Awakening Script
Transcript of Awakening Script
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AWAKENING
WRITTEN BY
Ahanmisi David
PROLOGUE_A
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INT: DAY BEDROOM
An old man is seen on his death bed in a well furnished
room. He is surrounded by a group of men and women,
mostly wearing suits. One of the men wearing a
stethoscope (apparently a doctor) sits beside the old man
and starts to listen to his heart rhythm.
Doctor
Im sorry Mr. Odilikazi but I dont think youre going to make...
The old man suddenly coughs hard spraying the doctorsshirt and face with blood and sputum. The doctor calmly
removes his glasses, wipes them clean and then wipes his
face. The female in the group steps forward and wipes the
blood from Mr. Odilikazis face
Odilikazi III
I understand, you have done your best (coughing). Please call my
daughter and give us the room.
Everyone clears out leaving a young girl in the room; she
sits on the bed beside her father trying to control the tears
in her eyes.
Odilikazi III
I told you, no tears.
Young girl
Yes father (wiping her eyes)
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Odilikazi III
Open the safe and bring me the wooden boxwith markings
She goes to the wardrobe, opens the safe and returns to his
side with the box
Odilikazi III
Within this box, lies out legacy, the reason for our family's wealth
and our eternal responsibility
Young girlI don't understand father
Odilikazi III
Remember all those stories I used to tell you about an evil spirit
that must never be let out or a lot of people will die?
Young girl
Yes father
Odilikazi III
That story wasn't a fairy tale, it's your great grandfathers story and
that box is the key
Young girl
The key (looking confused), the Key to what father?
Odilikazi III
The key to preventing death, (starts to cough hard) so much
death.
The girl walks over to the counter and starts to pour some
water
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Odilikazi III
I am passing this responsibility to you. Everything you need to know
is in that box but most importantly, never let the (cough) sand
(Cough)...
Odilikazi stops coughing and it becomes eerily quiet. She
returns with the water and tries to make him drink. The
water runs down the side of his mouth, he is dead. Tears
begin to build as she uses her hands to close his eyes a soft
breeze blows across her face; she looks up and notices anopen window, walks towards it and closes it. She turns
around just in time to see the box slipping from her fathers
chest towards the edge of the bed. She makes a dash and
catches it just before it hits the ground. She opens the latch
slowly and stares at the strange symbol inside.
PROLOGUE_B
The group previously in the bedroom with odilikazi are
gathered in the living room all standing. the doctor walks
into the room quietly and sits on the couch with his head
down. The rest continue to stare at him until he looks up
and swings his head from side to side indicating negativity.
One of the men gets up:
Man 1
This changes nothing; we continue to do what this group was
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formed to do. We watchclosely
Doctor
How long can we continue to play guardians?
Man 1
As long as it takesYou know whats at stake here. [He pulls back
his sleeve to reveal a tattoo on his wrist in the form of a
circle with 3 stars] as long as you bear this mark, you are a
guardian.
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SCENE 1 PRESENT DAY
INT. DAY-
ZAINABS APARTMENT.
Camera reveals a two bedroom apartment. Modestly
decorated, the choice of colour and texture of the furniture
shows a feminine touch. The camera tracks towards the
front door key hole; it clicks and then the door opens and a
woman in her 20s, walks head on through the door towards
the camera. As she comes in the camera revolves 1800
around her and escorts her into the living room. She drops
some bags on the couch as she walks past it, moves on to
the end of the corridor and turns into the bed room. The
camera follows and picks her in front of the wardrobe she
takes some clothes out and lays them neatly on the bed.
She walks towards the bathroom as she takes off pieces of
her clothing.
CUT TO
Zainab in the bathroom, brushing her teeth. She hears her
phone ring; she moves to the room reaches into her bag
and answers the phone.
Zainab
Joe! You! Ah ah, You just forgot about me
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Joe
No oh, Ive just been busy trying to keep the town safe.
Zainab
Super-hero-police-man, you promised to give me a head start on
some of your important cases.
Joe
I thought we talked about this. You reporters have a way of blowing
up stories and causing unrest
Zainab
You know Im not that kind of reporter. Just gimme a place and a
time
Joe
Zainab
Zainab
Cmonyou know you owe me.
Joe
Ok, maybe Ill do it once. Ill keep you posted. How have you been?
Zainab
You knowworkmore work. Im trying to make a living like
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everyone else.
Joe
Alright. Remember to call me if you need anything. I promised your
mother Id take care of you so
Zainab
I know Joe.you constantly remind me
The door bell rings. She quickly concludes her phoneconversation and goes to answer the door.
CUTS TO-
INTERIOR/EXTERIOR
ZAINABS APARTMENT (FRONT DOOR)
The door swings open revealing a young delivery person.
Zainab signs for and receives the package then closes the
door as the delivery person turns to leave. She walks into
the living room, sits down and un-wraps the package on her
lap. It reveals an old wooden antique box and a letter on
top she tears the envelope and reads the letter that says
her grandmother is dead. She is shocked. She hardly knew
her grandmother. She drops the letter by her side the opens
the box and starts to examine its contents. She goes
through stones, shells, small carvings. She pulls out a book.
In it were strange writings she did not understand. She
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pulls out a brown leather pouch. She looks at it then opens
it up she sticks her hand inside and comes out with a pinch
of sand and allows it run through her fingers. As they fall to
the ground she hurriedly packs the contents back into the
box, walks to the kitchen and comes back with a broom and
dust pan. She sweeps the sand from the floor, disposes of it
and then she takes the box, walks to the room cupboard,
places the pouch inside then closes it.
Fade.
SCENE 2INTNIGHT
Tastefully furnished study, dimly lit on the polished
mahogany table sits picture frames of a happily married
couple. A young man (Nicholas) walks into the shot. He
picks up a bow tie from the backrest of the chair, puts it
around his neck and advances to the mirror as the starts to
knot it. He takes a good look at himself in the mirror before
he picks up the Jacket and puts it on, he goes back to the
table, pulls out a pen and pad he scribbles a note and pourshimself a drink. He rushes it in one gulp. He picks a gun
from the open drawer and sits on the couch beside the table
and the camera advances to the note pad with the mans
handwriting scribbled on it with the words Im sorry, just
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then a loud bang envelopes the entire room and blood
splatters over the pad and table.
CUT TO-
SCENE 3
INT
Dawn
Nicholas residence (bedroom)
Nicholas wakes up with a start. He is on his bed and is
breathing heavily sweat all over his face. He tries to calm
himself with some deep breaths and falls back on the bed.
Int.
Dawn
Nicholass residence, (bathroom). The sound of running
water fills the room, Nicholas, washes his face, as he tries
to soak in the images from his dream.
Cut to-
Int (Morning)
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NICHOLASLIVING ROOM
He puts the finishing touches on his cloths and he, grabs his
key and brief case then exits.
SCENE 4
INT DAY
PASTRY SHOP
Nicholas walks in through the door and pays for a snack.
He mumbles a greeting to one of the attendants as he scans
the faces of the seated customers. He then sights Gbade
who beckons at him. Nicholas walks across the room and
joins Gbade at the table.
Gbade:
Hey Nick! Whats with the frown?
Nicholas:
Sorry man, my day didnt exactly start out well.
Gbade:
Problems?
Nicholas:
Not exactly, but I had the weirdest dream. [Beat]Gbade gives him
a questioning stare.]
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Nicholas:
As in its really nothing. [Nicholas sighs then...] It was just a
stupid dream .I shot myself! [Gbade bursts out laughing as he
brings out a white handkerchief from his inner suit pocket
and proceeds to clean his teaspoon].
Gbade:
At least youre still here so theres nothing to worry about
anyway I would have been more worried if you told me
you shot someone else, because then Ill have to arrest
you
Nicholas:
What! And one would think that youd have my back if I ever got in
trouble.
Gbade:
Ha! Tell me about it. I already have old men and women throwing
curses at me from the village.
Nicholas:
Really? Why?
Gbade:
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For doing my job.
Nicholas:
Which is?[beat] Questioning stare.]
Gbade:
I arrested my cousins.
Nicholas:
You what!?
Gbade:
Its complicated man.
Nicholas
Obviously, so un-complicateit.
Gbade:
Remember the case I told you I was working on? You know, the one
my D.P.O. gave me 2 weeks to crack.
Nicholas:
Oh yeah the one about the gang of robbers right?
Gbade:
Yeah, that one. I cracked it all right. Turns out my cousin was Laide
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is a member of the gang.
Nicholas:
Ok. But you said cousins..with an 's'?
Gbade:
I was coming to that. Can you imagine his dumb ass elder brother
who should know better, actually let him stay and keep his weapons
in his apartment.
Nicholas:
Whoa! Thats complicated but, maybe you could have
Gbade:
Dont even go there. Ive heard that speech too many times already the one about them being my cousins and me being in a positionto get them off the hook. But what they forget is that the law wasput in place to protect everyone and can only work if everyone is
subject to the law, everyone!
Nicholas:
Im not going to say another word. I know theres no changing your
mind whenever you get like this.
Gbade:
[Finishing his coffee] Yeah, yeah...so hows work?
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Nicholas:
Stressful, but what can we do man?
Gbade
Its everywhere. [Gbadegets up. He fiddles with his wallet]
Take it easy ok. You have to ease up on those accounts youre
handling. Youre killing yourself. Maybe the dream is a warning [He
laughs and drops a thousand Naira bill on the table]. This
ones on me. Later.
CUTS TO--.
SCENE 5
EXT
-DAY
-BURIAL GROUND
Camera picks ups a small crowd in a burial ground from
afar.
The Minister can be seen among the people, concluding the
ceremony. After a few seconds the people start to disperse
as the under takers begin to lower the coffin into the grave.
CUT TO-
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Zainab walking towards the gate of the burial ground in the
company of some people.
Mr. Steve:
I hope you are ok? You know when people dont show a lot of
emotions at the loss of a loved one, it usually means there a lot of
grief swirling on the inside.
Zainab:
Really sir, Im okIts just that I didnt really know her, you know.
The first time I knew anything about her was when I was notified of
her death.
Mrs. Steven:
Dont worry my dear, its going to be alright. The lord knows best.
Zainab:
Thank you sir
Mr. Steven:
Just dont think too much ok. And you know if you ever need
someone to talk to we are always here ok.
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(Joe, her cousin, walks up to her. He hugs her and looks at
her)
Joe
Hey are you alright?
Zainab
Im fine! We didnt really know her Joe (she smiles)the last time I
heard anything about her was when my mother died...remember
she sent flowers but never actually came...weird
Joe
i know...just take it easy I have to go back to the office. Call me,
ok?
(He kisses her forehead and walks away)
Angela (Zainabs friend)
Sweet heart, we should go but just give me a moment to say good
bye to Sheyi and his sister.
Zainab:
Ok, just hurry up
As Angela walks off, Zainabs phone begins to ring. She
excuses herself then she starts to walk towards the exit
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searching frantically for the phone in her bag, bringing out
stuff and pilling them under her armpit till she finds the
phone and answers it.
Zainab:
Hello? Good morning sir yes sir we just finishedof course I dont
mind sirok, where?
She walks to a parked car just outside the gate, brings out a
pen and starts to write on one of the sheets of paper she
had under her armpit on the car. As she finishes some
papers fall from the car to the floor. She picks them up but
as she gets up she collides with strange old man.
Zainab:
Oh am sorry, so sorry.
Old Man:
Its ok my dear. Zainab, am I right?
Zainab
UhYes.
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Old man
Just take heart but know that it all comes together in the end.
Zainab
Sorry, excuse me (She turns to continue the conversation
on the phone) What? oh sorry sirthe address? Yes I got it
ok sirIm on my way there now
As she turns to continue her conversation with the old man,
he had disappeared. She scans the area until she sees him
on the other side of the street. As he turns the corner of the
street she goes after him.She gets to the corner but when
she looks in, the old man is nowhere to be seen. From her
side Angela jolts her with a tap on her shoulder.
Angela:
What are you doing here? Your car is that way.
Zainab:
You scared me! I thoughtI thought I saw someone.
Angela:
Who?
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Zainab:
Never mind [she takes a look back as they walk back to her
car]
Angela:
Are you ok?
Zainab:
Yeah, Im fine.
SCENE6
INT-
DAY-
Camera opens inside an elevator with about 7 or 8 people,
some reading papers, others looking at watches and staring
at the floor indicator.As the lift makes a stop, some people pour out followed by
the camera. The camera moves through the large office hall
divided into cubicle till it gets to this row where Nicholass
cubicle is situated. It follows a young man smartly dressed
as he steps out of his cubicle with a bunch of files and walks
to Nicholas cubicle. He drops the file on Nicholass table.
Ndubisi:
Here are the filesIve made all the inputs and adjustments on the
accounts.
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Nicholas
How about the SUN DRINK file?
Ndubuisi:
Yes, we pulled the file out. Ive finished looking at it and I just sent it
to Meg at accounting.
Nicholas:
Ok, Ill get on this immediately after lunch, its past two already.
He picks up the files and puts them aside.
Ndubuisi:
Lunch ke? Are you kidding? The boss said he wants those on his
desk first thing in the morning and you are thinking about food. You
know thats a very important client.
Nicholas :
So? Should I kill myself? Besides I think my work will move faster if
I have some food in my tummy.[At this point Victor walks in].
Victor:
Whats up?
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Nicholas :
Lunch
Ndubuisi:
When he has those waiting for him, with a time bomb set by the
boss himself.
Victor:
And you are bothered, or have you forgotten this punk has never
missed a dead line? Abegi! Je ka ma lo Jeun o jare.
Ndubuisi:
Dont worry about me please I have some stuff to take care of
[Victor and Nicholas walk towards the elevator]
Victor
Meanwhile wetin you dey do this evening?
Nicholas
Nothing. Why?
Victor
We dey go club thats why? You too dey ask question like police.
When last did you have fun dude? You have been sitting at home
brooding. Its time to let go of Bu
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Nicholas
Victor, dont go there. You know how I feel about that topic. Dont
go there at all.
Victor
[Slowing down and pulling him to the side] look brov, I know
its a touchy topic but its been a long time and you have to move
on.
Nicholas
I think Im moving on just fine
Victor
You need to smell some fresh air dude. You need to socialize; its
been two years now. CmonDrinks on me.
Nicholas
Hmmm.Well lets see how it goes.
Victor
Bad guy! Oya make we go chop.
As they step out of the office Ndubuisi sees the news on the
TV screen hanging on the wall. He is immediately
interested, moving closer to the screen.
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Victor:
What?
Cut to-
[On scene of crime, a reporter is seen with a microphone to
his face and a bunch of people and activities going on
behind him, police cars can be seen around an ambulance.]
Nicholas:
Wait
REPORTER
Im standing right in front of the house of 36 year old Efosa
Osazuwa who, earlier this morning woke his neighbors up with a
gunshot which he fired into his temple. Sources say that this is not
first tragedy that has befallen this household.
In fact its exactly four weeks ago today that Mr. Osazuwas wife
and 3 months old daughter died in a car accident in which Mr.
Osazuwa was the driver and sole survivor. There have been some
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speculations regarding the reason for Mr. Osazuwas actions this
morning as close friends and family suspect that he did it out of
guilt since he felt responsibly for the death of his family. The police
are still investigating if there could be another cause to Mr
osazuwas deatha sudden strike of insanity, an act of spiritual
terrorism or sheer bad luck.whatever the reason, it still
remains a fact that what happened in this household is nothing
short of a tragedy.
Cut to-.
[Nicholas turns away from the TV and walks to the gents].
Victor:
What? Where are you going?
Nicholas :
Nothing. Im coming; I just need to rush to the gents.
CUT TO-
Int. - Gents
[Nicholas comes in front of the mirror stares in disbelief at
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his reflection, then he runs some water into his palms and
splashes it on his face. He brings out his handkerchief if
and mops the water from his face.]
Cut to-.
SCENE 7
Exterior
-day-
Late Mr. Efosa Osazes house (scene of crime), Zainab is
concluding an interview with a neighbour of Mr. Osaze. Sheis using a tape recorder though she still has a pen and
jotter in another hand.
Zainab:
...So in your opinion he wasnt an aggressive person at all.
Neighbor:
No, not at all, Efosa was one of the calmest, nicest people I have
ever known.
Zainab:
Thank you very much for your time madam.
Neighbor:
You are welcome.
[As she raises her head from the pad in which she had just
taken some notes, she sees the old man from the cemetery,
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staring at her from a distance across the road she starts
towards him but before she gets to the gate she gets
distracted by a speeding vehicle only to look back at the
spot to see that the man was gone. She crosses through the
gate and searches for him but fids nothing
Cut to- SCENE 8
EVENING-
EXT
Nicholas pulls up in front of a flat.
Int;
The door opens and Nicolas walks into the room. (Its a
three bedroom block of flats. He stays at the 2nd floor), He
throws his keys on the dining table and removes his jacket
and tosses it on the couch. He walks towards the fridge and
flashes of him and his girlfriend, Bukky, barrage his
memory.
SCENE 9
(His girl friend died in a car crash. He was driving and she
was riding shotgun, he tried to kiss her and didnt see the
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little kid trying to cross the road. He dodged the kid and
crashed into the curb. She didnt survive the crash)
He opens the fridge and grabs a beer. He sits on the couch
and gets lost in his own thought. The flashes continue until
he falls asleep. When he sleeps, He sees another vision.
SCENE 10
In this vision. He is in a bathroom staring at the mirror. He
stares for a while and notices he has a tattoo on his right
arm. He stares for a while and then suddenly the bathroom
door bursts open. He sees a man enter. Everything happens
fast. The man comes towards him and stabs him in the
stomach. He sees blood The sound of his cell phone jolts
him from his sleep. He looks at the caller I.D. its Victor. He
picks.
Nicholas:
Heywhats up?
Victor
How far? Are you still coming ?We don dey commot oh. You go
show?
Nicholas
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I..I dont know
Victor
Look man I hooked up some hot chicks. Dont dull yourself man
Nicholas
(Hesitates for a while) ok Im on my way
Cut to- scene 11
Night
Music is blaring from the speakers. The camera pans via an
arial shot to the extras dancing on the dance floor
Nicholas, victor and ndubuisi are outside trying to get into
the club. They eventually get passed security and waltz into
the club
Int;
Victor looks around with his arms spread out
A guy is seen entering the club with on entourage of
friends. It is obvious that he has been in an argument with
someone outside. He is still screaming while walking
backward so he collides with Nicholas.
Nicholas:
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Easy brov.
Guy:
What the hell is that supposed to mean, who the hell are you?
Nicholas:
Excuse me, you just ran into me because you werent looking, how
come I m the one being insulted?
Guy:
Like I care.[he pushes Nicholas] Get outta my face before I
release my wrath on you. Who the hell is his fool?
Nicholas:
[angry] what is your problem? If you are too high to act right you
should find somewhere to sleep it off[his friend at this point
intercedes in the escalating situation].
Ndubuisi:
Hey, its ok, theres no need to cause any trouble.
Nicholas
Did you guys see what happened, this guy just walks carelessly into
me and.
Victor:
Please just let it go, we came to have fun, lets just go and get you
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something to drink ok. [They take him to the bar to buy some
drinks] whatis wrong with you? Do you know who that is?
Victor
Thats Yemi Adeleke. (Nicholas looks clueless at ndubuisi) son
of THE Tunde Adeleke you know? The business man.
Nicholas
So
Victor
You (he stares at Ndubuisi). Ahh forget it. Sometimes I think
you dont belong on this planet. (He focuses on the bartender)
emm give us 3 shots of Smirnoff vodka abeg.
Nicholas seems to be lost; occasionally stealing glances at
the guy he had an encounter with earlier. Victor notices his
absent mindedness.
Victor:
Whats up man, you are not here. Hope you are not still on that
guys issue.
Nicholas:
No o, of course not, that guy is just a fool, dont even know why I
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wasted my energy being pissed off.
Victor:
So whats now the problem, if its Bukky, you need to let it go
nobody prays for death but shes gone, you need to move on with
your life man. Its been almost two yearsI know u miss her.
Nicholas:
I miss her but...its not Bukky, I just feel...
Victor:
Look, we are in the club, youre with your pals, loosen up!
on queue 3 girls join them as he finshes his speach
Victor
Ahh, welcome welcome. Ehh bartender I need three more shots
for these beautiful ladies guys these are Angela, Oluchi and
Yetunde. Girlsthis is Nicolas and Ndubuisi (the girls smile at
the guys.) Ok eemmm.ill take oluchi here and Ill see you guys
on the dance floor.
Ndubuisi takes Angela by the hand and winks at Nicolas. He
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heads her to the dance floor. Yetunde moves slowly towards
Nicolas seductively.
Yetunde
So whats up?
Nicholas
Im alright you?
[She begins to talk. Nicholas isnt concentrating. He stares
continuously at the guy he encountered earlier. His eyes
widen as his eyes catch a tattoo of a tiger on his arm. He
recognizes it from his dream. After a min, the guy leaves his
friends laughing and walks across, dance floor].
Nicholas:
( Nicholas interrupts Yetunde) Hey, will you excuse me for a
minute Ill be right back
Yetunde
Where are you going?
He doesnt answer, he sees the guy go through a door at
the other end of the hall. He moves to the door, as he gets
there, a guy hurries out of the door brushing past him. He
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apologizes. He opens the door to the rest room and at the
end of the room he sees the leg of the tattooed guy, He
tries to make conversation.
Nicholas
Heyemm. Im really sorry about our little mishap back thereyou
know you bumping into me and all that (moving closer to
him. He sees his full body now. The yemi is seated on the
floor with his head down. He seems lifeless.) helloyou
alright?
He goes to him and finds out the guy is dead he has a knife
in his chest. He checks to make sure but as he gets up
someone enters the bathroom. Both stand staring at each
other for a few seconds before Nicholas realizes the
implication of the picture: him standing with blood on his
hands and a dead body lying beside him. He immediately
flees the scene.
Cut to-
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Scene 12
Nicholas in his car he is speeding on the high way and loud
music is heard on the radio. He gets irritated and starts to
hit the buttons to stop it. As the music stops and the C.D.
comes out, it switches to radio.
VOICE OVER
The president has issued a press statement concerning the budget.
He has made no amendments so far and is set to hold private
briefing with the members of the house of assembly. Meanwhile the
price of petrol still remains 95 Naira per litre
[He slams on the brakes, puts off the radio, he thinks for
a while then he drives off again].
Scene 13
Night
Int
The camera pans across a dark bedroom where Zainab
sleeps with her back facing the camera. The phone rings.
She sleepily picks it up.
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Joe
Ok, I have your favour.hello are you still asleep?
Zainab
Wellemmyeah. Thats what people do at this time joe.
Joe
Theres been a murder at the diamond club. Be careful. The
police are all over the place.
Zainab
Thanks. I owe you one.
Scene 14
Club scene
ext
The police are already at the scene. Some officers take
statements from some people outside the club. A car
pulls up to the scene of the crime and inspector Gbade
steps out of the vehicle and starts to give orders.
Cut to-Int
Inspector Gbade walks into the club and walks straight to
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the bathroom where the body lies. A couple of officers
are in the room. He bends and examines the body. One of
the officers speak.
Officer
They say the killer made a run for it.
He walks out of the bathroom and scrutinizes the club
with his eyes. He notices a surveillance camera at the far
end of the club on the ceiling.
Gbade
I want that surveillance tape.
Gbade walks to one of the officers.
Gbade
Get a statement from everyone and let em go. (One of the
officers hand him the tape) we have this so the killer cant go
far.
Cut to
Ext
A taxi pulls up near the club. Zainab steps out of the cab.
She pays the driver and walks towards the club as she
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walks towards towards the club, an old man looks at her
from across the road.
Cut to-
Int
Night
Scene 23
Nicholas barging into his house, he hurriedly closes and
locks the door behind him then he rests his back on the
door. he tries to absorb the events of the day. Just then his
phone jolts him back from his deep land of thought. He
answers the call
Nicholas
Hello..
Victor
Hey man where are you? Its got real crazy up here man the police
are everywhere
Nicholas
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I...I wasn't feeling too well... had to leave. Im at home now.
Victor
Without us? Anyway, did u hear that someone got stabbed to death
at the club? Its mad here, we are just leaving now. The police held
everybody for questioning but they just let us go. I guess Ill see u
tomorrow.
Nicholas ends the call, he looks at the clock then exhales.
He goes down, letting his back slide down the door till he issitting on the floor before he rests his head on his knees.
Scene 24
Lagos State Police Department
Night, Int
Gbade walks into the building with the tape in hand. He
walks towards a room where a young man sitting in front of
three computer screens.
Gbade
Hey! Is that new face recognition software properly installed now?
Young man
Yes sir
Gbade
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Oya, look at the tape and find me a criminal. I need you to call our
insider at the NSA and see if there has been any chatter about this
previously. I need to know if this was a premeditated act or just
some bimbo looking for attention. Lets get to work people.
Another officer walks in
Officer
Sir.
Gbade leaves the room. The young man starts the software.
He plays the video up until he sees the scuffle between
Yemi and one man. Two other men try to stop the fight. He
freezes the image. He zooms on the other man apart from
Yemi and applies the face recognition software. He runs the
face through the nations database. Gbade is still in the
other room talking to the officer when the young man
bursts in
Young man
Siryou have to see this.
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Gbade moves to the computer room and stares at the
screen. He is shocked at what he sees.
Scene 25
Morning
Nicholass apartment, Int
Nicholas is seen sleeping on his couch. The room is a bit
untidy. The television is on. The early morning news just
comes on.
T.V.
This is the news at 7. BREAKING NEWS: Yemi Adeleke, son of Tunde
Adeleke was killed last night at a down town club in Victoria Island.
Sources say that this was a terrorist act veered towards the Adeleke
family. No statement has been made by the Adeleke family but the
police have emerged with a likely suspect, 26 year old Nicholas
Duke, who was seen fleeing from the scene from a security camera
video footage. The police are looking for him for questioning. He is
considered dangerous. In other news.
Nicholas wakes up. The sunlight impairing his vision, He
looks away. He grabs the remote and increases the volume
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of the TV. He hears sirens in the distance. He gets up and
walks towards the fridge and grabs himself a beer. The
sirens get louder. He walks towards the curtain. As he pulls
the curtains aside, he sees four police cars pull in front of
his house, police jumping out. It took only a few seconds of
confusion before he decides his best option is to flee. He
first stumbles over some furniture before making a break
for the back door. As he comes out he sees some officers
already coming to secure the back of the house. They yell
for him to stop but he ignores and flees. A hot chase ensuesat the end of which Nicholas escapes.
Scene 26
Morning
Interior-
Zainabsoffice (a newspaper company).
Zainabs boss sticks his head out of his office door.
Editor:
Isnt Zainab here yet?[Employees shake their head in
negativity while some just stare as he walks out past them.
He finds Zainabs friend, Angela]] Angela, call your friend and
tell her I want her to appear in my office in not more than five
minutes.
Angela:
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Sir I already did, she said she is on her way. She will be here soon.
Editor:
Angela 5 minutes[he walks back into his office] a few
minutes later Zainab walks into the hall. Angela quickly
intercepts her].
Angela:
Why are you so late, the boss has been screaming your name like a
chorus.
Zainab:
Good morning to you too. And yes, it is such a lovely day.
Angela:
Ok good morning, but that wont save you from the trouble that you
are in. The man has come out of his office 4 times because of you.
Zainab:
Trust me, Im not in any trouble and I am late because I was working
all night yesterday.[She finishes setting her table] Im sure
thats what he wants to see me so urgently about.
Angela:
You worked on a story last night, what story?
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Zainab:
Actually, it was early this morning, and its a super story[she
laughs].
Angela:
Really? What story nau?
Zainab:
How would you know when you dont even keep tabs on the news
and you work for a news paper. Ill tell you sha, let me just go and
see him quickly before he starts singing another chorus. [She
walks away giggling. As she goes we see two other staffs
come to meet Angela].
Funke:
O girl, it seems your friend is in big trouble, with the way the editor
has been shouting her name since..
Michael:
Whats up Angela, do you know whats going on.
Funke:
Maybe, shes about to get fired.
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Michael:
What is wrong with you Funke?
Funke:
What? I was only joking[Michael sighs] so girl whats up now
do you know why the boss has been looking for her.
Angela:
Im not sure, but she said something about a story she wrote
overnight.
Funke:
What story?
Angela:
I dont know, she hasnt told me yet. She thinks thats why he has
been looking for her.
Michael:
Oh oh oh I think it must be the Yemi Adeleke death. It was the
headline in the papers this morning.
Funke:
I saw it too, Tunde Adelekes son right?
Angela:
Really? Tunde Adelekes son, what paper?
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Michael:
Our paper now, look at this girl o, you dont even read the products
from your own office[he chuckles] so she wrote that story? Let
me go and even read the details because I only got the paper on
my way up and saw the headlines.
Angela:
Where is the paper now?
Michael:
On my desk.
Angela:
[Excited] Oya lets go [theyall go towards Michaels desk]
Cut to- scene 27
Zainab walking into the editors office.
Editor:
My dear how can you be late in this critical period? Sit down.
Zainab:
Good morning sir. Sorry Im late. I worked all night on that story.
Editor:
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Ok, good morning. Nice job last night. I see I was not mistaken
calling you my best employee. You all ways bring me the best
stories at the right times and you know, nothing sells newspapers
better than bad news. But hey. you have to tell me your
secret.
Zainab:
Sir, I dont understand.
Editor:
Come on you called me at 2am about this story and I find out that
the death happened only a few minutes before 2. How come you
found out so quickly about the incident because you told me you
were calling from home so... how did you get those details?
Zainab:
Thats why its called a secret[he gives her a look] alright,
alright, my cousin is a police officer, he was called to the scene so
he called me.
Editor:
Good, good...I want a follow up on the story. We need more details,
more information. We are the first paper to report this thanks to
you, so I dont think we should draw back now. We need to keep a
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heavy foot on it. Its a good thing you have someone on the inside
so milk that cow.
Zainab:
Ok sir.
Editor:
Zainab, this is not a sleep over, ok? Get out there, shake some
feathers and bring me a fresh angle.[She nods, but as she gets
up to go] Hey, if you handle this well, you are one step closer to
that promotion youve been waiting for.
Zainab:
Ok sir. [She leaves the office]
Scene 28
Exterior
Morning
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Nicholas is walking on the street, deep in thought but still
conscious of his surroundings. He has a Jacket, hand buried
deep in his pocket and face cap drawn closely down to his
eyes, covering most part of his face. He passes by a
newspaper stand and over hears an on-going conversation].
Man 1:
Thats why I hate going to clubs, you never know the outcome,
many different types of people.
Man 2:
Wait oo, oga, so dis boy just die like that? Na wa oo, money no fit
buy life! But you sure say dem go fit catch the man wen kill am?
Man 1:
Why wont he be caught? his pictures are already displayed in the
papers, including his office and house address, so where can he
hide? It is only a matter of time.
Vendor:
I sure say na one of all this university cult boys, when their body
dey hot, na him go kill am.
Man 1:
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No! It is actually a working class young man; it says something here
about a fight between both parties before he was discovered dead.
[At this point, Nicholas pauses, pull his cap down more andthen goes back, requests for a papers pays and leaves.
After turning to a corner he opens the paper and begins to
read. Few seconds later, he angrily squeezes the paper in a
bunch and throws it away, moments later he changes his
mind and picks it up, unwraps it again, tears out the name
and contact info of the writer]
cut to scene 29
Nicholas at a business centre buys a SIM-card and quickly
puts it in his phone. He walks away as he starts to make a
call. He dials the number. It rings but no one answers. The
network requests that he drops a voice message
Nicholas:
Hello. You dont know me personally but you wrote an article about
me today, which is not entirely true. I can prove my innocence. Ill
call again.
[After hanging up, he continues walking till he finds an
uncompleted building; he enters it, looks for a corner and
sits,
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Cuts to-
Scene 30
Morning
Office, Int
Zainab walks from the editors office back to her table. She
receives a message on her mobile. She checks it. Its a voice
mail. She plays it back. When she hears Nicholass voice she
calls the number back.
Zainab
Hello
Nicholas
HiI saw your article about me in the papers. Look, I didnt kill the
man like you said. I was just at the wrong place at the wrong time
Zainab
Why dont you turn yourself in and let the police decide whether
youre innocent or guilty
Nicholas
Of course I cant do that. You know its touch and go with these
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guyslook, I can prove my innocence. Im not a killer.
Zainab
Theyve got a video of you. You cant possibly wriggle out of this.
Nicholas
Are you honest enough to find out the truth?
Zainab
I write the truth
Nicholas
Then meet me.
Zainab
How do you know I wont come with the police?
Nicholas
I dont. Im asking you to trust me. I will not hurt you...you can even
pick the meeting place if it will make you feel safer, I just want you
to know the truth and I can prove it. Im not guilty.
Phone call ends. Angela walks towards Zainabs table
Angela:
Come on now lets go, you know oga would soon start asking if Ive
not collected his laundry. you on the other hand can afford to be
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late because you are working on a story [Zainab doesnt
respond, but just looks at Angela, eyes wide open]. what?
Zainab:
You wont believe who I just called.
Angela:
Who?
Zainab:
Nicholas
Angela:
Nicholas?
Zainab:
Where have you been? The guy the police have been searching for
now, he is wanted for the murder of Tunde Akindeles son.
Angela:
No way! How did you get his number?
Zainab:
He left me a message on my mobile and...
Angela
So how did he get your number?
Zainab
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Im a reporter, who writes articles in newspapers how hard is it to
get my contact?
Angela:
So what does he want? why is he calling you?
Zainab:
He claims he is innocent.
Angela:
Ha! Then let him tell that to the police, if they will buy it.
Zainab:
That was exactly what I said, but he said he could prove his
innocence to me and that he would call me back.
Angela:
Wait wait wait! Are you actually considering it? Like, do you expect
him or any other killer to come out and confess that they are
murderers?
Zainab:
He was quite convincing. Come to think of it, that would be an
interesting angle to the story. Picture this Nicolas Duke pleads
temporary insanity (chuckles)... as if that ever works in Nigerian
courts. But still it could be the opportunity I need; An exclusive with
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a killer.
Angela:
Listen to yourself, you are actually considering this. I dont think
you should associate with that guy in any way oh. Youll get into
trouble on the job.
Zainab:
What job? Im even tired of this stupid job where editor will continue
to proclaim me as his best reporter with nothing to show for it? A
raggedy salary and a whole lot of stresseven the promotion that I
deserve wont change much in my life but yet I still get story after
story. Im tired Angela.
Angela:
And how does this help?
Zainab:
You know its been a long time since Ive been saying Ill quit this
job and become a writer. Well this could be a chance, an
opportunity to start with something... exciting. Well that is if it
works out well ( she looks at Angela) Dont worry about me, and
cover for me, Ok?[Her phone begins to ring] I think its him
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again [she picks it up] hello? Yes its me. What? ok, but it has to be
a public place ok? Lets meet at, ehmmMr. Biggs
Surelere...30mins...Ill be there, I wont[she ends the call and
looks at Angela] just stay in the office and cover for me.
Angela:
This is too dangerous. What if he hurts you? What if you are caught
with him, you could be implicated.
Zainab:
Just cover for me[she is packing her bag and she pauses to
let Angela see the kitchen knife among the items] Ill be ok.
Scene 31
(Primetech Advertising agency, Victor walks to Ndubuisis
table)
Victor
Heyhave you seen Nick?
Ndubuisi
Isnt he on his desk?
Victor
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If he were, I wouldnt be asking you now would I?
Ndubuisi
Lemme call his number (He makes to dial Nicks number on
his phone when victor stops him)
Victor
Dude I already tried that Somethings wrong. Its strange that he
isnt at work by now.
Ndubuisi
Maybe he had too much to drink and hes having a hang over.
Maybe hell come in later. Have u considered that option?
Victor
Whos going to pay for my lunch today?
Ndubuisi
Free loader.
(Just then Inspector Gbade walks in with two police officers.
He walks straight to victor.)
Gbade
Are you Victor Ehighosa?
(Victor looks perplexed)
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Victor
Is he in trouble?
Gbade
You need to come with us for questioning. (He looks at Ndubuisi)
You too.
Everyone in the office stands up and stares at both Gbade
and Ndubuisi.
Scene 32
Lagos state police department
int
The camera pans across a room with a table and two chairs
facing opposite each other. Victor is on the other side while
one of the inspectors interrogates him.
Detective
Do you know this man? (He throws Nicolass pictures on the table)
Victor
Yes. Thats Nicolas Duke, my colleague
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Detective
We saw you with him at the club. Where is he?
Victor
I have no idea. I dont even know whats going on
Detective
I could charge you for aiding and abetting
Victor
Look, all I know is that I went to the club, had a couple of drinks
with my friends and then I heard the commotion and then BAM!
Some guy is dead.
Scene switches to the same detective interviewing Ndubuisi
Detective
You were seen in a scuffle with the deceased. The video shows your
boy, Nicholas, walking towards the bathroom and Yemi was in there.
Yemi gets stabbed and your boy runs out of the bathroom and out
of the club. I think hes guilty enough. So where is he?
Ndubuisi
IId-dont know... M-Maybe hes in his house
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Detective
he's not. We already checked there.
Ndubuisi
(almost Shouting) I DONT KNOW! Look Ive got a great job and a
family to feed.I.dont know where he is. He hasnt called me
since yesterdayI just went to the club to have funI usually dont
go thereIm just a normal guy.Im not a killer..(mumbling
some other things)
The detective pauses. Outside, Inspector Gbade looks
through the interrogation glass. One of detectives come to
him with a news paper.
Detective
Sir
The detective shows him the days newspaper. He sees the
article written by Zainab.
Inspector Gbade
I want to know how this story got out this fast. And get me this
womans contact. Im going to pay her a visit.
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Scene 33
EXT
Day
A crowded park outside, Zainab is seen sitting on a chair
alone one hand in her bag a table water on the table in
front of her, she keeps looking around and watching
everyone that comes in, Nicholas approaches her from
behind still wearing his cap low to hide most of his face.
Nicholas
Thank you for coming [he sits down] and trusting me enough
not to bring the police.
Zainab:
I dont trust you.
Nicholas:
I understand.
Zainab:
Well I dontyou said you have proof of your innocencelets have
it.
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Nicholas:
Its hard to explain.
Nicholas:
Explain? If you dont have anything for me, why did you call me?
You are wanted by the police and as it is, Im risking my job, my
freedom and my life just sitting here with you.
Nicholas:
Look its not what you think its. its... not even making sense to
me. Im confused for the past few days Ive been running mad,
losing my senses being hunted by dreams and visions I cant
explain.
Zainab:
Visions? What does that have to do with anything?
Nicholas:
Everything! I know it sounds crazy but its the truth. I didnt kill Mr.
Adeleke.
Zainab:
Then who did?
Nicholas;
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I dont know, but it all started 2 nights ago. I had a dream, a very
vivid dream-almost too real to be a dream. In the dream, I was in a
house, it was not my house but there were pictures of me in the
room I had on a tuxedo then put a gun Im my mouth, and blew my
brains out. Thats when woke up. The next day
Zainab:
Efosa Osazuwa shot himself
Nicholas:
Exactly the same way I saw it in the dream. Then last night, before I
went to the club, I dozed off on my living room sofa for less than 20
minutes and I had another dream. In the dream I was washing my
hands in a mens room and someone came in and stabbed me. I
didnt see his face and...
Zainab:
Wait, are you trying to tell me you dream of people dying and it
happens?
Nicholas:
No, in the dreams Im the one that dies and then
Zainab:
Stop. You expect me to believe that? Thats your explanation?
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Thats your proof? Hmmm? (sarcastically) If thats it then the police
are definitely mistaken thinking you are a killer.you know you are
insane right?
Nicholas
No, Im not insane. Look I tried to talk to Yemiyes we had a little
scufflebut I wanted to warn him about what I sawI was late.
Someone else killed him before I got there.
Zainab
So how did you know that it was yemi was going to be stabbed?
Nicholas
He had the same tattoo I had in my dream thats how.
Zainab
You knowIm trying so hard to believe you but I dont believe in
the supernatural. Ive got to go. I kept my promiseI didnt bring
the police. So Im going to go. You need to turn yourself in
[She stares at him realizing that he is staring into space]
.Hey! Im taking to you[Nicholas comes back to himself, he
looks at her then he gets up].
Nicholas:
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Lets go[she is a bit scared but she does not answer] we need
to go.
Zainab:
Go where? Im not going anywhere with you.
Nicholas:
You said you want proof right? So come on[he takes her by the
hand and pulls her out of the restaurant, as they come out
he looks around murmuring].
Nicholas:
Red shirt, red shirt
Zainab:
Are you ok?
Nicholas
He gets hit by a car
Zainab
Who gets hit by a car?
Nicholas
The man in the red shirt carrying juice.
Nicholas spots a man wearing a red shirt further down the
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street about to cross to the road
Nicholas:
Hey! Oga wait. [He pulls her; they run across the road
towards a man wearing a red shirt].
Red shirt guy:
(looking confused) yes can I help you?
Nicholas
Yes, please dont cross this road
Red shirt guy:
Why? Is there a new law I dont know about.
Nicholas:
No sir, its just not safe
The man looks left and right of the almost empty street and
then back at zainab
Red shirt guy
is your boyfriend alright?
Zainab
(rolling her eyes) Hes not my boyfriend.
Red shirt guy
Whatever, just tell him to leave me alone
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Nicholas
Sir I really dont think you should cross this street
Zainab
Why shouldnt he cross?
Nicholas
I saw him di (glances at the man)I saw him get hurt on this street.
Red shirt guy
Look, I think you need to increase the dose of whatever it is youre
on(starts to walk backwards into the street) im going
A car out of nowhere stops inches away from his leg
Zainab:
Are you alright?
Red shirt guy
Yes no thanks to you and your boyfriend (stepping back further into
the street) hey we all have to die sometime right?
Zainab
I told you he isnt my boy
Another car hits the man from the right, spraying blood on
Zainab and Nicholas.
Zainab
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Oh my God!
Nicholas
(Getting himself together ) common, let go..(grabbing her
hand) lets go now
Cut to-
Scene 35
Int- Day-
Zainabswork place- editors office.
[The Editor is seen in his office doing some paper work. He
makes a short call, hangs up and continues till his inter-com
buzzes. He picks it up].
Editor:
What?! Then why the hell are you calling me? The police...ok, send
him in. [he drops and a few seconds later, inspector Gbade
walks in].
Gbade:
Good Afternoon sir, I am inspector Gbade Akinfenwa.[They shake
hands].
Editor:
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Good Afternoon inspector Gbade, please sit down, how may I help
you?[they both sit down].
Editor:
Well sir, I am the investigating officer in charge of the Adeleke
murder and Im here to talk to you about the story you are writing
on it.
Editor:
Yes, what about it?
Gbade:
I understand your paper was the first newspaper to give out the
news this morning
Editor:
Yes (he says with pride) impressive eh?
Gbade:
Well you are doing your job, but impressed is not the word I will use
to describe it at the moment.
Editor:
What do you mean?
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Gbade:
Considering the fact that most of the information you published
came out so quickly and is filled with Information known only to the
police at the time, it doesnt take a genius to figure that you must
have an informant within the ranks [he pauses] but that is not why
I am here. Somehow the police have done something for you, it has
helped you do a great job but now, I want you to do something for
me.
Editor:
Im listening.
Gbade:
I want you to play down a little on the line of the police being very
close to catching the suspect.
Editor:
Arent you?
Gbade:
We are, but thats not the point or at least thats not what we want
him to know. You see its not that Im trying to shift blame, but
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maybe we could have caught him earlier if not for the media
sensation that followed immediately after the incident. He went
straight to his house but even though we anticipated that, we
missed him. He is now at large and scared Im sure. He must have
seen his picture everywhere now and will be hiding from the law. He
knows what we know about him, all thanks to the media.
Editor:
You speak as if you know the criminal. what kind of criminal goes
home after killing someone. I mean, its the oldest trick in the book
(he shrugs)
Gbade:
Suspect. He is still a suspect till he is found guilty. Anyway, I hope
you understand what Im driving at? We dont want to scare him
away lets make him feel comfortable- when he does he will slip
up and then Ill be there to catch him. Otherwise he might fall into
the hands of some trigger happy policeman and poof! We lose
everything. Hope you understand? Am not saying you shouldnt do
your job, just ease off on the pedals a little.
Editor:
Ease of the pedals eh?
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Gbade:
Im not imposing - just look at it as doing the police a favour...you
never know.
Editor:
Ill do my best. Is there anything else I can do for you?
Gbade:
Yes, as a matter of fact there is one thing - The person that wrote
the stories, I would like to see him.
Editor:
I hope no problems?
Gbade:
Not really. I read the article - I just wanted to ask him some
questions about the people he interviewed, I might have missed
something, you never know.
Editor:
Well hes a she.
Gbade:
What?
Editor:
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The reporter that wrote the story is a she, a woman. Her name is
Miss Zainab Iremide, and she was not available when you came.
Hold on please [he presses the buzzer and picks it].
Hello. Is Zainab in yet? Ok, is Angela in? send her to my office. [He
drops and in a few second is Angela comes in].
Angela:
Good afternoon sir.
Editor:
Good afternoon Angela, this is inspector Gbade and he has some
questions for Zainab, but apparently she is not in yet. Ive been
trying to reach her, have you seen her today?
Angela:
No. No sir
Gbade:
Are you sure?
Angela:
No sir I mean yes sir
Gbade:
[Looks at her again] well just give her this [he hands her his
card] Ill prefer that she gets it today please...tell her to call me, its
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important that I talk to her today. Ok?
Angela:
Yes sir.
Editor:
You may go
[Angela walks out]
cut to scene 36
Scene 37
Evening
interior Zainabs apartment.
- Zainab is seen walking up to her apartment door
holding a package in a plastic bag. On getting to her door,
she looks around before searching for her key and opens
the door. She enters, the room is dark, she calls out as she
moves towards the light switch.
Zainab
Nicholas. Nicholas? (then with a quiet urgency) Nicholas!
(She jumps with a scream as Nicholas puts on the light
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revealing himself right beside her) Ah!............
Nicholas
Im sorry. I didnt mean to scare you.
Zainab
What are you doing in the dark? Why did you turn off the lights?
Nicholas
Just trying to be cautious
I switched them off when I heard footsteps coming down the
corridor. (She walks into the parlor and puts the package on
the table).
Zainab
I brought food. You must be hungry.
Nicholas
And tired as hell. Thanks (he reaches in a pulls out and take
away pack from the bag) arent you eating?
Zainab
Maybe later. I still cant believe this is happening.
Nicholas
Me neither. This is the first time Ive actually experienced anything
like thisI hear about them but I never actually believed.
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Zainab
Amazing how your life can change from image consultant to murder
suspect in one day
Nicholas
Beats me
Zainab
This is bigger than clearing your name. This is something else. Its
If you dont mind me asking, what else do you see in these dreams?
Nicholas
II dont know. I just see clues that lead me to deaths, like
premonitions and actual facts from te victims or their surroundings.
For instance, I saw the picture frame of Mr. Osazewas family; I saw
Yemis tattoo; then I saw the name of the street where the scaffold
was I think these three people are connected somehow.
Zainab
What could possibly connect a doctor, the son of some rich dude
and a welder?
Nicholas
Its just a feeling... But I found out something interesting about Mr.
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Osazawa.
Zainab
What is it?
Nicholas
He was a doctor at the University of Ilorin.Department of history.
He was doing research on Ancient Nigerian civilizations. He
uploaded an article two years ago -something about a lost tribe that
could have existed at a time, here in Nigeria.
Zainab
A tribe. A lost tribe? No such thing.
Nicholas
Not according to mister Osazewa. Come see for yourself. (He
moves and he follows her into the bedroom where a laptop
is on a table beside the bed. He sits in front of the computer
and starts to operate, scrolling down a page).
We have sketches and drawings; elements of culture; this weird
language with very funny lettering; many other stuff and...
Zainab
Wait! Wait! Wait! Go back. I think I have seen this before. Yes
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Nicholas
Where?
Zainab
Hold on. (She goes to the cupboard and pulls out the antique
box from her grandmother. She opens it and brings out a
patch of old leather paper with some writings on it, they
compare and it is the same language).
Nicholas
Where did you get this?
Zainab
This was sent to me after my grandmother died, it was one of the
instructions of her will I think.
Nicholas
I dont understand.
Zainab
Neither do I, I didnt take it as anything before but something
strange happened to me a number of times in the past few days.
I have been seeing an old man. The first time I saw him was on the
day of my grandmothers burial. He said to me we all have to die
sometime. I didnt know what he was talking about. I didnt have a
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chance to ask because I was distracted by a phone call and before I
could ask, hed disappeared. I saw him again at Mr. Osazuwas
house while I was doing some interviews he was far across the
road he was smiling at me wearing a sign on his chest that read
its all coming together.
Then today at the construction sitebefore that man fell he said ...
Nicholas
Its all coming together what does that mean?
Zainab
I dont know. It was one of the reasons why I sort of believed you.
But after todays incident
Nicholas
What if we are somehow connected to this whole madness?
Zainab
I can never be connected to this kind of thing! (she says
vehemently, then quietly) Hei God... I need a drink
Zainab walks to the fridge and gets a drink, Nicholas startsto feel dizzy and closes his eyes. He gets a vision of apuddle of water, a street sign, a house and then a clock thatsays 10pm. He opens his eyes.
Nicholas
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Zainab (walking towards her) I just had anoth...
He slips on a pool of water on the floor and cracks his skull
on the kitchen table. With the blood pooling around his
head the camera closes up to his face and his eyes pop
open. He is still standing in Zainabs house, covered in cold
sweat.
Nicholas
Zainab I just had another (about to walk forward but stops to
look down making sure there is no water) vision.
Zainab
Another death? (eyes wide)
Nicholas
Yes, and it will happen at Sinari Daranijo street, 10pm
Zainab
How do you...
Nicholas
(raising his voice in frustration) I saw it damn it! We need to
save him now
Zainab
Ok ok sinari isnt too far from here, we can be there in 10 minutes
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(she looks at her watch) its 9.30 now
Nicholas
So we have 20 minutes when we get there to stop this from
happening. Lets go
She grabs her bag off the table and they head out the door.
SCENE 39
Ext. Night
Nicholas and Zainab are seen getting out of a cab in front aduplex on sinari Daranijo Street.
Zainab
Are you sure this is the house?
Nicholas
Yes, I remember the sticker on the gate. This is definitely the house.
Zainab starts to pay the cab while Nicholas stares at the gate of the
duplex.
SCENE 40
INT. HOUSE ON SINARI/KITCHEN NIGHT
A man is seen in the kitchen putting something in the micro wave,
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he walks to the fridge, takes out a bottle of water and places it on
the kitchen slab and takes out dishes from a drawer. As he sets
them down, the microwave beeps, he looks surprised
Man in Sinari
That couldnt have been 5 minutes already?
He shuts the drawer as he turns away from the dishes,without noticing the water tip over and start to pool on thefloor behind him. He gets to microwave, takes out the dishand smells it...
Man in Sinari
Well it seems warm enough
He starts to walk back towards the dishes, unaware of thepool of water right in front of the sink; he almost steps intothe water when the door bell rings.
Man in Sinari
Who on earth could that be at this time of the night?He sets the food down and heads out of the kitchen.
SCENE 41
INT/EXT FRONT DOOR- SINARI NIGHT
The man pushes a button on the computer and the screen
comes on showing showing zainab and Nicholas at the gate.
Man in sinari
Yes, can I help you?
Nicholas
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Yes sir, we came to warn you about...
Zainab gives him a slight nudge and whispers to him
Zainab
Look, there is no way hell he is going to believe what youre about
to say so let me handle this
Nicholas
How?
Zainab
You said in your vision he dies at 10pm, well its almost 10 now, so if
I can keep him on the intercom till after 10pm, he will be safe right?
Nicholas
I guess so
Zainab looks back up at the CCTV system
Zainab
Good evening sir, my name is Zainab xxx, Im with the xxx
newspaper and were doing a story about the deaths in your area,
[holding her ID up to the CCTV]
Here is my I.D
The man scrutinises the ID and looks at the paper on his
table
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Man in sinari
Yes, Ive heard about you, I also recognise your picture from your
column, very impressive work.
Zainab
Thank you sir
Man in Sinari
However, its rather late for an interview; I would suggest you come
back some other time, preferably in the day.
She looks at Nicholas who is staring at his watch. Nicholas
looks up and silently mouths two more minutes.
Zainab
Well sir, I completely understand and again Im sorry for the late
intrusion but this is really important and cant wait till tomorrow.
Man in sinari
And Why is that?
Zainab
Well...Because...(glances at Nicholas) someones life depends on
me having this interview with you.
Man in Sinari
Really? And what kind of information do I have that can possibly
save a mans life
Zainab looks back at Nicholas who whispers one more minute say
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anything.
Zainab
Well...sir...its not my intention to scare you...
(Stammering).maybe we could go have a drink somewhere
in a more relaxing environment. My driver can take us
(gesturing to Nicholas)
Nicholas rolls his eyes and mouths 30 seconds, almost
there
Man in sinari
Well i dont think my wife will like that very much.
Zainab
I understand...wait..Did you say wife? Where is she now
Cut to: Kitchen
A woman is seen walking into the kitchen, she sees the dish open
on the slab and mumbles something about how careless he can be.
She picks it up and walks towards the sink not noticing the pool of
water on the floor.
Cut to: Front door
Man in Sinari
Well I dont see how...
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He hears a loud crash in the kitchen and runs towards the
noise.
Cut to:
He stops at his wifes body on the floor, a pool of bloodbuilds towards his feet. He rushes to her side half crying,
trying to wake her up.
SCENE
Cut to: Front door
Zainab
Hello, hello, are you there sir? (Looks at Nicholas) do you think hes..
Nicholas
No! we had him on the line till after 10pm..Im sure of it. Maybe..
Nicholas is cut short by the door bursting open. They see the man in a
blood stained shirt carrying his wife with despair written on his face.
Man in Sinari
Help me...please help me
Nicholas carries the mans wife
Nicholas
Get your car keys, is there a hospital around here (Zainab stands
paralysed)...Zainab! Is there a hospital around here?!!
Zainab
Um...no...I mean yes, theres one off Ajose not too far from here.
She touches the womans neck to check for a pulse, and finds none.
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Zainab
Shes dead...
Nicholas
Are you sure
Zainab
Im not a doctor but Ive seen enough dead bodies in my line of
work.
The man returns with his car keys and hurriedly opens thecar door for Nicholas to place his wife in the car. He jumps
in the driver seat and Nicholas is about to head towards the
passenger seat when Zainab grabs his hand
Zainab
(In a low voice) What are you doing, youre a wanted man,
and someone is bound to recognise you at a hospital
Nicholas
I cant just leave him
Zainab
There nothing you can do, shes dead and it wasnt your fault. We
have to go and figure this out.
Man in sinari
(Yelling from the car), Are you coming or not?
Nicholas looks back and forth between the man and Zainab.
The man angrily closes the door and drives off.
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ZAINAB
We should go...now!
SCENE
INT ZAINABS FLAT - NIGHT
Nicholas and Zainab walk into the looking depressed.
Nicholas leans against the door and closes his eyes. He
suddenly bursts out, knocking over a vase
Nicholas
God Damn it! We were right there...right there.
Zainab
Its not your fault; we assumed it was going to be a man following
the pattern so far
Nicholas
(Facing her) Whats the point of these visions if i cant use the
information to help these people?
Zainab
I dont know...and for what its worth (touching his shoulder) Im
sorry I didnt believe you at first.
Nicholas
Hmph! Even I didnt believe me at first
Zainab
Dont worry. Well figure it out. For now, I think you should rest.
Maybe, have some water. Lemme fetch some for you (She gets up
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but as she does she trips and falls, but Nicholas catches
her) ow!!
Nicholas
What is it?
Zainab
My ankle. I think I twisted it.
Nicholas
Ok. Just lay down on the bed. Ok stretch your legs and let me see
what I can do about. Do you have Shea butter? (she nods and
indicates where it is. He gets it and starts to massage her
ankle and feet and she yelps)
Zainab
Ouch! Be careful!!
Nicholas
Just relax... (He keeps massaging it and she begins to purr)
better?
Zainab
Yes, it feels very good actually. You are good with your hands...
(they both smile at each other).
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Nicholas
Well I guess I ammy fianc always said that
Zainab
(Lifting herself up a bit) you have a fianc?
Nicholas
Hadshe died about a year and a half ago.
Zainab
Im really sorry to hear that.
Nicholas
Dont be. Seems like a lifetime ago...I should have - I have moved
on with my life now. (They both stare into each others eyes as
the emotional attraction builds up, and then Zainabs phone
rings. She rolls over on the bed and gets the phone from
her bag.]
Zainab
Hello Angela. Yes, I know my phone was off for a while...Worried?
Why? I went but (she looks at Nicholas) he didnt show. May be
he thought I brought the police and decided not to show. I felt a
little bit sick so I decided to rest. Careful? Why? The police? For
what? Ok give me the number I will call him (she looks for a pen
and paper) Ok call the number. Got it. Yes, I will see you in the
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office tomorrow. Ok, bye dear.
Nicholas
What happened? I heard you say something about the police.
Zainab
Yes my friend says that an inspector was at my office today talking
to my editor and he wanted to talk to me. He dropped his card and
asked that I should call him (she looks at the paper) she thinks
its got something to do with the story I wrote. But I cant be too
sure. let me call this (she looks at the place she wrote the
number) Gbade.
Nicholas
What did you say?
Zainab
I said Ill call him now, dont worry I wont
Nicholas
No. No. The name. Whats his name?
Zainab
Inspector Gbade
Nicholas
Inspector Gbade Akinfenwan?
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Zainab
[She looks at the paper]Yes. You know him?
Nicholas
Very well. Hes my friend; we have coffee together almost every
morning before work. In fact we were together the morning all this
started...
Zainab
But if you are that close, May be he can even help you.
Nicholas
Thats surely impossible.
Zainab
What do you mean?
Nicholas
Look.. Gbade is the snow white police officer - he takes no
bullshit, hes meticulous, he doesnt take bribes, hes got pencil
sharp intuition and razor sharp reflexes. He wont bend or break the
law for any reason or for anyone.
Zainab
Not even family and friends
Nicholas
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My dear, especially family and friends.
Zainab
I dont believe it jor. I dont believe any Nigerian policeman can be
like that. Everybodys got a price
Nicholas
You better believe it love, he is that disciplined. I need to think fast,
I need find a way to understand all this and get my life back,
because with Gbade on this case, its only a matter of time before
he nabs me.
Zainab
Let me call him first and find out what he wants. (She dials the
number)
Scene 38
Inspector Gbade is walking out of the police department
with another officer when his phone rings.
Gbade
Hello? ah Zainab! I came to your office and I wanted to have a little
chat with you. No youre not into any trouble. I saw your article in
the papers and Im just looking out for your safety. The suspect
might contact you. If he does call me, would you? Or if theres
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anything you would like me to know, you have my number. Where
are you now? Ok. Goodnight.
(Gbade looks at the officer next to him.)
Gbade
I want to know where this Zainab person lives and I want
surveillance on her 24/7. I want to know when she has friends over,
when she's on her period,... everything
Officer
Yes sir.
Scene 39
Nicholas
And?
Zainab
There is nothing to tell. He said he will call if he has any more
questions.
Ok, you get some rest; Ill keep searching for the connection
between these three. (She turns back to the computer while
he walks to the living room)
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Day 3
Scene 40
Int
Zainabs Apartment
Zainab is seen stepping out of her room into the living
room. Hand bag in one hand and Jacket in the other.
Nicholas is still sleeping on the living room sofa. She drops
her bag on the floor and puts on her jacket. Then she taps
Nicholass leg.
Zainab
Hey. Hey. Wake up.
(he turns and opens his eyes)
Zainab
Its Morning (she smiles)
Nicholas
(Getting up he stretches) I didnt know I could sleep this long
did you find anything new?
Zainab
Nope Ill keep checking. Im going to take this (showing him the
box) to the office to see if I can find anything about the writings
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and how it can help. There is food in the kitchen and munchables in
the fridge that you can microwave. Ill try to be back early. Im
leaving my laptop so call me if you find anything. Later!
(She leaves, he walks to the door and locks it, then goes
back to the living room)
Scene 41
ext -Morning
Zainab walks down the road. On the other side of the street
there is a car parked. Two men sit in the car watching her
closely. One of the men speak into his walkie
Officer
She just left the house.
Man on the walkie
Good. Tail her. Leave bode to watch the house.
Officer
Yes sir.
Bode comes down from the car and walks towards two
houses near Zainabs house while the other officer slowly
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drives off and follows Zainab.
Scene 42
Zainabs Office
Zainab is seen at her desk working, when Angela comes to
her.
Angela
Hey madam, how far? Have you seen the editor?
Zainab
Yes. I told him I was sick
Angela
So, what did he say?
Zainab
What can he say? Im his best reporter right? He just said that the
police said we shouldnt chase the killer away with our stories. But
that is not the issue. Come (they move to a secluded area, as
they move, the cleaner is seen moving towards Zainabs
desk. He stops and looks at the box on the table then he
moves on)
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-cut to Zainab and Angela.
Angela
Are you crazy? He told you hes innocent and you just believe him?
And worst of all you took him to your house?!! What is the matter
with you? How many criminals will confess to being guilty of any
crime?
Zainab
Calm down. This is why I didnt want to tell you on phone yesterday,
you always get too excited.
Angela
Excited? Excited? The police are searching for a killer and you put
him in your house and you say am excited. Thats a gross
understatement, Im terrified. And the worst thing is that you are
not. Zainab, are you sure you are Ok?
Zainab
(Rolling her eyes) Oh please, Im fine
Angela
Ok look, all is not lost. He is still at your house right? Ok what you
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will do now is call the police, tell them where he is and...
Zainab
Angela wait, wait, wait, Im not calling the police. This thing is more
than just a murder here and we are trying figure it out. All the facts
show a connection between me and him...
Angela
Oh God! He has charmed you...
Zainab
Noooo!
Angela
You are in love with a killer.
Zainab
No Angela, not that kind of connection! I mean a connection
between the events that led to the death of the construction worker
and some things that have been happening to me.
Angela
What construction worker? He killed a construction worker?
Zainab
He didnt kill anybody
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Angela
How do you know?
Zainab
Trust me, I know.
Angela
Zainab, I really dont know what is wrong with you or what he told
you, but you need to open your eyes to see the big mess you are
throwing yourself into. A police case, murder,[she stops and
looks at Zainab] and the police man that was here yesterday. If
you had seen him, seen his eyes, it was as if he knew I was hiding
something and ... (Just then the cleaner comes to them).
Cleaner
Madam Zainab, please can I talk to you for a minute?
Zainab
Please Sule, you can see Im really busy. And if it is the car, you
washed it yesterday so its still manageable.
Cleaner
It will only take a minute and its not about your car madam.
Zainab
Cant you just come later so I can finish my discussion with Angela?
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Cleaner
Its about your grandmother. (Zainab walks up to him)
Zainab
What about my grandmother?
Cleaner
[Whispering] I know she died recently and she left you some
things (he took over to her table) we need to talk in private now.
Zainab
Angela, please give me some time let me just talk to him, its
important (Angela sighs and watches them move into the
rest room then she follows stopping at the door to
eavesdrops)
Scene 43
Afternoon
Zainabs apartment-
Nicholas is looking searching the internet for possible
articles from Mr. Osazewa and other documents that might
help him. He rests his back on the chair for a bit. Instantly,
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he falls into a trance. He sees another vision. This time, he
gets hit by a car. He sees a bank on the other side of the
road. He recognizes the place. Suddenly, he wakes up with a
jolt.
Scene 44
Office restroom.
Zainab
So what is this all about?
Cleaner
Miss Zainab, I have known about that box almost all my life. I have
been watching it since I was fifteen when it was in your
grandmothers possessionand when she died I knew it would
come to you. To be absolutely honest, that is why I took a job here.
Zainab
You came to work here because of a box?
Cleaner
That thing out there is not just a box. For many years it has been
my job and the job of my family to follow that box, it is my job to let
all who hold it know what it means, it is my job to let you know what
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it means and it is my job to let you know who you are.
Zainab
I dont understand.
Cleaner
The box, have you opened it? (Zainab nods) what did you find?
Zainab
An old knife, Artefacts, trinkets, and ornaments.
Cleaner
Did you find a pouch filled with sand?
Zainab
(In a small voice) Yes
Cleaner
You might find this hard to believe but it is the truth. The box is a
house, a house to a seal, a seal...
(Just then her phone rings, it is Nicholas, she picks up)
excuse me. Hello, Nick
Scene 45
Cut to.
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[Nicholas in Zainabs apartment, hurriedly putting on his
pants and talking on the phone at the same time]
Hello, Zainab. Its happening again, I just had another vision. I
recognize the place. Its Allen junction, maybe if I hurry I might be
able to save him. If I wait for you to get here first it might be too
late (in his bid to wear his shoe the phone falls from his ear
and scatters across the floor. He picks up some important
pieces and dashes out of the apartment).
-Cut to
Scene 46
Zainab and cleaner.
Zainab
Hello? Hello? (She tries to call him to no avail) I have to go.
Cleaner
Go where?
Zainab
Allen Junction. Its an emergency. My friend needs help.
Cleaner
But this is very important-you need to understand what you are
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dealing with now.
Zainab
Then come with me. (She pulls him out the door, running into
Angela).
Angela
What in Gods name is going on?
Zainab
Angela, I cant talk right now. I wil