V: A NEW BEGINNING
PART I
FADE IN:
EXT. TIMES' SQUARE - DAY
A large crowd of people watch a message rolling across Times Squares' famed zipper sign: "Truce reached with Visitors in Los Angeles. Cease-fire declared world-wide."
RADIO ANNOUNCER: (voice-over) You are listening to the Freedom Network, the Voice of the Resistance. We have just received word from Los Angeles that the armistice is now official and that the Visitors' leader is returning to Sirius with the remarkable young woman known as the Starchild, the offspring of a human mother and Visitor father with whom all hopes for peace now rest. Our prayers and the prayers of the entire world go with her.
Standing in the crowd in Times Square is a young father who has his little girl on his shoulders. As the father is looking up at the message on the zipper sign, the little girl looks over at the camera and flashes a "V" sign. The inside of her index and middle finger have been painted red. The image of the little girl freezes, and the camera zooms in on her two fingers which become the "V" of the MAIN TITLE after everything else fades to black.
EXT. DEEP SPACE
A nova-like explosion rips the heavens, releasing massive waves of energy which emanate outward like terrible ripples in the black waters of space. A giant fiery wall from one of these energy waves rushes forward and fills the screen with a blinding white light.
INT. BERNSTEIN HOME/ROBIN'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Asleep in her bed, Robin Maxwell awakens violently and springs up, drenched in sweat.
ROBIN: Elizabeth!
Robin sobs uncontrollably. The door opens, and Lynn Bernstein turns on the light.
LYNN: Robin, what's wrong?
Robin looks at her with tears streaming down her face.
ROBIN: She's dead, Lynn. Elizabeth is dead.
Lynn goes over to Robin and sits on the side of the bed. Robin grabs onto her and cries.
LYNN:(holding Robin) Honey, calm down. You just had a very bad dream, that's all.
Still half asleep, Stanley Bernstein comes to the door.
STANLEY: What happened?
LYNN: She's burning up, Stanley. Could you get me a wet cloth?
STANLEY: Sure.
Stanley disappears.
LYNN: Everything is going to be all right, Robin. Come and lie back down.
Lynn helps Robin lie down. Robin is covered with perspiration.
ROBIN: Elizabeth...
Lynn is visibly concerned.
INT. LOS ANGELES MEDICAL CENTER/DOCTOR'S LOUNGE - DAY
Jim Thomas is sitting on a sofa reading a newspaper when Julie Parrish walks in. A television is on in the background. Jim puts down his paper and looks up.
JIM: You look like hell.
JULIE: Thanks.
Julie sits down, pulls out a bottle, and empties a few pills into her hand.
JIM: You shouldn't take that stuff, Julie. It'll start catching up with you sooner or later.
JULIE: This is the only thing between me and malpractice. You can't work nonstop for 48 hours and think straight without some help.
JIM: I think your problems go deeper than work.
Julie stares at the television.
INTERVIEWER: (on television) Welcome back. We're talking to Dr. Robert Miller of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Doctor, it's been almost six months since the so-called Starchild left for the Visitors' home planet. Now I don't claim to be any kind of expert, but I have read a little about space travel to other worlds. I think our viewers would be interested in your insights on the subject.
MILLER:(on television)Let me begin by clarifying the distances involved in this journey to the Visitors' home world. The Visitors' planet orbits the star we call Sirius which is 8.7 light years or, in more down-to-earth terms, 51 trillion miles from our own sun. Although Sirius is one of the closer stars to our solar system, it would take a ship traveling at the speed of light 8.7 years to reach it.
INTERVIEWER:(on television) You can't mean that it's going to take the Starchild almost nine years to get there.
MILLER:(on television) Not at all. Visitor spacecraft utilize a kind of fusion-powered gravity drive which enables them to travel beyond the speed of light. Still, the journey to Sirius is a long one and must be made in a state of suspended animation or hibernation. I have been told by several Visitor scientists that we won't receive word of the Starchild's arrival on the Visitors' home world for another six months at least.
Jim turns off the television.
JIM: So that's what has you worried, isn't it?
Julie does not respond.
JIM: I don't get it. Why are you so reluctant to talk about that part of your life?
JULIE: Because I don't want to dwell on the past. I have to get on with my life. I'm supposed to be a doctor and a scientist.
JIM: But a lot has happened since our med school days. Being in the resistance must have had some effect on you.
JULIE: I suppose it has. To be honest, coming back here to finish my residency hasn't been as easy as I thought. I've sort of felt out of place.
JIM: Sounds like post-traumatic stress.
JULIE: You might be onto something. Perhaps I can't cope in the normal world anymore.
JIM: Bull. You're just being unrealistic. Brushing the past under the rug isn't the answer. Have you kept in touch with anyone from the resistance?
JULIE: No. I haven't.
JIM: Maybe some of them would like to hear from you.
A nurse pokes her head in the door.
NURSE: Dr. Parrish, there's a call for you.
INT. AIRPLANE/PASSENGER CABIN
Mike Donovan and his cameraman, Charlie Simmons, are passengers on a flight to Washington D.C. The airplane is filled with humans and Visitors. Mike reads a newspaper written both in English and in the symbols of the Visitor's language.
STEWARDESS:(over speakers) May I have your attention please. We are on approach to Washington National Airport and have been cleared to land. At this time, please remain seated and place your trays in a locked upright position. On behalf of the entire staff and crew, we hope that your flight has been a pleasant one and that you will fly with us again. Thank you.
Charlie turns to Mike as he puts down his paper.
CHARLIE: So are you ready to make your big debut?
MIKE: Ready as I'll ever be, I suppose.
CHARLIE: Still can't get the cameraman out of your blood, can you Mike? Why did you take a reporting assignment in the first place?
MIKE: I was drafted. The network wants me to use my connections to bag an exclusive interview with Lydia.
CHARLIE: Are you going to pull it off?
MIKE: If Martin comes through for me. I told him Lydia didn't have anything to worry about. The network wants me to take it easy on her. They're trying to soften their confrontational image.
CHARLIE: In other words, it's going to be a flaky up close and personal piece.
MIKE: Yeah. They're hoping it'll bring in more viewers. Otherwise, the Freedom Network will have to call it quits, and we'll both be out of a job.
CHARLIE: So the Voice of the Resistance is counting on the Visitors' supreme commander to come to its rescue. That's pretty sad.
MIKE: I'm afraid it's the sign of the times. A lot of people out there want to put the past behind them. We're just a reminder of things they'd rather forget.
INT. OJAI STATE HOSPITAL/DAY ROOM
Sean Donovan sits with other conversion patients in the day room of a psychiatric hospital. A nurse is watching the television at her station.
REPORTER: (on television) One of the more unfortunate legacies of our first contact with the Visitors are the so-called "converts," individuals who were brainwashed into believing that the world's scientists were conspiring against the Visitors. Their accusations against the scientific community provided the pretext for the declaration of martial law and the Visitor military occupation which followed. Although all of that is now history with the signing of the armistice and the hopeful prospects for a final peace agreement, the question remains of what to do with the scores of converts whose condition has left them unable to function in normal society. For many, the best hope for recovery rests with Dr. Neil Brady, the director of the world-renown conversion treatment center at Ojai State Hospital.
BRADY:(on television) While we've made a lot of progress in our understanding of the conversion process, an effective treatment remains elusive. Working with the typical convert is extremely challenging and, at times, frustrating. They suffer from extreme paranoia which makes them suspicious of everything we do. Because of this, we've avoided creating an oppressive treatment environment by allowing our patients as much freedom as is consistent with their own safety.
Dr. Neil Brady enters through the main door and walks over to the nurse's station.
NURSE: Dr. Brady, you're on television.
BRADY: I heard. Any messages?
NURSE: Yes, sir. We got a call from Sean Donovan's mother. She had to cancel her visit.
BRADY: Not again. I wish she'd understand that she puts all the wrong ideas in his head by doing this.
NURSE: What should I do?
Brady looks over at Sean.
BRADY: Break the news to him as gently as possible.
EXT. OJAI STATE HOSPITAL/COURTYARD
Sean walks out into the hospital courtyard and sees an older man, Corley Walker, sitting on a bench. Sean walks over and sits down next to Walker who notices that Sean is more unhappy than usual.
WALKER: What's wrong, my young friend?
SEAN: They told me my mom had to cancel her visit again.
WALKER: We've heard that one before, haven't we? Their lies are so transparent.
SEAN: You think they're lying?
WALKER: Of course! They're scientists. You must never trust them, and I should know since I was part of their conspiracy until the Visitors opened my eyes.
SEAN: I thought you told Dr. Brady you didn't believe in any of that conspiracy stuff anymore.
WALKER: That's what I want him to think. I'm fighting lies with lies.
SEAN: But they said on television that we're going to make peace with the Visitors.
WALKER: Don't believe a word of it. The scientists don't really want peace. It's just another trick.
SEAN: I still don't understand why they won't let me see my mom.
WALKER: Your father brought you here, didn't he?
SEAN:(nodding his head) Uh-huh.
WALKER: And your parents are divorced?
SEAN: Yeah. So what?
WALKER: Come on, my boy. Put two and two together. Your father is obviously conspiring with the scientists to keep you here so she can't get to you.
SEAN: Why?
Walker lets out a sigh of frustration.
WALKER: You poor, naive child. The scientists keep us here and tamper with our minds because we know about their plan for world domination. They know if you had contact with your mother or anyone else on the outside, you could expose them.
Sean thinks for a moment, and a look of revelation spreads across his face.
SEAN: Of course! That makes a lot of sense.
WALKER: I wasn't awarded the Nobel prize for nothing. As I see it, you're never going to see your mother while you're in here. You need to go to her.
SEAN: How?
WALKER: We'll think of something.
INT. WASHINGTON NATIONAL AIRPORT/TERMINAL
The passengers begin to filing into the terminal. Among the passengers are Mike and his cameraman. A Visitor in uniform makes his way through the crowd and approaches Mike and Charlie.
ANDREW: Mike Donovan?
MIKE: That's me.
ANDREW: My name is Andrew. Martin sent me to escort you and your cameraman to our legation. We've already sent someone to get your equipment. Come with me.
CHARLIE:(to Mike) You really do have some connections.
INT. BERNSTEIN HOME/LIVING ROOM
Stanley Bernstein is sitting in a reclining chair reading the newspaper while listening to the television. A correspondent reports from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.
CORRESPONDENT:(on television) It's certainly shaping up to be another great day on Wall Street. Today's announcement that the Visitors are opening an embassy in Washington has everyone positively bullish about the prospects for a final peace agreement.
Lynn Bernstein walks into the house with grocery bags in her arms.
LYNN: Hello Stanley.
Stanley looks up.
STANLEY: Hey! Looks like you hit the jackpot at the supermarket.
LYNN: This isn't all of it. There are five more bags in the car. I couldn't believe it! The store was fully stocked, fresh meat, fresh vegetables, everything! People were going crazy.
STANLEY: I tell you Lynn this must our lucky day. Ted Richards, down the street, told me he's going to reopen his business and is looking for a new partner. He asked if I was interested.
LYNN: Did you say yes?
STANLEY: How could I say no? We definitely could use the money.
LYNN: That's great... How's Robin doing?
STANLEY: She went out to get some fresh air. I'm beginning to worry about her, Lynn. She's convinced that something's happened to Elizabeth. I can't reason with her. I finally decided to call Julie Parrish.
LYNN: That's someone I haven't talked to in a while. What did she say?
STANLEY: She seemed very eager to help. She's going to drop by for dinner. I only hope Robin will listen to her. The girl is so upset that she hasn't eaten all day.
LYNN: Well, when she smells the roast I bought I'm sure her appetite will come back.
STANLEY: A roast? I haven't tasted one of those in a long time.
Stanley puts his arms around Lynn and kisses her on the neck.
LYNN: I didn't know a roast was all I needed to make you this way. I wish I thought of it earlier.
INT. VISITOR EMBASSY/RECEPTION HALL
Mike and Charlie walk into a vast and elaborately decorated reception room filled with diplomats, politicians, and other important officials.
CHARLIE: This is quite a turnout. Looks like everybody who's somebody is here tonight.
Feeling a little out of place, Mike runs his fingers through his hair and tugs nervously at his tie.
MIKE: Yeah. How do I look?
CHARLIE: Don't worry, Mike. You look fine. Say isn't that your friend, Martin, over there?
Mike looks over and sees Martin talking to a man in a general's uniform.
MIKE: That's him all right. You see who he's talking to?
CHARLIE: Yeah. That's General Vaughn, the President's national security advisor. I thought he was going to resign.
MIKE: So did I. Looks like he's been rehabilitated.
Martin looks over and sees Mike and Charlie. Turning back to General Vaughn, he excuses himself and walks over to Mike.
MARTIN: Hello, Mike. I'm glad you could make it.
Mike pumps Martin's hand.
MIKE: Hey, I wouldn't miss it. Are you going to come through for me on that interview?
MARTIN: It's all taken care of. And who did you bring with you?
MIKE: Martin, I'd like you to meet my cameraman, Charlie Simmons.
Martin and Charlie shake hands.
MARTIN: Nice to meet you, Mr. Simmons.
CHARLIE: My pleasure. (to Mike) I'll go set up and let the two of you catch up on old times.
Charlie leaves the two of them alone.
MARTIN: So what do you think of our new embassy?
MIKE: Very fancy. The guest list is pretty impressive too. I couldn't help notice you chatting it up with General Vaughn.
MARTIN: Do you know him?
MIKE: Not personally.
MARTIN: Then maybe I should introduce you.
MIKE: That's probably not a good idea. I doubt the two of us would hit it off.
MARTIN: Really? He seems friendly enough, and he's been quite helpful to us.
MIKE: That's the problem. He's been too helpful from the very beginning. He's the one who got the President to agree to the declaration of martial law.
MARTIN: You shouldn't dwell so much on the past, Mike. If your people can make peace with us, then they should be willing to make peace with one another.
Andrew appears and walks up to Martin.
ANDREW: I'm sorry to interrupt, but this just came for you. It's marked urgent.
Dennis hands a folded piece of paper to Martin and leaves. Martin opens and reads it. A shocked expression falls over his face.
MIKE: Martin, what's wrong?
INT. JULIE PARRISH'S APARTMENT/BEDROOM - NIGHT
Julie Parrish is asleep in her bed. A telephone on the night stand rings three times. A hand reaches out and the grabs the phone.
JULIE: Hello. (pause) Mike?
Julie sits up, turns on the lamp next to her bed, and looks at her clock.
JULIE: This is a surprise. Where are you calling from?
INT. LOS ANGELES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT/TELEPHONE BOOTH
MIKE: I'm at the airport. I just got back from Washington. Do you mind if I drop by? It's important. (pause) I can't talk here. I'll see you in about twenty minutes.
INT. JULIE PARRISH'S APARTMENT/LIVING ROOM
The doorbell rings, and Julie Parrish answers the door. It is Mike Donovan.
MIKE: Hi Julie.
JULIE: Come in Mike.
Mike walks in and Julie closes the door behind him.
MIKE: It's been a while.
JULIE: I know. I'm sorry I haven't kept in touch.
MIKE: Me too. Could we sit down?
Julie and Mike walk over to the living room sofa and sit down. A huge Mothership hovers above the Los Angeles skyline through the living room window. A radio is playing music in the background. Mike looks at Julie gravely.
JULIE: What is it, Mike?
MIKE: The Leader's shuttle exploded.
Julie is silent for a second.
JULIE: Elizabeth? Kyle?
MIKE: There were no survivors.
JULIE: Then Robin was right all along.
MIKE: What?
JULIE: I saw her this evening. She was convinced that something happened to Elizabeth.
Julie holds onto Mike.
JULIE: Why is this happening?
MIKE: I don't know.
JULIE: I'm losing everyone I care about.
MIKE: I'm still here.
JULIE: I'm so glad you came. I've missed you.
MIKE: I've missed you too.
Mike and Julie kiss.
JULIE: Please don't leave...
MIKE: I'm not going anywhere.
Julie and Mike kiss again, this time more passionately. The camera moves away from them and toward the radio.
ANNOUNCER:(over the radio) Please pardon this interruption. We just received the following report over the wire. The Visitors have announced that the shuttle carrying their Leader and the Starchild has exploded. No survivors were recovered, and the cause of the explosion remains undetermined. Stay tuned for further developments.
INT. BERNSTEIN HOME/ROBIN'S BEDROOM - MORNING
Robin Maxwell lies on her bed staring at a picture of Elizabeth which sits on the night stand. There is a knock at the door, but Robin does not respond. The door cracks open, and Stanley Bernstein peaks in.
STANLEY: Robin?
Getting no response from Robin, he opens the door and enters the room.
STANLEY: I just talked to Julie. She's coming over to see you.
Robin remains unresponsive. Stanley sits on the bed.
STANLEY: Robin, I understand what you're going through. I know what it's like to lose a child.
ROBIN: You miss Daniel?
STANLEY: Yes, I do. Despite all the things he did that hurt me and this family, he will always be my son.
Stanley gets up and goes to the dresser. He pulls open the drawer and takes out a picture of Daniel.
STANLEY: I tried to throw this away, but I couldn't bring myself to do it. Look, you're in his room. I rearranged the furniture and removed all of his things. I tried so hard to forget him, but I never could.
ROBIN: Elizabeth and I had so little time together. I never even got the chance to say goodbye.
STANLEY: I know, but she left you with so many wonderful memories. I really envy you.
ROBIN: Why?
STANLEY: Because Elizabeth left this world as a daughter you could be proud of. When I lost Daniel, I didn't just lose his flesh and bones. The part of him that I loved had died long before that.
ROBIN: Maybe none of that would have happened if you hadn't helped me and my family.
STANLEY: No, Robin. Your family opened our eyes to what the Visitors had done to Daniel. It was a painful revelation, but I pulled through it. In time, you'll do the same.
INT. OJAI STATE HOSPITAL/DAY ROOM
Dr. Brady walks over to the main door and tries to use his security card to open the door. However, the door remains locked. He tries it again, and still no luck.
BRADY:(under his breath) Damn it.
Brady walks over to the nurse's station in a huff.
BRADY:(to nurse) What's going on with that door? It's not working again.
NURSE: The security people came by yesterday and said they fixed it.
BRADY: Well, call them again and tell them to shut everything down until they can figure out what's wrong with it. I'm getting tired of this.
NURSE: Yes, sir.
BRADY: This new security system is the pits.
Brady walks off. Neither Brady nor the nurse notice that Dr. Walker is nearby and overheard their conversation.
INT. FREEDOM NETWORK STUDIO/CONTROL ROOM
Mike walks into the control room of the Freedom Network studio which is abuzz with activity.
CHARLIE: Mike, you got back just in time.
MIKE: What's going on?
CHARLIE: We're not sure exactly. The Visitors are asking for television time.
Close-up on television monitor: Freedom Network Special Report.
ANNOUNCER (voice-over): Please standby for the following special report.
ANCHOR:(on television) Good morning. We've just received word that the Visitors are about to make an important announcement. We now go to a live satellite broadcast.
On television monitor: Justin, a stately looking Visitor in a black uniform, stands at a podium with a red Visitor flag hanging behind him.
JUSTIN:(on television) Greetings to the people of Earth and to my fellow Visitors. I am Justin, the personal emissary of our new leader, Maximillian.
MIKE: New leader?
JUSTIN: (on television) Thanks to the development of a remarkable new propulsion system which allows us to fold space, I have been able to travel the vast distances between our two worlds to conduct a thorough investigation into the deaths of our beloved Leader and the Starchild Elizabeth.
INT. BERNSTEIN HOME/LIVING ROOM
Julie, Robin, Stanley, and Lynn watch Justin on the television.
JUSTIN:(on television) But even more importantly, our new Leader has asked me to personally bring you words of friendship and reassurance at this very dark hour. The loss of the Leader and the Starchild has left us all in a state of shock and uncertainty, but Maximillian has expressed to me his determination to complete the noble mission that our departed leader began. I bring with me a proposal for a final peace agreement to be studied by your leaders.
JULIE: They certainly aren't wasting any time.
JUSTIN:(on television) I believe they will find it very generous. Furthermore, as a gesture of good will, our new leader has ordered the immediate release of all human prisoners regardless of any charge or suspicion against them.
INT. OJAI STATE HOSPITAL/DAY ROOM
Dr. Brady walks over to a group of nurses and attendants who are standing watching television at the nurse's station.
JUSTIN:(on television) Locations of the releases have been given to your local governments, and this information will be passed onto you as soon as possible. It is our sincere hope that these steps will mark a new beginning for all of us.
The nurses and staff start chatting excitedly with each other.
BRADY: All right. Let's get back to work.
Everyone goes back to work. Brady looks over and sees that Sean is not in the day room. Dr. Walker is gone as well.
BRADY: Where's Sean Donovan? It's time for his session.
The nurse notices that Sean is gone.
NURSE: He was sitting over there just a minute ago with...
BRADY: Find him.
EXT. OJAI STATE HOSPITAL/PARKING LOT
Dr. Walker and Sean walk out into the hospital parking lot and pass by a young doctor who is unlocking the door to his car.
YOUNG DOCTOR:(to Dr. Walker) Excuse me, sir.
WALKER: Yes?
YOUNG DOCTOR: Your face is awfully familiar. Do I know you from somewhere?
WALKER: Perhaps. I'm rather well-known in the medical field. My name is Corley Walker.
YOUNG DOCTOR: Of course. Dr. Walker, this is a real honor. I was so excited when they awarded you the Nobel prize. Your work is incredible.
WALKER: I'm flattered. Thank you.
YOUNG DOCTOR: So are you working out here? I thought you were at Los Angeles Medical Center.
WALKER: I'm just visiting. Doing a little consulting work and spending some time with my grandson, Sean. We were hoping to go out and do some fishing, but my car broke down on me.
YOUNG DOCTOR: Need a lift? I can take you into town.
WALKER: I'd really appreciate that...if it's not too much trouble.
YOUNG DOCTOR: No trouble at all. I insist.
EXT. OJAI STATE HOSPITAL/GUARD POST
The guard at the hospital gate is talking on the telephone.
GUARD:(into the telephone) Understood. I'll keep an eye out for them.
After the guard hangs up the telephone, the young doctor drives up to the guard post. The guard walks out and holds out his hand. The car stops, and the guard walks over to the driver's side window.
YOUNG DOCTOR: Is there a problem?
GUARD: I just got a call that two patients are running loose on the grounds.
The guard looks over at Dr. Walker who is sitting in the front passenger seat and Sean who is sitting in the back.
GUARD: Who do you have with you?
YOUNG DOCTOR: Oh, I was just giving Dr. Walker and his grandson a ride into town.
The guard looks over at Walker and Sean who realize that they've been discovered.
WALKER:(to Sean) Run for it, boy!
Sean opens the backdoor of the car and runs out into the wooded area of the hospital grounds.
GUARD: Stop!
INT. BERNSTEIN HOME/LIVING ROOM
Stanley and Lynn Bernstein are watching the television which shows pictures of prisoners in khaki Visitor uniforms emerging from a shuttle.
REPORTER: (voice-over) And there they are. This is coming to us live from San Francisco where the first group of prisoners is being released by the Visitors. It is estimated that as many as half a million people were abducted by the Visitors since their arrival.
Julie Parrish and Robin Maxwell walk in and join the Bernsteins.
REPORTER: (voice-over) However, within the next 24 hours, they will all be freed as the scenes from San Francisco are repeated all around the world. The one notable exception will be here in Los Angeles where all prisoners were freed when the L.A. Mothership was captured following the release of the red dust.
Julie looks over at Robin.
JULIE: We all have Elizabeth to thank for this, Robin.
ROBIN: I know.
LYNN: So were you able to make arrangements for the memorial service?
JULIE: I think so. Mike is going to call everyone, and Father Conley is coming over.
The doorbell rings.
JULIE: That might be him.
STANLEY: I'll get it.
INT. BERNSTEIN HOME/FOYER
Stanley walks over to the front door and opens it. A Visitor, Peter, stands before him.
PETER: Hello. Are you Stanley Bernstein?
STANLEY: Yes, I am.
PETER: Mr. Bernstein, my name is Peter. I'm sorry to come unannounced like this, but I brought someone to see you.
Peter moves to one side revealing Abraham Bernstein who has been standing behind him dressed in a khaki Visitor jumpsuit. Stanley looks like he has just seen a ghost.
STANLEY: Father?
ABRAHAM: Hello Stanley.
Lynn comes over to the door.
LYNN: What's going on, Stanley?
She sees Abraham and lets out a gasp of surprise.
LYNN: Oh my God!
EXT. OJAI STATE HOSPITAL/GROUNDS
Hospital security guards comb the grounds looking for Sean who watches them from a hiding place in some bushes. Sean tries to catch his breath. After the guards are out of sight, Sean emerges from the bushes. However, he does not notice two more guards approaching him from behind.
FIRST GUARD: There he is!
Sean looks around and sees the two guards run toward him. He jumps out of the bushes and tries to outrun them. However, his escape route is cut off by a high chain-link fence running along the perimeter of the hospital grounds. In desperation, he tries to climb the fence, but the security guards quickly converge on the area. One of them reaches up and grabs Sean, pulling him down.
SEAN: (screaming) Let go of me! Let me go!
FIRST GUARD: Give it up, son. It's all over.
INT. BERNSTEIN HOME/LIVING ROOM
Stanley and Robin are sitting in the living room with Peter when Lynn walks in.
STANLEY: Where's dad?
LYNN: He's in his room getting changed. I'm glad we saved his things.
STANLEY: I still can't believe he's come back. (to Peter) We thought he was dead. What happened?
PETER: After your father was taken into custody, it was decided that he should be converted.
STANLEY: What did they do to him?
PETER: I assure, Mr. Bernstein, your father is fine. His resistance to the conversion process was considerable. He went into cardiac arrest before it could be completed. Fortunately, the doctors who treated him were members of the Fifth Column. They were able to stage his death and hide him in stasis on one of the other motherships.
STANLEY: Why didn't anyone tell us?!
PETER: Because it would have been too dangerous. Your son was an informer.
Lynn sits next to Stanley and takes his hand.
LYNN: (to Peter) Please forgive my husband. We're very grateful that you brought Abraham back to us. Thank you.
EXT. CEMETERY - DAWN
A grounds keeper walks along a row of tombstones, raking leaves. He stops when he reaches a tree. He puts down the rake and pulls out a camera and takes pictures of a large group of resistance members assembled around a grave to pay their last respects to Elizabeth Maxwell. Facing the head stone is Father Conley who is flanked on one side by Robin Maxwell and Julie Parrish and on the other side by Stanley, Lynn, and Abraham Bernstein. Among the other mourners are Mike Donovan; Elias Taylor; and Martin and Willie, who are wearing casual human clothing.
FATHER CONLEY: My friends, the loss of a young life is never easy to understand or accept. We may ask where is God? Why must the innocent be sacrificed? There are no easy answers. In the end, all we have to comfort us is our faith. Our belief that death is not the end but only a new beginning. Our sister, Elizabeth, has gone from darkness into eternal light where she no longer knows the pain and suffering of this world. We, therefore, commend her to your care, O Heavenly Father, with a glad heart. We also pray for all of those Elizabeth left behind. In particular, we pray for Elizabeth's mother, Robin. Comfort her and give her strength. We pray too for all the people of Earth and for those among us who have traveled here from far away. While we may be from different worlds, Elizabeth has shown us that we are all your children. Let her example inspire us to love one another as brothers and sisters. Amen.\
THOSE ASSEMBLED: Amen.
Robin then kneels and places the flowers in front of the headstone which lists the names of Kathleen Maxwell, Robert Maxwell, and Elizabeth Maxwell.
ROBIN: Rest in peace, sweetheart.
Robin then stands back up. Julie walks up and puts an arm around her.
FATHER CONLEY: This service is concluded. Go in peace.
The memorial service concludes, and Julie turns to Robin.
JULIE: How are you doing, Robin? You going to be okay?
ROBIN: I'm a little tired. I didn't get much sleep.
Stanley Bernstein walks up to them.
STANLEY: We'll take her home.
JULIE: Okay. I'll be over in few minutes, Robin.
Robin leaves with the Bernsteins. Julie walks over to Father Conley.
JULIE: It was a wonderful service, Father Conley. Thank you.
FATHER CONLEY: It was the least I could do. I owe a lot to the resistance and to Father Andrew in particular.
Elias Taylor walks up to Julie and Father Conley.
ELIAS: Hi Doc. Remember me?
JULIE: (to Elias) Come here.
Julie gives Elias a big hug.
JULIE: I've missed you, Elias. Thanks for coming.
ELIAS: Hey, Elizabeth was like family. Since pop passed away, you guys are the closest thing to a family I got left.
JULIE: So what's been happening with you? How's the restaurant business?
ELIAS: It's been paying the bills. Can't say the same for the black market. Looks like I'm having to go legit. Ain't that right, father?
FATHER CONLEY: You wouldn't know it, but beneath that tough guy exterior beats the heart of an angel. If it weren't for Elias, our homeless shelter would have closed down a long time ago.
JULIE: I've known his true colors for a long time.
ELIAS: Come on you two. I don't want you spreading stuff like that around. I've got a reputation to protect.
FATHER CONLEY: Don't worry. You're secret is safe with us. I better get back to the church. I'll come by later today and visit Robin.
JULIE: I appreciate that. Thanks again.
ELIAS: See you, father.
Mike walks over with Martin and Willie.
ELIAS: Well, look who dropped by.
JULIE: Martin and Willie, I didn't recognize you two at first. I'm so glad you made it.
MARTIN: So am I, Julie. I was in Los Angeles when I learned from Mike that you were having a memorial service for Elizabeth. We had to come to pay our respects.
WILLIE: Yes. We will all miss her very much.
ELIAS: So, Willie, how's married life treating you?
WILLIE: Oh, not so good. Thelma and I had our first fight. I want to live back on earth, but she wants to stay on the Mothership. Hopefully, I can work her over.
ELIAS: Well, if you ever win her over, you know you can always come back to work at the new Club Creole.
WILLIE: Thanks, Elias.
ELIAS: Say, why don't you all come over to my place for something to eat. It'll be on the house.
MIKE: Business that good, is it?
ELIAS: Hey, I take care of my friends.
MARTIN: That's a very generous offer, but I have to return to the Mothership.
JULIE: Sorry, Elias. I'll have to take a rain check too.
WILLIE: I can come, Elias.
MIKE: I'll drop by too. Go on ahead, and I'll meet you there.
Elias and Willie leave.
MIKE: Martin, tell Julie why you're in L.A.
MARTIN: I'm leading the advance team to prepare for a visit by Lydia. She's going to announce that one of our medical specialists will be joining the staff at Los Angeles Medical Center. That's your hospital, isn't it?
JULIE: Yes, it is.
MARTIN: Apparently, it was arranged by Nathan Bates, the president of Science Frontiers.
MIKE: Los Angeles' great humanitarian. Well, Julie, it looks like you and Nathan will get the chance to catch up on old times.
JULIE: I'll also have to tell him about Kyle.
MIKE: He doesn't know?
Julie shakes her head.
JULIE: Kyle was never an easy subject to bring up with him. (to Martin) So what kind of medical specialist are you sending us?
MARTIN: He specializes in what you would call bioengineering and psychiatry. He has developed treatments for many physical and psychological disorders.
MIKE: And Bates is probably busy filing for the patents.
JULIE: (irritated) Mike!
MIKE: Sorry. Would this guy know anything about the conversion process?
MARTIN: It's possible. How is Sean doing?
MIKE: I got a call from the state hospital. They told me he tried to escape.
MARTIN: I'm sorry to hear that.
MIKE: I'm going over there tomorrow. I'm beginning to wonder if they'll ever be able to undo all the damage Diana did to him.
JULIE: (to Martin) Speaking of Diana, what's happening with her?
MARTIN: She and James are still awaiting trial which has been postponed pending the investigation into the Leader's death.
JULIE: You think Diana is responsible for what happened?
MARTIN: There's no concrete evidence yet, but she's an obvious suspect. Ultimately, her fate rests in the hands of our new leader.
MIKE: What can you tell us about him?
MARTIN: Officially, Maximillian was the commander of the Leader's personal guard. When the Leader withdrew into seclusion during his final years, Maximillian was the only one to have close contact with him. He relied increasingly on Maximillian to advise him and act on his behalf.
MIKE: He was the power behind the throne.
MARTIN: Yes. That's one way of looking at it.
JULIE: Can we trust him?
MARTIN: I've seen nothing which makes me question his sincerity. It's even possible that the peace process was his idea from the very beginning. That might explain why everything is happening so quickly.
JULIE: I hope you're right.
EXT. BERNSTEIN HOME/DRIVEWAY
Stanley, Lynn, Abraham, and Robin get out of their car as a second car pulls over to the curb in front of the house.
LYNN: Stanley, who is that? They followed us all the way from the cemetery.
STANLEY: I'm not sure.
The grounds keeper gets out of the car and walks over to them.
STANLEY: Can I help you?
GROUNDS KEEPER: Actually, I was hoping to talk to that young lady over there.
LYNN: Who are you?
GROUNDS KEEPER: I'm Norton Penrod, a freelance journalist. I've been looking for the mother of the Starchild. She wasn't easy to find.
STANLEY: What do you want with Robin?
PENROD: To tell her story. There are millions of people all over the world who want to hear it.
ROBIN: I'm not interested.
PENROD: You don't understand. I know of several publications which would pay millions for an exclusive interview.
ROBIN: I don't care about money. I just want to be left alone.
PENROD: But --
STANLEY: You heard what she said. Now I'm asking you to leave.
Lynn and Abraham take Robin into the house. Penrod snaps a few pictures of them with his camera. Stanley grabs the camera and rips out the film.
PENROD: Hey! What do you think you're doing?!
Stanley shoves the camera back at Penrod.
STANLEY: Get the hell off my property! And if I catch you around here again, I'll call the police!
EXT. OJAI STATE HOSPITAL - DAY
Mike Donovan's car drives past the sign: "Ojai State Hospital."
INT. OJAI STATE HOSPITAL/DR. BRADY'S OFFICE
The doors opens and Dr. Neil Brady invites Mike Donovan into his office.
BRADY: Please have a seat, Mr. Donovan.
Mike takes a seat while Dr. Brady walks over to his desk.
BRADY: We have to talk about your son. I'm afraid I must say some things that might be difficult for you to accept as a parent.
MIKE: I'm listening.
BRADY: At the moment, our treatment of Sean has reached an impasse. His condition is not improving and could even get worse as he enters puberty.
MIKE: What do you mean? I was told you guys were the best.
BRADY: We are, Mr. Donovan, but our understanding of the conversion process is still very limited.
MIKE: Then you're telling me Sean has wasted the past year and a half of his life here.
BRADY: Not necessarily. He has been extremely useful in our research.
MIKE: My son is not a guinea pig.
BRADY: Please understand, Mr. Donovan. The study of human conversion subjects is absolutely essential to the development of a successful treatment, but it's going to take time.
MIKE: How much time?
BRADY: At this point, we're not sure exactly. You may have to face the fact that Sean will require an indefinite period of institutionalization.
MIKE: No way. This is no place for a kid to spend the rest of his childhood.
BRADY: In his present condition, there's nowhere else for him to go.
MIKE: He can come back home with me.
BRADY: Mr. Donovan, let's be realistic. Sean suffers from severe paranoid delusions which revolve around you. Placing him in an environment where you're a constant presence would be psychologically harmful to him.
MIKE:(indignant) I'm his father!
BRADY: In his mind, you're the enemy.
MIKE: He's still my son, and he belongs with me.
BRADY: No, he belongs here where he can get professional help.
MIKE: Frankly, I don't think you're giving him the kind of help he needs. I want a second opinion.
BRADY: That decision is ultimately yours, Mr. Donovan. I can't stop you.
INT. OJAI STATE HOSPITAL/SEAN'S ROOM
Sean sits on a chair in the corner staring into space. Light shines into the room through a barred window. The door opens, and Dr. Brady enters with Mike.
BRADY: Sean, your father is here.
Sean does not respond. Mike walks over to him and kneels in front of him.
MIKE: Sean.
Sean looks at him with suspicion.
SEAN:(coolly) What do you want?
MIKE: I'm taking you home with me.
SEAN: I don't want to go anywhere with you.
MIKE: Sean....
BRADY: Mr. Donovan, I beg you to reconsider.
Mike gets up and turns to Brady.
MIKE: We're leaving.
Dr. Brady turns to the orderly.
BRADY: Take Mr. Donovan's son and prepare him for discharge. (to Sean) Come on, Sean.
Sean gets up and accompanies the orderly out of the room. After they leave, a nurse comes into the room with a tray of bottles.
NURSE: What do you want me to do with these.
BRADY: Give them to me.
The nurse hands the tray to Brady who turns to Mike.
BRADY: These are Sean's medications. You must make sure that he continues to take them.
MIKE: What are they for?
BRADY: They help control the symptoms of his conversion disorder. Without them, he could pose a danger to himself and to others.
MIKE: He's just a kid...
BRADY: Who's deeply disturbed. You must not let your guard down.
INT. BERNSTEIN HOME/POOL HOUSE
Abraham Bernstein stands in front of a window and stares though the curtains. Boxes and other assorted items lie about. Stanley Bernstein opens the door and looks in.
STANLEY: Father, so this is where you wandered off to. Is everything okay?
Abraham turns around and looks at Stanley.
ABRAHAM: I was just thinking. The last time I was in here, Robin and her family were hiding from the Visitors.
STANLEY: Yeah. That was almost two years ago.
ABRAHAM: It seems like yesterday to me. So much has happened while I was away that I feel a little out of place.
Stanley comes up behind Abraham and puts his hand on Abraham's shoulder.
STANLEY: This is your home, dad. There will always be a place for you here.
Abraham turns around and takes Stanley's hand.
ABRAHAM: I know that, son. It's good to be home again. I missed you.
Stanley embraces Abraham.
STANLEY: I missed you too. We thought you were dead.
ABRAHAM: I was in a sense.
STANLEY: Do you remember any of it?
ABRAHAM: Very little. I lost consciousness during the interrogation. When I awoke, they told me they were going to release me. I asked them what happened to you and Lynn--
STANLEY: The Visitors freed us as a favor to Daniel. I'm sorry for what he did to you.
ABRAHAM: You have nothing to apologize for. I remember how you stood up to him when he threatened to turn in Robin's family. I was never more proud of you.
STANLEY: I was just following your example. If only I had been as good a father to Daniel as you had been to me. Not a day goes by when I don't ask myself where I went wrong with him.
ABRAHAM: Stanley, don't punish yourself for Daniel's transgressions. There comes a time when a young man becomes responsible for his own actions.
STANLEY: I guess I shouldn't dwell so much on the past. A lot has changed since then.
ABRAHAM: Perhaps.
Abraham looks out the window again.
INT. MIKE DONOVAN'S CAR
Mike and Sean drive back to Los Angeles.
SEAN: Where are we going?
MIKE: Back to L.A. You and your old man are going to spend some time together.
SEAN: Will mom be there?
MIKE: No. She's living in Chicago with her new husband and stepkids.
SEAN: How come I haven't been able to see her.
MIKE: She's wanted to see you, but she's been very busy.
SEAN: I don't believe you.
MIKE: Why would I lie to you, Sean?
SEAN: Because you and the scientists don't want me to see her. It's all part of your master plan.
MIKE: Master plan?!
SEAN: Yeah. Your plan for world domination.
MIKE: Sean, you don't what your saying. That's just a bunch of gibberish.
Sean does not respond and turns away from Mike.
INT. LOS ANGELES MEDICAL CENTER
A large group of medical staff have assembled to meet Marcus, a Visitor medical specialist. Among those in attendance is Nathan Bates, the president of Science Frontiers; Dr. Ernest Parker, chief of the medical staff; Jim Thomas; and Julie Parrish.
BATES: Could I have everyone's attention please? First, I want to thank all of you for coming here to welcome our distinguished guest. For those of you I haven't met, my name is Nathan Bates, and I'm the president of Science Frontiers, a company specializing in biomedical research. Today, it is my distinct pleasure to introduce you to Marcus, a highly respected Visitor medical specialist who has generously offered to share his knowledge with you as a member of the staff here at Los Angeles Medical Center. Of course, this is only an informal introduction since the Visitors' supreme commander, Lydia, will make a formal announcement during her official visit to Los Angeles later this week. With that, I'll stop talking and invite all of you to come up and get acquainted.
Dr. Parker, who is talking to Marcus, motions for Julie and Jim to come over to him.
PARKER: Marcus, I'd like you to meet Drs. James Thomas and Juliet Parrish. Dr. Thomas has been on our staff for the past year, and Dr. Parrish is finishing her residency here after working as a biochemist for Mr. Bates.
MARCUS:(shaking Jim's hand) It's a pleasure to meet you Dr. Thomas. (turning to Julie) And I certainly need no introduction to the developer of the red dust.
JULIE: Well, I wouldn't say I developed it. I more or less accidently discovered it.
MARCUS: Don't be so modest, Dr. Parrish. As a scientist, I salute you for your ingenuity. I would never begrudge you for trying to defend yourselves. It is unfortunate that our first encounter had to be tainted by deceit and aggression. I hope that whatever small contribution I can make will help undo the damage. I look forward to working with you.
Marcus offers his hand to Julie. Julie hesitates and then shakes it.
JULIE: I look forward to working with you too.
Nathan Bates comes over.
BATES: I'm glad you had a chance to meet Dr. Parrish. We lost our best research scientist when she left Science Frontiers.
PARKER: Your loss was our gain, Mr. Bates.
BATES: That it was, Dr. Parker.
JULIE: (to Bates) Nathan, could I talk to you... alone?
BATES: Certainly. (to the others) Would you excuse us for a minute.
Julie and Bates walk over to the door of the dressing room and enter.
INT. LOS ANGELES MEDICAL CENTER/DRESSING ROOM
Julie and Bates enter the dressing room. Julie closes the door behind her.
BATES: So what's this all about? Want your old job back?
JULIE: I made it quite clear to you that I was leaving for good.
BATES: But that was before I sealed this new deal with the Visitors. We're now talking about incredible medical breakthroughs that will make Science Frontiers the world's premier biotechnology company. If you were a part of that, you and I could make a fortune.
JULIE: Nathan, you haven't changed a bit. Still worshiping the almighty dollar. Call me a romantic or idealist, but I didn't go into medicine to make a pile of money. If I had, I wouldn't be here.
BATES: So the answer is no?
JULIE: The answer has been, is, and will continue to be no.
BATES: Once again, you disappoint me, Julie. So why do you want to talk to me?
JULIE: It's about Kyle.
BATES: That name is not to be mentioned in my presence.
JULIE: Nathan, listen to me. I have reason to believe that Kyle was with Elizabeth on the Leader's shuttle when it exploded.
BATES: I take that to mean he was involved with the resistance.
Julie nods her head.
BATES: Anything else?
JULIE: Damn it, he's your son! Don't you care?!
BATES: What do you want from me, Dr. Parrish?! I took you into my confidence, only to learn that you and my son were working for the resistance behind my back. If Kyle went off half-cocked and got himself killed, there's nothing I can do about it. This conversation is finished.
Bates storms toward the door and then turns around, pointing his finger at Julie.
BATES: Not a word of this is to leave this room. Do you hear me? If you tell anyone else about it, I swear, you'll be sorry.
Bates opens the door and slams it behind him as he leaves. Julie is visibly shaken by Bates' reaction.
EXT. MIKE DONOVAN'S APARTMENT/BALCONY
Mike Donovan is lighting a charcoal grill when Sean walks out and stares at him. Mike stops what he is doing and looks over at Sean.
MIKE: Sean, go and get dressed. Julie will be here in a half hour.
SEAN: Why is she coming over?
MIKE: Because I invited her. Now go on.
Sean frowns and leaves.
INT. BERNSTEIN HOME/DINING ROOM
Lynn, Stanley, Abraham, and Robin are sitting at the dining room table having dinner. Robin picks at her food.
LYNN: You know, Robin, Stanley and I were thinking that maybe you should get away from here for a little while.
ROBIN: Why?
STANLEY: Because you probably haven't heard the last of that tabloid shark, and there'll be a lot more where he came from.
ROBIN: But where would I go?
LYNN: How about your aunt and uncle's place in Montana? I'm sure your sisters would like to see you.
ROBIN: What would I do on a farm in the middle of nowhere? I'd go crazy.
STANLEY: It'd only be for a little while. Until things around here settle down.
ROBIN:(upset) I can't take it anymore! I just want to live a normal life again!
Robin gets up and leaves in tears. Stanley, Lynn, and Abraham look at each other in silence.
EXT. MIKE DONOVAN'S APARTMENT/BALCONY
Mike walks out onto the balcony with a glass of iced tea. He hands it to Julie who sits on a patio chair.
MIKE: One iced tea.
JULIE: Thank you. So where's Sean?
MIKE:(irritated) Still getting dressed.
Mike goes over to the grill. Julie notes his irritation.
JULIE: How are things going with him?
MIKE: It's been...difficult. I can't connect with him. He looks at me like I was Darth Vader or something.
JULIE: You can't take it personally, Mike.
MIKE: I know, but I understand what he's feeling. I felt the same way about my old man. He was either not around or in a drunken rage, and I hated him for it. I swore my kids would never feel that way about me.
JULIE: What Sean is going through has nothing to do with you. You're a good father. A lot of people out there could learn a thing or two from you...especially Nathan Bates.
MIKE: You told him about Kyle?
JULIE: Yeah.
Julie takes a drink from her glass.
MIKE: And...
JULIE: As far Nathan was concerned, Kyle was already dead. He wrote him off a long time ago.
MIKE: That guy is real piece of work. Kyle deserved a lot better.
JULIE: Yeah. I can really sympathize with Kyle. In many ways, Nathan reminds me a lot of my own father.
MIKE: Really? You know I've never heard you talk about your family in all the time we've known each other. Have you been hiding things from me?
JULIE: I'm afraid it's a long, sad story, and a bit on the melodramatic side. Maybe I'll tell it to you some time.
Mike smiles and looks over at the grill.
MIKE: Looks like you lucked out. The steaks are done.
INT. MIKE DONOVAN'S APARTMENT/DINING ROOM
Mike and Julie are placing dishes around the dining room table. Sean is still absent.
MIKE: Sean! Come on. Dinner's ready.
Sean appears, wearing the same clothes as before.
MIKE: What have you been doing? I told you to change your clothes.
SEAN: I like what I have on.
MIKE: (exasperated) I'm too tired to argue with you. Just sit down.
Sean looks over at Julie who tries to appear friendly.
JULIE: Hello, Sean. It's good to see you again.
SEAN:(to Mike) I'm not hungry.
MIKE: I don't care. Have a seat and behave yourself.
Sean grudgingly walks over and sits down at the table. Mike and Julie take their seats as well. Sean looks down at his plate and picks at his food. Mike and Julie proceed to eat.
MIKE:(to Julie) So how is it?
JULIE: Very good.
Julie takes a drink from her glass which is almost empty.
MIKE:(to Julie) More iced tea?
JULIE: Please.
MIKE: Sean, would you refill Julie's glass for her?
Sean looks over at the pitcher of iced tea next to him and picks it up. He brings it over toward Julie who holds out her glass. Suddenly, Sean's wrist goes limp, and the pitcher tips over, spilling its contents in Julie's direction. Mike looks over at Sean who has a mischievous little smile on his face.
MIKE:(to Sean) You did that on purpose!
Julie gets up from the table, wiping her lap which is soaked with iced tea.
JULIE: It's all right.
MIKE: No, it's not. (to Sean) Apologize to Julie right now!
SEAN: No.
Mike can barely control his temper.
MIKE: What did you say?
SEAN: I'm not going to apologize. I don't like her.
JULIE: Mike, maybe I should just go...
MIKE: No, Julie, you're going to stay right here. (to Sean) What's gotten into you?!
SEAN: I know she's all you care about. That's why you left mom and had me put away. I hate you! I wish you were dead!
Mike goes ballistic.
MIKE: That's it! I've had it with you! If you don't like it here, I'll just send you back to that hospital and let you rot there!
Sean runs to his room. Alarmed, Julie grabs Mike's arm.
JULIE: Mike...
Mike looks over at Julie and suddenly realizes that he has lost it. He looks back over at Sean's empty chair.
MIKE: Damn it. I've really messed things up.
Julie takes Mike's hand.
MIKE: I just feel so frustrated and helpless. I'm not used to that.
EXT. LOS ANGELES STREET CORNER - NIGHT
An unidentified man stands at a street corner, smoking a cigarette. His features are masked in shadow. A car drives up to the curb, and the unidentified man opens the door.
INT. CAR
The unidentified man sits next to the driver in the front passenger seat and closes the door. We see only the backs of their heads. The car pulls away.
UNIDENTIFIED MAN: What took you so long?
DRIVER: I got off late from the hospital. They were throwing a reception for that Visitor doctor.
UNIDENTIFIED MAN: Then I take it you're all settled in.
DRIVER: Yeah.
UNIDENTIFIED MAN: Good because the mission has just been expanded to include a new target.
The unidentified man takes out a piece of paper and shows it to the driver. Close-up: It is a picture of Julie Parrish.
UNIDENTIFIED MAN: I assume you know who she is.
INT. MIKE DONOVAN'S APARTMENT/SEAN'S BEDROOM
Sean is sitting on his bed putting on his night shirt when Mike walks in with a glass of water in his hand.
MIKE: Sean, we need to talk for a minute.
SEAN: Leave me alone. I just want to go to bed.
Mike walks over to Sean and sits on his bed.
MIKE: I want to tell you something first.
SEAN: What?
MIKE: I'm sorry for what I said to you tonight. I was really out of line. Sometimes, I forget that your behavior is beyond your control.
SEAN: There's nothing wrong with me.
Mike hands Sean a pill and the glass of water.
MIKE: Here. You have to take this before you go to bed.
SEAN: I said there's nothing wrong with me.
MIKE: Please don't fight me, Sean. I'm only trying to help you.
Sean looks at the pill, hesitates a moment, and puts it in his mouth. He then drinks some water.
MIKE: Good boy.
Mike takes the glass and pats Sean on the head.
MIKE: I'll see you in the morning.
Mike gets up, walks over to the door, looks over at Sean one last time, and leaves, closing the door behind him. After waiting a few seconds, Sean spits the pill into his hand and throws it away. He then turns off the light next to his bed and goes to sleep.
INT. MIKE'S APARTMENT/SEAN'S BEDROOM - DREAM SEQUENCE
Sean rolls over in his bed and hears the voice of his mother, Marjorie, calling out to him.
MARJORIE'S VOICE: Sean, help me.
Sean opens his eyes, and sits up in his bed. His heart beats loudly.
SEAN: Mom?
He gets up and walks over to his bedroom door and opens it.
INT. MIKE'S APARTMENT/HALLWAY - DREAM SEQUENCE
Sean walks out into the hallway.
MARJORIE'S VOICE: Sean, help me. I need you.
SEAN: Mom, where are you?
Sean looks down the hall and sees the door to Mike's bedroom. A pulsing light shines from underneath it. As Sean approaches the door, the sound of his heartbeat grows louder.
MARJORIE'S VOICE: Hurry, Sean, hurry!
Sean runs up to the door and opens it.
INT. MIKE'S APARTMENT/MIKE'S BEDROOM - DREAM SEQUENCE
Sean enters Mike's bedroom which is bathed in a pulsating blue light. The room is empty except for a group of evil scientists in white who stand around an operating table. Their heads are covered with white ski masks.
EVIL SCIENTIST: (distorted voice) We've been looking for you, Sean. Time to take your medicine.
SEAN: What have you done to my mom?!
EVIL SCIENTIST: (distorted voice) We had so much fun with her. Now it's your turn to play.
Sean starts to back away, but more masked figures in white come up from behind and grab him. He struggles in vain as they place him on the operating table and fasten restraints around him.
SEAN: What do you want with me?!
EVIL SCIENTIST:(distorted voice) Why we're here to help you, you silly boy.
The evil scientist laughs malevolently as he holds up a large drill. Sean starts crying.
SEAN: Please...leave me alone!
Suddenly, Sean sees Mike staring down at him.
MIKE: Sean, don't be such a cry baby. We're doing this for your own good.
Julie appears next to Mike and flirts with him.
JULIE: Come on, Mikey baby. Forget the kid. You belong to me now.
Mike gives Julie a long, passionate kiss.
MIKE: (to Sean) Sorry, son. Gotta go.
Mike and Julie walk away, laughing. The evil scientist stands over Sean with the drill.
EVIL SCIENTIST:(distorted voice) You better prepare yourself 'cause this is really going to hurt!
The evil scientist points the whirling drill bit right between Sean's eyes. Sean screams as it gets closer.
SEAN: Noooooooo!
END DREAM SEQUENCE
INT. MIKE'S APARTMENT/SEAN'S BEDROOM
Mike sits on Sean's bed, frantically shaking Sean who stares up at him with glazed eyes.
MIKE: Sean!
Sean looks like the life has been drained from him. His face is pale and shines with perspiration. Mike tries unsuccessfully to shake him out of his trance.
MIKE: Please wake up! Oh, God!
INT. LOS ANGELES MEDICAL CENTER/EMERGENCY ROOM
Hooked up to an IV, Sean is wheeled out of the emergency room on a gurney. Julie follows him out and walks over to Mike who is standing nearby.
MIKE: (to Julie) How is he?
JULIE: His condition has stabilized, but he's still unconscious.
MIKE: What happened to him?
JULIE: We're not exactly sure yet, but it looks like he suffered a severe nervous breakdown.
MIKE: You think it has anything to do with his conversion disorder?
JULIE: Possibly. We'll need to keep him under observation until we can find some answers.
INT. ABRAHAM'S BEDROOM - DREAM SEQUENCE
Abraham Bernstein is asleep in his bed. A woman's distant voice calls out to him.
WOMAN'S VOICE: Abraham.
Abraham opens his eyes.
WOMAN'S VOICE: Abraham, where are you?
Abraham sits up.
ABRAHAM: Elsa?
He hears wind blowing and muffled voices coming from outside his bedroom door. He gets out of bed and walks over to the door. The sound of his heart beat gets louder as he reaches for the door nob.
WOMAN'S VOICE: Abraham, help me!
Abraham throws open the door and looks out at the dark, snowy expanse of the Auschwitz death camp. He steps out as if drawn by an invisible force.
EXT. AUSCHWITZ/STATION - DREAM SEQUENCE
Wearing only pajamas, Abraham steps down from the open door of a boxcar and makes his way through the falling snow toward two lines of prisoners, men on one side and women on the other, who are filing past an SS officer for "selection." Abraham runs down the center of the two lines.
ABRAHAM: Elsa!
At the front of one of the lines, a young woman with black hair turns around. Abraham sees her and walks up to her. Her face is streaked with tears.
ELSA: Do I know you?
ABRAHAM: It's me. Abraham. Your husband.
Elsa gives him a confused look. She does not recognize him. An SS guard walks over to Abraham and grabs him.
SS GUARD: Get back in line, old man!
The guard pulls him away.
ABRAHAM: Elsa, don't go with them! It's a trick!
SS GUARD: Quit carrying on. It's only a shower.
ABRAHAM: You're lying! There's no water in those showers!
Suddenly, the guard spins Abraham around and stares him in the face. The guard looks exactly like Abraham's grandson, Daniel.
SS GUARD: And what are you going to do about it?
ABRAHAM:(shocked) Daniel?
A second guard grabs Abraham and spins him around. Again, the guard looks like Daniel.
SECOND SS GUARD: Yeah. What are you going to do about it, you old fool?
A third guard grabs Abraham and spins him around. The guard is yet another Daniel.
THIRD SS GUARD: Speak up! We can't hear you!
The guards continue to spin Abraham around, taunting him until it all becomes an overwhelming blur. Abraham closes his eyes.
ABRAHAM: Stop it!
END DREAM SEQUENCE
INT. ABRAHAM'S BEDROOM
Abraham opens his eyes and finds himself back in bed. He goes over to the night stand and turns on the lamp. Several pictures are arranged on the night stand, including one of Daniel. Wearily, he takes Daniel's picture on lays it face down.
INT. LOS ANGELES MEDICAL CENTER/DOCTOR'S LOUNGE
Jim Thomas and Marcus walk into the lounge where Julie sits lost in thought.
JIM: Hey, Julie, I've just been assigned to work with Marcus as his new assistant. Can you believe it?
MARCUS: I had hoped you could join us as well, Dr. Parrish, but Mr. Bates was adamantly opposed to the idea which I found rather odd. Are the two of you still on good terms?
Julies does not respond. Marcus sits down next to her.
MARCUS: You seem a little preoccupied. Is something wrong?
JULIE: The son of a friend of mine is very sick. He's in a coma.
MARCUS: I'm sorry to hear that. What's the diagnosis?
JULIE: We're still running tests, but we believe it might be a side effect of the conversion process.
MARCUS: Ah...the conversion process. A rather crude form of aversive conditioning. Rather like using a sledge hammer when a scalpel will do.
JULIE: Is that so?
MARCUS: I see my clinical detachment bothers you. Please forgive me. It's a habit.
JIM: Conversion is a sensitive subject with Julie because she was subjected to it as well.
MARCUS: Then you have my sympathies. However, it appears you suffered no permanent damage.
JULIE: I don't think so.
MARCUS: The conversion process is less effective in reconditioning adults than it is with younger subjects who haven't developed strong mental defense mechanisms. How old is your friend's son?
JULIE: He's thirteen.
MARCUS: A particularly vulnerable age for humans. Perhaps I can help.
INT. LOS ANGELES MEDICAL CENTER/SEAN'S ROOM
Mike sits next to Sean who lies unconscious in his bed.
MARJORIE: (off-screen) Hello, Mike.
Mike turns around and sees Marjorie Donovan standing at the door.
MIKE:(cooly) Margie, this is certainly a surprise.
Marjorie walks over to the side of Sean's bed and looks over at him.
MARJORIE: I caught the first flight I could find after I got your message. How is he?
MIKE: See for yourself.
MARJORIE: Come on, Mike. Don't be this way. Sean needs us right now.
MIKE: Your concern is touching, but it's a little late, isn't it. Where were you when he really needed you...before it came to this?
MARJORIE: Just a minute, Mike. Don't even try to blame me for this. If you hadn't taken him from Ojai, none of this would have ever happened.
MIKE: Oh, I see. You just wanted to leave him in a mental hospital and forget about him.
MARJORIE: That's not fair!
MIKE: Isn't it? The two times you scheduled a visit, you canceled. You haven't written to him or even given him a call.
MARJORIE: I know that, but I've had a lot to deal with.
MIKE: For God's sake, Margie, he's your son! Not just another problem for you to run away from.
MARJORIE: I really resent that, Mike.
MIKE: I'm sorry, but sometimes the truth hurts.
Julie walks in with Jim and Marcus.
JULIE: I hope we're not interrupting anything.
MIKE: Not at all.
MARCUS: Hello, Mr. Donovan. My name is Marcus. Dr. Parrish told me about your son. May I examine him?
Mike moves out of the way so that Marcus can take a closer look. Marcus takes a unusual-looking device out of his uniform and puts it in his right eye. He then bends over and looks into each of Sean's eyes. After doing this, he removes the eye piece and is silent for a moment.
MIKE: Well?
MARCUS: I fear your son's condition is quite serious and possibly irreversible.
MIKE: Irreversible?!
MARCUS: Possibly. I have developed a therapy to treat similar conditions in my own people. However, it's never been tested on humans.
JULIE: Exactly what kind of therapy is this?
MARCUS: It involves the reconfiguration of the neural pathways in the brain.
JULIE: That's very interesting. Perhaps you could show me how it works.
MARCUS: I'm afraid I can't do that.
MIKE: Why not?
MARCUS: The process is owned by Science Frontiers. I'm prohibited from disclosing it without Mr. Bates' permission.
MIKE: I knew it! That snake!
MARJORIE: I don't care about any of that. (to Marcus) Are you saying you could cure our son?
MARCUS: I'm saying that it's possible, but first I would have to take him down to my lab and run all the necessary tests.
MIKE: I don't know. Your people are the reason my son is here in the first place.
MARCUS: All the more reason you should allow us to undo the damage.
MIKE: Why should I trust you?
MARCUS: Because I'll have Dr. Thomas to assist me, if he's agreeable?
JIM: Of course.
Mike looks over at Marjorie.
MIKE: What do you think?
MARJORIE: We don't have any choice. This may be Sean's only hope.
MIKE: All right.
INT. BERNSTEIN HOME
The front door opens and Stanley Bernstein and his new business partner, Ted Richards, come into the house.
STANLEY: I'm home.
Lynn comes into the room.
LYNN: Hi Stan.
STANLEY: Lynn, I invited Ted Richards over for dinner to celebrate our new partnership.
LYNN: Congratulations. Come in and make yourself at home, Mr. Richards.
TED: Please, call me Ted. I see you really fixed up the house.
LYNN: Stanley has been breaking his back trying to get it back to normal.
TED: Your husband is a very hard worker. I know we're going to make a great team.
Robin comes into the room.
STANLEY: Robin, this is Ted Richards, my new business partner. He's having dinner with us tonight.
ROBIN: Hello Mr. Richards.
TED: Please call me Ted.
STANLEY: Where's dad?
LYNN: Abraham's in his room. He's sort of been keeping to himself.
STANLEY:(to Ted) My father was one of the prisoners released by the Visitors. It's been a hard adjustment for him.
TED: Hey, I understand. Lord knows what he had to endure. I'm just glad I didn't have to go through it.
LYNN: Dinner is just about ready. I'll go and set an extra plate.
ROBIN: I'll get Abraham.
INT. ABRAHAM'S ROOM
Abraham Bernstein sits over by his bedroom window. There is a knock at the door.
ABRAHAM: Come in.
The door opens and Robin enters.
ROBIN: Dinner is almost ready.
ABRAHAM: I'm not very hungry. You can eat without me.
ROBIN: You can't stay in your room forever. Stanley and Lynn are beginning to worry about you. So am I. What's wrong?
ABRAHAM: I don't belong here, Robin. I shouldn't have come back.
ROBIN: What are you talking about? Of course, you belong here. This is your home.
ABRAHAM: No. You don't understand. Things don't feel right. I don't feel right. The Visitors should have let me die.
ROBIN: Don't talk like that.
ABRAHAM: I'm sorry, Robin. I shouldn't burden you with this. You've suffered through too much as it is.
ROBIN: Please come and have dinner with us, Abraham. It'll get your mind off all of this. Please.
ABRAHAM: Perhaps you're right. It's not healthy to dwell on such things.
INT. LOS ANGELES MEDICAL CENTER/SEAN'S ROOM
MIKE and MARJORIE follow JULIE into Sean's room where MARCUS and JIM are standing next to SEAN who is lying unconscious in bed.
MIKE: How is he?
MARCUS: He suffered no complications during the procedure. Everything went very smoothly.
MARJORIE: But was it successful?
MARCUS: We're about to find out.
Marcus takes out a hypospray and injects Sean in the neck.
MARCUS: (to Marjorie) Talk to him.
MARJORIE: Sean? Can you hear me?
Sean slowly opens his eyes.
SEAN: Mom?
MARJORIE: (smiling) Yes, sweetheart. It's me. How do you feel?
SEAN: I'm okay.
Sean looks over and sees Mike standing near Marjorie.
SEAN: Hi dad.
Sean smiles. Mike can see the old twinkle in his eyes.
MIKE: Hello kiddo.
Sean holds out his hand. Mike takes it and smiles.
MIKE: Welcome back.
INT. ABRAHAM'S BEDROOM - DREAM SEQUENCE
Abraham is asleep in his bed when he hears his wife call out to him.
ELSA'S VOICE: Abraham.
Abraham opens his eyes and sits up. Elsa stands at the foot of his bed. Her hair has been shaved off.
ELSA: Why, Abraham? Why did you abandon me at the camp?
ABRAHAM: I never abandoned you, Elsa.
ELSA: You let them kill me. You cared only about saving yourself.
ABRAHAM: That's not true. You know that's not true.
ELSA: Stop resisting, Abraham. It's the only way you can save yourself.
Abraham stares at her.
ABRAHAM: You're not my wife.
Abraham gets out of bed and walks over to her.
ABRAHAM: Who are you?
He grabs her arm.
ABRAHAM: Tell me who you really are!
Suddenly, the bedroom door flies opens, and Visitor shock troopers storm inside. One of them grabs hold of Abraham. Elsa walks over to Abraham and peels off her face, revealing Diana underneath.
ABRAHAM: Diana. Now I remember.
DIANA: I'm the only who can stop these dreams, Abraham. Let me help you.
The shock trooper holding Abraham raises the visor on his helmet. It is Daniel.
DANIEL: Listen to her, grandpa, and do as she says.
Abraham looks over at Daniel and breaks free of him.
ABRAHAM: No. (to Diana) You have no power over me unless I give it to you.
Daniel tries to grab him, but is blocked by an invisible barrier.
ABRAHAM: This is my dream, and I want it to end now.
Abraham closes his eyes and concentrates. The room seems to shake, and cracking sounds can be heard. Diana reaches out and finds herself imprisoned inside the invisible barrier with Daniel.
DIANA: No! Stop this at once! I command you!
Huge cracks form in the invisible wall.
DANIEL: Grandpa, don't do this to me! Please! I'm sorry!
Suddenly, the entire room shatters into a million pieces, taking Diana and Daniel with it.
END DREAM SEQUENCE
INT. ABRAHAM'S ROOM - DAWN
Abraham opens his eyes and find himself back in his bed. He sits up, bathed in the morning light. His conversion demons have been vanquished.
INT. LOS ANGELES MEDICAL CENTER/SEAN'S ROOM
Marjorie and Mike are with Sean who is sitting up in his bed.
MIKE:(to Sean) You're looking really good, young man.
SEAN: I'm bored. When are they going to let me leave?
MIKE: Pretty soon. In the meantime, I want you to rest up while I'm out of town.
SEAN: Where are you going?
MIKE: To Washington.
Sean looks disappointed.
MIKE: It'll only be for a couple days. I got something special planned for us when I get back.
SEAN: What?
Mike takes out a couple of tickets and hands them to Sean. Sean's face lights up when he sees them.
SEAN: Wow! Tickets to the Dodger's game!
MIKE: Best seats in the house.
SEAN: Thanks dad! (to Marjorie) See mom!
MARJORIE: I see them, Sean.
She gives Mike a glance of disapproval.
INT. LOS ANGELES MEDICAL CENTER/HALLWAY
Julie is talking to Marcus and Jim when she sees Mike comes over to them.
JULIE:(to Mike) Heading out?
MIKE: Yeah. I got a plane to catch.
JULIE: Well, have a safe trip, and don't worry about Sean. We'll take good care of him.
MIKE: I know you will.
Mike turns to Marcus.
MIKE: I want to thank you for giving me back my son. He's more important to me than anything else in the world.
MARCUS: I know that, Mr. Donovan. I'm glad I was able to help.
MIKE:(to Julie) I'll see you when I get back.
Mike gives Julie a kiss.
INT. MIKE DONOVAN'S HOTEL ROOM IN WASHINGTON D.C.
Mike Donovan sits up on the bed, reading through some papers. The television is on in the background. He hears a knock at the door and answers it. It is Charlie Simmons.
CHARLIE: Hey, Mike. Mind some company?
MIKE: Come on in Charlie. I've just been getting my notes together.
Mike goes back to shuffling his papers.
CHARLIE: You're really getting into this reporting thing, aren't you?
MIKE: I have to admit that it kind of grows on you.
CHARLIE: Any word from the U.N.?
MIKE: Not yet, but I heard through the grapevine that there's going to be some kind of press conference at the White House after the vote.
CHARLIE: Then I'd say that our trip over here paid off.
Mike lays his notes on a nearby table.
CHARLIE:(looking over at T.V.) Mike, I think this is it.
Close-up on television: Special Report.
ANNOUNCER:(on television) Please standby for the following special report.
ANCHORWOMAN: Good afternoon. We just received word that the United Nations Security Council approved the peace treaty with the Visitors and submitted it to the General Assembly which ratified it by an overwhelming margin. Although the details of the agreement have not been disclosed yet, a press conference has been scheduled for eight o'clock tonight at the White House.
Mike turns off the television.
MIKE: Let's saddle up.
INT. LOS ANGELES MEDICAL CENTER/NURSE'S STATION
Julie is standing at the nurse's station when Marjorie walks over.
MARJORIE: Dr. Parrish.
Julie looks up.
JULIE: Yes.
MARJORIE: I understand that Sean is almost ready for release. Since I have to fly back to Chicago the day after tomorrow, I was hoping to take him back with me.
JULIE: Does Mike know about this?
MARJORIE: Frankly, that's none of your business. Sean is my son, and I was awarded primary custody of him. He belongs with me.
Marcus walks by and overhears the conversation.
MARCUS: I don't mean to interrupt, but I'm afraid Sean can't leave Los Angeles right away.
MARJORIE: Why not?
MARCUS: I'll need to monitor his condition until I'm sure there aren't any complications.
MARJORIE: And how long will that take?
MARCUS: I can't give you a precise figure, but it could be several weeks.
MARJORIE: Several weeks?!
MARCUS: I apologize for the inconvenience, but I'm sure you can appreciate the reasons for it.
MARJORIE: I do.
Marjorie leaves. Marcus looks over at Julie and smiles.
JULIE: Thank you.
MARCUS: Don't mention it.
INT. WHITE HOUSE/PRESS ROOM
An anxious press corps fills the room, waiting for the arrival of the President. Mike and Charlie are among them. General Vaughn, the President's national security advisor, enters the room and walks over to a podium.
GENERAL VAUGHN: Good evening everyone. The President regrets that he could not address you in person, but his tireless efforts to ensure the ratification of the peace treaty have left him completely exhausted. So I'm afraid you'll have to settle for his lowly national security advisor.
There is a polite chuckle from the crowd.
GENERAL VAUGHN: Before I take your questions, I want to briefly highlight what the President believes to be the most important provisions of the peace agreement with the Visitors. First and foremost, it brings about the permanent and complete cessation of all hostilities. In addition, it provides a general amnesty for acts of wrongdoing committed by combatants on both sides. Finally, it opens all habitable regions of the earth to permanent settlement by the Visitors and contemplates that they will be integrated into human society. They will be subject to the laws of the countries in which they settle and will be given every opportunity to become naturalized citizens. In return, they will share all their knowledge with us and place their technology at our disposal for use in the earth's development. The President believes that we have a fair and workable agreement here and wants to see its provisions implemented as soon as possible. (points to a reporter) Yes?
REPORTER ONE: As the President knows, many outspoken opponents of the peace agreement in Congress urged the President to have the United States exercise its veto power in the Security Council. There are even reports of dissension from within the Administration itself. How does the President respond to these critics and does he believe that the peace agreement can be implemented in such an environment?
GENERAL VAUGHN: The President is well aware of the reservations that many have regarding any peace agreement with the Visitors and has sought to address the legitimate concerns of these skeptics. He believes that the provisions of the peace agreement itself attest to this. To those who remain opposed to the peace agreement, he asks them to advance a realistic alternative. In time, we believe that the correctness of the President's decision will be clear to everyone. (points to another reporter) Yes?
REPORTER TWO: In discussing the substance of the agreement, you said that it contemplates the "integration" of the Visitors into human society. After all that has happened, does the President really believe that is realistic? After all, we're talking about two different species for lack of a better term.
GENERAL VAUGHN: Again, the President would ask what other realistic alternative is there. While the Visitors are from another world, they are rationale, sentient beings who are more advanced than us in many ways. Over time, we believe that two groups of intelligent life forms can put aside their difference and learn to work together, especially when it is in their common interest to do so. (points to Mike Donovan) Yes?
MIKE: You stated that the peace agreement provides for a general amnesty for hostile acts committed by both sides. How broad is this general amnesty? Would it cover war crimes and acts of collaboration?
GENERAL VAUGHN: The President realizes that this is a very sensitive subject. The belief was that the amnesty should be as broad as reasonably possible. We can't change what has happened. The only way that this peace agreement can work is if both sides avoid reopening old wounds and come together in a spirit of reconciliation.
INT. MIKE DONOVAN'S HOTEL ROOM IN WASHINGTON D.C.
Close up on the television: The song "United We Stand, Divided We Fall" plays in the background as groups of humans and Visitors join hands in front of the U.S. Capitol.
ANNOUNCER:(on television) Americans and Visitors alike are celebrating the signing of the peace treaty which will be observed as a new national holiday. To mark the occasion, Americans for Peace, a non-profit organization founded to promote the peace agreement, is organizing a Peace Parade down Constitution Avenue. We need you to join us in this great show of solidarity.
Mike Donovan is watching the television in his hotel room. There is a knock on the door.
MIKE: Come in.
The door opens and Charlie Simmons comes in.
CHARLIE: Hi Mike. I heard we've been ordered to stay and cover the parade.
MIKE: Yeah.
CHARLIE: You don't seem very happy about it.
MIKE: I didn't come over here to waste my time on some silly parade. We should be covering more important things.
CHARLIE: How'd your son take the news?
MIKE: He wasn't too happy about it either, but I promised to bring him back something.
CHARLIE: You should go downstairs to the lobby. I saw a whole bunch of Peace Parade souvenirs in the gift shop.
MIKE: The spirit of commercialism is alive and well.
INT. THE CLUB CREOLE/MAIN DINING AREA
The Club Creole is filled with people, both humans and Visitors, celebrating the ratification of the peace agreement. Norton Penrod is among them. Elias Taylor walks past him and disappears through a door.
INT. THE CLUB CREOLE/PRIVATE LOUNGE
Elias joins Julie Parrish, Sean Donovan, Robin Maxwell, Stanley Bernstein, Lynn Bernstein, Abraham Bernstein, and Father Conley who have gathered for a more private celebration. Elias picks up a glass of champagne and taps on it.
ELIAS: Hey, everybody, could I have your attention for a minute?
Everyone quiets down.
ELIAS: I just wanted to say a few words while I was still sober.
Everyone laughs.
ELIAS: First of all, I want to thank all my friends for coming here today to help celebrate the beginning of better and happier times for all of us. Also, I think this would be the proper occasion to remember those who can't be with us today but helped make this day possible. (raises his glass) To my father, Caleb, and my brother, Ben.
JULIE:(raises her glass) To Elizabeth and Kyle.
ROBIN:(raises her glass) To my mom, Kathleen, and my dad, Robert.
SEAN: (raises his glass) To my dad, Mike.
FATHER CONLEY: (raises his glass) To Father Andrew.
ABRAHAM:(raises his glass) To Daniel.
Stanley and Lynn give Abraham bewildered glances, but then begin to understand the point he is trying to make.
STANLEY and LYNN:(raising their glasses) To Daniel.
ELIAS: And finally, let us toast to peace.
EVERYBODY: To peace.
Everyone drinks. Julie then looks at her watch.
JULIE: Isn't the parade about to begin? We don't want to miss Mike.
ELIAS: Don't worry. I got a big screen T.V. just for the occasion.
Elias is about to leave the room when Norton Penrod enters. Elias blocks him.
ELIAS: I'm sorry, but this is a private party.
PENROD: I'm a friend of Robin Maxwell.
Stanley comes over.
STANLEY: What are you doing here?! I told you to stay away from Robin! Now get out!
PENROD: (to Stanley) You have no right to tell me to leave.
ELIAS: I'm owner, and I do. Let's hit the road, pal.
Elias and Stanley take Penrod and escort him out.
INT. THE CLUB CREOLE/MAIN DINING AREA
Customers turn and look as Elias and Stanley show Penrod the door.
PENROD: This is no way to treat a paying customer!
After throwing Penrod out, Elias and Stanley turn and walk off. Peter enters the restaurant and looks over at Abraham who stands at the door to the private lounge. Peter nods slightly and then enters the men's restroom.
INT. CLUB CREOLE/RESTROOM
Abraham enters the restroom which is empty except for Peter who is standing near a sink.
PETER: Hello Abraham.
ABRAHAM: What's wrong, Peter?
PETER: I need your help.
INT. CLUB CREOLE
Elias and Stanley wheel in a big screen television. Elias takes the remote control and turns it on.
SEAN: Turn it up. I can't hear.
ELIAS: I aim to please.
Elias turns up the volume. A special edition of the Freedom Network News comes on the television.
ANCHORMAN: (on television) Good afternoon, everyone. It's almost three o'clock in the East and the Peace Parade down Constitution Avenue in Washington, D.C., is about to begin. As promised, the Freedom Network will be bringing you live coverage. Our correspondent, Mike Donovan, is on the scene and will give us a report momentarily.
EXT. CONSTITUTION AVENUE IN WASHINGTON D.C.
A huge parade is marching down the Constitution Avenue with large crowds of people looking on from both sides of the street. A marching band plays the theme from "Star Wars." Behind the band are several rows of Visitors in red uniforms followed by a Visitor skyfighter that rests on a moving platform. Visitors stand on the platform and waive to the crowd. Following the shuttle are five rows of Visitors riding on white motorcycles. A short distance behind them is a float which is shaped like a huge globe of the earth with the words "Peace on Earth" inscribed on it. Suddenly, five Visitor skyfighters fly directly overhead and then ascend into the sky at a 90 degree angle. Each shuttle leaves a trail of smoke, which is red, white, and blue respectively. This draws cheers from the crowd. Mike and Charlie are positioned along the side of the parade route.
CHARLIE: Okay, Mike. You're on in five seconds. Four. Three. Two. One.
MIKE: Good afternoon. This is Mike Donovan reporting live from Constitution Avenue in Washington, D.C. As you can see behind me, what has been billed as the largest mass celebration in the history of the nation's capital is getting under way.
INT. THE CLUB CREOLE/PRIVATE LOUNGE
Everyone sits around the television watching Mike.
MIKE:(on television) Although we haven't been able to get any estimates on the size of this crowd, people literally fill the streets for as far as the eye can see. This has presented all sorts of logistical problems for district and federal law enforcement, but given the spirit of good will that pervades this event, police sources say they don't expect any trouble.
On television: Suddenly, there is a thunderous explosion. Startled, Mike reflectively turns around to see where the noise came from.
MIKE (on television) What was that?!
EXT. CONSTITUTION AVENUE IN WASHINGTON, D.C.
The float shaped like a globe of the earth has been blown apart. Pieces of debris begin to rain down on the crowd. Men wearing black masks and street clothes come bounding out of the globe's remains and start firing automatic rifles into the air. Screams usher out and chaos ensues as the attackers fan out onto the street.
MIKE: One of the floats appears to have exploded. I can make out several masked individuals. Oh, God! They're opening fire! People are running! I'm going to try to get a closer look. Charlie, are you with me?
CHARLIE: I'm right behind you, Mike.
The Visitor officers on the platform with the shuttle fall in a hail of bullets. The Visitors on the motorcycles speed off, but several get hit and fall off, leaving their motorcycles to continue on without anyone to control them. One of the attackers throws an explosive into the shuttle on the platform, and it bursts into flames. Another attacker then starts yelling into a megaphone.
ATTACKER:(through megaphone) I have a message for the Visitors from the World Liberation Front. We will not allow you to hide behind a worthless peace treaty while you secretly plot to exterminate the entire human race. Our forces will strike again and again until you have left or are dead. The choice is yours.
Mike Donovan stares in disbelief as he listens to this warning. Charlie is standing next to Mike with his camera, catching everything that is transpiring. Suddenly, shots are fired, and bullets strike the pavement. Charlie falls to the ground.
MIKE: Charlie!
Mike grabs him. Charlie's shirt is covered with blood.
CHARLIE: Guess I should have ducked.
MIKE: Put your arms around my neck. I'm going to get you out of here.
Mike carries Charlie out piggy back. Fire consumes the parade area, and all signs of the attackers are gone. Sirens are heard, and police cars surround the area with ambulances and fire trucks right behind them. A police officer runs up to Mike.
POLICE OFFICER: (to Mike) You! Stop! Put that man down. Is he alive?
MIKE: Yes... Yes, I think so.
The officer puts his fingers against Charlie's neck.
POLICE OFFICER:(to paramedics) Bring a stretcher over here! Quickly!
Two paramedics arrive with a stretcher and take Charlie to an ambulance. Mike follows them.
INT. AMBULANCE
Mike looks on while the paramedics try to stabilize Charlie's condition.
CHARLIE: Mike, I don't think I'll be going back with you.
MIKE: Don't talk like that. We're getting you to a hospital. Just hang in there.
Mike looks out the back window of the ambulance and can see police, firemen, and medics covering the parade area. The fires are still burning.
INT. LOS ANGELES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Mike Donovan emerges from the gateway and walks into the terminal which is filled with a mixture of Visitors and humans. Julie and Sean stand a few yards away. Mike walks up to Julie, and she embraces him.
JULIE: I'm so sorry about your cameraman, Mike.
MIKE: I can't help but thinking I should have been the one behind that camera.
Julie breaks the embrace and looks at Mike.
JULIE: You can't blame yourself for what happened. I'm just glad you're still with us.
Sean puts his hand on Mike's shoulder.
SEAN: Me too, dad.
MIKE:(hugging Sean) You don't know how happy that makes me.
While Mike and Sean are embracing, a man in dark glasses watches them from a distance.
EXT. BERNSTEINS' NEIGHBORHOOD/PARK
From behind a tree, the dark silhouette of a man watches Abraham Bernstein who is sitting on a park bench reading a newspaper. The unidentified man emerges from the shadows and walks over to the Abraham. We never see the unidentified man's face because his back is turned toward us.
UNIDENTIFIED MAN: Nice day for a walk. Is this seat taken?
Abraham puts down the paper.
ABRAHAM: Be my guest. Are you new around here?
The unidentified man sits down.
UNIDENTIFIED MAN: Just passing through. Anything in today's paper?
ABRAHAM: You might find several things of interest.
UNIDENTIFIED MAN: Mind if I take a look?
Abraham hands the paper to the man.
ABRAHAM: You may keep it.
UNIDENTIFIED MAN: Thank you.
Abraham looks at his watch.
ABRAHAM: Look at the time. I better go back home. Perhaps I'll see you again.
UNIDENTIFIED MAN: I'm sure you will.
Abraham gets up and leaves.
INT. LOS ANGELES MEDICAL CENTER/LOBBY
A police officer sits behind a desk and in front of a bank of monitors, one of which shows footage of the Peace Parade attack.
ATTACKER: (on television) I have a message for the Visitors from the World Liberation Front. We will not allow you to hide behind a worthless peace treaty while you secretly plot to exterminate the entire human race. Our forces will strike again and again until you have left or are dead. The choice is yours.
REPORTER:(on television) Sources have confirmed that the World Liberation Front, an organization claiming to represent the international resistance movement, has taken responsibility for the attack on the Peace Parade. In Washington, the President has ordered a massive investigation into the attack and named his national security advisor, General Curtis Vaughn, to head a presidential commission which will make recommendations on combating domestic terrorism aimed at undermining the peace accords. Meanwhile, the Visitor press office in L.A. issued a statement that the visit by Lydia would proceed as scheduled, albeit under heightened security, in order to make clear that acts of terrorism would not succeed in derailing the process of reconciliation.
Robin Maxwell walks over to the desk.
ROBIN: (impatiently) I really need to talk to Dr. Parrish. Why can't I just go up and see her.
OFFICER: I'm sorry, ma'am, but only security and hospital staff are allowed beyond the lobby area. You'll just have to wait.
Frustrated, Robin walks across the lobby which is full of police officers and Visitor security personnel. The sight of all of them clearly makes her uneasy. She notices the elevator door open. Julie Parrish steps out and goes over to her.
JULIE: Robin, what are you doing here?
ROBIN: I have to talk to you, Julie.
Julie takes Robin and sits down with her on one of the couches.
JULIE: What's wrong?
ROBIN: I have this feeling that something terrible is going to happen. I'm really worried.
JULIE: Everything is going to be all right, Robin. There's a lot of security around here.
ROBIN: It's more than that. (gravely) I never told you this, but I think Elizabeth tried to tell me something before she died.
Robin hesitates.
JULIE: Go on.
ROBIN: It happened so quickly that I was left only with a feeling really...like we were in danger.
A policeman and a Visitor shock trooper walk by. Julie and Robin wait until they are out of earshot.
JULIE: What kind of danger?
ROBIN: I'm not sure. (ambivalent) I know it sounds vague. Maybe it's just all in my head.
Julie takes a key from her pocket and hands its to Robin.
JULIE: I want you to go to my place and wait for me. I'll be getting off early tonight, and we can talk more about this. Okay?
ROBIN: All right.
Robin takes the key.
INT. MIKE DONOVAN'S APARTMENT/LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Sean is watching the television.
EXPERT:(on television) We often talk of the resistance as if it were a single entity which it clearly is not. In reality, we're referring to a collection of diverse groups which, in many cases, have little in common other than their opposition to the Visitors' military occupation.
INTERVIEWER: (on television) So where does the World Liberation Front fit into all of this?
EXPERT:(on television) The WLF was created to bring these assorted groups together under a unified command structure, but it ended up becoming little more than a loose network of independent cells. I believe that the Peace Parade attack was not perpetrated by the WLF as such, but by a radical and violent faction within it.
Mike walks into the room.
MIKE: Sean, can we talk for a minute?
SEAN: Sure dad.
MIKE: I just got off the phone with your mother. She wants you to come and live with her in Chicago.
SEAN: Did she get mad when you told her I was staying here?
MIKE: No because I didn't tell her that. She's going to catch a flight to L.A. and take you back with her.
SEAN: But I don't want to go to Chicago. I want to stay with you.
MIKE: I wish you could, Sean, but I want you to be someplace safe in case anything happens.
SEAN: Like another war with the Visitors?
MIKE: I hope not.
INT. JULIE PARRISH'S APARTMENT
Someone enters Julie's darkened apartment and turns on the light. It is Robin Maxwell. She puts down the key, walks past the closed bedroom door, and goes over to the living room window.
EXT. JULIE PARRISH'S APARTMENT
Standing across the street, Norton Penrod watches Robin as she closes the window blinds.
INT. JULIE PARRISH'S APARTMENT/LIVING ROOM
Robin sits down on a chair next to a telephone. She picks up the phone and begins dialing. The bedroom door opens slightly behind her.
INTRUDER'S POV - ROBIN
An unknown intruder watches Robin through the opened crack of the bedroom door.
ROBIN:(on telephone) Lynn, I'm over at Julie's place. I'm not sure when I'll be home so don't wait up for me. (pausing) Please don't worry. I'm all right.
INT. LOS ANGELES MEDICAL CENTER/CORRIDOR
Two police officers follow two nurses who wheel in an unconscious man on a gurney. They are joined by Julie Parrish and the head officer in charge of security.
HEAD OFFICER: What happened?
FIRST OFFICER: This gentleman approached us at the security perimeter and just collapsed.
Julie examines the unconscious man.
HEAD OFFICER: Any idea who he is?
SECOND OFFICER: No ID. Probably a street bum. Area's full of 'em.
JULIE:(to the nurses) He's not breathing, and I can't find a pulse. Get him into the ER stat.
LEAD OFFICER: Just a minute, doctor. This man is a potential security risk.
JULIE: Not in his present condition. If he doesn't get immediate medical attention, he'll die.
FIRST OFFICER: We checked him out, sir, and he's clean.
LEAD OFFICER: All right, doctor. He's all yours.
Julie follows behind the nurses as they wheel the unconscious man into the emergency room.
INT. JULIE PARRISH'S APARTMENT
The front door opens and Norton Penrod pokes his head in.
PENROD: Hello? Anybody home?
Getting no answer, Penrod enters, closes the door, and walks into the living room. No one is there.
PENROD: Robin, don't hide from me. I just want to talk.
Someone else enters the living room, but we cannot see who it is. Penrod turns around and faces the unknown intruder.
PENROD: Where's Robin Maxwell?
He gets no response.
PENROD: Look, if you're trying to steal her story from me, it'll be over my dead body.
The intruder pulls out an object and aims it at Penrod.
INT. LOS ANGLES MEDICAL CENTER/NURSES STATION
Julie stands at the nurses station with the phone to her ear. We can hear the phone ringing on the other end.
JULIE: Come on, Robin. Pick up the phone.
INT. JULIE PARRISH'S APARTMENT
Penrod lies lifelessly on the floor as the phone rings. The answer machine kicks in.
JULIE'S RECORDED VOICE: Hello. I'm sorry, but I can't come to the phone right now. Please leave a short message after the beep, and I'll call you back as soon as I can.
The machine beeps.
JULIE'S VOICE: (speaking into machine) Robin, this is Julie.
Two legs step over Penrod's body and walk over to the answering machine.
JULIE'S VOICE: (speaking into machine) Something just came up at the hospital, and I don't know when I'll get out of here. You better head home, and I'll drop by and see you tomorrow. I'm really sorry about this. Talk to you later.
A hand reaches down and pushes the rewind button on the answering machine. The camera pans upward until we see a man wearing dark glasses, the same man who was watching Julie, Mike, and Sean at the airport.
FADE OUT.
TO BE CONTINUED.