Television Sto: : b: : iv Lou Morhein and Joseph Stefano . Based on a short story by - Arthur Leo ZagatmC Rev. 11/19/63 “THE BELLE! Teleplay by Joseph Stefano Television Story by Lou Morheim and Joseph Stefano Based on a short story by Arthur Leo Zagat Story #20"THE BELLERO SHU oe ¢ one 7 FADE IN: (ACT ONE) apeeer - Srocke E MAE Soon EXT, THE BELLERO MANSION - NIGHT Re VAL Big, tasteful, isolated, An expensive car parked in the driveway. Light coming from a top floor room, Quiet and stillness, and then, sharply and shockingly, a bright, white been of lisht shoots outof the roof of the house, carts Into: ht sky, lire a vivid, amplified searchlight, It is_¢ narrow.beam, and it emanates, obviously, through a skylight in the top = floor room. It then withdrays, only to dart_out deat i 4 During this: yedss Fam CAS CONTROL VOICE sre meActe There is a pession in the hunan heart which is called aspiration. It flares with a noble flame, and by its light Men has traveled from the caves of darkness to the q @arkness of outer space. . CAMERA MOVES IN toward the house, ANGLING LOW upon @ ground-level celler window. A light behind this dusty, squat window goeson. As CAMERA reaches window, we: DISSOLVE THRU TO: 2 INT, THE WINE CELLAR - NIGHT © 2 A narrow aisle between floor-to-ceiling bins, At the. far end of the aisle, stairs to the floor above, A , WOMAN is coming down the stairs, Over this: CONTROL VOICE (continuing) But when this cassion becomes lust, when its flame is fanned by greed and private hunger, then Aspiration tecomes Ambition =+ by which sin the angels fell. The woman has come down the aisle, 1s close to CAMERA, She pauses, inspects the wines in the f.g. bin. She is MRS, JUDITH BELLERO. She is about thirty, tail and angular and commandingly lovely. There 13 2 soft, with- drawn quality about her, 2 reserve which can easily be mistaken for gentleness, even tenderness, but waich is, in reality, an artful and studied mask for passionate, cf consuming ambition, Her voice is warm, almost languid; iO) it matches the pure white velvet hostess gown she wears. = Hearing a sound from the stzirs, a sound we do not hear, she calls softly: (CONTINUED)a . 2 2 JUDITH mrs, Dame? call, 2 WOMAN comes down the stairs, sle until she is close to Judith, She has a dark, distant foreigness about sness -- she could be twenty-five or fifty ween, Her movenents are graceful and sost brooding. necked, tight-sleeved housecoat which floor. “She is perfectly, elegantly groome: hat she wears no shoes, There is en echo o: coded royalty about her; she is Juditn's house confidante. She waits in silence until Judith made a selection and pointed to it; then she removes sie chosen bottle from its bin, checks its label as if rove or disapprove, holds it away from her, blows @ dust, hands it to Judith, steps aside to let Judich return up the aisle, follows. And we: CUP DIRECTLY To: A 3 INT, RICHARD BELLERO'S LABORATORY - NIGHT 3 P= on top & skylight with sliding ove ert panels irectly below it, a table =e on whi : instruzent for transmitting a leser = 7 ™' bean. tting, darting out through the <0» 73° tae night sky, RICHARD BELLERO’ 7, § adjusting controls. is . with an infirm grip on reality, and kncw it. Sone Suei. SENIOR Cot Tye GEOR It holds steady. OUT OF Ar RICHARD Ge Ce Yes. | ry es that the feat does not impress his father. sO ain, but only to conceal his s (conTrIN@=D) ee3 CONTINUED: O oe SENIOR (rising) It's been a long evening, chard. RICHARD : Has it, father? SENIOR (going to door) Teli your wife I enjoyed my dinner. RICHARD (a rueful smile) She might like to hear it from you. Judith appears at the door, causing Senior to stop short, A swift glance tells her the precise mocd of the moment; a fury flashes momentarily in her eyes; then, smiling, she extends the wine bottle, : JUDITH Your favorite year, father, SENIOR (peuses) Next time, Judith, (a perfunctory smile) Good night, now. He goes around Judith, goes out. RICHARD I'll waik you to your. car. He hurries to the door, When he reaches it, Judith puts a hand on his arn, restrains hin, hear Senior's foot- steps going down the stairs. Judith whispers in a calm, velvet voice, JUDITH Yes? RICHARD (embarrassed; painfully He'd already made his decision et before he came tonight. Gy (cowtinuzD)( 4 CONTINUED: (2) 3 JUDITH (same tone; a ‘small smile) Not in your favor. RICHARD No, Someone from the Canadian branch. (calling out door) Be with you in a moment, father. JUDITH He passes over his own son, in favor of a stranger? RICHARD (a bit irritated) He isn't stepping down from the throne, Judith; he's retiring from the presidensy of 2 company he owns and controls! Blood has nothing to do with his choice of a... successor, He moves free of her touch, goes out. Judith stands there a moment, listening to his footsteps hurrying down the stairs, She holds the wine bottle clutened tight in her hands, as if strangling it; a dark, dreadful frustration seizes her mind and body, makes her almost tremble, As if enreged by her inability to strengle the vottie, she flings it across the room, The act gives her some relief; she forces control upon-herself, walks in measured steps across the led, looking at the varied equipent as if disgusted with it. She reaches the table, sees the unbroken wine bottle, bends to pick it up, puts it down on the wetal top of the table. She stares in deep, deadly rege at the laser beam, follows its shaft with her eyes, stares up at the sky. Richard returns, pauses in the doorway. “RICHARD He didn't wait. . She, says nothing; he comes into the room. RICHARD (continuing It's always made him uncomfortable + having to turn me down. (CONTINUED)3 CONTINUED: (3) oO JUDITH Your laser light didn't impress him, did it, Aichard? RICHARD (a self-depreciating grin) It isn't anything original, Judith. I'd merely supposed I'd found a new use for it, (pauses; smiles) The Bellero Corporation is no longer interested in... "Destructive appliances." His phrase. JUDITH Is it destructive, Richard? Richard smiles, slightly surprised; she turns, sees the expression. JUDITH (continuing; with ‘2 smile) Didn't you know I was interested in your work? RICHARD It's recent, isn't it? JUDITH. (a look at the laser instrument) It began with this. (pauses) Have you ever heard of, the Bifrost, Richard? RICHARD No. JWITH It's also called the "Trembling Way." It's the bridge between earth and heaven. (looks at hii smiles) Scandinavian aythology. ¢ . (looks at laser) ios I tHought of this as our Bifrost... the tremoling way to... what ror me would be heaven; Power, far-flung holdings... undiminishable authority... (conti iuED)3 CONTINUED: (4) 3 RICHARD (a sardonic smile) And all along I thought ali you wanted was for me to make Some ste1l contribution to mankind. JUDITH Not suall, Richard, ‘The things Iwant for you... are not small. RICHARD (looks away; pauses) I'm sorry, Judith. Unless my father changes his mind, which he won't, the only thing £111 be able to give you in large amounts is... money. She realizes that he is hurt,lmos she must give him a Solatium, She moves close, places her hands gently on his face, turns it until he is looking at her. Then, whispering warmly: JUDITH fnd love, He reacts as she meant him to; he takes her close, almost fiercely into his arns, holds her es if he were clinging to her, RICHARD (fervently) Will that keep you, Judith? Will love keep you? She kisses him to avoid answering, giving him the impression that the kiss ts en answer in the positive. Then she moves away, picks up bottle of wine. JUDITH Would you return this, Richard? We'll open it the next time your father cones to dinner. _ RICHARD Will there be a next time? She doesn't answer, He takes the bottle, looks at her regretfully, She laughs suddenly, a soft, enchenting laugh, grabs the bottle back. (CONTINUED)4 CONTINVED: (3) 3 JUDITH S us two glasses, Ask Mrs, Dame to then, We'll drink to... (looks 26 laser) s+. our trembling wey. ntly cheered; he goes to the door, he monent he ts gone, the false s face, She puts the bottle mn at the table, grips its edge as if And stering down, her eye is caught object, She studies it a moment, then it as one holds a pistol. Then, as if pulse to ruin end destroy the shatterers of her hopes, she zins the objezt_at the wine bottle, fires, . Meee CAST 16 Frames Ha REAM. INSERT_- LE ON LAB TABLE 74 As it tsb: a laser bean that 1s as slender as a spurt of ink shez out of a fountain pen, The bottle turns pure white as it is disappears in a fraction of a second, even before the ser beam has withdrawn into the gun. BACK T0 S Judith ste looks at the spot where the bottie stood, t! in her hand, raises a slightly apprecia- uddenly, her expression changes, she holds stilt 4: 4n% apprehension, as she hears a sudden, chilling of lou screeching wail. It comes from ebov: the open skylight. Judith looks up, sees noth: laser bean, frowns more in wonder mow than < sion, The sound ‘ous louder, more terrible. eS a Step or closer to the leser instrument, . And a smear of terror-awe twists her face. JUDITH - EC5 6 As she stares up, paralyzed wlth shock and fear, The wail is louder rox, closer.¢ c a WHAT SHE SEES T Fate REE 10 1 12 The laser beau arstnst the plaok sy; SHOT Sramed by skylight. Andi Bean, caught and held, as in a pipe, an inhuman CREATURE,’ It seems to be resisting the Confinement 2nd pull of the bean; and tb is failing, is sliding, sliooins 4 long fingers Bave itself from being sucxed down e dreir. JUDITH - ECU 8 Frozen in terror, mouth open, making not a sound; unable to move back or to even look away; the laser gun in her limp hand, forgotten. : THE CREATURE IN THE LASER BEAM 9 + soreeches, fights, grasps; and it fatls, is sucked doun into CAMERA. INT, LAB - FULL - NIGHT . 10 As the screeching Creature emerges from the tube-prison of the light bea, crashes dovn on the lab table, is thrown against Judith, sending her bac! to stumble and fall against the wall, And still she is unable to make a sound, The Creature regains his balance, staggers, his arms upheld in confusion, nis glance darting about as if trying to orient himself to the world of a new night- mare, And then he sees Judith, He stops still, stares at her, JUDITH - CREATURE'S POY nn Lying where she fell, against the far wall, fear and shock in her eyes, the laser gun in her han INT, LAB - FULL - NIGHT 12 A moment, and the Creature takes a step toward Judith, Then another, The third shakes Judith out of her shock- paralysis. She dogsn't move, only slightly changes her expression, Ste merely raisés the laser gun, ains it at the Creature, and fires. CUT DIRECTLY TO:'§ PANTRY OF BELLERO MANSION - NIGHT 13 é-fashioned; small, narrow; lined with ss, Dame stands at the counter slowly ne glass, ‘The other glass is on is already polished. ‘ts facets catch 3 steres at the reflection flas as if hypnotized by then, Richard stands at the door, Leans there, steres at nothing, is a still life of rejection, RICHARD (after a moment; ‘quiesiy) Mrs, Dame? She zeither locks at him nor answers; he continues as if accustomed to this absence of response. RICHARD (continuing) Does my wife confide in you... about me? MRS. DAM Sometimes, when shé is dreaming, Iam there, So she dreams aloud. RICHARD Hes she ever "éreaned” about... leaving ne? ” Mrs, Dame puts down the polishing cloth, takes up both crystal glasses, turns and faces Richard. MRS, DAME For what? . He frowns, not comprehending, HRS, DANE (continuing; clarify vine) Leaving you for what’ RICHARD (pauses; smiles sardonically) : Some other pretender... to sore more accessible throne. (CONTINUED)11/20/63 10. CONTINUED: 13 ERS, DANE (pauses) Mrs, Bellero is loyal. . RICHARD Yes, But... (pauses) vee to whom? Judith appears in ‘the doorway, behind Richard. Mrs, Dame looks at her, instantly concerned. Richard turns, looks at Judith, ‘She stands in terrifying caln, her face expressionless, the laser gun still in her hand, RICHARD (a frown; softly) Judith? (when she does not respond) What is it? He notices the gun, almost backs away, as if on an unconscious instinct, as Judith enters the pantry, leans-against the counter, Supt (softiy; looking ‘at no one) , I killed it. 5 . . RICHARD Judith? SUDITH But it wasn't human, It wasn't a human chat I killed. Richard goes to her, touches her shoulder, She looks at hin, SUDITE (continuing; quietly but steadily) It came down... the trembl (pauses; takes his ‘hand off her shoulder) It tock three steps touard ne. And with the third,,, I fired! (CONTINUED)REV, zy) 11/20/63 ll. CONTINUED: (2) 13 She goes quict,. Richard takes the gun from her hand. Mrs, Dame, urseney and concern in her eyes, looks at Richard, then goes swiftly out. RICHARD (quietly; fearful for her : Judith? what did you see? JUDITH, (not moving) It was white... like cold moonlight.., chilling. RICHARD Is it still up there... in the lab? JUDITH Yes. Dead, If such things can die, (glances at the gun in his hand; frowns) No, It shouldn't still be there, I fired with... that. The wine bottle vanished, pauses) . It would too; wouldn't it? I Ean't look back. I crawled... : out of the roos. (a dark resentment) I crawled, Richard. RICHARD (a glance toward the door) Stay here, Judith. Can you? Are you all right, now? She turns her head slowly, until she is looking directly at him, She smiles, JUDITH Mrs. Dame tells me I see potentials that don't exist. - Perhaps i'm begin: to see other, things... that don't exist. She turns swiftly, goes out of the pantry, He follows, his eyes shaded dark with dark disturbance, CUT DIRECTLY TO:oy 12, 14 corvay. She stares in wonder ased in a beil-shaged, clear, is poised, tense, but unafreid, we hear footsteps coming up th Sudith and Richard appear at the door. soted, Stare at the Creature, A long quiet; rp the Creature's voice. It is low, liquid: berates with its on mellow, shell- es, It sounds distant, but not muffled. THE CREATURE (looking at Judith) We are told... that on this plenet, fear is the spur, It was fear that made you think first to destroy me, was it not? 3a step into the lab, his fear already gone, scientist's curiosity and mania for all Richaré ¢: replac wondrous ©: RICHARD The laser beam didn't destroy you? THE CREATURE Does fire quench fire? JUDITH Who are you? ‘THE CREATURE Your _weapon-could not harm me, Had I known its charge was of the sane stuff es that... (points toward ‘the large laser been) ++ I would not have thrown up this shield. (looks at Judith, smiles a grim stile) « I sense it would be ain shieléed, houever; ave acquainted myself your weapons, (CONTINUED)13. “~ uw y nis olercing geze, feels it penetrate She is disturbed, backs aay Mrs, mn sc ose to her, puts a hand on her arn, » JUDITH, (to Richard) Ask him who he is. 5 THE CREATURE , A traveler, 7 at verately answered the question she in- a chard to ask; she realizes this, turns, a ireature, 7 JUDITH : ee From where? “ THE CREATUR orld" hovers just above the ng of your universe, It is. : net. It is... an eS ‘Leation of light, some of : a radiates from your stars, RICHARD . (awed; a spell- ‘pound whisper) How did you cone here? i THE CREATURE, (a sardonic smile) : I am more urgently concerned with . the question of how I shall survive here. 5 (a look, at ° Judith) If I remove my shield... ? He breaks off; there is a quiet, then: t RICHARD ed Of course, you may! Do! e neds @ thank you at Richard, looks again at msciously, she backs away, Mrs, Dame moves as | rd the dor, They stare at the Creature. nd, palm upturned. In it, a small cy = though ue do not now réalize it, & ry objec id to the Credture by a fine plastic tube ) which rans fron the underside of the object ¢o what would te, in @ hunan, she lerge vein in the wrist. The tube ‘contains a dark liquid, fish his free band, he ven, Gark urea in the milk- and with the press, the shield instantly ate a Toiue a CONTINUED: (2) “ RICHARD (looking in wonder at the cylinder) That shield... ? ‘THE CREATURE Without it, we could not travel into such unserene universes as this. Your meteors and your random radiations... He vreaks off, smiles as if suddenly self-conscious and uncomfortable, Judith and Mrs, Daine are staring at hin, as if expecting the worst; Richard's eyes are biazes of curiosity and wonder. ‘THE CREATURE (to Richard) I shall go. RICHARD (a step closer; BK imploring) . < Not’ Don't! The Creature glances at Judith and Mrs. Dame; then to Richard. ‘THE CREATURE : I already see another of your weapons... (looking at Judith) Distrust. Walter looks a plea at Judith. JUDITH Perhaps you can explain to him that we are not all scientists, Richard, 7 (to the Creature; reservedly but pleasently) In our world, naivete and mindless courage are Peserved for very sinall children and very dedicated scientists, (smites) The rest of us have to struggle along with our distrust of... monsters, ' (CONTINUED)po WA CONTIN RICHARD (appalled) Judith 4 toward JUDITH not afraid, now. And THE CREATURE You need not. JUDITH vy husband does not want you to y housekeeper will accept @ moment I do, you 4) THE CREATURE To you? JUDITH limited fashion... yes. Lge locked for a moment; then Richard s her arm, She looks at him, smiles, es to the door, goes out, Mrs, Dame closing door behind her as she goes; RICHARD you stay? xs at the closed door for a moment longer, chard. | The Creat i then turns to THE CREATURE How were you able to create a solid cylinder of amplified light? : RICHARD (taken back by the sudden interest, the change of - manner) (CONTINUED)14 CONTINUED: (4) 14 THE CREATURE (walking toward it) It is composed of proverties almost identical to ‘those hich form the atmos How could you have synthesized compounds whose existence you could not possible have known of? Explain, please. RICHARD ‘The laser is the amplification of light by stinilated emission of radiation, It irradiates a synthetic ruby crystal... CUT DIRECTLY TO: UPSTAIRS FOYER - OUTSIDE LAB DOOR 15 The foyer dimly 1it; a place of shadows and quiet. Judit: stands close to the leo door, her head turned so that her ear is almost touching the door. Mrs. Dame stands a small distance eway, stares expressionlessly at Judith, And from behind the door we hear: RICHARD'S VOICE (off) (continuing; : uninterrupted) as. which absorbs energy over 2 . broad band of frequencies. It is optical energy, and it excites the at her energy state 7 Judith has turned away, a ceep, dark smile on her face, has moved quietiy from the door, CAMERA PANNING with her; we no longer hear Richard's voice. SUDITH (looking beyond Vrs, Dame; speaicing as if to herself) I calied it... our Bifrost... our _ bridge from earth to... heaven. And I was right, I was right. Finally. -Totally. Do you inc nd; that monstrous (CONTINUED)1. / 45 CONTINUED: % e) a spectre, Mrs, And it's (pauses; smiles deediy} and it's ours. FADE OUT. (END ACT ONE)18. > “SELLERO SHIELD" a 0) 16 MANSION - NIGHT 16 the front door ts unlighted, All the windoxs excepting those of the lab on the top floor. 3o’sr.1s car surns into the ériveey, stops before 3 door, 17 Ou GAR - NIGHT ly sel, Bellero, Sr. He sits there for 2 moment, n expression of remorse and enger and weing Aimself to do so, he gets out of the front door, rings the bell. 18 18 He is about to ring he ‘should -- or even the step's edge, S. Dame looks out. Her iS ghe says nothing, Beilero,Sr. URS, DANE | Bellero dces not wish to 3 ua'you, She sent me to senc a aNey. = SENIOR : I came to see my son, Kindly tell him I am here. (pauses) I'l1 wait. MRS. DAN I wes sent to send you away. SENIOR (becoming incensed, ‘trying to control . hinself) My son will see me. MRS. DAME (no difference ‘in tone) sry don't you go avey, ould be a rere «iseness on your part. (CONTINUED) eo18 CONTINUED: 18 REV. 11/19/63 - "BELLERO SHIELD" ig. SENIOR (taking 2 step forward) How dare’ you apeak to me that way? MRS, DAME No friend, and no equal, could speak to you nore cdvisedly. SENIOR (pauses; then) Call my son, Judith appears behind Mrs, Dame, stares out at Bellero, Senior, . JUDITH Go to bed, Mrs, Dame. s, Dame dacks avey, goes. Judith presses a light switch just inside the door; the overdoor lentern lights. She and Bellero exchange a long silent stare, Then: SENIOR I couldn't keep you from marrying ry son, I've done . my best to keep him from regretting it, “ (pauses) It's been a silent war, Judith. (pauses; then, almost regretfully) Now I must fire a very, loud shot. supiTe . (a_smile) A The noise will break his heart, : father. SENIOR (pauses; then, : firmly) He can have the Bellero Corporation, all of it, forever. If he leaves you. : 2 JUDITH He doesn't want it, (CONTINUED)} REV. 12. - "BELLZRO SHIELD" co - 18 CONT: 18 . SENIOR 's spent his entire life e's worthy JUDITH wants your love, Father, I want your empire, SENTOR (pauses; then, with deadly calm) . I spend every nour, every dollar and every dream developing men and means that are dedicated to . the prevention of war; that is how badly I hate wa: ee not as sickened and enraged even : by war as I am by a single soul like yours, Your ambition is a singularly the most active form “ of violence I've ever encountered. 7 JUDITH (unmoved, s It's no more active ¢ cun; just younger and more ” vibrant, : 7 SENTOR a “I -have-no-ambition;—ny-yearnings are aspirations, suDiTa” : : You want glory. as SENIOR I aspire to it, SUDITH You lust! And lust is what . becozes of an aspiration when 2 | it's alzoned to grow up and become : . an ambition. 1j (pauses; smiles) . | You are going to give tae Bellero expire to your son.. SENIOR ac 2 3 7 . (CONTINUED) . . a g |_ 4 o ~ 18 CONTINU: 3) 18 . JUDITH (pauses; finishes statement) ys» in return for the glory he is about to give the Sellero name. (as he looks 2 faintly puzzled frown at her) Yes, father. (a small, soft laugh) Wait and see, She goes in, closes the door, ‘The lantern light goes off, Bellero, Sr. comes down the steps, pauses, looks up at the lab windons, ‘Then, thoughtful and vaguely disturbed, he goes to his car, gets in, drives off. a 19 INT, UPSTAIRS FOYER - OUTSIDE LAB DOOR - NIGHT ~~ From behind the door, the low hums, buzzes, throbbings of the electronic equipment within. Judith comes up the Net stairs, reaches the door, pauses, Then she knocks softly. There 1s no response, She opens the door a small ereck, looks in, 20 WHAT SHE SEES - ANGLED THROUGH DOOR CRACK 20 e 1 The equipment is in full operatio: panel lights blink, i tape recorders roll, Richard escorts the creature on iH a comprehensive tour of the lab, gesturing and explaining. i We do not hear his voice, it is overpowered vy the equip- i ii ment sounds. Suddenly, the creature looks toward door, : pauses, locks his gaze with Judith's, : j + QL JUDITH - CLOSE - THROUGH DOOR CRACK - CREATURE'S POV 2h i Li She returns his gaze, steadily and evenly, Then she , closes the door, ~ 22 INT, LAB - CLOSE ON RICHARD AND CREATURE - NIGHT 22 C) Richard has realized that the creature is no-longer pay- i ing attention, looks at him.. a m4 THE CREATURE The human you call wife.? REV, 11/20/63 22 23 CONTINUED: RICHARD (frowns, looks ‘at closed door) Judith? He starts toward door, Tne Creature calls to him: CREATURE - Friend... ? (as Richard pauses, looks back) I have not much time... and there 1s so much more I would like to be taught. RICHARD (smiles; is grateful) I'11 just be a minute, He hurries toward the docr. INT, UPSTAIRS FOYER - Ni Judith waits. The door opens; Richard comes out, his face almost beautiful with enthusiasm and enjoyment, gUDITH Close the door, please, My hearing is more sensitive than yours, He closes the door, still smiling, undaunted by the cold edge in her voice. She is appraising hin. JUDITH (a small, unsmiling smile) I see. RICHARD what? JUDITH How you look when you're genuinely . happy. Evidently, this 1s the first time i've seen you... genuinely happy. (CONTINUED) 22. 22 2323. 23 23 then, sticslly) S about every mn say or explain’ he'd like it ail the fucts of Ais brain JUDITH (quietiy appalled) t you've been doing RICHARD ch time, Judith, an hour, He has to efore the parallex 2 earth ane JUDITH (interrupting) (pauses) e Generous fool pauses) orain? & RICHARD ‘i (quietiy) ath, SUCTTs, (pauses; smiles) and ke goes hone... and astounds everyo . and you're left with oth: $a fantastic tele to tell 2 rid} and who'll believe you? ver with Mrs, Dane and me to corroborate your story Lieve you? Who'll be Three benighted idiots, ucinators? RICHARD. {quiet anger) uta chain ar parade him down Nain (CONTINUED) 1‘9 ak, 23 © CONTINUED: (2) 23 qULr Your laser light sade it cossible for a form of life to travel froxi our universe, Richard, You brought it down! It's yours! You own RICHARD No form of life should ever be conned Dy enosuer JUDITH (reryentiy; pressing) ALL right! Hot omershie, then! But proof! To convince the smirkers! To stagger the world! RICHARD I didn't set out to accomplish this, Judith, It was an accident, JUDITH (close to his ear; whispering) Such acciden Kings! have 1 RICHARD ° i (pauses; is beginning to be reached; tries to resist) I'm wasting time, Judita, He turns to open the door; she reaches out, grasps his hand, pulls it up to her iiouth, kisses it, JUDITH Richerd... don't lose this.. mad opportunity. He stares ct her, says nothing, Then he frees his 4 hand, but doesn't resume opening the door,keeps staring at her, isillusioned child) 11 believe happened (CONTINUED)j 23 CONTIN Richars turn: JUDITH t were told to ive failure and her housekeeper? 1s: RICHARD ould be believed, If em he's seen it, they'll ! Call him, Judith. Tell his to cone quickly! Ee can get here in time... no one else could. He's the closest... call hin, hurry} JUDITH (pauses; suiles) You call. He doesn't nate you. (urgently) Hurry! Less than an hour... to the door, pauses. JUDITH What is it? RICHARD I'll use the downstairs phone. (of the Creature in the lab) He may resent being exploited. JUDITH He probably doesn't know the meaning of the word. RICHARD I do. (a grim smite) I learned it at my fatner's knee. the stairs; we hear his footstess got 25. 23 He go2s down down, gudith stares after him, then iooks at ¢ h into the shadows opposite. irs. Dame svecs out ey exchange stares. Then, Judith moves 50 the lab door, reaches out to open it, MRS. DAME (a whisper) Mrs, Eellero? (CONTINUED)+) REY, 11/20/63 23 ak 26. CONTINUED: (4) 23 Judith pauses, looks back, Mrs, Dame takes her hand out of her pocket. It holds a small, mother-of-peari- handled revoiver, She extends it. MRS, DAME (continuing) Once.., this protected me from a hunan monster, —— (smiles) The one I married. (pauses) Take it, You may need.., the same protection, Judith takes the gun, pockets it, opens the door and goes into the lab. INT, LAB - NIGHT The Creature's back is to the door; and Judith enters soundlessly, closes the door silently, She stares at the Creature, It senses her, turns, Its eyes go at once to the hand in the pocket. Judith smiles, starts to remove the hand, The Creature presses its hand-held cylinder, is instantly encased in its clear, indestructibie shell, Judith pauses, then takes her hand out of the pocket, The gun is not in her hand, She smiles, comes forward, approaching the Creature as if too friendly and innocent to be offended by or even take notice of his : defensiveness, JUDITH Richard will be back in a minute. Is there something I ean do for you? CREATURE How long is a minute? JUDITH (relaxed; smiling) It passes unnoticed, when you're content, For the needy, it can be a string of endless iifetines. CREATURE + Why do you want me to remain here? {JUDITH (Laughs) Can you read my mind... even through your... shield? (conrriusD)REV. 11/19/63 - "BELLERO SHIELD" ere. « 2h. CONTINUED: . ak a CREATURE i i No. I cannot read your ming. I cannot even understand your language. (as she reacts ‘in surprise) : I analyze your eyes. in all a the universes, in all the . 7 unities beyond all the universes, Sonus all who have eyes, have eyes 2 that speak, And all speak the 3 same language. oe JUDITH, * : (awed; intrigued) 2 7 How can you speak my language? CREATURE I learn each word just before I speak it, Your eyes teach me. . JUDITH (pauses; then:) te My husband tells me you must go... fl in less than en hour, Must you? : eet (as he nods) : a + Don't, Please, Stey here, I want you to stay... for my husband's “ sake. . CREATURE, (almost a smile) I see. JUDITH (smiles) Then you must see that I wouldn't : harm you for the world, You can come out of your shell, He pauses, then presses the cylinder, The shell “) “disappears. é CREATURE : 7 (smiles) « : And now... you'll cone out pooh Le of yours? 5 v my . bo + (CONTINUED)€ CONTINUED: (2) as Judith laughs, noves away, walks aimlessly ebout, in an attempt to keep hin from looking into her eyes. JUDITH You're extremely perceptive. Yes, we have our shields, too, But ours protect only our souls and our hearts, Our flesh is vulnerable to whatever fate and our other enemies hurl at us, She pauses, holds poised, eyes lowered, thoughtful; as if struck to an auareness by her own words, Then she looks across ¢o him. CREATURE No. JUDITH (a wry sile) No? CREATURE You lack the prine ingredient. He extends his palu, holding the cylinder. CREATURE (continuing) to manufacture a thing like s. JUDITH (coming forward, slowly) That's unfortunate, She pauses; keeps walking until she is close to hin, then: JUDITH, (continuing) The man who could give his country... a weapon like that... CREATURE - It isn't a weagon. I suppose ina ullitary frame of reference, it would be considered an anti-weapon.au 2s. cont: alt (turns away, resumes pacing) yoman and child 2 be protected again: and counterattack, CREATURE an, woman and child would not need his own, A single one of these could shield and protect your entire clanet She pauses; then, slowly, turns around, faces hin. JUDITH A single one? CREATURE eld's radius can be or decreased, merely py deepening the pressure, or lightening it. But the thing would do your planet no good, unless I or one of ny kind were ineress door opens; Richard enters, pauses, RICHARD * . He xon't come back. father will never come nere again, JUDITH (pauses, then with urgency) ‘tol Go and RICHARD You sent him awey, Judith, JUDITS (pauses; then starts to I'li go to him. rd door)J 2h CONTINUED: (4) 2h She reaches the door; Richard blocks it, s JUDITH (a controlled rage; a whisper) 1111 crawl, Anything... to get him here before... it's too late. RICHARD (quietiy; defeated) No, Judith, I ean't let you... crawl, (pauses) I'll go. (to the Creature; a whispered, painful plea) Wait for me, Please? The Creature looks at him, turns his eyes, pained by the anguish in Richaré's, Judith gently urges Richard out the door, closes it after him. We hear Richard's footsteps rushing down the stairs, Judith remains by the deor, stares at the Creature. He looks at her, CREATURE I did not lie to him, I did not promise that I would wait. JUDITH You're not going to wait. CREATURE If I miss the moment, I'11 never be able to leave nere. JUDITH Yes, None of us can afford to iss the moment, CREATURE (Looking into ‘her eyes) Goodbye? ‘What does that mean? : JUDITH It has many meanings. CREATURE I see. (CONTINUED)24 “contrnuzD: (5) an He bots his head slightly, turns and sulftly leaps up onto the lab table, stares at the luser beam, As he reaches up his hands toward it, Judith takes the gun out of her pocket, fires at him, is struck in the base of the skull, He falls backwards, lands flat on his back, is still, FADE OUT. (END act TWO}a 25 26 “the sound of a door opening. ‘The ce: 32. FADE IN: (ACT THREE) INT. WINE CELLAR - DAY 25 Frail morning light seeps in through the high, small window. All is still and silent; and then we hear ing light goes on. Judith and Mrs. Dame haif-carry, half-drag th: lifeless Creature down the stairs. They say nothing, Seem coldly competent, unpanicked. They pause when they reach the cellar floor, then drag the Creature toward CANERA. They let it go, rise up, survey thei> surroundings. MRS. DANE We'll have to dig it a grave. JUDITH ter. MRS. DAME Your husband... JUDITH, He rarely comes down for the wine. I'll remember not to send hin. ‘ MRS. DANE I'll dig a hole in the woods behind the house. Tonight, we'll bury it. : JUDITH Nobody's grave has to be dug ina hurry. Do a little today, a little tomorrow... so I won't have to do without you for a whole day. : From OFF, the sound of an automobile entering the drive, coming to a stop. Judith and Mrs. Dame exchange calm glances, start toward the stairs. ANGLE CLOSE ON WINE CELLAR STAIRS - DAY 26 Judith is about to start up; Mrs. Dame is behind her. “They hear a door slam above, then footsteps. They Pause, hold, listen. From above: . RICHARD'S VOICE. (OFF) It's up in the laboratory, Father. (CONTINU:26 27 REV. 11/19/63 ~ "BELLERO SHIELD" 33. CONTINUED: 26 SENIOR'S VOICE (off) I shall wait here in the foyer, Richard. I do not wish to go deeper into your house. I have come as far as any man should have to. RICHARD'S VOICE (Off) {after a pause) There are drafs here. SENIOR'S VOICE (Off) If you truly have something to show me, bring it here and show it to me. A quiet; then we hear Richard's footsteps cross the foyer and go up the stairs. JUDITH (to Mrs. Dame) Stay. She goes up the stairs. CAMERA REMAINS CLOSE on Mrs. Dame. Judith goes up OUT OF SHOT; hear the cellar door open, ,then close. Then we hear: JUDITH'S VOICE (off) Thank you, father... for coming. (pauses; 2 quiet; then) Excuse me. CUT DIRECTLY TO: INT. LAB - DAY . 27 Richard stands just inside the door; it is still open behind him. He looks about the empty room, frowning, a small anxiety in his eyes. Then he crosses to the . table. The laser beam has been shut off. Ail the equipment is quiet.’ He looks out the open skylight, looks up at the gray dawn sky. ‘Then, as Judith enters, he turns, looks @ question at her. . JUDITH t refused to wait. Richard Seys nothing; but he is crushed, devastated. He sinks into a chair. Judith goes to him, touches his shoulder. (CONTINUED)VU a 3h. 27 contin JUDITH 46 was not a cuestion sine... the parallax made no ference. He simply did not you to profit by him... as he 28 profited by you. RICHARD (looks up at her) see. consciously echoing the Creature's, of guilt to rise in Juditn's face. so he can not look inte her eyes, couid analyze them, 2s the Cretaure JUDITH I begged him to stay, Richard. ET told him... he nad not begun all you could have RICHARD (a rueful smile; more to hinself) I didn't dup here 2 ecility to my long accerplishnents. 7 (rises) I'll tell him it was a ruse to get hin here... so you could zZpologize to hi (pausea; Looks at her Will you? . (as she says nothing) Judith? in her own frenzied thoughts, hardly hears nS, starts toward the door. As he reaches 7 JUDITH Wait, Richard! (as he pauses) Tl talc to him (CONTINUED)REV, 11/19/53 > "BELLERO SHIELD" 35+ 27 CONTINUED: (2) 27 RICHARD You'll apologize? JUDITH - (pauses; then, with a smile) He will. She goes quickly to the door, passes 4 the door, looks back. » pauses at JUDITH (continuing) 2 Wait here. Your father and I will come up together. He frowns, mystified and epprehensive. She goes out. We hear her footsteps go down the stairs. CUT DIRECTLY TO: » 28 INT. WINE CELLAR - DAY 28 ; Mrs. Dame stands at the foot of the stairs, ts in ¢ i exact position as when last seen. From OFF, the sound of i Judith's footsteps coming down the stairs and into the it foyer above. - | JUDITE'S VOICE (ore) { He can not bring it dow. i You'll have to go up to the lab. i i CAMERA BEGINS TO PULL BACK, “backs dow the aisle, slowly, ANGLED Low. JUDITH'S VOICE (orf) (continuing, after '@ pause) Father? : (pauses; louder) If you leave this house, without going up to your son, you'll be exposing yourself as 2 sanctimonious i shan! The world will know that ! - your “dedication” to peace and good is a mask to hide your petty, vengeful, unforgiving nature! jw CAMERA has PULLED BACK to the end of the aisle; the Creature is now in SHOT. (CONTINUED)28 29 30 CONTINUED: CAMERA HOVES IN CLOSE on its hand, cylinder VE it holds the ina death grip. Over this: SUDITH'S VOICE (orf) (continuing, uninterrupted) Your son has invente nankind t mankind! His invention will make war impotent end insane! He can give it to the world... as a gift, fron an anonymous donor. * CUT DIRECTLY TO: CLOSE ON MRS. DAME - AT FOOT OP CELLAR STAIRS - DAY Expressionlessly, she listens to Judith's voice, which comes from above. JUDITH'S VOICE (orf) (continuing, uninterrupted) Or he can give it as the new ruler of the Eellero empire! There's no glery for you... f your son's invention goes ae down in history as a gift from an anony:ous donor! A pause; and then we hear Senior's footsteps cross the foyer, start up the steirs. Then the cellar door opens; Juditi iuzries down the. stairs. She passes Mrs. Dame without a word or glance, ftly down the aisle toward the Creature. Mrs. cohes, but does not move. CLOSE ON GF: Judith enters SHOT, 1 Then, swift, like a lifts up the Creature's from the cylinder, deathgrip. Then 3 as she does so, lesti! She does not notice th object end the 2 ATURE ~ ne cylinder free, rising hand fall to the floor tube which connected had to break. CAMERA MOVES IN EXTREMELY CLOSE o Cresture's hand. We see the tube that hangs out of its wrist. Out of the broken end of it, a thick dark liquid seeps. GUT DIRECTLY TC: 36. 28 29 3031 REV. 11/19/63 - "BELLERO SHIELD" 37. INT. LAB - DAY 31 Bellero, Sr. stands in the doorway. Richard is look- ing at him, mystified. RICHARD (after a moment) My invention? SENIOR She called it yours. Richard holds a moment, then goes to the door, is about to start out, pauses as he sees,0FF, Judith coming up the stairs. He says nothing, waits. And in a moment, she enters, passes him without a glance, the cylinder held in her outstretched, upturned palm. He sees it; reacts in silent shock. Judith comes into the room, crosses to the lab table, puts the cylinder down. Then she notices her palm there is a small smear of dark licuid in its center. She takes a hand- kerchief out of he> pocket, wipes the liquid off. A faint stain remains. She ignores it, pockets she handkerchief, turns and faces Richard and Senior. JUDITH (a sweet smile) Richard? (ashe says nothing) May I have the honor of explaining your shield... the Bellero Shield... to your father? Richard says nothing, merely stares as if in terror of letting e realization seep into his mind. Senior looks at nim, mystified, then-at Judith. SENIOR ‘The Bellero Shield? JUDITH He wanted to call it... the Bifrost. In honor of an. int drean we've shared. TI persi him to give it his own name. (meaningfully) His... and yours. Almost against his desire or better Judgement, Senior is becoming intrigued, even vaguely excited. le approaches the table,, looks down on the cylinder. (CONTINUED)holds it nox. She takes a few steps dai 38. 31 a few steps forward; Judith sees hin, :& Pierce sign to halt end be quiet. He sudies the cylinder, reaches out to fh snatches it aay. Then she takes died revolver out of her pocket, hands JUDITH Fire it. At me. Point-blank. RICHARD (an anguished plea) Judital JUDITH (a deadly, quieting glance at Richard; then a smile at Senior) Please. Great men require great demonstrations, don't they? tically forced Senior to take the gun. He ards, waits. i sUDITH (continuing) ! Point-blank » but ng his eyes off Judith) Are you going to let me be tricked, Richard? JUDITH No trick, father. (smiles) 2 won't convince you. Richard, give him the laser gun. RICHARD Judith... I can't let you... JUDITH (interruptin: a sudden dis Ampatiens s. Dame! (CONTINUED)i | REV, 12/20/63 31 _ CONTINUED: (2) o Mrs. Dane has been standing just outside the door, She enters the moment she is called, gces to Judith, JUDITH, (continuing) We must show these men what great men they are, She glances at the gun in Senior's hand, Mrs. Dame comprehends. She takes the gun out of Sentor's hand, levels it at Judith, And fires, And at that precise moment, Jud. esse’ the cylinder, is instantly encased in enetrable Shell. The bullet | ricochets, strikes, the wall b Hrs, Dane, Senior matanee stined, agecchicee, RECnSrd “avhese ‘collapses in his relief and anguish, sinks into a chair. SENIOR (an awed whisper) What is it? (to Mrs. Deme, when Judith merely smiles) Can she hear me? JUDITH Yes, Now the laser gun Mrs, Dane takes it up off the table, is about to level it, when Senior snatches it out of her hand. He is lost in the sudden, shattering realization that in- mortality is within reach, He ains et Judith, fires. The beam strikes the shield, “#fendrews,into ‘Tue-snreTd 1s Hoe”evermarked. “Senior” goes “close, touches the shield. JUDITH (continuing) The man who invented this... could rule the world. Or save it, if you prefer. Isn't that the kind of man you want to succeed you, father? Senior stares at the shield a moment, then turns, looks at Richard, Quick, insincere tears fill his eyes, his mouth twists into an elaborate, ingenuine display of remorse and guiit. He goes to Richard, slowly, a hand cutstretched, pauses, then touches Richard's shoulder as if doubtful that he has the right to do so. RICHARD (dully} Don't, father, (contrNvzD)REV, 31 : SENIOR (taking hand anay) I gathered up... all my self-doubts we. and rid nyself of then... by Peégecting then on to you. I have used you, Richard... RICHARD Stop it, Please. ° SENIOR, (continuing) to shield zyself. And Z oT host destroyed you. Forgive me, : Richard, Don't shut me out of your success,as 1 tried to shut You out of mine. Please, forgive 3 RICHARD i (rising; 2 deep scream) Stop itt ‘ost staggers out of the lab, Senior ‘i 9, then turns to Judith, pleeding and s eyes. : JUDITH : : He does not forgive easily, 7 : father, He has your small flaus, . as well as your great virtues. 8 SENIOR (going to her, greedy vet hope in his eyes) He will forgive me! Worl't he? . JUDITH 5 7 I'LL help him to. | : SENIOR (pauses; lowers his eyes) But quickly, Please, Judith... quickly. I haven't... too much... time. E : She raises a brow; he looks up, smiles a tiny sad smile, (CONTINUED) .O 31 os = "sa $3 - "BELLERO SHIELD" an. is) 31, SENIOR did not decide to retire. going te ce retired... by 1 ahd just decision... ever make. the door, starts toward it, pauses as chair é been sitting in. then sits buries his face in watches him, then moves close to the hispers to Judith witht MRS. DANE Go to hin. It is customary to confort a broken enemy... defore you discard him, Sa slim deadly sr of agreement, presses + Nothing hai shield renains esses agein; again the shield is not 2 frowns worriedly, looks at Mrs. Dame. he presses again, and again, and still the shield ny glint of panie leaps up in her eyes. tares at the shleld, fearfully. She hen bangs on it, with her fist. Judith ‘essing the cylinder, begins to breathe arity hear the panic and terror in it. S, lifts his head, looks at Judith. She is Like a trapped animal; her-mouth 4s open; $ no scream, no cry. She merely breathes rder, in faster, more frightened gasps. MRS. D: (softly; less than a whisper) Help her. Heaven... help her. Judith's sercem comes; a great high wail terror that echoes and reverberates against the FADE OUT. (END. ACT THREZ)REV, 11/20/63 32 PADE IN: (ACT FOUR) INT, LAB - NIGHT Judith 1s still encased in the shield. She is sit on the floor now, her arms around her’ knees, her face buried, es, Dame sits in a chair, close by. She never takes her eyes off Judith, stares wide-eyed, her mouth set in a grim frozen agony.. Around the ouvside of the shield are many varieties of destructive instr ments -- hatches, drills, dlow-torches, the laser gun -- ail lying there lixe grim headstones in a cemetery where failures are buried, Senior sits in a chair, sone distance from the shield. He looks older, azed by ave and panic ‘and fear for his own safety, He watches Richard, who is at the laser instrument, working feverishly, directing and re- directing the beam into the night sky. A long quiet; while Richard works at the laser, Then: MRS. DAME (quietly; not turning) It is useless, Hr. Bellero. The monster will not come back. Not that way. RICHARD (voice hoarse . with anguish and slesplessness) It came once, It can cone again. MRS, DAME She'll die in there. RICHARD (turning to her) Not MRS. DAME Can she live without air to breathe? Is there a perpetual supply of oxygen in that tomb RICHARD : * (returning to the beam) He'll come back. This possibility frightens Senior more than any He looks about, like a trapped animal, (CONTINUED) of hers? : 42, 32REV, 11/20. 23 ~ 32 0, Conta 5 SENIOR (quietly, hesitantiy) (waits, gets no response) Let me go... for helo! I can do sonet! I'm sure... but not if I must remain here... it's hope... RICHARD (turning to his : father; interrupting; : a defensive shout) Don't tell me it's hopeless, That's + all you've ever had to give me... : hopelessness! Don't you ever run out of them? Do you have 2 perpetual supply of hopeless words in thet tomb of yours? een, sterted toward Richard, Richard ardly, sinks into the chair in SENZOR If there was... such a creature 4¢ may de roaming the streets it may be... killing and... Someone should warn. ; RICHARD a & (wearily) . tb Sit down, father, And be quiet. I do not want anyone to know that ny wife... is a thief... the first to thieve from... a friend from another world. SENIOR : We must do something... for all oe of us... as well as for your . wife. . RICHARD oe What can we do for my wife, father? } SENIOR Get help, Richard. Perhaps she can be reached from the room bel | 4f the ceiling were to be cut away. CONTINUED) 43. 327 REV, 11/20/63 -“, 32 CONTINUED: (2) . . 32 RICHARD The shield goes down to the foundations of the house, father, Down and down, probably 411 the - way to... : . He breaks off. Senior gathers up some courage, starts for the deor, . a RICHARD . Father! Stay! : SENIOR (glancing at phone on table) I'll call then, You can listen, I won't say anything incriminating, (pauses; then, as Richard does not respond) Can't I even cali for help? Just gall? : RICHARD Call whom? The police? The leading scientists of the world? The faith-healers, the magicians... psychiatrists, munitions experts, philosophers... the politicians, the image-makers, the funeral 5 directors... the million government soos agencies... whom do we call when we're trapped alive in our tombs? Is there someone to-call? Can anyone help? fe He turns, looks at Judith. She has raised her head, ei is listening; but her eyes are closed. He goes to the 3 shield, kneels vefore it, looks at the cylinder. on the floor near her foot, looks at her. 5 u RICHARD . (continuing; : softly; ; : anguished) 7 moat : Judith... pick it up... try it 5 ». 5 again. Try. Please. : : . > { JUDITH SA (softly, slowly) . Movements... and words accomplish,,, nothing, and only... depiet the oxyge: and t soul (contrnuED)REV, 11/20/63 45., 32 CONTINUED: (3) : 32° * RICHARD Please, Once more. She buries her face again. He holds a nonent, then gets up, returns to the table, begins to operate the laser beam again, | JUDITH tell hin. Mrs. Dame useless, p RICHARD : It isn't, Judith! He-nust sti12 ve in our atmosphere. He couldn't go out of it without his shie2d! He'd be incinerated! He knew that! a6 JUDITH vs Mrs, Dame, Tell him... to call i the police, i Mrs, Dame stares at her, then looks at Senior. And Ba says nothing, Judith lifts her head, looks at Nrs. ~ Dame, sees that she intends to remain silent. ~ JUDITH. . . (continuing) . Richard? MRS, Dail (a low shout) - Not . od JUDITH nh (a small, weary smile) { Why not, Mrs, Dame; The State ; can't execute me, without 5 getting me out of... (an abrupt, bitter laugh) Maybe that's the solution. Tell them I'm a murderer... and they'21 rip me cut of this with their bare i : hands... to keep me from escaping 4 their chamber. . ean She begins to laugh, hysterically, is unable to stop. Richard goes to the shield. (CONTINUED)REV, 32 ASA. 11/20/63 CONTINUED: (4) 32 RICHARD (shouting) Stop it! Judith! Don't! . Senior backs toward the door, fearfully and surreptiticusi RICHARD (continuing; ‘a scream) Judith! Suddenly, she stops laughing; her face goes calm, her expression becomes serene, Richard watches, his eyes. pained and fearful. Senior pauses by the door, his escape delayed by Hrs. Dame, who is approaching the door, She goes out of the lab, ignoring Senior as she passes him, JUDITH (quietly, gently) . He.told we.., so much about it. All about it, I thought. A single one could protect our entire planet... its radius is increased by merely deevening the pressure... an anti-weapon, he called it. : (HORE) (CONTINUED) |32 CONTINUED: (4) 32 - JUDITH (CONT'D) +e. and I thought he'd told m everything. of course, I realize... he never told me... how to remove it. (pauses) Nothing we know of... in this world... will remove it. She is staring down at her hands, which lie in her. lep, lifelessiy, palms upturned. She seés the small - stain in the center of her palm, orings it close to her face, studies it. i JUDITH (continuing) Nothing... will remove it. There is a quiet. Richard rises, returns to the Laser table, but does not touch the controls, merely stares up at the nightsky visible through the open skylight. JUDITH I killed him prematurely. Richard looks toward her, slowly, his eyes tneredulcus, but his mind not doubting the statement for a minute. Senior stares in fear, as if personally threatened oy the admission. JUDITH, (continuing) Iwanted proof that he'd been here. Your father would have wanted. demand... even expect. proof.- Fathers often at strangers don't Senior backs eway, slowly goes out of the lab.. Neither Richard nor Judith are avare of his departure. | 33 INT. WINE CELLAR - NIGHT 33 Dark, except for the light that spills’ down the stairs from the foyer above, the door to which is open. In silhevette, we see Hrs. Dime dragging the Creature toward the stairs.REV. 11/19/63 ANGLE ON STAIRS 34 Going up on the first step, backwards, Mrs. Dame starts to drag the Creature's form up after her. She pauses, alert and tense, as she hears Senioz's footsteps co: down the stairs. She shoves the tody to one side, and rushes up the steps to close the door. Senior reaches it before she does. We see his shadow. Mrs. Dame steps, looks up. Her expressicn tells us that Senior has seen she Creature. Then: SENIOR'S VOICE (an awed whisper) Is that... 16? (peuses) It's dead? MRS. DANE I am going to bury it. You must not try to stop me. A quiet; then, slowly, Senior comes down a few steps; ENTERS SHOT. His eyes are wondrous wide; his brain is whirling with the exploiter's immediate and all- consuming calculations. MRS. DAME You have your proof. The police must not have theirs. SENIOR (looks at her, - is shaken out of his thoughts) a The police? (comprehending) No, of course not. - It's no : business of theirs. It belongs to the world of prize-givers. of the pratsers of greatness. (going doun another step, the one below hers; looking down on the Creature) And my son Invented the as: that brought it here. ¥: splashed across @ thousend chapters of the world's most honored history. . MRS. DANE There is 2 bullet in the base of its skull. j (CONTINUED)= T 34 48. CONTINUED: 3h SENIOR 0 My son didn't put it there. (turns, smiles ‘up at her) Great men are forgiven their murderous wives. His uncaring words impel Mrs. Dame. She pulls her hand back, prepares to give him a back-hand slap. moves to escape the expected slap, slips, fells. We hurls downvard, going OUT OF FRAME.. lie hear his startled ery, but we do not see him fall. Mrs. Dame stands there, her hand still withdrawn in readiness to slap. She stares down. All is quiet. Then, slowly, she goes down the stairs. Senior lies in a heap at the bottom, one arn flung across the face of the Creature. Mrs. Dame lifts the arm; and we see the Creature's eyes. They are open: Mrs. Dame opens her mouth tc scream; no Sound comes out; she freezes there, bent over, her face iced in horror. CUT DIRECTLY. TO: INT. THE LAB - NIGHT 35 Judith and Richard are as they were when last seen; she in the shield, he at the Laser table, his face turned toward her, but his eyes no longer seeing, merely gazing into nothing. CAMERA MOVES TOWARD the shield; we see that Judith is having trouble breathing; the oxygen supply is ‘almost depleted. She begins to struggle, to sob; and in ner increasing panic, s? rises, bangs against the shield, screans breat: almost voicelessly: ssly, JUDITH Let me out! Please... let. me... out! Please... I! sorry... I need... to be. forgiven... sotieone... must forgive me... and let me... free... During above, Richard has come slowly to the shield. He is weeping soundlessly reaches out, touches the shield with the flat herd, his fingers spread. Judith puts her face against the shield, es if te have it touched by Richard's hand. stops Screaming, closes her eyes, sods softly. (continveD)35 to. CONTI: 35 RICHARD can forgive you, Judith. But can't let you free. z rT I can. CREATURE'S VOICE (orf) s eround, freezes in astonishment; the Ss in the doorway, leans against the frane, » neer death, breathing hard from the ed to climd the stairs. Hrs. Dane is tehind m lowered in guilt end renorse. Richard goes vo the Creature, his hands extended to heip CREATURE (continuing; raising hand vith detached tube) When she... borrowed the thing... she accidentally broke... the vein. ily fluid... like your nal ingredient... reaches it, pauses to © strengen. sudith opens ‘nim: “For a noment she merely stares giz. Then, a rise of terror surges within; covers her eyes with her fingers, digs, her eyes, soft, windy scream e Creature ic knees, grasys: the ith the ff oppusite squeezes out 1 drops of iiquid onto the shield. The liquid runs down slowly, like thick rain The Creature reach places his er side of the licuid-tracks, pulls @ eid. When it is large enough, he ree the cylinder, reatteches the rist-tute, he shield disappears. And the Creature dies. Richard wiy back, Creature, looks down on it. nds near Richard, looks. dom on the Dame HRS. DAKE I expected... it to kil - but it looke and T heard myself say “Can you help?". and it said... "Can I not?"50. SE ON LAB on darkens, finally diseppears. 37 down, picks up the cylinder. Richard She has not moved @ step, has not RICHARD (softly) Judith? (pauses) It's gone. . (pauses) You're free. slowly, guardedly, she uncovers looks at Richerd. RICHARD | \ (continuing, | reaching out ~ a hand) : Cone, Judita. (pauses) have to tell... someone... e've done. d hand, tekes a him. and 1» 26 his outstrete as if to rush grater as-if she has bumped into an invisible ms, looks around frantically, her hands ar p= short, well. She 2: raised. ! JUDITH (softly; like a frightened You said... it was gone RICHARD (worriediy; { unconsciously withdrawing » hand) 14) begins 1S her FLOOR - RICHARD & MRS. DAME'S 36 ener Yazzu} 37 CONTINUED: 37 { . JUDITH No... it’s still here... nothing " will remove it... i¢-will always be here... nothing will ever remove it... it's here... I know it's here. During above, Mrs. Dane stares at Judith, says nothing, nercly closes her eyes against inmediately recognized madness. CAMERA BEGINS 10 MOVE IN CLOSZ on Judith's outstretched palm, which she holds still now, as if it were pressed against come invisible shield. And during following, her voice begins to fade, ac if our hearing were being gradually withdrawn. JUDITH, (continuing) . -.-Z can see it... Ili always see it... it will always be here... nothing will ever renove it... nothing... nothing will e ever renove dé.) CAMERA is IN TIGHT on Judith's outstretched palm. We w see the stain in the palm's middle; and Judith's voice has faded away, is gone. CONTROL VOICE When this passion called aspiration becomes lust... - then aspiretion degenerates... becomes vulgar ambition ~- by which sin the angels fel FADE OUT. (THE END)