Dark Game (Part 1 of 4)

Told from 5 perspectives, a mob boss will die and five different people will follow on a journey against eachother to quench their own personal motivations. Some will live, some will die. Who will walk away on top?

EXT. ROOF - NIGHT

BLACK AND WHITE.

INDIGO (V.O.)       (Man Falling CU) Falling, Hearing nothing but the howl of the wind. Coat flapping, watching slowly as certain death came closer. Is their tranquility. No regrets? or Is it all in vain. The thoughts that go through the fellow man as they stare death strait in the eye. The real question is, was it all worth it? All the digging and searching for truth. Tomorrow there will be a headline. Detective Falls To His Doom. They will tell stories. Mostly good ones. About the cases that got solved and the criminals that were put in jail. He will be missed. He was my partner. And his Murder will forever remain a mystery to the media as to who dunnit. He was a good cop and a family man at that. Tomorrow I will be at thier house explaining how we wont be coming home this time. It's the least I can do for throwing him over the building. He just got to close thats all. Nothing personal. In fact he was my favorite. It was a shame but orders are orders. My fourth partner will be assigned next week. I wonder how long this one will last.

OPENING CREDITS

FADE TO BLACK

INT. HOUSE - DAY

RACHEL No! Oh god, no! Wake up. Please be alive.

FADE IN

2.

RACHEL STANDS WITH A SMOKING GUN AND A DEAD BODY INFRONT

RACHEL (VO) It was no good. I knew from the wounds that he was dead. The gun was still hot. The now question on my mind was who would do this to him?

Drops gun, huddles in corner.

RACHEL       (Weakly) Someone help me.

RACHEL (VO) No one could. There was no brigning him back from this. He was dead. I would have to face facts. Some one killed him. And... I have no idea how I got here. I must have seen the whole thing. The lamp is knocked over and a window shattered. I watched like a baby as my husband got manhandled and did nothing. That b*****d must have taken pity on me. Why couldnt he have taken me as well. He just lied there, dead

CUT TO BLACK

INT. SOME ROOM. - DAY

AXEL (VO) Dead. They were all dead. I stood there for god knows how long. Looking over the two bodies that were once my wife, and my son. Slaughtered like cattle.

FADE IN

Axel enters his home.

AXEL Honey!

Pause, no answer.

AXEL Honey? Jeff?

3.

Moves to another room. Stops in horror as he faces the camera.

AXEL (VO) And there they were. Not breathing, not moving. The windows were smashed. Glass on the floor. And the room torn to a hell version of itself.

Stands there motionless, and almost expresionless.

AXEL (VO) What to do?

AXEL       (a slight wimper.)

He twists and contorts his body as if being overwhelmed.

AXEL (VO)       (Emotionlessly) Burn it. Burn it all. Look away.

tires to follow his own advice, but cant completely look away. Scaredly breathing.

AXEL       (In Vain) Get up. I cant live like this!

He doesnt realize that his hand has lifted a lighter from his pocket. He stares in horror at it from the corner of his eye. He flickers it on.

AXEL (VO) Burn it all, and just walk away.

AXEL       (Trying to not do        it) I love you.

Sirens are heard in the distance getting closer.

CUT TO BLACK

EXT. STREET - NIGHT

Flashback sequence. Painted photos of the moments, like a visual comic book with matching sounds to the situation.

4.

An Ambulance's sirens are heard. They flicker there lights. As they jet across the street.

INT. AMBULANCE - NIGHT

Young Rachel, a girl of twelve years, is on a stretcher. She is covered up and attached to medical stuff. Accompanying her are people, medics and the like. They surround her for natural reasons.

JESSICA (VO) She is only twelve years old. At this point no one knows if she is going to live to see another day.

INT. HOSPITAL - NIGHT

The people are taking Young Jessica on the stretcher across the place.

DOCTOR Nurse, we need you on this one!

COMOTION AMONGST THE STAFF.

NURSE Will she be alright.

DOCTOR I doubt it.

INT. HOPSITAL ROOM - NIGHT

YOUNG JESSICA IS SITUATED ON THE BED, NOT MOVING.

SILLOUTES ON THE DOOR WINDOW.

Doctor sillouete is talking to two silouetes, likely her parents.

DOCTOR Im sorry to tell you this. But, your daughter is in a comma. There is little chance she may ever wake from it...I am sorry

JESSICA (VO) She was only twelve years old. She had her whole life ahead of her. She wont be going to school anymore. She wont find a boy she             (MORE)

5.

JESSICA (cont'd) likes, and she will never see her family ever again. I wished the doctor was right.

CUT TO BLACK

INT. UNKNOWN LOCATION - NIGHT

VICTIM So is this how it ends?

EDWARD How did you expect it to end?

VICTIM Not like this. So, I guess your here to kill me.

EDWARD Yes

FADE IN

VICTIM IS SITTING ON A CHAIR, NERVOUSE. EDWARD IS STANDING

EDWARD (VO) His name was Charles Mathers. Just an average guy who screwed over the wrong man.

VICTIM Can I ask why?

EDWARD "Why?" I do not understand.

VICTIM Why me? Why must I die. Why do you do this job?

EDWARD (VO) It was alot of "why's" to ask.

EDWARD You know what you did. And for that, I am sorry.

VICTIM Sorry? Your sorry?

6.

EDWARD Second of all, in this world, people only get one chance and when the cross the line, there is no going back.

VICTIM But...

EDWARD I agree. It is not right at all.

VICTIM And as to why you do this?

EDWARD (VO)       (explaining)) Why I do this...

EDWARD If not me, then who?

Victim looks around, then tries to escape and make a run. Edward grabs a gun and points it directly, point blank into Victim's skull.

Pause

EDWARD Please do not try that again.

VICTIM Why dont you pull the trigger?

EDWARD       (Commanding) Sit.

Victim sits.

VICTIM If you're an assassin, why am I still alive?

EDWARD You sure ask alot of questions.

Edwards walks over to the table and sits.

VICTIM I dont want to die.

7.

EDWARD Sounds reasonable. Neither do most people I meet.

VICTIM Just take it. Its yours. Please, I will do anything.

EDWARD In a normal situation, I would be more then happy to let you live.

VICTIM Then whats stopping you?

EDWARD My orders are to kill you. Regardless. You really turned yourself into an enemy of my client.

VICTIM And there is no way I can bribe you not to do it?

EDWARD None.

Vixtim breathes heavily. A panic attack is coming.

EDWARD It will be okay. Just calm down. Anything else you want me to do for you?

VICTIM For me?

EDWARD I have your note right here and your family will be alright, trust me, there will be no one coming after them.

EDWARD (VO) He started to calm down.

VICTIM       (In a calm defeat) Just let her know that I love her.

EDWARD You have my word.

8.

VICTIM I am ready.

EDWARD       (Rising.) Okay then.

EXT. HOUSE - NIGHT

EDWARD (VO) May God watch over you.

A gunshot is heard, and a flash is seen in the house.

INT. SAME PLACE - NIGHT

Edward walks over to the corps and bends down for a short prayer. He then gets up and takes an shiney object with him as he leaves.

FADE TO BLACK

INT. HOSPITAL, NOW - DAY

MACHINE THAT DOES BRAIN ACTIVITY IS STARTING TO BEEP FASTER

JESSICA IS IN THE BED, THE ROOM NOW LOOKS LONELY.

Nerse walks in, with papers.

She freezes upon observing the machine.

NURSE Oh my god!

Nurse runs off screen

NURSE (OS) DOCTOR! DOCTOR COME QUICK!

The machine goes faster.

Jessica slightly moves.

INT. HOSPITAL LOBBY - DAY

BUSY PLACE. PEOPLE WORKING ALL OVER, DUE TO THEIR PROFESSION

Nurse runs in.

9.

NURSE Doctor!

DOCTOR       (annoyed) What is it?

pause

NURSE It's a miracle.

DOCTOR Huh?

NURSE She's awaking.

Pause.

Doctor Drops what he is holding and breaks into a jog. Nurse follows.

CUT TO

INT. HOPSITAL, OUTSIDE JESSICA'S ROOM - DAY

CROWD COMOTION FOLLOWING THE DOCTOR AND THE NURSE

Doctor pauses, then opens the door.

INT. HOSPITAL JESSICA'S ROOM - DAY

JESSICA IS SLIGHTLY SHOWING ACTIVITY IN BED.

Door opens, people enter.

Noise, from machine, then silence.

pause.

Jessica groans. Then slowly wakes up as if from a nap.

DOCTOR       (Ackwardly) Hello, Jessica.

JESSICA       (Disoriented) Where, am I? Wheres my mom and dad!?

10.

the mood becomes sad, morely expressed by the nurse.

DOCTOR I am sorry to tell you this but, you have been in a comma for 15 years.

Jessica becomes shocked, looks at her body. She raises herself to the wall of her bed, as if untrusting of anyone.

JESSICA I WANT MY MOM NOW!

DOCTOR In that time, your mom and dad, passed away.

JESSICA (VO) And here I was, about to turn Thirteen in two months.

INT. PRECINCT - DAY

PHONE RINGS.

INDIGO       (Picking up phone) Indigo here, homicide. Uh, huh. Sorry to hear that. I'll write that down.

gets pencil and paper out and starts doing something to it.

INDIGO (VO) Another witness, needs comforting I guess. They call this place all the time to see how the investigations are going. I know this case. A revenge kill it was. Made to look like a simple hit and run accident. The case will never be solved of course. Two cops doped up the suspect till he confessed. Theuy went overboard and two minutes later, he overdosed.

With a free hand, lifts out his partners file.

INDIGO (VO)       (Pulling out pages        and such.) Odd, he has recorded this incident             (MORE)

11.

INDIGO (cont'd) well. Evidence linking the drugs to syndicates all over the city that were used. A copy of the confession. I thought they burned them all. He was good, Ill give him that. He even has...

Pulsl out a picture of the Police chief in the file.

INDIGO (VO)       (Light laughter.) Well I'll be...He truly was the best. This is why I'll probably be missing him. I noticed it first when I came in the door. No cup of coffe waiting for me. No "Hey Terrence, they at it again. Let's ride!" Its lonely in this place. sure you have the same cast of characters, but something is missing. If I wasnt me, we could have been good freinds.

INDIGO       (on phone) Okay, thanks, I'll give this info to them. Dont worry.

The paper is a childish scribble of a man being splattered on the floor, Obviously his partner.

Hangs up phone. He sighs.

CHEIF       (Godly) TERRENCE!

INDIGO       (slightly startled) Yes?

The Cheif points his fingers for him to come "here"

Indigo comes.

INT. CHEIFS OFFICE - DAY

CHEIF Close that door behind you.

12.

INDIGO Yes.

Closes door.

CHEIF Take a seat.

Indigo sits.

INDIGO Whats this about?

CHEIF They found your partners body.

INDIGO Took 'em long enough.

CHEIF I'm suprised you killed him so...

INDIGO You told me to deal with him if he got close.

CHEIF That's in the past. You will get a new partner in two days. We are getting new recruits, try to break them in.

INDIGO So how shall we procede?

CHEIF I'll talk to the boys in forencics. Then send some poor rookie to investigate the case alone. After a week, Bryant will "take" the case from him and just let it grow cold. You contact his family?

INDIGO (VO) Ah, Trisha and Little Erica.

INDIGO No, not yet. I was going to do that at lunch.

13.

CHEIF Just be careful Terrence, You can get careless sometimes.

Indigo gets ready to leave and near the door.

INDIGO (VO)       (mockingly) Me?

shakes his head "no."

FADE TO BLACK

14.

A MAP APEARS WITH GRAPHIC DETAILS GIVEN BY THE NARRATOR.

INDIGO (VO) Ville de Noir. Black City. Its the place between what the Mayor says it is, and what the cops know it is. Its a cesspool. The worst kind. The type with the yakuza's living in the northern section and a cross city gang war between the ittalian families of the east, facing off with those in the west. That was the deal, back then out of seven mafia families, two of them had most of the city in its pockets. Then one day, an edict was made and the wars ceased. It was announced by this man, Tony Rodrigo. Born of an Ittialian father, whose father happened to be spanish. Now he rules this town. Even the Yakuza families, who united under one clan bow to him more then their own ruler. However, he doesnt have absolute power. Every family and sub group act indipendantly from the higher ups. And it gets better. As a result of the unchecked uprising of criminals, half the city officials are crooked. It has become an unwriten rule, never expose the curroption in the city, even as a mudslinging tool for office. Such tactics or attempted reporting can lead to...death. So now there is a standstill in the middle of everything. And outside of that standstill, are the everyday rapes, murders, robberies and kidnappings. This is the city people live in. This is the city people die in.

INT. PRECINT INTEROGATION ROOM - DAY

RACHEL IS BEING GRILLED BY TWO COPS.

COP 1 Matches on the gun. Matches on the bullet. No matter how you look at it, you killed him.

15.

RACHEL What?

RACHEL (VO) The thought never entered my mind. The cops came through the door not too long after and with one look at me, they hauled me out. I thought they were there to help me.

COP 1 Look! There were signs of a struggle. Bullet holes everywhere! You wanna know what I think happened?

COP 2 Easy! Chill for a second and take a breath man. Your scaring her.

COP 2 You chased him around the house with that thing. He ran for his dear life.

Cop 1 continues to talk, but the words are inaudible.

RACHEL (VO)       (slightlu        disorented) I remember, I heard a gunshot and we ran upstairs. I could have been killed.

COP 2 Slow down. Jeez, look at her.

RACHEL       (barely audible) I wish I was dead.

COP 2 What?

RACHEL       (Sad) I wish I died too.

COP 2 Don't say that.

16.

COP 1 What the hell is she pulling?

COP 2 Look what you did to her! He told us not to push her.

RACHEL You!

COP 1 Eh?

COP 2 I would back off, your cornering her.

COP 1 Then we are almost done. Shes is about to confess.

RACHEL You sick fat, filthy, pig of a cop.

COP 1 WHY DID YOU KILL HIM!? I know you did it, confess. If you don't.

Rachel loses her cool. She attacs scratching.

COP 2 Oh CRAP!

Cop 2 holds her back.

RACHEL Why are you doing this to me!?

COP 2 Just calm down.

She gets her hands on Cop 1, instead of attacking she backs off and into a crying state, holding on to him.

COP 2 Still think she's guilty?

Escorts her to her seat.

COP 2 Now, tell me, one last time what you remember.

17.

RACHEL I remember... He came home late in the afternoon. I ran to him to welcome him. Then there was this gun and... his face changed.

Gunshots are heard, only she hears them.

RACHEL we ran up the stairs. Then...

COP 2       (To his partner) The back door was open, the so called perp could have ran out that way. It is also likely that she blacked out during most of the event.

RACHEL (VO) Why arent you here with me? Why are you so far away. They look at me, and for the first time in my life, i have to fend for myself. God, I miss you.

EXT. FUNERAL - DAY

EDWARD (VO) Many people did not know him like I did. He was a good man. An honest man. And a hardworking man. That was his story. I recognize some of the faces here. And I am slightly disapointed that some people did not show up here this day. His death was a true tragedy to this world. Born and raised on a farm. Some could easily have called him a hick, or a hillbilly but he wanted to be better then that. In some ways he truly was. Moved here when he was twenty. It was then he started to realize that life wasnt all that big, in the big city. He had bad luck. That was his only crime in this world. But he fought on. He even fell in love with a woman, whome I can truly say is beautiful. And he will never see that look on her face when he tells her, he loved her. He wanted to be there for her             (MORE)

18.

EDWARD (cont'd) when her boyfriend cheated on her. He wanted to let her cry on his shoulder, but he could never tell her his feelings for her. Why, because he had his whole life ahead of him. Those who knew him, found him a comedic fellow. Women, saw him as a gentleman. Yet he had bad luck with both. A few days ago, he wanted something. Something he needed. And he decided to stand up for himself. And that was when fate decided to end his life. I am sorry he had to die. He is one of the few victims I would have enjoyed to call freind, were the circumstances different. However, this day is a day of hope. A day when he gets his last word out from beyond the grave.

People are conversing.

MOTHER Why, what did he do to deserve this sort of punishment.

FATHER Its okay. Eveything will be alright.

NICE LADY I am sorry for your loss.

MOTHER       (smiling) It's you. He would be so happy you came here.

NICE LADY Excuse me?

EDWARD Ma'am, I am sorry you had to experience such a terrible momment in your life. Your son, spoke well of you.

FATHER And who are you.

19.

EDWARD You can call me Edward. I was one of the last people to see him.

MOTHER Oh, you seem like such a nice fellow. Hope some of those manners rubbed off on him.

EDWARD He spoke of you two well. Know that he loved you and was greatfull and sorry he left you. Now if you both will be so kind to excuse me, I have to leave.

As Edward leaves, he slips a note and whispers in Nice Lady's ear.

As Edward leaves, he slips a note and whispers in Nice Lady's ear.

EDWARD He left this for you.

She reads the paper. She starts to cry and smiles. Then she notices another page. It says "The Cheater will be dealt with, free of charge -Ice"

EDWARD (Vo) In two days, a paper will read the headline, "man found in hospital, his lower extremities removed."

INT. BAR - DAY

AXEL I WANT ANOTHER BEER NOW!

BARTENDER I dont think you want one.

AXEL (VO) Do I?

AXEL No, I want one.

BARTENDER Look, guy. You aint fit for one. And frankly, you're trying to push yourself. In the long run, you will do something you are going to             (MORE)

20.

BARTENDER (cont'd) regret. Now I am asking you to lay off.

THUG 1 Hey bartender, lay off the kid.

AXEL Kid?

THUG 1 Get the boy his drink.

BARTENDER I dont want know trouble.

THUG 1 Then best buy the kid a drink.

Gets Axel a drink. Axel's face twists.

AXEL (VO) I was so asking for it.

He starts to drink.

THUG 1       (Intimidatingly) Now how about you buy me and my buddies a drink.

AXEL Sure, Why not! BARTENDER, ANOTHER DRINK!

THUG 1 Excuse me pal, but there are three of us.

AXEL (VO) It was a trap. All I had to do was...

AXEL MORE DRINKS THEN!

AXEL (VO) Anything but that.

BARTENDER       (To himself) Poor guy.

21.

Bartender takes out three drinks.

Thug 1 purposefully spills his.

THUG 1 Oops, buy me another...boy.

AXEL (VO) Their plan was this, I pay again, they beat me, and rob me. I don't those four will use that cue stick to make me a puppet.

Before the other three come, Axel grabs one mug and tries to dramaticly hit Thug 1 in the face. Thug 1 pushes him on the floor.

THUG 2 A lively one eh?

THUG 1 Now why you gone do that for.

Thug 1 poors another thing of beer on Axel.

Axel grabs for the cue stick. Thug 3 catches him. Pushes him to the floor

AXEL (VO) The door was right there. I could run away scott free. I wasnt fooling anyone.

Stands up.

AXEL Come on!

The thugs realize he's shaking and they pause.

CUT TO

EXT. BAR - NIGHT

Axel is thrown out, onto the streets.

AXEL       (Nervousely) Is...that all you got?

Tries to stand out.

22.

Thug crew walk out. Thug 1 knockes the wind out of Axel as he falls back down.

THUG 2 Look who thinks hes the number 1!

They laugh

Axel's face is trying to hide the fear that is overcomeing him.

THUG 3 Just take the money man, this is too sad.

Thug 1 punches Axel as we.

CUT TO BLACK

EXT. HOTEL - NIGHT

ITS RAINING

JESSICA (VO) They let me out. Doctor knew someone who owed them a favor. Now Im here.

INT. HOTEL ROOM - NIGHT

JESSICA IS CRYING ON THE BED.

JESSICA (Vo) Alone, so alone. It shouldnt be this way. I keep thinking I will wake up, and tomorrow will be my birthday. But then I feel the coldness and know this is not a dream.

Phone Rings. She picks it up.

JESSICA Hello?

Pause

JESSICA (VO) Great, its the families lawyer.

23.

JESSICA Do I have to?

JESSICA (VO) He wants me to meet with him tommorrow to discuss my inheritance.

JESSICA Fine, I'll do it.

She hangs up the phone

JESSICA (VO) He was still talking when I hang up the phone. My mom once told me to beware of lawyers, for the first time, I understand why. They are annoying as heck.

She lies down. Huddles up under the cover and looks for the light to be turned off. Nothing.

JESSICA (VO) Mom...

CHENGE TO FLASHBACK.

INT. JESSICA'S HOUSE - NIGHT

YOUNG JESSICA Mom, I dont want to go to bed yet.

MOTHER But...

YOUNG JESSICA Dad, can I stay up longer?

FATHER Ask your mother.

YOUNG JESSICA But...

MOTHER I think its time for you to go to bed Honey.

24.

INT. JESSICA'S ROOM - NIGHT

YOUNG JESSICA But Im not tired.

MOTHER Just lay down.

Young Jessica lays down, Mother tucks her into bed.

MOTHER Just hold onto your bear and you'll get sleepy.

YOUNG JESSICA       (Getting sleepy) But I dont want to be sleepy

MOTHER That feel better?

YOUNG JESSICA Mom?

MOTHER Yes Honey?

YOUNG JESSICA Do you love me?

MOTHER Of course, what kind of question is that?

YOUNG JESSICA Can you make sure nothing happens to me, and never leave me.

MOTHER I would be a bad mother if I couldnt.

END FLASHBACK

INT. HOTEL ROOM - NIGHT

JESSICA IS HUDDLED UP SIMILAR TO THE YOUNG VERISION.

She is hugging the pillow as if it was a bear.

JESSICA (VO) Why did you lie to me?

25.

INT. MEETING ROOM - NIGHT

MAFIA OFFICIALS ARE GATHERED IN A MEETING.

SPEAKER Members of the Cosa Nostra, welcome.

Continues to talk

INDIGO (VO) It has been dictated by the great Don that every month, select officials should meet and hold a state of the city meeting. The man speaking, is not a don but rather a liutenant of the once rival family. Fact is, Don Rodrigo wont be here to attend this meeting, neither will he have a representitive save this man.

REPRESENTITIVE       (Rsising) Wait just one moment.

INDIGO (VO) Outclassed and out gunned.

MOB BOSS 1 Rodrigo talks alot, but we have yet to see any big bussiness shifts. We are starting to lose money to the legal bussiness. What does he plan on?

REPRESENTITIVE Uh...

MOB BOSS 1 Thats the problem. He isnt here today.

INDIGO (VO) Truth be told, this meeting wasnt to his knowledge.

MOB BOSS 1 Even those stupid negros on the streets are peddling more money then we are. And how many times have I been told by my don, not to move because Mr. Rodrigo wants to             (MORE)

26.

MOB BOSS 1 (cont'd) prevent a street war.

REPRESENTITIVE He has his plans.

MOB BOSS 2 Could have fooled me.

REPRESENTITIVE What is the main problem here?

MOB BOSS 1 Fact is, my family is losing money.

REPRESENTITIVE Well...

MOB BOSS 1 Dont Interupt me.

REPRESENTITIVE I...

MOB BOSS 1       (Commanding) SIT!

he sits.

SPEAKER Can we get back to the original agenda please.

MOB BOSS 3 Agreed.

REPRESENTITIVE       (coldly) Do you know what you do?

MOB BOSS 4 There will be no hiding this meeting.

Mob Boss 1 smiles.

EXT. STREETS - NIGHT

TIME SLIGHTLY SHIFTS.

27.

EXT. STREET ALLEYWAY - NIGHT

MOB BOSS 1 IS WAITING ALONE.

MOB BOSS 1       (To himself) Freakin' cold out here.

Starts to walk back and forth. Mumbling. Anxious.

INDIGO Sorry, I am late.

Enters.

MOB BOSS 1 Beggining to think you wouldnt show up.

INDIGO Have I ever let you down before?

MOB BOSS 1 No. Not that I can think of.

INDIGO Have I ever been known to let anyone down?

MOB BOSS 1 My bad. I apologize.

INDIGO (VO) Just a simple transaction job.

CUE FLASHBACK

INT. CHEIFS OFFICE - DAY

CHEIF IS STANDING WITH SOME DOCUMENTS.

Indigo comes in.

INDIGO You wanted to see me?

CHEIF Yes, close the door.

INDIGO Oh, sure.

28.

CHEIF Sit down.

INDIGO Lemme guess. You want me to run an errand right?

CHEIF One of the families wishes to renew their contract with us.

INDIGO Of course.

CHEIF You are to meet him outside "O'l Lucky's."

Pause.

CHEIF I dont pay you to keep idle. Move.

END FLASHBACK

EXT. STREET ALLEYWAY - NIGHT

INDIGO So this is it?

MOB BOSS 1 All of it should be there.

INDIGO Here, keep this for yourself.

Hands him back some money.

MOB BOSS 1 Whats this?

INDIGO Consider it the interest of your investment. And my personal friendship.

MOB BOSS 1 What?

INDIGO Congratulations, you and the family will continue to live under the wings of law enforcement.             (MORE)

29.

INDIGO (cont'd) Pleasure doing bussiness with you.

Starts to leave.

MOB BOSS 1 Detective.

INDIGO Yes?

MOB BOSS 1 What was the cheif asking for?

INDIGO       (smiling) Full price.

Walks away.

MOB BOSS 1 The pleasure is all mine.

Indigo, waves back while walking away.

INT. DARK PLACE - NIGHT

DON RODRIGUE IS IN A CHAIR GETTING BEAT ON BY TOUGH GUYS.

TOUGH GUY 1 Look at the great Don Rodrigo.

Punches him.

RODRIGO Why... Are you doing this?

Gets punched.

TOUGH GUY 2 Whats wrong, I thought you were untouchable.

Another one.

TOUGH GUY 1       (laughing.) The most powerful guy in the city

Knocks the wind out of him.

30.

Someone speaking off screan, cannot be heard, translated to subtitles.

UNKNOWN Stop.

RODRIGO       (Knows the        identity) You. Please let me go.

UNKNOWN I cannot do that.

RODRIGO I am a bussiness man. We can make a deal.

UNKNOWN There are no deals for you Don Rodrigo.

RODRIGO Does he know about this?

Pause. Don Rodrigo slightly chuckles.

UNKNOWN Tomorrow morning you body will be found. Then I will have your will. Farewell Don Rodrigo.

A gun is silloueted by the backround.

The end of the barrel lights with the sound.

CUT TO BLACK

Pause

FADE SLOWLY IN

Sillouette story. The actions of the sillouetes are matched by the narration.

JESSICA (VO)       (Telling a story) Josephine once asked Napoleon...

SHADOW 2       (Syncing) How much do you love me.

31.

JESSICA (VO) He held her hand and softly replied...

SHADOW 1 I would conquer this world ten times over just to see you smile. I would give it all to you for a suprise gift at the drop of a hat.

JESSICA (VO) She looked at him again and quitely asked...

SHADOW 2 Prove it.

JESSICA (VO) It was a simple request. And through his times and on his conquests, he would send her pure poetry and together they were in love. The wars and conquests made it hard however. Then came the magic.

SHADOW 3 We have won the battle my friend.

SHADOW 1 Another victory, it feels good.

JESSICA (VO) He replied. Then there was a silence.

SHADOW 1 What's on your mind?

JESSICA (VO) The gaurd stopped and was silent. Debating on what he should do.

SHADOW 3       (Handing a        beautiful Gem) We found this.

JESSICA (VO) It was beautifull. It was more then beautifull. It was perfect. Flawless in it's design and one of two gems Napoleon would take possesion of. It was a bright blue             (MORE)

32.

JESSICA (cont'd) diamond. When he held it in his hand, he felt a famillair presence.

Shadow 2 of Josephine is shadowed onto the sillouete then gone.

SHADOW 1 This... It is everything.

JESSICA (VO) France's greatest Emperor was humbled to the point of being speechless. Many men died that day, and this was the reward. Love made real into an object whose value could not be surpassed by money or tender. He went home with this jewel and the next day he walked up to her, and said...

SHADOW 1 This, I present to you. More valued then a pharohs army and all of europe. And this, I give to you, not me. I love you.

JESSICA (VO) But all would not remain so peaceful for long. Europe would be torn into a big war. And with the battles came the affairs and eventually, Napoleon was forced into arrest. After their deaths, though they seperated, the jewel went missing and was stricken from the history as a peice of legend.

A soldier sees the dead Shadow 2 and a jewel keeps it.

JESSICA (VO) Upon his return home that very day, he used that very jewel to propose to his girlfriend.

SHADOW 4 It's the most beautifull thing I have ever seen.

JESSICA (VO) She replied. And they had a child. A girl infact. And when she grew up, she too used that diamond to             (MORE)

33.

JESSICA (cont'd) propose to the man she loved. And together, they were prosperious. Time went on. And the the first born was given this jewel to send thier proof of love and total trust to their soul mate...

MOTHER       (ending the story) And one day, your father gave it to me the day we got engaged.

FADE TO

INT. FLASHBACK (YOUNG JESSICAS ROOM) - NIGHT

MOTHER       (continuing) And someday, you will grow old and fall in love. And this gift will be the sign of your love for whomever he may be. And hopefully he will accept it, and you too of course. And maybe you can pass it on to your children.

YOUNG JESSICA Its pretty mommy.

MOTHER Of course it is dear.

YOUNG JESSICA I dont get it?

MOTHER Whats that?

YOUNG JESSICA Why would he give it to you?

MOTHER Because he loves me. And the value of this jewel is something he was willing to risk to tell me he loved me. I could easily have stolen it, or sold it. But he trust me and that is the power of love.

34.

YOUNG JESSICA Ew!

MOTHER And one day, this will be all yours.

JESSICA (VO) But there was one slight flaw.

END FLASHBACK.

MONTAGE OF EVENTS, REFLECTED BY NARRATIVE.

JESSICA (VO) Apparently my dad wasnt the smartest person when it came to money. He managed to acquire a certain amount of debt and while he never flaunted his true wealth, this gave a local crime boss enough reason to look up on him. They found the jewel. They made threats and such demanding to know where it was. Its value was worth way high into the millions. Then the worst thing possible happened. My mom was killed by a drunk driver. So the reports say. My father, having lost his whole family, add the pressure of the whole city on his back, drank himself into a bottle and died two years later. Before he died, he parted with the jewel that was now in their hands. The symbol that once stood for love, now a playing card for the gangsters. And, that jewel, that one thing, my rightfull heirloom, it's all I got left of them in this world. And "they" have it.

FADE OUT

INT. NEWS STUDIO - DAY

35.

PERSON DOING NEWS SHOW.

HOST Good Morning and welcome to, the twelve O'clock news. The mayor gave an important speech yesterday. For those in attendance we got this exclusive press release from the mayor himself.

Picks up a paper.

HOST       (Reading) We have new leads within the alleged corruption among the city officials as well as the police and be assured that many arrests shall be made within what remains of this year.

Puts the paper done.

HOST In other news, a body was found on the streets early this morning. We can now confirm the reports that it is indeed the body of Tony Rodrigo. Tony Rodrigo, to many known as Don Rodrigo or simply "The Don." At a young age founded the Rodrigo family and quickly worked his way to being allegedly the most powerful crime lord the city has ever seen. The police are sending many units to investigate however the chief of police has had this to say.

Pics up paper.

HOST       (Reading) The only real information I can make public is that he was shot down. We have many leads but the evidence points to that this was likely an incident of gang retaliation and is a sign of things to come. We urge citizens to stay calm and we will garentee that we (the police force) will stop this before it escalates into a full scale war. And we vow that             (MORE)

36.

HOST (cont'd) the guy who did this will be caught as well as his associates. This I promise the people.

Puts it down.

HOST       (Smiles as        changing topic.) On another note...

Voice becomes inaudible mumbles trhat cannot be destinguished.

EDWARD (VO) Don Rodrigo was dead.

FADE OUT

EDWARD (VO) And the great power of the mafia with him. The world was clueless. And soon after, news articles, all of them, headlined this as if the president of the United States had fallen. No one saw it coming. How could they? The man was a god, no one saw him as weak or could even get close enough to him to simply point a gun at him. Yet the news said he was dead. I have seen the photos myself.

MONTAGE OF PICTURES MATCHING EVENTS.

EDWARD (VO) His body was foudn at 11 Pm. They hauled his body as quickly as they could to the coroner for an autopsy to get an estimated time of death. He died only two hours before that. The cause, a bullet that was lodged into his heart. About an hour after, a tip was called unanimously to the police.

COP 1       (Asnwering a phone) A dead body, we are on our way.

37.

EDWARD (VO) Yet for mysterious circumatsances the police were delayed to leave for the crime scene until some time.

COP 2       (To his partner) Is, that who I think it is?

EDWARD (VO) And then came the eventual fall out. Shortly after word started spreading, there started infighting with the yakuza. Two mob spies were ousted and murdered on the spot. Other sympathizers for the once great Don went into hiding. A few crooked judges were mowed down as well. The many families were beggining to get paranoid, as no one knew who should take over. Any attempt by any one individual could easily be seen as an act of war upon the empire Don Rodrigo thrived to build. Understand that Don Rodrigo was never gifted with a child, or any form of an heir. Every man in his ranks could easily have a claim to his throne. Which is why, he wrote a will. This will was personally gaurded by himself and locked within a breifcase, with none of its information disclosed to protect any and all people mentioned in it and to also save the system from a civil war over its contents. As of last night, his breifcase that included his will among other things and the future of the cities biggest empire, went missing. See the mafia delt with alot of shady bussiness. All of them are on the records. Whome they had murdered, by whome. Whome they had stolen from, and who was being paid by which branch of the family. It had everything, up to the Dons personal life and even a confession should he ever need to speak to the world from beyond the grave. With this case, as well as             (MORE)

38.

EDWARD (cont'd) this information, any one individual who were to get their hands on these documents and such could easily lay claim to being the rightful heir to the throne. There was however another item that was crucial...

INT. OFFICE - DAY

EDWARD A gem? You want me to retreive the Don's Lost Testament because of a gem?

EMPLOYER Not to long after aquiring it, he hid it among his personal possesions.

EDWARD He ran protection for many jewelry stores. Why is this gem so important?

EMPLOYER Yes, you see this is no ordinary peice of jewelry. Way back when, we had some of our boys take it from some pathetic chump. This jewel, is worth...well lets just say something alot more then mere millions. I want those things found as soon as possible.

EDWARD But why would you require a jewel if you had the Don's will?

EMPLOYER I thought you were the smart one. Anyone can lay claim as a succesor. However this jewel can fund an army. If some pathetic drug dealer pushing out locally grown materials he made at home found this, he could become the city's richest fiend and have an army of goons to back him up that would make us look bad.

39.

EDWARD So you are telling me that if any person where to acquire this, they could finance their own empire?

EMPLOYER And then some.

EMPLOYER So what is more important the will, or the gem?

EMPLOYER My boss wants both. You are supposed to be the best. I can only imagine that the others are hiring as many hitman on this as possible. However we want only you.

EDWARD You sure you should be trusting me with these specific details? How will you know that should I find the gem, I will not run with it?

EMPLOYER Because I am trusting you. And that is why I am not hiring some other goons to get the job done. You never failed, so I expect you will find it. If i ordered some men on the job, their personal interests could collide with yours and we would risk losing the jewel altogether.

EDWARD Very well then, I will take this assignment. I will not ask for a higher price then my usual this time.

EMPLOYER Why?

EDWARD       (Rising to leave.) If I asked for more money, could you honestly trust me that I will not be getting greedy?

40.

EMPLOYER Point well taken, good luck. Find that case!

Leaves, as he opens the door...

CUT TO

FLASHBACK SEQUENCE.

INT. YOUNGER AXELS HOME - NIGHT

Door opens, Axel and Girlfreind walk in.

AXEL Im just... So sorry about that.

GIRL FRIEND It's alright. Not everyone is a good dancer.

AXEL I'm such an idiot. I am...sorry.

GIRL FRIEND Its nothing... I had a great time.

AXEL       (disbeleif) You...did?

GIRL FRIEND I had a perfect time.

Grabs his hand.

Axel Smiles.

AXEL It really could have gone better.

GIRL FRIEND Look, the hardest part is over. We had our date. You have no need to impress me at this point.

AXEL       (No longer nervous) You are beautifull. You do know that. Right?

41.

GIRL FRIEND       (Sarcasticly) Last I checked in the mirror.

AXEL You know what? To hell with it. Lets start our date over right now.

GIRL FRIEND Okay. What do you have in mind?

AXEL You, me, and a telivision set while I fix us up something to eat.

GIRL FRIEND       (sarcastic) Thats hardly romantic.

AXEL (VO) That was the night.

Girlfriend is now alone in room for brief moment. Axel comes back with food. Inaudible conversation ensues.

AXEL (VO) That was the night when she said...

GIRL FRIEND       (On Cue) I love you.

AXEL I love you too.

THE MEMORY FADES.

AXEL (VO) It was the best night of my life.

EXT. GRAVEYARD - DAY

People Standing at a funeral.

AXEL (VO) That's all thats left of her now. Her and my own son.

42.

Some people are crying. Axel is alone in the back. Wearing Shades, hiding a bruise.

PRIEST A person once asked me, what kind of God would take a wife and kid. A simple mother and child. Cut down and murdered in such a fashion. I say to them, as I say to you. We live in a dark time. And our lord watches over those of innocence. These two, were such inoocent people. God does not take. God gives. He will continue to give this world, people that challenge the essence of their surrroundings. It is this and people of these caliber that are constantly challenged by those who seek to do evil's work. You want to know what kind of God took them, none. We took them. We take them when we lie, cheat steal. And we take them when we suffer with pride and jealousy.

People agreeing from the audiance.

PRIEST I baptized this child. I was the preist at the mothers wedding. I knew them both. She would always worry about doing the right thing. Her son, worried more about candy and simple kids stuff. Both were two of the most purist people I have ever met. Rest in peace. I beleive the Mother would now like to say a few words.

Mother walks to the podium.

MOTHER No one should have to burry their daughter. Even worse to burry both their daughter and their grandson. What shocks me more, is that at a time like this... My son in law is no where to be found.

Sounds more angry. Talks on as audiance murmers.

43.

PERSON 1 I cant beleive he didnt even show to his wife and son's funeral.

PERSON 2 What a jerk. He always was an oddball.

Axel is behind them, still incognito.

AXEL (VO) You once told me you love.

A tear slides down. He imidiately picks up on it and with speed brushes it off. Straitens back up.

AXEL (VO) Then I have no doubt you will forgive me.

Starts to walk away.

AXEL (VO) I love you two.

INT. PRECINCT CELL - DAY

Rachel is alone, not crying but contemplating on the events up to now.

RACHEL (VO) So, your husband is dead. The police think you killed him. However... the back door was left open. The place was also torn apart.

TRANSITION SCENE TO

INT. CRIME SCENE, RACHELS HOUSE. - DAY

Rachel looks over.

RACHEL There is no way I had the muscle or the strength to cause this much damage. So, either they came in from the front, or they came in from the back door. You told me to hide upstairs. They gave chase. You stood your ground. And a fight             (MORE)

44.

RACHEL (cont'd) ensued. The bullet holes.

She notices the bullet holes on the wall.

RACHEL You wrestled them for the gun didnt you. There must have been another, so you ran upstairs. You had no choice.

Three silouets run upstairs.

RACHEL And then...

Gun shot sparks are seen and heard.

INT. CRIME SCENE, RACHELS HOUSE. SECOND FLOOR - DAY

Rachel Bends down to pick up the smoking gun. The Two sillouetes leave down the stairs.

She sits down,

SCENERY FADES BACK TO

INT. PRECINCT CELL - DAY

She sitting back on the seat. Lost in thought.

ZOOM OUT TO

INT. PRECINCT OUTSIDE ROOM. - DAY

CHEIF       (To himself,        eroticly at        Rachel) Why do nice girls like you have to be so evil?

Rachel tries to get some of the hair out of her eyes. Cheif notices and drools over it.

CHEIF       (Hearing Footsteps) Oh, Hello Indigo. Nice of you to finally show up.

45.

INDIGO       (sarcastic) Well forgive me for not coming in leaps and bounds.

CHEIF Will you look at that?

They both look at Rachel.

CHEIF God was really crafty when he made the female. Giving them some really great curves.

INDIGO       (Looking at a file) Um, you do realize she is a widow.

CHEIF Your point?

INDIGO Im just saying that its not really in good taste to oogle a widow.

CHEIF And?

INDIGO Its not wise to drool over a dame that killed her own man. She is a black widow plain and simple.

CHEIF Dont you know anything. Girls like that, when they lose someone, they get all tense and can be so easy to use. Give her the right pickup line and soon she will be on her back.

INDIGO (VO) Pig.

CHEIF So, what do you have on the Rodrigo Case?

INDIGO Nothing. We havent made any acusations.

46.

CHEIF Have we been contacted by any of the offices?

INDIGO A few, the missing will is on every thugs mind. Even have reports of small time crooks trying to by info on it.

CHEIF       (as if one word) Good good good.

INDIGO Anything else?

CHEIF We are going to have to play our next move carefully. Try and distract the publics attention on other cases. Focus on breakthrough of those ones. Every player in this game will come to us.

Chief leaves.

Indigo starts to walk to walk away.

INDIGO (VO) "Look at her." He says. I heard the tapes. Everyone in the station has heard the tapes. Her eyes say it all though. She really beleives she is innocent. Despite the evidence, she may be telling the truth. But that pig is right. Girls like this are easy to minipulate. More ways then one.

He smiles.

INT. INTEROGATION ROOM - DAY

The door opens. Indigo enters the room with coffe in his hands. Rachel is sitting at the table. Indigo looks friendly.

INDIGO Do you mind if I come in?

47.

RACHEL       (Huffy) Be my guest.

INDIGO Thank you.

Walks to his side of the table, then swicthes off a button.

INT. INTEROGATION LISTENING ROOM. - DAY

The recorders stop.

INT. INTEROGATION ROOM - DAY

INDIGO I thought I should be the one to tell you, that there has been a new lead in the case.

RACHEL What!?

INDIGO Evidence suggests that this may have been a mob hit.

Rachel takes a deep breath.

INDIGO We beleive the motive, was robbery.

RACHEL Who did it?

INDIGO I am not at liberty to say who.

RACHEL       (Tearfull,        possibly acting) Please, you got to tell me who killed my husband.

INDIGO Look I know your stressed and...

RACHEL       (Turning        Authoritive) Stressed! You think I am stressed?             (MORE)

48.

RACHEL (cont'd) My Husband is dead you moron! And do you have any idea how long I have been locked up simply because you and your men have overlooked some new evidence.

INDIGO My apologies.

RACHEL       (Looking        sympathetic) Please, I have no one in this world. Just give me some serenity. Its nothing much.

INDIGO       (Lookign nervous) Um... I dont know... Fine. Three days ago, our boys picked up a transmission. It was an assasination plot from one of Rodrigo's boys.

Silence.

INDIGO You do know who Don Rodrigo is?

She shakes her head "no"

Indigo goes off to mutter to himself. Comes back.

INDIGO       (Explaining) Rodrigo was the big guy of the mob. Now, his boys were planning on killing one of his rivals. But Rodrigo got murdered not that long ago. And it is likely that whomever he was planning on killing him found out and had them killed instead.

RACHEL Whats the point of this?

INDIGO We beleive your husband was a informant to one of the groups and had hidden evidence at your house. Rodrigo's boys went over to your place to conclude their             (MORE)

49.

INDIGO (cont'd) beussiness. You understand?

He gets up. Silence.

RACHEL       (Confused at his        standing and        silence) What?

INDIGO We no longer have a reason to keep you here. With this evidence, there is no way we can convict you or have the right to hold you. You are free.

RACHEL I can go?

INDIGO Yes, our time with you seems to be at an end. You are free to start a new life,

RACHEL What the hell is that supposed to mean?

Indigo smiles.

INDIGO Just leave.

She gets up to go.

RACHEL       (stops) I have one question.

INDIGO       (looking back) Whats that?

RACHEL What are the odds of you convicting those who did this crime.

INDIGO       (Secretely smiling) Little to none. I am sorry.

50.

RACHEL       (To herslelf and        possibly to her        dead Husband) I'm sorry too.

She leaves.

INT. POLICE PRECINCT, OUTSIDE ROOM. - DAY

Rachel is heading outside.

INDIGO (VO) So long, till we meet again, that is if course you dont get yourself killed.

Rachel is gone.

FLASHBACK SEQUENCE.

INT. DINER - NIGHT

A music group is playing some songs. Rachel and Husband are eating food listening to music.

RACHEL (VO) Life was great back then. Just you, and me. The whole world could have gone to hell for all we cared.

BAND       (singing) I will give you a kiss, strait from my heart. I will give you the world. Just ask me to. And maybe we will be lovers forever more. Mi amor.

RACHEL Whats wrong. You look tense. Unwind.

HUSBAND Unwind?

RACHEL       (Quick to correct        herself) Im sorry.

Author's Note

This was my first complete screenplay, was written over the course of several years. It is gimicky and its basis was of the idea of "What if five random people were put into a room and tried to kill eachother?" What would be their stories? How did they get from point A. to the point of No Return? This was me playing on that idea, while letting each character tell their view along the way. I know it jumps, its feels random, and may not be easy, or fun to read. But if you read the whole thing, I thank you for your patience and hope you enjoyed reading it. Honestly, this wasnt written for an audiance, and I will just say, it was fun to write.

Reviews

[Ruminating Archaeologis..]

It was very good, and I did take the time to read it all. Nicely done, I like how all the characters had something to do with the other characters lives. Are you going to write another? If so, you should.