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Dark Horse - Pilot "Something Bad's About to Happen"
by Tania Penn (twistedwritertanita@gmail.com)

Rated: PG   Genre: Science Fiction/Fantasy   User Review:
NOT YET
RATED

FIRST DRAFT, ALL CRITIQUES WELCOME** It's the year 2397, and Avalon Grey is the top pilot at The Academy in Seattle. Until she inadvertently causes an incident that may change certain decisions and choices of the past to affect the present.


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.



FADE IN:

INT. SPACECRAFT - 2397 AD - AFTERNOON
                                                            
Teenage Space Pilots in training AVALON GREY and co-pilot
RIVER THORNE are flying through space, with Avalon in the
drivers seat. They are practicing maneuvers with another
craft, with Avalon's plane coming dangerously close to the
other
                                                            
                       RIVER
What are you doing? Were going to
hit!
                                                            
                       AVALON
Zip it River!
                                                            
                       RIVER
Were going to hit!
                                                            
                       AVALON
Quiet!
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
EXT. SPACE SHOT - THE TWO CRAFTS ZIG ZAGGING - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
INT. AVALON'S CRAFT - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
                       RIVER
Dammit Avalon, youre going to get
us both kicked out of the
program...
                                                            
                       AVALON
Smug bastard needs to be put in
his place. He's not winning this
one.
                                                            
                       RIVER
I'd rather you take your
frustrations out on him on the
ground instead of up here. And
besides, this isn't a contest
Avalon.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Everything is a contest.
                                                            

2.

SHE APPEARS TO BE PLAYING A GAME OF CHICKEN
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
INT. OTHER CRAFT - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
BEING FLOWN BY ANOTHER STUDENT, A SMUG LOOKING TEEN BOY
                                                            
                       ZION
What the hell are you doing? It's
just a drill! You're going to get
us both killed up here Grey!
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
INT. AVALON'S CRAFT - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
                       RIVER
You mean the three of of Zion. But
don't mind me back here, I'm just
the...
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (interrupting)
I'm going to hit the hyper and
swing it around the moon. Let's
come up behind him.
                                                            
                       RIVER
      (nervous)
Why?
                                                            
                       AVALON
Why not.
                                                            
                       RIVER
This isn't part of our training
today. In fact we don't have moon
shooting for another few weeks.
We're just supposed to be doing
close passes today.
                                                            
                       AVALON
So what. We've practiced
simulation enough. Time for the
real deal.
                                                            
                       RIVER
I'm not responsible for any of
this when you get kicked out, you
hear me.
                                                            

3.

                       AVALON
We won't get kicked out. It'll
only take seconds. Turn off comm
to base.
                                                            
                       RIVER
      (shocked)
You nuts! No way!
                                                            
                       AVALON
They won't be non the wiser, Riv.
A few seconds.
                                                            
                       RIVER
      (sighs)
Why do I listen.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Ready? In three...
                                                            
                       RIVER
Bad idea, bad idea, bad idea.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
EXT. SPACE - AVALON'S SHIP TAKING OFF - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
INT. ZION'S SHIP - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
                       ZION
      (shaky voice)
Grey, where are you now? (pause)
Base, I've lost sight of Grey,
copy.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
INT. THE ACADEMY COMM CENTER - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
A COMM OPERATOR IS WATCHING HIS SCREENS
                                                            
                       COMM OPERATOR
      (snarky)
Well, then she's doing something
right if you can't see her.
(Pause) Wait, we've just lost
comm with her ship, standby.
(Pause) Base to Grey, copy.
(longer pause) Base to Grey,
            (MORE)

4.

                       COMM OPERATOR (cont'd)
copy?
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
INT. AVALON'S SHIP - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
THE CRAFT SLINGSHOTS AROUND THE MOON
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (ecstatic)
YEAH!
                                                            
                       RIVER
      (eyes closed)
Bad idea. Bad idea. Bad idea.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Alright turning off hyper, Riv you
can turn the comm...
                                                            
Avalon's smile is quickly wiped off her face as she realizes
she comes to close to behind Zion's craft.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Oh crap, oh crap! Brace, brace,
brace.
                                                            
                       RIVER
Turning on comm, what did you say?
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
EXT. HER CRAFT NEAR MISSING THE OTHER - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
Avalon's craft makes a sudden, jarring turn to the left,
narrowly missing Zion's ship. this is followed by a popping
sound, causing their craft to vibrate and "skid" in space.
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (And River)
oh Sh….!!
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 

5.

INT. ZION'S SHIP - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
                       ZION
Base do you copy! Did you see
that? What the hell are you
doing, Grey?
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
INT. HEADMASTER'S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
The head of The Academy is sitting as his desk when suddenly
the windows behind him start to rattle. He turns to look,
squinting out the window at what appears to be a streak
shaped anomaly in the sky.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
INT. THE ACADEMY COMM CENTER - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
The comm operator looks puzzled but calm. He is tapping on
the various screens in front of him that are going haywire,
trying to figure out what just happened.
                                                            
                       COMM OPERATOR
Base to Grey, base to Grey.
                                                            
                       AVALON (vo)
Go ahead base.
                                                            
                       COMM OPERATOR
Status? We seem to be having an
occurrence down here. Earthquake
possibly. Comm was down, you were
out of contact for several...
                                                            
THE HEADMASTER RUNS INTO THE COMM CENTER
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
      (interrupting)
That wasn't an earthquake. Our
sensors would have given us a five
minute warning that one was
eminent.
                                                            
                       COMM OPERATOR
A space quake then sir?
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 

6.

INT. AVALON'S CRAFT - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
                       RIVER
what the Ceren was that?
                                                            
                       AVALON
I dont know, but cant be good.
                                                            
SHE FLIPS SWITCHES AND HITS BUTTONS
                                                            
                       RIVER
      (squeaks)
Oh you think? Whatever you did,
they felt it down there.
                                                            
                       AVALON
I copy base. Something happened
up here, standby.
                                                            
They both look out the window and witness what appears to be
a rip in space. It looks as if the sky begins to split
then two distinct layers ribboning, before finally slowly
compressing...
                                                            
                       ZION (vo)
Whaat the hell? That a wormhole?
Did you rupture a wormhole?
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (under her breath)
Idiot. Can't rupture a wormhole.
                                                            
                       RIVER
Well you ruptured something. You
sure it wasn't one?
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (panicked)
I dont know River, I dont know!
                                                            
                       RIVER
Not good, not good. I told you
moon shooting was a bad idea.
There is a reason we do the sim
first. There is a reason they
have us do this in steps...
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER (vo)
Moon shooting? Just what are you
doing up there? What was that? We
felt it down here.
                                                            

7.

RIVER REALIZES HIS COMM BUTTON WAS PRESSED.
                                                            
                       RIVER
Oops.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Yeah we copy that, comm
advised.(To River) Really? You
can't take your finger off the
button?
                                                            
                       RIVER
      (shrugs)
Sorry. All happened so fast.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Hard to describe sir. It looks as
if…as if…we put a little rip in
space…Somehow. I'm sure it's
fine, right?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
      (nervous)
What!? What in Hades did you do
Avalon Grey?
                                                            
                       RIVER
Up to the usual as always, sir.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Traitor!
                                                            
                       RIVER
Hey if you're going down, I'm not
going with you.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
INT. COMM CENTER - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
You get that craft back down to
base at once! As of now, you both
are grounded for the rest of the
day.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 

8.

INT. AVALONS CRAFT - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
                       RIVER
But I had nothing...
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER (Vo)
      (Angry)
Base. NOW!
                                                            
                       AVALON
Copy that. Enroute.
                                                            
Looking pissed, she flicks some more switches, then turns
the craft towards Earth.
                                                            
                       AVALON
I thought you were my friend.
                                                            
                       RIVER
I am. But Avalon, sometimes
you're just so…so...
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (angry)
I'm so what?
                                                            
                       RIVER
Careless. You could have killed
both of us. Both of us. Look, I
know you have some kind of death
wish or something...
                                                            
                       AVALON
I don't have a death wish.
                                                            
                       RIVER
Could have fooled me. She's been
gone three years. You need to
move on. (Pause) You're a great
pilot, but why do you always try
to jeopardize things? You know
how many times you have put our
lives at risk, most of those times
base has no idea? Why do you do
it?
                                                            
                       AVALON
I don't know!
                                                            
                       RIVER
Great. Great answer. You almost
always manage to almost kill us,
yet you don't know. Perfect.
                                                            

9.

                       AVALON
Then why do you still fly with me,
huh? You know, you can be
transferred to someone else.
                                                            
                       RIVER
Because no one else will fly with
you except me. And you need a
co-pilot if you want to graduate.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Zion doesn't need a co-pilot.
                                                            
                       RIVER
He's pre-cert. Doesn't need one.
He's out in two months. Is that
what this beef with him is about?
That he got it before you?
                                                            
                       AVALON
No.
                                                            
                       RIVER
Look, you're the best pilot in
probably, like ever. Even better
then Zion. The Headmaster knows
it, the other pilots know it. You
have amazing skills, like you were
created to do this, but…you need a
little humility you need to step
it down a notch. That's where you
guys differ.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Whatever.
                                                            
                       RIVER
I told you that I wasn't going to
lose my spot here and get a shot
at graduating. (Pause). This is
everything I have. You are all I
have. I don't know what I would
do with my life besides
co-piloting, you know?
                                                            
                       AVALON
Like I said. If you don't like
the way I do things...
                                                            
                       RIVER
See? That's it right there. It's
all about Avalon. I, me, what I
want, what I do. No one denies
your talent, but nobody can stand
            (MORE)

10.

                       RIVER (cont'd)
your selfish attitude!
                                                            
                       AVALON
Oh, I'm selfish! I am selfish.
Nice. Whatever.
                                                            
                       RIVER
When have you done something for
anyone other then yourself, huh?
When have you volunteered to do
something for somebody else when
it didn't benefit you?
                                                            
They fly in uncomfortable silence for a few moments.
Avalon's look of anger softens and her eyes start to mist
over as if she realizes River is right.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
INT. HEADQUARTERS BASE - LATER
                                                            
The director of the base is looking at a computer monitor,
shaking his head. He turns to look out the window, winces,
then back to the monitor.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
      (to himself)
What did you do?
                                                            
SOMEONE CLEARS THEIR THROAT TO GET IS ATTENTION
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Grey and Thorne. Thorne you can
be excused for now. Grey, come in
please.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Everything all right sir. You
look perplexed.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Per? I look perplexed?
                                                            
HE CHUCKLES UNCOMFORTABLY
                                                            
                       AVALON
I had a grip on the situation. I'm
a great pilot, you know this. Not
once did I feel we were in
jeopar...
                                                            

11.

                       HEADMASTER
Stop right there. You had one
assignment, just one.
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (stumbling)
I just wanted to...
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Do you have any idea of the
magnitude of our current
situation? Of what you somehow, I
don't know how, managed to do?
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (stutters)
I know what I saw…we both saw
it…Not sure what...
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Come here. Come take a look at
this. I will show you exactly
what.
                                                            
SHE WALKS OVER BEHIND THE DESK, LOOKING AT THE MONITORS
                                                            
                       AVALON
What am I looking at? Seismic
activity? What is this?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
What you are looking at is the
damage you may have caused to
everybody that exists at this
time.
                                                            
                       AVALON
I don't follow.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Whatever and however you did it, I
don't know. But, you managed to
somehow rip a tear into space,
then had them intertwine together.
Events of the past, choices that
were made can very well impact
right now.
                                                            
                       AVALON
You can't know that for sure.
                                                            

12.

                       HEADMASTER
The travel program was designed
specifically for this. To go back
and study our ancestors. Their
discoveries, inventions. It all
has lead to what we are doing at
this point in time. (Pauses, then
raises his voice) And you. You
come along, can't even follow a
simple classroom directive. Take
a multi-billion dollar machine and
decide to take a fun romp around
the moon. For what? To prove
something? You just sliced
through our highway up there!
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (flippant)
Okay.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
You are damn lucky that one of the
scientists wasn't traveling and on
his way back. (shakes his head)
There is a reason we have
restricted space during class
hours! The discovery of the
alternate road not taken, so to
speak, was an unexpected
byproduct of the travel program
that we were beginning to study.
                                                            
                       AVALON
So no harm done.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
You understand the consequences of
choices that are made, right? That
every one of us on this planet and
up there make?
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (shrugs)
(Under her breath) Here we go.
Yeah. I guess.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
For example, certain events in
your life brought you to this
academy. Had those events not
taken place, you may not have been
a pilot, but just another random
angry at all the worlds teenager.
But by choice, here you are,
            (MORE)

13.

                       HEADMASTER (cont'd)
arguably the greatest pilot we
have had.
                                                            
                       AVALON
What are you getting at?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
What I'm getting at Ms. Grey, is
that your little stunt may have
changed some choices in the past.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Meaning?
                                                            
PULLING HER OVER TO ONE OF THE MONITORS
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
See that line there? That
represents the twentieth century.
It has yet to be affected. This
one here is the early nineteenth
century. Luckily I suppose, we
don't have to go that far back.
The problem is, many events that
led to this moment, that we are
able to colonize Mars, tinker
around in space was because of
what remarkable people had done in
the past.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Okay…I dont understand how I could
have changed anything though? It
all looks the same right now.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
It does for now. But I can't say
what choice has been made. If
whomever was affected took the
other path. (Pause) Where is…Did
you see the comm operator? What
was his name?
                                                            
                       AVALON
Comm guy? I dunno. Never hang
out with them.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
He was just…(Pauses to think) Did
you see him leave when you came
in?
                                                            

14.

                       AVALON
Just you in here.
                                                            
THE HEADMASTER SMACKS HIS FOREHEAD
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Great. Looks like he ceased to
exist. (goes to the monitors)
Probably something to do with one
of his ancestors during this
period. (He sighs.)
                                                            
                       AVALON
I'm sorry?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
You're going to be if he's gone.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Just because I popped spaces
cherry doesn't mean...
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
This is no time to be flippant.
Fortunately, for now it's
slow...but if it continues, we may
not be here to see the new
millennium
                                                            
                       AVALON
How much different can things get,
really?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Avalon. Every day we are faced
with a choice. And that choice we
make leads us toward a path with
others who made a choice. Did you
know it took Thomas Edison a
thousand tries before the
lightbulb? What if he made the
choice to stop at his 999th time?
I'm sure it would have been
eventually created, but by whom
and when? How would that affect
us now? What if Hitler was
accepted into the art school? He
may not have carried out one of
the most horrific acts. But, it
happened.
                                                            

15.

THE COMM OPERATOR WALKS BACK IN CARRYING A DRINK
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
You're okay. Great.
                                                            
                       COMM OPERATOR
Yeah, I did mention I was stepping
out to get something to drink, and
to give you some privacy with
cadet Grey here.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Ah. Glad to see you're alive and
well.
                                                            
COMM OPERATOR LOOKS AT HIM CONFUSED
                                                            
                       AVALON
Sir, if I may be frank. I think
you're just blowing this whole
idea that I may have changed the
past and affected everyone in the
now completely out of proportion.
(pauses to look at both of them) I
mean, seriously, come on! The
past already happened. We're
here. We're good, so let's just
chalk it up to a mistake. I'm
sorry I won't do it again, blah
blah. Ground me for a day or two
and we move on.
                                                            
                       COMM OPERATOR
Wait. She caused a ribboning
effect? You, you caused space to
ribbon?
                                                            
HE LOOKS AT THE MONITORS MORE CLOSELY. WORRY REGISTERS.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
(To the comm guy) She did. (To
Avalon) And no, I am not blowing
this out of proportion. And you
will speak to me with respect!
Just because you're mother is a
friend and is one of the greatest
pilots to graduate from here
doesn't mean you call the shots
when it comes to your punishment.
                                                            

16.

                       COMM OPERATOR
How in Ceren did you manage to do
that? Not sure whether I should
be impressed or not.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Don't encourage her.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Ugh, fine. So, what do we do?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
You are going to fix it.
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (Horrified)
What?!
                                                            
                       COMM OPERATOR
Yeah, what? You're going to trust
her to fix it?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
What ever choices were made up to
this moment, need to be made. The
other path they may have taken,
that's the ribboning effect here
that you see. Now both choices
are intertwined, making the choice
difficult, or worse, the other
choice to be made instead.
                                                            
                       AVALON
I'm just a kid! We're not allowed
to time jump!
                                                            
                       COMM OPERATOR
She's right sir. Have Nigel or
Mateo, they have the experience
going back and forth.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Since I'm in charge of that
program, I am making this
exception. I will monitor her.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Elliott! I can go back and
convince her not to...
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
no! You can't alter what has been
done, no matter how painful! Even
the bad deeds, the wars, missing
            (MORE)

17.

                       HEADMASTER (cont'd)
children. Whatever the case is,
good or bad, you need to convince
whomever it is to remake that
decision. Now, we can't manage
all the choices in the world, that
is impossible. But certain ones
caused a domino effect for others.
The ones that effect us directly
will be the ones we, or rather
you, will make sure occur again.
                                                            
                       AVALON
But I can save my sister. How
much can that change anyone's life
but my own?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Exactly my point. If she didn't
take matters...I know being a
pilot was her dream, and you feel
closer to her doing this. But
Avalon, her tragic ending led you
to find your gift as unfortunate
as that sounds. Otherwise at the
rate you were going, you would
have spent the rest of your life
in a dark cell on the moon.
                                                            
AVALON BEGINS TO LOOK DEFEATED
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
I can't begin to imagine how hard
it was to lose your sister. A
twin no less. But under no
circumstances if the traveling
leads you to a point in time where
you encounter her, are you to try
and change things.
                                                            
                       AVALON
What about the way I look? How
will I fit in?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
I'm sure you can figure it out.
You're space smart.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Isn't the correct term street
smart?
                                                            

18.

                       HEADMASTER
      (ignoring her)
Fortunately, not a lot has changed
in the past 400 years. The turn
of the 19th century may prove to
be a bit tricky, however.
                                                            
                       AVALON
It's safe, right?
                                                            
                       COMM OPERATOR
Oh yeah, yeah. Of course it is.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Absolutely. The travel is
perfectly safe. And I will be
monitoring you from here, in the
event you get into any trouble I
can extract you.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Can I take River with me?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
This is a journey that you must
take alone.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Well what if I decide not to come
back? Huh? Maybe I'll like it in
1903. Maybe they'll appreciate me
and what I have to offer. I can
be the one to invent air travel!
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Avalon.
                                                            
                       AVALON
OH, oh oh! I know! Every big
money making moment, I can get in
on.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
      (rubs his temples)
Avalon.
                                                            
                       AVALON
I'll be filthy rich.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
      (stern)
Miss Grey. (pauses) You have no
choice but to come back.
                                                            

19.

                       AVALON
Oh really?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Yes really. I made sure that
aspect could be controlled.
                                                            
                       AVALON
How?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Come with me.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
INT. HEADMASTERS OFFICE - MOMENTS LATER
                                                            
The headmaster walks over to his desk, punches in a few
numbers on a drawer, opening it. He pulls out something
that resembles a ballpoint pen, and walks back toward
Avalon.
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (Curious)
Whatcha got there? A relic of
some kind?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Your ticket
                                                            
                       AVALON
Huh?
                                                            
HE QUICKLY JABS THE END OF THE DEVICE INTO HER NECK
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (Irritated)
Really? It just had to be the
neck, didn't it? What is that, a
tracking device?
                                                            
SHE RUBS HER NECK, WINCING
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
The quickest way to the
bloodstream . It's how the
travelers are monitored, sent and
retrieved. Since we won't have
direct communication...
                                                            

20.

                       AVALON
Hold on...you're telling me I
can't talk to you or you to me?
How does that work? What if I'm
in some kind of trouble? What if
I get caught or someone's trying
to kill me?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
I'll be monitoring all your
vitals. Blood pressure, heart
rate, vocal patterns even though I
can't hear you, I can pick up
anything distressing.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Comforting.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
And you'll have 48 hours to get
each individual to make the
choice. I'll return you then.
                                                            
                       AVALON
48 hours? What if I get it done
before that.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Enjoy the scenery. Learn a little
something. Hang out.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Fan-freaking-tastic. What if I
can't get them to make the
original choice?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
      (Shakes head)
I don't know. Just do whatever it
takes to get it done.
                                                            
                       AVALON
So this little device, doohickey
thingie just what? Travels
through my bloodstream? (Pauses).
That's why I can't extract it.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Because you won't know where it
is. And, it will notify me when
it's time to extract you.
                                                            

21.

                       AVALON
Wait. What happens to it after 48
hours?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
It dissolves. Each time I send
you out, you will receive a new
injection.
                                                            
                       AVALON
What if you aren't nearby when
it's time for me to come back?
What if you drop dead or
something?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Your lack of faith disturbs me.
There is a fail safe just in case.
We've been doing this for two
years now without incident.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Okay, well what if I cut myself?
Huh, what about that? I start to
bleed badly, and it spurts out?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Don't cut yourself.
                                                            
                       AVALON
What about my studies? Do I still
need to go to class?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
You'll manage to do both. But, if
you can do this...I'll move you
past pre-cert.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Past? You mean...
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Do you know why you weren't chosen
for pre-cert, Avalon?
                                                            
                       AVALON
River game me a quick rundown.
Said I'm selfish. I mean, really?
Can you believe that?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
You have consistently failed to
demonstrate that you can be a team
player. When you are up there,
            (MORE)

22.

                       HEADMASTER (cont'd)
whether you become a pilot to
Mars, or if you decide to protect
the deep-space airspace above our
country. (He pauses to clear his
throat) You need to rely on your
co-pilot, or your unit.
Ultimately, yours is the decision
to make, but it is of utmost
importance that you take
everyone's input into
consideration. The skies way
above have gotten extremely
crowded in the past hundred years.
                                                            
SHE STARES AT HIM BLANKLY, UNSURE OF WHAT TO SAY
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Do you understand what I am
telling you?
                                                            
                       AVALON
I think.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
We are the only Academy in the
world that has the ability to
travel, that we are aware of.
Other nations are working on it.
And we are the only one that has
access, so far, to go back. You've
opened something up. If another
nation, one that isn't in our good
graces, were to find that little
rip imagine what they would do?
                                                            
                       AVALON
Understood.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
It's a frightening thought. We
are all vulnerable right now. This
is your chance to prove yourself,
Avalon.
                                                            
SHE SHAKES HER HEAD, TAKING A DEEP BREATH.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Wait. What about River? Won't me
being gone two days at a time
affect his training?
                                                            

23.

                       HEADMASTER
      (smiling)
See? You're capable of being a
team player. (Pause) Don't worry
about Mister Thorne, he will be
fine.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Okay.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
You may be excused to your
quarters to do what you must. I
will retrieve you in thirty
minutes.
                                                            
SHE PURSES HER LIPS AND NODS HER HEAD
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
INT. ACADEMY HALLWAY - LATER
                                                            
Avalon is walking toward her dorm. Several other students
walk by her, whispering to each other. Others look away from
her. Zion walks up to her, is about to say something, then
decides against it.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
INT. AVALON AND RIVER'S DORM ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
                                                            
She walks in, shutting the door behind her. River is
laying on his bed reading a digital magazine. Their room is
small, sparse and bright with white walls and floor to
ceiling windows. He pops his head up to take a look at her,
then back to his magazine.
                                                            
                       RIVER
So. What's the damage report? How
many days did you get docked?
                                                            
SHE WALKS OVER TO SIT ON HER BED
                                                            
                       AVALON
I didn't.
                                                            
                       RIVER
How did you talk your way out of
that one?
                                                            

24.

                       AVALON
The headmaster gave me an
assignment.
                                                            
                       RIVER
      (intrigued)
An assignment?
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (deep breath)
Yeah. He is going to have me go
back and fix this.
                                                            
                       RIVER
Wait, wait, wait. Go back? As in
travel?
                                                            
SHE NODS.
                                                            
                       RIVER
Are you freaking kidding me?
                                                            
                       AVALON
Nope. Take a look at this.
                                                            
SHE POINTS TO HER NECK. HE GOES OVER TO HER TO LOOK.
                                                            
                       RIVER
Wow. It takes years in the
program to travel. You don't have
the proper training. There are
all kinds of preparations, mental,
physical…you are in top shape for
that though…psychological, fail.
Sorry.
                                                            
HE STARTS TO PACE
                                                            
                       RIVER
      (stutters)
I mean, wh..wh..why you? Why
can't they get one of the scien...
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (interrupting)
I asked. He said I need to do
this. And don't worry, you'll be
fine. When I'm gone, he'll place
you with someone temporarily.
                                                            
                       RIVER
You asked about me? You were
actually worried about my
well-being? (Pause) I take back
            (MORE)

25.

                       RIVER (cont'd)
the psychological comment.
                                                            
                       AVALON
He's coming to get me in fifteen.
Says I have 48 hours each time to
fix or make sure whatever and
whomever I am going to visit,
makes the original choice.
                                                            
                       RIVER
It's safe. I hear. Kinda cool
though, don't you think? Wow,
you're actually going to time
travel. What year are you going
back to? Medieval? Egyptian? The
industrial revolution?
                                                            
                       AVALON
I don't have to go the far back.
Yay. (does a sarcastic fist pump)
Apparently I only screwed up from
just before the turn of the 20th
century onward.
                                                            
                       RIVER
Are you scared?
                                                            
SHE PAUSES TO THINK FOR A MOMENT
                                                            
                       AVALON
Yeah a little. I'm going to be
all alone out there.
                                                            
                       RIVER
If anyone can do this, you can.
Besides, you come right back.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Yeah. Well, I better change into
some civvies.
                                                            
                       RIVER
Okay.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 

26.

INT. DORM CHANGING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
                                                            
Avalon has changed into a simple white tee shirt and jeans.
She runs her fingers through her shoulder length brown hair,
exposing a small tattoo on the left side of her neck. There
is a knock at the door.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Riv, can you get that please?
                                                            
She pics up a digital frame that contains a photograph of
her with her twin sister. Avalon runs a finger across the
image, smiling.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
INT. AVALON AND RIVER'S DORM ROOM - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
River opens to door, welcoming the headmaster.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Mister Thorne.
                                                            
                       RIVER
She'll be okay, right?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Of course. (Avalon walks out of
the changing room.) All ready?
                                                            
                       AVALON
Yes.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Come along.
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (To River)
See you in a couple of days. I
hope.
                                                            
                       RIVER
Bring me back a souvenir!
                                                            
                       AVALON
Oka...
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Absolutely not.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 

27.

INT. ACADEMY TRAVEL STATION - DAY
                                                            
The room is small and nondescript - white walls, a few
flashing buttons, clear computer screens monitoring vital
signs, no windows and a small square platform.
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (unimpressed)
Wow. This is the big travel room?
Not what I expected.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
It doesn't take a whole lot to
shoot you through the highway.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Yeah, I guess not. Was expecting
something more exciting and
flashy.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
The excitement is the journey and
where you will be.
                                                            
HE RUNS A DEVICE OVER HER BODY, CHECKING HER STATS.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Here, this will help you with
regards to knowing how much time
you have. Remember, just before
the 48 hours is up, you will be
extracted, no matter where you
are. Please try to be somewhere
discreet.
                                                            
HE HANDS HER SOMETHING THAT RESEMBLES A DIGITAL WATCH
                                                            
                       AVALON
By the way, where and when am I
going? And who am I supposed to
find? Oh, Albert Einstein? the
Wilbur Brothers? That would be
awesome-cool.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
You will be traveling to Scotland
to find James Clerk Maxwell.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Scotland, cool. But who?
                                                            

28.

                       HEADMASTER
James Clerk Maxwell. The father
of physics. Do you not listen in
Physics History?
                                                            
SHE SHRUGS
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
His significant discovery was the
theory of electromagnetism. Which
directly effects the highway you
are about to take.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Meaning?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
You are going to meet with an
eighteen Mister Maxwell while he
is studying at the University of
Edinburgh.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Back to school. Great.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
There is a pivotal moment in his
life that is about to occur. he
needs to be convinced he is on the
right track and to not give up, or
else.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Or what will happen?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
I hope you like haggis.
                                                            
                       AVALON
'Scuse me?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Find him. Convince him that he
doesn't need to stand at the
podium to present his paper.
                                                            
                       AVALON
What does that even mean?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
It will make sense once you are
inserted onto the campus.
                                                            

29.

                       AVALON
How can not presenting a stupid
school paper change the course of
everything up to this point?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
By the way. Women weren't allowed
to attend the University until
1869. You are going to the year
1847. Be cautious. You may need
to disguise yourself as a man, if
possible.
                                                            
                       AVALON
What? I can't pass as a guy, I
mean, look at me. Look at my
hair.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Pull your hair back. Find a shop,
get some mens wear. Security was
non-existent back then. Just make
sure to remove it before returning
back.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Sounds easy enough. Drop me off
near a store I guess.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
I'll do my best.
                                                            
HE PUNCHES SOME BUTTONS ON A HAND HELD DEVICE
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Try to relax, I need to get a base
of your normal readings.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Okay sure. Hey, what's haggis
anyway?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
It's a delicacy there. Meat,
onions, stuffed inside a sheep
stomach.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Ugh, no thanks. Can I just take a
couple of galaxy bars with me?
                                                            

30.

                       HEADMASTER
You cannot bring anything from now
to the past and vice versa.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Fine. I just won't eat for 2
days.
                                                            
The Headmaster runs a finger across the computer screen,
then seems satisfied.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Okay, your drop point is secure.
You ready?
                                                            
                       AVALON
I guess.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Step onto the platform please.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Will this hurt? Will I feel
anything.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
You might have a bit of vertigo
for several seconds. Just close
your eyes. Other then that,
please keep your arms and legs
inside the enclosed space at all
times. You will arrive at your
destination in thirty seconds.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Cute.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
And please try your best not to
say your from the future, or
allude to anything about the
future.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Uh huh.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Alright then. Godspeed, I'll see
you in 47 hours and sixteen
minutes.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Toodles.
                                                            

31.

He aims the hand held device at her and scans. In a split
second, she vanishes.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
      (exhales)
Convince him. For all our sakes.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
INT. UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH - EMPTY CLASSROOM - DAY
                                                            
SCOTLAND - 1846 - FRIDAY, 9:31 AM
                                                            
A young and handsome looking James Clerk Maxwell is in a
private, empty study at the University conducting a chemical
experiment. There are beakers, petri dishes, magnifying
glasses, etc around him.

He is talking under his breath and seems somewhat
frustrated. Avalon's time jumping causes the table he is
working on to slightly rattle, causing his experiment to
spill. He takes notice, and heads to the window to look
outside.
                                                            
                       JAMES
What the devil was that?
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
EXT. SCOTTISH VILLAGE - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
Avalon is huddled behind a building. She looks around and
notices a group of women dressed in peasant type clothing,
gossiping and washing mens clothes near a river. She spots
men's clothing being laid out to dry on a bush. Carefully
and quickly, she saunters over, grabbing it.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
EXT. EDINBURGH UNIVERSITY - LATER
                                                            
Avalon is wandering aimlessly onto the campus, unsure of
where to start. She nods and smiles at students passing her
by.
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (To herself)
Okay, now what? How do I find
this James?
                                                            

32.

She spies a building that says "PHYSICS" and decides to head
in that direction.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
INT. UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH - EMPTY CLASSROOM - DAY
                                                            
12:48 PM
                                                            
Avalon stumbles into the room not very gracefully, spotting
Maxwell. Her eyes light up at the sight of him. She
obviously finds him attractive.
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (dreamy)
Whoa. Blazing.
                                                            
                       JAMES
I beg your pardon? On the
contrary, it's been one of the
coolest days on record.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Sorry. (clears her throat, lowers
her voice) I feel. Flush.
                                                            
                       JAMES
Oh. Well, hope you haven't
contracted something. If so,
don't come any nearer.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Oh no, nothing like that. I'm not
ill.
                                                            
                       JAMES
You American? New here, I don't
believe I have had the pleasure of
your acquaintance. James Clerk
Maxwell, of the Clerk family of
Penicuik.
                                                            
HE EXTENDS HIS HAND TO SHAKE HERS.
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (Enthusiastic)
Oh good! Just who I came to see.
                                                            
                       JAMES
Pardon?
                                                            

33.

                       AVALON
Hi. Um. I'm…I'm...Edison…Uh,
Albert Edison.
                                                            
                       JAMES
Albert Edison. A pleasure. From
where do you originate?
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (Clumsy)
I, uh, Seattle. Um, I mean like
you said, America. Just from a
small. Portion. You probably
haven't heard about it. (whispers)
Yet.
                                                            
HE'S ONLY PARTIALLY LISTENING TO HER
                                                            
                       JAMES
I see. And what is your major
Albert?
                                                            
HE CONTINUES TO PAY ATTENTION TO HIS EXPERIMENT
                                                            
                       AVALON
I um. Partial to Physics? I
quite enjoy space and travel
and...
                                                            
                       JAMES
Physics? Well, we will have much
to discuss then. I hope you prove
to be a worthy adversary.
                                                            
                       AVALON
You have no idea.
                                                            
                       JAMES
Curious. What is that on your
face?
                                                            
She reaches a hand to her nose and realizes she forgot to
remove her diamond nose ring. She turns to quickly yank it
out, causing her to wince.
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (Stumbling)
Oh that? It's an American thing,
all the gir…er people…My
mother…it's nothing. So what are
you doing here?
                                                            

34.

                       JAMES
Conducting an experiment. Perhaps
you can give me your thoughts?
                                                            
                       AVALON
Oh, well let's have a look-see.
                                                            
                       JAMES
You Americans have quite the
peculiar vernacular.
                                                            
                       AVALON
You meet many Americans?
                                                            
                       JAMES
Not many. Say, isn't there a war
going on in your country?
                                                            
                       AVALON
Uh, err...war?
                                                            
                       JAMES
Silly lad. Are you not aware of
the war escalating with your
neighbors to the south? Shouldn't
you have been called to battle?
                                                            
                       AVALON
Oh that. I'm exempt due to the
nature of my travels and...studies
and such.
                                                            
                       JAMES
Outstanding.
                                                            
She gets closer to him, studying his face. He turns to look
at her, smiling.
                                                            
                       JAMES
I hope you don't take offense to
this remark, but your features are
remarkably feminine.
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (flirty)
Well yours are just remarkable
period.
                                                            
                       JAMES
      (Confused)
What?
                                                            

35.

                       AVALON
      (Blushes)
Thank you. (Clears throat). What
I mean is...
                                                            
                       JAMES
What is your lineage? Edison?
                                                            
                       AVALON
I'm a tenth generation American.
                                                            
                       JAMES
      (Chuckles)
Impossible. English,right? You
Brits are so cheeky.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Yes, quite cheeky. You got me.
                                                            
Adjusting her collar due to nerves,Avalon inadvertently
exposes the tattoo on her neck.
                                                            
                       JAMES
Unusual marking on your neck. What
is that?
                                                            
                       AVALON
Oh it's nothing. Just a marking
thing...so, let's talk about this
experiment that is going to change
the world. Are you writing a
thesis on it?
                                                            
                       JAMES
Change the world? Mighty bold
statement from someone I was just
acquainted with moments ago.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Why not?
                                                            
                       JAMES
Studies here are so pedestrian.
This is how I like to bide my time
between courses. And if you will
pardon me, it's time I attend my
next class. Mathematics.
                                                            
He gathers his belongings to leave.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Okay. See you later. I'll just
hang out here for a while.
                                                            

36.

                       JAMES
Hang? My dear friend surely you
are being facetious. Hang?
                                                            
                       AVALON
Yup. I mean, yes I am being that.
                                                            
                       JAMES
      (Smiling)
It was a pleasure, Albert.
                                                            
He walks out of the room. Avalon lets out a big, whiny
exhale, then starts to have a bit of a hissy fit.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Ugh! How am I going to do this?
Not good, not good,not good.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
INT. ACADEMY COMM CENTER - MOMENTS LATER
                                                            
                       COMM OPERATOR
Her vitals are all over the place.
Should we extract her?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Are they giving the indication
that she is already in danger?
                                                            
                       COMM OPERATOR
No. It's more…Attraction it
appears. Judging by the heart
rhythm here and her nervous
system.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Well maybe she can use her
feminine wiles to convince him.
                                                            
                       COMM OPERATOR
Grey is brash and crude. Beautiful
yes, but feminine? Hope she can
keep that mouth and attitude in
check.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
She's smart and cunning. Avalon
can do this. She has to.
                                                            
 

37.

EXT. UNIVERSITY - LATER
                                                            
6:12 PM
                                                            
Avalon comes running out of nowhere up to James.
                                                            
                       AVALON
James. I've been looking for you
since you left for your
Mathematics class.
                                                            
                       JAMES
Busy day. I'm writing a paper to
present next week.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Oh? What is your paper about?
                                                            
                       JAMES
It's entitled Rolling Curves.
(Pause) Would you like to hear
about my theory on light and
magnetism?
                                                            
                       AVALON
You mean, like attraction?
                                                            
                       JAMES
Yes. I have this theory that I am
working on that magnetism and
light are of the same phenomenon.
I can't prove it though. That's
what my experiments entail.
                                                            
                       AVALON
They are the same, we all know
that…
                                                            
                       JAMES
What was that?
                                                            
                       AVALON
Sounds fascinating.
                                                            
                       JAMES
Albert, tell me. What is it like
in America?
                                                            
                       AVALON
You never been?
                                                            
                       JAMES
I wouldn't be asking you.
                                                            

38.

                       AVALON
Well. It's not like this, I can
tell you that.
                                                            
JAMES CHUCKLES
                                                            
                       JAMES
I'm thirsty. Shall we get a pint
at the pub?
                                                            
                       AVALON
A pint? As in beer?
                                                            
                       JAMES
Of course! What other kind is
there?
                                                            
                       AVALON
I can't drink. I'm only
seventeen.
                                                            
                       JAMES
You qualify. You need to be over
sixteen. What is the limit in
America?
                                                            
                       AVALON
Twenty-five.
                                                            
                       JAMES
What rubbish! You have one foot
in the ground by then!
                                                            
                       AVALON
I know, right?
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
INT. SCOTTISH PUB - LATER
                                                            
10:06 PM
                                                            
The beer is flowing, the crowd is starting to get somewhat
rambunctious. Avalon is inebriated, and has let down her
guard. James is laughing.
                                                            
                       AVALON
This stuff...this stuff is
amazing! Oh my god, I can see why
they don't let us drink....I mean,
how am I supposed to pilot a
spacecraft in this condition?
Although that's the thing, they
            (MORE)

39.

                       AVALON (cont'd)
give me a multi billion dollar
spacecraft to fly around up there
on space, but I can't have a lousy
beer?
                                                            
                       JAMES
You have quite the wild
imagination my friend! Spacecraft!
Flying around the moon! Tell
me, do you meet many beings not of
this earth?
                                                            
                       AVALON
Oh, there's no such thing. It's
just us. We've searched, trust
me. We. Are. It.
                                                            
                       JAMES
      (Chuckling)
Fascinating!
                                                            
                       AVALON
This joint would be jammin' with
some tunes!
                                                            
                       JAMES
What was that again?
                                                            
                       AVALON
I don't feel so good. Oh Go..
                                                            
SHE VOMITS ALL OVER THE FLOOR
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
EXT. STREET - NIGHT
                                                            
JAMES IS HELPING AN UNSTEADY AND ILL AVALON WALK
                                                            
                       AVALON
Ugh. Never again. Nope, no
thanks.
                                                            
                       JAMES
Where are you staying?
                                                            
                       AVALON
The Academy until I graduate.
                                                            
                       JAMES
You mean University?
                                                            

40.

                       AVALON
Oh yes, yes. Of course. In
America we call it Academy.
                                                            
                       JAMES
Peculiar.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Do you have a girlfriend James?
You are quite the handsome one.
Where I come from, girls would be
all over that.
                                                            
                       JAMES
My studies keep me busy. I'm not
quite sure what you mean by all
over that.
                                                            
                       AVALON
It's just an expression. It means
the girls would love you.
                                                            
                       JAMES
I take it the girls are all over
you in America?
                                                            
                       AVALON
Oh no, not my style.
                                                            
                       JAMES
Pardon?
                                                            
                       AVALON
My studies and travels prevent any
type of relationship from
happening. (Pause). What did I
say back there before I blew
chunks all over the sawdust?
                                                            
                       JAMES
A wildly engaging tale about how
you go up into space in something
you called a craft.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Oh yeah. Forget I mentioned any
of that, will ya?
                                                            
                       JAMES
It has been forgotten. That
manner of speak can get you
ostracized. Although the notion
of traveling amongst the stars is
            (MORE)

41.

                       JAMES (cont'd)
very provocative.
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (still drunk)
Well I don't need ostriches.
                                                            
                       JAMES
Pardon?
                                                            
                       AVALON
Nothing, nothing. So, I know it's
late but…I would very much be
obligated to see your experiment
thing.
                                                            
                       JAMES
      (amused)
You're not obligated to see it, my
friend. Such peculiar language!
                                                            
                       AVALON
Oh, I don't feel so good.
                                                            
SHE VOMITS AGAIN.
                                                            
                       JAMES
Oh heavens.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Where to?
                                                            
                       JAMES
We'll take a carriage to my home.
Unless you have somewhere pressing
to be? I have a laboratory there.
I need to finish a paper I'm
presenting in several days.
                                                            
THEY WALK TO A HORSE AND CARRIAGE, HE PUTS HER INSIDE
                                                            
                       AVALON
I always wanted to try one of
these.
                                                            
                       JAMES
Oh? How do you get around in
America?
                                                            
                       AVALON
Oh it's just…Different. So, how
far is home?
                                                            

42.

                       JAMES
It will take the better part of
the night to get there. You
should rest.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Okay, well onward ho then!
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
EXT. GLEN LAIR HOME - CORSOCK, SCOTLAND - MORNING
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
INT. BEDROOM - GLEN LAIR HOME - MORNING
                                                            
SUNDAY, 8:12 AM
                                                            
Avalon is stirring on top of the covers of a bed. She
slowly lifts herself up, shielding her eyes from the morning
light coming in through a window. She is unaware that due
to her being drunk, she has lost an entire day to sleep.

In a panic, she remembers the stopwatch the Headmaster gave
her to keep track of time is in a pocket of her coat which
is resting on the back of a chair.
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (to herself)
Crap. How long was I out?
                                                            
She crawls over to the jacket, feeling the pockets
frantically. Sighing heavily after finding the watch, she
screeches LOUDLY when she sees she just has over 1 hour
left.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
INT. JAMES'S LABORATORY - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
It's a mess of chemistry equipment, papers, books, etc.
                                                            
                       JAMES
What the devil was that?
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 

43.

INT. GLENLAIR HOUSE - MOMENTS LATER
                                                            
Avalon is running through the house, checking empty rooms
looking for James.
                                                            
                       AVALON
James!
                                                            
She runs into a dining area and stops at the sight JOHN
CLERK, James's father. There is a spread of different food
and drink in front of him.
                                                            
                       JOHN
Hello young lad. Glad to see you
have your facilities about you and
are up.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Uh. Top o' the morning to ya!
Where's James?
                                                            
                       JOHN
In his laboratory naturally.
Haggis?
                                                            
                       AVALON
Uh, no. I'm good. Obliged
though, thanks. (Pause) Which way
to his laboratory?
                                                            
JOHN CLERK POINTS BEHIND HIM.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Thank you sir.
                                                            
SHE RUNS OFF.
                                                            
                       JOHN
Curious, that young boy is.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
INT. JAMES'S LABORATORY - MOMENTS LATER
                                                            
James appears distraught. He is cursing, throwing his
books, pacing as Avalon stumbles in.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Hey, there you are. What's going
on?
                                                            

44.

                       JAMES
I am done. I quit. Who was I
fooling to think I would be
allowed…My tutor sent notice to me
that I will not be able to stand
at the rostrum in front of the
Royal Society to present it
myself.
                                                            
HE ANGRILY WAVES A TELEGRAM IN FRONT OF HIS FACE
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (whispers)
Oh boy, here we go. This is the
moment. Convince him, Avalon.
                                                            
SHE CLEARS HER THROAT
                                                            
                       AVALON
Well, why not let him present it?
                                                            
                       JAMES
When I was 14, I wrote my first
scientific paper. 14! It was
regarding the mechanical means of
mathematical curves, ellipses. One
of my professors presented it to
the Royal Society, because I was
deemed too young. But dammit, I
am not too young now!
                                                            
                       AVALON
James, you need to let him present
it. It's important that you do.
                                                            
                       JAMES
      (pacing)
No. All my work I do here is for
naught.
                                                            
                       AVALON
No, that's not true! What you do,
what you will do is very, very
important.
                                                            
                       JAMES
How would you know this?
                                                            
                       AVALON
Just trust me please. This is a
pivotal moment in your life. Right
now. You are about to make a
decision that will change the
course of history for mathematics
            (MORE)

45.

                       AVALON (cont'd)
and physics. Please, don't make
me explain further.
                                                            
Her running around has caused her shirt to unravel slightly,
revealing the curve of a breast, as well as the stopwatch to
fall out of her shirt.
                                                            
                       JAMES
What is that? Who are you?
                                                            
SHE PICKS UP THE STOPWATCH. 22 MINUTES LEFT.
                                                            
                       AVALON
I'm here to help you make the
choice you are supposed to make.
                                                            
HE RIPS OPEN HER SHIRT AND GASPS.
                                                            
                       JAMES
      (shocked)
You're a woman.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Oh crap. Not good, not good, not
good.
                                                            
                       AVALON
I can't tell you who I am or why
I'm here. All I can say is, that
paper needs to be presented. The
fate of my life and everyone's
life where I come from depends on
it.
                                                            
                       JAMES
What are you?
                                                            
                       AVALON
I'm a woman, and an American. But,
that's all I should tell you.
Please James. Your work is, will
be, very important. Your theories
are correct and one day you will
prove them.
                                                            
                       JAMES
I, how? I'm am quite perplexed.
                                                            

46.

                       AVALON
Without me telling you, I think
you know what and who I am. And
what I'm telling you is true. Me
being here is proof of that.
                                                            
HE RUBS A HAND ACROSS HIS MOUTH, STARES AT HER AGAIN.
                                                            
                       JAMES
What time?
                                                            
                       AVALON
I dunno. I have like ten minutes
left to convince...
                                                            
                       JAMES
      (interrupting)
No. What time are you from?
                                                            
THEY STARE AT EACH OTHER IN UNCOMFORTABLE SILENCE A FEW
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (exhales)
Crap. I'm not supposed to...
                                                            
                       JAMES
When?
                                                            
                       AVALON
About 400 years from now. 2397 to
be exact.
                                                            
HE NODS HIS HEAD
                                                            
                       AVALON
Are you in shock? Surprised? Say
something, please? I only have a
few minutes left.
                                                            
                       JAMES
I am inclined to believe your
story. Unbelievable as it is.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Ok good. Just let your tutor
present the paper. Everything
else will fall into place from
there.
                                                            
                       JAMES
What is your name?
                                                            

47.

                       AVALON
      (smiling)
Avalon. Avalon Grey.
                                                            
                       JAMES
Pleasure to meet your acquaintance
Avalon Grey.
                                                            
SMILING, HE KISSES HER HAND.
                                                            
                       JAMES
Nice to meet you too. Hey, um...
                                                            
SHE LEANS IN TO KISS HIM ON THE LIPS.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Sorry. Law of attraction and all
that. You're just so blazing.
Figure why not, not like I'll be
embarrassed seeing you around.
                                                            
                       JAMES
What does that mean? You said
that when I first encountered you.
                                                            
                       AVALON
It's what we say in our time when
we find someone attractive, silly,
I know.
                                                            
                       JAMES
      (smiling)
You fly among the stars?
                                                            
                       AVALON
I do. Well, I will continue to as
long as you give that paper to
your tutor.
                                                            
                       JAMES
Interesting. What is it like?
                                                            
                       AVALON
It's indescribable. Beautiful
beyond comprehension.
                                                            
A LOOK COMES OVER HERE. STOPWATCH IS NOW BLINKING.
                                                            
                       AVALON
You shouldn't be seeing this, but
I need to go right now.
                                                            

48.

                       JAMES
Goodbye Avalon Grey. Every time I
look at the stars above, I will be
reminded of you and this very odd
encounter.
                                                            
                       AVALON
And don't tell anyone.
                                                            
                       JAMES
Who would believe this?
                                                            
                       AVALON
And don't forget the paper.
                                                            
HE NODS AS SHE VANISHES RIGHT IN FRONT OF HIM.
                                                            
                       JAMES
Remarkable.
                                                            
HE SMILES, LOOKING AT THE TELEGRAPH.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
 
INT. ACADEMY TRAVEL STATION - AFTERNOON
                                                            
The Headmaster shakes his head seeing that she is still in
her period garments, although her shirt is torn open.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Do I want to know?
                                                            
HE POINTS AT HER SHIRT.
                                                            
                       AVALON
I'm fine. The Highway still
intact I take it?
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Being that you made it back, I'll
say your first traveling endeavor
was a success.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Good. He listened.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Well, why wouldn't he? You always
know how to talk your way in and
our of situations. You liked him,
didn't you?
                                                            

49.

                       AVALON
How did you? Oh never mind. There
was an attraction there. For me at
least. Geez, I hope it won't be
like this all the time, it'll make
it hard to want to come back.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
Just stick to your mission and
you'll be fine.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Kinda had to blow my cover there
at the end. I know you said...
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
You used your discretion, Avalon.
You did well. Try not to make a
habit of it, though.
                                                            
                       AVALON
I'll do my best. So, what do we
do with this wardrobe? I had to
jack it from some peasant chicks
washing clothes along the river.
                                                            
SHE REMOVES HER SCOTTISH CLOTHING
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
You didn't harm them, I hope?
                                                            
                       AVALON
      (winking)
Naw. It was drying on some
bushes.
                                                            
HE GRABS THE CLOTHES FROM HER.
                                                            
                       HEADMASTER
I'll take care of it. (Pause) Go
to your dorm, get some rest for
the day. You've earned it.
                                                            
                       AVALON
Thank you sir.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO
                                                            
THE OPENING OF A POETRY BOOK
                                                            
The title says "Rigid Body Sings" by James Clerk Maxwell --
the first few lines read:


50.

Gin a body meet a body,
Flyin' through the air.
Gin a body hit a body.
Will it fly? And where?

Gin a body meet a body
Altogether free,
How they travel afterwards
We do not always see.
                                                            


FADE OUT.


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