![](https://static.penana.com/images/chapter/1433600/MX_drayton_03.jpg)
PAGE 1 (SIX PANELS)
Panel 1.38Please respect copyright.PENANApZxHC6kWz0
CUT TO: EL GOUNA, EGYPT38Please respect copyright.PENANAtjqADh9V9K
INT. POLICE STATION - MORNING
TWO INSPECTORS APPROACH THE UNDEAD BARBARY PIRATE STRAPPED TO A TABLE IN AN INTERROGATION ROOM. THE UNDEAD BARBARY PIRATE LIES STILL FROM THE NATURAL STILLNESS OF DEATH.
Panel 2.
THE UNDEAD BARBARY PIRATE SUDDENLY THRASHES WITH A SPORADIC UNNATURAL STRUGGLE ATTEMPTING TO GET FREE FROM ITS CONSTRAINTS.
Panel 3.
CAUTIOUSLY DETECTIVE HASSAN APPROACHES THE TABLE TO BEGIN CONVERSING WITH THE UNDEAD BARBARY PIRATE.
DETECTIVE HASSAN: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAVlM4qWZTx4
Can you speak?
UNDEAD BARBARY PIRATE: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAkYJhljuvkU
Yes. Release me!
DETECTIVE HASSAN: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAB08TClDAGX
I'm afraid that's quite impossible. You see, I have a few questions for you.
Panel 4.
DETECTIVE HADID POINTS AT THE UNDEAD BARBARY PIRATE ATTEMPTING TO INTIMIDATE IT.
DETECTIVE HADID: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAOZuNgFHtvU
Listen up, you abomination! We're going to ask you questions and you're going to answer them! Understood? Now why have you been attacking us?
Panel 5.
DETECTIVE HADID DRAWS HIS FINGER BACK AS THE UNDEAD BARBARY PIRATE ATTEMPTS TO BITE HIM.
Panel 6.
CLOSE-UP OF THE UNDEAD BARBARY PIRATE LYING BACK ON THE TABLE LAUGHING.
UNDEAD BARBARY PIRATE: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAXeds3I0pNh
You imply that you have some sort of power over me. In my corpse, I possess more power than you will ever see in your wretched life!
PAGE 2 (SIX PANELS)
Panel 1.
DETECTIVE HADID HITS UNDEAD BARBARY PIRATE ACROSS THE FACE WITH HIS PISTOL.
DETECTIVE HADID: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAwZhZWcZvLy
Blasted freak!
Panel 2.
DETECTIVE HASSAN HOLDS BACK DETECTIVE HADID.
DETECTIVE HASSAN: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAUJIrzSnHp2
Would you get ahold of yourself? How are we supposed to get answers if you damage it?
DETECTIVE HADID: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAYBaSHN7PLU
You saw what it tried to do!
DETECTIVE HASSAN: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANA18is18aaIY
Well, how about you keep your appendages to yourself?
Panel 3.
DETECTIVE HASSAN FACES THE UNDEAD BARBARY PIRATE WITH A STERN EXPRESSION.
DETECTIVE HASSAN: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANABNk8ckocm2
We want answers and we want them now. Why have you been attacking our city?
Panel 4.
THE UNDEAD BARBARY PIRATE GRINS MANIACALLY AT THE DETECTIVES.
UNDEAD BARBARY PIRATE: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAg8LEpDkjph
We've come to reclaim the stolen jewel that one of you infidels has stolen from us. Any actions we take to achieve that goal are necessary!
DETECTIVE HADID: (<OFF-PANEL ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAxntgbga9P1
A pirate through and through, huh? What's so special about this jewel?
Panel 5.
THE UNDEAD BARBARY PIRATE BEGINS TO CONVULSE AND THRASH VIOLENTLY SHOCKING BOTH DETECTIVE HASSAN AND HADID.
DETECTIVE HADID: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAIvCZBXQat3
What in the world?
DETECTIVE HASSAN: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAGfMMLPVMsz
I would like to air on the side of caution. Let's vacate the room, shall we?
Panel 6.
DETECTIVES HASSAN AND HADID ABSCOND FROM THE ROOM AND SHUT THE DOOR.
PAGE 3 (SIX PANELS)
Panel 1.
ALONGSIDE A LARGE GROUP OF POLICE OFFICERS WHO WERE WATCHING THE INTERROGATION, DETECTIVES HASSAN AND HADID, WATCH THE UNDEAD BARBARY PIRATE FROM OUTSIDE OF THE INTERROGATION ROOM WHO SEEMS TO BE ATTEMPTING TO STRUGGLE FREE FROM ITS RESTRAINTS.
DETECTIVE HADID: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAtz2n8hBeIu
Those straps are going to hold it, right?
DETECTIVE HASSAN: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAalFSHW2c8B
We don't have any other choice but to hope for the best.
Panel 2.
AFTER A FEW SECONDS THE UNDEAD BARBARY PIRATE BEGINS TO GLOW FROM THE INSIDE OUT.
Panel 3.
THE UNDEAD BARBARY PIRATE BLOWS UP COMPLETELY DISSENTERGRATING.
Panel 4.
DETECTIVE HADID PUNCHES THE GLASS ON OF THE INTERROGATION ROOM IN FURY.
DETECTIVE HADID: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAf6unzoYZx0
Damn it! What the hell do we do now?
Panel 5.
DETECTIVE HASSAN REMAINS CALM BEGINNING TO LIGHT A CIGARETTE AND DETECTIVE HADID GLANCES AT HIM WITH AN IRRITATED EXPRESSION.
DETECTIVE HASSAN: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAUHIF8RVkgp
Would you reign it in, Hadid?
DETECTIVE HADID: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAkKbHSn8QwF
What are you talking about? Our only lead literally just blew up in our faces. Why are you so kosher?
Panel 6.
DETECTIVE HASSAN POINTS AT THE CLOTHING AND A MEDAL THAT WAS LEFT BEHIND BY THE UNDEAD BARBARY PIRATE.
DETECTIVE HASSAN: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANApn2Tg0cMFz
Not all is lost. There are still discoveries to be made. Look there.
PAGE 4 (FIVE PANELS)
Panel 1.
DETECTIVES HASSAN AND HADID LOOK INTO THE INTERROGATION ROOM THROUGH THE GLASS.
DETECTIVE HASSAN: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAsiQpwBuYEs
That's a crest known to be worn by Barbary Pirates.
DETECTIVE HADID: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANA4nZlafZSpo
What makes you so sure?
DETECTIVE HASSAN: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANA9pfigXrnkW
I remembered seeing something like it in history class. Getting this close of a look at him, I also did a little research on my phone. That was definitely a Barbary pirate.
DETECTIVE HADID: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAEfCMa9H1Sf
Well, even with this information, what do we do now?
Panel 2.
DETECTIVE HASSAN PINCHES HIS CHIN IN A PONDERING GESTURE.
DETECTIVE HASSAN: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAxMucZFKoPL
We know vaguely what they're searching for. We might as well use it to our advantage. We should go to the local libraries and museums. There could be information there that can help us.
Panel 3.
DETECTIVE HADID LOOKS AWAY WITH AN EXASPERATED EXPRESSION.
DETECTIVE HADID: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAmqSPFBSztl
I hope you're right about this. The last place in the world I want to be is a library.
Panel 4.
DETECTIVE HASSAN TAPS DETECTIVE HADID ON THE SHOULDER WITH HIS KNUCKLE IN AN ENCOURAGING GESTURE AS HE WALKS PAST HIM.
DETECTIVE HASSAN: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAEi5HYMB0f8
Oh, come on, Hadid. Reading could do you some good.
DETECTIVE HADID: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAhesLMHyLUz
I read enough with all the paperwork I have to file! No one ever likes to think about that!
Panel 5.
DETECTIVE HASSAN AND HADID LEAVE THE POLICE STATION TOGETHER.
DETECTIVE HASSAN: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANA6gxWSLWVu6
Oh, would you stop being such a big baby?
DETECTIVE HADID: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAY637vsoe7d
You're lucky that I like you, Hassan.
PAGE 5 (SEVEN PANELS)
Panel 1.38Please respect copyright.PENANAHmwAbzsUPL
CUT TO: EL GOUNA, EGYPT38Please respect copyright.PENANAyZBQDMgyBY
INT. MUSEUM - MORNING
SHAFIRA LOOKS OVER SOME DOCUMENTS REGARDING THE XESYN SAPPHIRE, TAKES DOWN A COUPLE OF NOTES, AND READS OVER THE FILES AGAIN.
Panel 2.
CLOSE-UP PANEL OF SHAFIRA DISCOVERING SOMETHING IN HER RESEARCH.
Panel 3.
SHAFIRA APPROACHES HER COWORKER'S DESK. MONICA LOOKS UP FROM HER COMPUTER AT SHAFIRA WITH A FRIENDLY EXPRESSION.
SHAFIRA SARKIS: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA0eaKszGB6Y
Hey, Monica, do you believe that the archives would have information on the Battle of Derna?
MONICA: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAG1RGMD8ebB
I believe that we could. You'd just have to check.
SHAFIRA SARKIS: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAZRm6Xv1TZK
I would but the only problem is that I don't exactly have clearance yet. I.T. is still updating my clearance specifications.
Panel 4.
MONICA LEANS BACK IN HER CHAIR WITH A RELIEFED EXPRESSION AND SHAFIRA GRINS WITH A PLEASED EXPRESSION.
MONICA: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAwZGLb8z9zL
I was looking for a reason to stretch my legs anyway. I suppose I could tag along.
SHAFIRA SARKIS: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAbTemQBxuud
Even better.
Panel 5.
MONICA AND SHAFIRA GO TO THE ACHIEVES AND MONICA SWIPES THEM IN USING HER CARD.
MONICA: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA5nsHpJWEWX
So, what are you hoping to find?
SHAFIRA SARKIS: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAJOJhDybYmC
A connection. There was a soldier named Alden Stewart and if hunch is correct we could have records of his accounts.
Panel 6.
SHAFIRA LOOKS THROUGH THE FILES IN THE SECTION THAT SHE NEEDS TO WHILE MONICA LEANS AGAINST A WALL.
MONICA: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAdULvZCd37b
It's amazing how things will work out, huh? Who would have known that an artifact like the Xesyn Sapphire was just sitting in a trunk right under our noses?
SHAFIRA SARKIS: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANARrI6qt9xie
It's probably for the better. Jaaden has a good head on her shoulders. Anyone else probably would have pawned it for a quick buck without considering its significance at all.
Panel 7.
SHAFIRA FINDS THE FILES THAT SHE'S LOOKING FOR. MONICA WAVES HER HAND IN A BANAL GESTURE.
SHAFIRA SARKIS: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAEjN3NoIiyQ
Here they are! I will get these back to you as soon as I can.
MONICA: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAJKhB1Ve92U
Oh, it's all fine. I hope that you find what you were looking for.
SHAFIRA SARKIS: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA9P6NQWUu0v
Me too. Thanks for your help.
MONICA: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANANqzkcdszqW
Anytime.
PAGE 6 (SEVEN PANELS)
Panel 1.38Please respect copyright.PENANAB0KOf0dhKs
CUT TO: EL GOUNA, EGYPT38Please respect copyright.PENANA1MhkxoElgi
INT. JAADEN'S FLAT - MORNING
TO̅MI WAKES UP IN HER BED AND STRETCHES.
TO̅MI: (THINKING BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAz4gnvs9YBw
Who would have thought that I would have found trouble here in a time like this? I was really looking forward to just hanging out.
Panel 2.
TO̅MI LOOKS AT HER DAMAGED WETSUIT WITH A SULLEN EXPRESSION.
TO̅MI: (THINKING BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAQWxvDb4mvs
What's worse, I paid all that money for this swimsuit only to have it trashed. It was my favorite color too.
Panel 3.
TO̅MI PERFORMS A SHOULDER SWING STRETCH.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAiZCQbtBzic
I definitely spent too much time in the water. I'm seldom sore after a fight. I guess I've got no choice but to be more careful now.
Panel 4.
TO̅MI GLANCES CHEERFULLY AT THE DOOR AS JAADEN KNOCKS ON IT.
Panel 5.
TO̅MI ANSWERS THE DOOR WITH A CHEERFUL EXPRESSION AND JAADEN SMILES ENTHUSIASTICALLY.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAtoigupcjyD
Good morning.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAF6ciC90iS6
Hey, hi, hello!
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA405uitrvBJ
You hungry? I was thinking we could get something to eat.
Panel 6.
TO̅MI HOLDS HER STOMACH AS IT GROWLS AND SHE SMILES WITH AN AWKWARD EXPRESSION. JAADEN SCRATCHES HER HEAD WITH AN AWKWARD EXPRESSION AS WELL.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAFQEqtXqc88
Oh, yeah, that's right. Dinner was interrupted last night. Boy, that was a bummer, right?
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA9jRSdWg8EM
Yeah, it was. Hopefully, we can eat in peace this morning. I was wondering if you had anything in mind.
Panel 7.
TO̅MI SNAPS HER FINGERS SIGNALLING THAT SHE ALREADY HAS AN IDEA IN MIND AND JAADEN DEVELOPS A CURIOUS EXPRESSION.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA1ADrTNPiwr
I know just the place!
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAVwP1iAWL5X
Y—you do?
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAwZEZUWhBBG
Oh, yeah! Get dressed, we're going out!
PAGE 7 (EIGHT PANELS)
Panel 1.38Please respect copyright.PENANADzAgauukPa
CUT TO: EL GOUNA, EGYPT38Please respect copyright.PENANAMsed6vYx5n
EXT. NOHA'S FOOD STAND - MORNING
NOHA GIVES A WOMAN AND HER DAUGHTER THEIR BREAKFAST PASTRIES.
NOHA: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANA0vf8dmQ7Zr
Thank you, have a wonderful day!
WOMAN NO. 1: (<ARABIC BALLOON>)38Please respect copyright.PENANAAoBH02ZikC
You as well.
Panel 2.
NOHA WIPES HER BROW WITH A HAPPY EXPRESSION WHILE USING HER OTHER HAND TO WIPE UP A SMALL SPILL WITH A RAG.
Panel 3.
NOHA LOOKS TO HER RIGHT WITH A CURIOUS EXPRESSION AS SHE HEARS TO̅MI CALLING FOR HER.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAkaczDuKig1
Hey, Noha!
Panel 4.
NOHA DEVELOPS A DELIGHTED EXPRESSION AS TO̅MI AND JAADEN APPROACH HER STAND.
NOHA: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAjHWXS8rNxb
Ah, To̅mi. Good morning! It's nice to see you again!
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAaVH8bskX0N
'Morning, Noha. I was telling my friend here about your cooking. I couldn't think of anywhere else I wanted to try eating this morning.
NOHA: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAbH6DFCbmpu
Thank you very much. That's extremely flattering.
Panel 5.
TO̅MI LEANS IN FRONT OF THE STAND WITH AN EXCITED EXPRESSION. NOHA SMILES WITH A CHEERFUL EXPRESSION.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAWJlsV7cYEL
You wouldn't happen to have breakfast options, would you?
NOHA: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAcppb6UHYTm
As a matter of fact, I do!
Panel 6.
TO̅MI AND JAADEN LOOK AT THE MENUS TOGETHER. TO̅MI HAS A MORE CLUELESS EXPRESSION WHILE JAADEN EXAMINES HER MENU WITH AN ATTENTIVE EXPRESSION.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA5thD0RpOqI
Hey, Jaaden, I know I said I wanted to come here but it just occurred to me that I'm not familiar with the cuisine. Have any recommendations?
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAEoSqrUTCqs
Yep, and you'll love it.
Panel 7.
JAADEN HANDS THE MENUES BACK TO NOHA.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAZpKfoQYDhG
Two of the Beid Bel Basturma, please.
Panel 8.
NOHA HOLDS UP A SPATULA WITH A CHEERFUL EXPRESSION.
NOHA: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAsAwYsuHsLM
Absolutely, coming right up!
PAGE 8 (SIX PANELS)
Panel 1.38Please respect copyright.PENANA52qfrlyhIA
CUT TO: A SHORT WHILE LATER; EL GOUNA, EGYPT38Please respect copyright.PENANAFaXkPkiBf0
EXT. NOHA'S FOOD STAND - MORNING
NOHA SERVES TO̅MI AND JAADEN THEIR BREAKFAST AT A MAKESHIFT TABLE SHE HAS PREPARED.
NOHA: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANACLRWNOb8Ic
Please enjoy.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAEchWaDcMdM
Thank you, it looks very delicious.
Panel 2.
A SMALL PANEL OF JADDEN TAKES A BITE OF HER FOOD.
Panel 3.
JAADEN DEVELOPS AN ENTHRALLED EXPRESSION AT THE TASTE OF THE FOOD. TO̅MI GIVES JAADEN A STIFLED EXPRESSION.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAsyU5uefxEQ
This is amazing! It might be the best breakfast I've ever tasted!
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAoCCUFPWhnf
Someone should answer the phone because I called it!
Panel 4.
JAADEN BECKONS NOHA TO SIT DOWN AT THE TABLE WITH HER AND TO̅MI.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAKkuwni4d64
Hey, Noha, would you mind sitting with us for a bit?
NOHA: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAivsleaY6Os
Oh, I couldn't—!
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA8ZfVmO50uw
No, please. I won't stop you from working, I've just got to hear your story!
NOHA: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAN83jhz27UP
Oh, I suppose it would hurt to sit for a little bit. Thank you, you're very kind.
Panel 5.
NOHA, TO̅MI, AND JAADEN SIT AT THE MAKESHIFT TABLE TOGETHER.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAiiJnp2ks23
How'd you learn to cook this way?
NOHA: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAK9Oe0fyBdr
My mother was ill when I was younger. I had to prepare meals for the family, and I wasn't willing to accept mediocrity. So, I searched every book I could find for recipes and infused them with my personal flair. The rest is history. I have hope that one day, I'll be able to open my own restaurant and I've been putting in the work to make it happen.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAqnsVkH7NXx
Would you ever consider catering? I believe that a function I'm having in a couple of days could serve you very well. It would be a great chance for recognition.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANABgODHGGrkx
Hey, that's right! Your career could take off if the right person got a taste of your cooking!
Panel 6.
NOHA DEVELOPS A BASHFUL EXPRESSION. JAADEN LEANS IN TOWARD NOHA WITH A SINCERE EXPRESSION.
NOHA: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAc0KeIVl46L
That's... oh, my—! Do you really think that something like that could happen?
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAZ3h32Kg5MF
I really want to help you try! Your cooking is too amazing not to be well known!
PAGE 9 (FIVE PANELS)
Panel 1.
NOHA DEVELOPS A JOYFUL EXPRESSION TO THE POINT OF HAVING TO WIPE A TEAR FROM HER FACE. JAADEN GLANCES AT NOHA WITH A CONCERNED EXPRESSION.
NOHA: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAvG0enaYFN9
No one has ever said something like that to me before.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAUyzd20t2Un
Oh, I'm sorry, Noha. I wasn't trying to make you cry.
NOHA: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAI6LQqb56kj
Tears of joy, rest assured.
Panel 2.
NOHA GLANCES AT JAADEN WITH AN ENTHUSIATIC EXPRESSION. JAADEN SMILES BACK WITH AN ENTHUSIASTIC EXPRESSION AS WELL.
NOHA: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAFmBjmfa0X2
If there's a possibility of that happening, I would be grateful for the opportunity.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAQSz1Sj9fOJ
Great, let me get your number.
Panel 3.
NOHA HANDS JAADEN A PIECE OF PAPER WITH HER CONTACT INFORMATION ON IT.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA8McnJWyD2Q
I'll be sure to call you as soon as I know more details.
NOHA: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANABHqZWVeHWO
Thank you!
Panel 4.
NOHA SINCERELY GRASPS TO̅MI'S HAND IN A THANKFUL GESTURE.
NOHA: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA1oYEwG6Xx6
Thank you, too, To̅mi!
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAUQjjpVm3YB
It was nothing.
Panel 5.
NOHA WAVES GOODBYE TO TO̅MI AND JAADEN AS MORE CUSTOMERS ARRIVE AT HER STAND.
NOHA: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAGFxtrWmnGC
I'm sorry but I have to get back.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAD5O5N8GHll
Yeah, sure handle your business, girl!
PAGE 10 (SIX PANELS)
Panel 1.
JAADEN LOOKS TO̅MI WITH AN EXCITED EXPRESSION. TO̅MI HOLDS UP A BROCHURE WITH AN EXCITED EXPRESSION.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAZS6oQw2N3P
Hey, before the day passes us by, we should do something fun!
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA9NnnNUGNUO
Hey, I'm game. I picked up this brochure the other day at the airport. They have so many activities to do here. Will we even have time for it all?
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAFQ3FKzxv1q
Not if we spend all day talking about it. Eat up, we're gonna hit the town!
Panel 2.38Please respect copyright.PENANAFesaQolHWP
CUT TO: EL GOUNA, EGYPT38Please respect copyright.PENANA6BCEF87IXx
EXT. SAND VOLLEYBALL COURT - EARLY AFTERNOON
TO̅MI AND JAADEN PLAY BEACH VOLLEYBALL AGAINST ANOTHER TEAM.
Panel 3.
OPPOSING FEMALE PLAYER NO. 1 ATTEMPTS TO SPIKE THE BALL TO SCORE BUT TO̅MI DIVES STOPPING THE BALL FROM HITTING THE GROUND.
Panel 4.
JAADEN HITS THE BALL HIGH IN THE AIR TO KEEP IT ALIVE AND TO̅MI FLIPS TO HER FEET.
Panel 5.
TO̅MI SPIKES THE BALL BACK TO THE OTHER SIDE OF THE COURT FASTER THAN FEMALE PLAYER NO. 2 CAN DEFEND AND SCORES GAMEPOINT.
Panel 6.
JAADEN AND TO̅MI HIGH-FIVE EACH OTHER WITH BOTH HANDS TO CELEBRATE THEIR WIN.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAFEsuT0hTIc
Way to go, girl! That was an awesome save!
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAcCGg1zV9cg
Couldn't have done it without you. Nice assist!
PAGE 11 (SEVEN PANELS)
Panel 1.38Please respect copyright.PENANAPBtDXimJaO
CUT TO: EL GOUNA, EGYPT38Please respect copyright.PENANAllG3dictyH
EXT. GO-KART TRACK - AFTERNOON
TO̅MI AND JAADEN TAKE THE FINAL TURN TOWARD THE FINISH LINE.
Panel 2.
JAADEN MANAGES TO KEEP THE INSIDE LANE THEN SPEEDS OFF AND MANAGES TO WIN THE RACE.
Panel 3.38Please respect copyright.PENANAoflRSRrFki
CUT TO: EL GOUNA, EGYPT38Please respect copyright.PENANATyRF2VMQOY
EXT. CITY CANALS - AFTERNOON
TO̅MI AND JAADEN TAKE A BOAT RIDE THROUGH THE CANALS OF THE CITY.
Panel 4.38Please respect copyright.PENANA7X0oEcsqvD
CUT TO: EL GOUNA, EGPYT38Please respect copyright.PENANAtyp8JuXSWV
INT. SUPERMARKET - AFTERNOON
TO̅MI AND JAADEN WALK THROUGH A SUPERMARKET TOGETHER LOOKING AT THE DIFFERENT PRODUCE.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA5uAWmNjpQt
I'm glad that you're still playing volleyball. Although I do have to say that it feels like I'm cheating teaming up with you.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAfwIOfOrHnF
I guess you could say that. Then again, I could say the same thing about you and the go-kart race. I'm glad I didn't bet anything. How'd you learn to drive like that?
Panel 5.
JAADEN SHRUGS HER SHOULDERS WITH A PLAYFULLY SMUG EXPRESSION. TO̅MI GRINS AT JAADEN WITH A MISCHIEVOUSLY EAGER EXPRESSION.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAl5HeqaLUqx
It's just something you pick up from the better drivers who race there. I'm willing to give you a rematch anytime that you want.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAO3NVV8ptpv
You're on!
Panel 6.
JAADEN LOOKS GLANCES AT A CLOCK WITH A WISHFUL EXPRESSION. TO̅MI LOOKS AT JAADEN WITH A CONCERNED EXPRESSION.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAMzXtaFAHmL
That being said, we just have to fit it sometime after the ceremony. Hopefully, there's enough time.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAQnnnUpfZ0x
Are you nervous at all?
Panel 7.
LONG BOTTOM PANEL OF JAADEN AND TO̅MI FACING EACH OTHER. JAADEN HAS A SLIGHTLY NERVOUS EXPRESSION WHILE TO̅MI GLANCES AT HER WITH A THOUGHTFUL EXPRESSION.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA6kYpxublZQ
There were talks of me giving a speech but I don't really know what I have to say. I typed up a rough speech a while ago but I haven't even rehearsed it. I've just been procrastinating, you know?
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAWKjcMiPoGp
What's the deal with this sapphire anyway?
PAGE 12 (SIX PANELS)
Panel 1.
JAADEN TALKS WITH HER HANDS WHILE TO̅MI LISTENS ATTENTIVELY.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAbU3HHwfUoF
My great-grandpa Alden Stewart acquired the sapphire while taking part in the Battle of Derna.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAzFwkgEfPFZ
What was the Battle of Derna?
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA3yQZD2T7Fx
The war's objectives sought to eradicate all the Barbary pirates, liberate American slaves, and put an end to piracy amongst competing tribes in the areas they controlled. He had a personal interest in the issue, as some of his teammates had been taken prisoner of war.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAHiGVwmqjan
Not that it was any of my business but why didn't you ever mention it before? It seems like an interesting story to tell.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAmoj9tekNSw
Oddly enough it seems like no one knew about it either. Even odder than that was it seemed like it was supposed to be hidden away. I found it tucked in the attic in an old chest, I mean really old. No one else had any idea it was even in the flat.
Panel 2.
TO̅MI LOOKS AT JAADEN WITH A CURIOUS EXPRESSION. JAADEN LOOKS AWAY WITH AN UNSURE EXPRESSION.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAuQAjb9leMt
I guess you're fortunate that no one rediscovered it before you did. What made you want to sell it to the museum?
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAt0jf8WRNcg
No one really has any relationship to it, despite the fact that it is a family heirloom. The appraiser my family chose made sure we would get the best price for it, and we could always use the money. What would you have done?
Panel 3.
TO̅MI LOOKS AWAY FROM JAADEN WITH AN UNSURE EXPRESSION.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAe2WBu4m1ls
It's hard to say. On one hand, I think having something cool to pass down the family line would be quite cool. However, if something didn't hold any sentimental significance, I can see why someone may choose to part ways with it.
Panel 4.
TO̅MI GLANCES AT JAADEN WITH CURIOUS EXPRESSION. JAADEN LOOKS AT TO̅MI WITH A SURPRISED EXPRESSION.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAw3XAqbuOPU
Hmm.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAuo7eed7ThO
What?
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA48yJZBfQi8
I thought maybe you were chomping at the bit to give me a lesson or something like that.
Panel 5.
TO̅MI SHRUGS HER SHOULDERS AND JAADEN GLANCES AT HER WITH AN ANXIOUS EXPRESSION.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA8Jagjm5eS1
Well, it's not mine. Why should I have any say in what you do with it?
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAtdV27ZQTBE
I guess that's true. However, you bring up an interesting point. What if when I'm older I want to share something cool with my kids? I'll have to usher them down to the museum and point at what used to be mine. I just don't know how I should feel about it.
Panel 6.
TO̅MI PATS JAADEN ON THE SHOULDER IN A SUPPORTIVE GESTURE. JAADEN LOOKS AT TO̅MI WITH A GRATEFUL EXPRESSION.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANARMdG4xYslM
Just do what feels right.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA3e7eIkMlqA
Thanks.
PAGE 13 (FIVE PANELS)
Panel 1.
JAADEN FISHES HER PHONE OUT OF HER POCKET AS IT BEGINS TO RING.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAmqXleLGrAY
I'm sorry, To̅mi, give me a second.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAUuoE9150Y4
No, you're good. Take your time.
Panel 2.
JAADEN STEPS AWAY TO TALK ON THE PHONE.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAc7baOuxYPs
Hello. Oh, hey, how're you? Yes, I'm not terribly busy. I could swing by if you really need me to. Okay, I'll be there as soon as I can. Bye.
Panel 3.
JAADEN REJOINS TO̅MI WITH AN AWKWARD EXPRESSION. TO̅MI LOOKS PUZZLED AT JAADEN'S EXPRESSION.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA9gw6DpdlGr
Hey, so apparently, Shafira wants to talk to me. You wouldn't mind tagging along for a while, would you?
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAjUbOwV6xVM
Why would I have a problem with that? I'm here to support you after all.
Panel 4.
JAADEN GLANCES AT TO̅MI WITH A DELIGHTED EXPRESSION. TO̅MI LOOKS AWAY WITH A FLUSTERED EXPRESSION.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAKt7OibjiCJ
Thank you, To̅mi. You're the best, you know that?
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAWQ17a1CxJk
Oh, it's no biggie.
Panel 5.38Please respect copyright.PENANASzSS23xrPy
CUT TO: EL GOUNA, EGYPT38Please respect copyright.PENANAmXeNssVZC7
INT. SHAFIRA'S OFFICE - AFTERNOON
TO̅MI, JAADEN, AND SHAFIRA ALL STAND IN FRONT OF THE XESYN SAPPHIRE THAT SITS IN A CASE ON SHAFIRA'S DESK.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAO7ilC0lvpF
I remember you saying that the sapphire holds some historical importance but I feel like you weren't talking about the relation to the Barbary wars. What were you talking about?
SHAFIRA SARKIS: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAffXcXAVhLr
It's important because of who it belonged to.
PAGE 14 (SIX PANELS)
Panel 1.
SHAFIRA BRINGS UP SOME INFORMATION THAT SHE SCANNED ONTO A PROJECTION SCREEN AND USES A POINTER AS SHE SPEAKS.
SHAFIRA SARKIS: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAp8ou5yXliF
Alden Stewart rose to the rank of midshipmen in the U.S. Navy during the Barbary Wars and there are files we have that ensure us that he had connections to the sapphire. The Brine Beasts' increased activity has been a problem for us. I've been without an answer for a very long time, but I think this sapphire is to key to our issues.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA1smJi41kaW
It is?
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAv00CdOKA0u
Do you think it will ward them off?
Panel 2.
SHAFIRA LOOKS AT TO̅MI AND JAADEN WITH WITH A () EXPRESSION.
SHAFIRA SARKIS: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAyC4Y0Pjq1i
It's the opposite. The sapphire is what they're looking for.
Panel 3.
SHAFIRA SWITCHES TO A SLIDE THAT DEPICTS XESYN. OVER-THE-SHOULDER SHOT OF TO̅MI AND JAADEN LOOKING AT THE SCREEN IN THE ROOM.
SHAFIRA SARKIS: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAQ9yD7zZJVI
The Xesyn Sapphire actually denotes the existence of Xesyn. An ancient sea deity that represented chaos and the unknown.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAsa0PzmTBZb
So, the Brine Beasts are Xesyn's minions.
SHAFIRA SARKIS: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAvvisRSFsEf
Correct. The files of Alden's service in the Navy show that he testified about a fleet of corsairs that not only had the aid of sea monsters but also members of the crew that died in battle. It was well known that Alden joined the navy for his daredevil tendencies and that he enjoyed adventure. When a few of his close comrades and civilians were taken prisoner by Captain Lalh, he infiltrated his ship and assisted in their release. Alden took a particular interest in the sapphire since he observed Captain Lalh wielded its power and figured it must be a source of power, so he stole it and rigged explosives on the ship fearing how much of a threat the sinister crew posed.
Panel 4.
JAADEN GLANCES AT SHAFIRA WITH A PUZZLED EXPRESSION. SHAFIRA PUTS HER INDEX FINGER INTO THE AIR AS A GESTURE THAT SHE HAS AN ANSWER FOR JAADEN'S QUESTION.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAny5WK5iZxH
Why didn't he tell anyone about the experiences that he had?
SHAFIRA SARKIS: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAEXQra6yH24
Many of his higher-ups believed that the claims were the results of stress and mass hysteria, ultimately being dismissed.
Panel 5.
TO̅MI LOOKS AT SHAFIRA WITH A PUZZLED EXPRESSION. SHAFIRA GLANCES AT TO̅MI WITH AN UNSURE EXPRESSION WHILE PINCHING HER CHIN.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAv50fdC1rI4
I wonder why they're reappearing now if the sapphire has been here all this time.
SHAFIRA SARKIS: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAyVfA2HzMgk
I surmise that it's the damage to the iron sealing around the sapphire that allowed for the energy signal to be identifiable again. I believe that Captain Lalh who we haven't seen yet may be searching for it again and sending the Brine Beasts on the hunt.
Panel 6.
JAADEN PEERS AT THE IRON AROUND THE SAPPHIRE AND SHAFIRA POINTS AT THE IRON WITH HER FINGER.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAENEnBfkrYF
What's so special about the iron? I honestly thought that it was kind of shabby.
SHAFIRA SARKIS: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAgoldm0dQI8
I don't believe it used to be a part of the aesthetic of the jewel. Iron was probably used to mask the effects of the sapphire's influence. Perhaps even the most faint of the sapphire's energies are calling out to the Brine Beast since you discovered it, rejuvenating them so they can reclaim it.
PAGE 15 (SEVEN PANELS)
Panel 1.
3/4 PANEL PERSPECTIVE OF SHAFIRA HOLDING A GLASS OF WATER, JAADEN LOOKING AT THE SAPPHIRE AND TO̅MI DEVELOPING AN ANXIOUS EXPRESSION THAT SHE'S BEING WATCHED AGAIN.
SHAFIRA SARKIS: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAN85dXMoAoZ
Now you see the importance of this sapphire. Not only does it provide critical historical evidence of events but we also have a means of possibly dealing with the Brine Beasts.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAQLglsYeZIp
What are you planning?
SHAFIRA SARKIS: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAsCCxP8QGS8
I figured that we could lure them to a location and have the authorities deal with them. After all, the jewel belongs in a museum, you're still owed compensation, and I don't dare think it would be a good thing if the Lalh got his hands back on the sapphire.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA9cZGlBjFZu
Well, it's more of a plan than I have. What can we do to help?
Panel 2.
OVER THE SHOULDER, TOP-DOWN PERSPECTIVE OF TO̅MI GLANCING OUT OF THE WINDOW OF SHAFIRA'S OFFICE.
TO̅MI: (THINKING BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAV8IOwATsMk
Who is that?
Panel 3.
OVER THE SHOULDER, TOP-DOWN PERSPECTIVE OF TO̅MI GLANCING OUT OF THE WINDOW OF SHAFIRA'S OFFICE AND SPOTTING SOMEONE FLEEING.
TO̅MI: (THINKING BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAQBYUDDmVHm
Oh, no you don't!
Panel 4.
TO̅MI BEGINS TO LEAVE SHAFIRA'S OFFICE MUCH TO THE CONFUSION OF JAADEN AND SHAFIRA.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAOr4fneSQiD
Hey, where're you off to?
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAuGS318HzPK
Um, I have to use the restroom. I'll be right back.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAOS0zOPlGcW
Oh, gotcha.
Panel 5.
TO̅MI LEAVES SHAFIRA'S OFFICE HEADING TOWARD A RESTROOM.
TO̅MI: (THINKING BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAcEtDiK4zvF
I guess technically, I wasn't lying.
Panel 6.
TO̅MI CHECKS THE RESTROOM TO MAKE SURE THAT THE COAST IS CLEAR.
Panel 7.
TO̅MI CLOAKS HERSELF BY BENDING THE LIGHT AROUND HER.
TO̅MI: (WHISPERING BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANADQSmXFRuiB
Rallsesdailr.
PAGE 16 (SIX PANELS)
Panel 1.
TO̅MI FLIES OUT OF THE RESTROOM WINDOW AND GAINS ALTITUDE.
TO̅MI: (THINKING BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAQf49NW0yxG
Alright, where did you go?
Panel 2.
TO̅MI SPOTS THE PERSON WHO WAS SPYING ON HER.
Panel 3.
TO̅MI FLIES A LITTLE DISTANCE AHEAD OF THE PERSON AND LANDS IN AN ALLEY.
Panel 4.
TO̅MI MAKES HERSELF VISIBLE AND LISTENS FOR THE SOUNDS OF THE PERSON'S FOOTSTEPS AS THEY APPROACH HER LOCATION.
TO̅MI: (THINKING BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAzP12ZSc9Ca
With this, I'll have the element of surprise. Let's just hope that my acting skills will carry me as far.
Panel 5.
TO̅MI WALKS OUT OF THE ALLEY BUMPING INTO THE SPY.
Panel 6.
THE SPY, THE YOUNG WOMAN WHO TO̅MI MET THE DAY PRIOR, LOOKS AT TO̅MI WITH AN ANGRY EXPRESSION.
UNKNOWN YOUNG WOMAN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAQyiqfHsSQy
Hey, watch where you're going.
PAGE 17 (SEVEN PANELS)
Panel 1.
TO̅MI REALIZING WHO THE YOUNG WOMAN IS DOES HER BEST TO DISGIUESE HER SHOCK AT THE SITUATION.
TO̅MI: (THINKING BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA3eNVatmrZ9
It's the girl from the other day! I wonder what she's following me around for. She didn't even want to help me when I asked for directions.
Panel 2.
TO̅MI LOOKS AT THE YOUNG WOMAN WITH A FORCED AWKWARD EXPRESSION. THE UNKNOWN YOUNG WOMAN GLARES AT TO̅MI WITH A SKEPTICAL EXPRESSION.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAFlWH4WPZHX
Oh, I am so sorry about that.
UNKNOWN YOUNG WOMAN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAmfG7FctJ4W
With all the traipsing, it's so easy to bump into people in this city. You should be a little more careful. Say don't I know you?
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAWqdfajyIjE
Who me? No, I don't think so.
UNKNOWN YOUNG WOMAN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAqsQwXSTM2u
No, we've definitely met. I remember that bandana.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA8uwW1d8xKR
Oh, you might have me confused with someone else. Well, I better get going.
Panel 3.
AS TO̅MI TRIES TO LEAVE THE UNKNOWN YOUNG WOMAN GRABS AHOLD OF HER ARM WITH A DEVIOUS SMIRK. TO̅MI GLANCES AT THE UNKNOWN YOUNG WOMAN WITH A YIKES EXPRESSION.
TO̅MI: (THINKING BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAgPbACMxAEp
Boy, she's awful touchy all of a sudden.
UNKNOWN YOUNG WOMAN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAjhxiO79QQo
Hey, what's the hurry?
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAvc0wj9Y1Xb
Oh, my friend is waiting for me at the Sliders Cable & Aqua Parks. I didn't want to keep her waiting.
UNKNOWN YOUNG WOMAN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAqro5QnaSfO
She'll be in for an awful long wait if you go that way. The park is north of here.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAxX1LdxIruR
Oh, sill me. I'm terrible with directions. Give me a little credit though, this is my first time here.
Panel 4.
UNKNOWN FEMALE WOMAN GLANCES AT TO̅MI WITH A SUSPICIOUS EXPRESSION. TO̅MI GLANCES BACK WITH A SLIGHTLY NERVOUS EXPRESSION.
UNKNOWN YOUNG WOMAN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAcbGyNKT05I
Yes... I can tell. You should let me tag along. I know this little shortcut that will get you there in no time.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANABmfmGjLOy0
Oh, no thanks. I'm sure that I can find it on my own.
UNKNOWN YOUNG WOMAN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAFzcws5pFdZ
Please, I insist.
Panel 5.
UNKNOWN FEMALE WOMAN LETS GO OF TO̅MI'S ARM AND EXTENDS HER HAND TO HER.
UNKNOWN YOUNG WOMAN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAGtVTw7An9u
Sorry, we got off to such a bumpy start. The name's Lyme.
Panel 6.
TO̅MI SHAKES HANDS WITH LYME.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA3wxzMBlWSF
Um, nice to meet you. My name's To̅mi.
UNKNOWN YOUNG WOMAN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAya8l0f3yQa
To̅mi, huh? I like that name. Well, follow me, To̅mi. I'll get you where you're trying to go.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA3vnTa0jYDK
Oh, um, sure. Lead the way.
Panel 7.
LYME LEADS BEGINS WALKING IN A DIRECTION THAT DOESN'T LEAD TO THE PARKS. TO̅MI APPREHENSIVELY FOLLOWS LYME.
TO̅MI: (THINKING BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAFTErTyRzli
I have no idea how smoothly I intend for this to go but I can't blow my cover yet. I don't know what she knows but she won't clue me in if she doesn't think that she can trust me. I hope Jaaden doesn't take this personally but I've got to follow this lead.
PAGE 18 (SIX PANELS)
Panel 1.
LYME LEADS TO̅MI TO ANOTHER ALLEY. TO̅MI EXAMINES HER SURROUNDINGS WITH A CONFUSED EXPRESSION.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANADXNdANZNas
Um, Lyme, this doesn't look like the parks.
LYME: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANATVcndtqB3b
I know. I figured that we could have some fun of our own.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON) What're you talking about?
Panel 2.
LYME CHANGES HER PHYSIOLOGY INTO A GREEN SLIMEGIRL.
LYME: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAP55KcKr75s
Well, it may prove to be more fun for me than it is for you.
Panel 3.
TO̅MI IS GRABBED BY LYME AND SLAMMED INTO A WALL IN THE ALLEY.
TO̅MI: (STRAINING BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAbGzHeYdEi7
I don't know why you're attacking me but I've got no beef with you! Let me go!
LYME: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA8zvVeJ3KjM
Now, To̅mi, I just want some questions answered that's all. First question, did you really think that you were going to fool me?
Panel 4.
LYME THEN CONTINUES TO APPLY PRESSURE WHILE TO̅MI IS AGAINST THE WALL SLIGHTLY CRUSHING HER.
LYME: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAixi24xxRut
Second question, how painful will this get before you tell me what I want to know?
Panel 5.
TO̅MI GLARES AT LYME WITH AN ANGRY EXPRESSION.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAsZekAQcT7j
This may come as a shock but you haven't even asked a real question yet! Lairhdlailr!
Panel 6.
TO̅MI SHOCKS LYME AND LYME RETRACTS HER ARM LETTING TO̅MI GO.
LYME: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAbm2aEmMrqU
Argh!!!
PAGE 19 (SIX PANELS)
Panel 1.
TO̅MI FLIES INTO THE AIR ATTEMPTING TO FLEE.
TO̅MI: (THINKING BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAnqUR33D03H
This is bad! She knows my name and she's unhinged. Hopefully, that attack did some good damage so I can give her the slip.
Panel 2.
TO̅MI SUDDENLY FEELS A TUGGING ON HER LEFT LEG.
Panel 3.
TO̅MI LOOKS BACK WITH A PANICKED EXPRESSION TO SEE THAT LYME HAS STRETCHED HER ARM UP TO GRAB HER. LYME GRINS AT TO̅MI WITH A SPITEFUL EXPRESSION.
LYME: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAoYw3kugckU
Where are going, To̅mi?
TO̅MI: (WHISPERING BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAUiuGeUBqga
Oh, my gosh, this girl!
Panel 4.
TO̅MI FLIES UP ATTEMPTING TO FREE HERSELF FROM LYME WHILE LYME HOLDS ONTO TO̅MI FROM THE GROUND.
LYME: (WHISPERING BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAxUw4tGs8io
I've got you right where I want you!
Panel 5.
LYME LEAPS UP OFF THE GROUND AND HER ELASTICITY RETRACTS HER TOWARD TO̅MI.
Panel 6.
LYME CRASHES INTO TO̅MI IN THE AIR AND THE TWO STRUGGLE WITH ONE ANOTHER.
PAGE 20 (SIX PANELS)
Panel 1.
TO̅MI MANAGES TO THROW LYME OFF OF HERSELF.
Panel 2.
LYME GRABS ONTO A FLAG POLE, SWINGS AROUND IT, AND FLIES BACK AT TO̅MI.
Panel 3.
LYME SLAMS INTO TO̅MI AGAIN.
Panel 4.
THE MOMENTUM CARRIES THEM BOTH INTO A STORAGE UNIT ON THE TOP OF A BUILDING.
Panel 5.
LYME SPRINGS TO HER FEET AND ENLARGES HER FIST.
Panel 6.
LYME PUNCHES TO̅MI BACK INTO SOME BOXES.
PAGE 21 (FIVE PANELS)
Panel 1.
LYME STANDS OVER TO̅MI SMIRKING MANIACALLY.
LYME: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANARMz0czwFY4
I didn't know that you could fly. You're more capable than I thought.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAGVh1C6F6hY
You must have been the one who was spying on me last night.
Panel 2.
LYME GIVES TO̅MI A DISAPPOINTED EXPRESSION.
LYME: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAwcqM8uNpnb
It's not your fault. Your meeting with Sarkis put you on my radar, that's just sort of how it goes. She'd have a powerful ally in her corner if you were allowed to go unfettered and if you're throwing in with her you might not be as innocent as I thought. I was trying to find a way to confront you but as luck would have it, you came to me.
TO̅MI: (THINKING BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANApok6scpPqF
Damn it. This isn't good. Jaaden could be in trouble if she's going after Sarkis. What's her beef with Sarkis, anyway?
Panel 3.
LYME APPROACHES TO̅MI.
LYME: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAQnJInggicy
So, to determine how much of a threat you might be, what is Sarkis trying to do with the sapphire? She must have told you something.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA8vvEi1QKq7
Whatever machinations Sarkis is planning, if she is planning anything, she hasn't clued us in on it.
Panel 4.
LYME LOOKS AT TO̅MI WITH A SUSPICIOUS EXPRESSION.
LYME: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAzZkgKl3MC7
Are you lying about that like how you tried to act like you didn't remember me? You're a bad liar, To̅mi. Maybe if I go after you friend, you'll make sure to remember me.
Panel 5.
TO̅MI AIMS HER HAND AT LYME.
TO̅MI: (THINKING BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAWMBvPta98e
Shouldn't have said that!
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAgypZbqxwFV
Shuyailr!
PAGE 22 (SEVEN PANELS)
Panel 1.
TO̅MI USES A KINETIC FORCE-LIKE ATTACK THAT PUSHES LYME BACK THROUGH THE AIR.
Panel 2.
LYME SMIRKS AND CHUCKLES AS SHE FLIES BACK THROUGH THE AIR.
Panel 3.
LYME MORPHS HERSELF INTO AN ORB AND BOUNCES OFF THE WALL SHE STRIKES.
Panel 4.
SMALL PANEL OF TO̅MI WITH A SHOCKED EXPRESSION.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAC2xt9JNClq
What?!
Panel 5.
LYME PROCEEDS TO RICOCHET AROUND THE ROOM.
LYME: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAVDmn0sYCsE
You're only making this harder on yourself. I just wanted to know what the museum worker's plans are regarding the sapphire.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAc0hnB6d8ja
Yeah, after you attacked me!
LYME: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAtj48J1c2qe
Oh, don't be like that. Given your toughness, I figured I'd have to scare you just a little bit. After all, it would have been absurd for me to believe that you would give me the answers I wanted just because I asked for them.
Panel 6.
LYME RICOCHETS BOUNCES OFF THE WALL BEHIND TO̅MI AND STRIKES HER IN THE BACK.
Panel 7.
TO̅MI IS KNOCKED TO THE FLOOR AND LYME STANDS OVER HER.
PAGE 23 (SIX PANELS)
Panel 1.
LYME STANDS OVER TO̅MI WITH A HAUGHTY EXPRESSION WHILE TO̅MI LOOKS UP AT LYME WITH AN UNCOMFORTABLE EXPRESSION.
LYME: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAadwiuhbwvH
Come on, To̅mi, I didn't rough you up that badly, did I? How about you just tell me what I want to know and we can go our separate ways?
TO̅MI: (THINKING BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAXGjXlQXu65
If lightning didn't work, maybe freezing her will but I've got to let her get close. Giving her a chance to get her guard up will only make this more difficult.
Panel 2.
LYME GETS WITHIN A COUPLE OF FEET OF TO̅MI.
TO̅MI: (THINKING BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANArcOUJGZ6wz
Now!
Panel 3.
TO̅MI PLACES HER HAND FLAT ON THE FLOOR.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAreuJfaj0jX
Isailr!
Panel 4.
TO̅MI GENERATES ICE AROUND THE ROOM WHICH FREEZES LYME IN PLACE.
LYME: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAAE39WxLwAp
No!
Panel 5.
AS TO̅MI BEGINS TO LEAVE THE STORAGE ROOM SHE NOTICES THAT LYME IS STILL ABLE TO MOVE SLIGHTLY.
TO̅MI: (THINKING BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAaalcEbEV0W
Who knows how long that will hold her? I should get back to Jaaden and Sarkis and warn them about what's going on.
Panel 6.
TO̅MI FLIES OUT OF THE STORAGE UNIT HEADING BACK TO THE MUSEUM.
PAGE 24 (EIGHT PANELS)
Panel 1.38Please respect copyright.PENANAELEqFLL9n2
CUT TO: EL, GOUNA, EGYPT38Please respect copyright.PENANAy1ifxl1CXi
INT. SHAFIRA SARKIS' OFFICE - LATE MORNING
TO̅MI WALKS BACK INTO SHAFIRA'S OFFICE. JAADEN AND SHAFIRA GLANCE AT HER WITH PUZZLED EXPRESSIONS.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA0jjCEbdzsv
Hey, did you find the restrooms okay?
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAnY3cJd566g
Oh, yeah. It's the lines that got me. Who knew so many people would have to go at the same time? Jaaden, a quick word, please?
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAsGmq0gWWzt
Um, sure.
Panel 2.
JAADEN AND TO̅MI STEP OUT INTO THE HALL TOGETHER. JAADEN LOOKS AT TO̅MI WITH A CONFUSED EXPRESSION. TO̅MI SCRATCHES HER HAIR WITH AN AWKWARD EXPRESSION.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAYBDijbxNuA
You didn't go to the restroom, did you?
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAnwNPStGWNN
No, I didn't. What I did was find the person who was watching me the other night. It turns out that I had met her when I first got here. She's a metahuman and she's got something against Shafira.
Panel 3.
JAADEN LOOKS AWAY WITH AN ASHAMED EXPRESSION. TO̅MI CONSOLES JAADEN WITH A REASSURING EXPRESSION.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAq8QbAowIWS
Oh, you had your hands full. Thank you for looking out for us.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAaZ5W8bpXDV
No biggie.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA1vuGpWHs3T
This is bad. There are too many questions piling up all at once.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANASDWtHnTfNf
My thoughts exactly.
Panel 4.
JAADEN LOOKS AT TO̅MI WITH A WORRIED EXPRESSION. TO̅MI PINCHES HER CHIN WITH A STUMPED EXPRESSION.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA551gSNE5tS
What do you think we should do?
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA2OeMjkhe1K
It seems like our best bet is to go along with Shafira's plan. It's not like it's a bad one.
Panel 5.
TO̅MI AND JAADEN LOOK BACK TOWARD SHAFIRA'S OFFICE WITH PANICKED EXPRESSIONS AS THE SOUND OF BROKEN GLASS CAN BE HEARD.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAGCnPBrf8SF
Sounds like trouble.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA0eO7koKMoS
Let's go!
Panel 6.
JAADEN AND TO̅MI ARRIVE BACK AT SHAFIRA'S OFFICE. PARROT-LIKE BRINE BEAST ATTACKS SHAFIRA TRYING TO STEAL THE SAPPHIRE.
SHAFIRA SARKIS: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAunca3SALlJ
Ah, please go get help!
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAUQm5K3o1zT
Ms. Sarkis, duck down.
Panel 7.
SHAFIRA DUCKS, TO̅MI AIMS HER HAND AT THE PARROT-LIKE BRINE BEASTS AND SHOOTS FIREBALLS AT THE PARROT-LIKE BRINE BEASTS.
TO̅MI: (WHISPERING BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAO12Kz132TA
Faisailr!
Panel 8.
MS. SARKIS REGROUPS WITH TO̅MI AND JAADEN GLANCING BACK AT THE BURT HUSKS OF THE PARROT-LIKE BRINE BEASTS.
JAADEN: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA5sbdSQMqtH
I don't think we should stay here. More of them could show up.
SHAFIRA SARKIS: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAq90IoGv6SG
They're sure to follow wherever the sapphire goes. This could be a good time to find a place to lure the brine beasts.
TO̅MI: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAp8r6JUaSv1
That's not a bad idea.
PAGE 25 (FIVE PANELS)
Panel 1.38Please respect copyright.PENANAdGuFhn65YM
CUT TO: EL GOUNA, EGYPT38Please respect copyright.PENANAQvkGnfrXkl
INT. STORAGE SPACE - LATE NOON
LYME SHATTERS THE WEAKENED ICE FREEING HERSELF.
LYME: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAbZSt8SfGxc
This means war, To̅mi!
Panel 2.
LYME GLANCES AT HER COMMUNICATOR AS IT BEGINS RINGING.
LYME: (WHISPERING BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAORr4HY3vE9
Ugh, the last thing I want to do is talk!
Panel 3.
LYME HOLDS HER COMMUNICATOR OUT IN FRONT OF HER FACE AND BEGINS TO TALK TO THE PERSON ON THE OTHER END OF THE LINE.
LYME: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAeIwDEh9F8f
Agent Lyme speaking.
UNKNOWN COMMANDER: (TRANSMISSION BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANA0OpFVkIiLh
Were you able to obtain more information on the target?
LYME: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAtlTnbJ0zxH
Yes, there were however some complications. Indirectly, Sarkis has enlisted the aid of another metahuman.
UNKNOWN COMMANDER: (TRANSMISSION BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAMF7ufgzQ1p
We know your talents to be extremely capable. I'm sure that you will have no issue dealing with this new threat.
LYME: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAPNA0ViwNI1
You still haven't revealed the nature of my assignment.
UNKNOWN COMMANDER: (TRANSMISSION BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAqkfX59o6xw
You're to remain on reconnaissance for now. New orders will be given as developments arise. Remember we are the key to your—!
Panel 4.
LYME STRIKES A SASSY POSE WITH AN IRRITATED EXPRESSION.
LYME: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAfyrYsbw7EP
You don't have to keep reminding me.
Panel 5.
LYME DEVELOPS A FURIOUS EXPRESSION AS SHE LOOKS AT THE COMMUNICATION DEVICE.
UNKNOWN COMMANDER: (BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAhZ7SYodC5D
I'm just glad we still have the understanding, Agent Lyme.
LYME: (THINKING BALLOON)38Please respect copyright.PENANAKDEmCTrO3k
Oh, we have an understanding alright!38Please respect copyright.PENANAqvNG976uGg