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LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL - PART I: Agents of I.D.O.L.

(The screen is black, and the only sound we hear is the voice of SEACREST.)

SEACREST VOICE-OVER: The world is changing faster than we can keep up.

(Cue the soft instrumental music. Cut to a silent image of the meteorite crashing into the Earth, then the Authentic Icons being pulled into it as SEACREST continues.)

SEACREST VOICE-OVER: (Image changes to each of the Authentic Icons discovering their powers and fighting crime in Cordia) First there was the rise of the Authentic Icons, the world's first real superheroes.

(Image changes to the Authentic Icons in the final battle against DRACOMETER. As SEACREST speaks again, it changes to the earthlings aboard KEITH'S ship, then to select scenes of them in the palace, then the battle against AMURIC, and the final image is of CANDICE being crowned queen.)

SEACREST VOICE-OVER: Then, ten average Americans became the first earthling ambassadors to another planet.

(As SEACREST speaks again, the image changes to people reading about these events in newspapers, watching action scenes on TV, holding meetings and talking to each other in excitement and distress, though we do not hear what they are saying.)

SEACREST VOICE-OVER: That was years ago now, but the world is still trying to cope with the changes. We're being forced to question everything we know. And nobody knows what's coming next. People are scared. They don't know who to trust. But that's why we're here.

(Image changes to I.D.O.L. headquarters, as agents of all shapes, sizes, colors and genders move through the hallways. As SEACREST speaks again, the camera pans through and cuts between scenes. We see agents talking on communication devices and looking at giant map projections, scientists working in high-tech laboratories, and specialists honing their combat skills.)

SEACREST VOICE-OVER: I've been in charge of this organization for almost fourteen years, and still I am always amazed at what these agents can do. Physical strength, scientific genius, strategy, logic, law enforcement, critical thinking, creativity, every agent has something to offer. 34 countries across the globe, working together in the greatest espionage operation the world has never known. And no matter how big and powerful our enemies may be, we will never give up the fight to protect liberty, justice, freedom, and equality. Who are we?

(The camera pans up to a wall with a large display of a bird of prey surrounded by 33 arrows. In one foot, it holds an olive branch, and in the other foot, it holds a sword. The words "International Defense and Offense League" are written in a circle surrounding the bird and arrows.)

SEACREST VOICE-OVER: We are the International Defense and Offense League, or as we like to call ourselves...I.D.O.L.

(The scene fades to black, and the title flashes across the screen. Fade into the opening scene, on a sunny day in Los Angeles, California. The year is 2015. A box truck goes rushing down a busy street at top speed, and a black car follows close behind it. Cut to the truck, as the driver and passenger, a man and woman in black, look nervously at their rear view mirror. Cut back to the chase, as the two vehicles swerve to avoid other vehicles. Cut to the car, as NICK is focuses intently on the road ahead. He is 29 years old and very tall, with brown eyes and dark brown hair that is slicked back. Beside him in the passenger seat is CLARK, and behind him in the back seat is RAYVON. CLARK is 22 years old with blue eyes and light brown hair, and RAYVON is 23 years old and African-American with brown eyes. He wears a fedora that covers his minimal hair. All three are in black spy outfits. Without taking his eyes off the road, NICK holds up his two-way watch.)

NICK: Spy Car 1 to HQ, come in HQ, this is Agent Fradiani. We've got a lock on the target, heading down the sunset strip. We'll report back when we reach the destination. Over.

CLARK: (As NICK returns his hand to the wheel) I think I saw a company logo on the side of the truck. Did anyone catch what it said?

RAYVON: No, but we're closer now. Let's try again.

(CLARK and RAYVON each pull out a small pair of binoculars. Cut to the view through the lens, as various readouts surround the image of a plate, knife and fork with the words "Surplus Corp.")

RAYVON: (As the camera cuts back to inside the car) Got it! It says "Surplus Corp."

CLARK: (Puts his binoculars away, looks at RAYVON) Surplus? The evil geniuses are trying to take over the food supply?

NICK: Hey, it's a smart move. You wanna take over the world, that's where to start. Unless there's something hidden under that plant, in which case we'll have to find it.

CLARK: Provided the other men in black don't find us first. I'd rather not have a repeat of last time.

RAYVON: Yeah, and if she's operating out of a food processing plant, that just screams deathtrap.

NICK: Relax, guys. This is no different from anything else we've done. We're just gonna get in, get what we need, and get out. And kick some evil ass along the way. We've been working together for years, you should know by now, danger is in the job description.

(The road clears ahead of them, so the truck picks up speed. NICK steps on the gas pedal, but CLARK and RAYVON are secure in their seats, watching the road ahead. Music plays, and NICK sings "Danger Zone," which continues as they arrive at the food processing plant. As the song goes on, they follow the two people in black inside and down through a trap door. The song ends with them staring down a dark hallway. NICK takes out a device and holds it out over the tiled floor. On his readout, the cracks between the tiles are glowing red. NICK puts the device away.)

NICK: All right, guys, the scanner says there are secret switches in the cracks that can set off the alarm. Tread carefully.

(They look down as they walk through the hall, often hopping from tile to tile. Cut to the opening of the next hallway, as they all run into view and stop. This hallway is well lit and completely empty.)

CLARK: (Shakes his head) Mm-mm. No way it's that simple. (Takes out a small spray can and sprays the hall opening, revealing a network of red lasers) Yup, what did I tell you.

(They duck under the set of lasers, taking care not to break any beams. When they reach the end of the hall, they turn again into a room with solid walls and no doors or windows. There is nothing around but a blue vase on a rectangular wooden table.)

CLARK: Great, a dead end. Now what?

NICK: No such thing as a dead end, Clark. Just look around, there's gotta be a way out.

(While NICK and CLARK looks around the room, RAYVON looks more closely at the vase on the table. He picks up the vase and pulls out a glowing stick with his other hand. The others look back and see him making marks on the table.)

NICK: Hey, Rayvon, you wanna give us a hand over here?

RAYVON: Just a second, I'm trying something with this table here.

CLARK: We're trying to infiltrate a secret hideaway, this is no time to be rearranging the furniture.

(RAYVON marks a spot in the center of the table and places the vase on top of it. A spotlight shines down on it, and one of the walls moves to reveal another room. NICK and CLARK see it open and stare inside, amazed. RAYVON smiles and walks up between them.)

RAYVON: You're welcome.

(The three of them walk into the room together. There is a round table in the middle, at the center of which is a tiny record player with a CD on the turn table. NICK holds up his wrist again.)

NICK: HQ, this is Agent Fradiani. We're in. No guards on site. Over.

SEACREST: (Through the two-way) Good. The tech team has eyes on you, they're taking a look at that machine now. Stand by for further instructions. Over.

NICK: (To CLARK and RAYVON) Watch my back.

(The two of them stand on either side of the doorway as NICK approaches the machine on the table. After a silent pause, CLARK turns to RAYVON.)

CLARK: You know, it's really weird that there weren't any security people in here. For something so important to her, you'd think she'd guard it better.

RAYVON: Yeah, that is really strange. But I have a feeling we're not getting out of here without a fight. (Pulls out the cross around his neck and kisses it, CLARK does the same)

SEACREST: (Through the two-way) Okay, the tech team just gave me their report. This device was designed to scramble phone, TV, and Internet signals around the world when someone presses a certain button. There's a glowing red crystal inside that looks like a little light bulb on a Christmas tree, that's its power source. You need to remove the crystal and destroy it.

NICK: Got it. But how do I do that? This thing's running at full power.

SEACREST: Look for three switches on the control panel. Flip the two on the ends down, and the middle one up. That should shut it off.

(NICK follows the instructions, and the disc stops spinning. CLARK and RAYVON turn and watch NICK from where they stand as he unscrews the base of the device, finds the little red crystal, and removes it. He puts it in his pocket, and CLARK and RAYVON each take a step closer.)

RAYVON: That was fast. I think that might be a new record for you.

NICK: What can I say, I'm always trying to be better than I was last time.

CLARK: Great. Now let's get out of here.

RACHEL: (Off camera) Not so fast!

(NICK, CLARK, and RAYVON turn around to see a blond woman in her late 30s, wearing a white lab coat and a gold chain around her neck, standing in the doorway with a sly smile on her face. She is flanked by a number of men and women all in black, holding guns of different sizes.)

RACHEL: Well, well, well, look who dropped in. (Camera cuts to the three agents) Nick Fradiani, Clark Beckham, and Rayvon Owen. I.D.O.L.'s golden trio. (Camera cuts back to RACHEL) Hello, boys. It's so nice to see you again.

NICK: I wish I could say the same, Rachel.

RACHEL: (Smiles fades a little) It's Dr. Halleck to you. And if you've come to stop me, you're too late. My sonic scrambler is fully charged and ready to mess up communications across the globe. Pretty soon even you won't be able to get in touch with your pathetic director.

RAYVON: Okay, first of all, you don't get to talk that way about Director Seacrest. The man's got more integrity in one finger than you do in your whole body.

CLARK: And second of all, your little machine is useless without the red crystal.

RACHEL: (Low voice, surprised) How do you know about the Harvest Crystal?

NICK: What, you mean this? (Holds up the red crystal)

RACHEL: (Through gritted teeth) Put that down, or my guards will fill you with lead!

NICK: Well, since you put it that way... (Drops the crystal and stomps on it, crushing it)

RACHEL: (Furious) Guards! Seize them!

(The guards all fire their guns, but the three agents dodge all the bullets. Instead, the machine on the table is destroyed in the shooting. NICK, CLARK, and RAYVON sneak around the guards and disarm them, and each agent gets his fair share of action. The fight continues for a minute or so, with each side holding their own, until all the guards are down. RACHEL takes off running down the hall, but the agents pursue her, and NICK finally corners her with the others close behind.)

RACHEL: I thought Southern gentlemen didn't hit girls.

NICK: Tough luck for you, then. I’m from Connecticut. (Knocks her unconscious and raises his watch) HQ, this is Agent Fradiani. Mission accomplished.

(He lowers his watch and turns back to the other two. The three of them do a secret handshake and end with a special word. Smiling, they pick up RACHEL together and exit.)

(Scene: I.D.O.L. headquarters. NICK, CLARK, and RAYVON enter the main hall together, empty handed, and several other agents say hello to them and welcome them back. They stop at the end of the hall, where SEACREST comes out to meet them. He is a short man with spiky light brown hair and a slightly orange tan. He barely smiles and is dressed in a nice suit.)

SEACREST: (Looks at each of them) Welcome back, Agent Beckham, Agent Owen, Agent Fradiani. I'm always glad to see you in one piece, or rather, three pieces.

NICK: (Smiles) We're glad for it, too, Director.

SEACREST: I just got word that Rachel Halleck has arrived at the containment facility in Washington. She won't be coming up with any more evil inventions anytime soon.

CLARK: Wow, that was fast. How'd you get her there, by rocket?

SEACREST: Our technology department is always trying to increase the speed and efficiency of our jet planes. Which reminds me, there's something I need to talk you about. Come with me, gentlemen, we'll discuss this in my office.

(The three of them follow SEACREST down more halls and into the elevator. They look nervous.)

RAYVON: Uh...Director...this isn't about the time I used the encrypted line to call my mom, is it?

DIRECTOR: No, Agent Owen. I've forgiven you for that offence, seeing as you never repeated it. No, this matter concerns all three of you. And several others.

(The elevator stops at the top floor. The four of them get out and stop at the door to SEACREST'S office. SEACREST takes out a key, unlocks the door, and sees the three agents inside. Once they are all inside, he locks the door behind him, the agents pull up chairs, and he sits at his desk.)

SEACREST: Gentlemen...it's no secret that I hold you three in high regard. Each of you has held your own for a long time, that's why you're all Level 14 agents. But every time you guys go out on a mission together, I always know you're going to be successful. There's something about the combination of your humanity (Looks at RAYVON), your willingness to dive into anything (Looks at NICK), and your dedication to the principles of I.D.O.L. (Looks at CLARK) that makes you unbeatable. You bring out the best in each other.

NICK: (As they all try not to blush) Thank you...Director...I really don't know what to say.

SEACREST: Well, I think it's time we spread that good energy around, and see what else you can bring out in others, and what else they can bring out in you. That is why I want you three to be the foundation for my new project: the first ever I.D.O.L. super team.

(There is a pause. The three agents look at each other, intrigued and a little excited.)

CLARK: Wow...that sounds like such an honor. But, uh, what exactly does a super team do?

SEACREST: The world is changing fast, boys. We could soon face new enemies from other planets, other worlds. And people on Earth are discovering that they are capable of more than they ever imagined. Now as we've seen in the cases of the Authentic Icons and the ambassadors to the planet Aria, that can be a wonderful thing. But now it could also give us some powerful new foes. In addition to the troublemakers we already keep tabs on, I need a team that's ready and able to take on the biggest, worst thing that could possibly be out there. I need first responders in case the world changes again. I need you.

(There is a pause. NICK, CLARK, and RAYVON look nervously at different places in the room.)

SEACREST: I can't give the team a go until you three sign on. I have four other members picked out, and they've all agreed to it. How about you? Are you in?

RAYVON: Do you need all three of us on board?

SEACREST: That's what I'd prefer, but if any of you have reservations, I won't force you. Although the world's not slowing down anytime soon, so I'd like your decisions now.

(There is a long pause. The three agents look at each other as if speaking telepathically. SEACREST watches them for the silent minute, and then they all turn to face him.)

NICK: I'm in.

CLARK: Me, too.

RAYVON: And me.

SEACREST: Good. Now can I get that in writing?

(He shows them a contract that has already been signed with four names. NICK, CLARK, and RAYVON each take a pen and sign it in turn. When they are done, SEACREST takes back the contract, stands up, and transfers it to a locked file behind his desk.)

SEACREST: Great! As of right now, you are the official faces of the International Defense and Offense League, in the face of its most fearsome enemies. Now it's time for you to go and meet the rest of the team, and then you can embark on your first mission: picking up some young new recruits to complete the set.

CLARK: (Concerned) Wait, how young are we talking?

SEACREST: How young is our youngest agent?

CLARK: Uh...I think that's Agent James...and she's 16. Wait, what?

SEACREST: Yeah, anywhere between the ages of 15 and 19 is what I'm thinking.

(The three agents looks surprised and appear to object to this idea.)

NICK: No disrespect intended, sir, but we're getting enough kids involved with I.D.O.L. as it is. We've got ninja warriors, young geniuses, how many more kids do you really want to put in harm's way? If you want us to find new recruits, I think we should look for older candidates.

SEACREST: But that's the conventional way of thinking, Agent Fradiani. If we're going to stay on top of our enemies, we have to think outside the box. No one ever suspects teenagers of espionage, and if we can find good ones, it'll stay that way. (Holds up a tablet and starts typing on it) Our street teams have identified four potential candidates, two young men and two young women. Two are in New York, one is in Florida, and one is in Oregon. Your mission is to find them, tell them what we're about, and convince them to join us.

RAYVON: And what if they say no? Do we have to kidnap them, wipe their minds or something?

SEACREST: I'm afraid you'll each have to come up with your own answers for that. Just be very careful what you tell them. (Puts down the tablet) We'll discuss this more later. Now go meet the rest of the team. I've selected two scientists, one from life sciences and one from technology, and two combat specialists. Get to know each other. You're dismissed.

NICK: (Not entirely satisfied) All right, sir. Thank you again.

(The three of them exit and make their way out into the hallway towards the elevator.)

CLARK: Oh boy, what did we just get ourselves into?

NICK: Aw, come on, don't be like that. This is the start of a brand new adventure.

RAYVON: Yeah, man, this could make us into the greatest I.D.O.L. agents who ever lived.

CLARK: (In the elevator) And also make us prime candidates for the Red Star.

NICK: Hey, if you're gonna go down, go down fighting for what you believe in.

CLARK: Who said that one?

NICK: You did. The day you first became an I.D.O.L. agent.

CLARK: (Blushing) Oh, yeah.

NICK: And I've looked up to you for it ever since.

CLARK: You? Look up to me? (Nervous laugh) Well, that's awkward, seeing as I've been taking all my directions from you. You're the one who always knows what you're doing.

NICK: Not true. There are many times when I'm just as clueless as anyone else.

RAYVON: Can't argue with that. Remember when I taught you how to use emojis? You were trying to say you wanted chocolate ice cream and you sent me poop.

NICK: (As CLARK and RAYVON laugh) Hey, it looks like chocolate!

RAYVON: Whatever, grandpa, I still love you. And I for one am looking forward to this.

CLARK: I'm not taking your word. You're the guy who always got excited for final exams.

RAYVON: Yes, because it meant the end of the school year. (Elevator arrives and they all get out) Y'all are just looking at this the wrong way if you're scared. We face evil geniuses and freaks with super weapons all the time. How is this gonna be any different, except more work hours? To me that's more time I get to spend with you guys, and our new friends.

NICK: I'd rather be spending that time playing basketball. You still owe me a rematch.

RAYVON: All in good time, brother. But aren't you two all about making yourselves better men? Well, I can't think of a better way to do it. There's still a lot we have to learn, not just from each other, but from the villains we face. Each and every one of them stands as a reminder of how the desire for power can ruin a person. We can't hear that often enough.

NICK: All right, I'm going back up to get more info about this recruitment mission.

CLARK: Cool, you do that, and I'm gonna go look for the scientists, while I'm on this floor.

RAYVON: And I'll go and look for the specialists. Meet you in the lounge.

(The music starts to play as the three of them go their separate ways. RAYVON sings "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" as he walks through the halls of I.D.O.L. headquarters in slow motion, only stopping at certain points. On both sides of him, we see agents honing their battle skills, scientists at work in their labs, and screen projections of maps and profiles of captured villains. The song ends with RAYVON up against a wall, outside of a room labeled "Fighting Dojo.")

(Scene: a high-tech laboratory. CLARK walks up to the door and opens it, finding QUENTIN and JOEY hard at work inside. QUENTIN is 21 years old, with a black Afro, piercing brown eyes, and a very dark complexion. JOEY is 23 years old, with green eyes and short cyan hair. Neither of them notice CLARK standing in the doorway as they move around and talk to each other.)

QUENTIN: I'm telling you, it would be perfect if you'd just add a higher concentration of the toxin.

JOEY: I'm trying to make a stun gun, not a lethal weapon. Besides, it's already an ounce over standard weight, adding stuff isn't the way to go.

QUENTIN: You seriously think Director Seacrest is going to care about an extra ounce?

JOEY: Hey, one extra ounce can make all the difference in combat. Ask any field agent.

(CLARK clears his throat. QUENTIN and JOEY fall silent and look at him from where they stand.)

CLARK: I take it you two are the scientists Director Seacrest chose for the super team?

JOEY: Depends. How did you hear about that?

CLARK: The director told me. I'm Clark Beckham, I'm also on the team. Field agent, mostly.

QUENTIN: Then yes, these are the scientists you're looking for. Quentin Alexander, life sciences.

JOEY: I'm Joey Cook, I'm from the tech department.

CLARK: Nice to meet you. (Enters the laboratory) So what are you working on now?

JOEY: (Returning to her work) Oh, there have been some complaints about the stun guns being too bulky. I'm busy trying to find a way to streamline them without decreasing their power.

CLARK: (Looks at QUENTIN) And do you two work together on these things?

QUENTIN: Sure, we help each other out. There's a lot of overlap between us. But we're just experts in our own fields. I couldn't take on something like that by myself. (Points to the stun gun)

CLARK: (To JOEY) Well, I'm afraid you're gonna have to put it on hold. Seacrest has already given us a mission.

JOEY: I know. Honestly, what is he thinking, bringing more kids on board? I mean, I love the ones we have to pieces, but thinking about what could happen to them...

QUENTIN: I agree. And if he insists the world is about to change again, do we really have time to be training young new recruits? We'll barely have time to prepare ourselves.

CLARK: Well, Agent Fradiani tried talking to him, but he won't change his mind.

JOEY: Typical Seacrest. Never listens to anyone except the voices in his head.

QUENTIN: Shh, Joey, we can't talk like that now. There's a Level 14 in the room.

CLARK: It's all right. I'm with you guys on this. So what do you say we head to the lounge and meet the rest of the team?

QUENTIN: Sounds good to me. (To JOEY) You coming?

JOEY: Hang on, I want to try something. Stand back.

(She puts on a pair of goggles as CLARK and QUENTIN step back from her. She picks up the stun gun, aims at a blank wall, and pulls the trigger. A bullet comes out and hits the wall, leaving a small hole and a blue set of veins around it. JOEY removes her goggles and looks at the wall.)

JOEY: (Frustrated sigh) Still not there yet. (Puts down the stun gun) Oh, well. It can wait. Let's go make some friends. (The three of them exit together)

(Scene: just outside the fighting dojo. RAYVON listens in and hears the clanging of swords and some high-pitched shouts. He slides the door open and watches as two African-American girls battle each other in the middle of the floor. ADANNA is 18 years old and 5'8" with a darker complexion, and SARINA-JOI is 19 years old with a fairer complexion. Both have dark brown eyes and long black hair that moves with them as they duck, jump, dodge left and right, and aim in each other's directions. When they see RAYVON, they stop, sheath their swords, and turn to face him.)

RAYVON: Oh, sorry, I didn't mean to interrupt.

SARINA-JOI: No, it's fine. We're just running through drills.

ADANNA: What brings you down here?

RAYVON: You two, actually. You must be the Dark Horse Twins.

ADANNA: Yup.

SARINA-JOI: That's us.

ADANNA: I'm Adanna Duru.

SARINA-JOI: I'm Sarina-Joi Crowe.

RAYVON: Rayvon Owen, Level 14 agent. Nice to meet you.

SARINA-JOI: Level 14...oh, you must be part of the super team!

RAYVON: That's right. We're just going around, getting to know everyone.

ADANNA: The director told us to wait for you. But why would he want us to work with you? We've heard stories about you and your teammates, they call you the Golden Idols.

RAYVON: Do they really? (Laughs) Wow. That's the first time I've heard that. But apparently you're among I.D.O.L.'s best, too. Otherwise I wouldn't be here.

SARINA-JOI: Well, we're happy to help in any way we can.

ADANNA: (Grabs the hilt of her sword) We're ninjas.

RAYVON: I can see that. (Laughs) But what I don't get is this. You two look nothing alike...

ADANNA: We're not actually twins.

SARINA-JOI: We're not even related.

RAYVON: I figured that out. So why are you called twins?

SARINA-JOI: We work so well together that Director Seacrest paired us up.

ADANNA: We were always the underdogs at training camp, but we ended up being at the top of the class, so that's where Dark Horse comes from.

SARINA-JOI: I'm older.

ADANNA: (To SARINA-JOI) Why do you always have to say that?

SARINA-JOI: Hey, some day when we're old, you're gonna brag and say you're younger.

RAYVON: (Laughs) Aw, man, I love this already! Why don't you ladies come back up with me and meet the rest of the team? Everybody's gathering in the lounge.

ADANNA: I like the sound of that. (SARINA-JOI nods, and they all exit together)

(Scene: SEACREST'S office. SEACREST stands at the nearest window to his desk, and NICK stands a little further back. SEACREST has three envelopes in his hand.)

SEACREST: At 5:00 tomorrow morning three jets will be ready and waiting for you in the hangar. (Hands NICK the envelopes one at a time) Here, give this one to Agent Beckham, this one to Agent Owen, and this one is for you. You're going to New York, so you have two subjects in your envelope. Beckham's going to Florida, and Owen's going to Oregon.

NICK: Got it. Sir, just curious, how did you decide who to send where?

SEACREST: Each subject has a different background and different reasons why they may or may not want to join us. I'm sending each of you to your places based on who I think can best convince each one to join. Also, New York isn't far from where you came from...I thought it would be nice for you to see some familiar ground after being away for so long.

NICK: I understand, sir. Thank you.

SEACREST: The other thing is, this girl, the one from New Jersey that I want you to try and recruit...we've been watching her for a long time. She reminds me of you in many ways. I think it would do her good to see someone like you working for us. Make her feel at home.

NICK: I won't let you down, sir.

SEACREST: I trust you won't, Agent Fradiani. You may go now. (Turns and gazes out the window as NICK exits) It's a cold, cruel world we live in...and you know that better than most. That's why I want you. That's why I need you.

(Scene: the streets of New York City. As a typical day goes by around her, JAX walks down the street, taking it all in. She is 18 years old, with brown eyes, pale blond hair, and a small black X mark on the left side of her face. Her clothing suggests a low budget. Music plays, and she sings "Empire State of Mind" as she passes by the famous and infamous sights of the city. There is not a large crowd in her way, but no one seems to take notice of her. JAX passes through a fence at the end of the song and sings the last note holding a door open. She takes one last emotional glance at the world around her, and then she goes inside.)

(Scene: a small town in Florida. TYANNA is packing a suitcase in a room that is full of her siblings. She is a 16 year old African-American girl with dark eyes and a black Afro that has been colored blue. When she is done packing, she says goodbye to each of them. Cut to the front door as she gives her mother a long hug goodbye. They release and look each other in the eye.)

TYANNA: Thank you for letting me do this.

TAMARA: Are you sure you don't need me to come with you?

TYANNA: Of course I do. But these guys need you more. I'll be fine.

TAMARA: And you'll call as soon as you get there?

TYANNA: You'll hear from me as soon as I land. I promise.

TAMARA: (Gives her another hug) I love you so much.

TYANNA: I love you, too.

TAMARA: (Releases her and kisses her on the cheek) Good luck, and be careful!

TYANNA: I will, don't you worry.

(She exits the house with her suitcase in tow and waves goodbye as her mother and siblings bid her farewell. She walks with a smile and spring in her step, wheeling her suitcase behind her, until she passes by the high school and two teenage boys see her go past. They whistle at her and she ignores them, but when they call out to her, she turns her head and frowns at them.)

BULLY 1: Hey, look! The little homeless girl's going on a trip!

BULLY 2: What happened, your mom kick you out?

BULLY 1: Yeah, she realized she couldn't take care of that many kids on the government's money.

TYANNA: (Turns to them disdainfully) For your information, I'm leaving on my own accord. I'm on my way to California, to try and break into the music business.

BULLY 2: Oh, really? I didn't think there was a market for quiet little church mice.

BULLY 1: Why do you want to be a star so badly? So you can get your clothes from somewhere besides Goodwill? (They both laugh)

TYANNA: (Groans) Why am I even bothering with you? Once I get signed and start making my own music, you'll be lucky if you can get anywhere near me.

BULLY 2: And you'll be lucky if you last more than a month out there without having to sell yourself out like your mother!

BULLY 1: A month? I'm only giving her a week!

TYANNA: (Sets down her suitcase, puts her hands on her hips) You know you're pathetic when you have to make stuff up just to put people down.

BULLY 2: Who're you calling pathetic? The only pathetic one will be you, when you come back here crying because nobody wants to sign you!

BULLY 1: (As TYANNA grabs her suitcase and walks away) Have a nice trip! We won't miss you!

TYANNA: (To herself, after she puts some distance between her and her laughing tormentors) What a coincidence. I won't miss you, either.

(Music plays, and she sings "Mr. Know It All" as she continues down the streets. No one takes notice of her as she tows her suitcase behind her, only picking it up when she boards the bus at the end of the song. She sings the last notes sitting in her seat, staring out the window.)

(Scene: I.D.O.L. headquarters. NICK, CLARK, RAYVON, QUENTIN, JOEY, ADANNA, and SARINA-JOI are all gathered in the lounge, engaged in conversations. Some are laughing.)

NICK: (Showing them pictures on his phone) And that's my dog. His name's Jeter. He smells.

RAYVON: All dogs do. It's in their nature. (Holds up his phone) This is my Bella.

CLARK: (Holds up his phone) And this is my German shepherd. Her name's Joely.

ADANNA + SARINA-JOI: Aww!

NICK: Do you two do everything in unison?

ADANNA + SARINA-JOI: No. (Turn to each other) Stop it! (They both laugh)

CLARK: (Makes a realizing face) This just hit me. Is the verb "pet" as in "to pet your dog" named after the thing you typically pet? Your pet? (The others laugh)

JOEY: Is he always like this?

RAYVON: Oh, you have no idea!

CLARK: Yeah, that's one thing you need to know about me: I don't believe in coincidences.

SARINA-JOI: I am loving this. This was a great idea.

QUENTIN: (Raises his glass) To the super team! (They all toast and drink)

NICK: So Quentin, what kind of life science do you do? Anything you're interested in?

QUENTIN: Not really. I'm just a general biology guy, with a little bit of chemistry thrown in. Although I love insects. All little invertebrates, really, but mostly insects. For something that only lives for a few months, they have really interesting personalities.

RAYVON: Interesting. I never thought of bugs as having any personality.

QUENTIN: Oh, I'm sure the ones that attacked Cordia back in 2012 had plenty of personality.

ADANNA: Thank God for the Authentic Icons on that one. (The others agree)

SARINA-JOI: There's something I've been meaning to ask you. Nick... (Chuckles) wow, it feels weird calling a Level 14 agent by his first name...why does everyone call you "grandpa?"

NICK: Because I'm 29 and the next oldest person on the team is 23.

RAYVON: That, and he sleeps a lot.

CLARK: And he gets cranky when you don't listen to him. (The others laugh)

ADANNA: Well, what I'd like to know is how a handsome, charming guy like you (Points to CLARK) doesn't have a girlfriend.

(There is a short pause. CLARK blushes a little and makes an awkward face.)

JOEY: Well, it's not nice to assume. Maybe he doesn't want one.

CLARK: No, no, I do. It's just...I haven't had enough time.

JOEY: (Teasing) Of course. The agent is so dedicated to I.D.O.L. that he has no time for love.

CLARK: No, it's my heart that needs time. I've been in love before, and I've had my heart broken before. So I'm not rushing into any more relationships until I get a better handle on it.

RAYVON: I don't think anybody can really get a handle on love, Clark.

CLARK: Exactly. So it's probably gonna be a while. Anyone who's ever been in love knows how hard it is, especially as an I.D.O.L. agent. The busy schedules, the secrets, it makes love even more complicated than it already is. Am I right?

(Some of the others voice their agreement. Music plays, and CLARK sings "The Trouble With Love Is." At the end of the song, the others are still looking at him with understanding.)

(Scene: a house that night. ARIANNA is sitting in her bedroom when she hears something tap on her window. She gets up, opens the window and looks down to see NICK standing outside, with a handful of small pebbles in one hand. He looks up at her and smiles.)

NICK: Hey. You ready to go?

ARIANNA: You know, you could just knock. Nobody's home.

NICK: (Drops the pebbles) Aw, come on, knocking's boring. So are you coming or what?

(ARIANNA disappears from the window. NICK goes around to the front of the house, and after the sound of footsteps coming down the stairs, she emerges from the front door.)

ARIANNA: Aren't we getting a little old for this?

NICK: Maybe, but who cares? Come on, let's go.

ARIANNA: Where are we going?

NICK: That's just it. I have no idea. Tonight you lead the way.

ARIANNA: What?

NICK: How long did you say you've lived here?

ARIANNA: Almost four years.

NICK: And in all this time, you've never been out into the city at night. I'm here to change that.

(There is a short pause. ARIANNA looks curiously and a little apprehensively at NICK.)

NICK: What are you waiting for?

ARIANNA: I don't know...I'm not sure if it's safe to be down there at night...

NICK: Relax. Nothing's gonna happen to us.

ARIANNA: I know, I'm sure you can take on anything...but Nick...I don't know how much longer I can do this. All these secret meetings at weird times...I'm not sure how badly you want this relationship. Is it really love if we're always sneaking around in the dark?

NICK: Of course it is. Why would that make it not real? Arianna, if I didn't want this relationship, I wouldn't be here now. I've told you before, I have a demanding job-

ARIANNA: Which you still haven't told me anything about. All you say is that you're the leader of a band, but I don't get why that means we can't go to dinner or a movie at a reasonable time.

NICK: I know, I'm sorry, and one day I'll be able to explain everything. But right now let's just enjoy the night while it's still young. (Offers his hand) Come on. The car's waiting.

ARIANNA: (Takes his hand) What's so great about the city at night, anyway?

NICK: Because that's when it comes alive. And nighttime is the time for lovers.

ARIANNA: (Soft laugh and smile, as he leads her away) Why do I let you do this to me, Nick?

NICK: Because we're meant to be. And nothing is gonna get in our way, not even Beach Avenue.

(They stop and face each other. Music plays, and he sings "Because the Night" as they walk the dark street together, stopping at a parked car. When the song ends, they are pressed up against each other, looking each other in the eye and smiling. They kiss, and the scene fades to black.)

(Scene: the next morning. NICK, CLARK, and RAYVON make their way to the airplane hangar, holding the envelopes from SEACREST, and board the same jet. QUENTIN, JOEY, ADANNA, and SARINA-JOI help them prepare and watch as they board. As they go through the motions and the plane flies through the sky, we hear the instructions that SEACREST has given them.)

SEACREST VOICE-OVER: So here's the plan. The three of you will take the same plane to our landing base in Nebraska. Then you'll each get on three separate planes to take you to the subjects in your envelopes. I know that sounds inconvenient, especially for Agent Owen, but it's the best way to make sure nobody can track us. Once you arrive back at the base in Nebraska with your subjects, your planes will be all checked for spies and bugs, and when you're cleared, you'll fly back here together. Do not open your envelopes until you are on your individual flights. (As they each open their own envelope) Inside you will find a photo of your subject, as well as their name, age, and any other background information we've gathered. You must do everything in your power to convince them to join us. If they refuse, and the information that you gave them falls on the wrong ears...it could mean the end of I.D.O.L. If you're not back at HQ by 9:00 PM Pacific Time, we'll send backup. Good luck.

(Cut to NICK in civilian clothes as he drives through the streets of New York City, with his envelope resealed on the front seat. He looks around at some of the familiar landmarks and gives a small smile, then looks in one direction with a wave of nostalgia. He quickly refocuses to the GPS and follows the route it points him down. He crosses the border into New Jersey and pulls up to a house with a fence. He gives it a quick look over before getting out and going up to the front door.)

(Scene: inside the house. JAX is lounging on the couch in a small shirt and sweatpants, eating Oreos and watching zombies on television. There is a knock at the door, so she gets up and answers it. She looks upward to make eye contact with NICK.)

NICK: Hi, I'm a talent scout for Free Mantle Record Label. I'm looking for Jaclyn Cole.

JAX: That's me. How can I help you?

NICK: I've seen your act on YouTube, and we at Free Mantle think you're incredibly talented. I came to talk to you about a record deal.

JAX: (Big smile) What?! Are you serious? (Short pause, she is lost for words) Well, come on in!

(NICK enters, and JAX closes and locks the door behind her. She leads him into the living room, and they sit across from each other, him in a chair and her on the couch.)

JAX: Sorry about the mess. We weren't expecting anyone today.

NICK: It's fine. You should see my room. (JAX giggles) Is anyone else home?

JAX: No, Mom and Dad went out to run errands, and my little brother is out with his friends.

NICK: Good. This is something I wanted to talk to you about alone.

JAX: (Surprised) Why? If I'm going away to work on a record, shouldn't they know?

NICK: Of course. And that's what you'll tell them. But there's a lot we have to go over first.

JAX: (Becoming suspicious) Like what? Maybe I don't fully understand how the music business works, but you're talking really weird.

NICK: I can see you're getting suspicious. That means you have good instincts. I like that. So let me start by telling you why I'm really here. As you might have guessed, I'm not actually a talent scout for Free Mantle. I just couldn't tell you my real intentions out in the open.

JAX: (Growing nervous) Then what are you doing here? And why do you have a gun in your belt?

NICK: You also have an eye for detail. We could really use that.

JAX: (Stands up) I'm warning you, if you've come to kidnap me, I will fight back. My dad's a firefighter, he will have your head if you try to hurt me.

NICK: Whoa, hey, calm down. I'm not here to kidnap you. If you don't want to come with me, I won't make you. But hear me out, because I think you'd be a great addition to our team.

JAX: (Sits down apprehensively) What team?

NICK: Have you ever heard of the International Defense and Offense League?

JAX: No, I can't say I have.

NICK: Good. That means we're doing something right. But that's who I work for. (Takes out his gun and places it on the coffee table) Take a look. But be careful, it's loaded.

(JAX picks up the gun and examines it. It has the I.D.O.L. insignia printed on it.)

JAX: I.D.O.L....

NICK: That's what we call ourselves. My name's Nick.

JAX: (Puts down the gun) You're a secret agent. That is so cool.

NICK: It's not exactly like the movies, but it is pretty awesome. And we'd like you to be a part of it.

JAX: But I don't understand. Why do you want me? I'm just a kid from Jersey who plays piano.

NICK: Oh, I think you're a lot more than that. Here. (Hands her the envelope) This is all the intel we've collected on you over the last few years. (As JAX states at the papers in shock) We keep tabs on any young people who might be good candidates for the program. You were marked as someone to watch because of your fearlessness, and it seems heroism runs in your blood. You said your dad's a firefighter?

JAX: Yeah. He was one of the first responders on September 11. I've looked up to him all my life. And I want nothing more than to follow in his footsteps.

NICK: That's a noble goal. And we at I.D.O.L. can help you achieve it.

JAX: But you said something else. Something about fearlessness. What did you mean?

NICK: It was true, what I said earlier. I have seen your videos on YouTube. It takes a lot of guts to get up there and do what you do in front of so many people. I know, I front my own band.

JAX: Wow. Thanks. But there's a big difference between taking a risk with a song arrangement and risking your life on a mission.

NICK: I know. But the fact that taking risks is in your nature tells me that you could be a great agent with the right training.

JAX: And would you be the one to train me?

NICK: Me and the rest of the team. You see, we're not just I.D.O.L. agents, we're part of a special team that our director put together-

(Just then, there is a loud barking noise. NICK and JAX look down and see the small dog.)

JAX: Hey! Jeter! Be quiet.

NICK: Jeter? That's funny. That's my dog's name, too.

JAX: Really? No way! Where are you from?

NICK: Connecticut, but closer to New York. So I'm a Yankees fan.

JAX: Yeah, up top! (They high-five) So if I go with you, will my parents know what I'm doing?

NICK: I'm afraid not. We have to keep our operations a secret from anyone who doesn't work for us. It was a big risk telling you everything I did. We'll wait until they get home, I'll tell them I'm a talent scout and I want to sign you, and then we'll be on our way. That okay with you?

JAX: I don't know...I don't really like lying to them...but I guess that's part of being a secret agent.

NICK: Exactly. It was hard for me, too. I told my parents I was going to L.A. to pursue my music career. Eventually they figured out there was something else going on, but I still haven't told them what. If the wrong person heard me say it...bad things could happen to them.

JAX: I understand. But some crazy part of me still wants in.

NICK: You mean it? Because once you sign on, there's no turning back.

JAX: I know, and I'm scared. But you guys wouldn't exist if the world didn't need people like you. And after everything that's happened in the last few years, with the Authentic Icons and people going to other planets...the world is a more exciting place than anyone could have imagined. And here I am in sweatpants, eating Oreos and watching "The Walking Dead" on Netflix. I'm tired of seeing the action on TV. I want a piece of it.

NICK: Like I said, Jaclyn-

JAX: Call me Jax. Just Jax. No last name.

NICK: All right, Jax, the world isn't like the movies. The Authentic Icons and the ambassadors to Aria have been through a lot of hard and terrifying things. Kidnapping, exile, persecution, losing people they loved, fighting enemies ten times their size, two of the ambassadors were sexually abused...are you willing to put yourself through that for the sake of a story?

JAX: If that story is about how I save the world from evil...then yes.

NICK: (Pause) All right then. (Offers his hand) Welcome aboard, Agent Jax. (They both smile and shake hands) Of course, you won't be an official agent until Director Seacrest evaluates you. We'll head out once your parents get back. In the meantime, go pack your bags and get ready to go. I still have another new recruit to pick up.

JAX: (Stands) All right. They should be home soon. (Runs up to her room) This is the coolest thing that's ever happened! (NICK smiles as he watches her go, then it fades)

(Scene: a busy street in a Florida city. TYANNA stands at the curb, watching the road.)

TYANNA: (Holds out her arm) Taxi!

(A taxicab pulls up to where she stands and stops. TYANNA opens the door and gets in with her suitcase. CLARK is also sitting in the back seat, and he looks at her.)

DRIVER: Where to?

TYANNA: Airport, please.

(The driver takes off down the road. TYANNA notices CLARK for the first time when he speaks.)

CLARK: Where are you going?

TYANNA: Los Angeles. I'm breaking into the music business. I was supposed to leave yesterday, but my flight got pushed back a day, so I stayed at a friend's house last night.

CLARK: That's cool. I'm a singer, too. I played a lot at my church back home. For a while I thought I could make it in the business. But then I prayed about it, and God sent me in a different direction. Oh, sorry, I never introduced myself. My name's Clark.

TYANNA: Tyanna. (They shake hands) Nice to meet you.

CLARK: Same. So, Tyanna, are you a religious person?

TYANNA: Considering my family lived out of our church for so long, it's hard not to be.

CLARK: Wait, you actually lived in your church?

TYANNA: It's a long story. Mom and Dad were trying to raise eleven kids, we couldn't afford to pay rent, our pastor was generous...I've already said too much. Please don't feel sorry for me.

CLARK: No, no, I think it's awesome...I mean, not that you guys were homeless, but that you overcame it...I'm sorry, I am the most awkward person. I should just shut up now.

TYANNA: (Giggles) No, it's fine.

CLARK: Good, because there's something I need to talk to you about. You see, you don't actually have to buy a plane ticket to get to Los Angeles. I can take you there for free.

TYANNA: Shut up! How?

CLARK: Because that's where the headquarters for our organization is.

TYANNA: What organization? Are you trying to tell me you're a talent scout?

CLARK: No. Well, yes, in a way. Just not the kind you were hoping for.

TYANNA: Then what kind are you?

CLARK: I work for a secret spy organization known as the International Defense and Offense League. We call ourselves I.D.O.L. We've been watching you for a few years, and we think you have what it takes to be a great agent. I was sent here to recruit you.

TYANNA: And you're telling me all this in front of the cab driver?

CLARK: Oh, no, this isn't a real taxi. He works with me. We just borrowed the cab. And by borrowed, I mean hotwired and drove away while the owner wasn't looking.

TYANNA: Uh, I don't know how I feel about that...

CLARK: Don't worry, we'll return it when we're done. We're honest people at I.D.O.L. We work to protect the innocent, and shut down those who threaten the safety of the free world. All the changes that have happened in the last few years, the Authentic Icons, the ambassadors to the planet Aria, we watched over all of it, ready to jump in if things got out of hand.

TYANNA: So you guys are ready to take on anything?

CLARK: Almost anything. We haven't faced a problem too big for us yet. But the world could still change again at any moment, and we have to expect the unexpected, all of it. That's why we need people like you. People who have gone through hardship and come out unbroken.

TYANNA: But I'm only 16. What use could I possibly be to you?

CLARK: I was 18 when I started. Director Seacrest likes his agents to start young. The minimum recruiting age is 15. Personally, I think it should be raised to 18, so we could give kids more time to grow, discover themselves, get closer to who they're supposed to be. But the director apparently thinks you're ready now, or else I wouldn't be here.

TYANNA: What about my parents, and all my brothers and sisters? If I become an I.D.O.L. agent, would I ever see them again?

CLARK: If you make it back alive, you will. But it'll be on limited terms. Part of protecting the public means not interacting with them a lot. If the wrong person saw you go home and knows you're one of us, that could put everyone you love in danger. But that's all part of being an agent. Keeping away from everyone stinks, but it still beats the alternative.

(There is a pause. TYANNA looks thoughtfully out the side window.)

CLARK: I can't make you join us if you don't want to. But it would be a shame to let you go, Tyanna Jones. I look at you and I see a whole lot of untapped potential.

TYANNA: (Slowly turns to him) How do you know my full name?

CLARK: (Holds up his envelope) We keep tabs on potential I.D.O.L. agents from a very young age. I already knew about your family living out of the church. I know you were bullied for years at school. And I know you want nothing more than to put all of that behind you. Am I right?

TYANNA: Yes...I'm tired of feeling like I can't do anything...I want to prove them all wrong...I want to do something important. Be someone important.

CLARK: Everyone is important in God's eyes, Tyanna. The Authentic Icons, the ambassadors, they started out just like you, wanting to be something more than what they were told they could be. And I can't give you superpowers or take you to another planet, but I still want to help change your life. If you come with me, we'll teach you how to become someone important.

TYANNA: I'm scared, Clark...being a spy looks cool on TV, but it can't really be like that.

CLARK: No, it's not. It's nerve-wracking, it's the military nobody knows exists. But you're not going in alone. You'll be surrounded by scientists and specialists and tacticians who know what they're doing, who can look out for you, protect you. And there will be other new recruits, kids your age who will be just as scared and just as clueless. The things we go through at I.D.O.L....they bring people together. Make us a family.

TYANNA: That sounds wonderful...

CLARK: So what do you say? Are you in?

(There is another pause. TYANNA looks away for a moment, then turns back to CLARK.)

TYANNA: (Resolved face) Yeah. I'm in.

CLARK: (Smiles) Great. (Takes her hand) Welcome aboard, Agent Jones.

(Scene: outside JAX’S house. In the doorway, JAX gives her parents and brother long goodbye hugs. When she is done, she picks up her suitcase and follows NICK to the car.)

JAX: (Quietly) So now where are we going? Back to HQ?

NICK: (Opens the trunk) Not yet. There’s one more recruit I have to pick up. He’s in Brooklyn.

JAX: (Puts her suitcase in the trunk) Have you been watching him, too?

NICK: Not as closely. (Closes the trunk) He was in the public eye for a while, so he was harder for us to track without being noticed. And then he dropped off the radar for a while. But we still think he’d be a good addition to the team.

JAX: (As they get in the car) All right. But can we make a Dunkin Donuts run first?

(NICK closes the door and looks at JAX in a slightly disapproving way. There is a short pause.)

JAX: Come on, you can’t ask me to abandon my home and family and put my life on the line without buying me an iced coffee. (Another pause) Please?

NICK: (Hesitates, then cracks a small smile) Oh, fine. I could go for a coffee myself.

JAX: (As they drive off) Yay!

Description
LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL - PART I: Agents of I.D.O.L.

(The screen is black, and the only sound we hear is the voice of SEACREST.)

SEACREST VOICE-OVER: The world is changing faster than we can keep up.

(Cue the soft instrumental music. Cut to a silent image of the meteorite crashing into the Earth, then the Authentic Icons being pulled into it as SEACREST continues.)

SEACREST VOICE-OVER: (Image changes to each of the Authentic Icons discovering their powers and fighting crime in Cordia) First there was the rise of the Authentic Icons, the world's first real superheroes.

(Image changes to the Authentic Icons in the final battle against DRACOMETER. As SEACREST speaks again, it changes to the earthlings aboard KEITH'S ship, then to select scenes of them in the palace, then the battle against AMURIC, and the final image is of CANDICE being crowned queen.)

SEACREST VOICE-OVER: Then, ten average Americans became the first earthling ambassadors to another planet.

(As SEACREST speaks again, the image changes to people reading about these events in newspapers, watching action scenes on TV, holding meetings and talking to each other in excitement and distress, though we do not hear what they are saying.)

SEACREST VOICE-OVER: That was years ago now, but the world is still trying to cope with the changes. We're being forced to question everything we know. And nobody knows what's coming next. People are scared. They don't know who to trust. But that's why we're here.

(Image changes to I.D.O.L. headquarters, as agents of all shapes, sizes, colors and genders move through the hallways. As SEACREST speaks again, the camera pans through and cuts between scenes. We see agents talking on communication devices and looking at giant map projections, scientists working in high-tech laboratories, and specialists honing their combat skills.)

SEACREST VOICE-OVER: I've been in charge of this organization for almost fourteen years, and still I am always amazed at what these agents can do. Physical strength, scientific genius, strategy, logic, law enforcement, critical thinking, creativity, every agent has something to offer. 34 countries across the globe, working together in the greatest espionage operation the world has never known. And no matter how big and powerful our enemies may be, we will never give up the fight to protect liberty, justice, freedom, and equality. Who are we?

(The camera pans up to a wall with a large display of a bird of prey surrounded by 33 arrows. In one foot, it holds an olive branch, and in the other foot, it holds a sword. The words "International Defense and Offense League" are written in a circle surrounding the bird and arrows.)

SEACREST VOICE-OVER: We are the International Defense and Offense League, or as we like to call ourselves...I.D.O.L.

(The scene fades to black, and the title flashes across the screen. Fade into the opening scene, on a sunny day in Los Angeles, California. The year is 2015. A box truck goes rushing down a busy street at top speed, and a black car follows close behind it. Cut to the truck, as the driver and passenger, a man and woman in black, look nervously at their rear view mirror. Cut back to the chase, as the two vehicles swerve to avoid other vehicles. Cut to the car, as NICK is focuses intently on the road ahead. He is 29 years old and very tall, with brown eyes and dark brown hair that is slicked back. Beside him in the passenger seat is CLARK, and behind him in the back seat is RAYVON. CLARK is 22 years old with blue eyes and light brown hair, and RAYVON is 23 years old and African-American with brown eyes. He wears a fedora that covers his minimal hair. All three are in black spy outfits. Without taking his eyes off the road, NICK holds up his two-way watch.)

NICK: Spy Car 1 to HQ, come in HQ, this is Agent Fradiani. We've got a lock on the target, heading down the sunset strip. We'll report back when we reach the destination. Over.

CLARK: (As NICK returns his hand to the wheel) I think I saw a company logo on the side of the truck. Did anyone catch what it said?

RAYVON: No, but we're closer now. Let's try again.

(CLARK and RAYVON each pull out a small pair of binoculars. Cut to the view through the lens, as various readouts surround the image of a plate, knife and fork with the words "Surplus Corp.")

RAYVON: (As the camera cuts back to inside the car) Got it! It says "Surplus Corp."

CLARK: (Puts his binoculars away, looks at RAYVON) Surplus? The evil geniuses are trying to take over the food supply?

NICK: Hey, it's a smart move. You wanna take over the world, that's where to start. Unless there's something hidden under that plant, in which case we'll have to find it.

CLARK: Provided the other men in black don't find us first. I'd rather not have a repeat of last time.

RAYVON: Yeah, and if she's operating out of a food processing plant, that just screams deathtrap.

NICK: Relax, guys. This is no different from anything else we've done. We're just gonna get in, get what we need, and get out. And kick some evil ass along the way. We've been working together for years, you should know by now, danger is in the job description.

(The road clears ahead of them, so the truck picks up speed. NICK steps on the gas pedal, but CLARK and RAYVON are secure in their seats, watching the road ahead. Music plays, and NICK sings "Danger Zone," which continues as they arrive at the food processing plant. As the song goes on, they follow the two people in black inside and down through a trap door. The song ends with them staring down a dark hallway. NICK takes out a device and holds it out over the tiled floor. On his readout, the cracks between the tiles are glowing red. NICK puts the device away.)

NICK: All right, guys, the scanner says there are secret switches in the cracks that can set off the alarm. Tread carefully.

(They look down as they walk through the hall, often hopping from tile to tile. Cut to the opening of the next hallway, as they all run into view and stop. This hallway is well lit and completely empty.)

CLARK: (Shakes his head) Mm-mm. No way it's that simple. (Takes out a small spray can and sprays the hall opening, revealing a network of red lasers) Yup, what did I tell you.

(They duck under the set of lasers, taking care not to break any beams. When they reach the end of the hall, they turn again into a room with solid walls and no doors or windows. There is nothing around but a blue vase on a rectangular wooden table.)

CLARK: Great, a dead end. Now what?

NICK: No such thing as a dead end, Clark. Just look around, there's gotta be a way out.

(While NICK and CLARK looks around the room, RAYVON looks more closely at the vase on the table. He picks up the vase and pulls out a glowing stick with his other hand. The others look back and see him making marks on the table.)

NICK: Hey, Rayvon, you wanna give us a hand over here?

RAYVON: Just a second, I'm trying something with this table here.

CLARK: We're trying to infiltrate a secret hideaway, this is no time to be rearranging the furniture.

(RAYVON marks a spot in the center of the table and places the vase on top of it. A spotlight shines down on it, and one of the walls moves to reveal another room. NICK and CLARK see it open and stare inside, amazed. RAYVON smiles and walks up between them.)

RAYVON: You're welcome.

(The three of them walk into the room together. There is a round table in the middle, at the center of which is a tiny record player with a CD on the turn table. NICK holds up his wrist again.)

NICK: HQ, this is Agent Fradiani. We're in. No guards on site. Over.

SEACREST: (Through the two-way) Good. The tech team has eyes on you, they're taking a look at that machine now. Stand by for further instructions. Over.

NICK: (To CLARK and RAYVON) Watch my back.

(The two of them stand on either side of the doorway as NICK approaches the machine on the table. After a silent pause, CLARK turns to RAYVON.)

CLARK: You know, it's really weird that there weren't any security people in here. For something so important to her, you'd think she'd guard it better.

RAYVON: Yeah, that is really strange. But I have a feeling we're not getting out of here without a fight. (Pulls out the cross around his neck and kisses it, CLARK does the same)

SEACREST: (Through the two-way) Okay, the tech team just gave me their report. This device was designed to scramble phone, TV, and Internet signals around the world when someone presses a certain button. There's a glowing red crystal inside that looks like a little light bulb on a Christmas tree, that's its power source. You need to remove the crystal and destroy it.

NICK: Got it. But how do I do that? This thing's running at full power.

SEACREST: Look for three switches on the control panel. Flip the two on the ends down, and the middle one up. That should shut it off.

(NICK follows the instructions, and the disc stops spinning. CLARK and RAYVON turn and watch NICK from where they stand as he unscrews the base of the device, finds the little red crystal, and removes it. He puts it in his pocket, and CLARK and RAYVON each take a step closer.)

RAYVON: That was fast. I think that might be a new record for you.

NICK: What can I say, I'm always trying to be better than I was last time.

CLARK: Great. Now let's get out of here.

RACHEL: (Off camera) Not so fast!

(NICK, CLARK, and RAYVON turn around to see a blond woman in her late 30s, wearing a white lab coat and a gold chain around her neck, standing in the doorway with a sly smile on her face. She is flanked by a number of men and women all in black, holding guns of different sizes.)

RACHEL: Well, well, well, look who dropped in. (Camera cuts to the three agents) Nick Fradiani, Clark Beckham, and Rayvon Owen. I.D.O.L.'s golden trio. (Camera cuts back to RACHEL) Hello, boys. It's so nice to see you again.

NICK: I wish I could say the same, Rachel.

RACHEL: (Smiles fades a little) It's Dr. Halleck to you. And if you've come to stop me, you're too late. My sonic scrambler is fully charged and ready to mess up communications across the globe. Pretty soon even you won't be able to get in touch with your pathetic director.

RAYVON: Okay, first of all, you don't get to talk that way about Director Seacrest. The man's got more integrity in one finger than you do in your whole body.

CLARK: And second of all, your little machine is useless without the red crystal.

RACHEL: (Low voice, surprised) How do you know about the Harvest Crystal?

NICK: What, you mean this? (Holds up the red crystal)

RACHEL: (Through gritted teeth) Put that down, or my guards will fill you with lead!

NICK: Well, since you put it that way... (Drops the crystal and stomps on it, crushing it)

RACHEL: (Furious) Guards! Seize them!

(The guards all fire their guns, but the three agents dodge all the bullets. Instead, the machine on the table is destroyed in the shooting. NICK, CLARK, and RAYVON sneak around the guards and disarm them, and each agent gets his fair share of action. The fight continues for a minute or so, with each side holding their own, until all the guards are down. RACHEL takes off running down the hall, but the agents pursue her, and NICK finally corners her with the others close behind.)

RACHEL: I thought Southern gentlemen didn't hit girls.

NICK: Tough luck for you, then. I’m from Connecticut. (Knocks her unconscious and raises his watch) HQ, this is Agent Fradiani. Mission accomplished.

(He lowers his watch and turns back to the other two. The three of them do a secret handshake and end with a special word. Smiling, they pick up RACHEL together and exit.)

(Scene: I.D.O.L. headquarters. NICK, CLARK, and RAYVON enter the main hall together, empty handed, and several other agents say hello to them and welcome them back. They stop at the end of the hall, where SEACREST comes out to meet them. He is a short man with spiky light brown hair and a slightly orange tan. He barely smiles and is dressed in a nice suit.)

SEACREST: (Looks at each of them) Welcome back, Agent Beckham, Agent Owen, Agent Fradiani. I'm always glad to see you in one piece, or rather, three pieces.

NICK: (Smiles) We're glad for it, too, Director.

SEACREST: I just got word that Rachel Halleck has arrived at the containment facility in Washington. She won't be coming up with any more evil inventions anytime soon.

CLARK: Wow, that was fast. How'd you get her there, by rocket?

SEACREST: Our technology department is always trying to increase the speed and efficiency of our jet planes. Which reminds me, there's something I need to talk you about. Come with me, gentlemen, we'll discuss this in my office.

(The three of them follow SEACREST down more halls and into the elevator. They look nervous.)

RAYVON: Uh...Director...this isn't about the time I used the encrypted line to call my mom, is it?

DIRECTOR: No, Agent Owen. I've forgiven you for that offence, seeing as you never repeated it. No, this matter concerns all three of you. And several others.

(The elevator stops at the top floor. The four of them get out and stop at the door to SEACREST'S office. SEACREST takes out a key, unlocks the door, and sees the three agents inside. Once they are all inside, he locks the door behind him, the agents pull up chairs, and he sits at his desk.)

SEACREST: Gentlemen...it's no secret that I hold you three in high regard. Each of you has held your own for a long time, that's why you're all Level 14 agents. But every time you guys go out on a mission together, I always know you're going to be successful. There's something about the combination of your humanity (Looks at RAYVON), your willingness to dive into anything (Looks at NICK), and your dedication to the principles of I.D.O.L. (Looks at CLARK) that makes you unbeatable. You bring out the best in each other.

NICK: (As they all try not to blush) Thank you...Director...I really don't know what to say.

SEACREST: Well, I think it's time we spread that good energy around, and see what else you can bring out in others, and what else they can bring out in you. That is why I want you three to be the foundation for my new project: the first ever I.D.O.L. super team.

(There is a pause. The three agents look at each other, intrigued and a little excited.)

CLARK: Wow...that sounds like such an honor. But, uh, what exactly does a super team do?

SEACREST: The world is changing fast, boys. We could soon face new enemies from other planets, other worlds. And people on Earth are discovering that they are capable of more than they ever imagined. Now as we've seen in the cases of the Authentic Icons and the ambassadors to the planet Aria, that can be a wonderful thing. But now it could also give us some powerful new foes. In addition to the troublemakers we already keep tabs on, I need a team that's ready and able to take on the biggest, worst thing that could possibly be out there. I need first responders in case the world changes again. I need you.

(There is a pause. NICK, CLARK, and RAYVON look nervously at different places in the room.)

SEACREST: I can't give the team a go until you three sign on. I have four other members picked out, and they've all agreed to it. How about you? Are you in?

RAYVON: Do you need all three of us on board?

SEACREST: That's what I'd prefer, but if any of you have reservations, I won't force you. Although the world's not slowing down anytime soon, so I'd like your decisions now.

(There is a long pause. The three agents look at each other as if speaking telepathically. SEACREST watches them for the silent minute, and then they all turn to face him.)

NICK: I'm in.

CLARK: Me, too.

RAYVON: And me.

SEACREST: Good. Now can I get that in writing?

(He shows them a contract that has already been signed with four names. NICK, CLARK, and RAYVON each take a pen and sign it in turn. When they are done, SEACREST takes back the contract, stands up, and transfers it to a locked file behind his desk.)

SEACREST: Great! As of right now, you are the official faces of the International Defense and Offense League, in the face of its most fearsome enemies. Now it's time for you to go and meet the rest of the team, and then you can embark on your first mission: picking up some young new recruits to complete the set.

CLARK: (Concerned) Wait, how young are we talking?

SEACREST: How young is our youngest agent?

CLARK: Uh...I think that's Agent James...and she's 16. Wait, what?

SEACREST: Yeah, anywhere between the ages of 15 and 19 is what I'm thinking.

(The three agents looks surprised and appear to object to this idea.)

NICK: No disrespect intended, sir, but we're getting enough kids involved with I.D.O.L. as it is. We've got ninja warriors, young geniuses, how many more kids do you really want to put in harm's way? If you want us to find new recruits, I think we should look for older candidates.

SEACREST: But that's the conventional way of thinking, Agent Fradiani. If we're going to stay on top of our enemies, we have to think outside the box. No one ever suspects teenagers of espionage, and if we can find good ones, it'll stay that way. (Holds up a tablet and starts typing on it) Our street teams have identified four potential candidates, two young men and two young women. Two are in New York, one is in Florida, and one is in Oregon. Your mission is to find them, tell them what we're about, and convince them to join us.

RAYVON: And what if they say no? Do we have to kidnap them, wipe their minds or something?

SEACREST: I'm afraid you'll each have to come up with your own answers for that. Just be very careful what you tell them. (Puts down the tablet) We'll discuss this more later. Now go meet the rest of the team. I've selected two scientists, one from life sciences and one from technology, and two combat specialists. Get to know each other. You're dismissed.

NICK: (Not entirely satisfied) All right, sir. Thank you again.

(The three of them exit and make their way out into the hallway towards the elevator.)

CLARK: Oh boy, what did we just get ourselves into?

NICK: Aw, come on, don't be like that. This is the start of a brand new adventure.

RAYVON: Yeah, man, this could make us into the greatest I.D.O.L. agents who ever lived.

CLARK: (In the elevator) And also make us prime candidates for the Red Star.

NICK: Hey, if you're gonna go down, go down fighting for what you believe in.

CLARK: Who said that one?

NICK: You did. The day you first became an I.D.O.L. agent.

CLARK: (Blushing) Oh, yeah.

NICK: And I've looked up to you for it ever since.

CLARK: You? Look up to me? (Nervous laugh) Well, that's awkward, seeing as I've been taking all my directions from you. You're the one who always knows what you're doing.

NICK: Not true. There are many times when I'm just as clueless as anyone else.

RAYVON: Can't argue with that. Remember when I taught you how to use emojis? You were trying to say you wanted chocolate ice cream and you sent me poop.

NICK: (As CLARK and RAYVON laugh) Hey, it looks like chocolate!

RAYVON: Whatever, grandpa, I still love you. And I for one am looking forward to this.

CLARK: I'm not taking your word. You're the guy who always got excited for final exams.

RAYVON: Yes, because it meant the end of the school year. (Elevator arrives and they all get out) Y'all are just looking at this the wrong way if you're scared. We face evil geniuses and freaks with super weapons all the time. How is this gonna be any different, except more work hours? To me that's more time I get to spend with you guys, and our new friends.

NICK: I'd rather be spending that time playing basketball. You still owe me a rematch.

RAYVON: All in good time, brother. But aren't you two all about making yourselves better men? Well, I can't think of a better way to do it. There's still a lot we have to learn, not just from each other, but from the villains we face. Each and every one of them stands as a reminder of how the desire for power can ruin a person. We can't hear that often enough.

NICK: All right, I'm going back up to get more info about this recruitment mission.

CLARK: Cool, you do that, and I'm gonna go look for the scientists, while I'm on this floor.

RAYVON: And I'll go and look for the specialists. Meet you in the lounge.

(The music starts to play as the three of them go their separate ways. RAYVON sings "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" as he walks through the halls of I.D.O.L. headquarters in slow motion, only stopping at certain points. On both sides of him, we see agents honing their battle skills, scientists at work in their labs, and screen projections of maps and profiles of captured villains. The song ends with RAYVON up against a wall, outside of a room labeled "Fighting Dojo.")

(Scene: a high-tech laboratory. CLARK walks up to the door and opens it, finding QUENTIN and JOEY hard at work inside. QUENTIN is 21 years old, with a black Afro, piercing brown eyes, and a very dark complexion. JOEY is 23 years old, with green eyes and short cyan hair. Neither of them notice CLARK standing in the doorway as they move around and talk to each other.)

QUENTIN: I'm telling you, it would be perfect if you'd just add a higher concentration of the toxin.

JOEY: I'm trying to make a stun gun, not a lethal weapon. Besides, it's already an ounce over standard weight, adding stuff isn't the way to go.

QUENTIN: You seriously think Director Seacrest is going to care about an extra ounce?

JOEY: Hey, one extra ounce can make all the difference in combat. Ask any field agent.

(CLARK clears his throat. QUENTIN and JOEY fall silent and look at him from where they stand.)

CLARK: I take it you two are the scientists Director Seacrest chose for the super team?

JOEY: Depends. How did you hear about that?

CLARK: The director told me. I'm Clark Beckham, I'm also on the team. Field agent, mostly.

QUENTIN: Then yes, these are the scientists you're looking for. Quentin Alexander, life sciences.

JOEY: I'm Joey Cook, I'm from the tech department.

CLARK: Nice to meet you. (Enters the laboratory) So what are you working on now?

JOEY: (Returning to her work) Oh, there have been some complaints about the stun guns being too bulky. I'm busy trying to find a way to streamline them without decreasing their power.

CLARK: (Looks at QUENTIN) And do you two work together on these things?

QUENTIN: Sure, we help each other out. There's a lot of overlap between us. But we're just experts in our own fields. I couldn't take on something like that by myself. (Points to the stun gun)

CLARK: (To JOEY) Well, I'm afraid you're gonna have to put it on hold. Seacrest has already given us a mission.

JOEY: I know. Honestly, what is he thinking, bringing more kids on board? I mean, I love the ones we have to pieces, but thinking about what could happen to them...

QUENTIN: I agree. And if he insists the world is about to change again, do we really have time to be training young new recruits? We'll barely have time to prepare ourselves.

CLARK: Well, Agent Fradiani tried talking to him, but he won't change his mind.

JOEY: Typical Seacrest. Never listens to anyone except the voices in his head.

QUENTIN: Shh, Joey, we can't talk like that now. There's a Level 14 in the room.

CLARK: It's all right. I'm with you guys on this. So what do you say we head to the lounge and meet the rest of the team?

QUENTIN: Sounds good to me. (To JOEY) You coming?

JOEY: Hang on, I want to try something. Stand back.

(She puts on a pair of goggles as CLARK and QUENTIN step back from her. She picks up the stun gun, aims at a blank wall, and pulls the trigger. A bullet comes out and hits the wall, leaving a small hole and a blue set of veins around it. JOEY removes her goggles and looks at the wall.)

JOEY: (Frustrated sigh) Still not there yet. (Puts down the stun gun) Oh, well. It can wait. Let's go make some friends. (The three of them exit together)

(Scene: just outside the fighting dojo. RAYVON listens in and hears the clanging of swords and some high-pitched shouts. He slides the door open and watches as two African-American girls battle each other in the middle of the floor. ADANNA is 18 years old and 5'8" with a darker complexion, and SARINA-JOI is 19 years old with a fairer complexion. Both have dark brown eyes and long black hair that moves with them as they duck, jump, dodge left and right, and aim in each other's directions. When they see RAYVON, they stop, sheath their swords, and turn to face him.)

RAYVON: Oh, sorry, I didn't mean to interrupt.

SARINA-JOI: No, it's fine. We're just running through drills.

ADANNA: What brings you down here?

RAYVON: You two, actually. You must be the Dark Horse Twins.

ADANNA: Yup.

SARINA-JOI: That's us.

ADANNA: I'm Adanna Duru.

SARINA-JOI: I'm Sarina-Joi Crowe.

RAYVON: Rayvon Owen, Level 14 agent. Nice to meet you.

SARINA-JOI: Level 14...oh, you must be part of the super team!

RAYVON: That's right. We're just going around, getting to know everyone.

ADANNA: The director told us to wait for you. But why would he want us to work with you? We've heard stories about you and your teammates, they call you the Golden Idols.

RAYVON: Do they really? (Laughs) Wow. That's the first time I've heard that. But apparently you're among I.D.O.L.'s best, too. Otherwise I wouldn't be here.

SARINA-JOI: Well, we're happy to help in any way we can.

ADANNA: (Grabs the hilt of her sword) We're ninjas.

RAYVON: I can see that. (Laughs) But what I don't get is this. You two look nothing alike...

ADANNA: We're not actually twins.

SARINA-JOI: We're not even related.

RAYVON: I figured that out. So why are you called twins?

SARINA-JOI: We work so well together that Director Seacrest paired us up.

ADANNA: We were always the underdogs at training camp, but we ended up being at the top of the class, so that's where Dark Horse comes from.

SARINA-JOI: I'm older.

ADANNA: (To SARINA-JOI) Why do you always have to say that?

SARINA-JOI: Hey, some day when we're old, you're gonna brag and say you're younger.

RAYVON: (Laughs) Aw, man, I love this already! Why don't you ladies come back up with me and meet the rest of the team? Everybody's gathering in the lounge.

ADANNA: I like the sound of that. (SARINA-JOI nods, and they all exit together)

(Scene: SEACREST'S office. SEACREST stands at the nearest window to his desk, and NICK stands a little further back. SEACREST has three envelopes in his hand.)

SEACREST: At 5:00 tomorrow morning three jets will be ready and waiting for you in the hangar. (Hands NICK the envelopes one at a time) Here, give this one to Agent Beckham, this one to Agent Owen, and this one is for you. You're going to New York, so you have two subjects in your envelope. Beckham's going to Florida, and Owen's going to Oregon.

NICK: Got it. Sir, just curious, how did you decide who to send where?

SEACREST: Each subject has a different background and different reasons why they may or may not want to join us. I'm sending each of you to your places based on who I think can best convince each one to join. Also, New York isn't far from where you came from...I thought it would be nice for you to see some familiar ground after being away for so long.

NICK: I understand, sir. Thank you.

SEACREST: The other thing is, this girl, the one from New Jersey that I want you to try and recruit...we've been watching her for a long time. She reminds me of you in many ways. I think it would do her good to see someone like you working for us. Make her feel at home.

NICK: I won't let you down, sir.

SEACREST: I trust you won't, Agent Fradiani. You may go now. (Turns and gazes out the window as NICK exits) It's a cold, cruel world we live in...and you know that better than most. That's why I want you. That's why I need you.

(Scene: the streets of New York City. As a typical day goes by around her, JAX walks down the street, taking it all in. She is 18 years old, with brown eyes, pale blond hair, and a small black X mark on the left side of her face. Her clothing suggests a low budget. Music plays, and she sings "Empire State of Mind" as she passes by the famous and infamous sights of the city. There is not a large crowd in her way, but no one seems to take notice of her. JAX passes through a fence at the end of the song and sings the last note holding a door open. She takes one last emotional glance at the world around her, and then she goes inside.)

(Scene: a small town in Florida. TYANNA is packing a suitcase in a room that is full of her siblings. She is a 16 year old African-American girl with dark eyes and a black Afro that has been colored blue. When she is done packing, she says goodbye to each of them. Cut to the front door as she gives her mother a long hug goodbye. They release and look each other in the eye.)

TYANNA: Thank you for letting me do this.

TAMARA: Are you sure you don't need me to come with you?

TYANNA: Of course I do. But these guys need you more. I'll be fine.

TAMARA: And you'll call as soon as you get there?

TYANNA: You'll hear from me as soon as I land. I promise.

TAMARA: (Gives her another hug) I love you so much.

TYANNA: I love you, too.

TAMARA: (Releases her and kisses her on the cheek) Good luck, and be careful!

TYANNA: I will, don't you worry.

(She exits the house with her suitcase in tow and waves goodbye as her mother and siblings bid her farewell. She walks with a smile and spring in her step, wheeling her suitcase behind her, until she passes by the high school and two teenage boys see her go past. They whistle at her and she ignores them, but when they call out to her, she turns her head and frowns at them.)

BULLY 1: Hey, look! The little homeless girl's going on a trip!

BULLY 2: What happened, your mom kick you out?

BULLY 1: Yeah, she realized she couldn't take care of that many kids on the government's money.

TYANNA: (Turns to them disdainfully) For your information, I'm leaving on my own accord. I'm on my way to California, to try and break into the music business.

BULLY 2: Oh, really? I didn't think there was a market for quiet little church mice.

BULLY 1: Why do you want to be a star so badly? So you can get your clothes from somewhere besides Goodwill? (They both laugh)

TYANNA: (Groans) Why am I even bothering with you? Once I get signed and start making my own music, you'll be lucky if you can get anywhere near me.

BULLY 2: And you'll be lucky if you last more than a month out there without having to sell yourself out like your mother!

BULLY 1: A month? I'm only giving her a week!

TYANNA: (Sets down her suitcase, puts her hands on her hips) You know you're pathetic when you have to make stuff up just to put people down.

BULLY 2: Who're you calling pathetic? The only pathetic one will be you, when you come back here crying because nobody wants to sign you!

BULLY 1: (As TYANNA grabs her suitcase and walks away) Have a nice trip! We won't miss you!

TYANNA: (To herself, after she puts some distance between her and her laughing tormentors) What a coincidence. I won't miss you, either.

(Music plays, and she sings "Mr. Know It All" as she continues down the streets. No one takes notice of her as she tows her suitcase behind her, only picking it up when she boards the bus at the end of the song. She sings the last notes sitting in her seat, staring out the window.)

(Scene: I.D.O.L. headquarters. NICK, CLARK, RAYVON, QUENTIN, JOEY, ADANNA, and SARINA-JOI are all gathered in the lounge, engaged in conversations. Some are laughing.)

NICK: (Showing them pictures on his phone) And that's my dog. His name's Jeter. He smells.

RAYVON: All dogs do. It's in their nature. (Holds up his phone) This is my Bella.

CLARK: (Holds up his phone) And this is my German shepherd. Her name's Joely.

ADANNA + SARINA-JOI: Aww!

NICK: Do you two do everything in unison?

ADANNA + SARINA-JOI: No. (Turn to each other) Stop it! (They both laugh)

CLARK: (Makes a realizing face) This just hit me. Is the verb "pet" as in "to pet your dog" named after the thing you typically pet? Your pet? (The others laugh)

JOEY: Is he always like this?

RAYVON: Oh, you have no idea!

CLARK: Yeah, that's one thing you need to know about me: I don't believe in coincidences.

SARINA-JOI: I am loving this. This was a great idea.

QUENTIN: (Raises his glass) To the super team! (They all toast and drink)

NICK: So Quentin, what kind of life science do you do? Anything you're interested in?

QUENTIN: Not really. I'm just a general biology guy, with a little bit of chemistry thrown in. Although I love insects. All little invertebrates, really, but mostly insects. For something that only lives for a few months, they have really interesting personalities.

RAYVON: Interesting. I never thought of bugs as having any personality.

QUENTIN: Oh, I'm sure the ones that attacked Cordia back in 2012 had plenty of personality.

ADANNA: Thank God for the Authentic Icons on that one. (The others agree)

SARINA-JOI: There's something I've been meaning to ask you. Nick... (Chuckles) wow, it feels weird calling a Level 14 agent by his first name...why does everyone call you "grandpa?"

NICK: Because I'm 29 and the next oldest person on the team is 23.

RAYVON: That, and he sleeps a lot.

CLARK: And he gets cranky when you don't listen to him. (The others laugh)

ADANNA: Well, what I'd like to know is how a handsome, charming guy like you (Points to CLARK) doesn't have a girlfriend.

(There is a short pause. CLARK blushes a little and makes an awkward face.)

JOEY: Well, it's not nice to assume. Maybe he doesn't want one.

CLARK: No, no, I do. It's just...I haven't had enough time.

JOEY: (Teasing) Of course. The agent is so dedicated to I.D.O.L. that he has no time for love.

CLARK: No, it's my heart that needs time. I've been in love before, and I've had my heart broken before. So I'm not rushing into any more relationships until I get a better handle on it.

RAYVON: I don't think anybody can really get a handle on love, Clark.

CLARK: Exactly. So it's probably gonna be a while. Anyone who's ever been in love knows how hard it is, especially as an I.D.O.L. agent. The busy schedules, the secrets, it makes love even more complicated than it already is. Am I right?

(Some of the others voice their agreement. Music plays, and CLARK sings "The Trouble With Love Is." At the end of the song, the others are still looking at him with understanding.)

(Scene: a house that night. ARIANNA is sitting in her bedroom when she hears something tap on her window. She gets up, opens the window and looks down to see NICK standing outside, with a handful of small pebbles in one hand. He looks up at her and smiles.)

NICK: Hey. You ready to go?

ARIANNA: You know, you could just knock. Nobody's home.

NICK: (Drops the pebbles) Aw, come on, knocking's boring. So are you coming or what?

(ARIANNA disappears from the window. NICK goes around to the front of the house, and after the sound of footsteps coming down the stairs, she emerges from the front door.)

ARIANNA: Aren't we getting a little old for this?

NICK: Maybe, but who cares? Come on, let's go.

ARIANNA: Where are we going?

NICK: That's just it. I have no idea. Tonight you lead the way.

ARIANNA: What?

NICK: How long did you say you've lived here?

ARIANNA: Almost four years.

NICK: And in all this time, you've never been out into the city at night. I'm here to change that.

(There is a short pause. ARIANNA looks curiously and a little apprehensively at NICK.)

NICK: What are you waiting for?

ARIANNA: I don't know...I'm not sure if it's safe to be down there at night...

NICK: Relax. Nothing's gonna happen to us.

ARIANNA: I know, I'm sure you can take on anything...but Nick...I don't know how much longer I can do this. All these secret meetings at weird times...I'm not sure how badly you want this relationship. Is it really love if we're always sneaking around in the dark?

NICK: Of course it is. Why would that make it not real? Arianna, if I didn't want this relationship, I wouldn't be here now. I've told you before, I have a demanding job-

ARIANNA: Which you still haven't told me anything about. All you say is that you're the leader of a band, but I don't get why that means we can't go to dinner or a movie at a reasonable time.

NICK: I know, I'm sorry, and one day I'll be able to explain everything. But right now let's just enjoy the night while it's still young. (Offers his hand) Come on. The car's waiting.

ARIANNA: (Takes his hand) What's so great about the city at night, anyway?

NICK: Because that's when it comes alive. And nighttime is the time for lovers.

ARIANNA: (Soft laugh and smile, as he leads her away) Why do I let you do this to me, Nick?

NICK: Because we're meant to be. And nothing is gonna get in our way, not even Beach Avenue.

(They stop and face each other. Music plays, and he sings "Because the Night" as they walk the dark street together, stopping at a parked car. When the song ends, they are pressed up against each other, looking each other in the eye and smiling. They kiss, and the scene fades to black.)

(Scene: the next morning. NICK, CLARK, and RAYVON make their way to the airplane hangar, holding the envelopes from SEACREST, and board the same jet. QUENTIN, JOEY, ADANNA, and SARINA-JOI help them prepare and watch as they board. As they go through the motions and the plane flies through the sky, we hear the instructions that SEACREST has given them.)

SEACREST VOICE-OVER: So here's the plan. The three of you will take the same plane to our landing base in Nebraska. Then you'll each get on three separate planes to take you to the subjects in your envelopes. I know that sounds inconvenient, especially for Agent Owen, but it's the best way to make sure nobody can track us. Once you arrive back at the base in Nebraska with your subjects, your planes will be all checked for spies and bugs, and when you're cleared, you'll fly back here together. Do not open your envelopes until you are on your individual flights. (As they each open their own envelope) Inside you will find a photo of your subject, as well as their name, age, and any other background information we've gathered. You must do everything in your power to convince them to join us. If they refuse, and the information that you gave them falls on the wrong ears...it could mean the end of I.D.O.L. If you're not back at HQ by 9:00 PM Pacific Time, we'll send backup. Good luck.

(Cut to NICK in civilian clothes as he drives through the streets of New York City, with his envelope resealed on the front seat. He looks around at some of the familiar landmarks and gives a small smile, then looks in one direction with a wave of nostalgia. He quickly refocuses to the GPS and follows the route it points him down. He crosses the border into New Jersey and pulls up to a house with a fence. He gives it a quick look over before getting out and going up to the front door.)

(Scene: inside the house. JAX is lounging on the couch in a small shirt and sweatpants, eating Oreos and watching zombies on television. There is a knock at the door, so she gets up and answers it. She looks upward to make eye contact with NICK.)

NICK: Hi, I'm a talent scout for Free Mantle Record Label. I'm looking for Jaclyn Cole.

JAX: That's me. How can I help you?

NICK: I've seen your act on YouTube, and we at Free Mantle think you're incredibly talented. I came to talk to you about a record deal.

JAX: (Big smile) What?! Are you serious? (Short pause, she is lost for words) Well, come on in!

(NICK enters, and JAX closes and locks the door behind her. She leads him into the living room, and they sit across from each other, him in a chair and her on the couch.)

JAX: Sorry about the mess. We weren't expecting anyone today.

NICK: It's fine. You should see my room. (JAX giggles) Is anyone else home?

JAX: No, Mom and Dad went out to run errands, and my little brother is out with his friends.

NICK: Good. This is something I wanted to talk to you about alone.

JAX: (Surprised) Why? If I'm going away to work on a record, shouldn't they know?

NICK: Of course. And that's what you'll tell them. But there's a lot we have to go over first.

JAX: (Becoming suspicious) Like what? Maybe I don't fully understand how the music business works, but you're talking really weird.

NICK: I can see you're getting suspicious. That means you have good instincts. I like that. So let me start by telling you why I'm really here. As you might have guessed, I'm not actually a talent scout for Free Mantle. I just couldn't tell you my real intentions out in the open.

JAX: (Growing nervous) Then what are you doing here? And why do you have a gun in your belt?

NICK: You also have an eye for detail. We could really use that.

JAX: (Stands up) I'm warning you, if you've come to kidnap me, I will fight back. My dad's a firefighter, he will have your head if you try to hurt me.

NICK: Whoa, hey, calm down. I'm not here to kidnap you. If you don't want to come with me, I won't make you. But hear me out, because I think you'd be a great addition to our team.

JAX: (Sits down apprehensively) What team?

NICK: Have you ever heard of the International Defense and Offense League?

JAX: No, I can't say I have.

NICK: Good. That means we're doing something right. But that's who I work for. (Takes out his gun and places it on the coffee table) Take a look. But be careful, it's loaded.

(JAX picks up the gun and examines it. It has the I.D.O.L. insignia printed on it.)

JAX: I.D.O.L....

NICK: That's what we call ourselves. My name's Nick.

JAX: (Puts down the gun) You're a secret agent. That is so cool.

NICK: It's not exactly like the movies, but it is pretty awesome. And we'd like you to be a part of it.

JAX: But I don't understand. Why do you want me? I'm just a kid from Jersey who plays piano.

NICK: Oh, I think you're a lot more than that. Here. (Hands her the envelope) This is all the intel we've collected on you over the last few years. (As JAX states at the papers in shock) We keep tabs on any young people who might be good candidates for the program. You were marked as someone to watch because of your fearlessness, and it seems heroism runs in your blood. You said your dad's a firefighter?

JAX: Yeah. He was one of the first responders on September 11. I've looked up to him all my life. And I want nothing more than to follow in his footsteps.

NICK: That's a noble goal. And we at I.D.O.L. can help you achieve it.

JAX: But you said something else. Something about fearlessness. What did you mean?

NICK: It was true, what I said earlier. I have seen your videos on YouTube. It takes a lot of guts to get up there and do what you do in front of so many people. I know, I front my own band.

JAX: Wow. Thanks. But there's a big difference between taking a risk with a song arrangement and risking your life on a mission.

NICK: I know. But the fact that taking risks is in your nature tells me that you could be a great agent with the right training.

JAX: And would you be the one to train me?

NICK: Me and the rest of the team. You see, we're not just I.D.O.L. agents, we're part of a special team that our director put together-

(Just then, there is a loud barking noise. NICK and JAX look down and see the small dog.)

JAX: Hey! Jeter! Be quiet.

NICK: Jeter? That's funny. That's my dog's name, too.

JAX: Really? No way! Where are you from?

NICK: Connecticut, but closer to New York. So I'm a Yankees fan.

JAX: Yeah, up top! (They high-five) So if I go with you, will my parents know what I'm doing?

NICK: I'm afraid not. We have to keep our operations a secret from anyone who doesn't work for us. It was a big risk telling you everything I did. We'll wait until they get home, I'll tell them I'm a talent scout and I want to sign you, and then we'll be on our way. That okay with you?

JAX: I don't know...I don't really like lying to them...but I guess that's part of being a secret agent.

NICK: Exactly. It was hard for me, too. I told my parents I was going to L.A. to pursue my music career. Eventually they figured out there was something else going on, but I still haven't told them what. If the wrong person heard me say it...bad things could happen to them.

JAX: I understand. But some crazy part of me still wants in.

NICK: You mean it? Because once you sign on, there's no turning back.

JAX: I know, and I'm scared. But you guys wouldn't exist if the world didn't need people like you. And after everything that's happened in the last few years, with the Authentic Icons and people going to other planets...the world is a more exciting place than anyone could have imagined. And here I am in sweatpants, eating Oreos and watching "The Walking Dead" on Netflix. I'm tired of seeing the action on TV. I want a piece of it.

NICK: Like I said, Jaclyn-

JAX: Call me Jax. Just Jax. No last name.

NICK: All right, Jax, the world isn't like the movies. The Authentic Icons and the ambassadors to Aria have been through a lot of hard and terrifying things. Kidnapping, exile, persecution, losing people they loved, fighting enemies ten times their size, two of the ambassadors were sexually abused...are you willing to put yourself through that for the sake of a story?

JAX: If that story is about how I save the world from evil...then yes.

NICK: (Pause) All right then. (Offers his hand) Welcome aboard, Agent Jax. (They both smile and shake hands) Of course, you won't be an official agent until Director Seacrest evaluates you. We'll head out once your parents get back. In the meantime, go pack your bags and get ready to go. I still have another new recruit to pick up.

JAX: (Stands) All right. They should be home soon. (Runs up to her room) This is the coolest thing that's ever happened! (NICK smiles as he watches her go, then it fades)

(Scene: a busy street in a Florida city. TYANNA stands at the curb, watching the road.)

TYANNA: (Holds out her arm) Taxi!

(A taxicab pulls up to where she stands and stops. TYANNA opens the door and gets in with her suitcase. CLARK is also sitting in the back seat, and he looks at her.)

DRIVER: Where to?

TYANNA: Airport, please.

(The driver takes off down the road. TYANNA notices CLARK for the first time when he speaks.)

CLARK: Where are you going?

TYANNA: Los Angeles. I'm breaking into the music business. I was supposed to leave yesterday, but my flight got pushed back a day, so I stayed at a friend's house last night.

CLARK: That's cool. I'm a singer, too. I played a lot at my church back home. For a while I thought I could make it in the business. But then I prayed about it, and God sent me in a different direction. Oh, sorry, I never introduced myself. My name's Clark.

TYANNA: Tyanna. (They shake hands) Nice to meet you.

CLARK: Same. So, Tyanna, are you a religious person?

TYANNA: Considering my family lived out of our church for so long, it's hard not to be.

CLARK: Wait, you actually lived in your church?

TYANNA: It's a long story. Mom and Dad were trying to raise eleven kids, we couldn't afford to pay rent, our pastor was generous...I've already said too much. Please don't feel sorry for me.

CLARK: No, no, I think it's awesome...I mean, not that you guys were homeless, but that you overcame it...I'm sorry, I am the most awkward person. I should just shut up now.

TYANNA: (Giggles) No, it's fine.

CLARK: Good, because there's something I need to talk to you about. You see, you don't actually have to buy a plane ticket to get to Los Angeles. I can take you there for free.

TYANNA: Shut up! How?

CLARK: Because that's where the headquarters for our organization is.

TYANNA: What organization? Are you trying to tell me you're a talent scout?

CLARK: No. Well, yes, in a way. Just not the kind you were hoping for.

TYANNA: Then what kind are you?

CLARK: I work for a secret spy organization known as the International Defense and Offense League. We call ourselves I.D.O.L. We've been watching you for a few years, and we think you have what it takes to be a great agent. I was sent here to recruit you.

TYANNA: And you're telling me all this in front of the cab driver?

CLARK: Oh, no, this isn't a real taxi. He works with me. We just borrowed the cab. And by borrowed, I mean hotwired and drove away while the owner wasn't looking.

TYANNA: Uh, I don't know how I feel about that...

CLARK: Don't worry, we'll return it when we're done. We're honest people at I.D.O.L. We work to protect the innocent, and shut down those who threaten the safety of the free world. All the changes that have happened in the last few years, the Authentic Icons, the ambassadors to the planet Aria, we watched over all of it, ready to jump in if things got out of hand.

TYANNA: So you guys are ready to take on anything?

CLARK: Almost anything. We haven't faced a problem too big for us yet. But the world could still change again at any moment, and we have to expect the unexpected, all of it. That's why we need people like you. People who have gone through hardship and come out unbroken.

TYANNA: But I'm only 16. What use could I possibly be to you?

CLARK: I was 18 when I started. Director Seacrest likes his agents to start young. The minimum recruiting age is 15. Personally, I think it should be raised to 18, so we could give kids more time to grow, discover themselves, get closer to who they're supposed to be. But the director apparently thinks you're ready now, or else I wouldn't be here.

TYANNA: What about my parents, and all my brothers and sisters? If I become an I.D.O.L. agent, would I ever see them again?

CLARK: If you make it back alive, you will. But it'll be on limited terms. Part of protecting the public means not interacting with them a lot. If the wrong person saw you go home and knows you're one of us, that could put everyone you love in danger. But that's all part of being an agent. Keeping away from everyone stinks, but it still beats the alternative.

(There is a pause. TYANNA looks thoughtfully out the side window.)

CLARK: I can't make you join us if you don't want to. But it would be a shame to let you go, Tyanna Jones. I look at you and I see a whole lot of untapped potential.

TYANNA: (Slowly turns to him) How do you know my full name?

CLARK: (Holds up his envelope) We keep tabs on potential I.D.O.L. agents from a very young age. I already knew about your family living out of the church. I know you were bullied for years at school. And I know you want nothing more than to put all of that behind you. Am I right?

TYANNA: Yes...I'm tired of feeling like I can't do anything...I want to prove them all wrong...I want to do something important. Be someone important.

CLARK: Everyone is important in God's eyes, Tyanna. The Authentic Icons, the ambassadors, they started out just like you, wanting to be something more than what they were told they could be. And I can't give you superpowers or take you to another planet, but I still want to help change your life. If you come with me, we'll teach you how to become someone important.

TYANNA: I'm scared, Clark...being a spy looks cool on TV, but it can't really be like that.

CLARK: No, it's not. It's nerve-wracking, it's the military nobody knows exists. But you're not going in alone. You'll be surrounded by scientists and specialists and tacticians who know what they're doing, who can look out for you, protect you. And there will be other new recruits, kids your age who will be just as scared and just as clueless. The things we go through at I.D.O.L....they bring people together. Make us a family.

TYANNA: That sounds wonderful...

CLARK: So what do you say? Are you in?

(There is another pause. TYANNA looks away for a moment, then turns back to CLARK.)

TYANNA: (Resolved face) Yeah. I'm in.

CLARK: (Smiles) Great. (Takes her hand) Welcome aboard, Agent Jones.

(Scene: outside JAX’S house. In the doorway, JAX gives her parents and brother long goodbye hugs. When she is done, she picks up her suitcase and follows NICK to the car.)

JAX: (Quietly) So now where are we going? Back to HQ?

NICK: (Opens the trunk) Not yet. There’s one more recruit I have to pick up. He’s in Brooklyn.

JAX: (Puts her suitcase in the trunk) Have you been watching him, too?

NICK: Not as closely. (Closes the trunk) He was in the public eye for a while, so he was harder for us to track without being noticed. And then he dropped off the radar for a while. But we still think he’d be a good addition to the team.

JAX: (As they get in the car) All right. But can we make a Dunkin Donuts run first?

(NICK closes the door and looks at JAX in a slightly disapproving way. There is a short pause.)

JAX: Come on, you can’t ask me to abandon my home and family and put my life on the line without buying me an iced coffee. (Another pause) Please?

NICK: (Hesitates, then cracks a small smile) Oh, fine. I could go for a coffee myself.

JAX: (As they drive off) Yay!