STRAYERS: “Laodicia” Story by Steven Today 1ST ROUGH DRAFT January1, 2003 2ND ROUGH DRAFT March 31, 2003 Road Rovers characters, names, situations and the Road Rovers universe are the property of Warner Bros. Neither this script nor I are connected with Warner Bros. In any way, shape or form. Story contents, characters, names, situations and anything else associated with Strayers are Copyright 1996-2003 by Steven Today (bearstrayer@yahoo.com) All Rights Reserved. Dixie, Prowler and Nitro appear courtesy of Amanda Stephenson. This document may not be publicized or reproduced in any way, shape or form. It must remain fully intact and may not be altered in any way. It is strictly used for not-for-profit entertainment purposes and is not intended to infringe on any Copyrights. “Laodicia” FADE IN EXTERIOR: DESERT - HIGHWAY It is early morning in a vast open area in the southwest region of the United States. Sand goes off in all directions, Cacti and tumbleweed speckle the landscape. Off far in the distance are some mountains. A two-lane highway, which has seen much use but little repair, stretches forever in both directions. BEAR (VOICE OVER, DEEP RASPY VOICE) The highway. Unforgiving. Endless. Forgotten. We use to have a lot in common… But things change. For example, I use to be Malamuit Eskimo. I dwelt on the dark side of the law. I wasn’t really bad but I was nothing to write home to mother either. When the lawless came around I pretend they weren’t there. When they did injustice to the people I loved I closed my eyes. When the authorities looked for witnesses I became mute. I took my dumb act to such an extreme that I allowed the evils to pollute my people’s sacred lands with nuclear waste. The act ended when I suffered an accident. I was transformed from a human to a mutant, a freak, and an outcast. A Cano-Sapien (having a human body with a canine head, tail, fur, claws, etc.) appears, this male is of an Alaskan malamute breed. His entire body is covered with black fur but the area around his muzzle is white, with two white dots above his eyes. His left is blue and his right is green. This is Bear. He has Black Fingerless gloves, blue jeans, tan kaki shirt and a leather WWII bomber jacket (His name is on the front and the Strayer’s symbol is on the back - red horse with glowing yellow eyes galloping down a highway. On his sleeve is his team insignia – Mean looking grizzly bear on a motorcycle) Covering his head is a helmet that also bares the Strayer’s symbol, a smoke glass visor covers his eyes. BEAR (VOICE OVER) But don’t pity me. I’m the leader of a Strayer unit called the Grizzlies. We’re deputized by the United States government to uphold the law and bring those dark elements to justice. By any means necessary. We patrol the highways and byways of the United States of America looking for trouble. Nitro, Amani, Puffball and Cyclborg appear next to Bear. Nitro is an adult timber Wolf- Sapien. She has gray fur, white paws and a white stripe from her neck, down her belly and to her tail. She has blue-green eyes. And a thick black mane down runs the back of her head, it has a white strip down the middle of it and the ends are also white. She wears blue jeans, a black T-shirt and black boots. Around her wrist is a small dog collar studded with jewels and has the words “Bear” in gold. He has the same collar on his wrist but it says “Nitro” on it. He also loses the helmet. Amani is a young Native American female with long black hair. She is wearing a black jumpsuit, leather boots and gloves. All bare the Strayer’s symbol. She is also wearing a headband, bracelet and belt of Indian design. Puffball is a female Burmese cat in Felo-Mutant form with bright yellow eyes and stands at 7’4”. The Cyclborg is a sleek and high tech chrome motorcycle. It has several closed compartments for storage. On the fuel tank and the handlebars are several buttons, switches and dials. There is also a video screen. On the side of it is a large symbol of the Strayers. The license plate reads: “BEAR” BEAR (VOICE OVER) We are not perfect and some of us have lost our way at one time or another. But we’re back on track teaching a new generation on how to protect this fragile world. So if you are on the wrong side of the law you had just better look out for the… FADE OUT: The words “Strayers” appears along with the Strayer symbol then disappears. FADE IN: EXTERIOR: KORSH This is a dark dismal planet, the landscape is of barren rock and it is only daylight for one hour each day so it is very cold. It looks very depressing. In orbit of the planet are several spaceships of Road Rover design. INTERIOR: KORSH – ENEMY FORTRESS This is a huge fortress carved out of the very rock of the planet, it has nasty satanic images. There are enemy snake-like guards everywhere but they are busy fighting the Millennium Paladins. They are Cano-Sapiens wearing high-tech armor on their main bodies, around their joints and their feet and hands. They also have a high-tech electronic collar that has speakers. They have reflective glasses, no one can see their eyes. They are kicking the guard’s tails. INTERIOR: KORSH – CIRCLE OF FATE This is a blood-splattered area with high walls and view stands all around but the only one here is Ti’Brek. She is Lizard like creature with some very high-tech armor. She is a fearsome warrior but she looks very afraid. She runs into the room and stops in the center, she pants heavily. Looking around regains her confidence and her fear fades, she smiles. TI’BREK (SMUG) Sssafe at lassst. VOICE (OFF SCREEN, SMUG) I wouldn’t say that, Ti’Brek. Ti’Brek spins around towards the door see the New Grizzlies standing at it. There is Carmi, Tad, Kyla and Sirius. Carmi is a Pharaoh Hound Cano-Sapien that is 5'3" with gray eyes. She is fairly beautiful with a fine brown coat and a white chest. She likes wearing a bright orange hunter's vest, kaki shorts, hiking boots and a locket around her neck that has a picture of her parents. Tad is a cross between a Cano-Sapien and a Wolf- Sapien. His fur is a very dark gray, almost black. He has white highlights on his paws, the tip of his tail and muzzle. He is in his late teens. He is wearing pants, shirt and light jacket all jeans material. Also gym shoes. Kyla is a wolf/malamute-Sapien. She is basically gray in color with white on her face and paws, above each paw is a black patch. The inside of her ears is also white and the outside is black, on the back of them are two white spots. She has a black mane with a white streak running down the center of it. The top of her tail is black but has a white streak running down it. Her back is black and her eyes are dark blue. She is dressed in jeans, a T-shirt which says “Tell it to the paw!” and sneakers. Sirius is also a wolf/malamute-Sapien. He is basically gray like his sister with white on his toes/fingers and on the bottoms of them. He also has a white chest, which runs down the front of him, the bottom of his tail is white as well. He has two white dots above his eyes. The insides of his ears are pink and his eyes are golden. He wears jeans, a T-shirt and sneakers. They all glare at Ti’Brek. TAD (STERN) You’re trapped, cornered and defeated! Ti’Brek shows no fear. TI’BREK (DEFIANT) That isss yet to be ssseen! CARMI (SMUG) You’re just lucky none of us are cats, otherwise we’d toy with you a while before putting you under. TI’BREK (DEFIANT) What a ssshame you aren’t catsss, at leassst you would have a chance to defeat me with their nine livesss. SIRIUS (BLUNT) I say that we should make an exception on her and have some fun after all she has done to us. TI’BREK (ANNOYED) All I have heard isss talk! The Strayers step forward as Kyla opens her mouth to speak, the doorway behind them seals shut. Everyone is shocked, all but Ti’Brek. KYLA (FRUSTRATED) Why is it always when it is my turn to say something clever something bad happens? Sirius looks to Kyla. SIRIUS (ANNOYED) Because you’re a stupid sister. Carmi smacks Sirius in the back of the head. TI’BREK (SMUG) At lassst I have home advantage. Everyone looks to Ti’Brek, confused. TAD (CONFUSED) Maybe you missed something back there. We have chased you all over this fortress, your fortress. CARMI (CONFUSED) You had home field advantage all along. TI’BREK (ANNOYED) No, thisss isss my home. I was brought up in the area. I fought my way into power. Death and I are old alliesss. Here and only here am I truly invincible. SIRIUS (SMUG) I hate to burst your bubble… Okay, actually I don’t… But there are four against one here. Ti’Brek takes a defensive stance. TI’BREK (DEFIANT) Ssstart it if you can! Kyla opens her mouth to speak but Sirius quickly grabs her muzzle and holds it shut. SIRIUS (BLUNT) For safety shake. Carmi notices Kyla looking over to her for help. She raises her hand to smack Sirius but Tad grabs it, she looks to him in shock. CARMI (CONFUSED) What gives? You never stopped me from beating up on your brother before? TAD (HONEST) Normally he deserves it but Ti’Brek is a little too confident for my liking. Carmi pauses and nods. Tad lets go of her and she lowers her hand, Sirius lets go of his sister and Kyla breathes easier. Carmi draws an odd weapon. CARMI (SMUG) But all this concern is for naught. Carmi points and fires her weapon at Ti’Brek, a bolero of steel cable and metal fires from it and wraps around Ti’Brek’s body pinning her arms to the side, she is completely helpless. The Grizzlies walk up to her and smile with glee. She struggles to free herself but the more she tries the wider their smiles get. CARMI (SMUG) Now who is all talk? Seeing it is hopeless, Ti’Brek stops struggling and glares at her captors. Carmi puts her weapon away as Tad speaks up. TAD (SMUG) It’s over! We have thwarted your plans to send a meteor hurling towards earth to destroy it. And why would you do such a thing? Just because you lost a bet! TI’BREK (BLUNT) Actually, I’m the one that WON. SIRIUS (STERN) Regardless, you’re all washed up. TI’BREK (DEFIANT) It isss not over yet! CARMI (SMUG) That is what you think! TI’BREK (DEFIANT) That isss what I know! Suddenly, a laser forms across her forearm armor and cuts her restraints freeing her then turns off. She takes a defensive stance. At first the Grizzlies are taken aback but they soon recover. SIRIUS (BLUNT) Neat trick but you only delayed the inevitable, you aren’t going anywhere! The Strayers prepare to attack but Ti’Brek presses a button on her other arm and the floor under Kyla and Sirius opens up, revealing two pits and they fall into one of them. Again the Strayers are shock but quickly recover, they glare at her. CARMI (DEMANDING) What have you done with them? Ti’Brek smiles. TI’BREK (SMUG) Let’sss just sssay they are playing with one of my preciousss petsss. Carmi points at Ti’Brek. CARMI (ANGRY) I demand that you release them this instant or so help me I’ll rip you apart with my bare paws! TI’BREK (SMUG) I refuse the demand and make you a counter offer… Ti’Brek pulls out a small grenade. TI’BREK (SMUG) You can both die before my eyesss! Before the Strayers can react Ti’Brek presses a button on it and tosses it to their feet. Carmi reacts first by pushing Tad to the side and jumps on top the bomb. Before he can do anything it goes off! There is a loud thud and then nothing, she lays their motionless on the floor! He quickly knees next to Carmi and shakes her, she does not respond. He begins to weep but Ti’Brek is unmoved. TI’BREK (ANNOYED) How mellow dramatic can sssomeone be? Tad glares at Ti’Brek. TAD (ANGRY) Unlike you I can feel love! I did love her so! TI’BREK (ANNOYED) Well you can sssave your tearsss, it wasss just a ssstun charge. Ssshe is jussst unconsssciousss. Tad feels for a pulse in Carmi’s neck, he smiles. TAD (EXCITED) She’s alive! TI’BREK (SMUG) But not for long, ssshe will be dead along with you when I get done with the two of you. Rage fills Tad. He leaps up and attacks, knocking Ti’Brek to the ground. A great fight begins. INTERIOR: KORSH – PIT This is a deep pit carved out of rock, the bottom is made out of sand. Kyla and Sirius are standing here, they appear to be okay. They look around and survey the situation. KYLA (UPBEAT) Well, at least we’re still alive and unhurt. SIRIUS (BLUNT) But prisoners just the same. Kyla smiles. KYLA (UPBEAT) That could change. SIRIUS (BLUNT) So could our health status. Kyla glares at Sirius. KYLA (ANNOYED) Why do you have to be so negative? Sirius smiles slightly. SIRIUS (ANNOYED) It keeps me alive! Kyla and Sirius continue to argue back and forth. Suddenly, a giant alien snake-like creature slithers from out of the sand at his feet and quickly coils around him. She screams as he goes for his gun, but the snake pins his arms to his sides and squeezes, he is forced to drop it. Tighter and tighter it begins to squeeze, he finds it hard to breath. It is going to squeeze him to death! He moans with pain. SIRIUS (STRUGGLING, URGENT) Quick… Pick up the gun! Kyla recovers and does as she is told. KYLA (EXCITED) Okay, now what? SIRIUS (STRUGGLING, URGENT) Kill it! Kyla “eeeks” and drops the gun. KYLA (SHOCKED) No way! I could never do that? SIRIUS (STRUGGLING, CONFUSED) And why not? KYLA (EXPLAINING) I’m a Doctor. I save lives I do not destroy them. I took an oath to do so! SIRIUS (STRUGGLING, ANNOYED) You would rather let me die so it can live? Somehow I don’t think that fits into your oath. KYLA (EXPLAINING) If the snake kills you it is it’s doing, but if I kill it is my doing! SIRIUS (STRUGGLING, ANNOYED) You are such an idiot! KYLA (ANNOYED) Talk like that isn’t going to help your situation. SIRIUS (STRUGGLING, ANNOYED) It is not like you are going to help me anyway! KYLA (REASSURING) Look, calm down. SIRIUS (STRUGGLING, ANGRY) Calm down? There is a freaking alien snake trying to crush me to death and you won’t do a dang thing about it! KYLA (REASSURING) I never said I wasn’t going to help you, I’m just not a murderer. There has to be another way. Kyla stands there and ponders what to next while the snake slowly squeezes the life out of Sirius. INTERIOR: KORSH – CIRCLE OF FATE Back on top, Ti’Brek and Tad are locked in mortal combat. He seems to have the upper hand as they wrestle of the ground. TAD (SMUG) Fought your way into power huh? Must be a contest of the loser wins! Suddenly, a large knife pops out from Ti’Brek’s thigh and she grabs it. She swings it at Tad, he barely is able to roll off of her and dodge the attack. He jumps to his feet and she does the same. TI’BREK (SMUG) I never sssaid I won my fightsss fairly! Ti’Brek takes a swing at Tad, he jumps back and the knife barely misses him. TI’BREK (SMUG) Like I sssaid before, you are in my domain now. You don’t ssstand a chance! Ti’Brek laughs with glee as she attacks once more, again a near miss. TI’BREK (SMUG) I will cut you to ribbonsss! Another attack and Tad is forced back, he ends up with his back to the other pit. He is trapped! TI’BREK (SMUG) Now it is you who has no essscape! Ti’Brek attacks again but Tad ducks under it and leaps at her, he tackles her to the ground. They wrestle for the knife, he slowly begins to over power her. TAD (SMUG) You’re even lousy at cheating! TI‘BREK (SMUG) I’m only getting ssstarted. Ti’Brek rabbit punches Tad in the side, he moans with pain . She regains the upper hand and laughs with joy. He is really pissed of now. He head buts her in the nose and she screams with pain, now he has regained the upper hand. He is about to pry the weapon from her. In the struggle she flips a switch and a small flame shoots out from the front of her helmet. TI’BREK (SMUG) Never under essstimate the power of a lizard! Ti’Brek slowly moves the flame towards Tad’s face. He can’t work on getting the knife and prevent from being burnt at the same time. Either way she is going to win! The flame moves closer and closer as she laughs with pleasure. INTERIOR: KORSH – PIT Meanwhile, back below. Sirius is near death as Kyla continue to think of a way out of his situation. Suddenly, she snaps her fingers and starts rummaging through here medical kit. KYLA (EXCITED) We don’t have to kill the snake! SIRIUS (STRUGGLING, URGENT) What are you going to do, become its sister and force it to kill itself rather than be related to your stupidity? Kyla pulls out a medication injector and holds it up. KYLA (PROUD) I can inject it with painkillers and put the snake to sleep that way no one gets hurt. SIRIUS (STRUGGLING, ANNOYED) Except for my crushed ribcage! That will take too long! Kyla smiles. KYLA (SMUG) It won’t know what hit it! Kyla steps up to the snake. KYLA (PLEASED) This way I can uphold my oath of preserving life while saving yours. Doing anything less would go against everything I believe and have trained in. But as Kyla tries to give the shot the snake snatches the sprayer from her with its mouth and snaps it in two with its mighty jaws! SIRIUS (STRUGGLING, ANNOYED) Oh great plan sis! At first the loss of her equipment shocks Kyla but then really pisses her off. KYLA (INFURIATED) How dare you vandalize the tools of my trade! SIRIUS (STRUGGLING, ANNOYED) Oh yeah, that is telling him! Give him a time out! Kyla screams with anger, picks up Sirius weapon and points it at the snake. It grabs the barrel with its mouth but before it can do anything she pulls the trigger. The snake’s head explodes and is killed instantly, blood and guts are sprayed all over. It goes limp and Sirius falls to his knees, he pants heavily. At last he is alive and safe. SIRIUS (PANTING, RELIEVED) Thanks sis, you did good. But when Sirius looks over to Kyla she is more concerned about her medical kit getting soiled with snake guts than his well being, he fumes. Finally, she goes over to him and hands him his gun back. He smiles, she returns the smile. He then punches her is the nose and she falls back on her butt, she looks up to him confused. KYLA (CONFUSED) What was that for? SIRIUS (ANGRY) For worrying more about that medical kit than me! Kyla looks at her self, she is clutching the medical kit tightly. SIRIUS (ANGRY) For heaven’s shake, I’m your brother! Your flesh and blood! Those are just things! Kyla pauses and ponders. Then she drops the kit and jumps to her feet, she goes over to Sirius and hugs him. KYLA (FRANTIC) You’re right! I care more about being a doctor than my patients! What’s wrong with me? Sirius sees Kyla is really upset, he softens a bit. SIRIUS (UP BEAT) Well, I guess the important thing is in the end you did the right thing. You did save a life, in my book you kept your oath. Kyla stops and looks at Sirius. KYLA (EXCITED) You don’t know how much that means to me! SIRIUS (HONEST) Unfortunately, I do. Kyla cocks her head and looks confused, Sirius sighs. SIRIUS (EXPLAINING) You’re out in the field now. This is not a board examine or some simulation that you can redo, you only get one crack at this. This is the real thing. The real world! People are always going to try to hurt us, there will be times you will have to fight back. Kyla turns away. KYLA (FRUSTRATED) I don’t belong here. That is what you are saying. Sirius puts his hand on her shoulder. SIRIUS (HONEST) Actually, I’m saying just the opposite. You DO belong here, just as much as I do. Kyla turns and look at Sirius. KYLA (CONFUSED) How can you say that after what has just happened? SIRIUS (HONEST) Because you did the right thing in the end. The way you saved dad’s life when The Eliminator shot him. You ARE field material. KYLA (CONFUSED) But you almost died because of me! SIRIUS (HONEST) Yes, but had you not been here I WOULD have died. Kyla thinks it over but is still not convinced, Sirius sees that. SIRIUS (HONEST) Look, most of your career has been in school, studying to be a Rover first and then a Strayer. It is going to take some time feeling your way into your nitch. You think I became the confidence expert Strayer that I am the first few times out? Kyla smiles. KYLA (SMUG) So that is what you call it. Sirius chuckles but Kyla loses her smile and becomes serious. KYLA (SERIOUS) Thanks little bro, I needed that. Sirius nods then smiles. SIRIUS (BLUNT) What do you say we get out of this snake pit? KYLA (CONFUSED) Sure. But how? SIRIUS (BLUNT) Do you have a laser scalpel in that kit? KYLA (CONFUSED) Sure. Kyla picks up the medical kit and rummages through it and pulls out the scalpel, Sirius takes it. Before she can ask how he plans on using it he turns it on and turns towards the snake, she feels rather ill. INTERIOR: KORSH – CIRCLE OF FATE Back above nothing has changed, the flame slowly inches towards Tad’s face and there is nothing he can do to stop it! She smiles with glee. TI’BREK (SMUG) I fought long and hard to be where I am today, in total power of thisss world! And no one isss going to bring me down! TAD (ANNOYED) Let me guess, you had a hard life. You were born poor, you were abused by you parents who finally abandoned you. You swore you would get your revenge and you clawed your way up, stepping on who ever got in the way until one day you got your revenge as you mastered this world! TI’BREK (OFF CENTER) Well… Actually, no. My parentsss were both kind and loving, happily married even. They ssshowered me with love and giftsss, I never yearned for anything. I have had a great life. TAD (ANNOYED) So next you are going to blame your parents because they gave you the world on a silver platter, forcing you into a “give me” mentality. You had to have more and more! It was an addiction until finally you snapped, you killed them and took their places as leaders of this world! TI’BREK (HONEST) Yesss… Well, sssort of… You got the killing part down pat. But they made me earn everything I got, they made me earn their ressspect and love as well. They taught me valuable lessonsss along the way to be kind and help othersss whenever you can. TAD (CONFUSED) Then why did you kill them and seize control? TI’BREK (HONEST) I thought it would be fun. Tad is about to get burned by Ti’Brek’s flame! Suddenly, she screams in pain and lets go of him. She rips off her helmet and discards it, her head is smoldering. TI’BREK (ANGRY) Defective piece of Sssrak! In the distraction Tad gets control of the knife. He pushes Ti’Brek away and jumps to his feet. TAD (STERN) Okay, fun and games are over. It is time for you to surrender. Ti’Brek gets to her feet and smiles. TI’BREK (SMUG) You mussst be joking. Ti’Brek takes a defensive stance but Tad points the weapon at her. She pauses to reflect on her options, then smiles. She activates her arm laser and prepares to use it on him. TI’BREK (STERN) You have no idea what you are dealing with here! But before Ti’Brek can use it Sirius slashes out with the knife to slice at the joint above the arm, direct hit! The laser arm falls free and to the ground, he smiles at her. TAD (SMUG) Either do you. Ti’Brek is completely defenseless but refuses to give up. Instead she point her other arm up, a spear with a cable fires from it and sticks into the ceiling. She glares at him. TI’BREK (STERN) We will have to continue thisss another time! A winch quickly hoists Ti’Brek up and out of reach, but she still has not escaped. TAD (SMUG) You may be out of reach but you are stuck up there, you’ll never get out of there! Ti’Brek pauses to think, then she nods. TI’BREK (HONEST) You do have a valid point. Tad smiles, Ti’Brek pulls another grenade from her belt. SIRIUS (SMUG) You are going to stun me and slip away? How cowardly of you! What kind of warrior are you? TI’BREK (HONEST) The one that can alwaysss walk away from every battle. But fear not, my next action will be a heroic one. Ti’Brek turns a dial on the grenade. TI’BREK (SMUG) I have ssset this to be an explosive inssstead of a ssstun charge. I’ve also increased the output. Ressst assssssured everyone below will be killed, even your dear sssweet Carmi. Ti’Brek laughs madly but Tad fumes. He dives and rolls, in the process he grabs the still active laser arm. Before she can toss the bomb he tosses the laser it at her. She ducks and it barely misses her and hits the cable instead, slicing it in two. She screams as she falls. She hits the floor, bounces dropping the unarmed bomb and flies into the other pit. He rushes over to the edge just in time to see her get ripped apart by alien monsters, the screams send chills up his spine and he is forced to look away. He turns to see Kyla and Sirius climb out of their pit using the snake’s skin as a rope. Tad is very pleased to see them alive and well, he rushes over to them and hugs them both. TAD (EXCITED) I’m so glad you both are still alive! SIRIUS (PLEASED) Ditto here too, bro. KYLA (PLEASED) That goes double ditto for me! As they enjoy the moment Tad sniffs the air, something is in the air. Suddenly, he pushes the others away and glares at them. TAD (DISGUSTED) Man! What have you two been rolling in? SIRIUS (SMUG) Trust me, you don’t want to know! TAD (HONEST) I think you are right! Concern comes over Kyla. KYLA (CONFUSED) Where is Carmi? A realization comes over Tad. TAD (EXCITED) Carmi! Tad rushes over to Carmi and the others join her, they all kneel next to her. Kyla checks her out and uses her medical kit to revive her. TAD (CONCERNED) How are you honey? SIRIUS (SMUG) Honey? Is that a new rank in the Strayers? Kyla elbows Sirius. Carmi sits up. CARMI (GROGGY) I’m a little sore… But considering I feel okay. Tad’s joy turns to anger. TAD (ANGRY) You are going to feel a lot worse when I get done with you! Everyone is confused by Tad’s behavior. CARMI (CONFUSED) What’s eating you? TAD (ANGRY) You jumped on that grenade because you thought it was the explosive kind! CARMI (CONFUSED) Well yeah, duh! I was trying to save you. His anger melts away, it is replace by concerned. TAD (CONCERNED) But if you had died saving me I could never forgive myself. CARMI (TEASING) You’re just jealous because I was the hero this time. TAD (ANNOYED) I’m not joking! I love you! Carmi becomes serious too. CARMI (HONEST) I know, I love you too. That is why I did it… Look, we have the same pact as did your parents. The mission comes first along with the team. It is better if one dies instead of two. That is what we agreed on. Tad relaxes a bit. TAD (FRUSTRATED) I know. But it is easier to practice that in words rather than actions. Carmi smiles. CARMI (SLY) But your concern will not go unrewarded. Carmi kisses Tad. Sirius goes “eeew” but Kyla punches him in the arm. KYLA (ANNOYED) Knock it off, this is sooo romantic. Sirius rolls his eyes. Finally, with the baddie defeated their work here is done, they all get up to leave but the exit is still sealed. CARMI (CONFUSED) Well, that sure put a damper on a great ending. SIRIUS (SMUG) Not really. Everyone turns to Sirius, he is holding Ti’Brek’s discarded grenade. TAD (SMUG) I think I just found the key. Everyone smiles. Sirius sets the strength of the charge on it and rolls it at the door, when it explodes it blasts a hole big enough for all of the to get through. Now they all leave together. The words “Strayers” appears along with the Strayer symbol then disappears. EXTERIOR: EVIL SCIENTIST LAIR This is a huge foreboding castle perched on the ledge of a rocky cliff over looking the ocean. It is a dark and stormy night, lighting flashes. The words “South Jersey Coast” appears on the screen, a flash of lighting fires off. INTERIOR: EVIL SCIENTIST LAIR This is your typical evil scientist lab complete with test tubes and bubbling beakers. Center stage is an aging man. He is bald on the top and has white hair pointing up on the sides. He wears green tinted funky glasses, a lab coat and matching gloves. Over his head is a large glass dome. Standing before him is a young Lab assistant, he has tall pointy red hair. He also has green glasses but they are more like goggles. He is wearing a blue dress shirt, pants, shoes, black tie and a lab coat. In his right hand is an empty test tube. They are the only two in the room though the scientist address to him as if there were a crowd. EVIL SCIENTIST (BLUNT) For years we had to deal with them! Always plotting! Always scheming! Buy at last we don’t have to worry about them anymore. Gentlemen, behold! A curtain rises to reveal a huge vicious wolf that is foaming at the mouth and snarling. LAB ASSISTANT (CONFUSED) What is that? EVIL SCIENTIST (PROUD) The most vile, hated, killer on the face of the planet… I call him Percy. LAB ASSISTANT (CONFUSED) What does he do? EVIL SCIENTIST (PROUD) He is trained to hunt down and destroy those pesky scientists who wear glass domes on their heads and live in Jersey and their kicks that are always carrying an empty test tube in their right hand. LAB ASSISTANT (UNEASY) Er… Um… You’re a pesky scientist who wears a glass dome on your head and lives in Jersey and I’m your sidekick that is always carrying an empty test tube in my right hand. EVIL SCIENTIST (SHOCKED) You’re right! RUN!!! The wolf begins to chase them around the lab, snarling and snapping at them, as they scream with terror. EXTERIOR: LONDON - ALLEY This is a dank dirty alley behind an equally seedy pub. It is late at night, music and laughter can be heard from the pub. A sign on the door reads “Mutants Only!” The door opens and an even seedier looking mutant leaves. He is a Russian Blue Felo-Mutant, this Lynkx. As he makes his way he runs across a stray cat that hisses at him, he just smiles and kicks the cat that yowls and scampers away. He continues down the alley whistling happily. Suddenly, from the shadows, a young female Sealyham Terrier Cano-Sapien appears and blocks his way, he stops in his tracks. She is wearing typical English clothes and her shirt has the Strayer’s symbol on it, this is Elloeen. He looks her over and frowns but smiles when he sees she is a Strayer. LYNKX (AMERICAN ACCENT, SMUG) Ah, a Strayer. You are a far way from home. ELLOEEN (BRITISH ACCENT, BLUNT) Actually bloke, I was born here in London and now I’m part of the new Strayers located here. You are the one that is far from their mum. LYNKX (SMUG) Right… Maybe you could show me around, I’d love to see Piccadilly Square. Lynkx smiles slyly. ELLOEEN (BLUNT) Unfortunately, this is not a blooming social call. You are wanted for questioning. LYNKX (CONFUSED) Me? For questioning? What indication is there I would have any dealings with any wrongdoing? ELLOEEN (BLUNT) Well, for starters mate, you recognized me as a Strayer right off the bat. Not many could do that. LYNKX (CONFUSED) Is recognizing a officer of the law a crime? ELLOEEN (BLUNT) No… But robbing the bloody Elizabethan Royal bank IS! LYNKX (ANNOYED) How dare you even consider I had anything to do with that! ELLOEEN (BLUNT) Well, the blooming security cameras at the bank say otherwise. LYNKX (DEFENSIVE) Impossible, I was wearing a mask! Lynkx catches himself but it is too late. ELLOEEN (SMUG) Ha! Got you! Lynkx recovers and smiles. LYNKX (BLUNT) Well it is your word over mine. ELLOEEN (SMUG) Regardless, you are coming with me for questioning guv. LYNKX (DEFIANT) Fat chance! Lynkx pushes Elloeen to the side and continues on. But she does not give up so easily, she catches up with him. ELLOEEN (POLITE) Would you PLEASE come with me quietly? Lynkx busts out laughing without breaking a stride. LYNKX (LAUGHING) Oh come on, you have to do better than that! ELLOEEN (BEGGING) Okay, would you pretty please with truffles on top come with me? Lynkx stops laughing but just shakes his head. LYNKX (SMUG) Come on, I’m a known criminal! You will have to be a bit more resourceful. ELLOEEN (ANNOYED) Fine! Elloeen screams and kicks Lynkx in the groin, he goes down in pain but she continues to beat the cheese out of him. VOICE (OFF SCREEN, STERN) Enough! Elloeen stops and turns towards the voice, everything around her melts away. She is surrounded by weird electrical equipment as she hovers a few feet off the ground. Encircling her are Strayer Cadets that look to her in pity, this has all been a training simulation. On the back wall is a sign that reads “Strayer Academy: London” Everyone, even her, are wearing shorts, sneakers and t-shirts that read “Strayer Cadet in Training” along with an ID number. Seated at the controls is Bear, he is dressed in the same manner but his shirt reads “Strayer Cadet Instructor” and his ID is “0001” He has been leading the class. BEAR (STERN) And class, thus completes our lesson on how NOT to apprehend a suspect. Elloeen hangs her head in defeat. Bear turns a knob and she is lowered to the ground and stands on her own feet. He looks around to the others. BEAR (ANNOYED) And what did cadet Elloeen do wrong? CADET (JOKING) She got out of bed this morning, sir. The class laughs but Bear jumps to his feet and is not amused, they see this and become serious. CADET (SERIOUS) She used excessive force when apprehending a suspect, sir. BEAR (ANNOYED) That is right! Even if the suspect were proven guilty of the charges her assault would set him free. ELLOEEN (BLUNT) Um… I guess I blooming failed the test, sir. Bear steps up to Elloeen and glares at her. BEAR (STERN) You got that right, Cadet! Bear’s words upset her, the others start to tease and make fun of her. They call her a failure, this annoys him even more. BEAR (ANNOYED) Stop! Everyone stops and looks to Bear, they look kind of scared. BEAR (STERN) That is no way to treat a teammate! CADET (JOKING) At this rate she will never be a teammate! BEAR (STERN) Even if she wasn’t a teammate that is no way to talk! She is a living creature with feelings! Everyone deserves respect, when you forget that you are no better than the evil mutants who you are training to fight! The group pauses to ponder this. BEAR (STERN) Yes, Elloeen messed up but no one here has yet showed a satisfactory performance! Let me remind you of John 8:7 “When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, "If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her."” Needless to say none of you will be casting any stones! They all calm down a bit and one whispers to the other, Bear’s ears perked up. BEAR (ANNOYED) That’s right cadet Royce! I could kick you all out of academy! I have the final say! So if you all don’t shape up none of you will be Strayers! Everyone gets scared and straighten up. CADET (PLEADING) Please forgive us, sir! BEAR (STERN) You don’t have to apologize to me, you have to apologize to Cadet Elloeen. They all do as they are told, but Elloeen shakes her head. ELLOEEN (BLUNT) No need to apologize, you were just stating the truth. I’m never going to make it, I might as well chuck it in right now. They try to convince her otherwise but she won’t listen. BEAR (STERN) Cadet Elloeen, if I thought there was a good chance that you don’t have it in you to become a Strayer you’d be out on your tail a long time ago, I would have made sure of that! Elloeen looks to Bear, confused. He softens a bit. BEAR (EXPLAINING) Look… I have seen great improvement over the last few weeks. Not just in you but as a group as a whole. Other than this incident you have demonstrated you have what it takes, Elloeen. Your improvements in paw-to-paw combat speaks for itself, don’t throw all your hard work and dreams away just because you stumbled. You all need to learn balance, some situations require force and some need cunning. This particular one needed a little of both. There is no easy way to learn these things, they are skills not tactics. You must experience skills, they can’t be taught. Bear pauses and smiles. BEAR (REASSURING) I have all the confidence in the world once you get out into the real field you will catch on quickly. That goes for all of you. Bear looks around to the others. Elloeen cheers up a bit, this gives comfort to the others as well. He is very pleased. VOICE (OFF SCREEN, ANNOYED) What a bunch of dung! Bear looks around the others and spots Bear Junior (BJ) He is a Cano-Sapien Malamute with markings similar to Bear’s. He wears the same clothes as the others. He steps up to Bear. BJ (CONFUSED) I don’t understand why you are wasting our time in dealing with the politics of being a Strayer, I signed on to kick some baddie butt! But so far all I have heard is talk! BEAR (STERN) Then in that case you signed on for the wrong reason. Both BJ and the group are confused, Bear sees this. BEAR (EXPLAINING) 75% of your time as a Strayer will be talking to the public. Smoothing out differences, explaining your actions and such. BJ (ANNOYED) That sucks! The group tends to agree. BEAR (HONEST) No argument there, I would rather be protecting the public rather than babysitting them. Unfortunately, the general public is still leery about Strayers and Rovers. There is not much difference in their eyes between the baddies and us. We’re both mostly made up of mutants and run around blasting things. There is scarcely a single family in America that hasn’t been affected in one way or another by the baddies. But by talking and explaining shows the public we ARE different. We are the good guys. BJ (ANNOYED) I don’t care what the public thinks, screw them! BEAR (STERN) You had better worry about their feelings. They are the taxpayers that fund the Strayers and Rovers, they are the ones that can pressure the government to close down all our operations. Without their support we are nothing! Being a Strayer is walking a fine line and keeping the public happy. The group now understands and agrees with Bear, all but BJ. BJ (ANNOYED) I don’t care what you say this still sucks and I will have no part in it! Bear opens his mouth to respond but the bell rings, the day is over. BEAR (STERN) Okay class, that’s it for today. Everyone hit the showers. I’ll see you all bright and early Monday morning! Everyone but BJ is happy, they say goodbye to Bear and leave. But as BJ tries to leave Bear grabs him by the arm, he looks to him. BEAR (STERN) Everyone is dismissed but you, mister! BJ rolls his eyes. After everyone is gone Bear talks to him. BEAR (STERN) I’m very disappointed in you, BJ. BJ (SMUG) What a coincidence, I feel the same what about you. I thought you were a hero but I see you are just a wimp. Hiding your cowardness behind rules and talk. That will never happen to me! BEAR (STERN) You got that right! At this rate you will not pass the academy! BJ busts out laughing! BJ (LAUGHING) Oh, that would be a shame. Then I couldn’t hang around all you losers! BJ stops laughing and becomes serious. BJ (STERN) You’re weak and pathetic, just like the rest of the world! Once I get out into the field I’m going to kick every baddie’s tail! Screw the rules! I’ll do things my way! Now it is Bear who laughs, BJ is confused. BEAR (LAUGHING) Man, if I had a pence for every new cadet that came through telling us how they are going to break every rule in the book! How they have a newer and better way! How we should all throw civil rights out the window! They all have forgot that the United States Government tried that in 2003! Won’t you guys ever learn? Bear continues to laugh. BJ (ANGRY) We’ll see how much you are laughing when I start killing every mutant on sight no questions asked! Bear stops laughing. BEAR (STERN) I can have you kicked out of the academy just for saying that! BJ chuckles. BJ (SMUG) You’re too soft for that, your little demonstration with Elloeen proved that today. BEAR (DEFENSIVE) I’m just trying to build her up. If I threw out everyone the first mistake no one would be left even you! BJ (SMUG) You all saved me from Parvo in that fire. You found me a home and helped raise me over the years. I have observed you all this while. I know from first paw experience you don’t have it in you! Bear gets into BJ’s face. BEAR (STERN) Don’t count on it! BJ shows a little fear, then recovers. He smiles. BJ (BLUNT) It doesn’t matter. Even if you kick me out I will just become a vigilantly and still kill mutants. BEAR (STERN) If you do that the Strayers will come after you, I won’t be able to protect you. BJ laughs. BJ (LAUGHING) With this soft weak training I will have nothing to fear! I’m better than them, I’m better than you! So is my way, everyone should follow me! Bear pauses. BEAR (STERN) You know, you’re not the first to think this way. There was once an officer in an army. He thought he was better than their supreme commander so he plotted and convinced others to overthrow their leader so he could be in control. BJ smiles. BJ (SMUG) Sounds like my kind of dude. What was his name? BEAR (STERN) Satan. The comment cuts BJ deep. BEAR (SMUG) Fortunately, he was over thrown by God and his army of angels and cast out along with all of those who followed him. This would lead to his ultimate destruction. Bear looks at BJ, he looks rather hurt. Bear puts his hand on his shoulder. BEAR (EXPLAINING) I don’t say such things to hurt you but to try and show you that the path you are choosing isn’t a new one, and like always it will lead to your destruction. You need to find a balance in your life. Sometimes you have to fight but sometimes you have to run and sometimes you have to do nothing no matter how much it hurts. But especially there are times when you need to keep your big muzzle shut. BJ (ANNOYED) Are you done preaching pastor? I’ve got mutants to kill. BEAR (STERN) This is my last comment on the subject. If you follow through on your threats I will personally hunt you down and force you to face justice! Don’t expect any help from me, Nitro, Amanda or anyone else. If you choose this path you walk it alone! BJ (ANNOYED) Yeah, yeah, whatever. Bear sighs and dismisses BJ from his presents, as he leaves Bear watches him go. He looks very concerned. EXTERIOR: ROAD ROVER MISSION CONTROL - SURFACE This is the surface of the earth above Road Rover Mission Control. It is a desert like area of the southwest, there is sand and cactuses all around and a large crater. EXTERIOR: ROAD ROVER MISSION CONTROL - GROUNDS Deep in a large cavern in the earth is a lighted complex of buildings (shaped like fire hydrants) and clear tubing (that connect the buildings together) Sunlight shines through a hole from above. This is where the Road Rover’s base all their operations. INTERIOR: ROAD ROVER MISSION CONTROL – HUBERT’S LAB This is a huge room filled with counters and cabinets. The room is packed with all sorts of computers, electronic devices, and test equipment and on going experiments. Hubert is standing seated next to his latest experiment. He is a male Bloodhound Cano-Sapien wearing glasses and a lab coat. He is recording his results into a laptop. HUBERT (SOUTHERN ACCENT, EXCITED) At last! I have done it, I have finally done it! The world’s first self-charging battery! Hubert flips a switch on a large battery, a display on it reads “Please insert battery” Hubert goes “duh!” HUBERT (FRUSTRATED) Back to the drawing board. Hubert starts making notes into his computer. The door opens and the Master walks in. He is a male human in form but has long white hair and glowing white eyes and wears a white lab coat. It is very hard to make him out. Hubert turns and smiles at him. HUBERT (PLEASED) Master. What brings you down here, my boy? The Master stops before Hubert. MASTER (STERN) I have a very important task for you, my old friend. HUBERT (PLEASED) It must important for you to come all the way down here. MASTER (STERN) In deed it is. The Master pulls out a small metal cylinder and holds it out to Hubert. MASTER (STERN) In here are the fragments of a memory chip, I need you to see what you can extract from it? Hubert takes the container and looks it over, interested. HUBERT (HONEST) I’ll see what I can do. What is it from? MASTER (BLUNT) Flight 478A. Hubert quickly looks up to The Master. HUBERT (SHOCKED) The same flight hijackers were going to ram the Golden Gate Bridge with? The Master nods. MASTER (BLUNT) The one in the same. As you recall, instead of crashing into the bridge it crashed into the bay killing all those on board. The government is very interested in what happened on that flight. If it was the passengers rising up to the hijackers we want to know so we can honor them. If it is something else we want to know what caused it in hopes we can implement this in future incidents. HUBERT (UNDERSTANDING) I see the importance. What device is this memory from? MASTER (EXPLAINING) They appear to be from a single shot digital camera, we suspect it is from one of the passengers on board. If you can extract the information from it there might be some picture of what happened on the plane, to give us some sort of clue. HUBERT (HONEST) I’ll do the best I can, my boy. MASTER (REASSURING) I know you will. The Master smiles and leaves while Hubert goes to work on reconstructing the memory chip. INTERIOR: ACADEMY – NITRO’S OFFICE This is a large office crammed full of different computers, software, manuals and other types of stuff used in computing. Nitro is here working on her laptop, a sticker on the top of it says “Hackers do it Digitally!” She is wearing the same type of clothes as Bear but her ID is “002” As she works she is grading tests from her students. The more she works the more frustrated she gets. Finally, she can’t take it any more and starts banging her head on the keyboard. Bear walks in and sees this. BEAR (BLUNT) Oh, I see you are busy, I’ll come back later. Nitro looks up and glares at him. NITRO (ANNOYED) That’s not funny! BEAR (CONFUSED) Oh? NITRO (FRUSTRATED) My students are driving me crazy! They know their way around a game pad better than a keyboard. One of them actually couldn’t install some sniffing software because they said the computer was defective, it didn’t have an ANY key. They can tell you all the exploits in EverUltima Quest but can’t tell you how to use a keyboard filter because it isn’t color- coded. All you do it attach it to the keyboard cable! I’m suppose to teach them to break into computer in the line of duty but it is hopeless. I might as well fail them all now and save the aggravation! Nitro waits for Bear’s reply, he takes some time in formulating it. BEAR (BLUNT) Sounds like a good idea. Bear pushes some software off a chair in front of the desk. Nitro’s jaw falls open. NITRO (SHOCKED) I think you missed your cue, honey. This is the part where you’re suppose to jump in and defend them and tell me not to give up. Bear sits on the chair and stares at her. BEAR (ANNOYED) I’m not in the mood. NITRO (SHOCKED) I asked for a little inspiration from my husband, not to help procreate another pup… That talk comes later. BEAR (ANNOYED) Sorry dear, I got nothing for you. I’ve got my own problems. Nitro’s shock changes it to concern. NITRO (CONCERN) You having your own problems with you students? Bear nods. BEAR (HONEST) Yeah… Well, actually, only one. They are going through the “only good mutant is a dead mutant” phase. How their way is the best way. Nitro sighs with relief. NITRO (RELIEVED) Oh, is that all. I have three this semester. Today in class they actually told me that it would be better to set the baddies computer so it electrocutes them instead of breaking into it… Don’t worry, they’ll shape up. They usually do. If not, boot them out like we always do. BEAR (ANNOYED) You don’t understand… The student I am having a problem with is BJ. Nitro gasps. NITRO (SHOCKED) Oh my. Did you give him the 2003 Civil Rights speech? Bear nods. NITRO (CONCERNED) What about the “You’ll be just as bad as them?” Bear nods again. NITRO (CONCERNED) What about the Awks story? Bear pauses, then shakes her head. Nitro sighs with relief. NITRO (RELIEVED) Then there is still hope. BEAR (HONEST) I don’t even think that would help. He is in really deep and head set that violence is the only way to solve any issue. We would have a chance if he would just listen but his mind is already made up. I don’t know what I’m going to do about him. Nitro rubs her chin and thinks. NITRO (HONEST) Actually, you should do nothing. Bear raises an eyebrow. BEAR (CONFUSED) Excuse me? NITRO (EXPLAINING) He is a legal adult, he has to set his own path. All you can do is show them the light, what is right and wrong. That is why we introduced him into the Strayer program. To show both sides. It is up to him to decide which side they are going to live on, the light or the dark. Bear shakes his head. BEAR (FRUSTRATED) I already know which side he will end up on, the dark. NITRO (SMUG) No offense darling, but your fortune telling hasn’t been all the great. Bear looks to Nitro, confused. NITRO (EXPLAINING) You thought the same way about our pups, all of them. They went through their phases but in the end they all turned out good even Monique. You under estimated them just like you are with BJ. Bear pauses and thinks, he finally nods. BEAR (HONEST) You’re right. That and our prayers, God willing, he should come around eventually. Thanks. Bear smiles, Nitro frowns. NITRO (ANNOYED) That is great for you, your problem is solved but I’m still stuck with mine. BEAR (BLUNT) Yours is simple to fix, all you have to do have a field trip. NITRO (CONFUSED) Come again? BEAR (EXPLAINING) Set up a computer system for them to hack into but don’t tell them it is a setup, play it like it is the real thing. Tell them it is vital they hack into it. Make it like a real Strayer case. Tell them that if they fail someone is going to get away with murder. Tell them the fate of justice is in their hands and then turn them loose. You’d be surprised how they will all come together under pressure. NITRO (HONEST) That is just it, I know exactly how they will react. They will crumble and fail miserably no matter how easy it is. BEAR (SMUG) Now who is under estimating their students? NITRO (ANNOYED) You don’t understand them! They fold when it comes to a written test! BEAR (DEFENSIVE) But this isn’t a written test, this is oral. The real thing. They’ll pull through. Nitro shakes her head. NITRO (ANNOYED) No, it is too risky. If they fail their spirits will be crushed. BEAR (HONEST) No argument there but only for those who don’t belong here. For those that do it will set a fire in them. Those that really care will study harder, start asking more questions and take their work here more seriously. Remember, everyone stumbles at one point. That is how we learn. NITRO (AGREEING) Maybe you are right, maybe a little fire will burn away all that whining and complaining they do. I’m willing to try it. I’m willing to try anything! Bear smiles, so does Nitro. BEAR (PLEASED) Good, I’m glad that is settled. Nitro’s smile fades. She gets up, places her hands on the desk and glares at him. NITRO (ANNOYED) Wait a minute! You had a plan all along! You just pretended that you didn’t so I would help you. Bear gets to his feet. BEAR (SMUG) And your point? NITRO (ANNOYED) Why you conniving weasel! BEAR (SMUG) That is what makes me so lovable! NITRO (ANGRY) You son of a bit- Bear’s lips cut off Nitro’s words, he kisses her. Her anger melts away, they part and look at each other. NITRO (STERN) You are just lucky I love you so much otherwise I would kick your tail across the room. BEAR (SMUG) That is the only reason why I married you, to save my tail. Nitro grabs him and kisses him again but this time more passionately, when they part they are both a bit winded. BEAR (SLY) Whoa, someone is ready for the weekend. Speaking of which, are you ready to head for home? NITRO (PLEASED) I am now. Nitro closes her laptop, put it into her carrying case along with a few other things and then faces Bear. NITRO (BLUNT) All set, honey. BEAR (CONFUSED) Aren’t you forgetting something? Nitro looks confused at Bear, he notices this. He points to her carrying case. Her eyes light up. NITRO (SHOCKED) You’re right, I did almost forget. Nitro opens a desk drawer and pulls out a portable hard drive, she slips it into her bag. NITRO (PLEASED) Thanks for reminding me. BEAR (STERN) No, you are forgetting this is a workless weekend. Once a month we do not take our work home with us and enjoy life. NITRO (SHOCKED) You have got to be kidding. I’ve got to set up a bogus system for my students to hack not to mention finish grading the last of these tests. I’ll be working all weekend. Bear crosses his arms and glares at Nitro, she notices this. NITRO (ANNOYED) Oh come on! You can’t be serious! BEAR (STERN) Hey, you were serious when I wanted to do that research of foreign dictators, you made me not take one shred of work home that weekend. You can come in early Monday if you want. NITRO (ANNOYED) But- BEAR (INTERRUPTING, STERN) Work is to be done on work time, this weekend is our time. Even God had a day of rest after he created the world. NITRO (HOPEFUL) Does that mean I can work on Sunday? Bear glares at her, Nitro sighs. NITRO (FRUSTRATED) Oh, all right. Nitro places her bag into her desk and then places her paw on the side of it on a lighted glass pad. It beeps and the desk is automatically locked. Then they leave together, she is the last one out. She turns off the lights and exits. EXTERIOR: MIDWEST – ROADSIDE Out in the Midwest just outside of a small town on the side of a road is an old beat up van, it has peace signs and flowers painted on it. It is noonish. The side door is open and Prowler is seated on the floor with his legs hanging out. He is a German Shepherd Cano- Sapien who stands 5'8" tall and has brown eyes. He is wearing a rawhide vest with fringe with worn out jeans, rawhide headband, love beads and sandals. He looks like a hippie right out of the 60’s. He looks behind the back of the van. PROWLER (PLEASED) Come on Love Honey, it is time for lunch. My favorite meal is on the menu… Love making! Dixie comes around from the back. She is a female cocker spaniel Cano-Sapien who stands at 5 feet high. She is white and extremely beautiful. She is wearing her 2000 clothes. She tosses her hippie clothes to Prowler’s feet which consist of a tie-dye t-shirt with a jeans skirt, a flower for her hair, a rawhide headband, love beads and sandals. He looks up to her in confusion. PROWLER (CONFUSED) What is with the squareville clothes chicky? DIXIE (BLUNT) I’m sick and tired of living off the kindness of strangers. PROWLER (CONFUSED) But you were doing that before we become hippies, baby. DIXIE (BLUNT) Yes, but that wasn’t for meager meals and money just so we could survive. PROWLER (SHOCKED) Don’t tell me you are going to become moralistic and stop using others. DIXIE (DEFENSIVE) Of course not, I’m just going to use them to get the really cools things I want. Just like before. Prowler sighs with relief. DIXIE (BLUNT) I’m going back to RRMC and beg for them to take me back. Prowler jumps to his feet, he points a finger at Dixie. PROWLER (EXCITED) That sounds like the Man talking! The establishment talk! That’s not you, baby! Dixie slaps Prowler’s finger away. DIXIE (STERN) No, it is sanity talking. Prowler raises his hands. PROWLER (EXCITED) But why ruin a good thing! The open road is ours! We can do anything we want whenever we want! We are free like the wind! Best of all, the sex is incredible out here! Dixie rolls her eyes. DIXIE (HONEST) Actually, you were so wasted you only remembers it as such. In all honesty you aren’t all that good. Prowler’s feels are hurt, he lowers his arms. DIXIE (BLUNT) Oh come on! It isn’t like you never heard that before. Prowler glares at Dixie. PROWLER (ANNOYED) Fine! Go ahead and leave! Go back to the man! Turn your back on freedom! I’m disowning you! But in order to go back you will have to walk! DIXIE (STERN) Actually, I own the van. So if you don’t help me get back to RRMC you will be the one that is walking. PROWLER (BACK PEDALING) Did I say disown? I meant, help you… Yah, that’s it, I will be more than happy to help you get back chicky. DIXIE (SMUG) I thought you would see it my way. PROWLER (BLUNT) There is only one problem, the van is on E when it comes to fuel and we have no money. DIXIE (ANNOYED) Great! Our only hope is for one of us to get a job long enough to collect gas money. Prowler smiles. PROWLER (SMUG) I’m sure you would make a nice addition to the man’s workforce. DIXIE (SHOCKED) Me? Why do I have to get a job? PROWLER (BLUNT) I have my reasons. Dixie points a finger at Prowler. DIXIE (ANNOYED) Look you lazy bag of bones! You can just throw away all your The Man and Establishment crap! You are just hanging onto it so you can feed off others! PROWLER (HONEST) Actually, I was thinking more along the line of my looks. Do you really think anyone would consider hiring me? Dixie looks Prowler over, he is dressed like a hippy and hasn’t bathed in weeks. She lowers her hand. DIXIE (BLUNT) You’re right, looks like I am our only chance. Prowler smiles, Dixie folder her arms. DIXIE (ANNOYED) What ever happened to the mentality of the 60’s where the woman stayed home and the guy went to work? Prowler collects all her hippie clothes and puts them into the van, then they both climb in and head into town. EXTERIOR: LONDON – STREET This is in the heart of the city, it is early evening. Cars and people make their way home. Cyc, with Bear and Nitro on it (now dressed in their normal clothes), are trying to do the same. Cyc slowly cruse the streets as Bear and Nitro talk. NITRO (INTERESTED) So do you regret our decision to leaving the Strayer field operations and become instructors? BEAR (BLUNT) No. NITRO (STERN) You’re lying! BEAR (ANNOYED) Why do you girls always do this? You ask a question you already know the answer to? NITRO (SLY) We have to keep our female intuition tuned some how. Bear chuckles. NITRO (BLUNT) But you can’t fool me darling, I know you’re miserable. Bear looks over his shoulder to Nitro. BEAR (CONFUSED) No way! How can you say that? NITRO (SMUG) You’re drive is gone, honey. BEAR (DEFENSIVE) What do you mean? I kept pace with you last night! NITRO (BLUNT) I meant the fire inside you, your desire to do well and help others. BEAR (EMBARRASSED) Oh, that… Well, I think you are wrong. I mean this whole thing with BJ proves I still care. NITRO (BLUNT) It proves to me you don’t. The old Bear, the one that I married, would have taken care of the situation. I mean you completely skipped the Awks story! So admit it, you’re not as happy as I claim. Bear’s eyes narrow, Nitro sees this. NITRO (STERN) And before you answer remember I’m not only your wife but also your friend, I’m here to help. Bear pauses and backs off, he sighs. BEAR (BLUNT) Man, after all these years you can still read me. Nitro takes it as a complement and smiles, Bear faces forward. BEAR (FRUSTRATED) But you’re right, I do regret our decision but not as much as you think. NITRO (CONFUSED) Oh? BEAR (FRUSTRATED) I enjoy my work at the academy but everything is routine, day in and day out. We teach a bunch of students and pass them along to the next instructor just to get a new batch to teach them the same thing. When we were out in the field each mission was unique, each mission was different, each mission was challenging. But here I feel so Laodicia. NITRO (CONFUSED) Laodicia? CYC (ELECTRONIC VOICE, EXPLAINING) Laodicia was a wealthy city forty miles east of Ephesus known for its medical school and eye salves. Across the Lycus river was the city of Hierapolis that was famous for its hot springs. By the time the water was transported from the hot springs to Laodicia would be lukewarm. Seven churches are mentioned in the Bible each representing a different time in history. The seventh was Laodicia that represents the time we now live in. Its people were like the water, lukewarm. Not hot, not cold. Just humming along in the middle, not concerned about anything. Lukewarm. NITRO (IMPRESSED) Wow Cyc, where did you learn about religion? CYC (PLEASED) That was Bear’s doing. Bear looks over his shoulder to Nitro. BEAR (EXPLAINING) For years it had been the only thing voided from Cyc’s access, because of that he did not understand it and wanted to know more. But I couldn’t do anything because of the Government’s mandate to separate Church and State. But since the Master gave Cyc to us he became our property, free of the red tape and politics of government. So he got religion. NITRO (EXCITED) That is great! CYC (PLEASED) I know. Bear faces forward again. BEAR (BLUNT) Our work here wouldn’t be so bad if only a little excitement would enter our lives. As they round a corner they face Big Ben. It is surrounded by police officers all armed to the teeth, special units are everywhere. NITRO (SHOCKED) Hello. BEAR (PLEASED) Let’s check it out. Cyc pulls up to one of the officers and stops, Bear talks to them. BEAR (CONFUSED) What’s up? OFFICER (EXPLAINING) We have a hostage situation inside. BEAR (CURIOUS) Oh? OFFICER (ENGLISH ACCENT, EXPLAINING) Some tourists were taken by the Black Magnolia. NITRO (CONCERNED) Isn’t that a terrorist organization set on changing the heroic symbol of Scotland from William Wallace to Robert the Bruce? OFFICER (REGRETFUL) The one and the same I’m afraid. Bear looks around, he notices that the different teams are mobilizing. BEAR (OBSERVING) Looks like you guys are going to rush the place. OFFICER (BLUNT) I’m sorry but I can’t comment on that. Bear’s ears perk up and he nods. BEAR (CONCERNED) Isn’t it true that the last encounter with the Black Magnolias the police rushed in the main door and almost captured their leaders, Petal and Thorne? Surely they won’t be as easily fooled this time. OFFICER (REASSURING) Don’t worry, we’ll get them this time. BEAR (CONCERNED) Isn’t also true that it has been reported that the Black Magnolias have stolen large qualities of explosives recently? OFFICER (BLUNT) I can’t comment on that either. BEAR (CONCERNED) Don’t you see? Rushing the place may be exactly what the Black Magnolias want. This could all be a trap! As the officer is about to comment his boss shows up, this is Resin. He is human wearing the clothes of an English detective. RESIN (STERN) What is going on here? The Officer looks to Resin. OFFICER (EXPLAINING) These concerned citizens were asking about what was going on. RESIN (STERN) These concerned citizens could be the press. NITRO (BLUNT) I feel like I’ve just been insulted. RESIN (STERN) Good! Now move along. BEAR (CONCERNED) Not until we warn you. We have strong indication that this is a Black Magnolias trap! Resin laughs. RESIN (LAUGHING) Yep, they have the intelligence of the press. BEAR (CONCERNED) You don’t understand what you are dealing with here! Resin stops laughing. RESIN (STERN) And you don’t understand that if you don’t get you tail out of here this instant I’m going to arrest you! BEAR (CONCERNED) The Black Magnolias have acquired explosives! That tower is rigged to blow! It all makes sense! RESIN (ANNOYED) Officer, arrest these reporters! As the Officer goes to grab them Bear drives away quickly, the Officer looks to Resin. OFFICER (BLUNT) Should we go after them? Resin pauses then shakes his head. RESIN (ANNOYED) Nah, we have bigger fish to try. Resin turns and walks back to the groups that are still preparing their assault, he gets a status report. INTERIOR: ROAD ROVER MISSION CONTROL – HUBERT’S LAB Hubert continues his work on the shattered memory chip. Just then Stef shows up out of nowhere. Stef is a Cano-Sapien who is a pure breed Smooth Collie. She is a mixture of light tan (a majority of her body), white (her face and paws) and black (ears and the tip of her tail) She is dressed in a skirt, a bikini top, knee-high boots, a headband, wristbands and a collar. All are skin tight, made of leather and studded. He is both surprised and happy to see her. HUBERT (PLEASED) Stef! It is so good to see you! STEF (UNINTERESTED) Yeah, whatever. What are you working on? HUBERT (CONFUSED) What brings you down here? STEF (BLUNT) I was passing by and I heard you were working on something hot so I came down. HUBERT (CONFUSED) This is suppose to be top secret. How did you know? STEF (SMUG) Hey, if you can’t trust your ex-wife whom can you trust? HUBERT (CONFUSED) That didn’t answer my question. STEF (ANNOYED) Well, if you are going to have the kind of attitude I’m out of here. Stef turns to leave and Hubert seems sad she is leaving. HUBERT (DESPERATE) Okay, okay, I’ll tell you. Stef stops and looks back to Hubert, she smiles. STEF (SLY) Same old Hubert. HUBERT (ANNOYED) Unfortunately, same old Stef. Hubert quickly explains what he is doing. STEF (CURIOUS) How far are you? HUBERT (EXPLAINING) Currently, I’m extracting the data from the memory fragments to be placed on a good chip. There will be some data loss where the chip snapped but we should be able to recover a majority of the information. STEF (CONCERNED) Do you know whom the camera belonged to? Hubert shakes his head. STEF (BLUNT) Then I suggest you try to pull any DNA from the chip and check it out. Hubert raises an eyebrow. HUBERT (CONFUSED) Why? STEF (ANNOYED) Well, you could put some family to rest telling them for sure their loved one was on the plane. HUBERT (CONFUSED) That is rather pointless since everyone on the flight died. The occupants were verified by the boarding passes collected at the gate. STEF (ANGRY) Just do it! Stef turns and storms out of the room leaving Hubert utterly and completely confused by her behavior. EXTERIOR: LONDON – BACK ALLEY Behind a building Bear, Nitro and Cyc hide. Peeking around they can see Big Ben and all the police around it. Bear is thinks what to do next while Nitro has other issues. NITRO (CONFUSED) How in the world did you know all that stuff about the Black Magnolias. Like they stole explosives recently? CYC (HONEST) Actually, I told him as he was talking to the officer. Nitro looks to Cyc, he has a big smiley face on his screen. NITRO (CONFUSED) You couldn’t have, I was there and neither the police nor I heard you. CYC (EXPLAINING) That is because I transmitted it in an ultra high frequency that only Bear can hear thanks to his super hearing. Bear turns to the others. BEAR (CONCERNED) Thanks for the wrap up, Cyc but we need to figure out what were are going to do about the Black Magnolias. Nitro looks to Bear. NITRO (REASSURING) We? Let the police handle it that is what they have been trained for. BEAR (CONCERNED) But they are walking into a trap and that thick headed cop could care less. NITRO (REASSURING) Come on, do you really think he is going to let his men do that? He is in charge and those officers are his responsibility. He’s just playing it tough because he got caught off guard. They will be fine. Bear thinks. BEAR (THINKING) Maybe you are right. NITRO (REASSURING) Besides, you are no longer on active duty, we have retired from the field. Remember? Now the things we look forward to are grading simulations and offering detentions. Bear nods. BEAR (AGREEING) You’re right, you are absolutely right. Let’s go home. But as Bear takes a step towards Cyc he butts in. CYC (BLUNT) Actually, Bear was right the first time. Everyone looks to Cyc. CYC (EXPLAINING) I’ve have run a scan across the databases and cross-referenced them with all the media headlines regarding the Black Magnolias and the Police. His name is Resin, he has been assign to capture the Black Magnolias. Each match shows up the name Resin, that nasty officer we ran into back there. He has been assign to capture the Black Magnolias. He is always in front of the press. He even called them in when they missed a story. He even breached security and informed the press of one of their raids just so he could grab all the attention. His face is usually on the front page and pictures of the Black Magnolias are usually a few pages back. It appears he is a media hog. I calculate he has more regard for himself than those officers or hostages back there. NITRO (SHOCKED) Wow, for you to make a judgment like that Cyc the evidence must be really stacked against him. CYC (BLUNT) I have just scratched the surface. BEAR (EXCITED) Then it is up to us to save the hostages! NITRO (EXCITED) Whoa there John Wayne! We can’t get involved, we’re not active. BEAR (STERN) There is no time to argue. NITRO (SMUG) I’m your wife, there is always time to argue. BEAR (STERN) Look, if you want to stay behind that is fine. No shame will be placed on you. But I have to at least try and save them! Nitro is concerned but that lasts only a few seconds, she smiles. NITRO (SMUG) Okay cowboy. How do you expect to save them? The building is surround by police and Resin has probably alerted them to keep on the watch for nosey reporters like us. You won’t be able to get within 100 feet of that clock before you are arrested. BEAR (UNEASY) Okay, I admit, that is a slight obstacle. Nitro laughs. NITRO (LAUGHING) Slight obstacle? Look, I’ll make you a deal. If he can find a way into Big Ben I’ll join you. Bear pauses and thinks, then turns to Cyc. BEAR (BLUNT) Pull up the building plans for Big Ben. CYC (PLEASED) You got it boss! The layout of Big Ben appears on Cyc’s screen, Bear looks it over. But the look on his face quickly reveals there is no way in. Nitro picks up on it. NITRO (SMUG) There isn’t a way in, is there. Bear just shakes his head. NITRO (PLEASED) Then let’s go home. Bear does not move, Nitro loses her smile. NITRO (HONEST) Look, I know you want to help. I want to help. But there are some cases where help is not an option. If it will make you feel better we can pray right here, right now for all their lives. Bear smiles. BEAR (EXCITED) Cyc, give me the street plans around Big Ben! CYC (PLEASED) On the way Boss! Bear turns to Nitro. BEAR (EXCITED) We’ll pray for them, on our way inside. Nitro isn’t convinced. The plans come up on the screen and Bear looks them over, he points to a section on them. BEAR (PLEASED) Here, the sewer system that leads from a manhole near here into the basement of the building. It is big enough for us to get through, we can get in from there! NITRO (HALF HEARTED) Great. Bear looks to Nitro. BEAR (CONCERNED) Are you still in? Nitro sighs. NITRO (BLUNT) Of course, a promise is a promise. Besides, how often do I get a chance to crawl around some slimy sewer? Bear chuckles. BEAR (SMUG) I only take the girl that I love to the best of the places. NITRO (BLUNT) Oh, you will have to introduce me to her sometime. Bear chuckles again. He and Nitro go over to the manhole, pull it open and crawl on down inside the hole. Cyc stays behind and keeps a vigil. INTERIOR: GREASY SPOON – DINING AREA This is a small truck stop restaurant. A few patrons are here, some are eating and some are looking over the menu. Dixie is in her normal clothes but is wearing a waitress apron. The manager of the establishment is with her. One of the patrons puts down his menu, he is ready to order. MANAGER (BLUNT) Okay, this is it. Your first customer. Do you remember everything I told you? Dixie nods. DIXIE (QUOTING) Smile, smile and always smile. MANAGER (PLEASED) Exactly. The Manager hands Dixie a pad of paper and a pen. She takes it and goes over to the patron, she smiles widely. DIXIE (PLEASED) Hello sir. Welcome to the Greasy Spoon. Are you ready to order? The customer nods. He then looks at her and smiles. CUSTOMER (PLEASED) I want the sweetest thing alive from you. Dixie is shocked. DIXIE (ANGRY) How dare you! You slimey Neanderthal! CUSTOMER (CONFUSED) Excuse me? DIXIE (ANGRY) Just because I’m new in town doesn’t mean I’m ready to jump into bed with you! I mean, you don’t even look rich! CUSTOMER (CONFUSED) Come again? DIXIE (ANGRY) Who do you think you are? You are perhaps the ugliest creature I have seen on the face of the earth! Excrement is more appealing than you. Dixie then takes the menu and starts beating the Customer with it. The Manager rushes over and grabs the menu from her. MANAGER (CONFUSED) What do you think you are doing? I don’t remember beating the customer being part of your training. DIXIE (ANNOYED) He insulted me by making a pass. CUSTOMER (DEFENSIVE) I did no such thing! All I said was that I want the sweetest thing alive from you. DIXIE (ANGRY) He said it again! MANAGER (STERN) He did not make a pass but placed an order. There is an item on the menu called Sweetest Thing Alive. The Manager opens the menu and shows Dixie, she is very embarrassed. DIXIE (EMBARRASSED) Oh. Dixie looks at the Customer. DIXIE (HOPEFUL) Would it help if I said I was sorry? CUSTOMER (ANGRY) Not a chance! The Customer gets up and storms for the exit. CUSTOMER (ANGRY) I will never set foot in this establishment again and will ensure that none of my friends do either! The Customer slams the door as they leaves. The Manager looks to the other customers who all get up and exit as well. The Manager grabs the pad and paper from Dixie and rips off the apron. DIXIE (UNEASY) Okay, I know I am fired but do you think I could get paid for the time I trained here? The Manager just points to the exit. Dixie sighs and slowly makes her way out of the restaurant. INTERIOR: BIG BEN - CORRIDOR Nitro and Bear have made it inside the tower, they are covered with sewage. They are following a trail of dead bodies up the tower. NITRO (ANNOYED) These Black Magnolias are real butchers. BEAR (BLUNT) That isn’t the half of it, these are all their own people. Nitro looks at them, each has a Black Magnolias symbol of their shirt. She is even more shocked. NITRO (SHOCKED) Could the hostages still be alive? BEAR (BLUNT) I think we are about to find out. Bear points to a door with a big red X made of blood on it, the bodies lead right up to it. They approach the door. BEAR (SMUG) Lets see what is behind door number 1, Johnny. Bear reaches for the knob of the door but Nitro grabs his wrist, he looks at her confused. NITRO (EXPLAINING) Don’t forget, we think this is a trap. Bear smiles. BEAR (SMUG) Oh, now it is WE. Before it was just me. Nitro lets go of Bear. NITRO (BLUNT) Let’s just say my eyes have been opened. Nitro refers to the dead bodies, Bear loses his smile. NITRO (CONFUSED) How could they do this to their own people? BEAR (EXPLAINING) That is the MO of the Black Magnolias. No witnesses. NITRO (CONFUSED) If they knew they were going to die why would they join? It doesn’t make any sense! BEAR (BLUNT) People have been trying to understand fanatics for thousands of years, they are still at it. Who knows. NITRO (FRUSTRATED) Regardless, we have to find another way in. Bear and Nitro looks around, he finds a small service hatch. BEAR (BLUNT) Maybe we can get in through here. NITRO (SMUG) Then again, maybe this is the trap and the door is safe. BEAR (BLUNT) There is one way to find out. Bear pauses to hesitate. BEAR (UNEASY) I wish Exile were here. NITRO (HONEST) Yeah, me too. He can be comforting. BEAR (ANNOYED) No, we could use his x-ray vision. Bear carefully opens the door, nothing happens. He and Nitro peer inside, it is pitch dark. NITRO (HONEST) Now I wish Puffball were here so we could see. BEAR (BLUNT) What I would give to be a cat right now. Nitro goes “eeew” Then she and Bear climb inside. They fumble around in the dark until they find a light switch. When the lights come up they find the visitors and employees of Big Ben trapped behind a force field. They beg to them to be let out but instead the Strayers survey the situation. BEAR (BLUNT) If this doesn’t stink of TRAP I don’t know what does. NITRO (UPBEAT) Maybe not. Bear looks to Nitro, she is point to the door that they had avoided. It has two contacts on it, one on the door and one on the doorframe. This is wired into some heavy-duty explosives. NITRO (PLEASED) Looks like the door is the trap. Open the door breaks the contacts and that sets of the bomb destroying the tower and everyone inside of it. BEAR (BLUNT) Since we know the danger I say we free the hostages and lead them out the same way we came in. NITRO (PLEASED) Agreed. I’ll go shut off the force field while you calm down the hostages. Bear looks at to Nitro, confused. She sees this. NITRO (EXPLAINING) The last thing we want is for them to stampede for the door and set of the bomb. BEAR (CONFUSED) Okay, but why do I have to play Mister PR? Nitro smiles. NITRO (SMUG) Because you’re the windbag in this family, dear. Nitro giggles and Bear can’t help but smile. He goes over to the hostages as she heads for the controls for the force field. BEAR (CALMING) Relax folks, it is all over. You are safe now. VOICE (SCOTTISH ACCENT, SLY) That is what you think! Everyone turns to see Petal appear from under a table. She is a female Scottish terrier Cano-Mutant, she wears all black and has the insignia of the Black Magnolias. Clutched in her hand is a knife. She leaps at Nitro with it, but she ducks the attack. BEAR (EXCITED) LOOK OUT!!! Petal and Nitro circle each other, a fight is brewing. Bear turns to help Nitro when Thorne jumps out of the shadows. He too is a Scottish terrier Cano-Mutant but is a male, he is dressed like Petal. He lunches at Bear with a knife as well. He grabs his knife welding hand and keeps it at bay but Throne’s momentum carries them crashing through a window! NITRO (EXCITED) NNNOOO!!! There is no reply. She can’t check on him because she is too busy dodging the attacks of Petal and her knife. EXTERIOR: BIG BEN – LEDGE This is a narrow ledge high up on the clock tower, the street is far below. Bear and Throne wrestle on it over control of the knife. BEAR (SMUG) Let me guess, you’re Throne. THORN (PLEASED) Correct! BEAR (SMUG) By the way you fight I would have figured you were Petal. THORN (BLUNT) And my guess would be that you are Bear. BEAR (SHOCKED) How did you know? THORN (BLUNT) I know a lot about you. How you are a Strayer, how that is your wife Nitro back there. I even know of how you have a family that most of them are in their own Strayer unit, your old unit. I believe Tad, your son, is their leader. BEAR (SHOCKED) How do you know all of this? THORN (EXPLAINING) Our next operation is in the United States, the Washington Monument will never be the same. I did research on who we would be up against and who would be a threat. You and your wife came up as a red flag. BEAR (SMUG) I don’t know if I should be insulted or honored? THRONE (CONFUSED) But you can’t be Bear, he is dead. That is the only explanation that you have dropped out of service. BEAR (ANNOYED) I will show you just how dead I am! Bear rolls Throne over and begins to smack his knife welding wrist against the edge of the ledge, the pain forces him to drop the weapon. The blade falls far below, Bear smiles at him. BEAR (SMUG) Pretty good for a dead dog. Wouldn’t you say? THORNE (STERN) Okay, so you are alive. But I’ll soon rectify that! Throne lets go of Bear and pushes off on him, he rolls over the edge and towards certain doom! But at the last second Bear grabs onto the edge and dangles there by both hands. Thorne gets to his feet, looks down to him and smiles. THORNE (SMUG) Now my records will be actuate. Thorne stomps on one of Bear’s hands and he is forced to let go. When he tries to grab onto the ledge again his paw is kicked away, he dangles there by one paw! THORNE (SMUG) I hate paper work! BEAR (ANNOYED) And I hate smug villains! THORNE (SMUG) You won’t have to worry about me much longer. Thorne goes to stomp on Bear’s remaining hand that will send him falling to his death! But instead he grabs Thorne by the ankle with his free paw, he loses his balance and falls off! But Thorne manages to grab onto the ledge with both hands. The Strayer did not stopped moving, by now he has pulled himself up. Now it is Bear who stands on the ledge and looks down to him as he dangles. BEAR (SMUG) That is the problem with paper work, you never know when it is going to sneak up on you. Bear laughs but Thorne growls at him. The Strayer calms down. BEAR (SMUG) You’re just lucky I’m not like you, I’m one of the good guys. I can show compassion. Bear offers a paw to pull Thorne up but it is slapped away. THORNE (DEFIANT) I would rather die than allow you all the glory of my capture! Thorne lets go and falls towards his death. BEAR (SHOCKED) NNNOOO!!! THORNE (DEFIANT) Remember the cause! Thorne hits the street below and is instantly killed. Bear stares down to his splattered body, shocked. INTERIOR: BIG BEN – PRISONER ROOM Back inside Nitro and Petal are still fighting, the villainess slashes at her and she barely is able to dodge the attack. PETAL (UNDERSTANDING) It is all coming together now. NITRO (SMUG) I hope for your sake it is the importance of deodorant? Petal growls. PETAL (BLUNT) If that is Bear outside then you must be fighting his partner, friend and lover… Dixie. NITRO (ANNOYED) WHAT!!! PETAL (BLUNT) But I would never know by the clothes you are wearing, I thought Dixie were the one with taste in the pair. NITRO (ANGRY) That does it! As Petal goes to slash at Nitro again the Strayer decks her and knocks her to the ground. Before Petal can recover she stomps on the wrist welding hand, she screams in pain and lets go of the knife. Nitro quickly snatches in up. She looks up to her shocked. PETAL (DEFEATED) Looks like you win. NITRO (ANGRY) Oh no! After that insult you’re going to pay! But before Nitro can do anything Bear comes back in and goes over to her, her anger is replaced by joy. NITRO (RELIEVED) Glad to see you are still alive, honey. BEAR (PLEASED) Glad to see you are okay yourself, dear. PETAL (CONFUSED) Where is Thorne is? BEAR (HONEST) He was more whacked out than I thought. When I gained the upper paw he jumped off the building to his death. Petal screams, jumps to her feet and races for the open window. Bear and Nitro try to stop her but it is too late, she jumps out the window and to her death. PETAL (SCREAMS) Remember the cause! Nitro and Bear are standing there for a few moments, shocked. NITRO (SHOCKED) What a pair of whackos. BEAR (SHOCKED) That is what makes people like them so dangerous. By this time the hostages demand that they be set free. NITRO (BLUNT) Here we go again. But instead of commenting Bear’s ears perk up. BEAR (CONCERNED) Oh no! Bear races to the door and braces himself up against it, Nitro is confused. NITRO (CONFUSED) What are you doing? BEAR (EXCITED) I hear the police rushing up to the door! They must have saw the fight outside and acted on it! If they open this door were all dead! Nitro joins him. The police can be heard on the other side of the door trying to bust in. The Strayers hold them back for now but just barely. POLICE (BEHIND THE DOOR, STERN) Open this door! NITRO (EXCITED) We do that and we’ll all die! It is booby-trapped! POLICE (BEHIND THE DOOR, STERN) Likely story! If that was the case you fanatics would be long gone! BEAR (EXCITED) We’re not the fanatics! POLICE (BEHIND THE DOOR, STERN) Yeah right! NITRO (EXCITED) Just go around! POLICE (BEHIND THE DOOR, STERN) And fall for the real trap? No way! The hostages cry out to them to stop but they won’t listen! Bear’s ears perk up. BEAR (EXCITED) Oh great! I hear more coming! We won’t be able to hold them! NITRO (FRANTIC) What are we going to do? BEAR (EXCITED) I’ll try to hold them while you grab the contacts to the door, whatever you do don’t separate them or we are done for! NITRO (CONCERNED) You think you can hold them off by yourself? BEAR (ANNOYED) No! But you will have a few seconds, work fast! Nitro nods and lets go of the door. She quickly reaches up to the doorframe and uses the knife to pry the tripping sensors off, all the while she holds them together so it does not trigger the bomb. As soon as she has them the police bust in knocking Bear on his tail, the hostages scream. The police point their guns at everyone! POLICE (STERN) Freeze! Don’t move! NITRO (BLUNT) I assure you that is what I have in mind. POLICE (STERN) Drop what you are holding now! BEAR (BLUNT) If she does this whole place will go up! The Police notice the wires lead to a very large bomb. POLICE (CONFUSED) Is this some kind of stand off? NITRO (ANNOYED) No you moron! We’re on your side! Now get a bomb squad in here while there is still time! The police look over the situation, they decide Nitro has a valid point. They start talking on their radios. INTERIOR: ROAD ROVER MISSION CONTROL – HUBERT’S LAB Hubert is still working on restoring the broken memory chip. Stef stops by and checks on his progress. STEF (BLUNT) So how is it going? Hubert turns to Stef and smiles. HUBERT (PLEASED) Let me show you. Hubert turns to a computer and starts typing on it, a movie starts to play. The camera is shaking wildly and the there is lots of static, the background can’t be made out. There is a shadow of a figure that can be barely recognized. It is of male Collie/Golden Retriever mix. He appears to be holding the camera on himself as he talks to it but there is no audio. Stef is shocked at what she sees. STEF (CONFUSED) A movie? How could there be a movie? I thought the camera was the snapshot kind. HUBERT (EXPLAINING) According to this type of memory chip, but some cameras can also make short videos. But since there is no mic for these types of cameras there is no audio. The movie stops. HUBERT (BLUNT) That is all that I was able to get off the chip. STEF (CONFUSED) So this is it? This is the best it is going to get? Hubert looks to Stef. HUBERT (REASSURING) No, the easy part is done. Now that I have something in an electronic medium I can try and clean it up. With any luck we may be able to read his lips. Find out what he is trying to tell us. STEF (PLEASED) I hate to admit it, Professor. But you amaze even me at times. Hubert smiles. HUBERT (SLY) I remember when you use to tell me that in bed. Stef smiles. STEF (SLY) Same old Hubert. Stef winks at Hubert. STEF (PLEASED) So how is the testing of the DNA from the memory chip coming? HUBERT (PLEASED) Sorry but I’ve been too busy working the movie. Stef loses the smile. STEF (ANGRY) You lazy pile of slug! Get on it! Hubert opens his mouth to respond but Stef is already heading for the door. After she leaves he tries to figure out what is going on here. INTERIOR: POLICE STATION Resin is seated at his desk. Bear’s and Nitro’s hands are locked behind them in handcuffs, they are seated in front of the desk. They are flanked by police officers. Resin is addressing them. RESIN (STERN) And that is why you are under arrest for terrorism. Bear and Nitro are frustrated. NITRO (TIRED) Look, how many times do we have to tell you until you believe us? We have been at this for hours! We are the ones who prevented your officers from setting the bomb off! RESIN (STERN) Even if I would believe such a story, which I don’t in the slightest, the only reason you would have done that would be to save your own lives. Resin leans back in his chair and gloats. RESIN (SMUG) I relish that at last I have crushed the Black Magnolias single handedly. I relish even more that I will make you two pay for all their crimes! BEAR (FRUSTRATED) Well, relish does go good with a hotdog like you. Resin leans forward again. RESIN (ANNOYED) Go ahead, make jokes. But once the press gets a hold of this story you are through! The public will condemn you and there will be no way in the world you will get a fair trail. You are as good as dead! All the while I will be basking in the glory of the press. They will be eating out of my hand. Then I can blow this two-bit job! VOICE (OFF SCREEN, STERN) The only job you’ll have after this is writing up traffic tickets. Everyone turns to see Amani and Puffball, dressed in their old Strayer clothes, at the door. The human has a laptop tucked under her arm and the cat has a tape recorder in hand. Bear and Nitro are shocked to see them. BEAR (SHOCKED) What are you two doing here? AMANI (SMUG) Saving your tails by the looks of things. RESIN (STERN) Why were these two allowed in? OFFICER (BLUNT) Well I assumed they were the prisoner’s lawyers, sir. RESIN (STERN) They can’t be lawyers, we didn’t allow the prisoners any phone calls. No one knows they are here and no one will until my press conference. No lawyers allowed! PUFFBALL (EXPLAINING) We’re not lawyers… A more appropriate term would be the Calvary. RESIN (SMUG) Don’t bet on it. Not even John Wayne could save these two. Bear growls lowly. BEAR (ANNOYED) Take that back! RESIN (STERN) Get them out of here! But as the police go to escort them out Puffball plays the tape, it is of the hostages saying if it weren’t for the Strayers they would all be dead. There is more than one in this testimony. Everyone stops what they are doing. AMANI (SMUG) What do you say about that? Resin pauses to think. RESIN (UNEASY) Well… Ah… They were brainwashed by the terrorists… They would say anything… They can’t be trusted! PUFFBALL (EXPLAINING) A few, perhaps, but all? That is very unlikely. RESIN (STERN) That is my story and I’m sticking with it. AMANI (SMUG) Then perhaps this would play nicely at your press conference. I’d be more than glad to be there. RESIN (DEFENSIVE) Confiscate that tape! But as the officers go to take it Puffball tosses it on the desk. PUFFBALL (SMUG) Here, you can have it. It is just a copy. There are more where that came from. RESIN (ANNOYED) How in the world did you get access to the prisoners? AMANI (SMUG) You’ll find out soon enough. RESIN (DEFENSIVE) Well that is irrelevant. I still have them for murder. Bear killed Thorne and Nitro killed Petal. NITRO (ANNOYED) As we told you a hundred times before, they both jump on their own accord. RESIN (DEFENSIVE) Lies! You pushed them! We all saw it! AMANI (BLUNT) Funny, the hostages tell us otherwise. They told us as Bear and Nitro have said… Oh, by the way, we have a tape about that too. RESIN (SMUG) I already told you, they were brainwashed. Their testimony can’t be trusted. AMANI (BLUNT) Then maybe this one can be trusted. Amani then opens the laptop and plays a video clip from the late news on it, it is of Bear trying to save Thorne and Pedal jumping on her own accord. RESIN (SHOCKED) Where did you get that? AMANI (SMUG) Really, if you are going to frame someone you should really ban all news helicopters from the area. Resin glares at Amani. RESIN (ANNOYED) Let me guess, this is but one of the many copies you have stashed away. PUFFBALL (SMUG) Correct. Resin pauses again. RESIN (DEFENSIVE) This is obviously a fake… The press will do anything to make a story. AMANI (SMUG) Just like you will do anything to make a case. RESIN (CONFUSED) How were you able to collect all this information? How did you know they had been arrested? PUFFBALL (EXPLAINING) The organization we represent monitors all authority databases around the world. Bear and Nitro’s names came up as red flags. We protect our own. RESIN (DEFENSIVE) I don’t care whom you work for! I don’t care who you are! These two are going to hang and I’m going to get all the glory for it! PUFFBALL (BLUNT) Before you go out on that limb what other evidence do you have against them? RESIN (SMUG) Nothing yet but by the time I have the news conference I will have plenty. Enough to burry these two. AMANI (STERN) I assure you, that news conference will never happen. RESIN (SMUG) And how can you be so sure? Amani looks at her watch. AMANI (BLUNT) You will find out in… three… two… one… now! Just then the phone on the desk rings, Resin is shocked. He hesitates and then answers it. RESIN (UNEASY) Hello? A voice on the other end can be heard, Resin jumps to his feet. RESIN (SHOCKED) Prime Minister! The voice begins to give orders. RESIN (CONFUSED) All charges are to be dropped? All prisoner are to be released? But they aren’t heroes they are villains! I’m the hero! Why are you asking me to do such insanity? The voice states one more thing then hangs up. PUFFBALL (SMUG) So what was the answer to your last question. RESIN (BLUNT) The prisoners are to go free… All charges are to be dropped. AMANI (SMUG) I’ll tell you why, because you are under arrest. The officers free Bear and Nitro, Resin ignores everyone. RESIN (UNEASY) I have to go… Um… I have a meeting with the Prime Minister. Resin races for the door and opens it, detectives are waiting there. DETECTIVE (STERN) You are under arrest, Resin. Resin tries to run but they grab him and put the cuffs on him. AMANI (SMUG) Oh, by the way, in case you are interested. It is the evidence from my organization that got you arrested. RESIN (ANGRY) You will pay for this! You will all pay for this! You have not heard the last of me! The Strayers laugh. BEAR (LAUGHING) Wow, we have never heard that one before. Resin fumes as the Strayers leave the room still laughing, then Resin is dragged out kicking and screaming. EXTERIOR: GAS STATION This is an old gas station in the heart of town. Dixie has a nametag on, her new boss is inside. Prowler is talking to her. PROWLER (BLUNT) Give up this madness, babe. Let’s just go back to how things were. DIXIE (DEFIANT) That is what I’m trying to do, to get back to the RRMC days. PROWLER (BLUNT) No, I mean the time after that. When love was free. DIXIE (DEFIANT) Never! PROWLER (BLUNT) But this is nuts! You haven’t worked a day in your life… Even when you were a Strayer! DIXIE (SMUG) But that is the beauty of this job. I have learned from my last mistake. I know if I just keep a smile on my face by the end of the day I will have enough money to make it back home. PROWLER (BLUNT) That is ludicrous! Dixie opens her mouth to respond but a bell sounds from the building, everyone looks to it. Her boss pops their head out the window. BOSS (STERN) Here comes your first customer. Stop gabbing and start working! DIXIE (BLUNT) I’m on it! The car pulls up to the pump and Dixie walks over to it, the driver gets out. DIXIE (PLEASANT) How may I help you sir? CUSTOMER (BLUNT) Fill her up, with the good stuff. DIXIE (PLEASANT) Yes sir. Right away, sir. Dixie pulls the hose from the pump, goes to the back of the car and places the hose behind the licenses plate. She starts filling up the car. DIXIE (PLEASED) This is easier than I thought. Just then her boss comes running up to her. BOSS (ANNOYED) What do you think you are doing? DIXIE (CONFUSED) Filling this car with gas. BOSS (ANNOYED) You are doing it all wrong! DIXIE (CONFUSED) I think you are mistaken. I saw this movie one time where they filled the car up from behind the license plate. BOSS (ANNOYED) Then what do you suppose that is for! The boss points at the gas cap on the side of the car. DIXIE (HONEST) I have no idea. BOSS (ANNOYED) It’s the gas cap! For this particular car you fill in on the side of the car! Dixie looks towards the license plate, gas is pouring out all over the ground. DIXIE (EMBARRASSED) Oh. Dixie turns to the Boss to see the driver light up a cigarette. DIXIE (EXCITED) NO!!! The driver ignores her and drops the lit match, the gas ignites. All three of them turn and runs to safety as the car explodes. They all watch as the gas station blows up. The boss watches in horror as the business burns. DIXIE (CONFUSED) So does this mean I don’t get paid? The Boss screams and starts to chase her all over the place, Prowler watches and just laughs. INTERIOR: HOME – LIVING ROOM This is a quaint and modest English home. On one wall are pictures of Bear and his family, one another wall are pictures of Nitro and her family. On yet another wall are pictures of their friends. Bear, Nitro and Puffball are sitting sipping tea and Amani is looking over the pictures on the last wall. BEAR (CONFUSED) So why isn’t Outsider tagging along with you guys? PUFFBALL (EXPLAINING) A pocket of Sven’s gang was discovered and had to be dealt with. I wanted to go along but this is something HE had to do on his own… Or so he says. Nitro looks to Amani. NITRO (CONFUSED) That explains Outsider’s absence but what is Ben Walton’s excuse? AMANI (COLD) That is none of your business. Nitro is taken aback, she looks a little hurt. Puffball picks up on this. PUFFBALL (EXPLAINING) Ben was using Amani to steal her weapon designs to call his own, he was selling them to Parvo. He is in prison now. Amani glares at Puffball. AMANI (ANGRY) Do you have to tell them everything? PUFFBALL (HONEST) Of course, they are our friends. Amani pauses to think and sighs. NITRO (UNDERSTANDING) I’m sorry to hear that. AMANI (FRUSTRATED) I just have no luck with boyfriends. BEAR (STERN) Hey! What did I tell you about luck? There is no such thing. Only YOU are responsible for what happens in your life. AMANI (ANNOYED) Oh great, that makes me feel worse. Nitro elbows Bear and he gives a “What did I do?” look. Nitro ignores him and looks to Amani. NITRO (OFFERING) Come and sit down with us, Amani. Have some tea. Bear and I drink it all the time, we have learned it soothes the nerves. Amani does as she is told. Bear leans over to Puffball. BEAR (WHISPERS) Actually, I just said that because it is cheaper than coffee. NITRO (STERN) You know, you’re not the only one with super hearing dear. Bear is taken aback. BEAR (UNEASY) Oh… When did you acquire super hearing honey? NITRO (STERN) When I said I DO. Bear sulks and drinks his tea, Nitro pours Amani a cup. AMANI (EXPLAINING) We just so happened to be at RRMC, doing some paper work caused by our guys when the Master was notified of your arrest. We asked if we could come, sort of to get our minds off our problems and he gave us the Sonic Rover to come bail you out. NITRO (PLEASED) And we are very pleased that you did. Aren’t we honey? Bear nods. BEAR (BLUNT) Yes dear. Amani looks at the wall she was looking at before as she sips her tea. AMANI (REMINISCING) All those adventures… All those scraps… It is only by the grace of God that we’re still alive today. BEAR (PLEASED) Amen to that. Amani continues to look the wall over, Bear watches her. BEAR (INTERESTED) Do you miss it? Amani looks to Bear. AMANI (CONFUSED) Miss what? BEAR (INTERESTED) The missions… The excitement… The accomplishments… Amani pauses for a moment. AMANI (CONFUSED) Well… We’re all doing important work now. BEAR (BLUNT) That wasn’t the question. Amani hesitates then nods. AMANI (HONEST) Yes… But not like you think… The systems I am developing for the Rovers and Strayers are important… But everything is routine, day in and day out. Design, build, debug, process… Then you start all over with something else but it is the exact same process. I feel so Laodicia. NITRO (CONFUSED) That is odd. That is exactly how Bear feels… I kind of feel the same way too. Everyone looks to Puffball, she is taken aback. PUFFBALL (EXPLAINING) Of course I feel the same way… But I always have felt this way, I’m a cat! Bear pauses to collect this thoughts. BEAR (PRODDING) If you could, would you go back. Would you go on a team again. Nitro glares at Bear. NITRO (STERN) Quit trying to bait her! Lead her for your own purpose! I know where this is leading! Bear throws his arms up. BEAR (FRUSTRATED) I withdraw the question, consoler. Everyone goes quiet as they think about it. AMANI (HONEST) Well, I don’t think I could go back. Having to learn to work with a brand new team would be such a hassle. Back when we were together, everyone knew his place and we all came in at the same time so we were equals. But if I started on a new team I would be the outsider. The only way I would go back is if we were all a team again. BEAR (HONEST) You know, I could arrange it so we are all together again. Nitro glares at Bear. NITRO (ANGRY) Just stop right there mister! We agreed on the life we have right now! Even if we decided to go back it would have to be a group decision! You can’t just decide for us on a whim and tip our lives upside down! BEAR (STERN) Now you are the one that is on the wrong track. I was just thinking, with the Sonic Rover Switzerland is just an hour or two away. I thought for old time sake it would be fun if we had one last trip together. We have nothing planned for the weekend. AMANI (HONEST) We don’t have any plans for the weekend, it would be kind of fun. PUFFBALL (AGREEING) Yeah. Nitro pauses and thinks. NITRO (HONEST) Well… I do miss the snow, it doesn’t snow here much in England. I guess we could go. BEAR (EXCITED) All right! Nitro glares at Bear. NITRO (STERN) Provided a certain someone doesn’t talk about out how we should all rejoin the field. BEAR (CONFUSED) Who would that be? Nitro gives Bear an icy stare, he sees this. BEAR (BLUNT) Okay, I promise. No trips. We’re just there to have fun. Nitro smiles. NITRO (EXCITED) Great! I’ll go pack. It will only take a few minutes. Nitro rushes out