THE MAGICIAN

Story and Script by
Greywolf Lupous

“Not By Blood”

1ST ROUGH DRAFT

JUNE 28, 1999

2ND ROUGH DRAFT

JULY 20, 1999

FINAL DRAFT

JULY 21, 1999

The Magician characters, names, situations and the Magician universe are the property of Gaumont Entertainment. I nor this script are connected with Gaumont in any way, shape or form. This document may not be publicized or reproduced in any way, shape or form. It must remain fully intact and may not be altered in anyway. It is strictly used for not-for-profit entertainment purposes and is not intended to infringe on any Copyrights. JC is a character of my creation, copyright Greywolf Lupous (trunks-locke@softhome.net), 1999.

“Not By Blood”

FADE IN:

INTERIOR: ELECTRO CITY
This is a booming megalopolis of the thirtieth century. Futuristic looking skyscrapers rise to the sky, accompanied by large casinos. The sun is setting behind tall buildings. “Not By Blood” appears on the screen in white type.

(ZOOM IN TO A SHOT OF THE LARGEST CASINO)
This is the Croesus Palace, a large golden statue of a man holding his arms up to the sky, with the symbols of all the suits of cards twirling between them. A small boy, around ten or eleven, is creeping up the steps. He has short cut black hair and light blue eyes, dressed in ragged jeans and an oversized black T-shirt. This is JC. He slinks in the shadows of the building, around to the side.

INTERIOR: CROESUS PALACE - MUSIC LOUNGE
This is a comfortable lounge a small ways away from the main gambling area of the casino. A large stage is stationed at the front. Currently on it is Mona, a woman in her twenties with bright green eyes and red hair down to her shoulder-blades. She is finishing up a musical number, while a man looking to be in his mid or late twenties stands to the side of the stage. He has light blue eyes, and black hair, with a few streaks of white. He is wearing a tuxedo-like outfit, with a purple and black cape. This is Ace Cooper, the “Magician.” He smiles up at Mona as she finishes her song, which is followed by a thunderous applause. Something darts across through the shadows, Ace looks over and squints. He is ready to take a step forward, when Mona joins him at his side.

MONA
(PLEASED)
Ace, glad you could make it.

Ace smiles and does a small motion with his hand, a red rose appearing in it. He hands it to her.

ACE
Glad to come, I know I haven’t been able to spend much time with you lately.

He offers her an elbow, she takes it and slowly walking into the gambling area.

MONA
(TEASING)
So you noticed too?

He chuckles.

ACE
(SMILING)
How does dinner at Mon Cherie’s sound?

MONA
(CONTENTED)
Perfect.

SECURITY GUARD
(OFF CAMERA, ANNOYED)
Get back here you little thief!

Both Ace and Mona turn around as JC comes running, a security guard following closely behind him. Ace steps to the side and grabs him by the shoulders, forcing him to turn around to face the guard. The guard tips his hat.

SECURITY GUARD
(BLUNT)
Thanks Mr. Cooper…

He growls and grabs JC roughly by the wrist and begins to drag him off. Mona practically hisses and stomps after them.

MONA
(ANGRY)
Put that boy down!

The guard stops midstep at hearing her voice and nervously turns around.

SECURITY GUARD
(NERVOUS)
But Ms. Mona… he stole a thousand electro-dollars from…

Mona crosses her arms and glares at him.

MONA
(STERN)
I said put him down.

SECURITY GUARD
(NERVOUS)
But…

Mona frowns more, putting her hands on her hips.

MONA
(ANGRY)
I don’t care what he stole. He’s obviously in more need of that money than any of us!

SECURITY GUARD
(NERVOUS)
But your father has strict policies against…

MONA
(STERN)
I’ll deal with my father if need be.

The guard snorts as he glares down at JC, before storming back to his post. Mona ushers him towards an elevator, motioning Ace to follow. He shrugs and trails after them.

ACE
(TO HIMSELF)
I get the feeling dinner is off.

EXTERIOR: MAGIC EXPRESS
This is a futuristic looking train, painted blue and white, currently parked in it’s usual spot. Ace’s car pulls up, the top slides back, revealing Ace and JC. Ace hops out quickly, JC begins climbing out rather slowly.

JC
(IN AWE)
Wow… this is so wicked!

Ace smiles.

ACE
(MUSING)
You sound a lot like someone I know.

JC
(CONFUSED)
Who?

Ace leads him over to the trailer, he places his hand on a console outside of the door, there’s a small pause, and the door slides open. Both walk in.

INTERIOR: MAGIC EXPRESS - LIVING ROOM
This is the main entrance area of the Magic Express, and also the living room. Shelves full of books line the wall, a second story is seen above the book cases. Ace and JC walk in, the latter whistles as he looks around.

JC
(IMPRESSED)
Nice digs.

Ace raises an eyebrow, then turns to face down the hall.

ACE
(LOUDLY)
Cosmo! You here?

JC frowns and looks in the same direction suspiciously.

COSMO
(OFF SCREEN)
Yeah Ace! In here.

Ace pats JC on the shoulder and leads him down the hall.

INTERIOR: MAGIC EXPRESS - COMPUTER ROOM
This a medium sized room. The walls are lined with computer screens, and in the center of the room is a semi-circular panel full of the controls. Cosmo is sitting in the chair, a holograph of a model of apparently a new trick is displayed in front of him. Cosmo is a teenager with an orangish color of hair and light blue eyes, wearing his usual get up. The door slides open and Ace walks in, JC trailing close behind.

COSMO
(NOT TURNING AROUND)
I think I about got the bugs on this one fixed and --

He turns around to face Ace.

COSMO
(CONT’D)
-- it’s ready to… who’s this?

ACE
Cosmo, I’d like you to meet JC Ryans. JC, this is my friend Cosmo.

Cosmo smiles and offers his hand.

COSMO
(FRIENDLY)
Nice ta’ meet ya’.

JC eyes his hand suspiciously, Cosmo blinks confused and slowly withdraws it. Ace doesn’t seem to notice.

ACE
Mona helped him out of a scrape a bit earlier today, he has nowhere else to stay, and Mona doesn’t really want to approach her father on the subject.

COSMO
Don’t blame her, I don’t want to approach him period.

ACE
Anyway, I’ve asked him to stay here. Mona and I are going out tonight, I was wondering if you’d be able to keep an eye on him ‘till I get back.

COSMO
Ah, no problem, had nothin’ to do anyway, Eileen’s out at her grandma’s or somethin’.

Ace smiles. JC sees this and frowns.

ACE
Thanks.

COSMO
No problem bro’.

JC peeks over Cosmo’s shoulder, one hand on the chair, peering at the hologram.

JC
(CURIOUS)
What’s this?

COSMO
It’s a model of Ace’s new trick. We’re gonna try it out tomorrow, I’ve just got to get a few more bugs worked out of the program.

ACE
C’mon JC, let me show you to your room.

He turns and opens the door, JC follows, yanking the chair off to the side before he goes. Cosmo slips out, landing on his side with a loud thud. Ace looks back concerned, Cosmo waves him off, standing up.

COSMO
Just lost my balance or somethin’, no biggie.

Ace nods and leads JC out. Cosmo picks up the chair and rubs his head.

COSMO
Strange kid.

INTERIOR: MAGIC EXPRESS - GUEST ROOM
This is a somewhat small room, with a few book cases, and a twin sized bed in the corner. Ace and JC walk in, the latter staring at everything wide-eyed.

JC
(IN AWE)
So this is where I’m staying?

ACE
(SARCASTIC)
So I guess that means it’s okay?

JC
(EXCITED)
Yeah!

ACE
Okay, will you do me a favor?

JC shrugs.

JC
Sure, what is it?

ACE
Behave for Cosmo tonight, I’ll only be gone a couple of hours.

JC
(DISSAPOINTED)
Aww, but…

Ace waves a finger at JC.

ACE
(AMUSED)
You already agreed to it though.

JC crosses his arms.

JC
(ANNOYED)
Fine.

Ace ruffles his hair.

ACE
Thanks, promise I’ll make it up to you tomorrow.

He walks out, leaving JC to pout.

EXTERIOR: MAGIC EXPRESS
It is the same as it was before, except that it’s now night-time.

INTERIOR: MAGIC EXPRESS - LIVING ROOM
Cosmo is stretched out on the couch, reading a comic book. JC, now dressed in some nicer and newer clothes, runs his hand along a bookcase.

JC
(ANNOYED)
This is boring.

Cosmo looks up over his comic at him.

COSMO
Well, you’ve shot down every suggestion I’ve given you.

JC
(ANNOYED)
Oh come on, who plays all those lame video games anyway?

He lowers the comic book.

COSMO
(OFFENDED)
They aren’t lame…

JC
Come on Cosmo, there’s got to be SOMETHING interesting around here.

COSMO
Are all ten year olds as hard to entertain as you?

JC
Actually, I’m more imaginative than other kids my age.

COSMO
Uh huh, with a broader vocabulary too.

JC shrugs.

JC
Hey, you gotta know how to talk yourself out of a situation on the streets.

Cosmo smiles.

COSMO
Too true.

JC looks up at him, interested.

JC
(CURIOUS)
You mean you’ve been out on the streets too?

Cosmo shrugs.

COSMO
(HONEST)
Yeah, got into a bit of a mess, but Ace helped me out, even took me in.

JC
(INTERESTED)
Oh really?

COSMO
Yeah well, I think I’m pretty handy to have around.

JC sits down on a chair.

JC
(CURIOUS)
So, you and Ace are pretty good friends?

COSMO
Yeah, I’d have to say he’s my best bud, always there for me, even if it puts himself at risk, no matter how stupid of things I do. Y’know, the best kind of friend anyone can have.

JC sighs.

JC
(DEPRESSED)
I wish I could have a best friend like you’ve got.

Cosmo sets the comic book down and turns to face JC.

COSMO
Well, me and Ace’ll always be here if you ever need us.

JC
(CURIOUS)
Kinda like big brothers?

COSMO
Yeah, you could say that.

JC
(GRINNING)
Okay, can you give me a ride to the Electro City Mall then?

COSMO
(CHUCKLING)
Don’t push your luck kid. Listen, I’ll go fix up something for us to eat, anything in particular you want?

JC shakes his head.

JC
Nah, anything’s fine.

Cosmo shrugs.

COSMO
‘Kay.

He walks off to the kitchen.

ZOOM IN ON THE DOOR, THE SCENE DISSOLVES TO A FEW MINUTES LATER

Cosmo walks back in, holding two steaming plates of food.

COSMO
Sorry ‘bout that kid, forgot what setting to put…

He looks around, the door is open.

COSMO
Hoo boy.

FADE OUT

FADE IN

EXTERIOR: MAGIC EXPRESS
Cosmo is scanning the area, rubbing the back of his neck nervously. Zina, a female black panther, is sniffing the ground.

COSMO
(NERVOUS)
C’mon Zina, if we don’t find where he went Ace is gonna have my head on a platter.

Zina stops and glares at him.

COSMO
(ANNOYED)
It was a figure of speech.

Zina snorts and begins sniffing again, she looks up alert and takes off down the street. Cosmo dashes after her.

COSMO
Hey! Wait up!

INTERIOR: MON CHERIE’S RESTRAUNT
Ace and Mona are sitting at one table in the corner.

MONA
I’m glad you could still make it, JC hasn’t given you any trouble has he?

ACE
None whatsoever, he’s a perfectly behaved ten-year old boy.

INTERIOR: ELECTRO CITY - ALLEYWAY
JC peers over his shoulder as he ducks in, he pauses to catch his breath, then dashes down the alley, jumping the barrier. He lands and dusts himself off, grinning the whole time.

COSMO
(BEHIND BARRIER)
He came this way – are you sure?

There’s a soft growl from Zina.

COSMO
(BEHIND BARRIER)
Okay, okay! You’re right.

JC loses his grin.

JC
(MUTTERING)
They couldn’t have found me already!

Cosmo jumps over the barrier as JC takes off running, he quickly gives pursuit.

COSMO
(ANNOYED)
JC! Get back here!

Cosmo, being older and taller, quickly begins to catch up. JC flashes a grin back at him.

JC
(INNOCENT)
Isn’t this fun?

COSMO
(ANNOYED)
JC – (WARNING)
DOWN!

He shoves the younger boy down right as a laser shot hits him in the shoulder. He falls back to the ground, clutching his right shoulder. Two large goons slowly advance towards them.

INTERIOR: MON CHERIE’S RESTRAUNT
Mona finishes eating, dabbing at her mouth with a napkin before folding it neatly.

MONA
Dinner was lovely Ace, promise me you won’t wait as long to ask again.

He smiles.

ACE
Promise. Drop you off at your place?

MONA
(TEASING)
That’d be nice.

A waiter hands them the check, Ace pays.

MONA
Oh, can you bring JC by tomorrow?

ACE
No problem, Cosmo and I have to go over a few tricks before the night’s show.

INTERIOR: ELECTRO CITY - ALLEYWAY
One of the thugs picks JC up by the collar.

JC
(ANNOYED)
Hey! Put me down!

Cosmo struggles to his feet, still holding his shoulder.

COSMO
(ANGRY)
I don’t know who you are, but if you don’t drop that kid right now…

THUG 1
You’ll what?

Cosmo smiles slyly.

COSMO
Call my black panther on you.

Both of them laugh, the other thug grabs Cosmo up by the shirt.

Zina roars loudly as she leaps over the barrier, her eyes gleaming.

THUG 1
(STAMMERING)
Duhh… duhh…

COSMO
Aw, you didn’t believe me did you?

Both thugs chuckle nervously and glance at one another.

COSMO
Guys, might I make a suggestion to you both?

Both gulp and nod slowly.

COSMO
I suggest you let us both go, before you wind up with some *really* nasty scratch marks.

Both thugs drop him and JC and back slowly away from Zina, who steps in front of them protectively. As they reach the entrance to the alley, they break out running. Cosmo laughs and pets Zina on the head.

COSMO
I owe you Zina… again. Ouch!

He grabs his shoulder, then stands up, JC doing the same.

COSMO
(ANNOYED)
Are you ready to go back yet?

JC
(UNSURE)
Wellll…

Both Zina and Cosmo glare at him.

JC
(DEFEATED)
Yes…

INTERIOR: MAGIC EXPRESS - LIVING ROOM
Ace walks in and stretches.

ACE
Cosmo, JC, I’m back.

Ace shrugs when he hears no answer.

ACE
(MUSING)
Must be asleep.

He walks over to the couch and picks up the discarded comic book, setting it on the coffee table. He sees the two plates Cosmo was holding earlier. Obviously, nothing has been eaten. He stands up.

ACE
(LOUDER)
JC? Cosmo?

He walks towards the hallway when the door slides open, he turns around to see Zina walk in, closely followed by JC.

ACE
(ALARMED)
JC… (CONCERNED)
Where’s Cosmo?

Cosmo walks in, still holding his shoulder.

COSMO
Right here Ace, was just making sure we weren’t being followed.

The door slides shut behind him.

ACE
(CONCERNED)
What happened?

Cosmo momentarily removes his hand to point at JC with his thumb, then moves it back to his shoulder.

COSMO
(SARCASTIC)
He wanted to go for a little walk.

Ace shoots JC a look, the boy meekly sits down on the couch.

ACE
What about being followed?

COSMO
Some nuts were shooting at us in an alley, they were about to haul us off to who knows where, but Zina didn’t take too kindly to the idea.

Zina growls softly in agreement.

ACE
(CONCERNED)
You all right?

COSMO
Yeah, we’ll live.

ACE
(ANNOYED)
Then you’re holding your shoulder because?

COSMO
(NONCHALANT)
Hey, I said they were shooting, never said how accurate they were.

Ace sighs and shakes his head.

ACE
Come on, let’s go bandage that up. Then –

He shoots a glance at JC.

ACE
(CONT’D)
-- we’re all going to have a talk about this.

Cosmo and JC exchange nervous glances.

(SCENE DISSOLVES TO BLACK, THEN BACK IN TO A FEW MINUTES LATER)

Cosmo fidgets with the bandage on his shoulder, now sitting on the couch next to JC. Ace sits on chair, calmly watching both of them. JC squirms in his seat. There’s a few moments of silence.

COSMO
(NERVOUS)
C’mon man, talk… are you like trying to freak us out?

Ace is silent. Cosmo leans back into the couch.

COSMO
(MUTTERING)
It’s working.

Ace sets his gaze on JC.

ACE
()
What were you thinking sneaking out like that?

JC looks at the ground.

JC
(MUMBLING)
Sorry, I just… dunno, wanted a little excitement. I didn’t think they’d be able to find me.

Ace frowns.

ACE
(CONFUSED)
You mean those men who attacked you?

He nods.

JC
Yeah, I got somethin’ of theirs I think. I guess they really want it back.

ACE
()
What is ‘it’?

JC reaches under his shirt and pulls out a small crystal shard on a piece of yarn.

JC
It’s just some stupid piece of glass or something, but I dunno, guess they want it bad.

ACE
Then why didn’t you give it back?

JC
I *found* it, it’s not like they had their names engraved on it or anything. But yeah… I guess I could give it back if they want it so bad.

ACE
I think it’s more of a matter the police should handle.

JC’s eyes widen.

ACE
Don’t worry, I’ll take it there by myself, that is unless you can’t stay put while Cosmo’s here.

JC
(MEEK)
I can behave.

He nods.

ACE
Good, I’ll take it in tomorrow, but right now I think we should all get some rest.

They all get up and head for their rooms, Ace stops Cosmo in the hall, JC ducks into his room quickly. Cosmo gulps and turns to face him.

COSMO
(NERVOUS)
Yeah?

ACE
Thanks for looking out for him.

Cosmo rubs the back of his neck.

COSMO
(EMBARASSED)
It was nothing, didn’t want the kid to get hurt or anything…

ACE
Just next time promise me you’ll be a bit more careful.

COSMO
Sure, you think I want another shoulder like this?

INTERIOR: MAGIC EXPRESS - GUEST ROOM
JC leans against the wall, trying to overhear the conversation.

ACE
(FROM THE HALLWAY)
All right, try to get some sleep, we’ve still got to rehearse for tomorrow’s show.

COSMO
(FROM THE HALLWAY)
Yeah, ‘night Ace.

ACE
(CLOSER, FROM THE HALLWAY)
Good night Cosmo.

JC dashes and leaps into the bed, sliding under the covers, Ace walks in.

JC
(NERVOUS)
So… am I grounded?

Ace rubs his chin.

ACE
(PONDERING)
Maybe.

JC
Maybe?!

ACE
Maybe.

JC
(CONFUSED)
Maybe?

Ace nods.

ACE
Maybe.

JC shrugs.

JC
I can live with that.

ACE
I was wondering, do you know any more about these men?

JC shakes his head.

JC
Sorry…

Ace nods.

ACE
When’d you find this?

He indicates the makeshift necklace.

JC
Oh, I’d say two weeks about…

Ace nods.

ACE
Well, night.

He turns to leave.

JC sits up.

JC
Ace?

Ace turns back.

ACE
(CONFUSED)
Yes?

JC
You aren’t… mad… are you?

Ace smiles.

ACE
No… was just hoping we’d get off to a better start.

JC
(SINCERE)
I won’t do it again.

ACE
I know.

He walks out, JC watches him confused, and lays back down, after the door closes he sits up and pulls an electronic device from under his shirt.

INTERIOR: ELECTRO CITY POLICE STATION - LIEUTENANT VEGA’S OFFICE
Lieutenant Vega, a man looking to be in his fifties wearing a traditional police detective looking outfit (y’know, trenchcoat and schtuff?), is sitting as his desk typing on a computer, while Ace leans over his shoulder.

VEGA
Well, we should get a read out on those descriptions in about a minute.

He turns around and looks at the crystal Ace is holding.

VEGA
And they’re after that? It just looks like an ordinary crystal.

ACE
That’s what Angel said it was.

VEGA
(CONFUSED)
Then why would they be so adamant about getting it back.

ACE
That’s what I’d like to know.

The computer beeps and displays a profile, Ace scans it over.

ACE
Hired professionals… what I expected.

Vega runs a hand through his hair and reads it over.

VEGA
The Iseler brothers. I’d be careful Ace, these guys are real pros. They don’t kid around.

ACE
They afraid of cats?

VEGA
(CONFUSED)
Huh?

Ace shakes his head.

ACE
Nevermind, I have one more person I’d like you to look up, if you don’t mind.

VEGA
Sure, sure, need something to delay me from getting to that pile of paperwork over there.

ACE
Thanks, you have a file on anyone named JC Ryans?

VEGA
The name doesn’t ring a bell, let me do a search.

Ace nods and sits down in a chair.

VEGA
Nothing.

Ace frowns.

ACE
Can you do a search on the combination of the first two initials?

VEGA
Yeah, give me a second.

He types on the computer for a second, then looks back at Ace.

VEGA
All right, I have three here.

Ace gets back up and peers over Vega’s shoulder.

ACE
No…

(ZOOM IN ONTO THE COMPUTER)
It shows the profile of a ragged and scrawny looking old man. It switches to one of an overweight Butch-woman.

ACE
No!

The picture switches again, JC is standing in a line-up, looking about a year younger.

ACE
That’s him…

EXTERIOR: MAGIC EXPRESS
The same as before, except it is now mid-afternoon. A sleek looking car pulls up.

INTERIOR: MAGIC EXPRESS - LIVING ROOM
JC rushes out the door, Cosmo close behind him, holding his bandaged shoulder.

COSMO
(ANNOYED)
Don’t even think of trying another repeat of last night! I swear I’m gonna…

EXTERIOR: MAGIC EXPRESS
Cosmo runs out, JC skids to a stop in front of the car. Cosmo grabs him by the shoulder with his good arm.

COSMO
(ANNOYED)
Just what do you think you’re doing?!

JC shrugs.

JC
My job.

COSMO
(CONFUSED)
Your… job?

JC
Yeah, you see, I’m pretty sure right now Ace has figured out my real name isn’t JC Ryans. You seem pretty slow, so I guessed you wouldn’t get it until either he or I told you.

COSMO
(ANNOYED)
Hey! I am not slow!

JC crosses his arms.

JC
()
Really? Is that why you’ve let yourself into the open, without the protection of Ace’s precious panther?

COSMO
()
Hey! Just who are you?!

Cosmo slowly begins to edge back towards the express.

JC
That’s not really what you should be worried about right now though.

Cosmo backs up into the barrel of a gun, held by one of the thugs from earlier.

JC
Personally, I’m dying to know if Ace is as good as a friend as you say he is.

INTERIOR: ELECTRO CITY POLICE STATION - LIEUTENANT VEGA’S OFFICE
Ace is still looking at the screen.

VEGA
JC Hardringer, I remember him. We had him in for grand theft auto, and a bunch of other counts you wouldn’t think a nine-year old could get. He managed to get away on the account of good lawyers.

ACE
(SUSPICIOUS)
Whose lawyers?

VEGA
Not sure… I think they were Pax’s. You’d think as much as we had on him they wouldn’t even have room for a defense, but he’s off on parole now. You know how Friedricks is, always has to make a good impression on the press…

ACE
(CONFUSED)
They let him off?

VEGA
Yeah, as I said, REALLY good lawyers.

ACE
Oh no…

VEGA
(CONFUSED)
You think he’s involved?

Ace is already halfway out the door, on his wrist-com. Vega follows.

ACE
(TO WRIST-COM)
Cosmo, you there?

There’s no answer.

VEGA
(ANNOYED)
You mind filling me in on what’s going on?

ACE
(FIRM)
I’ve got to get back to the Express.

VEGA
(ANNOYED)
Wha—why? Aren’t you even going to tell me what’s going on?!

ACE
I’ll explain on the way there.

EXTERIOR: MAGIC EXPRESS
Ace’s car screeches to a halt, Ace jumps out and runs up to the door, it quickly opens and he dashes in. Vega’s squad car pulls up, Vega follows at his own pace.

INTERIOR: MAGIC EXPRESS - LIVING ROOM
Ace runs in and quickly looks around before dashing down the hall.

ACE
Cosmo?!

He dashes into the computer room. INTERIOR: MAGIC EXPRESS - COMPUTER ROOM
Ace runs in, barely resting his hands on the console.

ACE
Angel, do you know where Cosmo is?

Vega walks in at the door, holding something in his hand.

VEGA
Ace, he’s not here, and I’m sorry to say, I think you were right.

He opens his hand to reveal Cosmo’s wrist-com.

FADE OUT

FADE IN

INTERIOR: MAGIC EXPRESS - LIVING ROOM
Ace is sitting in the same chair from earlier, Vega sits on the couch.

ACE
I can’t believe I didn’t see this earlier. JC wasn’t the target of the first attack at all, they just wanted me to give him a chance to lure one of us into the open.

VEGA
They didn’t succeed the first time.

ACE
Only because of Zina… and I was stupid enough to give them the chance to do it again.

VEGA
Well, it wasn’t exactly the most obvious plan.

Ace sighs.

ACE
I know…

The phone buzzes, Ace turns it on, a balding scientist looking to be in his fifties or sixties appears on it. This is Pax. Ace frowns.

ACE
Pax.

PAX
That’s right Cooper. It’s been a while since we last met.

ACE
You mean when you were using your company’s technology to warp stolen circus cats into your own personal hit squad?

PAX
Funny Mr. Cooper, funny. Of course I’m pretty sure you know why I’m calling. And no need to worry, your friend is perfectly fine. For now.

ACE
You could’ve left him out of this.

PAX
He helped you take me and everything I worked at down! And besides, this way I can be assured of your cooperation.

ACE
(SUSPICIOUS)
Cooperation in what?

PAX
I have big plans ready to go down, and I don’t want you interfering in any of them. It seems to be your hobby or something.

ACE
(WARY)
Why do I get the feeling that’s not all you want?

PAX
Perceptive as always. I’m not the kind of guy who holds grudges, so, come to the Electro City Docks, Pier 12 tomorrow at nine PM sharp. Alone.

ACE
And if I don’t?

PAX
(NONCHALANT)
You’re friend will be taking a swim.

ACE
(ANGRY)
I swear if you hurt him…

PAX
(ADDING)
More.

ACE
More?!

PAX
Well, you must remember he has that nasty blaster wound on his shoulder. And he wasn’t too willing to come with my men at first, but they were able to convince him.

Ace grips the side of the chair tightly, Pax grins.

PAX
Now Ace, I wouldn’t worry myself over this, you do have a show to put on tonight. Remember, nine tomorrow night.

The screen turns off. Ace continues to glare at the screen, Vega looks over at him.

VEGA
You aren’t going to go there alone, right?

Ace glances over at Vega momentarily, then looks down.

ACE
I have to.

VEGA
But that’s exactly what they want you to do!

ACE
I don’t have any choice at this point.

VEGA
You always have a choice.

ACE
Not one that I’m willing to take.

VEGA
I never thought I’d live to see the day when Ace Cooper would let a couple of crooks take him down.

ACE
I haven’t been sunk yet… it’s just Cosmo’s life at stake here.

Vega sighs.

VEGA
Yeah, but I still wish you had another way of dealing with this.

ACE
I do, but it’ll take time.

VEGA
How much?

ACE
Not enough.

Vega sighs.

VEGA
Then what you’re saying is… there’s no choice?

ACE
Not now anyway. I’m not sure if they’re holding him at the docks or not, and I don’t know if he has anyone watching me. It’d be too risky to go searching for them.

Vega nods.

VEGA
I see your point. There anything I can do?

ACE
Find out what he’s planning, I have a feeling it’s going to go down around the same time as our meeting.

VEGA
Right.

Vega stands up and walks to the door.

VEGA
He’ll be all right Ace, Cosmo’s a tough kid.

Ace glances at the comic book still laying on the table from the night before.

ACE
Yeah…

INTERIOR: COVESIDE PIERS -
Cosmo is handcuffed to a pipe, he is currently struggling to escape. Pax walks in.

PAX
Just got off the phone with your friend.

Pax walks around the room casually, Cosmo glares at him.

COSMO
And?

PAX
He’ll be coming for you, just as I expected.

Pax stops in front of him.

COSMO
Hate to disappoint you, but I’m bad at being bait.

He leans back against the pipe. Pax leans in close.

PAX
I’d say you’re quite effective in getting the Magician here.

COSMO
Oh no, I’m not talking about that.

PAX
(CONFUSED)
Then what?

COSMO
I have this tendency to tick my captors off. Say by doing something like this.

He shifts his weight to one foot, and kicks Pax in the shin. Pax howls in pain and grasps it.

COSMO
Or say maybe this.

He kicks him in the side. The first thug comes up and helps Pax up, the other punches Cosmo in the stomach, hard. Cosmo grits his teeth together and glares at them. Pax straightens his posture, dusting off his coat, returning the glare. Cosmo sees this and smiles innocently.

COSMO
See what I mean?

Pax backhands him, turning on his heel to walk out. He stops as he gets to the door.

PAX
Do what you want with him, just keep him alive. I’ve still got plans for Cooper.

THUG 1
Yes sir.

Pax walks out, slamming the door behind him. The hugs grin widely, Cosmo scowls.

INTERIOR: MAGIC EXPRESS - LIVING ROOM
Ace sits in his chair, holding his head in his hands. Zina nuzzles his hand softly, he looks up and pets her.

ACE
Do you ever feel completely helpless?

She rests her head on his lap, he continues to pet her.

ACE
Me too.

The video phone buzzes, Ace turns it on. Pax appears on the screen.

ACE
Now what do you want?

PAX
Nice show you did tonight.

ACE
Kind of difficult to put one on without my assistant.

PAX
Speaking of which. I think he has something to say to you.

The screen switches to Cosmo, looking really worse for wear.

ACE
Cosmo!

COSMO
Ace… don’t come…

ACE
Cosmo, hang on! I’ll get you out of there!

Cosmo shakes his head.

COSMO
Don’t worry about me bro, they’re just trying to lure you into a trap.

ACE
I know, but I’m still getting you out.

The screen switches back to Pax, Ace’s concern instantly switches to anger.

PAX
Ugh, enough of this. Disgusting.

ACE
I’ll come, but you have to promise not to hurt him anymore.

PAX
I don’t think you’re in any situation to be making demands Mr. Cooper. We’ll see you at nine tomorrow night.

The screen turns off, Ace glares at it.

ACE
Don’t worry, you will.

Zina softly nudges him and he snaps back to reality.

ACE
I know, and don’t worry. I think I might just have a plan.

INTERIOR: COVESIDE PIERS -
Cosmo wakes up, still cuffed to the pipe, the two thugs are gone, JC sits in a chair in front of him.

JC
Finally, thought you’d never wake up. Judging by your appearance, you’ve got quite the mouth.

COSMO
You should talk.

JC
At least I *know* when to shut up.

COSMO
You coulda fooled me. So where’s the gruesome twosome?

JC shrugs.

JC
Out preparing for tonight, I’ve got babysitting duty.

Cosmo yanks on the handcuff.

COSMO
In case none of you have noticed, I’m not going anywhere fast.

JC
We know. I’m just here to finish you off quickly in case Ace or anyone else comes snooping for you here.

COSMO
You’re one twisted kid.

JC shrugs.

JC
I try.

COSMO
So how’d you wind up with this gig anyway? Pax catch you stealing his hubcaps or something?

JC
He’s my uncle. It’s sort of my way of repaying him for busting me out. He’s nuts, but that’s not always a bad thing. Besides, it’ll be fun to see Ace get what’s coming to him.

COSMO
All he ever did to you was try and be your friend!

JC
Hey, he messed with family. You know how it is.

COSMO
You disgust me.

JC
You’re not the first. I know he’s not much, but he’s all I have.

COSMO
You’ve got one demented view on family.

JC shrugs.

JC
At least I’ve got one.

INTERIOR: ELECTRO CITY DOCKS - PIER 12
This is a rather old pier, considering it’s made out of wood, instead of cement. The ocean can be seen crawling up onto the land, it’s extremely dark, with the only lighting coming from the moonlight peeking through the cracks. Ace walks under the dock, looking around carefully. Pax walks out partly into the light.

PAX
Welcome Ace.

Ace glares at Pax.

ACE
Where’s Cosmo?

PAX
Right here.

He snaps his fingers, and one of the thugs walk out, roughly shoving a handcuffed Cosmo out in front of them, Ace steps forward, but Pax holds up his hand.

PAX
As you can see, he’s still alive, and for the most part, well.

ACE
Then let him go, you have my word not to interfere with whatever your plans are.

PAX
I could do that, but I never trust the word of a trickster.

Ace glances around.

ACE
So then what are you going to do to us?

The thug behind Cosmo pulls out a gun. The soft click of one being loaded is heard behind Ace, and the other thug steps up behind him.

PAX
Did you honestly think that after what you did to me I’d let you go?

ACE
No, but one can always hope.

PAX
Not only did you stop me from killing off that annoying Anderson, you had me arrested, making the entire science community scoff at my name! I can never live a normal life again, everyone thinks of me as a criminal!

ACE
Because you are.

PAX
Only by your laws! You took my life away Ace, you took away everything that I loved! I intend to return the favor.

He smiles.

PAX
I couldn’t involve your girlfriend, without having Black Jack at my throat. So I had to settle for your assistant. You seem to be quite fond of him, the way you’re always risking your life for him, no matter the consequences.

Cosmo glances at Ace warily.

PAX
You can only learn so much from the tabloids and television, so I sent my nephew in to make sure. Worked like a charm too, don’t you think?

Ace remains silent.

PAX
Obviously not.

COSMO
Ace just get out of here! I’m not worth you getting killed!

PAX
How touching. Jesse --

The thug behind Cosmo stiffens.

PAX
Shoot him first. Let Cooper see what it’s like to lose something he holds dearly be taken from him.

ACE
No – shoot me first.

COSMO
No!

PAX
Now Mr. Cooper, you’ll be next, no need to get impatient.

Ace grunts and rubs the side of his nose with his thumb. Cosmo squints and cranes his neck out a bit, and Ace repeats. Cosmo nods slightly.

COSMO
Hey Professor Quack…

PAX
(ANNOYED)
That’s Pax!

COSMO
Whatever. What was that big thing you had planned?

PAX
(ANNOYED)
Why should you care? You’re going to be dead in a few seconds anyway.

COSMO
I’m just curious. Can’t ya at least tell me before you send me to the great beyond, or something like that.

Pax rubs his chin for a second.

PAX
Hmm. No.

Cosmo shrugs.

COSMO
Fine, be that way.

Ace elbows the man behind him in the gut, causing him to double over. At the same time, Cosmo slams his body against the thug, who staggers back for a moment, and then regains his balance, still holding his gun.

COSMO
Ow! Okay, bad idea.

Ace grabs the thug by the shirt and roughly shoves him away.

COSMO
Yo Ace! How ‘bout some help here?!

Cosmo ducks to the side, narrowly avoiding a punch. Ace dashes over and punches the thug in the jaw. The thug staggers back and holds his jaw, while Ace yanks Cosmo behind a post holding the pier up.

ACE
Stay here, I’ll handle them.

COSMO
But…

Ace takes a hold of the cuffs with his right hand and moves his other hand over it, the cuffs disappear for a moment, then reappear in his hands.

ACE
Don’t argue, Derek’s coming as fast as he can. You’ve had enough action for one day.

He dashes back out into the open, Cosmo crosses his arms in defiance, but stays there.

COSMO
(MUTTERING)
Yeah, I’ve seen enough action, sure. If I get my hands on that kid…

He blinks and looks around.

COSMO
Where *is* he anyway?

(Scan over to Ace.) He reaches into his cape and throws out a set of cards, they pin one of the thugs to a post, the other charges him. Ace steps to the side and the thug runs directly into the other. He turns to face Pax, who’s in the same place as before, arms crossed.

PAX
I hope you know that you’re quite the pest. Ace begins walking towards him.

ACE
So I’ve been told.

PAX
But I’m not without a backup plan.

Ace glances around warily, but continues his approach.

ACE
Meaning?

Pax shrugs and idly walks closer to the post, Ace keeps himself between Pax and it.

PAX
Just that you’ve seem to have forgotten about one thing.

ACE
Which is?

Something cracks from above, and Cosmo roughly shoves Ace out of the way as part of the post crashes down, pinning his legs. Ace recovers quickly and rushes over to him.

ACE
(SOFT)
I told you to stay behind the post…

COSMO
(IN PAIN)
Since when have I done what I was told?

Ace holds his hands out, a small shimmering field surrounds the pole and lifts it up, tossing it to the side. Sirens can be heard in the distance. Pax frowns.

PAX
I thought I said come alone.

ACE
As you said, never trust the word of a trickster.

Ace helps Cosmo to his feet, Pax pulls out a gun.

PAX
You’re not leaving here alive!

Ace thrusts out his hand, the gun flies from Pax’s hand into his. He cocks it and holds it steady at Pax.

ACE
JC, come out now, I’ve already got your uncle.

There’s no reply.

COSMO
(LOW, IN PAIN)
So much for family.

Red and blue lights flash, and a bunch of Electro City police leap in. Vega runs in after them.

ACE
A little late Derek.

He tosses Vega the gun.

VEGA
You guys all right?

ACE
We will be.

He helps Cosmo hobble out.

ACE
I’ll call you in the morning, it’s been a long night.

INTERIOR: MAGIC EXPRESS - LIVING ROOM
Cosmo is lying on the couch , his legs in casts, and the bandage still over his shoulder. Zina is stretched out on the floor in front of him, while Ace sits in the easy chair.

COSMO
Man, am I glad that’s over.

ACE
Me too.

COSMO
Just promise me one thing Ace.

ACE
(CONFUSED)
What’s that?

COSMO
Do the background checks sooner on any strays you decide to take in.

ACE
You promise to start doing what I say?

COSMO
And let you get crushed by falling bridge supports?

ACE
I would have moved.

COSMO
Didn’t look like it.

He sighs and leans his head back against the cushions.

COSMO
Hey Ace…

ACE
Hmm?

COSMO
(CURIOUS)
Would you say that we’re a family?

ACE
(CONFUSED)
Why do you ask?

COSMO
No reason, just wondering. Y’know, cause you’re kinda like the big brother I never had.

ACE
(PENSIVE)
Yeah…

There’s a pause.

COSMO
(INQUIRING)
So… are we?

Ace rubs his chin for a second, then smiles.

ACE
Well, not by blood.

FADE OUT