Haven Episode 1.14 14. ...As We Ourselves Make It

[Alex]

This is the fourteenth episode of "Haven", an original series written by me. I hope you enjoy reading it! If you have any feedback, positive or critical, please post it here, thank you

Haven Episode 1.14 14. ...As We Ourselves Make It

Written and Produced by Alex Hart
Edited by Lex

Special thanks to Heather

Disclaimer: The series “Haven”, its characters, locations and ideas are all creations belonging to Alex Hart. The work is fictional and meant for entertainment purposes only. No unauthorised usage of anything in “Haven” is permitted without prior permission, thank you.

TEASER

OPEN ON:

EXT. STREET OF BELVIEW – NIGHT

“Out of Sight” by Hooverphonic begins. Mark runs forward in slow motion. As the camera pans away from him we see Aura just ahead, also running. They both look scared.

CUT TO:

EXT. ALLEY - NIGHT

The music becomes more intense as Aura, no longer in slow motion, turns into the alley and leans against the wall out of breath. Mark appears from round the corner also, and doubles up as he tries to catch his breath.

CUT TO:

INT. APARTMENT

The music quietens slightly as Aura stares at Mark. She looks serious.

Aura: They got ‘em, didn’t they?

Mark looks up at her. He nods slowly. Aura closes her eyes.

‘Tell me why’
Do you always forgive the things I do to you’

There is a pause as the duo come to terms with this.

‘You're too good
Or am I not too bad’[/i]

Aura: We need somewhere t’lay low.

Mark frowns, shrugging slightly.

Mark: Where?

Aura considers this.

‘Those six years
Were the best that ever happen to me and you
No regrets after all this fear’

As the music builds, police sirens can be heard nearby. Aura’s eyes widen.

Aura: Damn!

The music swells as Mark and Aura start running again in slow motion.

‘We'll always be best friends
Something between you and me’

They run onwards, not looking back.

‘We'll always be best friends
Something between you and me’

CUT TO:

EXT. MAIN STREET

Aura and Mark run around a corner. They begin to slow down as they find their way barred by a group of people. They look around for a way to escape. One of the figures walks forward. He smiles slightly. It is Valoro, surrounded by other Response members.

The song dies away.

FADE TO: GREY

CUT TO:

EXT. MAIN STREET

A tense drum beat plays and the scene is in semi-slow motion. The Response members run forward to grab Aura and Mark who try and fight back in vain.

QUICK FADE TO: BLACK

QUICK FADE TO:

INT. CORRIDOR

Aura and Mark are escorted at gunpoint through a building, fearing for their lives.

QUICK FADE TO: BLACK

QUICK FADE TO:

INT. ROOM

Mark and Aura are left in the same room that they were waiting in, in “A Heaven or a Hell...”. They stand staring at the door as it is close.

FADE TO: GREY

FADE TO:

INT. HAVEN, ROOM 21

Mark, in the present day, stares directly at Tegan as she points the gun at him. She looks confused as her eyes dart from him to Rick, who is being restrained by Royce. Rick’s gun falls to the ground. Bethany and Amy watch from behind Tegan, Bethany looking as confused as Tegan.

Bethany: Mark?

Mark says nothing as Rick struggles in vain to get out of Royce’s grasp. Rick looks angry.

Rick: Argh, get the hell off me *******!

Royce does not relent. However Tegan points her gun at Rick. Rick stops immediately.

Tegan: That...is rude.

Rick glances at Mark, catching his eye. Mark then looks at Tegan and steps forwards.

Mark: Tegan-

Tegan swiftly points the gun at Mark. Mark stops dead in his tracks. She looks serious.

Tegan: Moving would be bad for you right now.

She eyes Rick and glances at the ground for a second.

Tegan: Bethany do you know how to use the gun on the ground?

Bethany looks a little surprised.

Bethany: Uh, yeah-

Tegan: Take it.

Bethany hesitates but then walks up to Rick quickly. She gives Mark a serious look and then kneels down to pick up the gun. She then steps away, pointing the gun at Rick as she does. Tegan looks at Royce and nods slightly. Royce lets Rick go and then backs away also. Tegan looks from Rick to Mark.

Tegan: I know I should feel bad about pointing a gun at you, Mark. Of course, an acceptable reason to do that would be if you and your little friend here were part of everything that’s going on here. Cause that’d be crazy...right?

She gives him a deadly look. Mark hesitates.

Mark: If I try and explain myself to you; are you gonna shoot me?

Tegan hesitates as she now knows there is something to explain.

Tegan: Depends. My empathy is currently on a low, but so is my bloodlust, so I’d say you have a 50% chance.

Mark considers this. Rick smiles looking unimpressed.

Rick: Mark, you don’t have to take this, they woulda killed us already if they were gonna-

Tegan points her gun at Rick again. Bethany quickly moves her gun to Mark. Tegan stares at Rick.

Tegan: However not cooperating right now significantly increases the chance of me starting with your knee caps, so I’d say you have a lot to lose.

Rick looks anxious despite his obstinate attitude. Bethany looks nervous.

Bethany: Uh, Tegan, can you tell me when you’re gonna point the gun at different people, cause when I say I can use one of these guns...I mean I’ve used one, uh, once. A while back.

Tegan glances at her. Rick almost laughs.

Tegan: Royce, please take the gun.

Bethany eagerly hands the gun to Royce and then stands with Amy. Royce holds the gun more comfortably, aiming at Mark. He stares him down.

Royce: Who do you work f-

A gunshot is heard from upstairs. Everyone looks slightly alarmed, even Rick and Mark. Amy clutches Bethany’s hand.

CUT TO:

INT. FIRST LOWER-CORRIDOR

Aura lowers her gun, as the woman she just shot falls to the ground. She looks shocked. Marcia slowly gets up, as Grace, Dominic, Josef, Lucas, Erica and her children all stare at Aura. There is a pause. Suddenly Josef turns and reaches out for J’s gun. Aura quickly realises and points her own gun at him.

Aura: I will shoot.

Josef freezes. Dominic makes eye contact with Grace in Room 5. She looks back and carefully she begins to approach the door. Josef stands, with the gun in his hands. He turns round to look at Aura. He smiles slightly and shrugs.

Josef: Then go ahead and do it. But I ain’t gonna drop the gun.

Aura swallows as Josef challenges her to act. Suddenly, footsteps are heard heading down the stairs. Aura turns her head, as do Dominic, Lucas and Josef. Aura’s eyes widen slightly as panic begins to overcome her.

CUT TO: BLACK

OPENING CREDITS ROLL

THEMESONG: “Not Gonna Get Us” - Tatu

The eerie start of the song plays as we see grey smoke. “Haven” in black, torn letters fades in. It disappears as the drums start. The smoke is gone also. There are a series of quick shots: a gun being fired. A high-heeled foot stepping next to a pole. A syringe injecting someone’s arm. A knife being raised. A key turning in a lock. Coins scattering on a table. A close up of a woman’s lips as she applies lipstick. A shovel being forced into the ground. A close up of someone handcuffing another person’s wrists. A hand flicking a cigarette lighter on. A pair of pliers approaching someone’s finger. A dagger covered in blood hitting the ground. A hand grabbing on to someone’s arm. A close up of an eye opening wide.

As the song suddenly becomes more energetic, there is a montage of criminal records, each face only seen for a fraction of a second.

The camera zooms towards Juliet looking shocked.

MELISSA GEORGE

The credit flickers on to the screen. There is a shot of Juliet walking with a neutral expression on her face. There is a shot of Juliet pointing a gun looking resolute. There is a shot of Juliet turning her face, looking serious. The credit flickers away.

There is a shot of Juliet, Grace and Tegan running. There is a shot of the illuminated “Summertime General” sign.

There is a shot of Devyn reaching out for something.

JUSTIN THEROUX

The credit flickers on to the screen. There is a shot of Devyn punching someone. There is a shot of him leaning against a wall. There is a shot of him smiling, a little smugly. The credit flickers away.

There is a shot of a little girl with a knife in her hand. There is a shot of a gun being fired into the air.

There is a shot of Tegan typing on a computer.

LEISHA HAILEY

The credit flickers on to the screen. There is a shot of Tegan turning, the flash of sirens causing her to shield her eyes. There is a shot of Tegan putting her hand over mouth. There is a shot of Tegan ****ing her head slightly, smiling. The credit flickers away.

A shot of a woman walking down a corridor of Haven, purposefully. A shot of a man and a woman kissing.

There is a shot of Gael holding out a large knife.

CHARLIE HUNNAM

The credit flickers on to the screen. There is a shot of Gael hugging someone. There is a shot of a tear streaming down Gael’s face. There is a shot of Gael laughing. The credit flickers away.

A shot of the main entrance opening. A shot of Mark and Aura turning looking surprised in Summertime General.

There is a shot of Grace carrying a plate of food.

SANDRA OH

The credit flickers on to the screen. There is a shot of Grace putting her head in her hands. A shot of her putting her finger over her lips. A shot of her smiling a little. The credit flickers away.

There is a shot of an explosion. A shot of Grace crying in Gael’s arms.

There is a shot of Aura sat at one of the tables in Haven’s kitchen.

DANA DAVIS

The credit flickers on to the screen. There is a shot of Aura turning looking shocked. A shot of her at the till in Summertime General. A shot of her smiling kindly. The credit flickers away.

There is a shot of a hand being placed on the identification pad. A shot of Bethany kissing someone.

There is a shot of Mark walking down the first lower corridor.

RYAN CARNES

The credits flicker on to the screen. There is a shot of Mark looking troubled. A shot of Mark diving out of the way of something. A shot of Mark stroking someone’s hair.

There is a shot of Royce punching someone. A shot of a man moving over a man’s bare stomach.

There is a shot of Jackie sitting in a chair, her index finger on her temple. She looks thoughtful.

STEPHANIE ROMANOV

The credit flickers on to the screen. There is a shot of Jackie turning, looking out of breath. A shot of her walking looking formidable. A shot of her examining a gun. The credit flickers away.

There is a shot of a corridor in Haven. The camera zooms through to the lobby, spinning around, backing through the front entrance. The doors close.

CUT TO: BLACK

Guest Starring:

PAUL ADELSTEIN – Valoro
JULIE BENZ – Erica McArthur
PERCY DAGGS – Sam Shaw
JOSH DUHAMEL – Dominic Healy
MERRIN DUNGEY – Marcia Maxx
SAM JONES – Lucas Pedance
PETER KRAUSE – Warren Jeffers
MARLENE LAWSTON – Amy McArthur
CHRIS LOWELL – Rick Parkman
JASON MOMOA – Josef Porter
ANNA PAQUIN - Elle LaTour
JAMES PICKENS JR. – Royce Appleby
AMANDA SEYFRIED – Bethany Thyme
EVAN RACHEL WOOD – Nicole Lindstrom

[Alex]

ACT I

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN LOBBY

Valoro turns his head as he hears the gunshot. He has apparently been talking to Nicole. Both look equally concerned. Behind them Gael and Warren sit, tied-up, looking more fearful, but equally as curious. Gael notices the confusion on his captors’ faces. This catches Valoro’s eye. He tries to regain his composure and looks at Nicole. He smiles.

Valoro: Nicole, go with Ved and check that out will you?

He raises his smile very slightly as he asks this. Nicole knows Gael and Warren are nearby and so talks quietly.

Nicole: You think there’s a problem?

Valoro narrows his eyes very slightly.

Valoro: That’s what you’re going to find out.

Nicole hesitates but then heads to the stairs followed by a male Response member. Valoro looks satisfied and then looks at Gael again. Gael has seen that Valoro did not anticipate whatever is happening below.

The camera then moves away from the lobby quickly, past Nicole and Ved on the stairs and down the corridor to the scene in the first lower-corridor, stopping as Aura turns her head. Dominic takes the opportunity and grabs her arm. She looks alarmed as the gun goes off, hitting the wall.

CUT TO:

INT. FIRST LOWER-CORRIDOR STAIRWELL

Nicole and Ved freeze and look at one another. Then they quickly rush to move into position.

CUT TO:

INT. FIRST LOWER-CORRIDOR

Grace grabs Aura as Dominic manages to pry the gun away from her. Josef notices Ved at the end of the corridor as he tries to get a position on the other side and shoots.

CUT TO:

INT. FIRST LOWER-CORRIDOR STAIRWELL

Ved is forced back as the bullet hits him in the shoulder. Nicole’s eyes widen as he falls to the ground.

CUT TO:

INT. FIRST LOWER-CORRIDOR

Dominic points Aura’s former gun at her, looking at Josef and then at the end of the corridor. Aura turns also as Nicole points her own automatic gun from around the corner and starts shooting.

Dominic barely has time to react as a bullet hits his arm causing him to gasp in pain and drop the gun. Aura and Grace back against the wall, Grace’s eyes shocked as she sees Dominic is hit. Several other bullets hit the wall, one hits Josef in the chest. He splutters and begins to fall back as Lucas catches him, trying to dodge Nicole’s array of bullets. Lucas takes Josef’s gun and shoots in Nicole’s direction. Nicole backs away as this happens.

Grace takes this opportunity to grab Dominic and pull him in to Room 5, Lucas hurries after with Josef.

CUT TO:

INT. FIRST LOWER-CORRIDOR STAIRWELL

Nicole stands with her back against a small section of the corridor she has been using to shield her, breathing heavily. Valoro appears at the top of the stairs, along with other Response members behind him.

Valoro: What the hell’s going on down there?

Nicole looks up at him.

Nicole: A problem.

She prepares herself and then turns again pointing her gun ready for another round. However there is no one left in the corridor except J’s unconscious body. Nicole narrows her eyes.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN KITCHEN

Juliet and Devyn look worried by what they can hear happening. The male Response member with them is the same one seen at the beginning of 1.13 who Aura and Mark “introduced” to The Response. He smiles unkindly at them.

Man: Sounds like some of your guys being put back in line.

Juliet gives him a hate-filled look.

Juliet: If you have killed anyone else-

Man: You’ll what? Don’t act like you have power anymore here lady. Your time is over.

He laughs dismissively and sits on the table. Juliet looks angry, but knows that he could be right. Devyn looks at her. He speaks quietly.

Devyn: Don’t let him get to you.

Juliet looks at him. She smiles weakly at his attempt at comfort but looks down as she considers their predicament. The camera moves down to Devyn’s bound hands. He is slowly dislodging the screw in the handle of the cupboard door his hands are tied to.

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 5

Aura is forced against the wall as Grace takes the gun from the dead female Response member and points it at her. Dominic stands behind her clutching his arm. Aura stares at her wondering whether she will shoot or not. Grace looks over as Lucas, Marcia and Erica lift Josef’s body on to the bed. He looks pale, blood slowly trickling from the wound on his chest. Erica looks at it, clearly worried, her children standing close to her.

Erica: His breathing’s stable so they missed the lung, but we need to stop the bleeding.

Lucas looks at her.

Lucas: You a doctor?

Erica shakes her head.

Erica: Only a couple of years at med-school. Get one of the pillows, press it down as firmly as you can.

Lucas does so. Josef gasps slightly. He opens his eyes a fraction, looking at Lucas.

Josef: Did I get one?

Lucas smiles weakly.

Lucas: Looked like it.

Josef smiles as best he can.

Josef: Damn good shot.

Aura looks serious. Josef’s smile fades as he gasps slightly, clearly in pain. Everyone looks on anxiously.

Grace: Is he gonna live?

Erica looks at her.

Erica: Not for long down here.

Grace looks serious. She looks back at Dominic, still pointing the gun directly at Aura.

Grace: How about you, you ok?

Dominic nods.

Dominic: Yeah, don’t worry about me.

They share a slight smile. Marcia tears some of the bed covers off. Lucas looks confused.

Marcia: For his arm, right?

She looks at Erica who nods. Marcia walks over to Dominic who smiles thankfully as Marcia helps to tie up his wound. Grace looks back at Aura at last. Lucas looks over too. Grace speaks slowly.

Grace: I have very little today, maybe you can understand why. So I need a quick answer: either you are shooting us, or you are shooting your O.C. mafia friends. Choose. Or I will shoot you and we won’t have to worry about that answer.

Aura pauses. The others watch, wondering what will happen next. Aura stares at Grace seriously.

Aura: I know you don’t care; but there’s a reason Mark and I didn’t have much choice in all this-

Grace: You’re right I don’t care, skip to the part where you answer my question.

Aura looks frustrated.

Aura: It ain’t as easy as saying I’ll help you or them!

Grace looks impatient. Aura looks at her pleadingly.

Aura: I don’t wanna see anyone else die for no reason.

Dominic looks serious. Grace’s finger hovers on the trigger.

Aura: Please.

Grace looks annoyed but then exhales quickly.

Grace: Fine, stay in the corner out of the way, and you live for now.

Aura breathes a sigh of relief.

Grace: If you try anythi-

Aura: I won’t.

Grace looks serious and lowers the gun.

Marcia: Bitch do you get too comfortable.

Marcia gives her a dark look. Aura looks at her in a way that shows she clearly won’t. Marcia finishes tying up Dominic’s wound. He smiles as thanks and then takes Grace’s arm with the hand of his unwounded arm, leading her several steps away from where they just were. He glances at Aura and then at Grace. They talk in near whispers.

Dominic: We’re just gonna leave her here unguarded?

Grace looks serious.

Grace: I don’t see much alternative right now.

Dominic: Maybe...

He hesitates and talks even more quietly.

Dominic: Maybe we can’t afford to keep her alive.

Grace cocks her head slightly.

Grace: Dominic if you wanna shoot her now, then I’m not gonna stop you, and I would probably feel a lot safer too, but she might be our biggest bargaining chip right now. Think about it.

Dominic realises she has a point and looks over at Aura. She avoids looking back at him as she sits down. Grace looks at the door; the one thing keeping them from The Response who could be just outside.

CUT TO: BLACK

[Alex]

ACT II

CUT TO:

INT. RESPONSE HIDEOUT

Valoro sits opposite Aura. She surveys him uncertainly.

Valoro: If you work with us...the streets'll be a thing of the past for you. And so will running.

Aura hesitates.

Aura: Me and Mark've never been a part of something like this, why do you want us so bad?

Valoro: Because numbers are the most important thing to us. We want everyone we can get.

Aura considers this.

Valoro: Your alternative is to go back out there and see how long you last as a petty thief. I'm guessing not too much longer than your friends.

Aura says nothing for a moment.

Aura: I don't know if I can kill someone. I...I never thought I'd have to.

Valoro watches her, he leans forward, placing his hands together. He exhales.

Valoro: This is about survival, Aura. For all of us. In an ideal world, none of us would ever have to meet, and we could all just get on with our lives. I mean we all got reasons for what we do, right?

Aura hesitates but then nods slightly.

Valoro: None of us want to talk about what we deserve but it ain't what this city considers "justice". We have to take these people on, or we're gonna be hunted down and disappear. If you agree that can't happen, then what is stopping you taking one more step and joining us?

Aura looks more interested now. She sits up.

Aura: Nothing.

Valoro smiles. Aura smiles back slightly, looking apprehensive about her future.

FADE TO: GREY

CUT TO:

EXT. PARK - NIGHT

The drum beat plays again as the scene falls into slow motion. Aura and Mark drag the unconscious body of the man, just as they did at the start of 1.13.

QUICK FADE TO: BLACK

QUICK FADE TO:

INT. RESPONSE HIDEOUT

Aura and Mark look at one another as Valoro offers them the torture "victim".

QUICK FADE TO: BLACK

QUICK FADE TO:

INT. JETHRO'S APARTMENT

Aura and Mark walk through the door as Jethro invites them in, both of them smiling weakly as they prepare to abandon the life they thought they could live. Jethro closes the door.

QUICK FADE TO: BLACK

QUICK FADE TO:

INT. SUMMERTIME GENERAL ? DUSK

Mark turns the "Open" sign to "Closed". His face suddenly freezes as a figure appears on the other side of the door. It is Valoro. He smiles at Mark. Mark stares back, his face draining of colour.

FADE TO: GREY

FADE TO:

INT. HAVEN LOBBY

Valoro, Nicole and several other Response members are gathered around.

Male Response member: What about some more smoke grenades?

Nicole: We can't get nearly close enough for that.

Valoro: She's right.

Valoro looks thoughtful.

Valoro: We're gonna have to sort this out another way.

The others look curious. Valoro looks at a second male Response member.

Valoro: Austin go up and help Elle bring down our special guest.

The Response member nods and walks away.

Valoro: Nicole, Flynn, you're with me. Rest of you, keep on eye on these two and shoot anyone that starts to come up the stairs.

A female Response member narrows her brow.

Female Response member: What if it's-

Valoro: Use you're goddamn common sense, ok?

He smiles falsely. The Response member looks embarrassed. Valoro turns quickly and looks at Nicole.

Valoro: Follow the leader.

Nicole and a Response member who is presumably Flynn do so. Nicole makes eye contact with Gael for a second before she walks out of view into the dining area.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN KITCHEN

Juliet turns her head as Valoro bursts in, immediately pointing his gun at her. The male Response member guarding them jumps down from the table he has been sat on. He looks like he wants to ask something but is holding back. Valoro glances at him as Nicole and Flynn join him and then looks at Juliet. He smiles awkwardly.

Valoro: Time to move you closer to the action. Struggling will result in bullets, by the way.

Nicole and Flynn move toward Juliet and prepare to un-handcuff her. Juliet looks at them and then at Valoro.

Juliet: What's going on?

Valoro does not respond. Devyn notes his expression.

Devyn: You don't know do you?

Valoro looks at him and points his gun at him. He smiles but is clearly annoyed, hesitating.

Valoro: I know more than you do.

Devyn still stares at him. Nicole and Flynn make Juliet stand as they handcuff her hands behind her back again. Juliet looks at Valoro seriously.

Juliet: He's right though. You're not looking so confident.

She gives him a challenging look. Valoro looks annoyed and walks towards Devyn, pointing the gun a few inches from his head.

Valoro: And then I put a gun to this guy's head and you're not looking so confident!

He raises his eyebrows as if entertained. Juliet looks worried that he might go through with his threat. Valoro relaxes slightly.

Valoro: Don't worry Jules. He can stick around for now.

He looks down at Devyn, his eyes flashing.

Valoro: But there's still plenty of time to die.

He smiles darkly, Devyn staring back at him defiantly. Valoro turns and begins to walk out.

Valoro: Let's go.

Nicole and Flynn escort Juliet behind Valoro. Juliet looks back at Devyn, the two sharing an uncertain look. As they leave, Ian stares at Devyn and smiles.

Ian: Gonna be lonely without your girl?

Devyn looks at him angrily.

Ian: Damn...I could have some fun with her.

He raises his eyebrows for a second smiling darkly. Devyn pulls at his cuffs in anger. There is a close up of the cupboard handle, becoming looser once again. Ian laughs slightly and walks over to the fridge, Devyn still watching him, seething. However he glances down slightly as he knows he is close to escape.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN DINING AREA

Juliet stares at Valoro as he walks in front of her, uncertain about what is going on.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN LOBBY

They turn the corner. Juliet sees Gael and Warren. Gael smiles weakly at her, but Warren looks no less encouraged to see her. Juliet looks serious as she remembers Marissa once again. However she has little time to think as the door to the surveillance room opens. Austin appears, followed by Sam and then a female Response member. Juliet looks slightly relieved to see Sam is alive but then looks concerned as she notices Valoro smiling at him. Sam notices Valoro but does not look too shocked. Valoro smiles more widely.

Valoro: Sammy! How you've grown!

He shakes his head.

Valoro: Trust you to end up in a place like this.

Sam stares at him angrily. Juliet looks shocked that Sam knows Valoro. Valoro looks at her.

Valoro: Don't worry Jules; young Sam here had no idea what Mark and Aura were planning.

He looks at Sam again, still smiling.

Valoro: Sam and I go back a lot further than that.

Sam looks uneasy. Gael watches, intrigued. Valoro approaches Sam slowly.

Valoro: Moment I found out you were here...how could I resist an opportunity to bring you back?

Sam narrows his brow.

Sam: No way in hell I'm helping you.

Valoro seems amused by this. He waves his gun in the direction of Warren and Gael

Valoro: I could shoot these two in various places until you agree.

He raises his eyebrows. Warren and Gael look anxious. Sam tries to look defiant.

Sam: You ain't gonna shoot the-

A gunshot deafens the room. Warren cries out as blood streams from his ear. He continues to gasp in pain as Sam stares at him looking shocked. Valoro stares directly at Sam still, his eyes flashing with intent.

Valoro: Wrong.

Juliet closes her eyes looking afraid for what will happen next. Gael looks as if he wants to help Warren, but can only watch with his hands bound.

Valoro: So I ask again, Sam; what are your thoughts on helping me out for old time's sake?

He smirks darkly. Sam stares at him and glances at Juliet. She stares back, equally at a loss.

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 21

Bethany walks out from the en suite.

Bethany: I can't hear any voices up there, but I dunno, maybe they're really quiet.

Tegan is sat on the end of the bed, pointing her gun at Rick who is sat with Mark against the right wall. Their hands are both tied. Royce is also sat down, pointing his gun at Mark. Tegan raises an eyebrow at Bethany who shrugs. Amy, also sat on the bed, watches her. Tegan exhales.

Tegan: Thanks for going up there anyway.

Bethany smiles slightly and sits down on the bed next to Amy. Tegan looks at Royce.

Tegan: Whatta you think? Worth the risk?

Royce hesitates.

Royce: We're taking a risk whatever we do. But...I think this is the only way we can avoid a fight.

Rick scoffs. Tegan looks at him, annoyed.

Tegan: We can always use this guy as a shield.

Rick stares back trying to look confident. Royce looks serious and shakes his head.

Royce: He only has to shout and his people will hear. He and Mark need to stay down here with at least one of us.

Tegan realises this is true.

Tegan: I'll stay with Amy.

Amy looks at her.

Royce: You're sure?

Tegan nods.

Tegan: You guys go up there; do what you can.

She looks from Royce to Bethany, nodding. Bethany hesitates but then stands, followed by Royce. Royce puts his hand on Tegan's shoulder.

Royce: Be careful.

Tegan smiles slightly, nodding.

Tegan: Good luck.

Bethany and Royce walk into the en suite. Tegan looks at Mark and Rick, still pointing her gun. Amy shuffles round slightly on the bed to sit next to Tegan. Tegan glances at her and smiles as best she can, holding her hand. Amy looks back at her seriously.

Amy: Do you think my mom and my brother and sister are...

She doesn't want to finish the sentence. Tegan looks serious.

Tegan: I don't think these people would hurt them.

She looks at Mark.

Tegan: Am I right?

Mark nods slightly. Rick rolls his eyes.

Rick: You let kids into a place like this and you're surprised that they might get hurt.

He smiles in slight disbelief as Tegan stares back at him.

Tegan: Where else are they supposed to go? You want them to join you in the good fight for criminals everywhere?

Rick doesn't respond. Tegan looks at Mark.

Tegan: How the hell could you choose this Mark?

He looks up at Tegan.

Tegan: You really think these are the people who can take on Amethyst?

Mark pauses. He stares into space.

Mark: They gave me a chance to survive when I needed it.

Rick looks pleased by this. Tegan looks disappointed. Mark looks up at Tegan. He pauses.

Mark: And then...I came here and got a chance to do a little more than just survive.

Rick's smile falls. Tegan looks surprised. Mark looks as if he has found a new confidence from somewhere.

Rick: Mark, why are you-

Mark turns to him.

Mark: What? Why am I not trying to justify all this? Why am I not trying to convince myself that there was never any alternative to betraying the few people who ever tried to get to know me?

Rick looks taken-a-back that Mark feels this way. Tegan looks confused. Mark looks at her.

Mark: Aura, and I, we didn't choose this, Tegan.

Tegan narrows her brow.

Tegan: What, someone put a gun to your head and told you to plan this, for months?

Mark hesitates.

Mark: Not our heads.

Tegan looks confused. Mark looks conflicted over whether to reveal his true motives or whether there is any point now.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN LOBBY

Valoro smiles at Sam who refuses to make eye contact with him.

Valoro: I'd give you a gun but then you might use it, so forgive me.

Sam still doesn't look him in the eye as Valoro turns to look at Juliet.

Valoro: As for you, Jules; we're taking a trip downstairs. Where you are gonna convince your underlings to give up those little guns they stole, or I tell my guys to go down the second floor and shoot a room full of people.

Juliet looks afraid. Gael looks down as he already knows what she will do. Warren is next to him, breathing through the pain of his bullet wound. Juliet silently walks in the direction of the first lower-corridor stairs. Valoro looks satisfied and turns to the other Response members.

Valoro: Elle, Adam, Shaun, Robert, you're with us. Rest of you keep watch of everything up here.

Valoro looks at Sam.

Valoro: Especially this one.

He smirks slightly and then turns to Juliet. He flicks his gun expectantly. Juliet swallows and then complies. Valoro and four other Response members follow. The female Response member who came down with Sam smiles weakly at him as she walks away

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 5

Josef lies on the bed looking extremely pale. The others are sat or stood around looking grave as they consider his fate as well as their own. Grace looks serious.

Grace: They could be stood on the other side of the door. Especially considering there's at least one body in the corridor.

They pause.

Lucas: What if we send her first?

He nods at Aura. The others all look at her; she looks awkward but stands her ground.

Aura: Valoro'll be expecting the hostage thing.

Dominic steps towards her slightly.

Dominic: Maybe you're just saying that in case you die.

Aura looks incredulous.

Aura: I am trying to keep you alive.

Grace: Yeah, you're a real asset. You bring a group of fairly trigger happy vigilantes into our home and then back down as if you weren't the one who opened the front door.

Aura glares at her.

Aura: I coulda' shot you.

She looks around.

Aura: Any of you, I could've-

Voice OS: Grace.

Everyone turns to look at the door; the voice is Juliet's, coming from the other side. Grace looks at Aura and then walks slowly to the door with her gun firmly poised.

Grace: Juliet?

There is a pause.

Juliet: G-Grace...you need to send Aura out.

Grace stops walking and then looks at Aura. Aura looks as uncertain as she does.

Grace: Who's with you?

CUT TO:

INT. FIRST LOWER-CORRIDOR

Juliet is stood with Valoro, several doors down from Room 5. Valoro's gun is pointed at her from behind. She turns to look at him. He shrugs slightly.

Valoro: Tell her.

Juliet turns her head back slowly and exhales.

Juliet: I'm with the leader of Aura's people.

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 5

Grace looks serious. Dominic watches, unnerved. Erica looks scared. Aura closes her eyes.

Juliet OS: Grace; if you don't send Aura out, people out here are gonna get hurt.

Erica looks up suddenly. She hurries to the door.

Erica: Juliet?

Her tone is desperate.

CUT TO:

INT. FIRST LOWER-CORRIDOR

Juliet looks surprised. Valoro looks cautious.

Juliet: Erica?

Erica OS: Is Amy out there?

Juliet looks back at Valoro. He shrugs looking confused.

Valoro: You think I know the names of you people?

Juliet: She's a child.

Valoro looks suspicious suddenly.

Valoro: Only two I know about are in there.

Juliet looks serious.

Erica: Juliet!?

She is almost screaming. Juliet turns quickly.

Juliet: Erica I don't know where Amy is.

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 5

Erica looks slightly relieved to know how daughter's life is not in imminent danger, but she still looks worried. Grace looks at her and then Aura.

Grace: Looks like you're gonna have to go.

Aura stands up looking serious.

Aura: He ain't gonna stop with me-

Grace: We'll deal with that, now go.

She indicates the door. "We Need a War" by Fischerspooner starts to play. Aura hesitates but then begins to walk to the door.

CUT TO:

INT. FIRST LOWER-CORRIDOR

Aura walks out. Valoro is stood holding his gun at Juliet, several doors down from Room 5; various other Response members can be seen standing in the background. Aura slowly walks up to them as Valoro smiles.

Valoro: You hurt?

Aura: No.

She looks at Juliet, but Juliet's gaze is cold.

Valoro: Paige?

Aura hesitates and shakes her head again. Valoro looks annoyed but nods. He raises his gun to Juliet again.

Valoro: That's two of my people dead, one seriously injured. I don't think we're quite even. Tell me, Jules; out of all your guests and your staff, who will you miss least?

Juliet's eyes widen as she stares forwards.

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 5

Grace hears this also and begins to realise what will happen next.

CUT TO:

INT. JULIET'S OFFICE

The bookshelf moves aside as Royce walks forward, his gun raised. Bethany looks slightly relieved as she appears behind him.

Bethany: Well that's one thing that's gone our way.

Royce: For now. Hurry.

Bethany nods and sits down at Juliet's desk, preparing to type.

?We need a war
We need a war to show 'em'

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN LOBBY

Sam stands looking conflicted, avoiding the stare of Gael as he comes into focus in the background. Nicole surveys them and then turns to a male Response member.

Nicole: I'm gonna check if the money's gone through, keep watch.

He nods at her command, and she heads off to the main corridor, towards Juliet's office...

?We need a war to show 'em that we can
We need a war to show 'em that we can do it whenever we say we need a war'

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN KITCHEN

Devyn stares at Ian who is pacing the room near him.

?If they mess with us
If we think they might'

CUT TO:

INT. JULIET'S OFFICE

Bethany continues to type urgently.

?Mess with us'

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN MAIN CORRIDOR

Nicole walks towards the office door.

?If we say they might'

CUT TO:

INT. FIRST LOWER-CORRIDOR

Aura hesitates as she considers Valoro's disturbing question to Juliet. She closes her eyes.

?Mess with us'
If we think we need a war'

And takes out a second gun from her jacket.

?We need a war'

She shoots.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN KITCHEN

Ian turns his head as he hears the gunshot. Devyn takes the opportunity and pulls at the cupboard door with all his might, ripping it off its hinges. Ian looks back only to be hit in the face as Devyn swings the door, still attached to his handcuffs.

?We need a war
If we think we need a war'

CUT TO:

INT. FIRST LOWER-CORRIDOR

Valoro gasps in pain as the bullet hits his hand. He drops the gun. The other Response members barely have time to react as Aura shoots up, hitting the lights above them. They shield themselves from the falling glass. Juliet's fast reflexes kick in as she grabs the gun and then smacks Valoro in the face.

?We need a war
If we think we need a war'

As the instrumental part of the song continues, the other Response members try to aim at Juliet without hitting Valoro. Several bullets hit the wall. Aura backs away, as does Juliet; they both run to Room 5 as Valoro looks up, enraged.

CUT TO:

INT. JULIET'S OFFICE

Bethany gets up hurriedly and runs as Royce hurriedly places the book back in the shelf. As the shelf closes, Nicole enters. However in his rush, Royce did not put the book back properly. It falls with a slight thud. Nicole immediately looks suspicious and steps forward. The gunfire from below is heard clearly. She turns, considering what to do next. The song ends.

CUT TO: BLACK

[Alex]

ACT III

CUT TO:

EXT. SUMMERTIME GENERAL – NIGHT

Mark walks out, removing his badge. Valoro watches him, a neutral expression on his face. Mark surveys Valoro nervously.

Mark: How...did you find-

Valoro: Wasn’t that hard. I looked. And I found.

Mark looks serious. Valoro glances at Summertime General.

Valoro: Impressive.

He looks back at Mark.

Valoro: A whole hotel underneath here. Bet that took some planning huh?

Mark looks very uncomfortable.

Mark: (quietly) Valoro-

Valoro: I don’t have time for whatever you’re gonna say. And even if I did, I don’t think either one of us would really care, do you?

Mark says nothing. Valoro continues.

Valoro: I came here tonight to talk to you about something specific. A project I’ve been planning.

Mark immediately looks suspicious.

Mark: Project?

Valoro: Yes. You may have left us without looking back, but The Response hasn’t stopped. In fact, we’ve grown. I guess we have this “Amethyst” group to thank for that.

Mark looks serious.

Mark: What do you want?

Valoro: Haven.

Mark looks at him in disbelief.

Mark: You...can’t be seri-

Valoro: Oh, I am. Believe me, I’ve been after this place for over two years.

He laughs slightly.

Valoro: And then, you and Aura, managed to lead me right to it. Ain’t that weird?

He smiles darkly. Mark stares back trying to look defiant.

Mark: I’m not gonna help you.

Valoro smiles fades slightly but he still looks calm.

Valoro: Yes, Mark, you are. You both are. Because, you see, I have an insurance policy.

Mark knows he should be afraid of the implications of this.

Mark: What do you mean?

Valoro smiles in a way that would appear kind to anyone who did not know Valoro’s true intentions.

Valoro: I’ve been doing a lot of walking around the city, trying to find you. I came across a nice little suburban area. Uh, let me think, what was it called? Oh, right, Wendover Close.

The camera moves towards Mark’s face slowly as he looks horrified. Valoro narrows his brow, still smiling slightly.

Valoro: Hey isn’t that where your sister and her family live?

Mark swallows looking fearful.

FADE TO: GREY

QUICK FADE TO:

INT. SUMMERTIME GENERAL

Mark looks in from the outside, considering what he may be forced to do.

QUICK FADE TO: BLACK

QUICK FADE TO:

INT. AURA’S ROOM

The drums play once more. Mark stands with Aura. She looks fearful as she hears about Valoro’s return.

QUICK FADE TO: BLACK

QUICK FADE TO:

INT. SUMMERTIME GENERAL

Nicole pushes a package on to the counter. Aura takes it and places it down below the counter, knowing that it is another gun.

QUICK FADE TO: BLACK

QUICK FADE TO:

INT. THIRD LOWER-CORRIDOR

The third lower-corridor is still in disarray, not yet refurbished. Mark places several guns in one of the rooms. Aura stands behind him looking serious.

FADE TO: GREY

FADE TO:

INT. HAVEN, ROOM 21

Mark is sat looking sombre. Rick glances at him uneasily. Tegan stares at him, her gun still poised, but her expression softer.

Tegan: I...can see why you felt you had no choice but to do this.

Mark avoids her gaze. She hesitates and then crouches near to him.

Tegan: Listen to me.

He looks at her.

Tegan: I’m not saying-

The gunfire from upstairs is heard. Tegan glances up. Amy looks scared in the background.

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 5

Juliet and Aura hurry inside, Juliet slamming the door behind her. The others look alarmed.

Dominic: You ok?

Juliet: I’m fine. We need to-

Her eyes rest on Josef, and a look of horror comes across her face as she realises how badly injured he is.

CUT TO:

INT. FIRST LOWER CORRIDOR

Valoro looks angry as he gets up, blood seeping from his hand. He clutches his back with his un-injured hand as other Response members hurry up to him. Sam is accompanied down the stairs by one of them. Valoro turns to those near him.

Valoro: I want those two alive!

The others hesitate.

Male Response member: That’s gonna be difficult-

Valoro grabs him with his good hand and slams him against the wall.

Valoro: Shoot ‘em if you have to, but make it non-fatal.

He grits his teeth in pain as the others prepare to shoot at the door. Valoro looks back and makes eye contact with Sam. He clenches his fists.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN KITCHEN

Ian lands on the floor hard, his nose and face bleeding from being hit by Devyn. Devyn tries to break the chain around his hand, as Ian shoots near him. Devyn ducks as the automatic gun’s bullets hit the wall, shattering the tiles.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN LOBBY

Gael and Warren turn as they hear this. The two Response members remaining to guard them look worried and hurry into the kitchen.

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 5

Juliet, Dominic, Aura and Lucas push a chest of drawers in front of the door. Grace points her gun at the door, prepared. Juliet looks at Aura seriously.

Juliet: I need to know what you’re doing.

Aura looks at her. Suddenly gun shots hit the door. Everyone looks alert and back away from the door as holes appear near the handle. Juliet raises the gun she took from Valoro, while Aura raises her own gun. Dominic raises the one Josef took.

Aura: Saving your ass. That ok with you?

Juliet hesitates. Raised voices can be heard outside. She realises she has no choice but to rely on Aura for now. Juliet looks back at Erica and her children.

Juliet: Get into the en suite!

They do so as bullets start to enter the room. One hits Marcia in the shoulder. She gasps and falls back. Juliet’s eyes widen. She shoots several times into the large hole that has been created by The Response’s bullets.

CUT TO:

INT. FIRST LOWER-CORRIDOR

The male Response member who spoke before splutters as he falls back, a bullet wound in his stomach. The others back away slightly as they realise the danger they could be in. Valoro scowls, narrowing his eyes.

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 5

Juliet looks around, alert.

Juliet: We need to get back!

Lucas is with Marcia, who is hurt but still able to get behind the bed. Aura moves behind the wardrobe. Grace and Dominic back around the corner of the en suite. Juliet stays near the entrance. Lucas looks at her.

Lucas: What about him?

He indicates Josef. Juliet has no time to respond as the door is shoved ajar slightly, but blocked by the chest in the way. Juliet inhales and then shoots.

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 21

Tegan closes her eyes and then opens them again.

Tegan: I’m not saying...that this makes everything all right. But...if you help fix this now, Mark...Lililana has a lot of people at her disposal she can protect your family, Aura’s too.

Mark looks conflicted.

Mark: Valoro...is very efficient.

Tegan narrows her brow.

Tegan: You said you didn’t wanna believe there was no alternative. Well this is a pretty damn good one. It’s the only way you are gonna escape this for good.

Mark looks her in the eyes. Tegan persists.

Tegan: You said you left The Response because of what Valoro was trying to make you do. I know you don’t want this. Be more!

Tegan stares at him firmly. Rick looks at Mark bitterly. Mark inhales.

Mark: All ri-

Rick suddenly kicks at her, knocking the gun from her hands. It slides across the floor hitting the ground. Amy looks scared as Rick jumps up, his hands still tied, elbowing Tegan in face. Tegan falls back, hitting her head on the bedpost. She falls to the ground looking weakened by the blow. Mark tries to retaliate against Rick but Rick is too quick; he places his arm around Mark’s neck, managing to choke him despite his hands being tied. Mark struggles but to no avail.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN KITCHEN

Devyn rolls forward, Ian raises the gun and hits Devyn on the shoulder. Devyn falls to the ground but rolls away to avoid Ian hitting him again. He swings the cupboard door still attached to his wrist by the chain and it hits Ian in the face once again. Ian spits blood as Devyn slams the corner of the door down on his skull. Ian’s body twitches as his gasping can be heard off-screen. Devyn hesitates and then grabs the gun and gets up. As he does, the female and male Response member who were in the lobby burst in. Devyn’s eyes widen and he immediately shoots.

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 21

Rick: Valoro said you and Aura came here to take this place for us.

Mark begins to lose breath as Rick squeezes even harder.

Rick: Turns out you’re nothing but a little bitch, too scared to ever-

Rick falls back as a bullet hits him in the chest. He falls back, as Mark struggles to regain his breath. Tegan looks up weakly, her head cut from the fall. She looks at Rick and then at Amy, as does Mark. Amy lowers the gun as Royce and Bethany appear from the en suite. Tegan stares at Amy in shock.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN LOBBY

Devyn hurries in, his gun raised prepared to shoot. He has managed to take the chain from his wrist. He sees that only Gael and Warren are there. However voices can be heard from below. Devyn lowers his gun.

Gael: Devyn!

Devyn crouches and begins to untie Gael’s hands.

Devyn: What’s going on down there?

Gael shrugs.

Gael: You tell us.

He rubs his wrists as Devyn moves on to Warren. Gael’s eyes widen as footsteps are heard. Devyn quickly grabs his gun and prepares to shoot. He moves his arm indicating for Warren and Gael to move back. They do so, moving back behind the wall of the kitchen. Devyn moves to the other side of the entrance. He waits.

Suddenly Austin moves his gun around and shoots twice. Devyn flinches slightly as he hears the bullets hit the wall near him. He turns and shoots back, but Austin is taking cover behind the wall. Devyn, Gael and Warren quickly run back.

Devyn: Get behind the counter!

They aim to do so. Devyn jumps up and over as Austin appears and continues shooting. Devyn shoots several times before looking at Gael and Warren who are crouched near him. Devyn.

Devyn: There are more guns in the kitchen!

Gael nods as he and Warren make a run for the kitchen door.

CUT TO:

INT. FIRST LOWER CORRIDOR

The remaining Response members are shooting at the door still, almost through. Valoro watches.

Voice OS: Valoro! We have a problem up here!

Valoro turns his head as he sees a male Response member on the stairs. He turns to Elle.

Valoro: Get up there!

Elle nods and runs. Valoro looks back at the other two male Response members. He glares at them and they begin shooting again. Sam watches Elle running. She looks at him expectantly as she approaches.

Elle: Stay back ok?

Sam hesitates and then follows her.

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 5

Marcia looks in pain as Grace turns and shoots several times from around the door of the en suite. Lucas looks at Marcia.

Lucas: Marcia-

Marcia: I’m ok.

She glances at Josef who is looking pale. He is losing blood due to the lack of pressure on his wound. She hesitates and then jumps over the bed, pressing down on the pillow once more. Juliet looks over at her as she is now a clear target.

Juliet: Marcia!

Bullets fly. Juliet shoots again. But she has no more bullets. Her eyes widen as she realises she has nothing more to fight with.

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 21

Tegan gets up looking unnerved by what Amy has done. She tries to smile.

Tegan: Amy, give me the gun, ok?

She holds out her hand. Amy does so. She looks awkward as she is watched by the others.

Amy: He was gonna hurt us.

Tegan glances at Mark who has only just regained his breath. He looks back. Tegan glances at Bethany and Royce and then smiles at Amy weakly once more.

Tegan: I know.

She touches her open wound slightly and flinches. Bethany looks concerned.

Bethany: Are you ok?

Tegan: Yeah, yeah, it’s nothing. Did you guys get to send the email?

Bethany nods. Tegan looks relieved and smiles at Bethany. There is a pause. Tegan looks like she is considering something. Royce looks serious.

Royce: We’ve done all we can, Tegan.

Tegan nods regretfully. She sits on the end of the bed and looks at Amy. She smiles.

Tegan: You’ll see your mom soon ok? It won’t be long.

Amy nods. Mark stands. Suddenly there is a spluttering sound. Everyone turns to look at Rick. He is gasping slightly. Tegan’s eyes widen as she realises he is still alive. She makes eye contact with Mark. Tegan stands up slowly and points the gun at Rick as he stares back at her, blood seeping from his mouth. Bethany realises what is happening and takes Amy’s hand.

Bethany: You don’t wanna see this sweetie.

Amy looks at Tegan but Bethany moves her head away. Mark looks regretfully at Rick but then nods at Tegan. Tegan inhales, preparing to put Rick out of his misery.

Voice OS: Put. Your gun. Down.

Tegan freezes as she hears the voice. Everyone turns to see Nicole standing at the entrance to the en suite, her small but deadly gun ready to be fired directly at Bethany. Tegan turns slowly as Bethany breathes carefully.

Nicole: No. No moving.

Tegan stops. Royce stares at Nicole wondering how serious she is.

Nicole: Drop it.

Tegan makes eye contact with Mark and then does so. The gun falls to the ground.

CUT TO: BLACK

[Alex]

ACT IV

CUT TO:

INT. SUMMERTIME GENERAL

Tegan is at the counter. She looks preoccupied as she tries to read a magazine. Mark is stacking shelves on the far side of the shop, out of her view. The door opens. Tegan looks up but then looks back down again, paying little attention to the new arrival as they turn away.

Mark glances to his right and freezes. Valoro is stood, examining a bottle of conditioner. He smiles at Mark and places a finger on his lips. Mark looks uncertain what to do, with Tegan only metres away. However Valoro slips a note under the cap of the conditioner and smiles slightly before walking away. Mark watches him, holding the bottle and note. Valoro walks out of the shop. Tegan looks up again and then over at Mark.

Tegan: Mark, I uh, need to talk to Juliet, I’ll send someone up ok?

Mark look distant.

Mark: Sure. It’s fine.

He stares into space as he hears Tegan leaving. Once he is sure she is gone, he takes the note and unfolds it.

CUT TO:

INT. MARK’S ROOM

Aura looks down at the note:

“Soon”

She looks up, placing the note beside her on the bed. Mark is lying on the bed behind her, staring up at the ceiling.

Aura: We knew this was coming. We gotta just get on with it Mark.

Mark looks at her.

Mark: Yeah, let’s be professional about this.

She gives him a look. Mark looks serious.

Mark: Can you kill them Aura? If Valoro tells you to put a gun to Juliet’s head, could you pull the trigger? Cause if not, you cannot tell me to just get on with it.

Aura considers this.

Aura: No one’s gonna die unless they have to.

Mark looks at the ceiling again.

Mark: I don’t think we can do this anymore Aura. Not alone.

Aura’s expression stiffens as their conversation from “All My Sins Remembered” continues.

FADE TO: GREY

QUICK FADE TO:

INT. SUMMERTIME GENERAL

The drums start for the last time. Aura and Mark stand behind the counter as Valoro and the other Response members approach.

QUICK FADE TO: BLACK

QUICK FADE TO:

INT. STAIRS TO HAVEN

Aura and Mark walk forward followed by the other Response members.

QUICK FADE TO: BLACK

QUICK FADE TO:

INT. HAVEN LOBBY

Juliet opens the door as the Response approach.

QUICK FADE TO: BLACK

QUICK FADE TO:

INT. ROOM 5

Juliet looks worried as she realises she is out of bullets. She looks back to see Marcia alive. She looks somewhat relieved by knows that this may not be the case for long. Aura notices Juliet’s problem and looks concerned as she shoots twice, but her third shot is empty. There is a terrible pause. Josef gasps slightly.

Josef: Juliet...

Juliet looks over. She hesitates, looking at the door and then rushes. Marcia holds down the pillow firmly as Juliet crouches by his side. The door handle falls off as more gunshots hit the door. Grace shoots several times but then her gun also runs out of ammo.

CUT TO:

INT. FIRST LOWER-CORRIDOR

The two remaining Response members realise their ammo is out as they try and shoot more at the door. They look at Valoro. Valoro looks angry.

Valoro: Get more ammo from upstairs!

They obey and hurry along. Valoro watches them, undecided as to whether to follow.

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 5

Josef reaches out for Juliet. The others wait for more gunfire from outside.

Juliet: Josef, you shouldn’t talk-

Josef: Jules...if I die...there’s something...

Juliet looks grave. Grace, Dominic, Aura and Lucas watch the scene they could not prevent. Erica appears too, holding Teya and Riley’s hands. Marcia looks at the pillow, half drenched in Josef’s blood. She closes her eyes. Josef reaches towards his chest and appears to grab something. However as he does his hand falls still. Juliet’s remaining energy seems to lessen as she realises Josef is dead. Aura watches, knowing she is partly responsible. Grace looks at the door; all is still.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN KITCHEN

Gael and Warren run in. Gael stops as he sees the dead bodies of the Response members before him. Gael looks slightly sick as he sees Ian’s mutilated face. However Warren is not deterred at all and snatches the female Response member’s gun. Warren looks at Gael expectantly.

Gael: I’ve never used a gun before.

Warren: Neither have I.

Warren looks serious and leads the way back to the kitchen. Gael does not follow.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN KITCHEN

Warren shoots immediately as he appears, hitting Austin in the shoulder. He takes position next to Devyn. Devyn looks at him, breathing quickly, his brow narrowing.

Devyn: Where’s Gael?

Warren looks behind him and looks confused.

Warren: He was just behind-

A bullet smashes a glass on the counter. Glass showers Devyn and Warren as they shield themselves and prepare to carry on the fight.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN LOBBY

Austin cries out as he is joined by the other male Response member who stares, slightly shocked by his companion’s injury. He peers round and shoots. Elle approaches them, preparing to back them up. She looks back at Sam who stands near the stairs and then continues on. Sam watches her seriously.

CUT TO:

INT. FIRST LOWER-CORRIDOR STAIRWELL

Valoro looks up the stairs at Sam. He looks back down the corridor, the body of the dead Response member near Room 5’s door. Valoro seems deep in thought when he hears footsteps on the stairs below. He turns looking surprised.

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 5

Juliet stands looking grave.

Lucas: They’ve stopped shooting.

Juliet turns her head and looks at the door.

Juliet: They must be preoccupied by whatever’s going on upstairs.

She looks weary.

Juliet: The others could be dead by now.

Grace: Or they could be not.

Juliet glance sat her as Grace tries to share her hope. Dominic lifts his gun slightly.

Dominic: I...still two bullets.

Juliet considers this. She approaches him. He hands her the gun smiling weakly. Juliet considers what to do.

Valoro OS: Juliet.

Juliet raises her gun to the door instinctively. Gunfire can still be heard in the distance.

Valoro OS: You’re gonna send your people out one by one.

Juliet narrows her brow.

Juliet: And why would I do that?

There is a pause.

Valoro OS: Because if you don’t, then Nicole here will kill your friends. I know you have little if any ammo left. I’ve been counting, maybe you should have been too.

[i]Juliet looks concerned. She looks at Grace. Grace shakes her head. Juliet looks at the door.

Juliet: Friends?

More gunfire.

Valoro OS: Well...for a start I think we have your missing kid. With a gun to her head.

There is a pause.

Amy OS: Mom!

Erica looks horrified as she hears this. She hurries forward. Erica looks at Juliet, close to tears.

Erica: Juliet-

Juliet: It’s all right.

Juliet looks as if she is thinking fast. Grace narrows her brow. Juliet closes her eyes and then looks from Erica to all the others.

Juliet: Go.

Bullets echo from above. Grace approaches Juliet looking confused.

Grace: Jules come on-

Juliet: We can’t. Now go.

Erica doesn’t need to be told again and beckons for her children who quickly run up to her. She takes their hands as Dominic approaches the chest of draws and starts to pull. Juliet goes to help him. As they pull it away from the door, Erica slips out into the corridor. Juliet looks at the others expectantly. Marcia stands slowly and she and Lucas silently follow. Then Grace goes, avoiding eye contact with Juliet. Dominic follows her. Finally Aura and Juliet are left. Aura exhales and goes too. Juliet hesitates and then looks back at Josef’s body. She looks down at Paige’s body also, considering what to do.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN LOBBY

Sam sees Gael peering around the corner. He looks slightly relieved. Unfortunately Elle has also noticed. She points her gun and shoots, narrowly missing Gael. Sam looks at her and knows he has to make a decision as the male Response members begin shooting in both directions.

Sam: Elle!

Elle turns to him looking confused.

Elle: Sam this isn’t the time-

He punches her in the face, hard. She falls back unconscious. Sam rubs his wrist.

Sam: You’re gonna thank me for that.

The other Response members turn their guns on him as they realise what he has done. His eyes widen as he quickly attempts to roll out of their line of fire.

CUT TO:

INT. FIRST LOWER-CORRIDOR

Marcia clutches her shoulder, clearly in pain. Lucas glances at her concerned. Valoro is stood clutching Amy, the gun pointed at her head. Erica cries silently as she watches her daughter, helpless to save her.

Juliet walks out finally, the gun Dominic gave her clasped firmly in her hands.

Valoro: Nicole was kind enough to give me another gun. Liberated from the hands of one of your staff I believe.

Juliet looks worried.

Juliet: Where are they?

Valoro smiles with the power he has regained.

Valoro: They’re fine. For now.

He cocks his head.

Valoro: They’ll be a lot more fine if you consider dropping that.

Juliet stops, still pointing the gun at him.

Juliet: If I do...what then?

She glances at the body of the Response member on the ground.

Juliet: Looks like you’re running a little low on disposable minions.

Valoro’s smile doesn’t falter.

Valoro: And yet I am the one in control right now.

Juliet looks serious. More gunshots in the background.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN LOBBY

Gael shoots at the men, hitting one in the leg. One of his bullets grazes Gael’s shoulder blade. Gael grabs his shoulder as the other man loses his balance due to his wound. Austin lies bleeding on the ground. The third Response member, currently uninjured, shoots directly at Gael.

CUT TO:

INT. FIRST LOWER-CORRIDOR

Everyone can hear the fight. Juliet stares at Valoro seriously.

Juliet: You call this control?

Valoro smiles but is clearly angered. He clutches Amy more tightly. Erica gasps.

Valoro: I am not above killing a kid, ok?

He drags Amy towards them slightly.

Valoro: You wanna push me, you will find that out.

Juliet falters slightly as Amy screws up her eyes. Erica turns away, unable to watch as Teya and Riley hide their faces also. Valoro stares at Juliet.

Valoro: And after her, Nicole can begin taking out your staff, one by one.

Juliet looks serious. She finally lowers her gun. Erica notices and looks relieved despite what this truly means. Valoro nods.

Valoro: Now drop it, and kick it to me.

Juliet hesitates but then does so. Valoro reaches down and grabs the gun. He pushes Amy back towards her mother. Erica hugs her desperately, at last reunited with her. Pointing both guns at Juliet and co. he smiles slightly.

Valoro: Now. All of you, except Juliet...and Aura...

He clenches his teeth as he glances at her.

Valoro: Go into the room to your right and shut the door after you.

The others glance at Juliet. Juliet looks at them and nods. Dominic opens the door and one by one the others head in. Grace looks at Juliet as she shuts the door slowly.

Juliet turns back to Valoro who is pointing one gun at her and one at Aura.

Juliet: What now?

Valoro: Now? It’s time for you to relax, Jules. You’re no longer in immediate danger.

He looks at Aura.

Valoro: I have other concerns.

Aura stares back at him. Valoro smiles slightly.

Valoro: Really thought you cared about your family more than this Aura. I guess out of sight, out of mind huh?

Juliet glances at Aura confused. Valoro still stares at her and approaches slowly.

Valoro: You know, I haven’t decided whether to kill you or Mark first. Maybe I’ll just shoot you in the leg, keep you around to watch as I make plans for your mom to have a visitor later this week.

Aura looks angry. Something catches Juliet’s eye near the stairs. Valoro however notices her change of expression and quickly turns round to shoot at Gael and Devyn. They quickly dive for cover. Aura moves in and grabs Valoro’s other hand. He turns back to her as he shoots both guns at once. However Juliet runs to Aura’s aid and manages to knock Valoro to the ground. One of his guns goes flying to the end of the corridor. Valoro smacks Juliet across the face and she falls back. Valoro crouches above Aura, his gun pointed at her head.

Valoro: I guess Mark can look forward to that if you really want.

Juliet looks up. Devyn and Gael begin to run over. Aura looks afraid as Valoro prepares to shoot, smiling. Juliet clenches her teeth and grabs something from her pocket. She brings her clenched fist down at him.

Valoro splutters as his grip on his gun loosens. Aura looks confused until she sees a syringe sticking out of his neck. He drops the gun as he falls back. Juliet stands slowly as she looks down. Gael and Devyn look on, confused. Valoro looks up at Juliet, a dazed expression on his face.

Juliet: Have you ever done meth?

Valoro doesn’t respond, still gasping. Aura backs away from him. Juliet stares down at Valoro without pity.

Juliet: You’re currently experiencing an undiluted...lethal dose.

Valoro’s eyes widen slightly. Devyn looks at Juliet, surprised. He pulls the syringe from his neck looking at it for a moment before it falls from his hand.

Juliet: I was kinda relying on this stuff to be a stronger than the average customer might expect. Looks like Josef didn’t let me down. The affects are probably the same but much more...potent.

Valoro looks at her, rage clear on his face. He tries to reach the gun near him but Aura is quicker. She points it at him as he lies, helpless. Juliet steps closer to him, reaffirming her authority.

Juliet: Right now you’re experiencing difficulty breathing, accompanied by muscle spasms.

Valoro’s head falls back, his breathing scarce now.

Juliet: That’ll lead to low blood pressure, irregular circulation.

Valoro looks her in the eyes, fire present within them. Juliet crouches down gently.

Juliet: And...as your pulse lowers, you’ll become drowsy. And disorientated. But don’t worry, because it won’t last too long as you...gently drift off...

Valoro’s pupils become pinpricks as he stares up. His breath stops.

Juliet: ...into a coma.

She speaks softly as Valoro becomes still. There is a pause. Juliet looks up to see that those in Room 6 have come out and have been watching. She looks behind her to see Gael and Devyn, followed by Sam. She smiles slightly as she sees they are alive. “Between the Bars” by Chris Garneau begins to play.

SLOW FADE TO:

INT. ROOM 8

Everything is in slow motion as the song plays. During the piano introduction, Nicole stares at Juliet, her gun pointed directly at her. Tegan, Bethany, Mark and Royce are behind her. However Nicole slowly lowers her gun as Juliet can be seen speaking to her. She looks shocked, dropping it to the ground.

CUT TO:

INT. SECOND-LOWER CORRIDOR

Juliet walks out; behind her Devyn and Tegan escort Nicole, her hands chained behind her. Nicole looks as if all her energy has gone.

‘Drink up baby
Stay up all night’

CUT TO:

INT. SECOND-LOWER CORRIDOR

Aura walks out, watching as Nicole is escorted away. Mark joins her but she cannot look at him.

‘The things you could do
You won’t but you might’

CUT TO:

INT. FIRST LOWER-CORRIDOR

Dominic and Grace open Room 7’s door to reveal other guests who look up in relief as they realise they are finally free.

‘The potential you'll be
That you'll never see
The promises you'll only make’

CUT TO:

INT. JULIET’S OFFICE

Juliet is sat with Liliana. Liliana looks at her sympathetically as they talk.

‘Drink up with me now
And forget all about
The pressure of days
And do what I say’

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN KITCHEN

Grace mops up the bloodstains. Dominic puts a hand on her shoulder as she does. She looks grateful for his comfort.

‘And I'll make you okay
And drive them away
The images stuck in your head’

CUT TO:

INT. FIRST LOWER-CORRIDOR

Tegan places the book with the remote back on the shelf. As she steps down Royce is seen next to her. They share a weak smile before they walk away.

‘The people you've been before
That you don't want 'round anymore’

CUT TO:

INT. JULIET’S OFFICE

As Juliet turns away she makes eye contact with Devyn. They share a smile, but Juliet looks exhausted as she approaches him. She almost falls into his arms as they embrace, trying to recover from the day.

‘Or that push and shove
And won’t bend to your will
I’ll keep them still’

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 5

Bethany stares down at Josef’s body, tears in her eyes. Her face contorts as she begins to weep. Gael watches her sadly and turns away.

‘Drink up baby
Look at the stars
I'll kiss you again
Between the bars’

CUT TO:

INT. MAIN CORRIDOR

Aura and Mark lean again the parallel walls in silence. They are watched by Devyn.

‘Where I'm seeing you there
With your hands in the air
You're waiting to finally be caught’

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN LOBBY

Gael helps Sam with Elle’s unconscious body. As they lift her they look back at the bodies of the male Response members, killed in the gunfire.

‘Drink up one more time
And I'll make you mine
I'll keep you apart
Deep in my heart’

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN DINING AREA

Erica sits with her children as they eat. Marcia and Lucas can be seen eating also, Marcia’s arm in a sling.

‘Separate than the rest
Where I like you the best
And keep the things you forgot’

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN LOBBY

Tegan sits at the lobby. She goes out of focus as the gunshots on the reception desk on the foreground come into focus.

‘The people you've been before
That you don't want 'round anymore’

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN KITCHEN

Grace picks up a piece of shattered tile from the ground and looks at it for a second before handing it to Gael. He smiles weakly, putting it in a rubbish bag.

‘Or that push and shove
And won’t bend to your will
I’ll keep them still’

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN MAIN CORRIDOR

Mark followed by Aura walk into Juliet’s office as Liliana walks out. Devyn watches. She avoids eye contact with them but smiles at Devyn.

‘The people you've been before
That you don't want 'round anymore’

CUT TO:

INT. JULIET’S OFFICE

As Aura and Mark walk in Juliet looks serious. They turn waiting for what will happen next. Juliet slowly closes the door.

‘Or that push and shove
And wont bend to your will
I’ll keep them still ‘

CUT TO: BLACK

THE END