Paging Gus...

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EXT. DELIVERY VAN - DAY
The exterior of the VAN has a picture of a rooster and a word
mark logo that reads: CROW DELIVERY.

EXT. HOUSE ONE - DAY

ANGUS "GUS" MCKEY (23) trudges up the steps of HOUSE ONE.
He's handsome, think a 90s Grunge front man. Tall, gaunt,
messy hair, Bambi eyes. He wears a red, gold and green VEST.

Gus drops a PACKAGE on the Welcome Mat and rings the door
bell. He walks back down the porch, towards the van. Grabs
the car door when--
GUS (V.O.)
They came outta nowhere.

EXT. HOUSE ONE - DAY

A gang of PIRATES run past the van, onto the porch. They're
dressed in garbs, bandanas, tricorns, buccaneer boots. The
Pirates grab PACKAGES: the loot. They hoot and holler,
lifting their spoils.
GUS (V.O.)
Pirates--porch pirates. They were
armed, and had this glint in their
eye. You ever see a shark when it
smells blood?
Gus stare at the Pirates, terrified and confused. The Pirates
smile. Gold and rotting teeth glint in the sun.

EXT. HOUSE TWO - DAY

Another house, another porch. Just as before, the Pirates
raid the veranda. Gus tries to fend them off but he's no
match. One of the Pirates gives him a wedgie.
GUS (V.O.)
Made a U-turn, ran the light--
couldn't shake them. You remember
when Gosammer chased Bugs through
Dr. Moron's castle? I was Bugs.
(beat)
Bunny.
 2.

EXT. STREET - DAY

Gus zooms down a lane. The Pirates are in a CAR, chasing
after him. Heads stuck out the window, waving SWORDS.

INT. DELIVERY VAN - DRIVING - DAY

Gus squeezes the wheel and hits the gas.
GUS (V.O.)
All I'm saying is I tried
everything. I swear on my Gran's
macaroni--
Gus checks the side mirror. They're closing in--
BOSS (V.O.)
You think I'm an idiot?

INT. OFFICE - DAY

Gus sits across from the BOSS.
BOSS
Look at me. Do you think I'm a
fucking imbecile!
GUS
No...

BOSS
Then cut the horseshit! That's
what--
(checks record book)
Twenty packages now! Gone! Poof!
I'm up to my ear in complaints!
GUS
I told you! It was a hold up!
BOSS
(sarcastic)
What cologne do you use? Homme de
steal my shit?
GUS
I don't wear--
BOSS
Look, this isn't working. You're
costing me business. You
understand? You're a liability.
 3.

Boss passes Gus a PINK SLIP. In a bold red stamp: TERMINATED.

EXT. BUS STOP - DAY

BUS pulls up. Gus steps inside--

INT. BUS - CONTINUOUS

taps his card. Reader turns red. BUS DRIVER shakes his head.
BUS DRIVER
Can't get on.
GUS
Can't you just look the other way?
BUS DRIVER
Bus doesn't move until you're off.
PASSENGERS ears perk at that. They glare at Gus. Some of them
cursing.
MAN ONE (O.S.)
Get off! I've got an interview to
get to!
Gus checks his wallet. He has THREE twenty's and a stick of
bubble gum.
GUS
Good luck. I hope you get it.
MAN ONE (O.S.)
I would if you'd get off the
fucking bus!
GUS
You got $ 2.75?
MAN ONE huffs. He goes to the front and taps his card on the
reader. Bus Driver nods. Starts driving.
GUS (CONT'D)
Thanks.
(beat)
Need a reference?

INT. GUS' APARTMENT - DAY

Glorified shoe box. A STUDIO cramped with the bare
essentials.
 4.

IN THE KITCHEN
Bunch of empty BEER bottles. Stack of MAIL on a table. Bank
statements.
Gus sits on a chair, holding an unopened package.
GUS
Ready?
HORATIO, big ball of orange fur, lounges on the bed looking
as spoiled as Choupette Lagerfeld. He meows.
Gus shakes the package.
GUS (CONT'D)
Hopefully not another vibrator.
Meow. Horatio looks at a corner of the apartment. There's a
pile of packages.
GUS (CONT'D)
It's not all bad. What about the
tent?
Gus glances at the cat toy tent next to the bed.
MEOW! More vocal.
GUS (CONT'D)
We've got food.
Gus sets down the package and opens the kitchen cabinets.
They're all bare.
GUS (CONT'D)
Shit.
Rapping on the door. Whoever's on the other side's got strong
knuckles. Gus checks the peephole--
GUS (CONT'D)
Double shit.
He gathers himself and opens the door. MARCY (60s, foam
rollers every colour of the rainbow, wears a robe) points a
finger at him.
Marcy's steaming mad, which makes her drawl more pronounced.
MARCY
Your phone stop working?
 5.

GUS
This a trick question?
MARCY
Don't get cute with me!

GUS
I'll have the money--
MARCY
You said that last month. And the
month before! Know what the French
call that? Deja vu.
She doesn't pronounce it correctly, but the message is
understood.
GUS
I hit a rough spot--
MARCY
Save the sob story. I'm giving you
twenty-four hours before this goes
on your forehead!
Marcy holds up an EVICTION FORM.
GUS
C'mon Marcy, think of Horatio--
MARCY
I'll take him. Make sure he's warm
n' fed. He'll fit right in with Oak
n' Pecan.
(grins)
Know what they say: two's a couple,
three's, company.
Meow.
GUS
Thanks Marcy. He'll call if he's
interested.
Gus shuts the door. He looks at Horatio. Shocked. Betrayed.
GUS (CONT'D)
Traitor!
 6.

INT. BODEGA - NIGHT

Gus sneaks a chocolate bar into his jeans. He grabs cat food
from another aisle. In his shopping basket: frozen pizzas and
beer. He puts the basket on the counter.
YUSUF (50s), the owner, stands behind the register scratching
a lotto ticket with a coin. He's got a Freddie Mercury
mustache and glasses perched on his nose.
YUSUF
You should add some greens, habibi.
Gus makes a face. Disgusted.
YUSUF (CONT'D)
It's good for you. Gets the bowels
moving.
GUS
So does beer.
YUSUF
Grab a bag. I'll throw in a salad
dressing.
Gus grabs a bag of veggies and Italian salad dressing. He
returns to the counter. Yusuf examines the salad dressing
bottle.
YUSUF (CONT'D)
You tryna put me outta business?
Get a cheaper one.
GUS
We're both making sacrifices here.
Yusuf mutters under his breath and puts the dressing in a
bag. He resumes scanning the other items.
YUSUF
How's work?
GUS
Got let go.
YUSUF
Again? Total is sixty dollars.
Gus pays. Yusuf puts his items in a bag.
YUSUF (CONT'D)
My friend is looking.
 7.

GUS
Yeah?
YUSUF
I have his card, somewhere.
Yusuf opens a drawer, shifting through papers and envelopes.
YUSUF (CONT'D)
There we are.
Yusuf passes a BUSINESS CARD to Gus.
YUSUF (CONT'D)
He's a big talker. Just smile and
nod. He likes that.
GUS
Smile and nod. Got it.
Yusuf picks up his ticket and coin. He resumes scratching.
YUSUF
Try and keep this one.

EXT. CLARA'S HOUSE - DAY

Modest brick wood home. Neat lawn. Gus rings the doorbell and
waits. Few moments pass. He rings again. CLARA (25) opens.
CLARA
Seriously?
GUS
S.O.S.
She rolls her eyes, and leaves him at the door. He follows
her into--

INT. CLARA'S KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER

Sink full of cookware. A collage of photos on the fridge:
Clara solo, Clara with friends, Clara with her parents. Gus
examines them.
GUS
Feels like I'm playing Where's
Waldo.
CLARA
I got rid of ours.
 8.

He gives her a pointed look.

CLARA (CONT'D)
It's healthy.
GUS
Is that what your therapist said?
CLARA
What makes you think I have a
therapist?
GUS
People sound different repeating
advice. Like they're still testing
out the words.
(beat)
Mind if I join?
CLARA
Yes.
Gus' stomach GROWLS. Loud enough to wake the dead. Clara
adds a second plate and fork on the table.
CLARA (CONT'D)
I'm about to claim you on my next
tax return.
Clara shares out dinner: casserole and greens.
GUS
Beer?
CLARA
Right where you left it.
Gus grabs a beer from the fridge, and returns to the table.
He moans in delight as he swallows the food.
CLARA (CONT'D)
It's not that good.
GUS
(food in his mouth)
Ever had a Canadian?
CLARA
No, does it have maple syrup?
GUS
(chuckles)
Pepperoni, bacon, and mushrooms.
Needed a break from the Hawaiian.
 9.

CLARA
(smirks)
You mean the pineapples.
(realization)
You only stock on pizza when...
Gus cringes. Clara sets down her fork and bites her lip.
CLARA (CONT'D)
(exasperated)
Gus...
GUS
(under his breath)
Here we go...
CLARA
I've never judged you--
GUS
You left.
CLARA
I was looking out for myself.
GUS
Well at least you're finally being
honest.
CLARA
I don't wanna argue. Is that why
you're here--to remind me of how
terrible I am?
GUS
I've got an interview tomorrow.
CLARA
Congrats.
GUS
I'm trying, Clara.
CLARA
Don't try for me.
Gus takes a swig. Looks like he's got something on his mind.
CLARA (CONT'D)
What?
GUS
Rent's due. I've gotta give her
something.
 10.

CLARA
You can't keep--
GUS
Last time. I promise.
He's desperate. Clara knows. She sighs.
CLARA
Half. That's it. I can't--I won't
bail you out anymore.
She sounds like a mother scolding her child. Gus nods and
eats.

EXT. CHARIOT LIMOS - DAY

A large sign depicting a CHARIOT being pulled by a limousine.
Gus is dressed "business casual"; casual's doing most of the
heavy lifting.
He walks through the lot. It's got a limo for any and every
taste: sedan, SUV, bus, stretch, classic.

INT. CHARIOT LIMOS - DAY

Unremarkable reception area, with a welcome desk as the
center piece. Gus picks up a PAMPHLET on the desk. It's got a
picture identical to signage outside.
He opens the pamphlet and finds a glossy photo of a group of
BUSINESSMEN having a meeting in the back of a limo. Another
side, TEENS on their way to prom.
WINE MOMS on the back, holding flutes and toasting.
These are images meant to evoke feelings of glamour and
wealth.
An Employee returns with NOAH DAHAN (50s), fast talker.
Noah's dressed in a tailored suit. He's short, balding,
sports a pinky ring.
NOAH
Welcome, welcome.
Gus sets down the pamphlet. He shakes Noah's hand. Noah
points at the pamphlet.
 11.

NOAH (CONT'D)
Got inspired after some Jehovah's
Witness showed up at my door.
Sicked my dog on 'em, but it gave
me this ah-ha moment. You've gotta
meet people where they're at. I
send my team everywhere--I mean,
I'm talking real outreach--
GUS
I was interested in the driving
position.
NOAH
Something told me you'd want a
challenge...

INT. NOAH'S OFFICE - DAY

Neat office with lots of file cabinets. Noah motions for Gus
to take the seat opposite him.
NOAH
You got experience? Taxi driver?
GUS
Does it count if I watched the
movie?
NOAH
Promise you'll quit before it gets
to that.
(beat)
License up-to-date?
Gus pulls the LICENSE CARD out of his wallet and checks.
GUS
Expires in two years.
Noah nods.
NOAH
I'm warnin', it ain't as easy as it
looks. Cutthroat clients. I'm
talkin' satan's spawn. Probably
worship him too--what's your name
again?
GUS
Gus. Gus McKey.
 12.

NOAH
Gus--that a nickname?
GUS
Angus.
NOAH
Stick with Gus. How'd you know
Yusuf?
GUS
The store. He said you were good
friends.
NOAH
Grew up together. So, when can you
start?
GUS
I--
(shrugs)
Whenever.
NOAH
You a hard worker? You look like a
hard worker.
GUS
I--yeah.
Noah walks over to the cabinet. Opens a drawer and grabs a
file.
NOAH
Here's the deal: we cater to
wealthy fucks who wanna remind
their friends and the poors that
the sun does in fact, shine outta
their ass. Your job's to help sell
the fantasy--
GUS
Look, I'll do whatever man.
Noah sits back down. Opens the file.
NOAH
I knew I liked you.
(beat)
There're rules.
Noah takes out TWO contracts, and points to a line. Gus signs
both. Noah gives one to Gus and puts the other copy in the
folder.
 13.

NOAH (CONT'D)
Memorize each line like its
scripture. These are my
commandments.

INT. GUS' APARTMENT - DAY

Gus' on the phone. Fingers crossed as he talks.

INT. MARCY'S HAIR SALON - DAY

A small but polished SALON. Marcy attends to a CLIENT,
styling hair. She's got a bluetooth headset in her ear, as
she snips away with her clippers.
INTERCUT GUS/MARCY
GUS
I'll get you the other half by the
end of the week.
MARCY
Ain't lying a sin?
GUS
I got a new job--
MARCY
You change jobs like panties.
GUS
Look, I'll sweeten it. Give you an
extra hundred. Could buy some new
soaps for your place.
Marcy glances at the washing station across the room. Empty
shelf.
MARCY
Make it two, and you've got a deal.
GUS
Isn't stealing a sin!
MARCY
Pay to all what is owed to them:
revenue to whom revenue is owed,
respect to whom respect is owed,
honor to whom honor is owed. So
saith the Lord, amen.
 14.

GUS
But--
MARCY
Non-negotiable.
GUS
Fine.
MARCY
Bring it by the end of the week.
And Gus? No more chances.
Call ends. Gus sighs. Looks at Horatio.
GUS
We're gonna have to ration for a
bit.
MEOW!
GUS (CONT'D)
It's either that or street meat.
Horatio jumps on the bed, grumpy.

EXT. CHARIOT LIMOS - DAY

Gus wears a wrinkled suit that's a size too big. He and Noah
stand in front of a sleek sedan.
NOAH
Rule ten.
GUS
Something about me owing you if
there's even a scratch on it.
Noah pokes Gus with a finger.
NOAH
I knew you'd read it! Cause you're
desperate. And that's exactly what
I need--someone who can't afford a
fuck up.
Noah hands Gus a set of keys and a bunch of rolled bills.
GUS
What's this?
 15.

NOAH
Outta your pay. Get an iron n' some
threads. Hair gel. You gotta look
the part. Like a goddamn peacock at
auction.

INT. LIMO - DRIVING - DAY

Gus drives down a main street.
NOAH (V.O.)
Client's one Gregory Isaac. Now I
hate to break it to you son, but
you're a peon. And don't tell me
that's a slur, I checked. If you
wanna stay on as his driver, you've
gotta impress him. Show him you're
a stud.
Gus turns up the volume dial. 80s POP fills the airwaves.
GUS
(to himself)
Hello, sir. Hello, Mr. Isaac.
(beat)
Hello paycheck.
Gus follows the car's GPS, driving expertly through traffic.
Doesn't run the amber. No cursing at slow pedestrians. Always
indicating before crossing lanes.
A true professional (who badly needs money).

EXT. THE TOWER - DAY

Gus pulls up at the turn about, in front of THE TOWER--a
skyscraper, teeming with Wall Street sharks, Fortune 500s,
and wealth he couldn't dream of.
Suits, skirts, pantsuits. Business people mill about, some
entering, others exiting the building.
Gus gets out of the car, and walks around so that he faces
the entrance of the building. He holds a sign that reads
"Chariot Limos - Gregory Isaac."
GREGORY ISAAC (40s) notices the sign and points at Gus. He
walks over.
GREGORY
That's me.
 16.

He's classically handsome. Think Cary Grant. His suit is

tailored to perfection. He holds a briefcase in one hand,
phone in the other.
GUS
Good afternoon, Mr. Isaac.
Gus opens the back seat door for Gregory, then returns to the
drivers seat. The divider's down and he looks at Gregory in
the rearview mirror.
He starts the car and drives.

INT. LIMO - DRIVING - DAY

Gus takes another glimpse in the rearview mirror. Gregory is
engrossed in his phone, scrolling.
GUS
Mr. Isaac?
GREGORY
What is it?
GUS
About your schedule--
Gregory's barely listening.
GREGORY
I'll have my secretary send it
over.
GUS
Do you have any special requests?
Gregory looks up, eyes focused on the back of Gus' headrest.
GREGORY
Don't fornicate when on call. The
last driver thought I wouldn't
smell it on the seats.
GUS
Rule five.
Gregory quirks an eyebrow. Gus glances in the mirror and
notices.
GUS (CONT'D)
I don't have a girlfriend. We broke
up. Well, she broke up with me.
 17.

Gregory makes a non-committal sound and returns to his phone.

It's quiet for a bit, then--
GUS (CONT'D)
You have a family?
GREGORY
Excuse me?
GUS
Will I just be driving you or--
GREGORY
Me.
Gus nods. Beat. He's about to ask another question. Gregory
must sense it, because he winds up the divider.
Gus turns up the RADIO.

EXT. ISAAC HOUSE - DAY

Stunning home. Architectural Digest approved. Gus opens the
car door for Gregory. Gregory steps out. Doesn't glance back
at Gus. He walks up the front steps and rings the doorbell.
A moment later, the front door opens and he's gone.
GUS
Prick.

INT. LIMO - DAY

The limo sits outside The Tower. Gus waits. Yawns. Checks the
infotainment system. Time: 5:20 p.m.
SECURITY GUARD raps on the window. Gus winds it down.
SEURITY GUARD
Gotta move, man.
GUS
I'm waiting on--
SEURITY GUARD
You either pay for parking or fuck
off.
GUS
Guess I'm fucking off.
 18.

Gus winds up the window and drives from the turnabout onto
the main road. He gets caught in a TRAFFIC JAM.
GUS (CONT'D)
Great.
Phone rings. Gregory's name lights the screen.
GUS (CONT'D)
Shit.
He answers.
GUS (CONT'D)
(into phone)
Mr. Isaac--
(beat)
Yes, I'm here. I mean, I was. The
security--
(beat)
No, no. I'll be right there.
Ends the call.
GUS (CONT'D)
(murmurs)
Rule three.
Gus thrashes in his seat, bangs on the wheel. HONKS.
GUS (CONT'D)
MOVE!

INT. LIMO - LATER

Gus returns to the turnabout. Dashboard reads: 6 p.m. Gregory
gets in the back. Doesn't say a word.

INT. MARCY'S SALON - DAY

Clock ticks minutes past noon. Gus enters the salon. Marcy's
eating takeout, sitting in a styling chair. She looks up and
sees his reflection in the mirror. Swivels the chair around.
MARCY
And here I thought I'd have to go
hunting for my rifle.
Gus gives her an envelope full of CASH.
MARCY (CONT'D)
You put the extra two?
 19.

GUS
Yeah.
Marcy grins.
MARCY
I'm glad the verse resonated.
What're you up to, anyway?
GUS
Driver.
MARCY
Son did that for a couple years. On
one of them apps.
GUS
He like it?
MARCY
Does food delivery now.
She lifts her styrofoam container.
MARCY (CONT'D)
Always gets me a plate.
Marcy sets the food aside and counts the bills.
MARCY (CONT'D)
I think I like our new arrangement.
She eyes him. New suit, slick hair. Someone's been upping
their game.
MARCY (CONT'D)
And they must be paying well. I'm
making it permanent.
GUS
What! That was a one off!
MARCY
You're free to pack your things.
Good luck finding another place for
that price.
Gus' seething. Marcy grabs her plate.
MARCY (CONT'D)
Now if you don't mind, this is
getting cold.
 20.

INT. GUS' APARTMENT - DAY

Gus sits on the floor. He scrolls his phone, and tosses a TOY
MOUSE across the room. Horatio darts after it.
Phone pings. Message. Gus reads it.
GUS
Delivery? Guess I've come full
circle.
Horatio paws his leg, toy mouse in his mouth. Gus stands.
GUS (CONT'D)
Sorry bud. Beelzebub calls.

EXT. THE TEMPLE - DAY

THE TEMPLE stands out among the other residential buildings.
It has Corinthian columns, and a pediment made of stone and
marble.

INT. THE TEMPLE - DAY

Maidens stroll about. They're all dressed in mustard coloured
TOGAS. Gus looks around, confused.
GUS
What the...
He sees a SERVICE DESK and approaches it.
ZOE (early 20s) stares at the ceiling. A blank expression in
her eyes.
Gus looks up and sees a mural inspired by Michelangelo:
Maidens following the High Priestess up a mountain towards a
fire breathing DRAGON.
GUS (CONT'D)
Nice art.
ZOE
It's our history.
She looks at him.
GUS
I'm here to pick up something for
Jessica Isaac.
Zoe perks up and smiles. It doesn't reach her eyes.
 21.

ZOE
Name?
GUS
Gus.
Zoe types on a computer.
ZOE
Please let Jessica know the High
Priestess values her devotion.
GUS
Uh, sure. So, what is this place?
Zoe pauses. Gives him a look over. Clearly unimpressed.
ZOE
We are the Children of Ithaca.
GUS
Never heard of it.
ZOE
You wouldn't.
Her tone is off. Condescending.
ZOE (CONT'D)
Please wait a moment.
Zoe leaves her station behind the desk and walks into a room.
Gus watches as two Maidens walk by, humming at one another.
Zoe returns with a BOX. It's black and has gold patterns.
ZOE (CONT'D)
Tell her she must read the
instructions.
Zoe points at the box.
ZOE (CONT'D)
It won't work if she doesn't.
Zoe passes it to Gus. He shakes the Box--
ZOE (CONT'D)
(screams)
Stop!
Other Maidens pause. All attention's on Gus.
 22.

GUS
Is it fragile?
Beat.
ZOE
It's sacred.

INT. LIMO - DRIVING - DAY

Gus looks over at the passenger seat where the Box lays. He's
curious; a boy inching his hand into the cookie jar.
GUS
Rule two.
Still, he can't help but glance at the Box again.

EXT. ISAAC HOUSE - DAY

Gus presses the doorbell and waits. JESSICA ISAAC (40s),
blonde bombshell and possible former pageant queen, opens the
door.
JESSICA
(eagerly)
Finally!
She grabs the Box from Gus.
JESSICA (CONT'D)
Did they say anything?
GUS
Uh, lots of buzzing.
Jessica smiles.
JESSICA
A blessing. I must thank them.
She slams the door. Gus stares at the door.
Beat.
GUS
You're welcome!
 23.

INT. GUS' APARTMENT - NIGHT

Gus grabs a beer from the pantry. He cracks it open and takes
a swig.
Gus sits on the kitchen chair. Horatio greets him, rubbing
against his leg.
Gus takes out his phone and opens a search engine.
GUS
(mumbling to himself)
Let's see.
(typing)
Children of Ithaca.
First search result, a newspaper headline: The Newest
Spiritual Movement taking High Society by Storm
Gus clicks the link and skims through the article.
GUS (CONT'D)
Priestess...scam...the mayor?
(more scrolling)
Investigation...more investigation.
(beat)
"Several faith communities have
accused the Temple of human
sacrifice, but it hasn't slowed
down membership from their wealthy
clientele."
He shuts off his phone.
GUS (CONT'D)
(sarcastic)
Good thing I'm poor.
Gus removes a DEVICE and slip of paper from his pocket.
Device resembles a PAGER. It's got a LED SCREEN, RED BUTTON
and SPEAKER.
GUS (CONT'D)
(to Horatio)
Think curiosity really killed the
cat?
Meow.
He scans the slip.
 24.

GUS (CONT'D)
(reading)
Press the red button for three
seconds, then say your name.
Gus drops the paper and examines the device. Looks normal
enough. He presses the button.
1...2...3...
A BLUE light fills the device's screen. Gus clears his
throat.
GUS (CONT'D)
Gus.
The LED Screen changes. It has two displays: Gus' name and
number: 1000.
NANDI
Hello, Gus. You can call me Nandi.
NANDI doesn't sound robotic. Not even Siri-like. She sounds
HUMAN. A gentle, feminine voice.
NANDI (CONT'D)
I am a Guide.
GUS
That supposed to mean something?
NANDI
You want to feel like someone.
Important, needed, admired. Someone
like Gregory.
Gus' heart's racing 120 mph.
GUS
Fuck, I've gotta return you! God,
what was I thinking--
NANDI
Take a deep breath.
GUS
I've--
NANDI
Do it.
Gus does. Puffer fish face. Just when it becomes unbearable
to hold--
 25.

NANDI (CONT'D)
Relax.
Gus lets it all out. He's calmer now.
NANDI (CONT'D)
Don't be afraid. I want to help
you.
GUS
Is that before or after you take my
credit card info?
Beat.
NANDI
Happiness is on the other side.
That gets his attention. He's intrigued.

INT. ISAAC HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - SAME

Inside's got all the staples of wealth: paintings,
chandeliers, imported furniture. Gaudy and unapologetic.
Jessica sits crossed legged on a floor cushion.
Hair in a messy bun, eyes closed. She's in another world,
deep in her mind, searching for Nirvana.
Strange EASTERN sounding music plays from speakers. A voice
fills the room. Deep, hypnotic.
HIGH PRIESTESS (V.O.)
Be intentional with every breath.
All around you are
vibrations...sources of energy.
Buzzing.
(makes buzzing noises)
Embrace it. Harness its power.
Listen, and you will find the path.
May you be granted peace, o' child
of Ithaca.
Voice and music fades, replaced by the incessant ring of a
TELEPHONE.
Jessica opens her eyes, annoyance marking her face. She walks
over to the landline and picks up the handset.
JESSICA
Isaac household.
 26.

INT. THE TEMPLE - SAME

Zoe twirls the phone cord, handset tucked between her
shoulder and ear.
ZOE
Jesica? This is Zoe from The
Temple.
INTERCUT JESSICA/ZOE
Jessica's eyes widen. She clears her throat. Voice much more
pleasant.
JESSICA
Oh Zoe, forgive me! I was just in
the middle of--well, it doesn't
matter. How are you?
ZOE
I'm calling because I just wanted
to check in with you. About the
Guide?
Jessica smiles. She turns towards a small wooden TIKI statue.
It's the center piece of a SHRINE.
JESSICA
You mean the statue? Yes, it's
lovely. Quite the conversation
starter.
Zoe pulls the phone from her ear, stares at it before
returning it to her shoulder.
ZOE
Statue?
Suddenly, her computer screen flashes with a message in large
bold letters: GUS_1000.
ZOE (CONT'D)
(murmurs)
I see.
JESSICA
Is everything alright?
ZOE
Of course. I'm glad you enjoyed the
gift. A small token from Ithaca.
I'll be in touch.
Zoe hangs up before Jessica can respond.
 27.

INT. GUS' APARTMENT - SAME

Gus' thumb hovers over the red button.
NANDI
Press it.
GUS
I'm crazy. This is crazy.
NANDI
You've got nothing to lose.
His thumb inches closer...
NANDI (CONT'D)
You deserve better, Gus. I can give
you better.
Beat.
GUS
What the hell...
Gus presses the button.
A bright WHITE light fills the room--

INT. GUS' HOUSE - BEDROOM - DAY

Gus sleeps on a massive bed. A HAND lies on his bare chest.
He opens his eyes and turns--
GUS
Ahhhh!
Clara sleeps next to him. Gus sits up, looks around the room.
Confusion all over his face.
Clara stirs. She looks at him, concerned.
CLARA
Gus, what happened? Did you have a
nightmare?
Gus hesitates, and brings a hand to Clara's face. She smiles
at the intimate gesture.
GUS
Am I dreaming?
Clara chuckles.
 28.

CLARA
You need a coffee.
She sits up and finds a robe. Looks over at him.
CLARA (CONT'D)
I'll get the kids ready.
She leaves the bedroom. Gus gapes at the closed door.
GUS
Kids?
NANDI (O.S.)
Gus.
Gus turns and finds Nandi on the nightstand. He picks her up.
GUS
What the hell is going on!
NANDI
Isn't it obvious?
Gus looks at his hand. A WEDDING BAND on his finger.
GUS
This can't be real.
NANDI
Do you remember pressing the
button?
GUS
Yeah, but--
NANDI
I made you an offer. You accepted.
The end.
(beat)
You need to pull yourself together
or she'll get suspicious.
Gus shakes his head. Still in denial.
GUS
Lucid dreaming. That's gotta be it.
He walks over to a wall.
GUS (CONT'D)
I don't have time for this shit.
I'm gonna be late for work.
 29.

Gus stares at the wall, and braces himself. He takes a deep

breath and SMACKS his forehead against it.

INT. GUS' HOUSE - KITCHEN - DAY

A kitchen built for a chef. Horatio scampers across the
counter.
Gus sits at the table with Clara, EMMA (7, spitting image of
Clara) and JONATHAN (10, younger Gus with blue eyes).
Gus wears a suit that costs his old salary. A large BAND-AID
slapped below his hairline. Nandi's clipped on his belt.
He eats, looks uncomfortable.
CLARA
(to Emma and Jonathan)
Hurry up. You don't want to miss
the bus again.
She glances at Gus, expectantly.
GUS
First one to finish, gets ten
bucks.
CLARA
Gus!
GUS
What?
CLARA
You're not bribing them!
GUS
It's not bribing, it's an
incentive.
The children start inhaling the food. Gus' phone rings.
GUS (CONT'D)
Hello?
NOAH (O.S.)
Gus, it's Noah Dahan. Just wanted
you to know Antonio's on his way.
Gave him your number. He'll shoot
you a text once he's there.
GUS
Oh, um, great. Thanks.
 30.

NOAH (O.S.)
Let me know if he gives you
trouble, alright?
GUS
Will do.
NOAH (O.S.)
Great. And if you love the service,
feel free to leave a review.
(laughs)
Five stars gets a five dollar
discount.
GUS
Five dollars?
NOAH (O.S.)
Yeah, that's like two coffees. Four
if you get small. Depends on how
much of a caffeine junkie you are.
(beat)
No pressure. Just think about it.
I'll be checking, though.
Noah laughs. Gus laughs, but his is awkward.
GUS
Sure.
Call ends. Phone pings with a new message. Unknown number.
Mr. McKey, I'm outside.
GUS (CONT'D)
I've gotta run.
Jonathan and Emma's plates are cleaned. Gus grins at Clara.
GUS (CONT'D)
Works like a charm.
Gus pulls out two TEN DOLLAR bills from his wallet.

EXT. GUS' HOME - DAY

Gus steps into the backseat of the limo. Not the sedan he's
used to driving: this one's a SUV.
ANTONIO GOMEZ (30) closes the door.
 31.

INT. LIMO - DAY

Antonio gets behind the wheel. He smiles at Gus in the rear
view mirror.
ANTONIO
(turns)
I got you a water. Made sure it's
chilled--unless you like it warm?
(frowning)
I should've got both.
GUS
It's fine. Thanks.
Antonio starts driving. Gus winds up the divider. No
eavesdropping here. He unclips Nandi.
GUS (CONT'D)
Alright, start from the beginning.
NANDI
You're thirty-three--
GUS
Thirty--You got me aging in dog
years!
NANDI
I thought you'd prefer not having
the stigma of being a teenage
parent.
Gus mumbles under his breath.
NANDI (CONT'D)
You're an analyst; you work in
acquisitions.
GUS
Why the hell would you choose that!
NANDI
The house isn't going to pay
itself. Besides, it's easier to
fake than being a surgeon.
GUS
Stop doing that.
NANDI
What?
 32.

GUS
Having an answer for everything.
Gus puts his head in his hands.
GUS (CONT'D)
There's no way I'm gonna pull this
off.
(whimpering)
The second I open my mouth, it's
over.
NANDI
Quit whining! This will only work
if you adapt. Read people.
Find out who they are, what they
want, and how you can benefit.
GUS
Pretty sure you just described a
sociopath.
Gus uncaps the bottle and drinks it.
NANDI
CEO. Politician. Preacher. Ivy
League drop out.
(beat)
You have to work for this, Gus. Did
you think it was going to be easy?
GUS
Alright, I get it. Just--you really
threw me into a pile of shit.
NANDI
You're anxious. Don't be.
Beat.
GUS
What if I can't do it?
NANDI
Then I made a mistake choosing you.
And I don't make mistakes.

INT. THE TOWER - DAY

Gus stands in front of the DIRECTORY, looking for any clue of
where he now works.
 33.

GUS
(to Nandi)
Could you give me a hint?
PAUL (O.S.)
Gus!
Gus turns and sees PAUL HOLMES (30s, smarmy). Paul presses
the elevator button and glances at Gus.
PAUL (CONT'D)
The hell are you doing?
GUS
Stalling.
Paul snorts.
PAUL
For what? Nicholson never chews you
out.
GUS
(mutters)
First time for everything.
Elevator arrives.

INT. ELEVATOR - CONTINUOUS

Gus watches as Paul presses the 10th floor.
PAUL
He's been busting my balls about
the SF acquisition. My eyes must've
crossed five times going over it.
You done drafting the proposal?
GUS
Just about...
ANDERSON
You're a goddamn animal, McKey.
Elevator opens into the--

INT. 10TH FLOOR - CONTINUOUS

HALLWAY
Paul opens the door into his office. Gus searches, scanning
the name plaques. Finally he sees it: GUS MCKEY.
 34.

Gus grabs a key and tries it. No dice. He switches to another

key. It unlocks.

INT. GUS' OFFICE - DAY

Gus sets down the briefcase, opens the blinds and boots up
the computer. The screen is password protected.
GUS
What the hell's the password?
NANDI
Think.
Gus mules over it for a second. Types on the keyboard. Screen
unlocks.
GUS
Okay, now what?
NANDI
Did you listen to anything Paul
said?
GUS
Paul? Oh, right.
Gus unclips Nandi and sets her on the desk. He opens a search
bar and types in "SF".
GUS (CONT'D)
Great! We've got San Francisco,
square feet...and science fiction.
(beat)
I'm so fucked.
(chuckles)
Maybe that's what it means.
Gus drops his head in his hands. Nandi sighs.
NANDI
Check recent files.
GUS
I was about to do that.
NANDI
After your breakdown?
GUS
You know humans? We've got this
thing called empathy.
 35.

NANDI
If I was programmed to feel sorry
for you, you'd still be at your
apartment eating frozen meals.
GUS
(distracted clicking)
I always warm my food.
Gus searches recent files. One pops up: SEOUL FEET. He opens
it. Skims.
GUS (CONT'D)
Might as well be in Chinese.
Nandi's screen flashes GREEN.
NANDI
You mean Korean. I've downloaded
the file. Seoul Feet is a gym
franchise. You have to convince the
board members--
GUS
Don't speak Chinese or Korean.
NANDI
Gus--
GUS
(huffs)
Fine. Make it make sense.

INT. THE TOWER - 10TH FLOOR - BATHROOM - DAY

Gus' alone in the MENS ROOM. He practices FACES in the
mirror: suave, wise cracker, Michael Scott, serious...more
serious with an eyebrow raise. Smile, but not too much teeth.
NANDI
You look like you belong in a
padded cell.
GUS
Do padded cells have mirrors?
NANDI
No, but I'm sure you'd imagine one.
GUS
Were you always this snarky?
Gus clears his throat. Gets into character.
 36.

GUS (CONT'D)
We make them feel special.
Pampered. Healthy. Sexy. Our
clients aren't bums scrapping for
rent, digging in laundry for a
fiver cause they're short on bus
fare--wanna know why? Cause they
got out there and made something of
themselves! And SF's premium
package is gonna make sure they can
fuck at eighty, when their kids
throw them in a retirement home
with all the other horn dogs! You
know what sounds like to me? A life
well lived!
(beat)
What'd you think?
NANDI
No comment.
GUS
Nothing?
NANDI
I didn't realize this was a
humiliation ritual. I have a
terrible case of second hand
embarrassment--my device heats up
and considering you clip me right
next to your groin, I think it's a
safety hazard. For me.
GUS
So if I suck, you might
accidentally melt my balls off.
Beat.
NANDI
Boil them. Like eggs.

INT. BOARDROOM - DAY

Gus stands in front of a group of LAWYERS and BUSINESSMEN.
They all have open folders and stoney expressions.
Gus whips all his facial expressions at them. He talks--looks
more like stammering, but he's passionate. Adds some jazz
hands. Presidential point.
 37.

Thrusts his hips. Nandi's securely clipped on Gus' belt,

suffering through his gyrating. Gus makes bold eye contact
with the CEO, DANIEL NICHOLSON (60s).
The audience nod their heads in approval. Daniel stands,
clapping. Paul's the only one unimpressed. Seething.
Gus smiles and wipes his sweaty palms on his slacks.

INT. GUS' HOME - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT

Gus tosses his briefcase on the sofa chair, and splays
himself on the couch.
NANDI
You surprised me.
GUS
I'm gonna pretend that's a
compliment.
NANDI
It's not.
GUS
Are you just programmed to be an
asshole?
NANDI
I'm programmed to be right.
GUS
And humble.
NANDI
Now you're catching on.
Clara walks in. Sees him.
CLARA
Oh, thought I heard someone.
GUS
Was on speaker. My co-worker likes
to squawk. I nicknamed her
Henrietta.
Clara takes a seat next to him.
CLARA
I see. And what was Henrietta
squawking about?
 38.

GUS
Doesn't matter. The board accepted
my proposal.
CLARA
Hopefully it comes with a raise.
You deserve it.
Gus leans over and pecks her on the lips.
GUS
Where're the kids?
CLARA
Finishing homework. Jonathan's been
slacking. I thought you spoke to
him.
GUS
Why do I have to be the bad cop?
Clara's stone faced.
CLARA
Gus--
GUS
Yeah, okay. Got it. Bad cop.
BEGIN MONTAGE (VARIOUS)
- Gus helps Jonathan with his homework. Clara watches them,
smiling.
- Gus, Jonathan and Emma stand in front of an ice cream
truck. The vendor gives them each a cone.
- Gus attends Jonathan's baseball game. Cheering from the
stands. Jonathan hits a HOME RUN.
- The family eats dinner together, chatting. Enjoying time
together.
- Gus and Emma go to a daddy-daughter dance. Emma's dressed
like a princess.
- Gus, Emma and Jonathan huddled up, watching a movie in the
home theatre.
- Gus and Clara having a romantic dinner at a restaurant.
- Gus and Clara in the bedroom, tearing each others clothes
off.
 39.

INT. GUS' HOUSE - KITCHEN - DAY

Gus warms up some leftovers. Whistling to himself. Horatio
rubs his leg. Gus bends down and pets Horatio.
GUS
How's your room? I was thinking
about getting you a bigger tent.
An excited meow. Gus chuckles. Grabs his meal: lasagna. He
sits at the kitchen island and starts eating. Only gets a few
chews in when--
NANDI
You have an appointment.
GUS
Clara would've reminded--
NANDI
Clara doesn't know.
Beat.
GUS
Where?

INT. LIMO - DRIVING - DAY

Antonio stops the limo in front of the Temple. His eyebrows
jump.
ANTONIO
You sure this is the right place,
Mr. McKey?
GUS
I'll call you when I'm done.
Gus opens the car door.

INT. THE TEMPLE - DAY

Maidens mulling about as usual. Gus walks to the service
desk, where Zoe's on the phone.
ZOE
There's a leak...no, it can't
wait...have you ever been cursed
before...tomorrow? Should we turn
you into a frog or ogre...tonight?
Great, I'll meet you outside.
 40.

She slams the handset on its rest. Looks at Gus.

ZOE (CONT'D)
Follow me.

EXT. THE HIGH PRIESTESS QUARTERS - DAY

They're in a darker area of the Temple. No lightbulbs, only
wall torches. Zoe stops in front of a BEADED CURTAIN.
ZOE
Shoes off.
GUS
Still don't know what I'm doing
here...
ZOE
Off.
GUS
Lose the attitude, alright?
Gus takes off his dress shoes. Zoe pulls aside the beads. Gus
walks into--

INT. THE PRIESTESS QUARTERS - CONTINUOUS

A room billowing with incense. An overhead lamp provides a
dim purple glow. The HIGH PRIESTESS (70s, long white hair)
sits on a lush carpet, cross legged. She's bony and has
leathery skin.
Her TOGA is white and gold. Her face, veiled, but visible
enough that we can see her face.
HIGH PRIESTESS
Sit.
Gus takes a seat across from The High Priestess.
HIGH PRIESTESS (CONT'D)
So, you're the one.
(beat)
The thief.
Gus cringes.
GUS
About that--
Priestess raises a hand.
 41.

HIGH PRIESTESS
I'm not finished. Fortunately for
you, Nandi saw potential. She gave
you what you desired above all.
(beat)
Now, it is time for you to show
your gratitude.
GUS
Thanks?
HIGH PRIESTESS
Ithaca has spoken. You are required
to complete three tasks. If you
fail, everything he has generously
bestowed you will be taken away.
GUS
Can't one of your employees--
HIGH PRIESTESS
No. Stop interrupting me.
Gus raises his hand. Priestess eye rolls.
HIGH PRIESTESS (CONT'D)
Yes?
GUS
Is it difficult?
The Priestess speaks, but we don't hear what she says. Must
not be good by Gus' expression. He's panicked, shaking his
head, eyes almost bulging.
GUS (CONT'D)
No way! You can't expect me--
HIGH PRIESTESS
It will be done. Think about Clara,
the children, your success. About
losing what makes you happiest.
GUS
But I can't! There's no way I can
do that. Not on my own.
HIGH PRIESTESS
You have a Guide.
Gus unclips Nandi and shoves her in the Priestess' face.
 42.

GUS
What's she gonna do, huh? Beep beep
boop when things go wrong?
Priestess' eye twitches with annoyance, but her voice doesn't
waver.
HIGH PRIESTESS
If you require our assistance, you
may inform Nandi. She will decide
on the course of action. You have
until the last sand grain falls.
For your sake, I hope you succeed.
She picks up a large HOURGLASS TIMER and turns it over. Gus
stares at it. One sand grain drops.

EXT. THE TEMPLE - DAY

Gus stands outside, antsy.
GUS
What the fuck was that!
(looks around)
Where the fuck is he!
NANDI
You need to relax.
GUS
Relax! I just got blackmailed! By a
witch!
NANDI
Stereotypes? She can't help her
nose.
GUS
I've seen Snow White!
(hands in hair)
What did you get me into?
NANDI
Every moment you waste, is time
lost. The sand doesn't care about
your feelings.
Gus watches as the limo approaches.
NANDI (CONT'D)
You can either give up and lose
everything, or fight. Is this worth
fighting for, Gus?
 43.

TASK ONE: THE HEATHEN

EXT. CHURCH - DAY

Goldilocks' church: not a chapel or a megachurch. Mid-sized.
Gus opens the doors.

INT. CHURCH - DAY

Wooden pews, a sanctuary featuring a large CROSS with an
effigy of Jesus, and a lectern. LAURA (40s) sits in the
front, head bowed.
Gus approaches her. She senses him--neck straightens, eyes
open.
LAURA
Can I help you?
GUS
I'm looking for Pastor Marshall.
Laura smiles.
LAURA
He's probably in the back. That's
where his office is. He expecting
you?
GUS
Oh, ah, no. I just felt...you know,
the spirit tell me to come in. I
live nearby here.
Laura stands and leaves the pew.
LAURA
God speaks when we least expect it.
(beat)
I'm Laura, Jonah's wife.
She offers a hand. He shakes it.
LAURA (CONT'D)
Come on. I'm sure he'll be happy to
answer any questions you have.

EXT. JONAH'S OFFICE - MOMENTS LATER

Laura knocks on the door.
 44.

LAURA
It's me.
Sounds of movement from the other side. Door opens and
reveals JONAH MARSHALL (early 50s). Tall, wide shoulders,
head full of grey hair. Could've been a football player in
his youth.
JONAH
I was just finishing my sermon.
Jonah notices Gus.
JONAH (CONT'D)
Who's this?
Laura laughs, self consciously. She glances at Gus.
LAURA
You know, I didn't get your name.
GUS
Peter.
JONAH
"And I tell you, you are Peter, and
on this rock I will build my
church, and the gates of hell shall
not prevail against it." That's a
powerful name, son.
(to Laura)
Thank you, dear. I'll take it from
here.
Laura squeezes Gus' shoulder and leaves.

INT. JONAH'S OFFICE - MOMENTS LATER

Cramped office. Boarded up window. On Jonah's table is a
thick Bible, and a notepad with scribbles on it.
Gus sits across from Jonah.
JONAH
So, you're ready to commit to the
Lord?
GUS
It's a bit complicated.
JONAH
Well, go on son. I'm listening.
 45.

Gus runs a hand through his hair. Collects himself.

GUS
My sister...I think she's going
down a dark path.
JONAH
Drugs?
GUS
No, um,--
JONAH
Porn?
GUS
Eww. I mean no--
JONAH
Spit it out, then. I won't judge.
GUS
She started talking about this
Temple. The Children of Ithaca.
Beat. Jonah's face becomes grave.
JONAH
That ain't no dark path. She's
damning her soul.
Gus nods.
GUS
I don't know how to get through to
her. I was hoping you could help.
JONAH
What do you need me to do?
GUS
Talk to her. Show her the light.
Jonah's chest puffs.
JONAH
Bring her round. I'll steer her
from those devils.

INT. GUS' HOUSE - BEDROOM - NIGHT

Clara and Gus cuddle in bed.
 46.

CLARA
You're quiet.
GUS
Got a lot on my mind.
CLARA
Work?
GUS
Something like that. It's a new
project. Different. A massive
fucking headache.
CLARA
I'm not sure how much help I'd be,
but I'm all ears.
She turns in his arms.
GUS
I need a distraction.
Clara smirks.
CLARA
Now that I can help with.
She kisses him. He pulls her close.

EXT. GUS' HOME - DAY

Gus waits outside. He grabs Nandi.
GUS
I've got a plan. But I need one of
the girls.
Nandi's screen changes. An ENVELOPE swooshes across her
screen.
NANDI
Done. She'll meet us.

INT. BUENOS DIAS SUNSHINE - DAY

Local dine in, no chain restaurant here. WAITRESS sets down
two coffees in front of Gus and Zoe. They sit in a booth. A
high-end CAMERA lies next to Gus.
 47.

Zoe takes a sip and balks. Opens two sugar packets and dumps
it into her mug. Quickly stirs it. Takes another sip. Makes a
face.
ZOE
You sure this is gonna work?
GUS
No, but what other options do we
have.
ZOE
We? You dragged me into this.
GUS
Look, do you want the fucking task
done or not?
ZOE
(mockingly)
Lose the attitude, alright?
She picks back up the mug. Tries another slip. Still gross.
ZOE (CONT'D)
I'm not paying for this. Tastes
like gym socks soaked in dirt.
(sips)
And you owe me.
GUS
What?
ZOE
There's this dress I've been
eyeing. Costs an arm, leg and a
kidney. Both kidneys.
GUS
Let's get this done, then we can
figure out your little shopping
spree.
Gus checks his watch. Pulls out a few bills.
GUS (CONT'D)
Come on.

EXT. CHURCH - DAY

Gus and Zoe stand outside the church. Hovering near the door.
The camera's attached to a lanyard and lays on Gus' chest. He
holds Nandi.
 48.

GUS
Good?
NANDI
There's no one inside the nave.
Jonah's in his office.
Gus looks over at Zoe.
GUS
Remember, we need him in the main
area.
ZOE
Heard you the first five hundred
times.
Gus quietly opens the door. He hurries toward the lectern. It
stands on a platform. The lectern's large and imposing. The
perfect pulpit to breathe God's word at a congregation.
Gus hides behind it. Checks his camera. Turns it on.
ZOE (CONT'D)
(whispers)
Where is it?
Gus pops his head up from his hiding spot.
GUS
(whispers)
In the back. Lose the resting bitch
face. You're supposed to be a lost
lamb.
ZOE
Huh?
Gus face palms.
GUS
Just look innocent.
Zoe smirks. She heads towards the office.

EXT. JONAH'S OFFICE - DAY

Knocks on the door. Jonah opens.
JONAH
Luna?
Zoe nods. Looks meek, nervous. Like a helpless rabbit.
 49.

JONAH (CONT'D)
I'm Jonah Marshall. Lead Pastor
here at Hillside Presbyterian. Glad
you stopped by.
ZOE
Could we talk out there?
She points in the direction on the main area.
ZOE (CONT'D)
It's just I've been in so many
offices. Therapy, you know?
Jonah nods understandingly.
JONAH
Of course. Let me just grab the
good book.
He steps back inside and returns with his Bible.

INT. CHURCH - MAIN AREA - DAY

Zoe sits in the front pew, across from the lectern. Jonah
sits next to her. An appropriate amount of space between
them. Enough to fit an angel.
Zoe stares at the large cross.
JONAH
You brother's concerned about you.
ZOE
I know. He's been like that since
we were kids.
JONAH
That temple you've been rubbing
shoulders with--it's a cult. Dark
forces lurking inside. First time I
drove past it, I caught myself
praying. The words just started
coming outta me.
ZOE
They're nice--
JONAH
That's how the devil works; always
greets you with a smile.
(nods)
(MORE)
 50.
JONAH (CONT'D)
The snake that fooled Eve had a big
toothy grin. You ever seen a snake
before?
ZOE
A--at the zoo.
JONAH
I shot one.
Zoe's surprised.
JONAH (CONT'D)
God gave us guns for a reason,
Luna. Never forget that.
ZOE
Can I be saved, pastor?
JONAH
Course you can. All you've gotta do
is pray. Would you like to pray
with me, Luna?
Zoe scoots closer to Jonah. Her eyes are hooded; stares at
his lips.
ZOE
I think I need more than a prayer--
She leans over and kisses him. He's shocked; doesn't
move...then reciprocates. Returns the kisses. Jonah pulls her
close.
BEHIND THE LECTERN
Gus has his camera ready. He jabs the shutter like an anxious
student clicking a pen during a final.
Jonah finally returns to his senses. Pushes Zoe away.
JONAH
Flee from me satan!
(heavy breathing)
Father, forgive me!
Jonah stands. Points a finger at the entrance.
JONAH (CONT'D)
You need to go.
ZOE
But what about--
 51.

JONAH
I can't help you. You've been taken
by the evil one! I see it now!
Jezebel's come over you!
Jonah marches away back into his office. The sound of a door
slam reverberates throughout the church.
ZOE
Did you get it?
Gus appears from his hiding spot. He checks the images on the
camera. Damning. Scandalous. And all caught in high res mega
pixels.
GUS
We're going to hell.

INT. GUS' HOUSE - KITCHEN - NIGHT

Quiet. Only the kitchen light's on. Gus' on his laptop.
Camera's connected to it.
He opens a social media website. Finds the church's page.
Uploads the pictures. He types a message.
Caption: What man of God cheats on his wife with a woman
young enough to be his daughter! In the house of the Lord!
Shame on you!
Mouse hovers over the post button. He clicks it.
Shuts the laptop. Horatio walks across the island. Swishes
his tail in Gus' face.
GUS
He was a good man. Is a good man.
Meow.
GUS (CONT'D)
I know. Still doesn't make it
right.
Gus grabs a LIQUOR BOTTLE from the pantry. Pops it open and
drinks from the mouth.
Meow!
Gus chuckles.
 52.

GUS (CONT'D)
I don't wanna think about it.
(beat)
That was only round one.

EXT. CHURCH - DAY

Gus stands outside with a microphone and speaker. Passersby
walk around him. Few stop and listen.
GUS
(into the mic)
What kinda man leads a church but
can't stick by his own convictions!
You're a hypocrite! My sister
needed help. She was vulnerable and
lost and instead of guiding her,
you sinned! Made her your
concubine...while Jesus was staring
down at you! He saw the whole
thing!
Laura storms out of the church. Her eyes are red and
frenzied.
ACROSS THE STREET --
An INFLUENCER pauses. Pulls out his phone and records.
Laura gets in Gus' face.
LAURA
You!
(jabs him in the chest)
You sent her! That harlot! Why'd
you do it? We're good people. Godly
people! Jonah's heartbroken; we've
lost five members since your stunt!
GUS
(disappointed)
Only?
(still into the mic)
You're mad at the wrong person.
Pastor Marshall's heart was full of
lust--lots of lust--
Laura snatches the mic from Gus' hand and smashes it on the
pavement. She screams, picking up the speaker: not quite She-
hulk, but still impressive. Tosses it against the church
steps. It breaks.
 53.

GUS (CONT'D)
I was gonna return those...
Laura starts thumping him on the chest with closed fists.
LAURA
You destroyed everything we've
worked for! Why?
(crying)
We just wanted to help.
She drops to her knees, sobbing.
INFLUENCER stops recording. Opens social media. Uploads the
video.
Sends it to his 500,000 FOLLOWERS.
Nandi's screen changes. Flashes gold. Text appears: TASK
COMPLETE.

INT. GUS' OFFICE - DAY

Gus' back in his suit. Typing away at his computer. Looks
like he's been through war.
Daniel walks in. Takes a seat across from Gus.
DANIEL
You've gone viral.
GUS
What?
DANIEL
Heather's obsessed with those apps.
Imagine my surprise when she shows
me a video of you. Didn't know you
were a street preacher.
GUS
I'm not.
DANIEL
So, what were you doing out there?
GUS
Calling them out.
 54.

DANIEL
Things like that are a delicate
matter--best handle it without an
audience. Church folk shop at
Horfords, too.
GUS
Got it.
Daniel nods. Satisfied.
DANIEL
Don't let it happen again.
Daniel leaves, closes the door. Gus gnaws on his lip.
GUS
If Clara sees it, I'm screwed.
NANDI
Then make sure she doesn't.
BEGIN MONTAGE (VARIOUS)
- Gus grabs Clara's phone while she's in the shower. Unlocks
it. Goes to her social media apps. Blocks all hashtags with
the words church, viral, Hillside Presbyterian.
- Gus and Clara at a comedy club. Laughing at the set.
- Gus and Clara at a karaoke bar. Clara covers her ears while
Gus sings.
- Art night. Gus' portrait of Clara looks more like Big Foot.
He shows her and she nearly falls off her seat cackling.
- They play bowling. Gus strikes the pins. Clara cheers.
- Gus and Clara enjoy hotdogs while walking down a boardwalk.
Arms locked. Eyes locked with love.
END MONTAGE.

INT. THE TEMPLE - DAY

A DELIVERY MAN stops at the service desk. Looks at the
package.
DELIVERY MAN
Delivery for Zoe Fischer.
Zoe motions for him to give it to her. He passes a tablet for
her to sign. She scribbles a signature.
 55.

He gives her the package and leaves. Zoe grabs a box cutter
and tears at the packaging. Her breath catches when she sees
fabric.
She tears it open and squeals. Inside is a beautiful silk
black and blue dress.
A note falls out. She picks it up. Smirks as she reads it.
We're even.
- G
TASK TWO: THE APOSTATE

INT. GUS' OFFICE - DAY

Gus eats takeout while reading emails.
NANDI
The sand hill climbs. You're
running out of time.
Gus sets the food aside. Picks up Nandi.
GUS
The woman--
NANDI
Rosalind.
GUS
Where can I find her?

INT. BAR - NIGHT

High end, the type of place that caters to customers with
serious dough. Conversation flows throughout the bar. Filled
booths. Gus looks around the establishment, searching for
someone.
NANDI
In red. Hide me.
GUS
What?
NANDI
Do it.
Gus puts Nandi in his blazer pocket. He approaches the woman
in red, ROSALIND (25, dolled up, doe eyed beauty).
 56.

She sits at the bar counter. In front of her, an empty flute.

Gus stands next to her. Motions to the BARTENDER.
GUS
Old fashioned. On the rocks.
Gus points at Rosalind's flute.
GUS (CONT'D)
And another one for the pretty
lady.
Rosalind glances at him. Smiles.
ROSALIND
Thanks.
The Man sitting next to Rosalind vacates his seat. Gus sits.
GUS
Looks like you've got a lot on your
mind.
ROSALIND
Does it? Perhaps I do.
(beat)
I'm actually waiting for someone.
GUS
We can talk while you wait.
ROSALIND
What if I don't want company?
GUS
I don't think you wanna be here at
all.
ROSALIND
What?
GUS
It's written all over your face.
Bartender delivers the drinks. Rosalind picks up hers and
takes a sip. Eyes him.
ROSALIND
You a shrink or something?
GUS
Do I have to be for my eyes to
work? You're not like the other
girls in here.
 57.

ROSALIND
I've heard that line before.
Gus grins. Wiggles his ring finger with his wedding band.
GUS
Here on business.
ROSALIND
Heard that line too.
GUS
I imagine it's draining--
entertaining pervs old enough to be
your grandfather.
ROSALIND
You should go.
GUS
My friend used to do the same.
Eventually it was too much. She
didn't even leave a note.
Rosalind looks at him sympathetically.
ROSALIND
I'm sorry.
Gus nods.
GUS
It breaks your spirit over time. I
don't even think Luna realized
until it was too late.
(beat)
I wanna help you.
Rosalind stiffens.
ROSALIND
I'm not a charity case.
GUS
No! I wasn't--Look, I need a
housekeeper. My wife's a busy
woman. She does what she can, but
I'd like to lighten the load.
(beat)
It pays well and it's honest work.
Beat.
 58.

ROSALIND
Can I think about it?
GUS
Sure. But when someone offers you a
lifeline, it's always wise to grab
on.
Rosalind taps her fingernails on the counter. Thinking. Nods.
ROSALIND
Okay. Do I need to bring any--
GUS
Just yourself. I'll sort out the
rest.

INT. GUS' HOME - FOYER - DAY

Clara, Jonathan and Emma stand near the door. The kids are
buzzing with excitement.
EMMA
I wanna go on the roller coster!
JONATHAN
You're too short.
EMMA
Mom, Johnny called me short!
JONATHAN
I didn't call your short, you are
short.
The two bicker. Clara plants a kiss on Gus.
CLARA
Wish you could come.
GUS
I know. But this project--it's big.
Promotion big.
CLARA
Right. I just wish--
GUS
We'll do something together. Soon.
Besides, you get to be the cool
mom.
 59.

CLARA
We'll see how long that lasts.
(to the children)
Alright, let's go.
(to Gus)
Is he outside?
GUS
Yeah. You have his number?
Clara nods. She and the kids leave. Gus watches from the
window as Clara, Jonathan and Emma get into the limo. It
drives away.
NANDI
What exactly is your plan?
GUS
Plant one of Clara's necklaces on
her. File charges. That should
work, right?
NANDI
It's never about the plan, Gus.
It's always about the execution.

INT. GUS' HOME - LATER

Ding dong. Doorbell rings throughout the home. Gus makes his
way down the staircase. Just him. No Nandi around. He opens
the front door.
Rosalind's on the other side. Dressed down. Wearing a maid
uniform. Purse slung over her shoulder.
GUS
Thanks for making it on short
notice.
Gus looks past her. Notices no car in the driveway.
GUS (CONT'D)
You took a taxi?
ROSALIND
Yeah.
GUS
I'll cover it.
Rosalind nods. She enters the...
 60.

FOYER
Gus notices her nervous energy.
GUS
You okay?
ROSALIND
You didn't mention it was a
mansion.
GUS
(grins)
Bigger house means bigger check.
Come on, I put everything out.
They head into the--
LIVING ROOM
Rosalind's been armed with CLEANING PRODUCTS. She glances at
the framed portrait of Gus and his family.
ROSALIND
Cute kids.
GUS
Wish I could take credit. I'll be
upstairs if you need anything.
Rosalind nods. Gus smiles.
GUS (CONT'D)
You have time. No rush. They'll be
back late. If Clara likes it, we'll
bring you on permanently.
ROSALIND
Better get to it, then.
She picks up a hardwood floor polish and a sponge mop. Gus
leaves the room.

EXT. GUS' HOUSE - BEDROOM - LATER

Rosalind knocks on Gus' door.
ROSALIND
Gus?
No response.
 61.

ROSALIND (CONT'D)
I'm going to have lunch. I was
wondering if I could grab a bottle
of water.
Still nothing. Rosalind tries the handle. Door opens. She
hesitates and walks in the--
BEDROOM
Looks around. Impressive. Her eye catches something. She
can't believe it. Maybe even a look of denial. Her legs shake
as she walks towards the nightstand.
Nandi. Her hands shake as she picks it up. In the--
EN SUITE BATHROOM
Gus towels his hands. He opens the door and finds Rosalind
holding Nandi.
GUS
Rosalind? What're you--
Gus sees what she's holding.
ROSALIND
I should've known.
(cynical laugh)
It was too good to be true.
She looks at him.
ROSALIND (CONT'D)
You're with them.
GUS
Put it down.
ROSALIND
Do you know what you've gotten
yourself into?
(lifts Nandi)
Do you even know what this is?
GUS
(calming voice)
Rosalind--
ROSALIND
They promised you something. They
promise you and use you, then
dispose of you.
(MORE)
 62.
ROSALIND (CONT'D)
(beat)
Why did you bring me here?
GUS
Look--
ROSALIND
Don't lie to me!
Beat.
GUS
Have you arrested for stealing.
Rosalind and Gus maintain eye contact for a moment. She drops
Nandi and sprints out the room. Gus chases after her.
Rosalind's adrenaline's got her moving like a cheetah. She
scales down the
STAIRCASE
but misses a step. Goes tumbling. SCREAMS.
Gus grabs the railing. Rosalind lies at the base of the
staircase. Her neck's broken.
GUS (CONT'D)
No, no, no, no...
Gus rushes down the rest of the stairs. He looks at her. Her
eyes are vacant. No longer of this world. Gus empties his
GUTS.

INT. GUS' HOME - LATER

Gus cleans up the vomit with the cleaning products.
Rosalind's still there. Still dead. He returns to the --
BEDROOM
Gus picks up Nandi.
GUS
We've got a problem.

INT. GUS' HOME - FOYER - DUSK

Door bell rings. Gus' waiting anxiously on the other side.
Pulls the door open. Zoe sighs.
 63.

ZOE
Let's see the damage.

INT. GUS' HOME - MOMENTS LATER

Zoe looks at Rosalind, sprawled on the ground.
ZOE
What happened?
GUS
She tripped.
ZOE
This is gonna cost more than a
dress.
GUS
Send an invoice. So, what do we do?
ZOE
This 'we' again? I'm not your
sidekick.
GUS
Look, there's a dead woman in my
house and my family will be back
soon. Can you help me deal with
this or not?
Zoe chuckles.
ZOE
You're almost cute when you're
frazzled.
(beat)
Do you have all her stuff?
GUS
Shit.
Gus walks into the --

LIVING ROOM
The PURSE is on a sofa couch. He grabs it. Returns to the--
STAIRCASE
Zoe has on a pair of gloves. The type forensics use. She
takes the purse from him.
 64.

ZOE
You like that?
She points at his outfit. Gus looks down at what he's
wearing. It's nice. Preppy.
GUS
Yeah?
ZOE
Put on something you never wanna
see again. Shoes, too.
Gus stares at her blankly.
ZOE (CONT'D)
Go!
That puts a battery in his engine. He scrambles up the
staircase.

INT. GUS' HOME - LATER

Gus' got on a hideous outfit, ratty shoes and a duffel bag
strapped across his back. He pulls Rosalind across the floor.

EXT. GUS' HOME - MOMENTS LATER

Gus hauls Rosalind down the front steps. A beat up CAR is
parked in the driveway.
Zoe pops open the trunk. Inside, flashlights and shovels.
GUS
Those don't look new.
ZOE
You're not the first person to fuck
up.
Gus heaves and throws Rosalind's body in the trunk.
ZOE (CONT'D)
Grab Nandi.
Gus removes her from his belt. Zoe rummages in Rosalind's bag
and grabs her PHONE. She hands it over to Gus.
GUS
What exactly am I doing?
 65.

ZOE
Making sure you aren't a person of
interest.
NANDI
Put me against the phone then press
the red button. I'll erase any
messages between you and Rosalind.
Gus places Nandi against the phone. Presses the BUTTON.
Nandi's screen changes: a garbage bin tosses out trash.
NANDI (CONT'D)
Done.
Zoe takes the phone back from Gus.
ZOE
I'll wipe down everything and plant
it after we're done.
Zoe grabs a pair of keys from her pocket and throws it to
Gus. He catches it...barely.
ZOE (CONT'D)
You're driving.

EXT. WOODS - NIGHT

New moon. Only real light is Zoe's flashlight. In her other
hand, a shovel. Gus carries Rosalind on his back.
NANDI
Here.
Zoe drops the shovel on the ground. Gus gently offloads
Rosalind. He grabs the shovel. He starts digging.

EXT. WOODS - LATER

Gus' spent. Tired, breathing loudly. He's dug a hole large
enough to fit Rosalind.
Gus pulls Rosalind's body closer to the hole, and turns her
over. She falls into the pit.
ZOE
Anything you wanna say? To her, I
mean. It helps.
 66.

GUS
(to Rosalind)
I--I'm so sorry. I hope you were an
orphan. I wouldn't want your family
to suffer--
ZOE
Okay, that's enough. It's not like
she can hear you.
Gus picks up the shovel.
GUS
Could use some help here.
ZOE
I am helping. You wouldn't see shit
without me.
GUS
From Jezebel to Lucifer.
ZOE
Huh?
GUS
The light bearer.
ZOE
That hole isn't gonna cover itself.
Gus accepts his fate and keeps shoveling.

EXT. WOODS - NIGHT

They return to the car. Gus' legs give out. He lies on the
hood of the car. Zoe opens the car and gets a bottle of
WATER.
She passes it to him.
ZOE
Clean up.
Gus unscrews the cap and scrubs his hands and arms. The caked
dirt washes away.

INT. CAR - DRIVING - NIGHT

Zoe's behind the wheel. She glances over at Gus, sitting
passenger. Gus wears a different outfit. Stares out the
window.
 67.

ZOE
I think I preferred it when you
were yapping...
He doesn't respond.
ZOE (CONT'D)
It was an accident, dude. Accidents
happen.
Gus looks at the radio system. He turns up the volume. A
happy tune plays.
Gus starts laughing. Bubbling laugh. Like a maniac.
ZOE (CONT'D)
(under her breath)
Oh for fuck's sake...
She slams the BRAKES. Grabs his chin.
ZOE (CONT'D)
If you break down, you're going to
prison. You understand? And I'm not
letting you take us with you. So
stop acting like a goddamn lunatic
and figure your shit out!
Gus quiets. He stares out the front window, into the dark
night.
GUS
Who was she?
ZOE
What?
GUS
Who was Rosalind?
Beat.
ZOE
A maiden.
Gus' silent.
ZOE (CONT'D)
You didn't kill her, Gus. She
transgressed against Ithaca. She
wrote her ending the moment she did
that.
 68.

INT. GUS' HOME - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT

Clara sits on the sofa. Gus enters the room.
CLARA
Didn't think we'd get back before
you.
GUS
Yeah. How was it?
CLARA
They're asleep. Didn't even have to
warn them. Were you cleaning
earlier?
GUS
I--I...was trying...to surprise
you.
Clara walks over to him. Her brows furrow. She gently touches
his cheek and removes a speak of DIRT.
CLARA
Where'd you go?
Beat.
Gus breaks down. He holds Clara and sobs. Nandi's screen
changes: TASK COMPLETE.
TASK THREE: THE TRUTH SEEKER

INT. LIMO - DRIVING - DAY

Divider's up. Gus' on his phone, reading.
GUS
Anderson Holmes, investigative
journalist. Not much about him.
Gus scrolls back up the page to a PICTURE of an awkward
looking man.
NANDI
How do you intend on handling him?
GUS
Every journalist's worst nightmare.
(beat)
A bogus story.
 69.

INT. THE FAIRVIEW TIMES - DAY

Busy newsroom with cubicles and offices. The EDITOR (50s,
burly man) spots Gus.
EDITOR
Who the fuck are you?
GUS
I'm looking for Anderson.
(beat)
I have information.
EDITOR
About?
Gus shakes his head.
GUS
I've gotta talk to him.
EDITOR
Everyone thinks they've gotta
story.
GUS
Mine's front page news.
Editor grins.

EXT. ANDERSON'S OFFICE - DAY

Gus raps on the door. Hears movement on the other side,
before he's confronted with ANDERSON HOLMES (40s, suspenders,
and owl glasses). A real Steve Urkel type.
ANDERSON
Yes?
GUS
I have something that might
interest you.
ANDERSON
I have a phone. You coulda called.
Emailed, faxed. Pigeoned.
GUS
It's about the Temple.
Anderson opens the door wider. Ushers Gus into a--
 70.

INT. ANDERSON'S OFFICE - MOMENTS LATER

Messy office. Papers everywhere. A BULLETIN BOARD pinned with
various newspaper clippings. A WHITE BOARD: diagrams with
names, dates, locations.
The subject: Children of Ithaca.
Gus sits across from Anderson. He looks back at the white
board. Searching for his name.
ANDERSON
I'm guessing it's something legit
if you managed to get pass Mark.
GUS
Mark?
ANDERSON
The asshole out front.
GUS
Right. My wife's been acting
strange. I did some digging and
found this--
Gus opens his BRIEFCASE and removes a pamphlet. Information
brochure about The Children of Ithaca.
He glances at Nandi, now in the briefcase, before snapping it
shut.
GUS (CONT'D)
Did some research. Couldn't find
much except your article.
ANDERSON
What exactly do you know about this
group, Mr...
GUS
Benson. Harry Benson. You can call
me Harry.
ANDERSON
Harry, your wife's in danger.
Gus gulps.
GUS
W--what do you mean?
Anderson walks over to the Bulletin board. Motions to it.
 71.

ANDERSON
These are all missing persons
reports. Doctors, lawyers,
businessmen, politicians. Mayor
Claiborne -- they were all victims
of this evil cult.
Anderson turns to the Whiteboard and points to different
diagrams.
ANDERSON (CONT'D)
CoI settled here about fifty years
ago. They target the wealthy and
elite--people with money and an
aversion to real charities. Members
are offered wellness and spiritual
services
(beat)
But it's all a front.
GUS
For?
ANDERSON
I have theories. But if they're
like the cults of old, I'm betting
(beat)
human sacrifice.
GUS
That's insane.
ANDERSON
Exactly! Which is why they're never
caught! No one believes it!
Gus looks skeptical.
ANDERSON (CONT'D)
I know it sounds crazy, but truth
is stranger than fiction as they
say. This
(waves at the board)
Years of research. Interviews.
Combing over the facts.
GUS
Why aren't the cops involved?
Anderson drops back in his chair.
 72.

ANDERSON
"Weak Evidence", "coincidences".
They're just too lazy to do the
work, but there's a thread. I've
just gotta get my hands on it.
GUS
On what?
ANDERSON
The device.
Gus' eyebrows raise.
GUS
Device?
ANDERSON
Few years ago, I got a tip. Some
broad whose big shot boyfriend was
a part of the cult. Said he began
acting strange. Secretive.
Paranoid--the whole nine. She
noticed the switch after he got
this thing.
(beat)
A pager.
Gus' leg starts jumping.
GUS
P--pager?
Anderson nods.
ANDERSON
I don't know how it works, or what
it does, but I think it's the key
to bringing them down.
Gus' quiet. Unnervingly so.
ANDERSON (CONT'D)
I know this is a lot to digest--
Gus looks Anderson in the eyes.
GUS
We got it. Yesterday.
Beat.
ANDERSON
You're lying.
 73.

GUS
A pager. With a speaker and red
button. It came in a box.
Anderson can barely hide his excitement.
ANDERSON
Did she use it?
GUS
N--no. I think she's waiting for
instructions.
Anderson's relieved.
ANDERSON
Good. Good! Make sure she doesn't
touch it. Not until we know what
it's capable of. Can you bring it
to me?
Gus shakes his head.
GUS
She wouldn't go for it.
Gus pretends to think for a moment.
GUS (CONT'D)
There is another way...

EXT. NEWSROOM BUILDING - DAY

The limo stops outside the building. Gus gets inside.

INT. LIMO - DRIVING - LATER

Gus stares at Nandi's screen. Something troubling on his
mind.
NANDI
You believe him.
GUS
He's clearly done his homework.
NANDI
Anderson would love nothing more
than for us to be a bunch of serial
killing psychos. He's desperate for
a story -- an expose that would put
him in the lime light.
 74.

GUS
Doesn't explain the disappearances.
Beat.
NANDI
Not everyone completes their tasks.
Those who fail never recover. They
go mad, self destruct.
(beat)
None of them want to be found.
GUS
And those who succeed?
NANDI
They are worthy of Ithaca. And
receive the greatest honour of them
all...
GUS
What?
NANDI
An audience with him.
(beat)
You're losing focus, Gus. Remember
what we've given you. What can be
taken away.
Gus chuckles.
GUS
There's no going back, is there?
I'm in too deep.
(more chuckling)
I'm fucked.

INT. HOTEL - NIGHT

Five star hotel. Lots of glass, ceiling lights. Completely
spotless.
Gus and Zoe wait at the FRONT DESK. They each have a small
suitcase. The CLERK types on the computer.
CLERK
I'll need some I.D.s
Zoe pulls out TWO I.D. cards and passes them to the Clerk.
Clerk checks it and their faces. Seems satisfied.
Clerk hands them KEY CARDS.
 75.

CLERK (CONT'D)
There are your key cards. I hope
you enjoy your stay, Mr. And Mrs.
Benson.
Clerk passes back the I.D.s. Zoe smiles.
ZOE
Thank you.

EXT. FLOOR 304 - NIGHT

Elevator opens. Zoe and Gus step out.
ZOE
Press Nandi's button.
Gus grabs Nandi, presses the button.

INT. SECURITY ROOM - NIGHT

Several monitors, catching every moment in the public areas.
Zoe and Gus are on a screen. Suddenly, screen cuts out.
GUARD sits up. Screen's back on, but Zoe and Gus are no
longer on it. Guard relaxes.

INT. ROOM 304 - NIGHT

Room has ONE bed. Closet. Desk and chair. Table lamp.
Bathroom. They move the suitcases to a corner of the room.
Gus sits on the chair. Zoe lays on the bed.
ZOE
Can the guy even afford this?
GUS
He thinks he's about to get the
biggest story of the year. I'm sure
he found a way.
ZOE
So...wife, huh? That's quite an
upgrade.
GUS
Zip it.
Zoe sits up, cross legged.
 76.

ZOE
If I didn't know any better, I'd
think you had a crush on me.
GUS
I'd rather kiss a pig.
Zoe laughs.
ZOE
Thank the skies! I was starting to
think you'd never stop moping.
Gus walks over to the window. Looks out. There's an apartment
across the street. In one of the units, someone's also people
watching.
Gus pulls the blinds. Turns towards Zoe.
GUS
The other people you helped out.
What happened to them?
ZOE
That's confidential.
GUS
I'm not asking for names.
Beat.
ZOE
There were two. One failed, the
other passed.
GUS
Why did the first one fail?
ZOE
They had no conviction.
Zoe walks over to him. She grabs Gus' shoulders. Looks him
dead in the eye.
ZOE (CONT'D)
Whatever you do, don't hesitate.

INT. ELEVATOR - NIGHT

Gus presses the button for the FIFTH FLOOR.
GUS
Remember what to say?
 77.

ZOE
Don't worry about me.
She rummages in her purse and pulls out a tissue. Gives it to
him.
ZOE (CONT'D)
Your forehead.
Gus wipes the sweat off.
ZOE (CONT'D)
Ready?
Elevator DINGS open. They step out. Just as before, Gus
presses Nandi's button.
NANDI
It's done.
Gus gives Nandi to Zoe, who puts Nandi in her purse.
ZOE
Just one more.
Gus nods.
GUS
One more.

EXT. ROOM 612 - NIGHT

Gus knocks on the door.
ANDERSON (O.S.)
Coming!
Few moments, later Anderson opens. Looks between Gus and Zoe.
Steps aside with a grin on his face.

INT. ROOM 612 - NIGHT

Room's identical Gus and Zoe's. Except for the table. It has
a tape recorder, note pad and pen. Anderson motions for them
to sit on the bed, while he takes the chair.
ANDERSON
Mrs. Benson--
ZOE
Cindy.
 78.

ANDERSON
Cindy. Did Harry explain what's
going on?
Zoe's got a pissed off expression.
ZOE
Some date night.
(to Anderson)
Did you put him up to this?
GUS
We discussed it--
ZOE
Why here? Why not a cafe or
library--
ANDERSON
Less eyes. The Temple, they're
dangerous folks, Cindy.
Zoe looks shocked.
ZOE
Dangerous?
Anderson phone PINGS. He shoots off a text. Gus looks at the
phone worriedly.
GUS
(nervously)
Did you tell anyone about this?
ANDERSON
Just my editor. How'd you think I
could afford this?
(beat)
If it's alright, I'd like to get
started.
Anderson presses the RECORD BUTTON on the tape recorder.
ZOE
You said they're dangerous but want
us to spill our guts?
ANDERSON
I'll note you as a source -- no
names, nothing identifiable. You
have my word.
Gus and Zoe share a look.
 79.

GUS
It's fine. I trust him.
Beat. Zoe launches into her story.

INT. ROOM 612 - LATER

Anderson's notepad is filled with his chicken scratch
handwriting. He seems disappointed.
ANDERSON
I mean, it's interesting but--
ZOE
What?
ANDERSON
I need more dirt. Something juicy.
ZOE
Well, sorry to disappoint--
ANDERSON
Did you bring the pager?
ZOE
Is there anything you didn't tell
him!
GUS
Can we not do this right now.
ZOE
Do what? You go behind my back, rub
elbows with some fucking tabloid
hack--
ANDERSON
I'm not a--
ZOE
And tell him our business!
ANDERSON
Cindy, I understand you're upset
but Harry was concerned.
ZOE
He can speak for himself.
GUS
Cindy, calm down.
 80.

Famous last words.

ZOE
Excuse me!
GUS
Just show him. He's trying to help
us.
Zoe looks at Gus, uncertain.
ZOE
But--
GUS
Maybe it's something, maybe it's
nothing. Let's play it safe.
(beat)
Please.
Zoe pulls out Nandi. She passes Nandi to Anderson. His eyes
bulge with excitement. He examines Nandi.
ANDERSON
Can I take a picture?
ZOE
Sure, if you want them to know who
snitched.
Anderson examines Nandi's screen. Squints.
ANDERSON
Have you tried it?
(reads the screen)
Gus, one thousand. Maybe it's a
code?
Anderson jots it down. Gus gulps. Anderson presses the
button. Nandi's screen changes. An envelope flying away.
Gus phone buzzes.
ANDERSON (CONT'D)
I just saw something.
(excitedly)
I think it sent a message!
(suspicious)
Your phone--
GUS
Work.
 81.

ANDERSON
What if it is was this?
GUS
I really doubt--
ANDERSON
Humour me.
GUS
I--
ANDERSON
I think it's some advanced tech.
They dress it up as old junk and no
one suspects a thing. Genius.
GUS
Or it's just a regular pager.
ANDERSON
Who the hell still uses pagers?
Think Harry.
Anderson's not letting it go. Gus checks his phone. Sure
enough, it's Nandi.
NANDI: Tell him to press the button. Hold it for FIVE
SECONDS.
GUS
(clears throat)
T--there's a message...from it.
ANDERSON
What did it say?
GUS
Press and hold the button for five
seconds.
Anderson frowns.
ANDERSON
Let me see it.
Gus hesitates but passes the phone.
ANDERSON (CONT'D)
It's sentient. Incredible.
Anderson gives Gus back his phone. He examines Nandi.
 82.

ANDERSON (CONT'D)
Might be a trap.
GUS
Or it might wanna tell its side.
ANDERSON
Maybe...
Anderson glances at Zoe.
ZOE
I'm not doing it.
GUS
Same.
(shrugs)
You're the one who wants the story.
Anderson's deliberating. Makes a decision.
ANDERSON
(murmuring to himself)
Pulitzer...Prime time...
(beat)
Alright.
Anderson takes a deep breath. Holds the button.
ANDERSON (CONT'D)
One...two...three...four...five--
AHHHH!!
Nandi ELECTROCUTES him. A current travels through Anderson.
He screams, unable to let go. He collapses on the floor.
Gus jumps. Cautiously approaches Anderson, who lies still,
face down.
GUS
What the fuck did you do!
Gus hand shakes as he puts his fingers against Anderson's
neck. Checking for a pulse. Sighs with relief.
NANDI
Your plan was never going to work.
He's obsessed. We became his raison
d'être.
ZOE
I guess we should be flattered.
Zoe bends down next to Gus and picks up Nandi.
 83.

ZOE (CONT'D)
Put him on the bed.
GUS
We need an ambulance!
ZOE
An ambulance isn't gonna do shit,
alright? Neither is freaking the
fuck out. So put him on the fucking
bed, so we can go!

INT. HOTEL - MAIN LOBBY - NIGHT

MARK waits for the Clerk to get off the phone.
CLERK
Can I help you?
MARK
I'm supposed to collect a key. Room
612.
Clerk checks records.
CLERK
Mark McGrath?
MARK
The one and only.
Mark passes his I.D. He's legit. Clerk hands him a key.
MARK (CONT'D)
Thank you kindly.

INT. ROOM 612 - NIGHT

Nandi's on Gus' belt. Anderson's laid out on the bed. Gus
pulls up Anderson's eye lid. No movement.
GUS
He was right about you.
(beat)
You are fucking psychos.
ZOE
Skies, you're so dramatic. Look,
you if you wanna beat up your
conscience, be my guest.
 84.

NANDI
Someone's coming.
ZOE
What!
Too late. Sound of a BEEP. Door handle turns. Gus and Zoe
look in surprise as Mark steps into the room.
MARK
I guess I'm still early.
(smiles)
Where's Ander--
Mark notices Anderson on the bed.
MARK (CONT'D)
Anderson?
He walks over to Anderson. Shakes him. Zoe and Gus still
stare at Mark, in shock.
MARK (CONT'D)
What happened?
(turns to Zoe and Gus)
Why the fuck isn't he responding!
I'm calling 911.
Mark gets his phone out.
GUS
We already called. We're waiting--
MARK
I wanna know exactly what happened.
From the beginning.
ZOE
We were talking. Suddenly he
grabbed his head and fell.
MARK
Shit.
Mark turns back to Anderson. Gus' in full panic mode.
NANDI
You were close, Gus. But not close
enough.
Mark swivels around.
MARK
Did you hear something?
 85.

GUS
Anderson moved!
Mark looks at Anderson. Checking. Hopeful.
MARK
(shaking Anderson)
Anderson, are you okay?
Gus pulls the table lamp from its socket and slams the hard
base against Mark's head.
Mark staggers and falls.
MARK (CONT'D)
What the--
Gus' adrenaline's pumping. Red blood cells on overdrive. He
SLAMS the base of the lamp on Mark's head. Over and over.
THUD. CRACK. Doesn't stop until Mark's completely still.
Gus' heaving. He's got blood on him. Eyes frenzied. Zoe isn't
scared or terrified. She's PROUD.
Zoe approaches him like one would a feral animal.
ZOE
Gus...you can let go.
She gently extracts the lamp from his hands.
GUS
I--I--
ZOE
You did what was necessary.
GUS
No! I--
ZOE
Shhh.
She pulls him in a hug.
ZOE (CONT'D)
It's okay.
Zoe leads him to the chair.
ZOE (CONT'D)
Let me clean up. I'll take care of
the rest.
 86.

Gus nods. Still in daze.

ZOE (CONT'D)
(to Nandi)
Any problem?
NANDI
No. There's someone in room 618 but
they already left.
ZOE
(relieved)
Ithaca foresaw. He made a way.
Zoe goes into her purse and grabs a SPRAY BOTTLE and CLOTH.

INT. ROOM 612 - LATER

Place's been wiped down. Zoe puts the bottle in her purse.
Tosses Anderson's note pad and recorder in it.
She puts a small bag of COKE on the table.
ZOE
They'll think he went into a coke
rage and O.D.ed. Happens all the
time.
(confident)
We're good.
Gus' smile is taunting.
GUS
We?
Zoe reels in her annoyance.
ZOE
It's done. You can wait for the
cops or go home. Your choice.
Zoe grabs the handle of the room door with the cloth. Pulls
it open. Waits. Gus stands. It's more like a fawn learning to
walk. He stumbles through the door.

INT. ELEVATOR - NIGHT

Gus and Zoe stand side by side. Quiet ride down --
 87.

INT. ROOM 304 - NIGHT

Gus' in the shower. Blood runs down his skin, swirls down the
drain. He CRIES.

INT. ROOM 304 - LATER

Gus' changed into a different set of clothes. Hair drying.
Looks miserable.
GUS
I--I killed him.
Zoe walks over to him and slaps him across the cheek.
ZOE
Get it the fuck together! You
break, and they'll lock you up and
throw the key. Then Clara's gonna
have to explain why you're never
coming home. She'll remarry and
they'll all forget about you! Is
that what you want!
Gus shakes his head.
ZOE (CONT'D)
Say it!
GUS
(shouting)
No!
ZOE
So act like it!
Zoe grabs her purse and luggage. Gus stands, rooted in place.
ZOE (CONT'D)
Gus!
He grabs his luggage. She opens the door.
ZOE (CONT'D)
Press Nandi's button as soon as we
step out.

INT. SECURITY ROOM - NIGHT

Guard munches on a granola bar. Brief glitch. Too fast to
notice. The monitor for Floor three's changed. Guard sees Gus
and Zoe headed towards the elevator.
 88.

INT. HOTEL - MAIN LOBBY - NIGHT

Clerk's surprised. Before they can start their spiel--
ZOE
Family emergency.
CLERK
I hope everything's alright.
Zoe returns the key cards.
ZOE
We hope so too.

INT. GUS' HOUSE - BEDROOM - NIGHT

Gus drops the luggage in the room and sits on the bed. Clara
steps out of the bathroom.
CLARA
I thought you'd be back tomorrow.
GUS
Wasn't feeling well.
Clara walks over to him. Checks his temperature.
CLARA
You're not burning up.
Gus wraps his arms around her waist. Buries his face in her
night robe. His shoulders shake.
CLARA (CONT'D)
Gus?
GUS
(repeats)
I'm sorry.
Clara pulls away. Stoops down to his eye level.
CLARA
Talk to me.
GUS
I--I can't.
CLARA
You don't think I noticed? The kids
noticed? You've been different Gus.
(MORE)
 89.
CLARA (CONT'D)
Like you're carrying some huge
burden. We're a team. Whatever it
is, you don't have to deal with it
alone.
GUS
I love you.
Clara smiles.
CLARA
I love you, too.
GUS
Even after things went south, all
I've ever wanted was to prove that
I deserved you.
CLARA
What are you talking about?
GUS
Everything I've done was for you
and the kids.
CLARA
Gus, sweetie, you're rambling.
Gus frames Clara's face in his hands.
GUS
What would you do for our family?
Clara's confused. Furrowed brows and all.
CLARA
I--where's this coming from?
GUS
Clara.
CLARA
A--anything. I'd do anything.
Not good enough.
GUS
If Emma, Johnny and I were in
danger, what'd you do?
She finally catches on. Doesn't break eye contact with Gus.
CLARA
I'd kill for you.
 90.

Clara sees the pain ebb from him. Before she can question
further--
Gus kisses her. It's passionate. He doesn't wanna make love,
he wants to mate.
Clara responds. They're quickly pulling at his clothes.
Tossed on the ground. Including Nandi.
Gus undoes her robe. They writhe on the bed. Passionate.
Nandi's screen changes. Text appears: TASK COMPLETE.

INT. GUS' OFFICE - DAY

Gus pauses his typing. Picks up his cell. Dials.
KATIE (V.O.)
Children of Ithaca, Katie speaking.
GUS
Where's Zoe?
KATIE (V.O.)
She's on lunch break.
GUS
I need to talk to her.
KATIE (V.O.)
(more emphasis)
She's on lunch break.
GUS
Polly wants a cracker.
KATIE (V.O.)
Huh?
GUS
Exactly. Can you get her on the
line. It's about Nandi.
Beat.
KATIE (V.O.)
Please hold.
Hold Music. Terrible. Like if Bach found meth instead of God.
Gus taps his nails on his desk. Music stops--
ZOE (V.O.)
Children of Ithaca, Zoe speaking.
 91.

GUS
When are you picking her up?
ZOE (V.O.)
Who is this?
GUS
Cut the shit, Zoe!
ZOE (V.O.)
I didn't leave lunch for you to
shout at me. So fix your tone or
I'm hanging up.
GUS
I don't know what to do with her!
Beat.
ZOE (V.O.)
She isn't with you?
GUS
No.
ZOE (V.O.)
Well?
GUS
She's at the house. I didn't break
her, but I came close.
ZOE (V.O.)
You would've had the same accident
as Anderson.
GUS
Don't say his name.
ZOE (V.O.)
Seriously, do you enjoy being
miserable? Why do you care so much?
GUS
Look, are you gonna get her or
should I have someone deliver--
ZOE (V.O.)
You're gonna go home and apologize
before she starts getting ideas.
Bad ideas.
(beat)
I'll be in touch.
 92.

Line goes dead.

INT. GUS' HOUSE - BEDROOM - NIGHT

Clara's in the shower. Gus sits on the bed. He opens the
bedside drawer and grabs Nandi.
NANDI
Does this mean you've stopped
sulking?
GUS
Nandi, it's time.
(beat)
I'm returning you.
NANDI
I see.
GUS
It's just--you're a reminder of
everything, and I need a clean
slate.
NANDI
Of course.
Beat.
GUS
Don't do that.
NANDI
What?
GUS
The "sleep on the couch" voice.
NANDI
Do you think you can survive
without me?
GUS
What's that supposed to mean?
NANDI
You haven't even noticed.
(beat)
Clara's worried.
GUS
What?
 93.

NANDI
She knows you haven't been honest
with her. She suspects something.
GUS
Shit.
NANDI
You need to convince her that
you're fine. Go on an outing. Do
something fun as a family.
GUS
That'd work.
NANDI
When have I ever been wrong?
Gus' thinking. Brainstorming.

INT. GUS' HOUSE - BEDROOM - DAY

Gus and Clara lie in bed. She looks at him, incredulously.
CLARA
Camping?
GUS
Yeah, it'd be fun.
CLARA
Are the mosquitoes fun too? What
about the bears? They'd be excited
to see us!
GUS
You forgot serial killers.
CLARA
What?
GUS
Serial killers love campers. It's
like their number one demographic.
Beat.
CLARA
Well, glad we could agree on that.
Gus chuckles.
 94.

GUS
You fell for my trap.
CLARA
(skeptical)
Really?
GUS
Psychology 101. Suggest something
ridiculous, then offer an
alternative that's more reasonable.
Hook, line and sinker.
CLARA
Did you hear that on a podcast?
Gus winks at her.
GUS
Does a bear shit in the woods?
Clara rolls her eyes.

EXT. THOUSAND GREENS CAMP - DAY

Limo parks in front of the MAIN LODGE -- a large cabin.

INT. MAIN LODGE - DAY

Gus and the family wait at a desk. Next to them, duffel bags,
and a cooler. HELEN (50s, perky) passes Gus a key.
HELEN
Ya'll are in cabin twenty-five.
Breakfast's at eight, lunch at
eleven-thirty, and dinner's at six.
If you need anything, there's a
phone inside. Just dial nine.
GUS
Got it.
HELEN
There's a camp fire round 8 p.m.
We're making s'mores.
Jonathan and Emma cheer.
BEGIN MONTAGE - VARIOUS
- Emma sunbathing. Gus, Jonathan, and Emma play in the pool.
The children chat with other kids.
 95.

- Volleyball. Only grown ups. Gus spikes the ball over the
net. It lands on the ground. Gus and his group high five.
- Jonathan and Emma play tag with other kids.
- The family walk around the buffet, adding different dishes
to their plate.

EXT. THOUSAND GREENS CAMP - NIGHT

Huge bonfire. Glampers sit around its warmth. Gus, Clara,
Emma, and Jonathan among them.
An EMPLOYEE (20s, dressed in uniform) walks around the
perimeter of the bonfire circle, giving out marshmallows,
crackers and skewers.
Jonathan and Emma roast marshmallows.
CLARA
This was a great idea.
She pecks his cheek. Nandi vibrates on Gus' hip. He grabs
her.
GUS
Give me a sec.
Gus steps away, still holding Nandi.
GUS (CONT'D)
What?
NANDI
Zoe's here.
GUS
What! You told them where I am!
NANDI
She's come to take me. It couldn't
wait.
(beat)
I thought you'd be happy.
GUS
You could've said something!"Gus,
before I forget...", "Gus, turned
on my GPS when you weren't
looking"--something!
 96.

NANDI
Well, I certainly won't miss your
sanctimonious rants. Can we go now?
Gus' annoyed. Goes back over to Clara. She sees his
expression.
CLARA
What happened?
GUS
Gotta handle something from work.
CLARA
Seriously?
GUS
I'll be quick.

EXT. THOUSAND GREENS CAMP - PARKING LOT - NIGHT

Several parked cars. A few employees having a smoke. Gus
looks around.
GUS
Where is she?
NANDI
The other lot.
GUS
You made me walk all the way here--
NANDI
You're out of breath. You need the
exercise--
GUS
Nandi!
NANDI
She's waiting.
Gus huffs. Curses under his breath. Begins walking down the
entrance road until he arrives --

EXT. THOUSAND GREENS CAMP - SECOND LOT - NIGHT

This lot is empty except for one car. Zoe gets out. Waves.
ZOE
Miss me?
 97.

Gus grabs Nandi and proffers her.

GUS
May we never meet again.
Zoe laughs.
ZOE
You sound like my ex.
A BROLIC MAIDEN sneaks up behind Gus. She injects a syringe
into his neck.
GUS POV -- blurry vision. His body's free falling. His eyes
roll back. He's out.
Brolic Maiden catches his limp body. Zoe grins. Thirty-two
white pearls.
ZOE (CONT'D)
He regretted it too.
HIGH PRIESTESS (PRE-LAP)
Patience is a reward. A sweet
savory meal.

INT. THE TEMPLE - CHAMBER - NIGHT

Moonlight pours in through a glass ceiling DOME, beaming onto
Gus, who lays strapped to a stone slab. The floor is etched
with grooves that lead to a STATUE of a DRAGON. It's
obsidian. Etched with precision. Has an otherworldly quality.
This is ITHACA.
TEN MAIDENS stand around the perimeter, inside the room.
Their heads are bowed.
The High Priestess hovers over Gus.
HIGH PRIESTESS
(whispers)
Ithaca is hungry.
Words rouse him. Gus' eyes flutter open. He sees the
Priestess. Panics. Tries to move, but it's an exercise in
futility.
GUS
What--where am I? What are you
doing!
High Priestess looks at the other Maidens, who quietly wait.
 98.

HIGH PRIESTESS
(to the Maidens)
They always panic. No curiosity,
only fear.
(to Gus)
I thought you'd be different. I
always think the next one will
prove me wrong.
GUS
Let go of me!
He yells. Tries freeing himself. Priestess doesn't even
flinch.
HIGH PRIESTESS
Hold him.
Brolic Maiden steps forward. She grabs Gus' jaw. Forces his
mouth open. The Priestess stuffs a pair of balled up socks
into his mouth.
HIGH PRIESTESS (CONT'D)
They're clean. I even told them to
put softner. You deserve that much.
Gus responds but he's muffled. High Priestess turns to
Ithaca. Her expression is one of pure devotion.
HIGH PRIESTESS (CONT'D)
Ithaca is pleased. You are a worthy
sacrifice.
More frenzied struggling. Priestess stares at Gus and frowns.
HIGH PRIESTESS (CONT'D)
You should be honored.
More muffled sounds. Priestess' hands hover over Gus' mouth.
HIGH PRIESTESS (CONT'D)
I will remove it, if you remain
calm.
Gus nods. Priestess takes out the sock. Gus catches his
breath.
GUS
Why?
NOTE: This segment will feature images from the mural found
on the Temple's ceiling.
 99.

MURAL ONE: An OLD WOMAN stands outside. Cracked soil. Sparse

vegetation. She draws strange markings on the ground with a
stick.
HIGH PRIESTESS (V.O.)
The woman summoned Ithaca from the
land of the spirits.
MURAL TWO: The Woman in a wooden hut. ITHACA stands across
from her.
HIGH PRIESTESS (V.O.) (CONT'D)
She offered Ithaca sacrifices in
exchange for one wish.
MURAL THREE: YOUNG MAN invited for dinner.
MURAL FOUR: The Young Man clamped between Ithaca's teeth.
HIGH PRIESTESS (V.O.) (CONT'D)
But she was an old woman. And her
tricks could only serve her for so
long.
MURAL FIVE: A group of YOUNG WOMEN meet with the Old Woman in
the forest.
HIGH PRIESTESS (V.O.) (CONT'D)
She found followers. She thought
now, she had all she needed. But
Ithaca was not satisfied. He wanted
humans who were worthy. So he gave
the Woman, Nandi.
MURAL SIX: Ithaca spitting Nandi out of his mouth.
HIGH PRIESTESS (V.O.) (CONT'D)
Nobles, Kings, Queens, Popes. They
were all tempted. They were all
sacrificed.
MURAL SEVEN: A King holding Nandi. Around him, opulent
wealth.
HIGH PRIESTESS (V.O.) (CONT'D)
But even then Ithaca wasn't
satisfied. He wanted worship. And
so, the first Temple came to be.
MURAL EIGHT: A Temple being built by the Maidens.
Rudimentary, but adequate.
 100.

HIGH PRIESTESS (V.O.) (CONT'D)

Finally, Ithaca granted the woman
her wish...
(beat)
Immortality.
MURAL NINE: Ithaca breathes fire onto the Old Woman.
HIGH PRIESTESS (V.O.) (CONT'D)
That woman...was me.
MURAL TEN: The High Priestess in her garbs. Veil and robes.
She points to a mountain.
GUS
You're crazy! Absolutely bat shit
insane!
The Priestess chuckles.
HIGH PRIESTESS
I have seen the world change over
the course of a millennia. From
ships to planes, printing presses
and phones--yet one thing remains
constant.
(beat)
Humans and their inability to
accept the truth. You'd rather wade
in the waters of denial. Even after
you've seen his power!
(whispers)
But you do believe. That's why you
completed the tasks.
GUS
You didn't give me a choice!
Beat.
HIGH PRIESTESS
There was always a choice. But you
were too selfish. Too happy.
Gus SCREAMS from his lungs.
HIGH PRIESTESS (CONT'D)
Begin the ceremony!
The group of MAIDENS begin dancing and ululating. Their
movements are jerky, voices echoing off the walls.
Long hair and mustard togas flowing. They're possessed with
passion, howls crescendoing.
 101.

A ROAR echoes throughout the room. It sounds foreign--

inhuman.
The Maidens stop. They reach into their togas and pull out
DAGGERS. The blades glint in the moonlight.
They charge at Gus and strike him. Arm, chest, leg, neck.
He's howling in agony. The Maidens retreat back to the
perimeter of the room. Maroon staining their togas.
Gus bleeds out. The blood drips from the slab, into the
grooves on the ground. The blood flows until it reaches
Ithaca.
The blood evaporates once it touches Ithaca's stone. The
DRAGON SHOOTS out a BLAZE. A stream of fire from his mouth.
High Priestess watches, tears in her eyes. In the corner, Zoe
smiles.

INT. GUS' HOME - FOYER - DAY

Clara opens the door and lets out TWO POLICE OFFICERS. She
shuts the door and turns, looking lost. Drained. A shell of
herself.
JONATHAN (O.S.)
Can we come down now!
CLARA
Y--yes. They're gone.
Jonathan and Emma appear in the foyer. They look at Clara.
They know.
JONATHAN
Mom--
EMMA
Daddy's not coming back.
Clara covers her mouth. Shoulders heave. She can't stop the
tears. Jonathan and Emma hug her. A domino of tears. They're
all bawling.
Horatio scampers towards them. Meows. Sorrowful.

INT. THE PRIESTESS QUARTERS - DAY

Nandi lays on the carpet next to the Priestess. Zoe sits.
 102.

HIGH PRIESTESS
He was a great find. The boy.
ZOE
Gus.
HIGH PRIESTESS
You liked him.
ZOE
Nandi chose well.
HIGH PRIESTESS
Ithaca has asked that future
sacrifices be of a
similar...quality.
She picks up Nandi.
HIGH PRIESTESS (CONT'D)
What made him special?
NANDI
He had nothing. Only a fighting
spirit.
ZOE
So we find some desperate schmuck.
HIGH PRIESTESS
And where do you propose we find
these desperate schmucks?
Zoe grins.

INT. UNIVERSITY COMMONS - DAY

Orientation day. Students mill around, chatting and visiting
BOOTHS.
A STUDENT walks to a booth, a bit further away from the
others. It's got a banner with a cute looking dragon wrapped
in a robe.
STUDENT
What's this about?
Zoe and the Priestess smile at the Student. They're toned
down -- no weird costumes for this occasion. Priestess is
dressed in a pants suit. Her grey hair's been straightened
and she wears a bold lip.
Zoe's outfit is more approachable, college friendly vibe.
 103.

ZOE
We're the Children of Ithaca. We
offer wellness and spiritual
services.
STUDENT
Oh, I'm not religious.
ZOE
Two hundred and fifty dollars.
STUDENT
Huh?
ZOE
The average therapist costs that
much. You're starting college. It's
gonna suck; asshole profs, flaky
girls and lots and lots of
assignments. We can straighten you
out when it gets tough.
She passes a pamphlet to the Student. Student begins to shy
away.
STUDENT
I dunno...
ZOE
You're missing out. Sign up and
you're entered into our grand
prize.
Zoe points at a black box.
STUDENT
What is it?
HIGH PRIESTESS
Something incredible. Life
changing.
Student's deliberating. Zoe says the magic words.
ZOE
It's free!
She passes the Student a CLIPBOARD and pen. On the clipboard
is a form. Asks for Student's name, email, phone.
Student keeps reading.
Instructions: Please write why you think you're deserving of
our grand prize (sob stories get priority).
 104.

STUDENT
Sob stories?
ZOE
We really want to help those in
need.
HIGH PRIESTESS
The thing in the box--it needs the
right person to work. Someone
special.
Student starts scribbling on the form.
STUDENT
Grew up in a trailer park. Lost my
mom a year ago. Dad's an alcoholic.
HIGH PRIESTESS
Perfect!
ZOE
What she means, is that your story
is very moving. Tragic. Sorry that
happened.
Student nods. Walks over to another area with a chair,
filling out the form.
HIGH PRIESTESS
Why are you sorry? His story's
hillbilly Shakespeare. Exactly what
we need!
ZOE
It's just something you say. To
make them think you give a shit.
HIGH PRIESTESS
This is why I hate leaving the
Temple. Society and all its false
niceties--makes me sick.
The Student returns. Submits his form.
HIGH PRIESTESS (CONT'D)
(fake smile)
Good luck!

INT. UNIVERSITY COMMONS - LATER

People packing up their booths. Including Zoe and the
Priestess.
 105.

HIGH PRIESTESS
What's the total?
ZOE
(sighing)
Ten.
HIGH PRIESTESS
I was sure I counted eleven.
ZOE
One guy came by twice. It should be
enough.
HIGH PRIESTESS
You've got a lot of reading to do.
ZOE
Me?
HIGH PRIESTESS
You didn't think--
(laughs)
Don't be silly.
ZOE
You're gonna make me decide!
HIGH PRIESTESS
You will choose the top three. I
will decide with Nandi's blessing.
ZOE
Does that mean I'm off desk duty?
HIGH PRIESTESS
You've been promoted.
Priestess puts her bony hand on Zoe's shoulder.
HIGH PRIESTESS (CONT'D)
Manager of sacrifices!
Zoe pulls the Priestess into a hug. Priestess stiffens. Zoe
pulls away.
ZOE
I won't let you down.
HIGH PRIESTESS
Good, because I'd hate to kill you.
Zoe laughs. Priestess sort of laughs (she's dead serious).
 106.

SUPER: ONE WEEK LATER

EXT. ZOE'S OFFICE - DAY

A closed door. Name plaque reads: Zoe Fischer, Manager,
Student Life.

INT. ZOE'S OFFICE - DAY

Closet repurposed as an office. Zoe leans back in her office
chair. She's confident, owning her new space.
Her small table has a paper and a box.
ZOE
Congratulations on winning our
grand prize! Your entry was a tear
jerker--
(glances at paper)
surviving a house fire that killed
your family. Wow.
She looks up.
ZOE (CONT'D)
Terrible. Those third degree burns?
UNSUSPECTING CHUMP (O.S.)
Second.
Zoe looks disappointed. UNSUSPECTING CHUMP (19, burns on his
body) notices.
UNSUSPECTING CHUMP (CONT'D)
But I got smoke inhalation.
He dramatically wheezes. Zoe's pleased. She pushes the Box
across the table. Unsuspecting Chump starts to lift the lid--
ZOE
Open it when you get home. It's got
instructions.
UNSUSPECTING CHUMP
Oh...okay.
ZOE
Read the instructions.
UNSUSPECTING CHUMP
Instructions. Cool.
 107.

ZOE
He's gonna love you.
UNSUSPECTING CHUMP
Who?
Zoe grins.
ZOE
My boss. See you soon.
She ushers Unsuspecting Chump out the office. Grabs the phone
and dials a button.
ZOE (CONT'D)
(into the phone)
He went for it. I've brainstormed
some tasks. There's this annoying
priest -- Father Isaac, and a new
wellness center opening across the
street...
Zoe pauses. Listens.
ZOE (CONT'D)
Another reporter? Skies, they're
like cockroaches. Alright, I'll
have Nandi bring him in--how does
two weeks sound?...Should we buy a
smaller sand timer? It's more
intimidating...okay, I'll have
Katie order it.
She ends the call. She grabs a red pen and walks over to a
wall calendar. Under two different dates, she marks: TASKS
and BLOOD.

INT. DORM ROOM - DAY

Unsuspecting Chump sits on his bed. He's got Nandi in his
hands.
NANDI
Press the button.
He presses it.
FADE TO BLACK.