Rain drizzles under flickering streetlights. Police tape flutters in the wind. A body lies on the cold pavement — a single shoe print stamped on the chest.
Stephen Colbert, mid-30s, sharp-eyed detective in a black coat, kneels by the body. James Miller, his younger, impulsive partner, approaches with a flashlight.
James:
Hey, Stephen. Any trace you got?
Stephen:
Just a little dirt… and a shoe print on the chest.
James:
Who even could've done this?
Stephen:
My guess — one of the gang leaders. But which one? There are two fighting for control of this area.
James:
You think it's the bike gang again?
Stephen:
Could be. For now, let's let the body freeze. Ambulance should be here any minute.
Stephen removes his gloves and stands. Sirens echo in the distance.
James:
Hey, Stephen — got a bottle of water for you.
Stephen:
Thanks.
An ambulance driver walks up, clipboard in hand.
Driver:
Detective, your name again?
Stephen:
Stephen Colbert.
Driver:
Got it. And you, sir?
James:
James Miller.
Stephen:
Make sure the body goes straight to police custody. We'll take it from there.
James:
So what's next
Scene 2 — Police Forensics Office, Late Night
The rain hasn't stopped. Stephen drives through the wet streets, city lights reflecting off his windshield. He parks, gets out, and walks into the dimly lit precinct. The hum of machines and the faint smell of coffee fill the air.
Lisa, early 30s, the lab technician, is at her desk surrounded by monitors and evidence photos.
Stephen:
Tell me, Lisa — you find anything weird about the body?
Lisa:
Yeah. If you look at the metal traces and bone fractures, the victim's face was struck by something heavy — maybe a hockey stick… or something similar.
Stephen:
Hmm… personally, I think it was a tactical rod. Clean hit, strong precision. Not random.
James (leaning against the doorframe):
These cases are something, huh?
Stephen looks up at him, tired but calm.
Stephen:
You should rest for now. It's late, and you're new to this.
James:
No, I'm fine.
Stephen:
You should. You're looking dull, James.
James sighs, nods slightly.
James:
Alright. I'll catch a nap.
Stephen turns back to the evidence board — photos, maps, gang symbols connected with red string.
Stephen (muttering):
Still no trace, huh? Let's see if we can find something… trace
The camera slowly zooms in on the photo as a low, tense soundtrack begins.
CUT TO BLACK.
Scene 3 — The Next Morning — On the Road
The sun rises weakly over the gray skyline. Stephen and James drive through the quiet streets, coffee cups in hand.
Stephen:
You sleep well, James?
James:
Yeah… it was great. [sighs] You?
Stephen:
Barely. I've been going through the reports. I think this murder ties back to one of the local gangs.
James:
Which ones?
Stephen:
Three operate in this area — the Speed Demons, Fixie Goons, and Velocity Crew.
Speed Demons have history — weapons trade, assaults. But the other two... we don't have clearance to touch them yet.
James:
So you think one of them did it?
Stephen:
Most likely. But I'll need traces — witnesses, camera footage, anything.
For now, we're heading to the victim's sister's house — Amelia Garcia.
James looks out the window, thoughtful.
James:
It's messed up, man. So many people dying like this… I wish I could help them more.
Stephen:
You will. Give it time. It becomes routine — not that it ever stops hurting… but you learn to live with it.
They pull up to a small house on a quiet street. Stephen and James step out, their coats swaying in the morning wind.
Stephen rings the bell. A woman's voice comes from inside.
Amelia (through the door):
Who is it?
Stephen:
FBI. We're here to ask you some questions about your brother — Henry Garcia.
The door creaks open. Amelia Garcia, mid-20s, red-eyed and trembling, stares at them.
Amelia (crying):
Why didn't you save him? Why him?
Stephen's face softens.
Stephen:
I'm sorry for your loss, Amelia. We're doing everything we can to find who did this. I promise you — we'll bring them to justice.
Amelia wipes her tears, nodding slowly.
Amelia:
Come in… please.
Scene 4 — Inside Amelia's House — Morning
The living room is small and quiet. The air feels heavy with grief. A few framed photos of Henry Garcia sit on a shelf — smiling, alive.
Stephen sits across from Amelia, notebook in hand. James stands nearby, watching quietly.
Stephen:
So, Amelia — where was Henry lately? If I may ask.
Amelia:
I think... just at work. He sometimes visited me, even after we started living separately. He was doing okay, I guess.
Stephen:
Makes sense. Did you talk to him recently?
Amelia:
Yeah… Monday night. He said he was feeling lazy to work — just tired, you know? Didn't think much of it.
Stephen flips a page in his notebook.
Stephen:
Did Henry ever mention anything about gang connections?
Amelia hesitates, frowning.
Amelia:
Yeah… actually, I heard him mention something — the Fixie Goons. He said he didn't like them, just wanted to give them money and stay out of it. I didn't ask more. Thought it was just his problem.
Stephen:
I see. You've been very helpful, Amelia. Thanks for cooperating.
Amelia:
Do you… do you think they killed him?
Stephen looks at her gently.
Stephen:
We don't know yet. But we'll find out. I promise.
They stand and head for the door.
Scene 5 — On the Road Again
Stephen and James walk out of the house, the mood heavy. They get back in the car.
James:
So… are we heading to that Fixie Goon club? Or wherever they hang out?
Stephen:
No.
James:
But they're our suspects, right?
Stephen:
Even if they are — we can't take action. Not without proof. The law doesn't move on guesses, James.
James:
Yeah, but sitting around won't help either.
Stephen glances at him, a faint smirk.
Stephen:
That's what I like about you. Impatient. Reminds me of me — ten years ago.
James looks out the window, quiet.
The car drives off through the city, sirens echo faintly in the distance.
Scene 6 — Lisa's Forensics Lab — Afternoon
Lisa scrolls through her computer, data reflecting on her glasses. Stephen leans against the counter, arms folded.
Stephen:
So, anything new from the evidence?
Lisa:
No, it's all the same. No new DNA, no prints that match our database.
Stephen:
Hmm… I see.
He thinks for a moment, then turns to James.
Stephen:
Alright, James. I've got an idea — how about you go undercover at the Fixie Goons' hangout?
James:
You sure about that?
Stephen (patting his shoulder):
I trust you. Don't disappoint me.
James (smirks):
You know I won't — even if I'm still new.
CUT TO:
Scene 7 — The Bar — Night
A loud, smoky bar. Music thumps. Colored lights flash across the room. James sits at the counter, wearing casual clothes, old 2004-style headphones hanging around his neck.
James (into earpiece):
You think he's here?
Stephen (on comms, sitting in a car outside):
Locals say they usually show up around this time. Keep your eyes open — and stay calm.
Stephen sips a juice, watching the entrance through the car windshield.
Inside, James looks around — people laughing, dancing, drinking. A woman in a red dress approaches.
Woman:
Hey, handsome. Wanna dance?
James:
No, I'm good, thanks. Hey, quick question — you know a gang called… what was it again, Stephen?
Stephen (over comms):
Fixie Goons.
James:
Yeah, the Fixie Goons. Ever heard of them?
Woman:
Yeah, why? They usually hang out here. Used to be four guys — now it's mostly just one showing up lately.
James:
You know where they sit?
Woman:
Corner booth. But why do you ask?
James:
Just… work stuff. Nothing to worry about.
Suddenly, the door opens. A man in a leather jacket with a Fixie logo walks in.
Woman (whispering):
That's him.
James (quietly):
Stephen, target's here. Should I move in?
Stephen (on comms):
Negative. Don't act yet. Keep him in sight. I'm heading your way.
James:
He's ordering drinks. You sure?
Stephen:
He'll get busy soon — trust me. Just wait.
Cut to: Stephen driving toward the bar, siren off, headlights dim.
Back inside, a waiter places a drink on the Fixie Goon's table. Suddenly — the goon spots James's badge glinting under the light.
Fixie Goon:
Who the hell are you?
James:
Police. Detective James Miller. I just wanna ask—
Before he can finish, the Fixie Goon shoves the waiter, knocking over a drink, and bolts for the door.
Waiter:
Hey! Watch it!
James:
Stephen! He's on the move!
Stephen (over comms):
I see him! I'm outside — cutting him off!
The Fixie Goon crashes into an old lady on the sidewalk, mutters, and keeps running. Stephen jumps out of his car, chasing him through the street.
Stephen:
Stop! Police!
The goon darts into an alley, Stephen close behind. They weave through trash cans and fences. Finally, Stephen tackles him to the ground, locking both his arms.
Stephen (breathing hard):
You're under arrest!
He slaps on the handcuffs.
Scene 8 — Interrogation Room — Night
Camera pans across the cold, silent room — metal table, two chairs, a single camera blinking red in the corner. Harsh fluorescent lights hum above.
Stephen enters the room, file in hand. He sits across from the Fixie Goon, a young man in a hoodie — tense, eyes darting.
Stephen:
Alright. Let's make this easy. What's your name?
Fixie Goon:
Ethan. Ethan Scort.
Stephen (nodding):
Okay, Ethan Scort. You a member of the Fixie Goons?
Ethan:
Yeah… sometimes. We just cycle, hang out. That's it.
Stephen:
Right. So tell me — did you kill Henry Garcia?
Ethan (frowning):
Henry who? Never heard of him.
Stephen:
Victim from your area. Found dead two nights ago. Evidence points to one of your crew.
Ethan (defensive):
No, man, we don't do stuff like that! We ride bikes, we drink, we see girls — that's all.
Stephen:
So why'd you run when my partner showed you his badge?
Ethan (hesitates):
I... I thought he was one of Bruno's guys, alright?
Stephen:
Bruno? Who's Bruno?
Ethan:
He's… the leader. Fixie Goons' main man. Keeps things under control.
Stephen (leaning forward):
Where can I find him?
Ethan (shrugs):
Same old spots. His house… maybe near the east block, where we meet up. Depends.
Stephen (writing in his notebook):
And what kind of "things" do you guys do, Ethan?
Ethan (hesitating):
...Some stuff gets stolen, sometimes. Bikes, gear, tools — nothing crazy.
Stephen:
That's all?
Ethan:
Yeah. Now can I go? I didn't do nothing!
Stephen closes the file calmly and stands.
Stephen:
You're staying here for now.
He walks toward the door, knocks twice, and steps out. The door shuts with a metallic clank.
Scene 10 — Outside the Station / Street — Day
Stephen:
Alright, Lisa, James — since he said Bruno's place is nearby, we'll check there first.
CUT TO:
Scene 11 — Bruno's Garage
Bruno leans against his bicycle, earbuds in. James approaches with his badge ready.
James:
CBI.
Bruno (confused):
Yo, bro… what? Who are you?
James:
We're here to talk.
Stephen (arriving):
Yeah, he's right. We just need to ask you a few questions about a case. Nothing serious if you cooperate.
Bruno:
Alright, man. Go on.
Scene 12 — Questioning Bruno
Stephen:
You know a man named Henry Garcia?
Bruno:
Name sounds familiar… got a photo?
Stephen:
Yeah. [shows photo]
Bruno:
Right, that guy. I saw him with Adwin once.
James (muttering):
Another name in the loop, huh?
Stephen:
Where is Adwin now?
Bruno:
You want, I can call him.
Stephen:
Do it.
Bruno dials.
Bruno:
Yo, man, we got some issues here. The CBI wants a word with you.
Adwin (on phone):
What? Okay… give me ten minutes.
Stephen:
Tell him if he doesn't show, we'll make it official.
Bruno (into phone):
Yeah, better come, bro.
Scene 13 — Bruno's Garage, Later
Adwin walks in, nervous.
Adwin:
Alright, what's this about?
Stephen:
Tell me, did you know Henry Garcia?
Adwin:
Yeah… yeah, I knew him.
Stephen:
Anything you can tell us about him?
Adwin:
He used to come and go. We talked sometimes.
Stephen (leaning forward):
Did you kill him, Adwin?
Adwin (snaps):
No! Why would I?
Bruno:
Hey—man, don't forget our rule. We don't kill people.
Adwin (hesitating):
I didn't—
Bruno:
Swear on your mother's grave then.
(Adwin lowers his eyes.)
Adwin (quietly):
…Okay. I did.*
FLASHBACK — Henry's House — Night
Henry and Adwin face each other in a dimly lit room.
Adwin:
Yo, Henry, when you paying me my money, man? I need those dollars!
Henry:
You'll get it when I say so.
Adwin:
You think I'm playing?
Henry slaps Adwin hard across the face. Rage flares. Henry grabs him, but Adwin dodges, spots a crowbar on the floor, and swings.
CRACK! Henry drops, blood on the floor.
Scene 14 — Back to Present
Adwin (shaking):
He came at me first… I didn't mean to.
Bruno:
Man, I can't believe it's you.
James (taking out cuffs):
You're under arrest, Adwin.
Scene 15— CBI Office — Night
Stephen stands by the whiteboard with the case file closed. Lisa types away at her computer while James leans on a desk, half-tired.
Stephen:
Guess that's how it ends… finally, the work's done.
Lisa (still typing):
Yeah, for once.
Stephen (turns to James):
James, you gotta do better next time.
James (grinning):
Yeah, I got it.
Stephen:
Guess what? It was a loop… but we did it.
James:
How do you even pull this off, man?
Stephen (smirks):
Just my old friend's trick. Lucas.
James:
Lucas?
Stephen:
Yeah. A very good person — can read you like an open book.
James:
Interesting person. I'd like to meet him.
Stephen:
People call him Mr. Narcist. He's coming tomorrow.
Lisa (looks up):
Oh, good to hear.
Stephen:
Yeah, he's coming tomorrow.
James:
Nice. Hope I get to meet him.
Stephen (smiles):
Of course you can.
Scene 15— Next Morning — Highway Road
A black car speeds down the road. Inside are two men — one bald, driving recklessly, and next to him sits Lucas Parker, sharp-suited and calm.
Driver:
So tell me, Lucas, what's even special about this place?
Lucas:
Nothing. Just an old friend called me here — that's why I'm coming.
The car speeds into the city and stops outside the CBI station.
Scene 17— CBI Headquarters — Morning
Everyone is busy working. The main gate opens as the guards salute. The black car stops. Stephen looks out the window.
Stephen:
Oh… he's here.
James:
Who, him?
They walk outside. The car door opens and Lucas steps out, adjusting his coat with a smirk.
Stephen:
Long time no see, Lucas.
Lucas:
Yeah. How're you doing, Stephen?
Stephen:
Good… mostly.
Lucas (grinning):
You look stressed. Still got issues with that Richard thing pending, huh?
Stephen sighs. James steps up.
James:
Hey. So you're the famous Lucas Parker?
Lucas:
Oh hey — James Miller, right?
James:
Yeah… that's me. So you're that mind reader?
Lucas (smiling):
That's what they say.
James:
Huh. Interesting.
Lucas:
So, you're about to ask me if I can read your mind, right?
James blinks — caught off guard.
Lucas (grinning wider):
Oh, and one fun fact — Lisa told you yesterday that I'm "very handsome," didn't she? Don't worry, I'm not that sexy.
James (shocked):
What—how did you—
Lucas:
Easy. Like magic. Example — check your left pocket.
James checks. There's a small key inside. He looks stunned.
Lucas (grabs it):
Thanks. My car key.
He opens the trunk and pulls out a camera, a few metal rods, and some odd gadgets.
Lucas (patting James on the shoulder):
Can I trust you? Take these to my room — wherever I'm staying.
James:
Uh… sure.
Lucas:
Thanks.
Stephen (smiling):
Your mind games always amaze me, Lucas.
Lucas:
Sometimes I just like to see what people can really do.
Lucas (turning to his driver):
Hey Simon — go with James. Show him where to put everything.
Simon:
Yeah, sure thing.
Camera pans up to Lucas watching them walk off — calm, confident, unreadable.
briefing room. Papers, photos, and old case files are scattered across the table. The mood is tense but curious.
Lucas (leans back):
So tell me, Stephen… why'd you even invite me this time?
Lemme guess — again the same case, huh? The vampire case?
Stephen (nodding, sighing):
Yeah. Actually, I needed you for this one. It's been haunting me for years.
We call it "The Vampire Case."
Lucas:
Yeah, I've heard about that one.
The "vampire killer," right? When the body arrives the next day — it vanishes.
Stephen (quietly):
Exactly. Every time.
Lucas:
Hmm… sounds like fun — and a headache.
Still, we can find him somehow. So, what've you got so far?
Stephen:
Only this — marks of teeth.
But no DNA. Nothing.
No trace of saliva, no fingerprints, nothing human.
Lucas (smirks):
That's creepy. I wish I had access to the body — would've been useful.
But you said it vanished, right?
Stephen:
Yeah. Five times now. Every time we find one… next day, gone.
Lucas (grinning slightly):
Then this one's gonna be interesting.
I always wanted to face a killer like this.
Lucas stands, stretching slightly.
Lucas:
By the way — where's that Lisa woman you talked about?
Never met her.
Stephen:
Oh, she's right there.
Lisa walks over, holding a tablet of reports.
Lucas (smiling):
Hi, Lisa.
Lisa:
Hey, how are you?
Lucas:
I'm good — you?
Lisa:
Well… busy as always.
Lucas (teasing, sits back down):
You're trying to figure out why I'm this handsome, right?
Trust me — I'm not that handsome at all.
Lisa raises an eyebrow, trying not to smile.
Lucas (grinning):
So you work with body checks, romantic autopsies, neuroscience stuff, huh?
Lisa (confused, laughing):
Wait—how do you even know that?
Lucas (snapping fingers):
Just… sometimes I know what people are thinking. You know what I'm trying to say.
He stands, looks at Stephen.
Lucas:
So, Stephen — walk with me.
They leave the office and walk through the hallway together.
Scene 2 — Hallway — Continuous
Lucas:
Tell me, what's up with that James guy? He's new, right?
Stephen:
Yeah. Just joined. Why?
Lucas (observing):
He looks like he doesn't want to be here, but he wants to prove he does.
Like… he's trying to hide something.
Let me guess — no parents, right?
Stephen (shocked):
Yeah. How do you even know that?
Lucas (smirks):
Just… my thing. I read people — bodies, minds, silences.
Stephen (shakes head, smiling):
You never change.
They reach Stephen's office and sit down again.
Lucas (leans forward):
So, Stephen… you ever interested in something like magic?
Stephen (about to answer):
Oh, my phone's ringing—
He checks the caller ID, face going serious.
Stephen:
Sorry, Lucas. We've got another case.
Lucas (grinning):
Oh… now that's interesting.
Let's see who it'll be this time.
stephen said
Guess have to check scenes ended