, I'm hoping to make things right, Claire. I know you'll never forgive me for what I've done but I'm attempting to start somewhere. I just wanted to make sure you were okay.
Claire: (Defensive) Thanks but we don't need your help!
Sylar: (Gently nods) Well that's too bad, cause you got it. I'll be seeing you again. In the meantime, don't get yourselves caught up in anymore trouble.
Claire: Come on, Tracy, let's go!
(Tracy boldly walks passed Sylar and enters her vehicle along with everyone else.)
Tracy: Alright, we're headed to the motel room to take a moment.
[On the outskirts of the City, Motel]
(Claire, and Brandon are all sitting on the edge of a bed in a hotel room together starring at a T.V. Claire, however, seems bothered by the whole situation. Brandon watches as Claire nibbles at her thumb and swiftly shakes her leg. He remains quiet at first but after a few seconds of silence, he speaks up to her.)
Brandon: You know everything will be okay.
(Brandon gently places his hand on her thigh and she suddenly stops shaking. She turns to him and can't help but experience a feeling of calmness through his smile.)
Brandon: You told me your dad was a shark. I know I wasn't a major in biology, but from my limited knowledge I'd say that makes you part shark too.
Claire: (Looks back and forth into his eyes then back toward the T.V.) Everyone's always trying to protect me from everything dangerous that comes into my life. No one sees a shark in me.
Brandon: (Removes his hand and faces his body toward her) It doesn't matter what they see, Claire; what matters is what you see in yourself and how you live in your power. (Claire faces him and lowers her thumb from her face) Your power is in who you are, and who you are is someone who'll never let anything beat you. you'll reach that Whitehouse again and when you do, the world will know your name.
Claire: (Looks away from him again) This is big for me. I will be a figure to the entire world. I will be a leader to people like me. I was going to college; still figuring myself out then all of a sudden, this happened to me. If I do this, I kill my chance at a normal life, but if I don't, I live a lie, simple, and under the radar.
Brandon: Those are the two surnames of Just Claire battling each other… Listen, it doesn't matter what decision you make. Neither decision is wrong; just make sure you don't live in regret after you've made your choice.
Claire: I think I want to-
Brandon: Don't tell me; just do it by action- political Petrelli, or house-warming white picket fence, cherry pie baking Bennet.
(The door is opened and in comes Tracy and The Haitian holding a brown bag of groceries. Tracy looks down the hall to make sure no one followed them before closing and locking the door. Claire wonders out into the parking lot of the motel and sits on the curb deep in thought; wondering on how the future may be shaped after making her decision. The Haitian stands behind her in silence and Claire sighs once she realizes he's there.)
Claire: What do you want? You don't have to keep watching over me like I'm some helpless little child; I can take care of myself. (The Haitian remains silent) When I made that decision to jump, I made it because I felt it was right. People like me shouldn't have to live in fear anymore. Look, I know what I did was selfish, but I feel it was the right thing to do. I need to be a leader now; and leaders don't need babysitters to stand over them all the time. (Looks over at the Haitian)
Haitian: Maybe not, Claire; but sometimes even angels need a friend watching their back. Your actions have planted a seed, but you have an option to claim that all of this was a hoax and the world will remain as it is, or you can go through with this and plunge the world into chaos.
Claire: I have to see this through to the end, Rene- don't I?
Haitian: Your decision is yours to make alone.)
(Back at the motel, Tracy stares out the window to make sure the close is clear. She then closes the blinds and sits in the chair by the door. She reaches into the bag beside her and pulls out a file. She gives Brandon a not-so-friendly stare and tosses it on the bed to him. Brandon grabs it and slowly shuffles through the pictures slightly disturbed. The room remains quiet except for the sound of pictures being flipped. Eventually he finishes, closes it up, and casually hands it over to Tracy.
Brandon: (Clears his throat) I witnessed my family murdered- my mother and little sister… and I… was terrified. I felt my soul leave my body- Brandon's soul leave this body. I returned later to it but… not the same- different, incomplete; fragmented… But on my journey out, I met someone who helped me. He had a Red Hood. He did things… and… eventually I ran into Claire.
Tracy: What did you want from her?
Brandon: To make her happy. I wanted to enjoy life with her again.
(Tracy looks in disbelief as Brandon's entire body engulfs in a white and blue light, taking on the shape of a completely different person.)
Nathan: Brandon was a medium but he could also control souls. The man in the Red Hood put my soul into this kid's body but for some reason, we can't tell each other apart. My soul and his soul, as well as our memories are jumbled.
Tracy: Nathan… You're not a shape shifter; it's really you.
Nathan: It's really me.
Tracy: (Takes a moment to get her head together) Nathan, this is not sensible. These powers manifest in different ways but never anything that crazy.
Nathan: (Shrugs) It is what it is, Tracy. (Leans back and takes a breath) I thought about saying goodbye to- Claire, I just can't quite find the means to actually do it. "Nathan Petrelli" died on that rooftop and that's where he should've stayed dead. But I'm here now and I'm afraid for what may come next.
Tracy: Which is?
Nathan: Brandon leaving- for good… that'll just leave me.
[Samuel Sullivan, Prison Cell]
(In a dark prison a man is seen in an orange jump suit leaning over his bed in prayer. The clacking of hollow boots are heard then comes to a sudden stop at the gate. Standing before him is a tall Canadian female officer wearing all black.)
Eilish: You've been summoned.
Irish sounding man: A visitor for little old me? I guess miracles do happen.
(The Irishman is sat in front of a glass shield and on the other side, a handsome young man grabs the phone to communicate with him. After starring at him a bit, the Irishman grabs his end of the phone.)
Irishman: What a pleasant surprise seeing such a familiar face.
Peter: It took me forever to find you. This place is hidden off the map, but luckily I connected the right dots.
Samuel: What brings you here, Mr. Petrelli? Like so many others, you have the luxury of living in my dream where we rise and live out in the open amongst the common people. Why are you not there enjoying the utopia? Let me guess, there's anarchy in the streets, people killing our kind or maybe fighting to keep our so called rights separate from theirs.
Peter: What Claire did was stupid.
Samuel: She didn't lay down the ground rules from the start; that was her only mistake. She made an impulsive act and relied on the world to have a positive response. The world was not able to overcome their hatred for each other, why would they accept people like us?
Peter: Look, I'm here because Claire is going to meetings for people with abilities; helping them cope with everything.
Samuel: Ah, the good ole American government's way of keeping us in check and making sure we don't go wolf like I nearly did.
Peter: When she comes to see you, make sure you don't feed any of your poisonous philosophies. I may not be happy with the choice she's made but that doesn't mean I want anyone corrupting her.
Samuel: Oh… really? For you, old friend, I'll do anything.
(Samuel hangs up his phone and walks away. As he turns his back, Peter appears in front of him behind the glass.)
Samuel: (Checks out his surroundings) What is this, time freeze? You get that from Hiro?
Peter: You're gonna get it in a minute if you don't start taking what I'm saying seriously.
Samuel: (Stares Peter dead in the eyes) We all do respect, Mr. Petrelli, but using fear to get what you want- never gets you what you want. If Claire wants to come and talk to me on her own terms, so be it, and I will give her my honest peace of mind. Honesty- I thought that was something you always preached about?
Peter: I had a dream- a vision, of the city falling apart. You're the only person in the world I know with the ability to do that so dealing with you now would solve a lot of problems for the future. Keep the meeting simple and don't feed her anything, or else I'll be back to make sure it doesn't happen.
Samuel: (Challenges Peter) Do what you have to, Petrelli, but no matter how much power you have, I won't back down.
(Peter closes his eyes after glaring at Samuel and teleports.)
Female Guard: Hey! Where're you going, Sullivan?! I said you have a visitor!
(Samuel turns around to see Angela Petrelli sitting before him. Samuel walks over and takes a seat before her.)
Angela: I know what you're gonna say, Samuel and no, I'm not working with Peter. He came here on his own after I told him not to; he followed me. I understand there's going to be a meeting with Claire soon. You're your own man, Samuel and I can't change how you think, but the fact remains that your ability poses a problem. Now that the secret's out, we have to play the game more strategically and what you say can shift the direction of the future.
Samuel: Like the serpent in the Garden; you're afraid I'm going to sow seeds of deception into her? She's her own individual, Mrs. Petrelli; if she's strong enough, which I'm sure she is, my words won't even reach her, positive nor negative.
Angela: Humanity is a virus and you know this. Anything Claire says or does will reflect upon us all, all I'm asking is you consider the situation. This is a game of chess not checkers.
Samuel: Who exactly are the competitors, Mrs. Petrelli? Convince me further why I should be on your side; what are you gonna threaten my life too? If you really wanted me dead, I'd be gone by now. I'll be looking forward to my meeting with dear ole Claire.
(A loud bang is heard and the cell doors open. Samuel just lies in his bed reading his bible contently when the sudden sound of footsteps echo against his ears. The steps stop and Samuel just continues reading his book.)
Samuel: What do I owe the honors, Hiro?
Red Hood: Wrong Nakamura.
(Samuel turns around to see the mysterious man in the red hood standing in the doorway of his cell.)
Samuel: Are you here for another fieldtrip?
Red Hood: Hatred, love, error, success- these traits have defined our connection to one another but these powers becoming known unite us in fear or acceptance. To fear is to care to accept is to not; a strange paradox in the human condition, but whether it be through influence or choice, one of these ideals must be our world internally. The future will make its own decisions, Sullivan, but you must understand both sides. It does not matter what you say to Claire Bennet at this meeting; people will choose what they prefer.
Samuel: I was once the head of an entire family, remember? I understand the hearts of those who are broken and I know how to help them feel whole. Grounding; that is my power.
Red Hood: You have no idea what the nature of your power is. You're amongst gods of a new level, but that is not why I am here. I'm here to take you to the future.
Samuel: I'm sick of getting these timelines mixed up; this will be the last time I go to the future, after that, I'm done with you. Leave me to rot in my cell in peace.
(Red Hood charges Samuel, grabs him by the shoulder, then the two of them teleport away. They appear in the future in a cemetery and look around to see Government agents surrounding the area. At the center of attention is Claire starring down at a grave. Samuel looks around at all the surrounding agents slightly terrified. The entire area is quiet, cold, isolated, and blanketed in a thick white mist.)
Samuel: Can they see us? Are we invisible?
Red Hood: I can't make us invisible anymore- I exchanged it for infinite time travel.
Samuel: Who's grave is that?
(Red Hood pauses time, all except for the two of them and a much older brunette Claire Bennet. Claire turns around to see the two of them right behind her. She is startled but also instantly relieved to see his face.)
Future Claire: Samuel! (Gives him a huge hug) I can't believe you're alive! Wait… You must be from the past.
Samuel: Why does this future seem so cold, Claire, what happened here?!
Future Claire: (Sighs) Edgar killed you, Samuel.
Samuel: Yeah well he's never been one for forgiveness. His temper is as quick as his speed.
Future Claire: If I can forgive Gabriel for all he's done; he can forgive you. If I can in any way repay all you've done to help me, I can offer advice- do whatever it takes to make Edgar forgive you and do not let him murder Jacob. Edgar must not kill him! September 20th Virginia, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel!
Samuel: How did Edgar find his location?
Red Hood: Instead of keeping her mouth shut, mama Petrelli spoke about her dream and mentioned it to Strauss. She called Edgar to scare Jacob into keeping his mouth shut and not releasing Samuel, but instead, killed him without hesitation.
Samuel: That woman underestimated Edgar's hatred for me.
Future Claire: Edgar is loose cannon and needs to be killed or tamed; there's no way around it. Do what you need in order to keep the peace. I started this, but everyone else is deciding its fate. Please, Samuel, save your future. (Gives him another huge hug)
Red Hood: Today is September 20th in our timeline. If we want to save him, we need to move now.
Future Claire: (Stops hugging) Oh… to you, I'm still EX College Student Claire- daughter of Noah Bennet. It doesn't matter- Look, Samuel, I lost everyone. All of my friends turned their back on me. Everyone hated me for what I did to them; please don't die being hated in your time like you did in mine.
Samuel: You're alone too, aren't you, Claire? Even in the future were you're living in public-
Future Claire: But I'm still a prisoner- surrounded by guards, labeled by society. On some mental level I am just as stuck in a prison cell as you are, I just have a better view.
Samuel: (Cracks a huge smile) You take care now, Claire.
Future Claire: One other thing- warn Peter and Sylar about the Dr experimenting with my blood. It's going to end bad. (Turns to Red Hood) Can you bring them here?
Red Hood: We can't fix every issue. There will always be a threat to overcome but we must learn to deal with it before it grows.
Future Claire: (Smiles) You sound like your father.
Red Hood: Which one…?
Future Claire: (Lets out a loud chuckle and big smile) Come here, goofball. (Gives Red Hood a huge gentle hug) I love you; stay outta trouble, okay. (Stops hugging and gives him a pat on the shoulder)
Red Hood: (Nods) I'll see you in another life.
Future Claire: Hopefully better than this one full of unicorns and flying teddy bears. (Genuinely laughs)
Red Hood: (Sighs) Soon. I just have a few more things to take care of before I go.
Future Claire: The H.E.L.E…?
Red Hood: I'd like to live long enough to see the results of the second wave, but at least I'll be here for the first.
Future Claire: I'm glad I got to see you again. Goodbye.
(Future Claire bows to him respectfully and Red Hood bows back before grabbing Samuel's shoulder and teleporting him away, unfreezing time in the process.)
[Crowne Plaza Hotel]
(Samuel and Red Hood both appear in the hall of the hotel. Samuel is wearing different clothing so some time has passed since both he and Red Hood came back from the future.)
Samuel: So you say his room should be on this floor?
Red Hood: It is, definitely.
(The elevator dings down the hall from them and out comes Edgar. Red Hood freezes time.)
Red Hood: That'll make it a fair encounter. (Stands out of the way)
(Both Samuel and Edgar face-off.)
Edgar: Well it looks like a two for one deal tonight.
(Holding two long knives Edgar charges Samuel but after running at a normal person's speed, he comes to a sudden stop.)
Edgar: What is this; Nakamura with you?
Samuel: You remember our old friend, Edgar. He was there; he helped us find many of our family members when we were at the carnival.
Edgar: I thought Joseph dealt with you?
Red Hood: Didn't take…
Edgar: Obviously you know why I'm here! Strauss told me about Jacob trying to get you out of prison. I can't let that happen; not after what you did to Lydia.
Samuel: I know what I did was wrong, Edgar, and I know that no form of apology capable of expressing how terrible I feel can be fathomed by words, but I'm here to at least try to make you forgive me.
Edgar: (Huffs and puffs with anger in his eyes) If I even think of forgiving you, it's over your corpse.
(Even though time is frozen Edgar is able to supercharge his speed and dash to Samuel. Samuel is teleported away behind Edgar down the hall but not with a small slash on the side of his stomach.)
Samuel: (Looks down and wipes the blood off his shirt) You really aren't in the talking mood, are you?
Edgar: No, I'm in the killing one!
(Edgar supercharges and dashes at him again. Samuel is teleported and Edgar quickly turns around and throws a knife with great precision at them. Red Hood grabs it and Edgar goes for a stab to the gut with his other knife. Red Hood blocks it with the blade he's just grabbed, pushes Edgar back and strikes at him, Edgar dodges; counters, and spins to try and slice him in the gut. Red Hood predicts the move and is able to block the slice, grab Edgar by the arm, head-butt him in the face, then toss him into the wall. Red Hood twists Edgar's arm and holds him against the wall.)
Red Hood: You may be faster than me, but I know your moves; don't think I forgot your techniques. You and Hiro taught me well.
Edgar: You're not getting away with this, Samuel! You don't deserve to live! You destroyed our family and left Amanda without a parent when she was just getting to know her mother!
Samuel: We all make mistakes, Edgar, all of us; even me! Nothing I do can fix this! But you must listen to me… (Sighs) Killing Jacob, will only destroy the world as we know it. Killing him won't solve anything, Edgar; listen to me!
Edgar: Look at this world, it's already destroying itself as it is!
Samuel: … No! Edgar the world is the same as it was before Claire exposed us!
Edgar: Yeah, well she's next.
Samuel: The world is still filled with hate, with misunderstanding, and fear of the unexplained! Edgar, hatred, fear, judgment; that existed before Claire did what she did! The only difference is that now we must look these things in the face and learn how to tame them within ourselves. This "brave new world" that we all live in is a world we must learn to accept an embrace within us. Entering a new world only means to understand that this world is no longer and a new one is being born, but in order for this change to be positive, we must pass through the trials which hinder our ability to see the light in the tunnel. Chaos and death will always be around us, but what does it really have to do with us if we choose to not accept it?
(Edgar is released.)
Edgar: I'm not going to be a coward and roll over; I'm going to fight back! (Grabs both of his knives and raises them to Samuel's face) Will is all I've got.
Samuel: (Fearless and acceptant of his death) Who are you fighting, Edgar? Yourself. You're fighting that rage, vengeance, hate, and grief deeply rooted into your heart.
Edgar: You put those roots there!
Samuel: But you gave them a home. Edgar you planted those roots with your inability to let go.
Edgar: I don't have to stay and listen to this.
Samuel: Fine, you want kill me, go ahead. (Backs away and raises his hands) But just know, brother, that all of the chaos and anarchy, and fear going on in the world is only a higher power showing us what is blocking us from being in a better state of being. That is the true meaning of power; reshaping the world within and understanding that we are strong together.
(Edgar tries to kill Samuel, but Red Hood quickly teleports himself and Samuel away.)
Edgar: Sorry, Samuel, but Jacob won't stop until you're free and I've gotta make sure he doesn't cause anymore problems.
(A beep is heard down the hall and Edgar quickly dashes toward it. It is revealed to be a man in a wheelchair (Jacob) sliding a keycard in order to get into his room. Samuel is teleported into a small interrogation room along with Red Hood.)
Samuel: Why did you do that? My life and all of this would've been over!
Red Hood: I'm not letting you go out like that Samuel; plus you and I both know that you dying won't solve a thing for anyone!
(Red hood places his arm on Samuel's shoulder and the two disappear before another word can be said. The two of them appear in the middle of a seemingly abandoned factory. They both look around in confusion and see a small group of individuals starring back at them- Matt, Molly, Micah, Monica, and Matty, now a pre-teen.)
TO BE CONTINUED…