{"id":84,"date":"2024-07-11T18:27:42","date_gmt":"2024-07-11T18:27:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mattslair.org\/coinoperated\/?page_id=84"},"modified":"2024-07-11T18:27:43","modified_gmt":"2024-07-11T18:27:43","slug":"episode-iv","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/mattslair.org\/coinoperated\/episode-iv\/","title":{"rendered":"EPISODE IV"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Scene 1: Space<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As we pan around Orbspace, a strange object slowly makes its way toward us: a large, but not particularly ominous, SHIP. The camera pans away as the SHIP makes a sharp turn toward an unknown destination.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Scene 2: Outside the city<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN and a LIFEBLOOD PRIEST make their way through the gates.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

PRIEST: I’ve\u2026enjoyed our conversations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: What conversations?

PRIEST: exactly (sneers)<\/em>. I tell you time and again that this will not end well for you, yet you refuse to even grunt my way. As if you want nothing to do with me.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: Do you have one of my coins?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

PRIEST: No<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: Then no. I want nothing to do with you. You are to get me into your temple, that is all. I will deal with the rest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

PRIEST: This will end badly for you. The coin-operated priests are stronger than anyone I have ever seen aside from Emperor Turok himself. You? You are but a single small girl. Your magic will not be enough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN hesitates, stares at PRIEST, then angrily GRUNTS<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

PRIESTS: Well\u2026that’s progress I suppose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

They walk in silence until they approach the LIFEBLOOD TEMPLE<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Well\u2026we are here. I will instruct my brothers to let you in. The rest is up to you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: Yes. It is.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The PRIEST stares at her, then walks to the door. He addresses two PRIESTS guarding the door.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

PRIEST: The pouch girl is here. To fight for her coins. We should run.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The GUARDS nod in agreement<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Scene 3: The Drift Capital<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR and his SUPER-SOLDIER ARMY stand outside the DRIFT CAPITAL’S gates, ready to attack<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: OK men\u2026the time has come. Remember, no innocents attacked or harmed in any way. Do everything you can to enter the castle directly. Turok is our only target. Understood?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The SUPER-SOLDIERS yell in agreement<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: Then we do this. ATTACK!!!!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The ARMY runs into the city, yelling and hollering. Several of TUROK’S soldiers attack \u2014 an epic battle ensues. JINN-LIR fights while directing traffic.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: If you’re not a soldier, GO! We don’t want to hurt you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The battle continues \u2014 both sides take damage. Several times JINN-LIR stops fighting to get civilians out of harm’s way, almost getting himself and others killed as a result. The tide is turning in TUROK’S favor and JINN-LIR knows it. He points to three of his SOLDIERS.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: This is your chance! Into the castle, now!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The SUPER-SOLDIERS yell in agreement, then rush off to enter the CASTLE.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Scene 4: Space<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The same SHIP from earlier is still traveling through the stars. The camera pans briefly to the pilot \u2014 an elderly woman with blue hair and a steely purpose in her eyes. The camera then pans to the ship’s destination: Acadmium.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Scene 5: The Lifeblood Temple<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN is inside, and soon encounters the SUPER-PRIESTS<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: Have they told you why I’m here?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-PRIEST 1: A word or two was said of it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: I don’t need many more words than that. You have my property.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-PRIEST 2: We do now?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: You do. I never agreed to lose them. I no longer wish to lose any of me. You are first on my first, but you are not last. So, the coins. NOW.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-PRIEST 1: Did you forget the magic word?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: Or I’ll kill you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-PRIEST 2: That’s more than one word (laughs)<\/em>. Do you not recall WHY we have these coins? That wizard friend of yours said he would protect us. But he is a snake, as all Cabal wizards are. We can only protect ourselves. THAT is why we have these coins. Not because we wish for you to suffer. Far from it. You seem like you can handle yourself nicely even without all your coins. My suggestion: forget the wizard. Forget the Cabal. Forget Turok. Forget it all. Go to school, find a hobby, find somebody to kiss, and enjoy life. If you never use your magic, you’ll soon forget it’s even there. And that ignorance, more than any other, is pure bliss. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: \u2026Those words. So knowledgeable. So soothing. So caring\u2026so condescending. So judgmental. So IGNORANT. You really ARE a priest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-PRIEST 1: So you’re stupid too. Do you truly wish to fight for your coins? You know what we are. Do you honestly think you would stand a chance against us?

COIN: I don’t. I KNOW I do. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-PRIEST 1: I know things too. I know this will be quick and painless. For us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A fight ensues. It doesn’t last long. COIN’S magic, still depleted from her previous battles and weakened from her lack of coins, is no match for the SUPER-PRIESTS. They knock her down time and again until she can barely move.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-PRIEST 2: You were right, friend. I didn’t feel a thing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN struggles to look up at them before collapsing.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

SCENE 6: TUROK’S Castle<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR’S SUPER-SOLDIERS<\/em> encounter a lone GUARD.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SOLDIER 1: Move aside, sir. We have business with your emperor!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

GUARD: He is your emperor too! And nobody is permitted to see him, least of all you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SOLDIER 2: Then we’ll force our way through!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He attempts to unleash a magic attack, but nothing happens. The other SUPER-SOLDIERS try as well, but again nothing happens<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SOLDIER 3: What’s going on? We can’t do anything!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SOLDIER 2: We can still fight though!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SOLDIER 2 changes the GUARD, fists at the ready. He’s repelled by an invisible force and sent hurtling backwards.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SOLDIER 1: What is this place??<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK opens his door and enters.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: Take a break, my boy. You’ve earned it. I shall speak with these woebegone souls myself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

GUARD: Sir! (he leaves)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SOLDIER 2: AHHHHHH!!!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SOLDIER 2 charges TUROK, fists at the ready. He’s repelled by another invisible force and sent hurtling backwards.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: Does it take you that long to learn a lesson? Yes, I’ve been listening. Very amusing. Introductions are in order, I am Turok Rhygear, Emperor of the Drift Empire. And you are?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SOLDIER 1: Three people who don’t wish to chat nicely with you. What is going on?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: What’s going on is that my castle is my fortress. It protects me. And it does so with the highest technology yet created. You don’t see them, but billions of micro-automatons surround me and everything else in these rooms, forming a barrier of invulnerability to might\u2026and magic. All are under my control. You couldn’t squash a bug in here unless I allowed it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SOLDIER 2: That’s\u2026not true.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: It’s not? Then pray tell, how do YOU explain all of this? Magic? Certainly not. Not an ounce of magic enters my veins and I plan to keep it that way. Magic is weak. Magic is vulnerable. And magic is limiting. You can only use what your body allows you to use, and if you use it too much, then what? You’re sucking wind, gasping for air, unable to produce even a spark from your fingertips until you recover your energy. What kind of life is that?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pan to all SUPER-SOLDIERS listening, pondering his words, perhaps taking them seriously<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: The Drift is different. We believe machines, technology, automation, robotics \u2014 these things can make us GREATER. No longer are we bound to our bodies limitations. No longer do we tire if we use too much of ourselves. No longer do we need special coins and Creationstones to turn us into something better. No, we MAKE OURSELVES BETTER. Through technology. The sky isn’t the limit: beyond Orbspace is.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SOLDIER 1: Why are you saying this?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: Because you’re listening. I think you understand. Jinn-Lir has given you great power\u2026but not the greatest. This castle is proof of that. Besides, Jinn-Lir sent you in here, possibly to die. Why not him? Could it be that he knew magic fails here? And so, rather than face my wrath himself, he sends\u2026you. Disposable heroes, toy soldiers, pawns on a chessboard \u2014 choose your cliche. They all fit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The SUPER-SOLDIERS stare at one another. They’re becoming convinced<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: If you wish to BE that cliche, stay here and I will destroy you. Jinn-Lir and Orbius will quickly note your anonymous deaths and move on. OR. You go out there and fight for me. Fight for progress. Fight for a future without shady wizards and squabbling cabals. They are uncertain. Technology is certain. And always inevitable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A long pause.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SOLDIER 2: What do you guys think?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SOLDIER 3: It\u2026makes sense. What’s going to happen if the wizards win this war? <\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SOLDIER 1: More of the same, I’d wager.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SOLDIER 2: More infighting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SOLDIER 1: More uncertainty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SOLDIER 3: More reliance on rare trinkets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SOLDIER 2: More non-progress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: And more death. With me, the violence ends when the wizards are gone. Do this for me, and peace is a certainty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The SUPER-SOLDIERS look at each other, silently nod, salute TUROK, then leave.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: You shall not regret this! Now go! Fight! Win!…(to himself)<\/em> Then die. Magic scum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Scene 7: The Lifeblood Temple<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The SUPER-PRIESTS look down on COIN’S battered body.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-PRIEST 1: Think she has anything left?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-PRIEST 2: Yes. If she’s alive, then she still has coins in her. Possibly just one or two, but still. Any amount will help us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-PRIEST 1: Then let’s see what she can give us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As they reach down to extract the remaining COINS, a BLINDING LIGHT shines through the windows<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-PRIEST 2: What\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-PRIEST 1: Drift?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-PRIEST 2: Might be. Get the girl, bring her with us. We don’t want her crawling away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-PRIEST 1 grabs COIN and they run outside.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Scene 8: Outside the Temple<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The SUPER-PRIESTS<\/em> run out to find not the Drift, but the SPACESHIP from earlier. Its blue-haired pilot stands in the cockpit, staring them down.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-PRIEST 1: Who are you? You don’t look like a Drift anybody.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

WOMAN: (her voice echoes through a loudspeaker)<\/em> I’m not.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-PRIEST 2: Then who are you?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

WOMAN: \u2026I’m her. (points to COIN)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The SUPER-PRIESTS look at her and start laughing uproariously.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-PRIEST 1: You’re\u2026HER? HA, that’s hilarious! You had us there for a bit, thought you were maybe gonna be a problem! Nah, you’re just an old loon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-PRIEST 2: Now start up\u2026whatever that is, old loon, and run along. Unless you have business with us?

WOMAN: Oh\u2026I do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Without allowing another word, the SHIP unleashes super-powerful magic that decimates the SUPER-PRIESTS within seconds. She then magically removes each of their COINS, grabs the still-unconscious COIN, and brings her onboard her SHIP, which rises back up to the stars.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Scene 9: Inside the ship<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The WOMAN pilots the ship, not venturing far from Acadmium. COIN finally awakens.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

WOMAN: Welcome back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: What th\u2026who are you? What is this? (notices SPACE outside the window)<\/em> WHERE ARE WE??<\/p>\n\n\n\n

WOMAN: You are\u2014

COIN: Whoever you are, this is not right. I have things to do and people to meet. Are we in SPACE? Am I dreaming? Am I dead? No, that’s not it. I’d be a\u2026bag if I died\u2026but then what is this? If it’s real, then you’ve\u2026kidnapped me! My wizard friends will hear about this and you’ll be in for a world of magical hurt!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

WOMAN: Did I really talk that much? My goodness. (to COIN)<\/em> Anyway, you are in no shape to magically hurt anybody. You still need rest after what those men did to you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: How do you know about that?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

WOMAN: Because I have something of theirs. Which is actually something of yours. (shows COIN the COINS)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: How did you\u2026?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

WOMAN: Correction: they aren’t yours. They’re OURS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: You’re confusing me.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

WOMAN: You don’t see the resemblance? Blue hair? The silver eyes? The crook of our nose? I’m you\u2026Coin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN looks incredulous.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: How do you know that name?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ELDER COIN: I know a lot more than that. I know you were born of a leather coin pouch. I know you are Coins of Domminna brought to life. I know the Light Wizard Cabal attempted to make you one of their own but failed. I know the Dark Wizard Cabal has plans for you. I know you are weakened and incomplete due to losing so many of your coins to outsiders\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n

YOUNG COIN is awestruck<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ELDER COIN: And I know more. Much that you don’t know. Not yet, anyway. For I am you, and you are me. I am coin, as are you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

YOUNG COIN: \u2026How is this possible? And what is all this??? (gestures wildly around her)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ELDER COIN: You are in space, far above your planet of Acadmium. Look outside. Do you see other planets as well? You are looking at the entire Drift system. Turok Rhygear runs it all, for better or for worse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

YOUNG COIN: Well, which is it?
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ELDER COIN: That\u2026depends on who you ask. And what they stand to gain from the empire’s support. But Drift is not the only empire out there. Past the borders of our system lie three more: Akashmiran, Loporia, and Karetorios. Each system is under the thumb of a single ruler: Wind Walker, Mathias Mindblade, and Razus Razorblade respectively. Each runs their realm according to their philosophies and desires, again for better or worse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

YOUNG COIN: You keep saying that. Why? Where do you stand?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ELDER COIN: (grins)<\/em> I\u2026we stand above them all. For I rule over something greater than empires and planets: time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

YOUNG COIN: Time\u2026?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ELDER COIN: Yes. I am Coin, the Goddess of Time. You are on my timeship. And in, well, time, this shall be yours. And you shall be the Goddess too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

YOUNG COIN: \u2026Wait. If that’s true, how are you\u2026here? With me? Shouldn’t one of us get erased? Or do we become one? Or maybe the whole universe explodes in a crazy paradox? I mean, how are we both here, right now, if we are each other?

ELDER COIN: Yes\u2026time travel does tend to flummox us all. Including myself at times. But to make it as simple as possible: as the Goddess of Time, I stand beyond time. It does not affect me. It helps that I\u2026we were never fully human at all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

YOUNG COIN is saddened to hear that.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ELDER COIN (cont)<\/em>: I know. You do not like that part of you. You want a human life. You want to be more than your coins. I know because I wanted that too. Well, how about this? With my current magic, I can give you that life. You still won’t be completely human \u2014 once a Coin, always a Coin\u2014 but you will feel more, breathe more, your heart will beat at last\u2026and your life’s end will not be determined by the loss of your coins. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

YOUNG COIN: Am I to become\u2026you?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ELDER COIN: If it all works out, yes. That Is part of my job. To ensure that your path, and everyone else’s, remains what it’s supposed to be. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

YOUNG COIN: And if I refuse?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ELDER COIN: Then I fail. And time fails. If life marches on on a different path than what it should be, I shudder to think what horrors await us. New timelines, new disasters\u2026new Orbspaces\u2026it cannot happen. No, you shall be the Time Goddess, and I must keep it that way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

YOUNG COIN knows in her mind that this is all true, even if she doesn’t understand or accept it all yet.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

YOUNG COIN: What is the first step?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ELDER COIN: That was. Accepting your role in the great cosmic task that is time balance. The next step is to make you stronger, more capable. More human.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

YOUNG COIN: Good. I’m ready.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ELDER COIN: I’m glad. Now\u2026I’m going to reach into you and access your final coin. Worry not, I will not remove it. With my powers, I can transform it into something better. Do you trust me to do this?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

YOUNG COIN looks back at Acadmium, a world that failed her and which she now wishes to evolve past<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

YOUNG COIN: I do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Silently, ELDER COIN smiles and reaches out to YOUNG COIN. She reaches into YC and begins to weave a magic spell. The entire ship begins to glow and shake. Finally, the spell is complete. EC removes her hand from YC.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ELDER COIN: Now\u2026how do you feel?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

YOUNG COIN inspects herself<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

YOUNG COIN: A\u2026heartbeat\u2026? <\/p>\n\n\n\n

ELDER COIN: Yes. It took. You no longer run solely on coins, for you have a heart. A soul. A spirit. You are human. But you are still a magical being. You can, and will, become more than human. And it starts\u2026with these.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

EC holds out the two COINS OF<\/em> DOMMINNA<\/em> <\/em><\/strong>she took from the SUPER-PRIESTS. She hands them to YC, who takes them. Knowing what she must do with them, YC absorbs the COINS into herself, instantly feeling refreshed, healthier and stronger.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ELDER COIN: Very good. We are on our way. The next step is to bring you back to Acadmium.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

YOUNG COIN: I’d\u2026rather stay here. Sail the stars. Explore the Orbspace. Learn how to control time from you directly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ELDER COIN: Alas, you cannot do that. The only way you will be able to become me is to walk my path. And that path goes to Acadmium, as well as other worlds. It will not be an easy journey. You will meet many unsavory characters, many of which will want to harm you. Don’t let them. If you fall or fail, so don’t we all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

YOUNG COIN: \u2026Can you at least tell me what I must do first?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ELDER COIN: You were already doing it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

YOUNG COIN: \u2026My coins?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ELDER COIN: Yes. Find them all. Reclaim them all. Jinn-Lir and his army have them\u2026until Turok does. Find them before it becomes impossible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

YOUNG COIN: And then?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ELDER COIN: Focus on this one task for now, Coin. Once it’s done, special things will happen. But the prize comes later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

YOUNG COIN: \u2026Come with me?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ELDER COIN: If I could. But the Goddess of Time has a small world, one that she cannot leave. (She looks around her TIMESHIP, somewhat sadly).<\/em> Still, no such thing as a perfect job, right? You’ll understand once it’s your turn to move in here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

YOUNG COIN: I think I’m starting to already.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ELDER COIN: Good. Because from now on, very little shall be understandable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The TIMESHIP descends to ACADMIUM.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Scene 10: Drift Capital<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As the battle rages on, the SUPER-SOLDERS now on TUROK’S side advance toward three of JINN-LIR’S SUPER-SOLDIERS<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR SOLDIER 1: You made it out! Does that mean \u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR SOLDIER 2: That it’s over? Turok’s finished.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK SOLDIER 1: No. You are.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

They all attack the surprised JINN-LIR SOLDIERS and quickly overpower them. They use their powers to remove the COINS from the JINN-LIR SOLDIERS, transforming them back into ordinary CIVILIANS.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

CIVILIAN 3: What are you\u2026why are you?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK SOLDIER 2: Don’t worry about the why. You won’t live long enough to understand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The TUROK SOLDIERS easily murder the CIVILIANS. As they do so, JINN-LIR enters, having heard his soldiers’ cries of agony.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: What have you three done??<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK SOLDIER 3: This.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

They all absorb a COIN, becoming SUPER-SUPER SOLDIERS.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: I don’t know what Turok told you, but it’s a lie! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK SUPER-SOLDIER 1: Shut up, wizard scum! No more lying for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

They unleash powerful magic that destroys the area around JINN-LIR, who barely escapes with his life. JINN-LIR runs off.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: Soldiers, retreat! This battle is unwinnable for now! Run now!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SOLDER: Where’s everyone else?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: Too late for them! GO!!!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR and his ARMY run off while TUROK’s SUPER-SUPER SOLDIERS use their magic to kill innocents and destroy property. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Scene 11: Outside the Capital gates<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The TIMESHIP lands and the door opens for YOUNG COIN. She stands at the door, looking at the carnage in front of her. She takes a deep breath, looks back at ELDER COIN who nods in approval, and marches forward.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Scene 12: Inside the Capitol<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Coin looks around, surveying the damage. Dismayed by what she sees and disgusted by the wizard\/tech war that has made this happen. She eventually sees the pile of dead former super-soldiers (now CIVILIANS). One of them stirs! She runs over to him. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: You’re alive. What happened here?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

CIVILIAN: Turok\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: Well I know that bu\u2026right. But how? What happened?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

CIVILIAN: Three of us\u2026turned to Turok\u2026they took our coins and destroyed everything. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: They already had coins, right? You all did.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

CIVILIAN: Tes. Two \u2026coins each.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: No full human can handle that much power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

CIVILIAN: They were going crazy! I think\u2026coins\u2026overwhelm\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: No way can I fight them now. I need coins first. Where did your team go?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

CIVILIAN: Retreated. All of them\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: (disgusted)<\/em> Jinn. Naturally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

CIVILIAN: They\u2026had to\u2026run\u2026get the coins, girl\u2026I think\u2026they’ll understand. Then go after Turok\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: I will. Thank you. But you’re done for. I can feel it. No more words. Just rest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

CIVILIAN: I\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: Please.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She reaches inward and emits a gentle form of magic, one to put the soldier to sleep. He closes his eyes. He will pass soon. COIN looks at him, closes her eyes, takes a deep breath, then stands and walks away.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Scene 13: Jinn’s headquarters back in the town<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR and his SOLDIERS sit around and recover.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: Men\u2026women\u2026that did not exactly go as I expected. I did not factor in Turok’s words and charisma, not to mention outright lies. But alas, he unleashed them. And now, here we stand\u2026sit\u2026lie down.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Panning of soldiers all in various stages of pain and exhaustion.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR (cont):<\/em> this fight will be more difficult than I thought. And for now, we cannot attack. Right now, we must rest, recuperate, and replan. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

SOLDIER: How did he even survive? Our men could have killed him the second they saw him. He’s not a magical warrior. He’s not a barbarian. How did he survive long enough to turn them?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: I\u2026wish I knew. And that is my failure. As a leader, I should have known every possible scenario. I didn’t anticipate this one. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Soldiers all look at him with varying reactions \u2014 some understanding, some sad, some disappointed, and some mad.<\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR (cont)<\/em>: in the meantime\u2026you’re all dismissed. I will find you when I need you again. But as your leader\u2026I have a lot to consider before we fight again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The SOLDIERS all silently look at one another, look at JINN-LIR, give a salute, then leave. JINN-LIR is alone and forlorn. At his saddest moment, the DARK CABAL \u2014 SELENE QUICKWIND, WONN-LIR, and TYPHUS \u2014 appears, far happier than JINN-LIR could ever be.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

SELENE: Jinn-Lir! It’s been a minute. How are you? What have you been up to?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: \u2026You know, don’t you?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SELENE: Oh you can see right through me! Of course we do. I must admit: very cathartic to see you lose so, so badly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

WONN-LIR: What were you hoping for, Jinn-Lir? That Turok would just roll over and die on his belly? Because of why? Your magic army? This is Turok we’re talking about. He always finds a way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: And I wish I knew what that way was.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SELENE: Should we tell him?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TYPHUS: NO.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

WONN-LIR: Ohh, I don’t know. I feel a little bad for him. Look at him. So downtrodden, so beaten, so confused. Pathetic. Maybe we throw him a bone of information. Maybe he’ll crack that smile we love so very very very much. (They all giggle)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: I can hear you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

WONN-LIR: And?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: Are you going to tell me what’s going on or not? Remember, Turok hates you too. So if there’s something I need to know that can stop him, it will benefit you to tell me.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SELENE: I suppose. Or, we could let you rot on Planet Pity while we do the hero work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

WONN-LIR: I don’t think you could stop him anyway, even if you knew. Jinn-Lir stops nothing but progress. But OK. I’ll fill you in. Mind you, I don’t know how he does it, just what he does\u2026that castle is fortified with anti-magic technology. We couldn’t emit a single spell there! It was only through our charisma and skills of persuasion that he let us go.  I admit\u2026it would’ve gotten ugly for us and fast otherwise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR listens intently. This is hard for him to process.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: We\u2026have to work together. We\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SELENE: Well, now you’re just talking nonsense. Lick your wounds, figure out a plan, grab your soldiers, and do whatever it is you’ve got to do. But don’t involve us. We will fight him our way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

WONN-LIR: Just\u2026two things before we go. As long as Turok remains in that castle, magic and those coins you gave your toy soldiers? Useless. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: And\u2026the second thing?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TYPHUS: HE KNEW.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: He\u2026who\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SELENE: Oops out of time, gotta go, bye-bye! Enjoy your failure, Jinn-Lir. I know I am!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

They laugh as they disappear, leaving JINN-LIR alone to contemplate their words and who HE is.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Scene 14: MONTAAAGGGEEEE!!!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN ventures around the town and neighboring villages, finding each SUPER-SOLDIER who has one of her coins. One by one, she receives a COIN. The methods she uses vary \u2014 some give their COIN willingly and immediately, some need more persuasion, and still others attempt to fight COIN only to lose badly. The fight scenes happen later in the montage as she grows more powerful and filled with COINS. With each scene, she absorbs the COIN and becomes more confident. Finally, she has all but the six COINS in her possession.  She walks off to the DRIFT CAPITAL, eager to find the SUPER-SUPER SOLDIERS and become whole once again.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Scene 15: Just outside the Drift Capital<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN marches herself to just outside the CAPITAL GATES, only to find ORBIUS appearing in front of her. They stare one another down, almost as if they’re ready to fight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ORBIUS: Coin. It’s been a while.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: It has. Where have you been? War is happening, Jinn is failing, and you’re who knows where?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ORBIUS: As a master of all things Orbspace, I cannot be confined to one planet or even one system. Nor can I drop my responsibilities for one particular squabble. But I have been paying attention. I saw what you’ve been doing. You took Jinn’s army away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: He can’t use them. He’s dismissed them. And recently\u2026I’ve learned that I need these coins more than anyone else does. Not just for me\u2026but for everyone. For time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ORBIUS: What?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: Ah\u2026 never mind. I don’t quite understand it all myself. All I know is I need to be whole. I have all but six coins. Emperor Turok’s soldiers have them. For now <\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN attempts to charge past Orbius, who stops her.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ORBIUS: Wait! Coin? If you must do this, then I won’t stop you. You clearly have a purpose. But you need to know something. Turok’s castle is magic-proof. His technology, his robotics, his automatons, they will render you as powerless as you were when you were but a leather pouch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN clenches her jaw and blinks rapidly, unable to stomach the idea that she was ever just a bag of lifeless coins.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: I see. Well, if I can’t use magic, then neither can Turok’s soldiers, right? It’ll be a fair fight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ORBIUS: Perhaps\u2026I won’t stop you any longer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: Thank you. Now go find Jinn. He’s no leader, not yet. He needs you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She marches toward the gates as ORBIUS looks to the horizon, then disappears.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Scene 16: Inside Turok’s castle<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The three SUPER-SUPER SOLDIERS meet with TUROK in his chamber.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SUPER SOLDIER 1: We did it. Jinn-Lir’s army is DONE. His soldiers are either dead, injured, or running off. They won’t bother you any longer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: Incredible! I knew I made the right choice. Jinn-Lir himself may not be dead, but he might as well be.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SUPER SOLDIER 2: Thank you for opening our eyes, Emperor Turok.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: Oh yes, that. Well, you’re very welcome. A pity I must relieve you of your duties\u2026magic scum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SUPER SOLDIER 3: Huh?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: Did you really think I was on your side? Or that I wanted you on mine? You are tainted with those coins. You are magical creatures. And I will destroy you for it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK presses a button and lasers come shooting out of the walls, hitting the <\/em>SUPER-SUPER SOLDIERS. They’re not knocked down but clearly hurt.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SUPER SOLDIER 2: Emperor!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: I am not your emperor! Dead men have no emperors!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SUPER SOLDIER 1: Well\u2026dead men can’t BE emperors either. AHHHHHH!!!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SUPER SOLDIER 1 attempts a magic spell, but nothing happens. The other SUPER-SUPER SOLDIERS attempt the same, but nothing.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

SUPER-SUPER SOLDIER 3: What is\u2026?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: I love that look of surprise. It never gets old! And neither will you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK unleashes more attack lasers. This time, the SUPER-SUPER SOLDIERS go down and don’t get back up. TUROK walks over to their smoldering bodies.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: Now WHERE did my extraction machine go? Good thing you’re not running away (chuckles)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Scene 17: Jinn’s headquarters<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR sits alone until the DARK CABAL reappears.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: Here to taunt me again? <\/p>\n\n\n\n

WONN-LIR: Not quite. We received a message from your master. He wants to meet with us all. No idea why.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SELENE: It better be good.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TYPHUS: KILL?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

WONN-LIR: No, no, not today. Orbius never does this. He must have his reasons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ORBIUS appears<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: Master Orbius! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

ORBIUS: When was the last time we were all together as one Cabal?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SELENE: Not long enough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ORBIUS: Perhaps those days can never return\u2026but for now, we must speak civilly with one another. We have a problem. Our wayward sixth member, the apprentice Coin, is leading herself into trouble.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

All listen intently, though the DARK CABAL is more impatient than JINN-LIR<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ORBIUS (cont)<\/em>: Your army is no more, Jinn. Coin has found your soldiers and, in one way or another, took her coins back. She has them all, save for the six Turok’s soldiers possess. She intends on entering Turok’s castle and retrieving them herself. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: Is that where she’s been? She disappeared on me before the battle began.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ORBIUS: Perhaps. Perhaps she was planning this.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: Well\u2026if she has all but six coins, then she could put up a fight! Especially now, she’s stronger and more determined than the last time she had this many coins. She might end this war after all!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ORBIUS: I\u2026fear she won’t. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: Why not?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

WONN-LIR: Oh! Is Jinn the only ignorant one in the room? Orbius, you tell him.  You ARE the master, after all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ORBIUS: \u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: Tell\u2026what?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ORBIUS: Jinn\u2026 Turok’s castle is completely magic-proof. His technology won’t allow anything magical to happen within his walls. Coin won’t be able to use her magic there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR (confused, incredulous)<\/em>: How long have you known? How\u2026LONG?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

WONN-LIR: Longer than we knew. We found out the hard way. So don’t feel too bad. You’re not the only one he keeps secrets from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR rises and angrily marches towards ORBIUS<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: I sent soldiers to DIE in there! I thought their magic would protect them! And you knew it wouldn’t? You kept that information to yourself? Why??<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ORBIUS: My\u2026travels have opened my eyes to many things. One of which is that certain things MUST happen. I don’t yet know all the details myself. But forces bigger than any of us have ordered me to not intervene in this war. It must play out. I apologize for not telling you, and for being so vague and mysterious. Being an Orbspace master\u2026well, it gets tougher all the time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SELENE: So whatever that means, does it mean we’re going in there after Coin?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

JINN-LIR: Of course it does! She is one of us! We have to save her!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ORBIUS: No. She is NOT one of us. Not any longer. Perhaps she never was. I met her just before she entered the capital. She said something about needing her coins for time. I don’t yet fully understand. But I believe she is about to become something else entirely.  Perhaps\u2026something beyond us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The CABAL stare at one another, not knowing the next steps.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Scene 18: Inside the castle<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN has made her way to TUROK’S chamber. The GUARD from earlier is in front of his door.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

GUARD: None may enter!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: Do you know how many of your co-workers I just wasted to get in here? Do you want to be the next? So what if I can’t use magic? I’ll fight till I fall. Or until you fall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK’S voice echoes through a loudspeaker.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: Let her go, soldier! I will speak to this one<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK enters.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: Coin. It’s been too long. You look different.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN, clearly confused, readies for battle.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: Ah, but you don’t know me yet. How could you? Well, allow me to introduce myself. Re-introduce myself. Phew, still confusing after all this time. I am Turok Rhygear, the \u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: I KNOW who you are. How do you know me?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: We’ve\u2026interacted before. Here, but elsewhere. Another part of this planet. Another\u2026time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: Time\u2026what are you talking about?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: When last I met you, you weren’t quite the child you are now. You were so much older then, you’re younger than that now\u2026that sounds like a good song. Anyway, you and I worked together on extremely important business. And now here you are, again, as a child. So curious. You spoke then\u2026later\u2026of time loops and warps and other time-related magic\u2026and that you are the wielder of it all. Or rather, YOU (points to COIN)<\/em> will be. I figured it all hoopla. I don’t anymore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: Oh, enough of this!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She charges at TUROK, fists of fire. She is immediately repelled by his nano-forcefield and knocked to the ground.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: Hmmm! Well, you have much to learn before we meet again. But you will. I shudder to think what would happen if you don’t.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: You\u2026stop talking\u2026fight me!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: No. If I fight you, I will kill you. And that cannot happen. If you die, then we’ll never meet. We’ll never forge the Circuitstone. I’ll never escape the Library. All of THIS (gestures around him)<\/em> gone. Chaos would ensue! And it would be my fault.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN: Circuit\u2026stone\u2026library\u2026what???<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: Don’t you worry about that. Until you need to. We will meet again, Coin. In the meantime, I believe these are yours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK kneels and presents COINS with the final six COINS OF DOMMINNA. She eyes him suspiciously.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: I have no use for them. You need them. The stone needs them. The future needs them. Take them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN, knowing in her heart that he’s right, takes the COINS. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK: Absorb them away from here, in case my bots interfere with their process. Now go. You can’t hurt me, and you don’t want to, either. Just go. See you in the future\u2026Coin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TUROK leaves. COIN is now alone in the room. She pockets the COINS, stands up, stares in TUROK’S direction, then wanders off.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Scene 19: Outside the Capital<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

COIN stands alone outside the DRIFT CAPITAL. She removes the COINS from her pocket. As she studies them, ELDER COIN’S words run through her mind.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ELDER COIN: \u2026More than human. And it starts\u2026with these\u2026special things will happen\u2026you shall be the Time Goddess\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Realizing that now is the time, COIN absorbs the final six COINS. She is now whole. She glows with the same glow ELDER COIN emitted on the TIMESHIP. After a brief episode of blinding lights, the light fades, revealing ADULT COIN. She is still younger than ELDER COIN and appears to be in her mid-30s.  She looks at her hands, smiles, then looks up to the sky.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Scene 20: The Timeship<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ELDER COIN senses that COIN has matured, and she smiles.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ELDER COIN: And now our job can truly begin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

End<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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