The Six Tory TORY IS RIDING IN THE BACK OF A VAN GLARING. IT SEEMS SHE'S HAD A BAD DAY. THEY DRIVE INTO A PARKING LOT. Tory- Oh, great. Groceries. We did not agree to this. They said we were going into town, I figured the mall! Or at least somewhere to actually shop! We don't need food! I'll starve! I'm too fat anyway. (close eyes and lean against the window) Well, I'm not goin' in. HER PARENTS STEP OUT OF THE CAR. Tory- (glaring) (they leave) (tears begin to well up in eyes) (sniffle) (sigh) (look around) (look down) (tears fall) (wipe them away) Oh stop it! What's your problem? (exhale) Them. (tears fall) I am so weird. Maybe I'm not as normal as I thought. Maybe I'm possessed. (look outside to make sure no one's watching) (one person (Zoilese) walks by to get to her car) (turn away) (Zoilese stands by the window for a moment, wondering) I hope these windows are tinted. Freaky person! (Zoilese gets into her car and starts it) (turn back) (as she's backing up you meet and lock eyes) (almost gasp) (turn away) (turn back) (she's speeding away) (it looks as if she's talking to herself) (confused) (look around) (put knees up) (sigh) (close eyes and lean head back) HER PARENTS COME BACK AND START LOADING UP THE BACK OF THE VAN. Tory- (starts glaring again) THE PARENTS FINISH AND GET INTO THE VAN. Tory's mom- Remember, we have to pick up Torres. Tory- (darkly) What, did he lose his license again? Tory's dad- Hey, I don't see you driving us around! And I distinctively remember something about almost ending up in court for your driving! Tory- (turn away mad) CUT THEY PULL INTO A POLICE STATION WHERE TORRES IS WAITING OUTSIDE WITH A COP. Tory- (roll eyes) Idiot. HER PARENTS GET OUT AND START TALKING TO THE COP. HE FINALLY LETS TORRES GO. Torres- (hurry into the van) (sit in front of Tory) Tory- (sarcastically) Hmm, now how many times have you lost dad's car? Torres- (turn around) (mock) Hmm, now how many times have you had PMS this week? Tory- Torres! (slap him) Torres- (start laughing) Tory- That is not funny! Torres- (still laughing) Tory- Shut up, you idiot! Torres- Baby! PMS! Tory- Torres! (hitting and clawing at him) I'll kill you, I swear! Torres- Oh, I'm quivering with fear! Tory- (screaming and attacking him) You better be! You're a year older, Barely, and you're an ASS! I'll kill you! THEY START ROCKING THE VAN. THE PARENTS AND COP LOOK UP. Tory's mom- (gasp) Tory's dad- (growl) (through clenched teeth) Not again! (jump in the van and get between them) Hey, hey!! Knock it off! Now! Tory- (bite Torres' neck) Torres- (scream in pain) Tory's dad- Hey! Enough! (push Tory back) I said ENOUGH!! Tory- (hit head on roof) (clutch it) Tory's dad- (start yelling at her) Ok, what the hell is your problem! Tory- He started it, dad! Torres- Did not! Tory's dad- Hey! I was this close to getting the car back! This close! And now I'll never get it back! Tory- He said I had PMS! Torres- She was acting sarcastically! Tory's dad- And I bet you do! Tory- (shocked) Torres- (laugh) Tory's dad- (leave and try to apologize to cop) Tory- (hold head) (begin to cry) Torres- Haha! Cry baby, cry baby! Tory- Shut up. Torres- Wimp! Wuss! Tory- Leave it alone. It's over. Torres- (chuckling) Wussy, wussy, wussy- Tory- (annoyed and P.O.ed) RAHH! (slash him across face) Torres- (shocked) Ah! (put hand over it) (look at hand) (there's blood) Tory- (sadness is replaced by evilness) Torres- (look at her) Tory- (give him a really evil look) Torres- (freak out) (whimper) (run out of van) (whining and crying) Daddy! Daddy!... Tory- (smirking) Now who's the baby? (chuckle evilly) CUT IT IS NIGHTIME. TORY IS JUST GETTING INTO BED. ONLY HER BLACK LIGHT IS ON. Tory- (sit cross legged) So maybe I was grounded. It was worth it. I can still taste his blood. There's nothing important going on anyway. (remember) Oh, the dance! (glare) (sniff) Well I don't care anymore. I don't care about anything, life, nothing! (look out window at the moon) (sigh) Beautiful. For some reason when I look out there, and see the moon illuminating clouds, it just gives me some... a sense of peace, I guess. And I love it. I feel like I'm not even in the real world. How wonderful is that? (stare at it some more) CUT IT IS MORNING. TORY'S ALARM GOES OFF. SHE WAKES UP, READY TO START THE DAY ANEW. Tory- (sit up) (yawn) (blink, rub eyes, stretch, repeat, etc.) (look up) Tory's dad- (standing in doorway) (arms crossed) Tory- (half-smile) (wondering what's going on) Tory's dad- Morning sunshine. Guess what? You don't have to go to school today. Tory- Was it called off? Tory's dad- Nope. I'm letting you sleep in today. You can sleep as long as you want. Tory- Um, ok? Why? Tory's dad- Consider it an add-on punishment. Tory- To sleep? Tory's dad- Yep. (turn around) 'Cause after that, you get to clean out the garage and basement. (leave) Tory- (kind of glare) (mad) (throw blanket at pillows) CUT TORY IS SWEEPING OUT THE GARAGE. ZOILESE WALKS BY IN A DIFFERENT FORM. Tory- (stop and watch her) Zoilese- (stop for a second) (start walking again) (stop) (turn to her) Tory- (look like "Uh-oh") Zoilese- Uh, excuse me? Tory- Yeah? Zoilese- (walk over to her) You wouldn't happen to know where... um... Main Street is, would you? Tory- Main Street? That's kind of like, in the middle of town, you know. Zoilese- Oh, of course! But I get lost so easily. Could you help me find it? Tory- Uh... (look for dad)... (see him) Hold on. (run to dad) Zoilese- (watching) Tory- So can I? Tory's dad- Tory, I don't know- Tory- Come on, she's an old lady! She's not gonna kill me! Tory's dad- Tor- Tory- Ok, then, it's settled. Now I get out of work! (run back over to Zoilese) All rightey, then, let's go! (throw broom down) CUT TORY AND ZOILESE ARE WALKING DOWNTOWN. Tory- Well, here we are, Main Street. Zoilese- Thank you. Tory- (start to leave) Zoilese- (call after) My child- Tory- (turn back) Zoilese- What is your name? Tory- Tory. Zoilese- Tory? I am Zoilese. Tory- (face lights up) (walk over to her) Zoilese? What a strange name. I am Fascinated by names like that! I swear, I could talk about them all day! I mean, they're so interesting and wonderful and cool- Zoilese- Tory! I get it. Tory- (smile) I suppose you do. So, where are you from? Zoilese- I have traveled many places. Tory- Ah, a traveler! Not to be nosy or anything, but what are you doing here? Zoilese- Well, I have never settled down, and I'm getting older- Tory- Do you still work? Zoilese- Yes. -and I guess this seems like an ok place. Tory- Yeah, I guess it's a nice town. What work do you do? Zoilese- Well, I guess you can call me "The Recruiter". Tory- What do you recruit? Zoilese- People, mostly. Tory- (confused) Zoilese- It's very hard to explain, I'm afraid. But it does pay well. Tory- Well, that's good. Is it like for the government or something? Zoilese- No, I guess it's higher than that. Tory- Must be for the entertainment business. Zoilese- (laugh) Yes, you could say that. It certainly entertains me. CUT TIME HAS GONE BY. THEY ARE SITTING ON SOME STEPS SNACKING ON CANDY BARS AND POP. Tory- So, you've really been to all those places? Zoilese- Yes. Do you find that hard to believe? Tory- Oh, I don't know. (take a drink) Zoilese- (looking over) (see the tattoo light up on Tory's wrist) (stare at it) (whisper) So it is true. Tory- (put it down) Did you say something? Zoilese- Hm? No, oh no. Nothing. If you wouldn't mind telling me, have you ever had deja vu? Tory- I don't think that's very offensive. Actually, tons. All the time. Probably everyday. Zoilese- Really? (look away) So do I. Tory- What do you think déjà vu's are? Zoilese- I believe they must be something. Maybe visions or something. Tory- Something, that always helps. Zoilese- Oh, I'm sorry- Tory- No, that's ok. That's what everyone says. (sigh) I don't know. It kind of creeps me out, though. I always get them when I least want them. Zoilese- (knowing that she's the One) (literally) Yes, I've found that too. Tory- But I don't know. I guess these things happen. (crinkle up candy wrapper) (stand up) Zoilese- (stand up) Tory- I guess I should get going. My dad'll be worried. Not that I care... Zoilese- Thank you so much for all your help. (dig in purse for something) Tory- No, I don't need any money. It's ok. Zoilese- No, (hand her a necklace) here, keep this as a souvenir. Tory- (take it) O...k. (looking at it) Zoilese- I had extra and I've been trying to give them away. You seemed like a good candidate. Tory- It's really pretty. Well, all right then. (smile) (throw wrappers and bottle in a trash can) Maybe I'll see you sometime around. Zoilese- Yes, I believe you will. (smile knowingly) Tory- (still smiling) THEY LEAVE IN OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS. CUT IT IS IN THE EVENING. TORY AND HER DAD ARE IN THE DEN ARGUING. TORRES IS IN THE LIVING ROOM LISTENING INTENTLY. Tory- She'll expect me to call her! Tory's dad- I don't care! Tory- Da-ad! She'll want to know why I wasn't in school! You know we Always call each other when we're gone! Tory's dad- I don't care. You were grounded, and you still are. This doesn't Change anything. Tory- Dad! She is my best friend! I'm not gonna let her down! Tory's dad- Tory! Don't you dare disobey me! No! You are not gonna call her! Tory- Dad! Torres- (laughing in other room) Tory's dad- You'll just have to wait for her to call. Tory- (stop) Oh yeah. Tory's dad- (leave) Tory- Hee! (smile) (leave) Torres- (roll eyes) (pick up remote) CUT ZOILESE IS STILL IN HER OLD LADY FORM. SHE IS WALKING INTO A CAVE-LIKE PLACE. IT IS LIT BY TORCHES. IN THE BACK, THERE IS A STATUE OF HER SYMBOL BEHIND AN ALTER. SHE IS TALKING TO A VOICE. Voice- Have you found her? Zoilese- Yes, I've found One. Voice- Good. Time is running out. You need to find the Six as soon as Voice- possible. If we don't find them by The Precognition, the whole world could be in jeopardy. Zoilese- I understand. Voice- The universe is not at peace right now, you must bring One here. Zoilese- (change form to normal self) Already? What's going on? Voice- A silence. It is not peaceful. It is uneasy. Bring her here, NOW! Zoilese- Yes, Master. (bow) (leave) CUT IT IS NIGHT TIME. TORY IS IN HER ROOM GETTING READY FOR BED. Tory- (pull open shades) (look at moon) (there are no clouds) (smile) Ah. This will be a good night. Zoilese- (appear behind her) Tory- (freeze) (try to think of what to do) (tense up) (look back and forth with eyes) Zoilese- (watching) (look down at her wrist) (it is flickering with her tattoo) Tory- (clench fists) (in a split second, pick up a cup, turn around, and throw it at her) Rah! Zoilese- (duck out of the way) (run over to her) Tory- (try to hit her) Zoilese- (block it) Tory- (try to kick her) Zoilese- (grab her foot) Tory, enough! Tory- (fall) Zoilese- Oo, sorry. Tory- (still on floor) How do you know my name? Zoilese- (hold out hand) Tory- (look at it) Zoilese- (motion like, come on) Tory- (not sure) Zoilese- It's ok. Tory- (grab her hand finally) Zoilese- (pull her up) (hold onto her wrist) Tory- (try to pull away) What are you doing? Zoilese- (look at wrist) Tory- (look) (your tattoo flickers) (amazed) What is that? Zoilese- It is your symbol. It's growing stronger. It is like a tattoo. Tory- I- I don't have anything there. I've never gotten a tattoo. Zoilese- I know. Tory- (pull away) W-wait! I don't even know you! Zoilese- I am Zoilese. And you are Tory. Tory- But the only Zoilese I met was old- Zoilese- (change to old lady form) Like this? Tory- (eyes widen) This has got to be a dream. (space out) Zoilese- (change back) Tory, snap out of it! This is real. (hold onto her arms) Listen to me, you are One. Tory- One? Zoilese- One. The first Cipher. Tory- One? Cipher? Wha? Zoilese- There are six of you. You are the first. You must come with me now. Tory- Why? I have school. I should be in bed. Zoilese- The world can't wait! Tory- (stop) World? Zoilese- Yes. World. Tory- Uh, why? Zoilese- (roll eyes) Listen, you are a chosen Cipher. You're like a warrior. You're a fighter of justice, protector of evil, yadda yadda. Tory- (half smile) Really? Zoilese- Yes. We don't have any time to waste. You must come with me. Tory- For what? Zoilese- I must train you. Tory- For what? Zoilese- To fight. Tory- (raise eyebrows) Zoilese- Believe me. Torres- (start walking in room) Tory? Tory- Ah! (throw Zoilese on bed, cover her up, and jump on bed) Torres- (freeze) Tory- (smile) Yes? Torres- Uh, dad heard voices and just wanted me to check on you. Tory- Nope, nothing here. Torres- You were probably talking to your imaginary friend again. Tory- (glare at him) Torres- (laugh) (look around room) (leave) Tory- (sigh of relief) Zoilese- (start moving around) Tory- (realize you're laying on Zoilese) Oops! (jump up) (pull off blankets) Zoilese- (coughing) I see I'll really have to get you working out... Tory- And what is that supposed to mean?! Zoilese- (get up) Let's just go! (grab her arm) THEY DISAPPEAR AND APPEAR IN FRONT OF THE CAVE. THERE ARE TWO PYRAMIDS ON EACH SIDE OF THE ENTRANCE WITH DARK GEMS ON THEM. Tory- (looking around amazed) Zoilese- (pull gems off) (they become bracelets and rings) (give them to Tory) Put these on. You must wear them to get in. Tory- (put them on) (look at them) Zoilese- (put hand on a stone) (it illuminates with your handprint on it) (the door opens) Tory- (amazed) Zoilese- Come in. Both- (walk in) THEY WALK DOWN A LONG CORRIDOOR LIT BY TORCHES AND DRAWINGS AND GEMS. Tory- (in awe) Zoilese- (smiling) THEY REACH THE END AND STAND IN FRONT OF THE ALTAR AND SYMBOL. Voice- Welcome, One. Tory- (look around) Who said that? Zoilese- The Master. Voice- You may call me Voice, or Master. Tory- You're real? Voice- Yes. But moving on to business... Tory- What kind of business? Voice- Did Zoilese not tell you? Zoilese- I told her everything, Master. Voice- I'll refresh her memory. A BENCH APPEARS BEHIND THEM. Voice- Sit. Tory and Zoilese- (sit on the bench) Zoilese- (get comfortable) Tory- (wondering) Voice- You are a Cipher. Tory- And once again, I ask: Cipher? Voice- Yes. A Cipher is a chosen protector of the world. There are six of you. You are the first. One. Tory- Who are the other six? Voice- We do not know. It wasn't our decision. Tory- Well, whose was it? Who picked me? What's out there? Voice- There are many things you humans don't know about the universe. Tory- Obviously! Voice- (growls) They've picked an impatient one, I see. Tory- Hey! (pause) All right, how much do you know about them? Voice- (stammers) I- well,- I know- Tory- Well? Voice- I know enough that they can be trusted! Tory- Where are they? What are they here for? Voice- They are not here. They are found in a different dimension. Tory- And you? Voice- Me? I guess you could say I'm not all I'm cracked up to be. Tory- And that means..? Voice- It's not important. Back to the matter at hand. Tory- (glare) Voice- I am happy The Recruiter found you so quickly. You must begin your training at once. Tory- This training? What is it? Voice- Oh, just the basics: punches, kicks, flips, the usual. Tory- Flips? Oo, sounds fun. But I can't do that stuff! Voice- Yes, I know, I've seen your weight records... Tory- Hey! Voice- You will be in shape enough to do this. Trust me. Do you have any questions? Tory- Ya, like five million! Zoilese- (roll eyes) Voice- (sigh) Shoot. Tory- Ok, first, what's up with my wrist? Voice- The tattoo? Tory- Yes! Voice- It is your symbol. It is the only way we can identify the Ciphers. Tory- And, so, does it just like to flash once in a while? (tattoo starts glowing) (hold it up) Like this? Voice- It does that when you use your powers. Tory- (stop) Powers? Voice- And when you've finally completed and passed your training, it will always be there. The only way for that is if we have all six, and you've actually learned something. (under breath) And maybe lost a Voice- pound or ten. Tory- Hey! I heard that! Voice- (laugh) Tory- Hmph! (stand up) Well, if you'll excuse me, I'll be leaving now. I have school and I'm going to be extremely tired and behind if I don't get out of here. (start walking) Zoilese- (stand up) Tory! You don't even know where you are! Tory- (stop) Oh yeah. (turn back) (whine) Well, I wanna leave! Zoilese- (shake head) You are such a baby. You cannot leave until you've had your first training session. Tory- (look up with puppy eyes) Zoilese- (shake head) CUT THE CHAMBER HAS BEEN TURNED INTO A GYM/WEIGHT ROOM. IT IS WHITE AND HAS EQUIPMENT EVERYWHERE Tory- (sitting on some equipment sweating like a pig) Zoilese- (bring weights over) Tory- (exasperated) Oh no... Zoilese- Oh yes. Tory- Didn't we already do this? Zoilese- You have to do three reps. Tory- Didn't I do that already? Zoilese- You lifted them three times! Tory- (sigh) I suppose that doesn't count. Zoilese- It doesn't. (put them in her hands) Tory- (fall forward) Zoilese- (wince) Oo! Tory- (look up) Thank you so much. Zoilese- (smile) (shrug) Tory- (collapse on ground) Zoilese- Well, since you're on the ground, here's a good exercise for you: Tory- Oh no. Zoilese- Lay on your back. Tory- I am. Zoilese- Hold your arms out on each side with the weights in them. Tory- (follow) Zoilese- Close your eyes, count to ten, and then try to get up. Tory- (close eyes) (count to ten) (try to get up) (struggling) (grunting and panting) Hey, what'd you do to these?! Zoilese- Nothing. Just get up. Tory- (straining) But... I... CAN'T! (collapse) (close eyes) Zoilese- (sit there for a minute with eyebrows raised) Tory? Uh, Tory? Tory- (sleeping) Zoilese- Tory? (look at watch) Oh my go- (wake Tory up) Tory! THE CAVE TURNS BACK TO NORMAL. Tory- (open eyes) Huh? Zoilese- Get up. Tory- (drop weights) Zoilese- (help her up) Tory- What time is it? Zoilese- Late. Too late. I've kept you overtime. Tory- But school- Zoilese- I'll fix that. (try to keep her standing) Stay up. Tory- (slouching) Zoilese- (close eyes) Tory- (watch her) I'm gonna be so tired... Zoilese- (concentrating) Shh! A GLOW COMES OUT OF ZOILESE. IT CIRCLES AROUND THE CAVE AND ENGULFS TORY. Tory- (looking around at it) THE GLOW GETS BRIGHTER. THERE IS A BRIGHT FLASH. TORY WAKES UP IN HER BED WITH THE ALARM BLARING COMPLETELY CONFUSED BUT NOT TIRED. Tory- (look around) (put head back down) (trying to think everything over) Must've been a dream. What else could it be? What happened? (finally get up) I kind of remember it. (grab clothes) (walk into hallway) (look in hall) I'm not even tired. Jeez. Weird. Must've been a dream. (go into the bathroom and scream) (open door with a towel around you and look out) (panting) (go back in) (Zoilese is standing in front of you) Zoilese- Did I come at a bad time? Tory- Ah! Get out! Zoilese- (startled) Tory's dad- (yell up at the steps) Tory? Tory- (turn to door) Tory's dad- You ok? Tory- Uh, yeah, everything's fine! Tory's dad- I heard screams! Tory- Oh, I- I saw a- mouse! Zoilese- (raise eyebrows like "Oops") Tory's dad- You sure? Tory- Yeah! Um, I'm fine now! He left! Tory's dad- All right... (leave) Tory- (turn back to Zoilese) (quietly) Out! Zoilese- (sigh) (disappear) Tory- (stop and think) Who was that? CUT TORY IS AT HER LOCKER AT SCHOOL TALKING WITH HER BEST FRIEND, KIA. Kia- Grounded again? Tory- I told you yesterday. (put backpack in locker) Kia- I know, but I still cant believe it! Are you never grounded? What do you do when you're at home?! When have you not been grounded? Tory- (give her notebook) Oh, come on! I wasn't grounded last week... Kia- (look at her matter-of-factly) Tory- Ok, maybe I was. (start digging for pens) Kia- And the week before, and the week before that, and the week before that, (think) and the week before that! You have been grounded for a month and a half! Tory- Come on, it hasn't been that long! Kia- Ja! (slam up against the locker) You need to stop that. Tory- Don't look at me, talk to my brother. (hand her textbook) He never gets in trouble. When he losess Dad's car, Dad hardly gets mad! Maybe a little disappointed, but he always sweet-talks the cops. Torres has done more things with cars than me and he's never been grounded! My dad is so sexist. Kia- Well, Torres' aren't as bad as yours. You almost ended up in jail. Tory- (not wanting to talk about it) (grab book and slam locker door) I was in jail. It was a huge misunderstanding! I as in a pretty bad mood that night. (give her gum) Kia- It was late, I'll admit that. Tory- I'm never like that on the road- Kia- (look at her) Tory- -alone. Kia- (shake head) Both- (start walking) Tory- It was so annoying! Kia- Good thing that other guy didn't think you were worth it and press charges. Tory- Yeah. (think) What do you mean I wasn't worth it? Did he tell you? He couldn't have. Kia- Well, uh, I just figured you must not have been 'cause- Tory- (hold hand up) Enough. Kia- (upset) Tory- (thinking about what happened at night) Kia- (wondering if you should do something) Uh, Tory? (wave hand in front of face) Yoo-hoo. (look around) Tory? Earth to Tory! (shake her) Do you read me?! Tory- (jump) Huh? Kia- What's up? Tory- Oh, just thinkin' about a dream. Kia- What was it about? Tory- I really don't remember. Which is probably why I'm trying to think about it. It felt so real though. Kia- (see the necklace Zoilese gave her) Hey, cool necklace! Where'd you get it? Tory- (hold onto it) (trying to remember) I don't remember. Hmph, probably K-mart or something. I really can't remember. (mesmerized) I can't remember anything! What did we have for homework?! Kia- Tory, you were gone! (worried) Do you remember your name? Tory- (nod) Kia- You sure? Tory- (nod) Kia- Positive? Tory- Only fools are positive. Kia- (stop and think) Have you hit your head recently? You might have amnesia. Tory- There's no doubt I have amnesia, but I haven't hit my head... THE BELL RINGS. THEY GO INTO DIFFERENT CLASSES. CUT THEY ARE IN PHY ED. HANGING ON THE SIDELINES PLAYING WITH A BASKETBALL. Kia- (catch ball) Too hot. (throw it) Tory- (catch it) Whatcha doing this weekend? Kia- Doesn't matter for you. Tory- Oh, please! My parents'll forget about it by Friday. (throw it) Kia- They sure didn't before. (catch it and throw it back) Tory- That was different! (throw it roughly) Kia- (catch it barely) (clear throat) (start dribbling) Tory- (stand there annoyed and roll eyes) Kia- (shoot) (it misses) Aw! Tory- (smile) (catch it) Kia- This is so boring! (sit down) Tory- Oh, come on! (throw the ball at her) Kia- (don't even try to catch it) Tory- You need exercise, ya know. To keep your weight normal and healthy. Kia- Since when have you been obsessed with weight? Tory- (stop and think) Since yesterday. Kia- (shake head) Tory- What? You have realized that I'm not my ideal weight? Kia- Ja, but neither am I and do you see me complaining? Tory- You just were. Kia- (think) THE BELL RINGS. PEOPLE START GOING INTO THE LOCKER ROOM. Kia- At last! Both- (follow) CUT TORY AND KIA ARE CHANGED AN ARE LEAVING THE LOCKER ROOM. Both- (talking) Tory- (see Zoilese standing in the doorway) Uh,... (look around) Let's go this way. (pull her with you) Kia- (confused) Tory- (rush behind bleachers) Kia- (behind her) What are you doing? Tory- Uh, I need a breath of fresh air. Kia- We can't go this way. Tory- No one will know. Kia- But- Tory- No buts! Kia- I'm gonna be late for class! Tory- (open door) (only the top opens) (look like, "Oy!") Kia- Tory, are you listening to me?! Tory- Just go! (push her over and out) Kia- Hey! Ow! Tory- (follow) (shut door carefully) (turn around to see Kia frozen) What? (see Zoilese) (eyes widen) (under breath) Aw, damn. Kia- I- she- (gulp) Tory- What? Kia- She- she appeared out of nowhere. Tory- (glaring at Zoilese) Kia- I swear! Tory- (calmly) All, right, Kia. Kia- I swear! Tory- That's nice. Kia, just go to those doors over there and get to class. (put hand on her shoulder) Kia- But- Tory- If you hurry, you won't be late. Kia- You?- Tory- I'll be fine. (push her away) Kia- (look back at her) Tory- Just go. I can handle myself. Kia- (leave confused) Tory- (glare at Zoilese) I can take care of this. Zoilese- (look hurt for a moment) Tory, why the hostility all of a sudden? Tory- Do I know you? Zoilese- Of course! Tory- Oh, yeah, you were in my bathroom. (confused) Huh? Zoilese- Uh-oh. Tory- I hardly remember you. What happened? Zoilese- I'm afraid that was me. Tory- What did you do to me? Zoilese- Uh,... well, you're not tired, are you? Tory- No. Zoilese- Good. For a moment there, I was afraid I was losing my powers. Tory- (looking at her) Zoilese- What? Tory- Powers? Why do you have powers? And what's your name? Zoilese- Uh- oh. (feel her forehead and cheeks) I put the spell on you too much. Tory- You cursed me? I hardly know you, and you cursed me! Zoilese- No, I didn't curse you! A curse is a bad thing. This spell is a good thing. I used it to help you. But I overdid it. Tory- Why did you even put it on me? Zoilese- I kept you overtime in your training, and you couldn't be tired for school, so I tried to help you by giving you all the sleep an adolescent needs in three hours. Tory- (raise eyebrows) Zoilese- But with that, comes the feeling of- Tory- -a dream. Zoilese- Yes. You feel it was a dream, but a very realistic one. You know all the details. If it's over done, it also works as a memory eraser. I erased the memories from you. Tory- You took my memories? (glare) Zoilese- I'm sorry! Tory- (glaring) Zoilese- Here, (position her) I'll fix it. Tory- (hesitant) Are you sure you can do this? Zoilese- Of course! Tory- (pop eyebrows) Zoilese- (half-smile) Just get ready. Tory- (sigh) (get ready) (close eyes) Zoilese- (do thingy with hands) Tory- (open one eye) Like that's gonna work. That's an old fashioned trick! Zoilese- (walk towards her) It works where I come from. (smack her forehead) Tory- (stand mesmerized) Zoilese- (watching hopeful) Tory- (blink) Zoilese? Zoilese- (smile) Hey, girl. Tory- I think I remember everything now. Even where I got this necklace. You. Zoilese- (squeeze her shoulder) Glad to have you back. CUT TORY IS IN SCHOOL WALKING INTO CLASS LATE. Class and Teacher- (look up) Teacher- Do you have a pass young lady? Tory- Uh, no, not exactly. I- Teacher- Well? Tory- I- Zoilese- (step in room looking like a supermodel) -was talking to her aunt. Uh, me. (smile) Class- (gasp from her beauty) Tory- (gaping at her surprised) Zoilese- Hi hon. Tory- (look back at teacher) Teacher- (breath-taken) Oh- is that all? Zoilese- Ha, yeah. I'm sorry if I kept her too long. Teacher- Oh, no, tha- that's ok. Really. Zoilese- Thank you. It was, after all, family business. (giggle) Class- (giggle along) Zoilese- (try not to crack up) Tory- (look back and forth) Uh, yeah, but we're done, so- (whisper to her) Thank you. Zoilese- (whisper) No problem. (look up) Well, I guess I'll be going... Class- Aw. (hug Tory like an aunt) Bye Tory. Tory- Uh, bye. Zoilese- (to class) Buh- bye! (smile) Class- Bye. Zoilese- (laugh as you leave) Tory- (standing there amazed) (remember where you are) Oh. (go to desk and sit down) Teacher- Now, back to the lesson- (try to remember) Hmm. (sit down to think) Kia- I didn't know you had a supermodel for an aunt. Tory- (smile) Ah, she's from New York. We don't see each other very often. She tried to be a supermodel, you know, but they didn't think she was good enough. Kia- That's insane! Tory- (smiling) I know. CUT SCHOOL IS OVER. TORY IS GETTING A RIDE FROM ZOILESE IN HER "AUNT" FORM. Tory- (get in car) Thanks for picking me up since I can't exactly drive right now... Zoilese- Of course. Kia- (staring at car) Whoa, nice car! Zoilese- Thanks. (giggle) Tory- (whisper) You don't need to charm her anymore. Zoilese- (whisper) Oh, sorry. Sometimes I get caught up in my work. Tory- Yeah, I get that. Zoilese- (to Kia) Hey, would you like a ride home? Kia- (eyes widen) Tory- Yeah! Why not? Kia- I could? Zoilese- Of course! Any friend of my niece's is a friend of mine! Tory- Come on! Kia- (pretending to think) Well,... um... ok! (get in car) Tory- (moving to the back) (in Zoilese's ear) You are such a saint, Zoilese! Zoilese- (smile) I know. Tory- Kia, this is my aunt- Zoilese- -Zandra. Tory- (frown) Zandra. Aunt Zandra, my best friend, Kia. Both- (shake hands) Zoilese- Nice to meet you. Kia- Hi. You too. Zoilese- (turn back to wheel) All right, are we ready to go?! Tory and Kia- Yah! Zoilese- (speed away) Girls- WHOO!!!!! CUT TORY AND ZOILESE ARE SITTING ON THE TOP OF A GRAPEVINE THING. Tory- (thinking) (smiling) Zoilese- Something funny? Tory- You. Zoilese- (offended) Tory- (laugh) No, no, today in school! Zoilese- (smile) Oh... Tory- That was so amazing! You are like, a really good actress. Like Sandra Bullock. Zoilese- (laugh) Tory- I gotta thank you though, you really saved my ass. Zoilese- Well, I guess I had to do something. I mean, it was my fault you were late. Tory- Why did you talk to me after P.E.? Zoilese- Well, I guess I wanted to make sure everything was all right and check up on you. That's what the recruiters do, they become second moms. Tory- You're a better mom than my mom. Zoilese- Aw, don't say that. Tory- I can't help it, it's true. Anyways, you can change back to your normal self now. Zoilese- (remember) Oh, yeah. (change back) Tory- You know, you really didn't have to change. You're pretty as you are. Zoilese- (smile) Thanks. But I kind of wanted to do that as a precaution in case there was another Cipher there. Tory- But Ciphers don't know what they are, right? Zoilese- Some may. It all depends how in tune they are with themselves and their abilities and nature. Tory- Ah, Zen. (close eyes) Mmm.... Zoilese- (laugh) It just depends on how focused you are, actually. That's the key to be a good and powerful Cipher, focus. Tory- (open eyes) And I don't have it? Zoilese- You have some. You know your strengths and weaknesses and abilities. That's a start. But once you complete your training, you will be fully mastered and focused. Tory- When do I complete? Zoilese- When you have a smaller waistband. Both- (laugh) Zoilese- You will complete when you are physically prepared. Tory- Yeah, I don't like exercise... Zoilese- That'll have to change. I will tell you one thing, though. When you discover what your battle ability is, you'll begin to see your own tattoo without me showing you. You'll need to be ready to handle whatever it is. And once it happens, the Fate of the World will begin. Tory- That doesn't sound good. Zoilese- It could be good or bad. The world may become very prosperous, or it may just dry out. It's all up to you. Tory- Just me? Zoilese- Well, you are the chosen leader of this band of Ciphers, so you have extra responsibilities. Tory- Like..? Zoilese- You're in charge of keeping the six of you together, many things dealing with fate are in your hands- Tory- Uh, enough. That's not exactly a good ego trip. But there are other Ciphers out there? Zoilese- (stalling) Tory- Zoilese? Zoilese- There is. But you probably will never come in contact with them. Tory- Where are they? Who are they? Are they like us? Zoilese- Those are stories for a different time, I'm afraid. You must learn now. Tory- Teach me. Teach me everything I need to know. Now. I'm ready. This will probably be the only time I'm ever this ready again. Zoilese- All in good time. But you need to go slow until you grow stronger. Tory- (sigh) Why do I feel like I'm the next "Karate Kid"? (mock) "Wax on, wax off." Zoilese- (look away) Both- (sit there for a while longer) CUT IT IS THE NEXT DAY AT SCHOOL THE FINAL BELL RINGS. Tory- (getting stuff out of your locker) Kia- So she just left. Tory- Yeah. Kia- Well there goes my ride home. Tory- Go with your sister. Kia- (look disgusted) Why did she leave? Tory- I don't know! She had to get back to Chicago. Kia- I thought you said she lived in New York? Tory- (stop) I did? She does? Oh yeah! You know, Chicago, New York, I get them mixed up. They're so close together. Kia- (try to figure out calculations) Brian- (start walking towards them) Kia- (gasp) Tory- (look) Dammit! Kia- How can you say that? Tory- You know I hate guys. Especially him. Brian is such scum. Kia- (glare) Brian- (walk up) Kia- (smile) Hi, Brian. Brian- (not interested) Hey. (to Tory) So, Tory- Tory- (stand up and sling back pack over shoulder) Brian. Brian- Well, you know that aunt of yours- Tory- She's not for sale. Brian- Well, I was just wondering, does she have any friends or a sister or somethin'? Tory- Why don't you ask her yourself? Brian- (look behind you) (no one's there) (turn back) Tory- (smile) If she did, which I wouldn't know, they are too old for you. Brian- Yeah, but- Tory- (annoyed) Look, I've tried to be civil with you, but I just can't with someone who has such a small brain. Get out of my bubble, you sick, perverted freak. Brian- (getting mad) Kia- Brian, you can stand in my bubble. Brian- Oh yeah?! (grab one of her magnets) Tory- Brian, give it back! Kia- Brian! Brian- Whatcha gonna do about it, huh? Tory- (glare at him) Brian- Oo, I'm scared. (throw it) Fetch, doggy! Tory- (to Kia) Get that. Kia- (get it) Tory- (slam locker) You're an asshole. Brian- What did you say? Tory- (walking past him) You heard me. Brian- Hey! (pull her backpack off shoulder) Tory- (turn around mad) Brian- Say that to my face, bitch! Tory- Very, well, bastard! Brian- (mad) (push her) Bring it on! Tory- You're not worth it. Brian- (push her again) BRING IT ON!! Tory- (snarl) (claw him across face) Brian- (turn away with hand over face) Tory- (wide eyed) (stare at hand and nails) (look at wrist) (gasp) (grab backpack and run out) Kia- (come back with magnet) Tory? (look at Brian) (touch his face) You ok? Brian- Leave me alone! (run away) Kia- (confused) Tory? (look around) Tory? (put magnet in pocket) CUT TORY AND ZOILESE ARE SITTING ON THE GROUND. TORY IS CRYING IN HER ARMS. Tory- (crying) Zoilese... Zoilese- Shh. I'm here. Tory- (sob) I saw it. You're right, I couldn't handle it. (cry) My tattoo- (inhale) Zoilese- Breathe, Tory. Tory- I'm a cat. Zoilese- (look at her) Tory- I scratched- clawed him. A cat. (cry) Why am I a cat? Zoilese- (look away) (hug her closer) Tory- (hold her tight) Zoilese- (teary-eyed) (quietly) She wasn't ready. (look up at the sky) (sigh) It has begun. FIN