THE CONFIDANT (PILOT EPISODE) Written by Joseph Scalise

FADE IN: INT. VAULT OF THE STARS - NIGHT A large ornately decorated bedroom. The ceiling is a beautiful stained glass mural depicting the NIGHT SKY. At a small bench in front of a changing mirror sits TERRANCE SAVOY (late 40s). He is a large, overweight man changing out of the ORANGE AND WHITE ROBES of a PRIEST. In front of him is a bowl of berries which he is eating carefully with a gold fork. TERRANCE (Sotto) Mmm. Delicious. He takes another bite and then continues to change. SASHA (O.S.) Those look like aquarius berries. Terrances eyes go wide as he turnsTERRANCES POV: SASHA SILMAR (30) is standing by the balcony doors. She is a slim, muscular woman dressed in an OVER THE SHOULDER SHIRT that reveals many COLORFUL TATTOOS. A BOW is strung over her shoulder. OUR POV: Terrance falls back. TERRANCE S-s-Sasha! She walks over towards the bench, Terrance scurries away from her. SASHA Yes, those are aquarius. Dream berries correct? She turns to Terrence. SASHA (CONTD) I thought priests werent supposed to indulge in such things. TERRANCE A killer is going to lecture me about right and wrong? SASHA No, Im not here for that. Im actually here for answers.

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TERRANCE Answers? What do you need? SASHA I thought you would give me information Terrance. Most priests in your order dont care about dying. She scans the room. SASHA (CONTD) But they dont have as much as you. TERRANCE Die? Sasha I dont wanna-What do you want? SASHA Richard Fink. TERRANCE Fink? The squeak? What on earth do you want withSASHA Where is he? She calmly spins the dagger. TERRANCE I dont know. If I did I would tell you. In an instant Sasha is standing in front of Terrance a DAGGER up to his neck. SASHA I know your order is used to lying, but spare me the show. TERRANCE Ok, ok. Last I heard he was selling secrets in the North district, up by the courts. Thats all I know, Im serious. She presses the dagger harder into his throat. SASHA Building?

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TERRANCE The Blue Witch, I heard he was working through the cellar. SASHA How long ago? TERRANCE A week, maybe two. I dont know if hes still there, but people will know if he moved. Please Sasha, please. She throws Terrance to the ground and starts walking around the room. SASHA So much wealth, so much dignity and yet, it means nothing. A beat. SASHA (CONTD) I dont blame you Terrance, we both found ways to make a living in this world. TERRANCE Except youre a killer. She spins on him. SASHA And so are you, just because you dont slice the knife doesnt make you any different than me. She walks up to Terrance. SASHA (CONTD) How many have died at your orders? A beat. TERRANCE Why do you want the squeak? SASHA A wealthy man wants him gone. His pockets are deep and I was happy to oblige.

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TERRANCE Interesting. You are not as secretive as they say. SASHA Oh, I have no problem telling secrets to a dead man. Terrances gasps. SASHA (CONTD) Sorry, but I dont leave trails. TERRANCE I told you everything I knew. You have no reason toSASHA I do. Youre a snake Terrance, I never know what will happen to you once you escape my grasp. With expert precision she whips her bow off of her shoulder and loads it. Terrance begins to pray, mumbling under his breath. SASHA (CONTD) Now you hope to find your God? Did you evoke him when all those died at your request? When innocents and children starved? When they granted you this? She holds her arms out wide. SASHA (CONTD) Where was he then? She pulls back the string. SASHA (CONTD) Where is he now? The arrow fires right into Terrances heart as he slumps forward. The screen fades to black. Then white lettering appears that readsCHAPTER ONE: NO PLACE FOR HEROES

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EXT. CESARE MANSION - GROUNDS - NIGHT CLOSE ON an old brass BELL sitting on a decorated stone wall. PAN OUT to see the bell stands over an open arch as it silently sways in the breeze. From here it can be seen that the arch leads to beautiful spanning gardens in front of an ITALIAN STYLE stone mansion. Stay like this for a momentSlight movement is heard off camera. The bell moves a fraction, but makes no noise. CUT TO: EXT. CESARE MANSION - COURTYARD - MOMENTS LATER A silent gated stone courtyard. In the middle sits a large ornate fountain. Chained to the fountain is a large sleeping CHEETAH. JAMES ADDISON (27) is creeping through the courtyard. He is a thin man dressed in a leather outfit, obviously trying to be quiet. He makes his way around the cheetah and up to a decorated door. He opens the door and goes inside. CUT TO: INT. CESARE MANSION - MOMENTS LATER A long hallway decorated with all sorts of beautiful art pieces and tapestries. James makes his way down the hall deadly silent, he is clearly an expert. CUT TO: INT. CESARE MANSION - GALLERY - MOMENTS LATER A huge gallery. Many PAINTINGS and SCULPTURES are on display throughout the room. James makes his way up to the end and starts looking though the pieces. JAMES (Sotto) Lets see here. He picks up a small PAINTING and turns it around. He nods and carefully sets it back down. He starts to look over a statue.

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JAMES (CONTD) (Sotto) Very nice. A striking match is heard and a lantern BLAZES to life behind him. He spins around as more lanterns come to life. We see a troupe of armored GUARDS standing in a circle. They all are armed with swords and crossbows. In front of them stands NATHANIEL FLETCHER (40). He is a strong, tall man wearing gold plate armor. James turns to face them. JAMES (CONTD) I thought there was a noticeable lack of security in this place. NATHAN Hello James. What were you hoping to steal this time? JAMES (Sotto) I should have known. The Cesare Mansion is so well respectedNATHAN Please James, just answer my question. JAMES Nathan, we both know thats not going to happen. James scans the room. JAMES (CONTD) Wow, a whole guard for little old me? There have got to be some murders to investigate, no? NATHAN There are always deaths in this city. JAMES Always deaths in the world. And yet, you took the time and energy to travel all the way here. Money perhaps? Got to keep your pockets full. NATHAN You in itself are a prize James.

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JAMES How did you know I was gonna be here? NATHAN If you dont have to answer my questions, I dont see why I should have to answer yours. Although I must admit you still seem calm. Going to try to escape? Its a big place, if you can dodge the arrows you might be able to make it. James looks over the guards, then smiles and holds out his hands in surrender. Nathan nods towards James. NATHAN (CONTD) Get him. The guards reluctantly approach James, swords held out. They slowly walk up to him. JAMES Oh come on now fellas, I dont bite. They reach him and quickly tie him up. James looks at Nathan. JAMES (CONTD) (Sarcastically) Where to captain? NATHAN Crows nest. Dont have much meat on you, but Im sure the birds wont complain. He starts to walk out. NATHAN (CONTD) Bag him please, I dont want to listen to his quips all the way across the city. The guards place a SACK over James head. INT. - PANGORAN COURTS - CHANCELLORS CHAMBERS - EVENING A large, lavish bedroom. Portraits cover the walls and all of the furniture is very ornate. In the middle of the room is a large BED. On it lies HIGH CHANCELLOR ARGUS WEATHERSTONE (64). He is an aged, gaunt man who appears to be very weak. He is coughing loudly.

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Argus is surrounded by COURT PATRONS and numerous HELPERS dressed in traditional Sixteenth Century style court clothing. They are tending to Argus. Standing above Argus is MARCUS HAINES (58). He is a tall, skinny man wearing silver and gold robes that hang off of his frame. He is holding a large leather bound BOOK in his hands. At the back of the room, leaning heavily on a CANE is a very OLD MAN. He is hidden underneath a large, leather cloak that covers most of his body. Argus coughs again and people scramble to help him. ARGUS (Whispers) W-w-wine. HELPER What sir? ARGUS Wine damnit. Or mead, anything that will remind me of my pulse. Argus coughs and falls back to the bed. The helper grabs a jug. MARCUS Please sir, do not fret. Marcus holds up a hand to the helper. MARCUS (CONTD) (To helper) Perhaps it would be better to get the chancellor some water. The helper nods and moves off. ARGUS Im dying Marcus, what is there to feel good about? MARCUS That is not certain. The helper feeds Argus water. He drinks. ARGUS Bah, all the alchemists look at me like Im the reaper.

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MARCUS Perhaps it would help if you werent so negative. ARGUS Perhaps it would help if I had some alcohol in my blood. He coughs. ARGUS (CONTD) (Yelling) Mead. Wine. Mix the damn two I dont care. Marcus sighs and rolls his eyes. MARCUS Sir, no one is going to bring you drink. Water is what was recommended by the priestsARGUS Ah, the church doesnt know a damn thing about what to do when youre here. Theyre only good for when youre gone. He calls out. ARGUS (CONTD) Mead. Honey mead. He coughs and falls back onto the bed. Marcus turns to the helpers. MARCUS He gets water, and only water is that understood? They nod and mumble. MARCUS (CONTD) Good, he may be weak, but hes not ready for oblivion just yet. He turns and walks off. The old man in the back follows. CUT TO:

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INT. PANGORAN COURTS - SIDE ROOM - NIGHT A small, hidden stone room. There is a table and a bookcase. Marcus is sitting at the table. The bookcase slides over and the old man walks in. He slowly closes the case behind him. MARCUS Hes dying. OLD MAN I know. The old man takes off his cloak to reveal Court Confidant VICTOR SALKIKI (38). A young, strong man dressed in black and blue leather clothing. He has small tattoos visible on parts of his body. MARCUS But hes not dead. VICTOR No, hes not. He seems quite put together actually. MARCUS This city depends on his survival. VICTOR Im not entirely sure about that. MARCUS Meaning? VICTOR I think that it may be time for a regime change. MARCUS What? VICTOR Argus has had his time. MARCUS This city needs a leader Victor, WesportVICTOR Has flourished under worse rule.

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MARCUS Yes, but I do not think it would be wise to take that chance again. VICTOR I am the court advisor, I have overseen this city for many years. MARCUS Yes, and quite well. No one seems to know you exist. VICTOR Which is exactly how I want it. MARCUS I can see that. However, we are not to put the high chancellor of Westport in danger. Without him who would rule? The church? Ill not have that. The High Chancellor has no successorVICTOR That is where you are wrong Marcus. Oh so very very wrong. Marcus looks over at Victor. MARCUS Oh no. NoVICTOR Yes. MARCUS She is young, foolish. A harlet if I have ever seen one. VICTOR She is strong, and could be the key to this city. MARCUS Blasphemy. VICTOR Better than the old man wasting away in his bed between drinks of ale. MARCUS I would meet my own tomb before I see her run this city.

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VICTOR You may see your tomb if she doesnt. There is nothing worse than a weak ruler. MARCUS Wrong, there is a foolish one. Westport has always been ruled byVICTOR Careful Marcus, adhering to tradition is the quickest way empires fall. MARCUS Tradition is all we have. The church is growing in power and both Mary and Godric, despite their differences, want the court to crumble. VICTOR I will not let this court fall. MARCUS By bringing that girl to the chair you will. There are plenty of menVICTOR Incompetent men, men who would not put our abilities to good use. Victor pulls out a POCKET WATCH and studies it. MARCUS Our job is not to choose who rules Westport, but merely follow and protect those that do. Victor pockets the watch and shakes his head. VICTOR Such small minded thinking from one so smart. I am sorry Marcus, I would love to debate, but I must go. MARCUS Why? VICTOR It is late, and I have a very important meeting with a thief.

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INT. OFFICE - NIGHT A large room decorated only with a desk and an empty chair. Reclining behind the desk is Victor. The door opens and two GUARDS lead the hooded James into the room. They sit him in the chair and rip off the hood. They leave. JAMES Who the hell are you? VICTOR Hello James, nice to finally meet you. JAMES Seriously, who are you? VICTOR You do not recognize me? James stares. VICTOR (CONTD) Do not worry, most people dont. I have a way of making myself forgettable. I fear the same cannot be said about you. You have quite the reputation. JAMES This isnt about me. Who are you? VICTOR Persistent, a fine quality. Victor leans forward. VICTOR (CONTD) My name is Victor. JAMES Surname? VICTOR I really dont think thats important right now. JAMES Well thats not fair. Would you at least mind telling me where the hell I am?

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VICTOR Youre in the East District. JAMES Not feeding the crows? VICTOR It would seem not. I had Nathan pick you up because I wanted to meet you. JAMES Really? How did you manage that? Nathans wanted to see me in the nest since I was a teenager. VICTOR There are many ways to convince a person of many things. JAMES A fact I know well. VICTOR So, tell me James. What were you after in the Cesares Mansion? JAMES Honestly, no idea. I was...browsing their wares. VICTOR You wouldnt lie to a man who saved your life now would you? James laughs. JAMES I would lie to anyone. But I must admit, I do want to know how you knew I was going to be in the mansion. Victor smiles. VICTOR So it is my turn for secrets. The answer is quite obvious to a brain like mine. I am inventor in my free time, I like puzzles. You, James Addison, are a bit of a puzzle, but not as challenging as you would like to think. (MORE)

15. VICTOR (CONT'D) You came into thievery, not by way of necessity, but by way of pride. Most people steal because they have to, you do it because you want to. Somebody with your skills could have robbed the old and sick and never gone hungry again. But thats not your goal, you want power. The Cesares have more wealth and history inside that mansion than half the city. That is the kind of place that attracts men like you.

JAMES Impressive, but how did you know when I would show up? VICTOR Admittedly, I didnt. Nathans men had been there five nights prior to you showing up. JAMES And they would have waited five nights more? Victor nods. VICTOR I can be very persuasive. JAMES Indeed, but it seems like a lot of trouble for a thief. VICTOR But not for a master at his craft. A beat. JAMES Explain. VICTOR I have a job James, one that requires some quick fingers and knowledge of the Undercity. You have both. JAMES No. VICTOR You havent ever heard my terms.

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James stands up. JAMES No, the answer is no. VICTOR I saved your life. James laughs. JAMES You did me no such favor. VICTOR You were caught, on your way to the crowsJAMES Vic, with all due respect, I have been at this for a very long time. Do you really think I was ever in any real danger? James dramatically unties himself from the ropes and ends in a mock bow. VICTOR But still, you could have cost yourself time and energyJAMES I have plenty of both. James stretches. JAMES (CONTD) I am not a hired thug, nor am I a whore. I do not do things for coin. I cannot be bought. Do you really believe you are the first person to ask for my services? VICTOR I have been around a long time, I have made it much longer than most who reside in these walls. Do not tell me you cannot be bought James. JAMES I have more coin that anyone, lord or beggar, could ever need.

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VICTOR But not everyones currency is coin. A beat. JAMES Meaning? VICTOR I have Oliver Mackwell. James eyes go wide. INT. TOWER OF THE SUN - NIGHT A circular room with walls made entirely out of glass. The city can be seen far below. At a large desk at one end of the room sits GODRIC GERWALD (38). He is a slightly overweight man wearing a WHITE AND ORANGE ROBE. He is covered in jewelry. Across the room sitting in a chair and looking out the window is the beautiful MARY GERWALD (33). She is wearing a RED DRESS. MARY You ever wonder how we build towers this high? GODRIC What? MARY Architecture is truly a wondrous thing. The only tower that is higher than ours is the observatory in the Monolith. GODRIC Are you making a point? Sister I dont have time to listen to your ramblingMARY Oh I think you do, you called me here. GODRIC Yes, to discuss matters of the church that we are supposed to be running.

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MARY Then discuss. She folds her arms. GODRIC I think we should elect a new high priest. Mary laughs. GODRIC (CONTD) Something amusing? MARY Youre distrust. Miles is doing a fine job. GODRIC He has his own agendaMARY And you dont? Running around with all of your schemes like you can actually lead the order. GODRIC Sister if you continue to interrupt meMARY Youll do what? Dont even try and threaten me brother. Mother always said I had what it takes to run this church even if father, may he burn, would never admit it. Its not my fault you were born with the proper anatomy. GODRIC I am trying to whats best for the church. MARY You are trying to do whats best for you. Miles has been loyal and, agenda or not, he loves this order. GODRIC He is plotting, I know he is. Mary shakes her head.

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MARY Thats something you and father never understood Godric. Allies are more important than any title. But our family never had friends, too busy trying to figure out who to stab in the back next. GODRIC Yes, and look where we are. He walks to the window and looks down. GODRIC (CONTD) So high above the commoners, the Undercity. Even the Marble Quarter looks up to us. We are their light in the world. MARY Perhaps, but this power is not going to be around forever. You think it is, but its not. One day even our tower will crumble and when it does, only I will have friends among the rubble. GODRIC Be that as it may, the tower is standing now. And I thinkThe doors to the room BURST open. MILES CONNERGY (40) comes walking in. He is a tall man dressed in WHITE AND RED robes. GODRIC (CONTD) Speak of the devil. MARY Id rather not. MILES Godric. GODRIC Yes Miles? Something the matter. MILES Yes, in the Vault. GODRIC Whats wrong? MILES Terrance is dead.

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GODRIC What? MARY Shit. Miles turns to Mary. He bows. MILES I am sorry Ms. Gerwald, I didnt see you there. She stands up. MARY Please Miles, call me Mary, I get enough bullshit in this organization. No offense. MILES None taken. GODRIC Where was he found? MILES A runner found him, you boyGODRIC I didnt ask who found him, where was he? MILES His room. GODRIC Have you called the guard? MILES I sent a runner to Nathan. GODRIC And? MILES We have a couple guards there. Godric walks towards the door. GODRIC Good. Sister, I think we have to put our conversation on hold for the time being.

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Mary and Miles begin to follow. MARY Couldnt agree more brother. I always love an excuse to ignore your incessant rambling. INT. OFFICE - NIGHT James is leaning against the wall staring at Victor. JAMES Let me sort this out. You know the location of Oliver Mackwell? Victor nods. VICTOR Correct. JAMES The very same one that killed my parents? VICTOR Are there any other Oliver Mackwells? JAMES How? No one has seen him in years, he isVICTOR The how is not really important. My methods are my methods. JAMES You knew I couldnt be bought with gold so you went with him. VICTOR If there is one truth I have learned, it is that all people have a price. For some its gold, others its women or wine. For you, I knew the only prize you would listen to was Oliver Mackwell. A beat. JAMES And all you want from me is-

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VICTOR To do what you do best. I want you to steal. We are all creatures of nature James. Painters paint, inventors invent and thieves steal. JAMES Sounds too good to be true. What do you want? A piece of art I have to imagine, if I can get it myself. VICTOR Of course. JAMES Im still suspicious. VICTOR As you should be. All great men question the world. JAMES If you went to all this trouble, where do you want me to go? VICTOR Of course you know of Mortuus. James eyes go wide. VICTOR (CONTD) I see judging by your reflex that you indeed have. There are rumors of an inventor of incredible talent working within the district. JAMES The ghost district cannot-it cannot be entered. Victor nods and stands up. VICTOR Yes, yes, thats what I thought as well. It is common knowledge that the Ghost District is impossible to enter, horrible deaths, people flayed alive, that sort of thing. And yet, there are still rumors of an inventor. JAMES I will not enter Mortuus, not even-

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VICTOR Relax James, I am not asking you to enter the District. JAMES Then what do you need from me? Victor walks to the door and opens it. VICTOR Pardon me, but I do not like to sit for too long. Please, take a walk with me and I will explain through show rather than tell. James slowly walks out the door. CUT TO: EXT. CESARE SQUARE - NIGHT A large open courtyard built into the city. A couple of CITIZENS are making their way through cobblestone streets that lead off in different directions. The ocean can be in the distance lit by the HARVEST MOON. In the middle of the square is a glorious MARBLE STATUE depicting a battlefield. Victor and James are walking by it. VICTOR Do you know what this is James? JAMES Of course, The Final Days. Lucrenzo Cesares finest work. VICTOR Well some could argue that, but yes, Lucrenzo Cesares masterpiece. The great grandfather of the mansion you were in earlier tonight. JAMES What does that have to do with Mortuus? VICTOR Impatience is such a poor quality James. Let me explain. Everybody in and near Westport has heard of The Final Days, but did you also know that it is a celestial map?

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James nods. JAMES Yes, a lot of people know that. How is that important? VICTOR Very curious, a good but dangerous quality. The Final Days reveals how art is sometimes more than art, sometimes more than just something pretty to look at. It can have many different purposes. To most, it is a grand marble statue, beautifully crafted, a testament to the marvels of man. And yet, to those with truly clever minds, it is also a map of the heavens. JAMES So howVICTOR Art can hide many things, something you undoubtably know. That is why I need you. There was one other than the inventor I spoke of who knew the way into Mortuus. However, rather than tell anyone its secret, he did something a little more clever. JAMES Hid it in a painting. VICTOR Yes, very good. A painting that has now gone far beyond my reach. The painter is long gone as well. Yet, through much research I have found where this painting might be. That is where I need you to go. JAMES Where? VICTOR The painter was a bit of a extremist, a free thinker. Most of his stuff was burned, but the few that were saved are held where all extremist art is.

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JAMES There is only one place like that. VICTOR Yes, that is why I need someone truly skilled James. I need you to enter the vaults of the church. INT. VAULT OF THE STARS - NIGHT CLOSE ON Terrances body, slumped forward, arrow sticking from his chest. A couple of GUARDS are in the room. Mary, Godric and Miles enter. MILES Sky above. GODRIC Who did this? A GUARD (30s) walks up to Godric. GUARD Nobody knows sir. Mary walks over and looks at the body. GODRIC Well somebody better have a good answer for me soon. MARY If you would spend less time ordering people around and more time actually thinking you would see the answer is quite obvious. MILES How? Mary bends down to the body. MARY Look at that precision, one shot through the heart. How many people in Westport do you think can shoot like that? Not to mention get into this room without being noticed. Godric and Miles exchange glances.

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MILES The Painted Wolf. Mary nods. MARY I would assume as such. GODRIC What the hell would Sasha want with the church? MILES Perhaps she was acting alone. MARY When has the wolf ever killed someone for herself? MILES Then why Terrance? MARY No clue. GODRIC Well, I will not stand for this. He turns to a guard. GODRIC (CONTD) I want you to tell every agent we have in the city Sasha Silmar is to be captured on sight and detained for questioning. Do you understand? Mary laughs. MARY Do you really start a war with Sasha? She may be a loner, but she has friends. MILES I have to agree with Mary, Sasha is very dangerous. GODRIC And so am I. (To Mary) You told me yourself, we need to exert our power. I will not have our order killed-

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MARY At what cost? GODRIC The cost is not important. This will get attention, we cannot be perceived as weak, especially now with Argus as sick as he is. We may finally have a chance to strike, and Im not going to have an opportunity as prime as that ruined by cowardice. INT. BLUE WITCH TAVERN - EVENING CLOSE ON four PLAYING CARDS being laid out across a table. They are flipped over to reveal four queens. GroansPAN OUT to reveal a smoky, busy tavern. SERVERS move about bringing people drinks and food. At a table sits two LARGE MEN (Call them MAN 1 and MAN 2) holding cards they have flagons and plates of food set out in front of them. Next to them is the wiry TYLER BISHOP (30). Across from him, holding the cards, is ALICE WEATHERSTONE (25). She is wearing a loose shirt showing midriff. A large glass of DRINK sits in front of her. She laughsMARY Read em and weep gentlemen. All of the men shake their heads and throw their cards in. MAN 1 That don seem fair. MAN 2 Shes gotta be cheating. TYLER Now, now. Shes just got us beat. Thats all. MARY That I do. That I do. She collects the pot. MARY (CONTD) Although, I still think a little sharing never hurt anyone.

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She calls to a waiter. MARY (CONTD) Waiter, another round on me. The men cheer. MARY (CONTD) Why are you gents so excited? Its your money Im spending. TYLER Better our money go to our own drinks that to a new dress. MARY As if I would wear a dress. MAN 1 Ill drink to that. Man 2 laughs. MAN 2 Ill drink to anything. More cheers and they drink again. MARY As will I. She raises her hand. MARY (CONTD) Give me a shot of Northern Ice. Straight. MAN 1 I gotta tell ya girl. You got all the workings o a man and none o the parts. MAN 2 Strangest sight I ever seen. Mary smiles and starts shuffling. MARY You fellas keep your hands to yourselves and well be alright. A little staring never hurt anyone. She holds out the deck.

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MARY (CONTD) Now, who wants another hand? Im dealing. MAN 1 Bah, Im sick o losing coin. (Nods towards Tyler) How bout he deals? TYLER Me? MARY Tyler? She shakes her head. MARY (CONTD) No, we shouldnt do that. MAN 2 An why is that? Tyler smiles and casually reaches over and grabs the deck. He expertly spins the cards around in his hand a couple of times and slams the deck back down. MAN 1 Fast hands. MARY You have no idea. He conned me once, and Ill never fall for that again. MAN 2 Oh yeah? Whatd he win? MARY My virginity. Both men gawk. Tyler and Mary laugh. MARY (CONTD) Eh its not anything Ill miss. She reaches over and picks the deck back up. MARY (CONTD) Lets go another round. Ill deal. She begins to shuffle.

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HUNTER (O.S.) Not tonight Mary. The men and Mary look overMARYS POV: HUNTER KENT (48) is leaning against the bar. He is a large, muscular man with two huge SWORDS dangling from his belt. OUR POV: Mary rolls her eyes. MAN 1 (To Hunter) An who are ya? TYLER That, my fellow, is Hunter Kent. Somebody who we should best leave alone. MARY What the hell does my father want with me now? Hunter walks over. HUNTER Youre old man is sleeping. Still needs his rest. Im here on orders from Victor. MARY I dont take order from that weasel. HUNTER Well I do. So youre coming with me. MARY The hell I am. Hunter stands over Mary. HUNTER (Whispers) Just make this easy. MAN 2 Look, if she don wanna she go, she don have to. Man 1 starts to stand up.

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MAN 1 Yeah, were playing a game here. Tyler puts his hand on Man 1s arm. TYLER Theres no need for violence. HUNTER Listen to him Mary. No need for anyone to get hurt. Hunter casually rests his hand on one of his sword hilts. HUNTER (CONTD) No reason. Mary rolls her eyes and throws the cards down on the table. MARY Fine, sky above. She stands up. TYLER Goodbye my lady. MARY I am no lady. HUNTER Oh, we all know that. She storms off, Hunter following. INT. - PANGORAN COURTS - VICTORS CHAMBER - NIGHT Victor is writing something down at his desk. He calmly dips his pen in ink. As he does the door BURSTS open. Without turning aroundVICTOR You found your way back I assume? The door closes and Mary enters the room. MARY What the hell do you want Victor? VICTOR I only ask because you spend so much of your time in the undercity. (MORE)

32. VICTOR (CONT'D) I thought you might have forgotten what the courts look like.

MARY What do you want? VICTOR I wanted to speak to you, and it is quite urgent. MARY When is it not with you? Victor turns around. VICTOR Where were you? MARY Where I always am. The Blue Witch. VICTOR With Tyler I presume? MARY None of your goddamn business, just because you spy on every one else in this city doesnt mean you get to spy on me. Youre not my father. VICTOR Actually, it was your father I wanted to talk to you about. He stands up and motions to his chair. VICTOR (CONTD) Please, sit. Mary hesitates then sits down. VICTOR (CONTD) As you know, youre father isnt well. MARY Of course I know. All of Westport knows that. VICTOR Hes going to be dead within daysMARY Or weeks.

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VICTOR Either way, he needs a successor. A beat. MARY Absolutley not. VICTOR Yes. MARY No, no-Are you out of your mind? Victor IVICTOR Am his only heir. MARY And that matters now? It never mattered before. VICTOR When your father was in better health heMARY Was never a good leader. But what of your customs? VICTOR Customs do not matter. Westport is evolving Mary, its moving forward, if we intend to stay in this game, we need to evolve too. Yes, having a woman-girl really, in power is going to come with consequencesMARY That I am not ready to face. VICTOR But I am. There are others who think I am foolish for suggesting such actions. MARY I am one of them. VICTOR No matter. You have friends and allies that abound throughout this city. I have a large network and I believe in you.

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MARY I am not fit to run this city. VICTOR Maybe not now, but you have no choice. Some of us are thrust into powerMARY And some crave it like you. You are a snake. VICTOR Better have a snake on your side than biting you in the foot. MARY Perhaps. I know my fathers days are numbered, but there are many men running about this citadel. Im sure you can find someone else to run this city for you. She leaves, the door slams. INT. ARGUS ROOM - NIGHT Victor and Marcus are standing at the edge of the room watching the sleeping Argus. NOTE: They talk softly throughout the scene. VICTOR She wasnt compliant. MARCUS Shes not a leader. VICTOR I would differ. MARCUS Shes already backing down. VICTOR She just needs to be persuaded. MARCUS Not everything can be attained by force.

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VICTOR Yes, but everything is born from necessity. He nods to Argus. VICTOR (CONTD) Hes not gonna be around much longer. We are going to need a leader. MARCUS There are plenty of willing men and women in the courts. VICTOR But none who will let us keep our seats. MARCUS Everything is not about power. VICTOR We need her. You may disagree but she is the courts only shot. Most people in this place would have the church take over. MARCUS Even I will not have that. But we have allies. VICTOR You have allies, most dont know me. Although I like my secrecy, it can be a hinderance. MARCUS I know many. VICTOR None who I trust. MARCUS And yet you trust her? He watches Argus. VICTOR I trust her to let me lead.

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INT. TOWER OF THE SUN - MARYS CHAMBERS - NIGHT Mary and Miles are having sex doggy style in a lavish RED SHEETED BED. MARY Oh yes Miles, yes. MILES Would you try to be a little quieter? Someone will hear us. MARY Oh like I can be silenced. They switch positions so they are facing each other. MARY (CONTD) Harder, harder. NOTE: Miles is clearly somewhat distant. MILES Terrances death does not frighten you? MARY People die all the time in this city. I will not mourn just because it is one of the order. MILES I meant the wolf. I am not sure if this church will survive. Especially, with your brother leading the way. MARY I know you have your differences, but he is still my brother, would you please stop insulting him? MILES Of course, but I am the high priest, you would think I would get more of a say. MARY Oh I forgot, youre the high priest. What is in that pledge you swear? No violence, no vices, no woman either as I recall. Please stop talking about this, it does bore me.

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MILES Im sorry, but its on my mind. MARY Well then remove yourself from me and we can discuss it. MILES Well I didnt say it was the only thing on my mind. He begins to kiss her neck, she moans and grabs his hair. MILES (CONTD) (Between kisses) I just think that we need to be more careful, things are starting to escalate. MARY As am I, please stop talking. She presses into him, he resists. MILES And what of your brother? Is he going to get more power? He is not fit to run a church, let alone a city. He is a man of loose morals, a murderer, and a sadist. She pulls him in front of her face. MARY Need I remind you that he is family? And besides, as I said. She rocks her hips and Miles moans. MARY (CONTD) He is not the only one with vices. MILES I like to think of mine as more pure. MARY Quiet. You and Godric can have your pissing contest later. Right now you have other uses for such things. She flips on top of Miles, pins him down and they continue to have sex.

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EXT. BLUE WITCH TAVERN - ALLEY WAY - NIGHT A cobblestone alleyway outside of the Blue Witch. Sasha is walking up to the doors. A HAND calmly grabs her shoulder, she stops. The camera spins to see a CHURCH GUARD (30) wearing orange and white robes over his armor. SASHA Get your damn hand off of my shoulder. GUARD Sasha? SASHA Who is asking? GUARD Sasha Silmar? SASHA Get your hand off of me, now. Two more GUARDS walk into the street. GUARD By order of Godric Gerwald, you are to be taken into the church forHe coughs twice, blood trickles from his mouth. Sasha rips her dagger out of his stomach and the guard falls. The guards pause and Sasha takes off running. They quickly follow her. TRACK the guards as they call for back up. They run down a street and come to a small empty courtyard. GUARD (CONTD) Damnit. They look around but Sasha is gone.

EXT. ROOFTOP - NIGHT Sasha is breathing heavily on a rooftop. She steadies herself and watches the city. She grunts angrily and takes off running. CUT TO:

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INT. OCTAVIUS MERRYWEATHERS STUDY - NIGHT A small room filled with PAINTING GEAR and CANVASES. OCTAVIUS MERRYWEATHER (30) is sitting by his window painting the moon on a canvas. He dips his brush andA knock at his door. OCTAVIUS Come in, its unlocked. The door opens, Octavius continues to paint. SASHA (O.S.) You are very trusting Octavius. He spins around. Sasha is standing in the doorway. Octavius quickly glances to a small DAGGER resting on the windowsill. Sasha smiles. SASHA (CONTD) Id cut you down before your fingers even found the hilt. She closes the door. Octavius watches her. SASHA (CONTD) Im not here for harm tonight Octavius. OCTAVIUS Then why are you here? It seems harm is your main reason for visiting anyone. SASHA The church is after me. OCTAVIUS What? SASHA I had an assignment earlier tonight that created some conflict. OCTAVIUS What type of conflict? SASHA I killed Terrance Savoy. OCTAVIUS You did what?

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SASHA I had no choice. OCTAVIUS Sasha hes one of the high order and-why are you here? SASHA I need a favor. Octavius shakes his head. OCTAVIUS Sasha, I am a painter. I do not get involved in matters outside of my room, especially if they involve the church. SASHA I am not asking for you to get involved. OCTAVIUS Ok. Then what do you seek? SASHA I need a map of the undercity. OCTAVIUS Pardon? SASHA You are one of the only citizens I know who has a map. OCTAVIUS The undercitySASHA I am not in the mood to negotiate Octavius. The church has guards and spies in every side of this city, but they do not know what goes on below it. Get me your map. Octavius quickly walks over to a bunch of canvases and pulls out a small PIECE OF PAPER. He extends it to Sasha. OCTAVIUS H-here. SASHA Thank you Octavius. This will not be forgotten.

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OCTAVIUS I hope, I find that reward is the best reason to perform good deeds. INT. PANGORAN COURTS - ALICES ROOM - NIGHT Alice is sitting on the edge of her bed reading through a small BOOK. There is a knock at the door. ALICE Whos there? The door edges open to reveal Hunter. HUNTER Just an aging man trying to make sense of a changing world. ALICE I cant believe you brought me back for that fool. Hunter enters the room. HUNTER He may be a fool, but he has great influence. He sought youALICE I know how the system works. A beat. HUNTER Still reading? ALICE Just because I like to fight and fuck doesnt mean I dont like to read. HUNTER If the church heard those words you could be tried for blasphemy. Although I think they may prefer fucking to reading. He smiles. HUNTER (CONTD) Do you remember when I used to read you bedtime stories?

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ALICE Of course, how could I forget? HUNTER You always loved a good story. ALICE As did you. And why not? Theyre so much more interesting than life. So much more exciting than being trapped in the courts. HUNTER Even more interesting than being the daughter of the chancellor? ALICE Much more. In those stories Victor has no reign over me and I answer to no one but who I choose. HUNTER It seems as though he has no reign over you now. I couldnt help but overhear that the conversation did not go as smoothly as he would have hoped. ALICE I will not side with that man. She reads a page. HUNTER Do you remember your favorite? The one you always begged me to repeat? ALICE The Bloody Stump. Hunter nods. HUNTER Yes, you always loved the gory ones. ALICE They were always the most exciting. Theres nothing wrong with wanting excitement. HUNTER Take after your father and your life could be exciting as well.

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ALICE Who do you follow? HUNTER Youre interest has always been my priority Alice. She looks at him. ALICE And yet you side with the snake. HUNTER I need bed and coin. If you take the chair you will be able to do what you want. ALICE I am not a leader, and I know nothing of politics. HUNTER Yes, but do you remember the story of The Shepherd's Boy? Alice nods and laughs. ALICE Yes, he never left his house. She falls back on the bed. ALICE (CONTD) What a dreary, miserable experience. HUNTER To some, but not to others. The moral of the story was to not let fear hold you back. ALICE I do not scare easily. HUNTER And yet you will not take the city when it is staring right in your face. ALICE That is different.

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HUNTER I see no difference from running from duty than I do running from a blade. ALICE Because you are a warrior, you grew up on blood soaked battlefields, I grew up in the marbled floor courts. HUNTER Are they really so different? She grabs a book and throws it to Hunter. ALICE Read me a story Hunter. She closes her eyes. ALICE (CONTD) Just read me a good tale and take me out of this place for a little while. Hunters strokes her forehead. HUNTER Of course. INT. PANGORAN COURTS - DINING HALL - MORNING Argus, Marcus and a couple of ASSOCIATES are sitting down at a breakfast table. Argus is eating, he coughs. A HELPER rushes to his side. MARCUS Are you ok sir? ARGUS Im fine. He takes a drink. ARGUS (CONTD) I would be a lot better if that wasnt water. MARCUS You would be a lot better if you was lying down.

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ARGUS Bah. I feel better. MARCUS That is good, although it could because of the medicine you took this morning. The alchemists did say it was quite powerful. ARGUS I got one foot on the other side Marcus, Im just trying to feel as good as I can before I pass. MARCUS I think it would be better to try and prolong your stay. ARGUS Ive lived my time, I ruled this city, we all chase down oblivion. MARCUS I would agree sir, but you said you were feeling better, you could be around for monthsARGUS No use in fighting the clock Marcus, youre a good associate, always have been and I appreciate that. MARCUS Thank you sir. Argus leans over to Marcus. ARGUS Speaking of which, where is Victor? MARCUS I do not know sir. ARGUS When you find him, tell him I wish to speak with him. MARCUS I will sir.

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ANGUS Good, positive attitude or not, Im on my way out and somebody has to clean up the mess I made. EXT. PANGORAN COURTS - TRAIL HALLS - MORNING Victor is walking down a small staircase on the outside of the halls. Above him CROWS flock about feasting on BODIES that are strung up on the top of the buildings. Victor glances up. VICTOR Morning fellas. CUT TO: INT. PANGORAN COURTS - TRAIL HALLS - MORNING A large circular court room. INT. JAMES HOUSE - AFTERNOON CLOSE ON a large oil painting of OLIVER MACKWELL (50s). He is a sharp looking man with light eyes. PAN OUT to see James in a large living room decorated with tons of art pieces. A giant fire roars in the fireplace as James stares at the painting. JAMES (Sotto) I finally have a shot at you. A beat. JAMES (CONTD) (Sotto) After all of this time and energy, work and effort, I finally have a chance at finding out where you are you son of a bitch. He stands up and walks to the painting. JAMES (CONTD) And Im not gonna miss it. You will die for this Oliver. (MORE)

47. JAMES (CONTD) I have been waiting a long time, and Im not going to let a chance at finding you slip through my fingers.

INT. PANGORAN COURTS - ARGUS ROOM - NIGHT CLOSE ON a sleeping Argus. He is murmuring in his sleep. He coughs, then goes still. PAN OUT to see Victor across the room. He is watching Argus and holding a PILLOW. He slowly walks across the room. VICTOR (Sotto) Everything is born from necessity. He stands above Argus and brings the pillow up. VICTOR (CONTD) (Sotto) It is for the greater good. He quickly brings the pillow down on Argus face. Argus starts to struggle. As he struggles Victor presses down more. Argus flails. As he does the screen slowly fades to black. END OF EPISODE.