Episode 3
INT. CHARLIE’S ROOM - NIGHT
ALBINA (O.S.)
Charlie?
Charlie continues to focus on her painting.
CHARLIE
It’s open.
ALBINA
Hey. I have your clothes.
CHARLIE
I’m still allowed to wear them?
ALBINA
When has Babette ever passed on the opportunity to dress us?
CHARLIE
She’s pretty pissed at me.
ALBINA
Pshhhh. Pissed? Not exactly.
CHARLIE
She’s practically ignored me this past week. And I haven’t seen her since lunch of yesterday! Her room is down the hall!
ALBINA
Would you feel better if I said she’s not mad?
CHARLIE
Absolutely.
ALBINA
Followed by: she’s just disappointed?
Charlie groans and tosses her paintbrush on to her desk.
ALBINA
Don’t do the crime if you don’t want to do the time.
CHARLIE
But there was no crime! I didn’t do anything.
ALBINA
Eh. Tell that to the friendship contract.
Charlie laughs.
CHARLIE
Just because Babette...
ALBINA
Just because Babette what?
CHARLIE
Just because-- because-- she, ugh! I feel like everything is about her. It’s always about Babette! I can’t even have--
ALBINA
Have a whirlwind romance with a princess?
CHARLIE
It’s not a romance.
ALBINA
Right.
CHARLIE
Trust me.
ALBINA
Whatever you say Charlie.
Beat.
CHARLIE
You do trust me, right?
ALBINA
Of course.
CHARLIE
Good.
ALBINA
Why wouldn’t I?
CHARLIE
Dunno.
ALBINA
We’ve got a party to go to, there’s no time to get broody on us.
CHARLIE
I’m not broody.
ALBINA
You are. Pouty meets foreboding. What’s going on in that fire noggin of yours?
CHARLIE
Nothing.
ALBINA
Don’t you trust me?
CHARLIE
Always. It’s just... nothing. Never mind.
ALBINA
I guess I’ll let you get dressed then.
CHARLIE
Are you excited for the ball at least? I know you’re usually not a fan.
ALBINA
I hate Dottie and Babette’s Mark Ball’s specifically. I swear if Dottie had it her way, I’d be cruising for widowers at the cemetery every day.
CHARLIE
I hear Martin Halloway’s wife isn’t looking so good as of late.
ALBINA
Great. They got to you too.
The two girls laugh.
ALBINA
I’m sure I’ll have a blast at a ball that’s not centered in me finding my almost perfect match. Anyway, someone’s got to go make sure you remember all the proper footing.
CHARLIE
It’s your job since you’re the best dancer I know.
ALBINA
Only because you and Babette always made me the prince so you could be the monster.
CHARLIE
You were a very pretty prince.
ALBINA
And you a very ferocious beast.
CHARLIE
Guess that’s why we’ve never got to dance with each other.
ALBINA
I know I’m no real princess, but will this very pretty prince get a dance with you tonight?
CHARLIE
Of course.
ALBINA
My deepest gratitude my lady.
Albina takes Charlie’s hand and kisses it.
ALBINA
Why is your hand green Charlie?
CHARLIE
(whispered)
Sorry, I was painting. You’ve got a little on your…
Charlie takes Albina’s cheek and wipes the paint on her friends lip.
ALBINA
Thanks. I don’t think that green paint is a Babette approved lip paint.
Charlie laughs.
ALBINA
I guess I better go.
CHARLIE
Right. Yeah. I’ll see at the, uh, outside.
ALBINA
(laughing)
Yep. I’l see you at the outside.
Albina leaves.
CHARLIE
(mockingly)
I’ll see you at the outside. Tulsur take me now.
INT. DUNCAN’S ROOM - NIGHT
DUNCAN stands in front of the mirror fixing his outfit when there’s a knock on his door.
ILLIANA (O.S.)
Duncan! Hurry up!
DUNCAN
It takes time to look this good Illiana.
ILLIANA (O.S.)
Whatever Prince of Preening. I’m starting without you.
Illiana walks away.
PRODIGAL SON
This ship is my home
It’s the only place that I’ve known
Where I’m valued, treasured
Where my worth isn’t measured
Like pieces of a gold
In a chest
Where I’m told if I’m not the best
I might as well go
And no one owes me anything else
I found what I needed
I see them
I see how they’ve always got my back
And days where it’s
Hard to believe
That it’s real
That I’m free from
The demons of my past
They help me to see
What family really means
What makes a god if he
Knows that he’s gotta be worshiped
Why would a deity
Wanna be playing these games
I’m gonna tell you about daddy dearest
The meanest and greediest
Dog on the seas
He’s a real piece of work
The absolute worst
And he never deserved me
They say the apple don’t go far from the tree
Like the coral don’t grow far from the reef
I’m a shark see my teeth
And you better believe
That the world’s gonna see me
Like a predator
Ready to
Make my move and feed
The prodigal son
Isn’t gonna come home
On his knees begging please
To forgive what he’s done
He’ll be stronger than he
Left and when he gets to come home
He’ll be coming for the throne
Were going out tonight
It’s not time for my fight tonight
Looking fly in this tie
And I’m trying
To have a good time tonight
Let’s have a good time tonight
EXT. DOCK - NIGHT
Illiana and Duncan stand on the docks dressed to the nines. Duncan whistles when he sees Charlie walk onto the dock.
DUNCAN
As usual, you are killing it Captain.
CHARLIE
You don’t look so bad yourself.
ILLIANA
She’ll love it.
DUNCAN
I don’t think Esme even thinks about Charlie’s clothes before taking them off.
ILLIANA
I wasn’t talking about Esme. But your squeaky book mouse on the other hand.
CHARLIE
Come on. What did I say about the name calling?
DUNCAN
If it’s squeaks like a book mouse then it’s a book mouse. What else are we-- hot damn.
CHARLIE
What?
Charlie turns around and sees BABETTE and Albina walking their way hand in hand.
CHARLIE
Oh.
ALBINA
Presenting Lady Babette Theroux.
BABETTE
(giggling)
Stop it.
ALBINA
Nobility and royalty must be announced Babette. Dottie would have my hide if I didn’t make sure you got the proper treatment.
CHARLIE
You, uh, wow. Both of you-- I. Hey.
BABETTE
Hello to you too Charlie.
CHARLIE
Thanks for the threads.
BABETTE
When have I ever passed off dressing my girls?
CHARLIE
Nice vest.
ALBINA
Thanks. I wanted to bring my pipe to really tie it all together.
BABETTE
You’ll just have to settle for the pocket watch.
Babette picks up said pocket watch and fixes it so it lays correctly.
ALBINA
I guess.
ILLIANA
That’s an expensive looking pocket watch. I didn’t know being a little librarian paid that well.
CHARLIE
Of course it doesn’t. It’s Babette’s.
BABETTE
It’s actually Albina’s. I gave it to her.
ALBINA
It matches my planetarium. Cool right?
ILLIANA
Well isn’t that nice?
BABETTE
I don’t know what you’ve heard, but I’m a very nice friend.
Beat.
CASTLE appears next to the group, for once he doesn’t have Lisa on his shoulder.
CASTLE
I’m heading into town for a pint. I’ll see you lot in the morning.
CHARLIE
Tonight.
CASTLE
Whatever you say Captain.
ILLIANA
Lisa decided to stay in tonight?
ALBINA
(whispered)
The bird?
CASTLE
Wanted to get some rest. Finally has a quiet night to herself.
ILLIANA
Good for her.
BABETTE
Are you sure we can’t convince you to join us? I’m sure the food will be spectacular.
CASTLE
Nah. It wouldn’t be decent of me. Being a married man and all. It’s not going to be sanitary in there Anyway, night!
Castle walks off whistling.
ALBINA
He’s married?
DUNCAN
Oh, you’ll see.
EXT. KING OF YALSPER’S PALACE - NIGHT
As our group moves closer to the castle, bass can be heard and eventually felt. Lights flash in the widows.
CHARLIE
Let’s make this as quick as possible. Grab Esme. Get the blessing. And then we’re out.
DUNCAN
Albina, save me the first dance?
ALBINA
No.
DUNCAN
Aww, come on. I’ll show you around the library if you dance with me.
ALBINA
Charlie can take me.
CHARLIE
I’ve never been in the library before. Sorry Albina.
ALBINA
Fine. One dance.
BABETTE
But I always get first dance.
ALBINA
(under her breath)
Dance with Charlie. You two make up.
GUARDS open the door to the palace and bow as Duncan walks by.
GUARD 1
Introducing--
DUNCAN
Please gentlemen, that’s not necessary.
Duncan waves a hand at them and the group walks inside.
INT. KING OF YALSPER'S PALACE DANCE HALL - CONTINUOUS
The room is full of PARTYGOERS. A band plays music on a platform stage in the back of the room.
ALBINA
What was that about?
ILLIANA
Like you said. It’s important for royalty to be announced.
ALBINA
What?
Babette sees someone familiar in the crowd and grabs Albina to turn her in their direction.
BABETTE
Is that Lady Rosalind?
CHARLIE
Lady who?
ILLIANA
Lady who?
ALBINA
Oh, Babette! It is. Rosalind! Rosalind over here!
BABETTE
She’s from the Plyso region. Lafayette Bell I believe.
DUNCAN
Isn’t that your hometown Illiana? Ope, and she’s gone.
ROSALIND appears with open arms and a large smile.
ROSALIND
Albina! Babette! What are you two doing so far from home?
BABETTE
We’re well on our way to completing our search. And yours?
ROSALIND
Same as usual. I was told I might find someone who will be key in helping me, but who knows? Albina, you look stunning. I can see a Dottie styled outfit a knot away.
ALBINA
(flustered)
This is actually all Babette.
ROSALIND
Is it. Well, I would love for you to style a few pieces for me.
BABETTE
Next time you’re in town.
ALBINA
Which I hope is soon.
ROSALIND
I’ll make sure to keep you abreast of my travels, Albina. I would love to visit your library again, and of course your planetarium. How rude of me, I’m Rosalind. And you are?
CHARLIE
Charlie.
ROSALIND
Oh. The Charlie.
CHARLIE
So you’ve heard of me.
ROSALIND
Yes, of course. I was beginning to think you were Albina and Babette’s joint imaginary friend at this point.
CHARLIE
Well, I plan on staying around after this voyage is done.
The music changes to something a little more upbeat.
ROSALIND
Albina, you love this song. May I have this dance?
DUNCAN
I already called first dibs with Albina.
CHARLIE
And then it’s me. Then Babette so...
ROSALIND
It looks like your programme du bal is quite full already.
ALBINA
I wouldn’t call three people full.
ROSALIND
I’m sure others will be clambering for a spot. You’ll save one for me, won’t you Albina?
ALBINA
(giddy)
Of course.
ROSALIND
Wonderful. Oh! And you must check out the salad bar. Crazy topping choices. You’ll love it. Well, I’ll circle back around later on. Maybe you’ll have the chance to slip away. Enjoy the party.
Rosalind leaves with a wink at Albina.
CHARLIE
And how many times have entertained her in your planetarium?
The music stops.
ESME (O.S.)
Is this thing on?
The crowd cheers loudly.
ESME
And I’m so happy to see you! It just means the world to me that you all could come to my little old party.
Albina and Babette are staring at the Princess with wide eyes, and for Babette an open mouth. Charlie’s face has turned as red as her hair, and she looks like she’s about to run away.
ALBINA
I’m not trying to be conceited but she looks quite similar…
Duncan begins to laugh.
CUT LOOSE
Everybody’s looking for a good time
Somewhere safe to put into port
And everybody’s got a single
Thing on their mind
And I see a couple compasses
Are pointing to North
Can you feel a type of magic
Taking over the room
And the air is enigmatic
With a stranger’s perfume
A changing of the tides with the moon
So cut loose if you wanna
Be truthful tomorrow
But tonight you better
Put on a mask
There’s no use being honest
And our youth isn’t promised
So if you wanna misbehave
Just ask
Now the air is humming with potential
Promises that hang from our lips
Stepping in the door is like another dimension
Come and take a voyage on this heavenly ship
Let the music be your muse if you have something to say
Feel the rhythm of the movement taking over your brain
An animal pursuing its prey
So cut loose if you wanna
Be truthful tomorrow
But tonight you better
Put on a mask
There’s no use being honest
And our youth isn’t promised
So if you wanna misbehave
Just ask
So cut loose
Be truth
Tonight
There’s no use
And our youth
So if you wanna misbehave
So cut loose if you wanna
Be truthful tomorrow
But tonight you better
Put on a mask
There’s no use being honest
And our youth isn’t promised
So if you wanna misbehave
Just ask
ESME
Now I’ve spotted some people I am just dying to get my hands on. Enjoy the party! And don’t forget, nothing is promised! Take what you need! Especially the party bags located near the steam rooms!
The crowd cheers and Esme gets swallowed by the crowd.
CHARLIE
Did anyone see which way she went?
Silence.
CHARLIE
You guys are super useful.
DUNCAN
She’ll pop up when she wants to. Like Illiana. In the mean time. Take these.
Duncan passes his glasses into Charlie’s hand and offers his arm to Albina.
DUNCAN
My dance?
ALBINA
A promise is a promise.
Duncan sweeps Albina away.
CHARLIE
Look for Esme!
Charlie turns to look at Babette.
CHARLIE
So... do you want to grab some food?
BABETTE
Really?
CHARLIE
What?
Beat.
CHARLIE
Do you want to dance?
BABETTE
Why yes, Charlotte. I do. Thank you so very much for asking.
Charlie sighs as she puts the glasses on the nearest tray and offers her hand.
CHARLIE
I can’t promise I’m as good as Albina.
BABETTE
That’s perfectly fine with me.
They begin to dance.
CHARLIE
I’ll remind you of that when you’re complaining about your bruised toes.
BABETTE
You can do so all you want as you give me a foot massage.
Beat.
BABETTE
Don’t tell Albina, but you give the best ones.
CHARLIE
I know. It’s all the muscles. But now I have to worry about Albina beating me in that too. What did you say she had again?
BABETTE
(snorts)
Shut up!
CHARLIE
What’s gotten into her? I’m pretty sure her goal in life was to do as little physical activity as possible.
BABETTE
The mugging really freaked her out.
CHARLIE
She was mugged?
BABETTE
Yes. I mean no. The library was, some broken windows and trashed rooms.
CHARLIE
And you’re still letting her sleep there by herself?
BABETTE
Of course I offered for her to move in with me. But you know her, she doesn’t want to be away from her books. And by that point she was pretty confident in her training and thought she could protect herself.
CHARLIE
She was already in training when-- were you robbed?
BABETTE
Yes, by some scoundrel with a very rusty knife.
CHARLIE
Are you ok?
BABETTE
I’m fine, it was at least a year ago. It was silly of me really. I was craving midnight kettle corn after seeing a showdown at the saloon. Guess they saw me as easy pickings.
CHARLIE
It’s dangerous down there Betty. Why would you go by yourself?
BABETTE
My usual theater buddy was somewhere on a crazy adventure.
CHARLIE
Right. I’m sorry. I should have been there.
BABETTE
You were where you wanted to be. And I’m happy about that.
CHARLIE
Really?
BABETTE
I might pout but I just want you to be happy. Even if that means I only see you a few times a year.
Beat.
CHARLIE
When this is over I’ll be home more often. I promise.
BABETTE
And we’ll always be there waiting for you.
Beat.
CHARLIE
You look beautiful in your dress.
BABETTE
Thank you. Is your skirt to your satisfaction?
CHARLIE
I love it. Lots of movement and I can strap a few knives to my thighs.
BABETTE
That’s what I was thinking about when I bought it.
CHARLIE
My thighs?
BABETTE
You caught me, I think about your thighs whenever you’re away. They’re the only thing that help me sleep at night.
CHARLIE
I understand. My thighs are... are whatever is harder than steel.
BABETTE
I’m sure they are.
CHARLIE
Want to feel?
BABETTE
Charlie!
Charlie laughs and spins Babette who begins to giggle.
CHARLIE
It looks like Albina is having a good time with Duncan.
BABETTE
That’s her ‘I’m solving a puzzle face’.
CHARLIE
Duncan is a puzzle.
BABETTE
He seems rather simple.
CHARLIE
Still waters run deep or whatever.
BABETTE
As long as he understands that Albina isn’t interested in whatever lurks in his waters, he can do whatever he likes.
CHARLIE
He’s just having fun. If it really bothered her he would have stopped. I would have stopped him.
Talking about fun. Lady Rosalind?
BABETTE
Oh she’s harmless Charlie.
CHARLIE
She seems quite fond of Albina.
BABETTE
Who isn’t?
CHARLIE
Babette.
BABETTE
So what if they’re a little sweet on each other? Nothing’s going to happen. Rosalind is too busy trying to find her family’s glory. And Albina...
CHARLIE
Albina.
BABETTE
Albina knows to come back to-- home. She always comes back home. Albina won’t be eloping into the night like her parents anytime soon. No need to worry.
CHARLIE
Alright, just asking. Gotta look out for my girls.
BABETTE
Talking about paramours, this Princess Esme. She sure does look familiar.
CHARLIE
Damnit.
CUT TO:
INT. KING OF YALSPER'S PALACE DANCE HALL - CONTINUOUS
ALBINA
So Duncan.
DUNCAN
Albina.
ALBINA
Where are you from?
DUNCAN
A mountainous region. Don’t know if you’d know it.
ALBINA
Right. And this private tutor you had. She taught you all the languages you know.
DUNCAN
She tried at least.
ALBINA
And she just thought it would be fun to teach a child a plethora of dead languages, or languages that were considered a waste of time?
DUNCAN
I guess.
ALBINA
Hmmmm. You must hate this humid weather, huh?
DUNCAN
I detest it. I feel sweaty all the time. But I don’t look too bad in these shorts do I?
ALBINA
No. You look quite handsome, Prince Duncan of Rydania.
Duncan stops dancing.
DUNCAN
How did you know?
ALBINA
Keep dancing. Don’t want to cause a scene, not very royal of you.
DUNCAN
I don’t care what Charlie says. You are an insufferable know it all.
ALBINA
An insufferable know it all that you want to sleep with. Which don’t you find it odd that you are trying to seduce a woman that looks just like your cousin?
DUNCAN
No. Because you’re not Esme.
ALBINA
But you’re saying you would try to bed your cousin if she wasn’t your cousin.
DUNCAN
Of course. I only go after the most attractive people. And everyone in our family is very attractive.
ALBINA
Impressive you were able to compliment yourself while defending your odd quest.
Esme appears beside them.
ESME
He’s right though, we all are very attractive. Hello little cousin.
DUNCAN
Esme.
ESME
And who is your friend?
DUNCAN
This is Charlie’s friend Albina.
ESME
Fascinating. Mind if I cut in?
Albina pulls away from Duncan.
ALBINA
Be my guest.
ESME
Lovely. I’ll return her later Duncan.
ALBINA
I wasn’t really offering--
ESME
I hear I have something you might enjoy, take me for a spin and I might be of service.
ALBINA
Excuse me?
ESME
My library.
ALBINA
Duncan already said--
ESME
It’s my library. Not his. My rules.
ALBINA
Fine.
ESME
You lead.
Albina and Esme begin to dance.
ESME
How do you feel about bananas?
ALBINA
Hate them. Why?
ESME
We could be twins.
ALBINA
Yes, I’ve noticed.
ESME
Are you my long lost twin?
ALBINA
No.
ESME
How can you be sure? Crazier things have happened in a royal family.
ALBINA
I was very publicly born.
ESME
How am I supposed to take that?
ALBINA
I don’t know. How do you take most things?
ESME
Well that depends what kind of mood I’m in.
ALBINA
Of course. Forgive me.
ESME
Tell me a story.
ALBINA
I thought you wanted a dance.
ESME
Yeah, and now I want a story.
ALBINA
My mom didn’t know she was pregnant with me. Her and my dad had just started our library, collecting books and such. She got a cramp, felt like she was going to be sick… passed out and there I was.
ESME
(laughing)
No.
ALBINA
Dad came in with a new collection of books and finds her on the ground with a crying baby still attached by the umbilical chord.
ESME
Makes since why you’re so bookish.
ALBINA
And how do you know that?
ESME
Charlie won’t shut up about you, but she did leave out some key details it seems.
ALBINA
(awkward)
It would appear so.
ESME
So your family owns a library?
ALBINA
Best in the hemisphere. We also provide translation and copy services for some of the rarer books in our collection.
ESME
Ah, yes. I believe my aunt is a patron of your business.
ALBINA
Truly? I think I would have noticed handling the shipping services of a Princess.
ESME
I’m sure she’s smart enough to use an alias. She’s sneaky like that. Cryo Library, isn’t it?
ALBINA
Yes.
ESME
Odd name.
ALBINA
Just like the Volcano gave us life. We hope to give life, in the way of knowledge with the use of our collection.
ESME
Cute.
The song ends.
ALBINA
Seems like our song is done. I should--
ESME
You’re sticking with me.
ALBINA
Are you going to try and seduce me too?
ESME
Maybe next time. I have a library to show you.
ALBINA
I should probably tell my friends--
ESME
Don’t worry about it, I’ll find them once I take you.
Esme leads Albina up the stairs.
ESME
Have you had a drink yet? The lemongrass fizzlers are to die for.
INT. KING OF YALSPER'S PALACE DANCE HALL - LATER
Charlie and Babette are still dancing together. Charlie is twirling a laughing Babette around with a manic smile on her face.
BABETTE
Charlie! I am going to throw up if you keep this up.
CHARLIE
I don’t know. I think you have a few more laps around the ballroom in you.
Charlie stops spinning Babette and pulls her into a hug.
CHARLIE
Lets get you something to drink.
Illiana appears beside them suddenly.
ILLIANA
You should try the fizzlers.
CHARLIE
Nice mask. Where did you disappear to?
ILLIANA
I was busy. But not too busy to notice how cozy you two looked on the dance floor.
Charlie lets out a sigh and grabs a glass out of a GUEST’S hand as they pass by.
GUEST
HEY!
BABETTE
Charlie that was rude.
CHARLIE
I was thirsty. They looked like they didn’t need it. Let's find Albina and get the blessing.
Duncan appears with lipstick on his cheek and a jacket he wasn’t wearing earlier on.
BABETTE
Duncan, you have a little something--
DUNCAN
Ugh, mom. She always does that.
ILLIANA
She give you the jacket too?
DUNCAN
She says it’s not appropriate for me to be showing so much skin! I’m handsome! I deserve to show this much skin!
BABETTE
Your mother is here?
DUNCAN
Of course not, she detests parties. Very much a shut in.
ILLIANA
Please tell her I very much approve of the new painting in her bathroom.
DUNCAN
Aww Illy, you can’t steal from my ma again.
ILLIANA
I can. But I won’t. It was nice but she had it commissioned so it’s not fair game. She left a note explaining.
DUNCAN
I’m sure she did, after the last two.
BABETTE
I’m sorry. Your mom has rooms in the palace?
CHARLIE
I’m going to find Albina before you break Babette’s brain.
ILLIANA
I saw Esme lead her upstairs.
CHARLIE
What?!
BABETTE
What?!
ILLIANA
A few songs ago.
BABETTE
Charlotte...
CHARLIE
Shit. I’ll find her, OK? Meet at the door in 30.
Charlie walks away.
DUNCAN
So no big deal. But I’m a Prince.
Babette spits out her drink.
DUNCAN
A disgraced one if that helps.
ILLIANA
Only on one side. On your mother's side you’re still very much graced.
INT. KING OF YALSPER'S PALACE SECOND FLOOR - CONTINUOUS
Charlie walks up the stairs and the music begins to fade out. Guards quickly walk past her, obviously looking for something misplaced.
CHARLIE
Hey.
GUARD 1
Miss Charlotte.
CHARLIE
Nope, we talked about this.
GUARD 1
Esteemed guest of Princess Esme, Charlie No Last Name.
CHARLIE
Someone’s in a titchy mood.
GUARD 2
We’re currently looking for someone. Is there something you need?
CHARLIE
I’m looking for Esme and my friend.
GUARD 2
We can tell you where the Princess is.
CHARLIE
That’s good enough, I guess.
INT. KING OF YALSPER'S PALACE DANCE HALL - LATER
Babette and Illiana sit at a table watching the dancers as they drink. They’ve drank quite a bit in a short amount of time.
BABETTE
I see it now. He’s princely.
ILLIANA
In a way.
BABETTE
Look at him dance. See how he floats. That’s a Prince.
ILLIANA
His tattoo is of a book with a shooting star on it.
BABETTE
I wasn’t asking.
ILLIANA
Just in case you thought he looked too Princely. You’re definitely not his type.
BABETTE
Do we have a problem?
ILLIANA
No.
BABETTE
Really? Because a lot of people have an attitude with Albina. She’s brilliant. People are afraid of those who are smarter than them. Insecure. But me? You just don’t like me.
ILLIANA
I don’t not like you. Just-- girls like you are...
BABETTE
Girls like me?
ILLIANA
Soulmate dreaming, love chasing girls. It’s annoying.
BABETTE
What’s wrong with wanting to be in love?
ILLIANA
Because people like you think that you can’t be in ‘true’ love without having a matching soulmark. You belittle people’s choice to choose their own path. Do you think that Albina is meant to roam the world never knowing true love? Just because she doesn’t have a mark branding her.
BABETTE
Of course not. She has me. And Charlie. Is that how you think of soulmate marks. A branding? Something akin to what you do to an animal.
ILLIANA
Aren’t we all animals on some level?
BABETTE
I thought you said you weren’t a cat.
ILLIANA
(caustic)
Another type of animal then.
BABETTE
(hiccuping)
Can I just say. Whenever we talk I feel like you’re talking about something else half the time.
ILLIANA
I met my soulmate once. A few weeks after I turned 16.
BABETTE
Were they as vexing as you?
ILLIANA
No. They seemed perfectly alright. But I was 16. Who wants to be tied down at 16? So I dipped.
BABETTE
That’s it?
ILLIANA
Parents aren’t really the coddling type, no one was going to miss me. Got on the first boat that would get me to the nearest big port. Met Charlie a few months later. Rest is history.
BABETTE
I know Charlie and your crew think I’m insane to fund this whole expedition just for a chance to find my soulmate.
ILLIANA
And the fame and possible fortune.
BABETTE
That’s more of Charlie’s dream. But a way to know who my soulmate was? To be able to find them? That’s all I’ve been dreaming of since I can remember.
ILLIANA
I get it, emotionally neglectful parents. We’ve all been there.
BABETTE
No. I’ve had the perfect life. Great parents who love each other. More money than I could ever spend. And, when I was seven I met the two greatest loves of my life. Having Albina and Charlie in my world has already been life changing. It feels like I was in my own ‘month long eclipse’ until they showed up. And I can feel all that just by being friends with the two of them? How amazing will it be when I also have my soulmate?
ILLIANA
Oh.
BABETTE
I know right. I can’t imagine what loving anyone more than Charlie and Albina will feel like. But I can’t wait.
ILLIANA
(confounded)
Right.
A clock chimes.
BABETTE
Her thirty minutes are up. I’m going to go find them. Watch my drink.
Babette leaves.
ILLIANA
And the plot thickens.
INT. KING OF YALSPER'S PALACE SECOND FLOOR - CONTINUOUS
Babette walks up the stairs with a slight sway in her step. She lets her hand run against the wall as she walks down the hallway. Guards pass her in a rush.
GUARD 1
How’d she get in that library in the first place?
GUARD 2
I don’t know, but she’s gone.
GUARD 1
We need to expand the search to the Family’s quarters.
Babette notices a door slightly opened.
BABETTE
Charlie? Are you in here?
INT. ESME’S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS
Babette walks into the room to see Charlie and Esme kissing. Babette slams the door and the two spring apart.
BABETTE
Busy at work looking for Albina I see.
CHARLIE
Babette! Hey, yeah Esme says-- Where are my manners? Esme this is my, uh, Babette. Babette. Princess Esme.
BABETTE
It’s an honor Your Grace.
ESME
None of that; any friend of my Lottie, is a friend of mine.
BABETTE
How sweet of you to say.
ESME
I’m very sweet. Just ask Lottie.
BABETTE
Charlie, where’s Albina?
CHARLIE
The library.
ESME
Where I left her. She was very interested in what I have to offer.
CHARLIE
We should go get her. We’ve got quite the--
ESME
Go fetch her. I’ll send Lady Theroux your way when I’m done with her.
CHARLIE
We really should--
BABETTE
Go find Albina, Charlotte.
CHARLIE
I... Ok.
Charlie leaves.
ESME
A drink?
BABETTE
That sounds lovely.
Esme busies herself with pouring the drinks. She gestures for Babette to join her on the couch.
ESME
For you, Babette.
BABETTE
Thank you, Your Grace.
ESME
What did I say? We’re practically family, aren’t we?
BABETTE
We are?
ESME
Well, your sisterly bond with Charlie, and my... certain closeness to her.
BABETTE
I wouldn’t say sisterly would fit our bond.
ESME
Your strong friendship then. How jealous I am.
BABETTE
I have been blessed to have her.
ESME
And Albina.
BABETTE
Yes.
ESME
Such a bright mind.
BABETTE
The smartest person you’ll ever meet.
ESME
I would love to get my hands on her.
Babette takes a small sip of her drink and exhales.
BABETTE
Would you now?
ESME
I’m always looking for advisors.
BABETTE
It would take a godly intervention to pull her away from her library.
ESME
Yet she’s here.
BABETTE
Yes. I asked her to be.
Esme laughs.
ESME
You’re fun. You should stay too. Another drink?
BABETTE
Too?
ESME
I love collecting sets. Charlie already has her own room here. There’s plenty of room for you and Albina.
BABETTE
Like I said, Albina has her library and I have--
ESME
Spending your family’s money.
BABETTE
I’m taking control of the estate when Daddy steps down.
ESME
I’m sure with Albina’s help you’ll be quite adequate.
BABETTE
No, with Albina by my side I”m brilliant. And when I’m with both of my girls I’m unstoppable.
ESME
Yes, well--
BABETTE
And maybe I will be able to loan Albina to the Crown’s service once and again. It’s so unfortunate about your failing crop season. What is this, the third in a row?
ESME
It wasn’t a complete failure.
BABETTE
How silly of me, you’re right. Daddy did mention that your father didn’t order any radishes from us.
Beat.
ESME
I believe I have something you want.
BABETTE
(laughing)
You have nothing I want.
ESME
Need then.
BABETTE
The only things I need are Charlie and Albina. And I have them. While you enjoy your lavish parties filled with fizzing cocktails and sweaty dance floors I’ll be just fine with my girls by my side. And you’ll be stuck in your pretty palace alone. We can figure out whatever comes our way; without you.
ESME
(affronted)
Are you really that stupid.
The door burst open and Charlie stumbles in.
CHARLIE
Albina’s not in the library. And the guards can’t find her anywhere.
ESME
She escaped?
Babette stands and makes her way to Charlie.
BABETTE
Escaped? And what do you mean by that?
ESME
(to herself)
But how... She shouldn’t have been able to...
CHARLIE
We gotta go find her Babette.
BABETTE
I’m sure our dear Esme’s palace is a safe place for our Albina to wander. But yes, we should be on our way.
Esme stands and rushes past them.
ESME
I must speak to my father at once. Goodbye Charlie.
CHARLIE
Are you ok? I know Esme can be a little... intense.
BABETTE
We had a grand time talking, no need to furrow your eyebrows darling.
CHARLIE
About?
BABETTE
You know, radishes and the like.
CHARLIE
Right.
BABETTE
Lets find Albina.
CHARLIE
After you Little Lady.
Babette giggles as she takes Charlie’s offered hand. The two walk out of the room smiling.
INT. KING OF YALSPER'S PALACE DANCE HALL - CONTINUOUS
The two girls descend the stairs and the music gets louder. Duncan and Illiana are waiting for them by the staircase.
DUNCAN
Everything good?
BABETTE
We lost Albina.
CHARLIE
Have you seen her?
DUNCAN
No, haven’t been looking though.
ILLIANA
I saw her on the roof when I was up there a while ago.
CHARLIE
The roof!
BABETTE
The roof!
ILLIANA
I asked her to come back with me but she seemed busy.
DUNCAN
(sarcastically)
Busy?
ILLIANA
And drunk.
BABETTE
Great. She’s in a silly mood. It’s going to be hard to catch her.
DUNCAN
A silly mood?
CHARLIE
Albina likes climbing things. And when she’s drunk...
Illiana points to the window where a stumbling Albina is climbing and jumping from terrace to terrace.
ILLIANA
Found her.
BABETTE
Where- Janglin Jackals! Lets go.
EXT. KING OF YALSPER’S PALACE - NIGHT
Albina is sitting on the roof letting her legs swing back and forth while humming a tune.
BABETTE
Albina! If you do not come down right this instant I swear that--
ALBINA
OK.
BABETTE
Wait don’t!
CHARLIE
Albina no!
Albina lets herself slip off of the roof and lands in a wobbly superhero landing.
ALBINA
I was looking for you Babette.
CHARLIE
I think my heart stopped.
BABETTE
Ma’am, where have you been?
ALBINA
I was in a library. Then I wasn’t. Climbed some stuff. Got cold. Found a really warm room. Cuddled with some cats. Hung out with Rosalind for a bit.
BABETTE
Cats?
CHARLIE
Rosalind.
DUNCAN
You got into the Sanctuary?
ALBINA
Oh, you two are here.
ILLIANA
Hello to you mouse.
ALBINA
The stunning Illiana. And Duncan. I met your mom. She’s hot.
DUNCAN
Excuse me?
ILLIANA
She’s not wrong.
DUNCAN
Leave my mother out of this!
BABETTE
Forgive her, Albina has picked up the nasty habit of flirting with anyone when she’s drunk lately.
ALBINA
I’ll flirt and make moves on anyone anytime.
BABETTE
Even women double your age?
ALBINA
Especially them. They’re the ones who get to see stars.
BABETTE
Albina!
ALBINA
My planetarium.
CHARLIE
I’m sure that’s exactly what you meant.
Albina sways in place as she hiccups.
CHARLIE
Lets get you back to the ship. Are you bleeding?
ALBINA
Nope.
CHARLIE
Babette look at her cheek, it’s bruised-- is that lipstick?
ALBINA
Oh. I thought I wiped that off.
CHARLIE
(growled)
Rosalind.
ALBINA
Oh, is Rosalind here? Need to tell her I got back to Babette.
BABETTE
It’s alright darling. You’re coming home, to the boat, with me. Charlie can tell her.
CHARLIE
No, I’m coming with you guys.
BABETTE
I thought you’d want to go back to the party?
CHARLIE
I thought we could have a sleepover. Like old times.
BABETTE
Like old times.
ALBINA
Great! Cause I borrowed some books from that library Esme locked me in. So we should probably go now.
DUNCAN
From my family’s personal library?
ALBINA
If Babette got a tea set why can’t I have some books?
DUNCAN
Unhand those books this instant.
ALBINA
I’ll fight you for them?
BABETTE
She’d probably win too. I don’t recall the title Master being applied before your name Duncan.
CHARLIE
On that note we should get out of here. Before the guards catch up with you.
ALBINA
I literally just said that.
DUNCAN
My moms going to kill you.
ALBINA
Nah, your mom loves me.
Albina turns to walk towards the dock but stops when her friends don’t follow.
CHARLIE
(laughing)
Round up everyone and get back on the boat in three hours! Oh, and do me a favor? Find Rosalind and tell her Albina and Babette are with me.
ALBINA
Are you two coming or are we just chit-chatting out here like a bunch of seagulls?
ILLIANA
Yeah, I’m not doing any of that.
DUNCAN
Sure not.
Charlie and Babette catch up with Albina.
BABETTE
Seems like I’m only the one without a kiss tonight.
ALBINA
Charlie’s been kissing her Princess?
CHARLIE
She’s not my Princess.
ALBINA
It’s ok, Betty. You can be my princess.
Albina leans over to give Babette a loud kiss on the cheek.
BABETTE
Aren’t you a charmer.
ALBINA
Thank you M’Lady.
CHARLIE
Well, I don’t need to be drunk to be charming.
BABETTE
Oh Charlie, no need to get all broody.
CHARLIE
I don’t brood.
ALBINA
Sure you do. It’s your thing now. I can use a staff, and you brood.
BABETTE
What’s my new thing?
ALBINA
It’s hard to say when your beauty is so distracting.
CHARLIE
Yeah, enough of this.
Charlie picks Albina up and throws her over her shoulders. Albina yelps but stays there. Babette laughs.
ALBINA
Let me down!
CHARLIE
Nope. Someone needs to go to sleep.
ALBINA
Not me though.
CHARLIE
Yes you.
BABETTE
But not before some tea and a pain reliever.
ALBINA
Maybe some cuddles for Albina?
CHARLIE
(laughing)
And all of the cuddles for Albina.
The three girls walk towards the boat laughing. Duncan and Illiana are left to watch them.
DUNCAN
Hot damn. That was awkward to witness.
ILLIANA
If she would just say ‘I’m in love with you’ she could fix this.
DUNCAN
Who? Charlie?
ILLIANA
Any of them?
DUNCAN
What?
ILLIANA
You’re right. Babette’s definitely not there yet. Talk about denial. Or maybe she really is that... blonde.
TRINITY
Illiana: Well that explains a lot
Duncan: (spoken) Huh, yeah… wait what?
I: Or then again maybe not
D: (spoken) Uhh, I’m not sure I’m following
I: Seems like there’s some drama between Charlie and her wants
D:(spoken) Her wants
I: Her needs
D: (spoken) Her needs… yeah no I still don't’ get it.
I: Sirens it’s incredible how you’ve survived the seas
D: (spoken) I did get a lot of Cs in school, actually
I: But surely you’ve seen
D: (spoken) Seen what
I: The sparks that fly with those three
D: (spoken) Those three?
D: But surely you don’t mean
I: (spoken) Oh Duncan, I mean.
D:
Who does she want
Who does she need
I:
A little of column A
And column B
Sometimes love needs a trinity
Another step between
Two and infinity
D: So you see Charlie and Babette
I: And Albina as a set
D: But what’s that mean about the marks
That we carry
I: There exists a world of possibility
Is it the end or will it be
D: A new beginning
I: Now the gears are spinning
D: So Charlie wants a double
But that could lead to trouble
Cause everybody’s got these tattoos
What a taboo
Thing to have to
Do for love
I: That’s true enough
But sometimes love needs a Trinity
Add another edge
In a sensual symmetry
D: But what about Babette
She goes heels right over head
At the idea of her perfect
Companion
I: Anyone can see what she refuses to
Instead of one she chooses two
D: The plot got thicker
I: But now you get the picture
D: Well now I’m feeling better
That Albina never let herself get
Too wrapped up
In my advances
Taking all her chances
In a buy one get one
Hey girl get some
You can bet I’m dying to see
I: If they’ll try for three
Cause sometimes
Love needs a trinity
Open up your mind
To a new possibility
Open up your mind
D: Open up your mind
DUNCAN
Want to go back in?
ILLIANA
I think I’m going to head in for the night. Going to stay with Mommy?
DUNCAN
Maybe I am.
Illiana laughs as she walks away. Duncan walks the other way as he hums his song. Esme calls his name from a balcony above.
ESME
Duncan!
DUNCAN
She got into the Sanctuary?
ESME
Shhhhh, you idiot. Gods above. Get up here.
DUNCAN
Ugh. Take a step back.
ESME
Just use the stairs!
Duncan takes a step back before parkouring up the wall and into Esme’s balcony.
DUNCAN
Nice right, I’ve been practicing.
ESME
Yes, your giant spider jumping is very impressive. Anyway. You’re staying here for the night, right?
DUNCAN
I wish.
ESME
Splendid.
DUNCAN
Hey!
ESME
Go talk to Auntie and ask her about what she knows of the Cryo Library.
DUNCAN
Who cares about a library?
ESME
It’s important, okay? And be subtle.
DUNCAN
That’s my middle name.
ESME
(sighing)
Report back to me before going back to the ship. And keep an eye out on Albina.
DUNCAN
Of course.
ESME
One family.
DUNCAN
One force.
ESME
See you soon baby cousin.
Duncan walks towards the door.
ESME
Nope. Leave the way you came.
DUNCAN
But it’s easier to go up then--
ESME
Get to jumping spider boy.
DUNCAN
I hate you.
Duncan jumps back down the wall. Esme walks into her room.
INT. ESME’S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
There’s a knock on her door and she rushes to it. She opens it to find Rosalind.
ESME
Gods. What took you so long?
Esme yanks Rosalind into her room.
ROSALIND
I saw a friend.
ESME
A friend? Tell that to the bruising down your neck.
ROSALIND
Ugh. Leave me alone. What do you want?
ESME
You.
ROSALIND
I don’t like the sound of this already.
ESME
I need a favor.
ROSALIND
Ok?
ESME
You see, my cousin and I stumbled on someone fascinating.
ROSALIND
Right.
ESME
And I simply can’t let this opportunity pass me by.
ROSALIND
Understood.
ESME
So I need you to sneak me out of the palace and get me to my cousin and his merry crew of idiots.
ROSALIND
For sure. Not gonna do that.
ESME
But you must!
ROSALIND
I’m not going to sneak you, a princess, away from the city that you are--
ESME
Confined to? Please Rosalind. I’ll owe you greatly.
ROSALIND
There is not enough money in your treasury to get me to do something so stupid.
ESME
I know where, or at least who, has what you’re looking for.
ROSALIND
What?
ESME
She’s on that boat.
ROSALIND
You knew all this time, and you never told me?
ESME
If you found your little painting you’d stop visiting to play Art Detective.
Beat.
ESME
Which is my way of saying I’d miss seeing your little, freckled face.
ROSALIND
Fine.
ESME
So you’ll do it?
ROSALIND
And get my family’s painting back? Yes.
ESME
You are officially my best friend. Besides my cousin and Thalia of course. Oh! Let me go fetch Thalia. Why she continues to sleep in the servants corridors I’ll never know.
ROSALIND
Maybe because she’s your servant?
ESME
She’s my most trusted advisor.
ROSALIND
Yes, and she’d she most likely advise you not to do this.
ESME
Well... yes.
ROSALIND
Stealth Esme. Stealth is what we need to sneak you out of here. Bringing your assistant? Not stealthy.
ESME
Fine. I’ll just leave a note.
ROSALIND
You do that.
ESME
Go enjoy the rest of the party. I need to pack. Meet back here at sundown tomorrow?
ROSALIND
Sundown it is Your Majesty.
Rosalind leaves.