Beauty and the Beast
                   "Notes From the Underworld"

                         Author Unknown


                            ACT ONE      

OVER BLACK

FLASHBACK -- TUNNEL EXPLOSION -- DREAM SEQUENCE

A TREMENDOUS EXPLOSION, as the blackness fades into a haze of
thick, almost sepia colored dust which obscures the shot. 
Another EXPLOSION, then the SOUND of falling, crumbling rocks and
a man's SCREAM...long and penetrating.  Through the spreading
dust a man's hand is seen, then the rest of his body, as he
staggers into frame.  His features are unrecognizable from facial
cuts, blood and dust.  There is a large wound on his forehead. 
He makes no noise but we can still hear the sound of falling
rocks and the screams of men...hurt...dying.

The man stumbles down the tunnel.  The dust settles and the only
SOUND is the heart wrenching screams of the men...louder, until
it is almost one voice.  The man is getting weaker and the
screams stronger.  Suddenly the man looks up and is confronted
with a blinding LIGHT.  He staggers into the light and is lost. 
The voices stop abruptly.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. TUNNEL CHAMBER - DAY

PAN slowly across the room which is filled with items from the
earth...quartz rocks, geodes, pieces of earth drilling equipment,
a huge sign from a now abandoned subway station, engineering
diagrams and tunnel maps.  It reflects the owner's interest in
the workings of the earth's core.  The camera FINDS and comes to
rest on an old man in bed.  This is CARL.  He is very ill.

CLOSE ON CARL'S FACE

His eyes are only half opened and sweat pours from him.  A
compress covers his forehead.  A hand reaches into frame and
readjusts the compress.  It is VINCENT's hand.

PULL BACK to reveal Vincent sitting next to the bed.

                                   CARL
     Thank you Vincent.  I feel much better.

                                  VINCENT
     Father will be back soon.  He was very concerned about
     you.

                                   CARL
     Probably worried he'll lose a chess partner -- one he can
     beat.

Carl pauses for a moment, gathering his strength.  He sees the
old tunnel maps which Vincent has been studying.  He touches the
old faded paper gently, caressingly.

                                   CARL
     Are you still looking for secret passages?

                                  VINCENT
                          (smiling, remembering)
     I still search.

                                   CARL
     There are great treasures...if only you know where to
     look.

                                  VINCENT
     Every time I travel through our world, I see them.  You
     taught me that.  I shall forever be grateful for those
     lessons.

Carl lies back and is strangely calm.  He looks around at his
home and then back at Vincent.

                                   CARL
                                 (quietly)
     Vincent,...I know I am dying.

Vincent starts to say something but is stopped by Carl.

                                   CARL
     Should have died 25 years ago.  Borrowed time, they call
     it.
                                  (pause)
     I tried to do the right thing.  To help Father...to give
     something back to this world.
                                     
                                  VINCENT
     Father could never have gotten along without you...and
     your knowledge.

Carl grows weaker, but as he takes Vincent's hand, it is still
with a strong and vigorous grip.

                                   CARL
     You learned so much Vincent.
                                  (pause)
     I only wish I could have taught my own son as well.

                                  VINCENT
     I did not know you had a son.

                                   CARL
     Only a few know my secret.  His name is Michael.  An
     architect...already a junior partner in a big firm.  One
     of the helpers keeps track of him for me.

                                  VINCENT
     Why did you not try to contact him?

                                   CARL
     He thought I was dead...better off not knowing.

                                  VINCENT
     You denied him knowledge of his own father.  Are you sure
     that was right?

                                   CARL
                                  (beat)
     No.
                                  (pause)
     Vincent I want to see him.  I want him to know what
     happened to me.
                                  (beat)
     ...my journal.

Carl points to his desk.  Vincent gets up and retrieves the
journal.  He returns to Carl's bedside and opens the book.

INSERT

Old, candid photos of a handsome young boy growing up - childhood
through college graduation, even clippings about the firm he
works for.  Carl's "friend" has quietly collected all he could. 
It is enough to touch us and Vincent.

RESUME SCENE

                                  VINCENT
     I promise...I will do what I can.

Carl, satisfied, drops off to sleep.
                                                              
DISSOLVE TO:

INT. CARL'S ROOM - SAME SCENE - LATER

Vincent has been looking at the scrapbook as he watches over
Carl.  FATHER comes in and walks over to the bed.

                                  VINCENT
     He was awake earlier.
                                  (pause)
     He knows he is dying.

                                  FATHER
     Yes...I only wanted to make this as peaceful as possible. 
     It is the least we can do.

                                  VINCENT
     He wants to see his son.

Father looks at the journal and turns a page.

                                  FATHER
     I knew this would happen eventually.

                                  VINCENT
     Then you approve?

                                  FATHER
     With some reservations, yes.
                                  (pause)
     I will have one of our people above contact him.

                                  VINCENT
                                 (quickly)
     Father, I would like to take care of this matter.

                                  FATHER
     It must be done carefully.  We do not have time to handle
     this as I would like.

                                  VINCENT
     Which is why I would ask Catherine.

                                  FATHER
     You don't have to get her involved in this.

                                  VINCENT
     Carl asked the promise from me.  This is the best way I
     can fulfill it.

                                  FATHER
                                (giving in)
     Yes.  Go now.
                          (looking down at Carl)
     You won't have much time.

                                                                  
CUT TO:

EXT. CATHY'S TERRACE - NIGHT

CATHY and Vincent stand on the terrace looking out at the city.

                                  VINCENT
     Carl's only wish...is to see his son.

                                   CATHY
     That shouldn't be too hard.  Do you have any information
     on the child?

                                  VINCENT
     He is no longer a child and he believes his father
     died...25 years ago.

Vincent pulls out the old journal from beneath his cape.  Cathy
takes it gingerly and leafs through it.

                                   CATHY
     Why now?  Why after all of these years?

                                  VINCENT
     To ease his guilt?  To right a wrong?  I am not certain. 
     I only know that the obligation was passed to me...

Cathy closes the book and holds it close to her.

                                   CATHY
     ...and to me.
                                  (beat)
     I'll do what I can.  But a ghost coming back to
     life...it's hard for anyone to accept.

                                  VINCENT
     Yet to know...it could never be too late.

Cathy knows how much this means to Vincent, and senses his
personal longing.  They exchange a parting look as Vincent melts
into the darkness.
                                                                  
CUT TO:

INT. ARCHITECT'S OFFICE - DAY

The camera PANS slowly around the spacious office of an up-and-
coming junior partner.  It's decorated with pictures and models
of past and current projects and great New York architectural
landmarks.  It also has several large samples of building
materials, marble, granite, etc., and a few pieces of antique
surveyors equipment.  This is the modern version of Carl's room
in the tunnels below.  As we PAN across the room, we HEAR the
voice of a man, MICHAEL SULLIVAN.

                              MICHAEL (V.O.)
     You're from the District Attorney's office?

The camera FINDS Michael standing behind his desk, hold a
business card.  He is in his early 30's, a very handsome,
energetic young man...and very charming.  The camera PULLS BACK
to reveal Cathy standing in front of his desk.  Michael gestures
for her to be seated and sits down himself.

                                   CATHY
     This isn't official business, but the matter is
     urgent...and personal.

                                  MICHAEL
     And very mysterious.

Cathy begins to relax in his presence.  Maybe this isn't going to
be that hard after all.

                                   CATHY
     I'm sorry.  This isn't my usual job.

                                  MICHAEL
     As long as the firm isn't being investigated.

                                   CATHY
     No.  As I said, it's of a personal nature.
                                  (beat)
     You are the Michael Sullivan whose father, Carl...25
     years ago...

                                  MICHAEL
     ...died in a cave-in.

                                   CATHY
     No,...he didn't.  That's why I've come to see you.  Carl
     lived through that and has been in seclusion ever since. 
     But, he's dying now...and wants to see you.

                                  MICHAEL
     No!

                                   CATHY
     I can assure you I'm telling you the truth.  I've checked
     the facts.

                                  MICHAEL
                                (very cold)
     My father is dead and if he isn't he should be.

                                   CATHY
     I know it's a shock...and I understand why you're
     angry...

                                  MICHAEL
     Angry!  Try hate.  He is a murderer.  11 men died in that
     tunnel explosion, and my father caused it.

                                   CATHY
     You'd deny a dying man his last request?

                                  MICHAEL
                               (vehemently)
     He's already dead...at least to me.

Cathy tries to say something.

                                  MICHAEL
                          (very calm, controlled)
     Good day, Ms. Chandler.  I'm sorry you wasted your
     morning.  I don't think there is anything else to
     discuss.

Cathy gets up to leave.

                                   CATHY
     If you should change your mind, you have my card.  We
     don't have much time.

                                  MICHAEL
     I have all the time in the world.

On Cathy's shocked look we
                                                                  
CUT TO:

INT. CATHY'S BASEMENT - DAY

as she descends the ladder carefully.  She has not stopped to
change clothes or even her shoes.  Cathy enters and

IN THE TUNNELS

walks quietly along until she reaches the rendezvous place.

CATHY'S POV

She looks around at their usual meeting place by the gate.  It
takes her a moment to find Vincent.  His back is to her, lost in
the shadows.

                                   CATHY
     Vincent...?

                                  VINCENT
     I know, Catherine.  He would not come.

                                   CATHY
     I'm sorry.  I tried.

Vincent turns to her.

                                  VINCENT
     To deny one's father...?  All of these years to
     wonder...to ask questions.

Vincent is amazed and hurt emotionally.

                                   CATHY
     I'll try again Vincent.  Michael has to listen to me.

                                  VINCENT
     If Carl can hold on.
                                  (pause)
     To see him so frail, Catherine...It pains me.
                                  (pause)
     He had the very power of the earth in him.  He explored
     the old caves further than anyone.  Our maps, our secret
     passages...Carl gave us so much and now he wants only one
     thing.

                                   CATHY
     The debt is not only yours, Vincent.

                                  VINCENT
     But one I would gladly pay.

Cathy tries to think of anything that might help Vincent.

                                   CATHY
     How did Carl come to your world?

                                  VINCENT
                                  (pause)
     A city crew was drilling a new tunnel.  They hit a pocket
     of gas.  An explosion occurred.  Carl was the only
     survivor.  He stayed with us.  He is part of our family.

Cathy knows how much that means to Vincent.

                                   CATHY
     Michael called him a murderer.

                                  VINCENT
     Carl has never spoken of the tragedy until now.  Yet, I
     know he has always blamed himself for the others' deaths.

                                   CATHY
     Then no one knows what really happened?

                                  VINCENT
     No.
                                  (pause)
     The area surrounding the tunnel was sealed off.  Pockets
     of gas...Even the city disbanded their work.  It is
     forbidden to all.

                                   CATHY
     I will do everything I can, Vincent.

A long beat as he looks at her.  There is complete understanding
between them.  Vincent disappears into the tunnel, lost in the
shadows of his world.

CUT TO:

INT. DISTRICT ATTORNEY'S OFFICE - DAY

Cathy arrives loaded down with her brief case and papers.  When
she finally gets through the traffic of busy workers and to her
desk she is amazed to see dozens of files piled all over it.  She
hardly has any room for her own things.  Cathy goes through one
of the case files, a look of amazement on her face.  She looks up
as Joe walks in.

                                   CATHY
     What is this?  Are you house cleaning?

                                    JOE
     Something like that.

                                   CATHY
     Joe,...what's going on?

                                    JOE
     We've been hijacked...claim jumped...bushwhacked.  Let's
     see, what else is there?

                                   CATHY
     Justifiable homicide, if you don't tell me what's going
     on.

                                    JOE
     Delancey quit.  Got a better job offer.

                                   CATHY
     In the middle of the Wickes' case!  Joe...

                                    JOE
     ...and guess who gets it?

                                   CATHY
     No!
                                  (beat)
     I already have a dozen more cases than I should.

                                    JOE
     It's all yours, Radcliffe.

                                   CATHY
     I think I'll quit.

                                    JOE
     No you won't.  You're too dumb...just like me.

Joe starts to leave.

                                   CATHY
     Joe...How many did you get?

                                    JOE
     The rest.  A piece of cake.

As Joe leaves, Cathy rearranges her desk and looks for her phone. 
She finds it, takes a piece of paper from her jacket pocket and
dials a number.  As she waits for the phone to be answered she
glances through the case notes.  Finally...

                                   CATHY
     Michael Sullivan's office, please.

CUT TO:

INT. TUNNEL EXPLOSION - FLASHBACK (CARL'S DREAM)

The tunnel is small and the walls are rough, natural rock.  The
only light comes from a huge, old flashlight.  We can barely make
out the figure of a kneeling man.  From the angle and the hard
hat obscuring the face, it could be anyone.  He examines a soil
sample, then makes an entry into a large leather book.  He turns
and we can SEE it is the younger Carl from the first dream
sequence.  Before we get a closer look, the first EXPLOSION
occurs.  It knocks Carl to the ground.  Rocks and dirt cloud the
screen.  We can hardly see Carl from the dust.

ANOTHER EXPLOSION.  Carl manages to get to his feet.  He grabs
the light and leaves everything else, including his tools and the
book.

With great difficulty Carl makes his way down the tunnel.  The
EXPLOSIONS get LOUDER and we begin to HEAR the CRIES, the SCREAMS
of men in fear and pain.  There is a final and BIGGER EXPLOSION. 
The tunnel SHAKES as pieces of the ceiling COLLAPSE on Carl,
covering him.

ANGLE ON CARL

Carl claws through the layers of dirt and rocks.  He has lost his
hard hat and has a bad head wound, among other injuries.

CARL'S POV

The tunnel back to his men is sealed off - now a solid wall of
rocks and debris.  A small side tunnel is still open.  He has no
choice...and follows it.

ANGLE ON CARL

As Carl staggers through the tunnel, we INTERCUT with a series of
shots from the first DREAM SEQUENCE.  These shots are quick and
still soundless, except for the SCREAMS of the men - louder, more
haunting and penetrating.

CARL'S POV

The blinding LIGHT again.  This time as Carl walks into the
golden light we see someone.  The outline is blurred but still
recognizable - it is Father.

MATCH DISSOLVE TO:

CARL'S ROOM - LATER - DAY

The haloed face of Father comes into focus through the light.

                                CARL (V.O.)
     Trying to save me again?

The ANGLE WIDENS to reveal Father standing by Carl's bed.

                                  FATHER
     Whatever it takes.

                                   CARL
     A deal with the devil.

                                  FATHER
     You'd probably win.  Rest now.

                                   CARL
     ...and Michael?

Carl looks around the room as well as he can.  He spots Vincent,
OFF camera.

                                   CARL
     Vincent,...you promised.

Camera PULLS BACK to reveal Vincent, standing quietly by Carl's
desk.  He moves next to Father.

                                   CARL
     Why doesn't he come?

                                  VINCENT
     Catherine must persuade him.

Carl sinks down into the bed.

                                   CARL
     He believes...I am responsible for the deaths of my
     crew...my friends.


Vincent and Father exchange a glance...it's true but they didn't
want him to know.

                                   CARL
     That was the reason I never went back.

                                  VINCENT
     But to give up your own son, your family...to be
     separated from them...forever.

                                   CARL
     Thought it would be easier for them this way.

                                  FATHER
     I wish you had confided in me, Carl.  We could have
     helped.

                                   CARL
     By the time I had recovered it was too late.  They had
     declared me dead...
                                 (softly)
     and a murderer.

                                  FATHER
     Carl, what happened?  You've never told me the entire
     story.

Carl is reluctant to relive it again.

                                   CARL
     I wasn't with the others.  I was exploring a side tunnel. 
     That's the only reason I'm alive.

Carl closes his eyes as if to ward off any more unpleasant
memories.

                                  VINCENT
     The truth is sometimes painful, but it must be told.

                                   CARL
                                  (pause)
     We were behind schedule...drilling was rough.  We were
     looking for a short cut.  Another natural cavern.  We
     were in one...saved us days of work.
                                  (beat)
     I was conducting some tests.  My foreman was running the
     crew...hit a pocket of gas.  It shouldn't have been
     there.
                                  (beat)
     The reports said it was clear.

                                  VINCENT
     You did not feel it was safe?

                                   CARL
     ...didn't believe their tests - I argued...but they
     pushed it.  Deadlines!  The hell with safety!

Carl relives his anger and despair.  It takes a great deal out of
him.

                                  FATHER
     Their greed...it could have destroyed our world as well.

                                  VINCENT
                                 (to Carl)
     Was there no way you could have proven your innocence?

Carl holds onto consciousness only through great will.

                                   CARL
                             (barely audible)
     Wanted to go back.  Open the old tunnel.  I
     dreamed...even planned...I'm a coward...I couldn't go
     back in there.  Could bring more death.
                             (hard to get out)
     Too many ghosts...

                                  FATHER
     Which is why it is forbidden by our laws...the ultimate
     punishment.  Only a fool would endanger everyone's life
     to prove a point.

                                  VINCENT
     Carl, I have seen your bravery many times.  You are not
     a coward.

                                   CARL
     I wish my son believed as you do.

Carl quietly slips off to unconsciousness.  He is too still...and
the end is very near.

CUT TO:

INT. D.A.'S OFFICE - EVENING

Cathy is still working when she is interrupted.

                              MICHAEL (V.O.)
     Ms. Chandler.

As Cathy glances up we PULL BACK to reveal Michael standing in
front of her desk.

                                  MICHAEL
     I'd like to talk to you.

She indicates a nearby chair.

                                   CATHY
     I've been trying to reach you all day.  I have more
     information...

                                  MICHAEL
                              (interrupting)
     No.  I'm sorry...
                                  (beat)
     I'm not going to see him.  I only came to apologize for
     being so rude.

                                   CATHY
     Your father is dying.  I don't need an apology.

                                  MICHAEL
     Then call it an explanation.

                                   CATHY
                               (reluctantly)
     All right.

                                  MICHAEL
     I don't remember much about my father...but I do remember
     the stories.
                                  (beat)
     He was an irresponsible wanderer.  He dragged my mother
     all over the world...one adventure after another.  Be the
     best at any cost.  He never thought of anyone else but
     himself.
                                  (pause)
     It caught up with him.  He killed 11 people.

                                   CATHY
     It was an accident!

                                  MICHAEL
     That's not what I heard.  The stories...the gossip. 
     "Poor kid, hope he doesn't turn out like his old man." 
     Well, I made certain I didn't.

                                   CATHY
     So you'd condemn a dying man over hearsay.

                                  MICHAEL
     Other kids read Wind in the Willows.  I read The Accident
     File for Public Works' Tunnel Number 38.  It didn't leave
     much to dream on.

                                   CATHY
     What did the report say?

                                  MICHAEL
                             (almost reciting)
     Negligence caused by the engineer, in failure to meet
     proper safety precautions and make cautionary tests in a
     potentially hazardous environment.
                                  (beat)
     You're the lawyer.  You should know what that means.  He
     was responsible.  He caused their deaths...and now you
     tell me he's alive and wants to see me.  Where was he
     when I was growing up...or when my mother died?

Cathy is upset.  She's always trusted Vincent's judgment about
people, but perhaps this time he is wrong.

                                   CATHY
     Michael, I don't know what to say.  Everything I've been
     told about your father, it doesn't even sound like the
     same person.

                                  MICHAEL
     Did you know him?

                                   CATHY
     No, but someone I trust would lay down his life for him.

                                  MICHAEL
     Several people already did.
                                  (beat)
     I'd like to believe your friend is right...but I think
     it's too late.

It may be, and on Cathy's worried look we

CUT TO:

INT. CARL'S ROOM - DAY

Carl rests, but his breathing is labored.  Vincent sits near by. 
MOUSE is with them, curled up in a chair, tinkering with a piece
of Carl's old surveyor's equipment.

                                   MOUSE
     Vincent.  Did you really go searching for gold?

                                  VINCENT
     Yes.

                                   MOUSE
     Didn't find any.  Heard the story.  Got lost.

                                  VINCENT
     We were not lost, Mouse.  Carl knew where we were.
                                  (beat)
     But he let us have our adventure.

                                   MOUSE
                         (softly, looking at Carl)
     No more adventures.

Carl starts gasping for air.

                                  VINCENT
     Mouse, go get Father...now!

Mouse jumps up and runs out as fast as he can.  Vincent cradles
Carl, comforting him.  He knows this is the end for Carl...they
have run out of time.

                                  VINCENT
     Carl...?

Carl does not respond.  He is still alive...barely.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. TUNNEL CAVE - (DREAM SEQUENCE)

We can SEE more clearly during this dream.  It is not the falling
dust that obscured the shot, but the lighting.

(Production Note:  There should be a very surreal sense of
perspective to this scene, using both light and sound.)

We hear the BLAST of another EXPLOSION and then the SOUND of
rocks falling.  It is louder and more distinct than any other
time.  So are the VOICES and the CRIES of the men.  This is the
first time you can distinguish specific voices calling for "help"
or just crying out in pain.

Carl stumbles through the tunnel.  He is breathing heavily and
leans against the tunnel wall for support.

CLOSE ON CARL

He is not covered in dirt, nor is his face dirty from blood and
cuts, but it is old.  It is the face of the older Carl.

RESUME

As Carl resumes his terrifying escape from the tunnel we INTERCUT
with a series of SHOTS.  Again, the shots should be quick, still
distorted from the light, and the sheer terror that Carl is
experiencing.

a)  HANDHELD POV of Carl running through the tunnels, in fear and
panic.  The only sound that can be heard are the SCREAMS of the
men.  They don't even sound human.

b)  CLOSE ON CARL as he reacts to sounds.

c)  Carl as he looks around at the tunnels.  They seem to be
closing in on him.  He stumbles on.

d)  HANDHELD POV as the final EXPLOSION almost throws him to the
ground.  He continues on.

e)  CARL'S POV.  He is now at the wall and the secret entrance to
the Tunnel world.  He stops - unable to go on.  The SCREAMS get
louder and louder...overpowering him.  They SCREAM out his name -
a distorted slash of sound...a banshee's cry for the
dead...ECHOING.

f)  CLOSE UP on Carl's face.  He is in great suffering as he
listens to the cries of the dead - calling his name.

SMASH CUT TO:

INT. CARL'S ROOM - DAY

CLOSE ON Carl's face.  He is near death.

                              VINCENT (V.O.)
     Carl...Carl?

Vincent holds Carl, trying to ease his pain.  Carl doesn't have
much time left, but he is lucid, even strong again as he holds
onto Vincent's hand.

                                   CARL
     My son?  Vincent, where is he?

Vincent pauses for a moment, deeply troubles as to what his next
action should be.

                                  VINCENT
                           (softly, hesitantly)
     He is with Catherine.  They are coming.

The look of joy on Carl's face is worth the "white lie".  Vincent
holds the old man tighter.  Vincent's head is lowered and his
hair hides his face from us.

                                   CARL
     I did the wrong thing, not going back.
                                  (beat)
     He would have loved me no matter what I did?

                                  VINCENT
     Yes.

                                   CARL
     I just wanted to see him...to tell him the truth...I'm
     not a murderer...
                                  (beat)
     and I've always loved him.

                                  VINCENT
     He knows...and believes.

                                   CARL
     I knew Michael would forgive me.
                            (softly, a whisper)
     Vincent...thank you.

Carl's breathing stops.  He dies, peacefully in Vincent's arms. 
After a moment, Vincent looks up...he is crying.

FADE TO BLACK

END OF ACT ONE


ACT TWO

INT. FATHER'S CHAMBERS - DAY

The mood is somber, with the chamber beautifully lit with dozens
of candles.  Cathy is seated in one of the big chairs, having a
cup of tea.  Vincent is nearby - dressed in more formal attire. 
He is uneasy and paces as he talks.

                                  VINCENT
     I am glad you came today.  It is something I wanted to
     share.

                                   CATHY
     I only wish Michael could have been here.  Everyone's
     love and affection would have said everything I couldn't.

                                  VINCENT
     If he did not believe your sincerity or hear the truth
     when it was spoken...I do not know what else to offer
     him?

                                   CATHY
     Concrete proof.  That report has ruled his life.

                                  VINCENT
     Carl wanted justice.  Justice from those we believe
     in...is that too much to ask?

                               FATHER (V.0.)
     From those above...yes.  You may both be asking for too
     much.

PULL BACK to reveal the entire room with Father and Mouse
standing on the landing.  Mouse carries a large box and Father an
old leather book.  They descend and Mouse puts the box on
Father's desk.

                                  FATHER
     Carl understood that.  That is why he stayed with us.
                       (handing the book to Vincent)
     His diary.  He wanted you to have it, Vincent.

Vincent takes it reverently.  It means a great deal to him.

                                  VINCENT
     Thank you, Father.

                                  FATHER
     The service...Your words were most eloquent, Vincent.

                                  VINCENT
     They were not adequate.  I should not have been the one
     chosen.

Cathy knows what is really troubling Vincent.

                                   CATHY
     Vincent, you did the right thing.  You couldn't let Carl
     die thinking his son hated him.

                                  FATHER
     Your actions were tempered with wisdom.  That is a hard
     lesson.

                                  VINCENT
     It was still wrong...and nothing above has changed.

                                  FATHER
                             (a little angry)
     Could you have changed things, by telling Carl the truth.

                                  VINCENT
     No.  But, it is still a matter of conscience...of
     honesty.

Cathy gets up and goes over to him.

                                   CATHY
     No, it's a matter of love.

A look of understanding passes between them - so strong it can
even be seen and felt by Father.  Mouse has been sorting through
the box and has pieces of mechanical things spread all over
Father's desk. 
(Note:  One of the items is an old flashlight, like the one Carl
used during the tunnel dreams.)

                                   MOUSE
     Look.  Treasures.

Father looks at his cluttered desk.  He picks up one strange item
very carefully.

                                  FATHER
     That is definitely a matter of opinion, Mouse.

Mouse won't be discouraged.  He holds it up for Cathy to see.

                                   CATHY
     I won't even take a guess...
                                  (beat)
     Besides, I have to leave.

Mouse quickly drops the device back into the box.

                                   MOUSE
     I'll take you above, Catherine.

Mouse is suddenly nervous, thinking he may have gone too far.

                                   CATHY
     Thank you, Mouse.

Cathy goes over to Vincent, who has been strangely quiet.

                                   CATHY
     You can't give up, Vincent.

On their look, we
                                                             
DISSOLVE TO:

INT. THE TUNNELS - VARIOUS SHOTS - DAY

Mouse escorts Cathy to her basement exit.  It is obvious Mouse
has a crush on Cathy, but he is also concerned and curious about
Vincent's behavior.

                                   MOUSE
     What is the matter with Vincent?

                                   CATHY
     I think it's a question of justice...of morality...that's
     bothering him.

                                   MOUSE
     Morality?

                                   CATHY
     Your philosophy of life...How you deal with things.

                                   MOUSE
     Easy.  Fix things.  Something doesn't work - try
     something else.

                                   CATHY
     You can't do that with people.

                                   MOUSE
     Why not?  Some people worth fixing...helping.  Others
     broken.  Throw out.

                                   CATHY
                                (laughing)
     Mouse, you're quite the philosopher.

                                   MOUSE
     I am?

He is pleased, but puzzled.  They reach Cathy's exit point.

                                   MOUSE
     Then what is the matter with Vincent?

                                   CATHY
     He helped...he fixed something for Carl.  But the way he
     did it...he feels it was wrong.  It's a moral point.

                                   MOUSE
     But it worked.  Didn't it?

Cathy doesn't know what to say, because Mouse is right - it did
work.

CUT TO:

EXT. D.A.'S OFFICE - ESTABLISHING SHOT - DAY

INT. D.A.'S OFFICE - DAY

Cathy maneuvers across the office traffic while balancing several
large folders.  She makes her precarious way to Maxwell's office
and pushes open the door.

INT. JOE MAXWELL'S OFFICE - DAY

Joe's desk is a bigger and even messier example of Cathy's. 
There is literally no room, even the chair has things piled on
it.  She pushes them aside and makes room for her files.  Joe
gets up to help and almost upsets his own growing mound of paper
work.  They look at each other in sympathy.

                                    JOE
     Bet you didn't think this is what you'd be doing when you
     left your Dad's firm.

                                   CATHY
     Chasing the bad guys through mounds of paper...?  No.

                                    JOE
     But that's how they got Al Capone...trapped him for tax
     evasion.

                                   CATHY
     I'd rather trap another file clerk!

                                    JOE
     File clerk...what's that?  Cath...I need a vacation. 
     Someplace nice and peaceful...
                               (phone RINGS)
     with no phones...where no one can find me.

Joe finally picks up the phone as Cathy leaves.  She smiles.  She
knows just the place, but it's not exactly what Joe had in mind.

CUT TO:

INT. CARL'S ROOM - DAY

Vincent is looking over some of Carl's maps and his technical
manuals.  Mouse tries to help, but he is more interested in
Carl's tools and instruments.  He finds a small tablet of papers
and darts over to show it to Vincent.

                                   MOUSE
     Watch.  Magic trick.

Mouse tears off one of the papers and holds it up for Vincent to
see.  It is white, with a slight yellowish cast.  Mouse makes a
big point of sucking it a lot of air and then holds his breath. 
When he can't hold it any longer, he lets it out, blowing on the
paper.

INSERT

The paper changing color, from whitish to a bright blue.

RESUME SCENE

                                   MOUSE
     Carl taught me.

Vincent takes the paper from him.  He looks it over.

                                  VINCENT
     The carbon monoxide from your breath changed the
     chemicals on the paper.  Different gases...different
     colors.  A very ingenious trick, Mouse.

                                   MOUSE
                              (disappointed)
     Not magic...if you know how it's done.

                                  VINCENT
     Magic that might save your life.
                                  (beat)
     May I have some?

Mouse is only too pleased to give his friend the papers.

                                   MOUSE
     Here.  Lots more.  Lots more tricks too.

Vincent takes the tablet.

                                  VINCENT
     Mouse...what other magic do you have?

CUT TO:

EXT PUBLIC BUILDING - STOCK - DAY

The building is old and the sign above the door reads "PUBLIC
WORKS AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROLS".

INT. BASEMENT ARCHIVES OF THE PUBLIC BUILDING - DAY

Cathy searches through boxes of old files and papers.  A file
CLERK, an older man almost at his retirement age, brings her
another stack of material.  Cathy looks up.

                                   CATHY
     Thanks.  Are there any more?

                                   CLERK
     That's about it.  If you want anything else, the
     Department of Safety...they might have something.

                                   CATHY
     I've got a copy of the Accident Report.  I'm looking for
     the geological surveys...the daily drilling logs.

The clerk checks the pile of reports.  He pulls out one.

                                   CLERK
     Geological.  Used to be in black binders...now they're in
     periwinkle blue.

He hands it to Cathy who quickly thumbs through it.  It's not
what she's looking for.

                                   CATHY
     How about the daily reports?

                                   CLERK
     Look for red.  They call it "Vermilion" now.  Progress! 
     Never can keep it straight when I'm ordering supplies.

They both go over the papers quickly.

                                   CATHY
     I don't see anything.

                                   CLERK
     Doesn't surprise me.  Years ago we merged with
     Environmental Controls.  Still can't find some files.

                                   CATHY
     All I've found is requisitions for equipment.  Some
     preliminary soil reports.  Not very much.

                                   CLERK
     Well, it was a long time ago.

                                   CATHY
     Yes, another lifetime.
                                  (beat)
     Can we put a trace on the other files?

Cathy gives him one of her cards.  He reads it and smiles.

                                   CLERK
     We can try.  I'll call the warehouse.  Maybe they've got
     something.

Cathy picks up her purse and briefcase.

                                   CATHY
     Thank you for your help.

As soon as Cathy leaves the Clerk checks his very worn rolodex
and makes a phone call.  (NOTE:  He does not dial 7 numbers -
inner office - to another government department.)

                                   CLERK
     Agnes?  It's Clive over in Archives.  Got a flag on one
     of the files to call your office if anyone came asking
     for it.
                                  (pause)
     ...on tunnel 38.
                                  (pause)
     Yes.  Got the name.  From the District Attorney's office. 
     Catherine Chandler.
                                  (pause)
     Thanks.  I'm sure your boss will be very generous.  He
     always is.

CUT TO:

EXT. NEW YORK STREET - DAY

Cathy and Michael stand near a hotdog stand.  They have finished
their quickie al fresco lunch.

                                   CATHY
     You're sure there aren't any papers at home?

                                  MICHAEL
     My Mom kept everything of his in an old trunk.  There's
     nothing on the last project.

                                   CATHY
     And nothing at the documents office.  Cleaned out, at
     least with anything that might be useful to us.

                                  MICHAEL
     Just a coincidence.  It was an abandoned project.

                                   CATHY
     I would have liked to have found something.  This is
     beginning to mean a lot to me.

                                  MICHAEL
     I can try and track down one of his old friends, Maxie. 
     They worked on several of the same projects.

                                   CATHY
     It could help.  He might be able to lead us to
     someone...or something.

                                  MICHAEL
     Don't get too optimistic, Cathy.  I haven't heard from
     this guy since my Mom died.

                                   CATHY
     You have to stay optimistic in my line of work.

Cath looks at her watch.

                                   CATHY
     I'd better get back.

                                  MICHAEL
     Cathy...thank you.  I don't know why I'm doing
     this...but...I have so many questions.

Cathy smiles as Michael turns and walks off.

CUT TO:

INT. WHISPERING GALLERY (MATTE) - DAY

Vincent sits in the center of the bridge, a place of solitude to
think and to read.  He has Carl's diary and is going through it. 
He stops at one page and reads a passage.

                              VINCENT (V.O.)
     "...I have found a new life here, and others to share it
     with.  People who are willing to trust and ask nothing in
     return.  That is good.  I have very little to give..."

Vincent thumbs through till something else catches his eye.

                              VINCENT (V.O.)
     "It has been almost 6 years.  I wonder if those above
     remember me?  Michael was in a school play.  My helper
     saw it.  I almost hated him for that pleasure..."

Vincent turns the pages.  It bothers him, but he has to go
on...looking for any information.  He stops and reads again.

                              VINCENT (V.O.)
     "The explosions...their screams...I can still hear them,
     echoing through the tunnels...through my dreams...
                                  (beat)
     Always the fear that it was my fault.  Worrying each
     decision...Always there...creeping through my mind, even
     when I know I am right.
                                  (pause)
     I should have gone back to fight them.  My records would
     have told the truth...They filed their false reports and
     killed 12 men."

Vincent can't go on.  He closes the book...holding it.  He is
very troubled by the words.
                                                             
FADE TO BLACK

END OF ACT TWO



ACT THREE

FADE IN

EXT. D.A.'S OFFICE - ESTABLISHING SHOT - NEXT DAY

INT. CATHY'S OFFICE - DAY

Cathy is busy at her desk.  Her out box has a stack of files in
it.  She looks up when Joe comes in.

                                   CATHY
     Empty handed?  What are you planning now?

                                    JOE
     Cathy...?

Cathy looks more closely at Joe.  He seems upset.

                                   CATHY
     Joe, I was only teasing.

                                    JOE
     Cath,...
                                  (beat)
     Moreno just got a call from the Mayor's office.  A
     complaint about one of our people moonlighting...on
     company time.  What have you been up to?

                                   CATHY
     Investigating an explosion that occurred years ago! 
     That's what I've been up to.

                                    JOE
     It's been strongly suggested that you make better use of
     your time.

                                   CATHY
                             (controlled fury)
     I'm tired of these nebulous villains.  Just who wants me
     off this case?

                                    JOE
     Take it easy, Radcliffe.  I'm not one of the bad guys.
                                  (beat)
     Someone at City Hall.  Pretty high up.

                                   CATHY
     I thought I was just chasing shadows, but now...

                                    JOE
     ...you're going to pursue it.  Message received and duly
     noted.
                                  (beat)
     I'll see what I can find out.

Cathy smiles at Joe as he leaves.

CUT TO:

INT. THE THRESHOLD - DAY

Cathy waits restlessly.  We HEAR footsteps, and Vincent emerges
from the tunnels.

                                  VINCENT
     Yes?

                                   CATHY
     Vincent, I've checked everything I can think of.  So far
     nothing.  If there were any reports...they've
     disappeared.

                                  VINCENT
     Then we have only Carl's word.

                                   CATHY
     Yes.
                                  (beat)
     Michael's trying to help.  He wants so badly to believe
     in his father.

Vincent is very quiet, even to this bit of good news.

                                   CATHY
     I know we're right.  I've been ordered to stop my
     investigation.

                                  VINCENT
     Catherine...you must be careful.  This is my obligation
     to Carl, not yours.

                                   CATHY
     Vincent, how can you say that?  I am now part of this,
     which means it has become ours.

                                  VINCENT
     Your help is always appreciated.  But there are some
     things that must be done alone.  Some burdens...

                                   CATHY
                              (interrupting)
     No, not a burden.  Vincent...
                                  (beat)
     I want to share everything above with you... But I
     can't... That's why all of this is important.  It's not
     just a physical or mental bond...it's the sharing that
     makes us stronger.

                                  VINCENT
     And that strength will always be with me, Catherine.
                                  (beat)
     But what I must now do, I must do alone.  The tunnel
     holds the answers.

Cathy moves next to Vincent but doesn't touch him.

                                   CATHY
     Vincent.  Let me keep on searching.  Going into the
     tunnel is too dangerous.

                                  VINCENT
     To continue the excavations...yes.  But Carl believed the
     gas was no longer a danger.

                                   CATHY
     Then why didn't someone go in there a long time ago.

                                  VINCENT
     It is forbidden by our laws.  Yet, I see no alternative.

                                   CATHY
     You've always told me to follow my heart...I can't give
     you any better advice than that.

                                  VINCENT
     Yes.
                                  (beat)
     It is advice I must take, even if it brings us both pain.

Vincent turns leaving a worried Catherine standing in the tunnel.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. D.A.'S OFFICE - NIGHT

There are only a few people left in the office when Cathy walks
in.  She is tired and doesn't notice Michael waiting for her.

                                  MICHAEL
     Cathy, I talked to that friend of my father's.  He'll see
     us tonight.

                                   CATHY
     Michael, tonight...?

                                  MICHAEL
                              (interrupting)
     I want to help.  Now that we've started this...I have to
     know.

                                   CATHY
     Even if you get answers you might not like.

                                  MICHAEL
     Yes.

                                   CATHY
     Come on then.

They rush out of the office.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. CARL'S ROOM - NIGHT

Vincent looks over Carl's maps and books.  He has a makeshift
knapsack on the desk and fills it with items he might need,
including some strange looking gauged instruments.  He picks up
Mouse's magic paper and puts that in.  He checks through the
knapsack again.  He has everything for his journey, including the
old flashlight.  Before he leaves he pulls out a letter from the
folds of his cloak.

INSERT

On the envelope is his beautiful handwriting:  IN THE EVEN I DO
NOT RETURN, and signed simply V.

RESUME

Vincent places it carefully on the desk.  He picks up the
knapsack, the flashlight and quietly leaves.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. TUNNELS - NIGHT

TRACKING WITH VINCENT as he moves down a very long tunnel.  His
stride is quick and even.  He knows where he is going and why. 
There is no turning back.

CUT TO:

EXT. NEW YORK STREET - NIGHT

In an older rundown, half commercial, half residential section of
town.  There are several cars parked on the street, but the area
looks deserted.  A jeep pulls up and parks.  It is Michael's jeep
and Cathy is with him.

INT. JEEP - NIGHT

Cathy holds a piece of paper.  They both look around trying to
find the address.

                                   CATHY
     It's on this side of the street.
                                  (beat)
     There it is.

She indicates an old multi-storied hotel on her side of the
street.  Michael pauses a moment before they get out.

                                   CATHY
     Nervous?

                                  MICHAEL
     Kind of.  Maxie use to tell me tall tales about...about
     my father.  I wouldn't listen.  Now I'm here in the
     middle of the night...

                                   CATHY
     Looking for the truth.

Michael nods and climbs out of the car.

INT. PARKED CAR ACROSS THE STREET - NIGHT

The interior is dark, but we can see two men.  They are watching
Michael and Cathy.

POV

Michael and Cathy get out and lock the car.  They look around
carefully, especially Cathy.  She is not nervous, just properly
aware of her surroundings.

CUT TO:

INT. A NARROW, TWISTING TUNNEL - NIGHT

CAMERA MOVES with Vincent as he makes his way through a tunnel of
natural, rough rock.  No one has been this way in a long time. 
An entrance appears before him, low and narrow enough that
Vincent has to squeeze through.

INT. TUNNEL ROOM - NIGHT

The chamber is small, but the ceiling is high.  The walls are
tooled smooth and man-made.  On the other side is a door.  It
looks like a door to an underwater chamber, even to the round
wheel in the middle.  Vincent walks to the door and examines it. 
He places the flashlight on the tunnel floor - it throws
distorted shadows across the chamber.  He then tries the wheel. 
It will not budge, even under his incredible strength.  He tries
again and this time it turns slightly.  Vincent stops and quietly
considers his next move.

CUT TO:

EXT. STREET - NIGHT

Michael and Cathy walk towards the hotel.

EXT. PARKED CAR - NIGHT

The two men get out of the car and disappear into the darkness.

CUT TO:

INT. TUNNEL PASSAGE - NIGHT

Mouse hurries down the corridor and almost collides with Father. 
Before Mouse can get out of the way, Father stops him.

                                  FATHER
     Mouse, have you seen Vincent?  Mary was looking for him.

                                   MOUSE
     Carl's room.  Fixed flashlight for him.

                                  FATHER
     Thank you, Mouse.  I'll check there.

                                   MOUSE
     Not there.  Just leaving.

                                  FATHER
     Then do you know where he was going?

                                   MOUSE
     Packed his bag.  Didn't say.

Father is very curious, but before he can ask another question
Mouse has darted away.  Father shakes his head at Mouse's usual
behavior and continues down the tunnel.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. TUNNEL CHAMBER - NIGHT

Vincent tries the wheel again.  It turns slowly.  The NOISE of
the door unlocking reverberates in the quiet.  Calmly, Vincent
takes a deep breath and opens the door slightly.  He grabs the
light and steps through the open door and quickly closes it after
him.  We remain on the door for a moment, then

CUT TO:

EXT. NEW YORK STREET - NIGHT

As Michael and Cathy walk up the steps of the hotel they are
jumped by the two men.  The man attacking Cathy doesn't expect
much resistance and is surprised when she effectively strikes
back.

CUT TO:

INT. TUNNEL MOUTH - NIGHT

Vincent leans against the wall for a moment.  His breathing is
heavy and labored.  The air is musty and old, but not poisoned. 
He starts to go on, when suddenly...with every sense alter, he
knows Catherine is in danger.

                                  VINCENT
     Catherine...?

EXT. NEW YORK STREET - NIGHT

CLOSE shot of Cathy as she is fighting.

INT. TUNNEL MOUTH - NIGHT

Vincent fights the first surge of panic.  There is nothing he can
do for her now.  As he calms himself, be becomes more aware of
his own problems.  The air is breathable, but oppressive. 
Vincent begins to HEAR, very slightly, the voices Carl has always
heard during his nightmares.  Vincent pushes on, a foot or two
more.  The voices become LOUDER.  Is it his imagination?  Or...? 
It effects him strongly.

CUT TO:

EXT. STREET - NIGHT

VARIOUS ANGLES as the four fight.  Cathy gets hit a few times but
manages to do some damage.  Michael is a very good street fighter
and his opponent doesn't stand a chance.  Before the fight can be
finished, one of the attackers scrambles to his feet and runs
off.  The other one takes off after his partner.  The fight has
been quick, silent and very vicious.

Cathy and Michael are both out of breath.  Cathy sits down on the
hotel steps.  Michael joins her.

                                  MICHAEL
     Are you OK?

Michael doesn't wait for her response.

                                  MICHAEL
     Is this part of your line of work, too?

                                   CATHY
     Professional hazard.
                                  (beat)
     You're pretty good...

                                  MICHAEL
     Had to learn real early how to take care of myself.
                                  (beat)
     I didn't always have a room with a view.

                                   CATHY
     Now I'm really interested in talking to your father's old
     friend...

They stand and start up the steps.  Cathy stops suddenly - a look
of fear on her face.  She knows Vincent is in trouble and there
is nothing she can do.  Cathy takes a deep breath and continues
up the stairs.  The psychic backlash hits her again.  She can
feel Vincent's panic, the underlying sense of oppression - of
fear.

                                  MICHAEL
     Cathy what's wrong?

CLOSE ON Cathy's stricken face as she turns from Michael's view.

CUT TO:

INT. TUNNEL - NIGHT

Vincent has gone only a few more feet, but the VOICES have become
stronger.  His innate psychic ability picks up the fear, the hurt
and anguish that has been haunting this place for 25 years.  It
is a wall of emotional pain.

CLOSE UP ON VINCENT

He gives a tremendous ROAR of pain as these emotions overwhelm
him.  The roar and the voices mingle, echoing back at him. 
Vincent SCREAMS again and then collapses to his knees as we

FADE OUT

END OF ACT THREE



ACT FOUR

FADE IN

INT. TUNNEL - NIGHT

With great effort, Vincent pulls himself to his feet and leans
against the wall for support.  Vincent takes a step forward, then
another.  He fights for every foot.  We can still HEAR the voices
- coming in waves of sound, still trying to push him back.

VARIOUS TUNNEL SHOTS

We can't see the rest of the tunnel too clearly, just what is
illuminated by the light, as Vincent moves along slowly.  This
part of the tunnel has not suffered much damage.

INT. TUNNEL CAVE IN - NIGHT

Vincent is stopped by the cave in.  The dirt and rocks after all
of these years have settled and the blockage doesn't look as
formidable as it did to Carl.  It reaches almost to the roof. 
There is a hole at the tope of the slide, but it's not large
enough for Vincent, yet...

He scans the mound of rocks with the light, and then puts it and
his bag down in a safe place.  Vincent moves some of the rocks
away, starting a small landslide.  The SOUND is deafening.  The
slide stops but the sound lingers, on, ECHOING.

TIME DISSOLVE TO:

INT. TUNNEL CAVE IN - NIGHT

The entrance is now wide enough for Vincent to get through.  He
tests the air with one of Mouse's magic papers.

INSERT

The paper has turned a slightly blue color.

RESUME SCENE

There is something in the air...but it is not poisonous.  Vincent
breathes a little deeper and harder than normal, even after the
exertion of clearing away the rocks.  He picks up the light and
his pack and climbs up and through the hole.

CUT TO:

INT. HOTEL ROOM - NIGHT

The room is small, just a bedroom/living room combination, with a
compact kitchen.  Everything is very old, including MAXIE.  The
walls are covered with photos from all over the world, showing
the many projects and places Maxie had traveled to.  Maxie is
probably Carl's age, but looks much older.  He is seated in the
only chair while Michael and Cathy sit opposite him on the bed. 
Maxie has a strong East London accent, even after all of these
years.

                                   MAXIE
     Want a bedtime story, hey kid?  Why the sudden interest
     in your ol' man?

                                  MICHAEL
     Because I wouldn't listen then.  Now I need to know the
     truth.

                                   MAXIE
     Pulled me out of the sewers, he did.  I was a flusher...a
     Ganger no less, in the London tunnels.  Carl got me out
     of there.  Saw the world...had a good life...

Maxie looks around at his little world.

                                   MAXIE
     At least I've got my memories...

But Maxie is not interested in talking about his friend.

                                   CATHY

     Maxie...we know Carl's been alive all these years!

He is surprised they know this, but remains silent.

                                   CATHY
     Carl is dead, Maxie.  But before he died he wanted
     Michael to know the truth about the cave in.

                                   MAXIE
     Shoulda asked years ago.  Not that it would have done ya'
     any good.

                                  MICHAEL
     And now...?
                                  (pause)
     We're not the only ones interested.  Someone 
     tried to stop us from seeing you.

                                   CATHY
     It didn't work but they might try something
     else...something against you.

This doesn't scare Maxie but he is beginning to break down.

                                  MICHAEL
     Maxie, you always said you were my Father's best
     friend...

                                   MAXIE
     I was...I was the only one left.
                       (pause - remembering fondly)
     Six months after the accident Carl came to me.  Looked
     pretty good for a ghost.
                                  (beat)
     It was too late to clear his name.  The lads who could
     have helped was either dead, out of the country or...too
     scared to talk.

                                   CATHY
                                 (gently)
     Like you Maxie?

Maxie shakes his head slowly "yes".

                                  MICHAEL
     Why, Uncle Max?  You could have told my mother... You
     could have told me.

                                   MAXIE
     Was the way your father wanted it.  Reports had been
     destroyed.  People threatened... Can't fight City Hall!

                                   CATHY
     You can Maxie.  People do...and win.

                                   MAXIE
                              (getting angry)
     Against these politicos?  Our boss was Rosenberg.  Top
     man in city politics...still is.  His career started with
     that tunnel.  Bring it in on time.  He didn't care
     how...bribes made...tests falsified.  Rosenberg never
     liked your father.  Carl asked too many questions.  After
     the accident, Rosenberg made certain he was blamed. 
     Can't fight people like that.
                               (beat/calmer)
     ...best to stay a ghost.

Maxie has dissolved into tears.  Michael tries to comfort him. 
Michael and Cathy share a moment of compassion for the old man. 
They now have answers, but no proof.

CUT TO:

INT. TUNNEL CAVE IN - NIGHT

Vincent crawls back down from the slide opening.  He is
disheveled, dirty and has lost his pack.  But has found a large,
leather-bound book, which he holds protectively against him. 
This journey has been hard on him.  The VOICES can still be
heard, but are now softer, less strident and troubled.  Vincent
gathers up the light and slowly walks on.

INT. VARIOUS TUNNELS - NIGHT

We continue with Vincent as he makes his way back through the
tunnels to the door.  The wheel moves easily and with a final
twist it swings open.  The GOLDEN GLOW pours in.  Vincent steps
through into the light, just as Carl did in his dreams.

INT. OUTSIDE TUNNEL - NIGHT

As the blinding light settles, we see Father and TWO MEN waiting
for him.  Vincent closes the door and toggles the wheel.  The
others do not move or speak until he is finished.

                                  FATHER
                          (hardly able to speak)
     Vincent...why?

                                  VINCENT
                           (indicating the book)
     I had to find the answers.

                                  FATHER
     At this price... Nothing is worth...your life.

                                  VINCENT
     Some things are.  You taught me that.

                                  FATHER
     But banishment?
                          (hardly able to go on)
     A Commons Meeting has been called.

Vincent nods and does not say another word.  As he starts to
leave, the other men form an escort...his Guards.  Father
follows, slowly.  Vincent turns to help him, but Father pulls
away.  Vincent is troubled, but understands Father's actions.
                                                              
DISSOLVE TO:

INT. LARGE CHAMBER - NIGHT

The chamber is huge, and already crowded with people.  The room
is lit by torches, giving a formal atmosphere to The Commons
Meeting.  THE CAMERA PANS the faces of the people.  MARY is
standing with some of the children...she has been crying.  JAMIE
and Mouse stand together.  Jamie holds on to him for comfort. 
PASCAL, in the shadows, leans against a tunnel wall.  The people
talk quietly amongst themselves, until Father, with Vincent and
the Guards arrive.

Father walks slowly to the center of the chamber.

                                  FATHER
     A Commons Meeting has been called.
                           (searching the crowd)
     Pascal...?

Father's gaze finds Pascal, who fidgets, knowing all eyes are on
him.

                                  PASCAL
                               (very formal)
     A message for the trial has been sent to all outposts. 
     All other communications have been suspended.

                                  FATHER
     When everyone is in attendance, we will hear...the
     charges.  We will have an open debate...and a communal
     vote.

This causes quite a stir among the people.  A YOUNG MAN, steps
forward.

                                 YOUNG MAN
     Why not a regular trial?  That's how its been done
     before.  A trial by jury...with the head of the Council
     as judge.

There is more discussion amongst the people - a very divided
crowd.  Finally Mary steps forward.

                                   MARY
     This concerns all of us too much not to have a vote.

                                 YOUNG MAN
     But our laws...

                                   MARY
     Our laws also give us an open vote.

There is more discussion among the people.

                                  FATHER
     We will listen...then vote.  All of us...will be
     answerable to the group's decision.

                               ANOTHER VOICE
     Why the change?

                                  FATHER
                          (hardly able to speak)
     Because...I can not be the one to sentence my son. 
     Banishment...it would mean Vincent's death.

The CAMERA PANS the crowd again.  The implication of the trial's
severity is sinking in.  Justice has to be preserved.  The CAMERA
FINDS Mary, Pascal, then Jamie and Mouse.  Jamie is so
preoccupied she doesn't notice Mouse quietly slip away.

CUT TO:

INT. CATHY'S APARTMENT - NIGHT

Cathy and Michael relax over a cup of coffee as Michael looks
through Carl's scrapbook on him.  Cathy is still upset.  She
knows something is wrong with Vincent, but can't pull the
feelings together.

                                  MICHAEL
     Where was my father hiding?

                                   CATHY
     He wasn't hiding.  He was with friends who protected him. 
     He became a very respected member of their community.

                                  MICHAEL
     It sounds like my father had a lot of good friends.

                                   CATHY
     Yes...a few special ones.

                                  MICHAEL
     And there's nothing any of them can do to help.

                                   CATHY
     They've tried.  We'll watch and wait.  That's all we can
     do now.

Cathy is hit by another wave of emotion.  This one is chilling
and makes her shiver.

                                  MICHAEL
     Maybe you need something more in that drink than coffee.

                                   CATHY
     I'll be find.  I'm just worried.

                                  MICHAEL
     About someone...special...?

Cathy nods "yes".

                                  MICHAEL
     Just my luck.  The good ones are always taken.  Lucky
     guy.

Cathy smiles, not sure exactly what to say.  She is saved by a
LOUD KNOCK on the front door.  She gets up to answer it.

                                   CATHY
     Excuse me, Michael.

There is another LOUD KNOCK before she can open the door.

CATHY'S POV

opening the door to find a very upset and agitated Mouse.

RESUME SCENE

Cathy is surprised to see him.  Before she can say anything, he
grabs her hand and tries to pull her out the door.

                                   MOUSE
     Catherine... Must come...got to come.  A trial... All
     wrong.

Mouse is not making sense.  Cathy tries to quiet him.  She
doesn't want Michael to become involved.

                                   CATHY
     Mouse.  Calm down.

Mouse doesn't calm down, but does stop pulling her.  He gives a
furtive glance into the room and spots Michael, who has risen and
walks toward the door.  Cathy turns to Michael.

                                  MICHAEL
     It's ok, Michael.  This is a friend of mine.

Michael isn't too sure, especially when he gets a better look at
Mouse.  Very strange.

Mouse stares at Michael and starts to say something.  Cathy gives
Mouse a little nudge down the hall.  He's said and done too much
already.

                                   CATHY
     Michael, I've got to go.

She grabs her keys from the entry table and practically pulls
Michael out the door.

INT. CATHY'S HALLWAY - NIGHT

Cathy closes the door and turns to Michael.

                                   CATHY
     This is an emergency.  I'll explain everything tomorrow.

She and Mouse race down the hall and into the elevator.  Michael
stands bemused for a moment, then makes a quick decision and
starts after them.

CUT TO:

INT. BASEMENT ENTRANCE - NIGHT

They have just descended the ladder.

                                   MOUSE
     Hurry, must go to the Commons.  Not far.

Cathy is about ready to strangle Mouse.  He takes her hand and
pulls her across the room and into the tunnel.  The CAMERAL PANS
back to the basement ladder.  Michael makes his way down, quietly
and quickly.  He hurries across the basement floor and looks into
the tunnel.

MICHAEL'S POV

The tunnel entrance and the golden LIGHT of the other world.

RESUME SCENE

He doesn't hesitate but walks into the light.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. VARIOUS TUNNELS - NIGHT

Cathy and Mouse move quickly.  The tunnels are strangely quiet. 
The only tapping SOUND heard is just one message, continuously
repeated.  Cathy has finally had enough and stops.  Mouse also
stops and turns back to her.

                                   MOUSE
     No...Gotta go.

                                   CATHY
     Mouse.  I'm not going anywhere until you tell me what's
     going on.  What's wrong with Vincent?

                                   MOUSE
     In big trouble.  Went into forbidden tunnel.  Found
     Carl's papers.

                                   CATHY
     But that's wonderful.

                                   MOUSE
     Noooo!  Don't understand.  Don't have many laws...don't
     need them.  This is a big law.  Vincent broke it.  Now a
     big trial.  Shouldn't have gone.

                                   CATHY
     But, he had to help.

                                   MOUSE
     Now who's going to help Vincent?

Mouse tries to drag Cathy on.  She hesitates for one moment,
pulling him back.

                                   CATHY
     Mouse...what is the punishment??

                                   MOUSE
                                 (quietly)
     Banishment.  Forever.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. COMMONS CHAMBER - NIGHT

More people have gathered in the commons room.  An OLD MAN is
talking as we PAN the group.

                              OLD MAN (V.O.)
     We must make this decision in all fairness to the laws
     that we created for our world and its survival.  To
     negate those rules would create anarchy.  We would be no
     better than the hypocrites above with their two sets of
     laws.

The camera FINDS the old man.  He looks more like a rag-picker
than the eloquent orator we have been listening to.

                                  OLD MAN
     We can not make exceptions...for anyone.

Father tries to run the trial as he always would.  He does a good
job, but it costs him a great deal of emotional pain.

                                  FATHER
                             (a little angry)
     There will be no exceptions made.  That is why all of
     you...those who live in this world and contribute to
     it...even the children...have a vote.

ANOTHER ANGLE - ONE OF THE CHAMBER'S ENTRANCES - NIGHT

Mouse and Cathy enter and he pulls her through the crowd.  They
stop beside Mary, who is glad to see Cathy.  Cathy tries to
assimilate what is going on, as she looks for Vincent.

ANGLE TO VINCENT

Vincent stands between his Guards.  He still holds Carl's
journal.  He does not see Cathy, but senses her presence.  

RESUME SCENE

The camera PANS the commons chamber.  More people have arrived,
even NARCISSA.  At the mouth of a tunnel, hidden from everyone is
Michael.  He is amazed at what he sees.

                                  FATHER
     The accused will have a chance...for a defense...just as
     all of you...have the right to question.

Father turns to Vincent and asks almost pleadingly.

                                  FATHER
     Vincent, why did you go into the tunnel?

                                 YOUNG MAN
                              (interrupting)
     Never mind why?  Vincent went in there.  He could have
     killed us all.

There is a general mumbling of agreement.

                                  FATHER
     That is true...but I still want an explanation for this
     act.

All eyes are on Vincent.

                                  VINCENT
     I am responsible for my actions.  I went into the tunnel.
                                  (beat)
     I would never have endangered...any of your lives.  If
     the air had been poisoned...I would have been the one to
     suffer.  I would not have let it contaminate our world.

                                 WOMAN #1
     How can you be so positive?

                                  VINCENT
     I was never sure.
                                  (beat)
     Carl had left many devices to test the air...

                                  MAN #1
                          (interrupting angrily)
     Then why didn't he go back in there...a long time ago.

                                  PASCAL
     Would you have...after what happened to him in there?

Pascal's words hit home, and the man reluctantly shakes his head
"no".  Most of the crowd agrees...they couldn't have gone back in
there either.  Narcissa quietly steps forward.

                                 NARCISSA
     None of you...would have been able to withstand the
     journey.
                           (directed to Vincent)
     The souls of the underworld...they now...are at peace.

As the Trial continues, the camera PANS the crowd to get
different reaction shots, including Cathy, Mouse and Michael
where he is still hiding.  Michael is in a state of shock,
especially after he gets a good look at Vincent.

                                  VINCENT
     I had to find Carl's journal.  It was needed to clear his
     name of murder with those above.

                                  FATHER
     Vincent, that is not enough of a reason to risk our
     lives...or yours.  Carl is dead.  Those above have
     already tried...and convicted him.

                                  VINCENT
     I had made a promise to Carl.  It was the only way I
     could fulfill it.

The crowd reaction is very mixed.

                                  FATHER
     Vincent, a promise...

Father is interrupted by CALLOW, a tall and rather intense man,
as he angrily pushes his way through the crowd.

                                  CALLOW
                           (pointing at Vincent)
     Did you go into the tunnel?

                                  VINCENT
     Yes.


                                  CALLOW
     Then he's guilty.  And we should vote.

Some of the crowd agrees with this.

                                  FATHER
     Is there anyone who will speak...for the accused, before
     we vote.

Several people step forward, including Mary, Pascal, Mouse, and
Cathy.  Father notices Cathy for the first time.

                                  FATHER
     Only one of you may speak on his behalf.

Cathy steps into the middle of the chamber and the light.

                                   CATHY
     I will speak for Vincent.

There is a moment of surprise from the crowd.  Some one yells
out...

                                   VOICE
     She's not one of us.

                                   CATHY
     I am one of you, and have a right to be heard.

                                   JAMIE
     Our helpers have always had the right to speak at a
     commons meeting.

There is general agreement to her statement.  Cathy comes forward
and stands near Vincent.  The look that passes between them is
one of purest understanding.  Cathy turns to face the crowd.

                                   CATHY
     One of the first things I learned about this world, was
     that all of you live by one general rule...to give help
     and support to those who need it.  It's how you all
     exist.  It's so thoroughly ingrained...you don't think
     about it, you just do it.
                                  (beat)
     How can you condemn Vincent for obeying a greater
     law...which he has been taught all of his life...giving
     help to those who need it.

                                  CALLOW
     But Carl is dead.

                                   CATHY
     Vincent was trying to help the living as well...for those
     above.

                                OLDER WOMAN
     But it could have meant our death.

                                   CATHY
     Not yours.  Only his own.  Vincent would never risk the
     chance of hurting any of you.  You know that.

                                  MAN #1
     But he went into the tunnel, for nothing...just some
     stupid papers.

CLOSE-UP ON MICHAEL

Michael is deeply moved by all of this.  He can't let it go on
without speaking up, no matter what the consequences.

                                  MICHAEL
     No!  It wasn't for nothing...It was for me.

RESUME SCENE

Michael's comment and his presence causes quite a stir.  He
pushes his way through the crowd, to stand near Cathy.

                                  MICHAEL
     I know I don't belong here, but I feel I should say
     something...Carl was my father...and...
                                  (beat)
     All of this was done for me...because I had to have proof
     of what really happened in that tunnel.  
                                (to Cathy)
     Proof that he really loved me...that's what all of this
     is about.

                                  OLD MAN
     It still doesn't alter the facts.  Vincent went into the
     forbidden tunnel.  Our laws have been broken.

                                   CATHY
     Vincent was upholding the first and most important
     law...the one law all of you made, and live by...that
     makes this world so special.
                                  (pause)
     Banishment forever would mean his death.  Your love and
     acceptance is everything to Vincent.  Without it our love
     could never exist.  You can not banish him for obeying
     what all of you say you believe in.  This rule has
     touched all of you...
                                  (beat)
     It saved my life...

                                  CALLOW
     But he is still guilty by his own admission.
                               (to Vincent)
     You do understand why...?

                                  VINCENT
     I understand, Callow.  I knew I was breaking our law.  If
     there was only one way to help...I had no other choice
     but to follow it.

Michael is not longer scared and turns to Vincent.

                                  MICHAEL
     Thank you...Vincent.

Vincent holds out the book.

                                  VINCENT
     From your father.

Michael takes it and quietly steps aside.

                                  FATHER
     We have discussed this enough.  It is time to vote.

                                   CATHY
     But the law says banishment...forever.  Can't it be
     changed?

The chamber is very quiet, until Mouse jumps in, almost literally
as he pushes his way into the middle of the room.

                                   MOUSE
     The silence!
                                  (beat)
     Well, did it to me.  One month...you said.

                                  CALLOW
     The punishment must fit the crime.

                                  OLD MAN
     Just because you don't like a law you can't go and break
     it.  We do not have many rules, but the punishment for
     this is banishment.

                                  PASCAL
     We must temper this law with good judgment.

                                   MOUSE
     Then just banish Vincent a little bit.

Many of the spectators agree with Mouse.

                                  FATHER
     Justice with mercy.  That is what we never received
     above.  Vincent has admitted his guilt, it is up to us to
     give the proper sentence.

                                  CALLOW
     I vote for complete banishment...
                                  (beat)
     for one month.

                                  MAN #1
     That is not long enough.

                                 NARCISSA
                                (laughing)
     Then one month...and one day.

There is general approval to this.

                                  FATHER
     Then we shall vote.  Those in favor of imposing the
     punishment...will please so indicate.

CLOSE ON THE FACES OF THE CROWD

as we begin to PAN SLOWLY around the Commons Chamber.  One by one
the people make their choice.  Mary is crying, but still turns
away from the camera and Vincent.  Jamie, Pascal, Callow,
Narcissa and even the children are troubled by their decision,
before they all turn away.  Mouse can't make up his mind and
there are a few others who do not turn away.  Finally the last
people we come to are Father and Cathy.

CLOSE ON FATHER

This has taken a great deal out of him.  With one last look at
Vincent, he turns away.

CLOSE ON CATHY

She is the last one to vote.  Having claimed acceptance into
their world she must now pay the price.  This is one of the
hardest things she has ever had to do.  She turns her back.

CLOSE ON VINCENT

He can feel her anguish, but knows also what she must do.  When
she turns from him, he is filled with despair, but also with
great pride at her courage.

RESUME SCENE

The camera PANS the group again, their backs to Vincent and the
camera.  Even Mouse has made the hard choice and has turned away.

CLOSE UP ON FATHER

There is a great deal of sadness hanging over him, but also a
relief that it was not worse.  He takes note of all who voted for
the temporary banishment.

                                  FATHER
     The jury of the commons has voted...Vincent will be
     banished from our world for one month and one
     day...Starting now.

RESUME SCENE

Father and the others turn around.  Vincent has disappeared.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. MANHATTAN SKYLINE - EVENING

Over STOCK shot of New York.  "3 WEEKS LATER"

CUT TO:

INT. TUNNEL RENDEZVOUS - NIGHT

Cathy makes her way to the usual rendezvous point.  Father is
there waiting for her.

                                  FATHER
     Thank you for coming, Catherine.
                                  (pause)
     Our perimeter guards have not seen any signs
     of...Vincent.  Jamie even went as far as the
     lake...nothing.  I was...

                                   CATHY
     I don't know.  Vincent has broken the connection.  I know
     how hard that is.  
                                  (beat)
     I have tried...to reach him.  But I know he's not...

Father and Cathy share one of the rare moments of emphatic
understanding.  Father nods his head in agreement.

                                  FATHER
                       (smiling for the first time)
     I...even consulted Narcissa.  She could not "reach"
     him...but neither does she fear for his safety.

There is an awkward moment of silence between them.

                                  FATHER
     Michael is turning out well.  He will be a good
     helper...and friend.

                                   CATHY
     I'm glad.  He has a lot to offer your world.

                                  FATHER
     Mouse won't leave him alone.  Always pestering him with
     new ideas.
                                  (beat)
     I hope for Michael's sake his father's name can be cleared.

                                   CATHY
     Rosenberg resigned last week.  It maybe hard to get him
     on a crime committed 25 years ago, but the DA's office is
     going to try.  He's left a trail of corruption.
                              (beat/smiling)
     Joe Maxwell has another case on his desk.

                                  FATHER
     Justice must be preserved...And as long as Michael
     believes...

                                   CATHY
     ...that's all that matters.

Father starts to turn away, but...

                                  FATHER
     Catherine...  If anything...

                                   CATHY
     I will.

Father turns to leave.  Before he can, Cathy, in an impulse,
rushes to him and throws her arms around him.  Father is rather
taken aback, but finally responds.  The comfort and need is
understood by both.  They finally part, and without another word
go back to their own worlds.

CUT TO:

EXT. VIEW FROM CATHY'S TERRACE - NIGHT

Over STOCK shot of New York. - "ONE WEEK AND ONE DAY LATER"

EXT. CATHY'S TERRACE - NIGHT

Cathy walks onto the terrace.  This the "the" day or rather the
night.  Half of her is eager to see Vincent, the other half is
scared that something might have happened to him.  Being cut off
from him has left its toll on her as well.

Cathy walks to the ledge and looks out.  She notices a book of
poetry and a rose on the table.  She picks it up and looks
around...there is no sign of Vincent.  Hoping that he has left
her a message, she opens the book to where the rose has marked a
passage.

CLOSE ON CATHY

as she reads it silently

                              VINCENT (V.O.)
          One look now
     Will lap me round forever, not to pass
     Out of its light, through darkness lie beyond; Hold me
     but safe again within the bond
          Of one immortal look!  All woe that was,
     Forgotten, and all terror that may be,
          Defied, - no past is mine;
     Look at me!

Cathy knows Vincent is there and looks to the corner of the
terrace.

CATHY'S POV

Vincent, as he steps into the light.  He looks tired and worn. 
The banishment has been hard on him as well.  All of this takes
her but a moment to see, as she rushes to him.

RESUME SCENE

as Cathy runs to him.  She wants to fall into his arms, but
stops.  She reaches out slowly to touch his face.  He raises his
hand to meet hers.  He pulls her close and as they embrace we
FREEZE THE SHOT.

FADE TO BLACK

THE END