“KNIGHT’S BANE”
“KNIGHT’S BANE”
By
Sean Burback
TRAY (V.O.)
“They say when you’re about to die, you’re entire life flashes before your eyes. They’re right. I remember everything as if it were yesterday. My entire life… seems like just a blink.”
FADE IN:
INT. MANSION - LOBBY - NIGHT
The lobby is magnificent. TRAY SPENCER, late-twenties, handsome, dark hair, ice blue eyes, lies fatally wounded at the base of a great staircase. His clothes are black as night except for a small white collar around his neck, signifying a Priest. His body is still; blood spreads freely from his wounds, slowly expanding onto the marble floor.
JASMINE BAIL, mid-twenties, blonde hair, full lips, beautiful eyes, rushes to him. She drops to the floor, takes him into her arms, holds him tightly to her in sadness.
JASMINE
What do I do?? Tell me what to do…
He struggles to speak.
TRAY
It’s… it’s too late…
JASMINE
No! No, don’t say that!
TRAY
I’m sorry… I’m so sorry…
JASMINE
You’re not going to die; do you hear me???
Holding him tightly to her chest, tears drop from her cheeks. He looks at her, smiles in awe of her beauty. Then -
His eyes turn cold.
JASMINE
Tray!
FADE TO BLACK:
TRAY (V.O.)
“Isn’t it funny; when you’re at death’s door, you regret everything? As if that sudden change of heart would open the gates of heaven just for you. Perhaps I’m no different. But, when I look back, I can’t help but feel cheated in some way. As though I never truly got to live a life at all. At least… not the way you live it.”
CUT TO:
OPENING CREDITS
EXT. TRAIN STATION - DAY
“Twenty years prior”
Tray is only a boy, no older than seven or eight years of age. He sits with MALCOLM, late fifties; fine suit, neatly combed hair, awaiting a train.
MALCOLM
It’s rather chilly out here, why don’t you take my coat?
Although freezing, Tray refuses.
TRAY
I hate you.
MALCOLM
(Smiles)
Hate is a very powerful word for a boy your age.
Tray doesn’t look at Malcolm, nor respond in any way.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
Not that I feel I must justify things to you, but your best interest is in mind here, Tray. Your parents are gone; you have nothing. You’ve nowhere to go, no place to stay, and not a single way to survive on your own. - You need someone to take care of you, and we’re giving you just that.
The train approaches. Malcolm’s face eases with a sense of relief.
MALCOLM
Ah, here we are.
Passengers emerge from the train. Among them is SIMON MOORE, mid-forties, clumsy hair, unshaven. He approaches with intense fatigue in his eyes, appearing to be either ill, or hung over.
MALCOLM
It’s good to see you again, Simon.
SIMON
(Sarcastic)
Malcolm. It’s always a pleasure.
MALCOLM
I’d like to introduce you to someone.
EXT. COUNTRY ROAD - DAY
The crisp autumn day is beautiful. Multiple beams of sunlight peek through the clouds to the earth below.
A 1960’s Bentley passes by, countless leaves flutter in its wake.
INT. CAR - DAY
Simon sits behind the wheel. He glances at Tray who stares silently at the gorgeous landscape.
SIMON
You don’t trust me, do you?
Silence.
SIMON (CONT’D)
That’s fine, it really is. You see, I’ve always thought of trust as something you have to earn. - I’ll make a deal with you, Tray… I’m not trying to be your father, nor am I trying to replace him in any way, do you understand? But, it is my duty to take care of you now. If you decide I’m not fit for that job, or you dislike the environment you’re in, you may leave. No questions asked. You may go where you want, do what you like, and never have to see me again.
Tray looks over, finally making eye contact.
SIMON (CONT’D)
All I ask in return is one week. Just one. Fair enough?
Before Tray can respond, the car climbs a gradual slope in the road, slowly, a magnificent mansion is revealed in the distance! This isn’t a road at all, but a driveway to the incredible castle beyond! Tray’s eyes widen, his jaw drops.
TRAY
I’d get to live there??
SIMON
(Smiles)
You sure would.
An ear-to-ear grin ignites Tray’s face. Simon smiles.
EXT. DRIVEWAY - DAY
The Bentley drives past. We rise from the road, see the mansion in all its glory.
TRAY (V.O.)
“It never occurred to me to take Simon at his word. My first impression of him was a man trying to control my life. But, instead, he was giving me one.”
INT. MANSION - TRAINING ROOM - DAY
TRAY (V.O.)
“As the years passed, I knew little more about him than I did when we first met. The only thing I could be certain of; was that we were both in a great deal of pain. And though we never admitted it openly… we needed each other.”
Enormous pillars and windows give the vast room a timeless feeling. Sun pours inside, shimmering off the polished floor.
Simon and Tray stand in the center of the room, unmoving, almost statue like.
A large window rests directly behind them, blazing forward an uncanny amount of light. So much, that only a vague silhouette of the two can be seen. Suddenly -
Swords rise from in front of the two, sunlight shimmers against the blades.
A tense moment passes. And then -
Tray strikes.
CLOSE:
Tray appears to us now as a young man, more like his adult self than what we saw of him last. He moves like lightening, striking at Simon with powerful blows!
Simon steps back, calmly deflecting each strike with ease. Simon looks a great deal different as well. His pasty complexion, unshaven face, and dark eyes are now replaced with a healthy man, more at peace with himself.
Finally, Simon uses Tray’s momentum against him, leading his sword to the ground and quickly knocking his foot out from under him.
Tray falls to the floor, losing his sword in the process. The tip of Simon’s blade lowers, inches from Tray’s face.
SIMON
Did you drop something?
TRAY
(Laughs sarcastically)
Glad to see you’re enjoying yourself.
Simon lowers his sword, an amazing glass handled broadsword with a catholic cross engraved in the gold plated hand guard.
SIMON
What happened?
TRAY
You beat me.
Tray reaches for his fallen blade, a beautifully carved dragonhead katana. Ivory handled, silver hand guard and a shimmering acid edged blade that looks like it could cut a tree in two with the slightest effort.
Tray stands, slices the blade through the air in aggravation.
SIMON (CONT’D)
Yes I realize that. What I’m asking is; how did I beat you?
TRAY
I don’t know. You just… I don’t know.
SIMON
Think, Tray. Knowing your mistake is the only way you can keep from repeating it.
TRAY
(Sighs)
I guess I was… I wanted to overpower you.
SIMON
Exactly. - You can’t expect to prevail using brute force. And if you do, then you’re in for a rude awakening. The creatures we fight against overpower you ten to one. We survive by grace over strength, skill over force. Every action has a counter action. Use your opponent’s force against him; it’s your best advantage. Remember that.
TRAY
Yeah, I got it.
SIMON
Ready to go again?
TRAY
No.
SIMON
Good.
Simon raises his sword. With a sigh, Tray does the same.
EXT. MEADOW - DAY
It is a perfect day. The sun is bright, the sky blue. Enjoying the day, Tray walks through an open meadow. He nears an enormous tree that sits very much alone, surrounded only by tall grass.
EXT. MEADOW - TREE - SAME
Tray steps under the tree’s shadow, leans against it, stares at the mansion in the distance. It rests under the sun’s soft glow.
EXT. MANSION - GARDEN - LATER
Tray walks along the mansion walls.
He reaches the garden, pauses. Astonished by the sight of something more beautiful than anything he’d seen this day, or any other. He sees -
SERENA TEMPLAR, sixteen, dark wavy hair, mysterious eyes, tan complexion, and ruby red lips, walks through the garden admiring the endless sea of flowers.
Tray leans against the mansion wall, watches her in awe. Simon approaches from behind. He follows Tray’s gaze, finding the source of his fixation.
Simon glances down, awaits Tray to emerge from his daze. Realizing it would be a while, he leans closer, his head just over Tray’s shoulder.
SIMON
Pretty, isn’t she?
Tray jumps.
TRAY
(Screaming whisper)
My God! Cats make more noise than you!
SIMON
Keep your voice down or else she’ll know you’re stalking her.
TRAY
I’m not stalking her.
SIMON
I see. – So, what are you doing?
TRAY
For the moment, spying. But, who knows, maybe in time it’ll progress to stalking.
Simon’s face is blank.
TRAY
I want to talk to her; I just don’t know how to start.
SIMON
I’ve heard the most prudent and effective way is, “hello”.
TRAY
You’re impossible.
SIMON
Remember, if you decide to initiate dialogue on a regular basis -
TRAY
I know, keep it plutonic, no attachments.
SIMON
No attachments.
Simon smiles, gives Serena one last look.
SIMON
She is a pretty girl.
He turns, walks away.
TRAY
Initiate dialogue? Can’t the man just say, talk? Please God; if I ever speak like that, strike me down.
A moment passes. Tray sums up his courage, ventures forward.
CUT TO:
Tray walks softly amidst the garden, his eyes transfixed on Serena. She kneels beside a batch of white roses, smells one of them. She looks up; their eyes meet.
SERENA
Hello.
TRAY
Hi…
She senses his lack for words, laughs.
SERENA
Are you okay?
TRAY
Yeah. I uh… well, I saw you walking and… I had to meet you.
SERENA
Why is that?
TRAY
Personal reasons. What if five years from now, your face pops into my head, and I don’t even have a name to go with it?
He holds out a hand. She takes it, stands to her feet.
SERENA
In that case, to save you from any future anguish, my name’s Serena.
TRAY
(Smiles)
Serena it is…
Their eyes are locked together.
SERENA
Well, go on.
TRAY
Pardon?
SERENA
(Laughs)
Aren’t you going to tell me your name?
TRAY
Oh! Yeah, I just… have to remember it first.
She laughs. The two can’t seem to stop smiling at one another.
INT. MANSION - LOBBY - DAY
TRAY (V.O.)
“I never quite understood the source behind the bad blood between Simon and Malcolm. Perhaps the difference in character annoyed the other. Simon often defied the Church’s orders referring to them as, mere suggestions. Whereas Malcolm followed them through and through, no questions asked. Nevertheless, it was obvious at one point in time they considered each other friends.”
Glorious marble pillars stretch to the ceiling, but pale in comparison to the grand staircase in the center of the lobby.
Tray stands by, listening, Simon and Malcolm argue.
SIMON
I’m sorry, Malcolm, but the answer is no.
MALCOLM
I’m not asking you to like this.
SIMON
I don’t have to like, nor dislike actions I don’t take part in.
MALCOLM
It won’t be for long I assure you, as soon as -
SIMON
I think I’m being too nice when I tell you no, because you don’t seem to -
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
As soon as we find another person to train the boy, he’ll be off your hands for good.
SIMON
I have an apprentice; he’s standing beside me, you see? The council’s own rules dictate that -
MALCOLM
It was the council’s decision that you take the boy.
SIMON
How can they give an order that contradicts -?
MALCOLM
I’m sorry, but this is the way things are!
Malcolm takes a moment to calm his nerves.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
Wishful thinking and a warm heart won’t change the world, old friend. You’re all ready hanging by a thread, and frankly, I’m getting tired of defending you. - Considering our losses to Tiberius and his rogues, I needn’t remind you, our numbers are limited. These are drastic times that call for drastic measures. I hate to put you in this situation, but I’ve no choice, the decision has been made.
SIMON
I’ll never win with you.
MALCOLM
It’s never a contest.
SIMON
This isn’t a good idea. - How’s the boy’s condition?
MALCOLM
Ever since his master died, he’s kept to himself. He talks, mind you, but it’s usually to insult or demean.
SIMON
Sounds charming.
MALCOLM
You shouldn’t judge too quickly, Simon.
(Re: to Tray)
All in all, he should be a walk in the park after this one.
SIMON
After everything he went through, I’d say his emotional instability at the time, was justified. Wouldn’t you?
MALCOLM
Curious… How long do you intend to hate me?
Simon didn’t expect such a blunt question. He has no idea how to respond.
The awkward moment is interrupted as the mansion’s double doors open wide.
TRAY (V.O.)
“And there he was…”
JACOB PAYNE, sixteen, brown hair styled carelessly messy, and hauntingly dark brown eyes, enters the lobby carrying a duffel bag and wrapped sword slung around his shoulder. He scowls at the three men he approaches. Clearly, this is not the place he wants to be.
TRAY (V.O.)
“With a confident stride, he approached us. Never admitting, that deep inside lay a young man who has experienced more pain; has seen more terrible things in his young life… than most people could ever in two.”
MALCOLM
Here he is now. - Jacob, I’d like to introduce you to your new master. This is Simon Moore, and the young man next to him is his apprentice Tray Spencer.
SIMON
It’s a pleasure to meet you, Jacob. I’ve no doubt you’ll enjoy your stay here, however brief it may be.
JACOB
You bet. Can someone show me my room?
MALCOLM
Of course, right this way.
Several men in Priest attire join them. They exit up the large staircase.
Simon and Tray are left alone in the vast lobby.
SIMON
That went well. You know what they say about first impressions.
TRAY
They’re hard to make and harder to break.
EXT. MEADOW - TREE - DAY
The fresh spring day is beautiful. The sun shines and a soft breeze blows through the grass.
Tray and Serena sit on a faded flannel blanket under the same tree seen earlier.
The two eat berries they’d gathered in a small cloth between them.
SERENA
What’s he like?
TRAY
Who?
SERENA
Jacob.
He thinks for a moment.
TRAY
Hostile.
SERENA
(Laughs)
That’s it?
TRAY
Well, yeah. There isn’t much else to him.
SERENA
Does he like it here?
TRAY
I don’t know.
SERENA
Don’t you talk to him?
TRAY
No. Why, should I?
SERENA
Tray!
TRAY
(Laughs)
Look, I’ve tried, but every time I get the overwhelming feeling he’d rather gouge my eyes out than talk. I swear the man is like an open wound that considers everyone around him salt.
SERENA
I heard what happened to him, it’s terrible to think someone could go through that much pain in such a short time. Maybe he just needs time.
TRAY
I think what he needs, is therapy.
He smiles, looks around him in silent admiration.
TRAY
I don’t think it gets any better than this. –Beautiful day, beautiful company…
Serena looks to the ground with an embarrassed smile. It seems she isn’t used to such compliments.
TRAY (V.O.)
“It was that very moment that I realized for the first time in my life, I was happy. Serena was somehow able to take my mind away from everything, namely, the future… and the horrors it would bring. She taught me to live in the moment, and in that moment, to be truly free.”
INT. MANSION - JACOB’S ROOM - DAY
Jacob sleeps in bed.
The door opens, a figure sneaks in. He approaches, takes a pillow from beside Jacob’s head, and drives it into his face!
Jacob stirs to life, smothering, he struggles! The pillow is soon removed and he sees -
Tray’s laughing face.
TRAY
Do you have any idea what time it is?
JACOB
Jesus, you scared the hell out of me!
Jacob rubs his tired eyes.
JACOB
I hope you’re happy. I was absolutely blissful till you woke me up.
TRAY
I can tell. Boy scouts could camp under that thing.
He refers to Jacob’s erection under the bed sheets.
JACOB
Oh Christ!
Jacob quickly moves until it’s no longer noticeable.
TRAY
Want me to start a campfire?
(Points to nowhere in particular)
I can put one right over there.
Jacob jumps up, grabs a pillow. He swings at Tray, misses, and falls to the floor.
TRAY
I don’t know what opinions you have of me, but I feel I should tell you I don’t exactly wake up every day hoping to get attacked by a man with an erection.
Jacob glares up at Tray angrily; he gets to his feet. Tray runs for the door, uses it as a shield.
TRAY
Before you hurt yourself, I thought I should tell you -
Tray ducks behind the door; a pillow smashes into it. He pokes his head out, resumes his sentence.
TRAY (CONT’D)
- That you’re a half hour late and Simon’s ever so slightly upset.
JACOB
Damn it… well; go away. I’ll be out after I change.
TRAY
Can I recommend a cold shower?
JACOB
Get out!
Tray smiles, closes the door.
JACOB
Simon’s gonna kill me.
EXT. MANSION - TRAINING ROOM - LATER
Simon’s silhouette stands before a large window, gazing out.
Jacob enters the frame, holding a katana by his side. His sword is similar to Tray’s, but menacing in appearance. A bared teethed dragon carved into the black ivory hilt, copper hand guard, and acid edge.
JACOB
Sorry I’m late.
SIMON
That’s all right. Our time’s up anyway.
Simon takes his sheathed sword in hand, walks past.
JACOB
That’s it??
SIMON
Next time; be on time.
Simon exits.
Jacob throws his sword to the floor. The impact echoes loudly in the large room.
JACOB
Son-of-a-bitch.
INT. MANSION - LOBBY - DAY
Tray descends the staircase. He reaches bottom, walks across the marble floor toward the door.
SIMON (O.S.)
Tray.
He turns. Simon stands at the base of the stairs.
TRAY
I swear, sometimes it’s like you just appear.
SIMON
May I have a moment please?
TRAY
Sure… I didn’t think we had anything scheduled for today.
SIMON
Oh, no, it’s not that. I need to talk to you.
TRAY
About?
SIMON
Jacob.
Tray crosses his arms.
TRAY
Okay. What about him?
SIMON
I’m having trouble getting through to him. He might listen to someone his own age, so I was hoping you could talk to him. If he keeps showing up late for sessions, or not even showing up at all for that matter, then he’ll face expulsion… and there won’t be anything I can do for him.
TRAY
He’s a free spirit, that’s all. He’ll grow out of it.
SIMON
You must understand that your time here is limited, and in that time I have to prepare you for the things you’ll face in the real world. If he were released this very moment, he wouldn’t make it a week. Not even with the grace of God on his side.
TRAY
When I came here, I wasn’t any different than him and you didn’t give up on me.
SIMON
You were eight years old. In time you let go of your personal attachments, you freed your mind from them. Jacob’s parents died only three years ago and his master three months ago. If he doesn’t start to let go of them soon, he won’t be around long enough to grow out of anything, as you’re sure he will.
TRAY
All right, all right… I’ll talk to him.
TRAY (V.O.)
“As much as I hated to admit it, Simon was right. With the war between Tiberius and the Priesthood, the council was forced to… or used as an excuse… to make a number of bad decisions. Jacob was one of them; too old and too full of anger to be trained as a Priest.
Where I had the luxury of never knowing how my parents died; his were slaughtered by the creatures he’s now in training to hunt. As is, to release him into the world as a Priest would bring a volatile element into an already critical situation.”
INT. MANSION - JACOB’S ROOM - LATER
Jacob sits in the windowsill, gazing bellow.
There is a KNOCK at the door.
JACOB
Go away!
Tray enters. Jacob doesn’t merit so much as a glance. Tray approaches, looks out the window at -
A group of young apprentices, not even ten years of age, run along the courtyard playing with several dogs. They throw stick and clap their hands, each having a ball.
Tray looks at Jacob with a warm smile; it isn’t shared.
JACOB
Why do they keep those animals here?
TRAY
To hunt effectively, vampires must pass themselves off as their prey. Where we can’t tell the difference, they can.
JACOB
Primitive. With all our technology, what do we do… we resort to swords and animals for protection.
Tray is silent, unsure what to say or do next.
TRAY
Why don’t you join them? The children could use a chaperone. After all, those dogs are trained to rip out a person’s jugular…
Jacob moves away. Tray sits on the windowsill; watches Jacob take a baseball from his desk.
Jacob lies on his bed, begins tossing the ball into the air.
TRAY (CONT’D)
You know what the best thing about life is?
Jacob answers by reflex, not because he’s interested.
JACOB
What’s that?
TRAY
It goes on.
JACOB
I’ve noticed.
TRAY
Things don’t always have to be ruled by the past, you know. There’s always tomorrow that can change everything. - It just depends on how you live it.
Jacob darts Tray an angry glare.
JACOB
What are you, my fucking counselor?
TRAY
No, I’m trying to be your friend. – But, I guess I’m wasting my time.
Tray gets up, walks toward the door.
Jacob follows him across the room with his eyes.
JACOB
Wait…
Tray stops.
JACOB (CONT’D)
You’re the only person in this entire place who even pretends to give a shit about me. So, I guess what I’m trying to say is…
TRAY
You’re welcome.
Jacob tosses Tray the baseball; he catches it, looks back with confusion.
JACOB
You know I used to play ball.
(Laughs)
My dad used to say I’d make it to the majors some day. So, as a gag gift for his birthday, I gave him an autographed ball. He kept it on the mantle at home like it was some sort of fucking trophy. - And that was my dad… so eccentric, so full of life. – Then one night, my parents were taken from me. The next morning I woke, and for the first time, I walked downstairs seeing emptiness where my family should be.
Jacob quickly wipes away dwelling tears.
Tray glances down at the ball, finds Jacob’s signature.
JACOB (CONT’D)
So, uh…
(Clears throat)
How did you come to be here?
Tray smiles warmly, tosses the ball back to Jacob.
TRAY
Sort of the same way.
JACOB
(Laughs)
Small world, huh.
TRAY
(Smiles)
Yeah, I guess it is.
JACOB
You won’t tell anyone about the ball, will you? If they knew how much the damn thing meant to me, they’d probably take it away.
TRAY
No… secret’s safe with me.
EXT. MANSION - GARDEN - DAY
Time has passed. It’s autumn now. Fluffy white clouds litter the skies above, whereas below -
Jacob chases after Tray, both with swords, and both with long coats.
TRAY (V.O.)
“Over the next two years Jacob came out of his shell. I discovered we had a great deal in common; even our fighting style was the same. Kindoshi, created by Yeung Chi, an ancient Priest, was the most difficult art to master. The way of the dragon, as it’s most commonly referred to, requires a katana for its versatility, speed, and grace. The only problem was; to fight against another user was a time consuming ordeal. The two opponents were more likely to drop from exhaustion rather than prevail over the other.”
Tray runs behind a large bush, keeping it between them. His face is coated in a glaze of sweat, his breaths quick and heavy.
Jacob approaches the opposite side of the bush; he too is suffering from fatigue.
JACOB
This blows. – If you were a vampire, I would have pulled a gun and shot you by now.
TRAY
It wouldn’t kill me.
JACOB
No, but it’d slow you down.
Tray laughs. Jacob jumps through the bush, strikes at Tray.
They parry for several seconds, pull back, putting distance between themselves.
JACOB
I’m thinking about starting a petition. This sword thing blows. Wouldn’t it be easier to just walk up to a vampire and shoot him? No fancy display of swordsmanship, no bravado, I mean… how many samurai do you see walking around these days? You’d think the Church would look at that and think, hmm, maybe that’s not such a good idea.
TRAY
Guns are clumsy, costly, loud, and attract too much attention.
JACOB
And a thirty-six inch blade bulging out of a person’s coat doesn’t attract attention?
TRAY
At least we don’t have to reload.
JACOB
Does it ever bother you knowing you’re going to spend the rest of your life fighting?
TRAY
I don’t think about it.
JACOB
How can you not?
TRAY
Because; what we’re doing is for the greater good. Ridding the world of monsters, right? I feel proud I’ve been given the chance to live such a noble life.
JACOB
Pride. Isn’t that one of those emotion things we’re not supposed to have? Of course, who am I to judge, I feel pride every time I beat you.
Tray attacks.
After a series of clashes, Jacob knocks Tray’s blade from his hands.
With a cocky grin, Jacob strikes.
Tray rolls to avoid Jacob’s blade; springs into a one-handed cartwheel.
SLOW TIME –
As his body flips through the air, Tray clutches his sword from the ground.
TIME RESUMES -
Tray lands. Jacob is on him in a heartbeat. Tray slashes at Jacob’s feet. As expected, Jacob jumps over the blade. Tray rolls backward, gets to his feet.
JACOB
Show off.
Tray smiles.
JACOB (CONT’D)
Don’t you miss having a normal life?
TRAY
What is normal?
JACOB
Normal is everything we’re not.
TRAY
So, what are we then?
JACOB
I haven’t figured that out yet.
The fight resumes. Soon, the two find themselves locked together by their blades, a situation all too familiar to Tray. If he breaks free, he leaves himself open for attack and the game would be over.
JACOB
(Smiles)
Here we are again. - You’re move.
Tray winks. Suddenly, he does the unexpected -
Almost supernatural in speed, he slams both blades into the ground, spins, driving his elbow into Jacob’s back, knocking him to the ground. Tray takes a dagger from inside his overcoat, launches it into the ground only inches from Jacob’s head!
Jacob looks at the dagger in shock.
TRAY
That’s game.
JACOB
You cheated.
He gets to his feet.
TRAY
(Smiles)
A win is a win.
They collect their weapons; sheath them.
JACOB
That’s the only time you’ve ever beaten me.
TRAY
I hope it keeps you up at night.
They walk to an old brick patio. Tray sits on a rickety bench; Jacob removes his coat, wipes sweat from his brow, and joins him. The two still struggle to catch their breath.
JACOB
Where's Simon? I haven’t seen him at all today. I’d hate to think he’s avoiding me.
TRAY
No, he uh… every October 23rd he disappears. I don’t know where he goes, but he’s gone all day. In ten years, he’s never left the 24th never the 22nd.
JACOB
I don’t get it.
TRAY
You think I do?
JACOB
Have you ever asked him about it?
TRAY
I used to for all the good it did. He never told me anything. It’s like he’s hiding something… and I want to know what it is.
JACOB
Everyone has secrets, whatever his are, maybe you’re better off not knowing.
Tray looks at Jacob. He can only wonder.
EXT. MANSION - TRAINING ROOM - NIGHT
The room is lighted only by the soft GLOW of moonlight shining through the many windows.
Tray and Serena face each other. They wear black padded sparing uniforms that grip tightly to their bodies, resembling armor more than anything else.
She assumes a martial arts stance; he does the same. Then -
She attacks, her moves quick and precise. He blocks as best he can, but a swift kick catches his jaw. He spins from the momentum, nods his head.
TRAY
Someone’s been practicing.
SERENA
I hope you don’t mind getting beaten by a girl.
TRAY
Not that I’m sexist but, sweetie, that’ll never happen.
He resumes his stance. She comes at him with a spin kick. It’s easily ducked. From there, she strikes with blinding speed. He stands his ground, batting away blow after blow, not giving her an inch.
He blocks a quick strike to his head, wraps his arm around hers, and sweeps her leg out from under her. He lands on top of her on the floor, still holding her arm in his.
TRAY
I am man; hear me roar.
She flips him over her, quickly pins him to the floor.
TRAY
Right, well okay. That changes things a bit.
SERENA
I like being on top.
TRAY
See… I don’t know how to take that. Automatically, I think you just love to win, but if I thought like a typical guy, I’d assume -
She kisses him. He couldn’t stop her if he wanted to. With a bite of his lip, She eases off.
TRAY
Oh.
INT. MANSION - TRAY’S BEDROOM - LATER
The door bursts open. Tray and Serena stumble in, kissing and groping each other. Tray closes the door behind him, picks her up, and rushes to the bed, dropping her on the mattress.
She unzips his uniform, slips off the top piece. She pulls him down to her, kissing him vigorously. She rolls atop of him, he lies back letting her kiss his chest, then his stomach. She stands, removes the top part of her uniform.
TRAY
Wait.
SERENA
What?
TRAY
I can’t do this.
SERENA
No one will have to know.
TRAY
No, it’s not that.
SERENA
Then why?
TRAY
Because; I… I love you too much.
She smiles, jumps onto him.
TRAY
I don’t know how you do things in your own room, but here, we don’t jump on the bed.
SERENA
Oh shut up. Do you really mean that?
TRAY
(Laughs)
No, I just said that to not get in your pants.
She laughs, holds him tightly.
TRAY (V.O.)
“I’d never kissed a woman before, and I’d be lying if I said I didn’t enjoy it. I don’t know how far things would have gone that night, but I wasn’t about to find out. As much as I wanted to, I respected her too much to go through with it. - I know what you’re thinking. All nobility aside; I was eighteen and a virgin, I would have made a fool out of myself anyway.”
INT. MANSION - TRAY’S BEDROOM - MORNING
Simon enters. He stops abruptly, sees Tray and Serena asleep in each other’s arms. He assumes the worst, walks out the door, and shuts it quietly behind him.
INT. MANSION - HALLWAY - LATER
Deep in thought, Simon leans against the wall outside Tray’s bedroom.
The door opens. Tray and Serena step into the hallway.
SIMON
Good morning.
TRAY
Simon! Uh… hi!
SERENA
I should get going; I’ve got… stuff to… yeah.
She scampers off, her face red with embarrassment. She could only guess what Simon is thinking.
Tray stands awkwardly.
TRAY
We were just… you see, there was this -
SIMON
Why don’t we go for a walk tomorrow?
TRAY
Huh?
SIMON
Unless; you have other plans.
Simon glances at Serena walking off in the distance. Her tightly fit uniform accentuates her curvy features as she walks.
Tray struggles not to notice. He snaps back to reality.
TRAY
No! No, no plans at all…
SIMON
Good, tomorrow then.
TRAY
Yeah…
Simon walks off, leaving Tray’s head spinning with thought.
TRAY (CONT’D)
Tomorrow…
EXT. GARDEN - DAY
Serena walks through the garden looking for Tray. She comes across Jacob practicing with his sword. He takes notice of her, smiles politely.
SERENA
Be careful of the lilac bush.
JACOB
Of course, I’d never forgive myself.
She sits on the rickety bench, watches him practice.
SERENA
Do you know where Tray is? I was supposed to meet him here.
JACOB
I don’t know. He and Simon went off somewhere.
SERENA
Oh, I got him in trouble then?
JACOB
You did what?
SERENA
He didn’t tell you what happened?
JACOB
Apparently not…
SERENA
I see.
JACOB
I’m sure there’s nothing to worry about.
She stands.
JACOB
You love him… don’t you?
SERENA
(Smiles)
Is it obvious?
JACOB
Yep. To me anyway. Not to mention, anyone else around here with common sense.
SERENA
I stayed the night with him. And yesterday morning, Simon saw us leaving his room.
He stops, gives her his full attention.
SERENA (CONT’D)
Do you think that has anything to do with this?
JACOB
I wouldn’t doubt it. I don’t have to tell you Priests aren’t supposed to have attachments. And I think sleeping with someone sure qualifies as an attachment.
SERENA
But, we didn’t… great. For all I know he’s telling Tray not to speak to me.
JACOB
Listen, I don’t know what’s going on between you two, but if you want anything to come of it, you might want to find him.
She turns, starts to walk away.
JACOB
Serena… it’d be a good idea if you found him now.
His words terrify her. Jacob watches her run. He moves to the bench, sits with a sigh.
EXT. WOODED HILL - SAME
Simon leads Tray along a steep wooded area. Tray is growing impatient with the long walk.
TRAY
All right, I’ll bite… where are we going?
SIMON
Just a bit further.
TRAY
To what, Canada?
SIMON
I want you to meet someone.
They emerge from the wooded hill, into -
EXT. CEMETARY - LATER
A clearing. Tray suddenly finds himself confronted with dozens of graves.
TRAY
Yeah. Well, okay… this is a cemetery.
Simon continues on, walks past the graves. He comes to a stop at the edge of a cliff.
Tray’s mouth opens in awe of what he sees. An incredible view of blue skies and marvelous landscape lay before him.
SIMON
Beautiful; isn’t it? I come here to think sometimes. I’d sit on the edge of this cliff and gaze out, wondering if this is what heaven looks like… and if I’ll ever make it there to find out.
Tray turns to face Simon.
TRAY
Why did you bring me here?
SIMON
Tray Spencer, meet Roselyn Moore… my wife.
TRAY
What…
Confused, Tray looks down at the tombstone beside Simon, sees the name he spoke of.
Roselyn Moore.
TRAY
I don’t understand…
Simon approaches the edge of the cliff, stares out at the landscape. Behind him, Tray stares blankly at the gravestone.
SIMON (CONT’D)
Yes, I was married once. I can’t even begin to describe how wonderful it felt. To love someone more than life itself, and know in your heart she loves you the same way back. But, I imagine I shouldn’t have to… you already know.
Tray turns, sure enough, Simon has his full attention.
TRAY
Simon…
SIMON
I’d never been in love before. Nor did I ever wish to be, how could a person yearn for something they’ve never experienced? Then, all at once, it hit me like a wave. After I’d gotten a taste, I knew could never go back to living without it. After all, why should I? I’d spent my entire life sacrificing for others; I thought I’d earned my peace. No more chasing monsters, no more emptiness. It was my time now.
He takes a slow breath, continues.
SIMON (CONT’D)
The church frowned upon our marriage of course, and through much debate, they allowed me to continue. But, in time… I realized I couldn’t do it any longer, not when there was someone praying for me to come home each and every night. Rather than put her through the torment, I packed my things and we were off. I turned my back on everything I’d ever known because my heart told me it was the right thing to do. And for those brief moments… I was happy. - Unfortunately, during my time as a Priest, I’d made a number of enemies. One in particular decided to take advantage of my recent marriage, and one dark night… he slaughtered my wife before my very eyes. I was without a blade, or any means of protection, but I charged him anyway, knowing, and silently hoping, he’d kill me as well.
Simon’s shoulders slouch, even though Tray can’t see his master’s face, he knows it pains him to recall such memories.
SIMON (CONT’D)
He beat me within an inch of my life. And as I lay there, broken, he knelt beside me. Only an inch from my ear he told me, a man such as myself deserved worse than death, that, death would be a release. He wanted me to go on knowing that I’d lost the only thing I’d ever loved… and that I brought it upon myself. - Then, he was gone, and I was left lying next to my wife. I didn’t have the strength to call for help; I didn’t have the strength to do anything but lay my head on her chest and cry. - I never saw the vampire again after that night. I suppose he never needed to come back for me. Why should he, he’d already hurt me… more than death ever could.
TRAY
You’re telling me this because of Serena…
SIMON
Yes.
TRAY
Damn it, Simon. This is different!
SIMON
You’re absolutely right, it’s worse. The two of you will put your lives on the line each night, and you know what, eventually the risks will get the better of -
TRAY
You were happier with your wife than you’d ever been before, is that not what you said?
SIMON
Tray, when Rosalyn died, it was as if a piece of my soul had died with her. No one deserves that kind of pain. It buries itself deep inside you, and no matter what you do, no matter how hard you try to vanquish it; it will never go away. Never.
TRAY
You can’t ask me to leave her; it’s not fair.
SIMON
Life isn’t fair!
Tray reels from the sudden outburst.
SIMON
You’re a Priest, and a Priest’s life is a lonely one. For your sake and those around you, that is how it must be. – I beg of you, don’t make the same mistake I did. If you do, you’ll spend the rest of your life regretting it. That, I promise.
TRAY
So, you’re telling me I’m to live out my entire life alone, with no one.
SIMON
It’s the only way.
Tray drops his head, obviously shaken by Simon’s words. His eyes close, a tear falls.
TRAY
Please, don’t make me choose…
CUT TO:
EXT. MEADOW - LATER
Tray sits against the tree unmoving. His eyes stare blankly forward, his face emotionless.
TRAY (V.O.)
“After my talk with Simon, the harsh realities of my life finally began to sink in. I knew I had a decision ahead of me, I just wasn’t sure which choice would hurt the least.”
A shadow overlaps Tray as he sits. His head darts to see who had joined him.
TRAY
Serena!
SERENA
Sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you.
Tray gets to his feet.
TRAY
No, you didn’t. It’s after dark when I start to get edgy out doors.
SERENA
I was worried about you.
TRAY
It’s all right. I was with Simon most of the day.
SERENA
That’s why I was worried.
TRAY
He was just… showing me the view.
She takes his hand, looks at him sympathetically.
SERENA
I know something’s wrong.
TRAY
I can’t see you anymore, Serena.
SERENA
What?? Is this because of Simon; is that it???
TRAY
No. - It’s because of me.
He takes his hand away from her, walks past. Serena keeps up with him, pleading.
SERENA
Why are you doing this??
TRAY
How can you ask me that? You know why. You knew why from your very first day here. No attachments, no emotions, we live our lives alone, for our sake and for those around us, that’s how it has to be.
She grabs his arm, stops him, and forces him to look at her.
SERENA
Listen to you! You sound like you’re reciting a speech! You don’t really believe that!
TRAY
It doesn’t matter what I believe, I can’t change the way things are.
SERENA
Yes you can! You can do anything you want with your life, no one can -
TRAY
This is our life Serena!
SERENA
No, our lives are whatever we wish them to be! And I wish to be with you! – We can walk away right now. We can leave this place behind us forever.
He turns his head, forces himself not to look at her.
SERENA
Tray, please, there’s nothing holding us here. Just… take my hand and let’s go.
She holds out her hand. He stares at it in sadness, but doesn’t take it. Serena begins to cry.
SERENA
Please…
He places a hand on her cheek. She nuzzles her face against it, knowing he’s about to say goodbye.
TRAY
I love you… more than you’ll ever know. - And I’m sorry.
Tears form in his eyes. He walks away from her without glancing back a single time.
TRAY (V.O.)
“We’ve all heard the saying ‘It’s better to love and lose, than never love at all.’ It’s obvious the people who say that, never tried it.”
EXT. GARDEN - DAY
Tray sits on the bench alone. The surrounding beauty is lost to him.
Jacob approaches.
JACOB
Serena left today.
TRAY
I know.
JACOB
She was hoping you’d say goodbye to her.
TRAY
Sorry to disappoint.
JACOB
Tray, my God, you haven’t spoken to the woman in over a month! I don’t know what Simon told you up on that hill but it sure as hell ruined your relationship with her. Don’t let it ruin your friendship too.
TRAY
It’s too late for that, Jacob.
JACOB
It’s not too late! If you’d stop being so damn stubborn, you’d see that! When she gets back with her master, you can pick up right where you left off.
TRAY
It’s not that easy.
JACOB
You don’t just -
TRAY
No, Jacob! Is that clear enough for you? No.
JACOB
Fine. You just do whatever the fuck you want. To hell with being happy, I forgot that’s not allowed. I suppose I should jump on the wagon, go back to my room, read a book, and feel sorry for myself, just like everyone else around here.
TRAY
If you wouldn’t mind, I’d like to be alone.
Jacob nods, walks away in anger. Behind him, Tray resumes his blank stare into nothingness.
EXT. MEADOW - DAY
A breeze blows through the late autumn grass.
TRAY (V.O.)
“If there was anything I became increasingly efficient at, it was pushing people away. How can a person feel the pain of loss when he holds nothing dear? But, the bond had been made. And I was about to find out, first hand, why our rules were established in the first place.”
Tray lies on his back in the middle of the field. He stares up at us with a calm level of peace that doesn’t last very long.
His face tenses, Serena’s image FLASHES into his mind. He darts to his feet, paces, and rubs his eyes, trying to purge her face from his mind. His head lifts, he sees -
An unfamiliar car is parked in front of the mansion.
INT. MANSION - LOBBY
Tray opens the front doors. A group of fellow Priests are talking to several strangers. Simon and Jacob emerge from the crowd. Simon motions Jacob to stay behind.
Tray studies their faces, what he finds isn’t reassuring. Simon approaches.
TRAY
What is it?
SIMON
Tray, something… something has happened. It’s Serena, she’s… Tray, Serena is dead.
TRAY
What??
Tray reels from the news. Simon continues.
SIMON
She and her master were on assignment, we’re not sure what exactly happened, we’re still looking into it… but we have reason to believe Tiberius is responsible.
TRAY
Tiberius…
SIMON
As you know, he and his men have been destroying churches, seeking out and murdering Priests for years now, and it -
TRAY
I want to see the body.
SIMON
What? No, Tray, you… you can’t.
TRAY
Don’t tell me what I can, and can’t do! I want to see the body, now!
SIMON
Tray, your last image of her should be through your memories, not from -
TRAY
You kept her from me.
SIMON
I was trying to save you from the pain you’re feeling now.
TRAY
Oh, well thanks. You did a bang up job.
SIMON
Listen to me -
TRAY
No! For once in your Goddamn life you listen to me!
Everyone is shocked from the sudden outburst. No one had expected such a thing from Tray.
TRAY (CONT’D)
You made me turn my back on the only girl I’d ever cared for in my life! If not for you and your stupid lectures, I would have left this place and lived the kind of life you keep denying me! Maybe then she’d still be alive!
SIMON
The choice was yours, I never…
Tray isn’t listening; he turns to walk away. Simon grabs his arm.
SIMON
Tray, don’t -
Tray spins, hits Simon in the jaw! He reels back from the impact.
TRAY
Don’t you ever touch me again!
Tray storms off.
Simon looks down, wondering where he’d gone so terribly wrong. And if the boy he loved as a son would ever forgive him.
PRIEST 1
That boy’s got a mean right hook.
Jacob glares angrily at the ignorant Priest, walks in pursuit of Tray.
INT. MANSION - TRAY’S ROOM - LATER
The door is open. Jacob enters.
Tray wraps his sword. On the bed lay a backpack clumsily stuffed with clothes. He looks up, sees Jacob.
TRAY
Save it.
JACOB
Where are you going?
TRAY
The hell away from here.
JACOB
So that’s it then? Things get hard so you tuck tail and run away. Am I right?
TRAY
That’s exactly right.
Tray takes his sword, grabs the backpack, and flings it over his shoulder. He starts for the door. Jacob holds out a hand to stop him.
JACOB
If you leave, they’re not going to let you come back.
TRAY
I’ll get over it.
He walks past, exits the room.
INT. TRAIN STATION - NIGHT
The station is deserted. Tray sits on a bench, awaiting his train. Numerous memories of Serena flood his mind.
Jacob approaches from behind.
JACOB
Train’s late, huh?
Tray comes back to his senses. Takes a deep breath.
TRAY
Any minute now.
Jacob smiles, walks around the bench; sits next to Tray.
TRAY
If you’re here to convince me to go back, you’re wasting your time.
JACOB
I understand you’re upset.
TRAY
You don’t understand a fucking thing! I killed her Jacob. Not Simon, not those blood sucking bastards… me… I’m the reason she’s dead.
JACOB
What’re you talking about?
TRAY
She asked me to leave, leave everything behind and start again with her. And if I had just… taken her hand and run as far away from all this as I could, it’d be her sitting next to me right now.
JACOB
No matter how responsible you feel, it wasn’t your fault.
TRAY
I’ll be the judge of that.
JACOB
In case you haven’t noticed, we live violent lives, Tray; tragedy seems to be a part of who we are. We may not -
TRAY
Just leave me alone.
Jacob stands, prepares to leave.
JACOB
She really did love you, you know.
Pay dirt. Tray winces; his emotions erupt in tears.
JACOB (CONT’D)
The one good thing about our job is; we know for a fact there’s a God. And everything happens for a reason. - You can curse the mistakes you’ve made all you want, but there’s nothing you can do to change them. Serena was a Priest, in more ways than one, she was dead already. What you had with her was wonderful, but she’s gone now. It’s not because of Simon; it’s not because of you. - Sometimes people just die.
TRAY
Not Serena.
JACOB
Yes Serena, and that’s life. Remember the time you spent together and be glad you had the chance to experience it.
TRAY
Why should I? All it does is remind me of something I’ll never have again.
JACOB
Why do you say that?
TRAY
Because; a Priest isn’t allowed to love.
JACOB
You’re not a Priest anymore; remember?
TRAY
Right.
Tray stands, grabs his things; walks off. Jacob quickly follows.
JACOB
Where are you going? You’ll miss your train.
TRAY
Shut up, you know exactly where I’m going.
Jacob smiles.
EXT. DRIVEWAY - LATER
Tray and Jacob walk in silence. Then, in the distance, they see FIRE LIGHTENED SMOKE billowing into the sky.
JACOB
Oh my God…
TRAY
Is… is that -
JACOB
Come on!
They take off into the night.
INT. MANSION - LOBBY - SAME
The sight is amazing! FIRE dances about the walls, lighting the entire lobby with its glow.
In the carnage below, Simon fights valiantly among his fellow Priests. From behind, he hears -
TIBERIUS
Priest.
Simon turns. Tiberius’ impressive frame, steps in front of us. Though we can’t see his face, Simon’s shocked eyes reveal that he knows him all too well.
SIMON
I don’t believe it…
EXT. MANSION - LATER
The mansion is completely ENGULFED in flame. Tray throws down his things as he runs for the front doors. The two enter the flaming juggernaut.
INT. MANSION – LOBBY - SAME
Tray and Jacob enter the BLINDING lobby; swords lay scattered, indicating fallen Priests alongside dozens of bodies littering the floor!
Tray kneels beside one of them, checks for a pulse. To his surprise, it jerks to life and grabs his arm with a DEMONIC growl! Tray SCREAMS at the sight of the creature’s horrid GLOWING green eyes and long PROTRUDED fangs! He struggles to free his arm as the creature prepares to bite!
Jacob takes Tray’s sword from its wrap on his back, quickly drives it into the monster! With its grip gone, Tray stumbles back in shock.
TRAY
Vampires!!!
JACOB
I noticed!
TRAY
I… I’ve never seen one before!
JACOB
Yeah, well you’re about to see a whole lot more!
Among the carnage, several remaining vampires rush toward them! Jacob tosses Tray his sword, kicks another from the ground into his hands. Tray gets to his feet as Jacob twirls his blade, cutting through the monsters with ease! Then, a half dozen more notice the commotion. They charge through the flames to attack!
Back to back, Jacob and Tray defend themselves. The creatures are little match for the vengeful Priests. In a matter of seconds, they join the fallen.
JACOB
See if anyone’s still alive down here! I’ll check upstairs for wounded!
Tray barely acknowledges him.
JACOB
Tray???
TRAY
I heard you!!!
Although worried for his friend, Jacob pulls away, runs up the stairs.
Tray searches for survivors.
Several vampires emerge from a corridor. They see him immediately and charge!
Tray steps back, looks up in awe, at another CRAWLING along the very ceiling toward him! Tray searches the ground for another weapon, takes a fellow Priest’s sword.
Tray skillfully twirls the two blades, cuts the creatures down one by one!
The remaining vampire leaps from the ceiling with a vicious HOWL!
SLOW TIME -
Tray hurls the spare sword like a boomerang! It SINKS into the vampire with incredible force, halting it in midair!
TIME RESUMES -
The creature crashes to the floor!
Tray holds his katana, calmly awaiting another attack. Fortunately, one doesn’t come.
A hand brushes against his ankle. He jerks back, nearly driving his sword into the man reaching for him. Then, recognizes the face of -
TRAY
Simon!!
Lying in a pool of his own blood, the venerable Priest reaches out for help. Tray takes him into his arms, runs for the doors.
Behind them, the great chandelier drops to the floor in a magnificent EXPLOSION of fire and glass!
EXT. MANSION - SAME
Tray drags Simon to a safe distance from the building, falls to the ground. He lifts Simon’s head in hopes he can pull through.
SIMON
He… he came for me… after all…
Simon’s body goes limp. Tray holds him tight.
TRAY
Oh God, No! Simon!!!
Jacob dashes out the doors just before the archway collapses, sealing the entrance to the great mansion forever. He sees Simon in Tray’s arms, slumps to the ground in grief.
Unable to hold back any longer, Tray releases an agonizing SCREAM into the night.
EXT. GRAVEYARD - DAY
Kneeling, Tray places a rose on Serena’s grave. A tear falls from his emotionless face.
Jacob approaches. Tray stands.
TRAY
I don’t need comforting.
JACOB
Yeah, well I do.
TRAY
It didn’t have to be this way, Jacob. If only I’d stayed.
JACOB
Then we’d be dead.
TRAY
I should have died with them.
JACOB
Believe me, I feel the same. But, wishing won’t make it so. - Please talk to me.
Silence.
JACOB (CONT’D)
I’m leaving in the morning. The council wants to move everyone out without suffering any more casualties. They think after Serena and her master were killed, Tiberius followed the bodies back to the mansion. - They found over eighty vampires in the ruins; it’s pretty safe to assume Tiberius was one of them.
TRAY
Then the war is finally over. We should be thankful.
JACOB
Listen to you. Yes, these people did die. But what hurts the most… is that you did too.
No response.
JACOB (CONT’D)
Do me a favor. When you look down on me from heaven, don’t worry; I’ll get by. After all, you know what the best thing about life is? – It goes on.
Tray recognizes the words. He turns, but Jacob is already walking away from him.
TRAY
I’ve noticed…
We pull back revealing, dozens, upon dozens, upon dozens of fresh graves! If the war was indeed over, it came at a heavy price.
TRAY (V.O.)
“The following years seemed to meld together, one after another. I felt nothing, no anger, nor sadness, no pleasure… nothing but cold numbing emptiness. It was as if I was living in a dream I was forbidden to wake up from. Unfortunately, the past never dies, you can run from it all you like, but eventually it comes rushing back to you.”
EXT. HAVEN CITY - STREETS - NIGHT
“Seven years later”
We see a wide shot of Haven City. What a sight to behold! The massive juggernaut SHIMMERS like stars in the velvet sky. SNOW falls around us, giving the city a strange feeling of mysticism.
Whatever force keeping us in the sky seems to wear thin. We find ourselves FREE FALLING to the buildings below.
We SWEEP through the city in a DIZZYING manner, finally finding our target, coming to rest on -
Three figures walk softly through the SNOW. On one side is CARLOS; large and menacing, tattoos cover his body and face. On the other is PENELOPE; young, attractive, sporting silver lipstick and blue hair. Between them is the real oddball, DENNIS, a small and frail man, who clutches his oversized coat tightly to his body.
We move across the street to see a man watching them from the darkness.
The three enter an alley.
The man’s cigarette flares from a deep hit. He tosses it away, steps into the light, revealing the face of –
Jacob Payne. He’s 26 now and a very attractive young man, wearing a long black overcoat and a priest’s collar. Smoke escapes through his nostrils. He walks to pursue. His coat billows behind him like a cape. He reaches inside, pulls out his katana.
EXT. ALLEY - SAME
After the three are a good distance from the street, Penelope tosses Dennis into a wall with incredible force! He lets out a quick SCREAM of fear.
She’s on him in an instant! Quieting him with a hand over his mouth. She looks him over, smiles seductively. We don’t know if she means him harm or pleasure.
PENELOPE
Do you want this?
DENNIS
Yes.
To his surprise, the woman’s eyes MORPH into demonic GLOWING cat eyes! Her canines also change, GROWING over twice their original size! Although her beauty was thrown out the door upon transformation, Dennis can’t resist her. She seems to hold some sort of power over him he’s unaware of.
She speaks again, but her voice is deeper, ALTERED in some vile way.
PENELOPE
Tell me you want it.
DENNIS
I want it… oh, God; I want it…
Carlos watches with GLOWING eyes and a wide grin.
Penelope lunges into the shivering man’s face, kissing him deeply. Blood trickles from his mouth. He begins to squirm.
She pulls back with a smile, looks to the sky, licking his blood from her lips with a laugh. She tilts his head slowly to the side. Just before her teeth pierce skin, a THUMP is heard from behind. She turns.
Jacob stands behind them, their comrade dead at his feet, katana to his side. Blood drips from the blade.
JACOB
You should never kiss on the first date.
PENELOPE
Priest!
She releases her prey, charges after Jacob! He starts after her as well.
Just before the two collide, he slashes out at the creature. She LEAPS into the air, narrowly missing the blade! He turns, watches her land softly in the SNOW. There’s a certain grace about her he admires.
He advances toward her, this time ready and waiting for any tricks up her sleeve. She strikes out with ferocity and the deep throaty GROWL of an animal!
Jacob skillfully cuts her legs out from under her, drives his sword into the woman’s chest. Her eyes DIM, her skin PALES, TIGHTENING against her face like overstretched leather. And as the last breath of air escapes her lips, the monster is dead.
Dennis SCREAMS out in anger; attacks Jacob! He pounds his weak fists into Jacob several times before he’s flung to the ground.
JACOB
What the hell are you doing, I just saved your life!
DENNIS
Saved my life??? She was my only chance for life! You just killed us both!
Dennis coughs violently. We see him in a frail shape; it’s obvious he’s suffering from some sort of disease.
JACOB
You’re dying…
Dennis nods his head. Jacob turns to escape his saddened eyes.
JACOB
There’re alternatives to vampirism, you know.
SHIVERING MAN
Like what?
In a blink, Jacob spins, slashing his blade across Dennis’ throat! We hold on Jacob’s slightly regretful face.
EXT. VATICAN CITY – SUNSET
The city is beautiful to say the least. Deep colors flood the sky.
INT. COUNCIL’S CHAMBER – SAME
A grand table sits in the center of the chamber. Black lights stretch from floor to ceiling in each of the corners.
Malcolm sits among his fellow councilmen. A vote is taking place, one by one, each present responds with “yes”. The vote reaches Malcolm. He looks up, stern with his decision and full of pride.
MALCOLM
No.
COUNCIL LEADER
So be it. The motion is passed.
Malcolm’s eyes drop in disappointment.
INT. HALL – LATER
Malcolm emerges from the chamber doors into a vast hall. Large pillars surround him.
A man quickly rises from a chair, joins Malcolm’s pace.
MALCOLM
Damn fools, every one of them. – Arrange a flight to Coast City.
MAN
Sir?
MALCOLM
I’ll give him the orders myself. He shouldn’t have to read of them through some letter.
MAN
But…
MALCOLM
Just do it!
The man stops in his tracks, confused. Malcolm continues, never breaking stride.
MALCOLM
I want to be there by morning!
INT. CHAMBER - NIGHT
Darkness. The cell door opens, light sprays into the room, revealing –
Jacob rests on the floor, his face is dirty, and chains link his wrists to the wall behind him. He raises his head.
Vampires enter, smiling viciously with bared fangs.
Jacob scrambles, struggling to get away from them.
INT. DINING ROOM – LATER
Jacob lies strapped atop a makeshift stainless-steel dining table. Numerous channels lead from the center where he lay to the waiting cups of over a dozen vampires.
They look onto him with hungry eyes and hideous smiles. One of them approaches him holding a knife. He SCREAMS, thrashes about on the table, struggling to break free.
The vampire cuts open Jacob’s shirt, reveals his bare chest. The vampire sways the knife tauntingly, only inches from Jacob’s chest. Jacob spits at the creature in defiance. With a deviant smile, the vampire slowly sinks the blade into Jacob’s stomach! Jacob SCREAMS in agony. Then –
The doors to the dining room burst open! A half dozen Priest’s pour inside! The creatures scurry about.
The vampire beside Jacob GROWLS angrily, pulls the knife from his gut and raises it high above his head. Before he can plunge the blade into Jacob’s chest, a Priest raises a crossbow and fires a silver stake into its back.
The vampire drops the knife, falls forward, onto Jacob. He lay helpless, watching, as the creature dies in front of his eyes.
As the other vampires attending are slaughtered, Jacob’s blood drips into the surrounding goblets.
INT. JACOB’S APARTMENT – BEDROOM – NIGHT
Jacob jerks to life in his bed with a SCREAM! Sweat glistens his forehead. He reaches to his stomach, grazes his fingers over a large scar. With a deep sigh, he lays back in his bed.
JACOB
Please God; help me find the strength to –
CABE (O.S.)
You don’t really think he’s listening, do you?
Jacob springs to his feet. He scans the room, sees nobody.
JACOB
Who’s there???
CABE (O.S.)
You pour your heart and soul into him, looking for answers that never come. – And when you fight the good fight, in his honor. And how does he repay you? With loneliness… sorrow… the torturous yearning for something you can never have… happiness.
The room is still empty. Jacob rubs his eyes.
JACOB
I must be going insane…
When his eyes open, CABE, a towering and intimidating man, standing well over six feet, is standing in the shadows at the foot of his bed! Jacob looks onto him in shock. He instinctively grabs his katana.
CABE
(Laughs)
Put it away. If I meant harm, your blade would do little to protect you.
JACOB
Who are you??
CABE
Consider me your savior. After all, I’ve come to offer you something God could not.
JACOB
And what’s that?
CABE
Life.
Close on Jacob’s confused face. His eyes seem to peer into our very souls.
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. COAST CITY - TRAY’S BEDROOM - DAY
Tray stares back at us as Jacob had a moment ago.
We pull back to the ceiling’s point of view and see him lying in bed. His eyes are tired but sleep eludes him.
The phone RINGS. He answers.
TRAY
Yeah.
MALCOLM (O.S.)
Were you sleeping?
TRAY
Soundly.
MALCOLM (O.S.)
Well, it’s a beautiful day outside, why don’t you meet me in the park for a walk.
TRAY
Meet you… you’re in Coast City?
MALCOLM (O.S.)
I’ll see you in half an hour.
The line goes dead before Tray can respond. He hangs up the phone, lies back in bed with a sigh.
EXT. PARK - LATER
Malcolm is dressed in a fine suit, as always, and stands hands in pockets. He gazes around with a tranquil smile; enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
Tray approaches, wearing similar attire and neatly styled hair.
MALCOLM
Mr. Spencer. Good morning to you.
They shake hands. Tray greets him with fondness in his words.
TRAY
Malcolm, it’s good to see you again. It’s been some time.
The two begin walking.
MALCOLM
It hasn’t been that long.
TRAY
Four years.
MALCOLM
(Smiles)
Four years… where does the time go.
TRAY
What’s the occasion?
MALCOLM
You look tired.
Tray reaches into his jacket, pulls out a pair of sunglasses with deep blue lenses. He places them over his eyes.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
Still not sleeping?
TRAY
It’ll pass.
MALCOLM
I can schedule another meeting with Dr. Fenton if you like.
TRAY
No. No more doctors. - You’re delaying something.
MALCOLM
I’ve got a job for you up north.
TRAY
A job. I haven’t been a point man in over a year. Certainly there must be other Priests you could send.
MALCOLM
Believe me, I tried. But, the council chose you because of your experience with the… target.
Tray stops, confused.
TRAY
Okay. You have my attention.
MALCOLM
He’s a friend of yours, you see, a very old friend.
TRAY
(Shakes his head)
Well, I’ve only had one friend all my life… so; you know what you’re asking of me.
MALCOLM
Yes.
Tray looks away. He stares out at the park around him, deep in thought.
TRAY
Jacob Payne. - He’s always been somewhat of a rogue, but nothing that would justify this, not by a long shot.
MALCOLM
Regardless, this is the assignment, take it or leave it.
TRAY
No.
He resumes walking. Malcolm stands still.
MALCOLM
He’s broken all ties with us, no one has heard from him in over a month.
TRAY
Then he’s probably dead. I don’t want to hear anymore.
MALCOLM
He’s killing mortals.
Tray turns. Although we can’t see them, we know his eyes are serious.
TRAY
That’s not possible.
MALCOLM
Seventeen that we know of so far, four of which occurred in the past week. - That’s why he must be stopped, now.
TRAY
What’s come over him?
MALCOLM
I don’t know. As I said, he’s dropped all communication with us. You’ll have to find that out for yourself.
TRAY
And kill him. - Right?
MALCOLM
Yes, you’ll have to take his life. A rogue Priest mustn’t be allowed to live. With the knowledge he holds and the skills he possesses, he’d be a danger to society and himself.
TRAY
I assume I have no choice in the matter?
MALCOLM
Afraid not. The arrangements have been made. An apartment has been set for you, and a car is waiting behind the building. You’ll find his last known address when you get there, and you’re expected to check in with Father Gregory, of course.
TRAY
(Sarcastic)
Oh, of course.
Tray chuckles.
TRAY
You people. -
MALCOLM
Eleven of the twelve council members voted to send you. I was the only one, apparently, that saw the potential harm in reawakening -
TRAY
A troubled past.
Malcolm hands Tray a plane ticket.
MALCOLM
You leave first thing tomorrow morning.
Close up of “Haven City, Michigan” as the ticket’s destination point.
INT. PLANE - MORNING
TRAY (V.O.)
“My new assignment flooded me with a sensation I hadn’t felt in years. Anger. I knew not to blame Malcolm. Ever since Simon’s death, he followed my career with watchful eyes, always there to offer guidance. But, how on earth could he expect me to hunt a man I loved as a brother… and take his life?”
Tray sits silently. He stares blankly through the window at the massive city below.
PILOT (O.S.)
We’re now beginning our final approach into Haven City. Again, I thank you for flying with us this morning, just sit back and we’ll have you on the ground in no time.
INT. HAVEN CITY - AIRPORT - LATER
Tray walks from the gate into the airport. His flight companions greet friends and loved ones with smiles and warm embraces. He has no one.
EXT. APARTMENT BUILDING - DAY
A cab pulls up. Tray emerges, pays the driver. He enters the front doors.
INT. TRAY’S APARTMENT - LATER
Tray enters, looks around him, instantly surprised by the luxurious home. It’s fully furnished and kept sparkling clean. Large windows decorate an entire wall while a staircase leads to the second floor and bedroom.
Multiple bags and suitcases sit on the apartment floor in front of him with a note attached. Tray approaches, sees Jacob’s address written inside. He folds the paper and stuffs it in his shirt pocket. He notices his sword resting atop his things.
EXT. STREETS - APARTMENT BUILDING - DAY
Tray walks the sidewalk wearing a light gray overcoat and sunglasses.
He makes his way to another apartment building, attempts to enter. The door is locked.
He looks around, trying to think. Before anything comes to him, an elderly woman emerges from the doors. Surprised, Tray grabs the door while it’s open, smiles at her.
TRAY
Must have forgot my key.
INT. HALLWAY - LATER
Tray finds the apartment he’s looking for. He raises his hand to knock. With a chuckle, he shakes his head, lowers his hand.
INT. JACOB’S APARTMENT - SAME
The door launches open, splinters from the frame, spray toward us. Tray steps inside.
Silence.
The apartment is empty.
After a quick run through the apartment and discovering month old milk in the refrigerator, he realizes the apartment has been deserted for some time.
He rummages through a desk, shuffling through papers. A photograph falls to the floor. He leans down, takes the photograph in hand.
There’s writing on the back, obscured by his fingers. He flips the picture, revealing the face of a handsome stranger. The face of -
EXT. STREETS - NIGHT
LUC DEPARDIEU, early thirties, walks quietly. He stops in his tracks, feeling someone following him. He turns; sees nothing.
LUC
Huh.
He resumes walking.
TRAY (O.S.)
Luc Depardieu.
Luc spins around.
Tray stands in the shadows in front of him.
LUC
How the…
Tray steps into the light of a nearby street lamp. He wears similar clothing to Jacob, a black overcoat, black clothes, and a Priest’s collar.
Luc’s eyes open wide, recognizing the familiar wardrobe of -
LUC
A Priest!
Luc’s eyes MORPH; his canines GROW.
TRAY
Whoa now, I didn’t -
Too late, Luc lunges at him, swinging for his head! Tray ducks the attack and bats away several more as they come. He backs up along the sidewalk, blocking every blow thrown at him. Luc manages to grab hold of him, TOSSES him into the street!
Tray rolls to a stop on the pavement; looks down. Luc is in midair heading straight for him! Tray rolls back just before Luc’s fist slams into the street! Luc looks up; Tray is already to his feet.
The two fight, both seemingly experts in the art of hand-to-hand combat.
SLOW TIME –
Tray leaps into the air and delivers a brutal spin kick into Luc’s jaw!
TIME RESUMES –
Luc stumbles back. They make their way onto the sidewalk. Luc punches at Tray’s chest. He wraps his arm around Luc’s and throws him against a wall. Before Luc can move, Tray pins him, drives a dagger into the building, only inches from Luc’s head!
Tray releases him; steps back.
TRAY
If I wanted to kill you just now, I would have.
He pulls his knife from the wall.
LUC
What do you want?
TRAY
Jacob Payne.
LUC
Who??
Tray reaches inside his coat, pulls out Luc’s picture, throws it in his face. Luc looks at the photo in shock.
LUC
What the hell?
TRAY
Your address is on the back. - Now, why would he have your photograph if you didn’t know him?
LUC
How should I know?
Tray grabs Luc, forces him back against the wall, this time, with the dagger at his throat!
TRAY
Where is he???
LUC
I swear to you, I have no idea who you’re talking about!!!
Tray eases off. Luc’s sincerity is undeniable.
TRAY
You really don’t, do you. - This doesn’t make any sense. Unless…
LUC
Unless what?
TRAY
Unless; he wanted me to find you.
EXT. ROOFTOP – SAME
Jacob looks down on the two with a pair of ultramodern binoculars. He lowers them from his eyes, smiles.
JACOB
Son-of-a-bitch… Tray Spencer. Then, the game’s begun.
INT. TRAY’S APARTMENT - BEDROOM - MORNING
Tray lies in bed. Again, he stares blankly at the ceiling. An alarm clock SOUNDS. He takes a deep breath, continues staring.
EXT. CATHEDRAL - DAY
TRAY (V.O.)
“Have you ever played a game of chess you knew you were going to lose? Even before the first move is made, you can tell by your opponent’s eyes, he’s got you. The disadvantage of my situation, is that I couldn’t see Jacob’s eyes… I never knew what was coming.”
An Aston Martin slows to a stop in front of the cathedral. Sunlight GLISTENS off the silver surface of the beautiful car. Tray emerges from the vehicle, wearing his sunglasses. He looks up at the massive structure.
INT. CATHEDRAL - LATER
Tray dips several vials into holy water. He bottles up two, puts them in his overcoat. As he dips the third, he looks up, sees an incredible statue of Jesus hanging from the crucifix.
TRAY
The suffering never stops, does it?
FATHER GREGORY (O.S.)
Can I help you, son?
Tray turns to see, or at least see the chest of FATHER GREGORY, a tall middle-aged man with a thick mustache and gentle smile beneath.
TRAY
Father Gregory?
FATHER GREGORY
Yes?
TRAY
I need to talk to you… regarding Jacob Payne.
FATHER GREGORY
(Smiles)
Priest Spencer, they told me you were coming.
(Motions forward)
My office is this way.
Tray follows.
FATHER GREGORY (CONT’D)
I’ve heard a lot about you. Your exploits rival Priest Gabriel himself.
TRAY
You flatter me, Father. I could only hope to amount to half the man Gabriel has become.
Gregory looks at Tray, smiles.
FATHER GREGORY
Hmm, well played. Most Priests your age are… arrogant, conceited and stupid.
TRAY
Dead too.
FATHER GREGORY
Don’t be too hard on yourself; the night’s still young.
INT. CATHEDRAL - PRIEST’S STUDY - LATER
Tray looks over the countless books littering the study. He smiles at the sight of a computer, not even a year old, collecting dust and cluttered with books. He casually strolls alongside a massive bookshelf until something catches his eye. He reaches for a book titled “Vlad Tepes Dracula”, pulls it from its place and opens it in his hands.
Inside are various pictures and portraits of the horrible man and the atrocities he committed.
Gregory enters holding two cups of tea. Tray quickly returns the book to its place.
FATHER GREGORY
Boning up on some history?
TRAY
You know computers are supposed to replace books.
FATHER GREGORY
Then why do they come with one?
Gregory hands Tray his drink.
TRAY
Thanks.
Gregory takes a seat behind his desk. Tray sits on the opposite side.
FATHER GREGORY
I have little faith in technology. When it fails, where does that leave you? Besides, I can’t type, so I stick to ink, and this.
Gregory taps his temple.
TRAY
Well, maybe your head can help me. Jacob reported to you on a regular basis, were there ever any signs of turmoil or anything that may have pushed him over the edge?
FATHER GREGORY
No; not that I’m aware of. He liked to keep to himself. If there were something bothering him, he wouldn’t have told me about it.
TRAY
There are vampires on file that posses the ability of telepathy and hypnotics. Do you think it’s possible…
Gregory looks at Tray with sympathetic eyes.
FATHER GREGORY
That one, for some reason or the other, got into his mind and made him do these things?
TRAY
I guess that sounds a bit idiotic when spoken out loud. Bear with me; I know I’m reaching. It’s just hard for me to accept that Jacob -
FATHER GREGORY
Has lost his faith.
TRAY
Yes.
FATHER GREGORY
Men that lead dark lives can sometimes be consumed by that darkness. It roots itself inside them, changing them, corrupting them. I’m sorry to say, it seem Jacob has fallen into this pit. I believe you have only the best of intentions for your friend but, if his death means lives will be spared then… Jacob Payne must die.
TRAY
No.
Tray sets his drink on the desk, stands.
TRAY
Circumstances change, father, the world itself changes around us but people… people never change. There is still good in him, and I intend to find it.
FATHER GREGORY
May God help you in your quest for his redemption, but don’t expect anyone else to.
Tray turns, walks to the door to leave.
FATHER GREGORY
Tray, if you open yourself to these events, you risk the same corruption that befell your friend. Then it will be you in his place, running from the sword meant for your head.
Tray exits, closes the door behind him.
EXT. STREETS – NIGHT
Tray converses with Luc.
TRAY (V.O.)
“Father Gregory’s words frightened me. I couldn’t imagine the feeling of being hunted. Serving the cause so loyally, only to be next on the termination list for your troubles. With my run out, I frequently met with Luc. So far, he was my only link to Jacob. Our trust was thin, but I assured him the only thing that mattered was finding Jacob, once I had, Luc would never hear from me again. He seemed to like the sound of that.”
EXT. ALLEY - NIGHT
JASMINE BAIL is thrown against a dumpster.
Three men, SEBASTIAN, DUNCAN, and ANTHONY, common thugs, surround her immediately.
Anthony forces himself onto her. She kicks at him, SCREAMS, hoping someone might hear. Duncan silences her with a gun pressed firmly to her face.
DUNCAN
Scream one more time and you’ll get the barrel of this gun in your mouth instead of our dicks. - You got it?
With wide eyes and a trembling body, she nods.
Sebastian unzips his pants. He reaches inside.
TRAY
Stop.
Surprised, everyone turns, looking for the person behind the voice. There, they see Tray, standing confident, passive, and apparently unthreatening.
DUNCAN
Where the fuck did you come from?
SEBASTIAN
C’mon, get rid of this guy, I can’t do this with someone watching me?
TRAY
(Smiles)
Leave the girl and walk away, and I promise you there will be no blood spilled.
The three men laugh. Jasmine gazes at Tray with terror stricken eyes, hoping against hope that the men will listen.
DUNCAN
And uh… if we don’t… blood will be spilled?
TRAY
Most likely.
DUNCAN
Yours?
TRAY
Probably not, but anything’s possible.
Tray steps toward them; the men seem uneasy with his confidence.
DUNCAN
Yeah? This tells something else.
Tray comes to a stop with his chest against the gun barrel. Duncan looks at Tray with confusion.
DUNCAN
Crazy motherfucker, do you want to get shot?
TRAY
How can you shoot me with a gun that doesn’t fire?
DUNCAN
Huh?
Tray smacks the gun away and slaps Duncan in the face. With a smile, Duncan raises the gun once more, aims directly at Tray’s face.
DUNCAN
You just made the last mistake of your life.
Duncan pulls the trigger and -
Nothing.
He looks at his gun, confused. The entire top piece of the pistol had been completely removed! Tray opens his palm, letting the piece drop freely to the ground.
DUNCAN
What the fuck?
TRAY
Don’t do it…
Anthony attacks! Tray is a blur of motion, dodging Anthony’s every blow!
Jasmine uses the distraction to try and escape. Sebastian grabs her quickly, throws her back against the wall.
SEBASTIAN
Where the fuck do you think you’re going?
Duncan tosses his gun away, joins the fight. Tray blocks both men’s attacks with ease. He finds an opening, kicks Anthony in the chest, knocking him flat on his back.
Duncan swings at Tray’s head. Tray grabs the man’s arm, snaps it behind his back, and drives an elbow into Duncan’s back! Duncan stumbles face first into the dumpster, shattering his nose.
Sebastian reaches inside his jacket for a weapon. Before he can grasp anything, a dagger sinks into his wrist, pinning it to his stomach! He stumbles backward, falling to the ground with agonizing SCREAMS.
TRAY
(To Jasmine)
Go!
Jasmine runs for her life.
Anthony grabs a piece of pipe lying next to him. He gets to his feet. Tray avoids several swings, grabs the pipe from Anthony’s hands, and smashes it into the man’s head!
Sebastian lies against the dumpster. He pulls the dagger from his wrist with a painful CRY.
TRAY
That’s mine.
As Sebastian looks up in fear, Tray slams the pipe into the side of his head! He tosses the pipe aside, takes his dagger from the ground, and wipes the blood from it onto Sebastian’s clothes. Tray sheathes the dagger, reaches inside Sebastian’s coat, and pulls out a small firearm. He stands, removes the clip from the gun, and tosses it into the dumpster. Gravel CRUNCHES behind him. Tray turns, sees Jasmine.
TRAY
What are you doing? I told you to -
JASMINE
Look out!!!
Behind him, Anthony LEAPS into the air with a vicious GROWL, his eyes GLOWING brightly in the surrounding darkness!
He tackles Tray to alley floor! Tray kicks him away, looks into his eyes, realizes the man is a vampire. They get to their feet.
TRAY
All right.
Tray reaches inside his coat, draws his katana. Anthony lunges at him. Tray steps back, avoiding the vampire’s attacks, and drives his katana into the creature’s gut! It HOWLS in pain, grabs the sword, looks at Tray with ferocity.
The vampire slams a powerful blow into Tray’s ribs. The impact sends him FLYING nearly a dozen yards!
Tray skids to a stop on the alley floor. He stands.
The vampire pulls the katana slowly from its stomach, tosses it aside. Then, amazingly, grabs the massive dumpster beside him, and HURLS it at Tray!
With wide, panicked eyes, Tray drops to the ground. The dumpster flies overhead, barely missing him, and CRASHES to the ground!
Anthony LEAPS onto the alley wall, SCAMPERING alongside it like a spider, heading straight for Tray! Tray reaches inside his coat, takes his dagger in hand.
Anthony LUNGES from the wall!
SLOW TIME –
Tray dives back, hoping to absorb the brunt of impact. As Anthony tackles into him, Tray impales him with his blade!
TIME RESUMES –
The two crash into the ground!
Slowly, Tray stands. Breathing heavily, he walks to his sword, takes it from the ground. He approaches the creature, lifts his sword, and severs the vampire’s head, making damn sure it wasn’t getting to its feet ever again.
Tray looks around him. The vampire’s fallen comrades had disappeared without a trace. Unfortunately, the battle had taken its toll on him. The alley begins spinning. The last image Tray sees is the distorted image of Jasmine running toward him. Then, He collapses to the alley floor.
INT. TRAY’S APARTMENT - LATER
Tray wakes, lying on his couch. Still groggy, he rubs his eyes and looks down. His shirt had been removed and his ribs are securely wrapped in bandages.
TRAY
That’s… odd.
Footsteps are heard approaching from another room. Startled, Tray tries to sit up, but is overwhelmed in pain. He clutches his ribs, drops back to the sofa.
Jasmine enters carrying a bottle of painkillers.
JASMINE
You’re awake.
TRAY
Obviously.
She hands the bottle to Tray.
JASMINE
Here. I couldn’t very well give them to you while you were asleep.
Tray pops the cap, swigs the bottle, chewing several of them down.
JASMINE
That’s the healthy way to do it. I can see you’ve had nights like this before.
TRAY
Strangely enough, I don’t usually have dumpsters thrown at me, nor wake up to a strange woman in my home. That being said, what are you doing here? How did you know where I lived?
JASMINE
You told me.
TRAY
I beg your pardon?
JASMINE
You were pretty out of it in the alley, I wanted to take you to a hospital, but you wouldn’t let me. You insisted on coming here and… you don’t remember any of this, do you?
TRAY
No, I’m sorry. My ribs?
JASMINE
I’m no doctor, but I don’t think they’re broke. You did have a little piece of glass sticking out of your head. I saved it in case you wanted a souvenir.
TRAY
I’ll add it to the rest.
Tray reaches to set the painkillers on the coffee table, pain, again, ensues. Jasmine quickly takes the bottle from his hands and places it down for him.
TRAY
Thank you.
JASMINE
Can I ask a question?
TRAY
If I say no, will you ask anyway?
JASMINE
No.
TRAY
Then, by all means, ask away.
JASMINE
What the hell was that thing?
TRAY
You wouldn’t believe me if I told you.
JASMINE
So far tonight, I was nearly raped, saved by some psycho priest with a sword, watched him go kung fu on my attackers, but that… yeah, that was before the weird man with glowing eyes threw a dumpster at him, crawled alongside a wall, and got decapitated. So, I think it’s fair to say my ears are open to about anything right now.
TRAY
The weird man with glowing eyes wasn’t a man at all; he was a vampire.
JASMINE
A vampire? Okay, sure a vampire… I guess that makes sense.
TRAY
(Laughs)
You don’t believe me, do you?
JASMINE
If you said Spider-man, I’d be fine, but my grasp on reality stops at Bram Stoker.
TRAY
You asked.
JASMINE
And I expected a straight answer.
TRAY
I gave you the only answer there was to give.
JASMINE
Right. I’m going to go home now, drink until I pass out, and if I’m lucky, in the morning I’ll think tonight was a drunken fantasy.
She takes her coat from the chair, turns to the door.
TRAY
You can’t go home.
JASMINE
Why, are there werewolves in my closet?
TRAY
(Sighs)
I hate this part. What’s your name?
JASMINE
Jasmine.
TRAY
All right, Jasmine, you want a straight answer? Listen close. Vampires have existed among us for hundreds, maybe thousands of years. In the 15th century the Order of the Dragon… a society of knights who defended Christianity, lost one of their own to assassination. Later, his son, Vlad Tepes, or Dracula, began a power play for Wallachia. He was responsible for many horrors, and died in battle against the Turks. But, that’s where the history books stop. In actuality, Dracula survived the battle, and disappeared into the countryside. Years later, he returned, resuming his war, but attacking only after dusk. The Turks pleaded for help, Constantinople responded and sent the Order of the Dragon to assist. Though his men fell, Dracula could not be killed. – A trap was devised. The order set countless Wallachian villages ablaze, and when Dracula sought vengeance, he was entombed. The order realized Vlad was not the only one of his kind and vowed to hunt vampires tirelessly until each and every one was destroyed. Although many governments know of the conflict, it was to never spread to the people. Should it, panic would follow. And those that do stumble across these events… if found… are killed in order to assure their silence.
She sets her coat down, looks back at him in dread.
JASMINE
So you… you have to kill me?
TRAY
No, but the police will. They clean up after the vampire as if they were pets. Oh, they’ll make it look like suicide, or a violent break-in, anything to ensure that the truth remains silent. But, what it all boils down to, if they find you, they will kill you.
JASMINE
Let’s say, just for one second, I believed you, how would they even know I was in that alley tonight?
TRAY
Where’s your purse?
Jasmine looks back to her coat, her head drops in embarrassment.
JASMINE
I… dropped it after they grabbed me…
TRAY
Jasmine, I realize how this must sound. You may not believe me, you may even think I’m insane, but, the truth is, if you step out that door, I won’t be able to protect you.
JASMINE
Then, what am I supposed to do??
TRAY
If you want to live, you can never go back. My time here is limited, when I’m through, I’ll take you with me. The Church will give you a new life; you’ll be able to start all over again.
JASMINE
What if I don’t want to start over?? I like my life the way it is!
TRAY
It’s up to you. You have two choices, and only one offers a future.
Hold on Jasmine.
INT. TRAY’S APARTMENT - BEDROOM - LATER
The bedroom is quiet, dark. The door opens; Tray and Jasmine enter. He flips on the light.
TRAY
You can sleep here.
Jasmine sits on the bed. She looks around, seemingly lost.
TRAY
Are you all right?
JASMINE
No…
(Laughs)
I’ve never been more, not all right.
TRAY
It’s a lot to take in, I know. Just try to get some rest. I’ll see you in the morning.
He moves toward the door.
JASMINE
Wait. I just… I just wanted to thank you. I’m not sure about… a lot of things right now, but you did save my life.
TRAY
And you saved mine.
He exits the room, closes the door behind him.
INT. LIVING ROOM - LATER
Tray lies on the couch, unable to sleep. He removes the blanket from him, sits up.
He walks to the windows, gazes out. An incredible view of Haven City lay beyond.
TRAY (V.O.)
“Ever since the mansion, it was no secret I had trouble sleeping. Although, I convinced myself it would pass, it never did. It seems, the horrors of my life delighted in visiting me in the night. Flooding my mind with countless images of such things nightmares are made of. For a pleasant change, tonight was different. The only thing in my thoughts was Jasmine. How could a woman I’d only just met, occupy my mind in such a way? Even more complicating, all I had to do was think about her, and there she was.”
The floor CREAKS behind him. He turns.
JASMINE
Hey.
She curls up in a chair. He can’t help but feel uneasy. Even in the dark, her beauty screams volumes.
JASMINE
Couldn’t sleep either?
TRAY
No.
JASMINE
That happen to you a lot?
TRAY
More often than I’d like.
He takes a seat on the couch.
JASMINE
You hate them, don’t you?
TRAY
What?
JASMINE
Vampires.
TRAY
Yes.
JASMINE
Why?
TRAY
Because… they represent all that is evil and unjust in man.
JASMINE
Maybe they’re not all like that.
TRAY
You have a lot of sympathy for something that nearly killed you.
JASMINE
Humans kill too. Maybe someone should be hunting us.
Tray sits in silence, stunned by her words.
JASMINE
Do you have any family?
TRAY
None I’m aware of.
JASMINE
No parents, nothing?
TRAY
My parents died when I was very young.
JASMINE
What were they like?
TRAY
I don’t know. I can’t remember anything about them except that they loved me. That’s all I have left of them really, just some vague feeling watered down by time.
Jasmine rises from the chair. She accompanies Tray on the couch, snuggles up beside him.
JASMINE
So… we have something in common.
TRAY
What’s that?
Tray puts his arm around her. She moves closer, rests her head on his chest.
JASMINE
We’re alone.
TRAY
Yeah…
INT. TRAY’S APARTMENT - LIVING ROOM – DAY
Jasmine wakes with a SCREAM. She looks to the windows, finds them covered with blinds. The room is nearly as dark as the night before.
INT. TRAY’S APARTMENT – KITCHEN – SAME
Jasmine walks into the kitchen. A note rests on the table. She approaches. It reads, “Have work. Be back.”
EXT. STREETS – SAME
Tray walks among the crowd.
INT. TRAY’S APARTMENT – BEDROOM – LATER
Jasmine looks among Tray’s things. She opens a desk drawer; inside she stumbles across a photograph of Serena, and another of Tray and Jacob together. The two are smiling.
INT. CHURCH – SAME
Close of a photograph of Jacob.
A priest hands Tray the photograph, shakes his head.
INT. TRAY’S APARTMENT – SUNSET
Jasmine stands in front of the windows, gazes out. The sun had fallen below the horizon. The sky is filled with color.
EXT. MEAT PACKING PLANT – SAME
Outside a back door, a man stands beside a large cooler. Someone approaches. The two briefly converse; the cooler is exchanged for money, the two part.
Tray emerges from the nearby shadows.
On his way back inside, the man sees him. His eyes move to the stranger who’d paid him.
Tray walks by him, in pursuit of the stranger carrying the cooler. The man looks down, ashamed.
INT. TRAY’S APARTMENT – BATHROOM - NIGHT
Jasmine dries herself. She places her towel beside the sink. Takes a white robe from the door.
INT. APARTMENT – SAME
The strange man enters with the cooler, closes the door behind him, and turns on the light. He walks toward us. Behind him, the door bursts open. The man, shocked, drops the cooler, spilling its contents… countless jars filled with blood shatter against the ground. The man turns, sees Tray walking toward him, sword drawn. The man stumbles back, slipping on the blood-coated floor.
INT. TRAY’S APARTMENT – LIVING ROOM - SAME
Jasmine sits on the couch, gazes around her at the empty room.
INT. APARTMENT – SAME
Tray has the man against the wall. The man’s eyes now glow fiercely. His anger is held in check by the dagger Tray presses against his throat. Tray screams at him. The man knows nothing. Disappointed, Tray slits the man’s throat, walks toward us, the, now deceased, man drops to the ground behind him.
INT. TRAY’S APARTMENT - NIGHT
Tray enters. He carries several shopping bags filled with women’s clothing.
He enters the living room, finds her asleep on the couch still wearing her robe. He sets the bags down, takes her in his arms.
INT. BEDROOM - SAME
He lays Jasmine on the bed. Her robe had shifted slightly, revealing her chest; he can’t help but notice. He pulls the robe tightly shut around her. Seeing that she’s still sound asleep, he kneels next to the bed, admires her beauty. With a soft smile, he brushes a finger gently down her cheek. Then -
Her eyes open. She’d been awake the entire time. Tray jerks back.
TRAY
I’m sorry…
Feeling embarrassed, he stands. She grasps the sleeve of his coat.
JASMINE
Stay…
He looks over her, struggling to fight his temptation.
JASMINE (CONT’D)
I want you to stay with me.
Her face tenses in confusion, she removes her hand from him, sees a spot of blood had smeared from his coat onto her palm. Tray leaves the room, shuts the door behind him.
She stares after him, her eyes filled with sympathy, compassion, and the first signs of love.
INT. TRAY’S APARTMENT – BATHROOM – LATER
Tray washes his face. He dries himself, looks in the mirror, not sure if he recognizes the reflection.
TRAY
What are you doing?
The phone RINGS.
INT. TRAY’S APARTMENT – LIVING ROOM – SAME
Tray answers the phone.
TRAY
Yes?
FATHER GREGORY (O.S.)
Mr. Spencer, I’m sorry for the late hour.
Tray takes a seat on the couch.
TRAY
No, it’s quite all right.
FATHER GREGORY (O.S.)
I have some new information regarding Jacob Payne. I’d like to speak with you about it tomorrow if you’re available.
TRAY
Yeah. Actually, my schedule just cleared up. – Father, if I didn’t know any better, I’d say you were afraid.
FATHER GREGORY (O.S.)
Let’s just say the news is… unsettling.
TRAY
What is –?
FATHER GREGORY (O.S.)
I’ll speak to you tomorrow. Goodnight.
The line goes dead before Tray can respond. He turns the phone off, sets it beside him.
TRAY
Okay. Now I’m a little worried.
EXT. STREETS - DAY
Tray walks, wearing civilian clothing, a long slate gray overcoat and sunglasses. Head held low, deep thoughts run through his mind.
Several fire trucks rush by him. He sees them, thinks nothing of it. A moment passes. Then, utter fear strikes his face. He looks up, chases after them.
EXT. CATHEDRAL - LATER
Tray finds the cathedral ABLAZE! Countless reporters, police, and firemen scurry about the scene. Tray takes the sunglasses from his face, stares at the all too familiar sight with terror.
TRAY
Jasmine!
INT. TRAY’S APARTMENT BUILDING - LATER
Elevator doors open, Tray stands inside. He raises his head; steps out, walks quickly down the hall.
He reaches his door, finds a note attached to it. It reads, “You should realize by now; no one is ever safe around you, Tray.”
He tears the note from the door, bursts into his apartment!
INT. TRAY’S APARTMENT - SAME
Tray searches the apartment in panic, calling out to Jasmine. She’s nowhere to be found.
The bathroom door opens. Jasmine steps out with a towel wrapped around her. The sight of her brings him much needed relief.
JASMINE
Hey! Thanks for the clothes, I -
TRAY
Are you okay???
JASMINE
Yeah, I’m… I’m fine. What’s wrong?
TRAY
Was anyone here today?? Anyone that -
JASMINE
No! No one. What’s going on??
Tray walks away from her, opens a closet door, pulls out a small vested strap with two pouches on either side. He removes his coat, slips into the strap.
JASMINE
What are those?
TRAY
My little bags of tricks.
Tray drapes his long coat around him, concealing the “bags of tricks.”
JASMINE
And they’re for?
He walks into the living room, takes his katana from under the couch. Jasmine follows.
JASMINE
Tray, you’re scaring me!
He slips the sword inside his coat, completely ignoring her. Jasmine grabs him, forces him to address her.
JASMINE
Tray!
TRAY
What???
JASMINE
What’s going on???
He walks to a remote sitting on the coffee table, turns on the T.V., flipping to a news station. Suddenly –
The flaming cathedral lights the screen; panic surrounds it.
JASMINE
Is this about you?
TRAY
Yeah.
He starts toward the door.
JASMINE
Wait! Tray, don’t go; please, don’t go!
TRAY
Jasmine, I’ve got to make this stop.
He reaches inside his coat, pulls out his dagger, hands it to her.
TRAY
The blade is silver; it’ll harm a vampire just as easy as it would a man. If anyone steps foot inside this apartment while I’m gone, regardless of who, use it. Do you understand?
Despite her fear, she nods. He leaves the apartment. She turns to the T.V. the grisly sight sends a chill down her spine.
INT. INDIGO NIGHTCLUB - NIGHT
Music BLARES. Hundreds of people dance to the RUMBLING bass.
Around the club, numerous vampires feed, others grind against each other on the dance floor, and the rest indulge themselves in sexual acts.
Luc walks among the crowd. He finds the people he’s looking for. The two men’s backs are to us but we can tell by Luc’s expression, they’re upset with him. He smiles, tries to calm them down. Then… his smile fades, he senses something. The music BEAT quickens as -
Tray walks calmly through the crowd, staring at Luc with hollow eyes.
LUC
Jesus…
Luc excuses himself, meets Tray on the dance floor.
LUC
A bit careless, don’t you think?
TRAY
Your life is in danger.
LUC
So, you came here to what, to warn me?
TRAY
To protect you.
LUC
(Laughs)
I never thought I’d see the day. A Priest protecting a vampire, what’s the world come to?
TRAY
I promised you if you helped me, no harm would come to you. That was our agreement.
LUC
Wow, now that’s noble. But from where I stand, I can’t help but feel you’re just using me as bait.
A sexy FEMALE VAMPIRE approaches. She rubs her hand across Tray’s chest from behind. He glances back, she whispers in his ear.
FEMALE VAMPIRE
Do you want to see things you’ve never dreamed of?
Tray turns to face her. She smiles seductively, bearing her fangs.
TRAY
Sure…
Her mouth nears his. Slowly, their lips meet.
Luc rolls his eyes. Then -
He notices Tray’s hand reaching inside his coat. He pulls Tray away from her. The woman raises her eyes with a GROWL.
LUC
He’s mine. Move on.
She takes her hands from Tray, steps back.
FEMALE VAMPIRE
As you wish.
(To Tray)
If you decide to change up, hunt me down, lover.
TRAY
(Laughs)
You can count on it.
The female vampire melds into the crowd, dancing seductively, smiling at Tray.
LUC
I hope you’re enjoying yourself.
Tray wipes his mouth of the taste of her. They walk through the crowd.
TRAY
Listen, have you heard about the cathedral fire?
LUC
What about it?
TRAY
A recent acquaintance of mine was killed in the fire. When I returned home, there was a note attached to the door saying, no one is safe around me.
LUC
Well, now I’m really glad to see you. By all means, lets spend as much time together as possible.
They reach the bar. The BARTENDER approaches.
LUC
Jin-and-tonic.
BARTENDER
And your… friend?
Tray glances back.
LUC
Nothing. Alcohol thins the blood.
The bartender fixes the drink. Tray glares sternly at Luc who shrugs his shoulders with a smile. He collects his drink, turns, and sits next to Tray.
INT. INDIGO NIGHTCLUB - LATER
The club is even more crowded than before. Multi colored lights STROBE about the club, bass RUMBLES the establishment.
Tray glances over at -
A nearby woman gives herself to a vampire. The creature lunges mercilessly into her neck.
Instinctively, Tray gets to his feet. Luc grabs his arm, forces him to sit. Tray watches in horror as -
Her body becomes limp; the vampire is forced to hold her. She looks at Tray, and for a brief moment, their eyes meet.
He looks away from her, trying desperately to calm himself.
LUC
I know you don’t agree with the things you see tonight; but this is how we live. If you want to blend in, you’re going to have to act like it doesn’t bother you so damn much. Otherwise, you’ll end up like her, just a lot less willing.
There is commotion coming from the center of the club. Tray looks up, seeming to know the cause even before –
Blood SPURTS into the air! SCREAMS follow.
LUC
What the hell?
The crowd panics!
We follow a vampire through the crowd as he runs toward the source of the uproar. Jacob’s back is turned as he kills several attackers. Just as the vampire we’re following gets close enough to strike, Jacob spins, cutting it down right in front of our eyes!
TRAY
Jacob…
JACOB
What the fuck is he doing???
TRAY
Trying to get my attention.
The panicked crowd rushes for the exits like cattle!
Tray walks toward the commotion. Luc grabs his arm.
LUC
Hey, hold on, are you sure you can handle this guy?
TRAY
I’ll find out in a minute.
LUC
You know I can help.
TRAY
Help yourself; get out of here.
Tray breaks free from Luc, dashes through the frantic crowd. Luc watches him go. The crowd scurries around him.
As Tray gets closer to the violence, he unsheathes his katana, ready for action. He nears Jacob, swipes at his legs, hoping to stop his friend without killing him. Jacob, somehow, senses the blow coming and blocks with ease. He turns to face his attacker, their swords still together, and responds in amusing shock.
JACOB
(Laughs)
Tray Spencer! I wasn’t sure you’d show!!!
TRAY
I couldn’t refuse your invitation.
Jacob leads Tray’s sword with his own, bringing the blades directly in front of their eyes. Then, in an instant -
Jacob attacks!
The two fight under the FLASHING multi-colored lights, while on looking vampires watch in awe.
Jacob slashes at Tray’s throat.
SLOW TIME –
We wrap around Tray as he flips back, narrowly missing Jacob’s blade as it passes inches from his face! His feet smash into Jacob’s jaw!
TIME RESUMES -
Tray lands on his feet. Jacob stumbles back.
Now that the two are separated, and Tray’s identity is known, the vampires attack!
Jacob looks at Tray, grinning ear to ear, as they defend themselves.
JACOB
Why aren’t you in uniform, soldier???
TRAY
Because; I didn’t want this to happen!
JACOB
(Laughs)
Just like old times, isn’t it? Where’s the fire???
They make their way to each other. Just before their duel resumes -
GUNSHOTS echo out! Numerous vampires had armed themselves!
Tray ducks behind a fallen table for cover.
Jacob grabs a vampire, uses him as a shield, and ducks behind the same table.
JACOB
Maybe we should’ve gone to a different club.
TRAY
What the hell do you think you’re doing??
JACOB
Having the time of my life, how bout yourself?
Jacob reaches inside his coat, pulls out a bundle of throwing stars. He rises from behind the table, launches them at the opposing vampires!
The stars sink into several vampires, knocking them flat on their backs, the others take cover.
JACOB
That’s my cue; see you in five. Look for the stairway to heaven.
TRAY
Jacob, wait!
Jacob makes a mad dash for the exit, seemingly unaffected by the number of bullets passing around him.
Afraid to lose precious time, Tray reaches inside his coat, pulls out a half dozen small metallic pellets from his “bags of tricks”, and tosses the lot of them.
They roll along the floor; one comes to a stop against a vampire’s foot. He looks down in confusion. Then -
The pellets EJECT a quick CLOUD of SMOKE! Soon the vampire’s are completely enveloped!
With his exit now safely in reach, Tray runs in pursuit.
EXT. ALLEY - SAME
Tray emerges into an alley.
Not far ahead, Jacob dashes into the street.
EXT. STREETS - SAME
Jacob runs across the busy street; cars swerve erratically around him! Behind him, slowly but surely, Tray is gaining.
Tray watches several cars in front of him SMASH into one another! He jumps onto their hoods, leaping from one to the other, attempting to shorten the gap between Jacob and himself. He slips on the slick snow melted surface of one of the cars and falls into the street.
As he gets to his feet, the sound of a BLARING horn catches his attention. A car is coming straight for him! Its breaks SQUEAL into the night! Tray jumps at the last second, slamming against the car’s windshield, rolling over the top, and landing on the street behind it.
He winces in pain, sees a semi heading his way! He rolls between its tires. It straddles him, CRASHES into the car that’d hit him!
Tray rolls out from underneath the semi and hobbles after Jacob. He enters -
EXT. ALLEY/PARKING LOT - SAME
Tray jogs in pursuit, breathing heavily and clearly in pain.
He emerges from the alley into a vast parking lot flooded with cars. He stands still. Looking for any sign of movement, he sees nothing. Jacob was lost.
Tray leans against one of the parked cars, trying to catch his breath. He slides to the ground sitting on the SNOW-covered pavement. SNOW falls quietly to the ground around him. Then –
He hears a NOISE from behind. He gets to his feet, spots a nearby fire escape.
TRAY
Cute.
EXT. FIRE ESCAPE - SAME
Tray limps up several flights of stairs. There he sees Jacob on the roof of the neighboring building, standing next to a skylight. Its soft yellow GLOW lights his face.
The sight sends a chill down his spine. Tray struggles to conceal his exhaustion as he climbs over the railing. He jumps to the neighboring building.
EXT. ROOFTOP - SAME
The city SHIMMERS in the background. The WIND is picking up and SNOW continues to fall.
Tray approaches.
JACOB
Traffic’s a little busy tonight.
TRAY
I noticed.
JACOB
(Laughs)
So, what brings you to Haven City? Finally decide to catch up with an old friend? No, that can’t be it…
(Sarcastic)
…Why, you’re not planning to kill me are you?
TRAY
The Council sent me to… bring you home.
JACOB
In a body bag?
TRAY
You know, they didn’t exactly specify.
JACOB
(Smiles)
Somehow I doubt you’re carrying around a return ticket for two. So, the council sent you for my head… and all because I killed a few mortals.
TRAY
We don’t kill humans.
JACOB
They were humans hoping to be turned.
TRAY
But, still humans.
JACOB
By killing a hopeful, I’m stopping the birth of a vampire. Saves me the trouble down the road. That’s how I do things, and in my opinion, that’s the way things should be done.
Tray is silent; he doesn’t know how to respond.
JACOB (CONT’D)
You see; the Church forces us to play this game, a game we can never win so long as we play by their rules. But, that’s if we play by their rules, and we all know, rules are meant to be broken.
TRAY
Not by me.
JACOB
No, I should have thought as much. The golden boy Tray Spencer would never break a single rule, not one.
Jacob reaches inside his coat. Tray tenses.
JACOB
Relax…
Jacob pulls his hand out, waves a pack of smokes.
JACOB (CONT’D)
…It’s just cancer.
TRAY
You wanted me to find you, why?
Jacob lights a cigarette, returns the pack inside his coat pocket.
JACOB
I’ve got a proposition for you.
TRAY
What sort of proposition?
JACOB
The Church has grown cold, Tray. They’ve abandoned us, yet we serve them with such loyalty. Why? To spend night after night hunting an evil that never dies? Maybe it’s just me, but I can think of a few better ways to spend my days. - You have trouble sleeping, don’t you?
Tray looks at him with tired eyes.
TRAY
Get to the point.
JACOB
Imagine a world absent of vampires. One where you no longer have to fear what goes bump in the night, just imagine, waking up for the first time, and not wondering if you’ll live to see tomorrow! Don’t you want that?
TRAY
Yes, but at what price?
JACOB
Several months ago, I met a vampire named Cabe. He’s one of the oldest among them. He wishes to start a war between our kinds, the first racial war in human history. In doing so, he believes that vampires will finally get their recognition to the world… or something. Their day in the sun if you will, mind the pun. - And I’ve agreed to help him make it happen.
TRAY
What??? You really have lost your mind! How can you allow yourself to be affiliated with a vampire?? They’re the enemy, Jacob!!! And you -
JACOB
Cabe will be his own undoing! - Tray, if you just join me -
TRAY
Never… Never! You can’t possibly understand what you’re trying to unleash on the world. The only reason mankind lives in peace is -
JACOB
Peace??? You call this peace??? Look around you! For every vampire we kill, another takes its place! And it won’t stop; it will never stop. - Cabe is a fool, if he wants the world to know vampires exist, I say let him! You know just as I, that humanity fears what it doesn’t understand. They will hunt vampires down until every last one of them is dead, or dying. - Then, Tray, then we’ll finally have what we’ve always strived for. The vampire race will be extinct. Now, I don’t know about you, but that’ll help me sleep at night.
TRAY
You think vampires won’t retaliate? Without their fear of becoming known, they’ll do anything. You’re just taking off their leash! I’ve no doubt they’ll eventually die but in the process, millions of innocent people will die as well!
JACOB
So be it. Every war has its casualties.
TRAY
The man I knew would never bring about a war, he was better than that.
JACOB
He does what’s necessary.
TRAY
Who the hell are you to deem war as necessary???
JACOB
I shouldn’t have expected you to understand.
Jacob turns to walk away.
TRAY
Jacob, you know I can’t let you go.
Jacob tosses his cigarette away.
JACOB
I know.
He unsheathes his sword. Without hesitation, he swipes at Tray! Tray barely dodges the attack, unsheathes his own blade.
Remorse fills Jacob’s eyes; even so, he raises his sword, ready for battle.
TRAY
Jacob…
JACOB
No more talk. You have an objective to complete, Tray, that’s clearly all I am to you now.
TRAY
It’s not like that! You’re still my friend!
JACOB
Oh really? A friend would have joined me. God knows years ago you would’ve… but not today.
TRAY
I don’t want to do this.
JACOB
It’s too late for what you want.
Jacob slashes at Tray, misses. Tray steps back blocking Jacob’s attacks. Tray ducks under a blow meant for his head, rolls to a safe distance, gets to his feet.
TRAY
Jacob, stop! It doesn’t have to be this way!
JACOB
Oh, yes it does. After all you and I have been through, you knew it had to end like this.
Jacob charges after him. They twirl their blades skillfully about them with each strike; it really is a lesson in grace and skill. Tray finally returns the blows, we see the two have a near identical fighting style.
Tray leads Jacob’s sword into the ground, quickly backhands him! Jacob reels back from the blow. Tray distances himself once again.
TRAY
No more!
Jacob wipes blood from his lip.
JACOB
It’s you or me Tray, what’s it going to be?
Jacob resumes the battle. SPARKS fly as their swords clash violently! The two are evenly matched for some time, but Tray’s injuries begin to tire him.
He calls out one last time, hoping the battle may end without the death of one of them.
TRAY
Jacob!!!
His call is unheard. After several more blocks, Jacob finds an opening; delivers a punishing spin kick to Tray’s jaw.
SLOW TIME –
The blow sends Tray spiraling into the air!
TIME RESUMES –
Tray slams onto the skylight, it cracks from impact. His sword skitters to the side.
Cautiously, Tray gets to his hands and knees, sees his katana clearly out of reach. Suddenly, the cracks spread erratically -
TRAY
Shit.
The skylight SHATTERS beneath him! Tray grabs onto the side of the building, clinging onto it for dear life! He glances down at the long drop to the floor below, looks up at Jacob, waiting his next move. To his surprise, Jacob sheathes his sword, kneels in front of Tray.
JACOB
My last piece of advice to you, as a friend, is simply this, get the hell out of here while you still can. It’s the only chance you’ve got. If I see you again… I will kill you.
Jacob walks off. Tray struggles to keep his grip.
TRAY
No! Wait!!!
He loses his hold on the building.
He seems to fall forever. Then, the floor brutally catches up to him.
SNOW cascades around him, as he lay unconscious.
INT. TRAY’S APARTMENT - DAWN
The apartment is dimly lit. Jasmine sits on the couch, waiting silently.
Tray enters.
She runs to him, embracing him in her arms. He stiffens in pain, releases from her.
JASMINE
Are you okay?
TRAY
Not really.
He makes his way to the chair, sits. Jasmine reaches for a light switch.
TRAY
Don’t turn on the -
The light flicks on; Tray winces. He’s a complete and utter mess! His clothes are damp and dirty; and several lacerations decorate his face.
JASMINE
Can’t you go one night without getting yourself beat up?
TRAY
Tuesday wasn’t so bad…
Jasmine is not amused.
He leans forward, removes his coat. Blood soaks the back of his shirt and neck from an open wound on the back of his head.
Jasmine’s jaw drops at the sight.
He notices her stare, reaches to feel the back of his head. He takes his hand away, sees it coated in blood. He drops his hand to his lap, stares at the floor.
TRAY
Feels like the room is spinning…
JASMINE
Don’t move, I’m gonna get something to stop the bleeding.
Jasmine walks from the room. Tray doesn’t acknowledge her; he makes his way for the couch, but falls to the floor halfway there.
Jasmine enters the room with a damp towel and a bottle of disinfectant. She sees him, rushes to his side.
TRAY
I’m all right; I just stood up to fast.
She helps him to the couch.
JASMINE
I think you need to find another line of work.
TRAY
At least I get hazard pay.
She dabs the towel in disinfectant, reaches for his wound. He reaches for the towel.
TRAY
I got it.
Jasmine pushes his hand away, looks him in the eye.
JASMINE
You know, it’s okay to ask for help from time to time.
Tray nods.
JASMINE
Good. Now this is going to sting a little.
TRAY
Oh, I think I can handle it.
Jasmine connects the towel with his wound.
TRAY
Ow! What is that stuff, acid?
JASMINE
Oh be quiet, you’re such a baby.
TRAY
A baby? Babies don’t usually bounce off cars and drop through skylights.
She laughs. He grins with her. Their eyes meet; a tense moment passes.
TRAY
You shouldn’t look at me like that.
JASMINE
I like to look at you. And I like how you look at me…
Tray takes the towel from her.
TRAY
I’m going to be perfectly honest with you. Everyone that has gotten close to me, has died. It’s a curse I’ve no desire to further with you.
JASMINE
How can you live like that? Everyone needs someone.
TRAY
In case you haven’t noticed, I’m not like everyone else.
She stands.
JASMINE
That’s sad.
TRAY
What?
JASMINE
You seem so lonely.
She leaves the room. Tray sighs, lies back on the couch.
INT. CABE’S MANSION - FOYER - SAME
Cabe stands in front of a massive fireplace. A soft glow lights his face. He has a timeless quality to him with a finely trimmed beard and pulled back hair. He carries a certain level of sophistication in his appearance. Even though he looks to be fifty or so, we haven’t the slightest idea of his actual age.
Behind him, Jacob enters. Although he doesn’t make a sound, Cabe somehow knows he’s there.
CABE
Would you like a drink?
JACOB
How did… No, thank you.
Cabe takes a bottle of brandy from the mantle, pours himself a glass. Good lord, this man is tall!
CABE
Did the Priest accept our invitation?
JACOB
No. He’s too loyal to the church.
CABE
You care a great deal for him, don’t you?
JACOB
He’s like my brother.
CABE
And you think I’m angry with you because of your attachment to him. I assure you; I am not.
JACOB
Stay out of my head.
CABE
I agree with you, I’d rather have the Priest, this, Tray Spencer, as an ally than an enemy.
JACOB
He won’t turn. He’s too stuck in his ways.
CABE
Perhaps I can change his mind.
JACOB
We had a deal.
CABE
And I will honor it. No harm will come to him. After all, he’s the key to everything.
Cabe swallows his drink, looks back to the fire.
INT. TRAY’S APARTMENT - LIVING ROOM - LATER
Close up of Tray lying peacefully on his couch. Jasmine leans into our view, softly kisses his lips. His eyes open. He isn’t sure how to react to the sight of her. The fact that she’s wearing only a t-shirt and underpants doesn’t help.
JASMINE
Don’t be afraid of me.
He reaches up, brings her mouth to his. Jasmine lies next to him. He kisses her neck, his hand eases out of sight. We can only imagine where it goes when her face tightens with pleasure. He kisses her neck, bites it lightly.
She smiles, fangs GROW in the heat of passion!
He kisses her mouth once more, something is wrong. Slowly, he pulls away. Eyes still closed, her wet lips whisper for him to continue.
JASMINE
Don’t stop…
He sees fangs beneath her lips as she speaks. As if further proof is needed, her eyes open, GLOWING vampire eyes gaze hauntingly back into his! The sight sends a rush of well-deserved fear ripping through his body. He SCREAMS, jumps off of her, falling to the floor in shock.
JASMINE
What?? What is it???
He stares at her in disbelief. Jasmine reaches for her mouth, realizing the source of his fear of her. She moves closer, unsure how to explain herself.
JASMINE
Please, you don’t understand…
TRAY
Get away from me!!!
He scurries to his feet, grabs an overcoat, throws it on.
JASMINE
Wait!!!
He dashes out the door. Jasmine sits on the couch; tears erupt from her eyes.
EXT. STREETS – LATER
Tray’s car blazes by us.
INT. STREETS – TRAY’S CAR – SAME
Tray stares forward in anger. He approaches a red light, not bothering to slow whatsoever.
EXT. STREETS – SAME
Tray runs the light without care. Horns BLARING, several cars swerve to avoid him.
INT. STREETS – TRAY’S CAR – SAME
Unfazed, Tray continues on.
TRAY (V.O.)
“How could I have been so ignorant? All the signs were there. I just so happen to cross paths with a beautiful young woman in distress only a block from my home. The insatiable lust for her. And of course… the club.”
We FLASH back to –
INT. INDIGO NIGHTCLUB – FLASHBACK
From a distance, Tray watches Luc conversing with two men.
CHRIS
If Anthony lost his cool, that’s his own fault, and he died because of it. I told you not to fight him; for fuck’s sake, the man is a Priest.
Finally we see the two he’s talking with is none other than Duncan and Sebastian.
TRAY (V.O.)
“How I didn’t recognize them at the time is beyond me. I just hoped I could give Luc enough time to explain before I cut his head off.”
INT. STREETS – TRAY’S CAR – SAME
Tray’s face tightens in anger. The engine HOWLS as he accelerates.
INT. LUC’S HOME - BEDROOM - MORNING
Luc sits up in bed. ISABELLE, his mate, wakes beside him.
ISABELLE
What is it?
LUC
Nothing. Go back to sleep.
He gets up, walks with ease through the dark room, and out the door.
INT. ANTIQUE SHOP - SAME
An old-fashioned elevator door opens. Luc emerges, steps into a lavish shop full of antiques, apparently owned by him.
He walks through, searching. Finally he stops.
LUC
I know you’re here.
Tray steps out of the shadows like a ghost.
LUC
You look terrible.
Tray steps forward, casually looks around. He stops in front of a display of antique dinnerware. He stares inside.
TRAY
Is this silver?
LUC
Eighteenth century.
Luc approaches.
LUC
What’s going on?
Suddenly, Tray shatters the display glass! He grabs a simple dinner knife from within.
LUC
What the hell are you -
Tray slams Luc into a wall, drives his forearm into his neck, and presses the knife firmly against his chest!
TRAY
You’ve got ten seconds to explain why you set me up!
LUC
What??
TRAY
Nine.
LUC
I don’t know what you’re talking about!!!
TRAY
Jasmine Bail!
Luc’s eyes open wide.
TRAY (CONT’D)
Yeah, that rang a few bells, didn’t it?
LUC
Tray I… I don’t know how to explain.
TRAY
No pressure, whatever you say from this point on will probably get you killed anyway, so feel free to try.
Seemingly coming from nowhere, Isabelle throws Tray away from Luc with a deep throaty GROWL. Tray stumbles into another display stand, shattering the glass.
She inches closer. Tray stares into her DEMONIC eyes, walks toward her, ready to kill her on the spot.
LUC
Stop!
Isabelle looks back in confusion.
LUC
Isabelle, relax, he’s a friend.
ISABELLE
A friend?? He had a knife to your heart!
LUC
(Laughs)
Well, I didn’t say he was a good friend.
Isabelle watches Tray for any sudden movements. He raises the knife, to make a note of it, and drops it to the floor.
LUC
See? Everything’s fine, just fine. Right, Tray?
TRAY
Yeah.
LUC
(To Isabelle)
Go back to bed. I’ll be up in a bit.
Isabelle glares at Tray. Her eyes REVERT to normal; her fangs RETRACT. She storms out of the room.
TRAY
Why, Luc? I trusted you.
LUC
How the hell could I know I could trust you! – Look, Jasmine was supposed to be the damsel in distress, someone you couldn’t refuse. And if you showed any sign of swaying from our deal -
Tray looks away. Nodding his head, he smiles angrily.
TRAY
She’d kill me.
LUC (CONT’D)
But, you’re still alive, aren’t you? Believe me that says a lot. Tray, you have my word, she doesn’t mean any harm.
TRAY
For two weeks you’ve had an assassin in my home, and tonight she tried to bite me! Now, you’re telling me she doesn’t mean any harm?
LUC
She couldn’t have bitten you.
TRAY
I said she tried.
LUC
That can’t be.
TRAY
Well it be!
Luc is silent for a moment.
LUC
The way she speaks of you, it’s impossible to believe she’d try -
TRAY
She’s a vampire, Luc! She kills people for a living!
LUC
She kills to survive, what’s your excuse, huh? Does it make you feel powerful? Is that it? Or do you do it for the pleasure?
TRAY
How dare you!
LUC
How dare you! You spend your entire life devoted to the extermination of a race. To me you’re nothing more than a modern day Nazi.
Tray reels at Luc’s comparison.
LUC (CONT’D)
Not every vampire is evil, Tray; most are just trying to get by. Do you have any idea what it feels like to live your life in fear??
TRAY
As a matter of fact, I do.
LUC
Yeah, but; you have a choice. What choice have I got? I can’t change what I am. And I’m hunted because of it. I hear disgust in your voice when you speak to me, you hate me so much, because you’re programmed, brainwashed to. - But then, behold, the very mention of Jasmine and your heart races. - You can’t help what you feel, no one can. So, I guess you have to choose. - What’s more important, your heart… or your duty?
Hold on Tray.
EXT. STREETS - DAY
Tray walks along a crowded sidewalk. His face tenses with sadness.
EXT. – ALLEY – SAME
Tray ducks into an alley, leans against the wall. He seems to be on the verge of a breakdown. He rubs his face in frustration.
INT. TRAY’S APARTMENT - BEDROOM - SAME
Jasmine sits, curled in the chair, crying into a tightly clutched pillow.
EXT. PARK - LATER
Tray sits on a bench, staring forward. A couple walks by him. They hold hands, smiling at each other, enjoying the company of someone they love. He watches them pass.
TRAY (V.O.)
“I’d grown a great deal since I was last faced with this situation. But, that doesn’t mean it was any less complicated. To trust her was flirting with fire, but to kill her… would probably destroy whatever humanity I had left inside me as well. So, I made my decision.”
INT. TRAY’S APARTMENT - SUNSET
Tray enters. He sees his sword resting casually against the couch where he sleeps… or attempts to sleep. With a sigh, he takes it in hand, looks to the stairs.
INT. TRAY’S APARTMENT - BEDROOM - SAME
Jasmine sits. FOOTSTEPS are heard climbing the stairs.
Tray appears in the open doorway.
JASMINE
I wasn’t sure you’d come back
TRAY
I live here.
JASMINE
You know what I meant.
He walks into the room. She sees his sword but remains unafraid.
TRAY
So, who’s idea was your attack?
JASMINE
Mine.
TRAY
Clever girl. And all of this, the whole thing, was just a lie.
JASMINE
No. I was supposed to watch you, not fall in love with you.
He steps toward her. She doesn’t budge, not even when he’s a breath from her face, staring deep into her eyes.
TRAY
Can you honestly tell me that, knowing what I have to do?
JASMINE
Yes. And because of it, I won’t fight you.
He stares at her intently.
TRAY
Then say it.
JASMINE
I love you.
His reserves crack. With pained eyes, he responds.
TRAY
Seven years ago, the only other woman that ever spoke those words to me died.
(Smiles)
Now, here I am. Same place, only a million times more complicated. - I don’t know if I trust you, Jasmine, or if your words are true… but, I’m willing to die to find out.
He drops his sword to the chair. She looks at him in disbelief. He grabs her, kisses her with unwavering passion.
She removes his shirt, sees a silver cross around his neck. Ignoring it, she runs her hand down his chest, removes his pants in vigor. He takes her shirt from her body, throws it away.
She steps back, sits on the bed. He approaches, slides her underpants to the floor and lies on top of her, kissing her lips with a thirst never felt before. She rolls on top of him, pins him to the bed with incredible strength!
He can’t move. If she were to kill him, this is her chance and he knows it. She leans down, kisses his neck. He doesn’t flinch. She pulls back with a warm smile, rubbing her body against his. It’s obvious now; she means him no harm. She reaches between her legs for him. His face is suddenly nervous.
JASMINE
What’s wrong?
TRAY
I’ve never done this before.
She pulls him to her, kisses his lips. His confession doesn’t bother her as he thought it would. She brushes a gentle hand down his cheek, reaches below, lifts slightly and sets herself slowly down. His eyes close. When they open, he sees her staring back with GLOWING eyes and fangs beneath her lips as she breathes heavily. Accepting her for what she is, he takes her in his arms.
The two lie back, out of our view.
INT. TRAY’S APARTMENT - BEDROOM - LATER
Jasmine wakes in Tray’s arms. She snuggles under his chin. His eyes flutter awake. He looks down at the beautiful woman lying with him.
TRAY
I thought I was dreaming.
JASMINE
Maybe we should do it again, just to make sure.
He smiles, kisses her forehead.
TRAY
I don’t want this to end.
JASMINE
Then don’t let it.
(Smiles)
But, I have to confess; I’m older than you.
TRAY
(Laughs)
How much older?
JASMINE
About two hundred years.
TRAY
Is that all? Here, I thought it would be something extreme.
Her smile fades. She turns away.
TRAY
What are you thinking?
JASMINE
When the Church finds out about us… they’ll want to kill me, won’t they?
He gets up, puts on his pants. She lies on the bed looking up at him.
JASMINE
Tray, don’t. Don’t shut me out…
TRAY
I can’t…
JASMINE
Yes you can!
TRAY
No, Jasmine, I meant, I can’t shut you out! You wanted me to let you in, well; you got it! To hell with what the Church thinks, I don’t care.
JASMINE
You’d give up everything, for me?
He approaches her, smiles gently, rests his palm on her cheek.
TRAY
I already have.
Before another word is said, the apartment door below BUSTS open. Tray reacts instantly, throwing on his shirt and grabbing his sword.
TRAY
Jasmine, stay here!
JASMINE
But -
TRAY
Stay in this room!
INT. TRAY’S APARTMENT - SAME
Tray surges down the stairs, coming face to face with dozens of vampires flooding his home!
They charge, running past Cabe, who stands calmly among them, looking onto Tray with admiring eyes, and a gentleman’s smile. He wants to see what this man can do.
Pure rage boils Tray’s blood. He leaps over the railing, slams both feet into one of the attacking vampires! He lands on the floor, slashes through the monsters with fury!
Then, sheer numbers get the best of him. He’s slammed in the jaw!
SLOW TIME -
He flies back, blasting through several vampires, knocking them into their comrades.
TIME RESUMES -
He lands on his back, flips to his feet immediately. As the vampires make their way to him, he leaps into the air, kicks two in the face. As soon as he lands, he ducks another blow, twirling under it and sweeping one off his feet.
Cabe smiles, tips his head.
CABE
(Whispers)
Come to me…
As if under some sort of spell, Tray begins slashing his way to the great vampire himself.
Tray raises his sword to strike, but then, something incredible occurs. Cabe lifts his hand, and suddenly, Tray is unable to move! His eyes widen shock! Cabe darts his hand away, points to a wall. Amazingly, Tray’s body FLIES through the air along with it!
He CRASHES into the wall, losing his sword. He falls to the floor, struggles to get to his feet. Unfortunately, his numerous injuries and extreme exhaustion have taken their toll. He falls back to the ground, completely at the vampires’ mercy!
Cabe approaches.
CABE
Whom did you think you were dealing with, just another vampire?
Cabe lifts his hand; Tray’s body rises from the ground along with it! To his astonishment, he dangles at eye level with the powerful vampire!
CABE (CONT’D)
I walked this earth before Christ was a glimmer in God’s eye. I have power to the likes of which your mind could never comprehend. Yet you strike at me… as though a simple swipe of a blade is enough to take my life.
TRAY
You… you’re Cabe?
CABE
Cabe is one of my many names, yes.
TRAY
What do you want?
CABE
(Smiles)
You.
Tray’s eyes scrunch with confusion.
TRAY
I… I don’t understand.
CABE
You’re an amusing opponent, Priest. I’m not sure what to do with you. I could kill you of course, but what would that accomplish aside from more blood on my hands? Whereby, if I let you live; you continue to struggle against me. So, what to do, what to do…
TRAY
Well gosh; I’m sorry for the inconvenience…
CABE
I want you to join me, Priest. Take your place by my side; help me usher in a new world. You can be as a God in the eyes of man.
TRAY
Go to hell.
CABE
Jacob once believed as you do. Oh, yes. But, in time he came to realize his cause was futile, his life a waste, the “Order of the Dragon” extinct, and their dream… dead.
Tray tries not to be affected by Cabe’s words, but they ring true.
CABE (CONT’D)
There are more vampires today then ever before, and our numbers continue to rise.
TRAY
It’s getting windy in here, are you going to kill me, or sit here and chat?
CABE
Stubborn to the last, I must admit; I gave you more credit, Priest. You strive to rid the world of your superior, your next step in evolution. Yet somehow you see us as inferior.
TRAY
Not inferior, a disease. You turn men, women and children into a race of cannibals!
Jasmine’s brought into the room. She wears Tray’s overcoat with only undergarments beneath. She backhands the vampire holding her, sending hi stumbling to the ground! Several others scurry in; hold her securely.
CABE
What’s this?
CAPTOR
I found her upstairs.
Cabe looks at Tray with astonished eyes.
CABE
A vampire woman… in your home?
TRAY
Let her go!!!
A smile creeps across Cabe’s face.
CABE
You know, I had my doubts whether I could sway you from the path. But it looks like you already have. - You love this woman, do you not?
Tray doesn’t answer. Cabe’s hand clenches into a fist. As he does this, Tray reacts as if the very life is being squeezed from him!
CABE
Do you not??
Tray SCREAMS!
CABE
Answer me, oh noble knight, and it will stop.
Tray struggles to speak through his pain.
TRAY
Pocket…
CABE
I beg your pardon?
TRAY
Pocket!
Cabe hasn’t the single idea what Tray’s talking about. Who would?
Jasmine grabs onto the vampires holding her, and utilizing all her vampire strength, THROWS them across the room with a ferocious GROWL! She, reaches inside the coat.
Cabe looks back, quickly raises his arm just in time to block a vial of holy water meant for his face. It shatters against his forearm, burning away flesh and clothing like acid! He HOWLS in agony!
With Cabe’s concentration lost, Tray falls. He scrambles for his sword, rushes to Jasmine. She holds vials ready, keeping the vampires at bay. They step back toward a window at the base of the stairs.
EXT. FIRE ESCAPE - SAME
Tray and Jasmine SHATTER through the window, land on a fire escape.
INT. TRAY’S APARTMENT - SAME
With his FANGS bared and eyes SHIMMERING like red jewels, Cabe SCREAMS at his men.
CABE
After them, now!!!
EXT. FIRE ESCAPE - SAME
Tray slashes open a vampire crawling out after them, kicks him through the window.
TRAY
(To Jasmine)
Get on the ladder!
She does as she’s told. Tray lashes out again. He flings the remaining vials through the window into charging vampires. They fall back, SCREAMING in pain.
He grabs the ladder opposite Jasmine.
TRAY
Hold on.
He kicks a lever. The ladder drops.
EXT. ALLEY - SAME
The ladder jerks to a halt, spilling them to the ground. Tray stands, takes Jasmine’s hand. They rush through the alley, and into…
EXT. PARKING LOT - SAME
They dash through the parking lot. Jasmine stops, looks to the sky in terror… morning had come! Tray follows her gaze, sees the light of day slowly enveloping the parking lot.
TRAY
No…
He grabs her arm, rushes back into the dark alley.
EXT. ALLEY - SAME
Several vampires drop from the fire escape, others CRAWL along the building wall toward them! The sight is horrifying!
Tray nods, silently accepting that there is no escape.
TRAY
Stay behind me.
Tray steps in front of her, raises his sword, valiantly awaiting the coming onslaught he can’t possibly overcome.
JASMINE
It can’t end like this. - You have to run.
TRAY
We can’t, the sun is up!
JASMINE
Not we… you.
Tray looks into her eyes.
TRAY
I’m not going to leave you here to die!
JASMINE
Tray…
TRAY
No!!!
JASMINE
You can’t win! They won’t kill me as long as they want you; now go!
Time is running out. Just before the vampires are upon them, Jasmine THROWS Tray into the parking lot!
EXT. PARKING LOT - SAME
The sun pours over him as he rolls to a stop on the pavement. He looks back at her, watches helplessly as she’s taken into the vampires’ grasp.
They pace like caged animals. Tray gets to his feet, realizes Jasmine had saved his life, giving her own in the process. He curls his sword behind his arm, nods. The vampires SCREAM, urging him to fight. Summing up every ounce of restraint he has, Tray turns, walks away.
INT. PHONE BOOTH - SAME
Tray steps inside a phone booth. He takes the receiver with trembling hands, dials.
MALCOLM (O.S.)
Yes?
TRAY
Malcolm…
MALCOLM (O.S.)
Tray? Are you all right??
TRAY
I need to ask you a favor.
INT. TRAY’S APARTMENT - BEDROOM - DAY
Several vampires bring jasmine inside; they sit her on the bed.
Cabe turns, holding Tray’s decorative dagger.
CABE
Leave us.
The vampires do as they’re told. Cabe sits, admiring the small blade. He looks up at Jasmine with a smile.
CABE
The more I learn about this boy, the more he interests me.
JASMINE
He’s going to come for me.
CABE
Oh yes, I know. I have to ask you, what is your relationship to him? Are you lovers? Or are you a proverbial means to an end?
Jasmine is silent.
CABE
The answer is obvious I suppose, you stink of him. - You may perceive me to be a cruel and unjust man, but I assure you, I am not without sympathy.
JASMINE
Then, why are you doing this?
CABE
For millennia, I roamed this earth in peace, wanting nothing more than to live my eternal life in that peace and with the woman that I loved. - Then a Priest came. - He was the most skilled I had ever seen, and though I escaped, my mate did not. After that, I realized our kind could never be at peace, not when there were men hunting us simply because of who we are.
She shakes her head.
JASMINE
Tiberius thought like you. He’s dead because he tried to change the world.
Cabe laughs. The door opens, a VAMPIRE enters.
VAMPIRE
The sun has set.
Cabe nods with a smile. He stands, drops the dagger to the chair.
CABE
Take her.
Although Jasmine struggles, the vampire grabs onto her firmly.
CABE
The answers are coming. In time, young Jasmine, you’ll understand what I’m trying to do.
Jasmine glares angrily at Cabe.
EXT. HORIZON - SUNSET
The sun has SET behind the countless buildings of Haven City. Dark clouds approach, enveloping the sky.
INT. ANTIQUE SHOP - SAME
Luc opens a glass case. He takes a beautiful French rapier from it, smiles at the blade, remembering something long forgotten.
He turns. Isabelle steps in his way.
LUC
This has to be done. If we let Cabe start a war, our lives will never be the same again.
ISABELLE
I don’t want anything to happen to you.
LUC
Nothing is going to happen to me.
He smiles reassuringly. She turns away, arms crossed. He holds her from behind, whispers in her ear.
LUC
You know I love you, right?
ISABELLE
Yes…
LUC
Then don’t worry about me, there’s no way in hell I’m going to let anything keep me from you.
She looks back at him with tears in her eyes. He kisses her gently.
EXT. ANTIQUE SHOP - SAME
Tray gazes at the night sky. SNOW begins to fall. He’s dressed in uniform, sunglasses still covering his eyes. Luc exits the house.
TRAY
How’d she take it?
LUC
Fine. She’s the most understanding woman you’ll ever meet.
TRAY
That bad, huh.
LUC
I’m surprised she didn’t tie me to the bed.
TRAY
You don’t have to do this. It’s not your fight.
LUC
Cabe threatens to change my way of life. How is it not my fight?
TRAY
I won’t think any less of you if you stay.
LUC
I’d think less of -
Before Luc can continue, his home EXPLODES behind him!
SLOW TIME -
Fire dances in slow motion. Tray and Luc are thrown from their feet; they hang in the air, flying back as glass and debris shimmer around them nearly suspended in time.
TIME RESUMES -
They land in the street. Tray’s sunglasses fly from his face. Luc gets to his feet, runs toward his home.
LUC
Isabelle!!!
Tray scrambles, grabs Luc’s legs, making him fall.
TRAY
Luc, stop!
LUC
Get off… get off me!!
TRAY
Luc!!!
Luc looks at him with panicked eyes.
TRAY
She’s gone…
Tray lets him go. Luc stands, wanders toward the building. His legs give out from under him. He falls to his knees, looks up at the sky in defiance to God himself.
LUC
Why???
Tray tries to catch his breath. He approaches the fallen rapier, takes it from the ground.
LUC
Oh, God, Tray. I loved her so much. What am I going to do now? What am I going to do now…?
TRAY
Now, you take control of the rage, the agony, and you use it to avenge her… with this.
Tray holds the sword in front of Luc’s crying eyes. He takes the sword with the ferocious GROWL of an animal.
EXT. CABE’S MANSION - LATER
Cabe’s massive home is barely visible through the thick flurry of SNOW. It sits alone in darkness with Haven City far in the distance.
INT. CABE’S MANSION - DINING HALL - SAME
A magnificent stained glass window centers itself in the middle of the ceiling above the vast room. It depicts a vampire demon slaughtering his opponents in ancient times. Aside from the brutal portrayal, it’s beautiful.
Cabe sits at a large dining table below. He looks up at the enormous window then down to his guests.
There are a dozen or so vampires sitting at the table, each one dressed in formal attire. An exquisite dinner rests in front of them; they seem to be celebrating.
Cabe stands, motions their attention to the window above.
CABE
Behold, the mighty Belial. Supposedly at the birth of man, Belial was cast from heaven along with Lucifer and his angels. He escaped persecution, somehow, and roamed the earth for millennia; finally coming to Atlantis, the resting pace of Eden. - In his anger, Belial took vengeance on God by turning his people against him. As time passed, he became ruler of Atlantis. Those that followed turned their backs on God, those that didn’t; were slaughtered. Their blood was drained and served to Belial’s followers in the legendary “Banquet of Blood”. - Then, for his crimes, God banished Belial to a stone of crimson; and sank the land into the seas. Those that survived were cursed. Banished from the light of day, only to live by the drinking of blood, and sentenced to eternal life so that they may… have time to reflect on what they’d done. – As generations passed, Atlantis was forgotten, and every trace of Belial’s rule, wiped clean from the earth, never to be heard from again.
The vampires nod, each familiar with the tale.
CABE
Quite the story… if you believe in fairy tales.
The dining hall is filled with laughter.
CABE
Regardless of how we came to be, we are here nonetheless. We are a race stronger than the world has ever seen; yet there are those that wish our extinction.
The vampires glare at Jacob who sits beside Cabe. Jacob responds to their hateful stares with his middle finger.
CABE
(Laughs)
Don’t hate my young friend. He’s seen the light, realized, as we have always known, that vampires exist because we are meant to exist. To live is a gift given to every creature on the face of the earth, and we are no different. No longer will we be bound by fear, by persecution. From this moment on, let anyone who stands in our way, be swiftly struck down! For we are here to stay, it is our right, it is our privilege… it is our destiny!
Applause. The men raise their glasses to toast him. Cabe raises his as well, taking a sip before sitting.
Jacob leans toward him.
JACOB
Wow… you really know how to woo a crowd. Hitler could have used you in his day.
CABE
And stand in judgment of one race over another? I don’t think so.
JACOB
(Laughs)
That’s funny. What do you think you’re doing right now?
Cabe ignores the question. Takes a sip of his drink. Jacob sits back. Cabe notices the Priest’s katana resting beneath his chair.
CABE
I believe your steak knife will suffice.
JACOB
I don’t plan on getting caught off guard.
CABE
(Laughs)
Don’t get your hopes up, Priest. With the vampire dead, Tray has no one to help him. He’ll be lucky to make it past the front doors, let alone in here.
JACOB
You continue to underestimate him, and what has it gotten you, a bandaged arm and a bruised pride. Expect to get bloody tonight, and I don’t mean from spilling your drink.
A TAP is heard. Small pieces of glass fall from above. Tiny metallic pellets drop in front of the feasting men, bouncing erratically on the table.
Jacob smiles, knowing all too well what they are. Then -
The pellets release a thick CLOUD of SMOKE, quickly wrapping the table in FOG!
Jacob stands, unsheathes his sword. He looks to the ceiling.
The stained glass window IMPLODES! A dark coated figure drops into the SMOKE blanket below, SHATTERING the long table in two!
Cabe casually takes a sip from his drink.
The vampires scurry about in the deep SMOKE. One by one, they’re cut down with relentless fury!
As the SMOKE clears, bodies litter the floor! Cabe and Jacob watch their attacker kill the last remaining vampire.
He turns to face them. Finally, we discover that it isn’t even Tray at all, but Luc wearing his coat!
Jacob responds gracefully.
JACOB
What the fuck?
CABE
(To Jacob)
Tray will be looking for Jasmine, go to her now!
JACOB
What do I look like, your bitch?
Cabe looks at Jacob with FANGS enlarged and red eyes GLOWING fiercely!
CABE
Do it!!!
INT. CABE’S MANSION - HALLWAYS - SAME
Tray charges forward, tarring through several vampires with his sword. He kicks one from his blade, looks up…
A half dozen more rush toward him!
Tray twirls his sword, holds it ready, waiting for them to near. Just before he’s overrun, He slashes his sword through the air, ripping apart one after another until…
Only one remains. It lies on its back, looking up with hateful eyes. Tray lowers the tip of his sword beneath its chin.
TRAY
Take me to the girl.
The vampire GROWLS in anger.
INT. CABE’S MANSION - DINING HALL - SAME
SNOW falls through the skylight to the floor below.
Luc confronts Cabe.
CABE
I’m afraid you’ve missed the main course; but you’ll stay for dessert I trust?
LUC
You killed Isabelle.
CABE
Don’t take it personally; I was trying to kill you. - By allowing yourself affiliation with the Priest, you’ve betrayed your own kind.
LUC
Somehow, I question your ethics, having seen the company you keep.
CABE
With one Priest’s insurrection, I knew more would follow. And with the thought of war… I could bring the masses to my doorstep.
The doors to the dining hall open, vampires flood the room! Luc cuts through several of them before he’s grabbed from behind.
Cabe approaches.
VAMPIRE
What should we do with him, Tiberius?
Luc’s eyes widen in shock, finally realizing the truth. From here on out, we know Cabe as -
LUC
Tiberius… the Priest killer!
A thin black rope hits the floor in front of them, then another, and another, before anyone knows what’s happening, a legion of them drop!
LUC
No… No!!! Stop!!!
The vampires look to the ceiling with smiling faces.
Dozens of Priests drop from the shattered window above! They fall as continuously as the SNOW around them. They land, instantly raising their swords for battle.
Luc screams out to them in desperation.
LUC
You’ve got to get out of here!!!
PRIEST
What?
LUC
It’s a trap!!!
Countless vampires flood the room from every entrance point!
Suddenly the Priests are outnumbered ten to one!
Tiberius smiles.
The vampires attack! Soon, the entire dining hall is engulfed in a bloody battle between hundreds of men!
INT. TIBERIUS’ MANSION - BEDROOM - SAME
Jasmine lies on the bed. She hears a key enter the lock of the reinforced door that holds her prisoner. It opens. Tray stands in the doorway with the vampire, who’d led him there, lying dead at his feet.
Jasmine runs to his arms.
INT. TIBERIUS’ MANSION - DINING HALL - SAME
Tiberius makes his way through the violence. He pushes fellow vampires out of the way, snaps the neck of an opposing Priest. Finally, he reaches a magnificent wall mounted sword… the sword of Simon Moore! He takes the sword, turns, and slashes open another Priest. He kicks the Priest aside, looks forward.
There stands Luc.
LUC
I was starting to think you forgot about me.
Tiberius walks toward him with a smile.
TIBERIUS
Not at all, young one… not at all.
INT. TIBERIUS’ MANSION - LOBBY - MOMENTS LATER
Tray and Jasmine approach a large stairwell in the same lobby we saw at the film’s beginning.
JASMINE
I’m glad you came alone.
TRAY
Actually, I brought some company.
Jasmine reacts in fear.
JASMINE
No! You’ve got to get them away from here, that’s just what Tiberius wanted!
Tray looks at her in terror; he’d hoped never to hear that name again.
JACOB (O.S.)
You shouldn’t have come here, Tray.
Tray and Jasmine look down. Jacob stands at the base of the staircase.
TRAY
Jasmine, don’t move.
Tray descends the stairs.
JACOB
You can’t stop this.
TRAY
My friend, you’ve sold your soul to the devil for all the wrong reasons…
JACOB
I knew the reasons, and you were the only one that could make it happen.
Tray’s eyes widen.
TRAY
You used me to bring the others here… Why???
JACOB
If I’d continued serving the Church, what would I have accomplished when death came for me? Would there still be vampires preying on the population? Yes. Would their numbers still continue to thrive regardless of my best efforts? Yes! So why, Tray, why devote our lives, everything we are, to a lost cause?
Tray reaches the base of the stairs; Jacob steps back, giving him room.
JACOB (CONT’D)
Tonight their way ends. And with them gone, I’ll be free of their law, free of everything they are. Finally, I’ll be able to live my life for me.
TRAY
You’re right about one thing, Jacob.
Tray raises his sword.
TRAY (CONT’D)
Tonight it ends.
Jacob raises his blade as well. The two look on one another in bitter hatred! Then -
Jacob attacks! Tray defends himself as best he can. Jacob leads Tray’s sword to the ground. While he’s hunched, Jacob rolls over his back, landing behind him. In an instant, Tray strikes at his head! Jacob blocks, smiling viciously as their swords are held together.
INT. TIBERIUS’ MANSION - DINING HALL - SAME
Luc stumbles back.
TIBERIUS
This is disappointing. Surely I have better things to do.
Luc strikes again. Tiberius easily bats away his attacks, and with a skillful maneuver, slashes open Luc’s ribcage! Luc SCREAMS; puts distance between them.
Carnage rages around them!
TIBERIUS
How do you expect to avenge sweet Isabelle with this pathetic display?
INT. TIBERIUS’ MANSION - LOBBY - SAME
Tray and Jacob continue their duel. They twirl their swords, skillfully blocking blow after blow.
Jacob manages a cut across Tray’s arm. He lets out a short CRY of pain, swipes clumsily in anger, misses.
Jacob steps back, smiling gleefully.
Breathing heavily, Tray raises his sword once again.
Jacob’s smile fades.
JACOB
You see; that’s your problem. You never knew when to just give up.
Tray continues after him. Several blows later, he’s again on the defensive! Jacob finds an opening, and slashes Tray’s leg. Before Tray can regain his balance, Jacob spins around him, slashing open his back!
Tray releases a horrific SCREAM. He stumbles forward, nearly falling to the ground. Although his pain and exhaustion would keep any man on the ground, somehow, Tray stands. He faces Jacob.
Jacob smiles, thrusts forward.
SLOW TIME -
Just before the blade runs him through, Tray counters! He knocks Jacob’s blade aside, spins, and brings his sword to a halt; only inches from Jacob’s throat!
TIME RESUMES -
Jacob looks into Tray’s eyes. Several tense seconds pass.
JACOB
(Laughs)
Would you look at that! Well, what are you waiting for? Just an inch more and we’ll have your win tally up to two.
TRAY
I can’t…
JACOB
What’s stopping you?
Tray lowers his sword.
TRAY
Friendship.
JACOB
Well, well… you know what old friend?
Jacob plunges his sword into Tray’s gut!
Jasmine SCREAMS.
Tray drops his sword, grabs onto Jacob’s blade. He looks into his eyes in disbelief.
JACOB (CONT’D)
I can.
Jacob pulls his sword from Tray’s stomach. Tray collapses to the floor.
Jacob circles him as he lay.
JACOB
The man you knew in me died a long time ago, old friend. Not all at once either. No. It took years. Little by little, he withered away until there was nothing left but a cold dark husk of what used to be. I know this to be true now as I look on you and feel… nothing.
Tray stares forward in pain, not from his wounds, from Jacob’s words.
Jacob turns his attention to Jasmine.
JACOB
Well, isn’t she pretty? Nice to see your taste in women hasn’t changed.
With sword in hand, Jacob climbs the stairs toward her. Jasmine doesn’t seem to notice; she can’t take her eyes from Tray as he struggles to move on the marble floor.
Jacob closes in on her, raises his sword above his head.
JACOB
Give the devil my regards.
Just before Jacob can follow through, he thrusts forward, his expression turns to confusion. He turns, reaches behind him, and pulls Tray’s dagger from his back! He recognizes it instantly. Blood trickles from his mouth as he laughs at Tray.
JACOB
You cheated…
His knees give out. Jacob tumbles down the stairs to the floor. He looks over at Tray who lays several yards from him.
JACOB
I’ll see you on the other side, huh…
Jacob’s body goes limp.
Jasmine runs to Tray. She drops to the floor, takes him into her arms, holds him tightly to her in sadness.
JASMINE
What do I do?? Tell me what to do…
He struggles to speak.
TRAY
It’s… it’s too late…
JASMINE
No! No, don’t say that!
TRAY
I’m sorry… I’m so sorry…
JASMINE
You’re not going to die; do you hear me???
Holding him tightly to her chest, tears drop from her cheeks. He looks at her, smiles in awe of her beauty. Then -
His eyes turn cold.
JASMINE
Tray!
With his limp body in her arms, Jasmine looks to the ceiling, shuts her eyes.
JASMINE
Please God; forgive me.
Her fangs GROW. She darts down, sinks her teeth into his neck! A moment later, his eyes open in shock! He gasps for air! His eyes slowly MORPH from human to vampire! He holds her tightly. His eyes close; his wounds HEAL in seconds!
TRAY (V.O.)
“I finally understand the passion behind the embrace. It was amazing, like nothing I’d ever felt before. As my life faded from me, a new one poured inside, filling every inch of my body. I didn’t want it to stop. Then, rational thought began to return, anger heated my blood. Tiberius was alive, and for the first time in history, there was a Priest with the power to stop him.”
Tray struggles to find the willpower to pull away. Finally, he throws her from him with a GROWL. He springs to his feet with newfound energy, reaches to his neck; feels warm blood soak his hand, and the wound HEALS beneath his very fingers. He looks at Jasmine. His VAMPIRE eyes ask how she could have done such a thing to him.
JASMINE
I… I had to…
He grabs his sword, rushes away from her.
JASMINE
Tray!
He was gone. Feeling more alone than ever before, Jasmine cries.
INT. TIBERIUS’ MANSION - DINING HALL - SAME
Tray throws open a massive set of doors, looks around at the bloodshed in shock. He rips the Priest’s collar from his neck in anger, dashes through the crowd, killing any vampire that gets in his way!
TRAY
Tiberius!!!
Nearly lost in the chaos, Tiberius and Luc continue their battle. Tiberius slams Luc in the chest, sending him FLYING past us!
Luc hits the floor, coming to a sliding stop at Tray’s feet. He looks up with relief. Tray helps him up.
LUC
Well, it’s about time you showed.
TRAY
I got held up.
Luc notices the blood on Tray’s neck and collar. Regardless of his surprise, he doesn’t say a word.
They’re eyes fix on Tiberius who walks toward them with a calm stroll through the crowd.
TRAY
We’ll do this together; don’t let him divide us. If we’re separated, fall back immediately and regroup. Understand?
LUC
I got it.
TRAY
Let’s do it.
They walk toward Tiberius, anger lighting their eyes. As they near, Luc attacks!
SLOW TIME -
Luc summersaults overtop Tiberius, strikes at his head. Tiberius blocks easily.
TIME RESUMES -
Luc lands behind him. Tray follows Luc’s lead. Suddenly, Tiberius is forced to block incoming attacks from both sides! They fight as though oblivious to the war raging around them. Tiberius is forced to put actual effort to his movements now as Tray and Luc attack with everything they’ve got! After an awesome display of swordsmanship, Tiberius leads Tray’s sword into Luc’s, and backhands Tray in the jaw!
He SOARS back with amazing force, crashes into a wall; it sinks inward from the impact. Tray falls to the floor, plaster falls around him. Angrily, he looks up, eyes GLOWING brightly. He gets to his feet, runs to resume the battle. Before he can reach Luc to assist -
Tiberius knocks his sword into the air. He quickly catches it, and plunges Luc’s own blade into his chest!
TRAY
No!!!
Tiberius lets Luc fall to the floor with the sword still through him.
Tray LEAPS forward, seemingly flying at Tiberius! Tiberius turns just as Tray smashes into him. The two FLY back, crushing into yet another wall! Tiberius slams his head into Tray’s face, breaking his nose. Tray stumbles back; his injury heals itself in seconds.
TIBERIUS
Well, look at you. Even with a vampire’s strength, you can’t possibly defeat me.
Tray strikes. The two duel through the dining hall among the surrounding violence, fighting with savage fury! Tray brings his sword down with incredible force! Tiberius blocks, their swords are locked together. Then, Tray sees the familiar Catholic Cross symbol on Tiberius’ sword. His widen in surprise.
TRAY
That sword…
Tiberius kicks Tray’s legs out from under him. Tray falls to the floor. He crawls backward as Tiberius looms over him.
TIBERIUS
You recognize this blade?
TRAY
(Angrily)
It belonged to my master.
Tiberius laughs. Tray whirls on the ground, coming back to his feet. He slashes out in hatred! After several seconds of swordplay, he’s blasted in the mouth by Tiberius’ powerful fists! Blood spews from his mouth as he falls to the floor one last time. His sword lands beside him, but clearly out of reach.
TIBERIUS
I thought I was free of Simon Moore, but here lay his apprentice seven years later. How ironic that you die by your master’s sword, failing, as he failed, trying to stop the inevitable.
Tiberius raises his sword for the finishing blow.
Tray rips open the sleeve of his shirt revealing vials of holy water strapped to his arm. He takes the lot of them, flings them at the powerful vampire!
Tiberius quickly raises his hand, halting the vials in mid-air! The last ditch effort, it seems, is a useless one. Tiberius laughs. Then -
Tray grabs his sword, lunges forward, and SHATTERS the vials with his blade! Holy water EXPLODES onto Tiberius! Tray follows through, slicing through the vampire’s wrist! Tiberius HOWLS in agony, the sword, and his hand drop freely to the floor. He stumbles to the ground. Defeated, he looks up at Tray with a devious smile stretching across his burned face. With terrifying GLOWING eyes, Tray looks down on Tiberius with bared fangs and a low GROWL escaping his lips.
TIBERIUS
Feels good doesn’t it, a vampire’s strength coursing through your veins?
(Laughs)
You’ve lost, Priest! Your companions are dying. Even if they survive the night, do you think they’ll ever accept what you are?
Tray looks at the bloody battle surrounding him.
Tiberius laughs. Rage floods Tray’s eyes. He takes his master’s sword from the ground, DRIVES it deep into Tiberius’ chest! Tiberius grabs Tray by his shirt, brings him only inches from his charred face.
TIBERIUS
They’re going to kill you… and when they do -
Tiberius coughs. Blood oozes from his mouth, coating his lower jaw. Tray struggles to break free in disgust.
TIBERIUS (CONT’D)
I’ll… see you… in hell…
His body goes limp. Tray falls back with wide eyes. He looks over to Luc, sees him barely breathing. Tray takes both swords, hurries over to him, cutting through several vampires on the way.
Tray quickly slips his katana into the sheath on his back, kneels beside Luc. He pulls the blade from Luc’s chest. Luc SCREAMS out in pain. Tray takes Luc from the floor. With Simon’s blade in one hand, and holding Luc over his shoulder with the other, Tray rushes through the quickly thinning crowd.
INT. TIBERIUS’ MANSION - HALLWAY - SAME
Tray walks into a distant hallway, lays Luc on the floor. He leans against the wall next to his newfound friend; both struggle to catch their breath. Tray opens Luc’s shirt, beneath is a gaping hole through his chest; it was only a matter of time before Luc was going to die.
LUC
Sorry if I don’t get up. I can’t really feel my legs right now.
Luc smiles. Tray has no idea how the man can joke at a time like this.
TRAY
It’s all right; you’re going to be fine.
LUC
I… I told Isabelle before I left that… nothing could keep me from her. I guess I was right.
TRAY
Lie still…
LUC
What do you think death holds for monsters like me? I hope that… that I…
Luc’s eyes open wide. He’s becoming frightened.
LUC
Tray?
TRAY
Yeah.
LUC
I’m scared…
TRAY
Don’t be.
Tray removes his necklace, places it in Luc’s hand, and closes it.
TRAY
When you get to heaven, you tell God himself, I said hello.
Luc smiles, but it’s short lived. Luc’s smile fades, his eyes dim. Tray closes his friend’s eyes, lays his hand on his chest. The cross, visible in his palm, SHIMMERS back at us as a beacon of hope that maybe he’ll get that chance after all.
Tray leans against the wall staring into space with saddened eyes.
INT. TIBERIUS’ MANSION - LOBBY - LATER
Jasmine sits on the stairs; her eyes red from tears. She hears someone coming. She looks over, finds Tray approaching her. He steps in front of her. She shivers violently.
JASMINE
Please. I… I did it to save you…
Tray kneels, gently rests a hand on her cheek. She’s surprised by how gentle his touch is.
TRAY
I know. - I love you, Jasmine.
Her eyes ignite, she smiles. Tray wipes away her tears, kisses her.
INT. TIBERIUS’ MANSION - DINING HALL - SAME
The battle is over and only five Priests remain. They stand amongst countless bodies littering the dinning hall floor. Their clothes are tattered. Obviously exhausted, one speaks.
PRIEST 2
Where’s Tray?
EXT. TIBERIUS’ MANSION - LATER
Tray and Jasmine emerge from the mansion.
SNOW continues to fall heavily. Everything is WHITE as far as the eye can see. It seems the world itself has been wiped clean and started anew.
JASMINE
What do we do now?
TRAY
I don’t know. I honestly don’t know. No matter where we go, the Church will find us.
JASMINE
But, till that day, we’ll be together. That’s all that matters.
She takes his hand. He looks into her eyes. She was so very beautiful and so very right. Only here and now mattered anymore and he was going to take advantage of the moment for the first time in his life.
TRAY
(Smiles)
Till that day then…
The two walk off into their uncertain future, knowing that the church would find them one day. One far off day…
EXT. GRAVEYARD - DAY
An elderly man cuts the grass on a riding lawn mower. He circles around for another pass, stops suddenly, looking at something unseen to us. He shuts off his mower and walks toward it.
TRAY (V.O.)
“Life seems to be filled with irony. The irony of mine is that I had to die before I could truly live. Regardless of what tomorrow brings, I find comfort in the simple fact… that I’m happy today.”
The man stops in front of a gravestone. At the angle we see him, we cannot tell what lay behind. We pan around to reveal the sword of Simon Moore driven securely into the wavy grass several feet from his gravestone. He smiles.
We pull back. A mansion rests in the distance, its construction nearly finished.
FADE TO BLACK:
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