EXT. MUEIN COURTYARD
Four pairs of knights raced out of the Eastern tunnel. The
snow made their movements slow; nevertheless, it didn't deter
their intentions. Each pair consisted of a forward knight
holding aloft a long shield, while directly behind followed
an archer. They formed a square -- two pairs on the right,
two pairs on the left -- each side taking aim at either end
of the compound. The two archers on the left shot a volley
to the far rampart, hoping to staple Samantha, while those
on the left rained a cloud of darts Wimarc's direction.
Samantha and Wimarc returned their own bolts ... But they
flew harmlessly off the tall shields of the knights who
provided cover for their comrades.
Another four pairs of knights emerged, doubling the onslaught
of the attack.
Samantha took aim ... Waiting for an archer to release his
bolt ... then shot BELOW the shield of his protector into
the snow -- staking the knight's lower leg. He fell ... to
which she instantly delivered another bolt, stapling the
archer in his shoulder, toppling him to the ground.
Wimarc followed her lead. He stapled the foot of another
knight, then took out the archer behind -- hitting him in a
spot that would incapacitate, but not kill him.
Then six more pairs of knights emerged from the eastern
tunnel. Two replaced the ones that had already fallen, while
the others now tripled the onslaught.
Samantha and Wimarc leapt and rolled, moving along the
perimeter of the upper parapet walkways, taking more arrows
cleverly buried, then shooting from the various positions.
They successfully eliminated more knights ... their hits
positioned perfectly to topple them, but not end their lives.
Still, the remaining knights vastly outnumbered them.
Nonetheless, Samantha remained poised ...
SAMANTHA
(to herself)
Is that all you have?
She nabbed two arrows, launching them simultaneously.
Meanwhile, Wimarc also dropped a few more adversaries from
atop his high perch.
WIMARC
(to himself)
Just a little bit longer, old man.
When it appeared all the knights of the battalion had filled
the courtyard, Renier rushed out from the eastern tunnel,
shield in one hand, broadsword in the other.
Samantha and Wimarc suddenly stopped ... then screamed a
BIRD CALL into the wind.
Within moments, Theia and two dozen other hawks swooped in.
They clawed at the knights' faces ... Giving Wimarc and
Samantha the perfect disruption and chaos. They continued
showering the enemies with bolts while the knights were being
bombarded ... Many fell backward into the snow. No matter
... the birds still attacked. Whether pecked from the birds
or targeted by arrows, the knights continued to topple.
RENIER
Take them out! TAKE THEM OUT!
The knights swung their weapons haphazardly to stop the hawks.
It was pure pandemonium. A few of the birds were hit.
Strings of knights suddenly took advantage of the chaos to
slosh through the snow toward the steps up the parapets.
Wimarc raced toward the parapet steps ... dropping the bow
and stealing a sword from under the snow. He met the knights
head-on as they climbed the stairs.
At the same time, Samantha rushed for the advancing knights
ascending the steps toward her. Like Wimarc, she dropped
the bow and pulled a pike-lance hidden under the snow. She
dived into the squad, taking out each warrior with wide arcs
of master-precision.
Wimarc cleared the steps of knights, then leapt down into
the courtyard. He reached into the snow and came up with a
sling-shot weapon. He mounted a spiked ball into its pulley
and projected it. It impacted a knight behind the knee who
was too busy trying to deflect a hawk. He careened into the
snow from the entry wound.
Three knights broke off from the main pack and raced Wimarc's
direction. Wimarc instantly collapsed one with another spiked
ball, then dropped the weapon and yanked two swords hidden
in the snow. With master dexterity, he twirled each blade
and promptly disabled the other two.
Then he grabbed another bow and took out more knights in the
main group.
Meanwhile, Samantha jumped off the steps, landing into the
courtyard, near the pile of charred Muein dead. She punched
into the ashened remains, then spun around -- hurling a trio
of throwing knives ... falling two knights off the rampart
stairs. However ... Renier, who was standing with them,
managed to protect himself with his shield.
At the same moment, Philippe, who was in the middle of the
main group in the heart of the courtyard, swung his sword
and successfully de-winged one of the hawks. As the bird
plummeted, he saw Renier advancing toward Samantha. She
again retrieved throwing knives from the mound of burned
carcasses ... but Renier was too quick with the shield.
Still, Philippe sloshed through the snow to help his lord
and master.
Six knights broke from the main group to attack Wimarc.
Wimarc dropped the bow, slid a few meters, then pulled up
his own pike-lance hidden beneath the snow. While he
deflected the assault, he stole a peek toward Samantha --
seeing she was looking to face off against five knights
herself, brandishing a sword.
An archer from the core battalion aimed for her ... But a
hawk forever ruined his eyesight before he could release.
Wimarc successfully ruined the knights around him, then ran
up onto the Temple Sun platform. He picked up a large barrel,
heaved it over his head, then hurled it into the central
core of the knights in the courtyard. The barrel broke apart
on impact, splattering several warriors (and the snow) with
an oily slick.
Wimarc hurried off the platform, stole a bow and arrow hidden
in the snow, then lit the bow-tip from a secluded torch.
(SWISH!)
A knight covered in the oil instantly caught fire, then fell
and lit the rest of the slick ablaze ... the fire spread to
the other knights caught in the splatter.
Meanwhile, Philippe advanced on Samantha. (They duel).
Renier didn't like it.
RENIER
No! No!
Samantha led Philippe away from Renier ... Renier did his
best to follow ... but the depth of the snow hampered his
pursuit.
RENIER
Don't let her touch you!
At the same time, six knights advanced toward Wimarc. He
pulled another pike-lance.
Samantha's fight with Philippe was intense. Her other life
as a Roman warrior -- along with years of other advanced
training -- revealed itself in her brilliant maneuvers ...
Speed and precision ... Tactical prowess ... Philippe found
he couldn't keep up. He could sense he was being beaten by
this young woman. She was emasculating him!
In a sudden move, Samantha twirled her blade ... the tip
yanking Philippe's sword from his hand and hurling it several
yards out of reach. Then she leaped, round-house kicking
him in the chest ... He flew backward and smashed his head
into the stone of the rampart wall. He collapsed from the
concussion.
Seeing this, Renier tossed his shield and raced to close the
gap between him and his trusty right-hand man.
Samantha grabbed Philippe and shoved him into position ...
SAMANTHA
You're going to tell me where the
library has been taken.
She cupped Philippe's ear and closed her eyes. Time slowed
as the link formed within her mind ... with only Renier
moments away.
Wimarc saw him nearly on top of Samantha as she remained
transfixed while invading Philippe's consciousness.
(SWISH! Samantha CRIES OUT) Samantha fell backward ... as
her CHOPPED HAND dropped from Philippe's ear!
Wimarc watched as she raised her bloody stump in agony ...
then Renier pommeled her in the face, knocking her out cold!
WIMARC
SAM!!!
(THUD!) He saw the sword tip suddenly emerge from his chest,
shoved in from his back. His eyes burst ... then blood
drooled out his mouth. Wimarc toppled forward into the snow
... Dead.
Renier furiously took out a hawk, then stood over Samantha.
She was still unconscious. Philippe, recovering from the
assault, stumbled to stand beside his master. A trio of
knights joined them.
RENIER
Cauterize and wrap the wound. Then
take the finger and thumb from the
other hand and bind her feet.
PHILIPPE
Yes, milord.
The knights nodded, then dragged Samantha away.
Renier inspected his troops while the remaining hawks
abandoned the courtyard to the sky. Most of the knights
were lying in the snow, bloodied by the arrows still stuck
in their bodies. The others were carved and pitted by the
claws of the birds of prey. A couple warriors gathered
themselves ... As they rose, they spotted in the distance
behind Renier a hatchet coming up, then slamming down ...
obviously taking off Samantha's fingers.
RENIER
Today you have fought well! You
have proven once again your worthiness
to God! But next time you see a
hawk or a large bird ... KILL IT!
(The knights shout in unison)
Renier found himself beside Wimarc's corpse. He stiffened,
then raised his sword ... and stabbed it deep into Wimarc's
body, assuring his demise.
EXT. MUEIN COURTYARD/EASTERN TUNNEL
Though bloodied and limping, the company of knights formed
up and returned to the Eastern tunnel. Four carried Samantha
on their shoulders, both her hands covered in bloodied
bandages ... her feet also bound ... Still out cold.
EXT. MONASTERY INFIRMARY GROUNDS
Aaron already had the knapsack draped over his chest when
Friar James found him. Though he was unaware of the battle
back home, his spirit could no longer remain confined at the
monastery. Friar James hurried alongside him, seeing the
urgency within his stride as they moved through the courtyard.
FRIAR JAMES
Let me at least guide you toward the
gate.
AARON
Yes, that would be most welcome.
FRIAR JAMES
It is this way.
AARON
How did you come to be here?
FRIAR JAMES
One too many children after the Great
Mortality of the late 1340s. The
pestilence took my mother. My three
brothers gave my father all he needed,
and I was never one to like working
in the fields. He figured I was
more suited to a monastic life, I
guess, with the added benefit of one
less mouth to feed. And besides,
the Church needed all the help. Not
one corner of our village survived
that horrible death. Were you even
around then?
AARON
I wouldn't be here had it not
happened.
FRIAR JAMES
Is that so?
AARON
It took my father.
FRIAR JAMES
What an unimaginable tragedy, speaking
from my own experience. But you
still had your mother?
AARON
Yes.
He suddenly saw Rachel standing in the yard, dressed in a
white robe -- watching. She looked years younger. The other
monks wandering about passed in front of her, obviously not
seeing her.
FRIAR JAMES
Is she still with you? I mean, is
she still alive?
Aaron gently closed his eyes, centering his mind. When he
looked again, Rachel was right beside him. He did his best
to hide his recognition of her from James.
AARON
Yes, she is.
RACHEL
You must save Samantha. She has
been wounded.
FRIAR JAMES
Ah! That is a blessing. A true
blessing.
Aaron nodded in acknowledgement, while still trying to listen
to Rachel.
RACHEL
Avignon ... they are taking her.
Friar James ushered him into the main monastery building.
INT. MONASTERY (CONTINUOUS)
(WALKING)
FRIAR JAMES
Hopefully you will be seeing her
again soon.
RACHEL
Wimarc has just come over. Muein is
overshadowed by darkness.
AARON
Before I meet up again with my
companion, yes.
FRIAR JAMES
That is lovely.
Rachel was suddenly gone. Friar James opened the main door,
allowing the outside light to glare in.
EXT. MONASTERY (CONTINUOUS)
They stopped just feet from the monastery's great wall.
James took Aaron's hands.
FRIAR JAMES
I will pray for you, my friend.
(HAWK SCREECH). The call captured Aaron. Friar James noticed
the look on his face ...
FRIAR JAMES
The hawk concerns you?
Theia dived ... then landed on the branch of a nearby tree.
Aaron left James to see her. He was disturbed to witness
several of her feathers splotched with blood. Theia jumped
to a lower branch so Aaron could reach for her. He touched
her head and closed his eyes. In his mind's eye ... he saw
it all ... (IMAGES FLASH OF THE BATTLE)
When he pulled away, he saw James beside him. A few other
monks had noticed the strange communion ... and stared
incredulously, though they kept their distance.
FRIAR JAMES
It is his pet. You need not worry.
I am right in saying that, yes?
AARON
Yes.
FRIAR JAMES
The company you keep sure is strange.
Aaron held out his arm and Theia hopped onto it. James could
see the comradery they shared ... And how it seemed they
were somehow communicating. He was too puzzled -- as well
as a bit frightened -- to say anything.
Aaron released Theia into the wind.
AARON
When my companion and I were brought
in, did we not have horses?
FRIAR JAMES
This way.
Friar James led him to the stables. He nodded pleasantly to
the other monks along the way, hoping to assuage their
concerns.
FRIAR JAMES
Your friend there looked like it had
been in one mess of a fight. Were
you able to discern what it was, by
chance?
Aaron found his horse and lifted himself onto its back. He
squinted briefly from the injury, but refused to let it stop
him.
AARON
Yes. I am very grateful to you.
With that, he turned the horse out of the stable and galloped
through the monastery's gate into the afternoon sun. Friar
James stared after him.
EXT. DIRT ROAD THROUGH FOREST
Samantha lied bound ... and blindfolded ... on the bed of a
cart. Water droplets fell to her lips and into her mouth as
Renier rode alongside, squeezing a sponge over her face.
Then he drizzled the cake with a flask.
KNIGHT 2
Will there be enough of that, my
lord?
RENIER
The potency in this flask will keep
her sedated long after we arrive.
EXT. ABOVE FOREST
Meanwhile, Theia soared over the treetops, looking for
Samantha.
EXT. ROADWAY
(GALLOPING) Aaron rode at top speed, eyes closed, keeping
his hand on the horse's neck -- guiding him, yet also aware
of Theia's view.
FRIAR JAMES (O.S.)
Aaron! Aaron!
(James presses his horse to run faster).
FRIAR JAMES
Aaron!
Aaron broke his link, looking back to see him. (They stop).
AARON
You must not come with me.
FRIAR JAMES
I meant what I said, when I said I
was fearful for your soul.
AARON
My soul will endure, as all life
endures. It is not safe for you to
continue with me.
FRIAR JAMES
The eyes of God watch over, and I
see His hand somehow in your quest.
AARON
You misunderstand --
FRIAR JAMES
He has always forever guided me true.
His almighty power, the power that
brought life to this universe, compels
me and shields me greater than any
armor. I sense you and I, our meeting
together ... it was not coincidence,
but divine providence.
AARON
This is not for someone like you.
James suddenly blinded Aaron with holy water.
FRIAR JAMES
Hm. I see no demonic response.
I think I will be all right, staying
in the Lord's hands.
Aaron wiped the water from his face.
FRIAR JAMES
And your wound is not completely
healed.
(AARON PAUSES, THEN:)
AARON
I can promise ... you will see things --
FRIAR JAMES
Holy unnatural? Not normal for the
faint of heart?
AARON
They may seem unnatural only at first
glance. I do not want you --
FRIAR JAMES
There's another word for things like
that. "Miracle."
(beat)
I have cared for you since you were
brought in. I've seen both you and
your companion's wounds, visible and
invisible. The blood on your bird
... You want to protect me, I
understand. You don't want to shake
my faith. But, have you considered,
perhaps, you might even make it grow
stronger?
In a surprise move, he yanked a sword from the other side of
his horse.
FRIAR JAMES
I will never kill another, in
accordance with the Lord's
commandments. But that doesn't mean
there might be some good wounds,
which will heal ... eventually ...
hopefully with lessons learned.
AARON
This is for my soul?
FRIAR JAMES
And maybe ... a little of mine.
James sheathed the blade. Aaron moved closer ... then clasped
James's forearm as welcoming a brother.
AARON
Your light is strong, like a brilliant
flame in the darkness.
FRIAR JAMES
And I will not surrender that flame.
Aaron looked deep into his eyes, then nodded an affirmation.
EXT. VALLEY ROAD
Samantha remained unconscious in the back of the cart while
Renier kept his horse alongside. He could hardly keep his
eyes off her -- more in remaining certain she was still
incapacitated rather than anything else. He squeezed the
sponge over her lips, continuing to wet them -- sneering at
her as he did so.
Philippe came up beside him, still looking a bit mangled
from the earlier fight.
PHILIPPE
It is twice now that we have seen it
on the horizon. Once back at
Beaulieu-sur-Bois.
Renier moistened the sponge from his flask, then squeezed
more drops onto Samantha's face.
RENIER
Tell the archers. One thousand livres
for whoever brings it down.
Philippe smiled, then turned toward the archery troops.
PHILIPPE
A little game with a fine prize awaits
to the best of you!
Within minutes, Theia was dodging bolts. Soaring and banking --
missing several close calls. She dove downward into the
thickness of forest trees for cover. The archers separated
from the pack to chase.
An archer caught sight of her ... and took aim. He calculated
Theia's flight path ... then: (THWIP!)
EXT. FOREST PATH
Several leagues and forests away, Aaron felt Theia's impact.
He buckled and fell onto his horses neck.
AARON
Uhn!
Friar James came up beside and steadied him upon his horse,
keeping him from falling off.
FRIAR JAMES
Aaron!
They stalled Aaron once again found balance.
FRIAR JAMES
There you are. There you are.
(Aaron sighs, centers himself)
FRIAR JAMES
A salve like that is not mustered if
it weren't for something grave.
AARON
Theia ... I know, has joined others.
James crossed himself.
FRIAR JAMES
Where they are headed -- do you know?
AARON
Avignon.
FRIAR JAMES
Now that says a great deal.
Aaron stiffened, wondering if James might be thinking he and
his Muein brethren were witches ... That all of this might
be a huge mistake on James's part.
FRIAR JAMES
The madness of our brothers who have
gone there of late, and now this.
Seems there is a darkness looking to
snuff out God's light in His most
holy city. Another reason for our
coming together, I think.
Aaron hesitated, still surprised by the friar's insights.
It's not what he expected from the clergyman.
FRIAR JAMES
Though we do not believe animals
have souls as such, our memory of
them is still precious, and thanks
be to God for what they bring to our
lives. For your Theia, my condolences
to you, but let's quickly be on our
way.
With that, James took the lead ... hoping to reach Avignon
and solve the mystery of what was poisoning the lives of his
brothers in faith.
EXT. VILLAGE TWILIGHT
By nightfall, Renier's team had made it to a small village,
ending at an outdoor stable near an inn.
Samantha was still out cold. Renier applied the final drops
of liquid over her lips, then motioned to his men. A pair
of knights carefully took her inert body from the cart and
set her inside a freshly made wooden crate.
RENIER
She'll sleep now until our arrival.
The warriors nailed her in, then slid the casket into position
with a stack of other crates on an already prepared cart.
EXT. DIFFERENT VILLAGE
Elsewhere, Friar James and Aaron entered a small village to
rest for the night. James led Aaron off the road, tying up
just outside a parish church.
FRIAR JAMES
I am sure I can get us a stay here.
(Aaron jumps off the horse and follows).
AARON
It is not far to Avignon from here?
FRIAR JAMES
Another two days.
(Walk to door. Knock. Door open.)
PRIEST
Oh, my brother in Christ. You need
not knock at this hour.
FRIAR JAMES
In a request for your services, it
would only be fitting.
PRIEST
Come.
(Footsteps inside. Door closing.)
INT. PARISH CHURCH SACRISTY
After hearing James's request for a place to sleep, the priest
led him and Aaron to the sacristy -- a small room filled
with relics and vestments.
PRIEST
You are most welcome to take rest in
here, but not him.
Aaron and James shared a look.
PRIEST
You are of the cloth. He is not.
AARON
Where might I - ?
PRIEST
There is hay in a small stable out
back, with a few horse blankets. It
will suit you fine.
FRIAR JAMES
Could he not stay in the --
PRIEST
The stable will do well ... as it
did for our lord when being visited
by the wise men.
AARON
It will be fine. Thank you.
(Aaron leaves.)
PRIEST
I retire shortly to the parsonage.
All doors will be locked then. May
you be at ease with your rest here.
FRIAR JAMES
We are grateful.
The priest nodded, then left him in the approaching darkness.
EXT. PARISH CHURCH
Aaron truly didn't mind remaining outdoors -- it actually
was a relief. He found he still couldn't shake the stinging
of his nerves with being in a religious building -- even
though it had nothing to do with him personally, but rather
his memories of Elouan.
Coursing around back, he found the small stall the priest
recommended. Indeed, there were some horse blankets. They
would be enough to keep him warm while he moved his spirit
into meditation-sleep.
He sat, then crossed his legs into lotus position and closed
his eyes. The calm breeze and scent of smoke from the nearby
hearths of homes gave his mind a point of focus. Though
they were outside of him, he could take the air and follow
it inward into his body, thereby beginning the process of
moving his awareness away from the outer world and into the
nature of his inner being.
PRIEST
This will do for you?
Aaron opened his eyes, seeing how the priest looked on him
with a queer gaze. The elder scrutinized him, clearly not
understanding how he was sitting and what he was doing.
AARON
Yes.
PRIEST
The doors to get inside are locked.
Have a good evening.
With that, he hurried off.
INT. PARISH CHURCH SACRISTY/OTHER ROOMS
It wasn't often that Friar James had an opportunity to go
about a parish church alone. Curious, he went from room-to-
room, taking it all in.
EXT. PARISH CHURCH STABLE
Meanwhile, Aaron found the ebb and flow of his meditative
state suddenly interrupted by a non-physical presence. With
a slight shift of his awareness, he opened that part of his
mind which allowed for the reception of spirit messages.
The energy thickened; becoming potent. He opened his eyes
to see Rachel kneeling before him, looking as solid as a
living person.
AARON
Mother ...
He reached for her. Her hand gently took his ... and she
smiled, gratified. At first she wasn't sure if her attempt
at materialization would work ... but thankfully, it had.
Of course, it was only materialization within Aaron's visual
awareness -- they both knew no one else could see her if
anyone happened to chance by. Nonetheless, their reunion
was valid.
RACHEL
We have not gone into the light,
choosing to stay close. It is not
easy.
AARON
What have they done with Sam?
INT. PARISH CHURCH BACK WALL
James opened a small shutter, peering out toward the stable
where Aaron sat. He saw him sitting there, his eyes clearly
locked onto something in front of him ... But obviously not
something James could see. It baffled him.
AARON
We may not be able to reach her before
they arrive at Avignon. I am ...
forgive me ... not comfortable with
the clergyman.
James froze, taking in his words -- realizing Aaron possibly
didn't trust him. Besides that, who (or what) was he saying
such a thing to? Before his mind could fathom an answer ...
(POUNDING) It was coming from the main portal -- the entryway
doors. He proceeded into the Sanctuary Proper (as the
pounding crescendos).
FRIAR JAMES
Who is it?
PIERRE (OUTSIDE)
I wish an audience with my Lord now!
Unlock the doors!
FRIAR JAMES
The sanctuary is closed for tonight.
PIERRE
I have fought the Devil's demons!
I have burned his witches! I need
the sanctity of His holiness to
cleanse the aching of my spirit.
James hesitated ... then unlocked the door, only to gain a
glimpse. Instead, Pierre and three other knights shoved him
aside and marched in.
FRIAR JAMES
You have burned ... witches?
PIERRE
At first a whole coven, out west in
Puerto de la Estrella. Then three
more came searching. Two fled, but
the third ... Walked into the flames
herself, with an evil smile on her
wicked face.
He fell before the alter and clasped his hands in prayer.
FRIAR JAMES
What do these two look like, that
you failed to burn?
PIERRE
A woman and man. Most unnatural.
FRIAR JAMES
What makes you think they were
witches?
PIERRE
They are able to fight with eyes
blinded. Talk to animals ... birds...
Even the dead. It is all the Devil's
doing.
James was stunned. He knew Pierre was looking for Aaron.
FRIAR JAMES
And what do they do ... with such
power?
PIERRE
What all of Satan's demons do.
Deceive us. Twist our minds. Try
to control us. (beat) Do you mind?
James backed off, allowing him and his men to pray. After a
few minutes, they thankfully took their leave.
PIERRE
God bless you, father.
FRIAR JAMES
Yes ... and you, too.
James locked the door behind them. His thoughts flooded
with concern about his companion sitting out back talking to
the air. It was ... disturbing.
EXT. CHURCH PARISH MORNING
When morning came, James quickly readied the horses. Aaron
calmly approached, unaware of Pierre's visit.
FRIAR JAMES
Did you sleep well?
AARON
Thank you. Yes, I did. How about
you?
FRIAR JAMES
In truth, a little disturbed. But
let's be on our way.
(MOUNTING. RIDE OFF.)
EXT. VILLAGE STREETS
Aaron noticed how James was moving them through the town at
a quick trot, and that it had nothing to do with trying to
speed up the journey. He could sense an uneasiness with
him; something he hadn't detected in him before. They turned
onto a side street. Then another.
AARON
James ... Something frightens you
that we take to lesser trodden paths.
FRIAR JAMES
A clan of knights paid visit last
night. Said they were hunting a
pair of witches who escaped them
from the west.
AARON
You think I am one of them.
FRIAR JAMES
As I keep saying, I think there is a
great risk to your soul. (beat) It
is going to take a few extra days to
reach Avignon this way.
(PAUSE)
AARON
I am grateful you continue to watch
out for me.
James chose to say nothing. Aaron could see, he was
struggling ... confused with how he was considering him.
They turned onto another rarely used path.
AARON
I am sorry. I know this cannot be
easy for you.
FRIAR JAMES
You had warned me, yes. Witchcraft
is real, I have no doubt.
AARON
But?
FRIAR JAMES
Our lord works in mysterious ways.
It is not for me to judge. As so
far you have told me your truths in
as light a manner as you could ...
knowing that you would be strange to
my sensibilities -- the Devil would
not be so kind. And somewhere along
the line, it's clear you've had
unfortunate encounters with other
Churchmen, yet are willing to risk
my company -- though you might not
be completely comfortable with it.
In other words ...
AARON
The feeling is mutual.
FRENCHMAN
It is mutual.
AARON
(beat)
You know the way off the normal
roads?
FRIAR JAMES
No. But I am guessing, neither do
they. Parish priests will be familiar
with their towns; they can guide us.
We just need to make it to the next
hamlet.
(THEY RIDE ON )
EXT. AVIGNON VARIOUS SHOTS
By midday, Renier and his trio of Lieutenants had towed the
cart carrying Samantha into the heart of Avignon's city
center. They were no longer dressed as knights, but rather
looking more like merchants. They eyed the towers of the
looming Papal citadel, but steered clear of it. Nonetheless,
the sidewalks were littered with priests and cardinals, going
about their day.
The entourage passed through several blocks, finally stopping
at a minimal two-story tenement building, butting up against
a garden. They unloaded the crates, as if they were
delivering an order of purchased goods.
Once inside, they hauled the crates downstairs into a dank
basement.
INT. AVIGNON TENEMENT BASEMENT
Moments later, the lid was pulled off Samantha's casket.
Pasquier leaned over her.
PASQUIER
Complexion looks good ... except for
that bruise. Are you sure she's
still alive?
Renier kicked the casket. (Samantha MOANS).
RENIER
I am sure.
PASQUIER
Very good.
Pasquier backed away, revealing the Muein chests placed along
a wall, near a series of shelves. Some of the shelves were
filled with books; others with what appeared to be herbs and
potions. Pasquier examined a few of the bottles, then
approached a small table with a wooden chair attached, with
manacles for ankles and arms.
PASQUIER
I will find what will continue to
dull her senses but allow her to
see. In the meantime, our brother
continues uncovering the sacred grasp.
If she fails to give us the
translations ... God wills then that
we take what she knows directly from
her soul.
He gazed at the label on the concoction in his hand, then
lifted an eyebrow -- knowing he had found the right one.
INT. AVIGNON TENEMENT BASEMENT LATER
Hours later, Samantha sat chained to the desk. Her head
flopped forward, still groggy. She barely opened her eyes
... everything blurry. All she could see was a wave of
crimson, coming toward her. Then she blacked out.
Later, another attempt. Still blurry ... but could make out
what looked like stumps bracketed on the table in front of
her. Then another wave of redness ... But again, she blacked
out.
Then there was sudden white light. Then images coalesced.
Sharp. Fully colored. Distinct. Pasquier pulled away,
holding a bottle of smelling fumes.
PASQUIER
God wills that you may scream.
Samantha came-to, still somewhat drugged. She looked around
... then down at her hands. They were bound in linen, though
changed to clean fabric ... fastened to the table by the
cuffs, just below the elbows. She noted by holes in the
tabletop, the clamps had to be uprooted from their original
positions to reach further up her arms. She cocked her head,
perplexed, wondering if her eyes were tricking her, then she
suddenly knew: her right hand was gone, and fingers were
missing off her left. Then she noticed her feet were also
clamped.
Instead of screaming, her chest pulsed. She focused on
Pasquier.
PASQUIER
No one will hear you.
He placed the bottle of smelling fumes back on the shelf,
then returned with a bowl of porridge.
PASQUIER
You are under my care and would do
well not to struggle.
He spooned the slop and fed it to her. She spit it out.
PASQUIER
Your restraints were necessary,
considering the condition of your
well-being.
He gave her another mouthful. She reluctantly swallowed.
SAMANTHA
Are you the one who did this, to us
all? Who are you?
PASQUIER
I am your salvation, young lady.
Samantha took another wearied look at her stumps.
PASQUIER
So you know it is best not to
challenge me.
He took the bowl away, then went to gather one of the Muein
texts.
PASQUIER
Your people have hidden things away
that were never yours to conceal.
God gave us all life, each one of us
the same, made by His hand. It is
only by the temptations of the flesh
that we lose ourselves.
He heaved one of the weighty books.
PASQUIER
It is the sheerest heresy and
abomination to hide what we are all
blessed with inside our souls at the
moment we take our first breath.
He dropped the book before her. Samantha jerked, startled
by the noise. Pasquier opened it.
PASQUIER
In these words lies what rests within
us all, that you and your kind have
coveted with such selfishness, pride,
and arrogance.
He reached above her head, twisting something there. A drop
of water fell. (Drip). Directly onto her head. (Drip).
Samantha looked up, but couldn't quite see it. (Drip). She
tried to move, but was unable to get clear. (Drip).
PASQUIER
You will read each and every line to
me. You will not rest until you do.
A drop splattered onto her cheek ... it was cold. Daunting.
PASQUIER
Only upon my satisfaction will you
be provided nourishment. Only upon
my will, will you be given even a
moment's respite.
Samantha leaned forward, looking at the text. Then was
interrupted by another water droplet. She closed her eyes,
hoping to reach that inner sanctuary ... for some place where
she might taste tranquility. It was clearly -- out of reach.
PASQUIER
You cannot shut it out. All fluid
given you on the journey here, and
all that will be offered in your
stay, contains a suppressant that
will deny you the strength required
for the type of mental focus you
need.
She looked at him ... wondering -- how did he know?
PASQUIER
I have not forgotten all that I came
into this life with. Now ...
He shoved the Muein text forward, pointing to the first page.
PASQUIER
... enlighten me.
Samantha paused, then sat back in refusal. Pasquier stood.
PASQUIER
Do not anger God. Read back what
you have stolen.
SAMANTHA
We have stolen nothing. It is in
the air all around you ... Somewhat
like .... a pestilence.
Pasquier froze, clearly surprised. Samantha closed her eyes
again, attempting to move mentally inward. Pasquier quickly
released a faster drip onto her head, then rushed to grab
another vial. He violently forced her to drink it, clamping
her mouth closed so she couldn't spit it out.
PASQUIER
You will take it! You will drink
all of it!
Samantha surrendered, her strength failing as a result of
the earlier concoctions. Pasquier turned away, taking a
seat in a plush chair where he could keep watch on her.
PASQUIER
Do not think I will leave this room
or give you a moment's peace. I.
Am. God's. Vengeance.
SAMANTHA
You mistake the creative force of
this universe to be explicitly human
... to think and act as such. You
do not want me to read these texts.
Pasquier towered over her.
SAMANTHA
Please. Threaten to cut my tongue
out. Then you hear nothing.
PASQUIER
Only for the moment, may that be
true.
He knelt and cupped her ear. Samantha recoiled, feeling the
sudden and unexpected intrusion.
PASQUIER
But when this is learned -- thought-
to-thought -- you will hide nothing
from me, no matter how hard you try.
(Samantha SCREAMS).