INT. NARRATOR'S WELCOME
The light patter of rain hits the windows. The familiar sigh of a body being lowered into an armchair.
NARRATOR
Ah, back again! I'm relieved. It was action stations last time you were here. Ang was charged. Cattle were killed. And Dillon became the top suspect in the missing parishioner investigation.
Rustling from papers.
NARRATOR
Despite all this, the biggest shock came from the good Reverend. How will Ray cope now he knows he can never leave Darkstead?
The Narrator takes a moment to contemplate.
NARRATOR
We've got a meaty chapter on our hands, and our detectives have a lot on their plates. Let's see how much they can stomach.
INT. ROSARIO'S DINER - NIGHT
Cups and saucers clink together. The fryer sizzles. Soft padded footsteps pace back and forth. Sounds of shutting down for the night. The door swings open and footsteps run in
CASS MARSHALL
(out of breath)
Rosario. Have you seen Ray?
ROSARIO BARDINA
No, why? Is everything --
CASS MARSHALL
He's not come home.
A coffee pot is put down.
ROSARIO BARDINA
What time was he due back?
CASS MARSHALL
Four hours ago.
ROSARIO BARDINA
He might be working late --
CASS MARSHALL
He's not. He was planning on coming straight home. He was going to pick up dinner.
ROSARIO BARDINA
That's weird. Have you tried --
CASS MARSHALL
I've tried the walkie talkies, called the station, stopped by all the stores. I've looked everywhere but there's no sign of him. He's gone
Rosario and Cass take a moment to realise what this means. Rosario asks the dreaded question.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Have you checked the perimeter?
CASS MARSHALL
Not yet.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Then that's where we'll look. I'll lock up. Let's go find him together.
INT. MAYOR'S OFFICE
Sounds of a soft carpet. The Mayor's fingers tapping against a desk. The tick of a clock.
MAYOR AGNES HARKER
Good job on solving Dana's murder. News of Ang's arrest is spreading like wildfire.
An exasperated exhale from Silver.
MAYOR AGNES HARKER
What?
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Nothing, it's...
MAYOR AGNES HARKER
Something's on your mind.
Silver gets up. Paces.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
I've been going over the past few weeks. Every weird thing that's happened lately: Eleanor's disappearance. The missing parishioners. The cattle deaths.
MAYOR AGNES HARKER
You think they're all connected?
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
I do after reading Ray's interview notes. He spoke to a farmhand who works for the Willards. Said she saw Eleanor 'hugging' the cattle. It got me worried.
MAYOR AGNES HARKER
I'll admit it's a little strange.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
It's more than that. When I was Sheriff all those years ago. Before people started going missing, there were attacks on livestock. A woman was found doing the same thing.
MAYOR AGNES HARKER
That's what you're saying? That Eleanor's responsible.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Yes... no... I'd say she's no longer capable of making her own decisions. If I'm right...
MAYOR AGNES HARKER
Right about what?
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
The Creature's behind this.
He stops pacing. A rip of paper.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
This is a map of Darkstead. The cattle field is located near the North East fence by the Willard's land. The parishioners lived within a half a mile radius of this same North-East fence.
MAYOR AGNES HARKER
And we know that the Creature loiters anywhere there's a living being.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
It does but if I look over the files. The notes. Witness statements. Everything comes back to the North-East fence. To get home from Dana's place, Eleanor Willard would have had to walk past this part of the fence.
Silver takes a moment to think. Agnes continues.
MAYOR AGNES HARKER
We know that the Creature can't pass over the fence.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
But it can communicate with people through it.
A pause.
MAYOR AGNES HARKER
Old folklore tale. We don't know for sure. Our ancestors suspected it but there's no conclusive proof.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
But if it could then...What if it has a different strategy this time. What if it's getting help from someone who lives here.
Agnes becomes stern. Frightened.
MAYOR AGNES HARKER
My god. Who would do that? And what purpose would it serve?
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
I have an idea as to 'who'. But 'why?' That's what I'm going to find out.
INT. CAR
Interior car noise. Rain on the window. The sounds of wipers scraping back and forth. Cass lets out a shaky exhale.
ROSARIO BARDINA
It'll be OK, Cass. Ray knows not to get too close to the fence.
CASS MARSHALL
He knows the Creature exists.
ROSARIO BARDINA
You finally told him?
CASS MARSHALL
He worked it out for himself.
ROSARIO BARDINA
When?
CASS MARSHALL
This morning.
Rosario makes a disapproving 'tut'. The wind and rain get louder.
CASS MARSHALL
What?
ROSARIO BARDINA
That's a pretty big thing to find out. How'd you know he isn't taking time to deal with it. He might be mad at you for not telling him sooner.
Cass is defensive.
CASS MARSHALL
We're fine.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Not everyone processes a shock like that straight away.
Awkward pause.
CASS MARSHALL
Maybe.
ROSARIO BARDINA
And he can't leave. I mean how did he react when you talked about that?
No response.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Cass?
Nothing. They hit a bump in the road.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Cass? He does know, right?
CASS MARSHALL
I kind of left out that part.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Oh my god.
CASS MARSHALL
I was going to tell him but he was so upset when he found out about the Creature that --
ROSARIO BARDINA
I bet he's worked it out. Ray's not stupid. No wonder he's disappeared.
CASS MARSHALL
That's not fair.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Why can't you be honest, Cass?
CASS MARSHALL
I don't... I'm sorry.
A furious moment of silence.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Here I was thinking you'd changed. That you weren't making excuses anymore. Let's just find Ray and hope he hasn't done anything desperate.
EXT. PERIMETER FENCE - NIGHT
Nightime has fallen. Crickets sing. A low wind roars in our ears. Footsteps walk through mud. A distinct tread joins them. Low muttering.
ASH
Stop! Who goes there? Oh, it's you.
The clunk of Ash's firearm. Primed to fire.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
I'm busy, Ash. What do you want?
We hear Ray continue to walk. Mood dark. Patience low.
ASH
You on a stakeout?
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
You could say that.
ASH
By yourself?
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Yes.
ASH
Shouldn't be up here by yourself. It's not safe. Especially at this time of night. What are you looking for?
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Not what. Who.
Ash shuffles. Ill at ease with Ray's behaviour. Tries to warm him up.
ASH
You know the guy who took Mrs M and Mr Bull? I remembered what was odd about him. Liked to whistle. Annoying habit.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
It is. I think he likes to hang out here.
ASH
He can't be sane if he's hanging out by the fence. North-East perimeter isn't somewhere you want to be at any time of day.
Ray abruptly changes topic. Interrogates Ash. It starts to rain.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Were you born here?
ASH
Er, yes.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
How do you cope being trapped in this place?
ASH
Don't really think about it.
A rumble of thunder in the distance. Ash is a little nervous now.
ASH
You got back-up on the way?
Ray laughs. It's unnatural. On edge.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Can't rely on anyone anymore.
ASH
That part of the fence is dangerous. You need to be careful.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
I'm not here for the fence, I'm here for the person who's been leading people beyond it.
ASH
Oh... you're here about the... the... what's living in the...
(pause)
I really don't think you should hang around.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
All I need to know is if I'm in the right place.
ASH
You're not.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Can you show me where I should go?
ASH
No.
A frustrated Ray attempts to reason with Ash.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Point me in the right direction and I'll be out of your way.
ASH
I don't want to.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Look, Ash. I'm not leaving.
Ash sighs. Resignation.
ASH
It's suicide. Just... Fine. I have a hunch as to where we need to go.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
We?
ASH
Oh yes. If you want my help then we go together. Follow me
EXT. NORTH-EAST PERIMETER FENCE - LATER
Nighttime has fallen. Crickets sing. A low wind roars in our ears. Footsteps walk along a path through mud. A distinct tread follows behind. Rain pours. The wind howls.
ASH
Here we are. The North-East fence.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Thanks.
Unnatural bird song. The mood deadens. It's quiet. Too quiet.
ASH
Watch out for that panel over there. It's broken.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Noted.
ASH
You really gonna stay here? Waiting around.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Yes.
ASH
This is a bad idea.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Anything else?
ASH
I shouldn't leave you.
A pause. Ash waits for more questions. None come. Ray sighs.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Get out of here, Ash.
ASH
Not giving me much of a choice, are you? Guess it's your funeral.
We hear Ash walk away. Three seconds later, a few metres from Ray, the sound of a bushes rustle sharply. A drone rumbles. Two seconds later, Ash yelps. The harsh sounds of a struggle. Ray runs forward.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Who's there!
The struggle continues. Ray tentatively steps nearer.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Hello? Ash! Are you OK?
Two seconds of quiet. A gunshot is fired into the sky. Ray gasps. A pair of footsteps walk through foliage, towards him. Dillon's tuneless whistle rings out. The footsteps stop suddenly. The sound of a gun being loaded. Dillon chuckles.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
Officer Marshall. I knew you'd come.
EXT. WILLARD FARMHOUSE - NIGHT
A fist bangs on a wooden door. The wind and rain howl. The Reverend sneezes.
REVEREND ODESSA
Of all the people to call, I never thought it would be you.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
You and me both, Reverend. But I need you. This won't be one of your standard house calls.
The sound of footsteps from within the house coming closer. The door handle twists. It creaks open.
KIRK WILLARD
Reverend I --
Kirk stops dead. Taking in the scene before him.
KIRK WILLARD
What's the Bloodsucker doing here!?
REVEREND ODESSA
Now Kirk, I appreciate this is a surprise, especially at this time of night.
KIRK WILLARD
It's an attack! An invasion! An assault on my freedom and rights as a Darkstead citizen!
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
No, it's not.
The Reverend intervenes.
REVEREND ODESSA
It's important. We've come to see Eleanor.
KIRK WILLARD
Well, you can't see her.
REVEREND ODESSA
Why? Is she sleeping?
KIRK WILLARD
No.
REVEREND ODESSA
Has she gotten worse?
KIRK WILLARD
She... You... go! Just go! You can't see her. I forbid it.
REVEREND ODESSA
What's happened Kirk?
A pause. Kirk sighs. The weight of the world on his shoulders.
KIRK WILLARD
I've had to... put her in the barn.
REVEREND ODESSA
In the barn.
KIRK WILLARD
You know why. She's...
Kirk searches for the words. He doesn't want to say it out loud. Desperate. Bewildered at his misfortune.
KIRK WILLARD
She's a demon.
REVEREND ODESSA
I'm sure that's not true.
KIRK WILLARD
She's hanging upside down from the rafters.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
OK, Ray was right. We should have spoken to Eleanor sooner.
Kirk lets out a sob.
KIRK WILLARD
You've had your way with her, vampire. Now leave us be!
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
No can do, Kirk. We have reason to believe that Eleanor is not acting of her own free will.
KIRK WILLARD
You don't know anything.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Take us to the barn.
KIRK WILLARD
No.
REVEREND ODESSA
If we want Eleanor to return to normal, you must allow myself and Detective Silver inside.
A pause as Kirk thinks.
REVEREND ODESSA
Please Kirk.
EXT. NORTH EAST PERIMETER FENCE
The wind howls. The trees rustle. The sinister echos of the forest loom large.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Why'd you do it, Dillon?
Dillon saunters over. He clicks the gun barrel into place. Reminding us that he's the one in charge.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
You'll have to be specific.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Why'd you lure the parishioners to their deaths? Fed them to that.. Thing over the fence.
Dillon laughs.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
We all gotta eat sometime.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Did you take Eleanor too?
DILLON THE FARMHAND
She wanted to meet the Creature. She got what she deserved.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
So you kidnapped her.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
Is it really kidnap if the person comes along willingly.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Didn't you threaten her?
DILLON THE FARMHAND
Threats, promises, misunderstandings. So many ways to take my calls.
Ray finally cracks.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Here's what's going to happen. You're going to come with me quietly to the police station. You'll confess to your crimes and spend the rest of your life in a cell.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
My my, it is true what they've been saying about the new cop in town. So naive. No wonder the Vampire doesn't respect you.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
I'm not leaving here without taking you into custody.
The crack of a gun barrel.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
I don't think you're in any position to be taking charge. Start walking.
A distant shuffle of leaves in the distance. Far away. Beyond the fence and in the forest.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Where are we going.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
Over there. Nearer to the fence.
Two sets of footsteps walk begrudgingly over crisp leaves.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
Have to say, you're a lot less enthusiastic than Mrs Willard was. But then she was like everyone else. Tired of this place. Wanted out. And the only way to get out as a human, is through the forest.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
That's crazy. She could have flown or taken the river.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
Didn't want to. Instead, she made the mistake of underestimating another magical being.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
I don't buy it. Dana said she enjoyed 'lording it up' over everyone.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
All talk. She hated it here.
Dillon laughs.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
She had no sense of humour. Me and Timmy used to prank call her all the time way back when.
They stop walking. Rain begins to fall. Lightly at first. Ray desperately tries to evoke a shred of mercy from Dillon.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Why would you do this to her... to other people after what happened to Timmy?
Ray's walkie talkie buzzes. Dillon's response is scarily robotic.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
I do what my Master asks of me. And don't even think about answering that.
We hear Cass’s distant voice roar through the walkie talkie {Ray! Ray?}
INT. CAR
Rosario puts her foot down on the gas. It starts up then dies. A gentle whine from the engine. She tries again. The sound of a car on its last legs. The wind roars outside. The weather is getting worse. The dead buzz of static from Cass's walkie talkie.
CASS MARSHALL
Hello. Hello? Ray! He's not answering. It's too late. We're running out of time.
ROSARIO BARDINA
I knew we should have gone around that stream instead of through it! Especially in this weather.
Wind whistles viciously. We hear the spatter of heavy rain hit the hood. The car lurches back and forth, creaking with age.
CASS MARSHALL
Forget the car. Let's walk.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Are you crazy? It's like a hurricane out there.
CASS MARSHALL
I have to get to Ray.
ROSARIO BARDINA
And we will. You don't need to kill yourself in the process.
CASS MARSHALL
I know how he gets if he's reached his limit. I'm responsible for this.
Rosario thinks.
ROSARIO BARDINA
There is one way to restart the car.
CASS MARSHALL
Yes?
Rosario waits for Cass to get the hint.
ROSARIO BARDINA
it would involve you doing something.... you've not done in a while.... you know"
Cass realises what she's asking.
CASS MARSHALL
No, I can't.
ROSARIO BARDINA
You can.
CASS MARSHALL
I haven't practised magic in years!
ROSARIO BARDINA
Ok. Guess we're stuck here for the rest of the night.
Rosario continues to keep trying the engine. Cass takes a moment. Nervous.
CASS MARSHALL
What if I lose control?
ROSARIO BARDINA
You won't. It's just a little water.
Cass takes a deep breath. Magical sounds. Water rushing forth.
INT. WILLARD BARN
Rain pours. Thunder strikes. Mushy footsteps heave through mud. Barn doors open and close.
REVEREND ODESSA
Good grief, I'm soaked!
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
You have candles in here?
KIRK WILLARD
I got lanterns.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
That'll do. This is a big barn.
They walk across the floor. The distant sounds of the storm echoes outside. A light but steady drip in the darkness.
REVEREND ODESSA
Yes, and rather dark. Eleanor? Eleanor are you here?
Scratching comes from above.
REVEREND ODESSA
What's that sound?
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
It's coming from above.
More scratching. Louder now.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
She up on the beams?
KIRK WILLARD
She was when I left. Had to move all my sheep and chickens out! Couldn't be sure she'd have them too.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Have what now?
REVEREND ODESSA
Eleanor's been favouring a raw meat diet of late.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
And you didn't think to report it?
REVEREND ODESSA
I've reported strange things to you before, Detective. You haven't exactly been the most proactive.
Silver is silent. She has a point.
A huge THWACK breaks the quiet. A wooden beam crashes to the floor followed by the thud of a heavy body. Kirk shouts out in fear. We're treated to Eleanor's snarling and hissing.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Ah, Mrs Willard. Good of you to join us.
Get her into that chair.
The sound of two people dragging a third across the floor. A table is scraped across the floor. A chair is placed down. Eleanor snarls.
REVEREND ODESSA
Don’t fight us, Eleanor. We’re trying to help.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
You look... different.
Eleanor hisses in response.
REVEREND ODESSA
Oh dear, she's gotten worse.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Nice hair. Not a fan of the smell though. You've not been quite yourself lately, Eleanor. Can you tell me what happened?
Eleanor's groans and hissing continues.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
In English please.
ELEANOR WILLARD
(husky/growl)
Away. Get away.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Did the Creature do this to you? Did it make you attack the cattle?
ELEANOR WILLARD
(husky/gravelly)
Hungry.
KIRK WILLARD
Leave her be! She's not herself.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Someone saw you --
ELEANOR WILLARD
(husky/gravelly)
No.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
You killed the cattle --
ELEANOR WILLARD
(husky/gravelly)
No!
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
and drank their blood.
A table is slammed over. A gust of wind hits out ears. Two fists crash down on the table.
REVEREND ODESSA
It's a bad sign that she's airborne.
KIRK WILLARD
What've you done, Vampire! What have you done to my Eleanor!?
A strange gravelly rasp akin to years of decay rises up from within Eleanor.
ELEANOR WILLARD/THE NARRATOR
(vocal effect)
Silver.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Finally. It speaks.
ELEANOR WILLARD/THE NARRATOR
(vocal effect)
Come to the forest.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Why?
ELEANOR WILLARD/THE NARRATOR
(vocal effect)
I demand an audience.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
You're not going to get one. Leave Darkstead alone. Retreat into the forest.
A evil chuckle from Eleanor.
ELEANOR WILLARD/THE NARRATOR
(vocal effect)
If you do not enter the forest by tomorrow at midnight, Darkstead will be faced with more than just bones.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
You have nothing.
ELEANOR WILLARD/THE NARRATOR
(vocal effect)
Consider my request, Silver. I may even spare your human, but know I make no guarantees. I see him now and he smells... delicious.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
What?
A wind ceases. A crash as Eleanor falls to the floor.
INT. POLICE STATION - DISPATCH LINE
Radio music plays. Electric lines buzz. A typewriter clicks away. Office noise reverberates. A loud beep is compressed.
BERNICE
Dispatch.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
(distorted)
Bernice, is Ray there?
BERNICE
Course not, honey. He clocked off hours ago.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
(distorted)
Did he say where he was going?
BERNICE
Home. I got a call from Cass looking for him.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Jeez, where'd he go?
REVEREND ODESSA
(distorted/on the same line)
Actually, he came to see me.
BERNICE
What's the Reverend doing on the line?
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
(distorted)
I'm with her up at the Willard farm. We've had an unusual interview with Mrs Willard. Kirk's taken her to hospital.
BERNICE
Woman can't catch a break. Speaking of, I need to take one. All I've had is reports of more bones. No word from Ray.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
(distorted)
Call me if Ray shows.
BERNICE
Sure thing.
INT. FARMHOUSE BARN
Interior noise. The distortion dies.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
I've got a bad feeling about this.
REVEREND ODESSA
Me too, Detective. When I spoke to Ray, he was interested in tracking Dillon down I have a strong suspicion that he’s followed him to the perimeter…
EXT. PERIMETER FENCE
Sinister music. The fence starts to rattle. Wooden boards are pulled away. The wind fades into the background. Rain drops slow down.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
This fence sure is unstable. Not that I'm complaining.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
I don't feel so good.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
Oh you won't. We're nice and close now. It's only a matter of time until It arrives.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
What's happening... everything's... dizzy.
Ray's voice feels far away.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
All part of the experience. But don't worry, it'll be all over soon.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
No, no! Get away from me.
We hear two bodies wrestle against each other. One of them staggers and falls.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
There's no use fighting. The Creature's power is immense.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Then why are you, OK?
DILLON THE FARMHAND
That's different. We have a special relationship... And look, Ray! Look who's joined us!
Ray lets out a gasp of pure fear.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
(hypnotic)
Why are It's eyes like that?
DILLON THE FARMHAND
It's old. The Creature's seen a lot. Come now. Let's get you closer.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Heck... no...
Voices reach through the forest.
CASS MARSHALL
(distant vox effect)
Ray!
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Cass?
DILLON THE FARMHAND
Keep going. Little closer.
The fence creaks in anticipation. The Creature's theme gets louder. Cass and Rosario's voices become nearer.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Ray! Can you hear us?
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Ros...Rosario?
DILLON THE FARMHAND
I'll move this panel out of the way.
The creak of wood. Deep breathing. Musical theme echos through the forest. Then from the distance, Silver lets out a primal yell. His fast steps, no longer leisurely...
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
What are you doing, Dillon?
DILLON THE FARMHAND
Huh?
A rip of fabric. The sounds of panels slammed shut.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Let go of him.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
No! No... It's....
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Watch out!
A claw scratches the ground. We hear a body being dragged across the ground. Kicking out. Cass and Rosario come running.
ROSARIO BARDINA
There they are. Silver's holding Ray.
CASS MARSHALL
Oh my god. Who's that with them?
Cass and Rosario approach quickly. Dillon yells in fright.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Be careful. He's heavy. The wood panel knocked Ray out cold. I've got to get to Dillon before It drags him over.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Look out!
Dillon shrieks in pain.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
My leg. It's got my leg.
A rip of bodily parts. Dillon screams.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Take my hand.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
No!
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
I said take my hand.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
No. Never.
The sound of a body being dragged over leaves. A final scream from Dillon then silence. The panel slots back into place with a thud.
INT. RAY & CASS MARSHALL'S HOUSE
Windchimes. A kettle boils. Cass shuffles her cards. A snore from Ray. A gentle tread puts a coffee cup down.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Ray's gonna be ok.
CASS MARSHALL
God, I hope so. Not sure if he'll ever forgive me.
ROSARIO BARDINA
He will. Eventually.
Shuffling from the deck.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Pretty nasty what happened to Dillon.
CASS MARSHALL
Yeah.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Some might say he got what he deserved.
CASS MARSHALL
But --
ROSARIO BARDINA
But I'm not one of those people. It's crazy to me that he could've saved himself by taking Silver's hand but he didn't.
CASS MARSHALL
Maybe he was scared.
Cass breathes. Reliving a painful memory. The crisp flip of a card is placed on the table.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Can’t be afraid forever.
Rosario finishes the last of her coffee. Gets up and deposits it in the sink.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Better get going. It's way too early and I need to get back to the diner before the first customers turn up.
CASS MARSHALL
Sure. Thanks... for everything.
ROSARIO BARDINA
It was cool to hang out tonight. Witness you practice magic again. It's like having the old Cass back. See you around.
We hear Rosario get up to leave. A pause. Cass stops shuffling the deck. The time to be honest is now.
CASS MARSHALL
(to herself)
Like the old Cass...
EXT. RAY & CASS MARSHALL'S HOUSE
The weather is calm. Only the distant sounds of nature and a breeze can be heard. We hear a car start up. It begins to pull away. Gravel crunches underfoot. Then running. A banging of a fist on metal. The engine dies.
ROSARIO BARDINA
What are you doing! I almost ran you over.
CASS MARSHALL
I have to tell you something.
Rosario gets out of the car.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Must be serious.
Cass braces herself.
CASS MARSHALL
I... it's my fault.
ROSARIO BARDINA
It really isn't. Dillon was crazy.
CASS MARSHALL(talking over her)
Stop stop….
I'm not talking about Dillon, I’m talking about your parents.
ROSARIO BARDINA
What?
CASS MARSHALL
The night they died. I... I saw it. I was there.
Rosario is completely blindsided.
ROSARIO BARDINA
What are you saying?
CASS MARSHALL
The night it happened, I was walking home along the path by the fence and I heard noises. Instead of turning away, I decided to get closer. It was your Mom and Dad. They were fighting.
A pause.
CASS MARSHALL
You remember how you said your Mom was acting strange just before she disappeared. It was because the Creature was controlling her.
ROSARIO BARDINA
(complete denial)
No, no way.
CASS MARSHALL
I'm sorry but it's true.
ROSARIO BARDINA
How could you possibly know?
Cass braces herself for the worst part.
CASS MARSHALL
Because I saw it in her face. Saw her backing nearer to the edge... so close the Creature... and I
The breeze picks up. A distant clap of thunder.
CASS MARSHALL
I was trying to help.
ROSARIO BARDINA
How?
CASS MARSHALL
I cast a spell on her.
ROSARIO BARDINA
You did what?
CASS MARSHALL
It went wrong. Instead of calming down, she ran at the fence. Your Dad tried to stop her but he was pulled over too... trying to get her back.
A pause.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Like Dillon.
Cass's voice is barely audible.
CASS MARSHALL
It wasn't like that.
ROSARIO BARDINA
And then what? What did you do to "help" next. You know, other than push my parents into the jaws of the thing that's terrorised our town for years.
CASS MARSHALL
I froze. And then I ran. I couldn't live with the shame so I left.
Rosario goes silent. Her anger palpable. We hear her walk back to the car. Then stop. She returns to Cass. Punches the bonnet with her fists.
ROSARIO BARDINA
I can't believe you didn't tell me. All these years you've lied. Hidden away. Left me to deal with that night on my own when you had the answers.
CASS MARSHALL
I'm a terrible person.
ROSARIO BARDINA
All the times I had you in my diner. Listened to you. Consoled you. Confided in you. All this time, you've been laughing at me. Stupid Rosario.
CASS MARSHALL
No, no! I'm sorry. I'm so so sorry. I'm going to make this up to you. Put things right.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Stay away from me.
Rosario stomps towards the car. The door slams shut. The engine revs. We hear a sobbing Cass jump out of the way as Rosario speeds off into the early morning light.
INT. NARRATOR'S FINAL WORD
A clock ticks loudly. A rocking chair creaks. We hear a person tending a fire.
NARRATOR
A sombre end, don't you think. Poor Rosario. I can't imagine how upset she must be to experience a betrayal like that.
A teacup is placed on a saucer.
NARRATOR
It's been a privilege to share this story with you, dear listener. I hope you will do me the honour of coming back one last time...
END OF EPISODE 7
The light patter of rain hits the windows. The familiar sigh of a body being lowered into an armchair.
NARRATOR
Ah, back again! I'm relieved. It was action stations last time you were here. Ang was charged. Cattle were killed. And Dillon became the top suspect in the missing parishioner investigation.
Rustling from papers.
NARRATOR
Despite all this, the biggest shock came from the good Reverend. How will Ray cope now he knows he can never leave Darkstead?
The Narrator takes a moment to contemplate.
NARRATOR
We've got a meaty chapter on our hands, and our detectives have a lot on their plates. Let's see how much they can stomach.
INT. ROSARIO'S DINER - NIGHT
Cups and saucers clink together. The fryer sizzles. Soft padded footsteps pace back and forth. Sounds of shutting down for the night. The door swings open and footsteps run in
CASS MARSHALL
(out of breath)
Rosario. Have you seen Ray?
ROSARIO BARDINA
No, why? Is everything --
CASS MARSHALL
He's not come home.
A coffee pot is put down.
ROSARIO BARDINA
What time was he due back?
CASS MARSHALL
Four hours ago.
ROSARIO BARDINA
He might be working late --
CASS MARSHALL
He's not. He was planning on coming straight home. He was going to pick up dinner.
ROSARIO BARDINA
That's weird. Have you tried --
CASS MARSHALL
I've tried the walkie talkies, called the station, stopped by all the stores. I've looked everywhere but there's no sign of him. He's gone
Rosario and Cass take a moment to realise what this means. Rosario asks the dreaded question.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Have you checked the perimeter?
CASS MARSHALL
Not yet.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Then that's where we'll look. I'll lock up. Let's go find him together.
INT. MAYOR'S OFFICE
Sounds of a soft carpet. The Mayor's fingers tapping against a desk. The tick of a clock.
MAYOR AGNES HARKER
Good job on solving Dana's murder. News of Ang's arrest is spreading like wildfire.
An exasperated exhale from Silver.
MAYOR AGNES HARKER
What?
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Nothing, it's...
MAYOR AGNES HARKER
Something's on your mind.
Silver gets up. Paces.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
I've been going over the past few weeks. Every weird thing that's happened lately: Eleanor's disappearance. The missing parishioners. The cattle deaths.
MAYOR AGNES HARKER
You think they're all connected?
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
I do after reading Ray's interview notes. He spoke to a farmhand who works for the Willards. Said she saw Eleanor 'hugging' the cattle. It got me worried.
MAYOR AGNES HARKER
I'll admit it's a little strange.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
It's more than that. When I was Sheriff all those years ago. Before people started going missing, there were attacks on livestock. A woman was found doing the same thing.
MAYOR AGNES HARKER
That's what you're saying? That Eleanor's responsible.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Yes... no... I'd say she's no longer capable of making her own decisions. If I'm right...
MAYOR AGNES HARKER
Right about what?
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
The Creature's behind this.
He stops pacing. A rip of paper.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
This is a map of Darkstead. The cattle field is located near the North East fence by the Willard's land. The parishioners lived within a half a mile radius of this same North-East fence.
MAYOR AGNES HARKER
And we know that the Creature loiters anywhere there's a living being.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
It does but if I look over the files. The notes. Witness statements. Everything comes back to the North-East fence. To get home from Dana's place, Eleanor Willard would have had to walk past this part of the fence.
Silver takes a moment to think. Agnes continues.
MAYOR AGNES HARKER
We know that the Creature can't pass over the fence.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
But it can communicate with people through it.
A pause.
MAYOR AGNES HARKER
Old folklore tale. We don't know for sure. Our ancestors suspected it but there's no conclusive proof.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
But if it could then...What if it has a different strategy this time. What if it's getting help from someone who lives here.
Agnes becomes stern. Frightened.
MAYOR AGNES HARKER
My god. Who would do that? And what purpose would it serve?
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
I have an idea as to 'who'. But 'why?' That's what I'm going to find out.
INT. CAR
Interior car noise. Rain on the window. The sounds of wipers scraping back and forth. Cass lets out a shaky exhale.
ROSARIO BARDINA
It'll be OK, Cass. Ray knows not to get too close to the fence.
CASS MARSHALL
He knows the Creature exists.
ROSARIO BARDINA
You finally told him?
CASS MARSHALL
He worked it out for himself.
ROSARIO BARDINA
When?
CASS MARSHALL
This morning.
Rosario makes a disapproving 'tut'. The wind and rain get louder.
CASS MARSHALL
What?
ROSARIO BARDINA
That's a pretty big thing to find out. How'd you know he isn't taking time to deal with it. He might be mad at you for not telling him sooner.
Cass is defensive.
CASS MARSHALL
We're fine.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Not everyone processes a shock like that straight away.
Awkward pause.
CASS MARSHALL
Maybe.
ROSARIO BARDINA
And he can't leave. I mean how did he react when you talked about that?
No response.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Cass?
Nothing. They hit a bump in the road.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Cass? He does know, right?
CASS MARSHALL
I kind of left out that part.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Oh my god.
CASS MARSHALL
I was going to tell him but he was so upset when he found out about the Creature that --
ROSARIO BARDINA
I bet he's worked it out. Ray's not stupid. No wonder he's disappeared.
CASS MARSHALL
That's not fair.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Why can't you be honest, Cass?
CASS MARSHALL
I don't... I'm sorry.
A furious moment of silence.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Here I was thinking you'd changed. That you weren't making excuses anymore. Let's just find Ray and hope he hasn't done anything desperate.
EXT. PERIMETER FENCE - NIGHT
Nightime has fallen. Crickets sing. A low wind roars in our ears. Footsteps walk through mud. A distinct tread joins them. Low muttering.
ASH
Stop! Who goes there? Oh, it's you.
The clunk of Ash's firearm. Primed to fire.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
I'm busy, Ash. What do you want?
We hear Ray continue to walk. Mood dark. Patience low.
ASH
You on a stakeout?
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
You could say that.
ASH
By yourself?
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Yes.
ASH
Shouldn't be up here by yourself. It's not safe. Especially at this time of night. What are you looking for?
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Not what. Who.
Ash shuffles. Ill at ease with Ray's behaviour. Tries to warm him up.
ASH
You know the guy who took Mrs M and Mr Bull? I remembered what was odd about him. Liked to whistle. Annoying habit.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
It is. I think he likes to hang out here.
ASH
He can't be sane if he's hanging out by the fence. North-East perimeter isn't somewhere you want to be at any time of day.
Ray abruptly changes topic. Interrogates Ash. It starts to rain.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Were you born here?
ASH
Er, yes.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
How do you cope being trapped in this place?
ASH
Don't really think about it.
A rumble of thunder in the distance. Ash is a little nervous now.
ASH
You got back-up on the way?
Ray laughs. It's unnatural. On edge.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Can't rely on anyone anymore.
ASH
That part of the fence is dangerous. You need to be careful.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
I'm not here for the fence, I'm here for the person who's been leading people beyond it.
ASH
Oh... you're here about the... the... what's living in the...
(pause)
I really don't think you should hang around.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
All I need to know is if I'm in the right place.
ASH
You're not.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Can you show me where I should go?
ASH
No.
A frustrated Ray attempts to reason with Ash.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Point me in the right direction and I'll be out of your way.
ASH
I don't want to.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Look, Ash. I'm not leaving.
Ash sighs. Resignation.
ASH
It's suicide. Just... Fine. I have a hunch as to where we need to go.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
We?
ASH
Oh yes. If you want my help then we go together. Follow me
EXT. NORTH-EAST PERIMETER FENCE - LATER
Nighttime has fallen. Crickets sing. A low wind roars in our ears. Footsteps walk along a path through mud. A distinct tread follows behind. Rain pours. The wind howls.
ASH
Here we are. The North-East fence.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Thanks.
Unnatural bird song. The mood deadens. It's quiet. Too quiet.
ASH
Watch out for that panel over there. It's broken.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Noted.
ASH
You really gonna stay here? Waiting around.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Yes.
ASH
This is a bad idea.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Anything else?
ASH
I shouldn't leave you.
A pause. Ash waits for more questions. None come. Ray sighs.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Get out of here, Ash.
ASH
Not giving me much of a choice, are you? Guess it's your funeral.
We hear Ash walk away. Three seconds later, a few metres from Ray, the sound of a bushes rustle sharply. A drone rumbles. Two seconds later, Ash yelps. The harsh sounds of a struggle. Ray runs forward.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Who's there!
The struggle continues. Ray tentatively steps nearer.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Hello? Ash! Are you OK?
Two seconds of quiet. A gunshot is fired into the sky. Ray gasps. A pair of footsteps walk through foliage, towards him. Dillon's tuneless whistle rings out. The footsteps stop suddenly. The sound of a gun being loaded. Dillon chuckles.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
Officer Marshall. I knew you'd come.
EXT. WILLARD FARMHOUSE - NIGHT
A fist bangs on a wooden door. The wind and rain howl. The Reverend sneezes.
REVEREND ODESSA
Of all the people to call, I never thought it would be you.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
You and me both, Reverend. But I need you. This won't be one of your standard house calls.
The sound of footsteps from within the house coming closer. The door handle twists. It creaks open.
KIRK WILLARD
Reverend I --
Kirk stops dead. Taking in the scene before him.
KIRK WILLARD
What's the Bloodsucker doing here!?
REVEREND ODESSA
Now Kirk, I appreciate this is a surprise, especially at this time of night.
KIRK WILLARD
It's an attack! An invasion! An assault on my freedom and rights as a Darkstead citizen!
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
No, it's not.
The Reverend intervenes.
REVEREND ODESSA
It's important. We've come to see Eleanor.
KIRK WILLARD
Well, you can't see her.
REVEREND ODESSA
Why? Is she sleeping?
KIRK WILLARD
No.
REVEREND ODESSA
Has she gotten worse?
KIRK WILLARD
She... You... go! Just go! You can't see her. I forbid it.
REVEREND ODESSA
What's happened Kirk?
A pause. Kirk sighs. The weight of the world on his shoulders.
KIRK WILLARD
I've had to... put her in the barn.
REVEREND ODESSA
In the barn.
KIRK WILLARD
You know why. She's...
Kirk searches for the words. He doesn't want to say it out loud. Desperate. Bewildered at his misfortune.
KIRK WILLARD
She's a demon.
REVEREND ODESSA
I'm sure that's not true.
KIRK WILLARD
She's hanging upside down from the rafters.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
OK, Ray was right. We should have spoken to Eleanor sooner.
Kirk lets out a sob.
KIRK WILLARD
You've had your way with her, vampire. Now leave us be!
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
No can do, Kirk. We have reason to believe that Eleanor is not acting of her own free will.
KIRK WILLARD
You don't know anything.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Take us to the barn.
KIRK WILLARD
No.
REVEREND ODESSA
If we want Eleanor to return to normal, you must allow myself and Detective Silver inside.
A pause as Kirk thinks.
REVEREND ODESSA
Please Kirk.
EXT. NORTH EAST PERIMETER FENCE
The wind howls. The trees rustle. The sinister echos of the forest loom large.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Why'd you do it, Dillon?
Dillon saunters over. He clicks the gun barrel into place. Reminding us that he's the one in charge.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
You'll have to be specific.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Why'd you lure the parishioners to their deaths? Fed them to that.. Thing over the fence.
Dillon laughs.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
We all gotta eat sometime.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Did you take Eleanor too?
DILLON THE FARMHAND
She wanted to meet the Creature. She got what she deserved.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
So you kidnapped her.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
Is it really kidnap if the person comes along willingly.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Didn't you threaten her?
DILLON THE FARMHAND
Threats, promises, misunderstandings. So many ways to take my calls.
Ray finally cracks.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Here's what's going to happen. You're going to come with me quietly to the police station. You'll confess to your crimes and spend the rest of your life in a cell.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
My my, it is true what they've been saying about the new cop in town. So naive. No wonder the Vampire doesn't respect you.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
I'm not leaving here without taking you into custody.
The crack of a gun barrel.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
I don't think you're in any position to be taking charge. Start walking.
A distant shuffle of leaves in the distance. Far away. Beyond the fence and in the forest.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Where are we going.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
Over there. Nearer to the fence.
Two sets of footsteps walk begrudgingly over crisp leaves.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
Have to say, you're a lot less enthusiastic than Mrs Willard was. But then she was like everyone else. Tired of this place. Wanted out. And the only way to get out as a human, is through the forest.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
That's crazy. She could have flown or taken the river.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
Didn't want to. Instead, she made the mistake of underestimating another magical being.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
I don't buy it. Dana said she enjoyed 'lording it up' over everyone.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
All talk. She hated it here.
Dillon laughs.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
She had no sense of humour. Me and Timmy used to prank call her all the time way back when.
They stop walking. Rain begins to fall. Lightly at first. Ray desperately tries to evoke a shred of mercy from Dillon.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Why would you do this to her... to other people after what happened to Timmy?
Ray's walkie talkie buzzes. Dillon's response is scarily robotic.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
I do what my Master asks of me. And don't even think about answering that.
We hear Cass’s distant voice roar through the walkie talkie {Ray! Ray?}
INT. CAR
Rosario puts her foot down on the gas. It starts up then dies. A gentle whine from the engine. She tries again. The sound of a car on its last legs. The wind roars outside. The weather is getting worse. The dead buzz of static from Cass's walkie talkie.
CASS MARSHALL
Hello. Hello? Ray! He's not answering. It's too late. We're running out of time.
ROSARIO BARDINA
I knew we should have gone around that stream instead of through it! Especially in this weather.
Wind whistles viciously. We hear the spatter of heavy rain hit the hood. The car lurches back and forth, creaking with age.
CASS MARSHALL
Forget the car. Let's walk.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Are you crazy? It's like a hurricane out there.
CASS MARSHALL
I have to get to Ray.
ROSARIO BARDINA
And we will. You don't need to kill yourself in the process.
CASS MARSHALL
I know how he gets if he's reached his limit. I'm responsible for this.
Rosario thinks.
ROSARIO BARDINA
There is one way to restart the car.
CASS MARSHALL
Yes?
Rosario waits for Cass to get the hint.
ROSARIO BARDINA
it would involve you doing something.... you've not done in a while.... you know"
Cass realises what she's asking.
CASS MARSHALL
No, I can't.
ROSARIO BARDINA
You can.
CASS MARSHALL
I haven't practised magic in years!
ROSARIO BARDINA
Ok. Guess we're stuck here for the rest of the night.
Rosario continues to keep trying the engine. Cass takes a moment. Nervous.
CASS MARSHALL
What if I lose control?
ROSARIO BARDINA
You won't. It's just a little water.
Cass takes a deep breath. Magical sounds. Water rushing forth.
INT. WILLARD BARN
Rain pours. Thunder strikes. Mushy footsteps heave through mud. Barn doors open and close.
REVEREND ODESSA
Good grief, I'm soaked!
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
You have candles in here?
KIRK WILLARD
I got lanterns.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
That'll do. This is a big barn.
They walk across the floor. The distant sounds of the storm echoes outside. A light but steady drip in the darkness.
REVEREND ODESSA
Yes, and rather dark. Eleanor? Eleanor are you here?
Scratching comes from above.
REVEREND ODESSA
What's that sound?
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
It's coming from above.
More scratching. Louder now.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
She up on the beams?
KIRK WILLARD
She was when I left. Had to move all my sheep and chickens out! Couldn't be sure she'd have them too.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Have what now?
REVEREND ODESSA
Eleanor's been favouring a raw meat diet of late.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
And you didn't think to report it?
REVEREND ODESSA
I've reported strange things to you before, Detective. You haven't exactly been the most proactive.
Silver is silent. She has a point.
A huge THWACK breaks the quiet. A wooden beam crashes to the floor followed by the thud of a heavy body. Kirk shouts out in fear. We're treated to Eleanor's snarling and hissing.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Ah, Mrs Willard. Good of you to join us.
Get her into that chair.
The sound of two people dragging a third across the floor. A table is scraped across the floor. A chair is placed down. Eleanor snarls.
REVEREND ODESSA
Don’t fight us, Eleanor. We’re trying to help.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
You look... different.
Eleanor hisses in response.
REVEREND ODESSA
Oh dear, she's gotten worse.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Nice hair. Not a fan of the smell though. You've not been quite yourself lately, Eleanor. Can you tell me what happened?
Eleanor's groans and hissing continues.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
In English please.
ELEANOR WILLARD
(husky/growl)
Away. Get away.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Did the Creature do this to you? Did it make you attack the cattle?
ELEANOR WILLARD
(husky/gravelly)
Hungry.
KIRK WILLARD
Leave her be! She's not herself.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Someone saw you --
ELEANOR WILLARD
(husky/gravelly)
No.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
You killed the cattle --
ELEANOR WILLARD
(husky/gravelly)
No!
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
and drank their blood.
A table is slammed over. A gust of wind hits out ears. Two fists crash down on the table.
REVEREND ODESSA
It's a bad sign that she's airborne.
KIRK WILLARD
What've you done, Vampire! What have you done to my Eleanor!?
A strange gravelly rasp akin to years of decay rises up from within Eleanor.
ELEANOR WILLARD/THE NARRATOR
(vocal effect)
Silver.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Finally. It speaks.
ELEANOR WILLARD/THE NARRATOR
(vocal effect)
Come to the forest.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Why?
ELEANOR WILLARD/THE NARRATOR
(vocal effect)
I demand an audience.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
You're not going to get one. Leave Darkstead alone. Retreat into the forest.
A evil chuckle from Eleanor.
ELEANOR WILLARD/THE NARRATOR
(vocal effect)
If you do not enter the forest by tomorrow at midnight, Darkstead will be faced with more than just bones.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
You have nothing.
ELEANOR WILLARD/THE NARRATOR
(vocal effect)
Consider my request, Silver. I may even spare your human, but know I make no guarantees. I see him now and he smells... delicious.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
What?
A wind ceases. A crash as Eleanor falls to the floor.
INT. POLICE STATION - DISPATCH LINE
Radio music plays. Electric lines buzz. A typewriter clicks away. Office noise reverberates. A loud beep is compressed.
BERNICE
Dispatch.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
(distorted)
Bernice, is Ray there?
BERNICE
Course not, honey. He clocked off hours ago.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
(distorted)
Did he say where he was going?
BERNICE
Home. I got a call from Cass looking for him.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Jeez, where'd he go?
REVEREND ODESSA
(distorted/on the same line)
Actually, he came to see me.
BERNICE
What's the Reverend doing on the line?
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
(distorted)
I'm with her up at the Willard farm. We've had an unusual interview with Mrs Willard. Kirk's taken her to hospital.
BERNICE
Woman can't catch a break. Speaking of, I need to take one. All I've had is reports of more bones. No word from Ray.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
(distorted)
Call me if Ray shows.
BERNICE
Sure thing.
INT. FARMHOUSE BARN
Interior noise. The distortion dies.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
I've got a bad feeling about this.
REVEREND ODESSA
Me too, Detective. When I spoke to Ray, he was interested in tracking Dillon down I have a strong suspicion that he’s followed him to the perimeter…
EXT. PERIMETER FENCE
Sinister music. The fence starts to rattle. Wooden boards are pulled away. The wind fades into the background. Rain drops slow down.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
This fence sure is unstable. Not that I'm complaining.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
I don't feel so good.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
Oh you won't. We're nice and close now. It's only a matter of time until It arrives.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
What's happening... everything's... dizzy.
Ray's voice feels far away.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
All part of the experience. But don't worry, it'll be all over soon.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
No, no! Get away from me.
We hear two bodies wrestle against each other. One of them staggers and falls.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
There's no use fighting. The Creature's power is immense.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Then why are you, OK?
DILLON THE FARMHAND
That's different. We have a special relationship... And look, Ray! Look who's joined us!
Ray lets out a gasp of pure fear.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
(hypnotic)
Why are It's eyes like that?
DILLON THE FARMHAND
It's old. The Creature's seen a lot. Come now. Let's get you closer.
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Heck... no...
Voices reach through the forest.
CASS MARSHALL
(distant vox effect)
Ray!
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Cass?
DILLON THE FARMHAND
Keep going. Little closer.
The fence creaks in anticipation. The Creature's theme gets louder. Cass and Rosario's voices become nearer.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Ray! Can you hear us?
OFFICER RAY MARSHALL
Ros...Rosario?
DILLON THE FARMHAND
I'll move this panel out of the way.
The creak of wood. Deep breathing. Musical theme echos through the forest. Then from the distance, Silver lets out a primal yell. His fast steps, no longer leisurely...
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
What are you doing, Dillon?
DILLON THE FARMHAND
Huh?
A rip of fabric. The sounds of panels slammed shut.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Let go of him.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
No! No... It's....
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Watch out!
A claw scratches the ground. We hear a body being dragged across the ground. Kicking out. Cass and Rosario come running.
ROSARIO BARDINA
There they are. Silver's holding Ray.
CASS MARSHALL
Oh my god. Who's that with them?
Cass and Rosario approach quickly. Dillon yells in fright.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Be careful. He's heavy. The wood panel knocked Ray out cold. I've got to get to Dillon before It drags him over.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Look out!
Dillon shrieks in pain.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
My leg. It's got my leg.
A rip of bodily parts. Dillon screams.
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
Take my hand.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
No!
DETECTIVE NATHANIEL SILVER
I said take my hand.
DILLON THE FARMHAND
No. Never.
The sound of a body being dragged over leaves. A final scream from Dillon then silence. The panel slots back into place with a thud.
INT. RAY & CASS MARSHALL'S HOUSE
Windchimes. A kettle boils. Cass shuffles her cards. A snore from Ray. A gentle tread puts a coffee cup down.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Ray's gonna be ok.
CASS MARSHALL
God, I hope so. Not sure if he'll ever forgive me.
ROSARIO BARDINA
He will. Eventually.
Shuffling from the deck.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Pretty nasty what happened to Dillon.
CASS MARSHALL
Yeah.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Some might say he got what he deserved.
CASS MARSHALL
But --
ROSARIO BARDINA
But I'm not one of those people. It's crazy to me that he could've saved himself by taking Silver's hand but he didn't.
CASS MARSHALL
Maybe he was scared.
Cass breathes. Reliving a painful memory. The crisp flip of a card is placed on the table.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Can’t be afraid forever.
Rosario finishes the last of her coffee. Gets up and deposits it in the sink.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Better get going. It's way too early and I need to get back to the diner before the first customers turn up.
CASS MARSHALL
Sure. Thanks... for everything.
ROSARIO BARDINA
It was cool to hang out tonight. Witness you practice magic again. It's like having the old Cass back. See you around.
We hear Rosario get up to leave. A pause. Cass stops shuffling the deck. The time to be honest is now.
CASS MARSHALL
(to herself)
Like the old Cass...
EXT. RAY & CASS MARSHALL'S HOUSE
The weather is calm. Only the distant sounds of nature and a breeze can be heard. We hear a car start up. It begins to pull away. Gravel crunches underfoot. Then running. A banging of a fist on metal. The engine dies.
ROSARIO BARDINA
What are you doing! I almost ran you over.
CASS MARSHALL
I have to tell you something.
Rosario gets out of the car.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Must be serious.
Cass braces herself.
CASS MARSHALL
I... it's my fault.
ROSARIO BARDINA
It really isn't. Dillon was crazy.
CASS MARSHALL(talking over her)
Stop stop….
I'm not talking about Dillon, I’m talking about your parents.
ROSARIO BARDINA
What?
CASS MARSHALL
The night they died. I... I saw it. I was there.
Rosario is completely blindsided.
ROSARIO BARDINA
What are you saying?
CASS MARSHALL
The night it happened, I was walking home along the path by the fence and I heard noises. Instead of turning away, I decided to get closer. It was your Mom and Dad. They were fighting.
A pause.
CASS MARSHALL
You remember how you said your Mom was acting strange just before she disappeared. It was because the Creature was controlling her.
ROSARIO BARDINA
(complete denial)
No, no way.
CASS MARSHALL
I'm sorry but it's true.
ROSARIO BARDINA
How could you possibly know?
Cass braces herself for the worst part.
CASS MARSHALL
Because I saw it in her face. Saw her backing nearer to the edge... so close the Creature... and I
The breeze picks up. A distant clap of thunder.
CASS MARSHALL
I was trying to help.
ROSARIO BARDINA
How?
CASS MARSHALL
I cast a spell on her.
ROSARIO BARDINA
You did what?
CASS MARSHALL
It went wrong. Instead of calming down, she ran at the fence. Your Dad tried to stop her but he was pulled over too... trying to get her back.
A pause.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Like Dillon.
Cass's voice is barely audible.
CASS MARSHALL
It wasn't like that.
ROSARIO BARDINA
And then what? What did you do to "help" next. You know, other than push my parents into the jaws of the thing that's terrorised our town for years.
CASS MARSHALL
I froze. And then I ran. I couldn't live with the shame so I left.
Rosario goes silent. Her anger palpable. We hear her walk back to the car. Then stop. She returns to Cass. Punches the bonnet with her fists.
ROSARIO BARDINA
I can't believe you didn't tell me. All these years you've lied. Hidden away. Left me to deal with that night on my own when you had the answers.
CASS MARSHALL
I'm a terrible person.
ROSARIO BARDINA
All the times I had you in my diner. Listened to you. Consoled you. Confided in you. All this time, you've been laughing at me. Stupid Rosario.
CASS MARSHALL
No, no! I'm sorry. I'm so so sorry. I'm going to make this up to you. Put things right.
ROSARIO BARDINA
Stay away from me.
Rosario stomps towards the car. The door slams shut. The engine revs. We hear a sobbing Cass jump out of the way as Rosario speeds off into the early morning light.
INT. NARRATOR'S FINAL WORD
A clock ticks loudly. A rocking chair creaks. We hear a person tending a fire.
NARRATOR
A sombre end, don't you think. Poor Rosario. I can't imagine how upset she must be to experience a betrayal like that.
A teacup is placed on a saucer.
NARRATOR
It's been a privilege to share this story with you, dear listener. I hope you will do me the honour of coming back one last time...
END OF EPISODE 7
