Members of the planet Earth are alarmed, and completely taken by surprise as contact is made with an alien race. This race, dubbed by the people of Earth as "Elemenians" (or "Eles"), all have varying degrees of physio-kinetic abilities. The ability to control different aspects of nature with their minds. This race, despite being technologically advanced, and physically superior, arrive with only peace in mind. According to the settlers, their homeworld is being torn apart by a devastating civil war, and those who made contact were only trying to find a more peaceful planet. In a demonstration of irony, one scholar of the time is quoted as saying, "If this planet is what they call peaceful, I can’t imagine what they’re running from!"

As the years go by, Earth’s original sense of fascination and wonder begin to decay and are replaced with feelings of mistrust and resentment. The Earth’s resources were already on a steep decline, but the arrival of the Elemenians made life even harder. With the addition of millions of Elemenian settlers (which grew rapidly as time increased), humans began to feel pressured by having to share their precious planet with the aliens. Resentment built up, and though no one knows exactly when it happened, a massive xenophobia spread across the planet.

Of course, what made matters worse was what happened more than two decades later.

12.30.2049

"The Day the Earth Bled"

While most of the world was just wrapping up the holiday season and preparing to ring in the new year, the entire planet was about to receive a terrible shock. An armada of Elemenian warships came from hyperspace and attacked the Planet Earth, hitting many major cities such as New York, Moscow, Toronto, Mexico City, Beijing, London, and others. The damages in each city ranged from moderate to severe. However, nothing could prepare people for the final, most devastating blow:

A well-placed geo-seismic bomb fired into a volcano caused powerful eruptions and earthquakes throughout the entire Japanese archipelago. As a result, nearly 40% of the islands sank beneath the waves of the Pacific Ocean. Combined with the earthquake, millions were killed within two hours. The molten magma and lava that flowed through the cracks could be seen as far as space. Thus, the attack was dubbed, "The Day the Earth Bled."

The horror of the event caused the entire world to become enraged and hungry for vengeance and declare war on Planet Elemen. With even more reason to hate Elemenians, many prejudiced Earthlings demanded that the Eles leave the planet. Even more radical people demanded their extermination. However, over the last 25 years, an entire new generation of Earth-born Eles (called "Earthians") had arisen and considered the Earth as much their home as Earthlings.

2075 - Today

The war has reached a bit of a stalemate. Elemenian forces, having gravely underestimated the terrans, are unable to continue their attack due to the fact that they are so far from their own world, and a steady source of supplies. Earthlings, however, have not yet mastered the secrets of hyperspace travel and cannot pursue to prevent a counterattack. As such, the Earth is edgy and forever fearful of a sneak attack…

…both from the outside…and from WITHIN.

On a cloudy night, a car rolls up into the driveway of a suburban home. The car is rolled onto the lawn in a clumsy, hasty manner. A young man, dressed professionally with a suit, tie, and pressed pants, gets out of the car. A look of horror is on his face as he walks closer. On the lawn is a dog…a puppy of no more than six months. The dog is dead, it’s body mangled, bloody and broken, and its blood covering the area. Seeing his beloved pet in such a condition, the boy drops to his knees, in tears. However, in front of him is an even more horrific sight. His home, ablaze.

Not thinking of the consequences, the young man dashes toward his house. He knocks open the door, which is already been broken into, and runs into the burning building. Once inside, he is overwhelmed by the heat, and he ducks low to avoid the rolls of smoke. He starts to call out his parents’ names, but the smoke prevents it. He continues to run through the house, trying to navigate through the blaze. Finally, he hears a cry coming from the living room.

From the next room, the boy catches a glimpse his mother- beaten, and half-alive. Calling out, he sees her try to get up. She tells him to stay away…to run as quickly as possible. This is all she can say as a sword quickly pierces her throat and is run into the ground. The boy stops in his tracks, his mind in total shock from what he’s just seen. Petrified in a mix of fear, grief and shock, he looks up to see an armored soldier standing above his dead mother’s body. He recognizes the armor as that belonging to the Elemenian Empire.

The soldier signals more, and four more soldiers walk into view. One of them dragging the corpse of the boy’s father, tossing it aside like trash. The sight of this drives the boy mad with rage as he charges the soldiers. One of them easily hits him across the face, knocking him into a wall. Then, another moves over to him, grabs his hair and forces his head back against the wall. Then, with his other hand, he punches the boy hard in the gut, causing him to crumple over in pain.

Another soldier walks up over to him, raising his foot to finish it. However, one of the others grabs his shoulder and stops him. Signaling the others, they start to resolve their business. One of the soldiers raises his hand, blasting a hole in the wall to make a quick exist. All of them retreat outside, leaving Jeffrey in the burning building.

All alone, Jeffrey lays on the floor of the house, in too much pain…physically and emotionally…to move. Looking to his side, he looks into his mother’s eyes…her body cold and lifeless.

Outside, the Elemenian soldiers take off in a dropship, their mission accomplished. The ship powers up, preparing to soar high into the sky and out of the planet’s atmosphere. The soldiers all start to lower their guards, their jobs now over for the moment. However, the next instant, everyone inside gets rattled as the ship makes a sudden stop. One of the soldiers makes his way to the front of the ship, wanting to know what happened. When he gets to the cockpit, he gazes out of the window with a look of utter disbelief.

The boy, surging with energy, floats in the air in front of them, his expression grim, his eyes blazing red. In a pure rage, he punches straight through the window with shattering impact. Alarmed, the pilot closes the metal visors on the window. As it closes, the raging, superhuman boy goes out of view. But his presence is affirmed as fist-shaped dents appear in the visor. The non-piloting soldier yells back to the others, and one of the soldiers opens the hatch, dropping outside. Falling a few yards, the soldier bursts into flame and flies toward the front of the ship, attacking the boy from behind with a blow to the back of the head.

The blow doesn’t faze the boy very much and returns the favor. The force of the blow knocks the soldier for a loop, forcing him to straighten himself out in mid-air. The soldier doesn’t have much time to react as the boy comes in attacking full-force. The soldier is barely able to keep him away, trying desperately to keep from being hit. However, the boy finally gets in a good clean shot. The force of the blow smashes in the soldier’s helmet and cracks the visor.

Retreating away a bit, the soldier removes the helmet, revealing that the soldier is, in fact, a red-haired woman. Her face bleeding, she looks up just in time to see the boy ready to strike her again….

…but a timely blast from the pulse rifle of a fellow soldier saves her. Seizing the opportunity, the female soldier focuses energy into her hand. The boy turns just in time for the blast to be released point-blank, causing everything to go white.

The scene changes, as the young man now awakens in a bed at the dead of night. In a cold sweat and gasping for breath, he reaches for a light and sits on the edge of the bed, holding his head in his hands. Walking to the bathroom, he turns on a night-light and looks at himself.

JEFFREY

……..

The same dream…

I’ve dreamt the same thing every night since, but…

But, that last part…what was that? I don’t remember any of that…

Did…did it actually happen?

What….what am I…?

Rain beats down on Jeffrey as he stands at a bus stop, waiting for the public transportation to arrive. He stands in the cold downpour unprotected. As he stands there, his mind wanders, thinking about everything that’s happened to him recently.

<Flashback>

Jeffrey sits in a bank, dressed in a suit, talking a banker.

BANKER

Well, Mr. Stanz, you see…

This is a very difficult matter.

JEFFREY

What is that supposed to mean?

My parents are dead. As the sole heir, I should be entitled to something.

BANKER

Well, it appears that all of their holdings are being frozen while the authorities continue an investigation.

JEFFREY

What?

BANKER

According to Article 2, Section B of the recently-invoked legislation, "In cases where wrongful death is suspect, all inherited assets, will be held by the state until the intended recipient has been cleared of any wrongdoing."

JEFFREY

So, what you’re saying I’m a suspect in my own parents’ murders?

I told the authorities what happened—

BANKER

Apparently, they feel that your story is very suspicious. I’m sorry.

JEFFREY

This is absurd! How could I be considered a suspect?

BANKER

Well…

You ARE desperate to get the money…

JEFFREY

….

BANKER

In any case, there’s nothing I can do. You can try again if and when this matter is resolved.

If there is no other business, I wish you a good day, sir.

</Flashback end>

Jeffrey continues to stand in the downpour, waiting for the bus to arrive. Rain continues to beat down on him as his deep thought continues.

<Flashback>

Jeffrey is in a biochemical lab, the place where he’s employed. The clothes he’s wearing show that this happened only a short while ago. His boss stands in front of him with a look of severe anger. Jeffrey is receding in fear, preparing himself for the chastisement he is about receive.

BOSS

Stanz, what the hell are you doing?

Why did you mix solution B and solution D? Didn’t you know what would happen?

JEFFREY

I-I didn’t think--

BOSS

It took us MONTHS to develop the formula for those two. This screw-up of yours is going to set us back at least three weeks behind schedule. We’ve recently been undergoing new management, and let me assure you: Our benefactors and clientele will NOT be appreciative of this!

JEFFREY

I’m…I’m sorry

BOSS

Sorry? Yeah, you ARE sorry. What the hell is with you?

JEFFREY

I’m just…going through something.

BOSS

Listen, I know you were going through some stuff a while back when your parents got whacked. But it’s been THREE WEEKS. You need to get over it and get back to work. Look, I’m tired of looking like the goddamn bad guy here. Your "poor me" routine is getting old, Stanz.

JEFFREY

Yes, sir.

BOSS
Dammit, I mean it, Stanz.

If you continue to perform like this, I’ll have no choice but to let you go.

Consider this your LAST warning.

JEFFREY

Yes, sir.

BOSS

Now go home and work this out of your system. When you come back tomorrow, I’m expecting you to be over this.

JEFFREY

Yes, sir.

</Flashback end>

Jeffrey is brought back to his sense as the bus arrives. He gets on, pays the fare and stands in the aisle…since all the seats are taken. Time passes, and he finally reaches his stop. Walking a few blocks, he makes it to an apartment building. Nodding to the doorman, he heads to an elevator and presses it to go up.

<Flashback>

INSURANCE AGENT

I’m sorry, Mr. Stanz, but since the state has put a hold on your accounts during their investigation, I’m afraid that I can’t authenticate your parents’ insurance claim.

JEFFREY

But…their insurance was for the house and car. Without it, I can’t drive…and I don’t have a HOUSE!

INSURANCE AGENT

I’m sorry, Mr. Stanz

JEFFREY

Yeah, you’re sorry. Everybody’s sorry. This is B.S.!

INSURANCE AGENT

I can understand that you’re upset, sir, but…

JEFFREY

Understand? You don’t understand anything! My parents were murdered. The cops apparently think I’m a suspect. I have no money, no insurance, no car, and no house. I have NOTHING. Have you ever had NOTHING before?

INSURANCE AGENT

Uh…no.

JEFFREY
THEN DON’T TELL ME WHAT YOU "UNDERSTAND"!!!

INSURANCE AGENT

Well, yelling at me certainly won’t solve anything.

According to my records, sir, you’re currently employed. Perhaps you should consider leasing for a while. At least until the police investigation is over.

</Flashback>

Jeffrey steps off the elevator, heading down the corridor to his apartment. As he gets there, he finds police in the hallway standing outside of his apartment. The door is open and there are more police inside.

JEFFREY

What’s going on?

DETECTIVE

We have a warrant to search your apartment, sir.

JEFFREY

What?

DETECTIVE

We understand that you removed some items from your parents’ safe deposit box a few days after their murder

JEFFREY

Uh, yeah. I have a key.

DETECTIVE

Of course, you did know that by law, that was considered stealing their personal goods, correct?

JEFFREY

No! Of course not! I had permission. My parents TOLD me I could…

DETECTIVE

"Had" permission. Being dead changes people’s minds sometimes.

JEFFREY

I didn’t do anything!

DETECTIVE

Who said you did? Or are you telling yourself that?

You know…to ease some sort of guilt?

JEFFREY

….

DETECTIVE

Anyway…just give us a little more time to do our thing. When we’re done here, we’re be out of your way…

Depending, of course, on what we find…

Time passes and Jeffrey sits at home, trying hard not to break down into tears. His apartment, and the few belongings he does have, are in a mess.

JEFFREY

Is this what my life has come to?

I’ve hit rock bottom in such a short amount of time?

A look crosses Jeffrey’s face that shows the abandonment of hope. Jeffrey moves over to the window of his apartment and looks down. He’s at least ten stories up and there’s nothing below but pavement. Closing his eyes, he lifts his foot over the sill and sits on it with one leg on each side.

JEFFREY

All I need is one reason not to do it…

Just one…

What do I have left? What possible reason do I have to live for?

At that exact moment, there’s a knocking on his door. Jeffrey turns and looks, taken offguard. The knocks come again, and Jeffrey ponders whether or not he should even answer it. As the knocks come a third time, Jeffrey finally makes up his mind and goes over to the door and opens it.

JEFFREY

Yeah…what do you wa—

When Jeffrey opens the door, no one is there. On the ground, there’s a single note with his name on it. Jeffrey picks it up and opens it. Inside is a letter.

JEFFREY

A friend? What in the--?

Confused, Jeffrey looks in the envelope again. There’s something else inside. As he takes it out and looks at it, his eyes widen.

JEFFREY

Oh my God…

Inside is a check for one million dollars.

End of Chapter One

Jeffrey slaps down the million-dollar check in front of a bank teller.

JEFFREY

I’d like to add this to my account.

TELLER

Oh, my….

Um, just a moment, sir.

The teller goes over to a man in a suit and they begin talking for a few minutes before they walk back over to Jeffrey.

MANAGER

Hello, Mr. Stanz. We want you to know that an amount of money this large normally can’t be deposited through our ordinary means.

However, the remitter of the check has already notified us ahead of time and asked us to clear the deposit rather quickly for you.

JEFFREY

They did?

MANAGER

Yes. He was very insistent.

JEFFREY

Did he say who he was?

MANAGER

I’m afraid that he did not want to us to divulge his identity to you as of yet. He said he’d much rather do it in person.

JEFFREY

In…person?

The teller, meanwhile, prints a receipt and stamps it, handing it to Jeffrey.

TELLER

Here you are, sir. The amount has now been deposited in full.

Thank you and enjoy your day.

JEFFREY

Uh…thanks. You too.

Jeffrey leaves the bank, a satisfied grin crossing his face. As he comes outside, the detective he spoke with outside of his apartment stands there, waiting for him.

DETECTIVE

Good afternoon, Mr. Stanz.

JEFFREY

You again?

DETECTIVE

Well, my partner and I were in the neighborhood. Thought we’d stop by and ask you a few questions.

JEFFREY

Such as?

DETECTIVE

The night of your parents’ murders…where were you before the fire broke out?

JEFFREY

I was at work.

DETECTIVE

That late at night?

JEFFREY

Yeah. I’m a scientist. I tend to get wrapped up in my work sometimes.

DETECTIVE

I see. Well, we checked with the company and it seems no one can vouch for your whereabouts at that time.

JEFFREY

Did you check with the night guard? I signed out with him before I left.

DETECTIVE

Yeah, well…that’s the thing. It seems that "death" thing is catching.

JEFFREY

What?

DETECTIVE

It seems the guard was in an accident a few days after the murder.

Even more amazing is the fact that his records of that evening are missing.

JEFFREY

Well, I’m sorry, but I don’t know anything about that.

DETECTIVE

Your parents are murdered…the guard you say you signed out with at the time of the murders dies and his records are missing. Then, you go to your bank and your insurance agency desperate for your parents’ inheritance. Surely you can understand how this seems.

JEFFREY

I don’t care how it seems. I told you what happened.

DETECTIVE

Your parents were murdered by Elemenian soldiers.

JEFFREY

That’s right.

DETECTIVE

Elemenian soldiers decided to attack an unarmed, civilian house, kill the occupants, but leave their son alive?

JEFFREY

That’s what happened.

DETECTIVE

(sighs) Okay, Mr. Stanz. We’ll continue playing this your way.

But, if you suddenly "remember" anything you’re forgetting to tell us, please, don’t hesitate to call.

JEFFREY

No problem.

DETECTIVE
(nods head) Good day, Mr. Stanz.

Annoyed by this encounter with the detective, Jeffrey continues home to his apartment. When he gets there, he walks in and turns the lights on. He’s shocked to see a man in a trenchcoat standing in the living room.

JEFFREY
Who the hell are you? How did you get in here?!?!

MAN
Shh. Stay cool. I’m not here to hurt you.

JEFFREY

Oh yeah? What do you want?

MAN

I’m an investigator. I’m here to help you.

JEFFREY

What? Help me?

INVESTIGATOR

A mysterious benefactor paid for my services. To help clear you of your parents’ murders.

JEFFREY

Who the hell IS this guy? What does he want from me?

INVESTIGATOR
I don’t know. I just do my job.

JEFFREY

(sits down in a chair) Okay, so what? Why are you here?

INVESTIGATOR

To give you this.

The investigator reaches into his pocket and puts a disc on the table.

JEFFREY

What is it?

INVESTIGATOR

Something that will make good on your alibi. It won’t completely prove your innocence, but it’s a start.

Jeffrey picks up the disc and stares at it.

JEFFREY

What’s on this?

INVESTIGATOR

(moving towards door) You’ll see.

I believe my job is finished. My name and number is on the label. If you ever need me to testify, that’s how you can contact me.

JEFFREY

Um…thank you.

A few minutes later, Jeffrey puts the disc into a digital recording unit and plays it. As he watches the footage, he sees the security camera of a fast food restaurant. As the time is displayed in the corner, the video shows Jeffrey pulling up into the drive-thru window, making an order. A smile crosses his face, but Jeffrey’s excitement is cut off as the phone near him rings.

JEFFREY

Phone. Caller ID.

AUTOMATED VOICE

Unknown number. Caller cannot be identified.

Jeffrey hesitates for a moment.

JEFFREY

Connect call.

AUTOMATED VOICE
Call connected.

JEFFREY

Hello?

DISTORTED VOICE

Jeffrey Stanz?

JEFFREY

Yeah?

DISTORTED VOICE

Did you view the video?

JEFFREY

Yeah.

DISTORTED VOICE

Good.

JEFFREY

Who is this?

DISTORTED VOICE

No time for that now, Jeff. You’re in trouble.

JEFFREY

What?

DISTORTED VOICE

The Eles…they’ve tracked you down. They’re coming for you.

JEFFREY

Huh? Why?

DISTORTED VOICE
I don’t know.

JEFFREY

How do you know they’re coming for me?

DISTORTED VOICE

I’ve been keeping an eye on you for a while.

JEFFREY
Who ARE you?

DISTORTED VOICE
A friend. That’s all I can tell you.

JEFFREY

Okay, okay. What do I do?

DISTORTED VOICE

Your powers. Can you use them?

JEFFREY

Huh? What powers? What are you talking about?

DISTORTED VOICE

Nevermind.

Just get out of the apartment. Bring the disc with you.

JEFFREY

With me? With me where?

DISTORTED VOICE

Meet me in the alley outside of your building. When we meet face-to-face, I’ll explain everything. (click)

JEFFREY

Hello? Hello?!

AUTOMATED VOICE

Connection Ended.

Jeffrey sits still for a moment, contemplating what’s just happened. However, his thoughts are interrupted as he hears an explosion that shakes the whole building. The next sound he hears is screaming. Running to the window, he looks outside.

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

<trans>Which apartment is he?

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER #2
<trans>I don’t know. Just destroy them all. We’re bound to—

(the soldier spots Jeffrey) Wait! That’s him!!

The soldiers turn and spot Jeffrey. Jeffrey gasps and retreats back into his window just before one of them fires a blast of energy at him. He starts toward the door of his apartment, starting to leave, but then, he stops dead in his tracks.

JEFFREY

Crap! The disc!!

Jeffrey runs to the recorder and presses the eject button. The light starts flashing.

JEFFREY

Oh hurry up, you stupid piece of—

VOICE
Gotcha!!

The soldier starts to power himself up, preparing to fire. The tray of the recorder finally opens and Jeffrey takes the disc, running out of the apartment. No sooner does he make it out of the door than the room explodes. The force of the blast knocks him down as other tenants come out of their rooms trying to see what’s going on.

Jeffrey, getting up, sees an Elemenian soldier at the bottom of the stairwell. Quickly getting to his feet, he runs towards up the stairs, heading towards the roof.

Outside, the Elemenian soldier that blasted his apartment gets a signal from the other soldier.

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER #2

(over radio) He’s going up!

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

Then so am I!

The Elemenian soldier starts to fly up towards the roof of the building.

Jeffrey, gasping for breath, continues running up the stairs, finally reaching the roof. Once there, Jeffrey starts to run towards the fire escape. However, a powerful blast comes from nowhere, cutting him off from it. Looking up, Jeffrey sees an Elemenian soldier landing on the roof.

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

No where to run to, boy.

Jeffrey turns around to head back to the stairs when the other soldier comes out, boxing him in.

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

Take what’s coming to you like a man, boy.

JEFFREY

What do you want from me!?! The disc? Is that what you want?

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER #2

What? We don’t care about some stupid disc.

JEFFREY

Then what?! What, dammit?!

TELL ME!!!

Why did you kill my parents?!?!

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

Stop stalling for time, boy. Just be quiet and die with some dignity.

The soldier starts to charge his powers. Jeffrey reaches over and grabs a pipe from the ground.

JEFFREY

Damn you!!

Charging at the soldier, he hits him with the pipe, cracking his helmet.

JEFFREY

I hate you!!! You alien freaks!!!!

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER #2

You’re dead, boy!!!

Stretching his arms out, the soldier causes gale-force winds to kick up. Jeffrey staggers back, unable to fight the force of the winds. Finally, he’s blown completely over the side of the building.

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

Got him!

Jeffrey continues to plummet down the side.

JEFFREY

No…I…I can’t die like this…

No….

I-I DON’T WANT TO DIE!!!!!

Just at that second, Jeffrey suddenly stops in mid-air, only a few feet from the ground. He hangs in mid-air, with nothing below between him and the ground. Jeffrey is shocked by this, as he hangs there, his back arched and himself facing upwards with his arms and legs hanging at the side.

JEFFREY

Holy crap…

What just…happened?

VOICE

WHAT THE??!

Jeffrey’s train of thought is broken and he falls, hitting the ground. Groaning and then looking up, he sees the Elemenian soldiers looking down at him.

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

How the hell did he do that?

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER #2

I don’t know…

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

Let’s just finish the punk.

Jeffrey gets ready to run again when suddenly, a sports car with tinted windows pulls up. The door opens, and a man in sunglasses is at the wheel.

MAN

Hurry. Get in.

Jeffrey hops into the car, and they drive off as fast as possible.

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER #2

He’s getting away! Should we follow?

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

No. We’ll have another chance…

Jeffrey looks back through the rear window, checking.

MAN

Don’t worry. They won’t follow us. We’re moving too fast for them.

JEFFREY

Thank you. I-I owe you my life.

MAN

Don’t worry about it. I couldn’t sit by and let anything happen to you.

JEFFREY

Well, now we’ve met in person. Care to tell me what this is all about?

MAN

The Elemenians have an interest in you. It seems they think you’re a threat to them.

JEFFREY

Why? I’m not even a soldier.

Hell, I’ve never even really cared about the war until now.

MAN

It’s because of your…gift.

JEFFREY

Gift? What gift?

MAN

You just saw it with your own eyes. You fell 20 stories and stopped a few feet from the ground. You achieved at least 15 seconds worth of suspension in mid-air.

JEFFREY

Yeah…but I don’t even know how I did it!

MAN

I don’t really think they care.

JEFFREY

Who ARE you?

MAN

I’m someone who’s made a lot of enemies, but I’m trying to do what’s necessary to keep from losing the only family I’ve got.

JEFFREY

Family? What family?

The car starts to pull over on the side of the expressway, and the man stops and looks at Jeffrey.

JEFFREY

I’ll ask you again: Who ARE you?

The man reaches up and removes his glasses. He bring his head into the light so that Jeffrey can view his face. What Jeffrey sees is totally shocking. The man is his exact double, with the exact same face as him…only with slicker, more clean-cut hair.

MAN

It’s nice to finally meet you, brother.

My name’s Chris.

End of Chapter Two

Chris’ sportscar turns into an underground parking garage. Once inside, the car stops next to a guard’s booth. Chris lowers the car’s window and sticks his head out of the window, greeting the guard.

CHRIS

Hey, Joe. How’s it going.

JOE

Oh, hello, Mr. Beck. How are you?

CHRIS

Good, good.

JOE

Gimme a sec, I’ll let you in.

The guard goes inside his booth, and a laser barrier disappears from in front of the car, allowing entry.

CHRIS

Thanks, Joe. See ya later.

Chris drives his car through the garage, heading toward a parking spot marked "reserved". He parks in the spot, puts it in park, and turns off the motor.

CHRIS

We’re here.

JEFFREY

This your place?

CHRIS

Uh, not exactly. I work here.

JEFFREY

But why…?

CHRIS

Trust me, okay?

Come on…follow me.

Chris and Jeffrey go to an elevator. Once the doors close, Chris speaks into a small microphone.

CHRIS

130^th floor, please.

There’s a beeping noise, and the elevator starts to move upwards. Caught off guard with the speed of the elevator, Jeffrey feels a bit woozy.

CHRIS

(chuckles) That takes some getting used to, I know.

But once you get the hang of it, it’s not bad at all.

The elevator stops on the 130^th floor and Chris and Jeffrey step out. As soon as they do, a man in a lab robe grabs Jeff’s arm and sticks him with a needle.

JEFFREY

Hey!

CHRIS

Sorry. We need a blood sample.

JEFFREY

You could have asked for it. Instead of scaring the hell out of me.

They go down a long corridor and through some glass double-doors to a receptionist. On the wall behind her, there’s a corporate logo that says, "EarthNet".

CHRIS

Hello, Vanessa.

VANESSA

Good evening, Mr. Beck

CHRIS

Isn’t it almost time for you to take off?

VANESSA

Yes, sir…it is.

CHRIS

Any calls?

VANESSA

No, sir.

CHRIS

Go ahead and take off, then.

Oh, and I’d like you to meet my brother, Jeff.

Jeff, this is my assistant, Ms. Vanessa Cheung.

JEFFREY

Uh…hi.

VANESSA

Hello.

He’s almost as handsome as you are, sir.

CHRIS

Uh…ix-nay in front of the other-bray, okay?

VANESSA

Oh…right.

CHRIS

Well, let’s go, Jeff.

Goodnight, Vanessa.

VANESSA

Goodnight, sir.

Chris and Jeffrey walk into Chris’ office. Jeffrey looks around in awe.

JEFFREY

Whoa…

CHRIS

You like it? It’s pretty new. Just moved in here about a week ago.

JEFFREY

It’s incredible…

Chris goes over to a counter and opens a small door, revealing a refridgerator.

CHRIS

Want anything? Soda? Juice? Beer?

JEFFREY

Soda, I guess.

CHRIS

Pfft. How dull.

Chris tosses Jeffrey a beer.

JEFFREY

I don’t drink.

CHRIS

Come on…loosen up. I think you need something stronger than "soda" after all you’ve been through.

JEFFREY

….

Jeffrey hesitantly opens the beer and takes a sip. He winces at the bitter taste of it and coughs a bit.

CHRIS
Heh. That’s the spirit.

Chris goes to his chair behind his desk and sits down.

JEFFREY

So, uh…"Chris"…

Can I ask you something?

CHRIS

Shoot.

JEFFREY

What is it that you…like…do here?

You work for EarthNet or something?

CHRIS

"Work for?"

Hahaha.

I OWN EarthNet.

JEFFREY

WHAT?!?!

CHRIS

Now, let me ask YOU something, Jeff.

JEFFREY

What?

CHRIS

What…were our parents like?

JEFFREY

Oh…

Well…they were the nicest, kindest people I knew.

CHRIS

I see…

JEFFREY

No offense, Chris, but…

Where did you come from?

I never even knew I HAD a brother.

CHRIS

No offense taken.

And, in fact, neither did I until a few weeks ago.

I was…adopted. My father was Hans Beck…the man who used to own Earthnet Inc.

About four weeks ago, he was murdered and I took over the company.

The guys who did it searched through his notes, his records…and other stuff that he’d accumulated over the years. Stuff that was rather…interesting.

JEFFREY

What kind of stuff?

CHRIS

Well, first of all, I’d always known I was adopted…but my "father" refrained from telling me who my real parents were.

I read his notes, and did a little investigating. About two weeks ago, I found out their real names: Nathaniel and Karen Stanz. I even found out I had a twin brother named Jeffrey.

JEFFREY

Why did he keep all of that from you?

CHRIS

I don’t know. I think it has something to do with your "gifts".

JEFFREY

You keep using that word. What ARE these "gifts"?

CHRIS

Apparently, my "dad" and our real parents were to connected to some sort of genetic research project. I don’t know the details, but the two of us were experimented on. But, only ONE of us was born with enhanced abilities.

Guess which one.

JEFFREY

…

CHRIS

Apparently, the Elemenians know about this experiment and consider us a threat. You a lot more than me, apparently, though. I haven’t gotten any attention from them….

…yet.

JEFFREY

But…what am I supposed to do with these "gifts"?

CHRIS

I don’t know. But I suggest we figure it out fast.

I just wish that—

JEFFREY

Shh!!

CHRIS

Huh?

JEFFREY

Shh!!

I think I hear something…

The next instant, there’s a huge explosion as the windows of Chris’ office shatter. Chris and Jeffrey duck for cover.

CHRIS

Dammit! It’s them!

JEFFREY

How’d they find us!

CHRIS
Damn! I’m so stupid! I brought you to a freakin’ office building that the Eles KNOW I own!

JEFFREY

Look, they’re after ME, right?

CHRIS

Huh…? What are you--

JEFF! Goddammit, don’t you even THINK it!!

Jeff runs to the window and looks out, seeing an Elemenian fighter outside the building.

JEFFREY

I’m over here, you sons of bitches!!

On the ship, the Elemenian soldiers see Jeffrey waving at them.

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER #2

What do you think he’s doing?

Giving up?

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

(grins) Heh. Let’s see him give THIS up! (pulls lever)

Jeffrey runs back into the room just as the ELEMENIANS fire more shots at him.

JEFFREY

I’ll lead them away! You get somewhere safe!

CHRIS
Dammit, Jeff…!!

JEFF!!!

Jeffrey runs through the office building, going to the stairwell and running up. On their ship, the Elemenian soldiers watch him through infrared monitors.

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

Check this out…he’s doing the EXACT same thing as before!

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER #2

Ha! What, did this guy read a manual on this stuff or something?

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

Let’s take out the other one.

VOICE OVER RADIO

No!!

ELEMENIAN SOLDIERS

Sir?

VOICE OVER RADIO

Your orders are to kill that one. When the other has been taken care of, do whatever you wish. Is that understood?

ELEMENIAN SOLDIERS

Yes, my Lord. As you command.

Jeffrey makes it upstairs on the roof. He looks around for the fighter, but doesn’t see it anywhere.

JEFFREY

Dammit…where are they?

Just then a bright light appears behind Jeffrey as the Elemenians focus a spotlight on him. Jeffrey covers his eyes, shielding them from the light.

JEFFREY

Alright, "gift"…if you’re in there…come out now.

This is where it counts.

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

Open fire!!!

Two shots of powerful energy blast out from the ship, exploding around Jeffrey. As the dust starts to settle, the roof of the building is left scorched and empty.

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER #2

Got ‘em!!

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

Nice shot.

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER #2

Now, let’s get that other one…

The ship starts to turn around, but all of a sudden, it stops.

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

What’re you doing, you idiot!!?

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

I haven’t done anything! The ship’s stuck on something…

One of the soldiers opens the hatch and looks towards the back of the ship. When he looks, he sees Jeffrey, pulsing with energy, holding the ship with his bare hands.

ELEMENIAN SOLDER

The arms of death protect us….

Yanking the ship’s tail with all of his strength, Jeffrey lifts it up into the air and slams it onto the rooftop, crushing it. He then goes over to the cockpit and rips the door off of its hinges, pulling out one of the soldiers.

JEFFREY

What do you people want with me? Huh?!?

TALK, damn you!!

The soldier, mouth bleeding, and struggling for consciousness, tries to speak.

JEFFREY

Oh, you don’t! Don’t you dare pass out yet!!!

Who sent you!!?

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

Zeph……Zepheron…….

Without warning, a bolt of lightning appears from the sky and strikes the ship, blowing it up and killing one of the soldiers. Then, another bolt appears from the sky and strikes Jeffrey and the soldier. Jeffrey is knocked away, hitting the ground hard. After a minute, he growns and starts to get up, slowly moving over towards the other soldier, who lies face down.

Jeffrey kicks him over, and his body is totally fried…burned to a crisp. At that moment, Chris comes up to the roof.

CHRIS

Jeff!! You okay?!

JEFFREY

Yeah…I’m fine…

(looks at Chris) But…you..you’re bleeding.

CHRIS

Damn glass went flying everywhere. Got me in my shoulder.

I’ll be fine, though.

What happened here?

JEFFREY

I got a name out of one of them. The name of the person behind this.

CHRIS

Really? Who?

JEFFREY

Somebody called "Zepheron"

CHRIS

Good.

Now that we have a name…

We can do the hunting…instead of being hunted.

End of Chapter Three

In a dark, isolated area, two shadowy figures converse.

SHADOWY FIGURE
<trans>How is the operation on the Planet Earth progressing?

SHADOWY FIGURE #2

It’s too early to give a clear report, Sire.

It will take time.

SHADOWY FIGURE

You know how I reward failure, don’t you?

SHADOWY FIGURE #2

Yes, my Lord.

SHADOWY FIGURE

Good. Make sure the job is done.

SHADOWY FIGURE #2

Yes, Emperor. As you command.

At EarthNet Tower, repairs are underway as Jeffrey gets off the elevator. Construction crews are hard at work trying to fix the damage caused to the building after the attack the night before. He continues on his way to Chris’ office, nodding to Vanessa as he goes in. When he gets in the room, he finds Chris on the phone, arguing.

CHRIS

Look, dammit. I don’t care.

You’re the freakin’ government. We were attacked by an alien squadron.

Now maybe you should try getting your asses over here and—

Yeah, but--

Dammit, yeah, but--

Well f#ck you, too, pal!

Chris slams down the phone and grunts angrily. Jeffrey clears his throat to call attention to himself.

CHRIS

Oh, Jeff. I didn’t see you there, man.

JEFFREY

What was THAT about?

CHRIS

I was just on the phone with a representative from the United Nations.

Apparently, the United Nations is too busy sniffing its ass to help out us "common folk".

JEFFREY

So, then, we’re on our own.

CHRIS

Don’t worry…I’ve got an ace up my sleeve.

JEFFREY

Huh?

CHRIS

EarthNet is an international conglomerate. We have offices and districts all over the world, and the best part is, though we’re "technically" a part of the UN, we don’t hold any allegiance to a single country.

JEFFREY

…

You lost me.

CHRIS

EarthNet was founded in the 20’s. Back then, the entire planet was in the middle of the biggest shortage of resources in history. Oil wells dried up, forests were disappearing…you name it, there was something wrong with it.

My dad, Hans Beck, founded EarthNet shortly after the Elemenians arrived. EarthNet came up with all sorts of alternative power sources and ecological enhancement projects. As a result, the world as we know it didn’t come to an end. As an added "bonus", the war with the Elemenians helped EarthNet make litigation with the United Nations and pass all sorts of environmental protection laws.

In a way, we’re sort of the "Planet Police".

JEFFREY

I see.

CHRIS

EarthNet is its own independent entity. The company its self is sort of a demi-country.

JEFFREY

Okay, okay…so what’s that mean?

CHRIS

Well…basically, what it means is….

I get to have my own army.

JEFFREY

What?

Jeffrey and Chris exit the elevator at Sub-level 10. Underground is a huge complex, almost like a military base.

JEFFREY

Oh my God…

This’s been here the whole time?

It’s so…empty.

CHRIS

Yeah…

My dad had gotten the idea first, but he never went through with it.

JEFFREY

So…what are you gonna do with it?

CHRIS

What happened last night can’t happen again. We need to be prepared.

I plan to organize our own personal guard unit…at least until this whole "Zepheron" thing is cleared up.

JEFFREY

"Our" guard unit?

CHRIS

Well, hell…you’re my brother, aren’t you?

JEFFREY

Yeah, but I can’t repay you…

CHRIS

Just make sure you keep your ass alive. That’s payment enough.

JEFFREY

Chris….

Thank you…for all you’ve done…

CHRIS

Forget it, bro.

It’s the least I could do. I have to protect my family.

JEFFREY

Yeah…

…

Oh crap. OH CRAP!!!

CHRIS

What?!!

JEFFREY

Dammit….

I totally forgot!!!

CHRIS

WHAT?!!?

JEFFREY

Oh my God…

CC! I totally forgot CC!!!

CHRIS
WHO?!

JEFFREY

Caroline-Christine Waters. My fiancé!!!

In the outskirts of the city, a nightclub singer receives a round of applause after she performs. She bows and blows kisses to the audience before walking backstage, waving. One of the backstage crew hands her a glass of water for her parched throat and she continues her way to her dressing room as she walks, her manager comes up to her.

MANAGER

Way to go, CC! A wonderful performance, as always.

CAROLINE

Thanks, Don.

DON

I’ve got great news, darlin’. Your European tour was a smash hit!

CAROLINE

Really?

DON
Oh yeah! They love you in Europe! You’re an idol there!!

CAROLINE
Wow…

That IS good news!

DON

My suggestion to you is that we bag the act here in the States for a while and let this Euro thing blow up. I’m telling you, you’re big, baby! BIG!!!

CAROLINE

Geez…that sounds good right now, Don…

But…how about you give me time to think about it?

DON

Sure, CC! Whatever you say darlin’.
Just remember: You’re gonna be BIG!!!

Caroline goes into her dressing room and closes the door, letting out a huge sigh of relief. She sits in her chair and stretches out, laying her head on the counter to take a nap. However, the nap is interrupted by the ringing of a phone.

CAROLINE

Dammit…what now?

Phone. Caller ID

AUTOMATED VOICE

Incoming call from Jeffrey Stanz

CAROLINE

(sits up) Jeffrey?

Caroline thinks about it for a minute.

CAROLINE
What the hell could HE want?

Connect call.

AUTOMATED VOICE

Call connected.

CAROLINE
Hello? Jeff?

JEFFREY

CC? Good! I’ve got through!

CAROLINE
What the hell do you want, Jeff?

JEFFREY

You have to meet me.

This is an emergency.

CAROLINE
What?

Look, if you’re pulling your crap again…

JEFFREY

No, I swear, this is important!

A matter of life and death!

CAROLINE

Look, I came to visit you after your parents died.

But, I have a career or my own. I told you that I didn’t want to be tied down just yet…

JEFFREY

Are you still wearing the ring?

CAROLINE

??

….

What’s that got to do with anything?

JEFFREY

Caroline, just listen to me…

CAROLINE

Oh, so you’re calling me "Caroline" now, are you? Who are you, my father?
Look, I don’t care what you say, my career is taking off…

And…And, I’m already going to Europe, so you can just forget about it…

…whatever it was you were planning.

JEFFREY

CC, I swear, I’m not "planning" anything…

Will you just listen to me for Pete’s sake?

CAROLINE

Forget it, Jeff. I’m done talking to you.

I’m hanging up now and—and—

AAAAAAAH!!!

A blur sweeps across the screen and Caroline disappears. Back at EarthNet Tower, Jeffrey yells on the phone.

JEFFREY

CC!!! CC!!!!!

VOICE

She can’t answer right now.

JEFFREY

…

VOICE

Come and ge her. We’re waiting…

Hehehehe…..(click)

JEFFREY

…..

DAMMIT!!!

CHRIS

What happened?

JEFFREY

T-They got her.

CHRIS

Crap!

Well, it’s not over yet…I could place some calls…

Mobilize a search unit…

JEFFREY

No…it’s too late for that.

There’s no way they can get over there in time.

CHRIS

What are we going to do, then?

Jeffrey starts pulsing with power, his body glowing.

CHRIS

Jeff…what are you doing?

JEFFREY

I can get there, Chris. I can save her.

CHRIS

Are you CRAZY??!?

What are you going to do, walk?

JEFFREY

Just trust me, okay?

CHRIS

….

What are you planning, Jeff?

JEFFREY

Trust me.

Jeffrey moves over to the window, which is boarded up after the attack the night before. Hitting the boards, they shatter like splinters.

CHRIS

Wait…what are you doing?

JEFFREY

I was able to hover in the air yesterday.

Flying is the next step, don’t you think?

CHRIS

Jeff…don’t even think it….

To Chris’ horror, Jeffrey leaps out of the window, hurtling towards the ground. However, the next instant, Jeffrey’s body explodes with power, a crimson energy flowing around him. He then takes off into the air, zooming away.

Elsewhere, Caroline slowly regains consciousness…awakening next to her manager.

CAROLINE

Don…what…what happened?

DON

It’s alright, CC.

Everything’s fine.
Just be cool.

We’re not gonna die…

Nope..we’re not gonna die…

We’ll be just fine…

Yep…Just fine…

CAROLINE
Don..?

What are you talking…?

Oh my God.

Caroline looks around to see herself and all the people in the nightclub held at gunpoint by a squadron of Elemenian soldiers.

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

May I have your attention, terran worms!

We are expecting the arrival of someone VEEERY important.

If no one moves, we promise than none of you come to any harm.

CAROLINE
What do you WANT with us?

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

You are not our target. However, someone VERY close to you is.

CAROLINE

Close to me…?

(gasps)

JEFF!!!!

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER #2

He’s coming!!!

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

Get to your positions!

The soldier turns to the hostages.

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

Remember…as long as no one moves, you’ll all be FINE.

Jeffrey comes down in front of the building, landing awkwardly, still not used to his new powers. A soldier walks out of the building, waiting for him.

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

Stop right there!

Jeffrey stops.

JEFFREY

Where is she?

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

Patience, terran.

One of the soldiers comes out of the building, dragging Caroline with him.

JEFFREY

CC!!

CC

Jeff…!

JEFFREY

Let her go!! I’m the one you want!!

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

Hehe…we’re not taking any chances with you, fool!

Just then, two soldiers appear from Jeffrey’s side, firing at him with electricity and fire. Jeffrey yells in pain as they lay into him, falling to his knees.

CAROLINE
JEFF!!!!!

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER
That’s it! Keep it up!! Don’t stop until he’s dead!!

(turns to other soldier) Take the girl in back and kill her. And the other hostages as well.

Upon hearing that, Jeffrey’s resolve strengthens.

JEFFREY

N-NOOO!!

I-I---

Jeffrey’s powers erupt, knocking the two Elemenian soldiers firing on him away and blinding the soldiers near CC. As the leader of the squadron staggers, he looks up in time to see Jeffrey punch him in the face.

JEFFREY
CC!! RUN!!!

CC starts to run away, but is cut off by another Ele soldier. He aims a gun at her, preparing to fire. Jeffrey sees this and rushes over to CC. He reaches his hand out, in a desperate, yet futile attempt to block the shot. The next instant, Terran’s hand starts to transform and change. It turns into a thick stone slab, blocking the shot from reaching CC. Everyone is totally shocked at this sight, including CC. After a few moments, Jeffrey’s hand turns back to normal.

JEFFREY

I…I can change my shape….

CAROLINE

Jeff?! What…what happened to you??

Jeffrey turns around and sees a soldier attacking him with a sword. Turning his left arm to metal, he blocks the attack and kicks the soldier away. As another comes near him and tries to tackle him, Jeffrey turns his entire body to metal. The soldier collides with him and stops dead as if trying to ram a truck. Flowing with confidence, Jeffrey starts to laugh.

JEFFREY

Come on, you weaklings!!
Is that the best you’ve GOT?!?!

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

….

Fall back! Abort mission!!!

A dropship appears and the Elemenian soldiers start to get into it.

JEFFREY

Oh, no you don’t…

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

Oh, yes….(presses button) we do.

The next instant, there’s a powerful explosion as the pillars inside the nightclub shatter. The building starts to collapse onto the people inside.

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

So long, terran!! Hahaha!! We’ll continue this game some other time…when are more adequately prepared for you!

Jeffrey disappears in a blur into the nightclub. Caroline yells for him to stop, but to no avail. A few moments later, the nightclub collapses and there’s total silence. CC runs towards the wreckage of the building, yelling for Jeff.

CAROLINE

Jeff…!? Oh my God…

Jeff! Are you there?! Answer me..please!!

A shattered Caroline starts to break into tears, but the next instant, the collapsed debris of the building starts to lift up. Caroline steps back in amazement as a huge mass of debris rises into the air. The next instant, there’s a huge flare of power erupts and burns the debris to ash. Everyone stares into the sky, stunned.

A moment later, Jeffrey falls to the ground next to Caroline, groaning.

CAROLINE

Jeff! Are you alright…

JEFFREY

(cough) I’m…okay. How are you? (cough)

CAROLINE

You—You saved my life…

How…how did you do that?

JEFFREY

It’s…(cough cough)…it’s a long story….

A crowd of people starts to gather around Jeffrey. He covers his face, not wanting them to see who he is.

JEFFREY

We…we have to get out of here…

Can’t let them see….

Just then, a car pulls up next to them and the door opens

DRIVER

Sir. Get in.

Caroline helps Jeffrey climb into the car and gets in herself. The car then pulls off, leaving the scene.

DRIVER

Mr. Beck sent me to get you, sir.

A radio comes on and Chris’voice is heard.

CHRIS
You okay, Jeff?

JEFFREY
Yeah…I’m fine….thanks.

CAROLINE

Jeff…what’s going on? Who’s this Beck, guy?

What’s this about?

JEFFREY

Remember when I told you that those Elemenian soldiers killed my parents?

CAROLINE

Yeah, but…

Oh God…you mean, they….?

JEFFREY

Yeah. They’re after ME now.

CAROLINE
Why?

CHRIS

We don’t know.

CAROLINE

Who are you?

JEFFREY

He’s my brother.

CAROLINE
Your BROTHER? I didn’t know you had a brother.

JEFFREY

Join the club.

CAROLINE

So…what do we do NOW?

JEFFREY

For starters, I’m done learning about this "gift" of mine on the fly.

It’s time I stopped running from it and learned how to use it.

CHRIS

I’ve got geneticists on my payroll. We’re trying to figure out exactly what’s going on here.

But in the meantime, we’ve got a problem. At least 300 people saw what you did. If we don’t think of something fast, we’re going to have mass-hysteria.

JEFFREY

So, what do we do?

CHRIS

Leave it to me.

I’ve got a plan.

End of Chapter Four

Chris is in a laboratory in EarthNet, talking to one of his geneticists.

CHRIS

Wait a minute…say that again?

GENETICIST

We ran tests on the subject…

CHRIS

Not the "subject"…he’s my brother.

GENETICIST

Right. On your brother.

And…after careful testing and re-testing…

We’ve come to find absolutely NOTHING in his DNA that deviates from that of typical human genes.

CHRIS
That…that can’t be…

GENETICIST

We can’t explain it, sir. There doesn’t seem to be anything unique about him.

His DNA doesn’t even match that of Elemenians.

CHRIS

…

I see…

Thank you. You’ve been most helpful.

Chris turns and starts to walk out of the lab. Elsewhere, Jeffrey flies around in the sky of an abandoned airfield. He zooms up and around, skimming the ground and kicking up dust before going back into the sky. Caroline watches him, amazed. Jeffrey lands on the ground, soft as a feather, bowing.

JEFFREY

Ta-da!!

CAROLINE

Bravo!! Bravo!

(claps)

That was amazing.

JEFFREY

Thanks, CC. I think I’ve got this "flying" thing down.

CAROLINE

Yeah…it was nice of your brother to buy this abandoned airfield so you could use it to practice.

JEFFREY

Yeah. It’s paid off big time.

CAROLINE

Look…Jeffrey….

This whole "Zepheron" business…

JEFFREY

Yeah?

CAROLINE

Don’t you think you’re getting a tad bit carried away?

JEFFREY

"Carried away"?
CC, they killed my parents. They tried to kill ME and YOU.

Not to mention my brother.

CAROLINE
Yeah, I know…

But, you don’t even know where these "powers" of yours came from.

And this plan of your brothers…it sounds like something out of a comic book.

JEFFREY

Well, I thought that way at first, too…

But I think he’s onto something.

CAROLINE

I guess so. But…whatever you decide to do, I’m with you.

JEFFREY

Thanks, CC.

The two of them lean over to one another and kiss, just as a car rolls up. The window rolls down and Chris looks at them, smiling.

CHRIS

This your idea of "practicing", bro?

JEFFREY

(smirks) You got any business here BESIDES being nosy?

CHRIS

Get in. I’ll fill you in on the way back to the Tower.

Out in space, three Elemenian warships descend on the Planet Earth. They enter the planet’s atmosphere, but one ship, a much larger ship, remains in orbit around the planet, cloaked from radar.

JEFFREY
That…that can’t be possible…

CHRIS

That’s what I said.

JEFFREY
How could I not be ANY different? It makes no sense.

CHRIS
Jeff…

JEFFREY

The only thing worse than knowing that you’re different…

…is not knowing WHY you’re different.

I mean….

What the hell AM I?

I’m just a freak.

CAROLINE
Jeff…

CHRIS
Look, bro. I don’t know what the deal is, but I DO know that you’re my brother.

The two of us, we’ve got the same blood…the same genes…

…hell, we’ve even got the same face.

Whatever this thing is, we’ll figure it out. Okay?

JEFFREY

Yeah.

CHRIS
(looks at his watch) The press conference is going to start any minute now.

I think you’d better get ready.

JEFFREY

Yeah…

CHRIS
You got anything you want to say or do before we do this?

JEFFREY

Nah…let’s just get it over with.

CHRIS
Alright. See you then. (walks away)

CAROLINE

You sure you know what you’re doing?

JEFFREY

Yeah. I think this is for the best.

CAROLINE
Alright.

Jeff…I’m sorry for what I said before…

JEFFREY

It’s okay, CC.

But, listen…when this is over…my offer….it still stands.

I still want you to be my wife.

CAROLINE

…

JEFFREY

Think about it, okay?

(walks away)

I love you.

But please…go home.

You don’t want to be here

Chris walks into a press hall, where various reporters and camera crews eagerly anticipate his speech. He goes to the podium and taps the mic to make sure it’s working properly. After taking a deep breath, he starts his speech.

CHRIS

Good evening everyone.

I am Christian Beck, the recently-appointed owner of EarthNet.
This conference was called at the last minute because I hope to clear up some business before any…misconceptions take place.

A few days ago, many eye-witnesses reported seeing a man battle several Elemenian soldiers outside of a nightclub. The man was seen using a variety of powers, including physio-kinesis and shapeshifting.

Now, before any of you start pointing figures or making crazy rumors, I want to make it perfectly clear that this individual is NOT an Elemenian. The fact of the matter is, we here at EarthNet have been researching Elemenian genes and have been conducting a few experiments…as unorthodox as they are. We have been trying to remain…."competitive" in our resolve to protect the Earth and the ecosystems. The war between the UN and the Elemenians has proven to be extremely hazardous to the planet itself.

As a result, we have put our faith into an individual who is sure to fight on behalf of the Earth itself…and all of its citizens. Ladies and gentleman, without further ado, I’d like you to meet him.

Chris steps aside and smoke starts to fill the room. The smoke obscures everyone’s vision, confusing many. However, the next instant, the smoke starts to recede and flows back. It flows towards a man, tall, built and intimidating with blue skin. He sucks all of the smoke up and inhales it into himself, astonishing everyone.

REPORTER
Uh…sir…who-who are you?

WHAT are you?

MAN
I’m the individual Mr. Beck spoke of.

You may call me….Terran.

REPORTER
Mister….uh, Terran…what makes you think that you can enforce the environmental laws that EarthNet has set?

TERRAN

Mr. Beck has put his faith in me, and I’m more than ready to show I can handle the job. Over the coming months and years, I’ll show that I can put my abilities to good use.

REPORTER

What about the Elemenians? To whom do you side in the war?

Are you willing to fight against those that you have the most in common with?

TERRAN

First of all, the only thing I have "in common" with as far as Elemenians are concerned is my abilities. Other than that, I am a man of the Earth…and my loyalty is to the Earth.

REPORTER

Yes, but how will you attempt to gain the trust of the common man?

Especially in an age where we live in constant fear of alien invasion?

TERRAN

I hope my actions speak for themselves. I believe that we can all work together to protect the Earth from any sort of harm.

"Terran" looks over at Chris and winks. Chris returns the wink and nods in approval. But, the next instant, Chris looks up and sees something outside of the building…visible through the glass skylight in the ceiling.

Chris

Oh, crap…

TERRAN! LOOK OUT!!!!

Terran looks up and sees the same thing Chris did.

TERRAN

Oh, no.

The sound of rapid gunfire is heard as Terran is shot over and over again. The force of the blasts knocks him backwards into the background. The people in the room begin to panic and start to try and escape. Chris runs over to Terran.

CHRIS
(whispers) Jeff. You okay?

TERRAN

Yeah…I’m fine.

But, DAMN that hurt…

CHRIS
Well, at least they didn’t shoot your sense of humor.

TERRAN
Heh. They took the bait…just like you said they would.

CHRIS

Yeah, and we can end this, once and for all.

Elemenian soldiers burst through the skylight, invading the building.

CHRIS

Remember, we need to find out where this Zepheron guy is.

So leave at least one of them alive…preferrably conscious.

TERRAN

(standing) Demands…demands…

You just handle YOUR end of the plan.

Terran gets to his feet and prepares to fight the Ele soldiers. Chris, meanwhile, pulls out a small radio.

CHRIS

Okay, boys…it’s showtime.

Two Elemenian soldiers fire and Terran, but he easily evades their attacks and fires back, hitting one of them. The other one charges at him and tackles him to the ground. A metallic coat starts to cover his hand and he tries to punch Terran. Terran moves his head out of the way and the soldier’s fist hits the ground. Terran then headbutts him to stun him and then gives him a knee to the chin. Terran picks up the soldier and prepares to punch him.

TERRAN
Where is Zepheron?!

WHERE?!?!

Before Terran can speak, he feels a shot in his back. Groaning in pain, turns to see a few more Elemenian soldiers behind him.

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

Drop him, terran.

TERRAN
Sure thing.

Terran throws the soldier into three more and picks up a bench, throwing it into two others. More Elemenian soldiers start to burst into the room, hoping to overpower him.

TERRAN

Crap!! How many of you are there!!!??

The soldiers start to charge at Terran, trying to overpower him physically. Terran kicks one and the punches another before they finally grab his arms and legs, holding him down. They twist Terran’s arm behind his back, making sure he’s in too much pain to gather his power. Another soldier in the distance takes aim with a rifle, preparing to hit Terran right between the eyes.

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

I’ve got you.

VOICE

No. WE’VE got YOU.

The Elemenian soldier turns to find two other soldiers behind him…but not Elemenian soldiers.

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

What…?

The unknown soldier shoots him down, preventing him from striking Terran. He then points towards Terran, and more soldiers appear, shooting at the Elemenians. They start to fall off of Terran like molting feathers, and Terran looks around.

CHRIS

Good job, boys!!

UNKNOWN SOLDIER

Thank you, Mr. Beck. Just glad to be part of the team.

TERRAN

This that "personal guard" you were talking about?

CHRIS

Damn right it is.

Terran picks up the same soldier from the ground.

TERRAN

Now…like I said. Where is this "Zepheron"?

The soldier points up.

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER

Up…up there.

TERRAN

Well, then. Let’s go pay him a visit, shall we?

Terran, the soldier still in hand, bursts through the ceiling. Looking around, Terran doesn’t see anything. Angered, he grabs the soldier harder.

TERRAN

Enough of the crap!! There’s no one up here!!!

ELEMENIAN SOLDIER
N-No….up there.

The soldier points upwards, into the sky.

Meanwhile, out in space…

SHADOWY FIGURE
He knows.

SOLDIER
What do we do, My Lord?

SHADOWY FIGURE

I will take care of this. Prepare to jump back to the homeworld.

SOLDIER
Yes, sir.

Terran continues to look up, his enhanced vision allowing him to see the ship.

TERRAN

There you are….

The next instant, a powerful bolt of lightning comes down and strikes the building, destroying the center of it.

CHRIS

Oh my God…

TERRAN
Chris!! Get out!!

He’s trying to destroy the whole place!!!

Chris and his soldiers start to evacuate the building, but Terran sees another lightning bolt coming down. He leaps in front of it, trying to block it from reaching the building. However, the force of the bolt is so powerful, it inches him down towards the building. Chris and his soldiers…just in time before the bolt pushes Terran down into the building. The force of the blast causes a huge explosion, bringing the whole conference hall.

CHRIS

TERRAN!!!!!!!!!

There is nothing….besides flames.

CHRIS

Dammit…

This….this can’t happen….

After a few moments, the debris inside the building starts to move. Terran, his body bruised, and his clothes tattered, stands from amongst the wreckage.

TERRAN

That’s it!! I’ve had it!!!

If he thinks he can do this and get away….

He’s WRONG!!!!

Terran takes off into the sky, disappearing from view

CHRIS

Terran!!

…

What the hell is he doing?

Terran continues out, leaving the Earth’s atmosphere. He continues to push into space, leaving the planet and going towards the spaceship.

SOLDIER

Sir…he’s heading our way.

SHADOWY FIGURE

What?! Is he MAD?!?!

A flaming aura surrounds Terran and he continues towards the ship like a fireball. He rams right into it, making a huge hole in its side.

SOLDIER

He’s ruptured our hull, sir! We can’t go into hyperspace now!

SHADOW FIGURE
Dammit! He thinks he’s won. But, I’ll STILL have the last laugh! Hahaha!!!

(pushes red button)

SOLDIER

…sir…?

What have you done!?!?

The ship starts to pulse with energy for a second. Then, there’s a bright flash and the ship explodes, killing everyone onboard. Terran sits in shock…not believing what he’s just seen.

Moments later, Chris and his men look up into the sky, seeing the huge explosion. After a moment, they see another light appear and start to get bigger and brighter.

CHRIS
He’s coming back!

The men start to cheer and applaud as Terran lands.

CHRIS

You did it, man!! You got him!!!

TERRAN

Great…

CHRIS

What’s wrong…?

TERRAN

The son of a bitch self-destructed before I could get to him.

Now, we STILL don’t know anything about why he wanted to kill us so badly.

(punches a wall)

We’re back where we STARTED!!!!

CHRIS

….

(puts his hand on Jeffrey’s shoulder) We’re alive, right?

We can always figure this out later.

TERRAN

Yeah….

But…

CHRIS
Let it go, man. It’s over.

TERRAN

Over?

No….it’s not over…

Not until this war ends….

….and I pay every last one of them back for what they’ve done to me!!!!!!

End of "Janus"