Vampire: Anarchy
"POSTMORTEM"
TEASER
FADE IN:
EXT. ALLEY -- NIGHT
It is a dark and rainy night as ALMOUND and LOREAN stand
recovering from a fight. The alley is tall and dark and
scattered with the debris of the city; cardboard boxes and
people's trash form a backdrop for the action.
Almound, a Brujah looks like a street thug in his mid 20's.
He is wearing a tattered jacket that has been somewhat ripped
to shreds. He wears a leather cap half heartedly and wields
a wooden baseball bat.
Lorean, a Gangrel in his mid 20s, is wearing nothing more
than a pair of brown pants and a dirt red tank top. His
arms are bare and as the rain drips down them and off his
fingers we can see that his hands end in unnatural claws
like those of a wolverine. Lorean also wears a stainless
steal Gangrel logo necklace. The logo looks like a wolf head
with the hair on the back of it's neck standing up.
Almound holds his bat at his side and they stare into each
others eyes and grin. Each it waiting for the other to make
the first move and first mistake.
ALMOUND
Do you really think you are going to
walk out of here alive. You Gangrel
are out of your domain. This city
belongs to the Brujah now.
LOREAN
Not yet it doesn't. We Gangrel will
never walk away from a fight, never
back down and never surrender for as
long as I live and rule.
ALMOUND
Then something will have to be done
about that.
Almound charges at Lorean and they exchange a few blows, bat
to claw. They fight mostly like humans but they move a bit
faster than is humanly possible.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2.
Almound is aiming mostly for the sides of Lorean, but Lorean
is deflecting these blows with the skill of a trained fighter.
LOREAN
You Brujah are no more than mindless
beasts. You rebel from everything
and stand for nothing.
This makes Almound even angrier and he increases the ferocity
of his attacks. Lorean uses this lack of planing to grab a
side blow of Almound's and using the bat as his lever forces
Almound to take up a the position with his back to the wall.
ALMOUND
Can't you just shut up and die?
As the fighting continues we realize that Lorean is playing
with Almound. Blocking every swing with ease.
LOREAN
You should know your place in life
Brujah. You are little more than
street dogs looking to be king of
the dog pound.
ALMOUND
You are calling us dogs? You who are
not much better than the werewolves?
Go live in the forest with your gypsy
brethren.
This makes Lorean mad and, as Almound comes down with an
over hand strike at Lorean's head, Lorean grabs the bat with
both hands and smiles, thinking he has now won.
LOREAN
I have better things to do with my
time than quarrel with you. Go back
to the sewer from witch you crawled
Lorean snaps the baseball bat in two with his bare hands.
Almound grabs a large knife concealed in his jacket and runs
it through Lorean's mid section.
ALMOUND
You can spend your time dying.
Lorean falls onto his back. Almound spikes him through the
heart with what's left of the baseball bat handle.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3.
LOREAN
You won't get away with this. You
and your entire clan will pay for
this. No vampire is allowed to kill
another without the prince's
permission.
Almound walks to the back of his car. He grabs a gas can and
methodically douses Lorean in gas.
ALMOUND
The prince is dead and so are you.
Almound walks away. As he goes, he lights a match and throws
it in the pool of gas. Lorean goes up instantly in flames.
Almound gets in his car and speeds away.
END OF TEASER
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
INT. TOREADOR HAVEN -- NIGHT
CARMEN and FRANCIS are curled up on a love seat in a dark
brick room. Expensive looking art is hanging from the walls.
They are sipping Champagne.
Toreadors are all artists. Francis is a Male in his early
30's. He has a certain air of perfection, like a guy on the
front of a romance novel. He is dressed the part in what is
a cross between modern and Victorian clothing. Carmen is A
young Spanish girl in her early 20's, but she could pass for
her mid to late teens. Her long dark hair hangs half way
down her back.
CARMEN
A new artist will be showing at the
Rochester on Friday, I heard he has
some degree of talent.
FRANCIS
I hope he is better than last week's.
That was a disgrace to the world of
art.
CARMEN
Are the owners of the galleries
getting so desperate for a something
to show that will let just about
anybody hang there art on the wall?
FRANCIS
The people of this age wouldn't know
a true artist if he came to them
with a new Rembrandt.
EXT. NIGHTCRAWLERS STRIPCLUB -- NIGHT
Nightcrawlers is a dark strip joint in the bad part of town.
It is the brujah haven. Neon signs illuminate the dark
streets. Neighboring stores sport signs like "PAWN" and "XXX".
People come in and out of the club.
INT. NIGHTCRAWLERS STRIPCLUB -- NIGHT
CALEIF (Pronounced: Cal E f) stands in his private office
with a one way mirror looking out into the club. Almound
lets himself in.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5.
Caleif is the Brujah Primogen (clan leader). He is dressed
like a small town crime lord in a cheap grey suit and a shaved
head. He as an air of smugness. In his own mind he is
invincible, and the best vampire in the city. He appears in
his late 20's.
CALEIF
Is it done?
ALMOUND
He won't be a problem any more.
CALEIF
Good.
EXT. VENTURE OFFICE -- EVENING
A massive tower of glass and steal. The mirrored windows of
the modern office building standing ominous in the nights
sky.
INT. VENTURE OFFICE -- NIGHT
The office is large and black, at least 10 stories up and
overlooking the waterfront. The floor looks recently waxed
and a large bay window covers the entire back wall.The Lights
are dim.
CHRISTIAN, Primogen of the Venture. He is a business man in
a very expensive black suit. His hair is nicely styled and
his posture is impeccable. He is in his late 20's. He is
reclining in his black leather chair when MATHESS, a cold
hearted business man dressed to match Christian, enters. He
is also in his late 20's. He speaks with a bit of a Spanish
accent.
CHRISTIAN
We need to call a meeting of the
clan. We must all be together if we
hope to win.
MATHESS
I will take care of it for after the
primogen council. But what shall we
do about the Brujah?
CHRISTIAN
The Brujah have no guidance, no
leadership. The council will not
allow them to lead.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6.
MATHESS
You underestimate the strength of
the Brujah. Calief may have strong
armed the cooperation of the other
clans.
CHRISTIAN
The Brujah are nothing more than
pawns of there own game. The old
prince was Ventrue,
MATHESS
I still don’t think we can trust
that toreador whore.
CHRISTIAN
Your objection is noted.
MATHESS
Don’t say I didn't warn you.
Mathess has had enough and leaves.
EXT. TRAILER PARK -- NIGHT
A rundown trailer park on the outskirts of town.
ANGEL ON TRAILER
An old silver "Airstream" trailer.It looks like it's been
there a while. The windows have all been painted black.
Overhead street lights flicker.
INT. TRAILER -- NIGHT
ARTHUR MACLAREN, a stocky Scottish man in his early 30's
wearing a brown raincoat, Shows up looking for Lorean. He
finds only CATRINA, a beautiful young woman in her early
20's. Her brown hair hangs like a mane against her cat like
features. She is leaning back in a recliner reading an old
book. There are many books on bookshelves around the trailer.
ARTHUR
Have you seen Lorean?
CATRINA
He's been around long enough to take
care of himself, I don't keep tabs
on him.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7.
ARTHUR
I was supposed to meet with him before
tonight's council meeting but he
never showed up.
CATRINA
I'm sure he just got distracted.
INT. ABANDONED SUBWAY TUNNEL -- NIGHT
ANDREAS and MORTONIS stand in shadow. They are the hideous
monsters of legend. Their faces are deformed and their body
twisted in nightmarish ways. They are of course bald along
with the rest of his clan.
Andreas somehow has a simple beauty to him. He is dressed
in what may have been formal dinner wear 100 years ago. He
would not look out of place at the opera house in Paris during
the turn of the century and since his age can not be easily
guessed he may have actually been there.
Mortonis (pronounced Mort on is) on the other hand has a
much harsher appearance and looks like he has been wearing
the same rags for many years.
MORTONIS
Word around town is that the Brujah
and Venture are up to something.
ANDREAS
Information is power find out what
you can.
INT. THE MEETING ROOM -- NIGHT
A large old style Conference room. Oak and velvet coverings
with no windows. It is very dimly lit the lights casting
shadows around the room. Six chairs around the main table.
The chair at one end is much fancier than the other five but
sits empty. Around the table in order sit Calief, Brujah
Primogen; Francis Primogen of clan Toreador; Andreas head of
the Nosferatu clan; and Christian, lord of the Ventrue. The
Gangrel chair sits empty.
CALEIF
I am very busy and don't have time
to waste waiting around for a Gangrel
to show up. Call the vote now and
name me ruler and prince. Francis
second me on this.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8.
ANDREAS
There will be no vote. Not until we
are all here. You know that. No prince
can rule without the support of the
clans.
CALEIF
I just want to get this over with.
Everyone here knows I am the only
one with the foresight to lead us.
You Nosferatu would rather just hide
out in the sewers and abandoned subway
tunnels of the city. Why do you care?
Do I have a second?
Caleif looks at Francis expecting him to say something but
doesn't want to wait.
CALEIF (CONT'D)
Anyone?
FRANCIS
There will be enough time to vote
after Lorean has arrived. He is not
know to be late.
CALEIF
His vote is forfeit if he can't even
be bothered to show up. Lets just
get this over with. I dont' have
time for the indecisiveness of the
council. We need my strong fist to
rule.
ANDREAS
If Lorean is not to show then another
of his clan will be found to sit in
his place.
Andreas stands.
ANDREAS (CONT'D)
The Gangrel will have their word in
this. There must be others of their
breed in the waiting room.
Andreas leaves.
CALEIF
This is pure lunacy. This is mockery
of a council.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9.
FRANCIS
The only one making a mockery of
this is you. Be still and wait.
CALEIF
The proud Brujah clan will not be
silenced.
CHRISTIAN
The Brujah are no more proud than
you are silent. Now hold your tongue.
After a short pause Andreas returns with Catrina in tow.
Andreas takes his seat as Catrina addresses the council.
CATRINA
I am Catrina and I shall speak for
the Gangrel.
CALEIF
I'm surprised the Gangrel can even
speak.
ANDREAS
This is not a joke. This city is too
large to survive without a prince.
One must be found or anarchy will
rule.
CALEIF
I will rule.
Catrina takes her seat.
CATRINA
Not if I have anything to say about
it. I have lived a long time. Long
enough to know that no Gangrel can
live in a city run by Brujah.
CALEIF
I do not recognize your authority to
speak. You are not Primogen of your
clan. We have all earned our right
to be here.Proven ourselves to our
clan, our family.
ANDREAS
Catrina will speak for her clan as
an equal to us. As long as there is
this much turmoil between the Clans,
none can rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10.
Christian looks at Caleif as if blaming him for the fire
that killed the last prince.
CHRISTIAN
Andreas is right. After the fire,
the murder of our prince, we have
been at each others throats. I call
for postponement of the vote. Until
two weeks time. Maybe we can let
thing calms down and and work things
out.
CALEIF
You Venture are always delaying
things. I wish for once you would
come out and say what you want. This
is why you can not be permitted to
rule again. You haven't got the
backbone for it.
ANDREAS
I second the motion to delay the
vote for a new prince. Now is not
the time. All for?
Everyone except Caleif raises their hand. Caleif gets furious
and storms out. All begin to leave but Christian catches
Catrina as she goes to leave.
CHRISTIAN
Where is Lorean? Catrina do you know
where your Primogen is hiding.
CATRINA
He went out for an early hunt but
never returned.
CHRISTIAN
I will set every good Venture on
watch for him. He was a friend of
the Venture clan as have all Gangrel
been.
INT. WAITING ROOM -- CONTINUOUS
The attached waiting room a gathering area for those of
vampire blood. The council members go out separately to share
news with there clans brethren in separate corners. We look
in on each pair. The Nosferatu learn.
ANDREAS
What have you you learned?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
11.
MORTONIS
We should not talk here. There is
much that is best said in private.
The ventrue Make their plans.
CHRISTIAN
Is it all arranged?
MATHESS
The time and place are established,
they will be there.
Well elsewhere the Toreador make pleasantries.
FRANCIS
Where have you been?
CARMEN
I have been attending to personal
matters does that bother you?
FRANCIS
No my love. It does not
He kisses her.
INT. ABANDONED SUBWAY TUNNEL -- NIGHT
Andreas stands at a podium going through some very old book.
It is at least one thousand years old as such defiantly not
in English. He closes it when Mortonis enters from shadow.
MORTONIS
The venture have been having nightly
meetings for the past couple nights.
They are up to something but Christian
has kept his new office locked down.
Even I can't get in there.
ANDREAS
What do you think is going on in
there?
MORTONIS
I don't know yet but I intend to
find out. The good news is it leaves
the old mansion less well protected
for an hour each night.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12.
ANDREAS
The prince was a friend of ours. We
owe it to him to find out the truth.
MORTONIS
How deep do you think this goes?
ANDREAS
The prince would not have let anyone
get close to him if he suspected
anything. He was alone and vulnerable
and that rarely ever happens.
MORTONIS
You think this was planned? That he
was setup?
ANDREAS
I do not know but meet me at the old
tunnels at 3 am tomorrow and we may
just find out
Mortonis leaves Andreas returns to his reading.
EXT. A SIDE STREET -- NIGHT
Francis has JOHNNY, a young kid in his early 20s, up against
a wall with his forearm across his chest, demanding answers
out of him. Johnny is dressed in blue jeans and a t-shirt
with some kind of punk rock logo on the front of it. Johnny
speaks very quickly and is very sketchy. He acts as if he
was high on some kind of drug that makes him a little freaked
out.
FRANCIS
What do you know?
JOHNNY
In the great fire of London in 1666
half of London was burnt down but
only 6 people were injured. I know,
I started it.
FRANCIS
About Lorean you fool?
JOHNNY
Lorean, last name of a famous American
car maker in the late 70's. The
Delorean was...
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
13.
FRANCIS
Shut up.
Johnny seems kind of puzzled by this response. He is beginning
to calm down and speak more slowly.
JOHNNY
If you want me to shut up why do you
keep asking me questions?
FRANCIS
Because I'm looking for answers.
JOHNNY
Have you ever thought of checking
out the self help section of the
library then? Or maybe consult the
Dali Lama?
FRANCIS
I want you to tell me what you know
about the the current location of
Lorean of the Gangrel.
JOHNNY (Sung)
There once was a Gangrel from the
moon, Who drank all his blood with a
spoon. When asked why he did, He
just ran and hid. And howled in the
night at the moon.
This is not the response Francis was looking for.
FRANCIS
My patience only extends so far.
JOHNNY
How can I know what is not known?
The place we go when we go no more?
FRANCIS
What are you saying? You only speak
in riddle and rhyme. Tell me straight
or I'll rip out your heart.
Francis raises his hand to Johnny's chest, fingers extended
and ready to attack.
JOHNNY
He had a heart which beat for none,
and now he's gone it's beating done.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
14.
FRANCIS
I know he's dead but when where and
by who.
JOHNNY
If I tell you, you will know. If you
know you will go; and I was just
beginning to have fun.
Francis punches Johnny really hard in the stomach. Johnny
laughs the crazy laugh that is the last thing you expect to
hear after you punch somebody.
JOHNNY (CONT'D)
That was fun. When is it your turn?
FRANCIS
I'm not messing around.
JOHNNY
Round and round the merry go round,
spinning faster all the time. Feels
like falling when you die. Feel like
laughing when you cry. Cut your skin
and you still bleed. Know not what
it is you need.
FRANCIS
I should just kill you for wasting
my time.
Johnny gets creepily serious sounding. A strange silence
fills the air.
JOHNNY
When they learn they will come, Hunt
you for what you have done, And on
that day you'll meet you fate, for
all your planning came too late.
John leans forward and whispers almost into Francis's ear.
JOHNNY (CONT'D)
They're coming for you, you know?
Francis is amazingly unsettled by this and turns around.
Just as his eyes leave Johnny, Johnny vanishes in thin air.
FRANCIS
What the? Johnny, you twisted freak,
I will find you and I will kill you.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15.
Francis raises a fist into the air in a threatening but
finally useless act.
INT. NIGHTCRAWLERS STRIPCLUB -- NIGHT
Loud Metal blares in the background. Leather clad dancers
dance on stage. The two brujah, in a dark booth in the corner,
talk to each other indistinctly. Francis barges in.
FRANCIS
What have you brainless ingrates
gone and done?
Almound pipes up as if he is very proud of what he has done.
ALMOUND
We took care of ...
CALEIF
We have no idea what you are talking
about.
FRANCIS
You know full well what I am talking
about.
CALEIF
You seem to have us at a disadvantage.
Your imagination is apparently much
better than ours because we can not
see as to what you are referring. We
are innocent of all crimes.
FRANCIS
That line may work with the stupid
venture but not with me. What have
you done with Lorean?
CALEIF
Lorean is not a problem.
FRANCIS
Kindred law forbids the killing of
any vampire not of your line without
the prince's approval, you know that.
CALEIF
The prince is dead. There is no law
without its enforcer. We make our
own laws.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
16.
FRANCIS
You've killed the Gangrel Primogen.
When they find out they will hunt
down every last brujah. I don't want
this coming back to me.
ALMOUND
We are ready. Let them come.
FRANCIS
You are fools. You have no idea what
you've started here.
CALEIF
We know exactly what we've started
and we intend to finish it.
FRANCIS
This war can not be won in the
streets. It is a war of the council
room.
CALEIF
It is a war for the streets, of the
streets.
FRANCIS
Where is the body?
CALEIF
The remains are in an alley at the
end of Linda Street. Nothing left
but ash.
FRANCIS
I'm going to go clean up your dirty
work. Don't forget you do my bidding.
ALMOUND
We can take care of ourselves.
Francis leaves to go clean up after the Brujah.
INT. TRAILER -- NIGHT
Catrina and Arthur argue inside. Catrina is sitting at the
table Arthur is standing near the door.
ARTHUR
We need to strike now before they
have time to prepare.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
17.
CATRINA
Lorean will show up.
ARTHUR
He's dead Catrina. The Brujah killed
him and we must take our revenge.
CATRINA
We can take it before the council in
a few days more. We need to learn
more.
ARTHUR
We need to strike. We need to rip
their cold hearts from their chest.
CATRINA
Calm yourself down, you know an
assault like that would threaten the
masquerade, and that is all that
keeps us alive.
ARTHUR
You can't expect me to just sit here
and let them get away with this.
CATRINA
No I expect you to put what you know
to use and find out the truth. When
you return to me with proof that I
can bring before the council this
will be settled.
ARTHUR
I heard a strange police report of a
fire I will look into it, but if
this doesn't pan out I'm going looking
for Brujah blood next.
CATRINA
You must learn that our traditions
have been taken as law for 200 years
for a reason.
ARTHUR
The traditions are like stories passed
down from generation to generation.
They are words, and actions speak
louder than words.
Arthur leaves.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
18.
INT. VENTURE OFFICE -- NIGHT
Christian sits in front of a laptop computer at his desk. As
Mathess enters the room Christian closes the lid on his laptop
and looks up.
CHRISTIAN
What have you discovered Mathess?
MATHESS
Only one thing of note. A source in
the police department mentioned a
strange report of a fire in an alley
earlier tonight.
CHRISTIAN
And?
MATHESS
The first officers on the scene found
no fire, just a pile of ashes burnt
to fine dust. They decided there was
nothing of interest and moved on.
CHRISTIAN
That must have been the sad end of
our dear friend Lorean. He served us
well for many years.
MATHESS
The bond between The Venture and the
Gangrel has stood for many years. It
will not falter over this.
CHRISTIAN
Any news on who betrayed the prince?
MATHESS
They covered their tracks well. I'm
afraid we will never find out without
the help of the other clans.
CHRISTIAN
The other clans cannot be permitted
to look into this. We have secrets
best left buried.
MATHESS
I understand.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
19.
CHRISTIAN
If the police know about the fire
then Arthur and the Gangrel will
surely know soon and be looking into
it. Go to the scene and make sure
they have something to find.
MATHESS
As you wish.
Mathess leaves, letting Carmen in as he exits.
CARMEN
Francis has gone to see the brujah
again.
CHRISTIAN
What does he suspect?
CARMEN
He thinks the brujah have something
to do with the disappearance of
Lorean.
CHRISTIAN
They almost certainly do. The Brujah
and Gangrel have been enemies for
over 100 years. Only Andreas the
oldest among us would remember a
time when the brujah and the gangrel
were at peace.
CARMEN
How old is he?
CHRISTIAN
He walked the catacombs of this city
before any of us drew breath or blood.
It would be good to find out what he
knows.
CARMEN
Even I can't get into the mind of
one older than me.
CHRISTIAN
You know his lackey Mortonis. He
should be putty in your capable hands.
CARMEN
I've always enjoyed a challenge.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
20.
Carmen walks around the desk and sits on Christians lap and
gives him a passionate kiss. She enjoys using her charms to
get what she wants. Carmen saunters off to talk to the
Nosferatu.
EXT. ALLEY -- NIGHT
Mathess sets the scene
Mathess searches around in the alley where Lorean was murder.
He reaches down and grabs the burnt necklace from the ashes.
MATHESS
This will serve quite nicely.
He polishes it up with a handkerchief he pulls from his pocket
and places it in his pocket.
EXT. STREET -- NIGHT
We see Arthur just down the street from the alley where Lorean
died. He is talking to a hobo. Arthur shows the hobo a badge.
ARTHUR
Detective MacLaren, I'm with the
FBI. I'm investigating a fire in
this area earlier tonight. Did you
see anything?
HOBO
No sir, well
(beat)
Some of the fellows saw a mean looking
guy get out of a car just down there.
Something about him scared them. We
don't stick our noses where they
don't belong.
ARTHUR
Thank you for your time. Here buy
your self nice cup of coffee. It's
getting cold out.
Arthur hands the Hobo $5 and then walks towards the alley
and as he enters it he sees Francis running away. Arthur
chases him down past the end of the alley.
Mathess steps from around the corner where he has been
watching and throws the necklace into the alley where it
will be seen.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
21.
EXT. STREET -- CONTINUOUS
Arthur looks around but Francis has eluded him. He return to
the alley.
EXT. ALLEY -- CONTINUOUS
Arthur turns back towards the entrance. He bends over.
ANGLE ON TIRE TRACKS
Tire tracks streak marks on the road from Almound's car.
Arthur reaches into one of his jacket pockets and grabs a
digital camera. He takes a few pictures of the tracks.
ANGLE ON ARTHUR
Arthur rises, placing the camera into his pocket and walks
over the the center of the alley. There are scorch marks on
the ground but no ash or any sign that Lorean had ever been
there. Then Arthur notices something that Francis must have
missed. He reaches down and pulls the necklace from the dirt.
He grips it in his hand so tight that it cuts his skin and
blood drips from his closed hand. He is mad; beyond mad. You
can see his eyes change color and he howls at the moon like
a wolf.
Arthur runs out of the alley heading off to Catrina's. From
a dark doorway steps Mathess. He smiles and walks away, his
job is done.
INT. TRAILER
Arthur bursts into the trailer. As Catrina is reading over
some papers. He isn't going to wait.
ARTHUR
You wanted evidence. How about this.
Arthur throws the necklace down on the the table in front of
Catrina. She picks it up and knows instantly what it is and
what it means.
ARTHUR (CONT'D)
This is all the evidence you'll need
for the council to hum and haw about
this. Until there are no Gangrel
left to argue.
Arthur throws the camera from his pocket down onto the table.
Catrina picks it up and starts looking at the pictures on
the back.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
22.
ARTHUR (CONT'D)
You will find are tire marks are
from Almound's car. I found them in
the alley where I found that.
Arthur points at the necklace.
CATRINA
The council will take appropriate
action. Our traditions must not be
violated.You must act rashly.
ARTHUR
Our traditions are sacrilege to the
Brujah, they will bury all Gangrel
in their wake. Is there nothing you
will do to stop this?
Catrina is tired of playing passivist in this conversation
and speaks up.
CATRINA
I believe in the our ways. They have
lasted us hundreds of years, your
way will only lead to death. I have
warned you twice. If you go through
with this I may not be able to protect
you from the will of the council.
ARTHUR
I can protect myself. He was my sire,
not yours. It is what he would have
wanted.
Arthur storms out of the camper. Slamming the door behind
him leaving Catrina alone and in dismay.
INT. ABANDONED SUBWAY TUNNEL -- NIGHT
Carmen approaches Mortonis, trying to look her best and catch
him off guard.
MORTONIS
What brings you down to our depths.
Shouldn't you be afraid of getting
dirty.
CARMEN
I came down here to see you.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
23.
MORTONIS
I don't believe that any more than
you do. What do you want?
CARMEN
Just to see you. I'm tired of all
the games the others play. I want
someone with real spirit.
Carmen runs her hand along Mortonis's face. He decides to
play along.
MORTONIS
I don't believe you would ever come
to a Nosferatu no matter how desperate
you got.
CARMEN
How could I resist your charms
MORTONIS
Maybe you're right. It is time I
spent less time alone.
CARMEN
Let me get to know you. What have
you and Andreas been up to?
Carmen starts to get all close and friendly.
MORTONIS
We've been been busy spying on the
venture. Apparently Christian has
some Toreador whore and this makes
the others unsettled.
Carmen is wondering what the Nosferatu know about her and
pushes on.
CARMEN
You tell not lies?
MORTONIS
Of course not my dear. They have
spoken of her often. They say she is
a deceitful young one who gets herself
into things she best know to stay
away from. There was even talk of
having her killed.
Carmen is scared because her life may now be at stake.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
24.
CARMEN
Did they say when?
MORTONIS
They where planning for the next
time Christian is away at council.
He can be rather protective of his
bitches.
In Spanish for effect. In English it would be "Best run and
hide little child", subtitles are optional.
MORTONIS (CONT'D)
Mejor core y esconde niño pequeño
Carmen steps back and tries to slap Mortonis. He is faster
than her and stops her, slapping her face in return. She
runs off. Mortonis yells after her mocking her as she goes.
MORTONIS (CONT'D)
Run now, run to daddy. Tell him what
you have done. Tell him what's to
come.
EXT. NIGHTCRAWLERS STRIPCLUB -- NIGHT
The rain reflects the neon signs as the last patrons leave
the club. And the lights go out.
INT. NIGHTCRAWLERS STRIPCLUB -- NIGHT
Arthur pushes his way in as a bouncer tries to lock the doors.
ARTHUR
I'm here to see the Caleif.
The bouncer lets Arthur through. Arthur walks right up to
the Caleif and Almound who are adding up the nights earnings.
Arthur has no problem with interrupting them.
ARTHUR (CONT'D)
I would kill you where you sit, but
the havens must remain. This is your
right of Elysium and it is the last
right I will extend to you. I don't
want to play your games of cloak and
dagger. We settle this in the oldest
of ways.
Caleif seems more interested in the nightly figures and leaves
Almound to blow off some steam.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
25.
ALMOUND
And what do you propose? Are you
going to kill me now before I've had
time to feed?
ARTHUR
In the park tomorrow at midnight.
You may bring two others but no guns.
This will be settled in the oldest
of our ways.
ALMOUND
Make sure your affairs are in order.
Oh I forgot, you gangrel have nothing
to show for your pathetic unlives.
Arthur gets mad and with, an inhuman strength grabs and flips
the table up into the air sending it crashing back down
between the two brujah. Arthur turns to walk out. Almound
gets up to follow. Caleif puts his hand on Almound's shoulder
to stop him from going after Arthur.
CALEIF
Not now.
Almound returns to his seat and Caleif goes about righting
the table.
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT ONE
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
26.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
INT. A BURNED MANSION -- NIGHT
The Nosferatu climb out of a hidden entrance into the burnt
remains of what was once a very nice house.
ANDREAS
It looks like we have not been seen.
Have a look around.
MORTONIS
Looks like someone has covered their
tracks very well.
ANDREAS
Hold on I hear someone coming
Andreas and Mortonis steps back into shadow And disappear as
two venture, Sam and Max who have been patrolling the place
walk by talking.
SAM
Don't you think it's kind of weird
that Christian has this place guarded
so well? Why doesn't he he just have
it destroyed?
MAX
The Venture have ruled from here for
over 100 years. There are secrets
buried here that even he does not
understand. For a while 3 clans lived
here together under one roof. The
venture prince and his toreador lover.
They say that even the Nosferatu
lived here in secret tunnels beneath
this very spot. Who knows what secrets
are hidden within.
SAM
I've never been one for legend and
superstition. This place is a sign
of the fallen venture. It should be
burned to the ground. We venture are
moving to the sky. Christian was
right when he decided to move our
haven.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
27.
MAX
Speaking of the tower we have to get
going or we will be late.
The two venture head out the other door, off to wherever
they had to be. The Nosferatu step back out of the shadows
having heard all that was said.
MORTONIS
They seem to know less than we do.
A cat walks around the corner and enters the room.
ANDREAS
There is one here who may know more.
(to cat)
What have you seen my friend?
Andreas gets down on all four and looks the cat right in the
eyes.
INT. A BURNED MANSION -- FLASHBACK -- NIGHT
POV THE CAT
The old prince is sitting in his chair reading a book by the
fireplace. He hears someone come in. He gets up to greet
them. The guests head is blocked from view. The prince extends
his arms to embrace the guest as a friend. Suddenly a look
of shock takes over the face of the prince as we see a hand
reach forth from the guest and stake the prince through the
heart. The Prince falls lifeless to the floor. The guest
throws something into the fireplace and it explodes into
flames. This scares the cat and the vision is broken.
INT. A BURNED MANSION -- CONTINUOUS
Andreas is shocked at what he has just seen. He staggers to
his feet. Lost and confused. Mortonis goes to help him up.
ANDREAS
Put out word among our kind. There
must be council.
MORTONIS
What have you seen?
ANDREAS
The prince was murdered by a friend.
This is what the Venture didn't want
us to see. It must have been the
power hungry Christian himself.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
28.
INT. VENTURE OFFICE -- NIGHT
Christian if relaxing in a big leather love seat in the corner
of his office. Mortonis enters.
CHRISTIAN
I wasn't expecting to see you again
after the meeting.
MATHESS
The Nosferatu have called for council.
They have not said why?
CHRISTIAN
They have there reasons I'm sure. I
don't know what piece they will play
in this game of fates.
MATHESS
Would you like them watched?
CHRISTIAN
No one watches the watchers. They
would not allow it.
Mathess leaves passing Carmen on the way out. Mathess does
not like Carmen.
MATHESS
I don't know what game you are
playing, but know you are always
being watched.
Carmen smiles and takes Mathess's hand and lifts it towards
her lips to kiss it. Mathess pulls it away violently shocking
Carmen. She responds in Spanish. "I know of all that is beauty
and all that is pure. You have none.", subtitles optional.
CARMEN
Yo se de todo que es bello y todo
que es puro. Tu tines nada
MATHESS
Young child you must learn to hold
your tongue or with it you will dig
your own grave.
Mathess walks out and Carmen walks up to Christian.
CHRISTIAN
What did you say to Mathess?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
29.
CARMEN
Just a expression from the old land.
CHRISTIAN
Any luck with the Nosferatu?
Carmen rubs her cheek.
CARMEN
None to speak of, but I'm sure they
are up to something.
CHRISTIAN
When aren't they? Only time will
tell. I have a feeling we will know
more tomorrow night. They have called
for a council.
CARMEN
And what will be decided?
CHRISTIAN
I'm not sure, there is little time
to find out. Come here.
Carmen saunters over to Christian. Leans across his desk and
they kiss passionately.
CARMEN
Have I failed you my love?
CHRISTIAN
No. But you should go. The sun is
coming up.
Carmen turns and saunters away. Christian get up from his
chair, walks over to the larger glass windows and looks out
to the horizon. As the first rays of light touch the glass,
it turns to opaque. He looks death in the eyes and grins.
EXT. THE PARK -- NIGHT
A young man named bob is walking home through the park after
dark. Arthur walks up behind him. Bob turns as he hears Arthur
approach.
BOB
Can I help you?
Bob notices that Arthur's eyes are glowing red. Bob turns to
run but Arthur is upon him in an instant.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
30.
Arthur bites softly into Bob's neck, drinking just enough to
regain his full strength, but never to kill. After Arthur is
done he lays Bob softly on the ground and runs off. Bob
remains there for a few moments and then starts to move,
very confused.
BOB (CONT'D)
Who? What? Where am I?
Bob looks around but sees he talking to no one.
BOB (CONT'D)
Ok now I'm really loosening it.
Bob rubs his neck and we see that there is no wound.
INT. THE MEETING ROOM
The council has gathered once again. It is rare for a council
to be called like this. It is not an easy time among the
vampires of the city. They are all looking back and forth
wondering what is up.
As we see all of the chairs we notice that both end chairs
are empty. The Prince has yet to be named and Andreas has
yet to arrive. The room is cold and silent, only tension
fills the air. As we see Andreas chair is no longer empty,
but we did not see him enter. Andreas stands and addresses
the council. He may be a little melodramatic but he cares
himself in a way that dares anyone to think less of him.
ANDREAS
We are Nosferatu. We are the watchers.
We see what is unseen, what lies in
shadow and below the surface world.
For over 100 years We have not spoken
up. Have not Raised our voices. Now
is the time, we stand no longer in
silence. Our voice now must be heard.
For in the shadows we have seen much
that must be known.
Andreas takes his seat. Th weight of what he knows taking a
toll on even him.
ANDREAS (CONT'D)
The prince was murdered by someone
in this room.
Everyone is shocked. Each for different reasons. Caleif
because he knows he had a hand in it. Francis because he did
it and knows that if he is caught that he will be killed.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
31.
Christian because venture secrets are closely guarded and
his privacy has just been violated and Catrina is saddened
because she knows that this can only end as all things do in
bloodshed. Francis is the first to jump to his own defense
without giving away his crime.
FRANCIS
How could you know this. This secret
is beyond even you. You could not
have been there.
CALEIF
The Nosferatu know nothing. It is
all games they play with our minds.
ANDREAS
We are the keepers of secrets. In
the world of secrets you must be
weary of all eyes not just those of
your enemy.
The gangrel also have the ability to see as animals Catrina
now realizes what has been seen.
CATRINA
The princes cat.
ANDREAS
In Egypt the cat was the companion
of the king. It seems only fitting
that now a cat should be his voice
after his death.
CHRISTIAN
What have you seen?
ANDREAS
The old prince rose to great and
embrace someone as a friend. They
returned the greeting with a wooden
stake through his heart before
igniting the room.
CALEIF
How do you even know it was one of
us?
ANDREAS
Your sire saw to that many years
ago. The last time we took up arms
against each other.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
32.
CALEIF
That was a mutual conflict and
aggression between our two houses
has ended. Christian can vouch for
this. There hasn't even been a threat
in years. We would never win an out
right battle battle with the Venture.
We Brujah know that. A defeat at
there hands would not serve us.
CHRISTIAN
This is true. We have been at peace
for many years but it is not beyond
the ignorance of the Brujah to this
they can win a battle that begins
with deceit and treachery.
CALEIF
Are you accusing me of murdering the
prince?
CHRISTIAN
I will leave that up to the chair of
this meeting.
ANDREAS
Alas what is known is only half known.
The attacker did not display his
visage.
FRANCIS
So you know nothing?
CALEIF
Accusations and lies, that is all
you are capable of Sewer rat.
CHRISTIAN
Who do you suspect?
Andreas looks Christian directly in the eyes, a chilling
glance.
ANDREAS
You.
CHRISTIAN
I could not. He was family.
ANDREAS
And you are Venture.
(MORE)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
33.
ANDREAS (CONT'D)
Power is what you seek and you knew
he would never name you his successor.
You are too corrupt. He would not of
allowed
CHRISTIAN
Watch what you say, even you are not
above the law.
FRANCIS
Is it decided then. That is was
Christian?
CHRISTIAN
Nothing has been decided.
CATRINA
Nothing will be decided. Nothing
more is known now than was known
before except. We have always
suspected the prince was murdered
and that only a close friend could
have gotten close enough to him to
pull something like this off, but we
don't even know the killer is in
this room. It might have been an old
friend from out of town or a past
lover that we didn't know about?
ANDREAS
And what do you propose?
CATRINA
I say we table this matter for another
time till we've all had time to look
into it. There is another matter to
be discussed.
CALEIF
That is a private matter.
CATRINA
It is a matter of our kind. If we
are to break tradition the council
but be heard.
CALEIF
You gangrel can not hide behind the
council forever.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
34.
CATRINA
Arthur and Almound are as we speaking
making terms of battle in the old
ways. Only one of them shall return
to us this night.
CALEIF
A private matter not of your concerns.
CATRINA
A matter of murder and death. What
is to be the fate of the victor?
ANDREAS
The council will vote if the time of
shadow is to end then here it will
be decided. This is a new time and
end time. The Masquerade has kept us
safe sense the time of the great
inquisition. If any act may violate
that it must be by the will of all.
So it is ours to decide. Does he
live or die for his crimes?
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT TWO
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
35.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
EXT. THE PARK -- NIGHT
Arthur and Almound stand facing off, each of them has two
others of there clan with them. Both teams stand and stair
intently at each other. The two lead men are both carrying
swords. The other Brujah carry a steal pipe and a large knife
a GURKHA KUKRI or similar blade. The other Gangrel carry a
woodsman's axe and farmers scythe. Almound is a big guy with
a big sword, British two handed sword. Arthur is more graceful
and carries a British bastard sword much like the sword
carried by a famous Arthur of British legend.
The two men run at each other with there swords held high
above there heads. As the two swords make contact time seems
to stop and the world is suddenly clear. We can see everything
in perfect celerity. Axe versus Pipe and Scythe versus Knife.
A field of battle lay before us caught as if by a photo, we
move in and around it to where we began, and then all is set
in motion once again as the main combatants are thrown back
by the strength of there own blows.
INT. THE MEETING ROOM -- CONTINUOUS
We return to the meeting exactly where we left off. The voting
has started. The Brujah are very sure of themselves.
CALEIF
As I have said this is a private
matter we will take care of our own.
When Almound returns he will be
allowed to live. We vote Life.
EXT. THE PARK -- CONTINUOUS
The battle continues. The battle is more like dancing than
fighting. As Arthur and Almound are attacked by others from
opposing side. The battle circles and combatants lock sword
and tool and hand in rotating combat. The motions are accented
by periods of speed followed by times when everything seems
to slow down. The harsh sounds of Industrial Electronica
match each blow and parry.
INT. THE MEETING ROOM -- CONTINUOUS
The Toreador speak there piece as we look directly upon them.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
36.
FRANCIS
It is not our way to break with
tradition. This kind of thing can
not be allowed to happen. We must
make an example of this. Death shall
await the victor. We vote for death.
EXT. THE PARK -- CONTINUOUS
Fighting continues. The Pipe and Axe are trading blows. But
are an even match for now. Arthur is fighting the guy with
the knife. He counters and swipe with the knife and runs his
blade through the attackers heart. Almound jumps to avoid
getting his legs chopped off by the scythe. Almound swings a
mighty swing and catches the scythe with his blade, shattering
it's staff section. The Gangrel charges at Almound and with
the mighty power that the two handed sword was designed for
Almound smashes the ribs of his assailant.
INT. THE MEETING ROOM -- CONTINUOUS
We see the disfigured face of the Nosferatu as they speak.
ANDREAS
We are the the watchers. It is not
our place to interfere this matter
is between Brujah and Gangrel. We
vote to let them live.
EXT. THE PARK -- CONTINUOUS
The fighting returns the the all out brawl it was before.
The Brujah with the pipe knocks Arthur across the side of
the face, sending him to the ground. As the pipe wielder
moves in to attack the helpless Arthur. The axe fighter
strikes from behind wounding him. It is at this moment that
Almound makes his move and confronts the axe fighter. Axe
parries Almound's blow at the last moment and is then forced
to fight both pipe and Almound.
INT. THE MEETING ROOM -- CONTINUOUS
The venture will not be the last to speak, there words are
well thought out and they now exactly what will come of there
decision.
CHRISTIAN
The place of power here has been
tradition here for many years. We
are leaders among kindred because we
know when to act and when to wait.
(MORE)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
37.
CHRISTIAN (CONT'D)
This is not a time to act. The Brujah
and Gangrel have acted foolishly and
they shall ya for this with there
lives. My vote is death.
EXT. THE PARK -- CONTINUOUS
Almound and Arthur charge at each other hoping to end this
final battle but once again they are an vein match and they
parry each others blows until they are able to fight no more
and they step back to recover and rethink there attacks.
From out of no where both remaining fighter from the opposing
clans charge at the two main combats from behind, hoping to
catch then off guard and unaware.
Almound and Arthur sense the attack coming and in simple
unison. Both reverse there swords and pass the blades under
their arms; stabbing there attackers with out even turning
around. Arthur and Almound never break eye contact.
INT. THE MEETING ROOM -- CONTINUOUS
The Gangrel have final deciding vote. A air of silence hangs
over the room as everyone realizes that the next few sentences
may determine the fate of all of there kind.
CATRINA
We can no more turn our backs on
tradition than we can abandon our
own. May we all burn for this but
this is a new time. Anarchy is upon
us and there is nothing we can do I
vote to let them Live.
ANDREAS
The council has spoken. The victor
shall live our traditions are broken.
May the outcome of this council seal
the fate all all to come. For we now
abandon what is forgone and move
forward to the end time. In our time
after mortal death we seek not the
wisdom of the ages but revenge for
the past.
EXT. THE PARK -- CONTINUOUS
The battle draws to an end as once again Arthur and Almound
are back to charging each other. The run towards each other
Arthur throws his sword over Almound's head. Almound see
this as a moment of weakness and Accelerates his charge.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
38.
At near the last minute Arthur changes into a grey wolf and
leaps up and over Almound's head. Almound tries to turn but
it is to late as mid jump Arthur turns back to his human
form and in one fluid movement grads the sword and turns in
air slicing Almound from head to heal as he lands. All we
see if Almound's stunned look and then the look of relief
and exhaustion on Arthur's face.
INT. METHUSELAH ROOM -- NIGHT
It is a dark room. There is no visible light source except
for the dimly glowing lights mounted on the walls of the
room. We can't make out anything clearly except the back of
a large black leather chair and the silhouettes of at least
three others sitting around the table.
METHUSELAH 1
Do they suspect anything
METHUSELAH 2
No, it's all working out better than
we even planned.
METHUSELAH 3
There is much to be gained from this
city. This will be our place in the
new world. Such fools these children
are, so easily played.
HEAD METHUSELAH
Like a well played game of chess it
is a beautiful thing when all yours
pieces fall into place.
Close up: A marble chess board, only one side has pieces on
it. The pieces are all look very different. Each one
represents a different clan by being shaped as to represent
it. The pawns and the mark of the Camarilla, an ankh mixed
with a catholic cross. The rook are Brujah a statue or a
grate warrior with a crack in it. The knights in the shape
of the wolves represent the Gangrel. The Bishop piece looks
much like the standard piece but it looks mike if it had
been made of plastic then it must have been plastic left in
the sun for too long because it is deformed and
disproportioned like the Nosferatu. The Queen if a rose the
eternal symbol of the Toreador and lastly the king is the
Venture a statue carrying the Venture scepter which
coincidentally is the same as the hat of the king in a game
and chess.
One Gangrel piece is already knocked down and we see the
head Methuselah reach over and knock one of the Brujah.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
39.
He is keeping score.
THE END