Narrator: As every story draws to a close, what is taken from it and what is left behind? When does that pivotal moment of revelation make itself known in our reality what these situations were a test to either make us or break us from a cycle destructive to our well being? When that door is opened, will we seek a way out?
(A doorbell is rung and Peter opens it to see Hesam standing in front of it with a pack of diet sodas in his hands flashing them in Peter's face.)
Hesam: Brought some party supplies, partner. (Chuckles) I was hoping we could, ya know, have a good time; let loose. I can come in, right? (Enters the apartment)
Peter: (Closes the door) Actually, Hesam, today's not a good day. (Crosses his arms and presses his shoulder against the wall nervously)
Hesam: What is this…? A smile; your hair is greased back; you got that look in your eye. You hit it off with a lady! (Laughs in excitement) Whoa, about time, brother; you deserve a good time!
Peter: (Cracks a smile) Yeah well… she's definitely one of a kind.
Hesam: Yeah… so, hey, were you meeting her today? I hope I'm not keeping you from anything.
Peter: I don't have to leave for another 32 minutes and I've got plenty of time.
Hesam: Well, I won't take up too much of your time; I just-
Peter: No, hey; it's fine. It's totally fine.
Hesam: (Shocked) Y-you're sure?
Peter: Yeah, it's fine. What did you wanna talk about? (Sways his shoulder back and forth gently against the wall)
Hesam: … Honestly, man; I'm having a hard time wrapping my head around the craziness of this world. (Takes a seat on the couch)
Peter: (Follows him into the living room) What there to be confused about?
Hesam: I mean, where do these people come from; why are they here? Is there even a reason? Are they cursed, a blessing; am I one of them…? It's just so much to think about and honesty the news doesn't help with how serious it all is. How do I handle this, man?
Peter: You have your own life and your own family to focus on. Unless you plan to go out there and do something to make a change, don't worry about what's right or wrong. If someday an ability manifests then seek help on how to deal with it, but in the meantime, the world needs people with clean hearts to help steer it into a better direction. If we focus on fighting for justice, we'll be met with a challenge, but lead the direction of change with love and you'll be met with love.
Hesam: Huh… Surprisingly that actually makes sense- coming from you. You sure you're in the right profession; I think you would've been a good therapist or something.
Peter: (Smirks) I've still got ways to go.
Hesam: Yeah…
[Isolated Desert]
(Out in the middle of wilderness, insects and wildlife lurk. Randomly in the middle of a field of dead weeds is a small rundown 4 seat car. Lying in the back reading a magazine is Christina and in the front sitting uncomfortably is her younger brother Ryan.)
Ryan: This is stupid; why do I have to sit in the front, it's too small up here.
Christina: Because I'm the girl and therefore get the better end of the stick. Sorry, little man; maybe in the next life. (Chuckles and continues reading her magazine)
Ryan: You get so mean when you read those things. Do they make you feel tough being a girl?
Christina: (Aggressively lowers the magazine) Maybe they do, but it's something at least… (Continues to get lost in it)
Ryan: Chris… we've sat in this car for four days… where are we going?
Christina: We were lucky to have made it this far, Ryan and finding this broke down car on the side of the road was the best shelter we had. (Sighs and closes the magazine) I suppose… we can go out and see what else we could find out there. Exercise would do us some good. Come on, let's get our bags and head out.
[Heroes: Created by Tim Kring]
[Odessa, Texas]
(In Odessa, Texas, about 4 SUVs park in various corners of a block. One of the SUVs are silver and parks in front of a small one story house. The garage is wide open and inside is a young man about Claire's age. In the SUV are Claire, Tracy, and Brandon, whom sits in the back seat.)
Brandon: This is the place?
Claire: Yeah. This is the last place I saw him before moving away. It would be nice to see him again. Come on. (Leaves the car and closes the door)
Tracy: Brandon?
Brandon: Yeah.
Tracy: You've been different since our talk. It's honestly a little scary
Brandon: Since Nathan confessed, it seems as though our minds were able to properly decipher each other a part. But soon I'll be gone. I don't know much about my ability nor why the Haitian can't disable it but I do feel myself slipping. It was nice hanging around Claire all this time, but I think It's time I let go and join my mother and sister.
Tracy: So Nathan will have full control?
Brandon: He will… at least I think.
(Claire taps on the window and Brandon suspiciously holds the button to roll it down.)
Claire: Well, you coming? (Smiles)
Brandon: (Smiles) On route, Super girl.
(Brandon exists the vehicle and the two approach the man fixing up a motorcycle in his opened garage.)
Claire: (Smiles) Hey, stud; still a sucker for those bikes I see.
Zach: (Smiles) Oh, holler to the queen!
Claire: (Chuckles) Holler back. (Nervously laughs)
(Zach rushes to quickly give Claire a hug after wiping his greasy hands off. The two seem stoked to see one another after so long.)
Zach: It's not that I'm unhappy to see you again, but what're you doing back in this dump? Aren't you some big time celebrity now? I mean, you literally changed the world, Claire.
Claire: You definitely had a hand in it, Zach. You were the one who taught me to embrace opportunities life gave me and to "embrace my inner freak". That advice went a long way.
Zach: (Smirks) Glad I had a hand in motivating global change. (Walks back to his motorcycle and continues working on it) People like- us, Claire- who are different- we'll never fully be excepted into the world. But you know, I'm ok with that. (Lets out a tiny laugh) As selfish as that might sound.
Claire: No, you're entitled to your opinion; what makes you say that.
Zach: I was happy in the shadows- in the closet. I knew who I was and I accepted early on that the world isn't always going to accept me- and you know, I honestly think making peace with that realization is more courageous than coming out to the world.
Claire: Wow… you were always so smart. What're you still doing here in Odessa; why haven't you moved?
Zach: (Claire hits a sensitive spot but he tried not to linger on it too long) Life happens. I lost weeks of my memory and my mind hasn't quite been the same since. Sometimes I don't even recognize that I'm real anymore. This whole reality feels like a dream. (Reaches for a wrench and tightens a bolt) I know I'm Zach; I know I'm different and I guess that's all I need to know.
Claire: Even without your memory you're still an awesome guy.
Zach: Thanks… Hey, who's your friend here; my replacement? (Laughs and shakes hands with Brandon)
Brandon: (Nervously chuckles) No, just a sidekick for now. We've been traveling together the last few months and seeing the changes in the world ourselves.
Zach: I'm actually surprised the riots have just started. Other countries had them within the first night.
Brandon: Well Claire here is working on making the country a safer place to live!
Claire: I've seen a lot of strangers, but I wanted to revisit the origins of who Claire was and where I came from.
Zach: (A little sore emotionally but focuses more on the motorcycle) Yeah? That must be nice.
Claire: You are special too, Zach. Especially to me.
Zach: (Stops and sighs) I haven't really had anyone to talk to since you left. Usually when I talk about being special and different, people think I'm weird and high tail- except for my social media followers of course, but they're not real friends.
Claire: It must be nice revisiting that part of yourself again.
(Zach stops what he's doing and sighs. He turns around and point at the workbench behind him.)
Zach: It was a tarot reading I did on myself. This deck is very special to me, but I feel like my time with it is up.
(Something about the cards are very mystical; as if there is a greenish glow to them the moment she gets close.)
Zach: The cards told me that the past will revisit me to remind me of a path forgotten. This path will be reflected in a person and will be an invitation. I was a little confused; I thought they were maybe my thoughts, but then you showed up and you're reminding me of how alive I used to feel. Thank you for coming back here, Claire. The deck is yours. Let me finish this up so we can catch up properly, huh?
[Ryan and Christina]
(Both Ryan and Christina are seen walking underneath unoccupied train tracks in the middle of a desert area on a bridge with their backpacks on. Ryan throws his bag on the ground and drops down as soon as he reaches a shady spot.)
Ryan: I'm resting. I don't have the same stamina as you, Chris.
(Christina drops her bag beside him and sits down, wiping the sweat from off her head.)
Christina: It isn't fair to ask you to keep going; it's okay. (Smirks) Overall, little brother, are you hanging in there?
Ryan: … I wanna see Tricia… I miss her. I don't even know if she's okay.
Christina: … Do you miss home at all?
Ryan: I miss my bed. (Lightly smiles)
Christina: (Stares at her brother a few seconds and taps his knee) I'll tell you what, you can sleep in the back seat tonight.
Ryan: That would be awesome! I'm tired of lying in that front seat all night, it's not even comfortable.
Christina: Yeah well girl or not, you're still my little brother and I've gotta take care of you. (Rubs her brother's hair and presses her face against his)
Ryan: Chris… do you think we'll ever see mom again?
(Christina hesitates to give a response. She just slowly strokes his hair one last time then gives him a kiss on the forehead.)
Christina: Yeah… But for now, we don't talk about that, ok.
Ryan: I really wanna talk about it.
Christina: I don't, okay. Now drop it. (Looks over across the street)
(A family is seen parking their car off the side of the road. They get out and rush and begin to admire the tall far away mountains.)
Christina: Hey, I think I got us a new house and this one is much roomier.
Ryan: That old beat up car? It does have 6 seats and a back for sleeping!
(Christina opens her palm and sparks of electricity emit from her hand.)
Christina: We can rush 'em; take it by force, or you can use your disappearing act to take the keys and get us outta here ninja like.
Ryan: If I get the keys, can you PLEASE finally teach me to drive?!
Christina: Ooh… you drive a hard bargain there, captain. (But you got yourself a deal. (Spits on her hand and offer a handshake)
Ryan: (Looks down in disgust) I'll just take your word for it.
(Ryan stands to his feet and as he runs across the quiet road, he turns invisible.)
[Micah Sanders, Studio apartment]
(Micah just sits on his chair in dirty clothing, watching the news as he takes big long gulps of soda.)
Reporter: Absolute madness has broken out as all around the country riots have been breaking out amongst the newly established Evo movements and law enforcement. Many citizens who were a part of the riots have shined many different lights on the situation.
Passive Aggressive Cop: Ah- (Licks his mouth) These- people, these… "evos" have gotta learn their place that just because they shoot magic from their hands that doesn't mean they're so special that they break the law and get away with it.
Angry Male Citizen: I say let them all rot! They are a menace and a threat to our constitution and our natural way of life! God did not make them things a part of this world to live amongst us! They are a disease and need to be eradicated before all of us are dead and they takeover!
(Micah finishes a drink, grabs a second soda right beside him, and begins to chug it after quickly popping it open.)
Female Protester: They're not waging war! They're not even armed! I'm not an evo yet I'm out here fighting for the right of all of us HUMANS! Because we are all one!
Underdressed Mother: (Standing in a trailer park picking snot from her nose) All I know is my mama taught me to never let a bully run you and never let anyone judge you for the way you look or be! I been judged my whole life; I stand against racism and you know what; call me a (BLEEP) –lover all you want to; I a'int ever gonna be ashamed for having a good heart baby no matter what people say about me or mine!
Evo Protester: You know we honestly didn't want things to get this outta hand. Uh- we appreciate the help guys we really do, but this issue belongs between evos and law enforcement. Ordinary individuals who aren't us should not be involved in this fight simply because adding in other groups to our cause completely corrupts the message. I know you're trying to help but all normal people see is that law enforcement is enticing cruelty, but for people like us, this is a lifestyle!
Angry Vigilante: I'll tell you what, they take our guns, they take all them freaks to. (Huffs and puffs like an animal) Cause I will destroy and kill every last man who dare stand against what this great country stands for. WHOA!
(The T.V. is turns off and Micah can't help but just sigh and rub his face with his hands. There are 4 knocks on the door and as Micah stands it opens and in comes his cousin Monica. The first thing she does after a concerning sigh is turn the lights on in his dark apartment.)
Micah: Warning?!
Monica: Look, I love you, Cuzo, but this pity party's gotta stop.
Micah: Leave me alone, Monica; get out or I'll call the cops. (Rushes off into his kitchen)
(Micah grabs a soda from the fridge and before he can drink it, Monica appears, grabs the soda, and tosses it on the ground.)
Monica: (Looks him square in the face) Stop this, MICAH! Please.
Micah: I don't wanna stop it. I can't stop it.
Monica Have you even tried?
Micah: Monica I can't save the world! It's too big for me! (Backs off and rushes back to his chair)
Monica: Of course you think that, Micah!
(Micah turns the news back on and stares at the T.V. where Monica quickly grabs the remote from him and turns it back off.)
Monica: Look what you do all day, constantly feed your mind a grim reality you choose to exist and that helps you ignore one that you refuse to see! God will protect us, Micah, but you have to be willing to accept that. (Kneels beside him and gives him a big loving hug)
Micah: (Lightly tears up and places his hand on hers) I wanna help them, Monica, I really do. I'm just scared. I'm scared I can't do it.
Monica: (Stops hugging and gives him a big smile) Listen, Micah; our fears often come true simply because we focus so much on them. You'd rather sit here and slowly kill yourself with junk food and numb your abilities than to find the courage within yourself to do what you know you've been chosen for, but listen; you are chosen for a reason, Micah, and you have to honor what you can do. The truth hurts; it can be intimidating, but you and I know you can't give up; this isn't the way.
Micah: I already have.
Monica: If that were true, you'd be happy right now living in solitude rotting yo teeth with all this junk food Nana told you not to be eating. You're not happy because something inside of you is reaching out to be acknowledged. Something inside of you still burns to pursue some fulfillment. Don't be scared.
Micah: (Tears up even more and hugs his cousin) I will try.
Monica: Hey, warriors 'till the end? (Pushes him back and offers a fist bump)
Micah: (Gives her a fist bump and holds his knuckles to hers) Warriors 'till the end!
Monica: Good, now let's go save some lives- after you take at least a shower and a half!
Micah: (Laughs) That's what you get for not knocking before coming in.
[Tokyo Japan]
(Kendo Swords CLASH and a various amount of strike and jabs are exchanged. Both Hiro and Ando seem to be matched through determination, but after a 17 second non-stop series of attacks, the two end up stopping their swords at one another's neck. The two heavily breathe and take a moment to rest. They back away and give respectably bows before walking away from one another.)
Hiro: You have been taught well, Ando.
(Panning around Hiro, shows a close up of Kaito Nakamura's scowling face in the dojo. He stares at a slightly younger Ando as he kneels before Kaito with his face on the ground.)
Kaito: courage, integrity, benevolence, respect, honesty, honor, loyalty; persistence- these basic principles to live by. Never dishonor loyalty to what keeps you one with yourself; never dishonor the name of the ones you love with pursuit of self-destroying revenge.
(Back in the present Hiro has his back turned continuing to catch his breath. Hiro turns around and reaches for his phone. He types something and sends it to Ando. Before he can say anything, Hiro is suddenly knocked in the head and falls to the ground. Ando looks up to see Zekiel.)
Zekiel: Do not test me. I don't want to hurt Hiro, but I will. Back away from me and my family. Kimiko is still alive; embrace that or lose her for good and your best friend here.
(Ando grabs his Kendo Swords and attempts to fight him. Hiro quickly stands and does the same.)
Zekiel: Swords and powers against me? It won't be enough.
(Ando angrily launches a stream of red lighting directly at Zekiel and Zekiel just smiles and dashes off, causing the blast to hit Hiro directly and fall to the ground unconscious.)
Ando: H-Hiro?!
(Ando rushes to Hiro's Aid to make sure he's okay. After a few seconds of checking for any signs of life, Ando looks over to see Hiro's phone on the ground wide open. He checks it and sees that Hiro was in the middle of sending an address to Ando. Very conflicted about the situation, Ando is sure that this address belongs to Zekiel. He decides to get up to type something on his phone and send a message to somebody.)
Ando: I'm sorry, Hiro; maybe Peter Petrelli can help you. I can't let him get away with this.
(Ando walks away and grabs a real sword which isn't too far away.)
[Desert]
(Speeding out in the middle of the desert Christina looking back in paranoia.)
Christina: (Laughs) I can't believe we got away with it! You were awesome, little brother! High five for you! (Gives Ryan a high five)
(Ryan does not seem happy about his choice about robbing a family and leaving them on the side of the road, but he tries to make the best out of it.)
Ryan: Um… Christina, now that I helped us get a car… can I learn to drive now? Can you teach me?
Christina: … (Notices a billboard on the side of the road) There's a diner not too far. When we get closer to town, we'll get you behind the wheel okay?
Ryan: Really? (Excited) Okay!
Christina: Cool… (Remains awkwardly silent) Let's see about some music, huh? It's been such a long time, I forgot what it even sounded like. (Tweaks with the radio)
[Odessa, Texas]
(Brandon, Zach, and Claire are starring at a beautiful garden in someone's front yard leading to the door. They eventually get to it and Claire knocks.)
Zach: What are these Daylilies? Heck, I might see if I can get bulbs or seeds. These things are gorgeous.
(The front door is opened and it is a slightly paranoid older woman.)
Woman: Yes, hello; may I help you?
Zach: Heya, Mrs. Tremmel, it's Zach- and Claire.
Woman: Claire… Bennet?
Claire: Petrelli now but… Y-eah, Bennet. (Nervously scratches her head)
Woman: I never thought I'd see you again, what brings you all here?
Claire: We're just visiting some old friends from high school and wanted to see how Lori was doing.
Woman: Oh wow… Well… Eh… Come inside. She's with a client currently but I'm sure she'd have no problem seeing her old classmates for a bit. It might actually cheer her up.
(In the backyard, birds are chirping and bathing in the large birdbath located in the center of the large garden. On a nearby bench, Lori is seen talking to a woman about her age who happens to be in tears.)
Lori: You're not alone in this. (Hugs the girl and lets her cry on her shoulder) It was not your fault, you are not disgusting and you don't have to feel ashamed for what happened. You are ok, and I know you feel broken, but you can put the pieces back together anyway you want, okay…
Young Woman: (Stops hugging and sits up straight) Thank you, so much for giving me this space- I thought I was alone, forever… (Crosses her arms and hugs herself)
Lori: You're not alone; you always have help.
(Feeling uncomfortable, Zach leaves the yard. Time passes and the young woman walks out into the driveway to find Zach eating from a small box of skittles. She stops in her tracks and builds the courage to eventually walk up to him. She clears her throat.)
Young Woman: Excuse me, would you mind moving your car; you're blocking me in.
Zach: Right, sorry, uh… I actually don't have the keys, but I'll go get Claire.
Young Woman: You know, it's fine. Thanks. I'll just- come back in a bit. (Turns around and walks off)
Zach: Well wait, hold on.
(Her body shakes and her hands slightly tremble but she tries to keep herself together. She turns around to gives Zach a non-threatening smile.)
Young Woman: Yes?
Zach: That- story that you said. I didn't catch the whole thing, but I know the end result, and I'm sorry it happened to you.
Young Woman: Yeah, well- (Shrugs) I guess "it's ok"
Zach: Not even close to being. (Crosses his arms and looks down toward the ground) We can sometimes be jerks, but a lot of us aren't. (Awkwardly chuckles) I don't know if you're wanting anything serious someday but, like I told Claire, the hardest journeys are usually the ones we walk alone. You're not alone in your pain, clearly, but uh- find yourself in your resolution, otherwise you won't be able to see the blessings that are right in front of us. (Awkwardly chuckles)
Young Woman: I guess you're okay…
(The young woman and Zach eventually walk back to the backyard and join the others around the fancy metal table.)
Lori: Hi, you're back.
Young Woman: I was actually hoping I could maybe, ya know… sit around the garden and zen before driving.
Lori: Of course, anything you need.
Brandon: Heck, why not join us? Claire is reuniting with her high school sweethearts and I'm the odd man out. (Laughs) It's a little awkward for me, but I'm sure it wouldn't be as much with another stranger here.
Young Woman: Oh um… no thanks, but I appreciate it.
Brandon: … (Shrugs) Right well… hey in that case, I'll let the three of you hang out together and I'm going over there to look at those beautiful purple sunflowers.
(Lori tries to stop Brandon but he gets up and walks off before she could say anything. The Young Woman looks over at Lori and Lori has a look of "sorry" on her face. The Woman eventually walks over toward where Brandon is and stands beside him as he smells the purple flowers.)
Alana: My name is Alana by the way… You like the smell of that purple lily, me too. (Shows off a purple potted flower to him) She said it's a symbol of how beautiful I am and that the smell is supposed to keep me happy.
Brandon: Wow, that's very deep. What else does it mean?
Alana: … That even without constant care, parts of me can still wither.
Brandon: But you'll always have the seeds and even with the flower withering you can replant as many as you want and they'll still look as beautiful.
Alana: (Smiles) I didn't think of it like that.
(Brandon stands to his feet and gives her a strange look.)
Brandon: You're broken, aren't you?
Alana: A little embarrassing I know. The first time you all meet me it's hearing a portion of my rape story… I'm so sorry.
Brandon: Don't be. The meaning of living out in the open means to have people who help you feel comfortable about being yourself. We don't all get that, so I'd rather be a part of the solution and not the problem.
Alana: Thank you…
[New York]
(Peter and Gabriel have just caught a man trying to rob a store with his power and keep him tied up behind the building.)
Robber: That isn't fair! How do you have multiple powers and most of us only get one?!
Gabriel: Shh, that's my little secret.
Peter: (Checks his phone) Looks like something happened to Hiro in Tokyo and he needs our help. Come on; the police will be here for him soon. By the way, no fatal injuries this time and you kept damage to the property at a minimum. Great job.
Sylar: Wow, Peter; I'm flattered.
Peter: Don't get used to it.
(Peter grabs Sylar's shoulder and the two teleport off somewhere. A very short time passes and Peter is seen on the ground holding Hiro; supporting his head. Hiro seems weak and is barely conscious.)
Sylar: Peter What happened?!
Hiro: (Very confused and barely conscious) S-Sylar…?
Peter: Hiro, reserve your energy okay. Look at me; what happened? Where's Ando?!
Hiro: A-Ando- (Looks Peter in the eyes) Peter Petrelli, save Ando.
(Hiro closes his eyes and passes out.)
Sylar: What does he mean? Peter, what happened?
Peter: I don't know; I'm going to find out.
Sylar: Peter, wait-
Peter: Don't worry; I'll only be a spectator; then be back before stepping on any butterflies.
Sylar: No, it's not that, Peter, wait.
(Peter closes his eyes and teleports back in time.)
Sylar: (Sighs) There he goes being boy wonder again.
(Sylar shakes his head and presses his fingers into his forehead as a slight headache suddenly comes over him. He quickly drops his hand and looks around as if "someone else" is in the room with him.)
[Unknown location]
(Mentally absent, the full-facial haired Joshua Jackson is seen standing in front of a diner staring at the large neon sign above the door in a slight trance. A ring is heard and out comes a waitress.)
Waitress: Hey, buddy; you've been standing out there creping people out for over 2 minutes; either come in and get something or leave before I call the police.
(Joshua just gives her a nod and unsure of what he meant by that gesture, she rolls her eyes and goes back inside the diner. A car rives into the dirt parking lot, nearly hitting two other cars and running over the concrete parking block. Joshua doesn't seem to care; he just looks down at a piece of newspaper and listens to the sound of the car bumper dragging across the cement block. The vehicle jerks forward and is turned off. Coming out of the car are two young siblings talking to each other; Joshua hears the chat between the two of them.)
Sister: Not, bad, little bro; but we definitely need to work on your parking and speeding.
Little Brother: Sorry, I just can't help that I get the brake and gas pedals mixed up.
(The two of them walk near Joshua and stop in their tracks.)
Sister: Don't worry we'll work on it.
(Joshua slowly turns over them.)
Christina: Hi, sir; I'm Christina and this is my brother, Ryan. We were wondering if you knew where we could find a map of the local area or maybe point us in the direction of a hotel we could stay at for the night.
Joshua: There're plenty of hotels around, just- look.
Christina: Right, thank you.
(The two of them walk up to the front door of the diner. Ryan comes to a sudden stop and grabs Christina's arm to stop her.)
Christina: What's up.
Ryan: We can't afford to eat here, Christina.
Christina: (Talks softly) You let me worry about that, okay? Look we need to take care of each other now so we need to survive, or did you already forget that?
Ryan: It's bad enough we stole a car and now you want us to dine and dash too?!
Christina: Shh. Keep your voice down. Look if you feel uncomfortable, you can wait in the car, but I'm hungry and I'm not going to pass up an opportunity to eat food when we're in short supply. Make your choice, little brother, but I'm not going to bring anything out for you; you need to learn to be on my side with this.
(Ryan tries to speak but Christina walks off, ignoring him in the process. As Christina walks through the door, she nearly bumps into a tall spunky young man.)
Christina: Excuse me; sorry.
West: You're fine; my apologies. Excuse me.
(Christina watches as the young man quickly runs over toward the side of the diner, looks around suspiciously to make sure no one's looking then quickly takes off into the sky like a soaring eagle. Christina watches in amazement then looks down at her hand, sparking blue electricity from it and reminding herself of how special HER gift is. She enters the diner and Ryan quietly follows her in, obviously not happy about the decision he's made. The waitress approaches them as the door closes behind them.)
Waitress: You kids want a table or booth?
Christina: Uh- (Peaks over to see an armed security guard near the door) table please.
Ryan: What, no! Booths have more privacy!
Waitress: Booth it is. Follow me.
(The three of them walk over to a booth and a trucker quickly takes a seat in the spot they were headed to.)
Waitress: My apologies, mister; I thought you left. Well…
(She guides them to a two-seater and hands them their menus.)
Waitress: What would y'all like to drink?
Christina: Orange juice! And we're ready to order! (Slaps menu close) I want a steak! Birthday boy here, will have a salad.
(Moments later, Christina is seen enthusiastically slopping a large T-bone steak with her bare hands and Ryan just watches in discomfort at his sister's rude mannerism at the table.)
Christina: Oh wow! Are we sure it's not MY birthday, cause I feel like royalty right now! This is better than the Frito pie at lunchtime!
(Ryan looks down at his boring pancake, bacon, egg, and sausage meal and sees a fly crawl on his bacon. Ryan grabs his fork and pokes at his over-medium egg, popping the yoke and watching it run all over his plate.)
Christina: (Talking with her mouth full) Hey, you need to learn to adapt to our new lives like Darwin said! Was it Darwin? I don't know, but I do know this steak is Booomb! The "good ole days" of mom's over-breakfast-ing are over, little brother and now we're free from the clenches of being told what to do! Yay freedom!
Ryan: I don't like this, Chris.
Christina: Uh, you're bringing my vibes down, kid. Just eat and enjoy it while you can. We're criminals now and you need to get used to that.
Ryan: Criminals?! (Looks around suspiciously) What do you mean criminals? We didn't kill anyone!
Christina: (Sucks the meat off the bone) Mm, not yet, but I'm sure we'll get there eventually. We're ditching school, we have no ID, we're not registered with the government when it comes to our powers, no supervision; we're breaking the law and technically labeled as "criminals" now!
(Ryan is ultimately conflicted by everything going on but attempts to revert his mind to what he knows and is familiar with.)
Ryan: Christina, what about mom?
(With no warning, Christina bangs her fist as hard as she can against the table.)
Christina: ENOUGH about that woman already?! Mom's not coming back; we're never going to find her; move past it already!
(Joshua Jackson is seen scribbling on a paper nearby.)
Ryan: Why do you hate her so much? What did she do that was so bad to us?! She was kidnapped, Chris! We may be her only hope!
(Christina takes herself out of her zen to have a short serious moment with her brother.)
Christina: Gene was killed- our mother was kidnapped by the same group of people… We have no other leads. On top of that, why would they kidnap her? Think about that! If they wanted ransom, don't you think they would've asked Gene and kept him alive?! I don't know what's going on but there is NOTHING we can do to help the situation and I'm not going to make myself go insane trying it figure it out! All I can do is move on so that's what I'm doing!
(Ryan just stands to his feet angrily flips his sister's plate all over her lap then runs off. Christina sighs and presses her fingers against her forehead. Slow loud footsteps are heard and Joshua stands over Christina starring at her. Christina lowers her hand and looks up at Joshua; the two faceoff with each other in silence for about 4 seconds.)
Christina: Can I help you, sir?
Joshua: What was he?
Christina: What?
Joshua: That- boy you were yelling at, what was he- to you?
Christina: Brother…
Joshua: (Thinks in his head for a few seconds) You had the same father… by birth, or mother?
Christina: Both.
Joshua: (Takes his sweet time sitting down beside her) I see.
Christina: Don't sit down next to me; what is your problem?
(Christina throws he elbow on the table and aims her hand at Joshua, creating a surge of lightning in her palm. The sparking blue light reflects off Joshua's pupils, but he does not seem fazed, nor does he even blink.)
Christina: I can fry you faster than this T-bone I just ate; don't mess with us!
Joshua: I've faced monsters much worse than you and looked them in the eye. You're no scarier than them.
(Joshua grabs Christina's wrist and directs her hand toward the window, causing her to shoot a lightning bolt straight through the glass and causing it to shatter. She, along with everyone else in the diner let out a scream, all except for Joshua who keeps a straight face. After looking deep into her eyes and identifying her fear, he squeezes her wrist a little tighter then releases her in one motion. He leans back in the seat and looks down at Ryan's abandoned food. Joshua slowly picks the tiny pieces of glass out of it then goes straight for the over-medium egg with the yolk still inside. He pokes a fork in it and shoves her entire thing in his mouth. Everyone stares at him scared, even Christina. They silently watch him as Joshua slowly chews and swallows the busted egg in his mouth. Once finished, he grabs a napkin beside him and pats his mouth with a nearby napkin to make sure nothing is on his face.)
Joshua: It's amazing how afraid people are of me, simply because I'm the one unaffected by the significantly erm… dramatized moment. I'm not the one who did this.
(The manager of the restaurant approaches their table and clears his throat.)
Manager: Excuse me, sir; I'm gonna have to ask the two of you to leave the diner. This is a family friendly place of business.
Joshua: (Sways his body back and forth and stares at the floor) Family friendly… then why do you charge people their earnings in labor for food? Why do you take pride in charging people what they need to live?
Manager: Sir, I don't know what you're saying; I don't take pleasure in anything, but I'm going to have to ask you again to leave.
Joshua: If you don't take pleasure in it, then what's the point of managing? (Looks up at the manager)
Manager: Sir, I have called the police, they should be here soon; now please go.
Joshua: I wrote a story today in pictures of an officer on his way to a "disturbance". (Chuckles) That work is funny- a deer runs out in the middle of the street and the officer swerves, crashing into a tree and knocking himself unconscious. I wanted to make sure he lived or wasn't seriously injured
(Everyone looks at the window to hear a loud crash out in the distance.)
Christina: What do you want? Why are you here?
Joshua: (Sighs and looks over at Christina) I had something to ask you- (Awkwardly leans his face closer to hers) did you need help paying your tab?
Christina: W-what? Th-that's why you came over here?
Joshua: Yeah-
Christina: Why were you so creepy about it?
Joshua: I didn't wanna attract any attention so I tried to be subtle.
(The sound of the burning blinds popping beside them gets louder. The blinds come crashing down over the table.)
Christina: Oh…
Joshua: (Says to the manager) How much do we owe you, sir?
[Tokyo Dojo, Hiro Sylar, and Peter]
(Peter reappears behind Sylar and Sylar quickly turns to face him.)
Peter: I know what happened here?
Sylar: So do I. They were attacked by someone immune to both Hiro and Ando's power; this guy's got talent.
Peter: Wait- how did you know?
Sylar: Anything I touch, I know its history, remember? I know my list of abilities isn't that long to where you forget.
Peter: Well, we know the guy's face, so we know where Ando will be headed. We need to stop him right now.
Sylar: (Squats down to them) We also need to make sure Hiro's okay too, Peter.
Peter: I know… (Speechless)
Sylar: You're conflicted now because you have to trust me. We can't do both, Peter. We have a partnership now. Peter, I'll take Hiro somewhere safe to recover.
Peter: No…
Sylar: Then I'll go after him; you take care of Hiro.
Peter: NO…!
Sylar: (Stands to his feet) Sooner or later you're going to have to move forward from this, Peter; you have to trust me. You hate yourself so much to the point that you can't even form logical thoughts.
(In an alleyway Ando is seen wearing all black and holding a sword in his hand. He stares up at a two story home and with a look of vengeance across his face, approaches it. He comes to a quick stop as two laughing children come out of nowhere and run right passed him. Ando sighs and as he sees a young girl in a school uniform leaving the home of Zekiel. The young girl runs in the opposite direction and Ando begins to second guess if he should go through with this or not. He ultimately decides to keep going. In the home, Zekiel is seen in the tiny kitchen area grabbing freshly cut green onion and throwing it in a pot beside his elderly mother. The two of them begin laughing as Zekiel jumps away in a panic, nearly burning himself. They hear a noise and Zekiel quickly turns around to see Ando standing in the doorway with his sword drawn in his hand. His mother looks up at Zekiel then Ando and her smile goes away as she is startled by Ando's menacing presence. Back in the dojo, Hiro is recovering from his prior attack and sits on a nearby chair to help keep himself calm. Peter offers Hiro a class of water and Hiro quickly puts his glasses over his eyes before accepting the kind offer and finishing it nearly in one drink.)
Hiro: I know you want to save him, Peter, but Ando is- on his own path. He cannot be saved. This is a choice he must make on his own.
Gabriel: Saving him would hardly be worth it anyway. He needs to face this, Peter, even if he fails. Evolution helps us remain resilient in the eye of uncertainty. In this new world, Ando will have to prove he can be on the better side. (Leaves the room)
Peter: (Sighs) He could still get himself killed.
Hiro: Peter… I have made my peace with that… not so much you. We must all learn to take destiny in our own hands.
Peter: I don't like this, Hiro, I don't like this one bit.
(Back at Zekiel's house, Ando paces before Zekiel and his mother. Zekiel quickly jumps in front of his mother to keep her safe.)
Zekiel: You know she has nothing to do with this.
Ando: (Draws sword) There was a little girl who left here not too long ago. I could've hurt her, but you wouldn't see me do it, so maybe hurting your mother, you will feel what I feel.
Zekiel: Now is not the place for this…
Ando: Now is the perfect place.
Zekiel: Fine. If you want me dead so bad, than kill me here, but leave my family out of this. I absorbed some of your lightning through my field and weakened your power from killing your friend. I could've killed your wife, but I let her live. I purposefully avoided finishing the job because I wanted you to suffer for cutting my heart out in the future. You killed my lover, but I spared yours. I wanted to steal that innocence from you; I wanted to turn you into the vengeful creation you made me! But… I see now, that was not worth it. I am sorry for what it is I've done. I tried taking something precious from you before you did anything wrong. I am sorry for that.
(Ando takes in his words and angrily shoves his sword forward, letting go of the rage in the process. Zekiel's mother screams and Ando angrily stares Zekiel in the eyes while heavily breathing. He yanks his sword out and storms out of the house. Zekiel looks over at the hole in the wall beside him that Ando has just shoved his sword through and hugs his mother to reassure neither of them are harmed. Ando leaves the area and turns a corner leading to the next street; there he sees Sylar standing before him. He approaches Sylar.)
Sylar: I remember when Isaac painted Hiro stabbing me and when Hiro lost faith, you stepped in. That pestered me at the time, but now I see you're just determined to do what is right. (Smiles and places his hand on his shoulder to read the history of his clothing) You have to prove to yourself that you were strong enough to protect her; I understand why. Ando, she is alive and I know it ate you up inside feeling so helpless and not knowing which direction to go. Everyone around you wanted you to see the positives in this, but you needed to prove something in yourself in order to heal. You needed to find your sense of independence and dominance of a situation. I am happy for you for finding it.
(Back at the dojo the door is opened and everyone turns around to see Ando. He looks as though he's been through a big revelation. Hiro and Peter quickly run up to him.)
Peter: Ando! Hey, what happened?! (Gives him a big hug)
Ando: … What I had to. I let go.
(Hiro approaches Ando and gives him a huge hug.)
Hiro: It is okay, my friend. A warrior's path is never easy.
Ando: Thank you, Hiro, for being my friend. Please, take me to see Kimiko.
(Hiro turns to Peter and Sylar.)
Peter: (Smiles) You made the right choice, Ando. Go ahead, Hiro; we'll see each other soon.
(Hiro gives Peter a nod and teleports himself as well as Ando away.)
Sylar: And they're off again. I'm glad he found his resolve. (Taps Peter on the back) Let's get some sushi; I'm starving. (Leaves the building)
(Peter is slightly lost as to why Gabriel is so happy all of a sudden.)
[Odessa]
(Out having lunch, are Claire, Zach, Brandon, Lori, a young Asian girl around their age and Alana, laughing and having a good time eating pizza. Out in the distant as always are government agents respectfully watching Claire from a far away distance and not letting their presence be a distraction. Claire, however, slowly feels as though the walls are closing in as to who she must become for her world and the outside world. Once again they all share each other's laughter.)
Lori: (Says to Claire) You were always a great influencer, Claire. Standing up for what you know is right and putting yourself out there takes guts, and boy to you have guts! (Laughs with everybody)
Kristy Chan: Ah it's so amazing meeting you again, Claire! You are soooo inspirational; I just wanna cry!
Claire: I'm so glad I made an impact on so many people even after I was gone. It means so much.
Zach: Heck, yeah; you were a superstar before you were super girl!
(Claire looks around to see a guard pushing back a broad shouldered young man. Everything quiet but she just continues to laugh at a joke that was told at the table and Zach tossing a piece of food at Claire's nose. Brandon is the only one not fully smiling but he enjoys the smiles of not only Claire but the people around her whom she's brought together.)
Claire: Excuse me, I need to go to the ladies room.
(Claire stands in the small restroom starring at herself in the mirror once again. After a short time, she lets out a sigh and then leaves. She looks down the hall and sees Brandon sitting on a bench poking himself with a small device. She takes a seat next to him and watches as he struggles to try and quickly open the wrapper of a small sugary snack. His shakes get worse before she grabs his hands and opens the package for him.)
Brandon: (Closes his eyes tightly and takes a hasty bite) You're a good person, you know that, Claire? I really like that about you. I know you'll stay that way.
Claire: You really think I have a good heart? I don't always think so. I think I'm more selfish than anything?
Brandon: Being selfish isn't always bad; you've just gotta find the best in your decision making.
Claire: Yeah? (Smiles) Thank you, Brandon. What're you gonna do now- once all of this is done?
Brandon: Our time was fun together, Claire Petrelli. I'm glad I met you. Your power really reflects the better parts of you.
Claire: What greatn-
Brandon: Stop asking question, Claire. (Takes a deep breath) You don't need to second guess yourself. The people who you need will always be in your life when they need to be there- it depends on where you are in your journey. (Looks up at Claire and smiles) You're scared because you don't know what's to come. I understand that, but you have to embrace being alone and the journey ahead. People will always come and go in your life- many to heal; many to strengthen; and many to uplift you. How you treat these people is a reflection of how you treat yourself. You constantly question me because I am a part of you that you feel needs to be questioned.
Claire: (Nod and takes a moment to understand his words and accept them) I need to embrace what makes me special. And you- you don't have a power, do you?
Brandon: Having power doesn't always instill being spectacular. I have power, which is my heart; your power is in your heart as well. It's just physically expressed. Remember that. (Gently puts his hand over Claire's and smiles at her) Thank you for helping me understand that the power inside you is also in me. I hope to see you again sometime in the future, Just Claire; for now, enjoy the next chapter of your life; and remember, don't focus on the pain of the trial, focus on the revelation.
(Brandon gives Claire a big hug and indulges in her essence before breaking away and standing to his feet. I'll be seeing you. (Turns around and walks away)
Narrator: Every cycle must come to an end but remnants must never be forgotten.
(Brandon stands on the rooftop of a building pacing back and forth.)
Brandon: Thank yo for giving me a chance to see this world and the beauty in it.
(Brandon stares up into the sky and soars like a jet in the clouds. An image of him flying overhead a train where a fire took place 5 years ago is going in the same direction as he flying in, forming into someone new.)
TO BE CONTINUED…