FLESHIES

An Original Screenplay By Holly Copella

FLESHIES

FADE IN: EXT. CASTLE -- MORNING We see the elegant castle in the well-maintained field beyond a thick forest. A thick fog lends and eerie atmosphere to the old structure. To the left wing, there are only ruins of the building. A large, chained gate secures the driveway and deters anyone from entering. A car pulls up to the gate. A man in a long trench coat and fedora gets out of the car and unlocks the smaller gate. He enters, closes the gate behind him, and begins his long walk up the driveway to the castle. EXT. PORCH -- DAY The man in his late twenties uses the old knocker to announce his arrival. Within moments, one door is opened. The man shows some apprehension then enters. INT. HALLWAY The grand hall extends great lengths across the castle. The corridor is wide and tall. The younger man, JULES VICTOR, follows and older man in his late thirties, RUGER CARRINGTON, along the impressive, silent hallway. JULES You must go insane alone in this place. RUGER I have little choice in the matter. Besides, I have you here to see me Monday mornings and Friday evenings. They enter a room to the right. INT. LIBRARY The library extends from the first floor up to the third, with balconies, bookshelves, and ladders on rollers on each section.

JULES That's what I wanted to talk to you about. This is the weekendRUGER Absolutely not. I know you're looking out for my best interest, but I don't want any company. The rules are very simple and perfectly clear. JULES I can't stand seeing you like this. Ruger sits in a comfortable antique chair by a blazing fire in the walk-in fireplace. We see a book lying on the end table along with a cup of tea. Ruger smiles pleasantly. RUGER Like what? I'm not exactly suffering. (picks up the book) Just received my latest Becka Stone novel--as long as the book club doesn't cancel my membership, I'm in good shape. JULES (annoyed) I don't know how you can sit there so calm and read. RUGER What would you suggest I do? Roller skate about the house? Calm is good. Calm maintains harmony in this home. Hatred, anger, and rage bring about the same. Solitude is sometimes a blessed thing. (looks at the book cover) Have you read any of her books? JULES I don't care for the romantic drivel of women who've never been on a date. Probably fat and ugly.

RUGER The cover is simple and lacks artistic appeal, but the words are incredibly beautiful. Besides, they aren't romance. (flips the book) And she's very easy on the eyes. We see the photo on the back cover. The young woman is posed in a bold but sensual position, conveying a commanding presence. Ruger turns the cover back and smiles contentedly. RUGER Think she'd have morning tea with me, if I'd ask nicely? JULES You're getting off the subject, Uncle Ruger. RUGER I thought Becka was the subject. JULES I want to get you away from this place. Hear me out. RUGER No, no, no. Out of the question. It's completely impossible to even suggest. (looks to the book) Perhaps I'll ask her over for Friday evening drinks. Perhaps a cognac. JULES I'm trying to help and you're lusting after some psychotic lesbian. RUGER It's not lust, it's fantasizing, and she's not a lesbian. JULES You've been lost so long in fantasy land, you've mistook cybersex for the real thing. Work with me here.

RUGER And that's another thing--I found out what cybersex means, and I'm not humored. I'm beginning to wonder where you come up with this vulgar stuff. JULES If your Becka was on the receiving end you might feel differently. Ruger holds the back cover of the book to his chest, as if to spare the author Jules' insinuation. RUGER My dearest Becka is an angelic creature with a warm, compassionate heart. I would treat her with the respect that she deserves. JULES You're losing it, Uncle Ruger. Pretty soon, there won't be a reason to take you away. Were your supplies delivered on time? RUGER (sets the book aside) Everything but my cupcakes. I think one of those plump little delivery men must've eaten them. If you'd find a bulb for my E-Z Bake Oven, I could make my own. JULES I'll bring more cupcakes on Friday. (mutters) You and your cupcakes. RUGER Will Friday be formal or casual? JULES Uh, let's go formal. You can set a place for your book and one for the date I'll never have on a Friday night. RUGER Don't be facetiously. I'm not setting a place at the table for a book. I've got a framed photo from a man on the internet.

Jules stares a moment then attempts a smile. JULES It's getting late. I have to get to work, and it's an hours drive. I'll see you on Friday. RUGER Don't forget my cupcakes. The chocolate ones with the cream inside. Jules gives him a slight wave and leaves the room. RUGER He needs to learn to relax. Must get that from his father's side. Ruger picks up his tea cup and discovers it's empty. He sighs and sets the cup down. He looks to Becka's photo on the back of the book. RUGER Allow me to refill my cup then I'll give you my undivided attention. Ruger reaches beneath his chair and removes a pair of roller blades. He begins removing his shoes humming Mr. Roger's neighborhood. EXT. CASTLE -- NIGHT Friday night. We see the castle with every light lit on the ground level. There's a series of outside lights on. A large limousine pulls up to the gates of the castle. The chauffeur opens the back door. Jules gets out wearing a black tuxedo and bow tie. JULES (out loud) We'll have to walk the rest of the way. A young woman gets out of the limousine. We immediately recognize her as BECKA STONE from the book cover. She's dressed in a formal, black evening dress. Becka takes a few steps closer to the carefully locked gates. She stares at the distant castle. Jules approaches. JULES My Uncle Ruger is a very sick man. He won't see a doctor, and he freaks out if you even mention it.

BECK How long does he have? JULES Could be years--could be hours. Whatever happens, try not to let his behavior startle you. He has sharp mood swings. BECK He's not violent, I hope. JULES No, no. Not at all. He has a nasty habit of saying what he thinks. He can become offensive, but you won't have to worry about that. BECK Is he mentally ill? JULES No, just a side effect of his medication. INT. HALLWAY Beck stands in the foyer and looks around with great interest. Jules hangs her jacket on the rack then looks around himself. JULES Uncle Ruger? There's no response. JULES He's probably in the kitchen-preparing dinner. Why don't you wait in the library, and we'll surprise him. BECK All right. Jules escorts her to the library. Beck enters. Jules shuts the door behind her and continues toward the kitchen. INT. LIBRARY Beck clutches her small, black purse and walks around the enormous library. She strains her neck to look up to the third floor of the library. We see a stained glass skylight at the very top. She approaches the fireplace and runs her finger along the marble mantle.

We hear voices in the hallway. Beck looks to the comfortable chair. Her book lie face down on the table. We hear Jules and Ruger talking right outside the door. Beck sits in the chair, crosses her legs, and picks up the book. She opens it to the marked page. The book marker is a laminated photo of her. A look of concern crosses her face. The door opens. She sets the book down and looks up. Jules and Ruger enter. Jules is practically shoving Ruger into the library. Ruger's head is turned toward Jules. RUGER I don't care for surprises. dinner burns-If

Ruger looks momentarily to his chair, glances past Beck, and then back to Jules. RUGER Duck is very temperamental. Ruger stares at Jules, suddenly silent. He slowly turns his head back and looks at Beck. She stands, clutching her bag and smiles warmly. Ruger slowly looks back at Jules and rubs his finger along his temple. RUGER I think I'm having some sort of attack. I'm seeing things. JULES Don't be rude, Uncle Ruger. have a guest. RUGER (turns with surprise) I'm not imagining-Beck observes both men then attempts another smile. She appears more concerned now. Ruger slowly approaches her with long but cautious strides. He stops several feet before her and smiles with increasing delight. He extends his hand, which she accepts. RUGER Ms. Stone--I apologize for my rudeness. Sometimes I see things that aren't-(embraces her hand) Forgive me. My nephew hadn't prepared me, or I would've-(glares at Jules) The duck. Go check the duck. You

Jules flashes a smile and leaves the room, closing the doors behind him. Ruger stares at Beck a moment longer while gently caressing her hand. He suddenly breaks his trance and jerks. RUGER Where are my manners? have a seat. Please,

He guides her toward the plush love seat. She sits without response. Ruger slowly sits on the edge, half facing her. RUGER Can I get you something to drink? Cognac, perhaps? No, thank you. BECK I'm fine.

RUGER How did my nephew manage to lure you here? He really is a naughty boy. I'll probably have to kill him later tonight. BECK A friend of my agent's introduced us this past week. He said you don't get out much and would enjoy having dinner. He was quite persuasive. RUGER (laughs) In other words, he told you it was a dying man's last request. Beck forces a smile and looks away. RUGER No, it's okay--really. My nephew has a tendency to exaggerate. Perhaps you'll want to kill him for me. BECK You aren't dying? RUGER No immediate plans, but you've improved my spirits. BECK I'll take it up with Jules on the way home.

RUGER Let's not allow it to ruin our dinner, which if we want it fit to eat, I'd better return to it. Jules has no kitchen etiquette. (stands/ extends hand) I'll escort you to the dining room. She accepts his hand. her from the library. INT. KITCHEN Ruger enters the kitchen. Jules removes the duck from the oven then looks at Ruger and grins. JULES Well, are you impressed? Ruger pauses near the counter and leans his back to it while gripping the countertop. He stares across the kitchen with a cold look. RUGER You know my rules about guests. Why did you bring her here? JULES You like her. I thought it'd make you happy. RUGER You told her I was dying. JULES How else was I going to get her here? Just play along and enjoy yourself. RUGER I've already told her the truth. Don't ever pull stunt like this again--I mean it. Get out of my kitchen. Jules frowns and walks to the swinging door. RUGER (mutters) Ask him to bring cupcakes and he brings me angel food. He links her arm onto his and guides

INT. DINING ROOM Ruger enters the dining room pushing a wooden cart with covered dishes upon it. Jules pours wine and attempts a smile. JULES The duck smells good. RUGER Perhaps, but you're getting chicken--your own fault for surprising me. Ruger serves Beck her covered platter. while nibbling on a celery stick. RUGER Please, don't wait on us. Ruger looks to Jules and gives him a nasty look. Jules frowns and flops into his seat. Ruger serves Jules then returns to his place at the head of the table. He hesitates then moves himself to the seat alongside Beck. Both Beck and Jules watch as Ruger centers the candle between him and Beck, as though they were having an intimate, candlelit dinner for two. He makes himself comfortable beside her. Ruger raises his wine glass to Beck. RUGER To our beautiful and talented guest, Ms. Stone. BECK (clinks her glass to his) Call me Beck. They both sip their wine. his head. Jules rolls his eyes and shakes She mocks Jules

RUGER I read about that unfortunate proposal made to you by that man in California. BECK It wasn't made directly to me, so I'm not that upset about it. JULES What proposal was that? Ruger doesn't respond.

BECK (tense) A man in California met with my agent and offered a million dollars if I'd sleep with him. She threw him out of the office, but it got into the media. RUGER My nephew hadn't made a similar offer, I hope. Jules appears horrified. JULES Uncle Ruger-BECK No. RUGER Then perhaps he'll live to see tomorrow after all. Ruger returns to his meal as if nothing has happened. Beck eyes Jules. He gestures with his eyes. They both proceed with their meal. Time lapse. Ruger sits back in his chair and looks at the clock on the fireplace mantle. Ruger's chair seems to be closer to Beck's then it had been when the meal started. RUGER We have just enough time for drinks in the lounge before Jules has to take you home. (stands/pulls her chair out) Jules will clean up, so that I might enjoy your company these last few minutes. She places her hand in his and stands. He links her arm to his and guides her from the dining room. INT. LOUNGE Beck and Ruger enter the elegant lounge. She joins him at the small bar and sits on one of the stools. Ruger pours them both some cognac. RUGER Are you sure you wouldn't prefer sitting on the sofa? It's more comfortable.

BECK This is fine. Ruger walks around the bar and sits on the stood alongside her. RUGER After reading all of your novels, I must ask where you get your inspiration. BECK Any number of places. My dreams, watching people, movies, songs-RUGER Perhaps you'd be inspired by this place. Absolutely rich in history and scandal. BECK I admit, I am intrigued by this place. Jules promised you'd give me a tour. RUGER Jules also told you I was dying. (glances at his watch) It's nearly time for you to leave. I'm afraid a tour would be impossible. BECK It's only going on ten o'clock. I don't turn into a pumpkin until well after midnight. RUGER All guests must leave before eleven. If you're out by ten, it's less stress on me. BECK Why must all guests be gone by eleven? RUGER Those are the rules. Beck stares at him with some confusion. smile. BECK Jules told me that house is haunted. She attempts a

Ruger's smiles vanishes.

He stares at her without response.

BECK He said that's why you don't like company. My curiosity was aroused. Why don't you give me a quick tour? I'd like to see for myself. Ruger continues to fidget and doesn't look at her. studies him a long moment. BECK Well, Ruger? He taps his fingers on the top of the bar then meets her gaze with a strange look in his eyes. RUGER I've lived alone--in celibacy-in this house for the past five years. I could show you around the place, or I could eat that dress right off of you. Are you willing to take that chance? Beck slowly stands and adjusts her dress to minimize cleavage. BECK You've been charming company until now, Ruger, so I'll refrain from slapping you out of respect for the duck. Please tell Jules I'll be waiting in the car. Good night. Ruger stands as Beck turns and walks toward the lounge doors. Ruger frowns and sighs. RUGER Effective. He walks across the room to the lounge doors. INT. HALLWAY -- CONTINUOUS Ruger enters the hallway with his hands in his pockets. Beck snatches her jacket from the rack and turns for the door. Ruger trots up the stops and casts himself before the door. He smiles warmly despite her hostility. She

RUGER Please--accept my apologies. I have to read you novels knowing you hate me, I'll probably hang myself.

If

BECK I don't hate you, Ruger. I just don't appreciate the sexual remarks. RUGER Understood and noted. Did you really find my company charming? BECK Will you move away from the door? RUGER Would you leave me with one small kiss, if I promise my hands will remain in my pockets? Think of it as a dying man's request. BECK You aren't dying. RUGER I will be one day. BECK Will you get out of my way, if I do? RUGER I'll even open the door for you. Beck cautiously moves closer to him. Ruger leans toward her, prepared to meet her halfway. She pulls back and hesitates. RUGER Sorry-Beck braces her hand to his chest to hold him back and quickly kisses him on the lips. As she pulls back his mouth follows hers, attempting to kiss her again. She holds him back and meets his gaze, their lips only inches apart. BECK I've held up my end of the bargain.

RUGER So you have. He makes another attempt to put his lips to hers. smiles and backs away from him. BECK The door--if you don't mind. Ruger manages a smile. He removes his hand from his pockets and opens the door. He stands to the side and bows like a respectable butler. Beck passes through the open door and pauses. He looks up. She smiles gently then leaves. Ruger smiles and shuts the door behind her. He leans his back to the door, shuts his eyes, and sighs. Jules approaches and looks around. JULES Where's Beck? RUGER She took my heart and left. JULES Left? I drove. How could she leave? What did you say to her? RUGER Just that I liked her dress. Then she kissed me and left. JULES She kissed you? RUGER Umm, hmm. She's waiting for you in the car. Ruger walks away from the door and heads for the stairs. JULES (watches him) Where are you going? Ruger catches the banister, swings slightly to face Jules, and smiles. RUGER I'm going to take a hot bubble bath with a double scotch--and pretend I'm not alone. Jules watches Ruger trot up the stairs. chants. RUGER Beck, Beck, Beck-With each step he She

Jules rolls his eyes and shakes his head. JULES (softly) Have fun. There's a knock on the door. halfway up the stairs. Beck! We hear feet thundering down the stairs. Ruger jumps the last couple of steps, runs past Jules, leaps up the foyer steps, and whips open the door. Ruger's smile fades. We see five people, JAMIE, BRYAN, STANLEY, PHIL, and HAROLD, standing on the sheltered porch. It's pouring down rain and all five are soaking wet. Ruger stands in the doorway and stares at them. JAMIE Our van broke down about half a mile from here. Could we use your phone? RUGER (icy) I don't have a phone. Jules pulls Ruger from the doorway and smiles. JULES You'll have to excuse my uncle, he's not right in the head. JULES There's a phone in the hall. I could give you a lift back to your van then. Ruger continues to glare as the five wet men and one woman enter the foyer. Jules shuts the door behind them. Ruger casts himself against the closet door with his arms across his chest and an annoyed look on his face. Jules leads the first man to the hall phone. RUGER It's getting late. JULES It's not even ten. We'll be out of here shortly. Jamie attempts to fix her hair then looks to Jules and attempts a smile. We hear a loud shout from

RUGER

JAMIE Think I could use your bathroom? Ruger continues to glare. JULES Sure, it's just down the hall. Fourth door on the left. Jamie walks down the grand hall, straining to look at the elegant art on the walls. JAMIE This is some place-Bryan follows behind Jamie. Ruger's arms fall to his sides. He straightens and walks down the hall behind them but more slowly. Ruger sees the bathroom door close. He looks around then enters the trophy room. INT. TROPHY ROOM -- CONTINUOUS We see Bryan standing in the trophy room looking at the animal heads and skins along the walls. Swords and spears cover the walls as decoration. Ruger enters behind him with the same unpredictable look on his face. RUGER Looking for something? Bryan spins with some surprise then looks back to the animal heads. BRYAN This is some collection. RUGER Perhaps you'd like to see the dungeon. It's where I keep the human heads. Bryan looks back at Ruger with some concern. He attempts a smile and hurries past him and out of the room. Ruger casually follows. INT. HALLWAY -- CONTINUOUS Jamie stands in the hallway near the hall mirror and fixes her make-up. Ruger approaches from behind. She glances at him through the mirror and smiles but doesn't stop applying lip gloss. JAMIE What a horrible night to run into a ditch. It's nice of you to let us use your phone.

RUGER (tiny smile) You have nice hair. JAMIE (smiles through the mirror) Thanks. It's looked better though. RUGER Did you see that movie, the one where that psycho killer scalped that blonde woman and wore it for a wig? Jamie eyes him through the mirror with a look of concern. RUGER Then he ground her into mulch and fed her to his dogs. You remind me of her--before she was hamburger. Do you think that would really work--grounding someone into hamburger? I mean, obviously the head wouldn't fitJamie stares at him through the mirror, forces a smile, and then hurries to join the others. The clock strikes ten as Stanley hangs up the phone. STANLEY They won't send anyone out until morning. We'd better call a cab. Stanley reaches for the phone and Jules reaches for the door. Ruger looks from the clock in the hall to his watch. His watch strikes eleven o'clock. Ruger's expression drops. Out! RUGER Everyone out!

Jamie and Bryan jump with alarm. Jules pulls on the door. It doesn't open. Ruger runs for the door, shoves Jules aside, and pulls harshly on it. It doesn't budge. Ruger slowly turns and glares at Jules. Ruger places his hands in his pockets and walks casually down the foyer steps. Everyone watches him enter the library and shut the door behind him. Jamie and Bryan run to the door and take turns trying to open it. JULES Fuck!

Jules casts his back to the wall and slides down it while holding his head. JAMIE How do we get out of here? JULES (softly) We don't. STANLEY What do you mean? Come on, Man. Open the door. BRYAN What's going on? JULES They won't open again until six Monday morning. JAMIE It's Friday night. What are we going to do in this museum all weekend? JULES You don't want to know. All five look at one another. INT. KITCHEN Phil and Harold stand by the outer kitchen door, attempting to open it with a screwdriver. Phil scratches his hand with the screwdriver, clutches it, and curses. Stanley hurries into the kitchen with the ax from the trophy room wall. I got it! STANLEY Get back!

Harold and Phil move away from the door. Stanley swings the ax to the glass on the door. The ax suddenly cracks as it hits the glass and the broad head flies behind him. All three stare at the broken ax then look at one another. Stanley drops the broken handle. They back away from the door. PHIL There's something not right about this place. HAROLD I knew it wasn't going to be a good day. What are we going to do?

PHIL We should find Jules. There has to be a way out of here. STANLEY He's convinced there's not. PHIL What about that other guy, Ruger. We haven't heard a peep out of him. STANLEY No, we'll just keep our distance from him. He's a little off the wall. He lives here. something. PHIL Maybe he knows

HAROLD I say we beat it out of him. STANLEY Jamie and Bryan are trying to flag down that woman in the car. She can go for help. PHIL Brilliant idea. We don't even have a car, and Jules keys are in here. Bryan and Jamie enter the kitchen. Bryan's leading her by the arm as she protests through gritted teeth. Let me go. JAMIE I won't do it.

BRYAN Jamie and I have an idea. STANLEY You're supposed to be getting that woman's attention outside. BRYAN What's your idea? JAMIE I'm not doing it. I'm not going anywhere near that guy-especially alone.

BRYAN Jules says he's harmless. STANLEY Jules knew and never warned us. Do you honestly trust him? JAMIE I'm not doing it. He's going to grind me into hamburger and feed me to the dogs. He said so. BRYAN Be serious--do you see any dogs? Jamie glares at Bryan. INT. LIBRARY We see Ruger sitting before the fireplace in his plush chair. His hands are clasped together near his mouth as he remains hunched over, staring into the fire. The library door opens and Jules enters slowly. Uncle Ruger? JULES Can I talk to you?

RUGER There's nothing to discus. JULES I did it for you. RUGER You brought them to their deaths. You know what will happen to them, yet you brought them here anyway. JULES Without them, you won't be free. RUGER I didn't ask for your help-(turns/raises voice) I only wanted some cupcakes! (calm/back to the fire) You know they're going to die-you're going to die, and there's nothing I can do about it. JULES One will survive.

RUGER How comforting. Perhaps you'd like to share the good news with them. Pretty clever thing you did, changing all my clocks so I wouldn't know what time it was. Would you leave me? I have to think. JULES Uncle Ruger-RUGER (firm) Leave me. Jules leaves the room. Ruger sits back in his plush chair and shuts his eyes. The door can be heard opening. Ruger's eyes open. He looks across the room. Jamie slowly walks across the room toward him. Ruger reaches for his drink and finishes it. He casually sets the glass down and looks at her. RUGER What do you want? JAMIE (fidgets) We were talking, and we thought you might know what's going on around here. RUGER Nothing you'd really want to know--unpleasant details. JAMIE What's happening? Won't you tell us anything? Wont' you help us get out? RUGER You can't get out. There's nothing to tell. There's a monster lurking within the walls of this house. It only comes out at night, and it only stalks hatred and fear. If your mind is weak, then you will be its feast. JAMIE Have you seen it? RUGER Many times. I'm its slave. communicates through me. It

Sometimes positive and sometimes negative. JAMIE Can we defeat it? RUGER No, but you can outwit it. It feeds on hate and fear. Don't feed it, and it won't bother you. Jamie stares at Ruger a long moment. more, she turns and leaves. INT. LOUNGE Jules paces before the five stranded travelers. appear a little anxious. JULES We'd probably be better off if we'd just go to bedrooms and sleep--if we can. JAMIE We should stay together. BRYAN She has a point. I'm not sure I want to be alone in a bedroom. If there is something in this house, I'd rather stick together. JULES Well, there are six of us. We could split into pairs. That way we could take turns sleeping. JAMIE Sounds like I'm getting the short end here--as the only female. (to Bryan) If you can keep your hands to yourself-BRYAN Believe me, that's the last thing on my mind. STANLEY If I could only explain the ax, I wouldn't buy into any of this. They all When he offers nothing

JULES I assure you, this isn't some story made up by my uncle to scare his guests. He went from workaholic tycoon to monk in the first year. Something changed him. They never did find any of the bodies. PHIL Bodies? JULES My uncle and a few investors came here five years ago to look the place over after buying it-sight unseen. By the end of the weekend, he was the only one left. His orders were to send his personal belongings. The local police won't even come out here--not even to investigate the missing people. All I could ever get out of him was they were dead, and he could never leave the house, because he was cursed. He's never talked about it much since then. STANLEY And you brought us here becauseJules frowns. JULES I'd hoped it would allow him to leave if it had someone else. PHIL Of course, no one invites thieves to rob their house. JULES You're taking this rather well. STANLEY Probably because we intend to take some antiques with us when we leave Monday. JAMIE Don't you mean if? Stanley glares at her.

JAMIE He's convinced there's something evil here. We should consider it might be for real. STANLEY We'll just need to be a little more cautious, that's all. Anyone want a nightcap? Jamie and Bryan are the only ones who decline. INT. LIBRARY Ruger sits before the fire and stares into the flames. He holds Beck's book on his lap, back cover up, and runs his forefinger gently along her picture. There's a soft knock on the door. Ruger jerks slightly from the disturbance and looks to the door. It slowly opens. Beck slowly steps into the doorway. Ruger bolts upright in his chair with a look of horror. BECK It's midnight. Did Jules forget about me? I was worried something had happened. Ruger springs to his feet and stares at her a moment longer. He slowly approaches her. She attempts to keep her distance. RUGER You shouldn't have come back inside. BECK I couldn't wait out there all night. Where's Jules? RUGER I'm afraid you're trapped here with the rest of us. BECK Excuse me? I'll just call for a cab and wait outside. RUGER None will come. Beck gives him an odd look and leaves the room. hurries after her. INT. HALLWAY -- CONTINUOUS Beck picks up the hall phone and dials the operator. enters the hallway but keeps his distance. Ruger Ruger

BECK Hello, I need a cab. Helmcrest Castle--

I'm at

She looks at the phone then slams it down. BECK They hung up on me. RUGER I knew they would. You can't get out. The doors and windows have been sealed by the evil force that controls this house. We've covered all of this already. Ruger walks closer to her. She backs away several steps.

RUGER If you'll permit me to explain, I'll tell you everything you need to know--including why I had to offend you to make you leave. Ruger indicates the library. Beck stares a long moment then slowly walks past him and enters the library. INT. LIBRARY Beck sits on the plush love seat half facing Ruger beside her. BECK So you're a slave to some evil spirit who controls this house. He wants to collect our souls and eat our flesh. Do I have it right so far? RUGER You have it correct, but your tone mocks me. BECK I'm sorry, but I just find all of this a little hard to believe. RUGER You could ask the others, but I'd prefer if you took my word on it.

BECK Actually, I'm too tired to argue at this point. RUGER Would you like someplace to lie down? The master bedroom is exceptionally comfortable, and I don't sleep much. BECK Didn't you make a similar proposal earlier tonight? I believe you intended to eat my dress. RUGER I told you, that was just to make you leave. There's little difference if you sleep on the sofa down here with me watching over you, or if you sleep in the master bedroom. BECK Whatever, Ruger. I just want to get some sleep. RUGER (warm smile) I'll take you up in the elevator. INT. ANTIQUE ELEVATOR Beck and Ruger enter the old elevator with the elegant, carved door. The door slides shut and the elevator jerks into motion. Beck jumps with surprise. Ruger looks to Beck and smiles with some humor. RUGER It's safe, I promise. The elevator bucks to a stop on the third floor and the doors open. The elevator is a little below the third floor. Ruger steps out of the elevator and assists her. INT. THIRD FLOOR HALLWAY -- CONTINUOUS Ruger doesn't release Beck's hand once outside of the elevator. He leads her along the elegant hallway toward the master bedroom. RUGER You'll be very comfortable here. Only the best--

Ruger pauses before the double door and opens them together. INT. MASTER BEDROOM -- CONTINUOUS We see the large, extensive master bedroom with every lavish comfort for a king. The huge canopy bed seems to extend forever and three wooden steps lead up to it because of its height. Ruger enters and stands to the side, allowing Beck to enter. There's a fire blazing in the fireplace. RUGER It has its own whirlpool tub in the master bath. If you feel like soaking, there are bubbles or scented oils. Beck looks around the room with some marvel. him and smiles warmly. BECK I've always wanted a room like this. RUGER It's yours. I will remain on the sofa tonight--to ensure your safety. Would you like some tea? I was just about to get myself some. BECK That would be nice, thank you. RUGER Feel free to help yourself to anything you might need to sleep in. I'll be right back. BECK Take your time. I'll be in the tub. (threatening look) No peaking. RUGER I wouldn't dream of it. Ruger approaches the door, pauses, and groans softly to himself. He leaves the room. We hear the door lock from the outside, although it can be unlocked from the inside. INT. BATHROOM Beck lounges in the large tub filled with bubbles. A large stained glass window takes up the wall next to the hot tub. She looks at

She relaxes with her hair still up in a French twist, up to her neck in bubbles. A shadow moves past her. She opens her eyes and quickly looks around. There's no one there. Beck stares a moment longer then returns to relaxing in the tub. A gentle breeze blows a stray lock of hair from her shoulder. The water shimmers beneath the bubbles. Beck jumps with a gasp and looks around. The water rocks the bubbles. Beck lets out a slight scream, grabs a towel, and jumps to her feet, tossing the towel around her. BECK Ruger! We hear keys outside the door. Bubbles and water splash over the side of the tub. Beck jumps from the tub. BECK Ruger! The door is unlocked and Ruger charges inside with a look of surprise. What? RUGER What happened?

Ruger looks around the room. There's no one there. Beck remains to the back of the bathroom, clinging to her towel. BECK There was something in the tub. It touched me. Ruger slowly approaches the tub and hits the release lever. The water begins to drain. Beck grabs a shirt from the dressing table and slips into it while Ruger watches the draining water. Once the tub is completely drained, he washes down the bubbles. Beck looks into the tub just over his shoulder. There's nothing there. He turns and looks at her. BECK Something touched me. lying. I'm not

RUGER We'd discussed remaining calm. You need to relax--no matter what. I do believe you. BECK What was in that tub? RUGER I don't know, but it's not there now. I've brought you some tea. Let's wind you down before bedtime.

BECK I'll need something stronger than tea to accomplish that. INT. MASTER BEDROOM -- CONTINUOUS Beck and Ruger enter the bedroom. Beck collapses on the sofa, despite her still wet body. Her shirt clings to her wet body, but she doesn't seem to notice. She tucks her feet beneath her and rests her head in her hand. Ruger pours her some tea and sits down along side her, facing her. RUGER Your tea. Beck eyes the cup then accepts it. Ruger watches her with great interest. He sniffs several times, allowing his eyes to fall to the clinging shirt. BECK Okay--so on the off chance that what you told me is true--about this flesh eating creature, does this mean that I'm its prime target? RUGER No, no. It wouldn't have any reason to come after you--unless you were agitated while soaking. BECK I wasn't anything. about asleep. I was just

RUGER I don't understand it at all. Perhaps it was just--probing you. BECK (glares) Copping a feel? You can't be serious. RUGER Just speculation. Can you please remain calm? BECK You're telling me some evil entity wants to make me its girlfriend--and you expect me to remain calm?

RUGER If you don't remain calm, it could be worse. Will you trust me? BECK It appears I don't have much choice. RUGER (moves closer to her) Believe that I'd never allow anything to happen to you, if I can help it. BECK You really mean that, don't you? RUGER Yes. BECK You don't even know me. RUGER My image of you is all I need to know that I must protect you. Five years of near insanity, stuck alone in this house, but never truly alone. You've kept me going, even in the face of the demon. There must be part of you in what you write, therefore, I know enough. BECK I don't understand you, Ruger, but I feel better knowing you're on my side. What do I do now? Can I reason with it? Will it continue to bother me? RUGER I'm not sure what its intentions are, but I can attempt to find out. You need to understand something, Beck. This evil has become my master, and I am its slave. Our relationship is unnatural, but it can't survive without me--without someone. Please don't interpret this as a reason to kill me. It will simply wait for its next host. We communicate, in depth. (MORE)

RUGER (Cont) I am its only friend. It doesn't always like me, but I know it feels my emotion. I can't keep it from destroying if it wants too, but I can make requests. I'll do what I can, but I can't promise it will respond favorably. BECK It might let us go. convince it. You can

RUGER It doesn't like me that much. I must meet with the evil one now. While I'm in conference, it cannot hurt you. BECK Where must you go? RUGER Right here will work. It comes to me when it feels like it. There are no rules for it. Please, try to get some rest. (eyes stray to her shirt) That shirt's never looked better. Ruger quickly moves to a plush chair near the fireplace. Beck looks down, realizes the shirt is nearly see through while wet, and then quickly folds her arms across her chest with embarrassment. Time lapse. Beck is now changed into a dry shirt. She paces the bedroom and watches while Ruger sits peacefully in his chair with his eyes shut. We hear a knock on the door. Ruger doesn't wake. Beck hurries to the door. JULES Uncle, we need to talk. Beck opens the door, surprising Jules. with some surprise and confusion. JULES What are you doing here? BECK Ruger insisted I stay here. Jules looks from the shirt she wears to Ruger sitting in the chair by the fire. He looks her over

Jules attempts to enter, but she stops him. BECK Don't disturb him. conference. He's in

JULES With his inner demons? I've been giving it some thought. I'm not sure we can trust my uncle. He isn't the same man he used to be. He may be more closely united with this evil than we think. You should probably join the rest of us. You can share a room with Jamie. BECK Let's not jump to conclusions, Jules. I think Ruger's sincere about wanting to help us. JULES Help? The only thing he wants is to get you alone in his room, and he's succeeded in that. He's only thinking of himself and what he can get from you. BECK I appreciate the warning, Jules, but there's something more sinister around here than your uncle trying to get me into bed with him. Something came after me tonight. Whatever it was, I couldn't see it, but I could certainly feel it, and there's no way Ruger was responsible. We can discuss it more in the morning. Beck simply shuts the door, nearly hitting Jules in the face. She locks the door from the inside and walks back to the sitting area. Beck sits on the sofa and watches Ruger. Ruger's eyes suddenly open, and he looks at her. RUGER Couldn't sleep? Beck shakes her head. on his hands. Ruger sits forward and rests his chin

RUGER My interests in you peaked his interest in you. He wants to make you my replacement.

BECK I don't think so. RUGER I told him so much. BECK Now what? RUGER I suggest you get some sleep. I'll remain awake. Beck slowly stands and approaches the bed. Ruger watches her climb beneath the sheets. Ruger turns down the lights and returns to the sofa. INT. BILLIARD ROOM -- NIGHT Stanley and Phil play pool and share drinks while Harold and Jules remain at the bar drinking. The lights flicker. All four pause and look around. Jules finishes his drink and pours another. JULES Wouldn't doubt he killed her. HAROLD Who? JULES My uncle. He's not right. Maybe that demon possessed him. PHIL Should we check on her? JULES Not much point. From what I'm told, it's very unpleasant. Eats the flesh right off. The three cringe. STANLEY We don't need the details. HAROLD Maybe we should arm ourselves. There's some pretty impressive hardware in the trophy room. JULES Those weapons won't work on him.

HAROLD What will? JULES Apparently nothing works. HAROLD I'm going to bed. I've had enough of this bullshit for one night. Harold leaves the room. Stanley and Phil return to their game and Jules returns to drinking. INT. TROPHY ROOM Harold enters the trophy room and approaches the case of large, elegant daggers. He uses a device to pick the lock and removes a jagged dagger from the case. He returns the dagger to its holder and clips it to his pants. He shuts the case and turns. Harold comes face to face with Ruger. Ruger attempts a smile, but it comes off looking sinister. RUGER You don't really think that'll do you any good, do you? HAROLD Makes me feel better. RUGER Possibly only make him more angry. Did you think of that? HAROLD What is this thing anyway? How is it you've been here so long and it hasn't killed you? RUGER You don't cut off your right hand. You should be more concerned about Jules. HAROLD Jules? RUGER He brought you here knowing you would be killed. Does he just dislike the bunch of you, or do you think it was nothing personal. HAROLD You're a strange man, Ruger.

Harold walks past Ruger and approaches the door. follows him and stops near the door. RUGER What were your intentions, Harold? Were you and your friends just going to rob the place or did you intend to kill me? HAROLD (knife to Ruger's face) I might consider it, if you don't go away. RUGER Anger, hatred, and fear feed the monster. You're presenting an excellent display. Tell me, Harold--do you think I'm setting you up right now? Do you think you could cut me with that large knife and get away with it?

Ruger

Harold suddenly thrusts the dagger forward and stabs Ruger in the midsection. Ruger clutches his bleeding abdomen and sinks to his knees. HAROLD Freak. Harold leaves the room. INT. HALLWAY -- CONTINUOUS Harold walks along the hallway and enters the bathroom. We hear running water. He returns to the hallway, drying off the clean dagger. Ruger stands before him. Harold stares with horror and surprise. HAROLD What the-RUGER My turn. Ruger opens his mouth to reveal sharp teeth. Harold opens his mouth to scream. Ruger lunges for his throat. Harold's eyes are large with horror and agony. INT. MASTER BEDROOM Beck jerks beneath the covers. We see a shadow move past her bed. She allows a soft cry to escape her throat. Ruger gently kisses her temple. Beck gasps and wakes with a jerk.

She looks at Ruger, who lay on the bed, propped on his left elbow, facing her. He smiles warmly as she relaxes. BECK What are you doing? RUGER You were having a bad dream. I promised to protect you--even from the evil men in your head. BECK Mission complete. They're gone. Off the bed, Romeo. RUGER But it's my bed. BECK Would you like me to leave? RUGER No. I rather enjoy watching you nestle beneath the covers. I won't change the sheets again until that wonderful lavender scent fades away. BECK Are you really that charming or completely insane? I'd really love to know. RUGER Possibly a little of both. I could tell you a little bedtime story. Ruger pats the pillow near his arm. Beck studies him a long moment, smiles, and shakes her head. BECK I hope I don't regret this. Beck lie back down on her side to face him, propping her head on her hand. RUGER Once upon a time--there was a wealthy, self-centered business tycoon who only had time for work. He was an evil man. Ruger lie on his side with his head propped on his hand as well, so they were in the same position.

RUGER Until one day, he was locked away by his own greed. He suffered in his prison alone and in silence. In his solitude, he was able to take a long, good look at himself. All the money, all the greed, all of the angerwhere had it gotten him? The prison he lived in was not that different than the one he'd already created for himself years ago. There's a long silence. look. Beck waits a moment with a curious

BECK Well--how does the story end? RUGER (brushes her hair) Perhaps he spends his life alone with his own thoughts--for all eternity. Or maybe he meets a beautiful writer and lives happily ever after. I opt for ending number two. Beck places her hand on his between them. her eyes with complete admiration. BECK Would you lay with me until I fall asleep? RUGER I'd love nothing more. Beck shuts her eyes and holds Ruger's hand. INT. HALLWAY -- MORNING We hear an unusual rolling sound. Ruger roller blades along the marble hallway with a rolling cart containing a silver tea pot, two tea cups, and a covered dish. Stanley suddenly steps out in front of him and catches the cart. Ruger and the cart are jolted roughly. The tea cups clatter. Ruger looks at Stanley with surprise. STANLEY Harold's missing. Where is he? RUGER I really couldn't say. you last see him? When did He stares into

STANLEY Don't play games with me. Something happened to him, and I think you know what it was. Phil approaches from the billiard room. tired and hung over. Both men appear

PHIL Give it a rest, Stanley. He didn't do anything with Harold. Maybe he passed out somewhere. Come on, leave him alone. Stanley glares into Ruger's eyes. Ruger stares back with his own evil, icy glare. Stanley moves away from the cart. Ruger continues to push the cart along the hall toward the elevator. Jules approaches from the stairs and eyes the cart. JULES Entertaining early this morning? RUGER There's an angel in my bed. Have you ever held an angel, Jules? JULES No, but I held a belly dancer once. RUGER If I died tomorrow, it'd all have been worth while. Ruger cheerfully pushes the cart into the elevator. INT. MASTER BEDROOM Beck attempts to open the balcony door. She frowns when they won't budge. She pulls open the curtains and allows the light to flood into the room. She stretches in the sunlight. We hear the door close. She quickly gathers herself and looks behind her. Ruger leans against the bedroom door with a broad smile on his face. He appears almost embarrassed. RUGER Don't let me interrupt your morning stretch. Beck attempts a smile. She walks over to the sofa and sits with her legs tucked beneath her. Ruger pushes the cart and roller skates toward her. He throws himself into the chair and removes the skates and replaces his shoes.

BECK You're going to break your neck in those things. RUGER No, I'm getting rather good at it. He springs to his feet and places the covered platter on the coffee table and removes the lid to reveal waffles with strawberries and powdered sugar and muffins. RUGER Don't be too impressed. frozen. They're

BECK I could get used to all this attention. He places the tea cup on the coffee table, eyes her, and fills the cup. RUGER I'm completely devoted, my dear Beck. He pours himself a cup of tea and joins her on the sofa. Beck stares at him a long moment. She extends the topped waffle to him. He hesitates a moment then takes a bit from it. She smiles warmly then proceeds to take another bite herself. RUGER You're truly remarkable. BECK So are we safe for a couple of hours? RUGER From the evil? Yes, quite safe. Everyone can be angry and hateful for another seventeen hours. BECK Is there a problem? RUGER I'm on the castle's most wanted list right now. During a drinking binge, one of the guys disappeared. I wouldn't doubt the man passed out somewhere.

BECK You don't think-RUGER No. What would the evil want with someone who's eighty proof? BECK We should probably look for him, don't you think? RUGER As you wish--right after breakfast. Beck holds the waffle out to him. He moves closer to her lips with his hands on the sofa like a stalking predator, not even looking at the waffle. BECK Down boy-Ruger stops mid-stride, moves back, and bites from the pastry. He sits back on his right leg and casually picks up his tea cup. RUGER Not half bad for frozen. Would've preferred what I'd been aiming for. He sips his tea without looking at her. Beck removes one of the strawberries and moves closer to him. She places her left hand on his shoulder and holds the strawberry before his mouth. BECK (seductive) Be a doll and find me a pair of pants. Ruger eyes the strawberry and places his mouth over it, taking her fingers as well. She has to pull her fingers back out with some effort. Ruger stands, turns to her, and kisses her passionately, but briefly. He pulls away with a broad smile. RUGER I'm allergic, but thanks anyway. He turns and walks to the closet. Beck eats the strawberry he'd returned to her mouth during the kiss. Ruger removes a pair of pants from the closet and approaches her with a seductive look. He holds onto the black pants and looks her over casually.

RUGER You realize, I'd have no objections to spending the rest of the morning making love to you. You don't have to be afraid to ask. Beck rests her elbow on the back of the sofa and places her temple to the back of her hand. BECK I hate to ruin the entire seductions thing for you, but I'm a virgin--that means I don't do that sort of thing. RUGER (pounces beside her) Better extend that straight through until evening--neatness counts. Beck leans closer. BECK No. Ruger frowns and drops the pants on her lap. RUGER Tease. Beck collects the pants and springs to her feet. to face him and leans down. BECK What you consider being a tease, I call emotional stimulation. It's the difference between men and women. I've been sexually satisfied for at least a month. Beck kisses him quickly on the nose and walks toward the bathroom. RUGER It was just a suggestion. Beck enters the bathroom and closes the door. We hear the shower running. Ruger approaches the door and knocks lightly. RUGER Could I join you--or at least watch? She turns

The bathroom door opens. He jumps with surprise and eagerness. A wet sponge flies out and hits him in the face. The door shuts and locks. Ruger picks up the wet sponge and taps lightly on the door. RUGER I could wash your back. Ruger groans and slides down the doorframe then sits with his legs stretched across the bathroom doorway. He scratches softly at the bottom of the door. RUGER Beck-INT. TROPHY ROOM Stanley, Phil, and Bryan enter the trophy room and look around briefly. Phil approaches the case of daggers. We see the once bloody one has been returned to the case. Jules enters the trophy room after them and pauses in the doorway. JULES What are you doing in here? I thought we were going to check the bedrooms and the basement. STANLEY We were thinking about arming ourselves before going to the basement. JULES But there's nothing around during the day. You don't need weapons. BRYAN Harold's missing. We haven't exactly ruled out your uncle just yet. JULES I hate to ruin your conspiracy theory, but it would appear my uncle was with Beck all night. STANLEY I won't believe that until I hear it from her. Do you honestly think some big time novelist would fall for a nut like Ruger?

JULES He's not a lunatic. He's been under some pressure, that's all. How would you react if you'd been locked up for five years? STANLEY They'd put me away for three once. I didn't go insane. JULES You also weren't alone with some demon. STANLEY I'm still not convinced there's a demon. How do we know your uncle didn't just make it all up? He could have rigged the doors and windows to trap us here, so he can kill us one by one. JULES And he just chose to remain here by himself for the last five years? Give me a break. BRYAN Crazy people do strange things. JULES He's not crazy. INT. THIRD FLOOR HALLWAY Beck walks along the hallway while rolling up the shirt sleeves. Ruger walks alongside her with his hands in his pockets. RUGER I could give you the grand tour while we look for Harold. Where would you like to start first? BECK Actually, I'd like to check out the dungeon. RUGER Really? Ruger stops in the hallway and stares a moment. and looks back at him. Beck pauses

BECK Something wrong with that? RUGER I just didn't imagine you were into the darker side of humanity. BECK I write thrillers, Ruger. A dungeon is right up my alley. Are you disappointed? RUGER No. I just can't figure how to make a trip to the dungeon romantic. BECK Will you give it a rest before you strain something? INT. DUNGEON The dungeon remains dimly lit with lights in the form of old torches. We see several cells with shackles and a torture area filled with torture devices. Randy and Bryan walk along the stone corridor and glance into each cell as they pass. STANLEY Harold? BRYAN It's really no use, Stanley. He's gone. Stanley becomes angry and shoves Bryan against the wall. STANLEY We don't know that. Maybe that bastard has him locked away down here. They continue through the torture chamber area and pause before an old, large door. Stanley attempts to open the door. It doesn't budge. Bryan looks around with some concern. BRYAN Come on--let's get out of here. Stanley pulls on the door again. It opens. A foul smell pours out. Both men gag and cough. Stanley slowly looks into the room.

INT. BACK ROOM -- CONTINUOUS We see piles of human bones within the room. lay on top--half eaten. INT. DUNGEON -- CONTINUOUS Stanley and Bryan scream, slam the door, and run from the dungeon. INT. BACK LOWER HALLWAY Beck and Ruger approach the dungeon door to the back of the hallway. The door suddenly flies open. Stanley and Bryan run from the stairs and collide with Ruger and Beck. Ruger quickly pulls himself to his feet and helps Beck to hers. STANLEY Would you like to tell me what happened to Harold now? RUGER I have no idea what you're talking about. STANLEY (grabs Ruger) He's dead! Half eaten on a pile of human bones in the basement! RUGER Unhand me. Stanley suddenly slams Ruger against the nearby wall and holds him there. STANLEY I want the truth! RUGER The truth is, if you don't unhand me, you'll be sorry. Stanley punches Ruger in the abdomen. Ruger gasps with pain. Beck cries out with surprise then jumps for Stanley. BECK Leave him alone! Bryan grabs Beck around the waist and holds her back. BRYAN Your boyfriend is a killer. can you defend him? How Harold's body

Ruger glares into Stanley's eyes with an evil, angry look. Ruger suddenly grabs Stanley by the throat and squeezes.

Stanley gasps and releases Ruger. Ruger casts Stanley across the hall into the opposing wall. Stanley clutches his throat and gasps for breath. Bryan immediately releases Beck and backs away. RUGER Touch her again, and I'll kill you. Do you understand me? Bryan backs up near Randy. looks at both men as well. Beck moves alongside Ruger and Ruger glares at Stanley.

RUGER Show me where you found Harold. STANLEY Fuck you. Stanley turns and walks away. Ruger looks to Bryan.

BRYAN At the end of the dungeon corridor--there's a door to the back of the room. Bryan then hurries after Stanley. Ruger turns to Beck.

RUGER Would you prefer to wait here? BECK I'll go with you--if it's all the same. Ruger takes her hand and leads her into the dungeon. INT. KITCHEN Jamie finishes placing eggs and toast on a large serving tray and places it on the table. Phil and Jules help themselves to the brunch served before them. Stanley and Bryan enter the kitchen. The door slams against the cupboards as they enter. All three look up from the table. JAMIE Brunch? STANLEY Is there vodka in those eggs? JAMIE No.

STANLEY Then I'll pass. (to Jules) Something has to be done about your uncle. JULES Not that again. STANLEY Harold's dead. We found his half eaten body in the dungeon along with the bones of dozens of others. All three drop their forks back onto their plates with disgust. JULES I've already told you, he was with Beck all night. STANLEY Surely she fell asleep. He could've come back down. JULES He hasn't been around a woman for over five years. Believe me, he didn't let her sleep. STANLEY No, I don't believe you. A man has been butchered, and your uncle is behind it. (to others) We need to get him before he gets us. JULES (stands) Wait just a minute-STANLEY I don't mean kill him, I mean lock him up somewhere until Monday. PHIL And if he is behind this, that would mean he locked the doors and windows, in which case, we won't be leaving Monday either.

STANLEY (to Jules) You need to find out how he locked us in. JULES He didn't lock you in--he's not capable. He was in the hall with us when the place was locked down. STANLEY Your uncle is the devil himself, and he needs to be stopped. INT. DUNGEON Ruger leads Beck past several torture devices. Beck studies several devices with great interest. Ruger continues to lead her toward the back door. He slowly reaches for the round latch and pulls it open with some effort. The door opens wide. Both stare inside. INT. BACK ROOM -- CONTINUOUS We see the room is empty. INT. DUNGEON -- CONTINUOUS Ruger and Beck look at one another with some confusion. RUGER I was threatened over an empty room? I am correct--the room's empty? BECK I certainly don't see anyone in there. Is there another room? RUGER Not in here. Perhaps they're still drunk, or maybe on something stronger. Would you like to return upstairs or look around further for Harold and skeletons? BECK We're down here now. the tour. Give me

RUGER Would you prefer the audio tour or the hands on tour?

BECK You're not getting me into shackles or on the rack. RUGER I wouldn't dream of torturing you. Your company is gratifying enough. BECK This from a man sitting on the floor scratching at the bathroom door. RUGER Ah, but I was a complete gentleman when it counted. You could be completely naked, and I wouldn't touch you without permission. BECK I actually believe you. INT. CELL Ruger leads Beck into a cell with shackles and the stretching rack. He sits upon the old, wooden rack and looks around the room. RUGER All of these devices are replicas. They work, but the spikes have been filed down to dull nubs so they wouldn't cause injury if someone like me were to play with them. This castle was built in the early 1900's by some wealthy European. He was said to dabble in black magic and worship Satan. Beck joins him on the rack. BECK So when the doors open Monday morning, you can finally walk out a free man, but someone else will be forced to stay? RUGER That seems to be how it works. I arrived here with four other men. At the end of five days, I was all that was left. I didn't see them die, but no one's ever seen them again.

BECK But who was here before you? RUGER No one that I recall. BECK Then how do you know someone has to remain here? RUGER He told me so. Perhaps he killed the others. BECK What makes you think he won't kill you? RUGER I know you can't understand it, Beck, but I believe him when he says he won't kill me. He doesn't hate me. If Harold doesn't turn up by lunch time, I'd be pretty confident that hes dead. BECK We should go back upstairs. Ruger nods, jumps off of the rack, and assists her even though she doesn't need help. They walk out of the room together. INT. DUNGEON -- CONTINUOUS Beck and Ruger enter the corridor and walk along the hall past several cells. Stanley jumps out of one of the cells behind them. Ruger spins to be struck on the side of the head with a candlestick. Ruger staggers along the corridor while clutching his head. Beck is about to lunge for Stanley when Bryan grabs her from behind and places his hand over her mouth. She struggles and fights him. Ruger appears dazed but angry. He lunges for Stanley. Stanley punches him in the face. He spins and strikes the stone wall. Stanley punches him in the back and slings him into a cell. Ruger falls to the stone floor. Beck bites Bryan's hand, causing him to releases her mouth. Bryan screams with surprise and pain. Stanley backhand's Beck across the face. She's momentarily stunned. Ruger attempts to stand but falls back down and watches with rage. Stanley grabs Beck by the waist and stairs into her eyes. STANLEY Be nice or I'll show you how nasty I can be.

Stanley suddenly kisses her harshly on the mouth. When he pulls away, Beck sneers with anger. She suddenly casts herself into Bryan behind her, uses him as a brace and kicks Stanley in the groin. As he doubles over, she throws her head back, knocking Bryan in the nose. Bryan's head snaps back and strikes the wall behind him. She once more uses Bryan as a brace and kicks Stanley in the face. Stanley falls to the floor. Bryan throws Beck into the cell with Ruger. She stumbles over Stanley and falls forward into the cell. Bryan clutches his bleeding nose and slams the door after her. Bryan helps Stanley to his feet. STANLEY You're going to pay for that, you bitch! INT. CELL -- CONTINUOUS Beck slowly pulls herself to her hands and knees. Ruger slides over to her and brushes the hair from her face with a look of deep concern. RUGER Are you alright? He'll be sorry he did this to you. Beck moves to her knees and sits on her feet. She looks at Ruger with her own look of concern. She gently touches his bleeding temple. BECK You're hurt far worse than I am. RUGER I'm not worried about me. Beck continues to examine the cut to his temple. her a moment in silence. RUGER You have a lot of fight in you. BECK I had four older brothers. If I didn't learn to fight, I would have been beaten on a daily basis. My mother sent me to karate classes. Turned off now? RUGER Enraged a little, but it made me proud to watch you thrash them. Remind me to never piss you off. BECK So, how do we get out of here? He watches

RUGER It's a prison cell. You're not meant to get out. But--this place is only a replica, so I believe there's a passageway out. (looks around) Start pushing on stones. I just need a few minutes to keep my head from splitting in two. Ruger holds his head a moment then falls to the floor. quickly tends to him. INT. LOUNGE -- EVENING Stanley and Bryan walk around the lounge and look over several paintings. BRYAN Think they're worth anything? STANLEY I can't be sure. Maybe there's a safe. Where are Phil and Jamie? BRYAN They're pouting over what we did. Apparently they've stolen a conscience somewhere along the way. STANLEY Better watch them. They could ruin the whole thing. BRYAN I told you not to bring Phil. He's not big time enough. Jamie shouldn't be too upset. She stole from her own grandmother. STANLEY Let's try the study. There might be a safe in there. Stanley and Bryan leave the room. strikes eleven. INT. CELL -- EVENING Beck sits against the cell wall and holds Ruger's head to her chest. She gently strokes his hair. Ruger slowly wakes and nuzzles the exposed cleavage above her shirt. The grandfather clock Beck

RUGER (into her chest) You smell good. Did I die and go to heaven? BECK Hardly. We're in hell, I think. Are you feeling better? RUGER The room stopped spinning, but I feel so cold. BECK Yes, I can feel your cold nose. He nestles his cheek into her chest and sighs softly with his lips against her bare chest. RUGER This must be heaven. I can't remember being this content. (shuts his eyes) Tell me, Beck. Do I do anything for you? Beck hesitates a moment then kisses the top of his head. BECK More than I care to admit. Ruger nuzzles his lips to her bosom. RUGER Why can't you admit it? Are you afraid I might ravish you? BECK Just afraid. I'm not sure who or what you are. I don't think you even know the answer. Ruger's eyes open. He slowly lifts his head away from her chest and looks her in the eyes. RUGER You think I'm the monster? BECK I really don't know. sure you're not? Are you

Ruger stares at her a long moment. He's not upset or concerned. He returns his head to her chest.

RUGER I don't think I am. That must mean I'm not. If I was a monster--Stanley never would've touched you. BECK Maybe there's hope then. RUGER Would you be terribly disappointed if I killed Stanley? BECK Killing him would be a bit severe. RUGER You're probably right. I suppose I'd only feel better for a little while. Can I beat him within an inch of his life? BECK Almost the same difference. It's over. Revenge won't change what's happened. Besides, I don't think he's feeling so good right now either. Ruger kisses her cleavage then straightens with some discomfort before she can protest. He looks around the dimly lit cell. RUGER The back wall would be the best place to start poking at stonesanywhere from the waist up to eye level. BECK Are you sure you're feeling well enough? RUGER As tempting as it is to remain with my head to your chest, I'd rather not spend the entire night down here. Ruger slowly pulls himself to his feet. He has to hold the wall a moment for support. Beck quickly stands and holds onto his arm. He points to the back wall. They approach the wall from opposite ends and begin pushing on stones. Beck pushes on one that moves inward.

A section of the wall slides inward an inch. her and smiles. RUGER That wasn't so difficult. (takes her hand) I'd better lead. It's going to be dark and full of nasty cobwebs. BECK With spiders? RUGER You aren't afraid of little spiders, are you? BECK No, of course not. RUGER Good, because I've seen them the size of baseballs. (enters the narrow stairs/pulls her) And do they ever crunch when you step on them.

Ruger looks at

Beck appears horrified just before being pulled into the passageway. INT. HALLWAY -- CONTINUOUS The passageway entrance slides out from the rest of the wall. Ruger looks into the empty hallway and leads Beck out behind him. Ruger is covered with thick, spider webs. A few meaty spiders crawl along his body. He looks casually back to Beck, who pulls webs off of her and dances around while batting at spiders. BECK Oh, yuck! She jumps away from the spiders racing around the floor. Ruger points down the hall. A meaty spider runs up his arm. RUGER We'll take the elevator upstairs, so you can shower. BECK (to spiders) Will you do something about them?

Ruger looks back at himself and the coating of webs and spiders. He casually removes the webbing and brushes off the spiders. Beck watches the hearty creatures run back to the passageway before Ruger closes it. INT. MASTER BEDROOM Ruger allows Beck to enter then waits in the doorway. RUGER I'll get some tea to warm us before bed. Would you like some brandy in yours? BECK Actually, I think I would--go light on the tea, and heavy on the brandy. RUGER Certainly. Keep a spot open for me in the shower. I'll join you when I get back. BECK Nice try, but forget it. Ruger flashes a smile and leaves the room. lock behind him. INT. LOUNGE Ruger stands behind the bar and uncorks a bottle of brandy. He's about to pour it into a glass when he pauses and sinks into thought. He corks the bottle. INT. STUDY Stanley stands before a wall safe hidden behind a painting. Bryan hands him a small screwdriver and a hammer. Stanley attempts to crack the safe, but instead, strikes his finger. STANLEY Fuck! BRYAN Why don't you just get the combination from Ruger? Surely he'd cooperate if we had his girlfriend. STANLEY I don't think he'll tell us anything. We hear the door

BRYAN You're just afraid she'll give you another beating. STANLEY Oh, very funny. We hear Bryan suddenly gasp. Stanley turns around. We see Bryan clutching his bleeding throat then collapsing to the floor. Ruger stands behind Stanley with blood running down his chin from his mouth. Stanley jumps back with surprise and horror. It was you! STANLEY How'd you get out!

Stanley darts behind the desk. Ruger approaches, stepping on top of the still gasping Bryan. RUGER There's a very funny story that explains everything, Stanley, but I doubt you'd find it amusing. Stanley pulls a knife from his back pocket. The switchblade pops open. Ruger looks at the small knife with some amusement. RUGER Harold had a much bigger knife, and it did him little good when I tore out his throat. Ruger lunges across the desk for Stanley. Stanley slashes his knife, cutting Ruger's throat. Ruger falls to the floor. Stanley jumps back several feet and stands over him. Ruger lie motionless surrounded in blood. Stanley slowly moves closer and stares at Ruger. Ruger's eyes suddenly open and he lunges for Stanley. INT. MASTER BATH We see Beck's silhouette through the frosted glass shower door. She soaks herself under the hot stream. INT. SHOWER -- CONTINUOUS Beck has her hair tied and avoids getting it wet. We see a shadow move past the shower, though she doesn't appear to notice. We hear a soft clunk. Beck stops and looks to the frosted doors. She listens a moment. Ruger? BECK Are you out there?

There's no response. Beck grabs the towel hanging over the shower door, wraps it around herself, and shuts off the water. We hear a distinct pop sound. Beck grabs a back scrubber brush and throws open the door with the scrubber in her hands, prepared to strike. INT. MASTER BATH -- CONTINUOUS Ruger sits on the edge of the whirlpool tub with a glass of champagne in his hand. He smiles warmly while watching her with the deadly scrubber in her hand. Beck frowns and lowers the brush. BECK I wish you wouldn't do that. She casts the brush aside and steps out of the shower. RUGER I couldn't resist the temptation of watching your sexy silhouette in the shower. I hope you aren't too angry. I brought champagne as a peace offering. Ruger picks up the second glass and approaches her with it. She eyes both him and the glass. BECK That's very romantic of you, but do you suppose I could get dressed first? RUGER Kind of takes the fun out of it. BECK Tough. Ruger continues to smile. the bathroom. He collects the bottle and leaves

INT. MASTER BEDROOM -- CONTINUOUS Beck enters the bedroom from the bathroom wearing another one of Ruger's shirts. She removes the tie from her hair and allows her hair to fall free. Ruger sits suavely on the sofa holding both glasses. Beck approaches and sits down alongside him. She accepts the glass and glares at him. Ruger appears scolded. RUGER Oh, no--I'm in trouble now.

BECK You just don't stop. What will it take for you to turn it down a notch? RUGER Well, I suppose if you threw me down and repeatedly made love to me, that might slow me down for a few hours. You could tell me you're repulsed by me and never want to see me again. That would work, although I'd probably throw myself into the fire. BECK I appreciate the romantic gesture, Ruger, but I'm not the type to sleep around. I'm not looking for a whirl wind romance. I'm looking for a commitment. RUGER No one's more committed to you than I am. It's not even about sex, Beck. I'd be satisfied with whatever you're willing to give me. I'd be happy to just hold you in my arms all night. I'd marry you tomorrow, if I could. My intentions couldn't be more pure. Beck studies him from where she sits on the sofa. Ruger sets his glass down and leans closer to her. Beck doesn't move away. He gently kisses her on the lips. She returns the gentle kiss. He slowly pulls away and smiles. RUGER See, I'm not the monster. just a crazy man in love. I'm

Beck slowly leans closer to him, touches his face, and stares into his eyes. BECK I bet you're a great lover. RUGER I could be--with you. Ruger lowers his mouth to hers and kisses her gently but passionately. She clings to him and returns the kiss. Ruger slowly lowers her to the sofa and runs his hand along her side and to her bare leg.

His hand travels up her thigh and beneath the shirt. He begins kissing her neck and throat. Beck clings to his neck and runs her fingers through his hair. Ruger suddenly hesitates. Beck opens her eyes and attempts to look at him. BECK Is something wrong? Ruger continues to kiss her neck and manages a soft laugh. RUGER Just a little nervous. BECK You're not the only one. Ruger pulls back, meets her gaze, and smiles. touches her face then returns to kissing her. INT. BILLIARD ROOM Jules, Phil, and Jamie sit at the billiard room bar drinking and looking pathetic. Stanley runs into the billiard room and slams the doors behind him, bracing the doors with his body. He's out of breath and clutching his bloody switchblade. JAMIE What happened to you? STANLEY It's Ruger. He killed Bryan right in front of me. I stabbed him in the throat, but it didn't even faze him! He's after me! And he's pissed! Stanley bolts away from the door and attempts to pull a table to the billiard room doors. Jules approaches with a look of concern. JULES Calm down, Stanley. Stanley raises the knife to Jules in a threatening manner. STANLEY No one leaves! He won't die! You can't let him in! JULES He's my uncle. Do you really think he'd hurt me? STANLEY Yes, now back off. He gently

JAMIE I was under the impression you'd locked him in the dungeon with that woman. JULES They're non-functional. They're designed with passageways out. Even I know that. See! STANLEY I told you it was him!

JULES But I'd seen him taking a bottle of bubbly upstairs--along with two glasses. I think he wants a piece of Beck more than he wants a piece of you. STANLEY It's all a hoax. She's probably already dead! JULES He wants to screw her--not kill her. The man's obsessed. The only way you'd need to worry about him is if you'd hurt her. Stanley stares with that look of guilt. eyes and groans. JULES You idiot! PHIL What now? Do you want us to stay in here all night like caged animals? STANLEY He's not human, I'm telling you! JULES Let me go out there and talk to him. He'll listen to me. STANLEY (waves his bloody knife) You go out there, I'm locking the door behind you, and you're on your own. Jules rolls his

JULES Yeah, okay--whatever. I'll talk to him and straighten this entire matter out. I'm not afraid of Uncle Ruger. Stanley moves the table away from the door. Jules opens the door, looks into the hallway, and then walks out. Stanley immediately pushes the table back in front of the doors. INT. STUDY Jules slowly enters the study and stares. He casually places his hands in his pockets and appears puzzled. We see a completely cleaned study with no traces of blood, a struggle, or Bryan. Even the painting is back over the wall safe. INT. BILLIARD ROOM We hear a tapping on the door. Stanley jumps from the bar and his bottle and stops before the door. JULES (V.O.) Stanley, open up. STANLEY Is he gone? JULES (V.O.) Yeah, I'd say. There's no one in the study--Ruger or Bryan, not even a trace of blood. Stanley appears shocked. He pulls the table away and opens the doors. Jules stares at him and shakes his head. JULES You're two for two, Stanley. Stanley runs from the room. INT. STUDY Stanley hurries into the study and stops in the doorway. He looks around with a baffled look. He grits his teeth then spins to face the others, now behind him. STANLEY Bryan was dead. Ruger killed him! I saw Ruger kill him! He ripped his throat out with his teeth! I stabbed him, but he wouldn't die!

PHIL I'd love to believe you, Stanley, but there should be some blood--with all that ripping going on. How could he have cleaned up all that blood so quickly? STANLEY Shut up! JULES Remember, we're not supposed to become angry. It brings the demon. STANLEY Demon my ass! There's no demon, only a man with a sick sense of humor and psychotic tendencies. JAMIE You're being completely irrational. Bryan's playing a trick on you. STANLEY I'm going upstairs to get that bastard myself. JULES That would be a mistake. You don't want to bother him. Interrupt them, and you may actually see that psychotic side. STANLEY He killed two men and nearly killed me. I don't care what I interrupt. I'm going to kill that bastard! Stanley pushes past them and hurries from the study. three hurry after him. INT. MASTER BEDROOM Ruger and Beck move gently beneath the covers. Ruger holds her hands to the mattress as they kiss warmly. The movement beneath the covers continues. Beck gasps softly without opening her eyes. Ruger's eyes remain open, and he watches her with great pleasure. He releases her hands and clings to her. Beck runs her hands along his back and moans softly to his movement. All

INT. STAIRS Jules chases after Stanley, who clings to his bloody knife. Phil and Jamie are just behind them. JULES Stanley, don't do this! You don't really want to anger him! INT. MASTER BEDROOM Ruger holds Beck in his arms and kisses her neck and shoulders. She smiles with content and opens her eyes. RUGER You are divine, my dear Beck. Beck pushes him onto his back and half lie on top of him. She smiles deviously. BECK And you are incredible. RUGER I'll interpret that as you won't mind losing sleep tonight. BECK We can discus it over champagne in the hot tub. Ruger chuckles softly in his throat and kisses her passionately. We hear angry voices in the hallway. pulls back and looks into Beck's eyes. RUGER Stanley--should've let me kill him when I suggested it. BECK What do you suggest? RUGER You may want to put something on. We hear pounding on the door. INT. THIRD FLOOR HALLWAY -- CONTINUOUS Stanley pounds on the door to the master bedroom. Jules, Phil, and Jamie remain nearby with looks of disgrace. STANLEY Open up, Ruger! There's no response. Stanley begins kicking at the door. Ruger

The door cracks and flies open. INT. MASTER BEDROOM -- CONTINUOUS We see the room is empty, although the sheets remain mussed. Stanley runs across the room and storms into the bathroom. He stops in the doorway and frowns. Jules enters the room and looks around. Stanley approaches from the bathroom still carrying his bloody knife. STANLEY When I find him, I'm going to kill him. Stanley storms to the door and pauses near Phil. STANLEY Let's go get this guy. No way. nuts! PHIL I think you're all

Phil turns and walks away. Stanley looks to Jamie. She gives him an appalled look. Stanley pushes past her without a word. Jules approaches Jamie and places his hands in his pockets. JULES Think he could have killed Harold and Bryan himself? JAMIE Stanley's a real hot head. I don't think he's killed anyone before, but I really don't know him that well. Do you really think your uncle didn't kill them? JULES The man has really changed since his tycoon days. Before, I may have believed it was possible, but over the past few years, he's become almost saintly. All he seems to care about is love and cupcakes. JAMIE Cupcakes? JULES Yeah, he has a real addiction.

JAMIE But what happened to Bryan and Harold? They almost have to be dead, don't you think? JULES I don't know, but I don't intend to run around this place at night to find out. We'd better settle in somewhere for the night. I'd feel safer if we locked ourselves in a room--away from Stanley. JAMIE I think you're right. They leave the room, closing the door behind them. INT. ATTIC The dimly lit attic stretches the entire distance of the castle. Ruger leads Beck across the attic. BECK Creepy. RUGER You like? BECK It's fascinating. RUGER No one would ever think to look for us up here. I found that secret passage years ago. There's also one that leads to the study, but they'd probably find us there. There's something I'd like to show you. They walk forever. reveal an chest and mid air. halfway across the Ruger stops her by old, antique box. opens it to reveal attic, which seems to extend an old chest. He opens it to He sets the box on top of the a silver sphere suspended in

BECK What is it? RUGER I'm not sure, but you can hold it in your hands and never touch it. There's this warm sensation that sweeps through you. You feel as if you're flying.

Ruger removes it from the box and places the glowing silver sphere into her hands. Her entire body is surrounded by the bright light. Ruger places his hands over top of the ball. He too is engulfed by the brilliant light. We see sensations of flying above a thick mist. The mist clears and we see the castle and its estate far below. We fly overhead. We hear the echo of Ruger's voice. RUGER You think I'm the monster? BECK Are you sure you're not? There's a brilliant flash of light. We see Ruger and four men surrounding the sphere at the dining room table. There's another flash. We see Ruger holding the sphere and chanting softly. Another flash, we see Ruger killing the four men, one at a time. During the final flash, we see Beck cutting Ruger's throat with a sword, and nearly decapitating him. Both gasp and release the ball. It floats to the floor and sits dormant several inches from the floor. Beck and Ruger stare at one another. BECK What was that? RUGER That can't be a premonition--it just can't. You wouldn't kill me. BECK You killed those men? They were your business partners? RUGER They were my business partners, but I didn't kill them--I swear. Beck slowly pulls her hands from him. RUGER Beck--don't do this. BECK I-I just need a few minutes alone to sort this out. RUGER It wasn't me--I swear. Beck slowly moves away from him.

RUGER Please--don't leave me. BECK I just need some time. understand. Please,

Beck turns and hurries away from him. RUGER Beck--don't go! Beck--don't leave me! Ruger grabs the sphere, looks at it, and then angrily casts it across the attic. It floats back to him at an incredible rate and knocks him down. He holds onto the ball with both hands and stares into it. RUGER What does this mean? lose her! INT. LIBRARY Jamie walks through the library and pauses halfway to the burning fireplace. We see Ruger in the chair before the fire. He appears distant. JAMIE I was hoping to have a moment alone with you. RUGER We've nothing to discuss. have no use for you. JAMIE (approaches) None at all? RUGER What use would you like me to have for you? JAMIE I was hoping you'd want me for a lover. RUGER What about Beck? JAMIE Maybe if you're tired of her, you'd like to try me. I I can't

RUGER (stands) Try you? (approaches) In what way? JAMIE (smiles) In that way. Ruger studies her a long moment then tilts his head with a cunning look. RUGER Why? JAMIE (touches him) Because there's more to you than meets the eye. RUGER Oh? You think I have some special gift, that I can control the stars and moon. (touches her arm) And you'd like to be connected to a man of great power, even if it's for evil? JAMIE I find it intriguing, I admit. RUGER And what about Beck? I do with her? What would

JAMIE Get rid of her. You don't have a need for her--you have me. Ruger studies her a moment, leans forward, and kisses her roughly on the mouth. Jamie returns the kiss. She suddenly tenses and begins pushing away, but he continues to kiss her. Blood runs down her chin as panic sweeps over her face. The library door opens to reveal Jules. JULES Jamie-Jules arms. blood blood Jules suddenly stops. We see Ruger holding Jamie in his She's limp like a rag doll with her throat covered in and blood along her face. Ruger looks at Jules with down his chin and bloodied, sharp fangs. He snarls. stares horrified and slams the door.

INT. HALLWAY -- CONTINUOUS Jules stares at the library door a moment then looks around the hall in panic. Beck comes down the stairs and approaches him. BECK Oh, Jules. Thank God. know what to do-JULES Run. BECK What? Jules pulls Beck down the hall and into the trophy room. The door slams shut. INT. TROPHY ROOM -- CONTINUOUS Jules releases Beck within the trophy room and frantically blockades the door. Beck appears alarmed. BECK Jules--what's gotten into you? Jules backs away from the door and removes a sword from the wall. He stands several feet from the door, prepared to strike. JULES Stanley was right. My God--was he ever right! BECK Right? About what? going on? What's I don't

JULES My uncle--he's gone mad. I saw him in the library. He killed poor Jamie! BECK That's impossible. I left Ruger in the attic. He couldn't have gotten down here that fast. JULES I know my uncle. I also know that any man with fangs isn't a good thing. I should have believed Stanley. He told me he killed Bryan in the study, but I didn't believe him. Oh, Beck, we're in so much trouble.

BECK Killed Bryan? That's impossible. He'd only left me for a few minutes this evening. JULES Well, I'm telling you--less than an hour ago, my uncle killed Bryan and attacked Stanley. We went up to the master bedroom to find him. I wasn't going to let him harm my uncle, but he was right. BECK Less than an hour ago, I was with Ruger in the master bedroom. We heard you approaching and went to the attic. JULES He couldn't be two places at once. He must've killed Bryan right before I saw him with the champagne. (hesitates) That hardly seems right either. He didn't have any blood on him. Beck stares at Jules a long moment. BECK I need to find Ruger. We need to go to the attic. He may still be there. JULES But he was in the library right before I ran into you. Beck looks around the room. wall and returns to Jules. She snatches a sword from the

BECK We have to hurry. Jules eyes her with some concern. INT. KITCHEN Phil shuffles through the refrigerator and removes some leftover chicken from lunch. He carries the wrapped plate to the table and sits down. Stanley appears in the kitchen with a dagger from the trophy room. Phil holds the drumstick to his mouth, mid-bite, and watches Stanley.

Stanley looks around the kitchen then looks to Phil. Phil bites the chicken leg and continues to watch Stanley with some nervousness. STANLEY You're going to help me get this psycho. (removes a butcher knife) He has to be destroyed. Stanley slams the butcher knife into the table near Phil. Phil stares at the knife then continues to eat. PHIL I'll do no such thing. STANLEY This is your ass too! PHIL I have a theory about that, you see. Okay, so maybe Ruger's some monster, and maybe he killed Harold and Bryan. Do you remember what Ruger said about the monster? It feeds on fear and anger. You haven't exactly been first class guests, plotting to steal and especially going after Beck. No. I'm going to take his advice. STANLEY He's going to kill you too. You're a thief just like us. PHIL No--not just like you. I made a few mistakes, but I can still correct them. And if I get out of this alive, I'm going to become a pastor just like my father wanted me to be. STANLEY You're insane. PHIL Not insane, Stanley. A long time ago, you made a deal with the devil, now he's coming to collect. Last night, I made a deal with God. It's not too late for you.

STANLEY You're going to die--you know that? PHIL Maybe so, but at least I know where I'm going. Phil returns to his chicken. Phil's face. Stanley points the dagger into

STANLEY Maybe I'll help you get there a little faster. Phil glares at Stanley. Stanley sneers and pulls the dagger away. Stanley turns to leave the kitchen. Ruger enters at the same moment. Stanley jumps with surprise and attempts to stab Ruger. Phil jumps up from the table, knocking his chair over. In one fail swoop, Ruger blocks the dagger and tackles Stanley against the counter. Phil watches in horror while attempting to move away from his fallen chair. Ruger bites into Stanley's throat and releases him. Stanley twitches and gasps while falling to the floor. Ruger turns toward Phil. Phil stares at the bloodied fangs in Ruger's mouth. He looks to the butcher knife within his reach. He clutches the cross instead. Ruger slowly approaches Phil. Phil shuts his eyes a moment and says a little prayer. Ruger stands directly before him. Phil opens his eyes and sees Ruger's large, bloodied fangs before his face. Ruger makes a movement for Phil's throat. Phil once more shuts his eyes and chants a prayer. He opens his eyes. Both Ruger and Stanley are gone. There's no blood to be found. Phil trembles slightly and looks around the kitchen. INT. ATTIC Beck and Jules walk along the attic. They stop before the area with the crate. Beck moves to the crate and quickly opens it. The box is gone. JULES I wish you'd tell me what you're looking for. BECK A mystical ball. JULES Sorry I asked. Beck turns to Jules. BECK Tell me what your uncle used to be like--before he was here.

JULES Oh, he was a cut throat business tycoon. Made lots of money-owned people. BECK Then he changed. He was stuck here and became mellow and compassionate. JULES Exactly. Beck sinks into thought. look of knowing. She looks at Jules with an odd

BECK I think I know how he was in two places at one. JULES Tell me. BECK We need to find him--and quick. JULES This place is huge. know where to look? How will we

BECK We don't have to look. come to us. Beck hurries across the attic. JULES How? INT. HALLWAY

He'll

Jules runs after her.

Jules paces the space before the master bedroom. and knocks on the door. JULES Come on, Beck. This is very unnerving out here alone.

He pauses

The door opens. Beck enters the hallway wearing her black evening dress. She's completely made-up with her hair up and make-up on. Jules stares at her a moment with some confusion. JULES Did I miss something? My uncle will come to us because you're dressed like that?

BECK If I'm correct, it won't take him long to find me. JULES (inhales) You smell strong of lilacs. BECK I didn't have time to soak in the tub. I had to put the oil on me. JULES I don't get where you're going with this. BECK Let's go to the library. JULES Why the library? BECK Because that's his place. JULES Unless my uncle has become a bloodhound, I don't know why you think this will work. BECK Just bring my sword. She walks toward the elevator. both swords. Jules hurries after her with

JULES You intend to kill him? INT. LIBRARY Jules paces by the fireplace while Beck positions herself on the sofa, with her legs stretched seductively alongside her. Jules looks at her and shakes his head. JULES You can't turn him on if he's not in the room. And maybe you should've tried a teddy or a thong--would've helped me. BECK Will you sit down somewhere and keep quiet.

Jules frowns and casts himself into his uncle's chair by the fireplace. Beck repositions herself on the sofa and gently runs her finger alone the neckline of her dress. Jules watches a moment, hides his smile, and looks away with embarrassment. JULES Doing wonders for me though. The library door opens. Ruger steps inside, looks to Jules, and then immediately looks to Beck. He swiftly approaches Beck and sits on the edge of the sofa. He takes her hand in his and kisses it. RUGER Oh, my darling. Please tell me I'm forgiven. I don't want you ever mad at me again. Beck smiles warmly and gently touches his face. BECK It's you who should forgive me. RUGER I don't understand. nothing wrong. You've done

Jules stands with his sword in his hand. He approaches them. Ruger holds his finger in the air to Jules without looking behind him. RUGER It is so important that you don't complete that thought. Jules stops mid-stride and looks to Beck. She doesn't even look at him. Ruger continues to kiss her hand. BECK I think I know what's been happening around here. I can even explain that vision in the sphere. RUGER It hit me too--very hard, as a matter of fact. The demon killed them. He made himself look like me in order to move about. BECK Almost right.

RUGER If that's not it, then what other explanation is there? BECK You aren't really Ruger. RUGER You still think I'm the monster? BECK There never was a monster. Both Jules and Ruger appear confused. But I saw it. Ruger. JULES I saw my Uncle

BECK The real Ruger came here and somehow discovered the sphere and the power it contained. He killed those other men he was with, using the power from the sphere. RUGER Then who am I? BECK I'm not sure. I was hoping you could tell me. That sphere has something to do with it. I'm just not sure what. Ruger sinks into thought. JULES So my uncle really did kill the others? BECK I'm afraid so, he was always a corrupt man. When he found unbridled power within that sphere, he became something more evil and unstoppable. RUGER Light. Both look at him. BECK What was that?

RUGER (to Beck) I was a force of light. The product of a greater entity from the sphere. When Ruger found me in my box, he wanted to posses my power. I wanted to be free to live as a mortal. I gave him my power in exchange for his mortal body. (horrified) Unknowingly, I made him into a monster. It's my fault. What have I done? BECK It's not your fault, Ruger. You didn't know what would happen-you were incapable of seeing the dark side of humanity. You were pure and innocent. RUGER Thank you, Beck. Thank you for understanding. BECK But we need to stop him. do we do? What

RUGER The sphere--it will tell us what to do. BECK Where is the sphere? RUGER In the attic. It rolled away somewhere. (stands) I'll get it. BECK I'll come with you. RUGER No, it's too dangerous. If he knows, he could try to stop me. I can't risk you getting in the middle. He knows my weakness for human life, particularly yours. Stay with Jules. And don't show anger or aggression. He can't touch you if you don't give him any power.

Ruger quickly runs from the room. JULES That was pretty weird. trust him? BECK Yes.

Jules exhales. Do we

JULES No hesitation with that, huh? BECK None. JULES I'm glad you have faith. So that wasn't my uncle? No wonder I'd grown fond of him lately. A few moments pass. The library door opens and Ruger enter with the sphere in his hands. JULES (stares at the sphere) That's unusual. Beck quickly stands as Ruger approaches with the ball. Jules moves closer to it. Beck suddenly grabs Jules and pulls him back, surprising him. BECK That's not Ruger. JULES What? RUGER DEMON How could you tell? BECK I know evil when I see it. Jules raises his sword. Ruger moves toward him.

BECK Jules, drop it! JULES Are you insane? BECK Aggression. Jules drops the sword with a look of horror. the Ruger Demon with some concern. He looks to

JULES Any ideas? BECK (pulls him back) Don't panic. JULES Too late. Beck stops before Jules. Ruger Demon hesitates then smiles.

RUGER DEMON This sphere posses all the power you could ever imagine, Beck. Join me, and we can rule together. BECK Doesn't look too impressive to me. What can it do? RUGER DEMON It can give you everything you want. And if I destroy it, it'll rid me of Ruger forever. BECK Why would you want to destroy him? He's stood by you all of these years. RUGER DEMON He didn't stand by me, he stood in my way. He was pure, even for a mortal, until you tainted him with mortal pleasures. I was finally allowed inside his thoughts. He'd kept the sphere hidden from me all these years, deep inside his mind, so deep, even he'd forgotten about it. He kept himself confined within this house to prevent me from ever leaving. By finally be able to enter his mind, I too can control the sphere. Once I destroy the sphere, it'll destroy him and I will be free to leave here--with you by my side. Me? BECK I'm not leaving with you.

RUGER DEMON Then you can die with him. BECK You can't kill me. You can't kill what doesn't hate. Ruger Demon moves closer to her and exposes his fangs close to her face. Beck turns her head and looks away. He moves for her throat. Jules grabs his sword. JULES No, Beck--look out! Beck's eyes open with horror as Jules lunges forward. BECK Jules! No! Jules plunges the sword into Ruger Demon's midsection. Ruger Demon suddenly grabs Jules by the throat. Beck pulls the sword from his midsection and holds the blade to Ruger Demon's face. Ruger Demon looks at the blade and the look of the young woman holding it. He suddenly tosses Jules across the room and spins to face Beck. She clutches the sword and backs away. Ruger Demon reaches for her. RUGER (O.S.) No! Demon Ruger looks to the doorway. We see Ruger stands in the doorway. Beck suddenly severs the demons hand holding the sphere. The hand and the sphere fall and roll across the thick padding of light surrounding the sphere. Demon Ruger looks to Beck with a mocking smile. He reaches for her. Beck positions herself with the sword. Ruger tackles Ruger Demon to the floor. Both men roll across the floor. Jules recovers and grabs the sphere, pulling the hand from it. Ruger kicks the demon off of him and across the floor. Both jump to their feet. RUGER Jules! Destroy it! the fire! BECK (horrified) Jules--no! RUGER Do it! Demon Ruger lunges for Ruger with fangs exposed. Beck swings the sword, slicing halfway through the demon's neck. Jules tosses the sphere into the fire. Demon Ruger struggles to recover and laughs softly at Beck. Throw it in

DEMON RUGER I'll enjoy making you pay-The sphere glows hot in the fire. Jules throws himself to the wall and covers his face. The sphere suddenly explodes. Demon Ruger lunges for Beck. In mid-stride, he explodes. Both Beck and Ruger shield their faces. The room suddenly becomes a large vacuum. All the blood and parts of Demon Ruger are sucked across the room and into the fire. The room becomes still. The sphere rolls out of the fire on its metal base. Jules lifts his head and watches as it stops. Beck quickly looks to Ruger, who slowly lowers his arms and looks at his hands. Hmm. RUGER That's interesting.

Beck studies him as she approaches. BECK But he said destroying the sphere would destroy you. RUGER He only knew what he could see in my mind. I'd like to believe I'm smarter than he is. BECK But I thought you were part of the sphere? RUGER We'd traded places, although I maintained control of the sphere. I couldn't allow him to have my power and freedom. He'd be a plague. I wanted so much to be human, that I banished all other thoughts from my head, including who I really was. I'd invented the story, rationalizing why I had to remain. I had to stay in order to keep my monster contained. I was my own prisoner. Destroying the sphere destroyed the one attached to it--not necessarily the one controlling it. BECK Does that mean you're free? RUGER There's no energy surrounding this place. I've achieved mortality.

Phil runs to the library and slides in through the doorway. PHIL The doors suddenly opened! We can leave! Let's get out of here! Jules runs from the room. Ruger takes Beck's hand and leads her to the library door. He shuts the door and pulls her into his arms. RUGER Can I hold you to your promise? BECK Which promise? RUGER That you'll love me forever? BECK I can do that. RUGER Even without knowing what I really am? BECK (kisses him) I'm willing to take the chance. EXT. PORCH -- NIGHT We see Phil running for the front gate. Jules pauses on the porch and watches as Ruger and Beck step out of the house. Ruger squeezes Beck's hand and smiles proudly. RUGER It's dawned on me, that I've really never experienced anything first hand. There are so many things you'll need to teach me. BECK I don't know. You certainly seemed to figure out sex in a hurry. How does a pure entity know about these things? RUGER Extensive reading. Guess I was a virgin too. Thank God I didn't know I had no experience. I'd still be upstairs trying to figure it out.

BECK Nothing wrong with that. like fun. Ruger smiles lustfully.

Sounds

RUGER Perhaps we need to go back upstairs and experiment further. Beck clings to his arm and smiles. the house. Jules approaches them. They turn back toward

JULES Incidentally, Ruger. What do we do about the business and finances? You're technically entitled to them. RUGER What do you suggest? JULES Well, you need to remain Ruger Carrington for legal purposes. RUGER I really want no part of Ruger's lifestyle. I doubt I'd much enjoy that. JULES How about half the cash and the castle? Ruger looks to Beck. looks back to Jules. She shrugs with little concern. Ruger

RUGER If it seems fair to you. JULES Oh--very fair. RUGER Throw in some cupcakes, and I'll sign the papers in the morning. JULES I'll bring you a whole case of cupcakes--Uncle Ruger. Jules turns and leaves. brightly. Ruger looks to Beck and smiles

RUGER A whole case of cupcakes and the woman of my dreams--I must be in heaven. BECK Is that all it takes to make you happy? Sex and cupcakes? RUGER Pretty much. Ruger pulls Beck into his arms just short of the doorway. He smiles warmly. RUGER There may be one or two things I neglected to mention about my returning memory. A few leftover entity side effects. BECK Such as? RUGER We'll discuss it over a hot bath. Beck smiles and enters the castle. Ruger follows behind. He pauses and looks to the garden. Several flowers begin to burst out of the ground and fill the entire garden. Ruger smiles and shuts the door. Pull back. We see the entire exterior of the castle erupt into a bright, new finish. FADE OUT