Work Text:
EXT BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND
A middle-aged man in a suit (Patrick Megson) is walking down a nondescript street in the Blue-Alpha Section of Hammond. He is looking down at a digital pad, then looking up and glancing around.
A few moments later, he sees a sign above a shop and comes to a halt. He glances down at the pad again, then slips it in to his jacket and walks up to the door of the shop, and pushes it open.
xoxox
INT STARLIGHT CONSULTING OFFICES
Patrick walks through the door, and then comes to a sudden halt, eyes wide in surprise.
xoxox
INT STARLIGHT CONSULTING OFFICES
The reverse angle shows two, twenty-something people, having a sword-fight. One is a woman, with curly-red hair and green eyes, while the other is a man with straight, brown hair and deep brown eyes.
The fight seems to range all over the office, with both participants jumping on desks, kicking chairs out of the way, and occasionally throwing things at the other.
Patrick continues to watch, face now changing from surprise to awe as the fight continues.
Suddenly, the woman jumps on to a desk, them does a somersault off, then fires a bolt of red light out of the end of her sword.
The man dodges, and returns a bolt of red light towards her.
Patrick lets out a gasp of surprise when she bats the light away with her sword, sending it crashing in to the wall.
However the gasp causes them both to turn, and blush bright red.
(still blushing)
Erm - Hi.
xoxox
INTRODUCTION CREDITS
(on screen text)
Gemini Studios and Home Of The Angel Productions
PRESENT
A SammyWrae Film
Starlight - The Movie
From "The Starlight Series"
by
Jonie Enessle and Reb Rosowul
Staring
Alex Hunt
Edward Chase
with
Patrick Megson
'Lala' Merow
Laren Merow
ElDana Merow
and
Sally Ravendor
xoxox
INT STARLIGHT CONSULTING OFFICES
Alex lowers her sword, and rests it on a nearby desk.
Welcome to Starlight Consulting. My
name is Alex Hunt - how can I help
you?
PATRICK MEGSON
Are you two okay?
EDWARD CHASE
(slightly less red)
We're fine.
PATRICK MEGSON
But you.... you were fighting?
ALEX HUNT
(shaking her head)
Oh - that
(grins)
We were just practicing dueling.
Patrick stares at them, eyes wide with disbelief.
That was just a practice duel?
EDWARD CHASE
(gestures to the swords)
We picked these two swords up a few
weeks back, and we're still breaking
them in
(pauses)
We're going to build a practice area
soon - we just haven't had the time.
ALEX HUNT
But enough of us and our wacky plans -
how may Starlight Consulting help you
on this fine and
(glances out of the window)
pretty dull day?
PATRICK MEGSON
(stares at them for a moment, then
shakes his head)
My name is Patrick Megson
(pulls out a black wallet from his
jacket)
I work for Governor Caldicott.
EDWARD CHASE
From Crandos? You're a long way from
home, Mr Megson.
PATRICK MEGSON
I realise that, but a problem has come
up that requires.... special attention,
and from all accounts, you two have a
lot of experience in dealing with these
kind of problems.
Alex and Edward exchange glances.
You don't have government agents who
can do this?
PATRICK MEGSON
(slightly reluctant)
We are trying to keep this secret.
EDWARD CHASE
(smiling)
Something you don't want to see in the
press?
PATRICK MEGSON
It is partly that, Mr Chase, but
Governor Caldicott doesn't want the
general public to learn about this
either.
ALEX HUNT
And the reason for that is?
PATRICK MEGSON
Do you really need to know that? Will it
affect how you perform?
EDWARD CHASE
(smiles)
Probably not. But, from past experience,
if the government wants to keep
something secret from both the press,
and the public, then nine times out of
ten, it's because it's illegal, immoral
or both.
Patrick stares at them for a moment, then sighs.
Very well. But everything I am about
to tell you is classified top secret,
under the ICW laws, and disclosure of
it to a third party, without permission,
will result in serious jail time.
Alex and Edward both nod.
We understand. We've had other cases
that had similar restrictions in the
past.
Patrick smiles.
Very well. We would like you to find
The Seven Fold Star.
He pauses dramatically, as if he has imparted something of great significance and importance.
Alex and Edward exchange confused looks, then they both turn back to Patrick.
EDWARD CHASE
What's that?
Patrick stares at them in surprise, clearly tinged with disbelief.
You've never hold of The Seven Fold
Star?
ALEX HUNT
Should we have?
PATRICK MEGSON
(rolls his eyes)
I suppose it might mean less to people
who don't live on Crandos, but still -
what do they teach kids in school these
days?
EDWARD CHASE
Perhaps you can fill us in, since our
education has been so sadly lacking?
PATRICK MEGSON
Very well - but you should probably sit
down. This might take a little while.
Alex and Edward pick up their swords, and hang them on hooks at the back of the office, then return to their desks and sit down.
If you're sitting comfortably, I'll begin.
He pauses, takes a deep breath, and continues.
Crandos was founded early on in The
Exploration. The original Founder, and
our first Queen, was a lady by the name
of Emily Granger-Brown, who brought The
Seven Fold Star with her from Earth.
EDWARD CHASE
And what is it?
PATRICK MEGSON
It is a crystal star, with five points,
and two.... hearts for want of a better
phrase. It became the symbol of the
Crandos Royal Family, and later - after
the revolution - the symbol of our
government's moral authority.
ALEX HUNT
But you've lost it?
PATRICK MEGSON
(nods)
Fifty years or so ago, it was stolen
during a raid against our First
Minister's Office.
ALEX HUNT
And you've kept that from the people?
PATRICK MEGSON
The then Minister Smith believed it was
best, and since Minister Rose inherited
that problem, she hasn't been able to
bring the news to the public's attention
without revealing the lie.
EDWARD CHASE
Hence the secrecy?
PATRICK MEGSON
There's the chance that, if the public
were to find out, it would topple the
government and cause a civil war, the
likes of which you couldn't imagine.
Alex nods, while Edward rolls his eyes.
Okay - say we agree to look for this..
Star thing. Where do you think we should
start?
PATRICK MEGSON
We've had information that a trade is to
take place on Trixia in the next few
days. The group that has them has
transported them there, and we know more
or less where they're being held.
EDWARD CHASE
So - why can't you go after them
yourself?
ALEX HUNT
For agents of Crandos' secret service to
operate on Trixia, they would have to
inform The ICW.
EDWARD CHASE
Which would make keeping their secret a
little hard
(smiles)
Well - we have only two questions.
PATRICK MEGSON
Yes?
ALEX HUNT
Who has them, where are they and how
much does this job pay?
PATRICK MEGSON
That's three questions.
ALEX HUNT
Maths was never my strong point. It's
why I became a PI.
PATRICK MEGSON
The group is called The Tri-Betas,
and they are based out of Burnton on
Trixia's north continent. There's more
detailed information in this
(hands her a chip)
They are a small group, but not to be
taken lightly.
EDWARD CHASE
We can defend ourselves, Mister Megson.
PATRICK MEGSON
I have no doubt of that, but you're no
good to me if you're dead.
ALEX HUNT
And now, we get to the last question.
PATRICK MEGSON
What are your usual rates?
EDWARD CHASE
Ten galleons a day, plus reasonable
expenses.
PATRICK MEGSON
We'll pay you that, plus a thousand
galleons if you can return The Star.
Alex glances at Edward, who is smiling.
We accept.
PATRICK MEGSON
Excellent. When can you set off?
EDWARD CHASE
Two days from now.
PATRICK MEGSON
Why the delay?
Alex and Edward now stare at him the way he was staring at them before.
Are you serious? You've come to Hammond,
and you don't know what day tomorrow is?
PATRICK MEGSON
Should I?
Edward stands up, but Alex holds her hand up, and shakes her head slightly. He pauses, then sits back down.
You'll have to forgive us. We sometimes
forget that Hammond is just one planet,
and not the centre of the universe
(she pauses)
Tomorrow is the sixteenth anniversary
of The Day Of Sorrow.
Patrick stares uncomprehendingly for a moment, then his eyes widen and he bites his lip.
I'm sorry. I didn't know
(glances at Edward)
My condolences.
EDWARD CHASE
Thank you.
PATRICK MEGSON
I will leave you to it now, but if you
could report back at regular intervals,
I would be grateful.
ALEX HUNT
We'll report when we can, providing it
doesn't interfere with our job.
PATRICK MEGSON
Very well.
He turns to the door, and pulls it open. A moment before he walks through, he turns back.
Once again, you both have my condolences,
and my apologies.
ALEX HUNT
(holds up her hand)
Don't worry - you wouldn't have known.
PATRICK MEGSON
Still.....
He pauses, then turns and walks out of the office, pulling the door closed behind him.
Alex and Edward sit in silence for a moment, then turn to face each other, with huge grins on their faces.
A thousand galleons? Plus our daily rate?
EDWARD CHASE
He must be really desperate to get this....
star thingy back
(pauses and then smiles again)
We could refit Love's Flight.
ALEX HUNT
Redo these offices.
EDWARD CHASE
So - we're accepting the case?
Alex grins and nods.
Excellent
(pauses, then speaks hesitantly)
We could set off now. Get it done
quickly.
ALEX HUNT
(pauses, then shakes her head)
I know you mean it, but I wouldn't do
that. I know what tomorrow means to
you, and, even if it means slightly
less to me, I also want to attend.
Edward smiles at her, relieved.
But, in the meantime, we can do some
research, to ensure we're ready when we
leave.
xoxox
EXT EDGE OF THE WILD-FIRE ZONE, BLUE SECTION, HAMMOND
Alex and Edward stand, heads bowed, in the middle of a crowd.
Sixteen years ago today, we all suffered
the same loss.
The camera pulls back slowly, revealing more and more of the crowd.
At 11:53, that fateful morning, all our
lives changed forever.
The camera continues to pull back.
So we gather, on this day, at this time,
every year. To remember those who died,
those who's lives changed. To remember
our loved ones, both past and present.
The camera continues to pull back.
And so now, as we have done since that
fateful day, I ask you to stand in
silence for a minute.
The camera pulls all the way back, showing a crowd of several thousand, stood in a green park. But right next to the park is an area of mass devastation - buildings ruined, no plants, no animals, no nothing.
A single bell chimes, and the entire crowd falls silent.
xoxox
EXT TARRA SECTION, HAMMOND
Every person in the streets is stood, silent and unmoving.
Montage
There are a number of shots of towns and cities across the planet. Every single shot shows people stood in silence, some with tears in their eyes.
xoxox
EXT EDGE OF THE WILD-FIRE ZONE, BLUE SECTION, HAMMOND
As the minute comes to an end, the bells ring out, pealing in succession.
A few minutes later, they trail off, and the woman who was speaking before walks steps back up to the microphone.
Thank you for coming, and may whatever
god you believe in go with you in your
life.
The crowd starts to break up, and the camera moves back to Edward and Alex.
(wiping his eyes, turns to Alex)
Thank you. I know you think this
(gestures to the crowd)
is a waste of time, but I am not sure I
could do it without you.
ALEX HUNT
(smiling softly, takes his hand)
Not so much a waste of time....
(shakes her head)
But this probably isn't the time or the
place to discuss it
(looks around)
Shall we?
EDWARD CHASE
If you could just give me a moment?
He glances towards the area of destruction. She follows his gaze, then nods.
I'll be back at the office.
EDWARD CHASE
Thanks.
She turns and walks off, while he turns and walks towards the area.
As he makes his way through the crowd, he slips a small glass sphere out of his jacket.
He stops just inside the area, and kneels down. Placing the sphere on the ground, he pulls out a wand, and taps it twice.
Almost at once, the image of two people, a man and a woman, appear above it. They start dancing, then she leans over, and kisses him passionately.
As Edward watches, tears start running down his face again.
Mum. Dad. It's another year. Starlight
is flourishing, and Alex and I are
getting better at our jobs every day
(glances back to where he last saw Alex)
I'm a little worried about her - she
seems.... lonely
(pauses, then lets out a little laugh)
I know. I'm one to talk - twenty four
and still no prospect of a girlfriend,
let alone a wife
(shrugs)
Anyway - we have a new job tomorrow.
Taking us away to Trixia, to try to find
the lost symbol of Emily Granger and
return it to Crandos. Should be pretty
simple, but then again what fun would
that be?
He stares down at the image for a moment, then closes his eyes.
I wish you were here. That the wave had
stopped half a mile earlier. That you
were both on holiday. That the reactor
had never exploded
(pauses, then sighs)
But if wishes were hippogriffs....
He stands up, and dusts his trousers off, leaving the sphere where it is.
I will be back when I can, Mum. See you
soon.
He turns, and walks away, leaving the image of his parents dancing on the edge of the Wild Fire zone.
xoxox
EXT BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND
Edward walks back along the street (the same one we saw Patrick walking on before), then comes to a stop as he sees an image on a TV screen in one of the shops.
He turns back, and walks in to the shop.
xoxox
INT DEXON TV REPAIRS AND RENNOVATIONS
Edward closes the door, and turns to the older man behind the counter.
Jon - can I turn that up?
Jon Dexon waves his hand, not looking up from the circuit board he is working on.
Edward turns the tv up, then stands back.
And there was further surprises today,
as FOD Corp announced that it's
intention to open up another plant.
There are a number of proposed sites,
but the most likely location is the
capital city of Davalos. FOD Corp's
Managing Director, Sally Ravendor, spoke
to our program earlier, saying that it was
a requirement to ensure the future of
her company.
Edward turns as Jon lets out a snort of disgust.
Jon?
JON DEXON
She's lying.
EDWARD CHASE
What makes you say that?
JON DEXON
FOD doesn't need to expand. It already
has plants on more planets than any
other, and, aside from The Nimbonus
Corp, is the single most successful
corporation in the known world.
EDWARD CHASE
So why do you think she is opening
another plant?
JON DEXON
She's greedy? She's trying to gain more
political power? She's trying to take
over the world, bit by bit?
EDWARD CHASE
I guess it's possible
(shrugs)
Anyway - I just stopped in to say we'll
be out of town for a bit, so if you
could....
JON DEXON
No worries - I'll keep an eye out.
EDWARD CHASE
Thanks.
JON DEXON
Where you off to this time?
EDWARD CHASE
Trixia.
xoxox
EXT BURNTON SPACEDOCK, TRIXIA
"Love's Flight", a manticore class personal shuttle, flies down towards the dock, then comes in to land on one of the pads.
xoxox
EXT BURNTON SPACEDOCK, TRIXIA
The door to the shuttle cycles open, and Alex and Edward walk down from it to the pad. It closes behind them, and they walk in to the terminal.
xoxox
INT BURTON SPACEDOCK, TRIXIA
Alex and Edward walk through the terminal, and come to a halt in front of the Customs and Immigration Desk.
Welcome to Trixia. My name is Aeron,
and I work for the Trixia CAI. I
just have a few questions to ask you,
then you may go about your business,
whatever business that might be.
They both nod.
First, may I have your ID Cards?
They hand over their cards, and he scans them.
And now, may I have your wands, please?
Alex hands hers over, while Edward pulls his out of his jacket, but keeps hold of it.
Mister Chase - your wand?
EDWARD CHASE
Once you've scanned Miss Hunt's, you can
do mine.
AERON JACKSON
(slightly amused)
You don't trust me?
EDWARD CHASE
We've learned in the past not to hand
over both our wands at once. Not to
government agents, not to anyone.
AERON JACKSON
(pauses, then shrugs)
Okay. I have no problems with that.
He scans Alex's wand, then hands it back and turns to Edward. With a slight smile, Edward hands his over, watches it be scanned, and then takes it back.
Thank you. What is the purpose of your
visit?
ALEX HUNT
We're on business
(pulls out a business card)
Starlight Consulting.
AERON JACKSON
What is the nature of the business?
ALEX HUNT
Private Investigators. We're fully
licensed under ICW laws, and are
permitted to operate on all planets
under that license.
AERON JACKSON
Excellent. How long do you expect your
visit to last?
EDWARD CHASE
No more than two weeks, probably less.
AERON JACKSON
(glances down at the screen in front of
him)
That's all
(pauses)
Oh - one more thing. Are you carrying
any other weapons than your wands?
Alex pulls out a pad from her jacket, and hands it to Aeron.
Two blaster pistols, two blaster rifles
and two.... two swords?
He looks up at them, slightly confused.
Swords?
EDWARD CHASE
(shrugs non-chaulantly)
Sometimes the old methods are the best.
AERON JACKSON
But.... swords?
ALEX HUNT
Look - are they illegal?
AERON JACKSON
Well - no. Cause no one uses them.
ALEX HUNT
So we can bring them in?
AERON JACKSON
I suppose so.....
ALEX HUNT
Then what's your problem?
EDWARD CHASE
I think he's still stuck on the sword
part to be honest.
AERON JACKSON
(shrugs)
Well - to each his own. If you wanna
use swords, use swords.
He reaches down and makes a few notes on the screen.
Welcome to Trixia. Please ensure you
familiarize yourself with local laws and
customs, and try not to break any laws
during your stay.
Alex grins
We'll certainly do our best to try.
AERON JACKSON
And have a nice day now.
xoxox
EXT BURNTON, TRIXIA
Alex and Edward walk down the street looking around.
I guess we should find somewhere to stay.
If we're going to be here for a while
that is.
ALEX HUNT
Any suggestions?
EDWARD CHASE
The Badger is usually a good bet. Cheap,
clean. That sort of thing.
ALEX HUNT
Badger it is then.
EDWARD CHASE
Do you want to start tomorrow, or see
what we can find out tonight?
ALEX HUNT
(yawns, then grins)
I guess that answers your question. We
can start in the morning
(pause, then gestured to the suitcase
he is wheeling along the ground)
We've got all that fun information to
go through before we can try to find the
Tri-Betas.
xoxox
INT BADGER HOTEL, BURNTON, TRIXIA
Alex and Edward walk up to the check-in desk, and Alex rings the bell. A moment later, a young, perky blonde woman walks through a door at the back.
Welcome to The Badger Hotel. My name is
Ginger. How can I help you today?
ALEX HUNT
I realise this'll come as a surprise,
but we'd like a couple of rooms.
Edward rolls his eyes.
Of course. How long will you be staying?
ALEX HUNT
Can we book them for a week, with an
option for an extra week?
GINGER DARKSON
Of course
(glances at the monitor in front of her)
Two rooms?
ALEX HUNT
Yes.
GINGER DARKSON
Do you require any special dietary,
religious or other requirements?
ALEX HUNT
No, thank you. Although we do require a
WWN access terminal in each room.
GINGER DARKSON
That comes as standard, and, should you
require it, we have a UCN terminal in
the communications centre.
ALEX HUNT
Excellent. Do we pay now or....
GINGER DARKSON
On your departure.
She leans down, and then comes back up with two cards.
These are your keys, and your rooms are
on the twelfth floor. Lifts are on the
right at the end of the foyer.
ALEX HUNT
Thanks.
xoxox
INT BADGER HOTEL, BURNTON, TRIXIA
Alex walks in to her room, casts a number of security, privacy and silencing spells, then, leaving her suitcase on her bed, she walks across the corridor and knocks on Edward's door.
xoxox
INT BADGER HOTEL, BURNTON, TRIXIA
Edward and Alex are lying next to each other on the bed, staring a projection on the ceiling of the room.
So - we can find The Tri-Betas at the
wharf?
ALEX HUNT
If Patrick's information is right, they
should be in one of the warehouses.
EDWARD CHASE
A warehouse?
(turns to Alex)
I thought they were a huge,
interplanetary gang of master criminals?
ALEX HUNT
(pauses, then shrugs)
Maybe they are, and they're really good
at covert-ops.
xoxox
EXT BURNTON, TRIXIA
Alex and Edward are stood in front of a very dilapidated warehouse, with every window broken, and the sign hanging off.
Then again, maybe not
(she glances at the pad)
This is the place.
EDWARD CHASE
Apparently so. So - how do you want to
do this?
ALEX HUNT
You take the back?
EDWARD CHASE
Okay - go on the signal.
He bounds off round the side, while Alex slips the pad back in to her jacket, then withdraws her sword and pistol from her jacket, slipping the pistol in to the back of her belt.
xoxox
EXT BURNTON, TRIXIA
Edward walks round to the back, looks the building up and down, then edges up to the wall, and slowly withdraws his sword.
Looking around once more, he reaches down to his belt and flicks a switch on the side.
xoxox
EXT BURNTON, TRIXIA
Alex looks down as her belt beeps, then she raises her sword, and kicks the door in.
xoxox
EXT BURNTON, TRIXIA
Edward smashes one of the remaining windows, and leaps into the building.
xoxox
INT WAREHOUSE, BURNTON, TRIXIA
Alex bursts in to the door and skids to a halt, facing six men with guns.
Hi. My name is Alex, and I have a
favour to ask.
The men continue to stare at her.
You've stolen something from The First
Minister of Crandos, and I'd like it back.
MERC #1
What's that?
ALEX HUNT
The Seven Fold Star.
The men glance at each other, then they all raise their guns and point them directly at her.
(firmly)
You should leave. Now.
The other men form an arc around her.
(looking around)
Why am I getting the feeling that this
is not open to negotiation?
MERC #2
If you leave right now, we will forget
you were ever here. Otheriwse there
will be consequences.
ALEX HUNT
(catches sight of Edward walking up
behind them)
How about this - you hand over what you
stole, and we will let you go?
The men exchange glances, then turn back to Alex.
What do you mean 'we'?
EDWARD CHASE
(off-screen, from behind)
That would be her and me. And we're
taking the Star. Whether you six live
to walk away is another matter.
ALEX HUNT
Just give it us, and this will end
easily.
Edward moves round until the six men are between him and Alex.
A moment later, The man who's been doing most of the talking turns and fires at Alex.
She sweeps the sword in front of her, deflecting the bullets in to the walls.
What the hell?
ALEX HUNT
We don't want to hurt you. Just give us
the damn star, and you an walk away.
MERC #1
We'll die before we let you have it.
Alex pauses, then shrugs.
If that's what you want.
She swings the sword round, until it's pointing at him.
STUPEFY!
xoxox
EXT BURNTON, TRIXIA
The warehouse is full of spell light and pistol fire.
But only for a few moments.
xoxox
INT WAREHOUSE, BURNTON, TRIXIA
Alex and Edward both lower their swords, and look around.
One dead. Five unconscious
(shrugs)
It could be worse.
EDWARD CHASE
Records would show they fired first.
And that they escalated it.
ALEX HUNT
I guess we should find the Star, and go?
They search for a few minutes, then Edward comes across a small safe.
I think this is it.
He pulls out a small leather envelope from his jacket, and opens it up.
Why can't we just....
(waves her wand)
blast it?
EDWARD CHASE
Aside from the risk of destroying The
Star, I'm starting to wonder if Mr
Megson didn't mislead us a little.
ALEX HUNT
(tilts her head to one side)
I guess I'm missing something?
EDWARD CHASE
(nods as he continues to work on the
safe)
These mercs - did they seem a
little..... obsessed? I mean - more
than most?
ALEX HUNT
A little, I guess.
EDWARD CHASE
I mean - they didn't try to sell us
this. And they were willing to die to
stop us from getting it.
ALEX HUNT
Maybe their boss is a real bastard, and
they're more scared of him than they
are of us.
EDWARD CHASE
It's possible
(grunts with satisfaction as he pulls
the safe door open)
Now - let's see what they were so eager
to protect.
He reaches inside, and pulls out a small metal box. He closes the safe door, then gently rests the box on the top of the safe.
Want me to.....
EDWARD CHASE
No - I got it.
He pulls out his wand, and waves it over the top a few times.
It's clean
(looks up at her)
So - do we open it now, or wait until
we are back home?
ALEX HUNT
Now
(pauses, the grins)
After all, we don't want to return to
Mr Megson with an empty box, do we?
EDWARD CHASE
Good point
(looks down at the box)
Okay - lets see what's worth dying for.
He lifs the lid of the box, and both he and Alex look inside.
(after a moment)
Huh.
xoxox
INT BADGER HOTEL, BURNTON, TRIXIA
Alex pushes the door to her room open, goes inside, and sits down on the bed.
xoxox
INT WAREHOUSE, BURNTON, TRIXIA (FLASHBACK)
The fight is underway, and both Alex and Edward are fighting for their lives.
Alex swings the sword round, blocking a volley of gunfire, then decapitates one of the mercs.
INT BADGER HOTEL, BURNTON, TRIXIA
She shakes herself, then looks over at the metal box.
I hope you were worth it, little box.
xoxox
EXT BURNTON, TRIXIA
Outside the hotel, the street is deserted and very quiet.
Suddenly, twelve figures, all in black jump suits and balaclavas, run down the street to the entrance of the hotel.
xoxox
INT BADGER HOTEL, BURNTON, TRIXIA
The twelve figures stream in to the hotel, and the woman behind the check-in desk ducks down. A moment later, all the lights go out.
xoxox
INT BADGER HOTEL, BURNTON, TRIXIA
Alex sits up in bed, looking around in the dark.
xoxox
INT BADGER HOTEL, BURNTON, TRIXIA
Edward leaps out of bed, grabbing for his sword.
xoxox
INT BADGER HOTEL, BURNTON, TRIXIA
The figures move towards the stairs, and go up them in teams of four.
xoxox
INT BADGER HOTEL, BURNTON, TRIXIA
Alex grabs her sword, then disillusions the box, and slips it in to her bag.
xoxox
INT BADGER HOTEL, BURNTON, TRIXIA
Edward moves to stand behind the door, raising his sword.
xoxox
INT BADGER HOTEL, BURNTON, TRIXIA
The twelve figures arrive in the corridor leading to Alex and Edward's rooms, then break in to four teams. One secures the far end of the corridor, while another secures the near end.
The other two teams move to stand outside the doors to Alex and Edward's rooms.
THIS IS THE TRIXIAN SECRET SERVICE.
xoxox
INT BADGER HOTEL, BURNTON, TRIXIA
Alex's eyes widen, and for a moment she glances towards the window, considering making a break for it.
DROP ANY WEAPONS YOU ARE HOLDING, AND
BACK AWAY FROM THE DOOR
xoxox
INT BADGER HOTEL, BURNTON, TRIXIA
Edward also glances at the window, then he slowly lowers his sword, places it on the ground, and backs in to the middle of the room, hands on his head.
xoxox
INT BADGER HOTEL, BURNTON, TRIXIA
Alex glances at her bag, then slowly places her sword on the ground and backs up against the wall, hands on her head.
xoxox
INT BADGER HOTEL, BURNTON, TRIXIA
The two teams of agents turn to the doors, and kick them open.
xoxox
INT BADGER HOTEL, BURNTON, TRIXIA
Edward keeps his hands on his head as the agents stream in to the room.
Edward Chase. You are bound by Trixian
Law to stand down and surrender yourself
for questioning.
xoxox
INT BADGER HOTEL, BURNTON, TRIXIA
Alex closes her eyes as the agents crash in to the room.
Alex Hunt. You are bound by Trixian
Law to stand down and surrender yourself
for questioning.
xoxox
INT SECRET SERVICE BUILDING, BURNTON, TRIXIA
Alex and Edward are sat in a metal walled office, empty apart from a single table and the chairs they are sat on.
The door opens, and a man and a woman walk in. She waves her hand and another chair appears. The woman sits down, while the man leans up against the wall behind her.
My name is Special Agent Brown. I am in
charge of The Aeason Department of the
TSS. Do you understand why you are here?
ALEX HUNT
The death of the Mercenary in the
warehouse on the wharf?
EMILY BROWN
(smiling)
I'm afraid that's only half-right.
She turns to the man behind her, who hands her a file. She turns back to the table, and spreads it out in front of the two Starlight staff.
The operation you disrupted was one of
ours. The man you killed was one of my
agents.
Alex and Edward are quiet for a few moments, then, after an exchange of glances, they turn back to Emily.
We were told they were thieves, who had
stolen from the government of Crandos.
And, although it won't bring him back,
I am afraid they fired first.
EMILY BROWN
(she nods)
We know.
EDWARD CHASE
(surprised)
You know?
EMILY BROWN
We have a record of the incident, and
it clearly shows that my men were the
first to fire, and that, from a certain
point of view, you were only acting in
self-defence.
EDWARD CHASE
Then why are we here?
EMILY BROWN
The Seven Fold Star.
ALEX HUNT
What about it?
EMILY BROWN
My agents said they had it.
TOM BLACK
(from behind her)
They reported back when they returned
to the warehouse, and said their
mission to recover it had been
successful.
EMILY BROWN
And yet when we searched the warehouse,
it wasn't there.
ALEX HUNT
We didn't find it either, so we left.
We were going to try to trace it back to
where else it might be.
EMILY BROWN
(looking at her curiously)
I'm only guessing, but you have no idea
what you're looking for, do you?
EDWARD CHASE
It's the symbol of the Royal Family of
Crandos, and they want it back.
Emily and Tom exchange glances, then Emily turns back.
The Seven Fold Star was discovered on
Earth, just before the start of the
exploration. No one knows exactly what
it does - the secret has been lost in
the 320 odd years since then - but all
of the stories, records, documents and
descriptions agree on one thing.
She pauses, but doesn't continue.
Are you going to tell us what it is?
EMILY BROWN
A weapon.
EDWARD CHASE
(slightly confused)
A weapon?
EMILY BROWN
One of the most powerful, and
destructive weapons in the history of
the worlds - one that would make the
AK Bomb look like a tickling curse.
Alex and Edward's eyes widen in amazement.
So, you can see why we have an interest
in knowing where it might be
(she pauses)
Are you sure you have no idea?
ALEX HUNT
Not a clue
(shakes her head)
We tried to find it, after the fight,
but we couldn't locate it.
EMILY BROWN
(turns to Edward)
What about you, Mr Chase?
EDWARD CHASE
Like my partner said, we didn't find
anything. Nothing to suggest where
they'd been, or what they were going
to do next.
Emily stares at both of them for a few moments, then nods.
Very well. You are both permitted to go,
and while we have to keep a record of
this incident in our files, it won't
appear on the public records, and no
one but us will know.
ALEX HUNT
Thank you
(stands up)
And, once again, can I say how sorry I
am for the death of your agent.
EMILY BROWN
Thank you
(pauses)
It will be listed as death in the line,
but the records will be sealed.
TOM BLACK
And now, while we don't wish to hurry
you, I think it would be best if you
left the planet as soon as is possible.
EDWARD CHASE
Of course
(smiles)
If we can get our belongings from the
hotel, we will be off-planet by the end
of the day.
xoxox
EXT BURNTON SPACEDOCK, TRIXIA
Edward and Alex walk up to their spaceship, pulling their bags behind them.
The door cycles open, and they walk inside.
xoxox
INT LOVE'S FLIGHT, BURNTON SPACEDOCK, TRIXIA
Alex sits down in the pilot's chair, while Edward stows all the baggage in the back.
As Alex starts the ship up, Edward walks back, box in hand. He starts to open his mouth, but Alex holds up her hand.
Burnton Flight, this is Love's Flight
requesting permission to depart.
BF Voice
Love's Flight, this is Burnton Flight.
Depart to Channel 3, Path 5, and
proceed out from there.
ALEX HUNT
Thank you Flight
(she clicks the comm unit, then turns
back to Edward)
Sorry.
EDWARD CHASE
No worries - I forgot about the
departure
(holds the box up)
I take it you can explain?
ALEX HUNT
Do I have a reason why I lied to agents
and directors of Trixia's Secret
Service?
(Edward nods)
I do. In fact I have two reasons.
EDWARD CHASE
Are they both exciting and dramatic?
ALEX HUNT
Oh yes
(pauses)
Just a second.
She flicks the comm unit back on.
Burnton Flight, this is Love's Flight.
We're about to break orbit.
BF VOICE
Love's Flight, this is Burnton Flight.
Thank you for visiting, and enjoy your
flight.
ALEX HUNT
Burnton Flight, thank you.
She flicks the comm unit off again, then turns back to him.
As I was saying - I have two main
reasons for wanting to keep it to
ourselves.
EDWARD CHASE
(pauses)
You realise how disappointed I'll be
if either of these involve us using it?
ALEX HUNT
Of course, and that's why neither of
them do
(grins at him)
Do you really think I would want to use
it?
EDWARD CHASE
(shakes his head, honestly)
No.
ALEX HUNT
Anyway - the first is that this isn't a
weapon. It is in fact just a pretty
jewel.
EDWARD CHASE
With a hole missing in the middle.
ALEX HUNT
Pretty, but incomplete.
EDWARD CHASE
In which case, why would a Planetary
Agency want it back?
ALEX HUNT
To say the least. So I thought we could
keep hold of it to find out why they
want it so badly.
EDWARD CHASE
What about Megson?
ALEX HUNT
I'll get to that in a second
(he looks at her curiously)
It ties in with my other reason.
EDWARD CHASE
(smiles)
Then do continue.
ALEX HUNT
Say this is a weapon.
EDWARD CHASE
(deadpan voice)
This is a weapon.
Alex swats him on the arm.
(grinning)
Sorry. Go on.
ALEX HUNT
If this is a weapon of unimaginable
power - one beyond the comprehension
of mortal men - then what would a
Planetary Agency want with it?
EDWARD CHASE
To destroy it?
ALEX HUNT
We can do that - we're good at
destroying things.
EDWARD CHASE
But if we do that, how are we going to
give it back to Mr Megson?
(Alex stares at him, looking innocent)
Oh.
ALEX HUNT
I'm willing to accept that Mr Megson
might not know that this is an ultimate
weapon. That he might just be doing what
he's told.
EDWARD CHASE
Okay.
ALEX HUNT
I'm even willing to accept that Minister
Rose, and even Queen Granger-Brown might
not know that it is a weapon.
EDWARD CHASE
But you still don't want to give it back?
ALEX HUNT
From all accounts, Minister Rose is a
good person, but is there anyone -
anyone in the worlds - you would trust
with this?
They sit in silence for a few moments as Alex pilots the ship.
So - what do you suggest?
ALEX HUNT
There's something I want to suggest,
but I know you won't like it.
EDWARD CHASE
How do you know I won't like it until
you tell me?
ALEX HUNT
Because I don't like it either, but I
can't see any other way.
EDWARD CHASE
Then shock me. Tell me what you think.
Alex takes a deep breath, then turns to face him.
We take three days pay from Mr Megson,
but that's all.
EDWARD CHASE
We've only really done three days work,
so why would we.....
(he trails off, then gives her a slight
smile)
Well - you were right.
ALEX HUNT
You hate it?
EDWARD CHASE
We'd be giving up a thousand galleons.
And given some of our recent jobs,
that's not an inconsiderable amount.
ALEX HUNT
I know.
EDWARD CHASE
And it is their jewel. Their property.
ALEX HUNT
I know.
Edward pauses, then grins.
So - if we aren't giving it back, what
are we going to do with it?
ALEX HUNT
I was thinking we break it up - take
the five pieces we have - and bury them
around the planet. Then we tell Mr
Megson we couldn't find it, and that we
are very sorry.
EDWARD CHASE
You don't want to look for the other two
pieces?
ALEX HUNT
Gods no - I don't want them anywhere
near the pieces we have
(pauses)
This way, even if we are forced to tell
people where the five pieces are, we
can't give up all of it, because we
don't have all of it.
Edward nods, then turns to look out of the main window.
How long till we get back?
ALEX HUNT
Lissy estimates half a day, assuming no
problems
(smiles)
If you want to go sleep, be my guest.
EDWARD CHASE
Thanks. I didn't get a lot of sleep last
night.
ALEX HUNT
(sympathetically)
Nightmares?
EDWARD CHASE
(nods)
Every year. Regular as clockwork.
ALEX HUNT
(reaches out and strokes his arm)
Okay. Go get some sleep. I'll wake you
when we hit orbit.
EDWARD CHASE
(tired smile)
Thanks.
xoxox
INT LONGBOTTOM PRIMARY SCHOOL, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND
Young Edward is sat in class, listening to the teacher discussing history.
Miss Burrows - isn't it true that a lot
of history books tell a different story?
LESLEY BURROWS
Yes, Robin. There are those who believe
that Albus Dumbledore was a hero, and
that he has been badly treated by
history. And this is one of the key
points of today's lesson - that ancient
history is open to a lot of
interpretations.
PADMA MELFOY
So we'll never know the truth?
LESLEY BURROWS
(grins)
Unless one of the participants of the
Civil War decides to come out of the
past to tell us what actually happened,
then all we can do is rely on the
historical documents we have
(she pauses)
And although wizards are generally long
lived, I.....
She trails off as the entire room shakes. For a moment, the teacher (Lesley) and the students all look around in confusion. A moment later, the door is flung open, and another teacher runs in.
Everyone out
(they all stare at him)
NOW!
xoxox
EXT BLUE-ALPA SECTION, HAMMOND
On the playground outside the school, all the students, teachers and staff are pouring out of the school. They line up in classes, but a moment later, all semblance of organization vanishes as they stare at the scene on the horizon.
xoxox
EXT BLUE-ALPA SECTION, HAMMOND
In the centre of the area, the sky seems to be burning. The sky is thick with jet black smoke from thousands of fires. The buildings they can see are all wrecked and burning.
xoxox
EXT BLUE-ALPA SECTION, HAMMOND
Lesley walks up behind her class, eyes red with tears.
The school is closed for the rest of
the week. You are all being transferred
to the outer districts.
A number of students turn, and young Edward frowns.
But my parents can pick me up, can't
they?
Lesley breaks down crying again, and Anthony walks up behind her.
I'm afraid that might not be possible,
Master Chase
(he pauses, then takes a deep breath)
The vast majority of the business
sector has been destroyed in a wild-fire
accident.
Young Edward stares at him.
Are my parents.....
ANTHONY DRAYSON
I'm afraid we just don't know, and
won't know for a while. But the
emergency services want to move
everyone away from the edge of the zone,
so all of you will be evacuated until
they can find out what's going on.
xoxox
INT LOVE'S FLIGHT, ABOVE HAMMOND
Edward slowly opens his eyes, then sighs.
At least I didn't picture the wave this
time.
He looks around, then glances out of the side window, and smiles.
Nearly home.
He gets off the bed and walks through to the cockpit. Alex turns back to smile at him.
Hey. We're just about to hit orbit. I
was going to send Lissy to wake you in
a few minutes.
EDWARD CHASE
Another dream
(sighs)
You think I'd be used to it after all
these years, but....
(shrugs, then shakes his head)
Any problems?
Alex gestures to the comm unit.
One minor one. It seems that Mr Megson
is very eager to see how we've done.
He'll be waiting for us on the docks.
EDWARD CHASE
(rolls his eyes)
Swell.
They sit in silence for a few minutes as Alex pilots the ship down, then - as the spacedocks come in to view, Edward stands up.
I'm going to get our bag, and ensure
it won't show up.
Alex nods, and Edward walks through to the back, and finds the bag. He casts another disillusionment spell over the box, then picks the bag up along with the others.
(voice-over - comms)
Hold on to something. Landing in two.
He sits down on the bed, and a moment later the entire room rattles as the ship sets down on the landing pad.
(voice-over - comms)
Okay - we're down
(pauses)
And another signal came in from our
friend.
EDWARD CHASE
(to himself)
This isn't going to end well.
xoxox
INT SPACEDOCK, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND
Alex and Edward walk to the customs desk, and are processed. They turn to see Patrick Megson waiting for them in the customer lounge.
Last chance to change your mind.
EDWARD CHASE
Do you want to?
Alex pauses to consider it, but shakes her head.
If this is the weapon to end all
weapons, I can't hand it over to the
government. Any government.
EDWARD CHASE
For what it's worth, I agree
(pauses)
The question is can we make them
believe it?
ALEX HUNT
(smiling slightly)
I guess we're about to find out.
They fall silent as they walk up to Patrick, and come to a halt in front of him.
(smiling)
Miss Hunt, Mister Chase - welcome back.
Do I take it from your early return that
you have had a successful trip?
Alex and Edward exchange glances, then Edward turns back to him.
I'm afraid not, Mr Megson.
xoxox
INT SPACEDOCK, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND
The three have moved to a private office, within the spacedock complex.
What do you mean you couldn't find it?
ALEX HUNT
We located the warehouse, and the group
that had it. We convinced them that we
were not leaving, and after a slight
scuffle, we searched the entire
warehouse and it wasn't there.
PATRICK MEGSON
And you've no idea where it might be?
EDWARD CHASE
The mercs we encountered were none to
eager to give us any information
(pauses)
Especially after we beat the crap out
of them.
PATRICK MEGSON
(sighs)
So it could be anywhere?
ALEX HUNT
(grins slightly)
Well - not anywhere. I mean - we know
it's not in the warehouse
(realises Patrick is not smiling)
Sorry.
PATRICK MEGSON
I don't have to tell you how
disappointed I am at this turnout.
Nor how disappointed Minister Rose will
be.
ALEX HUNT
We understand (pauses, then without
glancing at Edward) We are willing to
forfeit all of our wages for the job, Mr
Megson, as we didn't find what we were
looking for.
Edward glances at her for a moment, but his face doesn't change.
Patrick stares at her for a few moments, then shakes his head.
(carefully)
Obviously, there'll be no bonus. But we
will pay you for the days you did, as
well as any costs you incurred.
EDWARD CHASE
Thank you.
PATRICK MEGSON
(slightly angrily)
Don't thank me. If I thought I could
sue you for this utter failure, I would.
But you did the job, and we have to pay
you
(turns away)
I'll expect a full report to be sent to
me on Crandos.
ALEX HUNT
(nods)
Yes, sir.
Patrick turns and stalks away, leaving Alex and Edward stood in the office.
(after a moment)
Well - that went better than I hoped.
EDWARD CHASE
(smiles)
We'll forfeit all our money?
ALEX HUNT
(blushes)
I should've asked, I know, but it was a
spur of the moment thing.
EDWARD CHASE
(shrugs)
It worked, and you always were better
at this than me
(grins)
So - what now?
xoxox
EXT LONGBOTTOM HIGH SCHOOL, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND
In the middle of the night, Alex walks to the centre of the courtyard, and over to the statute of Emmaline Longbottom.
Glancing around, she digs a hole under the statute, and buries a small package.
xoxox
EXT FREEDOM PARK, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND
Edward drops a package in to a large, natural lake.
xoxox
EXT PERKS PLAZA, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND
Alex buries a package on the edge of a plaza.
xoxox
EXT STARLIGHT ORPHANAGE, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND
Edward drops in to the backyard of the Orphanage, and walks over to the well near the back wall.
Look around with a fond smile, he drops the package in to it.
xoxox
INT STARLIGHT CONSULTING OFFICES
Edward is working at one of the desks, and looks up when Alex comes in.
So where did you end up putting the
last one?
Alex doesn't answer - instead she sits down at her desk and logs in to the network.
Alex - where did you put it?
She turns to face him.
Somewhere safe.
He stares back at her.
Seriously - no one will find it.
He continues to stare at her.
You really want to know?
He nods.
I buried it at 3599 West Gallison.
His eyes widen slightly.
Your mother's office?
(Alex nods)
You went in to the WFZ?
ALEX HUNT
It will be somewhere no one will ever
think to look.
EDWARD CHASE
(shakes his head)
Sometimes I forget who I am dealing
with.
She grins cheekily at him.
So what's got you so interested? You
barely noticed when I walked in.
EDWARD CHASE
Letter from Brooke.
Alex turns to him with a grin on her face, then jumps to her feet and bounds over to his console.
What's she say?
EDWARD CHASE
(glancing through the contents of the
screen)
She got her results, and has been
admitted to The Academy.
ALEX HUNT
Really? Go Brooke!
EDWARD CHASE
She starts in a few weeks, and is
finally moving out of Rupert's house.
ALEX HUNT
Which I am sure she is all bouncy about?
EDWARD CHASE
(grinning)
I think I counted nine exclamation
marks in a row
(he looks through the rest of it)
Am I imagining it, or is she talking
about this Lucinda girl a lot more?
ALEX HUNT
A little. But they've been friends
forever, and if she's moving to The
Academy she won't see her so often.
EDWARD CHASE
I suppose
(shrugs)
I still think there's something more,
but what do I know - I'm just a guy.
ALEX HUNT
Yes, but I love you anyway.
He grins at her, then they both turn as her computer starts beeping loudly.
Something I should know?
She shrugs, and walks over to her computer. Pressing a few buttons, she stops it beeping, but suddenly her face falls, and she turns back to Edward.
(somewhat anxious)
What?
ALEX HUNT
(haltingly)
A message. From Laren
(she pauses, then looks up, eyes wide
with concern and a little fear)
ElDana's been kidnapped.
(The screen fades to black)
xoxox
INT STARLIGHT ORPHANAGE, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND (FLASHBACK)
Young Alex (aged 8) is sat in the main corridor, outside the Head's office. She is staring down at the floor, not looking around.
xoxox
INT STARLIGHT ORPHANAGE, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND (FLASHBACK)
Young Edward (also aged 8) is escorted along the corridor by Lesley Burrows.
Edward - if you could wait here, I'll
talk to Mr Devereaux.
YOUNG EDWARD CHASE
Yes Miss Burrows.
Lesley smiles, then turns and knocks on the door. Edward sits down next to Alex, who doesn't look up.
xoxox
INT STARLIGHT ORPHANAGE, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND (FLASHBACK)
Horace Devereaux is talking to Lesley.
Of course we'd be happy to take him, but
I'm afraid it will mean sharing a room
with another new arrival.
LESLEY BURROWS
That booked up, huh?
HORACE DEVEREAUX
(sighs sadly)
Nearly every orphanage on the planet is
full, let alone the district
(glances out of the window, to where
the fires can still be seen burning)
A black, black day.
LESLEY BURROWS
To put it mildly
(pauses)
You realise we can't take him back at
Longbottom?
HORACE DEVEREAUX
I know
(smiles)
But the tests you provided show
something interesting. Something I
think will make his life easier, if
not better.
LESLEY BURROWS
What's that?
HORACE DEVEREAUX
(grins)
He's a mage.
xoxox
INT STARLIGHT ORPHANAGE, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND (FLASHBACK)
Young Edward looks around, then glances at Alex.
Hi - I'm Edward.
Alex doesn't respond.
I lost my parents too.
Alex looks up at him, then smiles slightly.
I'm Alex.
They both turn as the door to Devereaux's office opens and both Horace and Lesley walk out.
Edward - Mr Devereaux has signed the
papers, and you can stay at the
orphanage.
YOUNG EDWARD CHASE
Thank you, sir.
HORACE DEVEREAUX
You're welcome, young man
(glances at Alex)
And I believe you've already met your
new roommate, Miss Alex Hunt.
The two children turn to stare at each other.
xoxox
INT LOVE'S FLIGHT, ON ROUTE TO DAVALOS
Edward is in the pilot's seat, while Alex is reading through a number of reports in her hand.
So - what do we know?
ALEX HUNT
(sighing)
That the Davalos police suck at writing
reports.
EDWARD CHASE
(smiling)
Aside from that?
ALEX HUNT
Well - the ONE report I have says that
Eldi was walking down her street,
heading home from the shops, when a
group of four people snatched her, and
drove her away in a black car - no
plates
(glances down again)
The people were wearing blue and gold
robes - suggesting they either have no
dress sense or are part of a group of
some type.
EDWARD CHASE
That's it?
Alex holds up the single piece of paper.
There are two more reports - neither
from the police - that say the car was
spotted abandoned at the spacedock, and
that only three ships left the planet
within a reasonable timeframe.
EDWARD CHASE
Any ideas on destinations?
ALEX HUNT
(shakes her head)
The second of the reports is from a
friend of Laren's at the spacedock,
but he doesn't have destination
information.
EDWARD CHASE
I think we can probably find that.
ALEX HUNT
Assuming they filed a correct report,
and be honest - if you were
kidnapping someone, would you?
EDWARD CHASE
I suppose not
(sighs)
Any more from Laren and Alex?
ALEX HUNT
(frowns)
Lala is pretty upset. Laren is doing a
little better, but he's worried about
Lala.
EDWARD CHASE
I can imagine
(sighs)
We'll be there in a few hours, but if
we're going to go out looking for Eldi,
we won't be able to stay for long.
ALEX HUNT
(sighs)
I know. But at least we can see what we
can do while we're there.
Edward nods, and looks back to the front.
Want to take over?
(smiles)
Might take your mind off things?
ALEX HUNT
(pauses, considering)
No - thanks. I'm just going to go sort
some stuff out in the back.
EDWARD CHASE
Okay.
xoxox
INT LOVE'S FLIGHT, ON ROUTE TO DAVALOS
Alex walks in to the back of the ship, and pulls out a small pad. She flicks it on, and stares at the picture.
It shows a young Edward and Alex, stood next to another girl, about their age.
xoxox
EXT STARLIGHT ORPHANAGE, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND (FLASHBACK)
Edward and Alex (both aged nine) are sitting in the back garden, leaning up against the well, when they see Horace Devereaux (the Orphanage Administrator) crossing the back yard with another young girl in tow.
Who's that?
YOUNG EDWARD CHASE
Don't know.
YOUNG ALEX HUNT
Wanna find out?
YOUNG EDWARD CHASE
(shrugs)
Okay.
They both stand up, and cross over to where Devereaux is about to enter the orphanage building.
Mr Devereaux?
HORACE DEVEREAUX
Yes, Alex?
YOUNG ALEX HUNT
Who's this?
The girl turns to them, then looks up at Devereaux.
This is ElDana Dullan. She's going to
be staying with us from now on.
xoxox
INT LOVE'S FLIGHT, ON ROUTE TO DAVALOS
Alex smiles at the picture.
xoxox
INT MEROW RESIDENCE, GREATER HANGLETON, DAVALOS
Laren Merrow answers the door, and smiles as Alex and Edward walk in. They each hug him, then he ushers them through in to the lounge.
Did you have a good trip?
EDWARD CHASE
Easy enough. The weather is pretty nice
at this time of the year.
ALEX 'LALA' MEROW
(from the door)
I thought you didn't get weather in
space?
Both Alex and Edward turn Lala in the doorway, and Alex jumps to her feet, bounding over to the young girl.
Aunty Baba!
She flings her arms round Alex, hugging her tightly.
(still buried in Alex's neck)
Have you come to find mummy?
ALEX HUNT
Yes, my dear. We've come to find mummy
(glances up at Edward and Laren)
I'm going to take Lala for a walk, if
that's okay?
Laren nods, and Alex takes Lala's hand, and leads her out of the room, towards the back garden. Edward and Laren watch them go, then Edward turns back to Laren.
She seems....
LAREN MEROW
She's happy you two are here
(pauses, then grins)
She thinks you two can save the world,
so finding her mother will be a doddle.
EDWARD CHASE
(blushes)
I'm not sure about the world, but I'm
hoping finding Eldi won't be a problem.
LAREN MEROW
(sighs)
I haven't heard any more from the police,
but one or two friends got in touch since
I last contacted you.
EDWARD CHASE
(leans forward)
So what have you got?
xoxox
EXT MEROW RESIDENCE, GREATER HANGLETON, DAVALOS
Alex and Lala are sat in the back garden. Alex is picking grass and letting it fall through her fingers, while Lala is leaning against her.
Are you really going to find her? And
bring her home?
ALEX HUNT
We're going to try, little one.
ALEX 'LALA' MEROW
(beams)
Then you will! You and Uncle Edward
can do anything!
Alex smiles.
So your daddy tells me you've got a new
project?
ALEX 'LALA' MEROW
(smiling proudly)
Yeah. I am building a proto....
pototo....
ALEX HUNT
Prototype?
ALEX 'LALA' MEROW
(grins)
Yeah. One of them.
ALEX HUNT
(returns the grin)
Wanna show me?
ALEX 'LALA' MEROW
Okay!
She bounds to her feet, and grabbing Alex's hand, drags her towards the house.
xoxox
INT MEROW RESIDENCE, GREATER HANGLETON, DAVALOS
There's nothing much about the ship -
we know it left between eight and nine
last night, but we can only narrow down
that to three ships.
EDWARD CHASE
Three is better than four. What are
their IDs?
LAREN MEROW
The Silver Rose, The Shining Sword and -
oh good god.
EDWARD CHASE
(glancing over his shoulder, then
shakes his head)
It's probably just a co-incidence.
LAREN MEROW
(smiles)
Oh - I know. I can't imagine why those
deluded fools would want Ella, but I
can't imagine why anyone else would want
her either
(pauses)
That didn't come out right, did it?
EDWARD CHASE
(grinning)
Not really, but I promise not to tell
(pauses) I will see if the police can
run down these three ships, and if not -
well we have other means
(smiles fades)
I promise - we'll find her.
xoxox
INT MEROW RESIDENCE, GREATER HANGLETON, DAVALOS
Lala pulls Alex in to her bedroom, and gestures to her bed. Then she walks over to her desk and picks up a small, black box, and walks back to where Alex is sitting.
Tadaaaa!
ALEX HUNT
(looking at the box)
Wow. That's very impressive
(turns it over, then her eyes widen
slightly)
Is this what I think it is?
ALEX 'LALA' MEROW
(proudly)
A working shield generator.
ALEX HUNT
(continues to stare at the box)
And you built this yourself?
Lala pauses, then lowers here head, staring at the pony-covered bedspread.
My mummy helped me a little - with the
slodering....
ALEX HUNT
Soldering?
ALEX 'LALA' MEROW
Yeah - those parts. But the rest was me.
I looked it up on the WWN, after I
heard daddy talking about them.
ALEX HUNT
What does it shield against?
ALEX 'LALA' MEROW
At the moment, just energy weapons
(smiles)
I am trying to strengthen it against
magic - that is the part mummy is
helping me with as well.
ALEX HUNT
Not to put a damper on it, but do you
know how hard that is?
ALEX 'LALA' MEROW
Yes, Aunty Baba - mummy made it very
clear.
Alex smiles, then looks down at the box again.
Lala - you really are a genius.
ALEX 'LALA' MEROW
(grins cheekily)
I know.
There's a knock on the door, and they turn to see Edward stood there.
Hey Lala. I'm afraid I have to take Aunty
Baba away now.
ALEX 'LALA' MEROW
(slightly )
But... I thought we'd go out for dinner?
Edward and Alex exchange glances, then Alex turns back.
I wanted to spend more time with you and
your dad as well, sweetie, but we've got
some information.
ALEX 'LALA' MEROW
(looking up hopefully)
About mummy?
Edward nods
Can I go with you?
ALEX HUNT
I'm afraid not sweetie
(leans in conspiratorally)
You have to keep your daddy company.
He's missing your mummy as well, you
know.
Lala tilts her head to one side, then nods.
Okay. I will keep daddy company, but only
if you help me with the shield when you
come back.
Alex grins, while Edward looks slightly confused.
Okay - I promise.
xoxox
EXT MEROW RESIDENCE, GREATER HANGLETON, DAVALOS
Edward and Alex are stood on the front step, while Lala and Laren stand inside.
Once we've been to the police, we'll
let you know where we're going next.
Then.....
(shrugs)
We'll keep in touch as much as we can.
LAREN MEROW
Thank you. I know you have a business to
run, and how much this might cost you....
(Alex holds up her hand, and he trails
off)
Anyway - thank you.
xoxox
INT GREATER HANGLETON POLICE STATION, DAVALOS
Alex and Edward are sat in front of a desk, staffed by a guy in a dark suit.
Well - your licences check out, so what
do you want to know?
EDWARD CHASE
(hands over the list of ships)
We'd like to know where these three ships
went.
BOB MEWES
Why?
ALEX HUNT
Because we believe that ElDana Merow was
taken off planet in one of those ships,
against her will.
BOB MEWES
Oh
(shrugs)
Well - I can give you their owners, and
the destinations they logged, but.....
ALEX HUNT
But there's no guarantee that they told
the truth
(smiles)
We understand.
BOB MEWES
Why haven't you contacted the ICW?
Kidnapping, even within a system, is a
Confederation Offence.
EDWARD CHASE
We don't want to involve the police at
the moment. We don't know who took her,
or why. If we get the police, or The
Confed involved, then who know's what
they'll do.
BOB MEWES
(shrugs, then hands over a piece of
paper)
These are thre details for the three
ships. I'd like to offer to help, but
there's been a huge rash of thefts,
arsons and attacks over the past month,
and the department is swamped.
ALEX HUNT
Don't worry - we'll be fine.
EDWARD CHASE
We have some experience at this
(pauses)
Plus we are well motivated.
BOB MEWES
This woman.... this ElDana - she means a
lot to you?
ALEX HUNT
EDWARD CHASE
(passionately)
Oh yes.
xoxox
INT STARLIGHT ORPHANAGE, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND (FLASHBACK)
Young Alex peers out the window of her bedroom, and her eyes go wide.
A moment later, she flings her covers back, and scampers out of the room.
xoxox
EXT STARLIGHT ORPHANAGE, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND (FLASHBACK)
She walks out in to the garden, and across to the back wall, where she finds a young ElDana Dullan trying to pick the lock of the gate.
Eldi?
ElDana jumps in surprise, and spins round.
What do you want?
YOUNG ALEX HUNT
Where are you going?
YOUNG ELDANA DULLAN
I'm not staying here. It sucks. The
food sucks and I don't like it.
YOUNG ALEX HUNT
Where are you going to go?
YOUNG ELDANA DULLAN
I don't know. I'll stow-away on a ship,
learn to be a pilot
(shrugs)
It'll be better than here.
YOUNG ALEX HUNT
What about us?
YOUNG ELDANA DULLAN
Us?
YOUNG ALEX HUNT
Eddie and me. Don't you think we'll
miss you?
YOUNG ELDANA DULLAN
(pauses, considering)
I suppose.
YOUNG ALEX HUNT
And don't you think you'll miss us?
YOUNG ELDANA DULLAN
(pauses again, then nods)
I suppose I would.
YOUNG ALEX HUNT
(smiles)
Plus it's very dark. You'd do better to
run away during the day, when you can
see what you're doing.
YOUNG ELDANA DULLAN
(smiles again)
That's true.
YOUNG ALEX HUNT
So why not come back in, have breakfast
with Eddie and me, and then you can run
away at lunch time.
ElDana smiles, then nods.
Excellent!
(reachs out and takes ElDana's hand)
Lets get back, before anyone notices
you're gone.
xoxox
EXT TURNKEY SPACEDOCKS, GREAT HANGLETON, DAVALOS
Edward and Alex cross the apron of the spacedocks towards their ship.
So - we can ignore The Followers of The
Bumblebee ship?
EDWARD CHASE
I think so
(shrugs)
Despite their choice of deity, they are
not generally dangerous.
ALEX HUNT
Misguided and stupid, but not dangerous.
EDWARD CHASE
So that leaves The Silver Rose and The
Shining Sword
(turns to face her)
Any guesses?
CARRAS KINGALA
(off-screen, from behind them)
It wasn't The Silver Rose.
They both turn, and Edward smiles, then walks over and they shake hands. Carras glances at Alex with a slight smile.
Carras - it's been too long.
CARRAS KINGALA
We both lead busy lives, my friend
(glances at Alex)
Miss Hunt.
ALEX HUNT
Master Kingala.
CARRAS KINGALA
(smiles)
Anyway - Laren told me you'd be coming
back, and I pulled some records
(hands over a pad)
The security records show that only
one person boarded The Rose.
EDWARD CHASE
(scans the pad, nodding)
It's true - if it's not The Bumblebees,
and it's not The Rose, then it must be
The Shining Sword.
CARRAS KINGALA
(somewhat reluctantly)
Which leads to another problem
(sees Alex closing her eyes)
I guess you know.
ALEX HUNT
(nodding)
Sally.
EDWARD CHASE
Sally?
CARRAS KINGALA
The Shining Sword is a ship registered
to FOD Corp, and, according to FOD
Corp's public records, it is one of the
ships assigned to the owner.
EDWARD CHASE
(sighs)
Sally.
They all stand in silence for a few moments.
Well - I have to be going. I just nipped
out, and they'll want me back.
Edward shakes his hand again, while Alex merely smiles.
No doubt we'll be back this way again,
and I promise - I will try to do
better at keeping in touch.
CARRAS KINGALA
(grins as he walks off)
And no doubt you'll get distracted
again - otherwise you wouldn't be you.
They watch him go, then turn back towards the ship.
(after a few moments)
We're really going to do this?
EDWARD CHASE
Fly to Celtrana, and accuse the head of
the largest Corporation in the system,
possibly the universe, of kidnapping?
(Alex nods)
I guess we are.
ALEX HUNT
You realise if we're wrong about this it
won't end well.
EDWARD CHASE
(grins)
What else is new?
xoxox
INT STARLIGHT ORPHANAGE, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND (FLASHBACK)
Young Alex (aged 13) is walking through the orphanage corridors. Nodding to a few people as she passes, she walks to Edward's room, and pushes the door open.
xoxox
INT STARLIGHT ORPHANAGE, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND (FLASHBACK)
The reverse shot shows her with a wide-eyed look of surprise and shock on her face.
xoxox
INT LOVE'S FLIGHT, ON ROUTE TO CELTRANA
Alex is sat in the pilot's seat, while Edward is talking to the ship's portrait.
Sally Ravendor. Residence on Celtrana.
Owner and CEO of FOD Corp.
EDWARD CHASE
What's her history?
LISSY
Little is known of her before she came
in to the public eye about six years ago.
However she is reputed to be a very,
very powerful mage, and is a member of
The Children of Hogwarts, and claims
membership of The GWP Group.
ALEX HUNT
Seriously?
LISSY
(deadpan voice)
No - I am just joking.
They both grin.
What else do you know about her?
LISSY
Almost nothing. She is very protective
about her privacy, and in general the
only stories published about her are
those from FOD Corp's Press Department.
ALEX HUNT
How does she manage that?
LISSY
She's a big fan of the courts.
EDWARD CHASE
So - to sum up - we don't know about her
past, and we know that she is very
litigious
(pauses)
And we know that we are about to question
her about her involvement in kidnapping
our friend.
ALEX HUNT
Wonderful.
LISSY
Five minutes till atmosphere.
EDWARD CHASE
Thanks Liss.
LISSY
My pleasure, Edward.
Alex smirks, and Edward rolls his eyes at her.
xoxox
EXT FOD CORP HQ, SERENITY DISTRICT, CELTRANA
Alex and Edward walk down the street outside the headquarters of FOD Corp.
This is the place.
EDWARD CHASE
So it would seem
(pauses)
After you.
ALEX HUNT
Okay.
She doesn't move, but simply stares at the doors.
I'm sure they'll open if you walk towards
them.
ALEX HUNT
(turning to grin at him)
Really?
EDWARD CHASE
You just seemed to be a tad reluctant
to....
ALEX HUNT
Take the step that might end our
collcetive careers and bankrupt our
company?
(grins)
I can't imagine why I'd be nervous about
that
(pauses, then takes a deep breath)
Canons to the right of me.....
She walks up to the doors, which open as she approaches. Edward follows her through, with a smile on his face.
xoxox
INT FOD CORP HQ, SERENITY DISTRICT, CELTRANA
They walk up to reception, and the lady behind the desk looks up.
Welcome to FOD Corp. How may I help
you?
ALEX HUNT
We'd like to speak to Miss Ravendor on a
matter of urgent business.
RECEPTIONIST #1
I'm afraid Miss Ravendor doesn't conduct
business directly. If you'd like to
speak to a sales rep....
ALEX HUNT s
(opens her id wallet)
This is not to do with FOD Corp business
(lowers her voice)
We are investigating a kidnapping, and
something has come up we'd like to clear
up.
The receptionist stares at them for a few moments, then shrugs.
If I could have your names, I will see
if she is available.
ALEX HUNT
My name is Alex Hunt, and this is my
partner Edward Chase. We're from
Starlight Consulting.
RECEPTIONIST #1
If you'd like to take a seat
(gestures to the seating area)
I will let her know you are here.
EDWARD CHASE
Thank you.
They both walk over to the seating area, and while Alex sits down, Edward starts to pace back and forth.
Sit down, Edward - you're making the
place look untidy.
Edward turns to face her.
Pardon me?
ALEX HUNT
(grins)
I said - you're making the place look
untidy.
He stares at her for a moment, then smiles softly.
I'm just worried. We're here - probably
wasting our time, when we could be out
looking for Eldi
(notices a slight smiles on her face)
What?
ALEX HUNT
I always thought you had a bit of a soft
spot for her.
EDWARD CHASE
(rolls his eyes)
Oh come on - that was ages ago. Eons in
fact. She's married now and....
(trails off)
You think I protest too much?
ALEX HUNT
(still smiling)
Maybe a little.
xoxox
INT STARLIGHT ORPHANAGE, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND (FLASHBACK)
Young Edward and ElDana (aged 13 and 14) are searching through the orphanage. They push doors open, glance inside the room, then move on to the next one.
xoxox
EXT STARLIGHT ORPHANAGE, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND (FLASHBACK)
Young Alex (aged 13) looks up as Edward and ElDana come out of the orphanage, and spot her. They walk over to her.
So - you've come up for air then?
Both Edward and ElDana blush.
We're sorry. We didn't think you'd find
out like this.
YOUNG ALEX HUNT
So you're what? Dating?
ElDana shrugs.
We're just having some fun
(pauses)
Is this going to....
Alex glances at them, then shrugs.
As long as I don't have to see the actual
kissing, you can do what you like.
xoxox
INT FOD CORP HQ, SERENITY DISTRICT, CELTRANA
Alex and Edward are shown in to an office, where a young lady is sat behind the desk. She is around five years older, and has jet black hair.
I understand you wanted to talk to me
about one of my ships?
ALEX HUNT
Yes, Miss Ravendor
(glances at her pad)
Around two days ago, a woman named
ElDana Merow was kidnapped on Davalos.
According to various reports, all of
which have been verified and substantied
by a number of witnesses, she was taken
off planet in The Shining Sword - a ship
that is part of your personal fleet.
SALLY RAVENDOR
(smiles)
And you came here to ask if I had
anything to do with it?
EDWARD CHASE
(shakes his head)
We didn't come here to accuse you, Miss
Ravendor.
Sally takes a drink from a mug on her desk, then smiles.
That's nice to hear.
ALEX HUNT
However we did come to ask what you might
know about your ship?
SALLY RAVENDOR
I can look in to the records, but you
might be better off talking to my Flight
Officer if you need more information.
She glances down at her desk, and, after a few taps on the keyboard, pulls up a display.
(frowning)
According to the log, The Sword was taken
out for prototype testing three days ago
by my chief of Research and Development.
There's no flight plan logged, nor is
there a record of him returning the ship
(she looks up)
That's somewhat unusual.
EDWARD CHASE
Has your Chief come back?
SALLY RAVENDOR
(presses a few more keys)
No. He and his deputy are missing.
She stands up.
If you'll excuse me, I will look in to
this.
ALEX HUNT
May we come with you?
SALLY RAVENDOR
(shakes her head)
Until you can prove otherwise, this is a
purely internal matter
(pauses)
And I am obliged to point out to both of
you that you are just PIs, and not any
sort of officials.
EDWARD CHASE
We're aware of that, Miss Ravendor, but
our friend is missing, and we will do
anything we can to find her.
Sally's face softens for a moment.
I understand. However I know the people
who work for me, and I am pretty sure I
can find out more on my own than if I
have to enforcers with me.
Alex and Edward exchange glances for a few moments, then Alex turns back to Sally.
We'll be in Serenity for the next few
days
(she hands over a business card)
If you find out anything, we'd be very
grateful if you could let us know.
Sally glances at the card, then nods.
I will see what I can do.
She stands up, and ushers them out of the room.
My assistant will show you back to
reception.
xoxox
EXT FOD CORP HQ, SERENITY DISTRICT, CELTRANA
Alex and Edward walk out of the building, then stop and turn round to stare at it.
Nothing suspicious there then.
EDWARD CHASE
Not at all.
ALEX HUNT
So - how do you feel about a trip to
the library?
Edward looks at her in confusion.
The library?
ALEX HUNT
She's lying about something. I don't
know what, but I figured the library
would be a good place to start looking.
EDWARD CHASE
Okay. But I was thinking of something
a little less.... official.
Alex raises her eyebrows questioningly.
Serenity has quite an underground. So I
was thinking of having a bit of a dig
around.
Alex looks at him sceptically.
If she's as.... black-hat ish as we
think, there's bound to be stories on
her. Stories that might not make it in
to official records, either for fear of
legal action or..... not so legal action.
Alex pauses, then nods.
Okay. So - we meet back at the hotel
this evening and compare notes?
EDWARD CHASE
Sounds like a plan
(pauses)
I don't suppose I need to warn you to be
careful.
ALEX HUNT
I'm not the one walking in to the seedier
side of town. Maybe we should both be on
our guard?
Edward smiles at her, then turns and walks off down the road. Alex watches him go, then turns and walks the other way.
xoxox
INT FOD CORP HQ, SERENITY DISTRICT, CELTRANA
Sally watches the two mages depart, then picks up her mug and takes another drink.
xoxox
INT THE ACADEMY, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND (FLASHBACK)
Young Alex (aged 13) walks in to The Academy Library and sees Edward and ElDana sat next to each other at one of the tables.
Alex rolls her eyes, and turns to walk out when Edward waves her over. She sighs, and walks over to the table, but doesn't sit down.
Alex - we broke up.
Alex's eyes widen, and she moves to sit down opposite them.
Don't worry - we are still friends
(glances at Edward)
There won't be any dramatic fights, and
you won't be forced to chose between
your two best friends
(sees Alex smirk)
Though of course it wouldn't be much of
a choice.
YOUNG ALEX HUNT
To say the least
(pauses)
So why?
YOUNG EDWARD CHASE
(shrugs)
No real reason. We just decided to be
friends.
Alex glances between them, looking slightly suspicious.
So what are you studying?
YOUNG ELDANA DULLAN
(sounding excited)
A complete history of The Founders and
their descendants.
Alex raises her eyebrows in surprise.
And that's got you excited?
(turns to Edward and grins)
I can see why you broke up.
xoxox
INT PUBLIC LIBRARY, SERENITY DISTRICT, CELTRANA
Alex is sat at a terminal, flicking through a reference book while the screen in front of her displays "Collating Information".
She glances up at the screen, then back down at the reference book in front of her.
(voice-over)
Blue and Gold robes are traditionally
warn by a number of groups, the most
notable of which are the Children of The
Crow.
She glances up at the screen again, then continues reading.
(voice-over)
In recent times, however, the wearing of
robes as part of so-called House
Alliances has decreased. The reasons for
this are unclear, however.....
The screen beeps, and she looks up, then stares at the screen with intense concentration, putting the book aside on the desk.
xoxox
EXT SERENTIY DISTRICT, CELTRANA
Edward walks calmly down the road, not looking around at all, until he reaches the middle of the road. Then he turns to his left, and walks down an alley.
xoxox
EXT SERENTIY DISTRICT, CELTRANA
He emerges from the other side of the alley, and pulls out his wand.
He waves it in a complicated pattern. For a few seconds, nothing happens, then the wall to the right of him changes in to a door.
With a slight smile, he turns and pushes it open, then walks inside. As the door closes behind him, it vanishes.
xoxox
INT PUBLIC LIBRARY, SERENITY DISTRICT, CELTRANA
Alex scrolls through various pages of information, making notes on her pad as she does.
(voice-over)
Reputed to be one of the most powerful
mages in recent history, Sally Ravendor
can trace her lineage back through
several generations
(according to her publicity department)
There are also rumours, mostly
unsubstantiated, that she can claim
membership of three of....
She trails off in her head, eyes wide in surprise.
xoxox
INT DISUSED BUILDING, SERENTIY DISTRICT, CELTRANA
Edward sits down opposite a man in a dark robe, the hood of which covers his face.
For a few moments, they stare at each other, then Edward shakes his head, and smiles.
Will - do we have to do this every time?
WILLIAM JAYSON
(laughing)
Oh - you know you love it.
He flips the hood back, revealing a young man about Edward's age, with bright red hair.
So, my friend, why have you come here?
(pauses)
And why has it taken you so long?
EDWARD CHASE
(blushes slightly)
Starlight is taking off, if you'll
excuse the phrase
(grins)
We've had a lot of business over the
past year or so, and very little of it
has brought us here.
WILLIAM JAYSON
So - what brings you here now?
EDWARD CHASE
Sally Ravendor.
William sits up straight, suddenly looking serious.
What business do you have with her?
EDWARD CHASE
One of her ships was used to kidnapp
ElDana.....
WILLIAM JAYSON
ElDana's missing?
EDWARD CHASE
For about a week or so.
WILLIAM JAYSON
And you think that Miss Ravendor has
something to do with it?
EDWARD CHASE
No - well not exactly
(pauses)
She was taken off the street by four
men in blue and gold robes, and taken
off planet by The Shining Star - a
ship....
WILLIAM JAYSON
Assigned to Miss Ravendor's personal
fleet
(nods)
You know that doesn't necessarily mean
that....
EDWARD CHASE
(nods)
We just came to talk to her about the
ship - hoping she might be able to tell
us who was flying it.
WILLIAM JAYSON
She won't.
Edward sits back, staring at him curiously.
Tell me - have you ever heard of The
Seventh Sun?
EDWARD CHASE
The idea that a seventh son of a seventh
son is....
(trails off as William shakes his head)
Then apparently - no, I haven't.
WILLIAM JAYSON
The Seventh Sun is reputed to be a
prophecy made during the last civil war,
over three hundred years ago.
EDWARD CHASE
Made by whom?
WILLIAM JAYSON
It's unclear, but the general gist of
The Prophecy is that when the three
houses reunite under The Seventh Sun,
the Destroyer will return, and the worlds
will bleed again.
EDWARD CHASE
(after a moment)
So it's a happy, fun prophecy then?
WILLIAM JAYSON
(grins)
It's been three hundred years. No one
really believes in it any more.
EDWARD CHASE
And yet some how, when I told you about
Sally Ravendor, your first instinct was
to tell me about a prophecy that predicts
the end of the world as we know it
(pauses)
So - what does it have to do with her?
xoxox
INT PUBLIC LIBRARY, SERENITY DISTRICT, CELTRANA
Alex continues to read through various screens when there is a tap on her shoulder. She turns round to find a elderly man staring down at her.
Erm - yes?
LIBRARIAN
I couldn't help but notice what you're
reading, and was wondering if this
would be of any help?
He holds out a book.
What is it?
LIBRARIAN
A few years back, this book was a best
seller. Then FOD Corp's Press Agents got
hold of it, and since then most of the
shops have refused to stock it, and the
majority of the libraries on the planet
don't keep copies any more.
ALEX HUNT
But you do?
LIBRARIAN
(shakes his head)
This is my copy. My boss doesn't approve
of it, and the library doesn't have a
copy
(holds it out)
It might prove useful.
Alex gazes at him for a few moments, then nods, and takes the book.
You can return it when you're done.
She watches as he turns and walks off, then looks down at the book, entitled "RAVENDOR : A HISTORY"
xoxox
INT DISUSED BUILDING, SERENTIY DISTRICT, CELTRANA
I've seen the blue and gold cloaks out
and about. They are a secret society,
but with ties to almost all of the
magical groups.
EDWARD CHASE
Such as?
WILLIAM JAYSON
The Children of Hogwarts - especially
The Wraiths, The Crows and The Dragons.
We believe there are some members in
The Bumblebees and The Eaters of Death,
and even in The GPW.
EDWARD CHASE
Not The Badgers?
WILLIAM JAYSON
Not as far as we know - and we don't
know why either. Given that they are
fanatically loyal to each other, you'd
think they'd be perfectly suited
(shrugs)
They are also loyal to their leader.
EDWARD CHASE
Sally?
WILLIAM JAYSON
We don't know - not even if their leader
is male or female. We know they call him
or her The One, and sometimes The Source.
EDWARD CHASE
Well - that's not scary and creepy at
all.
WILLIAM JAYSON
The only other thing we know is that this
group - which we have taken to calling
The Suns Of Earth - is searching for
something. Something that they seem to
need desperately.
EDWARD CHASE
A weapon?
WILLIAM JAYSON
Possibly. Either that or a totem they
can use as a banner.
EDWARD CHASE
To rally their future army?
WILLIAM JAYSON
(shrugs)
We can't be sure
(pauses)
But either way, I am pretty sure we don't
want them to find it.
xoxox
EXT PUBLIC LIBRARY, SERENITY DISTRICT, CELTRANA
Alex walks away from the library, staring down at the ground.
She turns down the main road, towards the hotel.
xoxox
EXT SERENTIY DISTRICT, CELTRANA
Edward walks out of the alley, and looks around. After making sure he isn't being followed, he walks down the main road, towards the hotel.
xoxox
INT BADGER HOTEL, SERENITY DISTRICT, CELTRANA
Alex and Edward sit on the bed in her room, staring down at the various bits of paperwork.
So - we know that the blue and gold
robes.....
EDWARD CHASE
The Suns Of Earth
ALEX HUNT
....follow a person named The One.
EDWARD CHASE
Yes.
ALEX HUNT
And we know that they have ties to every
major magical group in the cosmos.
EDWARD CHASE
Except one.
ALEX HUNT
Except one - The Children of Hufflepuff
don't seem to want anything to do with them.
EDWARD CHASE
And given the reputation of The Badgers,
that makes me more than a bit suspicious.
ALEX HUNT
On the other hand, we have the suggestion
that Sally Ravendor is a legitimate
descendent of three of the four houses,
which is almost unprecedented.
EDWARD CHASE
We also know she is a mage, and a
powerful one at that.
ALEX HUNT
Plus she happens to own the ship that
was used by The Suns Of Earth to take
Eldi.
EDWARD CHASE
(pauses)
So - you are thinking what I'm thinking,
right?
(Alex nods)
So - what do we do?
xoxox
INT THE ACADEMY, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND (FLASHBACK)
Young Alex and Edward (aged 15) are sat in the main hall, while two dozen students (ElDana is amongst them) sit on the stage in four rows of six. In front of them, the Head of The Academy is stood at the podium.
Congratulations to the class of '72 -
you have all graduated with exemplary
results, and you should all be very proud
of yourselves.
There are a few cheers from around the hall.
And as you go out in to the big wide
world, I hope you remember to take the
lessons you have learned here, as they
will serve you well in your future
life - whatever that may be.
He turns to the table next to him, and smiles.
As I call your name, please come up and
collect your certificates.
He goes through a number of names, then calls out ElDana Dullan. Alex and Edward both start applauding loudly, causing ElDana to blush as she crosses the stage. She takes the three certificates, shakes James' hand, then gives a mocking bow to Alex and Edward and sits down again.
xoxox
INT THE ACADEMY, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND (FLASHBACK)
Young ElDana crosses the hall to where Edward and Alex are standing, cups of soda in their hands. they both see her coming, and give her a round of applause as she approaches.
Very amsuing guys.
YOUNG ALEX HUNT
Hey - there were times we didn't think
you'd make it this far.
ElDana blushes.
So - what's next? I know you're torn
between The Navy and an internship at
The ICW.
YOUNG ELDANA DULLAN
(smiles mysteriously)
Turns out, I might have another choice.
YOUNG ALEX HUNT
Really?
YOUNG ELDANA DULLAN
My final results turned up something.....
unexpected. I'm going to take a little
time to investigate the possible
ramifications.
YOUNG EDWARD CHASE
Care to let us in on the secret?
ElDana pauses, then shakes her head.
I'd prefer to do this alone, at least to
begin with
(pauses)
If it turns out badly, I'd rather not let
anyone know.
Alex and Edward both nod, then they both raise their cups.
To Eldi - our friend.
YOUNG EDWARD CHASE
Our friend!
ElDana blushes again, then makes another mock bow.
xoxox
INT BADGER HOTEL, SERENITY DISTRICT, CELTRANA
Edward and Alex are still sat opposite each other on the bed.
So - we have two choices.
EDWARD CHASE
Choice A - we give up, go back to Davalos
and tell Laren and Lala tha twe couldn't find her.
ALEX HUNT
Not my preferred option.
EDWARD CHASE
Choice B - we confront Sally Ravendor,
one of the most powerful people in the
universe, and tell her we know she had
something to do with Eldi's kidnapping,
and that if she doesn't come clean, we'll
sick the cops, or even The ICW on her.
ALEX HUNT
And, assuming she doens't laugh, kick
us out or have us arrested, we might get
an answer from her.
EDWARD CHASE
Well - when you put it like that, I
think the choice is obvious
(pauses)
We can afford bail, can't we?
She grins at him.
xoxox
INT FOD CORP HQ, SERENITY DISTRICT, CELTRANA
Sally Ravendor stares at her desk, then presses the intercom button.
Yes, Miss Ravendor?
SALLY RAVENDOR
You can go home for the evening
(pauses)
But tomorrow, I think we'll have
another visit from Miss Hunt and Mister
Chase.
RECEPTIONIST #2
Do you want me to refuse them entry?
SALLY RAVENDOR
(pauses, considering, then shakes her
head)
No. Let them in, but ensure that security
is ready. Just in case.
RECEPTIONIST #2
Just in case what?
SALLY RAVENDOR
(sighs)
Just in case they're needed.
xoxox
INT THE ACADEMY, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND (FLASHBACK)
Young Alex and Edward (aged 16) sit on the stage behind Grayson. He is giving the same speech as he did the year before.
In the crowd, ElDana (aged 17) sits hand in hand with a young Laren Merow (aged 18).
xoxox
INT THE ACADEMY, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND (FLASHBACK)
Alex and Edward walk across the room to where ElDana and Laren are standing. This time, she raises her cup with a slightly mocking smile.
Hail the conquering heroes.
YOUNG ALEX HUNT
Very funny
(smiles)
But we did do good, didn't we?
YOUNG ELDANA DULLAN
Joint top of your class. I'd say very
well indeed
(realises they are both glancing at
Laren occasionally)
Oh - sorry. This is Laren Merow.
YOUNG ALEX HUNT
Laren - it's very nice to meet you
(glances at ElDana)
finally.
YOUNG LAREN MEROW
And it is a pleasure to meet the both of
you.
YOUNG EDWARD CHASE
We've heard a lot about you.
ElDana blushes, then turns to Laren.
Could you get us another drink, hon?
YOUNG LAREN MEROW
Of course.
He nods to the other two, then turns and walks off. ElDana watches him go, then turns back.
So - are you two going on to The ICW?
Alex and Edward exchange glances.
Actually - we have another plan.
YOUNG ELDANA DULLAN
Really?
YOUNG EDWARD CHASE
We're going to do another two years
study - mostly on the magical side -
then
(glances at Alex, who nods)
then we're going to form our own
business.
YOUNG ELDANA DULLAN
(looking very surprised)
Doing what?
YOUNG ALEX HUNT
(proudly)
Private Investigators
(ElDana stares at her as if she's crazy)
Look - after the Wild-Fire, a lot of
people were missing a lot of other
people, and even more property and so on.
YOUNG ELDANA DULLAN
And you think you can help them now?
YOUNG ALEX HUNT
(shakes her head)
No - but if we can help other people
like the person who helped us....
(shrugs)
We just think it's something worthwhile,
and something we'd be good at.
ElDana glances between the two of them, then smiles.
Good luck - honestly. I hope you both do
very well.
YOUNG ALEX HUNT
So what about you?
ElDana looks at her curiously.
What about me what?
YOUNG ALEX HUNT
You were going to find your destiny.
Something big and grand, if I remember
rightly?
ElDana looks slightly sheepish.
I'm afraid it didn't work out as I'd
hoped
(glances over to where Laren is getting
a drink)
He is all that remains of my destiny now.
xoxox
INT BADGER HOTEL, SERENITY DISTRICT, CELTRANA
Alex and Edward are having breakfast, chatting about various things.
xoxox
INT BADGER HOTEL, SERENITY DISTRICT, CELTRANA
From the other side of the dining room, a young woman in a red cloak is watching them.
When Alex and Edward get up to leave, she watches them go, then presses a button on the pad in front of her.
xoxox
EXT FOD CORP HQ, SERENITY DISTRICT, CELTRANA
Alex and Edward stroll down the street, and walk in to the building.
xoxox
INT FOD CORP HQ, SERENITY DISTRICT, CELTRANA
They walk up to the reception desk, but before they can speak, the receptionist stands up.
Miss Hunt, Mister Chase - welcome back.
Miss Ravendor is expecting you, and asked
me to show you up to her office.
Alex and Edward exchange glances, both looking a little concerned.
If you'd like to come this way?
She walks out from behind her desk, and walks over to the stairs. After a moment, they follow her.
xoxox
INT FOD CORP HQ, SERENITY DISTRICT, CELTRANA
Sally looks up as the door to her office opens, and Alex and Edward walk in. She stands up and walks out from behind her desk.
Miss Hunt, Mister Chase - it's nice to
see you again.
ALEX HUNT
Thank you, Miss Ravendor.
Sally gestures for them to sit down, then walks back behind her desk and takes her seat.
So - you've got more questions?
EDWARD CHASE
Yes, Miss Ravendor.
SALLY RAVENDOR
If you're going to accuse me of
kidnapping, you should probably call me
Sally.
She reaches out and picks up her mug.
So - ask away.
She takes a drink, and smiles.
Did you find out what's become of The
Shining Sword?
EDWARD CHASE
And the people you say flew it to Davalos
and back?
Sally looks down at her pad.
So far there's no sign of them. Or the
ship, for that matter
(pauses)
If you want, I would be quite happy to
hire you to find it and bring it back to
me.
ALEX HUNT
I'm sure we will get right on that, once
we've found ElDana.
SALLY RAVENDOR
(gazing at her steadily)
So you don't think that finding the
people who stole the ship will.....
EDWARD CHASE
We don't think anyone stole the ship,
Miss Ravendor.
Sally is shocked in to silence. She stares at him for a moment, then shakes her head.
Just so I am clear - you are accusing me
of kidnapping?
ALEX HUNT
(smiles)
Of course not.
SALLY RAVENDOR
Good.
ALEX HUNT
We're accusing you of kidnapping, of
being the head of an at best shady, at
worst criminal group called The Suns Of
Earth, and of trying to fulfil a
prophecy that will make the skies run red
with blood.
She stares at them in utter disbelief.
We are aware that at least two of those
are probably not criminal offences, but
still - it's not something you'd like us
to make public.
SALLY RAVENDOR
(defiant)
You wouldn't dare.
ALEX HUNT
Is that a threat?
SALLY RAVENDOR
(grins)
Yes
(pauses)
Why? Wasn't I clear?
EDWARD CHASE
Whether you kill us or not, we can still...
SALLY RAVENDOR
(laughing)
Kill you? Oh no, my good friends, I
won't kill you. Not when I can do far,
far worse.
xoxox
INT HALL OF MAGES, GREATER HANGLETON, DAVALOS (FLASHBACK)
Young Alex and Edward (aged 18) sit near the back of the hall, while at the front, ElDana (19) is stood next to Laren, in front of an elderly man decked out in overtly fancy robes (trimmed with black, blue and gold).
And so, by the laws of Davalos and The
ICW, I now pronounce you husband and
wife, united in magic as in life.
Everyone in the hall applauds, except for Edward, who is looking at ElDana's face.
(turning to face Edward)
Ed? What's wrong?
EDWARD CHASE
(glances at ElDana again, then shrugs)
It's probably nothing.
ALEX HUNT
Ed?
EDWARD CHASE
(shakes his head)
Seriously - don't worry about it.
He turns to the front and joins in the applause as ElDana and Laren walk down the main aisle.
xoxox
INT FOD CORP HQ, SERENITY DISTRICT, CELTRANA
Edward and Alex stare at Sally for a few minutes. Then she reaches out to pick up her mug.
(pulling out her wand in a flash)
ACCIO MUG!
Sally's hand closes around empty air, while Alex catches the mug, and brings it up to her nose.
What is it?
Sally raises her own wand, then stands up.
Get out. Get out or I will call security
in, and they will deal with you.
ALEX HUNT
Polyjuice.
EDWARD CHASE
Polyjuice?
Sally points her wand at them.
Last chance.
Edward pulls his wand, and points it at her. Alex glances between them, then down at the mug again.
I'll count to three, then my security
guards will come in, and I promise you
they won't be as merciful as I am.
EDWARD CHASE
We can hold our own
(reaches over his shoulder, and draws
his sword from under his robes)
We won't go down without a fight.
Alex glances at Sally, then tilts her wand every so slightly, and mumbles a spell under her breath.
Before Sally can react, a blue glow envelops her.
xoxox
INT THE ACADEMY, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND (FLASHBACK)
Edward and Alex sit on the stage, behind James Grayson.
This year, we have only two students
graduating our top class. And, if I may
say, they are two of the most
exceptional students we have seen in a
long time
(turns)
They both came to us in.... tragic
circumstances, but have put the early
sorrow of their early lives behind them,
and become masters of their fate.
Alex and Edward both blush a little.
Alex Hunt has become one of the finest
starship pilots in our history, and
Edward Chase one of the most powerful
mages. They both excel in all their
classes, and have both scored the highest
marks in their final exams sinces records
began.
They both blush a little more.
Miss Hunt - step foward.
Alex steps forward, and receives her certificates. She makes a polite bow to Grayson, then to the audience, and steps back.
Mister Chase.
Edward goes through the same process, and when he is finished, Grayson turns back to the front.
May I present our graduating class -
Miss Alex Hunt and Mister Edward Chase!
The crowd applaud, while Alex and Edward take another bow.
xoxox
INT THE ACADEMY, BLUE-ALPHA SECTION, HAMMOND (FLASHBACK)
ElDana bounds over to where Alex and Edward are standing, then bows before them.
Oh cut that out!
YOUNG ELDANA DULLAN
But - for the best pilot in history,
should I not prostrate myself before
thee?
YOUNG ALEX HUNT
We asked him not to do that.
YOUNG ELDANA DULLAN
Want to keep it a secret, huh?
YOUNG EDWARD CHASE
No - we just don't want to be singled
out for any reason. We're no one
special.
YOUNG ELDANA DULLAN
Mr Grayson doesn't appear to agree.
YOUNG ALEX HUNT
Well - that's his problem
(looks around)
No Laren?
YOUNG ELDANA DULLAN
(shaking her head)
He had business to attend to
(pauses)
As usual.
Alex and Edward exchange worried glances, then turn back to her.
Is everything okay?
YOUNG ELDANA DULLAN
(shrugs)
I suppose
(pauses)
I just thought there'd be more to life
than this, you know?
xoxox
INT FOD CORP HQ, SERENITY DISTRICT, CELTRANA
The blue glow fades, leaving Edward and Alex staring in shock.
Hello, my friends.
The two Starlight agents continue to stare at her.
So - I guess I have some explaining to
do?
xoxox
INT LOVE'S FLIGHT, ON ROUTE TO DAVALOS
Edward sits at the pilot seat, while Alex merely stares out in to space.
So - what are we going to tell them?
Alex continues to stare in to space.
I mean - do we tell them the truth? Or
what she asked us to? Or somewhere in
between?
Alex continues to stare in to space.
Or we could just return home, and not
go to see them.
Alex turns to face him, with a severe look on her face.
Yeah - I didn't think you'd like that
idea. But - what do we do?
ALEX HUNT
I guess it depends.
EDWARD CHASE
On what?
ALEX HUNT
On who we owe more to.
xoxox
INT FOD CORP HQ, SERENITY DISTRICT, CELTRANA (FLASHBACK)
Alex and Edward are listening to ElDana talking.
I learned who I was in the year following
graduation.
ALEX HUNT
And who's that?
ELDANA MEROW
The only living Heir to the Houses of
Ravenclaw, Slytherin and Gryffindor.
Which makes me one of the most
politically powerful mages in recent
history.
EDWARD CHASE
So you decided to form an army?
ELDANA MEROW
I didn't form an army
(pauses)
They learned about me, and came in their
droves to pledge themselves to me, and
to my destiny.
ALEX HUNT
To bring war back to the cosmos? Some
destiny.
ELDANA MEROW
(shaking her head)
I have heard that interpretation of The
Prophecy, but it is no where near to the
truth.
EDWARD CHASE
So what is?
ELDANA MEROW
That, with my support, and my guidance,
the magical world will finally be able
to unite, and the old squabbles will be
forgotten.
Alex and Edward glance at each other, then turn back.
And you can't do that as ElDana?
ELDANA MEROW
(shrugs)
I suppose I could, but I chose not to.
EDWARD CHASE
Pardon me?
ELDANA MEROW
ElDana Dullan is a boring, dull woman
with no future other than wasting away
looking after a whiney brat and a
dull-witted husband
(sees the surprised looks on their faces)
I know - I've hidden it well.
ALEX HUNT
To say the least.
ELDANA MEROW
When I married him, I thought he had a
future - something he could excel at.
EDWARD CHASE
And you don't think he does?
ELDANA MEROW
He's stuck in a dead end job - and he
has no desire to get out of it, to
better himself. And I don't think he
could, even if he could be bothered
(she shakes her head)
He's pathetic, and I put up with it for
as along as I could.
ALEX HUNT
And what about Lala?
ELDANA MEROW
(rolls her eyes)
You mean the little whiney ball of need?
If I never hear her voice again, it will
be an eon too soon
(sees the hurt in Alex's eyes, and the
contempt in Edward's)
Oh think what you like. I am not going
back
EDWARD CHASE
Which is why you had yourself kidnapped.
ELDANA MEROW
A week from now, my body will be found -
raped, beaten and murdered - in the
Little Hangleton district. An
investigation will show she was killed a
day before the body was found, and that
she suffered a lot.
ALEX HUNT
Is that really necessary? You know how
much it will hurt them.
ELDANA MEROW
In comparrison to the crap they've given
me, it's a tiny bit of payback
(grins)
Unless you want to tell them the truth?
She leans forwards, with a predatory smile.
Do you want to tell Laren that I think
he is dull and stupid? Do you want to
tell your beleoved Lala that her mother
thinks she is a whiney little bitch?
(smirks)
Do you think that'll cause them less
pain than learning I was beaten, raped
and tortured to death?
Alex glares at her for a moment, then simply stands up, and walks out of the office without looking back. Edward looks after her, then turns back to stare at ElDana.
What happened to you?
ELDANA MEROW
(shrugs)
I grew up.
She pulls out her wand, and waves it over herself. A moment later, she transforms back in to Sally Ravendor.
Now - if we're done, I have things to
see to.
Edward stares at her for a moment longer, then turns and walks out of the office, also without looking back.
xoxox
INT LOVE'S FLIGHT, ON ROUTE TO DAVALOS
Edward stares at Alex, eyes slightly wide.
I'm not doing it for her. She can burn
in Tartarus for all I care.
EDWARD CHASE
Then why?
ALEX HUNT
Because I would rather blast my own eyes
out with an atomic welder than tell Lala
her mother is an evil, black-hearted
bitch who should burn in Tartarus.
Edward pauses, then nods.
I see your point
(glances towards the back of the ship)
Are we going to....
ALEX HUNT
(shrugs)
I have no idea.
xoxox
EXT SPACE DOCK, SERENITY DISTRICT, CELTRANA (FLASHBACK)
A man in a black suit walks up to them as Alex and Edward are walking across the landing area.
Miss Hunt?
ALEX HUNT
(turning)
Yes, I'm Alex Hunt.
DERREN MUNROW
My name is Derrn Munrow, and I have been
asked to help you at this difficult time.
Edward raises his eyebrows in surprise.
I'm not sure I understand, Mister
Munrow. What....
DERREN MUNROW
(looking confused)
I apologise, perhaps I should explain
(takes them to one side)
We - the space dock - were contacted
this morning by the government. They
told us that you would be coming here to
collect.... collect the dearly departed.
Alex takes a step back.
The who?
Derren looks between them in confusion.
We were told you had lost your mother in
an accident, and that you were here to
take her home for the funeral.
Alex opens her mouth, but Edward holds his hand up.
Of course
(glances at Alex, who is staring at both
of them in confusion)
I'm afraid my partner is not herself -
the grief, you understand
(Derren nods)
If you would please take us to her?
DERREN MUNROW
Of course, sir.
EDWARD CHASE
(turning to Alex)
Come along dear - I know this is
difficult, but we can't put it off any
longer.
ALEX HUNT
Of course darling
(turns to Derren)
I apologise for my beha....
DERREN MUNROW
(holding up his hands)
No apologies necessary, Miss Hunt - I
quite understand. If you'd like to come
this way....
He gestures for them to follow him.
xoxox
INT LOVE'S FLIGHT, ABOVE DAVALOS
Edward brings the ship in to orbit, then turns to face Alex.
So - what do we do?
ALEX HUNT
(frowning)
Why are you leaving it up to me?
EDWARD CHASE
(smiles softly)
I'm not, Baba
(she smiles at the nickname)
But one of has to go first, and it might
as well be you.
ALEX HUNT
(nods)
Okay
(pauses, then takes a deep breath)
We take it with us.
EDWARD CHASE
Are you sure?
ALEX HUNT
(makes a pfft noise)
I am anything but. But this seems like
the best plan.
EDWARD CHASE
(nods)
I hate to say it, but I agree
(sighs)
I really could kill her for this.
ALEX HUNT
You're not the only one
(shakes her head)
Come on - it it were done when tis
done...
EDWARD CHASE
(grins)
As you wish.
xoxox
EXT MEROW RESIDENCE, GREATER HANGLETON, DAVALOS
Alex and Edward drive up to the house, and Alex gets out.
If you wait here....
He nods, and she turns and walks up to the house, and rings the bell.
A few moments later, Laren answers the door.
Alex! I wasn't expectin...
(he trails off as he sees the look of
sorrow on his face)
Alex? What's wrong?
xoxox
EXT MEROW RESIDENCE, GREATER HANGLETON, DAVALOS
As Edward watches, Laren's face morphs from concern to surprise to sadness to tears.
(softly)
Damn her.
xoxox
INT LOVE'S FLIGHT, on route to hammond
Alex is flying the ship, while Edward sits in the other chair, eyes closed.
Another successful case closed
(pauses)
Go us.
EDWARD CHASE
(smiles wryly)
If we keep this up, I think we should
consider turning pro.
ALEX HUNT
(returns the smile)
You think?
EDWARD CHASE
(opens his eyes and turns to face her)
Oh yeah - I think we'd be pretty good
(pauses)
So - how do you fancy a holiday?
ALEX HUNT
(turns in surprise, eyes wide)
Pardon me?
EDWARD CHASE
(sits up straight)
I think we should take a holiday
(waves his hand)
Get away from all this.
ALEX HUNT
(tilts her head, considering it)
Where do you suggest?
Edward grins at her.
(still smiling)
How do you feel about Earth?
Off Alex's surprised expression, we pull back through the ship, then watch it fly off in to the distance.
Closing credits
(on screen text)
Starlight - The Movie
A SammyWrae Film
Cast (in no particular order)
Starlight Consulting
Alex Hunt, Edward Chase
Merow Family
Laren Merow, ElDana Merow and Alex 'Lala' Merow
FOD Corp
Sally Ravendor, Receptionists
Government Agents
Patrick Megson, Emily Brown,
Aeron Jackson, Tom Black
Teachers
James Grayson, Horace Devereaux,
Anthony Drayson and Lesley Burrows
Contacts
William Jayson, Jon Dexon
Students
Robin Allen and Padma Melfoy
and introducing
Lissy as the Avatar Portrait of "Love's Flight"