INT. GIRL’S TENT – NIGHT

The tent glows softly from a hanging solar lantern. Lisa sits on a mat, hunched over her sketchpad, trying to concentrate. The sound of footsteps crunching outside.

Eve steps in, holding a bowl of crab.

EVE

So… we’re having crab tonight.

Lisa, are you trying to do something weird by sketching my body?

Maybe that’s just my thing—spontaneous orgasms. 

(She drops the bowl onto a crate with a clatter.)

EVE

 I don’t get to have a bird whisper the meaning of life to me every time I blink.

LISA

No. I’m just doing it to have something to focus on.

It’s the only thing that keeps me from going crazy these days.

EVE

Honey is it really that bad?

We’ve only been out here a month.

LISA

One whole month without making love in a real bed.

EVE

(laughs)

Okay some things never change. Sex on the brain.

(She walks over, peeks at the sketch.)

EVE

So what are you drawing now?

Oh—I see. My right breast.

Sure you’ve got the dimensions right?

LISA

(teasing)

Not sure. I might have to look again.

But my model’s on a schedule. She won’t pencil me in.

EVE

She sounds like a real bitch.

LISA

She can be.

EVE

Well, what if she told you she has a plan…

to see if Brad likes Artimus?

LISA

Yeah? I’d say that’s very titillating.

Especially when you’re living in the middle of nowhere with no YouTube.

EVE

Then choose: right breast or the plan?

LISA

I don’t play games when it comes to love.

Besides, Artimus isn’t into Brad the way I’m into you.

EVE

(sits back, curious)

What do you mean?

LISA

I mean he has a cosmic fascination.

EVE

(snickers)

Oh, a cosmic fascination, huh?

I think he wants to stick it where the sun don’t shine.

And that’s the cosmic story, birdie.

And what about you, babe?

What’s your cosmic story with Brad?

LISA

You have this way of cutting straight to the bare bones…

and then your nipples get hard.

EVE

Oh really.

And do you wanna bone something?

(She slowly lowers her top—just enough to tease.)

LISA

(throws the sketchpad aside, rises)

What are you doing to me?

(She crosses to Eve, eyes locked.)

EVE

(smirking)

I’m in love with a dork.

(Lisa freezes for half a second. Then smiles—wider than she has in days.

She takes Eve in her arms and kisses her deeply, completely.)

INT. GIRL’S TENT – NIGHT (LATER)

Moonlight filters through the canvas. The warmth between them lingers. Lisa and Eve lie tangled in blankets, skin still glowing, breath slowed.

EVE

Okay—so just say you noticed your heart rate is slower after dinner.

LISA

Got it.

Then you say you should check everyone’s heart rate.

EVE

Exactly.

And you get Artimus out of the room when I check.

LISA

Right.

And what are you gonna say to get his heart rate to spike?

EVE

(smirks)

I’ll think of something.

Something… poetic. Or scandalous.

LISA

(grinning)

You’re such a natural at this stuff.

(She swats Eve lightly on the thigh.)

EVE

And you love it.

LISA

Every scheming, brilliant second of it.

(Eve pulls her closer. Their laughter is low, intimate, safe. The plan is silly. Maybe pointless. But it gives them purpose—and each other.)

INT. COMMON AREA – NIGHT AFTER DINNER

The group lounges beneath the open canopy. Lanterns cast soft light across the space. Lisa sketches on a blanket near the corner. Artimus is across the room, hunched over a disassembled sensor. Brad reclines by the back entrance, flicking crab shells into a bowl.

Eve strolls casually through the center of it all, holding a sleek pulse scanner and a thin data pad.

EVE

Alright, people—surprise experiment. Heart rate check. Totally noninvasive. Mildly invasive energy-wise.

LISA

Should I be scared?

EVE

Only if your soul’s hiding something.

(She glides toward Artimus, who’s farthest from Brad, crouching beside his work.)

EVE

Just a little baseline reading. Field stress calibration.

No big deal.

(She presses the scanner to his wrist. Calm. Clinical.)

EVE

So…

Did you and Brad ever end up doing that thing you were thinking about?

ARTIMUS

(doesn’t look up)

What thing?

EVE

(satisfied)

Exactly.

(She logs the data, then stands. Walks slowly across the tent to Brad, who’s leaning against a post, out of earshot from Artimus.)

EVE

Alright, sunshine. Your turn.

BRAD

If this thing tells you what I’ve been emotionally repressing, I want a lawyer present.

EVE

You can have Lisa sketch you a contract.

Give me your wrist.

(She takes his wrist, activates the scanner, then pauses—just long enough for the moment to shift.)

EVE

You know, Artimus told me once he thinks you’re hot when you’re bent over fixing tech.

Said your shoulders flex in a way that’s… “unexpectedly kinetic.”

BRAD

(blinks fast)

He what now?

EVE

Want your heart rate before or after I tell you the rest?

BRAD

You can’t just drop that and walk away!

Also—I’m fine. That’s just—ambient tension. Crab heat.

LISA

(from across the room)

“Crab heat” is not a medical condition, Brad.

EVE

Mmm. Spicy numbers, though.

(She logs his heart rate, wearing the smug grin of a scientist who just confirmed a hypothesis.)

EXT. OUTSIDE THE TENT – LATER THAT NIGHT

Lisa and Eve lie on a woven mat under the stars, arms brushing lightly.

LISA

Alright, frequency witch. What’d you find?

EVE

Artimus? Little flick. Enough to raise a brow.

LISA

And Brad?

EVE

Brad’s heart rate tried to launch a rescue beacon.

LISA

Oh no.

EVE

Oh yes.

Artimus walks up, arms crossed, suspicious but amused.

ARTIMUS

So what are you two up to?

Feeling bored, are we?

EVE

What’s a girl to do when she’s not getting any action in the bedroom?

ARTIMUS

(laughs)

What’s the matter, Lisa can’t  get it up anymore?

LISA

(looking between her legs)

Hmm. Guess not.

That’s why we needed you.

ARTIMUS

(sputtering)

Oh for god’s sake. Why were you talking to Brad like that?

That makes things more uneasy now, doesn’t it?

LISA

Jeez, dude, make a move already.

He’s hot for you.

EVE

Yeah, let’s get this all sorted.

Then maybe we can go back to screwing normally, right?

ARTIMUS

What, like… bring him in to what we do?

EVE

(raising an eyebrow, glancing at Lisa)

Funny—I didn’t even say that.

LISA

(tilting her head)

Is that what you want?

ARTIMUS

(defensive, a little lost)

I don’t know what I want!

EVE

Well a birdie once told me,

if your man’s not functioning in your bedroom…

he’s doing something somewhere else.

LISA

(sincerely, to Artimus)

Just bite the bullet, dude. Do the deed. You’ll feel better.

(then, turning to Eve)

For the record though—

I don’t think I wanna watch.

(They all pause. Look at each other.)

EVE

Me neither…

I think.

(A long beat. Then all three burst out laughing, too tired and too tangled to sort any of it right now.)

INT. SUPPLY SHED – NIGHT

It’s quiet. The shed hums faintly with leftover energy from old tech. Crates are half-sorted, tools scattered. Artimus stands near the open window, looking out toward the trees—thoughtful, nervous.

Brad enters, a little dusty, holding two mugs of tea.

BRAD

Thought you might still be out here.

Figured the night needed ginger or moral support.

ARTIMUS

Or both.

(Brad hands him a mug. Artimus takes it but doesn’t drink.)

ARTIMUS

Buzz brokered a deal.

BRAD

Yeah?

ARTIMUS

Yeah. Full funding. My own facility. Total freedom to research what I want.

It’s already built. Staffed. Secure.

BRAD

That’s big.

(beat)

You taking it?

ARTIMUS

I think I have to.

I won’t be harassed. Neither will you.

Lisa and Eve… not so much.

BRAD

Right. They’re staying?

ARTIMUS

Yeah. They can start construction here. 

Private, secure. They need distance to build something real.

(He sips the tea now. Finally.)

BRAD

So… you go public. I go back and forth.

A bridge between the lab and the land?

ARTIMUS

If you want to be.

BRAD

Is that your polite way of saying you’d miss me?

ARTIMUS

No. That’s me saying I wouldn’t want to do this without you in the equation.

I told you first because…

I needed one person to look me in the eye and not just see the headline.

BRAD

I never saw the headline.

I saw the guy who built a jump grid with one hand and accidentally shorted my comms with the other.

(Artimus half-smiles. That ache in his chest again.)

ARTIMUS

You’re easy to talk to when I’m not running from myself.

BRAD

Then don’t run.

I’ll be wherever you are.

And wherever they are.

(He steps forward—slowly, intentionally.)

BRAD

But since you’re going to be a public figure again…

and I’m still technically an unknown…

(He leans in just a little closer.)

…you might want to kiss me now, before it gets complicated.

(Artimus doesn’t hesitate. He leans in and kisses him—gentle, grounded, not rushed.)

EXT. CAMP – EARLY MORNING

Mist hangs low over the land. The trees are still. A soft breeze carries the scent of wild mint and damp earth. Brad emerges from the tent barefoot, hair a mess, hoodie halfway on. He rubs his eyes and stretches.

Lisa is already up, sipping something hot, sitting on a rock with her sketchbook in her lap. Eve crouches by a small burner, heating water.

EVE

Well, look who didn’t sleep in his own tent.

LISA

Good morning, bridge boy.

BRAD

(grinning)

Technically I was fulfilling diplomatic duties.

(Eve snorts. Lisa raises an eyebrow. Brad just grabs a mug and pours himself tea like nothing happened.)

A moment later, Artimus steps out of his own tent—composed, but softer than usual. More present. His jacket is slung over his shoulder. He’s already made a decision.

He looks at them—Lisa and Eve. Then takes a deep breath.

ARTIMUS

I need to tell you something.

(They both go still. Lisa closes her sketchbook. Eve stops stirring.)

ARTIMUS

Buzz brokered a deal.

A full research facility. Funded, staffed. Protected.

It’s already live.

I’m going back—soon.

LISA

You’re serious.

ARTIMUS

I’ve been offered a level of freedom I never thought I’d get in public.

And after what you did, Lisa… the world sees me differently now.

They want answers.

And I can give them something that helps—maybe even protects all of us.

EVE

You talked to Brad first.

ARTIMUS

Yeah.

Because he’s the one I didn’t want to lose track of.

And because last night… things shifted.

(He glances at Brad, who quietly lowers his mug, eyes steady but warm.)

ARTIMUS

We didn’t plan it.

But I don’t want to pretend it didn’t mean something.

(A long pause. Lisa breathes in slowly, then exhales.)

LISA

I’m happy for you.

EVE

So are we calling this evolution or chaos?

BRAD

Why not both?

(That cracks a smile from all of them.)

ARTIMUS

You two are building something here—something I couldn’t stay grounded enough to help with.

But I can be the shield out there.

And Brad… he’ll keep us connected.

LISA

(half-laughs)

Just don’t let him get famous without moisturizer. That camera glare is brutal.

ARTIMUS

Duly noted.

Eve stood there, eyes burning.

“Wow. You just come in here and tell us what’s going to happen. Both of you do. No consulting the trio. No democracy. Brad looking like he just got what he always wanted—power.”

She paused, her voice sharp and steady.

“Well, I’ve got news for all of you. I’m not staying.”

Then she turned and walked out.

INT. EVE’S ROOM – NIGHT

Eve is packing—quick, sharp movements. Her energy is coiled, barely contained.

Artimus steps in quietly. He hesitates, then walks up behind her and gently places his hands on her shoulders.

She freezes.

Then she turns and slaps him—not hard, but sharp enough to sting.

EVE

I guess I should be grateful you touched me for once.

Well, now you’re gonna find out what it’s like not to have access to my bed anymore.

And I mean that, Artimus.

(She steps back, her voice cold and deliberate.)

EVE

Don’t touch me.

(She turns and walks out again, leaving him standing there.)

EXT. OUTSIDE – 

Brad follows her, unsure of what he’ll say. She hears him behind her and suddenly stops. She turns around and looks him straight in the eyes.

EVE

Stop.

Let me be clear—you don’t get to say anything about me. 

Not this time, you crooked bastard.

She turns and walks off, leaving the weight of her words behind her

INT. LISA AND EVE’S TENT – NIGHT

The camp is quiet. Lisa sits cross-legged near the front flap, watching the trees like she might spot Eve walking back at any moment. She hasn’t moved in hours.

Artimus enters quietly, his face heavy with guilt. Lisa doesn’t look at him at first.

ARTIMUS

I’m sorry.

I did this all wrong.

I should have come to you two first—asked how you felt. About everything.

LISA

(still staring out)

So what’s going on, Artimus?

Are we first wheel, second wheel… or no wheel at all?

And I mean sexually.

I mean—I thought you liked having sex with us.

ARTIMUS

(sits down beside her, ashamed)

I did. And I do.

I’m sorry you even have to ask that.

LISA

Then why did you stay away for so long?

ARTIMUS

You and Eve are… special. Together.

I guess I took the role of the overseer.

I told myself I was protecting what you had.

Truth is… I didn’t feel wanted.

You didn’t seek me out, and I assumed that meant you were okay with me at a distance.

LISA

You never asked if we wanted more.

You just vanished into your role.

(beat)

And now Eve’s gone.

And I’m sitting here wondering if the trio I believed in was ever real—for all of us—at the same time.

ARTIMUS

It was.

It still is for me.

But I didn’t know how to stand in the middle of something that already felt complete without me.

LISA

(sighs, softer)

I feel her.

Even now.

She wants to know who’s most important to you.

Sexually, emotionally—all of it.

Would you give up Brad for her?

(Artimus hesitates, jaw tight. He looks away.)

LISA

That’s what she’s really asking.

She’s just not saying it out loud.

(beat)

Maybe just… go figure it out first.

Before you try to bring her back.

INT. ARTIMUS’S TENT – LATER THAT NIGHT

Artimus sits alone on his cot, head in his hands, thinking. The lantern’s low. The tent flap is half open.

He speaks aloud, softly—half to himself.

ARTIMUS

I think I just figured it out.

Brad was a curious fling.

Not that I don’t love him—as a friend, I do.

But I was bi-curious. That’s all it was.

This trio… it falls apart without Eve.

I fall apart without Eve.

A SHADOW MOVES.

Brad steps into the opening. His voice is low, tight.

BRAD

Wow. Okay.

So it was just curiosity?

Glad you figured it out.

Guess I don’t have feelings that need to be considered, huh?

(beat)

BRAD

Fuck that.

(He turns and walks away)

INT. LISA AND EVE’S TENT – MOMENTS LATER

Lisa sits perfectly still. She heard it all. Her sketchbook is still in her lap, unopened.

For the first time in hours, she closes her eyes.

EXT. FOREST RIDGE – NIGHT

Brad zips up his backpack, earbuds in, pacing the ridge before descending. He’s heading out—done with the drama.

But then he hears a struggle. He drops his pack, grabs his binoculars.

THROUGH BINOCULARS:

Eve is fighting off three attackers. She’s fierce but outnumbered. One stuns her—she goes down, bleeding.

They start dragging her toward the shoreline.

BRAD (muttering)

No. You’re not taking her.

EXT. TRAIL THROUGH THE WOODS – NIGHT

Brad moves fast, shadowing them silently. He takes a photo on a vintage lens cam with no traceable tech.

He pauses, pulls out a homemade comm disc, scratches a few tones into the crystal.

BRAD (to the disc)

Artimus. Blackout squad. Eve taken. Headed east by foot. Likely boat transport. I’ll stay close.

He flings the disc into a coded tree hollow—a safe drop.

INT. SAFEHOUSE – NIGHT

Artimus is tinkering with a scanner when the signal pings. Lisa watches as he retrieves the disc.

LISA

What is it?

ARTIMUS

Brad.

He plays the message. Lisa’s face goes pale.

LISA

We’re going after her.

EXT. DOCKSIDE CLIFF – NIGHT

Eve, bound and bruised, is thrown into a camouflaged speedboat. The elite group covers their tracks. One of them—the interrogator—stares at her.

INTERROGATOR

You’re not just a girl, are you?

You’re one of them. The pulse-holders.

Eve spits blood.

EVE

You think hurting me will make me tell you how it works?

INTERROGATOR

Not at all. We’re going to show you why people like you don’t get to rewrite the rules.

They start the boat.

EXT. HILLSIDE ABOVE THE DOCK – NIGHT

Brad crouches, watching the speedboat below. Eve is slumped between two guards. He moves quickly, sliding down the slope.

He approaches from the shadows, knife in hand, disabling one sentry with a silent takedown.

He’s inches from Eve when—

CRACK.

A stun blast hits him in the back.

INT. BOAT HOLD – LATER

Dark. Wet. The boat creaks with motion. Brad comes to slowly, chained at the ankle beside Eve.

She’s awake. Bleeding. Breathing shallow.

BRAD

(coughs)

Hi. So… I didn’t exactly save the day.

EVE

You’re lucky you’re cute.

BRAD

Shh. I’m sure they’re recording this.

EVE

I guess I’m getting spanked for running again.

BRAD

I was on the run too, doll.

Artimus pretty much gave me the boot.

Said he was just bi-curious with me and that you were it for him. Always was.

EVE

(chuckles softly)

So it’s okay if they know about our personal lives?

BRAD

He didn’t feel wanted by you and Lisa, so he backed off.

Anyway, I was on my way back to the real world…

when I saw you.

EVE

(pauses)

I’m glad my last words to you won’t be “you’re a crooked bastard.”

Because you’re not, you know.

We all love you, Brad. Sex aside. You’re family.

Artimus probably didn’t think sex would mean that much to you.

(She looks at him in the eye) I’m sorry you were hurt. 

BRAD

(looks her in the eyes)

Same to you.

A silence falls. Then they hear birds—soft and sudden. Unnatural for the hour.

Brad tilthis head.

BRAD (cont’d)

Do you hear that?

Then, softly, he begins to speak in light language—a flow of sound beyond words.

Eve’s eyes roll slightly. Her body relaxes. The frequency hits them both.

They slump against each other, unconscious

INT. SAFEHOUSE – ARTIMUS’S WORKROOM – NIGHT

Artimus turns and walks to a locked drawer. Inside is a bundle wrapped in soft black velvet. He unwraps it to reveal a small, glowing crystal, gently pulsing with an aqua hue. He thinks Buzz wouldn’t believe I’m doing this. 

He hesitates, then places it in the center of a shallow brass bowl. He places his fingers lightly around it.

ARTIMUS

(low, steady)

Comm crystal… phase lock initiated. Seeking Oracle. Open line.

The crystal hums louder, rising in pitch.

It flickers—then flares—and the Oracle’s hazy image appears above it, made of light and resonance. Her hair is wild. She’s eating from a bowl of glowing popcorn.

ORACLE

There you are. Took you long enough to plug in.

ARTIMUS

You know. .

ORACLE

Of course I know. . You lit up the old grid.

First time they’ve moved in decades.

LISA (entering, breathless)

Who are they?

ORACLE

They call themselves “Continuum Custodians.”

Been around since before any of your fancy governments.

They think they’re preserving the balance.

But really—they’re just terrified of what happens when the world heals.

ARTIMUS

Because then people won’t need control anymore.

ORACLE

Exactly.

You give someone frequency-based healing that actually works?

Then you lose fear-based medicine, fear-based labor, fear-based leadership.

And boom—suddenly you don’t need half the damn infrastructure.

LISA

So they’re trying to preserve… the sickness?

ORACLE

They’re preserving the dependence.

(beat, leans in)

But listen—Eve and Brad just did something weird.

Their light language synced. That boat? It’s vibrating off course.

ARTIMUS

Are they safe?

ORACLE

Not yet.

You need to go rescue them now. 

The crystal dims. The projection fades.

Lisa and Artimus exchange a look.

LISA

Let’s go get them. 

INT. CUSTODIAN VESSEL – MAIN HALLWAY – NIGHT

Inside, dim red lights cast shadows across the metallic walls. Two guards stand at a checkpoint.

GUARD 1

Unit Seven, what’s the breach?

ARTIMUS

(pitching his voice lower)

Found this one trying to signal an external craft. She’s marked.

GUARD 2

(interested)

You taking her to Lockdown or Transfer?

ARTIMUS

Transfer. She’s not alone.

The guards glance at each other, then one steps forward.

GUARD 1

I’ll escort you to the other two.

Lisa keeps her head down, silent.

They walk through a narrow corridor. A cell door opens at the end.

Inside—Brad sits upright, chained, watching warily.

Eve lies unconscious beside him, still, pale, but breathing.

Brad’s eyes widen.

BRAD

(quietly)

About time.

Before anyone else can speak, Artimus strikes fast—a stun baton to the escort guard’s ribs. The man collapses.

Brad grins.

BRAD

Still dramatic, huh?

ARTIMUS

That’s how I roll.

He drops the helmet and tosses Lisa the cell keys. She rushes to Brad, unlocking him.

LISA

Can you carry her?

BRAD

(nods)

Yeah. I’ve got her.

He lifts Eve gently into his arms.

ALARM BLIPS quietly down the hallway—motion sensors trip as a pair of guards rush in.

Artimus takes the lead—two quick hits with the stun baton and they’re down.

ARTIMUS

Let’s move.

INT. BUZZ’S SAFEHOUSE – RECOVERY ROOM – NIGHT

Eve stirs in bed, then sits up slowly.

EVE

Let me up. I can make it to the bathroom.

LISA

Just lean on me.

EVE

I don’t need you to help me pee.

(turning, showing her bruised face)

See how they slugged me?

BRAD

You should see the other guy.

EVE

(smiling faintly)

Where’s Artimus?

LISA

He wants to talk to you alone.

EVE

Okay.

(to Brad)

But you’re not leaving this family, okay? Just wait in the other room.

BRAD

Gotcha.

EVE

Send him in.

INT. SAME ROOM – MOMENTS LATER

Artimus enters, eyes tired but soft.

ARTIMUS

Brad said he told you everything.

EVE

Did you two have a chance to talk?

ARTIMUS

Yes.

EVE

And?

ARTIMUS

Trio first. We both agreed.

EVE

Good. I hope you know what you’ve got when you have access to me and Lisa.

That means you can be with us anytime you want.

But any hanky panky beyond that should be a vote, okay?

ARTIMUS

Yes. I understand.

EVE

Brad is family.

He only gets access to one of us if it’s agreed upon.

ARTIMUS

Wait, you mean—

EVE

Yeah. Sexually.

It goes for all of us.

Maybe we’re a fucking cult now, I don’t know.

Lisa agreed this is the best way. What do you say?

ARTIMUS

I can’t believe this is happening.

EVE

Okay. I change my vote to no—until you think it’s fine.

’Cause you got it like that, babe.

(beat)

You know you can touch me now.

Artimus sits beside her. They lean into each other. A tender hug, a soft kiss—lightly, because of her fat lip.

INT. SAFEHOUSE – COMMON ROOM – NIGHT

Everyone is gathered around a battered table: the trio, Brad, and Buzz. A low lamp hums above them. Tension is there—but so is warmth.

ARTIMUS

So we’re here to figure out our next moves, in light of what happened to Eve and Brad.

LISA

You sure they aren’t aliens.  

EVE

Alien with a left hook?

Lisa smiles, glancing at Brad. Brad smiles back—bruised, but amused.

BUZZ

Sorry to say, I don’t know anything about this group.

LISA

The Oracle says they’ve been around a long time.

I guess it’s not a conspiracy theory, guys.

They’ve got the super duper technology!

ARTIMUS

I have a feeling they’re losing their power these days.

EVE

Speak for yourself.

They called me a pulse setter.

Like I’m just one of many.

LISA

Apparently finding the old grid was enough for them to make a move.

We need more intel from the Oracle.

BRAD

We have different ways of accessing her.

Maybe we should all try, and come back with what we find.

BUZZ

I’d like to be there when you access her, Artimus. Using the comm crystal.

LISA

Oh? And how do you access her, Brad?

You don’t have anyone here to…

EVE

Top the hell out of him?

LISA

Don’t look at me.

(Everyone glances at Artimus. He looks down.)

EVE

I guess Brad’s off-limits to us for now.

Buzz, you interested?

BRAD

Okay, this is getting to be way too much for me.

(He starts to get up.)

EVE

Brad, sit down.

You’re not going anywhere out that door, okay?

LISA

Brad, you’re creative.

You can do this. Access the Oracle without sex.

I believe in you.

EVE

If not, Lisa’s got a film you can watch—about Arctic wolves.

ARTIMUS

Okay. Meeting adjourned.

BUZZ

There’s some magazines, Kleenex, cake…

Whatever you need—feel free to use whatever.

INT. SAFEHOUSE – SMALL ROOM – NIGHT

Brad sits cross-legged on a rug, staring at a blank wall. A half-eaten slice of cake rests beside him. A candle flickers. Lisa enters quietly and closes the door behind her.

LISA

Didn’t mean to interrupt your… Oracle summoning ritual.

BRAD

Yeah well, I ran out of wolf documentaries.

She sits beside him.

LISA

You don’t have to be mystical.

Just honest. That’s kind of your magic.

BRAD

So what, I just sit here and… feel stuff?

LISA

Basically. Feel something real. She listens to that.

A beat. Brad exhales. They sit in silence. Then Lisa leans her head against his shoulder.

LISA (cont’d)

Try this—pretend you’re talking to me.

Say what you’d want to ask her.

No pressure. No show.

BRAD

Alright…

(softly)

Oracle…

What do I need to know…

to stop feeling like I don’t belong here?

The candle flickers. A small gust stirs the air. The room suddenly feels alive.

ORACLE (V.O.)

You belong the moment you decide to.

Brad opens his eyes slowly. Lisa lifts her head, watching him.

LISA

You did it.

I knew you could do it.

BRAD

Thanks.

Lisa shifts, turning to face him more fully.

LISA

I want you to know—me and Eve…

we like you. A lot.

And we love you.

We were open to—

(blushing)

you know, being with you in the biblical way…

as long as the trio stays intact.

BRAD

(smiling)

Thanks.

I don’t think anyone’s ever said anything like that to me before.

It’s a first.

They both laugh—relieved, raw, connected.

LISA

(laughing)

I know.

Like Eve said, it kind of feels like we’re starting a cult.

BRAD

Yeah. But like… a hot cult with snacks.

LISA

Exactly.

I don’t know what our next moves are with the Custodians or the grid or whatever’s next…

but maybe we can work on it together.

(beat)

I think Artimus and Eve need some alone time.

BRAD

Ah. Alone time.

They share a long, quiet look. The candle crackles gently between them.

LISA

I’m sorry it didn’t work out with you and Artimus.

(leans her head gently on Brad’s shoulder)

BRAD

(pause, voice quieter)

Thanks for acknowledging I have feelings too.

I needed that.

They sit like that for a beat. Just breathing.

LISA

It’s not just Eve and me who care.

You’re not some side character in our story, Brad. You’re in it. With us.

BRAD

(small laugh)

Funny. That’s exactly what it felt like sometimes.

Like I was the comic relief. Or the backup plan.

LISA

You’re not. You’re part of the frequency.

I feel it when you’re gone.

BRAD

Yeah.

Well, sometimes I don’t know where I fit—but I do know I don’t want to lose what we’ve built.

Even if I’m not… the guy someone picks first.

Lisa sits up a little, looking at him.

LISA

You’re not the guy we pick last, either.

BRAD

Can I quote you on that?

(pause)

I just don’t want to be forgotten.

INT. SAFEHOUSE – BEDROOM SUITE – NIGHT

The room is soft-lit and still. For once, the chaos is elsewhere. Just the two of them now.

EVE

It’s been a while, hasn’t it?

We’re actually alone.

ARTIMUS

Yeah, but… can we conjure up some kind of stimulating conversation?

EVE

What—without funny, chaotic Lisa?

I don’t know… maybe we’re just damn dull people without a third wheel.

ARTIMUS

Maybe I’m the dull one.

Maybe that’s the elephant in the room.

EVE

(moving closer, voice low)

Maybe that’s how you feel…

but not what I know.

(beat)

Anyway—dull is good.

Artimus Dull—that’s what I’d order tonight.

You know you have so many colors.

ARTIMUS

(turning to her, softened)

What, no catchy lines? No raw intense emotions?

You into that?

EVE

You have no idea how much I need the mundane Artimus.

(beat)

Are you okay with me, Artimus?

(she looks vulnerable, stripped bare of persona)

ARTIMUS

(stroking her cheek, pulling her into a gentle hug)

You’re everything to me.

(he kisses her—softly—careful of her bruised lip)

EVE

Sorry. My lip.

ARTIMUS

There are other places I can kiss you.

EVE

Shhhh.

Show me.

Scene: The Oracle’s Summoning

INT. SAFEHOUSE – VARIOUS ROOMS – NIGHT

EVE sits up abruptly. She hears a low tone, not quite a sound—more like something pressing against her skin from the inside.

EVE

(whispering)

She’s here.

INT. SAFEHOUSE – HALLWAY

LISA freezes mid-step. Her fingers start to tingle. She looks at her palms, as if they’ve touched something ancient.

LISA

Okay… that’s new.

INT. SAFEHOUSE – WORKROOM

ARTIMUS watches a monitor flicker, frequencies dancing in impossible patterns. It shouldn’t be possible, but it’s unmistakable.

ARTIMUS

(to himself)

It’s the grid.

But it’s singing.

INT. SAFEHOUSE – KITCHEN

BRAD stands in front of the fridge, holding a spoon and a half-eaten tub of something. He hears a harmony—distant, strange, beautiful—and drops the spoon.

BRAD

Oh, nope.

Not gonna eat through this vision.

EXT. SAFEHOUSE – OUTSIDE

BUZZ steps out for a smoke. The wind goes completely still. All the animals go quiet.

A low hum fills the air.

BUZZ

(takes a drag, sighs)

Well, hell.

They found us.

INT. CENTRAL ROOM – MOMENTS LATER

One by one, they gather. No one says a word. Their breathing syncs naturally.

Suddenly, the room shifts—not physically, but energetically. Light curves into the center, bending space.

INT. SAFEHOUSE – CENTRAL ROOM – TIME SUSPENDED

The Oracle stands before them, a presence more than a form. Her glow pulses gently with each breath they take, as if the room itself is breathing with her.

No one speaks. They feel the truth before it’s said.

ORACLE

You heard me because you’re finally tuned to each other.

Your frequencies once sang alone.

Now, they create harmony.

She looks from one face to the next.

ORACLE (cont’d)

What is coming is not a battle.

It is a wave.

A pause.

ORACLE (cont’d)

Consciousness, breaking loose from the systems built to contain it.

The structures will fail.

Not quietly.

ARTIMUS

(softly)

Grid collapse?

ORACLE

Not just the grid.

The illusions tied to it—economy, identity, control.

Those who built it will try to tighten their grip.

You must not tighten yours.

LISA

Then what are we supposed to do?

The Oracle walks slowly, brushing her hand near the center of the group—where no one stands.

ORACLE

Be seen.

Not to gain followers. Not to lead.

To resonate.

Your resonance will be permission for others to rise.

EVE

And who are we, really?

The Oracle smiles, deeply.

ORACLE

You are what happens when awakening stops being solitary.

You are a collective signal—anchored in love, designed to disrupt.

Each of you has held this signature before…

but never like this.

Not in this world. Not together.

BRAD

So… we’re not just a trio and a plus-one?

ORACLE

You’re a quaternion. Four points of a field.

And now… a fifth joins you.

She turns to Buzz. He’s stunned.

BUZZ

Oh hell no.

ORACLE

You’ve always been the delivery system.

You move information, energy, people.

Now move truth.

A low pulse radiates from the floor outward. Everyone feels it—not a command, but a knowing.

ORACLE (cont’d)

What comes next… will test your unity.

Hold the frequency.

Let the old collapse.

Build only from truth.

She fades like mist. The room returns to normal. No lights flash. No alarms sound.

Just breath.

EXT. WILDERNESS SITE – MIDDAY

Lisa and Eve are walking the open land near their future retreat. A few contractors are scattered nearby, checking terrain and laying out early plans.

EVE

No, we should make it a tree loft where we sleep.

It’ll feel safer—elevated.

LISA

We’ll have them check out the lake too.

You know, the one with the crystal grid underneath.

They should love that.

EVE

(sighs)

That means it’ll be off-limits to us then.

LISA

Maybe we could go every once in a while.

To speak, or whatever.

EVE

I wouldn’t have anything to say.

And I prefer my clothes on.

LISA

(laughing)

Maybe just our presence, dearest.

Clothes optional.

EVE

(stops, walks over)

Clothes optional, huh?

(beat)

You better step that comment back, missy.

LISA

Or what?

EVE

Or you’re not gonna be seeing this without clothes again.

(motions to herself)

LISA

Gasp. You would punish me that hard?

Or are we calling it a natural consequence… Mom?

EVE

(shaking her head, walking off toward the contractors)

As if I’ve ever been anything but the mom in this relationship.

INT. TEMPORARY CABIN – LATER

Lisa’s looking over some scattered sketches. Eve walks back in with updated blueprints.

LISA

(pouting)

I’ve been the mom sometimes.

EVE

(sifting through plans)

You are so comfy in your teen role.

Wonderful performances, really.

Sometimes I wonder if that’s all you’re channeling.

BRAD enters, tools slung casually at his side, heading straight to a wall to install the new security comm system.

Lisa and Eve glance at each other as Brad bends over to reach the wiring.

LISA

(whispering)

So how do you see Brad?

Is he a teen too? Because…

EVE

(smiling without looking)

You’re grounded.

Go to your room.

INT. ARTIMUS’S COMPANY – BRIEFING ROOM – DAY

Artimus stands in front of a sleek glass wall, facing a room full of engineers, designers, and support staff. The energy is charged—nervous, ambitious, expectant.

ARTIMUS

So this is the first time I’ll be leading a team this big.

And I’m excited about what we can accomplish together.

(beat)

If there’s any issue you can’t resolve on your own—that’s what HR is for.

And let me be crystal clear:

I will not tolerate any backlash for coming forward with a problem you’re handling in good faith.

We build trust or we don’t build at all.

(pause)

Now—let’s talk about the press.

Any questions?

EMPLOYEE #1

Yeah, I’ve already been approached.

I guess they’re press, but they keep asking about Lisa and Eve—how they’ve influenced your work.

It gets… weird.

Sometimes they get downright rude.

ARTIMUS

The press will say and ask all sorts of things.

Your response is simple: No comment. Move on.

They want drama. Don’t feed it.

EMPLOYEE #2 (younger)

Honestly, I’d like to pop one of them for what he said.

About Lisa.

ARTIMUS

(slight edge)

That’s exactly what they want.

Let me be clear—if you engage with the press in any way outside protocol,

it’s grounds for termination.

We’re not here to play defense.

We’re here to build.

INT. ARTIMUS’S OFFICE – NIGHT

Artimus sits behind a glowing desk, jacket off, sleeves rolled. His phone’s on speaker. He’s clearly tired but smiling as Eve’s voice comes through.

EVE (V.O.)

Would love for you to grace us with your presence tonight.

Making pasta primavera.

ARTIMUS

Sounds delicious, but I’m so wiped out.

EVE (V.O.)

Hmm. This is a pattern.

All I can say is—you better get your ass in gear for us too, literally,

because I don’t like reruns.

ARTIMUS

The way you say things… you know what it does to me.

EVE (V.O.)

Uh huh.

And you know how I get when I’m not getting any.

So put me in the schedule, high priority, and get your ass over here.

Take the copter if you have to. We can afford it.

ARTIMUS

(smiling)

Hmm. I guess you got it like that.

EVE (V.O.)

I guess you’re right.

(beat)

Don’t make me call Lisa.

ARTIMUS

I’m already putting on my shoes.

INT. SAFEHOUSE – KITCHEN – NIGHT

Lisa, Eve, and Brad sit around the table, bowls of pasta steaming in front of them. The atmosphere is cozy and full of the usual teasing energy.

LISA

My food always goes straight to my thighs and butt.

EVE

Yeah, we see that—especially the latter.

BRAD

(laughs)

You seem to be the butt of a lot of jokes.

But seriously… does it ever bother you?

I mean—the media frenzy?

EVE

She loves it.

LISA

I don’t care.

I know Eve loves me the way I am—she just wants me healthy.

EVE

If I cared, I wouldn’t be feeding her pasta.

(she turns to Brad)

How ’bout you?

You’re so built—what’s your story?

BRAD

(smiles, but there’s a flicker of something deeper)

Ah… yeah.

That’d be my dad.

(beat)

He was a drill sergeant. Real old school.

If I didn’t stay in shape…

(long pause)

Let’s just say it wasn’t pretty.

EVE

(voice softening)

What do you mean, Brad?

BRAD

I mean…

being bloodied as a child isn’t pretty.

A long silence. Lisa gets up, walks behind his chair, and gently begins rubbing his shoulders.

EVE

I’m sorry, Brad.

(she reaches across the table and takes his hand)

BRAD

(voice cracking)

God, you two…

What are you doing to me?

I’m actually crying.

He lets go. And they let him.

They hold him, each in their own way, as something inside him uncoils.

ARTIMUS walks in, quiet in the doorway.

ARTIMUS

I’m sorry—am I interrupting?

BRAD

(sniffing, wiping his face)

No. It’s okay.

I’ve just never felt healing like this before…

from two women completely in sync.

Lisa and Eve each kiss his cheek. Eve bends down to meet his eyes.

EVE

I mean it when I say you’re family.

Closer than family.

(touching his cheek)

Sleeping together doesn’t mean shit.

We love you.

She looks at Artimus.

ARTIMUS

That’s right, mate.

(sits beside him)

And maybe I don’t have the right to say anything—

but if I’d been more in touch with your feelings,

I would’ve told you back then that I didn’t feel as deeply as maybe you did.

LISA

The point is—we don’t want to treat you like you’re not as important.

Because you are.

ARTIMUS

Exactly.

I had my head up my ass.

I was completely out of sync with myself.

EVE

We all need to do a better job being there when one of us is flailing.

LISA

I agree.

And Brad—you’ve always been there for us.

So now we’re saying it, together:

We want to be there for you, too.

Brad closes his eyes. Breathes.

It’s hitting him like something he’s waited for his whole life.

INT. TRIO’S ROOM – NIGHT

The three are lounging comfortably, post-pasta, post-tears. A softness settles over them.

ARTIMUS

I’m glad that happened.

That felt… good.

EVE

Yeah.

LISA

Hey, you guys…

I just wanna go and lay with him.

Just until he falls asleep.

Artimus and Eve exchange a look.

EVE

Lisa, he’s gonna have to get used to having a room here—

and sleeping alone.

Until he gets a boyfriend or whatever.

LISA

I know.

But until then… I can be with him.

EVE

(turns to Artimus)

Can you please talk some sense into your child?

ARTIMUS

(sighs)

That’s crossing a boundary in my opinion, sweet cakes.

EVE

And what?

(she gestures Lisa over)

Come here.

Lisa walks over, eyes wide like she knows what’s coming.

EVE (cont’d)

Look at what you’re wearing.

Turn around.

Lisa turns, reluctantly.

EVE (cont’d)

This doesn’t come down far enough, and I can fully see your panties.

This is totally inappropriate to wear around Brad.

(she gives Lisa a playful but pointed swat)

ARTIMUS

I agree with Mum, Lisa.

Let’s be respectful.

Think about it.  what we wear—or don’t—might affect others.

LISA

(sighs, walking to the bathroom)

Oh God.

Brad has literally carried me naked in his arms. Remember?

(offscreen)

She puts on sweatpants and reappears.

LISA (cont’d)

Is this better?

EVE

Alright, Lisa.

But don’t come back in here wanting any hanky panky later.

I mean it.

Lisa stiffens, her face changing. She turns and leaves—hurt.

ARTIMUS

That was a little controlling, don’t you think?

EVE

She’s a brat.

I have to keep her in line.

You have no idea—you’re gone all the time.

(beat, letting it go)

Enough of her.

How ’bout us?

(she curls into him)

I need some lovin’.

ARTIMUS

Yes, ma’am.

(he pulls her close and begins to kiss her, slow and steady)

EVE

(melting)

Mmm… now that’s the right kind of boundary crossing.

INT. SAFEHOUSE – KITCHEN – NIGHT

The kitchen is dim, quiet. Eve walks in to get a glass of water and stops when she sees Lisa, sitting at the table, eating a sandwich in silence.

Eve hesitates, then turns to leave—saying nothing.

LISA

(standing, stopping her)

Don’t.

I want you to stop momming me all the time.

(pause)

You should know when you’re going too far.

Like tonight.

EVE

(coolly)

Then act more like an adult if you want me to stop.

And for the record, I didn’t want to sleep with you tonight.

I wasn’t momming you.

LISA

No—it’s because you didn’t get your way.

And I’m telling you… you better stop.

(locks eyes with her)

Now, is this me being a teenager?

Or an adult?

Your call.

EVE

(pause—something softens)

An adult.

(beat)

So…

why don’t you come to bed?

(she extends her hand gently toward the bedroom)

INT. TRIO’S ROOM – LATE NIGHT

Lisa walks in. Artimus is already asleep. Eve is just settling in, eyes closed but not quite out.

Lisa stares for a moment, then quietly grabs her pillow and walks out.

Eve opens one eye… watches her go.

She lays still—but something lingers. Guilt, maybe. A question.

INT. KITCHEN – MORNING

Artimus has already left for work. The kitchen is quiet.

Lisa doesn’t come out for breakfast.

EVE, concerned, walks down the hall and checks her room.

Empty.

She checks the spare room.

Lisa’s made her bed there.

The whole morning passes—Lisa talks to Brad and the contractors, casually, even warmly. But not a word to Eve.

Finally—Eve’s had enough.

INT. SPARE ROOM – LATE MORNING

Lisa’s folding clothes, organizing. Eve stands in the doorway.

EVE

What’s going on, Lisa?

LISA

I don’t want to sleep with you.

This is my room now.

And since Artimus answers to you first,

I guess I won’t be sleeping with him either.

Thanks to you, Mother.

EVE

(scoffs, raw)

Mother what? Go ahead—use the expletive.

I guess I have it coming.

(beat)

You not wanting to sleep with me—I get it.

Really.

But just for the record?

I wish that Custodian group would have  just killed me.

Put me out of my damn misery.

(she’s spiraling now, finally breaking)

Cause I can’t run—if I do, I might get beaten, raped, hunted.

Or I’m stuck here—on the frontlines of a world I didn’t choose.

You want to know what I’d choose?

A balding, suburban, blue-collar man.

A kid.

A backyard.

Peace.

(her voice hardens as she turns to leave)

So if you’ll excuse me—

I have to go talk to the contractors.

To make this home comfortable. For you all.

Let’s not forget about making lunch, either.

Such a damn mommy I am.

She walks out.

Leaves Lisa standing in the silence of her own new room.

INT. KITCHEN – MIDDAY

Eve stands at the counter, making lunch. Her movements are methodical but hollow. Brad enters and watches her quietly for a moment.

BRAD

Let me do that.

(he takes over, starts assembling sandwiches with a calm but focused energy)

BRAD (cont’d)

There’s something I’ve been holding back.

Something Lisa told me.

She asked me not to tell you, but…

I think you deserve to know.

EVE

(turning, guarded)

Okay…

BRAD

It’s about the levitation.

When she took her clothes off.

Eve says nothing. Just listens.

BRAD (cont’d)

You thought it was some kind of wild spiritual activation.

Or a show for the world.

But it wasn’t.

She had a premonition—after Ben died.

The studio took his blackmail stash.

You thought it was just pictures of other girls he trafficked.

But Lisa saw more.

She saw you.

They had pictures of you, Eve.

Eve freezes.

BRAD (cont’d)

Lisa never told you.

She didn’t want you to carry it.

So she made herself the spectacle.

Not to awaken the world.

Not to shift the grid.

Just to make sure those pictures never saw the light of day.

That’s all she was thinking about.

You.

And those girls.

(he finishes one last sandwich, then quietly exits)

Eve stands in place, trembling—face pale, breath caught in her chest.

EXT. OUTSIDE – MOMENTS LATER

Lisa is at her suitcase, folding clothes into it, quiet and distant.

EVE

Lisa…

What are you doing?

LISA

(pained)

I feel like I’m never going to be enough for you.

No matter what I do, you treat me like I’m always just a little too much or not quite right.

You knew I was hurt last night.

And you didn’t care.

I was out there, alone—eating a sandwich.

You weren’t even going to talk to me.

You were going to let me sit with that pain and walk away like it was nothing.

I stood up to you—set an emotional boundary—and somehow it still became about you.

I guess I was wrong.

So I’ll leave. It’s easier that way.

EVE

(tears rising)

Wait. Please.

You’re right.

I don’t know why I hurt you.

Maybe… maybe I was scared.

I was angry at myself and I took it out on you.

But that’s not who I want to be with you.

Not anymore.

(voice shaking)

Try to remember the good things I did, okay?

Because right now, all I see is what I failed to do.

(beat)

I’m the one who should leave.

You should stay.

Be safe.

Do what your guide wants you to do.

That’s who you are.

LISA

(softly)

Eve…

She walks to her and embraces her—tightly, finally.

They cry into each other’s shoulders, the weight of what’s been unsaid finally lifting.

INT. BEDROOM – NIGHT

Lisa and Eve lie in bed, wrapped around each other. They’ve been holding each other for hours. No more words needed—until now.

EVE

You know, I can’t believe it.

After everything—the Oracle’s warning about staying connected,

knowing from experience what happens when we separate…

Why would we ever let ourselves drift like that?

(beat)

What’s wrong with us?

Is this even normal for a regular relationship?

I don’t get it.

LISA

I think we both have a death wish swirling around inside us.

Artimus had it too—when I first met him.

(quiet)

After everything we’ve seen…

I’m not surprised.

EVE

And we’re both rebellious enough to carry it out.

LISA

Not a great combo: rebellious and self-destructive.

EVE

Not to mention maybe it’s not just us.

Maybe it’s the energies trying to kill us.

We’re on the front lines, after all.

knock knock

LISA

What’s that noise?

EVE

Probably Brad.

Lisa slips out of bed and opens the door.

BRAD

Security just notified me.

We’ve got a large group gathering outside.

Come on—let’s check the camera feed.

INT. SECURITY ROOM – MOMENTS LATER

Lisa, Eve, and Brad gather around the monitor.

They stare in stunned silence.

Dozens—maybe more—are outside the gate.

Kneeling. Bowing. Hands raised.

It looks like a ritual.

Like a cult.

BRAD

Security says they’re here to worship Lisa.

(beat, slower)

And make her their leader.

The three stare at the screen.

Then… at each other.

INT. TEA ROOM – NONLINEAR SPACE

Eve sits across from the Oracle, who calmly stirs sugar into a steaming cup of tea. The space feels timeless. Safe and unrelenting all at once.

EVE

Why didn’t I acknowledge her?

She was hurt.

She’s the one I love the most.

ORACLE

(stirring gently)

You tell me.

Why would someone choose to kill something… instead of heal it?

(pause)

Why heal anything, Eve?

(quiet smile)

Why not just put sugar in your tea?

She lifts the spoon and taps it once. The sound rings.

ORACLE (cont’d)

You know you like it better with sugar.

EVE

What’s the point?

I didn’t choose this.

ORACLE

You didn’t?

(tilts her head, voice soft but precise)

You thought about plastic surgery.

Disappearing. Starting a new life.

But you never would.

Why not?

EVE

(voice low)

Because it’s what I think about…

what’s already happened in my life. 

ORACLE

And what do you think about it?

EVE

I’m against it.

I’m against the whole damn thing.

(pause—her voice cracks a little)

I hate it.

ORACLE

(studies her, gently)

You look like someone who might want to kill something.

INT. SAFEHOUSE – UPSTAIRS WINDOW – DAY

Lisa and Brad stand side by side, looking through the window at the worshippers below. A strange, reverent stillness fills the scene outside.

LISA

I guess I could undress again and let out a big fart this time.

BRAD

(laughs)

Not sure that would stop ’em.

LISA

The easiest thing would be to make them go away.

BRAD

Security says they’re ready to die.

That’s why they’re stuck.

(beat)

And we don’t want murder on our resume.

LISA

(slower now)

Funny—me and Eve were just talking about that.

Like maybe we’ve got some kind of death wish…

Because we still want to run away.

BRAD

(grim, but trying to keep it light)

Great. And they’re looking to you for answers…he shoots his head with his finger. 

Maybe you’re all that stands between them…

and tipping over the edge.

Lisa doesn’t laugh this time. She just stares out the window.

INT. SAFEHOUSE – ORACLE ROOM – NIGHT

Oracle stands near a window, calmly watching the crowd below. Eve is curled in a chair, hollowed out but still present.

ORACLE

All those people out there…

they’re looking for answers.

A lot of them want to die.

But you represent hope.

EVE

I’m not sure I have hope.

Not when I truly examine what’s happened to me.

(beat)

I’m too damaged to love someone who finally loves me back.

It feels like a cosmic joke—

and I want to kill the person responsible.

ORACLE

If it is a joke…

it’s not because someone out there doesn’t give a damn.

(looks at her)

Why do you joke, Eve?

Is it because you don’t give a damn?

Because you joke around a lot—with Lisa.

INT. SAFEHOUSE – WINDOW HALL – SAME TIME

Lisa and Brad stand together again, watching the worshippers below.

LISA

Yeah…

you’d think I’m the worst person to help in a situation like this.

But I just realized—

I’m actually the best.

BRAD

Because you know you could be one of them.

LISA

That’s right.

I don’t judge them. 

Oddly.

(beat)

I feel love for their predicament.

Because I’m in the same one.

INT. TEA ROOM WITH ORACLE – NIGHT

Eve sits upright now, something landing in her voice.

EVE

I just realized…

I joke because it brings joy.

Like wrestling with Lisa on the floor—

that brings me joy.

A joy in a sometimes dark place.

ORACLE

Lisa’s never pushed you away once when it came to that, has she?

EVE

(softly)

No.

(pause)

Looking at myself from that standpoint…

I can see my mind has gotten far too serious.

Obsessed with finding reasons why—

as if my mind’s opinions are somehow superior.

But they’re not.

ORACLE

If your mind is not superior…

what is?

EVE

Joy.

ORACLE

Then perhaps you can give your mind a reason it can understand.

EVE

(takes a deep breath)

I’m telling my mind:

Joy transforms darkness into light.

And I already made the choice—long ago—

to come here and do exactly that.

Just for the experience.

INT. SAFEHOUSE – COMMON AREA – LATER

Lisa paces in front of the window, charged with energy. Brad lounges nearby.

LISA

There’s only one way out of this.

One way to go with this, I mean.

BRAD

What’s that?

LISA

We have to have a show.

We sing. We dance.

We celebrate who we are—for God’s sake.

(beat)

I’ll take voice lessons.

BRAD

We’ll get a dance coach up in here.

Maybe even tap shoes.

LISA

Perfect.

BRAD

Where’s Eve?

LISA

Meditating.

Just then, Eve enters—calm, clear, glowing.

LISA

(grinning)

Hi.

EVE

Hello.

LISA

(tilting her head, trying to be sexy)

How you doin’?

INT. BEDROOM – MORNING LIGHT

Lisa and Eve lie on their sides, facing each other in bed. The world is still quiet. Their hands move gently—stroking each other’s face, brushing fingers through hair. There’s a deep calm between them now.

EVE

I think I found an answer to a question I’ve been circling.

LISA

What’s the question?

EVE

Why get up after you’ve been destroyed?

Why keep breathing after you’ve been compromised?

Especially when your mind doesn’t agree with it.

LISA

Agree with what?

EVE

What life is here.

LISA

So… what’s the answer?

EVE

Because I can.

And because I’m joy.

Lisa smiles, a tear sliding down as she strokes Eve’s face.

LISA

I’m joy too.

Would you like to be joy together?

EVE

(looking straight into her eyes)

Yes.

I would.

INT. SAFEHOUSE – EVENING – LIVING ROOM

The trio is seated for a planned evening “meeting.” Lisa looks overly eager. Eve’s trying to stay serious. Artimus already looks suspicious.

ARTIMUS

So what do you mean you have new rules?

EVE

(Lisa, dramatically)

Okay—new rule: Mommy can get spanked too.

ARTIMUS

This is what you called this meeting for?

EVE

Yeah, pretty much.

When I’m momming anyone in the house… I can get spanked.

LISA

So Artimus, if you ever feel like something’s off,

you can totally go against Mom—with a playful spank.

ARTIMUS

And this was important enough to pull me from work?

EVE

Well, Lisa got this from Therapy Bot—so it’s legit.

Apparently this keeps us from becoming too rigid in our roles.

LISA

In other words: flexibility in roles = healthier relationship.

ARTIMUS

(sighs, thoughtful)

Okay… I do see how I’ve been letting Eve take the lead with you, Lisa.

I haven’t always said much—even when I felt something.

EVE

(smiling)

Well now apparently Lisa wants you to spank me.

ARTIMUS

You realize you two have gone mad from not seeing the real world in ages

EVE

Oh wait—there’s more.

LISA

(laughing)

This will also be our way to let Brad into our intimacy.

Artimus looks like his soul just left his body.

EVE

Brad can spank any of us at any time.

LISA

And we can spank him.

EVE

Lisa, that’s where pain gets involved.

I might actually hurt my hand spanking Brad.

ARTIMUS

Does Brad know about this?

LISA

Not yet.

ARTIMUS

(to Eve)

And why wouldn’t my butt hurt your hand?

EVE

(smiling)

Oh that’s easy. Yours is smaller.

I’d just smack it—maybe pinch it.

I don’t think Brad would even feel it.

LISA

As long as he feels something—that should be the rule.

EVE

(laughing)

We should be writing this down.

LISA

So we need you to sign off on all this.

ARTIMUS

(pause)

I honestly can’t picture Brad spanking either of you.

EVE

(flirty)

Me neither, Lisa.

This plan you got… are you sure this isn’t your way to get some Brad time?

Lisa pauses, caught.

LISA

We don’t know how Brad will be.

At least this way, he knows he’s included in the madness.

EVE

Well Lisa… I don’t know how my butt will feel.

Brad’s hand is huge. It might actually hurt.

LISA

(sarcastic)

I doubt it.

EVE

Whatchu sayin’, Lisa?

ARTIMUS

She’s saying you’re packing more of a load back there.

EVE

(shocked)

And no one told me?!

They all burst out laughing.

ARTIMUS

Okay. It’s allowed.

EVE

Oh—and one more thing.

Lisa called Ed Sheeran.

ARTIMUS

Oh, just like that?

EVE

Yep. His team’s coming here to choreograph me and Lisa dancing to his music.

ARTIMUS

And he just… agreed?

EVE

Apparently Lisa can get anybody up in here.

(raises eyebrow)

LISA

(smiling wide, raising her arms)

Guess taking off all your clothes has its perks.

EVE delivers the first spank of the day.

INT. BACKSTAGE TENT – NIGHT

The second trio—Lisa, Eve, and Brad—stand in front of a mirror framed with soft lights. Choreographers bustle around. The bass of the pre-show track thumps faintly in the background.

LISA

Okay. This is it.

The choreographers are ready. The mix is loaded.

EVE

(narrowing her eyes)

Lisa… Brad…

When we start grinding to those bump-n-grind beats—

how exactly are the worshippers gonna react?

Did anyone consult The Bot?

BRAD

(grinning, lifting an eyebrow toward Eve)

Don’t worry.

If anyone gets out of line…

you can bet I’m gonna tap that ass.

EVE

(freeze—blinks like a deer in headlights)

Without a word, she pushes Lisa aside for a private whisper-shout.

EVE (whispering)

Remind me to full-on spank your ass

for pimping me out to Brad!

LISA

(trying not to laugh, nervous energy building)

Okay! We’re ready!

Let’s get out there.

(beat)

Let’s dance like our entire emotional system depends on it.

EXT. OUTDOOR STAGE – NIGHT

The music swells—an Ed Sheeran remix, threaded with tribal drums and deep synths. The open field glows under stage lights. Hundreds of worshippers stand still, hushed, waiting for something sacred.

Lisa steps out first, hips rolling in time, the lights kissing her curves like an offering. Her movement is bold, unapologetic—grinding, spinning, laughing. She doesn’t beg for divinity—she dares them to see her as human.

Then Eve enters, sharp and captivating. Her choreography is precise—Britney-at-the-VMA’s precision. A single kick, a hard turn, a pop of the hip. Electric. Her hair flies like fire. Her eyes are closed like she’s channeling something between spirit and survival.

The crowd doesn’t know how to react. They sway. Some stare. Some fall to their knees, but others… start to move.

Just when the energy is finally becoming unified—

BRAD walks out, slick in all black, the beat shifting to match his strut.

He doesn’t dance at first. He grins.

And then, with the timing of a holy fool, he walks downstage to the front row.

He gently puts a hand on the shoulder of a kneeling woman.

She drops.

Flat on her back. Arms spread. Eyes wide.

BRAD

(confused but playing along)

Oh. Okay. Guess it’s that kind of party.

He lays hands on another man.

He drops too.

Another. Falls.

Suddenly, people are dropping like dominoes—wailing, crying, twitching.

Lisa freezes.

Eve stops mid-hair flip.

Buzz kills the music.

EVE

(half-shouting, half-whispering)

Brad… what. did. you. just. do?

BRAD

(stunned)

I don’t know.

I thought I was being funny.

LISA

(horrified whisper)

You laid hands.

You accidentally led a revival.

One guy in the crowd is convulsing with joy. Another is trying to crawl toward the stage. 

The lights flicker.

The moment hangs.

And then—

Eve sprints off stage.

Lisa grabs Brad’s arm.

LISA

You are so getting whooped for this.

INT. SAFEHOUSE – LIVING ROOM – MOMENTS AFTER THE PERFORMANCE

Eve, Lisa, and Brad have just come back inside. Buzz is somewhere shaking his head in the background. The energy is chaotic calm.

EVE

This was just… total confusion.

BRAD

Okay—maybe we just calm down.

I guess now we do know how the worshippers react.

LISA

(shrugs)

What difference does it make?

As long as they had fun.

EVE

(looking out the window)

Some of them are leaving.

(beat)

That’s good.

Now we’ve got the hardcore group left to love.

LISA

We should consult the Oracle.

EVE

I agree.

LISA

But first things first.

(She shoots a look at Eve, who immediately matches it.)

EVE

That’s right.

(turns to Brad)

Brad, if you would… assume the position.

LISA

Where’s my whip?

EVE

It’s in the back, hon. Remember? You dropped it behind the bed thingy.

LISA

Oh yeah!

(she disappears to retrieve it)

EVE

Hurry up—chop chop. Bend over.

BRAD

(stepping forward, confused but amused)

Oh my god… I had no idea it was like this for you three.

(bending over, hands on knees)

This cult is intense.

LISA

You’re part of it now.

EVE

Eyes wide open, darling.

SMACK. SMACK.

They each give him a playful slap with their hands, laughing.

LISA

We had you going.

BRAD

(straightening, stunned)

Omg—you totally had me going.

(beat)

That’s a true first.

EVE

(to Brad, half-serious)

Hey, just curious…

Did you even feel that?

Brad looks at both of them—expression unreadable.

INT. ORACLE’S CHAMBER – TWILIGHT

The light feels unreal, like it exists between timelines. Eve sits across from the Oracle, who stirs something in her cup that glows faintly purple.

ORACLE

So… I see your joy levels are improving.

Way to go, Joy.

EVE

(grinning)

Yes, it feels good—really good—to let go.

Just to see where this chaotic current takes us.

But I must say, Oracle…

my mind is having an interesting response to all this.

ORACLE

(mmmhmm, amused)

Do tell.

EVE

My mind is gleeful at the idea of making a complete mockery of this thing you all call life down here.

In fact—it feels like payback.

For whoever up there is laughing their ass off at all of us.

ORACLE

(sipping, not missing a beat)

I see.

(smiling now)

Well… tell your mind we’ll see who has the last laugh.

(she winks)

See you in the funny papers.

(pause)

Oh—by the way, Lisa’s got the other stuff covered.

The worshippers.

EVE

(smirking)

I’m sure she does.

INT. BEDROOM – NIGHT

The world is quiet now.

Lisa lies flat on top of Eve, their bodies pressed close, face to face. No tension. Just breath and skin and stillness.

EVE

You look so happy.

LISA

I am.

I can’t stop smiling.

EVE

(softly)

I see the joy in your eyes, honey.

Makes me think… I finally made something right.

Eve looks into her eyes—really looks. A quiet intensity floods her. Not lust, not even longing—just deep, raw gratitude.

Like maybe she could spend the rest of her days paying Lisa back with chaotic joy for the unselfish love she gave so freely.

She touches her face gently, not wanting the moment to end.

INT. SAFEHOUSE – COMMON ROOM – MORNING

Lisa is pacing a little, holding a small notebook. Eve lounges with a mug. Brad is messing with his sleeves. Buzz is tuning something on a small console.

LISA

Okay, so Artimus is almost here.

BRAD

Yeah—he just texted.

Thanks to Buzz over here.

BUZZ

(smugly)

I gave him the bat copter.

Somebody’s driving him from the landing now.

EVE

(sincerely)

Thanks, Buzz.

(She leans over and kisses him on the cheek.)

Just then, Brad hears something by the door. He walks over, opens it, and picks up something lying just outside.

BRAD

Look what someone dropped on us.

(He brings it over—it’s a folded, weathered newspaper comic section.)

BRAD (cont’d)

Old-school comics. Like… the kind in actual newspapers.

EVE

(peering at it)

Funny papers?

LISA

(smiling)

Yeah. That’s what they used to call it.

Right then—Artimus bursts in, slightly out of breath, holding his phone.

ARTIMUS

Guys—you’re not gonna believe this.

Look what just went viral.

He throws the phone down. TikTok plays on speaker.

It’s Eve’s dance from the show. Fully choreographed. Fully public.

Thousands of likes. Dozens of remixes. Comments flying.

LISA

Eek.

Plot twist, guys.

EVE

(staring at the screen, deadpan)

Yeah.

If this is what you call a synchronistic moment…

(she lifts her eyes upward, half-annoyed, half-dazed)

…I’m not amused.

INT. SAFEHOUSE – COMMON ROOM – DAY

The group is gathered, sprawled on couches and cushions, watching the viral video of Eve’s dance on the big screen. The room is glowing with color and lingering awe.

LISA

God, you look so hot.

I’m getting horny and I just had her a few hours ago.

ARTIMUS

TMI, Lisa. We have company.

BUZZ

You might want to get TMI out of your vocabulary, guys.

New level, new language.

BRAD

This is…

This is feminine energy on overdrive.

It’s pulsating.

ARTIMUS

I’m pulsating.

EVE

(deadpan)

Nice to know how my gift to the world is being used.

BRAD

(grinning)

Well, I guess the audience creates the big finish.

LISA

Shut up, Brad. You’re not helping.

(turns to Eve)

This is what we wanted.

Don’t let them twist it.

Eve—you let go of everything.

You were joy. Bliss. Alive.

BUZZ

Exactly.

That’s what we’re supposed to be doing—remember?

Not teaching, not preaching, not fighting.

Just… being ourselves.

ARTIMUS

That’s right, Eve.

You just happened to outshine us all this time.

(he bows)

Congratulations.

EVE

(smiling, quietly)

Thank you.

Just then, Brad looks out the window. He stiffens.

BRAD

(quietly)

Oh my god…

(to the group)

The worshippers. They’re gone.

No trace.

EVE

(stunned, slowly rising)

Gone?

(she breaks into gleeful laughter)

The group cheers, hugging and laughing.

LISA

(pulled into a hug, thoughtful)

The worshippers took a lot from us.

But we learned a lot from them, too.

Everyone pauses. Looks at her.

What exactly did they learn?

LISA

(frustrated guru tone)

Hello? Look around, sillies.

We just upped our game.

(she presses her palm to her forehead)

GROUP

(in unison)

Ohhh yeah… okay.

EVE

(teasing)

You should write a book.

“Ascension for Dummies.”

They all burst into laughter.

Lisa, Brad, Artimus, and Buzz try to mimic Eve’s viral dance—but they just can’t reach the frequency.

Eve steps back, watching them, hand over heart.

She turns her gaze upward. Quiet. Playful.

And gives a wink.

To the Oracle.