oldmankent
05-29-2006, 01:09 AM
Season 6: Episode 3: “Shaman”
“Previously on Smallville”
Fast edit through several scenes from the Season 6 Episode 2 (“Subterfuge”).
Close-up of Lex. He is speaking to himself.
Lex: “You’re wrong dad. It IS about Clark. It’s always been about Clark.”
**********
Close-up of Clark.
Clark: “Forgiving is the easy part. It’s the Forgetting that’s the hard part.”
**********
Clark: “I need someone to talk with. I need…a…a father.”
**********
Lex: “So this is about Clark?”
Lana says in an exasperated voice.
Lana: “No, it’s not about Clark! It’s about me! I just need some time.”
**********
Lois: “You’re being hailed as the only politician skilled enough to get to the bottom of things. The Daily Planet ran an editorial this morning saying you’re the only one honest enough to get to the truth.”
**********
Clark: “Lex, you may have all the money in world and all the power that comes with it. You may even have Lana. But there is one thing you’ll never have.”
Lex: ‘Oh really. What’s that?”
Clark: “Dignity.”
**********
Lois: “I may be a muffin peddling college dropout but even I know what an antique Colt 45 looks like.”
As she puts the coal back in the case she looks at her hands.
Lois: “Lex, you’ve made me dirty my hands.”
**********
Lana: “Clark, take me to your loft.”
Clark has a concerned look on his face.
Lana: “Please.”
**********
Opening
The opening shot is an aerial view of the state capital of Kansas. The camera goes over the city and then focuses on the capital building. We are now inside the building in a large conference room where the investigative hearings on the blackout are being held. Seated at a conference table with a microphone in front of him is Lex Luthor. He is impeccably attired in a dark business suit, crisp white collared shirt, and a conservative dark blue tie. Seated to his right is his lawyer who is there to advise him on what he should and should not answer. Seated behind him and to his left is Lana Lang. She is dressed conservatively in a dark lavender dress.
At the committee table are a dozen state senators. They are mostly middle aged men and women. At the center of the table is Martha Kent. To her right is Senator Brian Smellman. Smellman, like Luthor is impeccably dressed in a dark gray three piece suit as befitting an elderly gentleman. His hair is bushy and gray. On Martha Kent’s right is Senator Matthew Kane. Kane is in his early fifties. His posture is ramrod straight and his hair is closely cut as someone who has had a career in the military.
Senator Smellman is questioning Luthor.
Smellman: “So what you’re saying Mr. Luthor is that not only is our nation facing a threat but our entire planet is facing a threat that is so monumental that only a response on a global scale will be sufficient enough to ensure our security.”
Lex: “That would be an accurate representation of the case I am trying to make.”
Smellman: “I have no more questions, Madam Chairman.”
Martha turns to her right.
Martha: “Senator Kane?”
Kane leans forward and begins to speak.
Kane: “Mr. Luthor, please be patient with me if I don’t fully understand your contention that little green men are trying to take over our computer systems.”
There is a slight laughter in the room. Martha pounds the desk with her gavel.
Martha: “Ladies and gentleman, there will be silence or I will close this hearing to the public.”
Kane: “My fault Madam Chairman, my fault. When I think of a black hole and I see an abandoned strip mine. Please excuse my ignorance on these matters. Now Mr. Luthor, correct me if I’m wrong but what you are asking this committee to believe is that the blackout was caused my an extraterrestrial assault by beings who have been with us since the first meteor shower hit over a decade ago and that Smallville has become the new mythological Area 51? In addition you have absolutely no evidence of this other than what’s printed in the tabloids. Am I seeing this correctly?”
Spellman interrupts the questions.
Spellman: “Senator Kane there is no reason to treat such a distinguished member of our community is such a disrespectful manner.”
Kane and Spellman start arguing with each other. Martha looks around the room. She sees Lana sitting behind Lex. Martha looks right at Lana. Lana meets Martha’s glance and then lowers her eyes as if she feels ashamed. Spellman is continuing his arguing while Kane writes on a note pad and passes a folded piece of paper to Martha. Martha unfolds the paper and reads it. The view is now of what is written on the note.
“Martha
We need to talk.
Matt”
**********
OPENING CREDITS
**********
Act 1: Scene 1
Lana is in her dormitory room. She is finishing packing an overnight case. Her window is open. There is a candle in the window. The candle is lit. Lana is rushing to finish packing and to get out of the room. She is finally packed and she walks to her door to open it and leave. She opens the door and Lex Luthor is at the door looking like he is just about to knock.
Lana: “Lex!”
Lex is just as surprised as Lana. He walks in the room. He sees the candle in the window. He sees that Lana is carrying a bag.
Lex: “I wanted to tell you how much I appreciated you being there at the hearings. But you left before I had a chance to. I thought that maybe we could go out to dinner.”
Lana: “Oh Lex. You don’t have to thank me. I’m here to support you. I’m here to be your friend.”
Of everything that Lana has just said Lex takes particular notice of the word ‘friend’.
Lex: “Where are you going?”
Lana has to scramble to come up with an answer.
Lana: “I’m going away with some friends for the weekend.”
Lex: “What are you doing?”
Lana has to think for a moment before she answers.
Lana: “We’re going hiking.”
Lex: “You’re leaving at night to go hiking? Besides, where are your backpack and your hiking boots?”
Once again it is obvious that Lana is scrambling to come up with an answer.
Lana: “I’m staying at a friend’s house overnight. We’re getting an early start in the morning. They have everything I’ll need.”
Lex is now looking at Lana straight in her eyes. He is concentrating his gaze.
Lex: “Are you sure I can’t convince you to have a bite to eat with me?”
Lana is beginning to feel uncomfortable. She is beginning to waver as Lex maintains his concentrated gaze.
Chloe comes up behind Lex.
Chloe: “Hey, what’s going on?”
Chloe’s interruption breaks Lex’s concentration. Lana regains control of her thoughts.
Lex: “I thought I could convince Lana to go to dinner with me but it seems that she has plans for the weekend.”
Chloe looks at Lana who is clearly uncomfortable. She sees the bag she is carrying and then she sees the candle in the window.
Lana: “Yeah, I’m going hiking with some friends for the weekend.”
Chloe sees that Lana needs some help and she covers for her.
Chloe: “Yeah, that’s right. Your friends are downstairs waiting for you.”
Lana is now smiling she moves past Chloe and Lex.
Lana: “Well, I’ll see you.”
Lana looks at Lex.
Lana: “I’ll call you on Monday. Okay?”
Lex just nods his head.
Lex: “Sure.”
Lana leaves. Chloe and Lex are left with each other. Once again, Lex looks at the burning candle in the window.
Lex: “Chloe, help me understand the female mind.”
Chloe is left with an uncomfortable and puzzled look on her face.
**********
Act 1: Scene 2
The scene takes place in Martha’s Kent’s office. Martha is meeting with Senator Kane.
Kane: Martha, what the hell is going on?
Matha: “Matt, I don’t understand what you mean.”
Kane: “Martha, we’ve been friends a long time. I was one of the ushers at your wedding. But I’m appalled at the way you’re running these hearings.”
Martha: “Matt, exactly what are you having a problem with?”
Kane: “Martha, you’re letting Luthor and Smellman make their case about an alien threat without even a hint of incredulity on your part. The hearings are turning into a circus. “
Martha: “Matt, with all due respect, I’ll run these hearings the way I see fit.”
Kane: “With all due respect, Martha, your silence is thunderous.”
Kane takes a softer tone.
Kane: “Martha, Jonathan and I went to high school together. Both of you are godparents to my first born. Speaking of children how is that boy of yours?”
Martha: “Clark isn’t a boy anymore, Matt. He’s a young man.”
Kane: “Time passes quickly. Martha, is something going on? Does Luthor have something on you?
Martha also takes a softer approach.
Martha: “Matt, there’s nothing going on. I just have my own way of doing things.”
Kane seems satisfied by her answer. He gets up to leave. He walks to the door and then turns around.
Kane: “I hope so, Martha, because I’m not backing off.”
***********
Act 1: Scene 3
The camera sweeps over the ocean. The ocean is a deep blue as is characteristic of the Pacific Ocean. The view becomes focused on a tropical island. The view moves in as we see a lagoon with water flowing over rocks and going into the lagoon. We are seeing a lush tropical paradise with the clear water contrasted with the bright green flora. There are two people sitting on the rocks. As the camera gets closer we see that the people are Lana and Clark. They leave the rocks and swim into the lagoon. They swim and finally they are together holding one another in the clear water.
Lana: “You know Clark; people who are having a secret love affair usually try to avoid being seen by their friends and neighbors by meeting in a different town or a different county. But I’ve never heard of meeting at a place as distant as a small island somewhere near Tahiti.
Clark: Is that what we’re having - a secret love affair?"
Lana has her arms around Clark. She has one of her hands behind his head. They are looking at each other’s eyes.
Lana: “Well, it’s definitely a secret. And it certainly is love. But no, it’s not an affair. I don’t know what it is. I don’t think there’s a word for what you and I have together."
Clark kisses Lana intensely.
As they part, Lana places her head by Clark’s shoulder.
Lana: “Clark, every time I leave you and I’m with Lex, I feel like a little part of me has died.”
Clark: “Lana, I don’t know how long I can continue to do this.”
Lana pulls back. She is unsure of what Clark is trying to say.
Clark: “Lana, I don’t know how long I can continue to stay apart from you. It’s just too painful.”
Any space between the two is quickly closed as the two meet in a passionate and intense kiss.
End of Act 1
**********
Act 2: Scene 1
The scene is in Martha Kent’s office. She is sitting at her desk when there is a knock on her door.
Martha: “Come in.”
Lionel Luthor enters her office.
Lionel: “You’re not going home for the weekend?”
Martha: “No. There’s too much to do for the hearings. I’ll be staying at my apartment here in Topeka.
Lionel takes a seat across from her desk.
Lionel: “These hearings must be taking a toll on you.’
Martha: “It’s not easy Lionel. How do I conduct these hearings without revealing almost twenty years of secrets? I really don’t know what to do. Thank God for Matt Kane. If it wasn’t for him Lex would be steamrolling through these hearings.”
Lionel: “Maybe we could bring in some reinforcements.”
Martha: “What do you mean?”
Lionel smiles at Martha.
Lionel: “I have an idea.”
**********
Act 2: Scene 2
The scene takes place on the beach on the island. Clark and Lana are walking hand in hand. They are just enjoying being in the moment. As they walk they see a cliff about half a mile away. The cliff rises up about 200 feet.
Lana: “I bet there’s a spectacular view from up there.”
Clark: “Let’s find out.”
He picks Lana up. She puts her arms around his neck. Clark slowly lifts off the ground and makes his way to the cliff. Not to fast. Not to slow. It’s almost like an amusement park ride that takes a tour above the beach. Lana can’t help but smile as she is being carried through the air.
They land at the back of the cliff. There are native children playing at the cliff. They do not see Clark and Lana because they are facing the opposite direction towards the ocean. The children are trying to fly a home made kite off the cliff. They are mostly in the 10 to 12 year old range with one little boy who is around five years old trying to get in on the action. He is having a difficult time because he is so much smaller than the other boys.
Lana: “Clark, something bad is going to happen. Those boys are too close to the edge of the cliff.”
Just as she says it the little boy, trying to grab at the string of the kite, extends too far and loses his footing and falls off of the edge of the cliff. He is hanging on the edge. The other boys drop everything and try to pull him back up but they can’t reach him.
Lana: “Clark, we’ve got to do something.”
Again, just as she says it the little boy loses his grip and begins to fall.
Clark not waiting another fraction of a second launches into the air. He shoots over the edge of the cliff and goes below the boy. The view is of the boy falling and screaming with his back to the beach below. Clark comes up below him and scoops him up before he hits the ground and flies him back up to the other boys.
Clark sets the boy down. He turns around and looks at Clark. Lana runs to Clark’s side. The other boys just stand in silence staring at Clark and Lana. Clark slowly raises his hand in a gesture of greeting.
Clark: “Hi.”
As soon as the boys hear his voice they all turn and run away.
Clark and Lana turn and face each other.
Clark: “I think we should go home…now.
**********
Act 2: Scene 3
The scene is at the Daily Planet. Chloe Sullivan is working at her desk. She is totally concentrating on what she is doing, unaware of all of the activity around her. A voice interrupts her concentration.
Lionel: “Good afternoon, Ms. Sullivan.”
Chloe looks up and sees Lionel Luthor in front of her.
Chloe: “We’ll should I answer with ‘Good afternoon, Mr. Luthor’ or ‘Good afternoon, Mr. Jor-El’”.
Lionel has an amused look on his face.
Lionel: “The former, Ms. Sullivan.”
Chloe: “What can I do for you, Mr. Luthor?”
Lionel takes a seat near Chloe’s desk.
Lionel: “Lex is having a mesmerizing effect at the committee hearings. Something needs to be done.”
Chloe: “I’ve never seen anything like it. When he testifies he says nothing but he has everyone nodding their heads in agreement, everyone except Senator Kane.”
Lionel: “No one can figure out exactly what it is that Lex is proposing. I submit to you Ms. Sullivan that what this hearing needs is some good investigative reporting. Do you know anyone who would be up to task?”
A large smile comes over Chloe’s face.
**********
Act 2: Scene 4
The scene takes place back at the lagoon where we first saw Lana and Clark. She is finishing packing her bag.
Clark: “Are you almost ready to go?”
Lana faces Clark. She is about to say ‘yes’ when she sees something behind Clark.
Lana: “Clark, we’ve got company.”
Clark turns around and Lana comes forward by his side. From his point of view we see a large number of natives, over a hundred, walking up the beach towards.
Clark: “Now what do we do?”
Lana looks at him and shrugs her shoulders.
The group closes in on them. There is a large man who is carrying the little boy that Clark rescued. The boy says something in the man’s ears and points towards Clark and Lana. The group stops walking but the man and the boy along with another, shorter man come forward.
The shorter man approaches them and begins to speak in his native language. Neither Clark nor Lana can understand what he is saying and they indicate with their hands that they don’t understand him.
He then starts speaking in another language.
Lana: “He’s speaking French.’
Lana starts speaking to him in French. The shorter man smiles and Lana smiles in return. He turns back to the group and says something in their native language. The group smiles and is put at ease.
Lana turns to Clark.
Lana: “He is sort of a representative of their village. He was taught to speak French and some English by some missionaries who have since left the island. He says that we probably would not be able to pronounce his native name but the missionaries called him ‘Charles’.”
The shorter man approaches Clark and begins to speak.
Charles: “You are the man who saved our leader’s son?”
Clark: “I was just in the right place at the right time.”
Charles: “The boys have told us that you fly through the air.”
Clark looks at Lana and then answers.
Clark: “Well boys sometimes make up stories.”
Charles: “Yes. Boys do make up stories. But how is it that you are on this island? You have no boat and there is no airstrip.”
Clark doesn’t know what to say. Lana gets closer to him and intertwines her arm with his.
Charles turns to the leader and says something. The leader nods his head and smiles at Clark and Lana. Charles begins to speak once again.
“We believe that when someone has a gift, he should not hide it. Nor should he be ashamed of it.”
The leader walks up to Clark and puts his son down. He then embraces Clark. Clark is surprised at the gesture and slowly returns the embrace. The leader then embraces Lana. Everyone in the group is now very animated and talkative. The leader says something to Charles. Charles then speaks to Clark and Lana.
Charles: “We would be forever grateful if you would come to a feast that our village has prepared in your honor.”
Clark looks at Lana and then looks back at the leader. The leader has a pleading but hopeful expression on his face. Clark looks at Lana and she nods.
Clark: “It is we who would be honored.”
End of Act 2
**********
Act 3: Scene 1
The scene takes place at the Daily Planet. One of the editors is speaking to Chloe.
Editor: “So you need a good technical guy to plow through all of the garbage that Luthor is presenting to the committee.”
Chloe: “Yeah. I hate to have to say it but I need a geek.”
Editor: “I’ve got just the guy you’re looking for. Jimmy on the 3rd floor.”
Chloe gives him a look.
Editor: “Don’t worry. He’s not too much of a geek.”
**********
Act 3: Scene 2
The scene is on the 3rd floor of the Daily Planet. Chloe and the editor enter a room.
Editor: “Chloe Sullivan, meet Jimmy Olsen.”
Jimmy Olsen turns around. He is slightly built, just under six feet tall. He has what one would call a baby face. For a twenty year old, he looks like just started shaving recently. Both Jimmy and Chloe recognize each other.
Chloe: “Jimmy!”
Jimmy: “Chloe!”
At the sight of Jimmy, Chloe turns right around and walks back through the door. She is clearly upset at seeing Olsen. Olsen runs past the editor who has a perplexed look on his face. He chasing after Chloe.
Jimmy: “Chloe stop!”
Chloe turns around and faces him.
Chloe: “It’s been five years Jimmy. Five years and you never called me.”
Jimmy: “Well you were the one who had a thing for that other guy. What’s his name? Cliff?”
Chloe: “Not Cliff, Clark.”
Jimmy: “Yeah Clark. And he had a thing for Linda.
Chloe: “Not Linda, Lana.”
Jimmy: “Yeah Lana. Whatever? Anyway, who are you to be so high and mighty?”
Chloe turns around and starts to walk away again.
Jimmy: “Anyway, you were one who left. You didn’t even have the decency to say goodbye.”
Chloe stops in her tracks and turns around again to face Jimmy.
Chloe: “Didn’t you cause me enough heartache?”
Jimmy: “You don’t have a monopoly on heartache. You weren’t the only one who got hurt.”
Chloe has had a lifetime of heartache. Now, for the first time in her life, she has come to the realization that she has caused someone else heartache.
She approaches Jimmy and softens her tone.
Chloe: “Would you like to go for a cup of coffee?”
Jimmy: “Ms. Sullivan, there is nothing I would rather do right now than have a cup of coffee with you.”
**********
Act 3: Scene 3
The scene is on the island at the village. It is night time. There is a large celebration. Clark and Lana are seated as the guests of honor in the center of the village. There is much music, dancing and food. Everyone is coming to see Clark and Lana and embracing and greeting them in the native language.
There are many young couples who are doing a native dance. Something that looks like the Hawaiian hula. The group separates into young men and young women. Clark and Lana are prodded to go up and join them. Both are hesitant but eventually join the dance. Lana picks up the movements quickly. She is very graceful. Clark is having a difficult time. No matter how many people try to help him his movements are awkward. The more help he receives the more the disparity between his routine and Lana’s. The villagers look at him, not understanding how someone could be so bumbling. Finally he just stops - mostly because he cannot take his eyes of Lana. Her movements have gone from graceful to sensual. Now the villagers are noticing not the dancing but the eye contact between Clark and Lana. The villagers, who have very little inhibitions, think it is the most natural thing in the world for a young man and a young woman to be in love.
Finally, Clark and Lana sit down. There is an elderly woman sitting next to Charles. She says something in his ear.
Charles: “My grandmother says you may not dance well together but you will have beautiful children together.”
Clark begins to turn red and tries to rectify the grandmother’s opinion.
Clark: “But we’re not married.”
Charles looks surprised at Clarks words. He says something to his grandmother. She looks at Clark. She is trying to hold back but soon bursts out in laughter. She says something out loud to the crowd. Everyone joins in the laughter.
Clark: “What did I say?”
He is about to say something else when Lana places her hand on his arm.
Lana: “Clark, there’s a time to talk and there is a time not to talk. Right now is a good time for you not to talk.”
Clark, somewhat exasperated resigns himself to the situation.
A group of men bring out a very old woman. She is in a seat that the men are carrying. It is obvious that everyone is treating her with great respect. They place her next to Clark and Lana. She looks at them and smiles. Charles begins to explain what is happening.
Charles: “This is our shaman.”
Lana: “Shaman?”
Charles: “Yes. In certain cultures, a shaman is like a witch doctor. For us she is a prophet. She has a gift.”
The shaman waves her hand prodding Charles to come to her. She whispers something in his ear. He comes back to Clark and Lana. The entire group of villagers gather around the shaman.
Charles: “The shaman would like you to come to her. She wants to touch you.”
Again, both Clark and Lana are hesitant but they comply. They get up and stand in front of the shaman. She has kind face. She takes both their hands and places them one on top of the other, holding them in both of her hands. Then she closes her eyes. The entire village becomes silent as she does this.
Then she opens her eyes and releases their hands. Charles comes to her and she begins speaking. He starts to translate as she speaks.
Charles: “The shaman says that our children and our children’s children will be told tales of the both of you.”
He says to both Clark and Lana,
Charles: “The shaman says that you are both of one heart.”
He says to Clark.
Charles: “They will be told tales of your deeds, tales of your merciful justice and tales of your courage.”
He then says to Lana.
Charles: “They will be told tales of your love. Your love for him and the love you have for each other.”
Lana smiles at what she hears. She looks at Clark as she is listening.
The elderly woman continues to speak while looking at Lana.
Charles: “They will be told tales of the sacrifice that you must make.”
Both Lana and Clark are disturbed at this last comment. The shaman stops speaking and Charles has one last translation to make.
Charles: “Your hearts will both bear great burdens for the path that both of you must take will be a lonely one.”
**********
Act 3: Scene 4
The scene takes place at the Daily Planet. Jimmy and Chloe are in an office together. They are reviewing video tape of the hearings.
Chloe: “What do you think?”
Jimmy: “I don’t get it. It’s like I’m watching two different hearings. In the morning, Luthor testifies and no one believes a word he is saying. They take a break. Luthor visits each senator individually and then at the next session, everyone is thinks what he’s proposing is the greatest thing since sliced bread. Everyone except Senator Kane.
Chloe: “What is Luthor proposing?”
Jimmy: “That’s the crazy thing. No one can figure out the details. At a high level he’s basically saying ‘let me run your computer and communications systems and trust me.’”
Chloe: “What makes Kane immune?”
Jimmy: “Probably because he’s one of the toughest people you’ll ever meet.”
Jimmy brings up data on Kane on his computer.
Jimmy: “Former Lieutenant Colonel Matthew Kane graduated high school with your buddy, Cliff’s father.”
Chloe: “Clark.”
Jimmy: “Yeah, Clark. Kane went to West Point. Joined the 82nd Airborne Division. Fought in the first Gulf War. He was captured by the Republican Guard and tortured. He took out his captors and escaped. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal. He retired from active duty. He made a fortune on the lecture circuit. He serves in the state senate for nothing. He says it’s his way of giving back. If you look up the word “tough’ in the dictionary, you’ll see Kane’s picture.”
Chloe: “Luthor has his people going all over the country with his proposal. Next week Luthor is scheduled to meet with the Secretary General of the United Nations.”
Jimmy: “Well right now the only guy standing in his way is Matthew Kane.”
**********
Act 3: Scene 5
The scene is at the island. The celebration is over and Clark and Lana are leaving the village. Once again the villagers gather around them and Charles comes forward.
Charles: “We have one last gift for you. Please follow me.”
Clark and Lana look at each other, wondering what the gift could possibly be. They follow Charles and the rest of the villagers who leads them to a hut. The entrance of the hut has a cloth draped over it. Out of the entrance of the hut comes the leader of the village. He smiles at Clark and Lana and motions for them to come inside. They go inside the hut. The inside of the hut is bathed in a soft light from a fire in the center on the floor. There is food and something to drink. But what Clark and Lana notice is that a sleeping area has been made for them on the floor. The area appears comfortable with native made pillows and blankets. The leader points out the area to them and he struggles to pronounce in English,
Leader: “For you.”
The leader leaves and Clark and Lana are alone. Clark seems to be uncomfortable and he goes through the entrance outside. Outside are all of the villagers. They seem concerned that he has come out. Charles comes forward.
Charles: “Our gift, it is not pleasing to you?”
Clark is a little bit embarrassed.
Clark: “It’s very pleasing. It’s wonderful but…”
Charles interrupts him.
Charles: “Then please.”
And he prompts Clark to go back inside. He sees that Lana has made herself comfortable in the sleeping area.
Clark: “I guess it would be rude if we didn’t stay the night.”
Lana looks at him.
Lana: “Clark, come here.”
Clark goes and kneels down by her side.
Lana: “I can’t forget what that woman said.”
Clark: “It’s just a show, Lana. No one controls our destiny but us.”
Lana sits up and their eyes meet. She put her arms around him.
Lana: “Clark, make me forget. Make me forget what she said.”
They begin a slow soft kiss. Gradually, they become closer and the kiss becomes more passionate. Lana separates herself from Clark and lies down on the bedding. She places her hand around his shoulders and pulls Clark down with her. The kiss continues.
The camera backs up until it is out of the hut and we see that it is in the center of the village with dozens of huts surrounding it. There is light coming out of each of the huts. Gradually, one by one the huts become darkened until only Clark and Lana’s hut in the center is the only one lit. Finally, their light goes out.
End of Act 3
**********
Act 4: Scene 1
The scene takes place in a conference room at the state capital. Lex and his assistants are sitting and waiting. Matthew Kane comes in the room. Lex stands up and extends his hand. Kane ignores the gesture.
Kane: “Well, I guess it’s now my turn.”
Lex: “I don’t understand, Senator.”
Kane: “Yes you do. It’s now my turn to see the light.”
They both sit down.
Lex: “Senator, I thought we could have a talk and I could explain to you the benefits of my proposal. LuthorCorp is offering the state the best in security.”
Kane: “You don’t want security. You want control. I’m not a kid, Luthor. Don’t you dare treat me like one. I’m going to say to you the same thing I told the Iraqi Republican Guard while he was running electric shocks through me. What you want. It’s not going to happen. Not on my watch!”
Kane gets up and leaves the room.
Lex is left sitting with a frustrated look on his face. He murmurs under his breath.
“Is there no one to rid me of this meddlesome priest?”
His assistant looks at Luthor not understanding what he has just heard. Luthor looks at his assistant and concentrates his gaze.
Lex: “I’m sorry. I’m just thinking out loud. In England in the 13th century, King Henry II butted heads with the Archbishop of Canterbury, Thomas Becket. One night while drunk, Henry said to his men at arms, ‘Will no one rid me of this meddlesome priest?” His soldiers then found Becket and put him to the sword. Henry vowed to search for Becket’s killers. He never realized that he had given the order. This was the 13th century version of plausible deniability. Do you understand?”
The assistant is locked into Lex’s gaze.
Assistant: “Yes, Mr. Luthor. I understand”
Lex smiles at the guard.
Lex: “Good.”
**********
Act 4: Scene 2
The scene takes place on the island. It is morning. All of the villagers are at the beach with Lana and Clark. The shaman is with them. Both Clark and Lana embrace her. They then turn to Charles.
Clark: “I want you to know that I’ve been very happy here.”
Clark and Charles embrace. It is now Lana’s turn.
Lana: “I will never forget what you have done for us.”
Then Lana embraces Charles. Finally he sends them off.
Charles: “May helping hands and warms hearts always greet you, wherever you may go.”
Clark then picks up Lana and they turn to into the direction of the sun that is rising over the ocean. They slowly lift off and begin to head towards the horizon.
The view then switches to an aerial shot. We see the villagers below on the beach. They are all looking up and they get farther away. The children are waving. The adults are shielding their eyes from the glare of the sun with their hands.
**********
Act 4: Scene 3
The scene takes place at the state capital. It is now Monday morning. The hearings are to begin again. People are entering the room. Chloe is standing with Jimmy as Clark walks to them.
Chloe: “Clark, this is Jimmy Olsen. Jimmy, this Clark Kent.”
Jimmy and Clark shake hands. Clark is towering over Jimmy.
The three of are making some small talk as Lex walks by them into the hearing room. Lana is walking with him. Chloe whispers to Jimmy.
Chloe: “That’s Lana.”
Jimmy is surprised, considering what he had heard about Clark and Lana.
As Lana passes them she and Clark lock eyes. No one notices except Jimmy. He is now even more confused.
The three enter the hearing room. Chloe is sitting between Jimmy and Clark. Jimmy leans over and whispers to Chloe.
Jimmy: “Clark’s a big guy.”
Chloe responds without looking at Jimmy.
Chloe: “I wouldn’t know.”
Jimmy thinks for a second about what he has just heard her say.
Jimmy: “What?”
Chloe smiles just as Martha Kent and the other senators are entering the hearing room. Senator Kane’s seat is empty. Martha is just about to pound the gavel to open the proceedings when an assistant walks through the entrance to the room up to the table and hands Martha a slip of paper. She unfolds it and reads it. Her faces drops. She waits a few seconds and then pounds the gavel.
Martha: “Ladies and gentlemen, I have some terrible news.”
There is silence in the room.
Martha: “Last night Senator Kane suffered a heart attack. I’m sorry to tell you that Senator Kane…is dead.”
There is commotion in the room. The members of the press run out of the room to make their phone calls.
The camera does a shot closing in on Martha. Then it switches to Jimmy. Then it switches to Chloe. Then it switches to Lana. She turns and looks at Clark. The camera closes in on Clark, who is looking at Lana.
The final shot is a close-up of Lex. He is sitting still, unemotional but with a hint of satisfaction on his face.
Fade to black
**********
“Previously on Smallville”
Fast edit through several scenes from the Season 6 Episode 2 (“Subterfuge”).
Close-up of Lex. He is speaking to himself.
Lex: “You’re wrong dad. It IS about Clark. It’s always been about Clark.”
**********
Close-up of Clark.
Clark: “Forgiving is the easy part. It’s the Forgetting that’s the hard part.”
**********
Clark: “I need someone to talk with. I need…a…a father.”
**********
Lex: “So this is about Clark?”
Lana says in an exasperated voice.
Lana: “No, it’s not about Clark! It’s about me! I just need some time.”
**********
Lois: “You’re being hailed as the only politician skilled enough to get to the bottom of things. The Daily Planet ran an editorial this morning saying you’re the only one honest enough to get to the truth.”
**********
Clark: “Lex, you may have all the money in world and all the power that comes with it. You may even have Lana. But there is one thing you’ll never have.”
Lex: ‘Oh really. What’s that?”
Clark: “Dignity.”
**********
Lois: “I may be a muffin peddling college dropout but even I know what an antique Colt 45 looks like.”
As she puts the coal back in the case she looks at her hands.
Lois: “Lex, you’ve made me dirty my hands.”
**********
Lana: “Clark, take me to your loft.”
Clark has a concerned look on his face.
Lana: “Please.”
**********
Opening
The opening shot is an aerial view of the state capital of Kansas. The camera goes over the city and then focuses on the capital building. We are now inside the building in a large conference room where the investigative hearings on the blackout are being held. Seated at a conference table with a microphone in front of him is Lex Luthor. He is impeccably attired in a dark business suit, crisp white collared shirt, and a conservative dark blue tie. Seated to his right is his lawyer who is there to advise him on what he should and should not answer. Seated behind him and to his left is Lana Lang. She is dressed conservatively in a dark lavender dress.
At the committee table are a dozen state senators. They are mostly middle aged men and women. At the center of the table is Martha Kent. To her right is Senator Brian Smellman. Smellman, like Luthor is impeccably dressed in a dark gray three piece suit as befitting an elderly gentleman. His hair is bushy and gray. On Martha Kent’s right is Senator Matthew Kane. Kane is in his early fifties. His posture is ramrod straight and his hair is closely cut as someone who has had a career in the military.
Senator Smellman is questioning Luthor.
Smellman: “So what you’re saying Mr. Luthor is that not only is our nation facing a threat but our entire planet is facing a threat that is so monumental that only a response on a global scale will be sufficient enough to ensure our security.”
Lex: “That would be an accurate representation of the case I am trying to make.”
Smellman: “I have no more questions, Madam Chairman.”
Martha turns to her right.
Martha: “Senator Kane?”
Kane leans forward and begins to speak.
Kane: “Mr. Luthor, please be patient with me if I don’t fully understand your contention that little green men are trying to take over our computer systems.”
There is a slight laughter in the room. Martha pounds the desk with her gavel.
Martha: “Ladies and gentleman, there will be silence or I will close this hearing to the public.”
Kane: “My fault Madam Chairman, my fault. When I think of a black hole and I see an abandoned strip mine. Please excuse my ignorance on these matters. Now Mr. Luthor, correct me if I’m wrong but what you are asking this committee to believe is that the blackout was caused my an extraterrestrial assault by beings who have been with us since the first meteor shower hit over a decade ago and that Smallville has become the new mythological Area 51? In addition you have absolutely no evidence of this other than what’s printed in the tabloids. Am I seeing this correctly?”
Spellman interrupts the questions.
Spellman: “Senator Kane there is no reason to treat such a distinguished member of our community is such a disrespectful manner.”
Kane and Spellman start arguing with each other. Martha looks around the room. She sees Lana sitting behind Lex. Martha looks right at Lana. Lana meets Martha’s glance and then lowers her eyes as if she feels ashamed. Spellman is continuing his arguing while Kane writes on a note pad and passes a folded piece of paper to Martha. Martha unfolds the paper and reads it. The view is now of what is written on the note.
“Martha
We need to talk.
Matt”
**********
OPENING CREDITS
**********
Act 1: Scene 1
Lana is in her dormitory room. She is finishing packing an overnight case. Her window is open. There is a candle in the window. The candle is lit. Lana is rushing to finish packing and to get out of the room. She is finally packed and she walks to her door to open it and leave. She opens the door and Lex Luthor is at the door looking like he is just about to knock.
Lana: “Lex!”
Lex is just as surprised as Lana. He walks in the room. He sees the candle in the window. He sees that Lana is carrying a bag.
Lex: “I wanted to tell you how much I appreciated you being there at the hearings. But you left before I had a chance to. I thought that maybe we could go out to dinner.”
Lana: “Oh Lex. You don’t have to thank me. I’m here to support you. I’m here to be your friend.”
Of everything that Lana has just said Lex takes particular notice of the word ‘friend’.
Lex: “Where are you going?”
Lana has to scramble to come up with an answer.
Lana: “I’m going away with some friends for the weekend.”
Lex: “What are you doing?”
Lana has to think for a moment before she answers.
Lana: “We’re going hiking.”
Lex: “You’re leaving at night to go hiking? Besides, where are your backpack and your hiking boots?”
Once again it is obvious that Lana is scrambling to come up with an answer.
Lana: “I’m staying at a friend’s house overnight. We’re getting an early start in the morning. They have everything I’ll need.”
Lex is now looking at Lana straight in her eyes. He is concentrating his gaze.
Lex: “Are you sure I can’t convince you to have a bite to eat with me?”
Lana is beginning to feel uncomfortable. She is beginning to waver as Lex maintains his concentrated gaze.
Chloe comes up behind Lex.
Chloe: “Hey, what’s going on?”
Chloe’s interruption breaks Lex’s concentration. Lana regains control of her thoughts.
Lex: “I thought I could convince Lana to go to dinner with me but it seems that she has plans for the weekend.”
Chloe looks at Lana who is clearly uncomfortable. She sees the bag she is carrying and then she sees the candle in the window.
Lana: “Yeah, I’m going hiking with some friends for the weekend.”
Chloe sees that Lana needs some help and she covers for her.
Chloe: “Yeah, that’s right. Your friends are downstairs waiting for you.”
Lana is now smiling she moves past Chloe and Lex.
Lana: “Well, I’ll see you.”
Lana looks at Lex.
Lana: “I’ll call you on Monday. Okay?”
Lex just nods his head.
Lex: “Sure.”
Lana leaves. Chloe and Lex are left with each other. Once again, Lex looks at the burning candle in the window.
Lex: “Chloe, help me understand the female mind.”
Chloe is left with an uncomfortable and puzzled look on her face.
**********
Act 1: Scene 2
The scene takes place in Martha’s Kent’s office. Martha is meeting with Senator Kane.
Kane: Martha, what the hell is going on?
Matha: “Matt, I don’t understand what you mean.”
Kane: “Martha, we’ve been friends a long time. I was one of the ushers at your wedding. But I’m appalled at the way you’re running these hearings.”
Martha: “Matt, exactly what are you having a problem with?”
Kane: “Martha, you’re letting Luthor and Smellman make their case about an alien threat without even a hint of incredulity on your part. The hearings are turning into a circus. “
Martha: “Matt, with all due respect, I’ll run these hearings the way I see fit.”
Kane: “With all due respect, Martha, your silence is thunderous.”
Kane takes a softer tone.
Kane: “Martha, Jonathan and I went to high school together. Both of you are godparents to my first born. Speaking of children how is that boy of yours?”
Martha: “Clark isn’t a boy anymore, Matt. He’s a young man.”
Kane: “Time passes quickly. Martha, is something going on? Does Luthor have something on you?
Martha also takes a softer approach.
Martha: “Matt, there’s nothing going on. I just have my own way of doing things.”
Kane seems satisfied by her answer. He gets up to leave. He walks to the door and then turns around.
Kane: “I hope so, Martha, because I’m not backing off.”
***********
Act 1: Scene 3
The camera sweeps over the ocean. The ocean is a deep blue as is characteristic of the Pacific Ocean. The view becomes focused on a tropical island. The view moves in as we see a lagoon with water flowing over rocks and going into the lagoon. We are seeing a lush tropical paradise with the clear water contrasted with the bright green flora. There are two people sitting on the rocks. As the camera gets closer we see that the people are Lana and Clark. They leave the rocks and swim into the lagoon. They swim and finally they are together holding one another in the clear water.
Lana: “You know Clark; people who are having a secret love affair usually try to avoid being seen by their friends and neighbors by meeting in a different town or a different county. But I’ve never heard of meeting at a place as distant as a small island somewhere near Tahiti.
Clark: Is that what we’re having - a secret love affair?"
Lana has her arms around Clark. She has one of her hands behind his head. They are looking at each other’s eyes.
Lana: “Well, it’s definitely a secret. And it certainly is love. But no, it’s not an affair. I don’t know what it is. I don’t think there’s a word for what you and I have together."
Clark kisses Lana intensely.
As they part, Lana places her head by Clark’s shoulder.
Lana: “Clark, every time I leave you and I’m with Lex, I feel like a little part of me has died.”
Clark: “Lana, I don’t know how long I can continue to do this.”
Lana pulls back. She is unsure of what Clark is trying to say.
Clark: “Lana, I don’t know how long I can continue to stay apart from you. It’s just too painful.”
Any space between the two is quickly closed as the two meet in a passionate and intense kiss.
End of Act 1
**********
Act 2: Scene 1
The scene is in Martha Kent’s office. She is sitting at her desk when there is a knock on her door.
Martha: “Come in.”
Lionel Luthor enters her office.
Lionel: “You’re not going home for the weekend?”
Martha: “No. There’s too much to do for the hearings. I’ll be staying at my apartment here in Topeka.
Lionel takes a seat across from her desk.
Lionel: “These hearings must be taking a toll on you.’
Martha: “It’s not easy Lionel. How do I conduct these hearings without revealing almost twenty years of secrets? I really don’t know what to do. Thank God for Matt Kane. If it wasn’t for him Lex would be steamrolling through these hearings.”
Lionel: “Maybe we could bring in some reinforcements.”
Martha: “What do you mean?”
Lionel smiles at Martha.
Lionel: “I have an idea.”
**********
Act 2: Scene 2
The scene takes place on the beach on the island. Clark and Lana are walking hand in hand. They are just enjoying being in the moment. As they walk they see a cliff about half a mile away. The cliff rises up about 200 feet.
Lana: “I bet there’s a spectacular view from up there.”
Clark: “Let’s find out.”
He picks Lana up. She puts her arms around his neck. Clark slowly lifts off the ground and makes his way to the cliff. Not to fast. Not to slow. It’s almost like an amusement park ride that takes a tour above the beach. Lana can’t help but smile as she is being carried through the air.
They land at the back of the cliff. There are native children playing at the cliff. They do not see Clark and Lana because they are facing the opposite direction towards the ocean. The children are trying to fly a home made kite off the cliff. They are mostly in the 10 to 12 year old range with one little boy who is around five years old trying to get in on the action. He is having a difficult time because he is so much smaller than the other boys.
Lana: “Clark, something bad is going to happen. Those boys are too close to the edge of the cliff.”
Just as she says it the little boy, trying to grab at the string of the kite, extends too far and loses his footing and falls off of the edge of the cliff. He is hanging on the edge. The other boys drop everything and try to pull him back up but they can’t reach him.
Lana: “Clark, we’ve got to do something.”
Again, just as she says it the little boy loses his grip and begins to fall.
Clark not waiting another fraction of a second launches into the air. He shoots over the edge of the cliff and goes below the boy. The view is of the boy falling and screaming with his back to the beach below. Clark comes up below him and scoops him up before he hits the ground and flies him back up to the other boys.
Clark sets the boy down. He turns around and looks at Clark. Lana runs to Clark’s side. The other boys just stand in silence staring at Clark and Lana. Clark slowly raises his hand in a gesture of greeting.
Clark: “Hi.”
As soon as the boys hear his voice they all turn and run away.
Clark and Lana turn and face each other.
Clark: “I think we should go home…now.
**********
Act 2: Scene 3
The scene is at the Daily Planet. Chloe Sullivan is working at her desk. She is totally concentrating on what she is doing, unaware of all of the activity around her. A voice interrupts her concentration.
Lionel: “Good afternoon, Ms. Sullivan.”
Chloe looks up and sees Lionel Luthor in front of her.
Chloe: “We’ll should I answer with ‘Good afternoon, Mr. Luthor’ or ‘Good afternoon, Mr. Jor-El’”.
Lionel has an amused look on his face.
Lionel: “The former, Ms. Sullivan.”
Chloe: “What can I do for you, Mr. Luthor?”
Lionel takes a seat near Chloe’s desk.
Lionel: “Lex is having a mesmerizing effect at the committee hearings. Something needs to be done.”
Chloe: “I’ve never seen anything like it. When he testifies he says nothing but he has everyone nodding their heads in agreement, everyone except Senator Kane.”
Lionel: “No one can figure out exactly what it is that Lex is proposing. I submit to you Ms. Sullivan that what this hearing needs is some good investigative reporting. Do you know anyone who would be up to task?”
A large smile comes over Chloe’s face.
**********
Act 2: Scene 4
The scene takes place back at the lagoon where we first saw Lana and Clark. She is finishing packing her bag.
Clark: “Are you almost ready to go?”
Lana faces Clark. She is about to say ‘yes’ when she sees something behind Clark.
Lana: “Clark, we’ve got company.”
Clark turns around and Lana comes forward by his side. From his point of view we see a large number of natives, over a hundred, walking up the beach towards.
Clark: “Now what do we do?”
Lana looks at him and shrugs her shoulders.
The group closes in on them. There is a large man who is carrying the little boy that Clark rescued. The boy says something in the man’s ears and points towards Clark and Lana. The group stops walking but the man and the boy along with another, shorter man come forward.
The shorter man approaches them and begins to speak in his native language. Neither Clark nor Lana can understand what he is saying and they indicate with their hands that they don’t understand him.
He then starts speaking in another language.
Lana: “He’s speaking French.’
Lana starts speaking to him in French. The shorter man smiles and Lana smiles in return. He turns back to the group and says something in their native language. The group smiles and is put at ease.
Lana turns to Clark.
Lana: “He is sort of a representative of their village. He was taught to speak French and some English by some missionaries who have since left the island. He says that we probably would not be able to pronounce his native name but the missionaries called him ‘Charles’.”
The shorter man approaches Clark and begins to speak.
Charles: “You are the man who saved our leader’s son?”
Clark: “I was just in the right place at the right time.”
Charles: “The boys have told us that you fly through the air.”
Clark looks at Lana and then answers.
Clark: “Well boys sometimes make up stories.”
Charles: “Yes. Boys do make up stories. But how is it that you are on this island? You have no boat and there is no airstrip.”
Clark doesn’t know what to say. Lana gets closer to him and intertwines her arm with his.
Charles turns to the leader and says something. The leader nods his head and smiles at Clark and Lana. Charles begins to speak once again.
“We believe that when someone has a gift, he should not hide it. Nor should he be ashamed of it.”
The leader walks up to Clark and puts his son down. He then embraces Clark. Clark is surprised at the gesture and slowly returns the embrace. The leader then embraces Lana. Everyone in the group is now very animated and talkative. The leader says something to Charles. Charles then speaks to Clark and Lana.
Charles: “We would be forever grateful if you would come to a feast that our village has prepared in your honor.”
Clark looks at Lana and then looks back at the leader. The leader has a pleading but hopeful expression on his face. Clark looks at Lana and she nods.
Clark: “It is we who would be honored.”
End of Act 2
**********
Act 3: Scene 1
The scene takes place at the Daily Planet. One of the editors is speaking to Chloe.
Editor: “So you need a good technical guy to plow through all of the garbage that Luthor is presenting to the committee.”
Chloe: “Yeah. I hate to have to say it but I need a geek.”
Editor: “I’ve got just the guy you’re looking for. Jimmy on the 3rd floor.”
Chloe gives him a look.
Editor: “Don’t worry. He’s not too much of a geek.”
**********
Act 3: Scene 2
The scene is on the 3rd floor of the Daily Planet. Chloe and the editor enter a room.
Editor: “Chloe Sullivan, meet Jimmy Olsen.”
Jimmy Olsen turns around. He is slightly built, just under six feet tall. He has what one would call a baby face. For a twenty year old, he looks like just started shaving recently. Both Jimmy and Chloe recognize each other.
Chloe: “Jimmy!”
Jimmy: “Chloe!”
At the sight of Jimmy, Chloe turns right around and walks back through the door. She is clearly upset at seeing Olsen. Olsen runs past the editor who has a perplexed look on his face. He chasing after Chloe.
Jimmy: “Chloe stop!”
Chloe turns around and faces him.
Chloe: “It’s been five years Jimmy. Five years and you never called me.”
Jimmy: “Well you were the one who had a thing for that other guy. What’s his name? Cliff?”
Chloe: “Not Cliff, Clark.”
Jimmy: “Yeah Clark. And he had a thing for Linda.
Chloe: “Not Linda, Lana.”
Jimmy: “Yeah Lana. Whatever? Anyway, who are you to be so high and mighty?”
Chloe turns around and starts to walk away again.
Jimmy: “Anyway, you were one who left. You didn’t even have the decency to say goodbye.”
Chloe stops in her tracks and turns around again to face Jimmy.
Chloe: “Didn’t you cause me enough heartache?”
Jimmy: “You don’t have a monopoly on heartache. You weren’t the only one who got hurt.”
Chloe has had a lifetime of heartache. Now, for the first time in her life, she has come to the realization that she has caused someone else heartache.
She approaches Jimmy and softens her tone.
Chloe: “Would you like to go for a cup of coffee?”
Jimmy: “Ms. Sullivan, there is nothing I would rather do right now than have a cup of coffee with you.”
**********
Act 3: Scene 3
The scene is on the island at the village. It is night time. There is a large celebration. Clark and Lana are seated as the guests of honor in the center of the village. There is much music, dancing and food. Everyone is coming to see Clark and Lana and embracing and greeting them in the native language.
There are many young couples who are doing a native dance. Something that looks like the Hawaiian hula. The group separates into young men and young women. Clark and Lana are prodded to go up and join them. Both are hesitant but eventually join the dance. Lana picks up the movements quickly. She is very graceful. Clark is having a difficult time. No matter how many people try to help him his movements are awkward. The more help he receives the more the disparity between his routine and Lana’s. The villagers look at him, not understanding how someone could be so bumbling. Finally he just stops - mostly because he cannot take his eyes of Lana. Her movements have gone from graceful to sensual. Now the villagers are noticing not the dancing but the eye contact between Clark and Lana. The villagers, who have very little inhibitions, think it is the most natural thing in the world for a young man and a young woman to be in love.
Finally, Clark and Lana sit down. There is an elderly woman sitting next to Charles. She says something in his ear.
Charles: “My grandmother says you may not dance well together but you will have beautiful children together.”
Clark begins to turn red and tries to rectify the grandmother’s opinion.
Clark: “But we’re not married.”
Charles looks surprised at Clarks words. He says something to his grandmother. She looks at Clark. She is trying to hold back but soon bursts out in laughter. She says something out loud to the crowd. Everyone joins in the laughter.
Clark: “What did I say?”
He is about to say something else when Lana places her hand on his arm.
Lana: “Clark, there’s a time to talk and there is a time not to talk. Right now is a good time for you not to talk.”
Clark, somewhat exasperated resigns himself to the situation.
A group of men bring out a very old woman. She is in a seat that the men are carrying. It is obvious that everyone is treating her with great respect. They place her next to Clark and Lana. She looks at them and smiles. Charles begins to explain what is happening.
Charles: “This is our shaman.”
Lana: “Shaman?”
Charles: “Yes. In certain cultures, a shaman is like a witch doctor. For us she is a prophet. She has a gift.”
The shaman waves her hand prodding Charles to come to her. She whispers something in his ear. He comes back to Clark and Lana. The entire group of villagers gather around the shaman.
Charles: “The shaman would like you to come to her. She wants to touch you.”
Again, both Clark and Lana are hesitant but they comply. They get up and stand in front of the shaman. She has kind face. She takes both their hands and places them one on top of the other, holding them in both of her hands. Then she closes her eyes. The entire village becomes silent as she does this.
Then she opens her eyes and releases their hands. Charles comes to her and she begins speaking. He starts to translate as she speaks.
Charles: “The shaman says that our children and our children’s children will be told tales of the both of you.”
He says to both Clark and Lana,
Charles: “The shaman says that you are both of one heart.”
He says to Clark.
Charles: “They will be told tales of your deeds, tales of your merciful justice and tales of your courage.”
He then says to Lana.
Charles: “They will be told tales of your love. Your love for him and the love you have for each other.”
Lana smiles at what she hears. She looks at Clark as she is listening.
The elderly woman continues to speak while looking at Lana.
Charles: “They will be told tales of the sacrifice that you must make.”
Both Lana and Clark are disturbed at this last comment. The shaman stops speaking and Charles has one last translation to make.
Charles: “Your hearts will both bear great burdens for the path that both of you must take will be a lonely one.”
**********
Act 3: Scene 4
The scene takes place at the Daily Planet. Jimmy and Chloe are in an office together. They are reviewing video tape of the hearings.
Chloe: “What do you think?”
Jimmy: “I don’t get it. It’s like I’m watching two different hearings. In the morning, Luthor testifies and no one believes a word he is saying. They take a break. Luthor visits each senator individually and then at the next session, everyone is thinks what he’s proposing is the greatest thing since sliced bread. Everyone except Senator Kane.
Chloe: “What is Luthor proposing?”
Jimmy: “That’s the crazy thing. No one can figure out the details. At a high level he’s basically saying ‘let me run your computer and communications systems and trust me.’”
Chloe: “What makes Kane immune?”
Jimmy: “Probably because he’s one of the toughest people you’ll ever meet.”
Jimmy brings up data on Kane on his computer.
Jimmy: “Former Lieutenant Colonel Matthew Kane graduated high school with your buddy, Cliff’s father.”
Chloe: “Clark.”
Jimmy: “Yeah, Clark. Kane went to West Point. Joined the 82nd Airborne Division. Fought in the first Gulf War. He was captured by the Republican Guard and tortured. He took out his captors and escaped. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal. He retired from active duty. He made a fortune on the lecture circuit. He serves in the state senate for nothing. He says it’s his way of giving back. If you look up the word “tough’ in the dictionary, you’ll see Kane’s picture.”
Chloe: “Luthor has his people going all over the country with his proposal. Next week Luthor is scheduled to meet with the Secretary General of the United Nations.”
Jimmy: “Well right now the only guy standing in his way is Matthew Kane.”
**********
Act 3: Scene 5
The scene is at the island. The celebration is over and Clark and Lana are leaving the village. Once again the villagers gather around them and Charles comes forward.
Charles: “We have one last gift for you. Please follow me.”
Clark and Lana look at each other, wondering what the gift could possibly be. They follow Charles and the rest of the villagers who leads them to a hut. The entrance of the hut has a cloth draped over it. Out of the entrance of the hut comes the leader of the village. He smiles at Clark and Lana and motions for them to come inside. They go inside the hut. The inside of the hut is bathed in a soft light from a fire in the center on the floor. There is food and something to drink. But what Clark and Lana notice is that a sleeping area has been made for them on the floor. The area appears comfortable with native made pillows and blankets. The leader points out the area to them and he struggles to pronounce in English,
Leader: “For you.”
The leader leaves and Clark and Lana are alone. Clark seems to be uncomfortable and he goes through the entrance outside. Outside are all of the villagers. They seem concerned that he has come out. Charles comes forward.
Charles: “Our gift, it is not pleasing to you?”
Clark is a little bit embarrassed.
Clark: “It’s very pleasing. It’s wonderful but…”
Charles interrupts him.
Charles: “Then please.”
And he prompts Clark to go back inside. He sees that Lana has made herself comfortable in the sleeping area.
Clark: “I guess it would be rude if we didn’t stay the night.”
Lana looks at him.
Lana: “Clark, come here.”
Clark goes and kneels down by her side.
Lana: “I can’t forget what that woman said.”
Clark: “It’s just a show, Lana. No one controls our destiny but us.”
Lana sits up and their eyes meet. She put her arms around him.
Lana: “Clark, make me forget. Make me forget what she said.”
They begin a slow soft kiss. Gradually, they become closer and the kiss becomes more passionate. Lana separates herself from Clark and lies down on the bedding. She places her hand around his shoulders and pulls Clark down with her. The kiss continues.
The camera backs up until it is out of the hut and we see that it is in the center of the village with dozens of huts surrounding it. There is light coming out of each of the huts. Gradually, one by one the huts become darkened until only Clark and Lana’s hut in the center is the only one lit. Finally, their light goes out.
End of Act 3
**********
Act 4: Scene 1
The scene takes place in a conference room at the state capital. Lex and his assistants are sitting and waiting. Matthew Kane comes in the room. Lex stands up and extends his hand. Kane ignores the gesture.
Kane: “Well, I guess it’s now my turn.”
Lex: “I don’t understand, Senator.”
Kane: “Yes you do. It’s now my turn to see the light.”
They both sit down.
Lex: “Senator, I thought we could have a talk and I could explain to you the benefits of my proposal. LuthorCorp is offering the state the best in security.”
Kane: “You don’t want security. You want control. I’m not a kid, Luthor. Don’t you dare treat me like one. I’m going to say to you the same thing I told the Iraqi Republican Guard while he was running electric shocks through me. What you want. It’s not going to happen. Not on my watch!”
Kane gets up and leaves the room.
Lex is left sitting with a frustrated look on his face. He murmurs under his breath.
“Is there no one to rid me of this meddlesome priest?”
His assistant looks at Luthor not understanding what he has just heard. Luthor looks at his assistant and concentrates his gaze.
Lex: “I’m sorry. I’m just thinking out loud. In England in the 13th century, King Henry II butted heads with the Archbishop of Canterbury, Thomas Becket. One night while drunk, Henry said to his men at arms, ‘Will no one rid me of this meddlesome priest?” His soldiers then found Becket and put him to the sword. Henry vowed to search for Becket’s killers. He never realized that he had given the order. This was the 13th century version of plausible deniability. Do you understand?”
The assistant is locked into Lex’s gaze.
Assistant: “Yes, Mr. Luthor. I understand”
Lex smiles at the guard.
Lex: “Good.”
**********
Act 4: Scene 2
The scene takes place on the island. It is morning. All of the villagers are at the beach with Lana and Clark. The shaman is with them. Both Clark and Lana embrace her. They then turn to Charles.
Clark: “I want you to know that I’ve been very happy here.”
Clark and Charles embrace. It is now Lana’s turn.
Lana: “I will never forget what you have done for us.”
Then Lana embraces Charles. Finally he sends them off.
Charles: “May helping hands and warms hearts always greet you, wherever you may go.”
Clark then picks up Lana and they turn to into the direction of the sun that is rising over the ocean. They slowly lift off and begin to head towards the horizon.
The view then switches to an aerial shot. We see the villagers below on the beach. They are all looking up and they get farther away. The children are waving. The adults are shielding their eyes from the glare of the sun with their hands.
**********
Act 4: Scene 3
The scene takes place at the state capital. It is now Monday morning. The hearings are to begin again. People are entering the room. Chloe is standing with Jimmy as Clark walks to them.
Chloe: “Clark, this is Jimmy Olsen. Jimmy, this Clark Kent.”
Jimmy and Clark shake hands. Clark is towering over Jimmy.
The three of are making some small talk as Lex walks by them into the hearing room. Lana is walking with him. Chloe whispers to Jimmy.
Chloe: “That’s Lana.”
Jimmy is surprised, considering what he had heard about Clark and Lana.
As Lana passes them she and Clark lock eyes. No one notices except Jimmy. He is now even more confused.
The three enter the hearing room. Chloe is sitting between Jimmy and Clark. Jimmy leans over and whispers to Chloe.
Jimmy: “Clark’s a big guy.”
Chloe responds without looking at Jimmy.
Chloe: “I wouldn’t know.”
Jimmy thinks for a second about what he has just heard her say.
Jimmy: “What?”
Chloe smiles just as Martha Kent and the other senators are entering the hearing room. Senator Kane’s seat is empty. Martha is just about to pound the gavel to open the proceedings when an assistant walks through the entrance to the room up to the table and hands Martha a slip of paper. She unfolds it and reads it. Her faces drops. She waits a few seconds and then pounds the gavel.
Martha: “Ladies and gentlemen, I have some terrible news.”
There is silence in the room.
Martha: “Last night Senator Kane suffered a heart attack. I’m sorry to tell you that Senator Kane…is dead.”
There is commotion in the room. The members of the press run out of the room to make their phone calls.
The camera does a shot closing in on Martha. Then it switches to Jimmy. Then it switches to Chloe. Then it switches to Lana. She turns and looks at Clark. The camera closes in on Clark, who is looking at Lana.
The final shot is a close-up of Lex. He is sitting still, unemotional but with a hint of satisfaction on his face.
Fade to black
**********