(We cut to the "back-up crew" at the Four Martians' place at the Orange Grove Apartments. It's now dark, and Nyles is the only person remaining on the balcony. Maxine, Joe, Cory, Danny, and Kimberly play poker. Everyone else is still watching TV.)
Maxine: (Looking intently at her cards) Ok, pair of fours. (Lays them down)
Joe: (Throws his on the table in disgust) Man, I got zilch.
Cory: (Grins) Pair of kings.(Lays his out)
Nyles: *mutters* You guys're terrible.
Danny: (Puts out his with a smirk) Three kings and a queen. Beat that (Looks at the balcony) Hey, Nyles, seen anything yet?
Nyles: Just more of the light show. Really freaky, man.
Kimberly: Light show?
Maxine: Yeah, they had all these freaky lights going on over there earlier, just after sundown. It was way psycho-jello!
Tilly: Maybe Satan's into LSD.
John: (Rolls his eyes) She's STILL goin' on about that.
*Nyles groans, shaking his head.*
Jenny: It beats her government theory. :p ;)
Tilly: Hey, I'll bet you guys didn't know that the government is involved in all sorts of nasty shit!
Kimberly: (From the table) Which makes them no different than anyone else. (Grins and puts down her cards) Royal flush. (Pulls all the "chips" - actually potato chips and pretzels - over)
Danny: (Eyes widen) Whoa!
Maxine: (Pulls at Kimberly's sleeve) Shoulda warned you guys. She'a s card shark. What you got up your sleeves, girl?
Kimberly: (Smirks, pulling her arms away) Talent, Max. It's called TALENT. ;)
John: Man, I hope they're all ok.
Tilly: Maybe they ran into ghosts and had to destroy them!
Cory: Ghosts?
Nyles: That I could believe.
Marcus: Man, there's no such thing!
Tilly: I happen to know that the Montgomery House is haunted!
Nyles: It's possible!
Maxine: The Montgomery House is just a very old house that hasn't been used in a long time.
Tilly: Ghosts...(shakes her head)...maybe they did something to their minds! (Eyes widen) Maybe they've all been hypnotized and are under mind control!
Jenny: Till, have you been reading Ray Bradbury again?
Tilly: No, true story! Ghosts can do all kinds of weird shit!
(That's when there's a burst of green light from the attic, followed by black.)
Nyles: *eyes widen* Whoa!
Maxine: (Frowns, gets up and joins Nyles) What?
Nyles: More light show! There was a green light, then a black one.
Maxine: Gee whiz, have you been keeping count?
Nyles: No. Maybe I should've.
Kimberly: (Also joins them as another black light is seen) What the HELL is going on over there?
Maxine: Either there's something not quite normal going on, or we're witnessing the greatest fireworks since World War II.
Nyles: I vote for the first one.
Marcus: (Comes out with them and squints his eyes) Holy SHIT! What's going ON over there?
(That's when there's a knock on the door.)
Tilly: I'll answer it...but stay back! Satan might have decided to come for us next!
Nyles: Till!
John: (Rolls his eyes) Tilly, I'LL get it.
(John opens the door to reveal a very annoyed Mr. Bennett holding Mr. Babbitt by the scruff of his neck.)
John: (Raises his eyebrows) Mr. Bennett...(grins) and Mr. Babbitt, too!
Tilly: Hey, guys!
*Nyles waves.*
Mr. Bennett: (Lets Babbitt go; makes a face) Hey, guys. (Glares at Babbitt) I caught him spying over at the Montgomery House.
Mr. Babbitt: (Glares) Johnny, I was NOT spying.
Mr. Bennett: Then what were you doing, looking for your contact lense?
Mr. Babbitt: (Crosses his arms) I have every right to be over there! There's been strange lights there since sundown!
Mr. Bennett: I know, Henry. Trust me, I know.
Jenny: Mr. Bennett, is Daphne ok?
Mr. Babbitt: Daphne?
Nyles: *comes inside* Any word?
Mr. Bennett: (Nods) Yeah. I can't explain everything, but we've got to get over there. I'll fill you in on what I can on the way. I don't know if I'll be able to tell you everything, because I don't quite understand all of it myself.
Nyles: That's fine, Mr. Bennett.
Joe: Hey, Bennett, Babbitt! Are they all ok?
Mr. Bennett: Last I checked, the boys were fine, if a little banged up and VERY confused. The girls...(frowns) I have no idea.
Jenny: (Whimpers) Oh, man, Daphne's in trouble! :(
Nyles: Uh oh. *frowns*
Mr. Babbitt: (Frowns) What in the HELL is going ON here?
Mr. Bennett: (Nods at the door) Come on, kids. All of you. Let's move it out. We can walk - cars would be too conspicuous, and at this point, it would probably be quicker.
Nyles: C'mon, guys, haul it out!
Tilly: (Gets up and dusts potato chip crumbs off of her) I knew it! It's Satan worshippers, isn't it?
Nyles: TILL!
Mr. Bennett: (Grins as the kids quickly get to their feet) Yes and no, young lady. It's a really long story.
Mr. Babbitt: (Eyes widen) S...s...Satan worshippers?
Mr. Bennett: (Grins at the kids) What should we do with James Bond here?
Mr. Babbitt: Now, listen here, Johnny...
Kimberly: Bring him with us. He's a big guy.
Nyles: *nods* He could be of use. *grins*
Mr. Babbitt: (Puts up his hands) Now, wait just a minute! I don't know what you kids and this old goat (jabs a finger at Bennett) are up to, but I am NOT getting involved with Satan worshippers!
Cory: (Makes a face) Why not? You stick your nose into everybody ELSE'S business!
Mr. Bennett: (Takes Mr. Babbitt by the ear as the kids make their way down the hall) And this time, Henry, you stuck your nose into the wrong people's business!
Mr. Babbitt: (Protesting) Johnny, listen to reason! (But Mr. Bennett is already pulling him down the hall as best he can.)
(We move down the hall and across the way to the attic of the Montgomery House. Shelia Saunders is just picking herself up off her rear, glaring at Emma with pure hatred. The kids huddle together, except for Lauren, who remains a prisoner in the cage. Micky looks at her mournfully.)
Zero: The men will conduct this in much the same way as the women's battles. Shelia, do what you wish with the girls and the other boys, but keep them away from the challengers. (Looks at Micky) I will begin with the Savage, George Michael Dolenz.
*Micky growls.*
Mike: (Pushes the others back behind him and narrows his eyes) Man, if you try anything nasty, I'll...
Zero: (Glares) Get muted again.
*Shelia sends off a black light over the other kids, placing them in a cage off to the side of the room.*
(Mike, Emma, and Daphne bang on the bars, Davy looks around in shock, and Peter clutches Valerie for dear life.)
Zero: (Looks at himself) Now, I must put myself in some condition to fight. You may have noticed I haven't aged well. (Closes his eyes; there's black light, and he looks like he did during the flashback in the cave, only carrying a black dagger trimmed with onyx and obsidan and wearing a loose gray tunic and black trousers.)
*Micky's eyes widen slightly, then he rolls them.*
Zero: (Closes his eyes - the dagger appears in Micky's hand) Now, boy, we begin.
Micky: *growls again* 'Bout time!
(The two circle each other very much like the panther Micky calls himself in the "Mission: Ridiculous" sequences.)
Zero: You know, boy, you could always return to my service. You were a great asset to me. You don't have to remain in the shadow (nods at Mike) of someone who does not know how to appreciate you. (Ducks behind him quickly and slashes at his back shoulder)
Davy: Watch out, Mick!
(Mike glares and bangs on the cage again.)
Micky: *rolls out of the way; spits* No chance, Zero!
Zero: Why on Earth not? Wasn't Shelia (smirks; slashes at his chest) good to you?
Micky: Maybe in YOUR definition of the word, but NOT mine! *slashes at Zero's side*
Zero: She gave you power, didn't she? (Pulls out of the way - the dagger slashes his loose tunic) You do want SOME means to support your family?
Micky: *growls* I can find my OWN means, thank you! *slashes out at Zero's chest*
(It connects - Zero screams and launches himself at Micky, slashing at his shoulders and neck.)
Zero: You will PAY for that, Savage brat!
*Micky yells.*
Davy: You ASSHOLE!
*Lauren whimpers, peeking over the edge of the cage again.*
Mike: (Eyes widen) I oughtta KILL you, Zero! (Bangs harder at the bars)
Zero: (Goes after Micky again) You labor behind those drums at performance after performance, and no one ever notices you. Don't you want to be noticed?
(Peter whimpers and cuddles further into Valerie's arms.)
Micky: *winces* Yeah, I wanna be noticed, but in my OWN way, and I DO that! *tries to spin away*
Zero: (Thrusts the dagger at his face) I gave you power, Dolenz. Do you want to be afraid ALL your life? Afraid to be a father? You ARE going to have TWO children, you know.
Davy: (Roars) He'll be a WONDERFUL father! Kids ADORE him!
Daphne: (Spits) Get AWAY from him!
Micky: *ducks away; yells* I KNOW! I WON'T be afraid all my life! *growls again*
Davy: Micky, he's tryin' for your legs now!
(Zero ducks down to knock Micky's legs out from under him.)
Micky: Crap! * eyes widen; tries to jump away*
Mike: Micky, attack him!
(Zero holds Micky's dagger hand as best he can.)
Micky: I'm tryin', Mike, I'm TRYIN'! *struggles, trying to knock Zero's dagger away*
Zero: You WANT the power, boy. You want it. (Hisses in his face) Don't you?
Micky: NO, I DON'T! Not from *spits* YOU!
(Zero wipes the spit...and in doing so, slightly loosens his grip on the dagger and on Micky.)
Zero: Your ancestor wanted the power...and I gave it to him.
Davy: And took him away from his family!
Micky: *savage yell* Haaa... *slashes at Zero's chest*
(The dagger connects, leaving a gash in Zero's chest. He screeches; the others gasp.)
Davy: (Wide-eyed) Whoa...
Mike: (Grins) He ain't called "The Savage" for nuthin'!
*Micky stares, wide eyed, but a grin slowly forms.*
Zero: (Raises his dagger, clutching his chest) I'll...I'll give you the same that Shelia gave him. I used Georgiano. He was jealous of Sir Robert's role as leader, envied his calm demenor and commanding presence. Shelia convinced him that we would help his family...IF he had Sir Robert Naysmythe's position as head Guardian.
(Mike's eyes widen, then narrow)
Micky: *level-voiced* No.
Zero: Let's see how calm you are when this dagger is through your chest...like Sir Robert's own precious blade was thrust into the heart of the noble Italian Savage!
(Zero launches himself at Micky...but Micky is ready this time, and Zero is slowed by his wound.)
*Micky sidesteps and lets Zero pass, slamming him to the ground as he does.*
(The entire group in the cage watches this, wide-eyed. Shelia's eyes are pure fury.)
Zero: (Roars) OUUUUCHH! That HURT! (Kicks at Micky, but he holds the dagger at his throat. Zero smirks) Going for the kill, dear Savage? Without leaving your friends some?
Micky: *level* That wouldn't be fair. *smirks* Give?
Zero: (Eyes narrow in fury) Give. You win. First round to the Savage.
(The group in the cage jump up and down and cheer and hug each other.)
*Micky grins and glances at Lauren, who looks down over the edge of her cage with a shaky smile.*
Zero: (Gets up, still holding his chest. The dagger vanishes, and Davy appears in the attic. Micky is now in the cage) My next challenger, the Lord of the Manor.
Davy: *grins and looks at his best friend* Mick, you made it look so easy!
Mike: (Hugs Micky) Micky, you were TERRIFIC!
Emma: Nice work, (elbows him lightly) Savage! ;)
Micky: Nothin' to it...! *whew!*
Peter: (Takes Micky's shoulder and beams) You're so happy, Micky. Tired...but very, very happy. :D
Zero: (Closes his eyes - he now holds a rapier with a black onyx handle. Davy draws his rapier.) Now, boy, shall we begin our little duel?
(Zero closes his eyes again - there is now a bandage around his chest.)
Davy: *swishes his blade; nods* We shall begin.
Daphne: (Looks out at the attic) Davy, be careful!
Zero: (Draws his blade and holds it out as he and Davy parry across the room) Boy, you know, your ancestor also joined my employ. He felt out of place in the group and wanted the power to make Sir Robert, who tended to ignore him, finally see him as something other than a little boy. I'm not quite sure why you didn't join us, like Dolenz did.
Davy: Maybe I'm not as easily tricked as Micky.
*Micky makes a face, then gives a small smirk.* ;-) :-P
Zero: (Turns around and comes at Davy from behind) I could give you that power, boy. The power to be noticed, to be something other than an adorable small child. Michael's ways drive you crazy sometimes - you don't understand how he can be so stubborn, especially where the band is concerned. Don't you want to be something more than a (slashes at Davy with a smirk) chick magnet?
(Mike's glare would kill Zero if he was paying attention.)
Davy: *spins and slashes out* Maybe 'e does drive me crazy, but that 'appens. *grins* And I've already GOT a chick, if you 'aven't noticed, Zero. I'm rathah 'appy now. *grins*
Zero: There may be another one around the bend. (Ducks away from Davy and comes at him again, this time driving him against the wall)
Daphne: (Growls) There better NOT be!
(Mike smirks at Zero.)
Davy: No, you don't, Zero. There WON'T be anothah around the bend! *tries to push off the wall*
Zero: (Holds firm) Your ancestor wanted the power to make Sir Robert see you. I could give it to you again. (Finally pushes off)
Davy: I want Mike to see me for ME, NOT for some powah! *slashes toward Zero's legs*
Zero: (Ducks away...but not before the tip connects, leaving a small cut in his leg) Ow! (Stumbles back) I ought to KILL you, like Shelia and I did your dratted, spoiled little ancestor!
Davy: Then 'ow come you 'aven't already? *grins & slashes again at Zero's legs*
Zero: (Pulls away this time) Nothing will give me more pleasure! (Launches himself at Davy...who is ready for the attack this time)
Daphne: (Screams at the top of her lungs) DAVY, WATCH OUT!!!
Mike: (Roars) NO! (Bangs on the bars)
*Davy turns the sword around, sidesteps, and hits Zero on the back of his neck with the hilt of the sword, knocking him to the floor.*
(Davy points the tip of the sword to Zero's neck, stopping the Devil in mid-rise.)
Davy: Well, Zero, wot do you 'ave to say, othah than "give," that is? *smirks*
Zero: You're a fool, boy. You're giving up power beyond your wildest dreams!
Davy: *level voiced; shakes his head* I don't care about powah, Zero.
Zero: (Narrows his eyes) I could make you what you want to be...big enough to be seen.
Davy: *nods* I want NOTHING from you, Zero.
Mike: Oh, shut up, Zero! He's happy the way he is!
Zero: (Narrows his eyes at Mike) You're next, Nesmith. (Turns his narrowed eyes to Davy) I give. Second round to The Lord of the Manor.
Daphne: (Squeals in delight) All RIGHT, Davy!
Davy: No sweat, luv! *grins*
(Zero snaps his fingers - Davy is now back in the cage and Mike is in his place.)
Micky: *claps Davy's shoulder* Good job, Dave. (Grins) Oh, and I WILL get you back for that jab.
Davy: *nods* I know, mate, I know. ;-)
Daphne: (Hugs Davy) You were WONDERFUL!
Emma: That was some good fencing, Dave. :)
Valerie: You really did well!
Peter: Yeah! :)
Davy: Aw... *waves it off* :">
Zero: (Glares at Mike) My next challenger (narrows his eyes), the White Knight.
Mike: (Draws his broadsword) I ought to stick this thing into your chest right here and now for everything you've done to us, up to and including the harp incident two years ago.
Zero: (Smirks) Come now, that's no way for a noble knight to behave. (A black broadsword with an elaborate, onyx-trimmed hilt appears in his hand)
Mike: (Holds the sword in both hands) Zero, I'm NOT a knight. I'm just a musician with powers he doesn't want and doesn't understand.
Zero: Oh, but you do want them, Nesmith. You are nothing if you are not in control.
Mike: (Glares at him as the two circle each other and Peter whimpers) I have my OWN ways of being in control, Zero.
Zero: (As the two start dueling, the ringing carrying throughout the house) Your friends are jealous of you, Nesmith. That's how Shelia and I turned Sir Robert's men. They'll turn on you, too. Dolenz did.
Mike: (Growls) Micky had NO idea that bitch of a niece of yours was turning him into some lapdog!
*Micky growls.*
Zero: (Smirks at Micky) Sounds like he's still a dog in some ways. ;)
Mike: (Lunges for Zero, who meets him head on) Why are you doing this to us, Zero? Why did you do it to them? Sir Robert never understood why his friends suddenly betrayed him.
Zero: (Meets Mike's challenge and starts driving him across the room) Maybe they were never his friends, Nesmith. Shelia and I turned the younger Guardians so easily...and just as easily corrupted the Bard's soul.
(Peter sobs. Valerie rubs his back and glares at Zero.)
Mike: (Roars) They only did what they did because they were under YOUR influence! You and that (nods in the direction of Shelia, who sits watching the proceedings on a plush but rickety and worn stuffed chair in a corner) BITCH got to their minds! They LOVED Sir Robert! He was their friend, their leader, a member of their band...practically their brother!
Zero: I don't call friendship what Georgiano and Lord David did to Sir Robert.
Mike: (As Zero drives him against the wall) They didn't realize what they were doing was wrong! You did something to their minds to turn them against him, just like you tried to turn Micky against me!
Zero: (Smirks) It was so easy to corrupt their minds, Nesmith. I just told them what they wanted to hear. Georgiano wanted money for that ridiculously enourmous family of his. I had Shelia go to him and tell him she could give him Robert's leadership. Shelia (smirks at Davy and Daphne) also had her night of passion with Lord David, convincing him that she would make Sir Robert see him as a member of the band, not just a skirt-chasing child.
(Zero knocks Mike's long legs out from under him and kicks the sword out of his hand. Mike holds his hand where Zero kicked it, his eyes pure rage. Emma screams; Peter wails.)
Peter: NO! LEAVE HIM ALONE!
Emma: BASTARD!!!
Micky: Mike!
Zero: I could turn your friends just as easily, Nesmith. You think you're so clever, with your long-winded speeches about love and your dratted noble heart! They HATE you, White Knight. They're all jealous of you, even your beloved fiancee.
Mike: (Narrows his eyes together) Sometimes that happens, Zero. Trust me, I've been jealous before myself. (Looks over his shoulder) Man, Mick, I wish I could have the kind of relationship that you and Lauren have. I've only been DIVORCED, for cryin' out loud! (Turns to Davy) Dave, you think no one notices you? You've only dated every chick in TOWN at one time or another! How many girls did I go out with before I met Em? (His face softens when he comes to Peter) Oh, man, Pete. You can play every instrument there is. You picked up playin' that harp like it was nothing. I only started playing the guitar a few years ago, and THAT because of my bad hand! (His eyes return to Zero) Yeah, sometimes I am a little jealous, Zero. That doesn't mean they ain't my friends (looks meaningfully at the guys)...my brothers.
Emma: (Snorts) A LITTLE jealous?
*Micky grins.*
Zero: (Snarls) Do you know how Sir Robert died, Michael? (Pushes the blade closer to his heart)
Mike: (Makes a face) No, but Robert thought you had something to do with it.
Zero: I waited until he was alone one night, then had my boys surround him, beat him until he couldn't move, and bring him to me. It was one of the happiest nights of my life when I finally plunged the broken sword blade into the heart of what was left of the mighty White Knight and took what was left of his soul!
Mike: (Eyes filled with fire) YOU BASTARD, YOU DESTROYED HIM! YOU DESTROYED HIS LIFE!
Zero: He was always making trouble, always foiling my plans and rescuing his beloved Bard and Scholar from my grasp at the last moment. He was even more of a pain than you, with his calm commands and chivalrous ways! No matter what I did or who I sent to steal souls, he'd come charging in with that sword of his extended, hair flowing in the wind, always in total control of the situation, so proud, dignified, and independant.
Mike: You still had no right to do what you did to him!
Zero: I didn't do it, Nesmith. His so-called men (spits this out) did.
Mike: They never would have hurt him if they weren't under YOUR influence!
Zero: You...(snarls)...you tripped up my plot with the harp, and it was SO ingeneous, too!
Mike: Yeah, well, you neglected to ask Pete whether he actually WANTED to be famous. Peter doesn't care about money or fame. All he ever wanted was to play music, because that's what he loves.
Zero: You do, though. You want the fame, the money. (Digs the point of the sword further into his chest) You know I could give that to you.
Mike: And YOU know I'd rather earn it the old-fashioned way. I never was much for overnight success.
Zero: That's fine for you (nods at Emma, who glares), but what about your wife-to-be? You can barely provide for yourself and the band, much less her.
Mike: Em don't care about that kind of stuff. All she ever wanted was to write - what SHE loves.
Emma: (Nods) And you, honey.
Mike: (Looks up at Zero) You don't understand about love, Zero. You can't. I LOVE Emma with my whole heart. Micky and Lauren are so crazy about each other, they're going to be having two beautiful children. Valerie and Peter comfort and care for each other, and Daphne and Davy love each other's company.
Zero: What good will LOVE be if you end up like Sir Robert? (Lifts Mike's chin with his sword) Give, Nesmith?
Mike: (Very low and quiet) I will NEVER give in to you, Evil One.
(Mike kicks at Zero's legs, knocking them out from under him. Zero's sword goes flying across the room. Mike grabs Zero, and the two men roll across the room in a furious struggle.)
Zero: (Puffing, snarling) I should have killed you all years ago I had the chance! I should have went after you myself the FIRST time, instead of sending my minions who turned out to be less-than-suited for the job!
Mike: (Punches Zero in the face and retrieves his sword) You BASTARD! You WERE the one who's been sending all these weirdos after us! (Growls) Horses and sweet sixteen parties are one thing, but when your band is defending it's bassist in Hell's courtroom, chasing alien plants and crazy mad scientists, and being controlled by a jerk-off mentalist, you start to wonder what the HECK is going on.
Zero: I should have taken you out in the dratted Long-Title Library!
(Zero grabs his sword and slashes at Mike. Mike pulls away fast enough for it to miss his face, but it does connect with his left shoulder. He squawks and grabs his shoulder, his hand bloody and his white shirt stained bright crimson.)
Mike: DAMN YOU!
Emma: MIKE!
Peter: Oh no!
Micky: No!
Davy: You bloody ASS!
Valerie: Oh, god!
(Daphne roars)
Mike: (Puffing) You...dirty....bastard...
*Lauren whimpers, peeking again.*
Zero: (Holds his sword to Mike's throat) I wish Lord HAD taken you out in Clarksville. The damned fool HAD to go and lose his mind over that ridiculous train of his!
Mike: (Frowns, still holding his shoulder) How did you know...
Zero: (Smiles evilly) My dear boy, you DID notice that those little...trips...of yours got awfully nasty for fantasies?
Mike: (His eyes widen in pure fury) You...you...you...
Zero: (Smirks) Yes, I sent them. I sent them all, to kill you or bring you to me. There's a reason those stories went from sweet dreams to nightmares of the basest sort.
Mike: You were MANIPULATING our FANTASIES?
Zero: (Shakes his head) Just sent in a few...fantasies...of my own to bring you around. Unfortuantly, they proved to be no more sucessfull than the likes of the Gypsies or Vidaru.
Mike: (Very low and angry) You've been watching us all along.
Zero: Since I left you at the Long-Title Library.
Mike: We almost got KILLED in those stories, all because of YOUR people...and that damned Lady Plaisir could have done permanent damage to mine, Micky's and Peter's heads!
Zero: (Makes a face) As delicious as Noira's methods were, they were NOT my idea...and even I hadn't anticipated how far gone she was by the time she got her hands on all of you. (Growls) Why don't you ever give up, Nesmith? Your friends can't help you. Your fiancee can't want someone so poor and plain and (smirks at his shoulder) damaged.
Mike: She seems to be just fine with what she has.
Emma: Zero, I told you earlier, I LOVE him...for what he is!
Peter: (Sobs) We ALL do!
(Mike finally raises his sword and meets Zero head-on again. This time, Mike drives ZERO across the room, until he finally sends Zero against the wall and onto the ground. He holds the sword against his neck.)
Zero: Kill me, Nesmith. You know you want to. You hate me.
Mike: (Shakes his head) No, I ain't like you. I don't beat a defenseless man, then leave him broken and helpless in the hands of some witch woman with a libido the size of the Great Wall of China.
*Shelia's eyes narrow.*
Mike: (Holds the sword on his neck) Give, Zero?
Zero: (Looks into Mike's eyes, very low) Give, Nesmith.
(A delighted roar goes up from the cage, where the group is hugging and cheering.)
Zero: (Through gritted teeth) The third round goes to the White Knight.
(Mike just steps back and sheaves his broadsword with a satisfied smile. Zero gets to his feet and angrily snaps his fingers. Mike is now back in the cage, and Peter is in the attic.)
Emma: (Throws her arms around Mike, being careful of his shoulder) Honey, you were just BRILLIANT!!!!!
Mike: (Blushes) Aww, thanks, Em.
Micky: *grins* Good job, Mike!
Davy: That were some mighty fine fencin' yourself there, mate!
Daphne: Nice work!
(Zero holds out his hand - a bow appears in it. Peter steps back, whimpering.)
Zero: Oh, knock it off, Tork. We're going to do this, whether you like it or not, and no amount of meditation or hippie fiddle-faddle is going to get you out of it.
Peter: But I HATE fighting! I just want people to like each other!
(Zero draws an arrow from the now-appearing quiver on his back. Peter gulps.)
Peter: Zero, I don't want to fight you.
Zero: Why not? You KNOW what I did to your ancestor...and what I'd love to do to you.
Peter: I'm not a fighter, Zero. I'm a musician. I write songs that make people happy.
Zero: Draw your weapon, damn you!
Peter: (Shakes his head) I have a different weapon. (He closes his eyes, and his bass appears in his hand. He shakes his head, moving back as Zero advances on him) Zero, you really don't understand about music, do you?
Zero: (Growls) How do you think a guitar is going to save you?
Peter: (Shakes his head) The GUITAR won't. What it DOES will. (Frowns) Did you hear what Mike said at the trial? Love is the REAL power, Zero! That's how Lauren saved Micky and Emma broke Shelia's hold over Mike and Daphne turned Davy back into a human!
Zero: If you don't draw a weapon NOW, Tork, I will send this through your heart and finally get my hands on that soul of yours.
Peter: No, you won't. You tricked my ancestor, who only wanted to help his friend, and you almost tricked ME with that harp. (Smiles) Music is magic, Zero. Let me show you how. (He starts to play the bass. Zero launches an arrow. Peter pulls away, still playing "For Pete's Sake" with full background music and vocals, as Zero keeps trying to hit him. Peter manages to get out of the way, sometimes just barely, and Zero is tiring from the constant re-loading...and the pure love coming from the music that it's writer plays.)
(Mike watches, horrified and hopeful, and Valerie's eyes are wide.)
(As the song winds down, Peter looks tired, too...but he's smiling.)
Peter: (Turns to face a panting, glaring Zero again as the music finishes and he finishes his guitar riff) Zero, Mike was right. I never wanted the fame or the money. I only wanted to play for people and make them happy. All I've EVER wanted was to be in real band. Bard Peter, too. He wanted his bandmates back, so they could all do what they loved again...make their own kind of music.
Zero: (he's puffing even hard) Damn...you...and that...innocence!
Peter: You made him angry, made him think that Sir Robert didn't want to help him. Sir Robert didn't help him because he COULDN'T, not because he didn't love his friend or their music.
Zero: (Snarls) Your ancestor was even more stupid than you, boy. He was so easily tricked! He never thought his beloved Robert could be broken so completely.
Peter: (Shakes his head) Maybe I'm stupid about some things, Zero, and maybe I don't believe in devils. I do know that I believe in love. (Grins and plays another riff) Because, in the final analysis (looks at Mike, then at Zero) love IS power. (Still smiling) Give, Zero?
Zero: (So angry, he's shaking) Give, Tork.
(As Peter turns his back to go to his friends, Zero jumps on him. The bass flies across the room as the two tumble to the ground)
Mike: YOU ASSHOLE!!!! GET OFF OF HIM!!!
Micky: Peter!
Emma: Good lord allmighty!
Zero: (Pulls open Peter's jacket) You didn't think I was going to give up your soul THAT easily, did you, Tork? You and your (sneers) LOVE! I'll show you LOVE! (Extends wicked-looking claws) I'll take your soul, challenge or no challenge!
Valerie: PETER!
Mike: NO! NEVER!!!
Micky: NO!!!
(And we leave this tense scene to return to a few blocks away, where Nyles and the others are hiking down the street. Mr. Babbitt is caught between Joe and Mr. Bennett and looking ready to spit nails. There's quite a few other interested neighbors watching the goings-on at the Montgomery House as well.)
Maxine: Come on, guys! We're not far!
Mr. Babbitt: (Roaring) This is kidnapping! You could all go to jail! I'll call my lawyer!
Mr. Bennett: (Rolls his eyes) Oh, pipe down, Henry. This is nothing of the sort.
Jenny: Yeah, this is a rescue mission!
Nyles: That's right, man!
Mr. Babbitt: (His eyes light up) I'll...a rescue mission?
Tilly: We're going to rescue Mike and Davy from Satan worshippers!
John: Or aliens. ;)
Chris: Or a crazy chick with big eyes. ;)
Marcus: Or the government. ;)
Nyles: Either way, it's a RESCUE mission! ;-)
Chris: I STILL want that chick's phone number...
*Nyles smacks Chris on the back of his head.*
John: (Groans) Could you drag your mind out of your crotch for five minutes, Chris? This is IMPORTANT!
Jenny: People could be DYING in there!
Kimberly: (Puts up her dukes as they round the corner to the Montgomery House) I hope I get a chance to use these! :D
Maxine: I'm sure you will, Kim.
Jenny: Repeatedly. ;)
Mr. Babbitt: Satan worshippers? Aliens? What NEXT?
Tilly: Or it could be giant radioactive monsters!
Mr. Babbitt: Giant...m...monsters?
John: Did they eat Tokyo? ;)
Nyles: Yokahama? ;-)
Kimberly: (Elbows Amber) Hey, sweets, watch me when we're in there. I'll teach you some REAL fighting. Comes in handy with very fresh dates. ;)
Amber: *nods* Okay. *grins* ;-)
(Kimberly sticks her tongue out at Maxine.)
(Much to everyone's surprise, there's someone at the door when they get there. Mrs. Purdy is knocking on the big oak door, carrying a plate with a chocolate cake.
Mr. Babbitt: Marge? What are YOU doing here?
Mrs. Purdy: (Smiles and holds up her chocolate cake) I thought I'd bring that young lady some of my chocolate cake, but there doesn't seem to be anyone home. (Looks up) I thought I saw lights on the top floor, though.
Tilly: (Gasps) The Satan worshippers! I'll bet they're up there now, practicing their rituals on all the kids! :o
Cory: What happened to ghosts? ;)
Tilly: They're part of the ritual!
Nyles: Oh man... *shakes his head*
Mrs. Purdy: (Mouth drops opens) S...satanic rituals? W..what...
Mr. Bennett: Marge, we'll explain later. For now, it's of utmost importance that we GET in that house. (Nods) When we do get in, I want you to go to the nearest phone and call the cops. This may require more back-up than even these kids and Henry and I can handle.
Marge: Y..yess...but why...
John: Talk later, Mrs. P. Get in NOW.
Tilly: I'll bet the door is locked with satanic magic!
Mr. Babbitt: M...m...magic?
Nyles: TILL!
John: (Bangs on the door) Well, however it's locked, it's locked good. It ain't budgin'.
Jenny: What do we do now?
Kimberly: This. Everyone stand back.
Nyles: Uh oh.
Maxine: (Groans) Oh boy. Kim, be careful!
(Everyone stands back. Kimberly gives the door a stout, sharp karate kick, and then another. It finally gives, opening onto the living room.)
Kimberly: (Blows on her nails) Nothing to it. ;)
Mr. Bennett: That was some fine martial arts work there, young lady.
Amber: *grinning* You HAVE to teach me that! ;-)
Mrs. Purdy: O...oh...my!
Nyles: Remind me to NOT get on your bad side, Kim.
Kimberly: (Puts her arm around Amber) Stick with me, kid. We'll go places. ;)
Tilly: Well, let's go save those kids from Satan!
John: (As they enter) Or the aliens.
Marcus: Or the ghosts.
Danny: Don't forget the government! ;)
Joe: And Godzilla.
Nyles: Let's just save them from WHOEVER!
Maxine: CHHHHARRRGGEEEE! (Points into the house, and the entire group piles in, Babbitt bringing up the rear fearfully.)
(And we switch back to the attic...)
Peter: (Whimpers) N...no!
Zero: No more games, Bard. I enjoyed corrupting your ancestor. (Puts his claws on Peter's heaving chest) I'll enjoy corrupting YOUR soul just as much.
(The door to the attic is karate-chopped down just as Zero is about to slide his claws into Peter's chest.)
Kimberly: HI-YA! (The entire Orange Grove Apartments group, sans Mrs. Purdy, piles in, or tries to)
Mr. Babbitt: (Looks around) Oh...my...God...
Mike: What in the HELL...
Emma: (Grins) Guys!
Micky: Looks like the cavalry's here!
Nyles: Whoa, NOT groovy, man!
Mr. Bennett: (Joe and Cory pull Zero away from Peter; Maxine and Amber help the shaky musician to his feet) Look, I don't know who you are, but I do know it's not exactly kosher to be sitting on a kid like that.
Kimberly: And you might want to do something about those nails, pal. I know a good manicurist in Culver City who could take care of those.
Daphne: (Beaming) Girls!
Chris: (Goes to Shelia with a pad of paper and a pen) Can I have your phone number? ;)
Nyles: CHRIS!
Peter: (Wails) Chris, she's a BAD guy!
Chris: But she's a CUTE bad guy!
Nyles: We've been over this ALREADY...
Mike: Um, would you mind getting us out of here? It's starting to get crowded.
Micky: Sometime today?
Tilly: (Points at Zero) I KNEW it! Satanic rituals! You guys are part of a cult worshipping Satan and his minions, and you're going to spread your evil origies and take over the city!
(Maxine goes over to the lock on the cage. She pulls out a nail file and starts working on it.)
Zero: (Rolls his eyes at Tilly) Oh, please. (Turns to the others) Where did all of YOU come from? I don't remember declaring this open house night!
Nyles: Man, we were invited!
Mr. Bennett: (Frowns) Whether or not you are the Devil, you're still dangerous...and too much for just these four boys and their lovers to handle.
Mr. Babbitt: D..d..d...d...d...
*Nyles slaps Babbitt on the back and grins at him.*
Mr. Babbitt: (Finally gets it out) DEVIL??
Zero: (Smirks) Nice to know I STILL don't have to introduce myself. ;)
Emma: (Grins) Did you honestly think we were going to go after you without help this time? :D
(Maxine finally gets the cage open.)
Mike: (Puts up his fists) Ok, pal, I'd like to see you and Miss Oversized Dick of 1969 take on ALL of us...including two older men!
Kimberly: (Gets into martial arts posistion) Watch out, Claw Boy. I'm in a frisky mood.
Mr. Babbitt: Cl...claw?
Nyels: Yeah? ;-)
Kimberly: (Glares) Not THAT frisky! :p
Nyles: Darn. :-P
Tilly: What kind of weird, unholy rituals have you been holding in here, Satan?
Zero: Oh, this is truly getting ridiculous.
Mike: You...I'm gonna tear you to shreds for tryin' that on Pete! (Leaps on Zero and literally knocks him out the door)
Micky: *cheers* Go Mike!
(Demons make their way upstairs even as the two men wrestle literally down the stairs.)
Mr. Babbitt: D...devil? (He finally passes out)
Mr. Bennett: Oh, good god. You kids go at it. I'll get Henry downstairs.
(The music of "Love Is Only Sleeping" starts as Mike and Zero fall down the stairs, followed by the others. Mr. Bennett, Valerie, and Peter try to bring Babbitt around.)
(Mike and Zero continue to wrestle. Zero finally pushes Mike off, only to be attacked by Nyles, Joe, and Cory. Kimberly uses a couple of demons to demonstrate martial arts techniques to an admiring Amber. ;) )
*Micky beckons on two demons. One charges him, but he sidesteps. The demon stops before running into the second one. Micky makes a face, then grins. He runs at the first one's back, jumps, and pushes the first into the second, causing both of them to tumble down the stairs.*
(Peter grabs Valerie's hand and his bass and runs downstairs, while Mr. Babbitt comes to and Mr. Bennett stands stiffly to slowly join the others.)
(Zero pulls off the boys and grabs Emma, trying to kiss her. Emma finally hits him across the face as Mike runs to her defense.)
(Peter runs downstairs with Valerie. He starts playing again. Valerie sits down at the piano and also starts playing. Mrs. Purdy comes into the living room from the kitchen, where she called the police. She takes one look at the demons eating her chocolate cake and faints dead away.)
*A rather large demon backs Micky into the attic. The demon looks like the Red Monster, Gossamer, from the "Looney Tunes" cartoons. Micky snaps his fingers. A table appears with manicure materials on it, including a bowl. He motions for the demon to stick its fingers in the bowl, which it does, only to come out with a mousetrap stuck to each hand. Micky grins, pulls his dagger, and hits the demon in the head with the hilt.*
(Peter closes his eyes - more instruments, including Black Beauty and Micky's drum set, appear. Mr. Bennett brings Mr. Babbitt downstairs. Mr. Babbitt takes one look at the ensuing chaos and passes out again. Mr. Bennett just shakes his head and picks up a weathered acoustic guitar.)
(Emma ducks around Shelia, who's trying to grab her. She finally throws the last of the chocolate cake at her. It hits her dead in the chest.)
*Micky goes back to where the cage hangs with Lauren. Now, in a better state of mind, he stares at the cage. It disappears in the slightly darker blue light, and Lauren reappears in Micky's arms. He grins a bit weakly and sets her down. Lauren gives him a kiss on the cheek, and head out the door. A demon on the stairs blocks their way. Micky goes up to the demon and mouths off at it. He's going a mile a minute, poking the demon in the chest. The demon finally has enough and makes itself disappear. Micky turns, grinning, and reaches for Lauren. She accepts his hand, shaking her head.*
(Tilly stands on a table in the living room, throwing everything she can get her hands on at the demons, including things like tire blow-ups and Mr. Universe calenders that were never in the room in the first place.)
(Micky and Lauren re-join the group as the music ends. Sirens are heard in the distance. There's still some demons fighting.)
Emma: (Sees Shelia try to goose Mike) GET OFF OF HIM!!!
Mike: (Glares) Not that trick again, (eyes blaze) DEVIL WOMAN!!!
Micky: (As he and Lauren hit the landing) Man, doesn't she ever QUIT?!
(Emma lunges for Shelia....knocking all three out the window.)
Peter: (As Zero shakily gets to his feet) Everyone, grab an instrument, quick!
*Micky runs to the drumset. He hands Lauren a tambourine.*
Tilly: But I'm not a musician!
Peter: Yes, you are! (Puts a hand on his heart) If you love music, you can at least make some noise!
(The other kids all grab pots and pans to drum on, guitars, maracas, basses, tambourines, even old-fashioned washboards and rubber bands.)
Zero: W...what ARE you doing?
Peter: (Big sunshine grin) We're making love, Zero. (Nods at the whole group) Ok, everyone, HIT IT! Micky, sing "I'm a Believer!" (Grins at the group) Anyone who wants to can feel free to join in!
Micky: Got it! *counts off, and they roll in "I'm A Believer"*
(Zero screams and writhes in agony at the sound and feeling of the love and delight in the room as the kids play the music they adore. The music pours out of the house as Emma and Mike pull away from a screaming Shelia. Emma runs in and starts singing at the top of her lungs. Mike closes his eyes; Black Beauty appears, and he, too, starts playing. White, green, blue, red, and black light shoots everywhere. Zero shrieks like someone's removing HIS soul. Shelia is bent over, but she manages to get away from the house and the music.)
(Mr. Babbitt finally comes to. Mrs. Purdy, who has also comes to, helps him to his feet. They both shrug and sing along, too.)
(Zero finally vanishes in a huge, sparkling burst of black light. The demons turn into dust as the cops arrive. The light is so intense, it knocks out every window in the house...and everyone to their feet or under or behind furniture.)
*Shelia disappears in a black light of her own, cloaked in the bright light.*
(The kids and adults are just emerging as the cops make their way in.)
Sergant Nielson: (Looks around in shock) Ok, what the HELL just went on in HERE?
Mike: (Riffs his guitar, despite wincing over his damaged shoulder) The ultimate jam session, Sergeant. ;)
Kimberly: (Looks up from her pot-and-pan drum set) Just Malibu Beach's most powerful love-in. ;)
Tilly: (Beams and shakes a maraca) We just defeated a Satanic cult!
Mr. Bennett: (Takes off the guitar) What happened tonight, Sergant, is probably beyond yours or mine or almost anyone's comprehension. :)
Micky: *grins* Call us Spook Busters. ;-) *taps out a riff*
Sergant Nielson: (Frowns) Spooks, satanic worshippers? Look, is there a crime going on here, or isn't there?
Mr. Bennett: Depends on your definition of "crime," Nielson.
John: Let's just say this is ONE crime I don't think you're going to be able to book.
Sergant Nielson: (Shakes his fingers) Look, SOMEONE called and reported death, destruction, and monsters, and NO ONE is leaving until I get some ANSWERS!
Mike: Oh, we could give you answers, Sergant. You just wouldn't believe them.
Micky: Not unless you're REALLY open-minded.
Sargent Nielson: Try me.
Mr. Bennett: Maybe we'd better take this outside. People are going to start wondering what's going on.
Marcus: If they aren't already.
Danny: It's not like we weren't making enough noise to wake the dead!
Jenny: But the dead was already awake!
(Kimberly just whaps her on the head.)
Mr. Bennett: (Puts his arm around Sergant Nielson as the group starts filing outside) Look, Nielson, it's like this. Have you ever believed in the devil?
(Little by little, everyone wanders onto the garden and the porch.)
Valerie: (Takes a deep sniff of late-night air) What a beautiful night!
Mike: (Puts an arm around Emma) I'm just happy to be alive to see it.
Micky: That's for sure! *wraps an arm around Lauren*
Lauren: Or see anything. ;-)
Emma: (Sighs) We defeated the Devil.
Mike: Yeah. (Squeezes Emma) Ain't that somethin'?
Peter: We showed everyone how to love...and how important music is!
Davy: We set our ancestors' souls to rest...and saved ours. (Grins)
Mike: Speaking of, when Sergant Nielson and everyone else DOES start asking questions, leave the ancestor thing OUT of it. We might be able to pull off explaining everything else, but THAT part is just too weird for anyone but us and Bennett to understand...(softly)...and too personal.
Emma: None of us would dream of mentioning it, and I'm sure Bennett could be sworn to secrecy.
Daphne: Hey, what should I tell the girls and Amber?
Mike: Tell them we were fighting a freak show and won. ;)
Lauren: I think they'll go for that. ;-)
Davy: (Grins) As long as Nyles and the guys got to fight, eat, and play music, they'll probably go for ANYTHING. ;)
Emma: (Sighs) Speaking of eating...maybe we should go to the pad or Lauren and Micky's place and get something to eat. I haven't eaten since that shepard's pie yesterday.
Lauren: *nods* I'm starved!
(A car pulls up as the group files off the porch, each couple arm-in-arm. Keefe Jackman, Emma's brother, bounces out of the rental coupe, followed by his parents and a regal-looking older woman in a simple suit and hat who could only be Mike's Aunt Kate.)
Keefe: EMMIE!! (Immediately runs up to his sister and gives her a huge hug) Where have you BEEN?
Emma: Keefie! (Hugs her brother back)
Mr. Jackman: Man, don't you kids ever pick up your phone? We've been calling all day!
Mrs. Jackman: (Sees the kids' clothes, weapons, and the state they're all in) Oh, my god...
Aunt Kate: (Crosses her arms in a very Nesmith-like fashion) What on EARTH have you kids been DOING?
Mike: (Puts his arm on his aunt's shoulder) Let's just say it's one of the great long stories, Aunt Kate.
Peter: We stopped the... (Valerie puts her hand over his mouth)
Mrs. Jackman: Well, at least you all seem to be all right. :)
Emma: Yeah, Mom. (Smiles up at Mike, who smiles back) We are now.
Keefe: (Elbows his sister) Hey, Em, kiss him!
Mrs. Jackman: (Warningly) Keeeefffeeee...
Aunt Kate: Now, young man...
(Mr. Jackman doubles over laughing.)
Mike: Sure, why not? (Gives Emma a big, long kiss. When they come up, Keefe and Mr. Jackman are wolf-whisling and Mike and Emma are blushing.)
Micky: Isn't that sweet? *grins*
Mrs. Jackman: (Smiles) I think you'll do just fine in our family, Mike.
Aunt Kate: (Grins) And she has enough temperment for eight Nesmiths! ;)
Mr. Jackman: What, my Emmie? (Grins) Nahh, she's a sweet as a little flower!
*Lauren grins.* ;-)
(Emma and Mike just laugh, holding each other.)
Mr. Jackman: (Looks around) I think you kids all look like you could use a good, long dinner some place where the food is hot, greasy, cheap, and made fast and without fuss. ;)
Mike: No kidding. ;)
Micky: I'm drooling already!
Mrs. Jackman: Why don't you kids go home and get cleaned up? We'll meet you in an hour at Mike and Emma's place, and we'll all find somewhere that's open late for dinner.
Mr. Jackman: We'll drive all of you home who can fit. ;)
Mrs. Jackman: (Elbows him) WILLIE!
Aunt Kate: (Rolls her eyes) That man has a mouth on him.
Mrs. Jackman: I noticed the second week we were dating. ;)
Mr. Jackman: (Sweeps her into his arms) And you LOVED it, darlink! (Nuzzles her neck)
Mrs. Jackman: (Laughs) Willie, not here! ;)
*Micky chuckles. Lauren elbows him; he shrugs.* ;-)
Peter: (Shudders as a soft breeze flutters across the lawn) Let's go home.
Mike: I'm with you there, Pete. The faster we get away from this place, the better.
Mr. Jackman: (Opens the door) All ashore who's going ashore!
Lauren: Me! Me!
Mrs. Jackman: If someone else has a car, we can split the difference. :)
Mike: I think our vehicles are at the Pad.
Micky: *slaps his forehead* Lauren's car is still here! *Lauren glares at him; he grins sheepishly*
Mr. Jackman: (Grins) You take your woman and a couple of the kids, and I'll take my woman and Miss Kate here and everyone else. ;)
Mrs. Jackman: (Groans) WIIIIILLLLIIIIEEEE...
Mike: (Mutters) Now I know where SHE gets it from.
(Emma elbows Mike.)
Micky: *salutes* Yes, sir! (Turns to the others) Alright, Lauren gets shotgun! Anyone else can pile in the back!
Lauren: Thanks, Mick, for calling shotgun for me. ;-)
Davy: (Takes Daphne's hand) We'll go with you guys.
Daphne: Yeah, there's more room in the back. ;)
Micky: *nods* Well, that is true. *Lauren elbows him* ;-)
Mr. Jackman: (Roars with laughter) Oh, so THAT'S why your old lady is the size of the car! ;)
(Mrs. Jackman gives him a very hard elbow in the gut.)
Emma: (Mortified) Daddy, you're embarrassing me!
Micky: *laughs* Hey, I-- *sees Lauren's glare; shakes his head* It wasn't THAT funny... *sheepish look* ;-)
Mike: (Nods) Ok, Em and I, of course, are going with her folks.
Mr. Jackman: (Drapes his arm around Mike) Good, boy. I've got a few questions I want to ask you when we get eatin'. ;)
Emma: Daddy, don't grill him!
Mr. Jackman: (Punches Mike lightly in the gut; he doubles over) He ain't got enough to get the fire started, Em! ;)
Aunt Kate: (Rolls her eyes) Oh, merciful heavens!
Mrs. Jackman: Willie, behave!
Keefe: (Goes to Mike) I want to ask you some stuff, too! Do you really play guitar?
Mike: Yeah, I do.
Keefe: Could you show me? I got to play with some of your friends the other day, but Emmie says you write songs, too! Like Micky!
Mike: (Grins and puts his arm around the boy's shoulders) I think we could work somethin' out, kid. (As he and the boy head over to the car) You ever watch John Wayne movies?
Keefe: (Beams) I LOVE John Wayne! Dad does, too!
Mr. Jackman: Damn straight! (Runs to catch up) Which of his movies have you seen? (The three get in the car)
Mrs. Jackman: (Shakes her head) Come on, Em. Let's not leave the three cowboys alone. ;)
Aunt Kate: (Grins) Don't need them lassoing the steering wheel while trying to recreate "Stagecoach." ;)
Emma: You bet! I don't need those two corrupting my fiancee! ;)
(The three women get in the car.)
Peter: (Grins and takes Valerie's arm) I think there's more room in Mick and Lauren's car.
Valerie: I never WAS a huge John Wayne fan! ;)
Micky: *slings an arm around Lauren again; to Davy and Daphne* Everyone who thinks they can pile in, c'mon!
Peter: Yeah! Now we've got to get ready for Em and Mike's wedding!
Valerie: That's in a few days!
Peter: There's so much to do! I'm Mike's best man, you know! (As he heads for the car) I hope I can do a good job. This wedding is really important to Mike. I don't want to mess up.
Micky: You'll do just FINE, Big Peter. *opens the door for Lauren*
Valerie: (Takes his hand) I KNOW you'll do well. You and Mike are friends...and no force in Heaven, Hell, or anywhere in between can stop THAT! (She and Peter get in beside Davy and Daphne, who are already in the car.)
Lauren: *turns around to the back* Packed in like sardines back there? ;-)
Davy: (Tries to squeeze between Peter and Daphne) That's puttin' it mildly. :p
Peter: (Smiles) It's just until we get home.
Micky: *gets in the driver's seat* No problem!
Valerie: (Softly) You know, speaking of friendship and weddings, I wonder if the ancestors ever returned to their soulmates?
Peter: (Takes Valerie's hand as much as he can in the packed car) I'm sure they did, Valerie! They truly loved them. All they wanted was to be friends again, to be able to make music, and to be with their soulmates.
Davy: (Looks at the group in the car) Well, I know I'm NEVER taking friends or friendship at face value again!
Peter: Me either!
Valerie: Or me. It's amazing how you never realize how important friends are until they come through for you. :)
Micky: *glances into the rearview mirror* No kidding. :-)
Peter: (grins) I'm glad we helped them. They'll be ok, just like us!
Daphne: I'm just glad everything worked out and we're alive and safe and sane and in one piece!
Davy: AMEN to that!
Lauren: *nods* Definitely! :-)
Peter: Micky (grins) let's go home. :D
Micky: GLADLY! *grins and peels out*
Lauren: *groans* Micky! ;-)
(The group laughs as the car streaks down Beachwood towards the Pad. As people, kids, and cops continue to file out of the Montgomery House, we see a tall, large-eyed figure disappear into the shadows, cursing a soft blue streak.)