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SHANGHAIED
by Max Teasdale (maxteasdale@gmail.com)

Rated: PG-13   Genre: Science Fiction/Fantasy   User Review: ***1/2
Two ninja brothers from 17th century feudal Japan are abducted by aliens just days before a massive invasion and catapulted a thousand years into the future to be used against their will in a corporately fueled assassination plot. Soon, they find themselves caught in the middle of an intergalactic battle between good and evil, love and loss, faith verses the future, and all the while, fighting the temptation (and each other)whether to stay or return home to face almost certain death.


This screenplay is copyrighted to its author. All rights reserved. This screenplay may not be used or reproduced without the express written permission of the author.



SHANGHAIED

FADE IN:

EXT. FEUDAL JAPAN-1647- VAST SMOKING BATTLEFIELD - DAY
                                                            
A bloody and costly battle has come to an end.

Dead samurai are everywhere. The "victorious" Samurai move
through the piles of dead and injured in a mopping up
operation.
                                                            
SUPER: FEUDAL JAPAN- 1647
                                                            
 
INT. FEUDAL CASTLE- HALLWAYS- CONTINUOUS - DAY
                                                            
TIGHT ON YOUNG KEI: He is RUNNING with purpose. He is the
strong and proud older son of a mighty samurai warlord, but
the look on his twelve year old face is one of dread and
responsibility.

He whips around a corner and sprints down the endless
hallway past several armed guards.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
INT. MARTIAL ARTS STUDIO (DOJO) - DAY
                                                            
We SEE an eight year old KONG standing with shaky legs
spread apart sitting in HORSE STANCE. He is the younger and
weaker version of Kei. A strained look on his face carves a
concrete block of determination, but the look in his eyes
speak of a feeble strength that has little hope of being the
shining beacon for his father's affection and praise.

A stern CHINESE SIFU circles the boy, disappointed.

Kong tries with all his might to control his wavering
muscles, but it is hopeless. He collapses and falls on his
butt.

The Sifu shoots out a stiff arm pointing to the wall with a
shallow shelf running the length.

Kong appears to be on the verge of crying. He follows his
master's gesture.

TIGHT ON HOUR GLASS: Barely a dusting sprinkles on the
bottom...
                                                            

2.

                       SIFU
AGAIN!!
                                                            
Suddenly, a SLIDING DOOR is thrown OPEN.

Kong gets up and stands.

Kei RUSHES IN and stops.
                                                            
                       KEI
Father's DEAD!!
(beat, catching breath)
GENERAL ODA'S army is upon us. We
must go to mother.
                                                            
Kei rushes forward and grabs Kong's hand. He pulls him away
and out of the Dojo.

The Sifu hangs his head in prayer.
                                                            
 
EXT. FORESTED AREA- NEAR DEFEATED SAMURAI ENCAMPMENT - DAY
                                                            
We FOLLOW Kei and Kong on HORSEBACK. Kei is planted in the
saddle, while Kong holds on for dear life as they gallop
through a small stretch of forest to their father's
encampment.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
EXT. DEFEATED SAMURAI ENCAMPMENT - DAY
                                                            
The boys find their MOTHER and throw arms around her for
protection. She is dressed like royalty and clutches the
boys tight.

The boys watch someone approach.

A YOUNG GENERAL ODA(30's) rides in with all the arrogance
and smug demeanor of a man who enjoys the spoils of war a
little too much.

He dismounts and approaches the MOTHER. He orders the
Mother, the boys, and the other family members to KNEEL at
his feet. He gazes down at the defeated.
                                                            
                       YOUNG GEN. ODA
      (to MOTHER)
Your husband and his armies fought
bravely to the end.
(beat)
His sons will be spared. They will
be sent away until I can decide
            (MORE)

3.

                       YOUNG GEN. ODA (cont'd)
their fate.
                                                            
Gen. Oda summons guards to pull the boys off their mother.

Kei and Kong struggle, but are overpowered by the guards.
They are led away.

But Kong CRUNCHES a heel into his guard's foot and grabs his
samurai sword. He unsheathes the deadly blade and raises it
high above his head. He charges General Oda with a guttural
war cry only a boy could muster.

General Oda turns with a smirk and spots Kong. He nods to
some nearby guards.

The guards quickly trip Kong and shove his face in the dirt.

General Oda strolls over and slowly brings down his massive
foot onto Kong's hands still clutching the sword handle. He
smashes his young fingers into the solid handle, and we can
HEAR a few POPS- SNAPS.

Kong howls in pain.

General Oda lowers his body to speak into the boy's face.

Kong summons the energy to meet his gaze.
                                                            
                       GEN. ODA
You want to avenge your father's
death?
(beat)
You will have to enlist warriors
from the spirit world- mighty Gods
from the Heavens... dark demons
from the underworld, to defeat my
army. My reach is far, my troops
savage and efficient, my territory
expanding...
(beat, looking over his dirty
face)
...but one law permeates my
kingdom- traitors are sentenced to
death.
(beat, eying Kong)
Should I kill you for your
treachery? Hmm? Boy?
                                                            
Kong fights against his pride, but surrenders with a quiet
shake of his head.
                                                            

4.

                       GEN. ODA
      (nodding at KEI,
       standing)
Go then... run to your older
Brother..
                                                            
Kong releases the sword and stands with blood-shot eyes. He
turns and runs to Kei.

Kei practically catches Kong and protects him with a deep
hug.
                                                            
                       GEN. ODA
      (cont'd)
... he's all you have now...
                                                            
General Oda dismisses them with a flick of the wrist and
turns to get back to the business at hand.

The boys are led away again, but rougher this time. Kong is
shoved and restrained, while Kei tries to stay close.

The boys turn to look back.

KEI AND KONG DISTANT POV: We SEE their MOTHER along with
AUNTS, UNCLES, GRANDPARENTS, ETC. General Oda unsheathes his
sword and orders them to bow their heads. He then instructs
a few other guards to draw their swords as well. The guards
do as they are told and move in.

BACK ON KEI AND KONG: Kei grabs his sobbing brother and
shields his young eyes. He turns them away and continues on
with the guards.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
EXT. FUEDAL JAPAN- MOUNTAINOUS REGION- CONTINUOUS - DAY
                                                            
SERIES OF SHOTS:

-KEI AND KONG ARE LED BY MILITARY ESCORT ON HORSEBACK
THROUGH MOUNTAINOUS TRAILS.

-MOUNTAINS OF THE VAST IGA PROVENCE STRETCH ON FOR HUNDREDS
OF MILES.

-ARMED HORSEMEN COME TO STRANGE TOTEMS AND MARKINGS, AND
AVOID THEM LIKE THE PLAGUE.

-KEI AND KONG RIDE INTO A MOUNTAIN MONASTERY.

-THEY ARE GIVEN OVER TO BUDDHIST MONKS FOR SAFE KEEPING.
                                                            
 

5.

EXT. MOUNTAIN MONASTERY- SUMMER - DAY
                                                            
Kei runs errands for high-ranking monks. He is busy fetching
items and performing daily chores.

But Kei spots Kong on the far side of the monastery
surrounded by older boys.

KEI POV: We SEE Kong with a BLACK EYE and SCRATCHES on his
face. The older boys try to subdue Kong, but he fights back
like a furious tiger.

Kei drops his obligations and runs to Kong's side.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
EXT. FAR SIDE OF MONASTERY- THE WELL - DAY
                                                            
Kei rushes in and stops the fight.

The older boys step away and eye Kei.

Kong regains his composure and stands sucking in air.

Kei turns to Kong and is frustrated.
                                                            
                       YOUNG KEI
You keep fighting like this, the
Abbot will send you away.
(beat)
What happened here?
                                                            
                       OLDER BOY #1
He called me a liar!
                                                            
                       YOUNG KONG
You are also fat and ugly.
                                                            
The older boy steps in to grab Kong, but Kei pushes him
away.
                                                            
                       YOUNG KEI
What is this all about?!
                                                            
                       YOUNG KONG
The fat one there said demons live
in the mountains and will give any
martial artist supernatural powers
in exchange for his soul. I then,
called him a liar and... ugly.
                                                            

6.

The older boy moves in again, but stops when the ABBOT
appears out of NOWHERE.

All the boys gasp and stand at attention.

THE ABBOT stands watching the boys, but then turns his eyes
on Kong.
                                                            
                       THE ABBOT
      (referring to
       older boy)
This one here speaks the truth.
(to KONG, pointing)
The demons reside there...
                                                            
The Abbot points to mountain peaks in the distance.
                                                            
                       THE ABBOT
      (cont'd)
... seek the guidance of the
Yamabushi and they will take you
to the Demon's council. All who
stand before the council are given
what they seek... but the price
will be your soul.
(beat)
Many young men have made the
pilgrimage to the "council", only
to be NEVER seen again.
                                                            
The Abbot turns his sparkling eyes on Kei and Kong- do you
seek such a fate?
                                                            
 
EXT. MOUNTAIN MONASTERY- THE WELL - DAY
                                                            
LATER...


Kei tends to his brother's wounds. He eyes him like a
disapproving mother who's had just about enough of her
naughty puppy.

Kong lets Kei wash dirt and blood off his face with robotic
detachment. He doesn't like it, but will endure it. He
stares at the mountains.

REACTION SHOT: Kei notices and watches Kong's eyes.
                                                            

7.

                       YOUNG KEI
They're just stories, Kong.
(beat)
Meant to scare little boys like
you.
                                                            
Kong turns with a glare- who you calling little?

Kei lets a faint smirk tug at his lips and looks over Kong
with amusement.
                                                            
                       YOUNG KEI
In such a hurry grow up...
                                                            
                       YOUNG KONG
      (fixing his gaze,
       declaring)
If the Demon's council grants me
supernatural fighting skills-I
will use them to avenge father's
death!
                                                            
Kei looks him over and weighs his threat. But his eyes
soften and softly sigh- forgetting someone?
                                                            
                       YOUNG KEI
And mother...?
                                                            
Kong shoots another look at Kei- how could you? The residue
of his obsession still lingers in his eyes, but he chokes up
and looks away.

But after a moment, Kong turns back- wet eyes and furious.
                                                            
                       YOUNG KONG
Isn't that what you want? Are you
not--?
(beat, stalling... voice shaking)
                                                            
                       YOUNG KEI
I miss both of them too...
                                                            
Kei instantly feels bad for the jab and pulls Kong in for a
heartfelt hug.
                                                            
                       YOUNG KONG
      (cont'd, hugging
       Kei...)
... I just don't want to be the
last to know... again.
                                                            
Kong pulls away and looks Kei square in the eyes- listen to
me!
                                                            

8.

                       YOUNG KONG
Promise me, we will always be
together... promise me, you'll
never die.
                                                            
TIGHT ON KEI: He looks deep into his eyes and acknowledges
Kong's ultimate fear with a faint grin and a nod.
                                                            
                       YOUNG KEI
      (quiet)
I promise...
                                                            
But Kei snaps back into parent mode and grabs Kong by the
shoulders with a firm resolution.
                                                            
                       YOUNG KEI
      (cont'd)
... and promise me, you will NOT
do anything stupid. Okay?
                                                            
Kong looks up with a nod and is quiet.

Kei looks him over with skepticism- why don't I believe you?
                                                            
 
EXT. MOUNTAIN MONASTERY- IRRIGATION WELL- AUTUMN - DAY
                                                            
AUTUMN HAS COME TO THE MOUNTAINS. THE LEAVES TURN BRILLIANT
COLORS AND SHED WITH THE FIERCE WIND.


Kei and Kong take the final steps up a long and torturous
staircase carved right into the mountain itself. They CARRY
WATER in buckets supported by long beams resting across
their shoulders.

They get to the top and rest.

The Abbot walks over and studies the boys.

Kei and Kong notice and stand erect.
                                                            
                       THE ABBOT
You have adjusted well.
(beat, eying Kong-one of you,
anyway)
It is time to take a more serious
role here... until General Oda has
made up his mind to send for
you... or otherwise.
(beat, turning to Kei)
You will train in the martial arts
class. Hand-to-hand combat and
            (MORE)

9.

                       THE ABBOT (cont'd)
weapons will be your focus now--
                                                            
                       KONG
      (hopeful)
And me?
                                                            
                       THE ABBOT
      (not impressed)
You will carry water... and
continue to build up your
strength.
                                                            
Kei glances at Kong- I'm sorry...

Kong's face drops and sinks to a dark place.
                                                            
                       THE ABBOT
      (to Kei)
Come, we must get you outfitted
with proper training attire.
                                                            
But the Abbot stops and turns to linger at Kong's
exhaustion.
                                                            
                       THE ABBOT
      (pointing up to
       the sky)
The astrologers have predicted the
Autumn heat will continue...
(beat, eying the buckets)
... our crops will be thirsty for
many more days to come.
                                                            
Kong keeps his temper leashed and picks up the buckets.

The Abbot and Kei walk off across the courtyard.

Kong waits for them to turn a corner and disappear. He dumps
most of the water into the irrigation well, but saves some
to quench his thirst. He KICKS the empty buckets away and
sits. He brings the ladle up to his mouth and gulps as his
eyes fix on a distance target.

KONG POV: We SEE ominous MOUNTAIN PEAKS in the distance
already covered with snow.

BACK ON KONG: His concentration is UNMOVING as water
slithers down his chin, spilling onto his heaving sweaty
bare chest. His eyes stare as if a burning thirst deep
inside can ONLY be satisfied by action.
                                                            
 

10.

EXT. MOUNTAIN MONASTERY-SEASONAL MONTAGE-CONTINUOUS - DAY
                                                            
SEASONAL MONTAGE:

-LONG SHADOWS FROM THE AUTUMN SUN CREEP ACROSS THE COURTYARD
AHEAD OF RUSTLING LEAVES.

-BOYS FROM THE MONASTERY HARVEST CROPS, ALONG WITH
LOWER-RANKING MONKS.

-TREES SLOWLY BECOME SKELETAL FORMS OF THEIR ONCE LUSH
FACADES.

-KONG RIDES PIGGYBACK ON KEI AS THEY WALK THROUGH THE
FOREST. THEY SUDDENLY ENCOUNTER A STRANGE LOOKING MONK
DRESSED IN A SAFFRON ROBE. A HIGH-RANKING MONK (BABYSITTER)
FINDS THE BOYS AND LEADS THEM AWAY FROM THE SAFFRON MONK
WITH OBVIOUS FEAR IN HIS EYES. THE SAFFRON MONK WATCHES WITH
KEEN INTEREST.

-KEI AND THE OLDER BOYS TRAIN IN THE COURTYARD UNDER STRICT
SUPERVISION. KONG WALKS BY WITH LARGE BUNDLE OF WOOD
STRAPPED TO HIS BACK AND WATCHES WITH JEALOUSY.

-KONG SNEAKS AWAY FROM HIS CHORES AND PRACTICES MARTIAL ARTS
MOVES ALONE IN THE FOREST.

-KONG MEDITATES ON A ROCKY CLIFF WITH A CLEAR VIEW OF THE
"DEMON'S PEAKS" IN THE DISTANCE.

-KONG AND OTHER BOYS CUT WOOD IN THE FIRST DUSTING OF SNOW
TO COME TO THE MOUNTAINS.
                                                            
 
INT. MOUNTAIN MONASTERY- BOYS DINING HALL - NIGHT
                                                            
Boys of all ages eat at tables.

Kong walks back from the serving table with a full bowl of
rice and vegetables.

TIGHT ON OLDER BOY: He looks behind Kong watching the
high-ranking monks.

OLDER BOY POV: We SEE the monks gather up empty dishes and
cooking pots to carry to the kitchens. They disappear around
a corner.

BACK ON OLDER BOY: He turns away with a smirk.

Kong walks by and older boy TRIPS him. Kong face plants into
the solid wood floor and spills his food everywhere.


11.

The older boy and his friends laugh.

Kong quickly stands and whips his wooden bowl like a frezbee
into the older boy's head. It smashes into his ear.

The older boy and his friends stand and charge Kong.

A look of terror flashes across Kong's face as he quickly
realizes he has gotten way over his head.

SUDDENLY, Kei jumps in front of Kong and defends him. The
older boy dismisses Kei's presence and takes a few swings at
his head to get him out of the way. Kei blocks the strikes,
and grabs and digs his fingers into the soft part of the
older boy's wrist. The older boy's face explodes in PAIN.
Kei yanks him closer while simultaneously striking his free
hand UP to snatch the older boy BY THE THROAT.

The older boy's friends stop and watch with uncertainty.

The older boy freezes with wide-eyed terror and coughs.

Kei pulls the older boy's red face closer to his.
                                                            
                       YOUNG KEI
      (quiet)
Next time, I break something...
                                                            
Kei releases the boy and pushes him away. He turns to see if
Kong is alright.

Kong is gone.
                                                            
 
INT. MOUNTAIN MONASTERY- BUNKHOUSE - NIGHT
                                                            
Kei runs into the bunkhouse to search for Kong. He stops and
scans the faintly lit beds.

TIGHT ON KEI: We SEE him react when his worst fear presents
itself.

KEI POV: We SEE a bed rummaged over and cleared of its
personal belongings.

BACK ON KEI: He grabs a thick coat and rushes out.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 

12.

EXT. MOUNTAIN MONASTERY- COURTYARD- EARLY WINTER - NIGHT
                                                            
Kei stops at the bunkhouse entrance and looks out.

KEI POV: SNOW IS COMING DOWN THICKER AND THICKER--All we can
SEE are fresh tracks in the snow running away and into the
forest.

Kei doesn't hesitate to run after Kong. He disappears into
the dark forest.
                                                            
 
EXT. MOUNTAINOUS REGION- DEEP FOREST TRAIL - NIGHT
                                                            
Kei searches with a small torch and calls out for Kong.

He comes to an intersection and spots a FIGURE standing in
the snow. He is suspicious, but desperate to find Kong. He
approaches the figure.

The figure is dressed like a cross between G.I Joe and Star
Trek. The figure summons Kei closer.

Kei obeys and stops a few feet from the intersection.
                                                            
                       KEI
      (speaking Japanese)
Have you seen a younger boy pass
this way?
                                                            
The figure responds, but the language is NOT JAPANESE.

Kei doesn't know what to say.

The figure senses his discontent and closes the distance.
The figure removes its helmet and reveals an ALIEN FEMALE
FACE.

Kei is shocked but seems more distracted with finding Kong.

The figure opens a pouch on her utility belt and removes two
small silver objects. She sticks one in her ear and hands
the other to Kei. She motions for Kei to do the same.

Kei takes the object and jams it into his ear. His face
winces at the uncomfortable sensation.
                                                            
                       THE FIGURE
Can you understand me now?
(beat)
My name is SUTRA.
                                                            
Kei looks up in surprise.
                                                            

13.

                       KEI
Yes... I can understand.
(beat, remembering)
Have you seen a--
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Kong is okay. He's being taken
care of... are you okay? You
shouldn't be out in this weather.
                                                            
                       KEI
How do you know his name?
                                                            
                       SUTRA
I know a lot about you both, Kei.
You boys have been through a lot.
(beat)
Come, I have shelter... food and
water.
                                                            
Kei is motionless.
                                                            
                       KEI
Is he safe?
                                                            
Sutra pauses and doesn't want to explain.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Kong has gotten himself into some
trouble, Kei. There's nothing I
can do... but he'll survive and
you will see him again.
                                                            
Kei doesn't find her thoughts comforting. He stands
deliberating what to do.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (cont'd)
The storm is going to get worse...
we must take shelter.
(beat)
I won't harm you, I promise.
                                                            
Kei is reluctant, but agrees.

They walk down the trail together.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 

14.

EXT. MOUNTAINOUS REGION- NEARBY FOREST THICKET - NIGHT
                                                            
Sutra leads Kei into the wintry forest landscape. She stops
and removes something else from her belt. She points the
object out and presses a button.

SUTRA AND KEI POV: We SEE bright light spill from the main
hatch of a ALIEN SPACE CRAFT open to reveal the inside.

BACK ON SUTRA: She turns and leans down to face Kei.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Can you promise to keep a secret?
                                                            
Kei is frozen, but a tiny smile forms across his face. He
nods.

They step into the spaceship together.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
EXT. MOUNTAINOUS REGION- REMOTE TRAIL - NIGHT
                                                            
Kong stumbles along with what energy he has left. But stops
when he spots something.

KONG POV: We SEE a large figure dressed in a thick cloak...
watching.

BACK ON KONG: He panics and changes his mind. He turns to
run, but the figure MATERIALIZES behind him. Kong stops and
looks up.
                                                            
                       THE FIGURE
I am YAMABUSHI... you seek my
guidance.
                                                            
                       YOUNG KONG
No... I am lost and need to find
my brother.
                                                            
The Yamabushi pulls something from his cloak and displays an
impressive sheathed SAMURAI SWORD. He pulls the blade out to
reveal the rippled finish flowing the full length of the
edge like crashing waves.

Kong is mesmerized.
                                                            
                       YAMABUSHI
No, Kong... you seek steel. I have
seen your future.
(beat)
You seek revenge for your father's
            (MORE)

15.

                       YAMABUSHI (cont'd)
death, and shall have it. A kept
promise by an unlikely ally will
bring the very heavens down upon
your enemies to crush them in one
swift blow.
                                                            
Kong reaches out to touch, but the Yamabushi sheaths the
sword in a flash.

Kong snaps his hand away, startled.

The Yamabushi turns and points down the frozen trail.
                                                            
                       YAMABUSHI
They wait for you, Kong.
                                                            
                       YOUNG KONG
What will happen?
                                                            
                       YAMABUSHI
Everything you hoped would...
                                                            
The Yamabushi stands watching Kong with intent.

Kong shuffles toward the chosen trail slowly at first, then
picks up his feet.

The Yamabushi stops Kong and gives him a small protected
scroll.
                                                            
                       YAMABUSHI
Inside are directions to our
sanctuary... seek us out after the
demons release you, and this sword
will be yours.
(beat)
You and your brother's destiny lie
with us now. We will make you into
a special breed of warrior and you
will travel to the far reaches of
the universe to prove your skills
on celestial battlefields.
(beat)
I have seen it.
                                                            
Kong looks up at Yamabushi, concerned.
                                                            
                       YOUNG KONG
What will happen to my brother?
                                                            

16.

                       YAMABUSHI
      (pausing...)
Kei will break "his" promise to
you.
                                                            
Kong weighs his predictions and pockets the scroll.

He turns to walk down the path into the frozen darkness.
                                                            
 
EXT. MOUNTAIN MONASTERY- COURTYARD - DAY
                                                            
Kei stands bundled in a thick tunic watching the trail
leading away from the Monastery. He sighs and we get the
impression he's been at it for days.

He turns away frustrated and literally runs right into Kong.


Kei falls back on his butt, shocked.

Kong helps him up and dusts him off. He is wearing the sword
strapped to his back.
                                                            
                       YOUNG KEI
Where the hell have you been?!
                                                            
Kei looks down and notices another bag packed.
                                                            
                       YOUNG KONG
We have to go.
                                                            
Kong throws the bag at Kei and pushes him toward the trail.
                                                            
                       YOUNG KEI
Wait! Where did you get the sword?
What is going--
                                                            
                       YOUNG KONG
General Oda's troops ride this
way... he's decided to break the
agreement and execute us.
                                                            
Kei believes his brother and grabs the bag.

They turn to run down the trail, but stop abruptly when Kong
grabs Kei.
                                                            
                       YOUNG KONG
      (focused)
Do you promise to always stay
alive?
(beat)
Will you always tell me
            (MORE)

17.

                       YOUNG KONG (cont'd)
everything?
                                                            
Kei is taken back by Kong's direct questions. He wants to
tell Kong about Sutra, but turns when he spots someone.

KEI POV: We SEE the Abbot standing in the courtyard,
watching.

Kei and Kong bow.

They turn and run.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
EXT. MOUNTAINOUS REGION- ON THE TRAIL - DAY
                                                            
Kei and Kong run for their lives.

General Oda's troops have discovered the boys and pursue on
horses.
                                                            
                       YOUNG KEI
      (calling out)
What are we looking for?!!
                                                            
                       YOUNG KONG
      (calling back)
You'll see!!
                                                            
The boys run through a small clearing and head for the trail
cutting through a thicket of pine trees.

The MOUNTED SAMURAI are very close behind. A few soldiers
unsheathe their swords to deliver the fatal blows.

SUDDENLY, half the samurai are struck by arrows and killed.
The other half scramble to grab long bows to return fire,
but are attacked by white-clad NINJAS. The ninjas quickly
dispatch the samurai, staining the stark white snow with
dark blood.

Kei and Kong stand motionless.

An older man with grey hair dressed like the rest of the
ninja, but without a hood, moves out from behind a tree and
watches.
                                                            
                       YOUNG KONG
      (sighing)
Found them...
                                                            
 

18.

EXT. FEUDAL JAPAN-MOUNTAINOUS REGION- 20 YEARS LATER - NIGHT
                                                            
A pitch black moonless night, illuminated by thousands of
bright and vivid stars.

A massive castle sits in the distance, punctuated by burning
torches.

SUPER: ODA CASTLE- TWENTY YEARS LATER
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
EXT. CASTLE WALL- GUARD POST - NIGHT
                                                            
An armed guard walks over to a second guard as he pulls a
cork from a ceramic sake bottle. GUARD #1 takes a swig and
nudges GUARD #2 as he hands off the sake.
                                                            
ALL CHARACTERS SPEAKING JAPANESE:
                                                            
                       GUARD #1
Hey, what is that?
                                                            
GUARD #2 takes a swig and follows the line of sight of GUARD
#1.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
EXT. NIGHT SKY- GUARD#2 POV - NIGHT
                                                            
The sky is consumed by stars, like spelt salt on black
satin.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
EXT. CASTLE WALL- GUARD POST - NIGHT
                                                            
GUARD #2 takes another swig, his eyes glued to the sky.
                                                            
                       GUARD #2
      (shrugging)
Where?
                                                            
GUARD #1 leans in and throws up a stiff arm to direct his
sight.
                                                            
                       GUARD #1
THERE. On your right, along the
horizon.
                                                            

19.

                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
EXT. NIGHT SKY- GUARD#2 POV - NIGHT
                                                            
We SEE a BRIGHT STAR moving horizontally just above the inky
landscape, slow and with purpose.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
EXT. CASTLE WALL- GUARD POST - NIGHT
                                                            
GUARD #1 grabs the sake from GUARD #2 before he drinks it
all.
                                                            
                       GUARD #2
      (convinced)
It's a shooting star.
                                                            
GUARD #1 takes another swig, not convinced.
                                                            
                       GUARD #1
It's the slowest star I've ever
seen, then.
                                                            
                       GUARD #2
Maybe, it's drunk like us.
                                                            
GUARD #1 scoffs and hands back the sake.
                                                            
                       GUARD #1
How come I see it sometimes two,
three times a night... for last
month? Always along the same
path...
                                                            
GUARD #2 has no response.

Suddenly, we HEAR distant yelling below.

The GUARDS snap to attention.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
EXT. GUARDS POV - NIGHT
                                                            
We SEE dark figures run across a courtyard toward a
flickering orange glow.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 

20.

EXT. CASTLE WALL- GUARD POST - NIGHT
                                                            
We watch the GUARDS react, but they both TURN when they HEAR
voices approaching.

GUARD #2 quickly sets down the sake bottle on the ledge and
throws his body in front to hide it.

A SUPERVISOR struts over with two other guards.

GUARD #1 and GUARD #2 stand at attention.
                                                            
                       SUPERVISOR
      (winded)
The stables are on fire... watch
for NINJA.
                                                            
                       GUARD #1
YES, SIR!
                                                            
They watch him walk away and relax when he is gone.

GUARD #2 turns and reaches for the sake.
                                                            
                       GUARD #2
We better drink this up before...
                                                            
The sake is gone.

GUARD #2 rushes over to the ledge.
                                                            
                       GUARD #2
      (leaning over)
Oh shit, I think it--
                                                            
GUARD #1 POV: We SEE GUARD #2 bent over the side, coughing
and heaving.

GUARD #1 chuckles and shakes his head.
                                                            
                       GUARD #1
Already? I told you not to drink
it so fast.
                                                            
GUARD #1 walks over to pull GUARD #2 off the ledge.

He grips his armor and pulls back. But his hand his grabbed
by a BLACK CLAD HAND leaping over the ledge.

A NINJA springs up and stabs GUARD #1 in the chest. He
withdraws the blade and throws both GUARDS over the ledge.

The NINJA jumps over onto the walkway and scans his

21.

surroundings. Once safe, he pulls down his mask and brings
the sake bottle up to drain the entire contents in one big
swallow.

We SEE KONG(20's) wipe his mouth and slink away.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
EXT. STABLES - NIGHT
                                                            
Half a dozen men fight a blaze quickly spreading throughout
the stables.

CAPTAIN of the guards surveys the chaos and jumps into
action.
                                                            
                       CAPTAIN
Form a line and grab extra
buckets! I'm going to get more
men!
                                                            
He rushes off.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
INT. BARRACKS - NIGHT
                                                            
A door bursts open and the CAPTAIN leans in.
                                                            
                       CAPTAIN
FIRE! We need men at the stables!
                                                            
The barracks come alive with men jumping from their cots.
Dozens of men follow the CAPTAIN out the door.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
INT. ENTRANCE TO GENERAL ODA'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Two GUARDS stand like statues, but turn when they spot the
CAPTAIN rushing down the hallway.
                                                            
                       CAPTAIN
      (hushed)
You two! Go help with the fire,
I'll stay here.
                                                            
The GUARDS run off.

He takes their place by the door as he catches his breath.
                                                            

22.

                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
INT. GENERAL ODA'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
GENERAL ODA(50's) sleeps on his back with his hands folded.

CLOSE ON CEILING: We SEE a panel barely crack open.
Something small floats down.

CLOSE ON: A small squirming yellow SCORPION attached to a
thread drops toward GEN. ODA'S face, tail first. We follow
as it slowly descends.

It lands on his nose and stops. It doesn't move a muscle.

Gen. Oda squishes his nose together like he might sneeze. He
OPENS his eyes. He recognizes the animal and spots the
thread. Very slowly, he walks a free hand over to the side
of his bed to grab a sheathed sword.

He looks up to scan the ceiling.

GEN. ODA POV: We SEE the tip of a blowgun peek through the
ceiling panel and aim.

BACK ON ODA: He swings the sword in one circular motion to
wrap the thread around the scabbard and throw the scorpion
off his nose. He stands and unsheathes the sword. He THROWS
the sword into the ceiling.

We HEAR a muffled grunt of pain as a body CRASHES through
the ceiling in a heap.
                                                            
                       GEN. ODA
ASSASSIN! ASSASSIN!
                                                            
KEI(20's) jumps up and defends himself.

The Captain rushes in and lunges with a long spear.

Kei fights against both Gen. Oda and the Captain.

But Gen. Oda is pushed aside as Kei is forced to kill the
captain to escape.

Gen. Oda pursues.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 

23.

INT. ODA CASTLE- VARIOUS HALLWAYS - NIGHT
                                                            
SERIES OF SCENES: CONTINUOUS

-KEI RUNS FOR HIS LIFE.

-GUARDS CONVERGE ON KEI AT INTERSECTIONS, BUT HE FIGHTS THEM
OFF.

-KEI TURNS A CORNER AND LOSES THE GUARDS.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
INT. ODA CASTLE- MAIN HALLWAY- CLOSE ON KONG - NIGHT
                                                            
Kong slits his palm with a small knife and closes his hand
into a fist.

He intentionally bleeds a steady stream of dark blood in a
large circle around himself. When finished, he wraps the
hand and sits in a mediation pose.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
INT. ODA CASTLE- MAIN HALLWAY - NIGHT
                                                            
Kei runs around the corner and stops when he spot Kong. He
rushes over as he looks over his shoulder.
                                                            
                       KEI
KONG!! What the hell are you
doing!! You said you wouldn't do
this anymore.
                                                            
Kong sits in the lotus position with his eyes closed. His
breath quickens...
                                                            
                       KONG
Go! He's coming...
                                                            
Kei opens his mouth to retort,but stops when he can SEE HIS
OWN BREATH.

Despite the muggy summer night, the temperature drops and
turns frigid.

Kong's breath turns to a thick mist as his lungs pump faster
and faster....

Kei backs away and looks around in fear. He takes one last
look at Kong and runs.
                                                            

24.

                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
INT. ODA CASTLE- MAIN HALLWAY- CLOSE ON KONG - NIGHT
                                                            
Kong's breath abruptly stops.

We can SEE lit torches behind Kong and down the hallway.
They slowly die and are extinguished one by one. The hallway
turns impossibly dark.

BACK KONG: He has a pained look across his face and waits
for something.

A black-clad FIGURE walks out from the darkness behind Kong
and stands. We can only SEE his lower torso and legs.

The Figure walks out from behind Kong and disappears from
view.

ON KONG'S FACE: He slowly opens his eyes and looks to the
side. A second column of misty breath comes closer to Kong's
face.

The face of an ONI is revealed. Red faced and grotesque,
it's tusks gleam with fresh saliva. It stares down Kong.
                                                            
                       THE ONI
My patience grows thin...
(beat)
... do I detect the foul stench of
apprehension? Thinking of breaking
the contract?
(beat, growing angry)
The moment to step out of that
circle or die, you will be my
eternal slave.
(beat)
Why wait, human? Join me now and
find a new misery.
                                                            
                       KONG
Because... as long as I draw
breath, demon... the curse is
incomplete. Are you rejecting my
offer to enslave the souls of my
enemies?
                                                            
The ONI'S FACE turns cold and pulls away.

Kong looks away and down the hallway in front of him.

KONG POV: Half-a-dozen guards spill around a corner but stop

25.

when they see the Oni.

CLOSE ON ONI: He smiles and looks down at Kong.
                                                            
                       THE ONI
So be it, BOY. Wish granted...
                                                            
The Oni steps front and center.

Guards approach with caution, but determined to kill.

The Oni unsheathes a sword and prepares for battle.

The guards attack.

The Oni is impossibly fast and kills several guards in an
instant.

The remaining guards stop to look in horror.

The Oni leans over a fallen guard and shoves his clawed hand
down the throat of the guard. He pulls the frantic,
squirming soul from the guard's body like ripping the guts
from a fish.

The Oni turns to Kong to gloat over his prize, but stops to
scan the hallway.

Kong is gone.
                                                            
 
EXT. REMOTE DEEP FOREST- SOAKING POOL - NIGHT
                                                            
A female figure soaks in the steaming water with her naked
back to us.

A few candles flicker in the light wind.

But at a glance, we can tell she is NOT HUMAN. She wears a
mask.

She moves away, turning as she goes, and settles on the far
side of the rocky pool. She FACES us now.

She WEARS an Oni mask(Japanese demon).

A fully suited NINJA stands watching her. He begins to
undress.

Kei reveals himself as he unwraps his hood.

BOTH SPEAKING JAPANESE:
                                                            

26.

                       KEI
I like your mask.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
I though it appropriate.
                                                            
                       KEI
My brother is getting worse.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
His anger is not your burden. He
will drag you down with him.
                                                            
                       KEI
Then, I will go to the depths of
hell to pull him out again.
                                                            
We SEE his torso slip into the hot water.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (cont'd)
I admire your devotion to your
sibling... I wish I could do the
same. But we don't have time for
old arguments.
(beat)
Aren't you breaking your vows with
these nightly visits?
                                                            
                       KEI
I was a good Buddhist, before you
dropped into my life.
(beat)
You're the only one who knows
everything about me.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (fingering the
       water)
Maybe, more than I should.
(beat)
I like to watch you pray. You look
so peaceful.
                                                            
The ninja is silent.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (cont'd)
Do you pray you'll see me again?
                                                            
                       KEI
I think about you constantly.
                                                            

27.

She looks away and shrugs.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Good...
(beat)
...I have to go away for a while
again...
(beat, thinking)
...if I said your life was in
danger, would you come with me?
                                                            
                       KEI
My life is always in danger...
                                                            
Kei floats over and sits in front of Sutra.

Sutra holds up a hand and reveals TWO RINGS (promise rings)
on a finger. She removes one and gives it to Kei.

Sutra raises her hand and touches her ring to his.

A small blue spark ignites on contact and a TINY hologram
shoots up in the form of a SWIRLING GALAXY.

Kei's eyes eagerly watch the light, reflecting like
sparkling jewels.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
This for you.
                                                            
                       KEI
What is it?
                                                            
                       SUTRA
It's where you live...
(beat)
...this one is mine.
                                                            
Sutra ignites her ring and another galaxy pops up, swirling
and glowing.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
It's called the Miriam galaxy.
It's named after my mother...
(beat)
... and my father owns it.
                                                            
Kei looks up and searches the contours of Sutra's mask.
                                                            
                                         DISSOLVE TO: EXT.
WINTER LANDSCAPE-
DAY
                                                            
 

28.

EXT. IGA PROVENCE, JAPAN-1667- ALPINE FOREST-WINTER - DAY
                                                            
Dawn and somewhat dark.

A modest farmhouse hides in a thicket of trees against a
mountain side. With the heavy snow, it all blends together.
A small column of smoke rises above through a chimney.

SUPER: IGA PROVENCE, JAPAN- 1667

From a distance, a man dressed in dark fur makes his way to
the farmhouse through deep snow.
                                                            
 
INT. FARMHOUSE- SECRET BACK ROOM - DAY
                                                            
Kei fusses with a tall wicker basket on the flat top of a
stone fire place. He adjusts its position back and forth,
testing the temperature.

Kong watches him in disgust.

They are dressed in the traditional ninja uniform, but
bleached white.
                                                            
                       KONG
You're going to burn down the
house with that thing.
                                                            
                       KEI
      (concentrating)
She needs to warm up...
                                                            
                       KONG
      (stashing weapons
       in his suit)
Are you really going to bring that
thing?
                                                            
                       KEI
      (turning with a
       smile)
Saved your butt in Tokugawa
castle.
                                                            
Kong doesn't respond and continues outfitting his gear.

Kei turns back and decides on a suitable temperature. He
leaves the basket on the hearth and gets busy with his gear.

Suddenly, a hidden door SLIDES OPEN.


29.

The JONIN, leader of operations, slips in dressed in a heavy
coat of bear fur.
                                                            
                       JONIN
      (in Japanese)
I don't have much time...
(scrawling out a small map)
We have 48 hours until the
invasion...we need to know the
final numbers of General Oda's
forces.
(looking up)
This is going to be an endurance
contest. We're going to have to
hit them day and night...if we can
tire the more inexperienced troops
mentally and physically, we might
have a chance. But right now, we
suspect it will be a ten to one
fight. But we must know for sure.
Good luck boys.
                                                            
He leaves the map and slips out the same way he came in.
                                                            
Kong looks up and shakes his head. He looks back down and
resumes his work. He fastens a grid of intertwined hemp with
small blades running in a pattern on the bottom of his tabby
shoes.

Kei, ready to go, stands and takes the wicker basket off the
fireplace. He puts it on the floor and readies two sacks.
One, a fur-lined white silk backpack, and the second, a
smaller hemp sack with a draw string.

Kong SCOOTS BACK as he eyes the basket.

Kei opens the top and throws a hand inside. He quickly lifts
out a large adult Chinese cobra from the basket and smiles.

Kong shakes his head again.
                                                            
                       KONG
You know, one of these days it's
going to bite you.
                                                            
                       KEI
      (speaking softly)
No... we have an agreement. She
promises not bite me and feed her
all she wants.
(beat)
She's tame as a dog...
                                                            

30.

The cobra LUNGES at Kei's face, but he anticipates the
strike and LEANS BACK.

Kong almost falls over and SLAMS his back against the wall.
                                                            
                       KONG
Will you stop playing with that
thing!!
                                                            
Kei smacks the cobra with a lighting fast slap to it's nose.
It rears back, but then, deflates it's hood and seems to
lose interest. He guides it in the HEMP SACK and ties the
top. He then gently slips the hemp sack into the WHITE
BACKPACK and fastens it.
                                                            
                       KEI
      (adjusting the
       backpack and
       sword)
I'm going to check the perimeter.
(he slips on his hood)
                                                            
                       KONG
      (still busy)
Alright...give me one minute.
                                                            
Kei slips out the same way the JONIN did and disappears.
                                                            
 
EXT. BACK OF FARMHOUSE- ALPINE FOREST - DAY
                                                            
CLOSE ON: KEI'S DARK EYES
                                                            
He scans the surrounding forest, but then looks up into the
crisp cobalt blue sky. His eyes spot something.

KEI POV: A thin pink line of vapor streaks across the sky
and he watches with confusion. A soft roll of thunder
follows. But it soon disappears beyond the tops of the
trees.
                                                            
                       KEI
      (whispering)
...like pink ribbon across the
sky...
                                                            
Kei moves his eyes away when Kong slips out the back.

They move at a slight jog and disappear into the snowy
landscape.
                                                            
 

31.

INT. SPACESHIP- MAIN DECK- SPACE (FX) - NIGHT
                                                            
We FOLLOW a large figure as he walks through a sliding door.
ROC, tall, muscular and ALIEN, is dressed in a black
military outfit with a utility belt and a weapon. He walks
onto the busy main deck and struts directly to the
communications officer. He pushes the officer away and leans
in.
                                                            
ALL CHARACTERS SPEAKING ALIEN LANGUAGE- SUBTITLES:
                                                            
                       ROC
Gunship 615...do you copy?
                                                            
                       GUNSHIP 615 (OS)
615...go ahead...
                                                            
                       ROC
Please tell me you just didn't
enter the atmosphere right above
our target.
                                                            
Silence...
                                                            
                       GUNSHIP 615 (OS)
We had engine trouble sir...we
dipped into the atmosphere for
approx. one minute and thirty four
seconds, sir...engineering has
stabilized the engines and is
assessing the problem.
                                                            
Roc pushes away and walks to a platform. He stands next to
another figure.

SUTRA, is dressed in a similar outfit, stands watching the
monitors. She crosses her arms and looks out the view
screen.

SUTRA POV/ VIEW SCREEN: Earth looms in the distance.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
You better know what you're
doing...when father finds out what
you've done...
                                                            
                       ROC
      (smiling)
Changing your mind already? Don't
worry little sister. When I take
care of father's little
problem...this incident won't be a
factor...
(turning to Sutra)
            (MORE)

32.

                       ROC (cont'd)
...will it.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (looking straight
       ahead)
We'll see.
                                                            
 
EXT. ALPINE FOREST - DAY
                                                            
Kei and Kong lean over a ridge and look down onto the enemy
encampment.

KEI AND KONG POV: Tens of thousands of foot soldiers and
Calvary swarm below. The area is blanketed with tents and
cooking fires.

Both are shocked by the amount. They pull back and look at
each other.
                                                            
                       KEI
How many you think?
                                                            
                       KONG
      (shrugging)
You're better at math than me.
                                                            
Kei looks back down and stares for a moment. He pulls
himself back up and looks at Kong.
                                                            
                       KEI
      (sighing)
Forty thousand, maybe.
                                                            
                       KONG
      (shaking his head)
You remember that time back at the
Monastery... when I turned back my
back on that ram? I was,
what...ten I think?
                                                            
                       KEI
Yeah, it got you good in the ass.
What's your point?
                                                            
                       KONG
      (looking down the
       slope)
This slaughter is going to be
embarrassing. It's not even a fair
fight.
(he looks back at Kei)
                                                            

33.

                       KEI
I've been praying to the heavens
for help.
                                                            
                       KONG
Any luck?
                                                            
                       KEI
      (shrugging)
Maybe. I saw something this
morning...
(his eyes look up)
...in the sky.
                                                            
Kong stares into Kei's eyes, processing the information. But
he is distracted by something just over Kei's shoulder.

Kei turns and sees two other ninja darting away.
                                                            
                       KEI
      (jumping to his
       feet)
Damn it! We were followed!
                                                            
Kong jumps to his feet as well, but is stopped again by his
brother.
                                                            
                       KEI
No! We'll never catch'em...we have
minutes before the horses catch up
with us.
                                                            
Kei grabs Kong and they run as fast as they can through the
snow.
                                                            
 
EXT. DEEP IN THE ALPINE FOREST - DAY
                                                            
Kei and Kong dart from one tree to another like two wolfs
outrunning the hunter's rifle.

But Kei stops and listens.

Kong stops too and turns to watch his brother.
                                                            
                       KONG
What is it?
                                                            
                       KEI
Riders...a mile away.
                                                            
                       KONG
We're close...we can make it.
                                                            

34.

                       KEI
No...we stay and ambush.
                                                            
 
EXT. ALPINE FOREST- WELL USED TRAIL - DAY
                                                            
CLOSE ON: SAMURAI IN PURSUIT.
                                                            
 
EXT. ALPINE FOREST- WELL USED TRAIL - DAY
                                                            
Kei and Kong hide behind trees on a small ridge on either
side of the trail clutching a rope buried in the snow below.

They wait.

The first of the patrol thunders by and Kei makes a signal
to Kong to wait. They spot the last rider and yank up on the
rope. The rider is clothes-lined and crashes to the snow.
They overtake him and jump on the horse.

A few samurai spot the brothers and alert the rest of the
patrol.

But Kei kicks into the horse hard and penetrates the patrol.
The brothers unsheathe their swords and drop several samurai
in seconds. They spearhead through the remaining troops and
escape up the trail.
                                                            
 
EXT. ALPINE FOREST- OPEN MEADOW - DAY
                                                            
Kei pushes the horse and grinds through the snow at
increasing speed.

KEI AND KONG POV: We SEE their view up ahead IS partially
blocked as the trail twists around a mountainside.

BACK ON KEI AND KONG: They turn to look back and the samurai
are close.

But when they turn back, their jaws drop in shock.

KEI AND KONG POV: We SEE the wide meadow has become a
make-shift landing area for several LARGE BLACK SPACESHIPS.

Directly out in the front of the brothers is a line of
BLACK-CLAD ARMED SOLDIERS two men deep, one knelling, one
standing. The soldiers have left a hole in the middle for
Kei and Kong and their horse instinctively runs toward it.

As soon as the brothers pass the first line of soldiers, the
winter air ERUPTS with violent LASER GUNFIRE and EXPLOSIONS.

35.



The samurai are literally cut to pieces as well as some of
the horses.

Explosive concussions from RPG's blow the brothers off the
horse. They both hit the ground hard, but after a few
seconds, look back at the smoking pile of samurai. What
horses are left gallop away in a panic.

A few of the soldiers SURROUND Kei and Kong and stand over
pointing their weapons down.

But the soldiers step away to let another examine them.
SUTRA stands over the brothers looking down. She brings her
hands up and removes her helmet. She reveals her face.

Kei look up and into her face.

Kong looks at his brother and knows that look.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (speaking alien
       language,
       extending a hand)
I heard your prayer...
                                                            
Kei moves his hand UP from his side to take Sutra's hand.

Kong shoots him a ARE YOU CRAZY look and SLAPS his hand
away.
                                                            
Sutra drops her hand too and stands straight again. She
turns and spots another soldier approaching. Some of the
other soldiers do the same.

Roc struts over, fussing with his weapon trying to find the
right setting.
                                                            
                       ROC
      (speaking AL,
       gesturing off in
       the distance)
You soldiers make yourselves
useful and drag some of those
animals back to the ship. We could
use some extra meat.
(raising his weapon)
Sutra, stop playing with the
help...
                                                            
Roc ZAPS the brothers, knocking them out.
                                                            
 

36.

INT. SPACESHIP- SECURED HOLDING AREA - NIGHT
                                                            
Kei and Kong slowly wake up from unconsciousness. Guards dig
through their uniforms, pulling one weapon after another
from hidden pockets. They make a large pile on a table. Some
shake their heads at the never ending supply of weapons.

One guard yanks Kei forward and cuts the straps to his
backpack. He holds it up and frisks the outside of the
backpack, but then, pulls his hand away in surprise.
                                                            
ALL ALIEN CHARACTERS SPEAKING ALIEN LANGUAGE, UNLESS
SPECIFIED OTHERWISE- SUBTITLES:
                                                            
                       GUARD #1
      (turning the
       others)
There's something alive in
there...
                                                            
                       GUARD #2
      (shrugging)
Open it.
                                                            
Kei and Kong watch the guards talk to each other.
                                                            
                       GUARD #1
      (examining the bag)
Don't you think I should wait for
the commander?
                                                            
                       GUARD #2
      (shrugging again)
Why? It's our job to disarm them,
right?
                                                            
The guard turns back to look over the bag.

Kong flips a look back and forth from the bag to Kei,
watching his reaction.

The guard reaches inside and gets a hand around something.
He pulls out the COBRA and stares wide eyed at the inflated
serpent. It strikes him three times in the face before he
can even react. He drops the bag and grabs at his face.

The other guards yell out in shock and raise their weapons.
Gunfire erupts in the security room as the cobra darts away
to a dark corner under the security bench.

Kei and Kong duck and lean away trying to avoid the crazed
gunfire, but are handcuffed. They dive to the floor and try
to scoot away on their stomachs.

37.


Roc walks through the sliding doors and drops his jaw.
                                                            
                       ROC
What the hell are you doing! Cease
fire at once!!
(turning to look down at the
floor)
You could have punched a hole in
the hull!
                                                            
                       GUARD #2
      (pointing to the
       bench)
Sir...it bit him in the face.
                                                            
                       ROC
What did soldier?
                                                            
                       GUARD #2
      (pointing wildly)
That thing...that thing in the
bag!
                                                            
                       ROC
      (turning to look
       down at Kei)
Right...I heard about your little
pet.
                                                            
Kei looks up, trying to decipher anything he can.

Roc turns away and looks over the bitten guard.

The guard is having trouble breathing and turning ghostly
pale.

Roc draws his handgun and points it down at the guard.
                                                            
                       ROC
      (aiming)
Sorry soldier... I can't do
anything for you. The anti-venom
for this animal was lost hundreds
of years ago.
                                                            
BLAM! BLAM!

The other guards stand back, STUNNED.

Sutra walks in and surveys the scene.
                                                            

38.

                       SUTRA
What happened?
                                                            
                       ROC
His little bag of goodies got
loose.
(motions with his gun)
Bit this one in the face.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
What...just now? And he's dead
already?
                                                            
                       ROC
I put him out of his misery...we
don't have any anti-
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (shaking her head)
We could have milked the snake and
made some, you know. That guard
probably had at least a few hours.
                                                            
                       ROC
Really?
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Yes, really. We have the
technology for that, Roc. Always
shooting first and asking
questions later.
(leaning down to look under the
bench)
It's down there?
                                                            
                       GUARD #2
      (stuttering)
Yyyyesss...crawled under the
bench...
                                                            
She stands and puts her hands on her hips. She turns and
motions to Roc.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Put that thing away...and get them
up.
                                                            
                       ROC
      (holstering his
       weapon)
(motioning to Guard #2)
You, grab the other one.
                                                            

39.

Roc and the guard#2 pull the brothers off the floor and onto
the bench again.

The guard#2 leans in to adjust Kong's handcuffs and pulls
back again.

They are face to face.

The guard is entranced by Kong's human features for a few
seconds, and pulls down his hood for some reason.

Kong smiles, but then, SPITS out a mouthful of tiny spikes.

They cover the guard's face like flies and he reels back in
pain.

Roc and Sutra watch in horror.
                                                            
                       ROC
Goddamn it! Can we at least try to
maintain the illusion of
professionalism in here!
                                                            
An intercom next to the door whistles out an incoming call.
                                                            
                       ROC
      (motioning to
       Guard #3)
Get him to medical!
(pushing a button)
What is it?!
                                                            
                       COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER (OS)
You're requested on the bridge
sir...
                                                            
                       ROC
Why?!
                                                            
                       COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER (OS)
Your father would like to know
your position and the position of
his extremely expensive security
force...those are his words sir.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (shaking her head)
Nice work Roc...now he's pissed.
                                                            
                       ROC
      (ignoring her)
Get him up and lets go!
                                                            

40.

Roc drags the two guards out, but turns back to Sutra.
                                                            
                       ROC
You should come...
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Why? So I can bail you out again?
(turning to the brothers)
No, I'm going to stay behind and
have a little chat.
                                                            
                       ROC
      (wrinkling his
       forehead)
Are you sure?
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Yes, I'm sure. You better get up
there...you know how he hates to
wait.
                                                            
Roc nods and exits.

Sutra turns to the brothers and removes three small silver
objects from her utility belt. She inserts one into her
right ear and then leans in slowly to Kei.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (quietly)
You know the drill...
                                                            
Kong watches their interactions with suspicion
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (nodding)
Can you understand me now?
                                                            
Kei nods and lets a small smile slip.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Good. Now, tell this feisty one
here...I'm not going to hurt him.
Okay?
                                                            
                       KEI
      (nodding and
       turning to Kong)
Let her put the object in your
ear...I can understand her now.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (looking at Kong)
Okay?
                                                            

41.

Kong nods.

She leans over and inserts the object.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (to Kong)
Can you understand me?
                                                            
Kong is fearful, but impressed. He nods.
                                                            
                       KONG
What is this thing?
                                                            
                       SUTRA
It's an interpreting device. It's
downloaded with every KNOWN
language.
                                                            
Kei and Kong stare blankly back.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
I'll explain later...
(beat)
Okay, now that we all can
understand each other...let me
show you why you can't fight your
way off this ship.
                                                            
 
INT. SPACESHIP- MAIN DECK-SPACE - NIGHT
                                                            
Roc struts onto the deck and is greeted by his father's
angry face already on the view screen.
                                                            
                       ROC
      (standing)
Father...
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
Son...please tell me you haven't
left the system with my gunships.
                                                            
                       ROC
No sir, just merely having some...
technical difficulties.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
That's funny...because navigation
has informed me they can no longer
pickup your location.
                                                            

42.

                       ROC
That's the technical difficulties
sir...our main frequency seems to
be jammed sir. And since it is
responsible for maintaining the
position of your gunships as well
as the flagship...we all appear to
be missing.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
I know what it does damn it!
(leaning back in his chair)
Why do I maintain a security force
in the Miriam system?
                                                            
                       ROC
To protect your investments?
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
No...
                                                            
                       ROC
To protect your mining planets?
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
      (sighing)
No Roc... It's to protect my
multi-galactical mining
conglomerate from hostile
takeovers. "Anymore" hostile
takeovers Roc!
                                                            
                       ROC
I understand sir...
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
Do you? Well Roc, if you truly did
understand...you would have
spotted the security breach, that
happened at...oh, at 0600 this
morning.
                                                            
Silence...
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
      (nodding his head)
That's right, he had another
freighter slip past...God knows
what he shipped out. Could've been
weapons, drugs, illegal animals...
(he leans forward)
Roc, they'll shut us down if this
continues. And if I remember
correctly, your job is trying to
            (MORE)

43.

                       THE FATHER (cont'd)
find a way to shut this criminal
down!
                                                            
                       KEI
      (hesitating)
I may have sir...
                                                            
The father stares on... slightly intrigued.
                                                            
 
INT. SPACESHIP- MAIN VIEW DECK-SPACE - NIGHT
                                                            
Kei and Kong, still in handcuffs, stare out a large view
window. Jupiter's massive swirling colors of dust and gas
fill the entire view. The small fleet of ships is dwarfed by
the planet and it's moons.

Sutra smiles and looks on.

Kei turns and locks with Sutra. He has tears in his eyes.
                                                            
                       KEI
It's everything you said it would
be... can it be possible?
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Anything is possible Kei. You know
that.
                                                            
Kong turns around and locks eyes with Sutra. He is angry and
stands with his chest heaving in and out like it might
burst.
                                                            
                       KONG
What the hell is going on between
you two?
                                                            
Kei and Sutra locks for moment, then pull away.
                                                            
                       KONG
      (to Sutra)
Why have you done this? You
obviously know more than you're
revealing... and if this is
true... why did you do this? You
knew we were on the verge of WAR.
You knew they needed us to find a
way to kill Gen. Oda.
(stepping forward)
We are fighting for our lives.
General Oda will slaughter our way
of life, and those who survive
will be tortured or worse. These
            (MORE)

44.

                       KONG (cont'd)
are woman and children. If you
knew this...why would you take us?
                                                            
Sutra steps back, shocked. She looks at Kei again.

Kong turns his anger on Kei.
                                                            
                       KONG
And you... you promised you would
tell me everything. We only have
each other, Kei.
                                                            
Several security guards walk in and grab the brothers.
                                                            
                       GUARD
      (to Sutra)
You're requested on the bridge.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Ah, we were kinda in the middle of
something...
                                                            
                       GUARD
Just delivering a message...we are
supposed to take them back to the
holding area.
                                                            
Sutra takes one last look at the brothers and walks off.
                                                            
 
INT. SPACESHIP- SECURED HOLDING AREA - NIGHT
                                                            
The guards throw the brothers back into the holding cell,
but none follow.

Kei and Kong shake it off and scan their surroundings.

Kei leans his body over and SPRINGS his feet over his hands
like a jump rope. He looks over the handcuffs and then looks
up at Kong.

Kong completes the same maneuver and stands up.
                                                            
                       KEI
You still remember how to
dislocate your wrists?
                                                            
                       KONG
You haven't answered my question
yet.
                                                            
Kong stares at Kei, searching him for compliance.
                                                            

45.

                       KEI
The truth is, I don't know what is
happening yet.
                                                            
                       KONG
And Sutra?
                                                            
                       KEI
Long story...
                                                            
Kong wants to pump his brother for more info, but is vaguely
satisfied... for now. He sighs and looks at his hands.
                                                            
                       KONG
It's been awhile...will you pop
mine back in for me?
                                                            
                       KEI
      (nodding)
Yes...
                                                            
Kong concentrates on his wrists and twists the joint. A
hallow thump pops out, followed by another one. He slips off
the handcuffs and they drop to the floor.

He backs Kong against a wall and brings his palms up. In one
swift movement, Kei snaps the joints back in place.

Kong takes in a few deep breaths to cleanse the pain.

Kei looks down at his own wrists and twists the joints the
same way. The handcuffs drop to the floor and Kong returns
the favor as he pops his brother back into place.
                                                            
                       KONG
Now what?
                                                            
                       KEI
      (massaging his
       wrists)
We wait...I should probably get
Shuriken back in her bag.
                                                            
                       KONG
      (huffing)
Yeah, that was fun!
                                                            
 

46.

INT. SPACESHIP- MAIN DECK-SPACE - NIGHT
                                                            
Sutra walks onto the main deck and is greeted by a familiar
sight: Her brother and father fighting.

But she's still distracted by the last few minutes.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
      (on view screen)
...either you explain to me what
is going on or I have no choice
but to call the authorities again.
You must learn Roc, my stolen
property will always be
recovered... we had an agreement.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (butting in)
He didn't steal anything, father.
                                                            
She steps forward, but then turns her back to the screen.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (quiet)
He's got you backed into a corner
Roc...just tell'em you stupid
fool!
                                                            
She steps back and turns with a smile.
                                                            
                       ROC
      (sighing)
That was two years ago and I paid
you back in full.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
Never the less...how can I trust
you to--
                                                            
                       SUTRA
We went on a field trip.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
You did what?
                                                            
                       ROC
We've secured a contract for the
services of two professionals.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
That would explain all the
absences...you secured what again?
                                                            

47.

                       SUTRA
We might have found a way to
eliminate Ciphea.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
A solution, huh?
(sighing)
I want you both here within the
hour. No more excuses!
                                                            
View screen dissolves.
                                                            
                       ROC
Get us to that wormhole...
                                                            
                       NAVIGATION OFFICER
Already there sir...we should see
it any second.
                                                            
                       ROC
      (speaking into an
       intercom)
Engineering...please tell me the
explosives are ready.
                                                            
                       ENGINEERING OFFICER (OS)
Ready to deploy sir.
                                                            
Roc and Sutra look out to see a swirling cloud of plasma
twisting inward like a drain.
                                                            
                       ROC
Are we within range?
                                                            
                       ENGINEERING OFFICER (OS)
In range sir...
                                                            
                       ROC
Do it!
                                                            
 
EXT. SPACE- DIRECTLY BEHIND FLEET - NIGHT
                                                            
Small canisters shoot out from the back of the ship. Other
ships start doing the same.

A massive explosion detonates behind each ship sending a
shock wave out and hurtling them into the wormhole like
bottle rockets.
                                                            
 

48.

EXT. SPACE- THE MIRIAM SYSTEM - NIGHT
                                                            
Roc and Sutra's small fleet approach a gigantic CIRCULAR
SPACE STATION orbiting a series of planets.
                                                            
 
INT. SPACESHIP- MAIN DECK-SPACE - NIGHT
                                                            
                       NAVIGATION OFFICER
Miriam station 215, Omega 615
security fleet requesting space
dock access.
                                                            
                       MIRIAM STATION (OS)
Stand by 615... proceed to space
docks 112 and 113.
                                                            
VIEW SCREEN POV: The space station consumes the entire view
screen as the pilot maneuvers the vessel to a bay marked
112. The doors open as the ship moves inside. Another series
of doors open when the first have closed and the ship moves
inside to park.
                                                            
 
INT. SPACESHIP- SECURED HOLDING AREA - NIGHT
                                                            
Sutra walks through the sliding doors to find Kei and Kong
standing fully dressed in the traditional BLACK ninja
uniform and armed to the teeth.

Two guards move past Sutra with weapons drawn, but she stops
them. She slowly approaches and stands looking over the
hooded warriors.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Can't believe you guys are
actually here. You're kinda
famous...to me anyway.
                                                            
She steps toward Kei and points to his label.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
May I?
                                                            
Kong shoots Kei a look.

Kei nods.

She moves in and checks his uniform. She peels it back to
find the bleached white uniform hiding underneath.

Kei takes in a lungful of her scent and looks down.

49.


She looks up and locks eyes with him.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Double sided, huh?
                                                            
Kei nods, lost somewhere in her eyes.

She steps away and removes two pair of restraints.

Kong spots the restraints and moves a hand to his short
sword.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Just for appearances...
                                                            
Kei holds out his hands.

Kong watches him and shakes his head... pissed.

She locks up Kei, then moves in to restrain Kong.

But he moves away, darting his eyes between Sutra and the
guards. He grips his sword tighter...
                                                            
                       KEI
Just let her restrain you...it's
for the best. For now.
                                                            
                       KONG
Why didn't you tell me?
                                                            
                       KEI
What was I supposed to say?
                                                            
Sutra pauses and watches the exchange.
                                                            
                       KONG
The truth, Kei... all those years
and you couldn't trust me?
(beat)
Considering every thing we've been
through... I would've believed
you, Kei.
(beat)
But that's not why... is it?
                                                            
                       KEI
I was trying to protect her.
                                                            
Kong turns to face Kei and locks eyes. They search each
others minds...


50.

Kong breaks the eye contact and turns his attention to
Sutra. He gives her the once over.

A brief look of fear flashes across Sutra's face.
                                                            
                       KONG
      (to Kei)
This is wrong and you know it.
                                                            
                       KEI
Just do it, Kong.
                                                            
Kong stands idly, watching Sutra and the guards.
                                                            
                       KONG
      (offering his
       hands)
I'm not making any promises...
anymore
                                                            
                       KEI
That's why...
                                                            
Kong continues to watch Sutra and the restraints.

Sutra is thinking twice now, and searches Kei for
reassurance. He has none to give.

The armed guards surround Sutra now and raise their weapons
to aim.
                                                            
                       KEI
      (cont'd, watching
       Sutra)
... as the years wore on, you
became more unpredictable... more
angry.
(beat)
You're still a tiger off it's
leash.
                                                            
Kong is still standing with his hands out.

Sutra slowly closes the distance and snaps the restraints
around Kong's wrists.

Kong's eyes burn with simmering fury.
                                                            
                       KONG
      (locking eyes with
       Sutra)
You didn't trust me...
(beat, confessing)
because, you knew I would've
            (MORE)

51.

                       KONG (cont'd)
killed her.
(beat)
If you couldn't trust the tiger
back then, I wouldn't trust him
now...
(beat, eying his restraints)
                                                            
Sutra and the guards back away.
                                                            
Kei turns his eyes on Kong, measuring his words.
                                                            
                       KEI
Don't make me choose who to
protect...
                                                            
                       KONG
You won't have to... you've made
your choice.
                                                            
Kong doesn't turn to look at Kei. He burns holes into Sutra.
                                                            
 
INT. MIRIAM SPACE STATION- LOADING DOCK/HANGER - NIGHT
                                                            
Sutra guides the brothers off the ship and walks to a wall
filled with headsets on hooks. The engine noise is
CONSUMING. Various ships of varying sizes pull in and out of
the busy loading dock.

She hands the brothers each a headset and puts hers on.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (pointing to her
       ears)
So we can hear each other...
                                                            
The brothers manage to put the headsets on and look around
in amazement. They look up to scan the ceiling.

KEI AND KONG POV: The ceiling APPEARS to be a mile high.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (in headset,
       filtered)
This is just one of two hundred
loading docks and hangers. Our
mining vessels, as well as
independent freight companies use
the station as a distribution
center...raw material and goods
are then shipped to galaxies near
and far...
                                                            

52.

She walks them through the hanger, pointing out different
functions and equipment. They make it to the other side and
hang up the headsets as they walk out.
                                                            
 
INT. MIRIAM SPACE STATION- MAIN CONTROL TOWER - NIGHT
                                                            
Sutra leads the brothers into a busy control tower command
room. Various workers navigate incoming and outgoing space
traffic. The chatter is constant.

Roc stands watching the ships come and go. He turns and
spots Sutra.
                                                            
                       ROC
Might as well give them a little
history lesson.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Me?
                                                            
                       ROC
You're the history expert, not me.
I'm starving... I'll be right
back.
                                                            
Roc exits.

Sutra sighs and steps up to a holographic display module.

Kei and Kong watch.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
This is the Miriam Galaxy...and my
father owns it. He is in the
business of buying galaxies and
everything in it...good or bad.
                                                            
SUTRA FLIPS THE SWITCH AND THE MODULE LIGHTS UP.
                                                            
SERIES OF SHOTS- HOLOGRAPHIC IMAGES:
                                                            
                       SUTRA (VO)
This is planet Viu Tadem...one of
the bad ones...
                                                            
A MASSIVE GREEN PLANET DOMINATES THE VIEW. SOON WE ARE
FLYING OVER ITS ENDLESS FIELDS OF ALGAE.
                                                            
                       SUTRA (VO)
...a giant water planet high in
carbon dioxide and nitrogen,
produces vast fields of algae
stretching on for thousands of
            (MORE)

53.

                       SUTRA (cont'd)
miles. Long sought after for its
biofuel potential, my father
entered into a deal with the
notorious gangster Ciphea.
Claiming his lawless days were
behind him, Ciphea and my father
secured lucrative contract with
the dominant ethnic group for
mining rights.
                                                            
SUTRA'S FATHER PARTICIPATES IN A TRIBAL CEREMONY AND LOOKS
AWKWARD.
                                                            
                       SUTRA (VO)
But when he returned, planet Viu
had been taken. A hostile
takeover... literally. Ciphea
moved in a massive army and
promised the inhabitants safety
and security from other
opportunistic mining companies.
                                                            
DOZENS OF VESSELS APPROACH PLANET VIU.

SUTRA'S FATHER ARGUES WITH A ALIEN CHIEF, WHEN CIPHEA STRUTS
OFF A HOVERCRAFT WITH SEVERAL ARMED GUARDS.

SUTRA'S FATHER LUNGES AT CIPHEA, BUT IS RESTRAINED AND LED
AWAY.
                                                            
                       SUTRA (VO)
CIPHEA had offered the SOU-KO a
better deal... one that seemed to
be too good to be true. He soon
turned their armies against my
father in a battle for the planet.
So began, the algae wars.
                                                            
GUNSHIPS STRIKE PLANET VIU.

THOUSANDS OF ETHNIC WARRIORS, COMBINED WITH CIPHEA'S FORCES,
STRIKE BACK.

THE FATHER'S FORCES APPEAR TO HAVE THE UPPER HAND,
HOWEVER... MASSIVE CREATURES LOOM IN THE DISTANCE.
                                                            
                       SUTRA (VO)
Enter the JAMBAI. Giant algae
eaters that evolved directly with
the planet to keep the limitless
amounts algae in check... but to
the Sou-ko, trained weapons of
            (MORE)

54.

                       SUTRA (cont'd)
mass destruction.
                                                            
THE MASSIVE THOUSAND FOOT CREATURES, HEAVILY ARMORED AND
EQUIPPED WITH MODERN WEAPONS, LAY SIEGE TO THE BATTLE FIELD.
THE FATHER'S ARMIES ARE NO MATCH.
                                                            
                       SUTRA (VO)
But when the battle was over, and
my father gone, Ciphea, with his
limitless amounts of money and
resources, engineered a virus to
wipe out the Jambai....
                                                            
DOZENS OF JAMBAI LAY ROTTING IN THE FIELDS WITH SCAVENGERS
PICKING AT THE BODIES.

HEAVILY ARMORED JAMBAI TOPPLE OVER IN FITS OF COUGHING AND
FEVERISH CHILLS.
                                                            
                       SUTRA (VO)
... threatening to send the
species into extinction, the
Sou-Ko bowed to his wishes.
                                                            
LEAD BY ELDERS AND CHIEFS, THEY BOW TO CIPHEA AND HIS
PRIVATE ARMY.

THOUSANDS OF SOU-KO WORK IN THE ALGAE FIELDS AND REFINERIES,
WITH ARMED ESCORTS. SHANTY TOWNS COVER WHAT DRY LAND IS
LEFT. THE ONCE MIGHTY SOU-KO, ARE NOW VULNERABLE TO ENEMIES.

THE JAMBAI, ROAM IN CAPTIVITY SURROUNDED BY A REINFORCED
ELECTRIFIED FENCE TWO THOUSAND FEET HIGH AND HUNDREDS OF
MILES IN DIAMETER.

END HOLOGRAPHIC IMAGES-BACK TO SUTRA AND CONTROL TOWER
COMMAND ROOM:
                                                            
                       SUTRA
...and our job is to keep Ciphea
in check and maintain a stand-off
until a solution can be found.
                                                            
                       KONG
      (disgusted)
And now, you want US to kill him
for you.
                                                            
 

55.

INT. MIRIAM STATION- PRIVATE QUARTERS - NIGHT
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
This is your big idea? Do you have
any idea what you've done? The
Mining Alliance will shut down
this billion dollar operation and
probably prosecute us.
                                                            
                       ROC
They can do it.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
And how do you know this?
                                                            
                       ROC
I've seen it. They're
professionals. They've done it
many times and they'll do it
again.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
      (thinking)
You've seen it, huh? Can't be any
worse than the other crazy ideas
you've had...
(thinking, considering)
... I don't want to here a peep.
You understand? Once they get it
done...cutt'em loose. Leave'em on
the planet... or just kill them.
They will only add to our growing
list of violations, and we can't
afford anymore...understand?
                                                            
Roc nods.
                                                            
 
INT. MIRIAM STATION- CONTROL TOWER COMMAND ROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Roc walks in and surveys the scene.
                                                            
                       ROC
The mission's a go.
                                                            
                       KONG
You can't make us do this.
                                                            
                       ROC
If you want to save your little
ninja buddies and your
"network"...you will.
                                                            

56.

                       KONG
What do you mean?
                                                            
                       ROC
You do this for us... assassinate
Ciphea... I'll bring a hellfire
down on those samurai that they
have never seen before.
(beat)
I'll wipe out General Oda and his
entire army.
                                                            
Kei and Kong look at each other.
                                                            
                       KEI
We will honor that promise then.
                                                            
Kei looks over at Sutra and locks eyes with her.

Kong watches.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
INT. MIRIAM STATION - ARMORY - NIGHT
                                                            
Sutra and Roc lead the brother in and turn to secure the
door.

Sutra leans in as she watches Kei and Kong look around the
armory like a couple of kids in a candy store.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (whispering)
Please tell me you have a plan.
                                                            
Roc leans in close as he looks over the brothers.

Kong watches...
                                                            
                       ROC
There is going to be another
security breach. Long range
sensors have picked up a
Rastafarian spice freighter to
arrive within the hour. If it
plays out like last time, they'll
release a power surge to
momentarily disrupt our sensors,
and then, drop a smaller vessel
into Viu's atmosphere.
                                                            

57.

                       SUTRA
How do you know all this?
                                                            
                       ROC
They've been doing it for years.
You have to be right behind them
to see the ship drop.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Why didn't you board the ship?
                                                            
Roc stands silent.

She takes in a lungful of air.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
You have a deal going with the
Rastafarian's...don't you?
                                                            
                       ROC
Listen, they'll get the brothers
to the surface and stay out of our
business, okay?
                                                            
                       SUTRA
But they are humans too. You don't
think they'll be sympathetic?
There are so few left now and they
stick together like a pack. And
they seem to have a real problem
with any kind of oppression, Roc.
                                                            
                       ROC
They'll stay out of our business,
okay?
                                                            
                       SUTRA
They've been suspected terrorists
against father's company for
years. Including supplying weapons
to the Sou-Ko for the resistance
movement...as well as resupplying
Ciphea's militias. Who knows where
they really stand.
                                                            
                       ROC
Exactly. They don't care one way
or the other. They want Ciphea
dead too, but will make some money
off him for the time being.
                                                            

58.

                       SUTRA
      (quietly,
       referring to
       brothers)
But we're oppressing them!
(beat, hushed)
Our whole company stands for
oppression, Roc. Once they find
out about their situation back on
earth and what we're doing...you
don't think the Rastafarian's will
jump sides and make trouble?
                                                            
Roc has no answer. He turns away from Sutra and walks over
to the brothers.
                                                            
                       ROC
I guess we can take these off
now...
                                                            
Sutra eyes Kong, but moves her eyes over to Kei... looking
for more reassurance.

Roc slides a bar code over the restraints and they drop to
the floor. He looks up with a smile.

Kong delivers a lighting fast KNUCKLE SLAP to Roc's mouth.

Kei grabs Kong to hold him back.

Roc reels from the blow, but turns to DRAW his handgun. He
shoves the barrel in Kong's face.

Kong and Roc face off.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (walking past her
       brother)
Put it away...you did technically
"shoot them."
                                                            
She walks up to the brothers, her hands up in a peace
gesture. She unlocks Kei's restraints.

Roc holsters his weapon and checks his lip.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
You've got plenty of weapons...but
you're going to need a little help
down there.
                                                            
She opens a large locker to reveal wall to wall weapons, as
well as a few surprises.
                                                            
 

59.

INT. RASTAFARIAN SPICE FREIGHTER-CORRIDOR-CONTINUOUS - NIGHT
                                                            
We FOLLOW a VERY large, well-built black man through the
halls as he softly sings to Reggae music coming in through
the speaker system.

JOHNNY DISCIPLE(40's) is a hulking example of a man with
zero tolerance for anything else than the absolute
abolishment of interstellar slavery. He's got the charisma
of Bob Marley, the fashion sense of Jimmy Cliff and the iron
military resolve of Abraham Lincoln, more than willing to
use force to make sure his promises are kept.
He's dressed in his trademarked outfit: a multi-colored
beret, red and black TIGER STRIPED t-shirt, leather pants,
and dark teardrop sunglasses reflecting the overhead lights.

Thick smoke swirls behind his head as he SLAPS the wall
above the MAIN DECK ENTRANCE reading: THE HARDER THEY COME,
THE HARDER THEY FALL. He enters through sliding doors.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
INT. RASTAFARIAN SPICE FREIGHTER- MAIN DECK - NIGHT
                                                            
                       COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
We have an encoded message coming
in from Miriam station.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Bring it up.
                                                            
Roc materializes on the view screen.
                                                            
                       ROC
I need a favor J.D.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
No more favors for you, company
man.
                                                            
                       ROC
I need to deposit a package on the
drop ship.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
What drop ship?
                                                            
                       ROC
Exactly...
                                                            

60.

                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
      (hesitating)
...I said no, man. You've been
infected by greed. It runs through
your system and makes your blood
bitter.
                                                            
                       ROC
      (confused)
Umm, okay... can I use the drop
ship or do I have to notify the
security fleet?
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Do what you will, money man...
                                                            
Roc fusses with a control board off screen.
                                                            
                       NAVIGATION OFFICER
We have gunships closing
fast...forty five seconds to drop
zone.
                                                            
Roc waits on screen.
                                                            
                       ROC
You're a suspected terrorist and
an arms dealer with an agenda. You
don't have much choice, Disciple.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Change is a slow poison running
through the veins of Babylon...
you do it your way and I'll do it
mine.
                                                            
                       NAVIGATION OFFICER
      (turning)
Thirty seconds to drop zone, man.
                                                            
Johnny and his FIRST OFFICER, PEDRO(30's), exchange a look
and linger.
                                                            
                       PEDRO
      (cont'd)
It's a big pay-load...we need to
drop it, man. Give da stupid boy
what he wants.
                                                            
Johnny looks up and eyes Roc.
                                                            

61.

                       ROC
How long we been in business
together, Disciple... all these
years? How about some instant
gratification for a change.
(beat)
You want Ciphea dead, I want
Ciphea dead. And I've got a plan.
(beat)
Do you?
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
      (long beat,
       dismissive)
So be it then....you got ten
minutes.
                                                            
                       ROC
See'ya in two.
                                                            
Roc dissolves from the view screen.

Johnny looks at Pedro.
                                                            
                       PEDRO
Why don't ya kill da boy already?
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Because, man...we have bigger fish
to fry.
                                                            
 
INT. MIRIAM STATION- CONTROL TOWER - NIGHT
                                                            
The Father walks the floor and checks data. He walks past
the communication hub, but stops.
                                                            
                       ROC (OS)
      (filtered)
Copy Gunship 216...take the rest
of the boys with...you guys catch
the next one.
                                                            
                       GUNSHIP 216 (OS)
      (filtered)
Copy 615... disengaging from
inspection.
                                                            
                       NAVIGATION OFFICER
Sir, the Rastafarian freighter has
come to a full stop and is within
the minimum SDI radius. Gunship
615 is boarding now.
                                                            

62.

                       THE FATHER
Well, at least he's following
standard procedure...carry on.
                                                            
The father continues his sweep of the floor.
                                                            
 
EXT. SPACE- JUST BEHIND FREIGHTER - NIGHT
                                                            
Roc's gunship pulls in just behind the freighter as it opens
it's cargo bay to swallow him.
                                                            
 
INT. RASTAFARIAN FREIGHTER- CARGO BAY - NIGHT
                                                            
Johnny flies down a flight of grated stairs to meet Roc's
ship settling on it's struts.

The door opens. Roc, the brothers, and Sutra step out.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
      (cat-calling)
Woooohah, that's all you had to
say, my brother! If I'd known you
were bringin' da sexy Sutra, I
woulda' let ja onto ZION'S
CHILDREN with no fuss about it,
man.
(looking over Sutra)
Mm-Mm-Mm...no fuss about it...
                                                            
Johnny shoves an INTERPRETER in his ear and adjusts the
volume.

But he stops in tracks when he see the brothers. Pointing
and shaking his finger, he smiles at Roc.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Do you have testicles?
                                                            
                       ROC
What?!
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
You heard me, man. Do you ATROX
have testicles...I have forgotten.
                                                            
                       ROC
Yes!
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Then, they're the size of
coconuts, man.
(pointing at the brothers)
            (MORE)

63.

                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE (cont'd)
Because, those are human eyes.
                                                            
                       ROC
This is the package...they come as
a pair.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
You're crazy, man. What I'm
doin'...I'll maybe get twenty
years. But you...you'll get da
death penalty and your fater will
lose everything. Smuggling humans
is serious business, man.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
It was my idea, okay!
                                                            
Kei and Kong look at her.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Now hush, sweet angel...let your
brather take da heat. He likes it
anyway.
                                                            
                       ROC
They're going to take care of
Ciphea.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
      (pointing,
       chuckling)
These two?! Da dem shakin' in
their boots, man. Look'at'em
Roc... dem eyes are as wide as
supernovas. Where in Jah's name
did you get'em?
                                                            
                       SUTRA
They're from fifteenth century
Japan.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
      (to Roc)
Fifteenth century earth? Have you
gone mad, man?! Tat a unauthorized
wormhole...
(he looks over the brothers again)
You drop'em down in Ciphea's
fortress ...dem boys be dead in
five minutes.
                                                            

64.

                       SUTRA
He's right, Roc. These guys can
get into castles fortified with
dogs and guards, but...this is
different. The technology will
kill them.
                                                            
                       ROC
What do we do then?!
                                                            
Johnny looks them over and smacks his lips like he might
have a bad taste in his mouth.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
I gett'em in.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
You will?
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Yes, I can get'em in...after tat,
they on their own.
                                                            
                       ROC
What about Ciphea?
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
I've got Ciphea eating out of my
hand...you let me worry 'bout tat
cat, man.
                                                            
 
INT. PLANET VIU- CIPHEA'S FORTRESS - NIGHT
                                                            
Ciphea faces away looking out a large view window watching
the sun set.
                                                            
                       CIPHEA
I can't waste much more time on
this matter...
                                                            
He turns to face a Sou-Ko elder flanked by armed guards.

Ciphea(50's) is the alien version of Donald Trump. His
business ventures stretch far into multi-galactical arenas
and could care less who or what is inconvenienced by his
heavy handed exploits. He devours competitors like Jabba the
Hutt and isn't afraid to sacrifice his entire private army
to satisfy a brief emotional outburst driven by a massive
ego.
He's dressed in a pin-stripe suit with a shoulder holster
dangling a large gun. His skin-tone is reminiscent of a
honey dew melon with a "Magnum P.I." mustache, dark

65.

sunglasses, and horns.

He turns to walk out to a platform.
                                                            
                       CIPHEA
Bring him...
                                                            
The guards muscle the elder across the floor to follow him
out.
                                                            
 
EXT. CIPHEA'S FORTRESS- VIEWING PLATFORM - NIGHT
                                                            
They are thousands of feet up overlooking the vast Jambai
secured enclosure and an ocean of green.

Refineries smoke in the distance.
                                                            
                       CIPHEA
Maybe, you can shed some light on
how "two" thousand foot beasts go
missing.
                                                            
He points to blinking lights of a construction crew
repairing the massive fence far below.

The elder looks down, dizzy from the sheer height, but
doesn't have an answer.
                                                            
                       CIPHEA
My men also told me the Sou-Ko
warriors had advanced weapons...
(turning to the elder)
...where are my animals and where
did you get those weapons?
                                                            
                       SOU-KO ELDER
      (firm resolve)
Maybe you should ask the Jambai...
                                                            
Ciphea smiles and leans in.
                                                            
                       CIPHEA
I have a better idea...why don't
you do it for me.
                                                            
He grabs the elder by the back of the collar and flips him
over the railing.
                                                            
                       CIPHEA
      (cupping a hand)
Let me know what they say when you
land!
                                                            

66.

The elder's flailing body disappears from view.

Ciphea turns to his head of security and walks inside.
                                                            
                       CIPHEA
I want to know what the hell is
going on in the camps!
                                                            
 
INT. RASTAFARIAN SPICE FREIGHTER- CARGO BAY - NIGHT
                                                            
Roc types information into a tablet. He leans in to fuss
with his radio.
                                                            
                       ROC
Miriam Station...gunship 615.
                                                            
Johnny squats down to look through a black backpack.
                                                            
                       MIRIAM STATION RECEIVING (OS)
      (filtered)
Go ahead 615...
                                                            
                       ROC
      (into radio)
ZION'S CHILDREN cleared for space
dock...broadcasting identification
and manifest.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Yeah man, you boys got some top
shelf stuff here...
(he looks up and pulls out a large
gun)
Looks like someone likes you...
(shaking the weapon)
...do you even know what this
does, man?
                                                            
Kei and Kong look at Sutra, but Kong looks back down at
Johnny.

Kei's eyes stay on Sutra.
                                                            
                       KONG
Yes, it was explained to us.
                                                            
Kong looks over at Kei, noticing his stare, and slaps his
arm.

Johnny looks over at Sutra, then Kei, and smiles.
                                                            

67.

                       MIRIAM STATION RECEIVING (OS)
      (filtered)
Copy that 615...information
downloaded and confirmed. Standby
for dock assignment...
                                                            
                       ROC
      (to Sutra)
We gotta go.
                                                            
Sutra walks over to the backpack and digs through it. She
pulls out a small black hockey pluck sized device.

She stands to face Kei.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Remember, when it's over... get to
a safe place and hit the button.
We'll come and get you.
                                                            
Roc walks away to the ship, but turns to look back.

Kong watches, his eyes burning with distrust.
                                                            
                       ROC
We gotta go!
                                                            
Kei nods and takes the device.

They touch hands and it's electric.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
      (throwing an arm
       around Kei)
Don't you worry Sutra...I take
good care of your boy.
                                                            
Kei is jarred by Johnny's big arms.

Kong instinctively moves a hand over his short sword.

Sutra turns a strange purple color and walks away to follow
Roc.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Stand back, boys.
                                                            
He walks over to a control panel and punches in a few
commands.

Roc fires up the engines and hovers. They drop down as the
first set of doors open. They close to seal the ship in.

68.


Johnny hits the screen as the freighter shakes slightly.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
They're clear.
                                                            
He turns to face the brothers, his smile gone, and crosses
his arms.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
      (cold, direct)
Who sent you, man?
                                                            
The brothers adjust their interpreters and exchange a look.

Johnny digs in his vest and pulls out a SPLIFF. He LIGHTS IT
and looks up.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
You heard me, man. Either you boys
have some serious timing, or you
workin' for Ciphea...so, which one
is it?
                                                            
He passes the spliff.

Kong shrugs and removes his hood. He takes a drag and coughs
uncontrollably. He passes it to Kei, his eyes watering.

Kei looks at him like he's CRAZY.

Kong passes it back to Johnny.
                                                            
                       KONG
      (struggling to
       breath)
What is that?
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
      (smoke in his eyes)
Da holy herb, man...Jah's gift to
humanity. The only way to see
through God's eyes...
                                                            
                       KONG
      (feeling it)
Whaaaat, man?
                                                            
Kei shakes his head at Kong's sudden ODD behavior and takes
off his hood too.
                                                            

69.

                       KEI
You think we are double-agents
working for this "Ciphea"...is
that it?
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Yeah, man...
                                                            
                       KEI
      (forceful)
We were taken and forced to seek
out Ciphea.
                                                            
Johnny passes it back to Kong and looks into Kei's eyes.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
      (thinking...)
There's only one explanation
then... synchronicity.
                                                            
                       KEI
What the hell are you talking
about?
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
I made a promise to Sou-ko years
ago to free them from oppression.
And tonight, we strike back. We've
been plannin' the attack for
months.
(beat)
But somehow, Jah placed our pieces
together, so we might would work
together to complete the bigger
picture.
(beat)
You boys have just been drafted
into Zion's Army.
                                                            
                       KONG
      (wobbling and
       grabbing at Kei)
Whaaaat?
                                                            
 
INT. DROP SHIP - NIGHT
                                                            
Johnny prepares for departure. Kei helps Kong strap in, but
the task isn't easy. Kong is having trouble with the
simplest of motor functions and giggling.
                                                            

70.

                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Copy bridge...prepare to release
the sunburst on my mark.
                                                            
                       PEDRO (OS)
      (filtered)
Copy, man...charged and ready.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
You boys hold on...we're gonna
drop like a rock.
                                                            
                       KEI
Sunburst?
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
      (smiling)
Yeah, man...it mimics a solar
flare and knocks out their sensors
long enough for us to get into the
atmosphere in one piece.
                                                            
He fires up the engines and hovers. The doors open and he
drops down into position.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Alright Pedro...let the sun shine.
                                                            
Johnny smacks a release lever and they DROP.
                                                            
                       PEDRO (OS)
      (filtered)
Pulse released...good luck.
                                                            
 
EXT. SPACE- PLANET VIU'S ORBIT - NIGHT
                                                            
Johnny's ship drops flat at first, then goes into a nose
dive. Soon, the ship is consumed in a bright streak of
reentry.
                                                            
 
INT. JOHNNY'S DROP SHIP- SPACE - NIGHT
                                                            
Kong looks out the view window and screams. Kei braces
against the ungodly turbulence and watches the green planet
approach like it might land in his lap.

Johnny's loving every minute of it...
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
      (bracing against
       turbulence)
You boy's ever hear of a roller
            (MORE)

71.

                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE (cont'd)
coaster?!
                                                            
 
EXT. SPACE- BEHIND THE FREIGHTER - NIGHT
                                                            
Roc's gunship hangs back in neutral.
                                                            
 
INT. ROC'S GUNSHIP- COCKPIT- SPACE - NIGHT
                                                            
                       ROC
There it goes...by the time our
sensors come back online, his ship
will be in Viu's atmosphere.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (turning to face
       him)
You're not going to help
them...are you?
                                                            
                       ROC
Nothing personal, sis.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (turning to watch
       the drop ship)
Too late.
                                                            
 
EXT. PLANET VIU- UPPER ATMOSPHERE - NIGHT
                                                            
Various planets near and far shine a ghostly light on the
drop ship. They drop down under the cloud cover and race to
the surface.

Kong's screaming can still be heard...
                                                            
 
EXT. PLANET VIU- SOU-KO SHANTY TOWN - NIGHT
                                                            
The ship maneuvers to a series of shacks clumped together
located by a massive trash dump the size of a small
mountain. He lowers the ship into a concealed hanger.
                                                            
 
INT. SOU-KO SHANTY TOWN- SECRET MEETING HALL - NIGHT
                                                            
SOME TIME LATER...
                                                            
Johnny leans over an ancient Bible, gently fingering the
pages. A Sou-Ko passes a spliff to him. He takes it in his

72.

fingers without looking up.

All eyes are on him.

He takes a few puffs and passes it on. He looks up from the
Bible and scans the faces in the fire light.
                                                            
                       FACE IN CROWD
Tell us the story of Exodus...one
last time.
                                                            
He nods as thick smoke swirls around his face.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
In 1963, our lord and savior Haile
Selassie set aside 500 acres of
land in the holy Ethiopian desert.
At the time of his death in 1975,
only the truly devoted made the
pilgrimage to the mother land. But
for the chosen few, more
awaited...
                                                            
FLASHBACK- JOHNNY'S EARTH MEMORIES- SERIES OF SHOTS:
                                                            
A YOUNG JOHNNY DISCIPLE MOVES WITH A MOB OF WORSHIPERS.

SOME ARE PULLED ASIDE AND BROUGHT INTO AN ANCIENT TEMPLE TO
BE SHOWN A SECRET ROOM.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE (VO)
Prophesying the destruction of
earth...our holy father intended
to send his tribe out into the
cosmos to keep the Rastafarian
faith alive...
                                                            
JOHNNY AND OTHERS ARE SHOWN THE SPACECRAFT HIDDEN DEEP UNDER
GROUND.

PRIESTS INSTRUCT THE CHOSEN ONES ON THE NEW TECHNOLOGY.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE (VO)
Instructed that the vessel was
fully automated and programed to
take us to our new home...all that
was required was faith. Those who
had it, would go... and those who
didn't, would stay.
                                                            
JOHNNY CLUTCHES HIS BIBLE AND WATCHES FROM INSIDE THE VESSEL
AS THE DOORS CLOSE ON 1975 EARTH.


73.

THE ENGINES START...

END JOHNNY'S FLASHBACK- BACK TO JOHNNY AND THE BIBLE:
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Years of devotion to faith and the
righteous path have all led to
this night.
                                                            
                       SOU-KO ELDER
      (leaning in)
The warriors are ready...the
Jambai are suited and armed...
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Bratders and sisters...tonight,
our fight will be on two fronts.
All oppressors will be confronted
and slain by the mighty Lion of
Zion. All mighty God cradles us in
his hands.
(beat)
Fear not death... but a life
without passion or free will. For
these are the rights given to us
by the almighty Jah.
                                                            
                       FACE IN CROWD
What is the theme of our final
meeting?
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
      (solid, direct)
Emancipation.
                                                            
We SEE Kei and Kong spy through a break in the shack. They
pull away.
                                                            
 
INT. DROP SHIP- CARGO BAY - NIGHT
                                                            
Kei and Kong stride up a loading platform, but stop.

Kong is upset and turns to Kei.
                                                            
                       KONG
Great Kei...we're in the middle of
a goddamn holy war! We need to get
outta here and get back to "our
own war!"
                                                            
Kei is silent.
                                                            

74.

                       KONG
      (sensing
       apprehension)
You want to stay here...don't you?
Because of her? Because of that
thing? Have you completely lost
your mind?!
                                                            
Kei steps towards his brother, offended.
                                                            
                       KONG
      (smiling)
Oh, so you are defending her honor
now? We have duties Kei...we have
responsibilities. The Iga ninja
will be wiped off the face of
earth. Remember earth?
                                                            
                       KEI
I thought you said our chances
were "embarrassing." If we go back
Kong, we'll die. And you know it.
Even our combined forces will be
no match for Oda's tens of
thousands. We will lose and we
will die.
                                                            
                       KONG
So, you are afraid to die now? The
greatest honor you can receive is
dying for what you believe in.
(pointing wildly out the cargo
bay)
Disciple and the Sou-Ko are going
to die for what they believes
in... have you forgotten the
pledge you made to ninja all those
years ago...
(beat)
... and to me?
                                                            
                       KEI
I made a promise to her too...
                                                            
Kong stares into Kei's face... his betrayal set in stone
now.
                                                            
 
INT. MIRIAM STATION- MANGER'S OFFICE - NIGHT
                                                            
Sutra sulks at her father's massive desk surrounded by
computers and station monitoring equipment.
                                                            

75.

                       THE FATHER
What's the matter? You should be
thrilled. You're next in line for
Miriam station...it will be an
important career move, Sutra.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
I know.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
Then, what is it?
                                                            
Sutra looks down and can see her father has an incoming
message.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
I guess I'm not feeling
well...that's all.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
Why don't you get some rest and
I'll take my angel out for a fancy
dinner tonight... to celebrate.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Okay.
                                                            
She moves a hand under the desk and slips something small
under the lip. She stands and exits.

The father watches the doors close and hits the receive
button. He turns to the video monitor.

Ciphea materializes on screen sitting a large chair.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
So, we got a deal or what?
                                                            
                       CIPHEA (OS)
      (shrugging)
Yeah...I guess.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
Why the sudden change of heart?
                                                            
                       CIPHEA (OS)
Seems the rumors of the holy war
are true. Disciple has been
converting the Sou-Ko for years,
and now, has them all whipped into
a lather. I'm not going to stick
around to clean up "that" mess.
                                                            

76.

                       THE FATHER
So, you're selling me damaged
goods then?
                                                            
                       CIPHEA (OS)
      (laughing)
Please, you and I both know it
won't be hard to get military
approval for a full scale invasion
of Viu. Besides, I'll send you the
formula for the virus. You can
wipe out the Jambai and stick
what's left of the Sou-Ko in a
assimilation program and start
over. Convert them into corporate
blow hards, like you...if you
want.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
      (laughing)
Fair enough...
                                                            
                       CIPHEA (OS)
I'll transmit the account
number... and once the funds
clear, I'll send the formula.
Planet Viu will be yours in twenty
four hours. Cheers.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
      (smiling)
Let's make it forty eight.
                                                            
                       CIPHEA (OS)
Whatever...
                                                            
Ciphea dissolves and the father goes to work on the
preparations.
                                                            
 
INT. JUST OUTSIDE STATION MANGERS OFFICE - NIGHT
                                                            
Sutra adjusts the volume on a listening device jammed in her
ear. With her suspicions confirmed, she walks away down a
long corridor... fuming.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
EXT. SHANTY TOWN/ GARBAGE DUMP - NIGHT
                                                            
Kei and Kong find Johnny and some elders loitering next to
the mountain of garbage.

77.


The smell overwhelms Kei. He brings a hand up to shield his
nose.
                                                            
                       KEI
What can we do to help?
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
      (surprised)
You still want to help, huh?
                                                            
                       KEI
Well, we don't have much
choice...do we?
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
I believe, you have somethin' else
on yer mind, mon.
                                                            
                       KEI
      (huffing, in
       disbelief)
That is between Kong and
I....and...
                                                            
Kei stops in mid-sentence as the garbage dump shakes like a
tremor.

Johnny steps forward and shines a light into the garbage. A
round hollow piece, much like a massive drainage pipe, hides
a deep dark shadow. Johnny shoves the light in. A very large
green eye dilates and shifts. The garbage pile shakes again.

Kei jumps back in shock.

Johnny steps away, leaving the eye to darkness.
                                                            
                       KEI
      (shaken)
Like I said...the sooner this is
over, the sooner we can get back.
(he turns)
Isn't that right K--
                                                            
Kong is gone.
                                                            
 
INT. SUTRA'S PERSONAL QUARTERS - NIGHT
                                                            
Sutra packs in a frenzy. But stops when Roc steps out of her
bathroom.

She pulls a gun on him.
                                                            

78.

                       SUTRA
Goddamn it Roc! This is my
place...can't I have anything just
for myself?!
(she puts the gun away)
What the hell do you want?
                                                            
                       ROC
I know what "you want"...and quite
frankly, I don't understand.
Miriam station is being handed to
you on a platter and you act like
it's a curse.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (quietly)
Well, maybe I don't want it.
                                                            
                       ROC
What? The privilege of a long
successful career?
                                                            
                       SUTRA
I told you Roc! I don't want it...
(she turns away to continue
packing)
...you do.
                                                            
                       ROC
If you get Miriam, we'll rule the
roost together... remember? You
said you would take me with you.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (scoffing)
You WANT me to get it, so you can
do what ever YOU want. The
skimming of profits, the smuggling
or... what ever it is you're
doing. Not me...
(she grabs her bag)
...I'm sick of the bullshit and
I'm getting out of here.
                                                            
Sutra exits and runs right into her father and a mob of
security.
                                                            
 
INT. JUST OUTSIDE SUTRA'S QUARTERS - NIGHT
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
I'd say I was disappointed...but
you don't seem to really
understand the opportunity you're
            (MORE)

79.

                       THE FATHER (cont'd)
throwing away. Or maybe, I've just
spoiled you rotten. Who knows...
                                                            
He nods at the security force and they take Sutra into
custody.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (struggling)
You can't do this! This is
illegal!
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
      (dismissive)
I make the laws for the whole
galaxy... remember? I was going to
give you that kind of power, but
you chose to toss aside my
generosity, for some... foreigner?
                                                            
Sutra looks away and burns holes into Roc eyes.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
You told him?
                                                            
                       ROC
You're obsessed...it's not
healthy.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
So, you decided to stab me in the
back, to make yourself look good
in front of dad?
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
Lock her up in my quarters! I want
twenty-four security in and out.
(turning to Sutra)
You and I are going back home
after I close this deal. I think
you need some time to think about
the commitment you made to this
family... and after that, a new
assignment in another galaxy.
                                                            
They drag Sutra away.

He turns to Roc.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
As for you...maybe, we can give
you another shot. Unless, you
screw it up again.
                                                            

80.

The father walks away with his guards.

Roc watches...the moment, anti-climatic.
                                                            
 
INT. DROP SHIP- CARGO BAY - NIGHT
                                                            
                       KEI
      (searching)
Can't believe he did this.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
I can.
                                                            
                       KEI
What?
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Because of Sutra.
                                                            
Kei is silent.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
C'mon, man...you think you're the
first brudters to fight over a
woman?
                                                            
                       KEI
But, he's not attracted to her. He
despises her.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Exactly...he's used to havin' you
all ta himself, you know. He's not
number one no more. Man, can't you
see it?
                                                            
                       KEI
And now he's pissed.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Tat boy got the spirit of da lion
in him...I'd hate to see what he'd
do wit tat sword, man.
                                                            
                       KEI
      (locking eyes)
You have no idea...
                                                            
Johnny looks around the cargo bay and notices the bag of
weapons is gone.
                                                            
 

81.

INT. SOU-KO JUNK FREIGHTER- COCKPIT - NIGHT
                                                            
Sou-Ko flight officers ready the ship in a dark cockpit.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE (OS)
      (filtered)
Copy, freighter one?
                                                            
                       SOU-KO FLIGHT OFFICER
      (into radio)
Copy...go ahead J.D.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE (OS)
      (filtered)
Remember, you packed to the gills
with suicide soldiers, man...once
you dock, you hit the escape
pods. Clear?
                                                            
                       SOU-KO FLIGHT OFFICER
      (into radio)
Copy that... initiating
prelaunch...
                                                            
The PILOT is preoccupied with dozens of blinking buttons and
switches, but hears a loud ruckus behind him, like a
wrestling match. Then a cry of pain, followed by another.
Then, his co-pilot is stabbed through the chest from behind.
The pilot looks around in terror.

Kong slips out of the darkness, and moves his sword and free
hand around the pilot's neck. He pinches the blade with two
fingers and pulls away to wipe it clean, spilling strange
purple blood onto the pilot's lap.
                                                            
                       SOU-KO PILOT
      (looking at the
       blood)
You killed my flight crew!
                                                            
                       KONG
Take me to Miriam Station.
                                                            
                       SOU-KO PILOT
That's where we're going, asshole!
                                                            
Kong is surprised and pulls away. He sheaths his sword and
looks over the dead co-pilot. He yanks the body out of the
chair and replaces it with his own. He looks around the
cockpit in amazement.
                                                            

82.

                       KONG
      (snapping)
Go, then!!
                                                            
The pilot is shaken by his thunderous voice and jumps to
attention. He enters commands on glowing screen and the
cockpit fills with the roar of the engines.
                                                            
 
EXT. BASE OF CIPHEA'S TOWER - NIGHT
                                                            
Johnny readies some climbing equipment. Kei watches, but
then looks up the endless tower scattered with light.
                                                            
                       KEI
We have to climb all the way up?
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Nah, man...'bout half way, da
power grid is in ta middle. We
have to knock out the power ta
disable the tower defenses. If we
don't...the resistance won't have
a chance.
                                                            
                       KEI
What about the soldiers moving
into the Sou-Ko camp right now?
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
They're walking in'da meat
grinder, man. The Sou-Ko are
settin' a trap... they're gonna
buy us some time.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
EXT. SOU-KO SHANTY TOWN - NIGHT
                                                            
Ciphea's militia moves in. Infantry and heavy armor sweep
the alleyways, but find nothing.

But they surround the garbage dump and find a lone Sou-Ko
warrior waving his hands.

They move in, but remain cautious.
                                                            
                       MILITIA COMMANDER
Disgusting species... they wallow
in their own stench!
(turning around)
Sniper up!
                                                            

83.

A soldier with a large rifle-type weapon runs to the front.
He settles the weapon and aims.
                                                            
SNIPER POV: Through the scope we see the Sou-Ko warrior
continue to wave his hands wildly. But then, dig through the
trash pulling out a large MOUNTED GUN. The Sou-ko warrior
locks it into place and aims.
                                                            
                       SNIPER
He's got an automatic!
                                                            
The sniper squeezes off a shot, but it streaks above its
target.

The Sou-Ko warrior BLASTS the militia with both barrels.

The soldiers scatter, but return fire.

But the garbage dump comes alive again, and begins to break
apart. An ungodly SCREECHING ROAR fills the night air, and
as the trash falls away from the warrior, you can SEE he is
strapped into an open turret. We then SEE the turret is
attached to a massive animal emerging from the garbage dump.

Glistening muscles are revealed through plates of thick
armor as the heavier pieces of junk and garbage spread out
like a massive avalanche. The fully armored JAMBAI erupts
from the trash with open turrets clamped in place behind its
head, on its shoulders, and along its spine. The Jambai
reveals a massive EDGED WEAPON and brings it down with all
the force an earthquake, literally cutting Ciphea's militia
IN HALF. All Jambai gunners OPEN FIRE on fleeing soldiers.
                                                            
 
EXT. CIPHEA'S TOWER - NIGHT
                                                            
Johnny and Kei climb the tower. Johnny uses special gear,
while Kei, uses tiger claw hand grips.

A pop from a distant explosion catches Johnny's attention.
He looks back and spots the battle in the garbage dump.

But his radio crackles to life. He hits receive and listens.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
      (into radio)
Go ahead... freighter one.
                                                            
                       SOU-KO PILOT (OS)
      (filtered)
We...I've been hijacked! Masked
man in black.... deploying escape
pod!
                                                            

84.

Johnny looks down at Kei. Hundreds of feet of open air lay
below. He waits for Kei to get a distant hold and whistles.

Kei looks up.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Found yer brudter...
                                                            
                       KEI
      (in pain)
What?!
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Few more meters...I promise..
                                                            
 
INT. MIRIAM STATION- CONTROL TOWER - NIGHT
                                                            
The Father sweeps the floor, until his attention is pulled
away by a space traffic technician.

He walks over to see what all the fuss is about...
                                                            
                       SPACE TRAFFIC TECH
We have an unauthorized freighter
trying to space dock, sir.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
Open a channel.
                                                            
                       SPACE TRAFFIC TECH
I've tried, sir...I've been trying
for the last ten minutes.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
...contact Station defense...have
them deliver a few shots across
her bow, to remind them where they
are.
                                                            
                       SPACE TRAFFIC TECH
Their shields are up, sir.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
Shields? Why would their...
                                                            
FATHER POV: He looks out the view windows and can SEE the
massive junk freighter backing in far below. He spots the
blue light from an escape pod streaking away toward Viu.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
Why wasn't it stopped by the
gunships for inspection?
                                                            

85.

He thinks for moment....

But soon, his face goes pale and his stomach drops to the
floor.
                                                            
                       SPACE TRAFFIC TECH
I do not know, sir...
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
      (quietly)
What dock are they approaching?
                                                            
                       SPACE TRAFFIC TECH
311, sir...
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
I want a complete lock down of
311...I want those doors sealed
shut.
                                                            
                       SPACE TRAFFIC TECH
Can't sir...I'm detecting a manual
override of main pressure doors.
The doors "will" open when they
dock, sir.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
INT. DOCK 311- MAIN PRESSURE DOORS - NIGHT
                                                            
Pedro slaps a control panel shut. He walks away as he pulls
a paper sack out of his vest. He approaches a flight deck
officer and hands him the bag. They smile and joke as they
walk away.

But Pedro leans in and tells the officer a secret.

The officer's eyes go wide and he looks out to the endless
warehouse-like cargo bay/ hanger. He runs out to quietly
tell his friends.

A mild panic starts...
                                                            
 
INT. MIRIAM STATION- CONTROL TOWER - NIGHT
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
Issue a station wide alert...and
lock down dock 311. I want all
units down there five minutes ago.
And tell'em to bring the heavy
metal.
                                                            

86.

                       SPACE TRAFFIC TECH
      (turns to look up)
Yes sir...should I broadcast a
request for military support?
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
No need. They're already on their
way.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
SERIES OF SHOTS- VARIOUS SHOTS FROM IN/AROUND MIRIAM
STATION:

THE WIDE BACK END OF THE FREIGHTER SLOWLY BACKS IN. A SHADOW
FROM THE STATION CREEPS ALONG THE HULL.

HEAVILY ARMED STATION SECURITY POUR OUT OF THE ARMORY LIKE
BEES OUT OF A HIVE.
                                                            
 
INT. DOCK 311- PRESSURE DOORS - NIGHT
                                                            
Red sirens drop from the ceiling to issue an evacuation
alert. AUTOMATIC GUN DRONES drop from the ceiling and turn
to AIM at the doors.

Dock workers and flight crews scatter.
                                                            
                       SOOTHING COMPUTER VOICE (OS)
      (filtered)
This is a mandatory space dock
evacuation. All personnel must
proceed to all available exits.
(repeats)
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
CONTINUE SERIES OF SHOTS- CONTINUOUS- INTERCUT:
                                                            
CREWS GATHER ON GUNSHIP HOVER CRAFTS WITH OPEN DECKS LOADED
WITH ROCKET LAUNCHERS. SEVERAL PULLOUT INTO SUBWAY-LIKE
TUNNELS USED TO TRAVEL AROUND THE ENDLESS SPACE STATION.

SOU-KO WARRIORS SMOKE, DANCE AND LOAD WEAPONS IN THE RED LIT
CARGO BAY OF THE JUNK FREIGHTER. SOME PRAY AS THEY ARE
STRAPPED WITH VESTS LOADED WITH EXPLOSIVES. SOME HUDDLE IN
CORNERS SMOKING SPLIFFS WAVING THE SMOKE IN LIKE INCENSE.

THE FIRST OF THE TACTICAL UNITS ARRIVE AND TAKE UP DEFENSIVE
POSITIONS.

THE SIRENS CONTINUE TO WAIL LIKE AN AIR RAID...
                                                            
 

87.

INT. SOU-KO JUNK FREIGHTER- CARGO BAY - NIGHT
                                                            
A mob of hundreds of Sou-ko warriors sway and pulsate in
front of the doors like a mosh pit. They howl and punch the
air above heads with excitement.

A warrior in front begins to chant something softly at
first, then builds into a frenzy.
                                                            
                       SOU-KO WARRIORS

Rastafari...rastafari....RASTAFARI!!
                                                            
The mob repeats his chant as they punch the air in unison.
                                                            
 
INT. DOCK 311- PRESSURE DOORS - NIGHT
                                                            
The last of the dock personnel evacuate, while the hanger
fills with station security squads and heavy armor.

Some equipment shakes as the freighter magnetically seals to
the doors.

They hear the first set of doors open and the muffled roar
of a large crowd inside. The second set open and the angry
chant of the warriors spills out in crystal clear high
fidelity.
                                                            
                       SOU-KO WARRIORS
RASTAFARI!!!
                                                            
They charge and open fire.
                                                            
 
INT. CIPHEA'S TOWER- MAIN HANGER - NIGHT
                                                            
Johnny and Kei sneak through the hanger, hiding behind one
ship after another.

But it appears to be deserted.

Johnny attention is distracted by a fancy looking luxury
ship. He shakes his head and offers a snort of disgust.

Kei notices his body language.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
All tat boy do is spend his money
on fancy cars....
(looking back at Kei)
...tat is all planet Vui and the
Sou-Ko are to'em. Another
investment gone south. He doesn't
            (MORE)

88.

                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE (cont'd)
care who lives r' dies, man.
                                                            
                       KEI
Whatta mean?
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
All this isn't real, man. It's a
business plan...a money machine.
What I'm doin' is real...and
right....and I'm taking da Sou-Ko
wit me.
                                                            
Johnny scans the hanger for guards, but then huffs out a
smile and smacks Kei in the arm.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
...like Sutra, man. What she's
doin' takes guts.
(he squares his gaze)
And don't tell me you don't know
what I'm talkin' about.
(he scans the hanger again)
She's been on the fence for a long
time now. Looking down to see if
she'll survive da fall.
(looking back at Kei)
Now, she's got someone to jump
wit.
                                                            
Kei looks terrified.

Johnny smiles and laughs.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Don't worry, man...you'll have a
crazy story ta tell when people
ask HOW you two met.
                                                            
But he whips his head around to spot some guards and a
maintenance crew. He turns to grab Kei, but he's vanished.
Johnny scrambles to find a hiding spot.

Soon, the guards and the crew exit the hanger.

Johnny emerges from his spot and searches for Kei. He spots
Kei creeping down the loading ramp of Ciphea's luxury ship.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
How in Jah's name did you get in
there so fast?
                                                            

89.

Kei scans the hanger, but has no answer.

They crouch low and move out of the hanger toward the
generator room.
                                                            
 
INT. MIRIAM STATION- DOCK 311 - NIGHT
                                                            
A chaotic and vicious firefight ensues.

Sou-Ko warriors strapped with explosive vests find ways to
jump onto hover crafts whizzing by and detonate. But as they
pour out of the freighter, they are cut down by automatic
gunfire from the station turrets and the hover crafts.

But soon, a FAMILIAR deafening screeching roar consumes the
massive hanger, bouncing off the walls like a symphonic
sonic boom.

Every head in the hanger whips around TO LOOK. They peer
down the dark corridor leading to the freighter's loading
ramp. It's dark and hard to see.
                                                            
 
INT. MIRIAM STATION- CONTROL TOWER - NIGHT
                                                            
                       ENGINEERING OFFICER
Sir, station sensors are picking
up seismic activity centered
around the 300 block.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
Seismic activity?! That's absurd!
We're in goddamn outer space!
                                                            
                       ENGINEERING OFFICER
It's increasing in intensity, sir.
There is a possibility of a hull
breach...
                                                            
 
INT. DOCK 311- PRESSURE DOORS - NIGHT
                                                            
The dark corridor comes alive with movement. Soon, the
unmistakable shape of a fully armored JAMBAI comes into
view. It claws its way along the corridor barely fitting
through. The armor is artfully designed to fit the shape of
the beast, complete with a rhino-like solid steel helmet.

A few station soldiers scramble to close the door, by
overriding the controls, but it is too late.

The Jambai lowers its head and charges. It DESTROYS the

90.

door, splintering the frame with its massive shoulders as it
bursts through.
                                                            
It plows through the battle swinging its head wildly from
side to side as it thunders past like a freight train.

But it stops on a dime and pushes itself up on its hind
legs. Its impressive thousand foot body goes vertical as the
horn-like helmet smashes into a cluster of gun turrets in
the ceiling just above its head in a fiery explosion. The
Jambai grabs for an edged weapon clamped across its belly
and smashes it down into group of armored vehicles.
Comfortable on two legs, it moves through the battle trying
to destroy anything in its path.
                                                            
 
EXT. BODY OF JAMBAI- GUNNER POV (FX) - NIGHT
                                                            
From the GUNNER'S POV, we SEE the gun turret move away from
the spine along the barrel-like body of the Jambai heading
for the exposed belly area on a CLOSED RAIL SYSTEM. IT'S A
WILD ROLLAR COASTER RIDE.
It snaps into place just below the chest armor. The Sou-Ko
warrior (strapped into a harness) cocks his double-barreled
automatic weapon and OPENS FIRE.

Gunners along the dog-like collar, shoulder area, and the
pelvic area do the same.
Soon, all gunners are locked into place along the beast's
torso like a protective row of big buttons. They send a hail
storm of laser gunfire and rockets to the scrambling
soldiers hundreds of feet below.
                                                            
 
INT. DOCK 311- PRESSURE DOORS - NIGHT
                                                            
Kong runs out of the freighter under the legs of the Jambai.
He looks up at the chaos unfolding. He straps the black
backpack tight to his body and runs for it.
                                                            
 
INT. DOCK 311- PRESSURE DOORS - NIGHT
                                                            
The Jambai concentrates on destroying multiple gun turrets
in the ceiling and armored vehicles down below with its
massive edged weapon.

The repositioned gunners continue their relentless spray of
gunfire.

But then, the Jambai extends its fingers and closes its
strange hand into a fist. It aims a tubular-like wristband
as it pops open to reveal rocket tubes. It fires multiple

91.

photon-like rockets into the swarming mass below like a
Gatling gun.

Dock 311 comes alive with scattered explosions sending
shredded armored vehicles, hover crafts and flailing bodies
everywhere.

A hull breach alarm sounds off with the SOOTHING COMPUTER
VOICE repeating in intervals.

The roar from the space vacuum fills dock 311 as various
debris flies toward the ruptures areas.


Sou-Ko warriors continue their angry chant as struggle to
hang on against the space vacuum. But they still egg on the
Jambai with their chanting.
                                                            
 
INT. MIRIAM STATION- JUST OUTSIDE SECURITY COMMAND - NIGHT
                                                            
INAUDIBLE:
                                                            
Roc runs through tactical battle plans with several security
squad commanders like a football coach. They tilt their
heads to follow his directions as the command room and the
corridor comes alive with manic foot traffic.
                                                            
SERIES OF SHOTS- KONG'S REVENGE UNFOLDS:
                                                            
ONLY THE SOLID BLACK BACKSIDE OF KONG CAN BE SEEN AS HE
STRUTS THROUGH THE PANICKED STRICKEN FOOT TRAFFIC.

NOW, ONLY HIS CHEST CAN BE SEEN. HE'S LOADED WITH ALIEN
WEAPONRY HANGING FROM HIS BODY, ALONG WITH HIS TRADITIONAL
NINJA WEAPONS. HE'S A WALKING ARSENAL.

CLOSE UP OF KONG'S EYES. THEY NARROW AS THEY SPOT THEIR
TARGET.

WE FOLLOW HIS HANDS... HE DIGS INTO HIS UNIFORM TO REMOVE A
HANDFUL OF SHURIKENS.

MEANWHILE, SECURITY FORCES RACE BY TOO DISTRACTED TO NOTICE
HIM.

BACK TO ROC AND HIS DEBRIEFING:
                                                            
Roc is still busy, trying to point out tactical advantages
to stop the Jambai. But he can't shake the feeling he's
being watched.

He looks up.

92.


The swarming crowd of security forces coming and going
blocks his view, but still, there is something recognizable
just beyond.

Soon, he spots Kong on a collision coarse.

He grabs for his radio as he alerts the security commanders
standing next to him. They turn and spot Kong.
                                                            
SLOW MOTION:
                                                            
All the racing foot traffic soon slows like molasses. They
turn and notice Kong as they check their headsets and
weapons.

Kong continues his forward momentum, more than aware of what
is unfolding.

He's quickly surrounded.

But before they can react, he launches his handful of
shurikens at the security commanders standing next to Roc.
All are dropped instantly by direct head shots.

Roc looks down in horror, but squints his eyes to examine
the dead soldiers. All the shurikens have a dollop of
plastic explosive with a blasting cap decorating the wrought
iron like a Christmas cookie.

Roc runs for it.

The security commander's bodies explode like a meat locker
firing squad.

Roc is thrown by the multiple blasts as well as dozens of
soldiers nearby.

Roc slowly lifts his body and spots Kong still
standing...still staring at him. A solid monument of
determination.
                                                            
BACK TO NORMAL TIME:
                                                            
                       ROC
KILL HIM!!
                                                            
Kong bursts into action.

All the soldiers near him are still distracted, but he's a
pillar of persistence and revenge. He yanks out his long and
short swords simultaneously to move in a deadly circle
around the soldiers. Several are dropped in seconds.

93.


But they regain their positions and open fire.

Kong moves in between the mass of soldiers and grabs for his
weapons. Still unfamiliar with his new toys, he fusses with
a large rifle-type weapon, and trips over his own feet. He
hits the floor hard, but rolls over unto his back. He flips
the safety down and opens fire. Barely in control from the
relentless kick, he manages to stand and mows down another
dozen soldiers. Still out of control, he hits another button
and launches several RPG's into the ceiling.

Kong is thrown back by the explosion.

As the smoke clears, Kong can see the floor crawling with
the injured, then spots Roc down at the end of the corridor
scrambling to his feet, and disappear around the corner.

Kong sheaths his swords and pursues.
                                                            
 
INT. MIRIAM STATION- VARIOUS HALLWAYS AND CORRIDORS - NIGHT
                                                            
Kong is relentless.

He chases Roc through the station like a wolf that can't
remember its last meal.

They exchange fire back and forth, but only hit bystanders
and station security in the process.

But Kong is suddenly ambushed by more station security and
grabbed. Two soldiers wrestle with Kong's large rifle-type
weapon, but he depresses a lever and the weapon pops open.
Kong yanks two hidden handguns from either side of the
rifle-type weapon. Using a mix of martial arts and his
handguns, he overtakes the mob in seconds.

Roc stops and turns to watch.

Kong kills the last one and spots Roc down at the end a long
corridor. He raises up a handgun and examines it. He hits
another button and the handgun springs a series of multiple
razor sharp spikes. He pulls it back like a fast ball and
throws it hard with a grunt.

Roc reacts and pulls away. The flying gun projectile sinks
deep into the wall next to Roc's head. He spots the blinking
red light on the side of the gun and runs for it.
                                                            
 

94.

INT. MIRIAM STATION- SUTRA'S PERSONAL QUARTERS - NIGHT
                                                            
Sutra sits on her bed tight as a spring loaded trap. She
makes occasional eye contact with the guards standing in
front, but it only reinforces her frustration.

But then, the doors slide open as Roc flies through just
ahead a massive explosion. He's tossed inside like a rag
doll and scrambles across the floor.

All the guards outside are killed.

Roc flips his body over to check the doorway, but then,
spins back around and crawls to Sutra.

Sutra watches the open door with wide eyes.
                                                            
                       ROC
      (stammering)
He's crazy!! Help me Sutra!!!
                                                            
Roc follows Sutra's eyes and spins around again to check the
door. The guards inside do the same.

The hallway outside is full of thick smoke and the overhead
lights flicker from the damage, casting the hallway in
periodic darkness. Sprinkler systems come alive and fill the
hallway with spinning red lights and a thick shower.

But one of the guards is instantly hit in the chest from an
edged weapon (connected to a chain) flying out of the wet
darkness. He's yanked forward as Kong moves inside. Kong
uses the guard's injured body to block the relentless
gunfire from Roc and the other guard.

Roc scrambles to his feet and aims again.

Kong spins around the other guard as Roc opens fire again.
The guard is hit several times by Roc's crazed friendly
fire. As the guard's body drops, Kong moves with it and aims
a different rifle-type weapon.
                                                            
                       KONG
Stop playing with the help!
                                                            
Kong zaps Roc.

Roc crumbles to the floor, apparently still alive.

Kong moves over to Sutra as he yanks out his short sword.

Sutra turns away to cower in the bed as she closes her eyes,
ready to die.

95.


But she slowly opens her tightened eyes to feel the cold
dull side of the sword resting under her chin. She looks up.

Kong maneuvers her face up with the tip of the blade, and
locks eyes with her.

He sheaths his sword and offers an open hand.
                                                            
                       KONG
Kei won't go home without you.
                                                            
Sutra examines his hand for moment, then reaches up to take
it.

It's electric...

But Kong whips his head to the side to spot a guard blazing
out of the bathroom.

The guard opens fire.

Kong is HIT and thrown across the room.
                                                            
 
INT. CIPHEA'S TOWER- MAIN HANGER - NIGHT
                                                            
Johnny and Kei move through the hanger at a slight jog.
Johnny digs into a large black bag as he jogs. He yanks out
two body armor-like vests, but with obvious thrusters built
in. They are ROCKET PACKS.

Kei watches him activate and unstrap the vests.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Here, put this on. It snaps in the
front.
                                                            
Kei fumbles with the straps and is unsure.

Johnny checks the hanger door again and moves over to Kei.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
I guess I can't expect you to know
how to put on a rocket pack. We
don't have much time, though.
                                                            
Johnny fusses with the straps and checks the instruments.

Kei watches and seems to have something on his mind.
                                                            

96.

                       KEI
What did you mean...when you said
you were taking the Sou-Ko with
you?
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
      (locking eyes)
The long awaited Exodus of the
Sou-Ko people from planet Vui...is
tonight. All this, is just a
distraction. We leave tonight for
a new planet...free of ownership
and off da grid. It's what I do,
man. After the Sou-Ko, I'll find
another race ta free from the
chains of slavery. But I know one
thing for sure...
(he tightens the last strap)
... you've earned a trip back
home, my bradther.
(he smiles)
                                                            
                       KEI
      (less than
       thrilled)
What about Kong? And Sutr--
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Synchronicity, man. Remember? I
have da feeling you'll be seein'
tem again, whether you want ta, or
not.
                                                            
Guards pour through the hanger door and open fire.

Johnny grabs Kei, and they run for the edge.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
Thrusters on this hand, brakes on
the other... follow me and try not
to crash!
                                                            
They jump and enter

PLANET VUI AIRSPACE

As soon as they clear the edge, they ignite the rocket
packs.

Kei follows Johnny, spiraling at first, then straightening
out.

Seconds later, a third of Ciphea's Tower is consumed in a

97.

FIREBALL behind them.

FROM A DISTANCE, we see the EXPLOSION and the power flicker
a few times, before going dark.

FROM KEI'S POV, we see the Jambai enclosure lose power. We
can also see Sou-Ko warriors blasting their way in to free
the animals. In the distance, he spots a collection of
massive freighters loading Sou-Ko and equipment.
                                                            
 
INT. MIRIAM STATION- LARGE CONFERENCE ROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Guards throw a bucket of water on Kong.

He's jolted awake. He sucks in a deep breath and scans the
room.

Dozens of guards fill the room as THE FATHER paces in front
of Kong, watching him.

Kong looks around the room again and finds Sutra handcuffed
to a chair.

He looks back and locks eyes with the Father pacing like a
cat. Kong tries to move, but is injured, and handcuffed as
well. The pain is obvious.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
It's like being skewered by a
red-hot iron, isn't it?
                                                            
Kong watches.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
Gotta hand it to you though, the
ninja can certainly take a hit.
Quite durable...aren't you?
                                                            
Sutra stares at Kong with fear across her face.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
You know, according to Sutra's
files and documentation, the ninja
are...I mean, WERE, the
practitioners of the black
magic...students of the
supernatural. But not you, I think
you're impostor-- nothing but
smoke and mirrors...
(beat)
... honesty is very important to
this company... and to me.
(motioning to Sutra)
            (MORE)

98.

                       THE FATHER (cont'd)
My daughter was one of the best
surveyors around, that is, until
she decided to lose her priorities
and forgot what it meant uphold
your part of a bargain.
                                                            
                       KONG
You call me a fake?
(beat)
Would you like to see what happens
when I break my end of a deal?
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
      (amused)
More magic tricks?
(beat)
I'll tell ya what, I'll watch your
parlor tricks, then, blow your
head off for wasting my time.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Stop it.
(beat, to Kong)
What are you doing?
                                                            
                       KONG
      (sighing)
Breaking a contract that I should
have done years ago.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Kong, you can't. You CAN'T beat
him.
                                                            
Kong locks eyes with Sutra for a long moment.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
      (snorting)
Who?
(beat)
Am I going to have to listen to
some sob story about the battle
from within?
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Stop it. You don't know what
you're asking for.
                                                            
Kong devours The Father with his eyes.

A hollow fleshy CRACK snaps in the conference room. Kong's
cuffs fall to the floor. He slaps his hands together as if

99.

praying, and relocates his joints.

He closes his eyes.

He takes in a few deep breaths and reopens his eyes. He
looks up at a large lights. He takes in a breath and softly
blows at the ceiling, as if making a wish on the wind.

Darkness consumes the conference room as the main lights
flicker and die. The only illumination is provided by a few
security lights.

The Father stands next to Sutra, his smile fading.

Kong lowers his body into the lotus position. He brings his
fingers together to perform a series of hand gestures. He
mutters to himself.
                                                            
The Father tries reach maintenance on his radio, but he gets
nothing but static and strange faint voices... crying in
pain?

The Father looks at his radio and takes it off his body.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (fixed on Kong)
You don't know what you've done.
There was another file...a secret
file you never found. The occult
file.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
The occult file?
                                                            
                       SUTRA
The secret knowledge... reserved
only for the truly committed.
(she looks up with tear rimmed
eyes)
He was just a boy... angry at his
father's death and those
responsible. He sought out the
demons council and came face to
face with his "own" anger...
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
FLASHBACK- KONG'S NIGHT AT THE DEMON'S COUNCIL:
                                                            
SERIES OF SHOTS- CONTINUOUS

-KONG APPROACHES LARGE FIGURES WRITHING IN THE DARKNESS.


100.

-BUT THEY ARE NOT MEN, BUT HALF BIRD, HALF MAN. THEIR FACES
ARE PUNCTUATED BY GHASTLY BEAKS WITH KEEN MALEVOLENT EYES
BURNING WHITE HOT.

-KONG STANDS IN THE BLOWING SNOW STATING HIS CASE TO THE
COUNCIL.

-THE COUNCIL LAUGHS AND TAUNTS THE BOY.
                                                            
                       SUTRA (VO)
The council rejected Kong's naive
ideas on revenge and instead
cursed him with his own anger. He
would literally carry "his demon"
with him until his death, when he
would become the demon's eternal
slave.
                                                            
-KONG STEPS BACK FROM THE COUNCIL, FEARING FOR HIS LIFE.

-AN ONI STEPS OUT FROM THE TREES TO FACE KONG. IT'S ABOUT
HIS AGE AND STATURE. IT CHARGES KONG.

-THEY WRESTLE AND FIGHT FOR SUPREMACY. BUT THE DEMON IS TOO
STRONG.

-THE DEMON OVERTAKES KONG AND LITERALLY FORCES ITS WAY DOWN
HIS THROAT.
                                                            
                       SUTRA (VO)
After the council was finished
with him, he would carry the
burden everyday and if the demon
wasn't fed a steady diet of fresh
souls, Kong would get horribly
sick and couldn't function.
(beat, contemplating)
And after the years tolled on,
Kong grew to hate his curse...
forced to feed the ravenous
appetite of demon ... forever...
                                                            
END KONG FLASHBACK- BACK TO MIRIAM CONFERENCE ROOM:
                                                            
They watch Kong.

He completes his hand gestures and sits quietly. But soon,
his breath quickens. It goes from CALM and REGULATED, to
almost MADDENING HYPERVENTILATION. His breath can now be
seen. It pumps out like a locomotive as the temperature
drops.
                                                            

101.

                       THE FATHER
What the hell is going on?
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (shivering)
He's going to bring evil into this
room.
                                                            
Kong opens his eyes and seems unaffected by the dropping
temperatures. He looks out at his audience and focuses his
gaze.

WE HEAR soft, sweet, TWINKLING SOUNDS like wind chimes in a
summer afternoon ocean breeze, fill the conference room.

Kong DARTS away into the thick shadows and disappears.

A second later, a large figure dressed in black walks out of
the darkness. The ONI looks up. Its face is red and
grotesque with eyes like glowing spear tips.
It crosses its arms across the chest, holding a
nightstick-like weapon in each hand.
                                                            
                       THE ONI
      (in Japanese)
I have come to collect your
souls...all that die by my
blade...will be mine.
                                                            
Two sickle-like blades POP OUT of each weapon as THE ONI
smiles to reveal its RAZOR SHARP tusks.
                                                            
The Father stands back and gasps.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
      (pointing wildly)
KILL IT!!
                                                            
Every guard in the room OPENS FIRE. They penetrate the Oni
with an endless stream of laser gunfire.

But the Oni takes it all. When the gunfire stops, the Oni
seems on the edge of a massive orgasm. It finally catches
its breath and seems to GROW a few inches taller. It walks
forward to engage the guards.

But it stops. It turns to spot Sutra handcuffed to the
chair. The only female in the room, the Oni gravitates to
her, licking its lips.
                                                            
But Kong slips out of the shadows to protect her. He faces
the Oni.


102.

The Oni stops and looks Kong over with a dismissive smirk.

Kong slowly reaches behind his head to unsheathe his long
sword. The blade is gleaming with a faint blue sheen.

Kong brings a hand up to his ear and removes the
interpreter.

Kong wants a private conversation.
                                                            
                       KONG
      (in Japanese)
We have unfinished business,
demon.
                                                            
                       THE ONI
      (in Japanese)
I see... the boy has become a man?
(beat)
Will you be MAN enough to finish
it this time?
                                                            
The Father can't understand the language, but can read the
handwriting on the wall.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
      (to the guards)
PROTECT HER!!
                                                            
The guards rush in and attack.

But the Oni SPINS and takes out the first row in a blinding
display of SPEED and FEROCITY. It spins back in time to
block Kong's sword CHOPPING DOWNWARD.

They trade swordplay back and forth.

Kong keeps up with the Oni's supernatural speed, and
together, they inadvertently cut through a few more guards
as they fight through the conference room.

But the guards swarm again and go after them separately.

Kong reacts and moves in to disarm and kill more guards.

The Oni chops its way through a mob, taking another belly
full of gunfire and loving every minute of it.

The Oni and Kong cross paths again. They trade a few blows,
before the guards move back in.

But Kong can see his chances aren't good. He throws several
spikes into the remaining security lights and darts for

103.

Sutra. The room goes dark, except for SPORADIC AND CHAOTIC
LASER GUNFIRE. We HEAR the screams of guards dying by the
hand of the ONI.

With all the noise and confusion, Kong slips in and grabs
Sutra. They run for it.

The Oni turns and spots Kong running away.

Kong flicks a few more explosive shurikens into the ceiling,
just before they exit.

The conference room is DEMOLISHED as the ceiling gives way
in a fiery explosion.

The Oni walks through the fire and the rubble to pursue
Kong.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
INT. MIRIAM STATION- JUST OUTSIDE CONFERENCE ROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Kong and Sutra stop to check for survivors.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (turning to Kong)
I'd say, you got the hang of it
now. Thanks for coming for me, by
the way.
                                                            
Their eyes linger...
                                                            
                       KONG
Sure...
                                                            
                       SUTRA
C'mon, I've got a ship.
                                                            
She grabs his hand as they run down a long corridor.
                                                            
 
INT. JOHNNY'S DROP SHIP- CARGO BAY - NIGHT
                                                            
Johnny readies the ship.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
      (into intercom)
Gettem' outta here Pedro. The
battleships will be her any
second. Don't celebrate wit out
me, man.
                                                            

104.

                       PEDRO (OS)
      (filtered)
Watch yer back, man. See'a in a
few.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
      (turning to Kei)
Hold on.
                                                            
Johnny enters a few last commands and yanks the release
lever.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
EXT. RASTAFARIAN FREIGHTER- ON DROP SHIP- SPACE - NIGHT
                                                            
The drop ship ejects from the massive freighter and moves
away.

THE ENTIRE RASTAFARIAN FLEET engages hyper-drive and
slingshots into the cosmos.

THE DROP SHIP does the same, but in another direction.
                                                            
 
INT. MIRIAM STATION- CARGO BAY - NIGHT
                                                            
Sutra and Kong run into the cargo bay, but chaos is
unfolding.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (scanning)
My ship is on the other side!
                                                            
They sprint and weave through a massive crowd stampeding
across the hanger.

Sutra and Kong stop and turn to face the source of the
panic.

The thousand foot wall separating one hanger to the next, is
being POUNDED and RUPTURED from the other side. The hanger
shakes like an earthquake.

An edged weapon penetrates the wall, and soon, unmistakable
claws rip through, peeling the wall back like aluminum
foil. The Jambai sticks its head in and ROARS in defiance.

Sutra is shocked, and takes a few steps back.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
What the hell is going on?!
                                                            

105.

                       KONG
Disciple!
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (sudden panic)
No! That means he's leaving! We
have'ta--
                                                            
She grabs Kong and they turn to run.

But they run right into the ONI.

The ONI grabs KONG by the throat and lifts him three feet
off the ground.
                                                            
                       THE ONI
      (in Japanese)
My patience grows thin. Your time
is up, human. You will SERVE me
now.
                                                            
SUTRA draws her handgun, but remembers the conference room.
She is frozen with indecision.

Meanwhile, KONG gasps for air.

But the ONI'S fierce gaze is diverted. It looks past KONG
and is mesmerized by the Jambai crawling through the
ruptured wall.

The ONI drops KONG like a rock and stares with a funny
smile.
                                                            
                       THE ONI
      (in Japanese)
Intriguing...
                                                            
The Oni takes a few steps forward like a deer stuck in the
headlights.

Kong clutches his throat and crawls away coughing. But he
quickly recovers and charges the distracted Oni. He jumps,
spins, and draws his sword in one fluid movement,
DECAPITATING the Oni in a flash.

The Oni drops to its knees and claws at its neck. A thick
black soot-like smoke pours out.

Sutra doesn't stick around to see what happens next, and
yanks Kong away.

They run across the hanger, dodging falling debris, and make
it to Sutra's ship.
                                                            
 

106.

INT. SUTRA'S SHIP- COCKPIT - NIGHT
                                                            
                       SUTRA
HOLD ON! This is going to be my
fastest launch ever!
                                                            
Kong grabs for anything and braces for turbulence.

Sutra races through prelaunch and detaches from the hanger.
Space dock doors open and she shoots out into SPACE.
                                                            
                       KONG
      (pointing)
What's that?
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (distracted)
A list of preprogrammed
destinations...that one is yours.
                                                            
The ship rockets toward planet Vui.

Kong stands over Sutra, looking over the controls. His eyes
work overtime as his mind spins with possibilities.



She points to a computer image of earth in a slow orbit
around the sun.

Kong watches Sutra's fingers as she enters in commands on a
touch screen console.

His eyes dart back to the image of earth, beckoning like a
rare blue jewel.
                                                            
                       KONG
You touch THAT surface...and it
takes you there?
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (chuckling)
Yeah, sort of... there's a little
bit more to it than that, though--
                                                            
Kong pops his short sword handle into the base of Sutra's
skull before she has time to elaborate, knocking her
UNCONSCIOUS.

She falls out of the chair and crumbles to the floor.

Kong takes his place at the controls. He eyes the image of
earth, then slowly, moves a finger over. He taps it and

107.

looks out the view screen.

The ship banks away from the planet Vui and powers down in
neutral.

Kong's eyes find another image on the screen and taps it
again. He looks out to see a series of three red lasers
rotating in front of the craft. Another larger beam of light
shoots out into the infinite cosmos.

The engines hum at first, then build to INCREASING ENGINE
VOLUME.

Kong scrambles to find the safety belt as his face is washed
with the flickering light of the navigation computer booting
coordinates.

Before he can strap in, the ship shoots off like a
lightening strike.
                                                            
 
INT. SUTRA'S SHIP- COCKPIT - NIGHT
                                                            
SOME TIME LATER.
                                                            
Sutra is jostled awake.

Kong is in a panic and points out the view screen with
jabbing thrusts.

She is still fuzzy, but manages to stumble to her feet.

They are surrounded by gunships and her radio crackles with
multiple threats.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?
                                                            
Kong cowers like a bad dog.

She fusses with the control panel, while keeping one eye on
the gunships. She can see the wormhole in the distance.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Well, looks like my father is
catching on.
                                                            
 
INT. MIRIAM STATION- CONTROL TOWER COMMAND - NIGHT
                                                            
The Father is disheveled and still dusting himself off.

Various personnel watch him with curiosity.
                                                            

108.

                       COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Gunship security patrol is
reporting they have made contact
with your daughter's missing
vessel, and are awaiting orders,
sir.
                                                            
                       THE FATHER
      (irritated)
Very well. Capture her ship by all
means necessary.
                                                            
 
INT. SUTRA SHIP- COCKPIT - NIGHT
                                                            
                       SUTRA
I'm gonna punch through before
they have a chance to talk about
it!
                                                            
She slams the accelerator.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
EXT. OUTER SPACE - DAY
                                                            
Sutra maneuvers the ship away from the attacking gunships.

They unload armor piercing electromagnetic projectiles in
waves, trying to disable her ship.

But a few gunships start firing live ammo.

Sutra's ship is hit and tumbles toward the wormhole.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
INT. SUTRA'S SHIP- COCKPIT - NIGHT
                                                            
Damage control alarms fill the cockpit.

Sutra races through various commands, literally trying to
put out fires.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
We're close enough... deploying
explosives. Strap in!
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 

109.

EXT. OUTER SPACE - NIGHT
                                                            
A massive explosion detonates behind by her craft. It is
thrown into the wormhole and disappears.
                                                            
 
EXT. MILKY WAY GALAXY- NEAR EARTH - NIGHT
                                                            
Sutra's ship races to earth with a trail of sparks and
flames suffocating in the vacuum.
                                                            
 
INT. SUTRA'S SHIP- COCKPIT - NIGHT
                                                            
Earth fills the view screen.

But Sutra is in a panic, and tries to stabilize her ship.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
We have to evacuate! Grab that bag
over there and get to that door!
                                                            
She directs him to his tasks with jabbing thrusts.

He quickly grabs the large black shoulder bag and turns to
watch a hatch open in the side of the ship. This is the
ESCAPE POD.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Now, get in! I have to set
autopilot.
                                                            
But Kong just stands there, almost, like a dog waiting for
it's owner.

Sutra notices his hesitation, and quickly finishes
programing the ship. She grabs another bag and runs over to
the hatch.

Kong takes to two steps in, before he is kicked hard in the
back. He falls face first into the escape pod, with the
large bag crashing on his head.

Sutra throws the other bag in and slams the door.

Kong jumps up and smashes his face against the small port
hole window.
                                                            
                       KONG
      (muffled)
But I thought you and I were--
                                                            

110.

                       SUTRA
Dream on, lover boy!
                                                            
She smashes the release lever down and watches Kong's
terrified face jerk away as the pod is EJECTED.
                                                            
 
EXT. SUTRA'S SHIP- EARTH'S ORBIT - NIGHT
                                                            
The escape pod races to earth and soon disappears in a
bright streak of reentry.
                                                            
 
INT. SUTRA'S SHIP- COCKPIT - NIGHT
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Don't worry Kong... it's programed
to drop you right back where you
came from.
                                                            
She works the control board and access the damage. She pulls
up the ship's computer and scans the information.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (quietly)
Engines at 68%...that'll be
enough.
                                                            
She grabs the stick and pulls away from earth.
                                                            
 
EXT. OUTER SPACE- WORMHOLE EXIT - NIGHT
                                                            
Sutra's ship shoots out only to be greeted by at least half
of the occupying military force. BATTLESHIPS as far as the
eye can see.
                                                            
Sutra's ship is surrounded and forced into a cargo bay.
                                                            
 
EXT. IGA PROVENCE, JAPAN-1667- ALPINE FOREST - DAY
                                                            
Sutra weaves through snow capped trees, pushing her
hovercraft to its limit.
                                                            
 
INT. FARMHOUSE- SECRET BACK ROOM - DAY
                                                            
Sutra bursts through the hidden door wide-eyed and out of
breath.

Kong stands, somewhat surprised.


111.

CLOSE ON SUTRA: Her eyes move down to the floor.

Kei is laid out on plank of wood with a black silk sheet
draped over his entire body, except for his face. His body
is littered with arrows broken off at the base. They poke
through like a circus tent.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
How did he get here?
                                                            
                       KONG
Disciple...
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (eyes fixed)
But I gave you all those weapons.
                                                            
                       KONG
They threw thousands of troops at
us. We got trapped. I got out...
he didn't. General Oda's force is
still probably thirty thousand
strong.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (quietly)
It shouldn't be a problem...
                                                            
Sutra walks to Kei's body and stops. She tries to hold back
the emotion, but can't. She leans over and places a soft
kiss on his forehead.

Kong watches, his gaze softening.
                                                            
                       KONG
How did YOU get here?
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Roc...
(turning to lock eyes)
...he kept his promise.
                                                            
 
EXT. JUST OUTSIDE GENERAL ODA'S MAIN TENT - DAY
                                                            
General Oda and his second in command look out onto a sea of
tents and cooking fires like a lingering sunset. They sip
tea and talk battle plans.
                                                            
ALL CHARACTERS SPEAKING JAPANESE:
                                                            

112.

                       GEN. ODA
I believe we will overtake them by
tomorrow evening.
                                                            
                       SECOND IN COMMAND
I agree, but... what of the
strange new weapons?
                                                            
                       GEN. ODA
Sorcery! Besides, it appears only
a very few can actually wield the
weapons. They are no match for
steel and--
                                                            
DEAFENING SOUNDS of an airport nearby grow INCREASING
LOUDER. They try to verbalize their confusion, but the
sounds soon consume everything.

Three BLACK GUNSHIPS fly over, almost clipping General Oda's
tent. They fly low over the troops, then, spin around to
FACE Oda and his side kick.

Troops run aimlessly and the horses panic at the ungodly
noise.

They stand with their jaws open, eventually, the tea cups
fall from their grasp.
                                                            
 
INT. ROC'S GUNSHIP- COCKPIT - DAY
                                                            
                       ROC
God, I love catch'em with their
pants down.
(into intercom)
I want a full pay load committed
to this entire area.
(beat)
Watch the cross fire, boys!
                                                            
 
EXT. GENERAL ODA'S MASSIVE ENCAMPMENT-CONTINUOUS - DAY
                                                            
Roc's gunships move in and lay waste to General Oda's some
forty thousand troops poised for second day of battle.

They are massacred like locust in a wild fire.
                                                            
 
INT. FARMHOUSE- SECRET BACK ROOM - DAY
                                                            
                       KONG
Since when does Roc keep promises.
                                                            

113.

                       SUTRA
Ever since your brother delivered
on his....
                                                            
CUT TO SUTRA'S REVEAL:
                                                            
 
INT. CIPHEA'S LUXURY SPACESHIP- SPACE - NIGHT
                                                            
Ciphea exchanges info with another business partner on a
view screen.
                                                            
                       BUSINESS PARTNER
      (on screen)
So, what happened on planet Vui?
                                                            
                       CIPHEA
Deal fell through, but I still
made a profit. All I had to pay
for was construction and security.
Anyways, I'll be in your neck of
the woods in about six months.
                                                            
                       BUSINESS PARTNER
Six months? What you driving these
days?
                                                            
                       CIPHEA
Well, I thought I deserved an
upgrade... considering all the
stress I've been under. I picked
up a Supernova LX with a ZX-500
hyperdrive.
                                                            
                       BUSINESS PARTNER
You could probably get here
faster, if you wanted too. I've
heard about the ZX-500 systems.
                                                            
                       CIPHEA
Everything you've heard is true
and so much more. You should see
the sleep chamber.
                                                            
                       BUSINESS PARTNER
I'm officially jealous. Safe trip
and I'll see'ya when you get here.
                                                            
Ciphea switches off the screen and wanders down a corridor.
He turns a corner as walks into the

SLEEP CHAMBER


114.

It's a large room with all the perks. The hyper-sleep
capsule automatically opens and sets the life-support
systems. After a few more adjustments, he slips inside and
settles into the plush accommodations.

But as the capsule closes, Ciphea looks down to see a large
COBRA rear up and inflate it's hood. Before he can react,
the serpent strikes him several times in the crotch. He
screams in terror and claws at the glass as the capsule
seals itself for the six month journey.
                                                            
 
INT. FARMHOUSE- SECRET BACK ROOM - DAY
                                                            
                       SUTRA
Dead on arrival...
                                                            
                       KONG
      (looking down at
       Kei)
He always kept his promises.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
What about me?
                                                            
Kong steps in and embraces Sutra. They linger in a heartfelt
hug.
                                                            
 
EXT. FEUDAL JAPAN- IGA PROVENCE- MANY YEARS LATER - DAY
                                                            
It's a beautiful summer day.

We SEE a modest farm on the edge of a great forest.

Farmers work the rice fields and tend to other crops.

ON KONG AND SUTRA: They work side-by-side. We SEE some of
the other farmers eye Sutra suspiciously, but for the most
part, have accepted the way she looks. Kong looks happy and
resolved of his past.

But the pastoral setting is SUDDENLY interrupted by
DEAFENING ROCKET ENGINE NOISE.

FARMERS POV: We SEE a large SPACESHIP circle around the farm
looking for a good spot to land.

The other farmers scatter in absolute shock and horror,
while KONG and SUTRA calmly look up with mild suspicion as
they watch the craft land.
                                                            

115.

                       SUTRA
      (in Japanese)
It looks Rastafarian...
                                                            
KONG AND SUTRA POV: We SEE the ship settle on its struts and
power down. The hatch opens and JOHNNY DISCIPLE struts off
with two armed guards. They close the distance, then stop.

Johnny walks ahead of the guards and digs into his vest to
pull out THREE INTERPRETERS. He shoves one into his ear,
then tosses the other two to Sutra.

Sutra and Kong drop their rakes and stick them in.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (adjusting the
       volume)
Business or Pleasure, Disciple?
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
      (sighing)
Always business, man... no rest
for the righteous...
                                                            
Johnny eyes them and chuckles.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
      (cont'd)
You look good together... it's
makes this all da harder, my
friends...
                                                            
                       KONG
      (narrowing his
       gaze)
What now, Disciple?
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
      (to Sutra)
Your fadther ambushed the
Sou-ko... and tracked us back to
our planet.
(beat, smile vanishing)
Many were killed, but... my wife
was taken.
                                                            
                       SUTRA
      (shocked)
"You" have a wife?
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
      (cont'd)
Your fadther has given me little
time to turn myself in... and if I
            (MORE)

116.

                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE (cont'd)
don't, she'll die.
(beat, drawing a weapon)
You know I wouldn't hurt the sweet
Sutra, but... you the only one who
knows da location of his secret
detention compound. And I'll be
damned if I gonna let him take her
life.
                                                            
Kong quickly grabs his rake and pulls out a secret thin
sword concealed in the handle. But Johnny's guards ZAP Kong
before he can make a move.

Johnny is disheartened by the violence, but is determined.

Sutra drops to Kong's side to make sure he's okay. She looks
up with eyes of steel.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
You know I don't want ta do tis,
man... but I got no choice. But
I'll give "you" a choice...
(beat, adjusting settings on his
weapon)
... the easy way or da hard way.
                                                            
Sutra stands with the sword and holds her ground.

Johnny shrugs and aims.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
So be it, then...
                                                            
ZAP!!! Sutra is dropped.

Johnny holsters his weapon and bends down to throw Sutra
over his shoulder. He stands and carries her back to the
ship. His guards eye Kong, making sure he doesn't wake up.
                                                            
                       JOHNNY DISCIPLE
      (winded)
Whoa, Girl! You packed on some
meat...
(beat)
... I hope you can find it yer
heart ta forgive me, but... if I'm
gonna deal wit' tat fadther of
yours, I need some collateral.
                                                            
Johnny and his guards board the ship. It quickly powers up
and hovers above the farm, before shooting off.


117.

The remaining farmers rush over once the danger is clear and
tend to Kong.
                                                            
 
INT. KONG'S FARMHOUSE- SOME TIME LATER - DAY
                                                            
He rushes in and angrily pops open some secret panels in the
floor. He pulls out a small fortified metal box and lifts it
out by the handles. He opens the box like a toolbox and
punches in a few commands on an illuminated console.

KONG POV: We SEE the console come to life as if making a
long distance phone call.

ON KONG: He watches and waits. He has a small cut on his
forehead and a faint bruise. His face is a wall of
determination, but building frustration grips his body. But
we SEE a look of slight relief when the console come alive
with an incoming data transmission.

ON CONSOLE: We SEE a HOLOGRAPHIC SCREEN materialize and
flicker.
ROC'S FACE comes into view and he does not look thrilled.
                                                            
ON HOLOGRAPHIC IMAGE OF ROC: We SEE Roc insert an
INTERPRETER and adjust the volume.

ON KONG: He does the same.

BACK ON ROC: He leans back and locks eyes with Kong.
                                                            
                       ROC (OS)
      (filtered)
You again...
                                                            
                       KONG
      (to the point)
Disciple "shanghaied" your
sister... and our unborn baby.
(beat)
Your nephew...
                                                            
ON ROC: We SEE him process the information somewhere between
quiet shock and disbelief. He pauses to weigh Kong's
sincerity.

A moment passes between them.
                                                            
                       ROC (OS)
      (long beat,
       filtered)
Hold tight. I'll be there in three
days.
(beat, amused)
            (MORE)

118.

                       ROC (cont'd)
Looks like we're both out of
retirement...
                                                            
ON ROC AND CONSOLE: We SEE his IMAGE flicker and cut the
transmission.

BACK ON KONG: We SEE him return the box back into the floor
and secure the panels. He then scoots over to a separate
series of secret floor panels. He pops the panels and stares
inside.

ON SECRET PANELS: We SEE his seemingly retired NINJA GEAR
and WEAPONS resting inside.
                                                            


FADE OUT.


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From Richard Date 5/7/2010 ***1/2
the premise is ridiculous, but its apparent that you intended it that way and i think that adds a lot to the script. watch out for some cliched dialogue and punctuation errors. overall i actually really liked it. keep writing man.


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