Birds of a Feather

Birds of a Feather

by

Craig McInnes

FADE IN:

EXT. MURKY FOREST - SUNRISE

Amber sunlight chases away the night in a cloudless sky. Sheets of mist collect atop the canopy of an ancient forest, and the morning dew glistens off mossy branches.

EDGAR, (a large adult Male Raven) glides gracefully above the treeline toward a gnarled, towering Redwood.

EXT. REDWOOD - DAWN

Edgar lands on a mossy branch, cloaked in mist. An impressive specimen. Strong features, thick feathers and a steely gaze.

Edgar walks the branch to meet ELDER. Edgar studies him. Milky eyed and blind. Scarred, weathered face. Greying feathers. Elder smiles warmly, and raises his wings in a welcoming gesture.

ELDERAh, Edgar! Here at last! Come, come, sit with me.

Elder feels around blindly with his wings and settles onto branch. Edgar joins him.

EDGARWhy did you summon me, wise one?

Elder blinks. His eyes widen, struck with terror. He clutches Edgar’s wing tightly. Edgar gasps, startled. Elder’s eyes flutter.

EDGARTell me what you see!

ELDERR-Reaper!(Beat)Many will suffer. The young.

(MORE)

The old. A red foot will fight. A red foot will fall.

Elder’s body relaxes. He gulps in air. Edgar looks at a red birthmark on his heel. He rubs it with a wing and furrows his brow.

EDGARI am ready.

Elder smiles and shakes his head.

ELDERYour part is all but played, Edgar. I have seen it.

Edgar looks upon Elder, baffled.

EDGARBut Elder, I-

Elder raises a wing in objection. He senses Edgar’s conflict and smiles.

ELDERThis is a different fight, Edgar. Return to your family. They will need you.(Beat)Unity brings strength, community brings wisdom.

Elder gets up wearily and walks to the branch edge. He spreads his wings, and plummets into the mist. Edgar runs to the edge. Elder has vanished.

ELDER(Voice fading)Farewell, Edgar. I shall meet you on the other side!

Edgar stands atop the Redwood, alone.

FADE TO BLACK.

FADE IN:

EXT. HIGHWAY - DAY

Blacktop shimmers below rolling green hills topped with open blue sky. Crickets CHIRP and bees BUZZ. Long grass blows in the breeze. We pan up into the shimmering trees.

EXT. NEST - DAY

NED flies in, (male Chestnut Sided Warbler). Youthful ruffle of crown feathers and a friendly face. He smiles affectionately as he sees MAGGIE, (female Chestnut Sided Warbler) the love of his life.

She sits, nestled in straw. She doesn’t get up. Ned hops over and they nuzzle beaks.

NEDAnd how are our little “Neds” doing?

MAGGIEAlmost ready, I think. Take a look for yourself.

Maggie lifts her tail end: Three small, creamy white eggs with brown speckles. Ned looks upon them with a father’s love.

NEDYou’re doing great, honey. Look at us.(Beat)Starting our own family. Crazy, huh?

Maggie laughs.

MAGGIEYeah. It is crazy.

Maggie sighs, then stretches.

NEDI could take a shift if you want to stretch your wings.

Maggie shakes her head and sits back down.

MAGGIEThat’s sweet and all, Ned, but you’re possibly the clumsiest bird I know.

NEDPoint taken. Is there anything I can get you? Food? Water?

Maggie’s stomach RUMBLES and GURGLES. She looks down at it.

MAGGIEI think yes. To both.

Ned salutes.

NEDComin’ right up.

RAVEN’S NEST - EXT - DAY

The sky is overcast and a light summer rain falls.

VIRGINIA, (an adult female Raven) lands by three SQUEAKING fuzzy black hatchlings. Weak, uncoordinated and hungry, they scramble over each other.

PAT PAT- the rain falls onto Virginia’s feathers. She shields her young and drops wriggling beetles and maggots into the small, eager mouths. She laughs as they shove each other.

VIRGINIAEasy, boys. Easy. One at a time!

Using a wing, she nudges the hatchlings in a line. It fails, and squeaking chaos resumes.

Once sated, each hatchling scampers away for a nap. Virginia smiles warmly at them as they lay together. One hatchling BURPS loudly and curls into a ball.

Edgar lands. He is cut on one eye, his feathers ruffled. Virginia strokes his face with her wing tenderly.

VIRGINIAWhat happened, honey?

EDGARA raid. Nothing I couldn’t handle.

Virginia shakes her head, sighing.

VIRGINIAOh Edgar! We talked about this. No raids! There’s plenty of food for-

Edgar puffs his chest out. Thick raindrops fall, pattering onto their feathers.

EDGARI know there’s food for our young, Virginia. But not enough for you. (Beat)You have barely eaten.

Virginia sighs.

VIRGINIAI know, but-

EDGARYou need to eat. I’ll watch over them.

Virginia stretches and hops over to Edgar. They nuzzle beaks.

VIRGINIAYou’re too good to me, you know that?

They embrace for a few seconds. Virginia sighs happily.

VIRGINIAWhat’s for supper?

EXT. NED’S NEST - DAY

Thunder RUMBLES. The sky is pregnant. Ned lands, a wiggling worm in his beak. He drops it as he sees Red- (his larger, older Uncle) cut up and bleeding. Red stands at the nest entrance.

NEDRed! What happened?!

Ned tries to get past Red, where Maggie is laying. Red stops him, clutching his sides.

REDNed. I just want you to know- there was nothing we could do to stop it. Nothing.

Red coughs wearily. Thunder RUMBLES.

NEDDo what?! What happened?! Where’s Maggie?!

Red is dazed from trauma. Ned shakes him frantically. CRASH! Thunder ripples across the sky.

NEDRed!

Ned pushes Red aside and flies into the nest. Maggie is face down, crying. He hops over.

NEDMaggie! Maggie! What happened?! Are you okay?!

Maggie SOBS. Her ruffled yellow feathers are stained with dirt and blood. Ned tries nosing his beak under her, but she won’t move. He panics, hopping around the nest.

NEDTalk to me! Maggie! (Beat)Maggie!

Ned pries Maggie up. There are three dents in the straw. Ned looks at them in despair. Maggie flies to him. They embrace and sob as a heavy rain falls.

FADE TO BLACK.

EXT. RAVEN’S NEST - DAWN

A Sailor’s sky. Virginia sleeps with her young. A DARK SHAPE closes in quickly. WHAM! A large BALD EAGLE, (Reaper) slams into her, sending her tumbling. Branches CRACK and SNAP. Reaper banks left, ready to make a pass at the unguarded nest.

Virginia tries to take off. Her wing is broken. She winces, looking up at the nest in panicked desperation. SNAP! The branch it rests on cracks and starts to slip.

Virginia GASPS and climbs as fast as she can.

VIRGINIAEdgar! Help!

The younglings SQUEAK and CRY out. The nest slides forward. Reaper SCREECHES. Razor-sharp talons reach out at a hatchling.

SLAM! Edgar crashes into Reaper from the left, slashing furiously with his talons. Edgar latches onto Reaper and they fly upward with large, powerful thrusts. Virginia looks up at Edgar.

VIRGINIAEdgar!!

Edgar looks down to Virginia.

EDGARForget about me! Protect our young!

Edgar and Reaper fight, scratching, squawking and exchanging blows. Reaper slashes at Edgar, cutting him deeply.

Virginia is almost home. A few feet away. Her younglings see her, SQUEAKING in fear. Wincing and breathless, Virginia makes it. THUD! A lifeless Edgar smashes into Virginia. She grabs onto a branch at the last second. A sigh of relief. SNAP! It breaks.

Virginia falls. The nest comes loose. Her three babies tumble helplessly- eyes wide in terror. She screams, reaching out desperately.

VIRGINIA’S POV

We see the ground come at us with alarming speed. Then, darkness. All we hear is the fading SCREECH of the Eagle above.

EXT. NED’S NEST - DAY

Maggie stares at the three dents. Her face is long and solemn. We hear the MUFFLED VOICE of Ned as he talks behind her. Ned touches her shoulder with his wing- she jumps slightly, startled.

NEDMaggie. Did you hear me?

Ned tries to embrace her. She shirks him off. Ned steps back. Maggie stares at the hollows.

MAGGIEThis is my fault.

NEDThis is nobody’s fault, Maggie. Stop it.

Maggie turns to face Ned.

MAGGIEStop what? It’s the truth! And you’ll never forgive me for it!

NEDForgive you? For what?

Maggie prods her rib cage angrily.

MAGGIEThis is on me. It’s my job to watch them, and I didn’t, I couldn’t do anything I I-

Maggie sobs uncontrollably, slumping onto her knees. Ned rushes in to comfort her. She fights him at first. But Ned holds on.

NEDShhh... It’s okay, Maggie. It’s gonna’ be okay.

Maggie sobs deeply into Ned’s breast. Ned tears up, squeezing her tightly.

NEDYou did all you could. We’ll try next year, okay?

Maggie sniffs back tears and smiles at Ned warmly. They nuzzle beaks and embrace.

NEDCome on, the flock is waiting.

EXT. TREE - SUNSET

Rows of birds, all at attention on various branches of a leafy tree. Red -his wings behind his back- paces on a branch overlooking them. He is bruised, but stout.

Burt, the “Staff Sergeant” of the flock, stands close by. Stocky, for a small bird. He’s tough looking with a stern gaze.

REDAlright troops. Summer is almost over and it’s getting to be that time again.

Red faces the flock.

REDIf you are new, welcome. If you are not, welcome back.

Ned and Maggie fly in and land on a thin end of a branch. It bends, causing a chain reaction that sends other birds fluttering, tweeting and stumbling.

Ned tries to help but makes it worse. Red, and 28 other birds glare at them. Ned grins awkwardly. Red clears his throat.

REDFor those of you who don’t know, this is Burt. Burt here is my number two.

Ned elbows Maggie and snickers. She chuckles tries to stifle it.

BURTWho’s laughing?!

Silence. All but the leaves in the breeze. Burt narrows his eyes, scans the flock.

REDThe skies are no place for jokes, people. They are dangerous.

The birds look at Maggie- who suddenly feels a thousand times smaller. She blushes. Ned leans into her for support.

REDTo be in our flock, you need to be able to fly. And fly well.(Beat)I have three rules:Rule 1: Never fly alone. There is strength in numbers.

Red waits for this to sink in.

REDRule 2: Watch for signals. They will come quickly, and you’ll have to react fast.(Beat)Rule 3: Watch out for each other.Any questions?

Red looks to the flock. Silence. He nods and looks to Burt.

REDBurt, they are all yours.

Burt nods. Red flies off.

BURTFall in for training at sun up! Dismissed!

The flock scatters. Ned and Maggie remain as branches around them bob and sway. Red flies up to them.

NEDI never did get to say thanks for what you did- what you tried to do.

We hear Maggie’s SCREAMS and the CAWING of an angry RAVEN as Red recalls the event to himself.

REDIt wasn’t enough.

NEDRed, you did what you-

Red holds a wing out.

REDSave it. (Beat)What I did was pathetic.

Ned’s face falls. Sorrow in his eyes.

REDNed, I-

Maggie grabs hold of Ned’s wing tenderly. Determined not to cry, Ned takes a deep breath, then hugs Red.

NEDRed, from the bottom of my heart, thank you for being there for Maggie. For me. For us.

Red pats Ned on the back.

REDYou’re welcome, kiddo. Anytime.

FADE TO BLACK.

EXT. TREE - DAY

It is a bright morning. Blue skies and fluffy clouds. In neat ranks, the flock stands at attention. Maggie and Ned stand in the front row. Red looks to the flock, a twig tucked under his wing- a makeshift cane. Burt is close by.

REDAlright troops, listen up! This is our first drill of the season! Three rules, three drills!(Beat)We have approximately 6 miles of flying to get to our checkpoint- over there.

Whipping his stick out to the sky, Red points to a section of a wooded area in the distance. The flock stares at it, then back at Red.

REDWind conditions are good, but this won’t be easy. Burt here will be the predator in today’s exercise. He tags you, you are out.

Ned and Maggie exchange concerned glances.

REDNow... Are there any questions?

A curious, young and meek CHESTNUT WARBLER next to Ned, (Jonesy) starts to raise his wing. Ned holds it down.

NED(Whispering)Don’t do it, Jonesy.

Jonesy tries to raise it again. Ned stops him. Maggie shakes her head, mouthing “No”.

NEDJonesy, I’ll tell you after.

Jonesy frowns at Ned, trying to lift his wing. They stare each other down and struggle quietly.

NED(Whispering)I’m trying to help!

Jonesy struggles with Ned.

JONESY(Whispering)You may be Red’s nephew, but you don’t know everything! Now let...me...go!

Jonesy’s wing whips up into the air. Burt’s gaze is immediately on him. Burt turns to Red.

BURTJonesy, sir.

Red grins, tucking the stick under his wing. He hops over to Jonesy.

REDJonesy! Speak up, son! What’s on your mind?

Jonesy fidgets nervously, looking back at Ned and Maggie who now look straight ahead, at full attention. Half regretting his decision, Jonesy clears his throat.

JONESYYes sir! H-how will we know when we are tagged? Sir!

The flock TITTERS and GOSSIPS. Jonesy blushes. Red exchanges a glance with Burt, who smirks.

RED(To himself)There’s one every year.

THWACK! Red whips his stick onto the branch dramatically. The flock jumps in fright.

REDHow will you know you are tagged? That is a great question, Jonesy!(Beat)You’re new to the flock, right?

Jonesy blushes, but puffs his chest out a little in pride.

JONESYY-yes sir. Just this year.

Red acts impressed.

REDYour first trip? And you’re asking questions? You must be a brave soul!

Jonesy blushes, standing tall. Ned rolls his eyes. Red points to Jonesy with his cane.

REDYou could all learn a thing or two from Jonesy here, so pay attention!

Red smiles. There is mischief in it, but Jonesy does not see it. Ned and Maggie do.

REDJonesy, would you be willing to show the flock what it will be like to be tagged?

Jonesy nods enthusiastically.

JONESYOh of course, sir! Of course!

Red tucks his cane under his wing and clasps his wings together.

REDExcellent!

Red looks to Burt and smirks.

REDBurt, show Jonesy, will you?

BURTWith pleasure, sir.

Burt walks menacingly over to Jonesy. Burt towers over him. Jonesy’s smile fades.

REDJonesy, I want to thank you for volunteering your services for this demonstration.

Jonesy’s knees quiver as he waits. Tension builds. Burt takes a deep breath. Jonesy winces. Ned and Maggie nudge their row down, away from Jonesy.

They comply without comment, and move in unison. The row on the other side of Jonesy copy Ned and Maggie. Jonesy closes his eyes.

JONESYI don’t suppose it’s possible to rescind my offer, is it?

Burt smirks.

BURTNope.

With lots of slimy goop, Burt wretches and vomits a red berry up onto his wing. Jonesy jumps, but stays frozen to his branch. Eyes clamped shut.

JONESYOh boy! What is that?!

Burt holds the gooey berry and shows it to the flock. The flock gasps. Jonesy panics, sniffing the air.

JONESYWhat is it?! Is it gross?! Tell me! No, don’t tell me! I don’t want to know!

BURTWhy don’t you open your eyes and see for yourself?

Jonesy shudders.

JONESYOkay, okay! Just don’t hurt me!

Burt stares with his stern face. Jonesy opens his eyes gingerly, and sees the slimy berry in Burt’s wing. He lets out a breath of relief. Ned and Maggie hold wings and clasp their feet onto their branch tightly. The flock copies them.

JONESYA berry? I thought it was going to be much worse than that, I-

WHAM! Burt slams the berry into Jonesy’s chest, knocking him down. The flock winces, then starts to laugh. Burt smirks. Red raises his cane and points to the flock, stifling a laugh.

REDAlright, alright, that’s enough!

This does nothing. Seconds pass, and Burt frowns. He lets out a shrill WHISTLE by Red’s ear. Red winces. The flock holds their ears with their wing tips.

BURTPipe down!

They all jump to attention- even Jonesy- stained in red. Red cleans out an ear with a wing tip.

REDTh-Thankyou Burt.(Beat)Now, this may seems harsh for a drill, but believe me- when you get hit out there,(Points to the sky)it will be harder. And that red on Jonesy’s feathers will not, I repeat, not be berry juice. These are Reaper’s skies, everyone.

Red touches a scar on his face reflectively.

REDBurt will try to break you up and steer you off course. As soon as you are out of the flock for anyreason, you head to the checkpoint. Is that clear?

The flock says nothing.

REDI said: Is that clear?!

The flock yells out in unison.

FLOCKSir, yes sir!

REDGood. Now let’s head out!

EXT. FLOCK OF WARBLERS - DAY

Flying in a V-formation, the flock weave slowly in the air- a warm-up flight. Ned and Maggie fly in the back. Red leads, a light wind ruffles his crown feathers. Red smiles, and looks back to the row behind him.

REDAlright folks! Let’s turn up the heat!

Red speeds up and pulls away from the flock. They catch up. Zoom! Up, down, left, right. Red keeps them busy. The flock follows in perfect harmony- except Ned.

Ned isn’t a strong flyer but does his best to keep up. He looks to Maggie- doing just fine- then frowns. Ned flaps even harder to keep up. It’s on.

Left turn. The flock arcs left in a tight formation. Ned struggles, but keeps pace. Right turn. Again, nice tight formation. Ned is out of breath.

NED(Out of breath)It is really necessary(Beat for a breath)To go(Beat for a breath)This fast?!

Maggie smirks at Ned as they turn. Ned COUGHS.

NEDHe knows I have asthma, right?

MAGGIEI don’t know what that is!

They bank right.

NEDNeither do I!

Another right.

MAGGIECome on, Ned! I haven’t been out in weeks!

Maggie laughs and flaps harder. Ned wheezes, but keeps up. Barely.

EXT. TREE - DAY

The flock wheels in the air from afar. They fly through the sun, creating many silhouettes. Burt watches them, noticing the straggler in the back. He smiles menacingly.

EXT. FLOCK OF WARBLERS - DAY

Left turn, right turn, up, down. Ned is exhausted. They are halfway to the checkpoint. Ned looks at the trees in the distance, moaning.

NEDMaggie, I can’t do it! I’m spent!

He flaps less and less. Maggie looks to him, but keeps pace.

MAGGIEI don’t know what to do, Ned!

Another turn, this time a slower one. Ned keeps up, panting.

NEDMaybe you can send word up to-(Beat for a breath)

During this breath, we see Burt closing in. Fast. Maggie sees Burt. Her eyes widen.

MAGGIEBurt!

NEDBurt is the last person we should-

MAGGIENo! Burt!

The flock sees Burt and start flapping in terror. Maggie speeds up. Ned turns and sees Burt grinning menacingly. ZOOM! Burt barely misses Ned. Ned gets a burst of adrenaline. Left turn- a hard one. Burt eyes Ned and gives chase. Red sees Burt and smiles.

RED(To himself)Okay, let’s have some fun.

Red looks back to his flock.

RED(Yelling)Predatory bird 7 o clock! Brace for impact!

WHOOSH! Burt cuts through them. Terrified, they struggle to keep formation. The flock watches Burt as he wheels around toward them. Red looks back to the flock.

REDEvasive maneuvers on my mark!

Red stoops down, careening toward the ground. Burt zooms past, missing them. Burt speeds up. The flock makes a sharp left turn, but Ned misses it. Maggie looks over- no Ned. She looks back and sees him.

MAGGIENed! Ned! Look out!

The flocks turns once more. Alone in the sky, Ned tries to find his bearings. But it’s too late.

WHAM! Burt slams into him at full speed. Dazed, he flaps to stay airborne, panting, frustrated and exhausted.

NEDOkay! Okay! I give up! (Beat)Burt! You got me!

Burt wheels around. Ned doesn’t attempt to fly off. Burt wretches up a berry as he flies towards Ned. He grins.

BURTNot yet I don’t.

Burt closes in, pulling back his berry covered wing.

**Time slows**

Ned sees the wing and tries to duck. WHACK! The wing socks him in the face- a knock out punch.

**Time returns to normal**

Dazed, Ned spins out of the air towards the trees. Burt watches Ned and smirks.

BURTWhat a quail.

Burt heads back to flock, catching up easily. Maggie scowls at him.

MAGGIEBurt, what did you do to him?!

Burt points to a patch of woods below. He smirks. Maggie swoops out of the flock, chasing after Ned. Burt chuckles, then spits up another berry.

BURTAlright, who’s next?

EXT. WOODS - DAY.

In the green daylight gloom of a woodland area, Ned lies crumpled in a heap of moss and leaves. He GROANS. There is a small, high-pitched SQUEAK from the trees. Then another.

NEDHello?

Another SQUEAK. Ned hops up, alert. He cracks his back and neck, rubbing his back with a wing. He hops onto a mossy tree stump, peering into gloom.

NEDHello?

Another SQUEAK. Ned follows it. Cautious, he seeks higher ground.

NEDIs anyone there?

Another SQUEAK. Ned starts to panic. It’s not on the ground.

NEDI’m warning you, I’m a master of crane style!

Ned strikes a kung-fu esque pose. SQUEAK! A louder one. Ned covers his head with his wings. There are but a few branches between Ned and the noise.

NEDPlease don’t kill me, whatever you are!

SQUEAK! Curious, Ned tries to peek through, but can’t. Ned peels the branches back, and jumps through in a kung-fu stance.

NEDGotcha!

Ned’s brave face turns to mush. Laying in front of him is a black, fuzzy BABY RAVEN. It blinks, then SQUEAKS.

Ned looks at him, tearing up. The Baby Raven SQUEAKS. Ned looks around. Adult Raven feathers and splashes of dried blood litter the area. Ned approaches slowly.

NEDWhat happened to you, little fella?

It SQUEAKS, trying to escape.

NEDShhh! I’m not going to hurt you. I promise.

Ned edges closer. The baby Raven SQUEAKS more and more. Ned reaches out. The Baby Raven raises his stubby black and clenches his eyes tightly, terrified. Ned strokes the Raven’s head. The Raven opens his eyes, SQUEAKS and PURRS. It blinks at him and smiles. Ned smiles back.

EXT. WOODED ENTRANCE - DAY

Maggie lands on a leafy birch before the woods and surveys the area. With her wings to her beak, she calls out.

MAGGIENed! (Beat)Ned!

Nothing. She darts off into the woods, deftly dodging trees and shrubs.

MAGGIE (CONT’D)Ned!

EXT. BABY RAVEN’S HIDEOUT - DAY

Ned hears Maggie call out in the background. It startles the Baby Raven. Ned pets him softly.

NEDShh... It’s okay. She’s a friend.

Ned covers the Raven’s head and yells out.

NEDUp here, Maggie!

MAGGIE (O.S.)Ned?

NEDUp here!

EXT. OUTSIDE BABY RAVEN’S HIDEOUT - DAY

Maggie arrives to the branches. She looks in excitedly, but cannot see through them.

MAGGIENed? You in there?

NED (O.S.)Yeah.

MAGGIEYou okay? You hurt?

NED (O.S.)I’m good.

Maggie tries to get through, but she’s not strong enough.

MAGGIEI can’t get through... these darn branches! Can you help me?

Ned heaves and peels one back, revealing his face. Maggie smiles as she sees him.

MAGGIEAren’t you a sight for sore eyes?

Ned grins.

NEDBet you say that to all the birds.What’s the password?

Maggie smirks.

MAGGIEQuit being a goof ball and let me-

The Raven lets off a SQUEAK. Maggie’s eyes open wide. She looks around. Ned holds his wings up to calm her.

NEDI made a friend. I think. You know I’m pretty sure we hit it off okay, after an awkward spell.

Maggie frowns, crossing her wings.

MAGGIENed. What’s in there?

Ned grins bashfully, rubbing his neck with a wing.

NEDI think it’s more of a “who” really. Not a what. It’s a baby bird.

Maggie’s eyes water, and she frantically pries at the branch, squeezing past it. Maggie moves towards the noise. Ned blocks her. She grunts, frowning.

MAGGIENed, move out of the way!

She shoves Ned aside, and he follows her.

NEDMaggie, honey, you might wanna’ sit this one out. There are a few complications, and-

Maggie sees the baby bird and her eyes tear up immediately. The fuzzy raven looks up at her and blinks, before squeaking.

Maggie turns to Ned, poker faced.

NEDNow before you say “no” I think we should k-

Maggie squeezes her wings together around her chest, smitten.

MAGGIECan we keep him?!

Ned recoils.

NEDKeep him?!

Ned stares raises a wing finger.

NEDThere are a hundred million questions you probably could have asked, and I never would have guessed that it be that one.

Maggie jumps onto the baby raven, snuggling and stroking his fuzz. She GIGGLES.

MAGGIELook at you! Who’s a little fuzzy boy, huh? You’re so big! And you’re just a baby!

Maggie gasps.

NEDWhat? Is he hurt? I-I didn’t see anything.

Ned leans in closely. It SQUEAKS at him cheerfully.

MAGGIEHe’s probably starving! Look at him, poor little fella!

Pouting, she looks at the baby and strokes his cheeks. He SQUEAKS. Maggie looks up at Ned.

MAGGIECan you get him some food, honey?

NEDSure!

Ned zooms off. A few seconds later, he returns.

NEDUh... What do they eat?

Maggie shrugs, stroking the raven’s head as it falls asleep.

MAGGIE(Whispering)Just get him what we eat. And make that a double.

Maggie looks down at the baby, oblivious to the world. Ned smiles warmly.

NEDComing right up.

EXT. WOODED CHECKPOINT - DAY

REDWe bed down here for the night! Dismissed!

The weary flock lands at the checkpoint, meeting up with a couple of “tagged” birds that rub their wounds in shame. Red makes a crude bed made of small twigs and leaves. Burt stands at attention.

BURTI tagged Ned as per your orders, sir.

Red laughs, tugging a leaf over to his bed.

REDI would have loved to have seen his face...

BURTI knocked him out of the sky. You don’t think he’s-

REDI’m sure he’s fine.

Red tugs another leaf over, hopping on it to flatten it out.

REDWhat’s the head count?

BURT29 sir! Missing two, sir!

He smirks, settling wearily down into his nest with a sigh.

REDLeave those love birds be. They’ve had a rough couple of weeks. Dismissed.

Burt salutes.

FADE TO BLACK.

FADE IN:

EXT. RED’S MAKESHIFT NEST - SUNRISE

Red’s POV

Blinking eyes of Red as he yawns. Ned’s face comes into focus.

EXIT POV

Red jumps, holding a wing to his heart.

REDNed?! What in blazes are you doing?

Ned smiles nervously.

NEDI know it’s early. But I need a favour. Two actually.

REDI don’t care if you’re on fire! You almost gave me a heart attack!

Burt appears from nowhere. He eyes Ned. Red holds a wing up.

REDI’m fine, Sargent, I’m fine. Just a little startled is all. (Beat)My nephew needs to learn some personal boundaries.

Burt glares at Ned, then flies off.

REDFor someone who is rarely up by mid day, I’m guessing this is important.

Ned raises a wing and takes a breath, thinking. He exhales.

NEDI’ve got nothing to say to that. Good one.

Red smirks.

NEDI haven’t slept in...(Counting on wing fingers)10, 11 carry the one- 14. 14 hours. (To himself)Has it really been that long? It didn’t feel that long when I was out getting-

Red tosses a berry at Ned’s head. THONK!

NEDRight. Focus. Got it. On it.About those favours. You know how myself and Maggie have been away this past while?

REDWhat do you think?

NEDThat I shouldn’t insult your intelligence and move on?

REDThat would be good.

NEDOkay. The first favour is that I need you to follow me. No questions. Burt can handle drills on the flock. (Leaning in and whispering)He was born to torture others.

BURT (O.C.)I heard that!

Ned takes off. Red follows and looks back to Burt below.

REDI’ll be back in a few hours. You know what to do!

Burt salutes.


Ned and Red watch Maggie play and with the Baby Raven. It SQUEAKS playfully. Ned smiles and sighs. Bonnie tickles the Baby Raven, then looks up to Ned.

MAGGIEHave you told him?

REDI don’t like where this is going.

NEDI know, but it’s going there. Look at him. Poe’s helpless.

The Baby Raven, (now known as POE) squeaks and looks at Red cheerily. Red groans, massaging the bridge of his beak.

REDYou named it?

MAGGIEHim. We named him.

Maggie pets Poe and he nuzzles up to her.

NEDSo we were thinking of-

REDOut of the question.

Maggie frowns.

MAGGIEWhy?

Red points to Poe- who is dozing off.

REDDo you know what kind of bird that is?!

Bonnie puts a finger wing to her beak.

MAGGIEShhh!

RED(Whispering)Do you know what kind of bird that is?

Maggie glares at Red.

MAGGIEWhat would you have me do? Leave him here? Look at him...

Poe is dreaming. He twitches and SQUEAKS. Maggie strokes his head tenderly.

MAGGIEShhhhhh... There’s a good boy. It’s okay.

Red leans into Ned.

RED(Snarling)Come with me.

They fly to a nearby branch. Red paces, shaking his head, wings over his head.

REDOf all the stupid, crazy things you-

NEDRed, you’re being unreasonable.

REDUnreasonable?! Have you seen the blood, and-and the feathers? This has Reaper written all over it!

NEDI know, Red. But I checked all over. Reaper isn’t here.

Red scoffs.

REDYou’re darn right Reaper isn’t here! Or we wouldn’t be talking. You know what Reaper did to your father!

Red points down to Poe.

REDDo you know what that baby will grow up to be? It’s a killer!

NEDHe’s a baby, Red.

REDWhat about when it’s fully grown? What then?

Red points to his face.

REDThis is what a full grown bird like that can do to me. To all of us!

NEDWe’ll raise him.

Red spreads his wings.

REDAbsolutely no way!

NEDWhy not?

Red opens his beak, but says nothing.

NEDThink about it. Just for a second and hear me out. First off, he’s a baby and-

Red raises a wing.

NEDYes, a baby killer. Well not a baby killer, but- you know what I mean. If we raise it then it will be one of us.

REDHe will never be one of us!

NEDBut if we raise him...

Red laughs.

REDHow are you possibly going to raise it?

NEDIt’s a him. We will raise him like any other parent. He’ll just be bigger than us when he gets older is all.

REDThis is a bad idea.

NEDI couldn’t just let him die like that. It’s not right! (Beat)Dad raised me better than that.

Red puts both wings on Ned’s shoulders.

REDI know Ned. Just think of what could go wrong.

NEDWhat about what can go right?If you were a predator and you saw a big black bird in the flock, what would you do?

Red pauses.

REDI’d stay away. Not worth the risk.

NEDExactly! It could work out great for all of us. And Maggie needs this, Red.

Red rubs the bridge of his beak and groans again.

REDI really can’t see it working out.

Ned lowers his head.

REDBut it doesn’t mean that I won’t let you try.

Ned fist pumps and hops up and down.

REDI can’t believe I’m doing this...


Red and Ned fly in. Maggie strokes Poe’s head, smiling.

REDMaggie.

MAGGIEI know what you’re going to say, Red.

REDI doubt that very much. Can I finish?

MAGGIESorry.

REDYou said his name was Poe, right?

Maggie smiles. Poe wakes up, yawns and blinks up at Red. Red smiles. He looks to Ned.

RED (CONT’D)Get him up and flying before we head south. Or I’ll have to leave you behind.

Red flies off. Ned watches him leave and looks back to Maggie, who smiles.

FADE TO BLACK.

EXT. BABY RAVEN’S NEST - DAY

Maggie plays with Poe, teaching him how to walk. He is clumsy and ungainly. Ned flies in with a mouth full of food.

EXT. BABY RAVEN’S NEST - DAY

Ned hides behind a branch. Poe SQUEAKS, lumbering around cheerfully, looking for him. Maggie sits watching with a smile. Poe looks at Maggie, squeaking in frustration. Maggie subtly points to Ned’s hiding spot. Poe smiles and jumps onto Ned. They laugh.


Poe is growing. His fuzz is now replaced by small feathers. He is easily twice Ned’s size. Ned is showing Poe how to flap his wings. Poe stretches out and WHACK! He knocks Poe sideways into the tree trunk. Maggie chuckles and Ned groans- stuck to the tree like a bug on a windshield.

EXT. TREE BRANCH - DAY

Ned and Maggie heave a struggling Poe atop the hideout. Poe is scared and SQUAWKS. They both flap their wings- and keep their distance from Poe’s wingspan. Maggie lightly hops up and down on the branch. 1...2...3... Zoom! She takes off. Poe watches, amazed.

Poe laughs, and jumps up. He lands. But the branch is thin. It bends. Ned’s eyes widen as he sees it. He tries to take off. THWACK! The branch snaps up between his legs, sending him up into the sky. The branch shudders like a spring.

Where Ned once was, two yellow feathers dance playfully in the breeze. Poe cocks his head and squeaks, puzzled.

EXT. BABY RAVEN’S HIDEOUT - DUSK

A light rain falls around the hideout. The curved leafy branches shield Poe as he sleeps, cuddled up next to Maggie. Fireflies dance outside nearby, casting a soothing glow over them. Ned flies in, shaking off the rain.

NEDBoy I am beat! I can’t wait until he can find his own food- he eats more than the entire flock.

Poe squeaks loudly, twitching kicking his legs. Maggie looks upon him with concern.

MAGGIEHe sounds scared. This is happening more and more of late, Ned. I’m worried for him.

Ned sits next to her.

NEDDon’t be. He’s got a lot on his mind. He’s growing fast, learning to talk. He doesn’t exactly have normal parents, either. It’s a lot to process.

Ned yawns.

NEDTime for some well deserved rest. Good night, honey.

They nuzzle beaks and slowly close their eyes as fireflies dance around them.

FADE TO BLACK.

EXT. BABY RAVEN’S HIDEOUT - NIGHT

Ned wakes up and looks around. He is alone. A thick mist surrounds him.

NEDMaggie?

Ned cautiously steps through the mist.

NEDPoe?

Ned takes a few more steps. He arrives at a large set of black talons, then looks up in terror.

ELDERI mean you no harm, Ned.

The mist around them clears, as if a force field were holding it away. Ned looks at Elder in awe. He is truly massive. His milk eyes blink at Ned.

NEDHow do you know my name?

Elder smiles, his wrinkled face cracking with warmth.

ELDERI know that and much, much more.

Elder looks up to the sky, his smile fading. SCREECH! Reaper cries in the distance. Ned looks up in fear. Elder’s concern fades and he sighs.

ELDERI have seen this day a thousand times, Ned. Maybe more. But that noise always chills me to the bone. You raise one of ours as yours. (Beat)Such kindness. What you are doing will change the sky forever.

Ned raises an eyebrow.

NEDI’m not sure I follow. Who are you?

ELDERMy name is Elder. There is a prophecy told among us Ravens. It speaks of sadness. Death.

NEDSounds... nice?

ELDERSuch things are part of life. For without rain, one cannot truly appreciate sunshine. Rain is coming, Ned. Protect Poe as he grows so that he might save us all.

SCREECH! Reaper’s cry tears through the air. The force field fades, and mist envelopes them. Elder fades back into the mist. Ned gives chase but Elder vanishes.

NEDWait! Wait! Come back!

Ned takes off, flying through thick grey clouds of mist. A shadow takes form ahead of Ned. It’s massive. It is an eagle formed of black cloud. Reaper.

Ned screams as the shadow grows larger. Bright green glowing eyes. Ned tries to escape, flapping with all of his might. The cloud eagle opens it’s mouth and swallows Ned in one bite.

EXT. BABY RAVEN’S HIDEOUT - NIGHT

Ned jumps up, screaming. He startles the fireflies. They flee, plunging them into moonlit darkness. He wakes Maggie.

NEDGet Poe up. Now! We have to go!

Maggie, dazed and confused looks at Ned.

MAGGIENed, what are you talking about?

NEDJust do it! And hurry!

Maggie sees the terror in Ned’s eyes. She nods, gently waking up Poe. He squawks irritably.

NEDShhh! There’s a good boy! Shh!

Maggie leads Poe as they escape the hideout into the gloomy forest. Ned finds a fallen tree above ground that Poe can reach. Maggie helps Poe up from below. They nestle down. Ned eyes the hideout intently.

MAGGIENed, what is going on?

NEDShhh! Wait!

Maggie strokes Poe back to sleep as they wait. Ned does not move. Does not blink. He waits.

EXT. FALLEN TREE - DAWN

Ned’s eyes are heavy, but open. He nudges Maggie. She stirs.

NEDWait here with Poe. And keep quiet.

Maggie watches Poe leave, concern on her face.

EXT. BABY RAVEN’S HIDEOUT - DAWN

Morning sun blades cut through the hideout. It is completely silent. Ned squeezes through the branches and cautiously moves inside. Everything is in its place. Untouched. He moves forward, something ahead of him catching his eye. Ned takes it and flies back to Maggie.

EXT. FALLEN TREE - DAWN

Maggie sighs in relief when Ned returns.

MAGGIEWhat’s wrong, honey? What is it?

Ned drops what he was carrying in his beak. It is a large eagle feather. Maggie’s eyes widen.

MAGGIEIs that what I think it is?

NEDIt’s a message. (Beat as Ned looks upward)We can’t stay here anymore.

FADE TO BLACK.

EXT. NEST - DAY

Sharp, young talons fill the frame as we pull back to see Poe, no longer a hatchling. Black feathers with a purple sheen, he perches nervously on the branch of a high tree. Ned- one third his size- stands by him.

POEI- I’m not so sure about this.

NEDNonsense! Today’s the day, son. I can feel it!

Ned rams Poe with his head. Poe’s claws grip to the branch. The branch CREAKS with strain.

POEWhoa! What are you doing? Are you crazy?! It’s like 100 feet to the ground!

NEDPoe, you’re a bird! You see those big flappy things you have for arms?

Poe sighs.

POEYes.

NEDWhat are they called?

POENot now, Dad.

NEDWhat are they?

POEWings.

NEDGood. And what can you do with wings?

POEI know what to do, Dad! I just can’t, okay?

Poe hops around Ned and slumps into his nest. Ned follows. He knocks on a branch by the nest mockingly.

NEDCan I come in?

Poe huffs.

POEEnough lame jokes, Dad.

Ned smiles, and hops over to Poe.

NEDI happen to be a very funny bird, you know.

(MORE)

It’s how I landed your Mom. (Beat)I mean that and my huge beak and ripped body.

Ned flexes his wings and puffs his chest feathers out. Poe laughs.

POEYeah, Dad. You’re soo scary.

NEDI know. All this... In such an attractive specimen. If Darwin could see me now...

Poe smirks.

POEYou’re weird.

They sit in silence and watch a strong breeze tickle a wheat field below. Ned looks at a leaf nearby. It has a yellow patch forming on it.

NEDPoe. Whatever it is that’s holding you back, we have to fix it. Time is running out.

Poe sighs.

POEI’ve been having these... Dreams. Scary ones.

NEDYou probably ate something bad.Happens to me all the time. Last week I dreamt I was an old bird with no eyes and I was talking to-

Poe glares at Ned. Ned grins.

NEDSorry kiddo. Go ahead.

POE(Talking with wings)I’m falling. And there’s this huge monster bird after me. Curved beak, glowing eyes. I hide in these trees and it’s slashing at them with claws. (Poe slashes with his claws)I’m trapped. Then it leaves. (Beat)And I’m all alone.

Poe stares off into the shimmering wheat as he relives the nightmare.

POEDad, I’m afraid. I’m afraid that...

Poe sighs, rubbing the back of his neck with a wing.

POEThis is so stupid...

NEDSpeak freely, son. You know I always encourage it.

POEI’m afraid that if I go out there, that monster will find me. Just like my dream.

Poe lowers his head in shame. Ned smiles warmly and pats Poe’s flank with a reassuring touch.

NEDAs long as you’re with this flock, you’re safe. There is strength in numbers, Poe. And-

POEWisdom in community. I know.

Ned pats Poe’s flank. They look out to the horizon for a beat.

POEDad?

NEDYeah?

POEWhat happened to my real parents?

Ned pauses a beat.

NEDReaper. Reaper happened.

POEReaper?

Ned rubs his beak with a wing and groans.

NEDI’ve dreaded this day. (Beat)But I have to tell you. It’s the right thing to do.

Poe sits, excited, fearful and agitated. Ned faces Poe- a grave expression on his face.

NEDBut you have to promise me that you’ll fly. Today. Deal?

Ned holds out a wing. After a pause, Poe shakes it.

POEDeal.

FADE TO BLACK.

EXT - RED’S NEST - DAY

Maggie sits with Red.

REDHow’s the boy doing?

MAGGIEHe’s doing well, Red. Ned’s teaching him.

BURT (O.S.)That’s your problem! Ned is teaching him. He’ll never learn!

Maggie looks around.

MAGGIEHow does he do that?

REDI have stopped asking myself that. (Beat)Maggie, this boy of yours.

MAGGIEPoe. His name is Poe.

REDPoe. Right. Is Poe going to be ready? Fall is here and we’re leaving in a few days. You’ve been away for 5 weeks now and Burt-

MAGGIEHe’ll be ready.

Red sighs, rubbing the bridge of his beak with a wing.

REDI don’t see good things coming from this, Maggie.

CAWWWWW! A Raven’s cry echoes in the distance. Maggie looks to the noise. Red smiles.

REDRaven or not, I know that scream. Sounds like he’s taking his first flight.

Maggie flies off.

BURT (O.S.)That is confirmed, sir! Wings off the branch!

Red’s eyes dart around. A breeze tussles yellowing leaves. He frowns.

REDDarn it, Burt! Can’t I have a moment of peace?

EXT. MID AIR - DAY

Poe is falling, screaming. Tiny black feathers come loose as he tumbles.

NED (O.S.)Flap your wings!

Heavy breaths. Air rushing though his feathers and the ground closing in. Poe winces.

POEHere goes nothing...

Poe spreads his wings. He corkscrews towards the ground and flaps. Ned watches in horror as Poe disappears behind a ridge of trees. Silence. CAW! Poe emerges, flapping and gaining control. Poe laughs.

POEThis!(Beat)Is!(Beat)Amazing!

Ned laughs and takes off after Poe.

NEDAtta’ boy Poe! I knew you could do it!

They fly, laughing and twirling in the afternoon sun. Maggie watches them afar with a smile.

EXT. NED’S NEST - DUSK

The moon is on shift and shines brightly. Maggie shivers, cuddled up next to Ned.

MAGGIEIt’s getting cold at night. We’ll have to leave soon.

Ned stares up at the moon. He’s distant. She bumps him affectionately. Ned snaps back to reality.

NEDSorry honey, I was just thinking.

Maggie tussles his crown feathers.

MAGGIEYou? Thinking? My-my. Maybe you’re finally starting to grow up after all.

NEDCute.

Ned sighs and gets up.

NEDI’m just going to come out and say it. Maggie, I told him.

MAGGIETold him what?

NEDStuff.

MAGGIEStuff?

Maggie shrugs. Ned paces back and forth.

NEDWhere he came from, stuff. Please don’t be mad. I made a deal with him to get him up in the air, and he took it so I told him and-

Maggie chuckles.

MAGGIEThat’s fine, honey. He’s old enough to know.

Ned sighs and chuckles.

NEDMan, that is a load off. I thought you’d be mad.

Ned hops over to Maggie. She wraps a wing around him.

MAGGIECome here you goof ball. How did he take it?

POE (O.S.)How did I take what?

Poe lands messily. Ned and Maggie jump. Ned fakes a heart attack. Poe chuckles.

NEDIt’s late. Where have you been?

Poe paces, alive with energy.

POEYou are not going to believe this! First, I flew over to this little stream and chased some weird bugs with four wings, then I found some-

His speech is muffled as he paces excitedly. Maggie looks at Ned.

MAGGIEQuite the talker. I wonder where he gets that trait from?

Ned grins. We hear Poe’s voice clearly once more.

POEBut then it turned out to be dead so I ate it. Cool story, right?

Ned chuckles.

NEDThat’s quite the day, Poe. Is there anything else you’d like to talk about?

Poe shrugs.

POELike what?

MAGGIEYour Dad was telling me how he told you about-

POEAbout me being adopted.

Maggie looks at Poe.

MAGGIEDoes it change the way you feel about us?

POEPfftt! No! You guys are awesome.(Beat)Room for one more?

Poe jumps into the nest and squeezes himself in. Tight does not describe it.

NEDTwo things, Poe. One, now that you’re a flyer, you’re going to meet the flock tomorrow. And two, you are getting too big to be sleeping in our bed.

Maggie prods Ned. He yelps.

NEDOw! Why did you do that for?

MAGGIEBecause he’s still young and he can sleep in our nest whenever he wants.

Poe yawns.

POEThanks Mom.

Poe closes his eyes, a smile on his face.

FADE TO BLACK.

FADE IN:


Maggie taps Poe’s shoulder with a wing.

MAGGIEYou ready, honey?

Poe looks at her and smiles.

POEYeah. I’m ready.

NEDI’m going to fly on ahead and make sure they’re ready for you.

POEReady for me?

NEDLet’s just say that some of them will be intimidated by you. But don’t let it get to you. And listen to Red. He’s in charge. Got it?

Poe grins and jumps to attention, saluting.

POESir, yes sir!

Ned looks at Maggie.

NEDI’ll see you soon. Fly safe.

Ned takes off.

EXT. RED’S NEST - DAY

Ned lands, looking for Red. He isn’t there. He flies off.


The FLOCK stands at attention. Red stands with Burt on another branch, looking over them with pride.

REDYou’ve made it this far. Good work. Tomorrow we start our journey south, and I-

Maggie lands next to Red. Shocked at the informality of this, the Flock flap and TITTER, losing formation. Burt whistles loudly.

BURTGet back in line!

Terrified, the birds all snap to attention, but stare at Maggie in bewilderment. Maggie smirks at Red.

MAGGIEYou weren’t going to leave without us, were you?

REDI’m a bird of my word, Maggie. You know that.(Beat)Is he ready?

MAGGIESee for yourself.(Beat)Poe honey!

Maggie WHISTLES.

POEComing!

Poe soars above them, casting a massive shadow. One FLOCK BIRD looks up and see an ominous black shape above them all.

FLOCK BIRDRaven! Raven! Fly for your lives! We’re doomed!

Feathery panic ensues. Burt tries to keep order but fails. Birds scatter like buckshot, screaming in panic. Red GROANS, rubbing his beak bridge with a wing.

REDGet them to another tree! We’ll be there soon!

BURTYou got it.

Poe lands next to Maggie. He looks around to see swaying branches and falling leaves. Not a flock bird in sight.

POEWhere is everybody? Is it me? Do I smell?

Poe sniffs under his wing. Red gazes at Poe in amazement. Maggie looks at Red.

MAGGIEI’ll go help Burt.

Maggie pats Poe’s leg affectionately and flies off. Red and Poe stand alone. Red looks up at Poe and COUGHS awkwardly.

REDSo... You must be Poe.

Poe hops to attention and salutes. It startles Red.

POESir, yes sir!

Red smirks, and looks at Poe up and down.

EXT. TREE - DAY

Ned lands on an empty tree branch. He looks around.

NEDNed, you have the worst sense of direction. Though in your defense the trees all look the same.(Beat)You’d think a Raven would be easy to spot, but nooo...

Ned scans the area, sighs, then flies off.


POEIs- is something wrong, sir?

Red smirks and chuckles quietly.

REDNo, no. Not at all.

Red sighs.

REDI just haven’t been up this close and personal with a Raven in a... peaceful capacity before.

Red touches a scar on his face.

POESir, I promise that I would never-

Red raises a wing.

REDI’m sure Ned raised you right. Just stick close and don’t do anything to put us in danger. We clear?

Poe smiles and salutes.

POESir, yes sir!

Red smiles and salutes back.

REDAlright. Now lets introduce you to the flock.


The flock stands at attention with ruffled feathers and black eyes. Maggie stands at the end, a space saved for Ned. She looks to the sky.

MAGGIE(Whispering)Ned, where are you?

Red flies in, landing next to Burt. Burt salutes. Red salutes back.

REDThank you, Sargent.

Red paces.

REDThat was a disgrace. Look at you.(Beat)And that was a friendly.

Red paces a few steps and turns.

REDWe have a new flock member joining us today. I want you to welcome him to the flock as one of us. (Beat)Poe, come on out.

Poe flies in and lands next to Red. The flock GASPS and stares in amazement. Poe grins nervously and waves.

POEUh... Hi everybody.

Silence and open-beaked blinks from the flock. Red smiles and pats Poe on his side. Red clears his throat.

REDNow, does anyone have any questions?

A row of wings shoot up in the air.

REDAny questions that are not about the predatory nature of Ravens?

A few exchanged glances between the flock, then wings fall slowly. Poe’s smile fades.

POEI’m no threat. Honest. If Ned hadn’t found me, I wouldn’t of made it. (Beat)I may not look like you guys, but I was raised like one. And my only hope is that you give me the chance to prove it.

Maggie’s eyes well up. A stiff wind ruffles Poe’s feathers. Red watches them, then looks to the flock.

EXT. SKY - DAY

Ned scans the trees for the flock. He sees Red and Poe from afar and smiles as he heads toward them.


Burt looks up to the sky. A small shape catches his eye. He smirks.

BURTLook who finally decided to sh-

Burt’s eyes widen. Another, larger shape closes in on Ned. It’s Reaper. Burt cups his wings around his beak.

BURT(Shouting)Get to cover!

EXT. SKY - DAY

Ned cannot see Reaper. And the wind is high.

NEDWhat?


BURT(Shouting)Get to cover, Ned! And don’t look back!

The flock is wide eyed in terror, but holds rank. Burt looks to Red.

BURTGet them to ground, sir!

Burt looks to Poe.

BURTKid, you’re with me.

They take off. Maggie tries to join them but is held back by Red. She SCREAMS and CRIES out, reaching to the air with a wing.

EXT. SKY - DAY

Ned’s eyes widen. SCREECH! He flaps his wings harder and starts evasive maneuvers. Zoom! Reaper barely misses him, ripping a tail feather off in his talons. Ned winces.

EXT. SKY - DAY

Poe and Burt race to Ned and are closing in. Poe pants in fear but keeps pace with Burt.

EXT. SKY - DAY

Ned heads for the cover of a leafy birch. Ned looks back and sees nothing. He smiles. CRUNCH! Reaper grabs Ned in his claws. Reaper smirks evilly and flaps giant, powerful wings.

POELet go of him!

WHAM! Poe head-butts Reaper on the left flank. Reaper SCREECHES and drops Ned, slashing at Poe. Ned tumbles out of the sky to the treeline. Burt dives after him.

SCREECH! CAWW! Feathers fly as Poe clumsily parries and dodges Reaper’s slashing talons. Reaper is stronger, but Poe is faster. They each land blows in a vicious fight.

Poe quickly glances down at the trees. WHAM! Reaper whacks Poe in the face. KICK! Reaper boots Poe out of the sky and flies away. Poe tumbles to Earth.

FADE TO BLACK.

EXT. FIELD - DAY

Poe wakes up and winces, holding a cut on his flank. He lies atop a hay bail.

POEDad! Dad!

Fuelled by adrenaline, Poe takes to the sky and scans the area.

POEDad!

BURT (O.S.)Down here!

Poe rushes to the trees.


Poe lands. Ned lays on a thick branch, propped up against the tree trunk. He is bleeding and his breathing is shallow. Burt sits by him. His facial expression says it all.

POEDad!

Poe runs over. Ned sees the cut on Poe’s flank.

NEDYou’re bleeding.

POEForget about me, Dad. You need to rest.

Ned smirks. He coughs.

NEDI need you to promise me something, kiddo.

Poe clutches Ned’s wing tightly. He tears up, sniffling.

POEAnything, Dad. Anything!

Ned closes his eyes and smiles warmly.

NEDI need you to promise me that you’ll look after your mother.

Poe nods and blinks tears from his eyes.

POENo, Dad. That’s for you to do. (Beat)You’ll get better. You will!

Ned winces and shakes his head.

NEDI’m done for, kiddo. But you have your whole life ahead of you. Promise me. Promise me that you’ll look after your mother and put the flock first before yourself. Save us. Save us all.

POEI promise, Dad. I promise!

Ned tries to sit up. Burt helps. Ned pats Burt affectionately. Burt steps back.

NEDNow come here and your give your dad a hug. For old times sake.

Poe leans in and clutches Ned. Ned grips Poe tightly, tears in his eyes. Slowly, his wings fall from Poe’s neck. Poe does not let go, and sobs deeply.

EXT. WHEAT FIELD - DAY

Maggie looks up at the sky anxiously. Two silhouettes approach in the distance and her eyes light up.

MAGGIEUp there! Look!

When they are close enough, Maggie realizes. Her face falls. The flock looks to her, sadness and sympathy in their eyes. Burt lands by Red.

BURTHe’s gone, sir.

Red sighs. He closes his eyes. The wind picks up, ruffling his feathers. Poe limps over to Maggie and she sobs into him. Poe holds her tightly.

REDAlright everybody, listen up!

The flocks gaze snaps to Red.

REDThis is a sad day for us all. Ned was a good friend and he will be missed. (Beat)The winds of winter are blowing. Rest up and watch the sky. This will be our last night here.

EXT. SKY - DAWN

A sailors sky. The flock flies south. Red leads. Maggie and Poe fly in the back. Maggie is devastated, and barely keeps pace. Poe slows to fly with her. He smiles. She forces one back.

EXT. SKY - SUNSET

A golden fall sunset. The flock is holding strong, and maintains a tight V formation. They make a wide arc and head for a patch of trees.

EXT. TREE BRANCH - SUNSET

Weary birds land and find a place to rest up. Burt watches them land and fall in, counting. Poe and Maggie land last.

BURTWe head out again in a few hours.

Maggie groans, rotating her wings.

MAGGIEI can’t feel my wings.

POEI can always carry you.

Maggie smirks.

MAGGIEYou remind me a lot of your father.

POEIt’s the body, right?

Poe flexes his muscles, grinning. Maggie laughs softly, then sighs. She tears up.

MAGGIEI miss him so much.

Poe hugs her tightly.

POEMe too.

Poe smiles at her warmly. Maggie props her tiny head against him as they stare at the setting sun. Poe yawns.

POEWe’d best get some sleep. The old Fart will be waking us up in a few hours.

BURT (O.S.)I heard that!

Poe’s eyes widen.

EXT. SKY - NIGHT

The moon is out. The flock fly in front of it. They’re tired, but focused. Red looks to the horizon, then back to Burt.

REDWe’re making good time. At this rate we’ll be there a day early. Pass that back.

The words pass from bird to bird, right to the back. A confused BIRD turns and yells to Poe.

BIRDRed says that at this gate, we’ll eat bear and stay burly!

Poe looks to Maggie. She shrugs.

EXT. SKY

The sun arcs across the sky and falls to night. This happens four times.

EXT. SKY - DUSK

A looser, thinner flock wheels into a bank of trees and lands. Red cracks his neck and stretches.

REDWe’re here. Get them sorted out and send out scout parties for food. I need to take a bath. I smell like a buzzard.

Burt smirks.

EXT. TREE BRANCH - DUSK

It’s a clear night. The moon casts a spotlight on Poe and Maggie as they settle down for the night. Poe looks up at the sky. Burt WHISTLES, startling them both.

BURTNo rest for the wicked. Maggie, you’re on food scouting. Get flapping.

Maggie groans.

MAGGIEPlease, Burt. Not me. Please. I beg you. I’m beat.

BURTThis isn’t a discussion. Get going.

Poe steps in.

POEI’ll do it.

Burt cocks an eyebrow and chuckles lightly.

BURTYou?

POEWhy not? I made it, didn’t I? I know what to get, too. And I’m big so I can carry more.

Burt grunts, looking at Poe’s claws. Poe flexes them.

BURTAlright. But be careful and stay high. Reaper ain’t around, but there are things down here that go bump in the night. You follow me?

Poe salutes enthusiastically.

POEYes Sargent!

Burt smirks.

BURTCute. Get going.

Maggie hugs Poe tightly.

MAGGIEThank you, Poe. But be careful.

POEGot it, Mom.

Poe flies off. Burt watches him leave, smirking.

EXT. NIGHT SKY ABOVE TREES

Poe glides silently over a bank of shimmering trees and moonlit ocean. The sky is empty and silent. Poe’s stomach GURGLES loudly. He chuckles.

POEAlright. Time to find some food.

Poe breaks left and lands on a tree branch. He surveys the darkness. Tree. Tree. Rock. Bush. Another bush. Then, a dim amber light through the trees up ahead.

POEBingo.

Poe heads to the light and lands on a branch above it. Below him is a clearing. In it, a campfire, empty beer cans and tequila bottles. And four passed out twenty-something men.

A radio plays soft Mariachi music with mild static, as the campfire CRACKLES and flickers. Poe spies a bag of chips, some hot dogs and buns in an open cooler. He smirks.

POENot quite bugs and worms, but it’ll do.(Beat)Also, on a side note, I am really going to have to stop talking to myself.

Poe lands and creeps between the sleeping men. One MAN GROANS and then FARTS loudly by Poe. Poe gags and holds his beak with a wing, then fans the stink away with another.

EXT. TREE BRANCH - NIGHT

Red looks at a large pile of chips, hot dogs and buns. Burt stands beside him. Red scratches his head with a wing.

REDYou, uh... Ever eaten this kind of stuff before?

Burt shakes his head.

BURTNo sir. I’m sure it’s edible.He’s a good kid.

REDA compliment, Burt? You aren’t getting soft in your old age, are you?

Burt smirks.

BURTNever.

Red sighs, stretching.

REDLet’s get the flock fed.

EXT. CAMPSITE - NIGHT.

Poe picks up a bun with his beak. BONK! A pebble hits him on his head.

FEMALE VOICE (O.S.)Don’t move!

He freezes.

FEMALE VOICE (O.S)Drop the bun and nobody gets hurt.

Poe raises his wings. The bun is stuck to his beak.

FEMALE VOICEI said drop the bun.

Poe MUMBLES through the bread.

FEMALE VOICEI can’t understand you. Stay where you are. I’m coming down. Don’t try anything funny, either. You’re surrounded.

Poe’s eyes widen as he looks around the trees.

POE’s POV

A blurry close up of a bread roll and rippling campfire light. Next, rustling and straining. The roll POPS loose and Poe’s eyes focus on what is in front of him.

It’s a Female Raven, (Marla). A month or so older than Poe, but scarred up and scrappy looking. She stares at Poe, then drops the bread.

EXIT POV

EXT - CAMPSITE - NIGHT

Poe stares at Marla. He smiles.

POEHi, my name is-

He raises his right wing. BAM! Marla unleashes a pebble, whacking Poe in the eye. He grasps at his face, hopping. He YOWLS, and a sleeping man GRUNTS, then rolls over.

POE(Whispering loudly)Why did you do that for?

MARLA(Whispering)I’m so sorry! I didn’t think it was going to hit you in the eye!

Poe rubs his eye, blinking the pain away. Poe raises his right wing.

POELet’s try this again. And quit throwing things at me. My name is Poe.

Marla stares at the wing. Poe wiggles his wing tips encouragingly.

POEYou said I was surrounded, right? I’m not going to hurt you, even if I wasn’t.

She remembers her lie and looks around to the treeline. Reluctantly, she takes his wing.

FEMALE RAVENMarla.

Poe smiles.

POENice to meet you, Marla.(Beat)See, that wasn’t so bad now, was it?

Marla looks down at the bread.

POEHungry?

Poe rips a good chunk of the bun and nudges it to Marla with his beak.

POEI’d give you more, but I got a flock to feed. We just landed tonight.

Marla stares at him bemusedly. Poe chuckles softly.

POEI’d better get going. They’ll be expecting me. Come on.

EXT - NIGHT SKY OVER TREES

Poe and Marla fly together in the moonlit night sky. Poe carries the torn bun in his claws.

MARLASo you live with a flock?

POEYeah. Crazy, right? Though I kind of just joined. It’s my first winter.

MARLAAnd you flew south with them?

POEThat’s what they do every year. I like it so far. It’s nice. The nights were getting a bit cold back home.

MARLAWhat about your parents?

POEI’m adopted.

Marla looks at Poe. She looks at his left foot: A red birthmark. Her eyes widen. Poe looks over.

POEWhy do you keep staring at me?

Marla huffs, smirking.

MARLADon’t flatter yourself.

Poe chuckles. They near Poe’s flock, and land on a leafy tree. Marla peers at the flock in amazement. Some are chatting, others are snoozing. All at peace. Poe sighs.

POEThis is where we part ways, I guess.

Marla smiles warmly.

MARLALook... Poe. I just apologize for-

Poe waves a wing casually.

POEDon’t be. I’m not even mad about you lying to me, either.

Marla’s eyes widen.

MARLALying to you?

Poe smiles.

POESurrounded? Come on.

Marla smirks.

MARLADad raised no dummy, did he?

Poe smiles. He picks up the bread and flies off.

POESee you around!

Marla smiles.

MARLA(Softly to herself)Count on it.

She takes off into the moonlit sky.

EXT. MAGGIE’S BRANCH - NIGHT

Poe lands next to Maggie. She is sound asleep. Poe carries a small chunk of bread. He places it gently by her, yawns and bends down.

EXT. SHORELINE TREES - DAY

The flock are spread out in small groups. Males strut, race and scrap each other. Poe perches nearby, watching. Maggie lands by him.

MAGGIEYou should go over there. Make some friends.

POEI don’t think they’ll like me.

MAGGIEGo and find out.

Maggie nudges Poe. He hops off and flies over to a group.

EXT - TREE BRANCH - DAY

Poe lands clumsily, and makes the branch wobble. The birds grip each other tightly. Poe stands awkwardly, then grins.

POEUh... Hi.

Silence.

SAL, (a larger warbler with a stylish ruffle of crown feathers) edges closer to Poe. If he were human, he’d be a greaser. He rolls a blade of grass in his beak like a toothpick. Italian Brooklyn accent.

SALName’s Salvatore. Call me Sal.

He reaches a wing out.

POEPoe.

SALNice to meet you.

Sal looks back at his friends behind him. They still stare, unblinking.

SALThey ain’t used to you. But you flew behind me, so I could hear you talking wit’ your Ma. You’re a good egg.

Poe smiles.

SALAnd after the food find last night, you’re good with us on the whole. You’re just-

POEFreakishly large and terrifying?

Sal chuckles.

SALExactly! (Beat)No offense.

POENone taken.

Sal stares at Poe in wonder.

SALBird, you are big! What are you? Pound? Pound and a half?

POEI don’t know. I don’t have any scales.

SALCourse you don’t! You’re a bird!

Sal slaps his knee with a wing and chuckles. Poe laughs sheepishly. Sal wipes a fake tear from his eye.

SALI kill myself.

POEI don’t get it.

Sal looks up at Poe and raises an eyebrow.

SALWhat’s not to get? Ah, forget it. So where you from, kid? I heard you were(North Yorkshire Accent)“From the North.”

Sal looks up at Poe for a response. Poe blinks at him. Sal taps one of Poe’s claws with a wing tip.

SALYou’re obviously adopted. That or Maggie has some ‘splainin’ to do.

POEI don’t get it.

Sal slaps a wing on his brow.

SALMarone! Ah, you’re young. You’ll figure it out.(Beat)Look, what happened to your old man- that was rough. Adopted or not, nobody should have to go through ‘dat.

Poe hears the sound of SCREECHING echoing in his head.

SALReaper. That mangy old bag o piuma!

POEReaper? That’s his name?

SALHer, kid. Her. She’s a she. And a nasty one at dat.

Sal taps Poe on the chest with his wing.

SALForget your troubles right now. We’re safe for the winter. Tell you what, how’s about you and me find some lady birds?

Poe cocks an eyebrow, looking down at himself. Sal ruffles his crown feathers stylishly.

POEAren’t I, uh... A little big for a female Warbler?

Sal smirks.

SALAh, dames are all the same.

Sal elbows Poe cheekily and beckons Poe to stoop lower to hear a secret.

SALBesides, you know what they say about big feet, right?

He chuckles and flies off. Poe flaps after him, puzzled.

POENo, I don’t. Sal! What do they say?

SALIf you have to ask, you’re too young to know! Now quit yappin’ and start flappin’!

Sal chuckles, winding his small agile body through narrow treetops and leafy branches. A clumsy Poe gives chase, barrelling through branches and snapping twigs.


Sal lands gracefully by young female birds. He smiles and slicks his crown feathers back.

SALCan I trouble you for an autograph? I didn’t know I was going to be meeting models this afternoon.

The female birds blush and giggle to each other. Sal moves closer.

SALYou on Twitter? Hi. Name’s Sal. I have a friend who I’d like you to-

Poe screams.

POELook out!

Sal looks up. WHAM! Poe barrels into him at high speed. The lady birds scream and scatter. Sal and Poe tumble to the ground. Poe lands on Sal, but doesn’t notice. He looks around.

POESal?

Poe dusts himself off and sees Sal, his body pressed awkwardly into the mud, groaning. Poe blushes.

POESorry Sal.

Poe peels Sal up and he shakes himself off.

SALKid, you are one clumsy bird. You move like a pig with wings. No offense.

Poe laughs sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck.

POEMy Dad wasn’t the most... coordinated of birds.

Sal slaps Poe on the shoulder encouragingly.

SALIt’s time you went to flight school! And none of that flock flyin’ nonsense. I’m talking real flight school. You up for it?

Poe smiles.

EXT. TREE TOPS - DAY

Sal ties a makeshift blindfold of leaves around Poe’s face. They are atop a very high tree. A strong breezes lashes at them.

SALNow the first thing about flyin is knowing how high up you are, without seein nuthin. You should be able to feel it.

Poe grips tightly onto the branch with his claws.

POEOkay.

SALYou feel how high up we are?

Poe sticks a foot out and grabs at the air.

POEMmmm. Forty feet?

Sal slaps at his face in frustration.

SALNot like that, kid. Wit’ your wings. Flap em!

Poe flaps his wings. Sal ducks.

POEUh. Forty feet?

Sal mimics a buzzer.

SALWrong, kid. However high you think you are, double it. The air gets thinner the higher you go, so make sure you take it into account. Gives you landing room.

Poe nods enthusiastically.

POEDouble. Got it.

Sal shoves Poe.

SALNow jump off.

Poe grips the branch.

POEJump? Sal, I can’t see-

Another shove. A heavier one. Poe resists.

POEQuit it!

SALTrust me, kid. And remember: landing room.

Poe nods, holds his breath and steps off. Down, down he goes. A few seconds pass.

POEHere goes...

Sal covers his eyes with a wing. Poe spreads his and flaps. He executes a shaky, but successful landing in a clear patch of grass. He laughs, peeling off his blindfold.

POEI-I made it!

Sal whistles loudly, laughing. Poe looks up at Sal, smiling.

SALWay to go kid! Next up, agility!

EXT. VERDANT JUNGLE - DAY

Poe stares ahead at a mass of intertwining vines. He watches Sal as he deftly twists, turns and weaves his way majestically through them. He completes an impressive lap, then lands by Poe.

SALYou’re up, kid.

Poe looks at some of the gaps he is to squeeze through. Then down at himself.

POEUh... I’m a little big for some of those gaps.

SALSize means nuthin, kid. It’s all about how you twist yourself. Think of the shape you want to be and your body does the rest.

Poe nods.

POEGot it.

Poe takes off and zooms through a series of winding vines. He smiles, looking back to Sal.

POEThis isn’t so-

SALLook out, kid!

Poe looks ahead. Too late. WHAM! He becomes entangled in a mass of vines. Sal flies over, helping him out.

SALWe’ll, uh- we’ll work on that one.


Poe and Sal stand together.

SALAlright, kid. For this I’ve enlisted the help of an old friend.

Poe looks at Sal.

POEWho?

BURTMe.

Poe jumps. He takes a few cautious steps back.

POEHey there... Sargent.

Burt vomits up a spittle covered red berry. Poe grimaces.

POEThat’s... Gross.

Burt smirks.

BURTThen you’d best not let me touch you with it, then. Five. Four.

Poe looks to Sal, eyes wide. Sal smiles.

SALI don’t think he’s countin for his health.

BURTThree.

Poe takes off like a shot. Up, up he flies- flapping as hard as he can. Burt watches him. He smirks.

BURTOne.

Burt takes off.

EXT. SKY - DAY

Poe flaps furiously, breathing hard. He peeks over his shoulder. It’s clear. He looks ahead of him. Burt is there, smiling. WHACK! He hits Poe with the gross red berry.

BURTTag. You’re out.

Poe scrapes it off in disgust, shaking it loose as he flies away.

EXT. BUSY HIGHWAY ROADSIDE - DAY

Sal and Poe stand on a branch overlooking a busy, busy highway.

SALThis last test is about timing.

Poe stares at the cars zooming by.

POEWhat do I need to do?

SALI need to you to cross this highway.

Poe spreads his wings. Sal shakes his head.

SALOn foot.

HONK! A heavy hauler zooms by, horns blazing. The wind ruffles their feathers. Poe stares at the zooming traffic.

POEI don’t know Sal, my Dad was pretty strict about me not playing in traffic.

Sal shoves him.

SALNonsense! It’s perfectly safe. They have brakes. You’ll be fine. The rules are simple: no flyin. And when in doubt- stand on the white lines. If you’re about to die-

POEDie? You just said it was safe!

SALIt is. If you don’t die.

Poe gulps and steps gingerly out onto the highway. ZOOM! A car passes by inches front of him. Poe scrambles back in terror. Sal shakes his head.

SALFeeling, agility, speed and timing. F.A.S.T. Four things you need to fly fast. And fly well.

(MORE)

We’re going to do these drills until you’re so sick of em, you dream about em.

EXT. HIGH TREE - DAY

Poe is blindfolded on a higher tree. He dives off the edge. Sal watches. A perfect landing and a thumbs up from Sal.


Poe flies through and over vines in thick jungle. He brushes by a few, but clears them. Poe smirks. Ahead is a really tight vertical gap. He turns his body, but too late. WHAM! He gets jammed.

EXT. SKY - DAY

Burt chases Poe, closing in fast. Poe twists and turns in the air, but Burt sees it coming. WHACK! Poe is tagged. Burt flies away, smirking.


Poe scampers across the highway, screaming. ZOOM! A car barely misses him, twirling him around. Sal watches in terror as a semi-truck approaches. Poe looks up at it, eyes wide. He flies up. WHACK! He lands on the truck’s windshield. Sal winces.


Poe sweeps and turns through the vines- majestic as Sal. Up, down, a loop and a twist- all at high speed. The vertical slit comes up and ZOOM! Poe clears it gracefully. He lands and high fives Sal, beaming.


Poe holds his breath and runs for it. He dodges one car, then another. HONK! After a breather at the median, Poe scrambles to the opposite set of lanes. He hops past another car and smiles. Then his eyes widen as he sees two semis- in both lanes.

Poe gulps and jumps on the white line, closing his eyes. ZOOM! Both semi trucks pass by him, puffing his feathers right out. Poe hops to the other side, a black ball of feathers. He gives Sal a shaky thumbs up.

EXT. SKY - DAY

Poe flaps hard. Burt closes in. Poe grins and heads for the jungle, swooping through trees, vines and thick leafy branches. Burt loses Poe. He lands, catching his breath.

Burt’s eyes widen as Poe vomits up behind him. Burt and Poe return to Sal. Burt drips with berry goop, scowling. Poe and Sal stifle a laugh.

BURTDon’t say a word.

Burt flies off grumbling, and Sal high fives Poe as they laugh.

POEWhat now, Sal?

Sal puts on a stern, focused look.

SALThe most important part of your training.

Poe’s eyes glimmer with excitement. He does a few lunges and stretches.

POEI’m ready. What is it?

Sal smiles, patting Poe’s flank.

SALWe relax! We still got some time to stretch our wings, eat bad food- you know, live the good life.

POEBut I want to learn more, Sal.

SALKid, you know all I do about flyin. For a bird your size, you did real good. Your Dad would be proud.

Poe smiles, but there is sadness behind it.

POEThanks Sal.

Sal pats Poe on his flank.

SALDon’t sweat it. Come on. Let’s go find some lady birds. And try not to scare em off this time.

Sal chuckles, flying off. Poe follows.

FADE TO BLACK.

FADE IN:

EXT. SPRINGTIME TREETOPS - NIGHT

Stars mottle the sky with pin pricks of light. The flock lands in lush, budding tree branches. Red rotates a sore shoulder as he perches on a branch. He looks at Burt.

REDThat flight doesn’t get any easier. Burt, get everyone fed and rested.

Burt salutes.

BURTYes sir.

Red sighs, settling down onto a leafy branch. He yawns sleepily.

EXT. TREE BRANCH - NIGHT

Maggie settles down on a branch and yawns. Poe hops over.

POEHey Mom. I can’t sleep. I might go out for a night run if that’s okay.

Maggie narrows her eyes.

MAGGIEA night run? What’s going on?

Poe grins sheepishly. Maggie’s face remains stoic. Poe cracks.

POEOkay, fine! I kind of have a date.

Maggie’s eyes widen. She smiles wryly.

MAGGIEA date? Who is this girl?

Poe sighs.

POEYou don’t know her, Mom. I met her down south. She’s a Raven, like me. She followed us back.

Maggie has a look of quiet concern on her face.

POEShe’s cool, Mom. She wouldn’t harm any of you guys. So can I go?

Poe holds his breath in anticipation, wearing his most charming grin. Maggie sighs.

MAGGIEOh okay! Go on your date.

Poe lets out a big breath and fist pumps.

MAGGIEBe back by sunrise.

Poe hugs her quickly and flies off.

POEThanks Mom! Love you!

Poe flies off.

EXT. NIGHT SKY ABOVE TREES

Poe flies with Marla above thick black conifers.

POEWhere are we going?

MARLATo meet Elder.

POEThe who?

MARLAA friend. He wants to meet you.

POEWhy?

MARLAYou’ll see.

POEWill this take long? Mom said I have to be back by sunrise.

Marla looks over to Poe and raises an eyebrow.

MARLADo you always do what your mommy tells you?(Beat)Come on! Try to keep up!

Marla grins and accelerates. Poe chuckles.

POEOh you’re on!

They hurtle through the night air, looping and twirling. Poe keeps pace. Marla looks across to him. She is getting tired, but hides it.

MARLANot bad for a rookie!

Poe chuckles, speeding up.

POEI’ll show you rookie!

Marla laughs and flaps harder. She catches up to Poe as he heads into a dense wooded area. She follows reluctantly.

EXT. DARK FOREST - NIGHT

Poe skims effortlessly through tight gaps, protruding branches and leafy trees. Marla has a few close calls, but stares at Poe in wonder. She barely dodges a leafy branch.

MARLAWait up!

Poe charges ahead. Marla loses sight of him. She hops onto branch and cups her wings around her beak.

MARLAOkay, I give up! You win!

Poe laughs and pops his head out the trees behind her.

POEBoo!

Poe chuckles. Marla smiles.

MARLAYou’re kinda weird.(Beat)Where did you learn to fly?

Poe lands onto a branch near Marla.

POEIn the flock. You learn more in a group.

MARLABut they’re not even like you.

Poe laughs.

POESo?

Poe looks around the murky blackness. He scratches a wing tip on his head.

POEWhere are we?

Marla looks around the woods.

MARLAWe’re close. Come on.

EXT. SKY ABOVE TREES - NIGHT

Marla and Poe pop out of the trees. Marla looks around the landscape. She heads North.

MARLAThis way! Follow me!

Marla and Poe fly off, making their way to a towering ancient Redwood.

EXT. REDWOOD - NIGHT

Poe and Marla land on a moonlit top branch and stretch tired wings.

POENow what?

Marla looks up at the sky, then settles herself down on the branch.

MARLANow, we wait.

SCREECH! Reaper’s cry echoes through the night, far in the distance. Poe and Marla look up to the sky, then at each other. Silence falls.

POEYou still haven’t explained what we’re doing here.

Marla yawns and closes her eyes.

MARLAIt’s not my place to. Get some sleep.

EXT. MAGGIE’S NEST - SUNRISE

Maggie tends to her nest. Sal flies in.

SALMorning sunshine!

Maggie turns, smiling at him.

MAGGIEHey there Sal. Have you seen Poe?

SALI was hopin’ you knew the answer. It’s why I came by.

Maggie hides a mother’s worry and fakes a smile.

MAGGIEThat boy.(Beat)He had a date last night.

Sal smiles.

SALThat’s what he was all hush-hush about!

Sal chuckles. Maggie hops over to Sal.

MAGGIEThank you for being so good to Poe, Sal. He’s told me all that you’ve done for him. He really looks up to you and I-

Sal waves his wing.

SALForget about it. He’s a good kid, and-

Maggie pecks Sal on the side of his beak. He blushes. As does Maggie. They giggle awkwardly.

MAGGIEI really appreciate it.

Maggie smiles warmly. Sal smiles back.

MAGGIEI just worry about him.

SALI’m sure he’s fine, Maggie. You raised him good.

(MORE)

You’re a good mother. He’s just out chasing a female. I’ve been there.

Sal chuckles and sighs.

SALAh, to be young again. Poe is so full of energy.

EXT. REDWOOD - DAY

Poe stretches and yawns. He is atop a thick mossy branch, and a thick mist envelopes him. He looks to his left. Then right. Marla is nowhere in sight.

POEMarla?

ELDERMarla is quite safe.

Poe screams and jumps. Elder stands behind him. Poe turns to face him, holding his chest.

POEYou scared me half to death! Where did you come from?!

ELDERFrom an egg. Same as you.

Elder laughs slowly. Poe stares at Elders milky eyes. Elder smiles.

ELDERYou’re wondering about my eyes.

Poe has a look of shock and disbelief. He opens his beak.

ELDERI’m blind, yes.

Poe nods then opens his beak again.

ELDERI have been this way all my life, Poe.(Beat)And yes, I know your name, and I know who your father was.

Elder walks to the branch edge and sits. He pats the branch softly with an inviting wing.

ELDERSit with me. We have much to discuss.

EXT. MAGGIE’S NEST - DAY

Poe flies up to the nest. It’s empty. Sal flies in.

SALOh! There you are! You’re ma ain’t too happy wit you right now, kid. Where you been?

POESal, I need your help.


REDNo.

POEIt’s the only way.

REDNo.

POEWe have to do this! Elder said that-

Red puffs his chest out to Poe and stands up tall.

REDThere is no prophecy! What you’re talking about is suicide and I won’t let you do it!

POEYou didn’t stop me when I tried to save my Dad!

REDThose were different circumstances! We were reacting to a deadly situation! You aim to look for one!

Poe sighs and shakes his head.

POEReaper will come back, season after season. Unless we end this!

REDThen we’ll move! Nest up somewhere else. The world is a big place.

POEThat’s not good enough!

Red sighs.

REDI told you that to be part of this flock you weren’t to put any of us in danger!

POEThink about what I told you about! Wisdom, and-and community!

Red scoffs.

REDBlind or deaf, there isn’t a word I’ll ever believe coming from the very birds that prey on us!

(MORE)

You know that your kind stole your Mom’s eggs?

POEOnly because Reaper owns this whole area! They had to eat!

REDNed was a fool for ever thinking that a Raven could be one of us! And he died for it!

Poe tears up.

POEMy father taught me to accept the fate I was given, just as he and Mom accepted theirs!

Burt flies in. He looks at Poe. Red turns to Burt.

REDNot now, Burt! This is between Poe and me.

Burt points upward. The flock has congregated above them. They stare in silence.

REDWhat are you all staring at? This is a private conversation!

Poe looks up to them.

POENo, listen, stay! All of you! Your so-called leader wants to ignore what’s in front of him. We have a chance- a real chance to be free from Reaper. And he’s too scared to take that chance.(Beat)I believe in Elder. About my father. I can do this, Red. Sir.

Red scoffs.

REDYou’re an idiot if you think you can take on Reaper alone!

POEYou’re nothing but a coward!

Red’s eyes flicker with rage.

REDWhat did you call me?!

POEI said you’re a coward!

Red raises a wing. Poe grabs it easily and counters. WHACK! He sends Red skidding along the branch. Burt helps Red up and glares at Poe. The crowd stares in stunned silence.

POERed, I’m sorry, I-

Red looks up at the spectators. He glares at Poe.

REDGet out of my sight.

Red dabs his beak, looking at the blood on his feathers. Poe sees Maggie staring at him in disappointment. Poe flies off.

EXT. REDWOOD - DAY

Marla paces a mossy branch. Poe lands. Marla observes his body language: slumped shoulders, moping face.

MARLAWhat’s wrong?

Poe waves a wing at the air.

POEIt’s nothing. I’m fine.

Marla smirks.

MARLANow who’s the liar?

Poe smirks a little, then slumps down onto the branch overlooking the ancient forest. He sighs heavily.

POEWe’re on our own, Marla.

Marla sits next to him.

MARLAI figured as much.

POEI wish I’d never heard about all this prophecy nonsense.

MARLAYou don’t believe it?

Poe scoffs.

POESome old bird blinder than a bat tells me that I am to save the skies from a monster. But he doesn’t say how!

MARLABecause he doesn’t know how you’ll do it. He just knows that you will. Unity brings strength, community-

POEI know. I know.

Poe gets up and starts pacing.

POEHow? I don’t know the first thing about fighting Reaper! She almost killed me last time!

(MORE)

And the only birds that faced Reaper are either dead or won’t to talk to me!

ELDERTime heals all wounds, young one.

Poe and Marla jump. Elder stands behind them. Poe looks to Marla.

POEHow does he do that?

Marla shrugs.

ELDERMarla, stay here and greet our guest.

Marla looks confused, looking at the empty branch. Elder rests a wing on Poe’s shoulder.

ELDERFly with me.

POEBut you’re blind.

ELDERAs a bat.

Poe blushes. Elder smiles and takes off. Marla watches them leave. Sal lands by her clumsily and rests his wings on his knees, bent double.

SALOh! Is this a long way to fly or what? I’m sweatin’ over here!

Sal gasps air.

SALWhere’s Poe?

MARLAHe went off with Elder.

SALWho’s dat?

MARLAWho are you?

EXT. SKY OVER FOREST - DAY

Elder and Ned glide over misty canopy. In the distance, a ragged, mountain looms- ugly and black. Its summit shrouded by mist. Poe stares, hypnotized with unshakable dread.

POEWhy me, Elder? Why not pick another Raven? A stronger, meaner one to fight her?

Elder shakes his head.

ELDERThis is a different kind of fight, Poe. Only a bird with your compassion and strength can ever hope to win it.

POEYou said you’ve see this day coming. Can you tell me if I beat her?

Elder shudders, falling into the mist. Poe dives after him.

POEElder!

EXT. MISTY FOREST - DAY

Elder lands clumsily on a tree, surrounded by a thick, grey mist. He leans against the trunk, knees shaking. Poe flies in, landing with grace. Elder groans and grips his chest tightly.

POEAre you okay?

Elder grimaces, then blinks rapidly.

ELDERWhere am I? Why am I blind? Why do I smell old?

Poe smirks at him.

POEBecause you’re old?

Elder jumps and screams. He holds a wing up defensively.

ELDERDon’t kill me!

Poe chuckles.

POEYou’re crazy. You’re the one who took me out here!

Elder sniffs the air.

ELDERIs that you, Poe?

Elder tears up. He reaches out, touching Poe’s face. Poe raises an eyebrow.

POEUh, are you feeling okay?

Elder squeezes Poe tightly.

POEGetting kind of weird, here...

Poe pries Elder off and steps away. Elder steps forward.

ELDERI need to tell you something, kiddo. Reaper will-

POEI know. You talked to me about it already, and said- wait, what did you just call me?

Elder blinks. Poe stares closely at him in disbelief.

POEAn old bird with no eyes...

Elder smiles warmly and nods. Poe strokes his wing on Elder’s face. Elder squeezes it. Poe tears up, and they embrace tightly. Elder sighs, holding back tears.

ELDERDon’t cry. If you do, I’ll start crying and-

Poe laughs, sniffing back tears. He stares at Elder in wonder.

POEHow... Did you get in there?

Elder shrugs.

ELDERBeats me, kiddo. But arthritis is no joke, I can tell you. I don’t even want to guess at how old this body is.

Elder cracks and creaks as he flexes.

ELDERBut you need to listen to me. I have warn you about the prophecy.

POEElder told me all about it, Dad.

Poe looks at his birthmark somberly.

POEI’m not going to make it, am I?

Elder puts a wing on Poe’s shoulder.

ELDERSon, I-

SCREECH! Reaper’s terrible cry echoes in the distance. Elder and Poe look to the mist.

ELDERMy time is up.

A tear falls from Poe’s eye.

POENo, Dad. You can’t go!

ELDERI’m sorry, son.

Poe tears up.

POEHow am I supposed to do this on my own? I don’t know what I’m doing!

ELDERYou must find your own path. Remember: strength in unity. Wisdom in community. Trust in your heart, my son.

Elder spreads his wings and smiles.

ELDERNow come here and give your dad a hug, for old times sake..

Poe flies into Elder in a tight embrace. Elder’s eyelids flutter. He groans and collapses into Poe’s wings. Elder gasps.

POEDad! Dad!

Elder blinks, shaking his head. He shoves Poe with a wing.

ELDERYou must return home! Hurry!

POEI don’t understand! Elder, what’s going on?

Elder groans wearily, legs quivering. He pushes Poe.

ELDERReaper! She comes for your flock. Go! Save them!

Poe takes off. He is soon a distant silhouette. Elder turns around, blinking calmly.

ELDERHello Reaper.(Beat)I have seen this day over a thousand times.

The forest says nothing back.

ELDERYou are too late. Your reign of terror is over.

The wind picks up, ruffling his old feathers. Elder smiles, spreading his wings.

ELDERThe skies will be free. (Beat)Good luck, Red Foot.

SCREECH! Elder does not move. He just smiles a warm, relieved smile.

EXT. SKY - DAY

The cry of Reaper tears through the sky.

EXT. REDWOOD - DAY

Marla and Sal look to the noise and gasp.

EXT. SKY - DAY

Poe furrows his brow and flaps harder and faster.

EXT - MAGGIE’S NEST - DAY

Poe wheels in, breathing hard. Maggie jumps. She chuckles softy.

MAGGIEPoe! You scared me. Are you okay?

Poe runs up to her and checks her over.

POEAre you okay? Are you hurt?

Maggie laughs, brushing Poe off.

MAGGIEI’m fine honey. What’s wrong? What’s going on?

Poe is frantic. He scans the sky for Reaper, his breath ragged. He sees various flock groups- all safe. All happy. Poe sinks his head.

POEElder...

Poe lands by Maggie’s nest. He paces.

POEI spoke to him, Mom. To Dad. I-

Poe tears up. Maggie sees his heartbreak and confusion. She spreads her wings. Poe flies to her and collapses by her feet.

EXT. BABY RAVEN’S HIDEOUT

Poe is a baby, trapped inside a cage of thick green branches. He breathes heavily, tugging at them with stubby wings. The sky burns red.

SCREECH!

Poe gasps. SMASH! CRASH! Reaper attacks- razor sharp beak and talons ripping and tearing- eyes glowing a terrifying green. Poe grips to the tree trunk. Reaper misses by inches. CRUNCH! A branch snaps. SNAP! Another. Reaper thrusts her beak inside.

REAPERPoe! Poe!

EXT. MAGGIE’S NEST - SUNRISE

Poe screams and jumps up. Red stands over him. Poe blinks.

POERed? What are you doing here?

Red helps Poe up.

REDYour Mom is worried about you, kid. I am too.

Poe brushes by Red. He finds a pool water on a tree branch hollow and washes. Red rubs his mouth and smirks.

REDYou’ve got one mean right hook.

Poe smirks.

POERed, I’m sorry-

Red holds a wing up.

REDSave it. We were both out of line. I’m... I’m sorry. I know your heart is in the right place. I just...

Red sits down and sighs.

REDPoe. Did Ned ever tell you about my brother?

POENo.

REDHe was the original flock leader. Brave. Smart. I thought he was invincible.

Red points to an old, deep scar on his face.

REDIn one day, I lost him and got this. It was Reaper. She took him from me. Just plucked him from the air like he was nothing.

Red points to Poe’s scar.

REDThat was the day you lost your Dad, my nephew. To Reaper. And again, I was powerless to stop it.

Poe says nothing.

REDAnd now you’re looking to go pick a fight with our greatest threat, and for what? To be another scar to me? To your mother?

Red looks into Poe’s eyes, and sighs.

REDAnd then I think of all that has happened- of how you came along. It can’t be coincidence.

POEWhat are you getting at, Red? I mean sir.

Poe grins charmingly, wiping away a stern look from Red. It transforms to a smirk.

REDThis is the most danger I have willingly allowed anyone to be in. But if it means a free sky for us, then I give you my blessing.

Red raises a wing finger.

REDOn two conditions.

POEAnything.

REDOne: You don’t go alone. Rule one: Strength in numbers.

Poe nods.

POEHandled.

REDThis next one won’t be so easy. You need your mothers blessing.

Poe’s eyes widen.

EXT. MAGGIE’S NEST - DAY

Poe lands. Sees Maggie with Sal. They are rearranging her nest, giggling.

SALHow’s about this?

MAGGIEPerfect! So I was thinking that the birch could go here and-

Sal sees Poe and coughs awkwardly. He taps Maggie. She blushes, making space between them.

MAGGIEHey there Poe. Sal was helping me with my nest.

Poe looks at Sal, raises an eyebrow. Sal blushes.

SALI think I left my, uh bird bath runnin’.

Sal flies off. Poe’s face cannot hide his emotion. Maggie looks into his eyes.

MAGGIEHoney, what’s wrong?

POEMom, can I talk to you?

FADE TO BLACK.

EXT. MAGGIE’S NEST - DAWN

Maggie squeezes Poe tightly- tears in her eyes. Poe squeezes back, glassy eyed and sniffling.

MAGGIECome back safe, my boy.

Poe sniffs and nods. They part. Red stands by Maggie.

REDWe’ll take good care of her, Poe. You just take care of yourself, and come back you us, okay?

Poe nods.

REDCompany, salute!

The entire flock surrounds him, saluting proudly. Poe salutes back, then surprises Red with a hug. Red chuckles.

REDGood luck, kid.

Sal hops over. Poe looks at him.

POESal, are you sure you want to do this? You can change your mind.

SALReally? In that case, I change my mind.

Sal’s face is emotionless. The flock stares.

POEOh. Okay.

Poe turns to leave. Sal chuckles, and slaps Poe merrily.

SALO! Are you kiddin? Change my mind! This bird over here!

They all laugh.

SALI’m wit you until the end. Reaper won’t know what hit her!

The flock cheers. Sal leans in close to Poe’s ear.

SAL(Whispering)Plus, I want to talk to you about me and yer mother. I think there’s somethin’ there.

Sal elbows Poe, waves at Maggie and blows her a kiss. She blushes. Poe raises an eyebrow. He holds a smile to the cheering flock, waving.

POEYou do realize that both of us might die on this trip, right?

Sal grins.

SALHey, a bird can dream, right?


A beautiful sunny day. Sparse, fluffy clouds. Blazing sun. Poe, Marla and Sal fly over sun-kissed tree tops.

MARLAWe’ll make camp at the Redwood, and head out in the morning.

Poe nods.

SALWhere we headin to, anyway?

Marla points to the dark, twisted mountain far off in the distance.

MARLAThere.

Sal’s eyes widen.

SALThat’s where we’re goin? Marone!

Marla giggles.

MARLAI like you. You’re funny.

Sal chuckles.

SALDon’t get any ideas. I’m spoken for. Got a lady in waitin’ back home.

Poe glances at Sal and grins.

POEDo you now?

Sal chuckles nervously.

MARLAWho’s up for a race?

POEI am!

SALCount me in!

Marla smiles at Poe.

MARLADon’t think you’ll win so easy this time. I’ve been training.

POEIs that right?

MARLAOkay, last one to the Redwood finds dinner. Okay go!

Marla speeds off. Poe and Sal flap after her.

FADE TO BLACK.

FADE IN:

EXT. REDWOOD - SUNSET

Poe and Marla sit overlooking a spectacularly colorful sunset over the forest.

POEHow did you get mixed up in all of this?

MARLAElder helped raise me after I lost my parents.

POEI’m sorry. Was it Reaper?

Marla chuckles.

MARLANo, I literally lost them when I was young. Bermuda triangle. Don’t go there.

POEUh... Okay.(Beat)So they’re still out there?

Marla sighs.

MARLAI hope they are. The world’s a big place.

POESo you’re all alone?

Marla sighs.

MARLANow that Elder is gone.

Poe puts a wing on hers.

POEWe’re going to get through this. We will beat her. The skies will be free. No matter what it takes.

Marla pecks Poe on the cheek quickly. Poe blushes.

POE (V.O.)Okay Poe, she likes you. Say something else.

Poe coughs awkwardly.

POEWhy don’t you join my flock? I’m sure they’d love to have you. I would.

Marla raises an eyebrow.

MARLAWould you now?

POEI didn’t mean it like that! I meant the flock would!

Poe blushes. Marla chuckles.

MARLARelax!

They stare at the sunset for a beat.

MARLAWere you being serious about the flock thing?

Poe smiles.

POEOf course I’m being serious! As long as you pitch in and don’t hurt anyone, you’re in. Who knows? Maybe you’ll find a mate.

Marla blushes. She brushes feathers out of her eyes, scooting closer.

MARLAReally? Anyone in mind?

Poe leans into her.

POEI know a bird that would be interested.

The setting sun frames them both. They lean closer. Poe slips at the last second, pecking Marla in the eye. Marla hits Poe. Hard. He yelps.

MARLAJust- forget it, Poe!

Marla flies off angrily, wincing.

POEI’m really sorry! Come back!

Sal drops a leaf satchel full of wriggling worms and scurrying beetles. Sal watches Marla leave and shrugs, sucking in a worm like a noodle.

EXT. REDWOOD - SUNRISE

Poe finds Marla alone, frumping.

POECan I sit down?

Marla glares up at him coldly. Poe avoids her icy gaze.

POEIt’s okay. I’ll stand. About last night, I-

MARLAI don’t want to talk to you.

POEI understand.

Poe lowers his head in shame. Marla sighs as Poe takes a few slow steps away.

MARLAYou ruined a good sunset. And almost poked my eye out.(Beat)Sit.

Poe turns to look at her. She pats beside herself. Poe sits excitedly.

MARLATry not to ruin sunrise. It may be the last one we ever see. And if you do that again, I’ll feed you to Reaper myself.

They watch the sun peek over the horizon. Sal sees them from afar and smiles.

EXT. REAPER MOUNTAIN - DAY

A thick, ominous fog envelopes the trio. They’re wide-eyed and alert. But blind. Their voices echo off the rocks.

SAL(Whispering)This is nuts. How are we supposed to see anything?

POEThe nest is here somewhere. Keep your eyes peeled.

SAL(Whispering)You got it.

POEWhy are you whispering?

SAL(Whispering)Because I don’t want to scare her away.

Marla cocks an eyebrow at Sal.

MAGGIESal. We’re here to do more than just scare her.

They wheel through the fog, as it reveals glimpses of land below- and blotches of blue sky above. Poe spies a stack of branches.

POEI think I see something. Down here!

EXT. REAPER’S NEST - DAY

They land on a massive Eagle’s nest. Sharp, thorny branches. Animal skeletons adorned among them. They explore cautiously. Poe looks down at a pile of bones.

POEThis is the place.

Sal looks around, disgusted.

SALTalk about a fixer upper.

MARLABe ready for anything. She’s here somewhere.

Marla looks into the mist. FLAP! The sound of heavy wings echo around them. They jump in fright.

POEShe’s here! Sal, you know what to do!

Sal nods and drops to his knees, whistling in distress.

SALOw! My wing! I broke my wing! Help me! Somebody help me!

Poe and Marla sneak off and hide behind a rock as Sal screams. FLAP! FLAP! Sal gazes up at a shadow forming out of the mist.

Reaper emerges. Sal freezes in terror. Reaper sniffs him. Marla and Poe glance and nod. They flank Reaper quietly from either side.

SNAP! Marla steps on a twig. Poe holds his breath- he’s totally exposed with nowhere to hide. Reaper looks toward the noise. Marla ducks behind a rock and holds her breath.

Reaper hops over, looks at the rock and sniffs it. Marla ducks lower. Sal screams louder.

Reaper stomps over to Sal, crushing bones under her. Poe peeks from behind a pile of twigs. Reaper disappears into her nest. Sal looks up at Poe and shrugs. Seconds pass.

The nest opens. Reaper dangles a BABY EAGLE in her beak. She places it gently in front of Sal and nudges it tenderly. Poe and Marla look at each other- stunned. They hide. Sal stares at the inquisitive Baby. He smiles awkwardly.

SALHey there little fella.

SCREECH! Reaper lets out a terrible cry. Sal shudders in terror. The Baby nips at Sal. He dodges it.

SALHey!

Another attack. Sal dodges it.

SALCut that out!

Reaper stares at her child in admiration as it attempts to eat Sal. Poe and Marla look at each other.

POENow!

Poe and Marla shoot out of cover. Reaper looks to her right and sees Marla. SCREECH! WHACK! Reaper smacks Marla with a mighty wing. She tumbles, bouncing off rocks and into the mist.

POEBlock this!

WHAM! Poe slams into Reaper’s left wing with his head. CRUNCH! Reaper grimaces and moans. A solid hit. Sal scrambles away. Reaper kicks him in the flank. He collapses into the dirt.

Poe slashes at Reaper. She dodges and parries, shielding her squeaking baby. SLICE! Poe cuts Reaper’s eye. SCREECH! CRACK! Reaper lands a wicked blow. Poe lands hard and passes out.

FADE TO BLACK.

FADE IN:


Poe’s POV

Blackness. Sal is speaking. It’s muffled. Poe’s eyes blink open and Sal comes into focus.

SALKid, wake up!

Exit POV

Sal helps Poe up. Poe looks around.

POEWhere’s Reaper?

SALShe took her kid off somewheres. But she’ll be back any minute. How many fingers am I holding up?

Sal holds up 3. Poe coughs.

POEThree. Where’s Marla?

SALShe’s down and out, kiddo. Sprained her wing pretty good. I moved her out of the fog and into a good hiding spot.

Poe looks at Sal. He’s cut up, bruised in one eye and his feathers are ruffled.

POEHow are you?

SALForget about me. She knocked you out cold!

Poe rubs his beak. Sal douses Poe in water and checks him for cuts like a boxing ring attendant.

POEShe’s got a mean punch.

SALYeah, and her beak ain’t much better. You’re not going to be able to beat her one on one. Her left wing is hurt pretty bad. It’s that hard head of yours.

Poe smirks and chuckles wearily.

POEI know how to beat her.

SALI don’t know if this is a good time to say this being that we’re here to kill her and all, but she’s got a kid.

POEI know. I didn’t expect that.

SALYeah, she’s got a face only a mother could love. How’d she get a mate? Who am I kidding? She probably has him tied him up somewhere. Kinky broad.

POECan we focus?

Sal grins.

SALSorry.

POEI’m not sure what to do, I-

FLAP! FLAP! Sal looks to the large shadow peeling out of the mist. Reaper lands elegantly and spreads her wings.

SALWhatever decision you make, make it fast.

Poe takes off with lightning speed. Reaper follows.


Up, up Poe soars, twisting and turning. Reaper gives chase.

SCREECH! Poe flaps harder and harder.

POEF.A.S.T.

Poe closes his eyes, feeling the air through his wings. Reaper closes in, talons out. Poe drops to the tree line and angles his body through a tight gap, off into the forest.

EXT. FOREST - DAY

Poe weaves and winds through thick trunks and leafy branches. He breathes hard, working to evade Reaper. CRUNCH! CRASH! Reaper slashes and slams through the treetops. SCREECH!


Poe pries a branch back and squeezes inside, exhausted. SLAM! CRUNCH! Reaper slashes at him with fury. Poe ducks and dodges the talons that make it through- they miss him by inches. SCREECH! He is trapped.


Red looks up as Reaper’s cry tears through the sky. He sighs.

REDBurt, you think he’ll be all right?

No reply. Red looks around. A light breeze whispers back.

REDBurt?


Reaper is almost through. Poe panics. Reaper backs up- one more charge. SCREECH! She runs at Poe.

BURTHey!

Burt crashes into the back of her head. Poe stares, amazed.

BURTYou know, you’re even uglier up close!

Burt flies through the trees. Reaper chases. Poe escapes. He watches Burt skillfully avoid the trees and Reaper.

POEWhat are you doing here? It’s not safe!

Burt makes a tight turn, nicking his foot on a protruding branch. He winces, looking down at it.

BURTHuh.

Burt slows and lands on a branch. Poe gasps as Reaper crunches her way through the dense, leafy branches.

POEWhat are you doing?!

Burt smirks.

BURTI figured it out, kid.

POEFigured what out? Get out of there!

Reaper bashes into the branches. They crack and splinter. Burt looks at his bleeding foot.

BURTI’m a red foot! You are the other! Free the skies, Poe! It’s up to you!

Reaper slashes her way through to Burt and grabs him in her talons. He does not resist.

POENo!!!!!!!!!

CRUNCH! Reaper crushes Burt like an ant, and tosses his body out into the forest. Reaper turns to Poe. Poe takes off, boiling with rage.

EXT. SKY - DAY

Poe flaps hard. He looks back at Reaper as she closes in.

SCREECH!

Poe dives down. Reaper follows.

EXT. HIGHWAY - DAY

Shimmering blacktop topped with blue skies. Poe hovers 80 feet above a single track highway. He searches ahead.

POECome on, come on. Please work.

A semi truck approaches. Poe slows. Reaper catches up. They fly abreast. Reaper swings her powerful body at Poe. Poe sways and drops lower.

Reaper attacks. Poe dodges, decreasing altitude to 40 feet above the blacktop. Poe smashes into Reaper, hitting her left wing. SCREECH! Reaper is dead center with the truck in the oncoming lane.

Poe dives down once more. HONK! The semi blows it’s horn. Reaper’s eyes widen. Poe flies up to safety. Reaper tries to turn away, but cannot. She is doomed.

HONK! HONK! The truck SQUEALS as brakes engage. It swerves, but not enough. Reaper closes her eyes.

POE(To himself)Unity brings strength!

At the last second, Poe bashes her to safety, wrapping his wings around her. They tumble down together and disappear in a corn field parallel to the road.

FADE TO BLACK.

FADE IN:

EXT. CORN FIELD - DAY

Reaper and Poe lie together in a crumpled, exhausted heap. Poe groans. Then Reaper. Poe wakes and jumps back from Reaper. He is unscathed. Her wing is broken.

She groans. Poe holds a wing out. SCREECH! He jumps back. She tries to get up. Falls. Poe reaches out.

POEI’m not going to hurt you. I’m trying to help. Give me your wing.

Poe holds out his wing. Reaper stares at it. With reluctance, she grabs it. Poe helps her up. She collapses on a twisted ankle. Poe supports her. He strains.

POEYou’re heavy!

SCREECH! Reaper glares at Poe. He chuckles.

POESo you do understand me.

They limp toward the road. Poe looks up. Red lands. His eyes widen when he sees Reaper.

POEShe’s hurt. She can’t fly.

They limp onward.

REDYou’re helping her now?! Have you lost your mind?

(MORE)

What of the prophecy? What of your father? For all that monster has done to us! The blood and the heartbreak and the-

POEEnough!

Poe’s eyes reveal his conflict as they glare at Red- bitterness, rage, pity. Tears streak his face. He strains, limping past Red.

POEThere’s a better way- for all of us. Burt knew before I did.(Beat)Burt figured it out.

REDBurt? Where is he?

Poe shakes his head. Reaper looks sorrowful and groans. Red gasps, then glares at her.

REDAnd you’re letting her live? Poe, you’re not thinking! She has to die! For all of our sakes!

Reaper groans. Poe winces, limping onward.

POEShe will. Just not today. Now help me and I’ll explain everything.

Red hesitates as Reaper glares coldly at him. He sighs, then labours under Reapers weight.

REDShe’s heavy!

SCREECH! Poe chuckles and winces.

POEShe’s sensitive about that.

REDOf course. How silly of me.

FADE TO BLACK.

FADE IN:


The fog has lifted. Sal lies on his back, looking up at the Eaglet. It pecks at Sal. Sal dodges. Again. Sal dodges. SQUEAK! The Eaglet sits down frumpily, defeated. Sal smiles.

SALAh, don’t get mad little fella! You’re doing great! Honest!

Sal pets the Eaglet. It smiles, flapping stubby wings. Reaper watches from afar, her wing resting on a pile of rocks and twigs. She smiles.

Maggie watches Sal and smiles. She waves. Sal waves back. Maggie looks underneath her, counting. One egg. Two eggs. Three. She nestles back down, smiling to herself.

The whole flock is there. Laughing, playing and relaxing. The nest is clean of bones, and is full of joy and color.

EXT. ROCKY OUTCROP - DAY

Red stands with Poe above the nest. Poe places one more rock on a small burial pile. Red places a small bunch of berries onto the mound.

POEUnity brings strength.

REDCommunity brings wisdom.

POEWe are stronger together. We share the land. The sky. Build a community. The suffering, the fighting- it all ends. With Reaper on our side, we’ll never be afraid again.

REDBurt had that figured out, did he?

Red pats the rocks tenderly with a wing. Red salutes. As does Poe.

REDGoodbye, old friend. And thank you.

Red stares out at the peaceful scene. Marla flies up and lands next to Poe. She hugs him tightly, kissing him.

POESo, Red. Where are you taking us this winter?

Red smiles.

REDI got a great spot picked out, kid. You’ll see.

FADE OUT.

THE END

Birds of a Feather

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Transcript of Birds of a Feather