LAND OF LEGENDS

FADE IN:

EXT. FOREST - ESTABLISHING

The red orb of a waking sun breaks over a chain of lonely pine-clad mountains. Sweeping across a valley of frozen trees stretched far as the eye can see.

VOICE OVER This land has seen the birth of myths and legends. Simple folk called to do mighty things.

We descend upon steel tentacles knifing through giant cliffs and gloomy ridges spread across the earth below:

STEEL TRACK

Under a hot sun, a TOWERING FIGURE appears with a fourteen- pound sledgehammer raised in his hands.

He swings back, touches at his heels then smashes the sledgehammer down over his enormous shoulders, driving a railroad spike deep into the rocky earth.

VOICE OVER Time turned our stories to tall tales.

(INSERT) - QUICK POPS

-- Fierce tornado-like winds whip across the dusty plains, uprooting trees and violently flinging them into the air. As a MAN IN SILHOUETTE spirals above us, hitched to a saddle horn sucked up into a terrifying cyclone of whirling darkness.

-- TWO LARGE SHADOWS of impossible proportions, MAN and BEAST, charge full-speed ahead through a gauntlet of nightmarish old-growth trees.

-- A FEMALE RIDER gallops forward, riding bareback on a black stallion towards the twilight. In an instant, the IMAGES disintegrate before our eyes.

OVER BLACK.

VOICE OVER (CONT’D) But the truth is far more extraordinary than you’ve been told...

EXT. BIG THUNDER - ESTABLISHING

A stockaded village where a tiny collection of cedar log houses and mercantile shops nestle among tall pines.

ANGLE ON a sodden-roofed story book trading post tucked away among the trees at the end of the only road in town.

VOICE OVER Because the heroes of this forgotten frontier had come together to protect its secrets...

PULL BACK TO REVEAL a VERY TALL MAN in faded overalls, tough leather boots and a large sledgehammer strapped to his back, snug in a tightly woven goatskin sleeve.

JOHN HENRY (V.O.) My name’s John Henry. I was born with nothing to call my own. But that didn’t make a lick of difference anymore because I had beaten the machine.

WITH JOHN HENRY on a graveled road as he threads his way through shoals of busy townsfolk. A powerfully built African- American man with broad shoulders and a soulful gaze.

INSERT: a GROUP OF RAILROAD MEN gather to witness John Henry, the steel driving man and his indomitable strength face off against a colossal Steam Drill.

They watch awestruck as his sledgehammer furiously pounds spike after spike into the rocky earth at his feet.

JOHN HENRY (V.O.) And here in Big Thunder an unexpected new chapter would unfold.

AS BEFORE: John Henry narrows his gaze ahead, moving purposefully towards a sprite YOUNG MAN, around the age of eighteen as he breaks through the wooden gates in a mad rush.

YOUNG MAN (top of his lungs) Shut the gates!

Mixed blood, sun-browned skin and fleet-footed. Eyes full of mischief. This is SKY. He’s got good reason to run because behind him loom THREE BEAVER TRAPPERS in hot pursuit. Grizzled and hard living men built like slabs of roast beef.

At the helm is a menacing TRAPPER with one-eye sewn shut. Wears a fur-lined coat and a necklace ringed in bear claws.

ONE-EYED TRAPPER I’ll kill him!

Sky dashes ahead but the One-Eyed Trapper barrels forward and quickly catches up to him. In one swift motion, he rips Sky back by the arm and dangles him off his feet.

SKY (kicking and hollering) Get off of me! You dirty ol’ yellow- belly!

He scoops Sky up, legs swinging wildly and wraps python-sized arms around his neck.

ONE-EYED TRAPPER Gonna pay for what you did boy.

John Henry moves towards them. All three Trappers are easily dwarfed by the sizable legend, making his presence known.

JOHN HENRY There a problem, gentlemen?

With a cold hard stare --

ONE-EYED TRAPPER ‘Jes stay out of it.

JOHN HENRY Can’t do that. Now put him down.

ONE-EYED TRAPPER Mutt pushed our traps in the river. Needs to be taught a lesson.

Sky struggles in a frenzy to break free.

SKY There’s nothing left in the river ‘cause of them.

ONE-EYED TRAPPER Well, ain’t you the bleeding heart conservationist.

JOHN HENRY I’ll pay for new traps myself. Drop him. Won’t ask twice.

The One-Eyed Trapper finally relents, tosses Sky in the dirt at John Henry’s feet.

ONE-EYED TRAPPER Next time we’ll drown him under the rocks.

They stalk off. Sky picks himself up from the ground and wipes the dusts off his pants, calls after them --

SKY Yeah? Try it.

John Henry takes an exasperated breath.

JOHN HENRY Again?

Sky flips around, guiltily hangs his head. As they continue walking together along a winding path.

SKY I know, I know...

Sky stops for a moment, notices an unusual looking feather on the ground. He leans down, picks up the feather and holds it up to the sun briefly to examine its strange markings, before tucking it into his shirt pocket.

INT. WESTWARD HO TRADING POST - CONTINUOUS

A dirt-floored candle-lit stall packed in dusty shelves, brimming with a sundry of supplies; dried goods, knick knacks, oddities of all sorts, artifacts and whimsical native rugs. As if each item has a story waiting to be told.

JOHN HENRY You need to be more careful, Sky. I’m not always going to be around to get you out of trouble.

John Henry slips inside the shop through the front door. Sky bounces out in front of him.

SKY They’re just a bit sour on me. Nothing I can’t handle.

Sky struts ahead and goes behind a split-log counter cluttered in weaved-baskets straddling the back wall.

JOHN HENRY Still got a shop to run.

SKY Need customers to run a shop. Which currently we don’t have. Since no one makes it out to Big Thunder anymore on account of our less than stellar track record in natural disaster prevention which some might call a curse.

Sky plucks the unusual feather out of his shirt pocket, reaches up and ties it onto a series of feathers at the base of a beaded handmade willow hoop DREAMCATCHER, joined by a dozen more dangling in rows above the counter.

JOHN HENRY Still got me. Look, even came with a trade to make.

John Henry reaches into his cargo-flap pocket, pulls out a coonskin tailed hat and plunks it down onto Sky’s head.

JOHN HENRY (CONT’D) Said to have once belonged to Davy Crockett himself.

Sky’s eyes go wide --

SKY Crockett? You’re serious?!

JOHN HENRY I kid you not.

Sky removes the hat, takes an excited glance and flops it back over his head.

SKY This is quite the find. I’m impressed.

JOHN HENRY Deal’s a deal though. What are we trading for?

John Henry looks around the shop. Sky snaps his fingers.

SKY I have just the thing.

He dashes over to the opposite wall and removes a pair of woven snow shoes hanging off a halibut hook.

SKY (CONT’D) Got em’ from an old Inuit searching for warmer climates. Not bad, huh?

Sky holds the snow shoes up to John Henry with a hopeful smile. But they’re about two sizes too small. John Henry squints, thinks better of it.

JOHN HENRY Let’s call it even.

Sky shrugs.

SKY Fine. Suit yourself.

Sky tosses the snow shoes over his shoulder, lands them dangling back on the hook.

A MAN’S VOICE Now that would be a violation of shop policy, Sky.

Their attention shifts to TRADER WAZI quietly ascending a set of earthen steps carved into the floor below from a corner at the other end of the shop.

A diminutive man with a long nose, very small pale eyes, pointed ears and a face like a walnut-shell. He clenches a knotted walking stick in his hand and uses it to clap the trap door shut behind him.

TRADER WAZI I’m sure we can accommodate a fair trade for John Henry.

Trader Wazi smiles admiringly upon the legend.

JOHN HENRY I’m fine leaving empty handed this time, Wazi.

Trader Wazi raises a finger in protest.

TRADER WAZI But I insist.

He reaches his walking stick up to the wood-beamed ceiling, picks off the Dreamcatcher hanging from above the counter.

TRADER WAZI (CONT’D) To catch only the good dreams while you sleep at night and let the bad ones pass through...

Trader Wazi removes the Dreamcatcher off the tip of his walking stick and hands it to John Henry. He takes it, delicately running his fingers over the feathers.

JOHN HENRY Sounds like a fair trade.

John Henry smiles back. Sky claps his hands together.

SKY So, now that that’s settled, time for me to go show this off.

Man on a mission, Sky takes flight out the door, holing his coonskin hat on. With a bemused smile --

TRADER WAZI Never a dull moment with that one.

JOHN HENRY That’s a truth.

TRADER WAZI And he’s lucky to have a friend like you.

John Henry quietly examines the Dreamcatcher in his hand.

JOHN HENRY (contemplative) But that’s not why I’m here.

A knowing glance between them.

JOHN HENRY (CONT’D) Got word we may have visitors in the area. Never seen em’ this aggressive before.

Trader Wazi gazes out the shop window overlooking a great mountain expanse unfolding before them.

TRADER WAZI These have always been uncertain times. That’s why we have our network of allies in place.

He smiles reassuringly at him. Off John Henry, not so sure.

EXT. WESTWARD HO TRADING POST

Just after sundown --

JOHN HENRY (V.O.) Trader Wazi was the only family Sky had ever known. Took the boy in when he was young. Gave him as much of a life as he could...

EXT. BIG THUNDER - NIGHT

The town has come alive with a flurry of activity. Handfuls of delightful locals gather for the annual lantern festival. Children play a hoop and pole game, rough-house in the dirt.

JOHN HENRY (V.O.) There wasn’t much left of Big Thunder, a would-be boomtown that never got its fair shake. Those who remained made the best of what they had. As life carried on.

EXT./INT. LOG-HOUSE - SIMULTANEOUS

John Henry hangs the Dreamcatcher in an opened window. Its suede lace circles lit with moonlight. Feathers at its base start to turn in the wind like needle points on a compass.

A feather falls off, fluttering to the floor. John Henry notices. Gives pause. He picks the feather up. As it disturbingly turns to an ashy gray color in his palm.

EXT. GREAT FOREST - SIMULTANEOUS

Over sprawling woodlands cloaked in moonlit shadows, a gargantuan mountain stands like a sentinel.

JOHN HENRY (V.O.) Terrible floods and rumbling earth kept newcomers away for years. But some knew those were the least of our worries.

INT. CAMPING TENT - SIMULTANEOUS

A PIONEER WOMAN covered in blankets, exhales a breath in the chilly air. She watches as a Dreamcatcher hanging between the front flaps of the tent begin to glow in the moonlight.

JOHN HENRY (V.O.) Since a chosen few had dedicated themselves to protecting our world from the supernatural forces that linger beyond Thunder Mountain.

The Pioneer Woman rises to her feet, stoked with a look of determination.

EXT. BEYOND BIG THUNDER - NIGHT

Rugged hills glisten under a sky full of stars. A MAN ON A HORSE rides purposely through a pitch black trail.

JOHN HENRY (V.O.) Years ago I became one of the guardians of Frontierland, known as the Legends. For reasons I wish had never come to pass...

INT. LOG-HOUSE - NIGHTFALL

On a pair of almond shaped eyes that could tell a thousand stories. They belong to POLLY ANN, a beautiful African- American woman impossible to dream up.

She replaces dead flowers from a ceramic vase at the same window John Henry stood. As darkness devours the sun. Gets a strange feeling.

Polly Ann glances over her shoulder. As an astoundingly LARGE SHADOW drops down from the ceiling and swoops upon her.

INT. LOG-HOUSE - LATER

John Henry sits beside Polly Ann in a cot bed. A tear falls from her eye.

JOHN HENRY (V.O.) The monsters of nightmares took the one thing that mattered most to me.

John Henry holds his wife’s hand tightly, facing the grim reality she won’t make it through the night.

JOHN HENRY I’ll find them. Even if it takes the rest of my life.

Polly Ann weakly shakes her head. She smiles forlorn.

POLLY ANN You’ve never been a bitter man. Don’t grow hard, John.

He leans down and kisses her forehead.

EXT. LOG-HOUSE - PRESENT

A quiet evening. John Henry stands on the porch steps of a modest cabin home set back amongst a shroud of willow trees.

SKY (O.S.) Sitting out on the one night of the year this town sees any action?

Sky heads over.

JOHN HENRY I’m not much of a dancer.

SKY Not buying that. Think you might have some moves in you.

John Henry chuckles.

JOHN HENRY They’re long gone. Seemed like everyone was having a good time though.

Sky hops up on the porch, sits down next to the Legend. He leans back against the steps on his elbows.

SKY Sometimes I wish my mother never dumped me in Big Thunder. Guess she knew off the bat I’d be a trouble. Got away while she still could.

JOHN HENRY Don’t say that, Sky. You’re here for a reason.

Sky exhales, blows a strand of hair out of his face. He stares out across the mountainous terrain before them.

SKY Doesn’t matter anymore. I’m leaving soon. Gonna get out there, earn a name for myself like you did.

John Henry steadies his gaze ahead.

JOHN HENRY Earning a name for yourself isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.

SKY Better than being stuck in Big Thunder. I want to live a story of my own, John. I have to.

John Henry offers him a reassuring smile.

JOHN HENRY Your story will be told soon enough, Sky. You can count on that. Don’t rush it though.

EXT. ROGUE RIVER - NIGHT

A lit bonfire crackles. The trio of Beaver Trappers knock back big gulps from jugs of moonshine. The One-Eyed Trapper stands and puffs out his chest, hands on his hips.

ONE-EYED TRAPPER Then he ses’, (mock serious) “Put him down.” Hammer-swinger thinks he’s so high and mighty! May have beaten the machine but he ain’t beat me!

They crack up. Reverse to reveal, an UNKNOWN POV watching them from a dark shroud of broadleaf trees.

ONE-EYED TRAPPER (CONT’D) I tell ya, I’m done. I’ve had it! We’ll get the boy. Can’t hide from us in that trading post with the old man forever.

A rustle from the trees. The One-Eyed Trapper’s ears perk.

ONE-EYED TRAPPER (CONT’D) Hear something?

Before they can react, a LARGE FORM swoops down upon their terrified faces. Blackness. As screams echo in the night.

INT. LOG-HOUSE - SOON AFTER

On the Dreamcatcher in the window. John Henry warily observes as the circle of hoops pulsates, struggling to filter bad energies from an unknown source (which ordinarily would be trapped in the Dreamcatcher and burned away by the morning sun).

EXT. BIG THUNDER - NIGHT

A veil of thick fog rolls in from the surrounding forest. Right when a DARK FORM touches down upon the ground from high above the towering trees.

KA-THUNK!

As a CLOAKED FIGURE appears, perched steady on his feet, drawing upon the secured gates. A hooded cape swept over his shoulders, rippling behind him in the night winds.

Seemingly stitched together from earthen materials like the contents of a bird pellet.

He continues forward in a steady stride. Then in one quick step stealthily launches himself over the fort walls without a sound.

INT. WESTWARD HO TRADING POST - SOON AFTER

Sky steps inside to find Trader Wazi perched in a horned chair next to a flickering candle light, assembling a Dreamcatcher in his lap.

TRADER WAZI Should be more careful or you’ll bring yourself unwanted trouble, Sky.

He looks over as Sky latches the door shut behind him.

SKY You’ve pumped my head with tall tales long enough. Thunder Mountain, forbidden trails and haunted forests? It’s a load of bull and I’m not afraid anymore.

TRADER WAZI Fear has its merits.

Sky snaps his eyes back over his shoulder at Trader Wazi as he moves deeper down the aisles.

SKY Oh yeah? For what? To keep me locked up here working for you?

TRADER WAZI For survival. Even the bravest of us trust in our fears.

SKY I can survive on my own just fine. Come to think of it, you should probably find a new shop keeper’s assistant. Gonna be moving on soon.

TRADER WAZI Is that so?

Sky nods.

SKY Yep. Consider this my notice.

Trader Wazi smiles diplomatically.

TRADER WAZI Fair enough. Best of luck to you then, Sky.

SKY Thanks.

Sky descends down the spiral steps, disappearing below the floor boards beneath the shop. A guilt-ridden look washes over his face.

INT. LOG-HOUSE - NIGHT

John Henry draws the curtains closed at the window where he’s hung the Dreamcatcher. An UNKNOWN FORCE touches down upon the roof. Thud! His eyes scan up at the beamed ceilings.

INT. WESTWARD HO TRADING POST - SOON AFTER

Trader Wazi quietly walks the darkened aisles of the shop checking off an inventory list with a pencil.

TRADER WAZI (quietly) One Raven’s Blanket. Two sweet grass braids. Four bags of chokecherries.

EXT. BIG THUNDER - NIGHT

The sky is pregnant with rumbling thunder. A loud CRACK of lightening crashes from above -- striking a dry oak tree which lights up like a matchbook. Boom!

INT. WESTWARD HO TRADING POST - BENEATH THE FLOOR

Sky jolts awake from bed under blankets of tanned hides. Heart beating incredibly fast.

UPSTAIRS - GROUND FLOOR

In a dream-trance, Trader Wazi’s body straightens in his chair with a sudden jerk. Head raised at the ceiling. Eyes roll back in his head so only whites show. He mutters softly under his breath in an unknown tongue.

Something has found them.

EXT. LOG HOUSE - SIMULTANEOUS

Winds stir outside, whirling up dead leaves off the ground and funneling them into the air.

John Henry rushes out the front door, down the porch steps to witness a blazing fire across the town square consuming the oak tree.

INT. WESTWARD HO TRADING POST

An elk skull tremors on top of the split-log counter. Pitter- patter. Pitter-patter. The shop windows fling open wide with an incredible force.

As the CLOAKED FIGURE swoops in from the darkness, lands perched upright on his feet. He cocks his head around the empty room with a predatory gaze.

Small pupil-less black eyes shaped like solid marbles flash from under the hood hanging over his angular face, giving a brief glimpse of grey flesh tight as armor, faint lipless mouth and a long aquiline-nose.

INT. WESTWARD HO TRADING POST - BENEATH THE FLOOR

Sky slips out of his bunk, slides a ceramic jug over to uncover a hatch hidden beneath the floor which opens to a labyrinthine tunnel system burrowed underground.

INT. WESTWARD HO TRADING POST

The Cloaked Figure perks his head like an antenna.

INT. UNDERGROUND BURROWS - SIMULTANEOUS

Sky hurries as fast as he can deeper into the cavernous passageway running under Big Thunder.

INT. WESTWARD HO TRADING POST - CONTINUOUS

The Cloaked Figure rotates his head around with an unnatural twist. His cape whips up in the air as a pair of huge dark feathered wings rise over his shoulders, unfurling behind him like a great horned owl. To reveal, he’s an OWL MAN!

As Trader Wazi lurches into view from behind a stack of sealskin floats and launches himself at the Owl Man, wielding his walking stick high above his head.

He STRIKES the Owl Man with surprising ferocity, unleashing blow after blow as if the dormant spirit of a long ago warrior has been awakened.

Trader Wazi cries out, wildly swinging left and right as the Owl Man fights off blow after blow in a flutter of furious movements.

In the blink of an eye, the Owl Man moves astonishingly fast across the room and lands suspended sideways with his talon- like clawed feet clung to the mud-plastered wall. Head cocked, ready to strike again!

Then flies back, quickly ripping the magic walking stick from out of Trader Wazi’s hands in a whirl of action and sends it spinning across the floor.

The Owl Man kicks his feet off the floor, throws his legs up and slams into Trader Wazi’s chest, smashing him through another wall, exposing a secret room behind it.

He pounces on him, lifting Trader Wazi by the throat as the dust settles and holds him high off the floor. His terror reflected in the creature’s black marbled eyes.

As moonlight reveals his frightening inhuman visage in all its uncanny glory.

TRADER WAZI You won’t find him.

The Owl Man squeezes his neck, calmly watches blood drain from Trader Wazi’s face. John Henry kicks open the door and bursts through the shop, holds his sledgehammer at his side.

He rushes towards the Owl Man, prompting him to hurl Trader Wazi across the room like a rag doll, his body lands in a crumpled heap. Whump!

John Henry swings his legendary sledgehammer at his side, releasing an astounding blast of kinetic energy. The Owl Man is ripped back by the force.

The Owl Man recovers quick, springs off the floor in retreat and violently bursts upwards through the sodden-roofed ceiling like a launching rocket.

He vanishes into the cold night -- as piles of debris spill down onto the shop floor from the rupturing roof.

John Henry rushes across the room to Trader Wazi, barely conscious, taking laborious breaths on the floor.

JOHN HENRY Where is he?

TRADER WAZI (gravely) Not here.

INT. FOREST - SOON AFTER

Sky presses forward on foot as quick as a mongoose through the great forest. John Henry rushes after Sky with a torch light in his hand.

JOHN HENRY Sky, wait!

Sky stops dead in his track. He pauses, takes a tired breath. John Henry catches up.

SKY I can’t be trapped in that shop anymore. I need to be on my own.

JOHN HENRY You’re not safe out here.

Exasperated, Sky spins his head around.

SKY Why? It’s a boring old forest.

JOHN HENRY He can see you in the dark.

SKY Who?

Hoot. Hoot. John Henry glances up. Faint sound of wings flapping overhead draw closer -- growing louder and louder.

JOHN HENRY Get down!

Gulp. The Owl Man slashes across the sky overhead with John Henry and Sky in his sight lines below.

His monstrous body dive bombs from high above and glides down over the treetops. Talons outstretched.

The Owl Man strikes down, releasing an unearthly cry with a flare of his wings. Blows out John Henry’s torch light.

He snatches Sky off the ground by the shoulders, piercing through his skin with razor-sharp talons.

SKY John!

The Owl Man takes flight with Sky, glowing eyes shimmering in the night, ascending higher into the night air.

John Henry races after them on the ground. Sky looks down frightened as the earth shrinks fast under his feet.

JOHN HENRY Hold on!

Sky shuts his eyes, struggling mightily to break free.

SKY Lemme go!

The Owl Man soars higher over the trees. Suddenly, Sky’s shirt tears from the Owl Man’s grip. He’s yanked down and dangles, one shoulder free.

Sky stares ahead as a surge of leaves sweep off the tall dark cliffs in a funneling cyclone.

A MAN’S VOICE Hey, butter fingers -- you’re losing your touch!

Sky opens his eyes back up in amazement to witness the FORM OF A MAN leaping off a BLACK STALLION appearing from the settling winds.

The Rider gallops onto an outstretched rock formation towering above the forest.

He hurls himself off the cliff in a free wheeling dive as the Owl Man approaches in flight.

A MAN’S VOICE (CONT’D) Geronimo!

Timed perfectly, he lands hard on the Owl Man’s back, causing all three to rollick into a wild mid air tailspin.

The Owl Man loses his grip and releases Sky, dropping the boy in a terrifying death fall as he plummets towards the earth.

John Henry breaks towards Sky dropping towards the ground, making astonishingly fast leaps and bounds towards his point of descent.

Sky tumbles down into a tree, John Henry snatches him from off a long hanging branch, just in the nick of time. They take off running. Fast and furiously.

Sky glances back behind him. As the Owl Man touches down from above and descends upon them, revealing his incredible wingspan in all its might.

SKY (terrified) He’s coming back!

A perilous moment. The Owl Man’s gaze fixes upon Sky, drawing closer with every step they take.

OWL MAN Whoo, whoo.

From behind the Owl Man’s stalks of plumage, the MYSTERY MAN appears riding on his back like a bucking bronco.

A rough-hewn pioneer in a weather-beaten buckskin coat. Greased back hair, sideburns stretched across his cheeks, charismatic charm and a devil may care smile.

MYSTERY MAN ‘Bout time this bird got clipped!

He grabs the Owl Man by the neck and in one twist -- throws him off course. Slams the creature into a large tree trunk. The Owl Man releases a terrible shriek!

A tear splits wide across his throat, spewing out a whirl of chaotic shadows in every direction that devour his body in a frightening death blur.

The Mystery Man tumbles off into the air and flies head first into a bushel of ferns. Sky stares wide-eyed at John Henry.

SKY What was that?

Before John Henry can answer --

MYSTERY MAN A Nocturnal or what I simply call an “Owl Man.” Been tracking him for days. They sure can be elusive.

The Mystery Man pushes out from the mossy underbrush and presents himself to the pair. John Henry stands protectively next to Sky.

JOHN HENRY ‘Bout time you showed up.

He crosses his arms, coolly stares over at none other than the legendary PECOS BILL, the once “Greatest Cowboy of All Time”, who has since undergone a bit of career change.

PECOS BILL Know what they say, better late than never...

JOHN HENRY Not when we’ve got work to do.

Pecos Bill shrugs it off, glances over at Sky with a friendly smile and motions towards John Henry.

PECOS BILL Really fits the description. Doesn’t he? John Henry is one big guy.

Off Sky’s confused look --

JOHN HENRY Sky, this is Bill.

Sky’s head whirs. Puts two and two together.

SKY Mean like Pecos Bill?

Pecos Bill nods proudly, arms at his hips.

PECOS BILL One and only. I don’t make the trip up often so think of this as a special occasion. ‘Cause we’ve got a world of trouble coming our way.

Sky releases an exasperated breath.

SKY An Owl Man? Pecos Bill in the flesh AND an acquaintance of John Henry? Can someone please stop and explain to me what’s going on?

Pecos Bill gives John Henry a funny look.

PECOS BILL You mean he doesn’t know?

SKY Know what?

Pecos Bill glances around, taken off guard.

PECOS BILL Well, this is awkward. I mean, there’s no way of getting around this. You’re the Totem Keeper.

SKY (puzzled) The Totem Keeper? I barely have two pairs of shoes to my name. Let alone a totem.

JOHN HENRY Now’s not the time to explain. We need to get back to the shop. Trader Wazi was in bad shape when I left him. If this one found us, more could follow.

Sky’s face falls, suddenly realizing...

INT. WESTWARD HO TRADING POST - SOON AFTER

Sheets of rain drum upon the collapsed roof. The front door clangs back and forth off its hinges.

Sky rushes up the walkway and into the shop to find Trader Wazi’s body unconscious on the floor in a heap of debris.

He rushes over and takes the old man by his bony hand, gently touches his sallow face.

SKY I’m sorry I left like a coward. I didn’t know that Owl Man was here. Should’ve been with you. Could’ve fought him together. Please, wake up. I’ll stay and help you keep the shop open long as you need me to.

After a moment, Trader Wazi’s eyes flutter open. A faint smile draws across his face.

TRADER WAZI Nothing a little bloodroot can’t fix.

Sky smiles back with relief.

SKY Be right back.

He jumps up and scurries back behind the counter, starts rifling through a drawer. Trader Wazi’s eyes drift over to the Legends.

TRADER WAZI I’m glad you’ve been reacquainted.

PECOS BILL Got the signal. But the forecast isn’t looking so good for us, Wazi.

Trader Wazi uses his walking stick to pull himself up to his feet and back into his horned chair.

TRADER WAZI What did you find Bill?

PECOS BILL There’s more out there. Think they’ve somehow infiltrated our lines of communication, if you know what I mean...

He regards a Dreamcatcher hanging from Trader Wazi’s window. Sky hurries back carrying a small tin rattling with tiny glass bottles of herbs and dried plants inside.

SKY Not much left but should be enough.

Sky applies a droplet of bloodroot onto a tobacco-leaf and presses it against Trader Wazi’s wounded arm.

TRADER WAZI Thanks Sky, I can take it from here.

Trader Wazi removes Sky’s hand and holds the leaf against his wound to ease the pain.

SKY I know this isn’t the best time to be asking but what did Bill mean when he said I’m the Totem Keeper?

Trader Wazi realizes he has no choice now but to come clean.

TRADER WAZI When you were young, your mother brought you to me because she knew this would be a safe place...

EXT. GREAT FOREST - NIGHT FALL

A YOUNG MOTHER in ragged and filthy clothes, escapes ankle- deep through a muddy creek from an UNSEEN PURSUER closing in.

She quickly reaches a broken river bank, climbs atop stable ground, finds her footing and takes off into the piney woods carrying a child swaddled in blankets strapped to a baby case on her back.

TRADER WAZI (V.O.) Long ago she left somewhere as old as the sun, moon and stars in hopes that one day you could return. Where her people were once the bravest of all warriors...

EXT. THUNDER MOUNTAIN - ESTABLISHING

A rocky colossus reaches up to a gunmetal sky.

TRADER WAZI (V.O.) Until, the Nightmare-Bringer took possession of the mirage-stone and escaped the Unknown Realm to bring a forever night across Frontierland...

A flickering torch-light staff in the hands of a Hooded Figure moving along a rocky path, cloaked in shadows and trailed by a flock of ravens.

He has a corpse-like face of decaying flesh. Eyes unnaturally tinted with crimson. The Nightmare-Bringer raises his staff to the sky as darkness settles over Frontierland unfolding beyond Thunder Mountain.

INT. WESTWARD HO TRADING POST - AS BEFORE

Trader Wazi stands up with his walking stick.

TRADER WAZI But the totem was hidden to ensure your descendants’ survival. And I recruited the best heroes alive so one day you could return it to the Cliff-Dwellers.

He looks upon John Henry and Pecos Bill. Sky is struck.

SKY Cliff-Dwellers?

Trader Wazi nods.

TRADER WAZI Your mother’s people. Once the strongest of the clans who maintained peace and balance throughout Frontierland.

SKY How’s that possible? I’m just a shop keeper’s assistant.

TRADER WAZI More powerful than you know, Sky.

Sky absorbs this.

SKY (skeptical) And what if I say no? What if I don’t want to find them?

JOHN HENRY You don’t have much choice, Sky. This is how it has to be. There’s a lot at stake here.

PECOS BILL It’s as much our fight as it is anyone else’s. The supernatural forces beyond Thunder Mountain have taken friends of ours. And they need to be stopped.

John Henry knows all too well. Sky considers this statement.

SKY You’re some sort of monster hunters?

Pecos Bill considers.

PECOS BILL I find that term to be a bit limiting and feel it doesn’t account for the full spectrum of what we do. But yes, frankly that’s the best way of putting it. (then) And no one knows Thunder Trail better than I do...

EXT. THUNDER TRAIL - YEARS AGO

In a thunderstorm, a WAGON TRAIN moves through a treacherous path soon swept up by a devastating mud slide that rips the convoy to shreds.

PECOS BILL (V.O.) Because these forests, hills and mountain tops raised me. I’m a son of Frontierland.

TIME CUT:

AFTER THE STORM

The remains of the forage wagons lay in ruins. Shipment barrels marked PECOS, TX float by in the trickling flood.

PECOS BILL (V.O.) They’re all I’ve ever known...

A YOUNG BOY in dirt-caked linens awakens at the muddy banks of a stream where a PACK OF HUNGRY WOLVES circle.

EXT. FOREST - YEARS LATER

YOUNG PECOS BILL slashes barefoot through the tangled backwoods swathed in mist, trailed by wolves who have now become his loyal brothers and sisters.

INT. WESTWARD HO TRADING POST - AS BEFORE

Much to Sky’s surprise --

SKY The stories are true, you really were raised by wolves?

PECOS BILL Yep, that’s no tall tale. Mowgli ain’t the only one. There’s no greater wild man alive than yours truly.

WOMAN’S VOICE (O.S.) If he’s in then I’m out!

All eyes turn to CALAMITY JANE. She stamps inside from the rain with a lantern in hand. A wild-eyed spellbinding-beauty with honey-colored hair, dressed in a trapper’s frock coat and leather leggings. Charm and confidence in spades.

CALAMITY JANE This man can’t be trusted.

Calamity Jane fixes a glare on Pecos Bill. He snorts.

PECOS BILL Now ain’t she a prickly pear?

John Henry smiles upon Calamity Jane.

JOHN HENRY Good to see you, Jane.

Calamity Jane nods politely.

CALAMITY JANE John Henry.

TRADER WAZI Jane, what seems to be the problem?

Trader Wazi smiles upon her, diplomatically. She crosses her arms, takes a calming breath and regains her composure.

CALAMITY JANE Bill here doesn’t understand the notion of “partnership.” Left me high and dry after we had just hunted down a pack of Pukwudgies from the Haunted Forest. And I’ve been meaning to put him in a strangle hold ever since.

Full of fire, Calamity Jane lunges across the room for Pecos Bill and grabs his throat. She SLAMS him against the wall with surprising strength. Pecos Bill flashes his eyebrows.

PECOS BILL Did you miss me?

CALAMITY JANE Don’t you dare!

She takes a swing, batting her arms at him. Pecos Bill throws up his hands and shields himself from her fists of fury.

PECOS BILL You need to cage that rage!

Calamity Jane points back.

CALAMITY JANE Oh, I’m just getting started.

PECOS BILL This is exactly why I left you!

She frowns.

CALAMITY JANE Left me?! Don’t twist this!

Trader Wazi taps his walking stick on his chair.

TRADER WAZI Jane. This isn’t the time.

Calamity Jane backs off, realizing the gravity of the situation unfolding.

CALAMITY JANE Like I said if he’s in, I’m out. Simple as that.

She locks on Pecos Bill, like all bets are off.

PECOS BILL (matter-of-fact) You need me.

CALAMITY JANE Like a hole in the head!

PECOS BILL You’re better off on the trail with me by your side. You know it’s true. ‘Cause I was born without fear. Of no man or beast.

Calamity Jane rolls her eyes.

CALAMITY JANE Oh, here he goes again...

Pecos Bill gestures out at the open door.

PECOS BILL What it takes out there to survive? Calls for a certain type of breed.

Calamity Jane scoffs.

CALAMITY JANE You wouldn’t know your arm from your leg on Thunder Trail if it hadn’t been for me backing you up --

PECOS BILL Watch it. Those are fighting words.

John Henry looks at them both exasperated.

JOHN HENRY Will you two just try and get along? We need to stick together here for everyone’s sake.

Trader Wazi nods firmly.

TRADER WAZI John Henry’s right. You’ve been a formidable team on that trail. Can’t let whatever’s going on between you and Bill --

She holds her hand up in protest.

CALAMITY JANE Um, stop right there. Nothing is going on between Bill and I.

Pecos Bill smirks.

PECOS BILL She wishes.

Calamity Jane gasps.

CALAMITY JANE I’m so close to throwing in the towel and not doing a thing to stop every diabolical creature the Nightmare-Bringer let loose from having the run of this entire frontier if it means not spending another second with Pecos Bill!

PECOS BILL That’s a bit dramatic.

JOHN HENRY Enough, both of you. We’re the Legends, remember?

PECOS BILL And it’s not like any of us are in much demand anymore. Our stories have already been told. This is the best shot at a second act. In fact, it’s the only shot we’ll ever have. (then) I mean, someone’s got to defend Thunder Trail from supernatural forces. May as well be us, right?

Fed up, Calamity Jane puts her defenses down. A friendly smile creeps across her face as Sky steps out of the shadows.

SKY Ma’am, I was skeptical about all this too. But after what I saw tonight, think Bill’s got a point.

CALAMITY JANE You must be Sky.

Sky smiles politely.

SKY That’s right.

She holds out her hand. He takes it.

CALAMITY JANE I’m Jane. But most people know me as Calamity Jane.

Pecos Bill bursts into a guffaw.

PECOS BILL ‘Cause she’s sure got a knack for causing it.

CALAMITY JANE Oh hush, Bill.

SKY Read about you in those dime novels. You’re famous. It’s good to meet you Jane.

Calamity Jane grins widely. Loves her fans.

CALAMITY JANE Good to be met. But we should leave by dawn if we want to make good time. Horses are hitched outside and ready to go.

JOHN HENRY You’ll be in good hands, Sky.

SKY Return the totem to the Cliff- Dwellers and these things stop bothering us?

Trader Wazi raises an eyebrow, not so simple.

TRADER WAZI It’s a step in the right direction. But you’ll have the Legends as your guides on Thunder Trail.

SKY So where is it? Where’s the totem?

Trader Wazi rests his walking stick over both hands. Its wooden knot magically comes undone to reveal a skillfully hand carved TOTEM tucked inside. A majestic item made from ash wood in the shape of an unusual-looking bird.

INT. WESTWARD HO TRADING POST - YEARS AGO

Sky’s Mother shivers on the dirt-floor of the shop, keeping her baby safe and quiet in her arms. Trader Wazi has a fire going as he tries in vain to keep her alive.

TRADER WAZI (V.O.) I made a promise to your mother to keep the totem safe for you until you were ready to make the journey.

INT. WESTWARD HO TRADING POST - AS BEFORE

Trader Wazi takes the totem in his hand, moves towards Sky and places it over his neck as the young man tilts his head down to receive the striking object.

SKY Incredible.

He turns the totem around, revealing intricate patterns on its back wings which resemble a trail map.

TRADER WAZI I thought so too.

INT. WESTWARD HO TRADING POST - DAYBREAK

The first light of day crests over the magnificent foothills, suffused through the shop window.

Sky moves down the aisles, carrying a rucksack on his back packed with supplies. The realization that his world is about to change forever.

EXT. WESTWARD HO TRADING POST - CONTINUOUS

The roof has been mended back together. Sky approaches the awaiting troika of heroes. Trader Wazi sweeps up debris from last night’s attack in the doorway.

SKY Sorry about what I said before.

TRADER WAZI Not what’s important now.

Trader Wazi regards the totem hanging around Sky’s neck.

SKY I get it, this totem’s important. Mean it has to be, for you to have assembled a crew like this.

Sky gazes over at John Henry, Pecos Bill and Calamity Jane as they secure their rucksacks to a band of horses, which includes Pecos Bill’s legendary black stallion WIDOW-MAKER.

TRADER WAZI This will always be your home. But now it’s time for you to have your own story told, just like you wanted.

Sky nods, feels a bit surreal.

SKY Maybe, somehow I always knew this day was coming.

Sky stares off apprehensively at the great mountain expanse unfolding before Big Thunder.

TRADER WAZI Remember, it’s not the stars that hold our destiny. You do. But now you’re ready for what comes next.

A wave of uncertainty washes over him. Sky instinctively embraces Trader Wazi. He takes a quiet breath. After a beat --

SKY Thanks, for everything. You’re the only family I’ve ever known.

TRADER WAZI I’m not going anywhere. I’ll always be here for you, Sky.

Sky gives one last look at the Westward Ho Trading Post, only home he’s ever had and turns away. Then walks off to join the Legends.

Trader Wazi watches them, a little uncertain of the future himself. He waves as they go.

EXT. FOOTHILLS - SOON AFTER

Pecos Bill picks a handful of wild-gooseberries juggling in his palm, leading the Legends forward on horseback deeper into the woods.

PECOS BILL Widow-Maker here’s the smartest horse alive. Make no mistake. He’ll take us beyond Thunder Mountain by heart and instinct. But there’s certain rules one must abide by to successfully survive Frontierland. Since this is a place like no other, where the present and mythic world are one.

Calamity Jane groans.

CALAMITY JANE I’ve heard this motivational speech way too many times.

Pecos Bill waves his finger -- tsk, tsk.

PECOS BILL This could save the kid’s life. So, listen up. Number one. The creatures you’ve been taught to believe are impossible and even implausible exist. That skeptic’s line of thinking won’t cut it out here. Number two NEVER stray from the trail. Which leads to number three ALWAYS watch your back.

Calamity Jane trudges her horse forward as a series of dilapidated sign post marking the start of the trail pop up (Turn Back Now, Danger, Wrong Way, etc.).

CALAMITY JANE What a bunch of balderdash. I’m the one that had your back when you took off like a coward before we reached Rogue River.

She gallops forward, putting more distance between them. Sky shoots a look at Pecos Bill, riding steady on his horse.

SKY What’s with you two? You fight like an old married couple.

With a mischievous grin --

PECOS BILL Let’s ‘jes say the girl knocked me for a loop.

CUT TO:

MINUTES LATER

The Legends jostle their horses onto a narrowing bend in single-rank formation, climbing a hilly slope set along a jagged cliff face.

SKY Why’s everyone scared to leave Big Thunder anyway? Frontierland doesn’t seem that dangerous to me.

Sky trots his horse alongside John Henry, keeping a watchful eye on their surroundings.

JOHN HENRY Trust us, some of the inhabitants aren’t always the friendliest. Keep your eyes and ears open.

An avalanche of rocks slide down from above, thrashing onto their path, sending the horses scattering for cover.

CALAMITY JANE Woah!

Calamity Jane quickly takes the reins of her horse. In a burst of panic, Sky’s horse loses its footing in the blink of an eye, skittering dangerously close towards the edge.

Within moments, its legs sweep out from under it as the horse whinnies in a desperate scramble to stay afoot, hooves clattering onto a flood of sliding rocks.

The horse completely slides off the edge and takes a violent tumble, catching its reigns on the jagged rocks below, hanging upside down -- seconds away from a steep drop. John Henry turns back around, roused into action.

JOHN HENRY Hang on!

Sky grabs hold of the jumbled reins, desperately trying to pull himself up to safety. He glances over the cliff’s edge --

Suddenly, his horse wrenches itself loose from the web of reins and hurtles into a free fall, disappearing from view.

Pecos Bill acts quick, unhooks a snakeskin lasso from under his belt and lobs it down to Sky, twisting it around his hand in the nick of time to catch him in midair.

Pecos Bill tightens the lasso around Sky, rips him up onto the edge to safety like a zip cord. Mud flings in his face.

Sky rolls over on his side. Coughs up a mouthful of dust. Takes a breath.

SKY Close call.

Calamity Jane is clearly perturbed.

CALAMITY JANE That was a darn good horse. You said he could ride, John. We can’t have tenderfoots out here with us.

Sky wipes a smudge of dirt off his face, stands up on his feet defiantly.

SKY I can ride just fine. Those rocks came out of nowhere.

John Henry’s head tilt up at the cliff face looming above. A flock of circling crows squawk in the sky.

JOHN HENRY Sky’s right. His riding wasn’t the problem.

Pecos Bill takes inventory of fallen rocks haphazardly strewn across their path.

PECOS BILL Think someone set a trap?

John Henry steadies his gaze.

JOHN HENRY We shouldn’t stand around to find out. Let’s keep moving.

EXT. HAUNTED FOREST - SOON AFTER

The Legends trot their horses through a rocky overhang covered in a jungle of wild vines and shriveled leaves.

Sky rides double behind Calamity Jane onto a darkened stretch of trail packed in fallen trees.

SKY What is this place?

Sky peeks over Calamity Jane’s shoulder and takes in the sight of a vast decaying forest.

CALAMITY JANE (matter-of-fact) The Haunted Forest.

An eerie silence. Pecos Bill slows his speed as Widow-Maker clops over a gauntlet of hollowed tree trunks.

PECOS BILL Can’t say I ever liked this place.

A quick shadow above passes over his face. He doesn’t notice.

SKY Haunted Forest? Isn’t that where you said you hunted down a pack of - - what was it?

CALAMITY JANE Pukwudgies.

Sky takes a moment to think about this, moving through the broken path of trees shrouded in darkness.

SKY What if they were the ones that started that rock slide?

A tense moment.

PECOS BILL Could be. Keep a sharp eye. They’ve been known for being a bit territorial.

SKY What’s a Pukwudgie anyway?

Pecos Bill releases a groan.

PECOS BILL The most vicious and pernicious ugly little things ever.

SKY You seen one up close before, John?

John Henry trots alongside them on high alert.

JOHN HENRY Luckily not.

PECOS BILL Hope you never do either. Lemme tell ya, they can get mean.

Reverse angle to reveal an UNKNOWN POV closing in on the Legends making their way through piles of tree corpses sticking up in the air like a palisade of stakes.

Pecos Bill takes the lead out in front, squeezing through the Haunted Forest.

PECOS BILL (CONT’D) Real mean.

Pfft. A POISONOUS BLOW DART missiles through the trees and pierces his neck.

Pecos Bill’s body quickly goes numb and falls off the side of Widow-Maker. He hits the ground with a thud!

CALAMITY JANE Bill!

A swirl of fast moving shadows dart in and out of the hollowed trees and quickly surround them at a dizzying pace -- eyes glistening in the shadows. Sky’s face goes white. Heart beating furiously.

CALAMITY JANE (CONT’D) (top of her lungs) Pukwudgies!

Calamity Jane spins around leaving a trail of dust behind her. From out of the hallowed trees, a platoon of long-tailed PUKWUDGIES storm the trail.

Fierce, knee-high troll-like creatures advance towards them with pimpled scaly legs and faces freckled in warts. Sharp black porcupine-like quilled mohawks run from the top of their heads all the way down to their necks and backs.

They’re armed to the teeth; carrying miniscule blow darts, cross-bows and spears.

Calamity Jane whirls away from them and fires with a pair of silver-mounted pistols fast through the shadows -- Bam! Bam!

John Henry jumps down from his horse, pulls his sledgehammer from its goatskin case on his back and takes a powerful swing at the ensuing wave of Pukwudgies, unleashing a kinetic force that whips them back. Wham!

CALAMITY JANE (CONT’D) (confidently) Hold steady.

Unrelenting, the Pukwudgies lurch off the ground, attacking Calamity Jane’s horse amidst a shower of tiny arrows.

The horse neighs in terror, standing up on its hind legs as a tidal wave of Pukwudgies hits.

The horse rears up and kicks its legs out, sending Sky and Calamity Jane flying backwards. They plop into the dirt.

The horse gallops off into the darkness. As more Pukwudgies chase after it.

Sky stands up and faces another oncoming wave of Pukwudgies. Calamity Jane quickly rises off the ground and stands in front of Sky, rifle cocked and ready.

SKY They’re everywhere!

CALAMITY JANE Stay close.

The Pukwudgies quickly encircle them, launching nets at them in quick succession. Pecos Bill regains consciousness.

But it’s too late, Pukwudgies surround John Henry’s horse and Widow-Maker in droves, throwing heaps of rope on them to tie them up.

PECOS BILL Widow-Maker!

Pecos Bill watches the powerful horse buck and kick, soon freeing himself from the onslaught of attacking Pukwudgies.

PECOS BILL (CONT’D) That’s right!

Pecos Bill gets up and bounces to his feet. Their PUKWUDGIE CHIEF, the most fearsome of all, swings down from a branch and fast pitches a handful of corpse powder in his face, temporarily blinding Pecos Bill. WHOOSH!

PECOS BILL (CONT’D) (cries out) Corpse Powder!

Widow-Maker rams through growing hordes of Pukwudgies, valiantly galloping towards Pecos Bill.

In one swift motion, Widow-Maker ducks his snout down and lifts Pecos Bill up in the air and back onto his saddle.

He sits up on his horse, frantically wiping the corpse powder out of his burning eyes. John Henry raises his voice to address the Pukwudgie armies.

JOHN HENRY This isn’t necessary. We can come to an agreement. You’re not like the others. You don’t have to align with the Nightmare-Bringer.

His eyes narrow in on the Pukwudgie Chief, who steps forward through the mass of warriors and stares coldly at them.

PUKWUDGIE CHIEF There’s no passage through The Haunted Forest. Only death for you now. Those are our laws. (beat) Unless, you give us that horse.

The Pukwudgie Chief eyes Widow-Maker. Sets Pecos Bill off.

PECOS BILL Like heck! You can’t have him! He’ll kill anyone who tries to ride him that isn’t named Pecos Bill!

Sky throws the rope net off, standing firm in the face of the Pukwudgies, suddenly taken aback by his brazen stance.

SKY Do you know who I am?!

As Calamity Jane breaks free from the Pukwudgies’ clutches.

CALAMITY JANE What are you doing?

Sky untucks the roped totem from under his shirt, holds it out on display for the squadron of Pukwudgies to see, like a force to be reckoned with.

SKY I’m a descendant of the Cliff- Dwellers. These are the Legends. If you don’t allow us passage, the Cliff-Dweller warriors will return to decimate your armies in droves.

The Pukwudgie Chief digests this. Then, finally:

PUKWUDGIE CHIEF Fraud. Every last one of the Cliff- Dwellers were destroyed. Humans have a history of tricking our people out of our lands but those days are over now.

Sky protests.

SKY I’m not a fraud. And Cliff-Dwellers still exist. I’m proof of it. ‘Cause I’m one of them. I’m their Totem Keeper.

John Henry steps forward, tries to reason.

JOHN HENRY We have no interest in taking your lands. We just need to get our friend beyond Thunder Mountain and back to his people.

The Chief goes down the lineup of warriors, weighing his options.

EXT. THUNDER TRAIL - SOON AFTER

The sky darkens over the surrounding hills. Sun flees behind swathes of grey clouds. Dispirited, the Legends are lead by Pecos Bill atop Widow-Maker clopping along the lonely path, now the only remaining horse.

SKY (incredulous) You’re supposed to be monster hunters, why’d we give into them?!

JOHN HENRY Pukwudgies can be one of the more reasonable factions in Frontierland. That’s if the bargaining chips align in their favor.

Calamity Jane glances over at Sky.

CALAMITY JANE Be grateful, the only reason you made it out of there alive because of us “monster hunters.”

PECOS BILL And let me add to that, we don’t need to go flaunting your Totem Keeper status around. Nocturnals have been working hard to stamp out your descendants. So, it’d be wise to keep a low profile out here.

JOHN HENRY Give him a break guys.

SKY I’m fine, John. I don’t need you sticking up for me all the time.

Sky puts out his hand, catches a rain drop that falls from above. Sound of distant lightening and rumbling thunder. As black storm clouds close in.

JOHN HENRY Should set up camp soon.

EXT. HAUNTED FOREST - NIGHT

A huge bonfire ignites. Pukwudgies celebrate their latest acquisition with spears thrusting skyward and loud chants, worshipping the surviving horses like revered deities.

The Pukwudgie Chief watches from his throne as his son, a hideous looking WARRIOR riddled with scars on his face, sulks by his side.

SCARFACE Why would you let them pass? The Nocturnals will retaliate against us if they find out.

The Chief bristles.

PUKWUDGIE CHIEF Don’t question my judgement.

SCARFACE Do you really believe that boy’s a Cliff-Dweller?

PUKWUDGIE CHIEF He has their totem. If he is, it’ll lead us to the rest of them and come into favor with our overseer.

SCARFACE We were told they were wiped from Frontierland years ago.

PUKWUDGIE CHIEF Some may have survived after all. Follow them. We need to be certain.

Scarface darkens.

SCARFACE I’ll prove to you he’s an imposter.

Scarface clutches his blow dart in his hand, taking off in a running blitz towards the trail. He leaps off the ground swinging across curtains of vines like a spider monkey.

Scarface gives a signal to a PACK OF PUKWUDGIES, sharpening their spears against a rock pile. They dutifully follow after him in hurried strides.

INT. WESTWARD HO TRADING POST - FLASHBACK

Trader Wazi removes a calabash rattle from a drawer and places it in his hand, triggering a memory. Unleashes a form of psychometry, extrasensory perception from an object’s energy field to transfer knowledge of its past.

TRADER WAZI The past is entombed in the present and always will be...

PUSH IN on his black marble-like eyes, bringing us to:

EXT. GREAT FOREST - FLASHBACK

John Henry’s wife, Polly Ann, walks through the woods. She appears much different than when we last saw her. Strong and healthy, confident in her surroundings.

Polly Ann holds the calabash rattle in her hand, navigating into a small misty clearing. To find, Sky’s Mother protectively cradling her son. She gazes over at Polly Ann.

SKY’S MOTHER Please, leave us alone. I beg you.

POLLY ANN Don’t be afraid. I’m not your enemy. The Nocturnals want to stop you. But I know a safe place.

Sky’s Mother stares skeptically at Polly Ann, trying to stop her baby from crying and drawing unwanted attention from visitors in the area.

SKY’S MOTHER What difference does it make to you?

POLLY ANN We fight a similar battle. And seek the same things. You might not know it yet but you’re one of us.

As a COYOTE appears at Polly Ann’s side. Something about Polly Ann makes Sky’s Mother feel more at ease. She decides to take a gamble and trust her.

EXT. CAMP SITE - NIGHT

A kettle full of tallow heats over a slow-burning fire. The Legends huddle around it with wool blankets, bivouacked under a shroud of mossy trees.

PECOS BILL What do you got there?

Pecos Bill notices Sky making a bow from a strip of juniper wood as the Legends gulp down handfuls of soggy sweet-cake.

SKY A bow. John taught me how to string it. Now I’ll be ready for whatever else might be stalking the trail looking for this totem.

Sky stares at the kettle rattling over the fire, keeping warm by the heat of the flames.

CALAMITY JANE Suggest we all stay alert tonight.

Calamity Jane stands and cocks her rifle, staring over at the swaying trees. She tries to avoid eye contact with Bill.

SKY A very large owl. Those Pukwudgies. Can’t imagine what else is waiting out here.

John Henry takes out a leather-bound journal from his ruck sack and tosses it into Sky’s lap.

JOHN HENRY You should acclimate yourself with a copy of our handbook.

Sky regards the journal, the cover page is branded THE LEGENDS’ HANDBOOK.

SKY The Legends’ Handbook?

PECOS BILL Got everything you need to know about Frontierland. They’re all in there. Deer Man, Grasshopper Girl, Chupacabras, Flying Heads and the Gruesome Globster. List goes on.

JOHN HENRY Trader Wazi started it. Could add a page or two for whatever else might be coming our way next.

Sky opens the tattered journal and turns a page, carefully scanning his eyes in amazement over whimsical sketches depicting a series of incredible cryptids.

EXT. BIG THUNDER/WESTWARD HO TRADING POST - NIGHT

Darkness falls over the town, Trader Wazi exits his shop, navigating the way with his walking stick and a lantern onto a foggy pathway.

EXT. GREAT FOREST - SOON AFTER

Trader Wazi carefully places the lantern down on the ground, glancing out at the extensive woodlands beyond Big Thunder.

Night winds rustle across the trail as dead leaves lift off into the air and surround him. He crouches down and quietly scoops up a handful of pine needles then tosses them up over his head as they catch in the whirlwind.

The pine needles sweep over him as he travels deeper onto the shadowed trail.

Soon, his body fades away in the haze with each step and shifts shape, transforming into a powerfully built four- legged COYOTE, the greatest trickster spirit who ever lived.

EXT. CAMP SITE - LATER

Rolling thunderclouds swoop overhead. Sheets of rain pour steadily onto the Legends’ conical-shaped makeshift tent.

INT. CAMPING TENT - SIMULTANEOUS

John Henry lays awake in bed as he recalls a memory from his past that feels all too real.

INT. LOG-HOUSE - BEDROOM - FLASHBACK

Polly Ann is packing a rucksack laid out on the bed, hair pulled back tight. John Henry steps into the doorway.

JOHN HENRY What’s going on?

She looks at him guilt-ridden.

POLLY ANN I need to go John. I’m sorry.

John Henry smiles, becoming more apprehensive.

JOHN HENRY (confused) What do you mean you need to go? You can’t go.

POLLY ANN There’s things I haven’t told you. Secrets I’ve kept from you about my family.

He takes her hands, folds them with his.

JOHN HENRY I don’t care. Whatever it is, you can tell me. It’s never gonna change how I feel about you.

She can barely look him in the eyes. Close to tears.

POLLY ANN I know that. But I’m trying to protect you. There’s more dangers than you know out there.

JOHN HENRY Protect me from what?

Polly Ann takes a breath, begins to explain:

POLLY ANN It’s my lineage. My father was a houngan. He worked to undo terrible things that others had created.

JOHN HENRY Like a voodoo priest?

Polly Ann nods.

POLLY ANN Yes, not just any houngan but a Houngan Asogwe, the highest rank. A supreme. He tried his best to keep me safe. But in that line of work, you sometimes attract the wrong types. And now I’ve been chosen too. To fight them.

JOHN HENRY Fight who?

POLLY ANN Different people in different places each call them different things. But they really aren’t so different. They want the world that we live in for themselves.

John Henry gives her a steadfast look.

JOHN HENRY Whoever they are. I’ll keep you safe, Polly Ann. I swore to and I always will. No matter what happens, we’re in this together now.

Polly Ann tries to appear hopeful but in reality his words offer her little comfort for what she knows awaits them.

INT./EXT. CAMPING TENT - AS BEFORE

Sky gazes anxiously through the open flap of the tarp. He carefully reaches for his bow tucked under the rucksack at his side.

SKY (whispers) John, think something’s out there.

Sky checks to see if John Henry is awake on the other side of the tent. But before he can say another word, a HUGE SHADOW draws across the woods.

JOHN HENRY Probably just a deer.

Sky shakes his head, nervously.

SKY No, not a deer. It was a lot bigger than that.

JOHN HENRY Go back to sleep. I’ll keep watch.

Without warning, the Shadow breaks out from the trees and steam rolls over the tent. Everyone jumps up in the chaos as the Huge Form wrestles with the tarp among the trees.

EXT. CAMP SITE - CONTINUOUS

The Legends stand together with their backs to each other, bracing themselves.

PECOS BILL Now that’s just not right! I was sleeping like a baby in a bassinet!

CALAMITY JANE Quiet, Bill.

Their POV spins in every direction as the Unseen Creature instantly disappears from sight.

SKY You see it?

Calamity Jane strikes a match and lights her lantern. Their faces aglow in stark darkness.

CALAMITY JANE Got a glimpse. Definitely too big to be a Pukwudgie.

PECOS BILL Way too big.

JOHN HENRY I’ll find out myself.

Fed up, John Henry picks his sledgehammer off the ground and charges on foot towards the forest.

PECOS BILL We’re right behind you.

Pecos Bill remains in place. Calamity Jane flips him a look.

CALAMITY JANE Seriously?

Calamity Jane starts to follow John Henry. As the MONSTROUS FORM lurches from bushes, leaping over John Henry’s shoulders. He thunders towards them in the moonlight. Bear? Rabid Moose? Think again. The Monster reveals himself to be:

PECOS BILL Big Foot!

BIG FOOT roars, standing over ten feet tall, barrel-sized head and covered in coarse black hair.

He throws out his hulking arms and swats Pecos Bill across the camp site like a baby doll. Sky can hardly believe it.

Wind knocked out of him, Pecos Bill quickly reorients himself and catches his breath. Big Foot retreats from view.

Not wasting a second more, Calamity Jane grabs her rifle off the ground and takes aim at the bushes.

CALAMITY JANE He’s coming back!

John Henry holds his sledgehammer tight and rushes across the birch-trees tracing Big Foot’s jagged path.

He crosses through the forest, switching course, charging over a belt of thorny shrubbery in anticipation. All of a sudden, Big Foot returns and rips through the underbrush.

PECOS BILL Big Foot!

Big Foot grabs the sizable John Henry by his overall straps and tosses him into the air with amazing strength. He hits a tree with a thunk!

Calamity Jane and Pecos Bill chase after Big Foot through the trees. Their head spin around, searching in every direction.

CALAMITY JANE You see it?

The Legends brace themselves as a hissing sound grows louder from behind a large tree.

PECOS BILL Oh, this is just great.

Just when Big Foot reemerges, ripping up trees from the ground and hurling them at the Legends. He SMASHES through the bushes.

CALAMITY JANE Look out!

Calamity Jane dodges and ducks, tumbling with her lantern as he bolts for them.

The glass shatters and ignites the lantern onto the leafy ground -- which bursts into flames!

Big Foot rushes towards them, roars and grabs Pecos Bill, throwing him into a hollowed tree trunk.

Pecos Bill recovers quick, reaches for his holster and fires his gun off, grazing past impossibly hard tufts of fur covering Big Foot. He ROARS and bares a full-set of jagged sharp teeth at Pecos Bill.

PECOS BILL Oh, you are one --

Big Foot rushes back towards Pecos Bill on the ground, snapping his teeth -- chomp! chomp!

PECOS BILL (CONT’D) Son of a gun!

Pecos Bill cries out in pain as Big Foot bites down on his leg. He scrambles back up to his feet.

PECOS BILL (CONT’D) Thought he was a vegetarian?!

Sky looks to Calamity Jane.

SKY Big Foot is real?!

She nods.

CALAMITY JANE Real as it gets.

John Henry takes out a vial of liquid and hands it off to Sky. He looks him straight in the eye.

JOHN HENRY Sky, dip your arrow in this and then I need you to take the best shot you can.

Sky does as instructed, aims and fires a sharp-pointed arrow after Big Foot in the air, piercing Big Foot’s shoulder.

Big Foot roars in anger and rips the arrow out, snapping it in two. Sky reloads, takes another shot.

He misses but Big Foot stumbles backwards and his body gets jammed into the fork of a twisted tree. Pecos Bill glances over at Sky.

Not missing a beat, Big Foot rips himself free from the misshapen tree. He ROARS again!

PECOS BILL Oh, look at that, he’s just a big old baby throwing a tantrum, if you ask me!

JOHN HENRY Don’t mollycoddle him.

Big Foot growls at the Legends, looking momentarily confused.

SKY What was that stuff?

JOHN HENRY Clarity from Trader Wazi’s under the counter potions. Works fast.

CALAMITY JANE Hope you’re right.

Big Foot moves his mouth to form his words --

BIG FOOT The Legends are back on the trail. To what do I owe this unwelcomed intrusion?

Sky turns to the others.

SKY He’s talking, Big Foot’s actually speaking to us...

On Pecos Bill, not surprised but still impressed.

PECOS BILL That Trader Wazi’s got quite a hat full of tricks.

JOHN HENRY Big Foot, we’re not looking for trouble.

BIG FOOT Then why are you here? You’re well aware that I’m known for guarding the forest that borders the entrance of Thunder Mountain.

Pecos Bill throws a knowing look to the group.

PECOS BILL (under his breath) Which means, we’re getting close.

Calamity Jane folds her arms.

CALAMITY JANE You’re very territorial. We get it. But we’re on a mission here and frankly you destroying our camp is a major setback.

Big Foot scowls at them.

BIG FOOT Thunder Mountain is a sacred place to all the mythic creatures of Frontierland. Others have tried to destroy it for their own gain.

JOHN HENRY Not us. We’re just trying to get our friend back to his people, the Cliff-Dwellers.

Big Foot stands stunned, looks at Sky curiously.

BIG FOOT He’s a Cliff-Dweller?

PECOS BILL Yep, that he is.

BIG FOOT The Cliff-Dwellers were friends of mine who once guarded the top of Thunder Mountain when others like me lived in abundance at its foot.

EXT. THUNDER MOUNTAIN RIDGE - YEARS AGO

Dozens of black furred BIG FOOT creatures with yellow glowing eyes live harmoniously at the foot of the mountain. But the sky soon darkens overhead as they retreat for cover.

EXT. CAMP SITE - AS BEFORE

Big Foot hangs his head stoically and puffs his chest.

BIG FOOT I’ll let you pass this once if it means returning the sacred balance back to Frontierland. But don’t let me regret this.

JOHN HENRY Thank you.

The clarity potion soon wears off as Big Foot’s speech goes back to his own indecipherable tongue. He suddenly looks around at them, full of embarrassment.

Big Foot bounds away through the dark mist ahead in retreat towards a thick patch of woods and makes himself scarce. Never one for an extended appearance.

PECOS BILL Maybe, he’s just misunderstood?

Calamity Jane glances up as rain pours over their heads. Her eyes drift to the tent torn to shreds in a puddle of mud.

CALAMITY JANE Maybe but sleep is definitely out of the question tonight.

Off Calamity Jane’s dejection...

CUT TO:

BENEATH AN OUTCROPPING OF JAGGED ROCK

The Legends sleep restlessly under a mossy overhang, waiting out the storm as the drenching rains slowly begin to recede. Widow-Maker stands guard outside.

As daybreak arrives, the Legends pack up their things, readying themselves for the next leg of the harrowing trail. Pecos Bill throws a look at Sky as he mends his bow together.

PECOS BILL Survived your first night on Thunder Trail. Not many people can say that, Sky. Should be proud of yourself.

SKY If we make it through, after I return this totem, think I might have a future as a Legend?

The Legends exchange a look.

JOHN HENRY Sure, I think you’d be a great Legend. I mean that.

Sky smiles subtly.

SKY Thanks, John.

Pecos Bill raises an eyebrow, not so fast.

PECOS BILL It’s true the first leg of Thunder Trail is rife with Pukwudgies and Big Foot but make no mistake, there’s more out there. They can make the others look like a cake walk. Hate to say it but this isn’t the time to get overconfident.

Sky weighs the sentiment, grips his bow tight in his hand.

SKY I’m ready. I can do this. But I’m thinking, maybe it’s time they should start being afraid of us.

EXT. GREAT FOREST - DAY

Coyote continues along the trail in a fast trot, quickening his pace with every step.

Up ahead, Coyote captures the Pukwudgie Pack in his sight lines and moves clandestinely towards them through the outlying trees bordering the trail.

Instinctively, Coyote picks up on their duplicitous intentions and follows them.

EXT. THUNDER MOUNTAIN RIDGE - DAY

The Legends cross a creaky rope bridge hovering hundreds of feet above a steep drop below.

Pecos Bill rides in front with Widow-Maker clopping onto the washed-out trail torn-up by last night’s storm.

Everyone tilts their heads up to take in the incredible sight of Thunder Mountain, a astonishing natural behemoth.

They reach the other side of the bridge, Pecos Bill dismounts from his horse Widow-Maker.

PECOS BILL Thunder Mountain. This is as far as most people go.

Calamity Jane narrows her gaze ahead.

CALAMITY JANE Meaning anyone in their right mind.

SKY It’s amazing.

They step towards the GATES OF THUNDER MOUNTAIN where a weather-battered sign hangs outside the entrance, piled high in a barricade of shattered rocks which reads -- DANGER TNT.

CALAMITY JANE This place has always given me the creeps.

John Henry nods his head.

JOHN HENRY Pretty much has that affect on everyone.

SKY The people that were here before. Where’d they all go?

PECOS BILL Mining company left the mines unfinished after abandoning the mountain. Thought they could tame this place but as is often the case, they were dead wrong.

Dejected, Calamity Jane stares ahead at the blocked-off entryway leading into the center of the mountain.

CALAMITY JANE This is just great. Entrance is completely sealed off.

Sky cranes his neck up.

SKY What if we went around it somehow?

Calamity Jane looks at him like he’s crazy.

CALAMITY JANE There’s no going around Thunder Mountain.

John Henry steps forward.

JOHN HENRY Then we better get to it.

John Henry reaches behind him and pulls out his sledgehammer. Everyone jumps back for good measure as he takes a mighty swing at the wall of pointy rocks.

John Henry smashes them to smithereens, quickly clearing the obstruction as the darkened entry looms before them, fully exposed in pitch blackness.

PECOS BILL You sure do come in handy with that thing.

Pecos Bill smiles broadly. Sky regards Widow-Maker.

SKY What should we do about Widow- Maker?

Pecos Bill pats the horse’s neck, snuggles their faces.

PECOS BILL Gotta leave him behind for now. The trail along Thunder Mountain is long but he knows it by heart and instinct. So rest assured, he’ll find us.

Pecos Bill gives Widow-Maker a reassuringly nudge. The horse nickers.

PECOS BILL (CONT’D) Go on now.

With that, the Legends watch as Widow-Maker sucks up his emotions and takes off in an astonishingly fast stride, galloping along the edge of the shadowy mountainside.

Pecos looks on with a heavy heart as the horse disappears from sight.

PECOS BILL (CONT’D) Hurts every time.

Calamity Jane stares into the darkened mountain tunnel. Gets a feeling.

CALAMITY JANE I’m telling you now, this is a bad idea.

INT. THUNDER MOUNTAIN - MINE TUNNELS - SOON AFTER

Hearts at odds, the Legends enter into the colossal mountain, clutching grimy lanterns in their hands.

They proceed onward through a labyrinthine tunnel system burrowed deep beneath the gargantuan mountain, feeling their way through the darkness.

EXT. THUNDER MOUNTAIN RIDGE - SIMULTANEOUS

The Pukwudgies stealthily climb onto the roped footbridge, closing in on Thunder Mountain. But Coyote trails them.

INT. THUNDER MOUNTAIN - MINE TUNNELS - AS BEFORE

Sky readies his bow at his side as the narrow passageway funnels out into a series of large caverns with giant stalagmite columns rising from the ground. Stalactites hang from the ceiling above.

EXT. CAVERNS OF THUNDER MOUNTAIN - CONTINUOUS

The Legends keep close together, peering out across the expansive space. Faded petroglyphs line the rocky walls, depicting tribal images of coyotes, otters and mountain lions. Pecos Bill takes a whiff of an ultra-pungent smell.

PECOS BILL Stinks like a polecat in here.

Calamity Jane winces.

CALAMITY JANE No kidding.

On alert, John Henry moves ahead of them.

JOHN HENRY Keep close. Looks like these miners decided to give up on the job here pretty early on.

Calamity Jane glances around skeptically, catching a glimpse of bone piles poking out along the edges of the cavern floor.

CALAMITY JANE Or someone decided for them.

SKY Bill, you said you knew Thunder Trail better than anyone else. What exactly’s inside the mountain?

PECOS BILL Well, what lies beyond Thunder Mountain isn’t your ordinary every day garden variety type of frontier and what lives within it, is said to be quite above the norm...

John Henry peers up above, sees a large shadow move fast across the cave walls in the blink of an eye. Whoosh!

He reaches back behind him and pulls out his sledgehammer, carrying it along at the read in his tight grip. Sky matches his gaze.

JOHN HENRY Just in case.

The four continue on through the expansive cavern channels. Above more large shadows begin multiplying, moving in and out of sight.

All around, bright shining eyes twinkle in the darkness. Reveal a massive nest of MIDNIGHT BLACK BATS curled up in the cavern ceiling. But these are no ordinary bats.

They have giant capes of wings that conceal their uncannily thick and muscular bodies. Beyond any species ever recorded in existence from the known world. Soon they drop back into the shadows.

Sky walks forward, flips through the pages of curiosities covered in the Handbook, landing on a section that undoubtedly resembles Thunder Mountain. Sky glances up.

SKY Any idea what a Night Flyer is?

PECOS BILL (thinks about it) Said to be a type of --

A HUGE FORM slices through the darkness above, drawing chills like a great white in murky waters. As the Fierce Shapes unmask themselves. Calamity catches sight of them.

CALAMITY JANE Bats!

Her eyes widen in horror. Pecos Bill keeps walking ahead, blissfully unaware.

PECOS BILL That’s right. A type of bats. Biggest you’ll ever see.

CALAMITY JANE No Bill, up there!

She frantically points as more hungry-looking NIGHT FLYERS are drawn out. One after another, multiplying at a dizzying rate. Pellucid eyes flash chillingly as they hover down and open up their incredible wingspan to the intruders.

PECOS BILL Oh, I see your point now.

Pecos Bill locks eyes with John Henry like all bets are off.

JOHN HENRY Get ready --

Sky grabs his bow in his hand, quickly places an arrow on it, hooks his fingers around the string and draws it back, readying his aim at the Giant Humanoid Bats swooping down upon them. They snap their jaws wide, exposing rows of serrated teeth.

CALAMITY JANE Bill, your detour’s really turning out to be a bust.

The Legends circle up with their backs to each other.

PECOS BILL (unfazed) Nothing we can’t handle. So, let’s get cooking.

Pecos Bill draws two pistols from his holster. Calamity Jane cocks her rifle, shoots a glance at John Henry.

CALAMITY JANE Just gimme the signal.

John Henry waits a beat, then:

JOHN HENRY Now.

Calamity Jane fires her rifle in the air. Pecos Bill lets his pistols rip with potion-laced bullets (think: silver bullets & werewolves). Sky slings an arrow from his bow.

The Giant Bats fly all around and surround them, attacking from all sides!

They’re over seven feet tall, hovering in the air with huge wingspans and ears pointed high on their heads.

Sky takes aim with his bow and fires an arrow as more monstrous Giant Bats swoop towards them.

He hits one in the shoulder. Enraged, the Giant Bat rips the arrow out.

As the Giant Bats swarm in a blitzing circle of blackness from the cavern ceiling, clapping their wings above.

John Henry takes a powerful swing with his sledgehammer, unleashing a kinetic force sending the Giant Bats spinning backwards and somersaulting through the air. Shoom!

CALAMITY JANE We gotta find a way out.

Calamity Jane flips a look at John Henry, trying to keep the giant bats at bay. He darts his eyes ahead at a stream of light flickering out from the darkened caverns.

JOHN HENRY Over there!

Pecos Bill turns his back to them, firing both pistols at the Giant Bats with potion-laced bullets.

PECOS BILL Let’s go now! I got our rear!

The Legends hurry ahead in squadron formation as the Giant Bats swerve sharply and angrily gnashing their teeth towards them. Chomp! Chomp!

Sky desperately tries to keep up. Out of nowhere, a Giant Bat swoops out from a darkened corner and violently checks him across the canal tunnel.

Sky lands hard on a jumble of animal bones and stinking carcasses. The Giant Bat terrifyingly hovers over him and corners Sky with appraising yellow eyes that are fixed immovably in place and pushed back deep into its sockets.

He snarls as his lips re-track, exposing pink fleshy gums and taut leathery skin. He opens his enormous jaws, exposing dagger sharp teeth. But briefly pauses, taking notice of the clan totem now exposed around Sky’s neck.

SKY (defiantly) That’s right, I’m the Totem Keeper.

Sky throws out his arm, hits the Giant Bat in the face with his bow. He crawls out from under its legs and breaks out into a fast stride.

SKY (CONT’D) Wait for me!

Pecos catches up and grabs Sky.

PECOS BILL No one gets left behind.

He starts running with him towards the edge of a rocky formation to join the Legends.

Sky takes a huge flying leap with the Legends onto the next ledge. The canals drop down onto another subterranean level, unfolding fast into a warren of passage ways.

With the Giant Bats in pursuit, the Legends take off full speed ahead into a turning cavernous passageway, shifting their course at every step.

Soon the ground rattles under their feet, splitting into a web of cracks which collapses and opens up to a fall-trap.

Everyone drops like flies as a shower of rocks rain down upon them, culminating in a terrifying free fall. BLAM!

BLACK OUT.

JOHN HENRY Everyone all right?

Pecos Bill awakens in a daze, hanging upside down in the air, his foot caught in a piece of crooked rock.

PECOS BILL Well that was a hog-killing time.

He grabs a flint-knife from his boot, tilts himself up and quickly gets to work cutting his pant leg loose from the rocky outcrop.

Pecos Bill drops down and lands smack on the rest of the Legends stacked in a pile, slowly recovering with a chorus of moans and groans. Calamity Jane darkens.

CALAMITY JANE I’m going to kill Bill.

JOHN HENRY Not now.

The Legends suddenly realize they’ve fallen into a dusty old abandoned mine train cart. Pecos Bill glances up at the cavern ceiling spinning in his blurred vision.

PECOS BILL Lesson learned. Next time we don’t take the detour.

Squeak. Squeak. The mine cart slowly starts to move, picking up speed with Sky and the Legends packed inside. Sky dances his apprehensive eyes over the tracks, suddenly realizing --

SKY (nervous) We’re moving.

CALAMITY JANE (more nervous) Moving fast.

The mine cart chugs to life, quickly rolling onto the rusted rails with the tilt of their collective weight, swerving onto a steep incline, which quickly gives way --

The Legends hold on tight as the mine cart descends into a steep drop like a roller coaster, everyone releases a collective shout.

Rocks pound onto the track in every direction. The mine cart speedily crosses a rusty trestle bridge, avoiding a surge of house-sized boulders tumbling down from all sides and pulverizing the track behind them.

Sky looks back as the mine cart races through a tunnel -- while a platoon-sized force of Giant Bats aggressively advance towards them.

PECOS BILL Time to finish them off.

Immediately, Pecos Bill points his pistol back at the Giant Bats, discharging a hailstorm of bullets. Bam! Bam! He dispatches a trio of Giant Bats but more are coming.

CALAMITY JANE Bill, at any point did you stop and consider this place might be infested with hungry-looking Night Flyers?!

Pecos Bill makes an annoyed face.

PECOS BILL I don’t need a guilt trip right now. I’m trying to get us out of here alive.

In front, John Henry tries to steer the mine cart steady to keep from spiraling off the rupturing tracks.

JOHN HENRY And you two bickering is NOT helping anything.

The mine car hits a rock on the tracks, which triggers a dynamite rig, setting off an explosion that tears through the cavern canals behind them, sending the Legends flying into the air. Wham!

The Mine Cart crashes against the wall, sharp pieces of wood shoot out in every direction like flying daggers, flinging everyone from the cart.

Pecos Bill slams face first onto the cavern floor. The Legends scatter and cover their heads as rocks rain down.

Dust settles. Pecos Bill lifts himself from a bath of rocks. He rises to his feet.

PECOS BILL Now that’s what I call putting a match to a tinderbox.

The tunnel has completely collapsed in on them, trapping the beseeching Giant Bats on the other side.

They tenaciously fight to break through, gnashing their teeth against the rubble. But there’s no use. They’re trapped.

The Giant Bats eventually slide back, disappearing into the darkness. Sky looks around, taking inventory of the Legends’ unfortunate predicament. Then realizes.

SKY Anyone seen Jane?

Beat. A groan.

CALAMITY JANE (O.S.) Little help?

JOHN HENRY Over there.

ON JANE clinging to a thick root growing inside the mountain like a tumorous appendage. John Henry gets to his feet, goes over and carefully helps Calamity Jane down to the ground.

CALAMITY JANE Thanks.

She smiles grateful. John Henry nods.

JOHN HENRY Anytime.

Sky shakes his head, mind whirling. At a loss --

SKY Giant bats?! How do people not know about these things?

JOHN HENRY It’s just the tip of the iceberg, Sky. Frontierland’s secret histories are ancient. As the earth is old. The so-called New World is anything but. There’s a lot we still don’t know about them.

Pecos Bill rolls aside, narrows his eyes at a trickle of daylight creeping in at the end of the tunnel.

PECOS BILL Look.

They follow his gaze. CRACK! CRACK! Suddenly, more flecks of sunlight spill in from outside, gradually illuminating the cavern. As an UNSEEN AXE MAN chips away at the rocky wall.

EXT. THUNDER MOUNTAIN PASS - SIMULTANEOUS

PULL OUT TO REVEAL, the startling sight of a REAL-LIFE GIANT with an double-bladed axe held high up over his head, crashing down upon the mountain.

The mountainside rumbles with each strike, creating a series of fissures in his wake.

INT. THUNDER MOUNTAIN CAVERNS - CONTINUOUS

The Legends stand in anticipation, soot faced like trapped miners awaiting rescue. Soon, sun light floods inside as the Axe Man breaks through, exposing more sunlight behind him.

SKY Who’s that?

Sky stares ahead at the hulking form, masked by daylight shadows. John Henry smiles proudly.

JOHN HENRY An old friend.

Calamity Jane lights up.

CALAMITY JANE He found us!

Pecos Bill becomes instantly uneasy.

PECOS BILL ‘Suppose he has.

JOHN HENRY Come on, let’s go.

John Henry walks forward as the rest of the Legends follow behind him. Pecos Bill rolls his eyes, not at all pleased with the impending new arrival.

To everyone’s amazement, a bushy bearded PAUL BUNYAN emerges from the rubble with a ruddy glow, wielding his double-bladed axe. Square-set jaw, mammoth arms and a Goliath frame clad in a red checkered lumberjack flannel.

PAUL BUNYAN Hello, friends.

He moves towards them with a bit of swagger. Sky’s jaw drops with the introduction of this newest addition to the Legends.

SKY (gapes) You’re Paul Bunyan.

Paul smiles wide.

PAUL BUNYAN My reputation proceeds me?

Calamity Jane dreamily takes in the sight of him.

CALAMITY JANE That it does.

Pecos Bill gags. John Henry smiles big.

JOHN HENRY How’d you find us, Paul?

PAUL BUNYAN Knew you were on your way. Those Night Flyers can be quite testy. Plus, I know Bill loves his detours.

CALAMITY JANE Oh, we’ve learned.

PECOS BILL And I won’t hear the end of it.

Paul Bunyan smiles friendly at Sky.

PAUL BUNYAN Good to see everyone. And to finally meet you Sky.

OFF SKY -- he knows my name? Mind blown.

PAUL BUNYAN (CONT’D) Let’s get on back to my place. Everyone can clean up. Babe will help lead the way.

EXT. THUNDER MOUNTAIN PASS - MOMENTS LATER

The Legends navigate down a steep slope, twisting and turning onto a rocky path along the boulder-strewn mountainside.

BABE THE BIG BLUE OX, a fiercely loyal and massively muscled beast with skin tinted in a deep shade of blue, rams through a gauntlet of rocks blocking their path below.

Babe is not the docile creature we’ve come to know from children’s tall tales, he’s a WARRIOR OX with a series of battle scars etched across his face and back to prove it.

SKY So, it’s true you really do have a big blue ox...

Paul Bunyan nods proudly.

PAUL BUNYAN He’s something isn’t he? Found Babe when he was just a little calf in the Winter of the Blue Snow.

Pecos Bill bats his eyes, touches his heart.

PECOS BILL How sweet. Bet it was love at first sight, huh?

The perennially jovial Paul Bunyan rarely picks up on mockery.

PAUL BUNYAN Sure was.

The Ox turns back at them and snorts, all clear.

PAUL BUNYAN (CONT’D) Love that Ox. I’d take him to the end with me.

Sky gazes out over the barren blue-shadowed hills, million- year-old lakes and rivers flowing in abundance.

EXT. BEYOND THUNDER MOUNTAIN - SOON AFTER

The Legends cut through a huge tract of primeval forest. Snowflakes flutter in the air and fall on the ground, faintly colored with a tinge of cool blue.

PAUL BUNYAN Found a nice home out here for Babe and I.

The Ox tramples out in front, leading the way over a footbridge set across water rushing through rugged hills.

PAUL BUNYAN (CONT’D) Been a nice place to live except for some unfriendly neighbors that appear from time to time.

Sky crosses over with the Legends, watching tiny rocks drop into foaming waters below.

Pecos Bill keeps back in the lineup, staying afoot next to Calamity Jane. He subtly cocks his head towards Paul.

PECOS BILL (hushed tone) You better keep a lynx eye on Bunyan. I don’t trust him. He’s been out here for too long. Think he’s got snakes in the brain.

Calamity Jane throws him a salty look.

CALAMITY JANE It’s Paul Bunyan. He’s a pretty amicable guy. Not to mention, he just saved our lives. If I were you I’d show a little gratitude.

She moves ahead, leaving Pecos Bill to stew over her burgeoning affection for the legendary lumberjack.

EXT. PRIMEVAL FOREST - CONTINUOUS

Soon, the pine-covered ground is dusted in bluish snow. The Legends follow Paul Bunyan venturing through a grove of thickly set trees, which veers off from the trail.

PAUL BUNYAN Don’t get many visitors out here but we’ve been very happy.

The Ox bucks ahead, hooves striking upon the snow. Pecos Bill raises an eyebrow.

PECOS BILL That’s nice for you and your Ox.

Ahead, an abandoned Lumber Camp Bunkhouse appears before them, tucked away under tall white pines in the distance. The Pukwudgie Pack watch them go inside from behind a tree.

INT. LUMBER CAMP BUNKHOUSE - NIGHT FALL

Moon fills the sky outside. Dirt-floored cabin with walls packed in deer-horns, fox-tails and bear-skins. Tintypes hang over piles of cut firewood clusters.

Spartan-like quarters lined with empty wooden bunk beds of straw-stuffed mattresses and a table laid-out for food.

SKY So, what kind of neighbors do you get around here?

Sky dangles a stick over an open flame, toasting a marshmallow next to a crackling fire warming up the house.

PAUL BUNYAN Mean-spirited ones. But I know how to fight them better than anyone else because I’ve learned their weaknesses.

Paul Bunyan sits in a chair by the fire, treating his double- bladed axe with sweet flag and lye. The Legends surround him, settling in for the night.

PECOS BILL And here I thought all you did was take down trees.

John Henry shoots him a look. Sensitive topic.

JOHN HENRY Excuse our friend Bill for his rudeness, Paul.

Paul Bunyan waves him off.

PAUL BUNYAN I take no offense. I’ve made peace with myself for the things that I’ve done. But what lies beyond Thunder Mountain can be quite dangerous to our world and as you know, now I’ve dedicated myself to keeping those threats contained.

SKY That why you treat your axe with sweet flag and lye?

Paul Bunyan nods, not playing around.

PAUL BUNYAN I use the ax to inflict maximum corporal damage on those who would try to bring harm to Babe or any of my friends.

Sky sifts through stacks of musty almanacs and dust-silted journals on the table, written in indecipherable ancient text but offering some clues through startlingly real sketches.

SKY These drawings are pretty impressive, Paul.

He takes note.

PAUL BUNYAN Oh, unfortunately that copy of the Legends’ Handbook doesn’t belong to me.

John Henry picks up the Legends’ Handbook and turns it over. The cover is marked in a coonskin cap symbol.

JOHN HENRY Where did you find it?

PAUL BUNYAN ‘Bout time you knew.

He walks over and pulls out a ruck sack labeled CROCKETT from under one of the bunk beds. Calamity Jane’s heart sinks.

CALAMITY JANE You found him?

Paul Bunyan shakes his head.

PAUL BUNYAN Just the bag.

Sky runs his hand over top of the coonskin hat on his head.

SKY You mean Davy Crockett’s a monster hunter too?

PAUL BUNYAN He’s a Legend. One of us. Unfortunately, there wasn’t any proof of life when I found this.

PECOS BILL Crockett got a raw deal out there. Shouldn’t have been on his own.

Calamity Jane clenches her jaw.

CALAMITY JANE Well, there’s no proof of death either. If any of you were lost out there, I wouldn’t be giving up on you so easily either.

JOHN HENRY He’s Davy Crockett. The man has always had a knack for survival. I wouldn’t count him out.

Sky stands at the frosted window, realizing the dangers are more real than he imagined.

EXT. PRIMEVAL FOREST - NIGHT

Pukwudgies charge through the moonlit trees. Unbeknownst to them, Coyote follows closely behind.

He narrows his gaze ahead at the tall swaying trees where the Pukwudgies gather together.

SCARFACE He’s here...

Scarface jumps up on a branch, points at gathering leaves funneling in the shadows, masking a HUGE FORM. He huddles before the mysterious unnatural being to report his findings.

SHADOW FORM What do you know?

Scarface gulps. It’s the Nightmare-Bringer in Shadow Form.

SCARFACE A boy travels with the Legends who may be one of the Cliff-Dwellers. He carries their clan totem.

SHADOW FORM You must not allow him to reach Winged Rock.

Scarface shakes his head.

SCARFACE (dutifully) We won’t. I promise, we’ll find him and kill him.

SHADOW FORM There’s no other option. You failed to before. And remember, I don’t like disappointments.

The Shadow draws back, disappearing into the darkness. Scarface pauses, gets a feeling they’re not alone on the trail. He signals his warriors who quickly spread out, disappearing into the trees above.

CUT TO:

MOMENTS LATER

Coyote catches up, hobbling onto the snowy trail, concerned with the realization that the Pukwudgies are no longer in his sights.

Within seconds, the Pukwudgie Pack leap down from the trees at all sides and unleash a surprise attack.

Coyote jumps back on the defensive but he’s soon surrounded at all angles. They strike at once, clawing at Coyote and holding him down. He releases a yelp. Scarface smiles sinisterly upon him.

SCARFACE Think we don’t know who you are?

COYOTE You can’t stop him. We won’t let you.

Coyote furiously snaps his jaws. He breaks free from the Pukwudgies and shakes them off, then darts ahead through the trees in a full sprint.

SCARFACE Follow him!

INT. LUMBER CAMP BUNKHOUSE - SOON AFTER

Moon shines brightly outside. Paul Bunyan strums on his acoustic guitar. The Legends sip on apple cider and chow down on heaps of porridge.

Pecos Bill looks over at Calamity Jane and catches her gazing fondly at Paul. He speaks in a hushed tone.

PECOS BILL You’re in love with him. Aren’t you?

Red-faced, Calamity Jane’s jaw drops in protest. She snaps back in a whisper.

CALAMITY JANE I am NOT in love with Paul.

PECOS BILL Codswallop! The moment he showed up. It’s been nothing but doe eyes from you.

CALAMITY JANE Paul’s one of us. I can admire from a safe distance. The man’s a legend. Just does it for a girl. What can I say he has all the right proportions.

Pecos Bill grits his teeth.

PECOS BILL Now wait a minute. Just because he’s tall, it doesn’t mean --

She looks at him funny.

CALAMITY JANE (confused) -- And why do you care anyway?

PECOS BILL (flustered) I don’t.

Calamity Jane puts her elbow up on the table.

CALAMITY JANE Could’ve fooled me. Seems like you’ve been doing an awful lot of speculating since we got here. I might even venture to guess, some soul searching too.

PECOS BILL What do you want me to say?

CALAMITY JANE (exasperated) For once in your life, why don’t you just be honest with me.

A longish beat. Then, finally:

PECOS BILL Okay. Makes my blood boil seeing the way you look at him. There I said it!

Calamity Jane registers this admission, taken aback. All of a sudden, there is a knock at the door. More like the sound of something outside throwing its body against it.

Then a howl! Everyone tenses. Paul Bunyan places his guitar down on the table. Sky gulps down the rest of his porridge.

SKY Sounded like a coyote.

Pecos Bill cranes his neck out the window. Snaps to it.

PECOS BILL Unlock the door.

Sky looks at him strangely. John Henry catches Pecos Bill’s drift, goes to open the door.

SKY John, what are you doing?

Sky stares out the window, notices a badly injured Coyote limping towards the Bunkhouse in the snow.

JOHN HENRY It’s okay. He’s a friend.

John Henry opens the door. Weak and bruised, Coyote limps inside and instantly collapses on the floor.

SKY He’s hurt.

COYOTE I’ll be fine. Nothing a little blood root can’t fix.

A grin forms at Coyote’s mouth. Sky stands back stunned beyond belief. The Legends gather around respectfully.

SKY Wazi?

Coyote rises to his feet on all fours, exhausted and gasping for breath.

COYOTE That was the name I took to keep you safe. But this is who I am, Sky. My true form.

SKY You’re Coyote, the trickster, one of the heroes from your stories?

Coyote nods his head stoically. Sky can’t believe what he’s hearing, trying to comprehend this.

COYOTE They were my stories. The ones I lived. But I’ve come to warn you.

Coyote addresses the Legends.

COYOTE (CONT’D) The Pukwudgies are close, I followed them. We don’t have much time. (MORE)

COYOTE (CONT’D) They want to stop Sky from reaching Winged Rock, the Cliff-Dwellers’ ancestral home.

SKY So, Winged Rock is that where the Cliff-Dwellers lived?

Coyote nods.

COYOTE From there they watched over Thunder Mountain and kept the trail safe from Nocturnals seeking to bring a long forever night upon Frontierland.

Fed up, Pecos Bill grabs his holster off the table.

PECOS BILL I’ve had just about enough of these scrofulous itty-bitty things.

Paul Bunyan removes his double-bladed ax from the wall. Sky readies his bow and arrow. CRASH! Calamity Jane tenses.

CALAMITY JANE They’re here.

From both sides of the Bunkhouse, the Pukwudgies burst through the glass windows. One after another.

PECOS BILL Oh, heck no!

Paul draws his axe and faces their attackers, visibly upset by this brazen home invasion.

PAUL BUNYAN Well, that’s just not okay!

The Pukwudgies fan out around them with a rush of feet, whizzing by in every direction.

Scarface leaps onto the wooden cabinets, breaks them open and hurls stack after stack of porcelain plates at the Legends like whirling dervishes.

PAUL BUNYAN (CONT’D) (outraged) Those are collectors’ items!

SCARFACE We’ll kill you all.

Sky takes aim with his bow, lodged sniper-like between the row of bunks.

SKY Not tonight.

Sky gets to work. Assiduously, picking off the hellbent Pukwudgies with arrows.

Scarface leaps off the counter, right as Paul Bunyan takes a powerful swing with his double-bladed ax, evaporating the Pukwudgie’s body in a blast of shadows.

Without their leader, the Pukwudgies run around in every direction like chickens with their heads cut off. The Legends come together full-force to eliminate the rest.

Back to the wall, Calamity Jane blasts her rifle. Lands a shot and eviscerates a Pukwudgie. As a whirlwind of shadows consume him.

A pair of Pukwudgies leap at Pecos Bill but his two-pistol draw eliminates both of them in the air before they can strike. Poof. Poof.

Calamity Jane grabs another by its feet, pulls the Pukwudgie up off the floor and spins him around then releases him. Splat! He flies across the room. Hits the wall.

-- BLAM! BLAM!

John Henry is about to smash his sledge down on the last Pukwudgie like a whack-a-mole but he throws his hands up in a show of surrender. Eyes pleads like a puppy dog. John Henry rolls his eyes. Enough.

JOHN HENRY Go. Get outta here.

PECOS BILL John. Don’t --

The Pukwudgie scampers off, retreating back out through the shattered window. An injured Coyote faces the Legends.

COYOTE It’s too late. They already know you’re on your way.

Coyote collapses to the floor.

CALAMITY JANE No, we can’t let that thing get away. He’ll bring more of them.

Pecos Bill and Calamity Jane exchange a look then take a running leap together through the broken window and chase after the Pukwudgie, rushing off into the snowy forest.

EXT. SNOWY FOREST - CONTINUOUS

At a blitzing pace, Pecos Bill and Calamity Jane charge after the retreating Pukwudgie, trudging through powdery snow.

INT. LUMBER CAMP BUNKHOUSE - SOON AFTER

Sky goes over to Coyote on the floor, chest slowly rising and taking laborious breaths.

SKY Coyote?

No response this time. Face saddened, breathing deeply.

EXT. FOREST - SIMULTANEOUS

Calamity Jane launches herself and tackles the Pukwudgie to the ground. He bites and scratches but quickly realizes he’s losing this fight.

CALAMITY JANE Wily little thing. Isn’t he?

She has him in a tight choke hold, forearm hooked under his chin with her legs squeezing tightly around his body. Pecos Bill stands over them in the moonlight.

PECOS BILL Let’s get him back.

He looks up at the naked branches, trees rustling around them as if someone is watching.

INT. LUMBER CAMP BUNKHOUSE - SOON AFTER

Sky sits alone at the table, head in his hands filled with anger and despair. John Henry goes over to him, places a hot cup of tea down.

JOHN HENRY Drink it. It’ll make you feel better.

Sky tries to hold it together.

SKY Can’t believe he’s gone.

John Henry sits down next to him at the table.

JOHN HENRY He’s Coyote. Trust me, he’s never gone forever.

This sentiment makes Sky feel a whole lot better. Paul Bunyan quietly covers Coyote’s body with a saddle blanket. Sky looks to John Henry and Paul Bunyan.

SKY What do we do now?

JOHN HENRY We keep going. Just like he taught me to, when we first encountered each other, a long time ago.

Paul Bunyan steps back as the body starts to stir and swirls into a whirl-wind, the chief form of transportation for these guardian spirits.

They watch in awe as the form fades as streams of sunlight rise through the trees outside.

EXT. HAUNTED FOREST - YEARS AGO

After the death of Polly Ann, John Henry charges into the forest, searching for the Nocturnal that killed his wife.

His cries echo into the night. Then suddenly, he stops dead in his tracks, hears something in the bushes nearby and rips his sledgehammer out from behind him.

JOHN HENRY Show yourself.

Coyote steps out from a concealment of leafy bushes and stares directly into John Henry’s eyes with a hypnotic power, used not to control the Legend but to bring clarity in his communication to this broken man.

COYOTE This is not what she wanted for you. The Nightmare-Bringer was created from evil spirits born out of the chaos to take possession of Frontierland. Don’t let its wickedness destroy you.

John Henry stares back in disbelief.

JOHN HENRY And why would you care what happens to me?

COYOTE Because a stranger is a friend until he’s proven himself to be an enemy. And I knew your wife Polly Ann, she was brave, noble and helped a friend of mine in need.

John Henry’s expression turns quizzical.

JOHN HENRY Who are you?

COYOTE Coyote. I can help, if you let me. Polly Ann was targeted as you know but her death does not have to be in vain.

JOHN HENRY Why do you need me?

COYOTE Because I’m assembling a group of heroes, you might have heard of...

Off John Henry, still skeptical but now more intrigued.

INT. LUMBER CAMP BUNKHOUSE - BACK TO PRESENT

Calamity Jane and Pecos Bill break through the front door, dragging the squirming Pukwudgie by both arms. Sky and John Henry stand up from the table in alarm.

CALAMITY JANE He says he doesn’t know anything but Pukwudgies are bad liars!

She slams him down into a chair, uses a bandana in her pocket to secure his arms and legs to it. Pecos Bill takes pause, realizing Coyote is gone.

PECOS BILL Where is he?

The look on the others’ faces is the only admission he needs.

CALAMITY JANE (heart broken) No...

Pecos Bill reels back and smacks the Pukwudgie hard across the face with his hand. Full of grief:

PECOS BILL Should kill him right now.

As daybreak hits from outside. John Henry pulls him back.

JOHN HENRY Don’t, Bill. We can use him to lead us to Winged Rock.

PUKWUDGIE You’ll never reach it. But I had to see the Totem Keeper for myself. Now all those who serve me will make sure you never set foot on Winged Rock alive.

The Pukwudgie glares as he speaks in a voice that is not his own. As if he’s under the spell of a malevolent force. John Henry realizes this is definitely not the Chief’s son.

JOHN HENRY Never mind Bill. Kill it.

The Pukwudgie or whatever has taken possession of him, smirks up at them. However, Pecos Bill remains in place, overcome by the power of the Nightmare-Bringer.

PECOS BILL I can’t...

JOHN HENRY You have to!

Without blinking, Calamity Jane steps up with her rifle and blasts the Pukwudgie back in his chair, sending it hurling across the room in a death blur of hungry dark shadows. She glances back at Pecos Bill as he returns to normal.

CALAMITY JANE I won’t lose you too, Bill.

Sky stares back at the Legends, rocked by the stunning turn of events. Overcome with fear --

SKY Who exactly is the Nightmare- Bringer?

JOHN HENRY Some say he was a wicked sorcerer, one of the Shadow Men. He accessed the Unknown Realm. Now he’s a powerful spirit that thrives on chaos that can destroy the very best of us...

Paul Bunyan unfolds a draped canvas from his hands and covers it over his double-bladed axe.

PAUL BUNYAN But it’s time now we made good on our promise.

He acknowledges the morning sun rising over the snow-filled forest, framed by the broken window.

CALAMITY JANE We need to get Sky and that totem back to where they belong...

Off Calamity Jane, more determined than ever.

EXT. PRIMEVAL FOREST - SOARING OVER TREETOPS

Tracking Shot -- a TORRENT OF DARKNESS whisks through the air, zigzagging ahead breathtakingly fast.

EXT. PRIMEVAL FOREST - SOON AFTER

At the remotest part of the trail, the Legends move as a cohesive unit, while temperatures drop over the forest which starts to resemble an endless tract of frozen tundra.

They’re layered with warm clothes. Sky has the snow shoes from the Westward Ho Trading Post fastened to his feet.

SKY Knew these would come in handy someday.

He looks over at John Henry who smiles back.

JOHN HENRY Keep close.

John Henry glances ahead as Paul Bunyan leads them forward, riding on the back of his mighty ox. Pecos Bill hangs back with Calamity Jane. Tensions eased between them.

PECOS BILL I’m sorry about before. You were right, I was a coward.

Calamity Jane thinks about it. With a change of heart --

CALAMITY JANE Coward might have been a strong choice of wording at the time.

PECOS BILL I’ve just always been a party of one. A solo player you could say. Partnering up was new to me. Frankly, I didn’t know how to handle it.

Calamity Jane keeps walking, eyes fixed ahead at the trail.

CALAMITY JANE You’re always sorry about something.

PECOS BILL Come on, we made a good team last night. Guess this is me takin’ a shot at diplomacy. I’m ready for a fresh start with you, Jane.

Calamity Jane softens, eyes trailing over at Paul Bunyan leading the group deeper into their icy surroundings.

CALAMITY JANE For the record, there’s nothing going on with Paul and I. There never was. I mean, look at them, it would be a lost cause.

Pecos Bill follows her gaze over at Paul Bunyan who seems to be conversing with the Ox in some peculiar language, like twin speak.

CALAMITY JANE (CONT’D) Who could compete with that ox?

PECOS BILL He does have quite a fond affection for that beast.

Suddenly it becomes all too clear to Bill. With the rest of the Legends at a safe distance ahead, he locks eyes with Calamity Jane. A moment longer than they’re used to.

PECOS BILL (CONT’D) But for me, since the moment we met, it’s always been you, Jane.

He stops, moves closer and tilts her chin up then kisses Calamity Jane deeply in the quiet snowfall.

CALAMITY JANE Bill, what are you doing?

She reels back, looks at him in shock.

PECOS BILL What I should’ve done a long time ago.

Calamity Jane takes hold of his jacket lapels and pulls him closer. They kiss again. Both shocked with themselves.

Unaware of this declaration of love, John Henry and Paul Bunyan move on to the edge of the woods through the wintry wind towards a snowy glacier lake.

JOHN HENRY Frozen Lake. This is what we have to cross.

John Henry regards a map of Frontierland.

PAUL BUNYAN Watch your step.

JOHN HENRY You think these things you’ve talked about, your neighbors, killed Crockett?

Paul Bunyan nods regretfully.

PAUL BUNYAN Likely. They’re like nothing your waking eyes have ever seen before.

At the edge of the woods stands a snow bridge which the Legends cross leading to:

EXT. FROZEN LAKE - ESTABLISHING

A stretch of snow capped peaks surround the frozen lake. The Legends move forward onto the icy snow floor. Fierce gusts of wind lash their faces.

JOHN HENRY Who are they?

PAUL BUNYAN They’re cursed with a hunger that can’t be satisfied.

Ahead, ice falls from huge glacial formations and splash down into the surging blue waters below.

From out of the white fog emerge a SERIES OF BLURRED SHAPES that break apart from the surrounding ice formations and lumber towards the regiment of heroes in a steady march.

SKY John, what are those?

Sky jerks his head around at John Henry as frightful ten foot tall ICE GIANTS emerge into view.

JOHN HENRY I’m not sure.

They’re towering over eight feet tall! Monstrous fearsome creatures with heads topped in antler-horns and eye sockets filled with balls of fire.

PAUL BUNYAN My neighbors. Ice-hearted skull- splitting giants.

Paul Bunyan matches his gaze. Calamity Jane watches in awe as the Giants rip free from the ice. Her jaw clenches tight.

CALAMITY JANE You’ve got to be kidding me.

They stare out at the Legends through eye sockets filled with blackness. Their formidable skeletal bodies are covered in ice with thin translucent blue skin.

JOHN HENRY Run. Run!

He’s got their attention now. The Ice Giants’ collective weight triggers Frozen Lake to fissure in webs and cracks, rupturing at everyone’s feet.

The lake churns up and spits out dozens of watery ice blocks. Crashing and tumbling into the Legends’ path.

They swerve and dodge across the frozen lake to avoid the deluge, which separates the Legends from each other.

Without flinching, Sky teeters on a broken sheet of ice sliding under his feet in the face of danger. Paul Bunyan grabs Babe and holds onto him.

PAUL BUNYAN Babe, don’t do it.

The Ox huffs and puffs, gathering his strength and bucks towards the Ice Giants, swerving his hooves across the frozen lake at a breathtaking pace -- hammering his horns into the them like a bowling ball.

Babe bashes through the Ice Giants, sending the first one skidding backwards. He lands upside down into an opening punctured in Frozen Lake.

But soon they’re faced with an almost continuous flow of Ice Giants appearing from the forest trees beyond.

CALAMITY JANE There’s more!

They’re over a dozen strong!

PECOS BILL Give ‘em everything we’ve got. Time to get into Deathmatch mode!

Calamity Jane’s eyes darts across Frozen Lake.

CALAMITY JANE We need to get to the other side now.

The Ice Giants burst forth and move astonishingly fast! Each one ferociously swings a frozen axe at the approaching heroes with inhuman strength.

As the Legends collide with them in battle. John Henry takes a swing at an Ice Giant with his sledgehammer and cripples the monster’s legs, cutting him down to size.

However, jagged icicles hanging off the Giant’s chin tumble down like sharpened ice picks.

Sky hurries through the gauntlet behind John Henry as he swings his sledgehammer left and right at the icicles blasting in the air like missiles.

But the weakening ice is unsteady at their feet. The next Ice Giant accelerates towards him and STOMPS his leg down, sending Sky hurtling forward in a wild slide.

Paul Bunyan plunges his ax in the air, colliding with the attacking Ice Giant in front of Sky. It crashes down like a sword right down his middle and splits him in two.

Then Paul Bunyan wields his ax over his head again and slices across the next oncoming Ice Giant’s frozen torso.

The impact opens up the monster’s belly as gooey ice gushes out onto Frozen Lake. Pecos Bill turns to Paul Bunyan as another Ice Giant barrels upon him from behind.

PECOS BILL Look out!

Paul Bunyan grabs the Ice Giant, lifts him up and pile drives him into lake, shattering into little pieces.

Giving the Legends an opening to race across the cracking frozen lake as more big chunks of ice slalom past them.

PAUL BUNYAN (grateful) Thanks for the assist, Bill.

Pecos Bill nods.

PECOS BILL Nice work there yourself, Bunyan.

JOHN HENRY Don’t go celebrating just yet.

John Henry jerks to a halt as another Ice Giant draws back. Roars loudly. Pounding the frozen lake floor with his fist like King Kong as more waves of icy slush spill over.

They watch the Ice Giant back zag and wobble to keep his footing on the rupturing ice. He lands backwards and sinks into the splitting ice floor. Calamity Jane looks back.

CALAMITY JANE Let’s go now!

PECOS BILL One last thing.

Pecos Bill flashes a grin and turns himself into a whirlwind (his signature move), storming towards the last Ice Giant. He knocks him back but the Ice Giant reaches his hand out and bats Calamity Jane towards the rupturing center of the lake.

CALAMITY JANE Bill!

At the very last second, Pecos Bill rushes towards Calamity Jane and gets her just in time before a wave of frigid water slops over. She clings to him as he pulls her to safety on solid ground at the edge of Frozen Lake.

PECOS BILL That was close.

They lock dreamy eyes, trade smiles.

CALAMITY JANE Let’s get out of here.

The last Ice Giant crashes through the collapsing lake into a whirlpool of white water. The Legends dash ahead and flee safely across to the other side.

EXT. PRIMEVAL FOREST - SOON AFTER

Ensemble shot of the iconic heroes emerging victoriously from Frozen Lake back onto Thunder Trail.

PAUL BUNYAN I promised to help get you across Frozen Lake.

Paul Bunyan guides the Legends forward on top of his Ox, trotting towards a leafy mountain scape thawed from the ice.

PAUL BUNYAN (CONT’D) But it’s best Babe and I turned back, we got a house to get back in order. You’re not far from Winged Rock though. Just a little further.

Sky steps forward at the precipice of a brave new world surrounded by tall dark cliffs.

SKY Thanks Paul, for all your help.

Paul Bunyan nods with a smile.

PAUL BUNYAN This is a special fraternity we share. And now you’re a part of that brotherhood, Sky.

Calamity Jane shoots him a look. Coughs a bit.

CALAMITY JANE Ahem, ahem.

PAUL BUNYAN That encompasses both great men AND women of Frontierland.

Calamity Jane smiles, satisfied.

PAUL BUNYAN (CONT’D) You’ll restore the Cliff-Dwellers’ rightful place in our world. But I’m afraid this is only the beginning of our fight. So, until our next encounter, I wish you all the best.

They ad-lib their good byes, watching Paul Bunyan turn back and take off towards the forest, riding on top of a saddle- backed Babe.

EXT. GREAT FOREST - DAY/NIGHT

The Legends move together through a sea of trees. The terrain grows more dangerous and harrowing at each step.

EXT. THUNDER TRAIL - DAY

John Henry and Sky press on. As Pecos Bill and Calamity Jane hang back behind them.

PECOS BILL We make a good team out there, you know that?

Calamity Jane nods. A wry grin.

CALAMITY JANE Sure, when you’re not being completely unbearable.

PECOS BILL You’ve been under a lot of pressure these last few years, I know. But you need to relax once and awhile or you’ll drive yourself crazy, Jane.

She keeps walking. Hits a nerve.

CALAMITY JANE This team is all I have, Bill. I was out here for so long with nothing. I’ve never had anyone to count on or to count me. (MORE)

CALAMITY JANE (CONT'D) But after Polly Ann and Coyote came along, it finally felt like I had a purpose. I don’t need my face on the cover of some dime novel. Don’t need any of that anymore.

Pecos Bill raises an eyebrow.

PECOS BILL I thought you liked the fame.

CALAMITY JANE Maybe, at first. But the Legends are everything that matters to me anymore. And stopping those things. When that Nightmare-Bringer revealed itself to us last night, was like seeing pure evil personified...

Pecos Bill nods.

PECOS BILL They feed off our fears. Your doubts. But we can’t let them. I don’t know what else is out there but now I know we can face it together. All of us.

CALAMITY JANE I think we can too.

Calamity Jane watches John Henry ahead with Sky, seemingly laughing along at some inside joke between them.

CALAMITY JANE (CONT’D) (to Pecos Bill) She’d be happy to know that he’s smiling again.

PECOS BILL (off John Henry) I’d wager she does...

They share a smile, which brings us to:

E./I. TRAVELING CIRCUS - NIGHT (FLASHBACK)

Years ago. TOWNSPEOPLE flock to a lively carnival and sideshow known for its strange attractions. A banner hanging overhead announces: Meet the Real Calamity Jane.

Angle On the ringmaster, DR. LAO, first-generation Chinese American in a tailored three-piece suit, debonair and charming with slicked back black hair.

DR. LAO We have a very special guest with us tonight.

He stands on a wooden platform, addressing the crowd.

DR. LAO (CONT’D) But you wouldn’t expect anything less from Dr. Lao.

A cheeky smile forms on his face. PULL BACK TO REVEAL, cages housing a menagerie of MYTHICAL BEASTS. We get glimpses of the white furred hand of an ABOMINABLE SNOWMAN, a sneering WERE-JAGUAR WOMAN and a regal KIRIN, the eastern Unicorn.

DR. LAO (CONT’D) Please, welcome Calamity Jane!

Fireworks explode overhead! A curtain drops. Calamity Jane appears before them to a rousing applause. Western outfit and make-up on point. Hands on her hips, knows the script:

CALAMITY JANE Now you may have heard my story. But not the whole story. Some might have spun their own rendition of my life. And you may have thought it was a tall tale, didn’t you?

The audience chuckles in agreement. She smiles big at her fans, pacing along the edge of the stage.

CALAMITY JANE (CONT’D) But now, I’m here to let you know that behind every myth is a truth.

A “magic lantern” on a table projects a grainy image of the dark and gothic-like Frontierland on a screen behind her.

INT. TRAVELING CIRCUS - BACKSTAGE

Calamity Jane removes her hat at a makeup vanity lit by bright lights. She catches her reflection in the mirror. A certain sadness lingers in her expression.

DR. LAO You were wonderful, Jane. They really loved you. We sold out the next three nights.

Dr. Lao comes into the room. She turns around to face him.

CALAMITY JANE Thank you, Dr. Lao.

However, he detects undisclosed regret on her face.

DR. LAO Everything all right?

CALAMITY JANE We should talk about what you’re doing with your circus. Being out here, showing off what you’ve found and the discoveries that you’ve made. There are real risks.

DR. LAO They’re harmless.

CALAMITY JANE It’s not the creatures in your menagerie that I’m worried about. I know it’s important to you but you run the risk of exposing everything.

Pop! Pop! Pop!

The light bulbs on her vanity mirror burst. A loud explosion is heard outside the tent. Blood-curdling screams!

Calamity Jane and Dr. Lao exchange a knowing look, leaping into action.

EXT. TRAVELING CIRCUS - CONTINUOUS

An UNSEEN WINGED ATTACKER fires down from above on the tents. Townspeople flee the chaos in a panic. Calamity Jane and Dr. Lao rush outside, staring up at the sky in shocked awe.

CALAMITY JANE Sooner or later, we knew this thing was coming for us.

Calamity Jane grabs two pistols from a dual gun holster strapped to her back and fires into the air.

DR. LAO Then let’s show him what we’re made of.