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INT. IVY UNIVERSITY LABS. - CHRISTMAS EVE, 1946.
MINISTER BLIZZARD paces, chuckling, he twirls his mustache. Behind him, on a pedestal is a device- the experimental heat engine.
With him as well, are several HENCHMEN- his icicle men.
He looks towards WONDER WOMAN and BLACK CANARY, both trapped in ice. Wonder Woman is frozen up to her shoulders, while Black Canary’s feet are frozen to the floor.
Minister Blizzard:
It seems Wonder Woman, my old enemy, that you have fallen into the icy clutches of Minister Blizzard!-
He laughs, turning towards her.
Minister Blizzard (cont’d):
Even for all your strength, you have no hope against Ice-Berg Land’s technology.
He proudly brandishes his ice gun.
Black Canary looks up at Wonder Woman, catching her eye, she winks.
Wonder Woman smiles and gives her a slight nod, then she looks towards the device.
Wonder Woman:
If your technology is truly so incredible, then what cause do you have to steal this device from Ivy University?
Minister Blizzard:
That is the experimental heat engine, potentially an infinitely renewable power source. You see, the scientists here designed it to release constant heat. Constant energy. However, should they activate it, it would only serve to worsen the already declining atmosphere - carbon emissions are no joke- so I’m forced to take it off their hands. ...To make sure they don’t hurt themselves.
Two of his henchmen then begin lifting the device behind him and carrying it out.
Wonder Woman:
A noble goal, I confess, yet I have not known you to take action without ulterior motives.
Minister Blizzard:
You know me all too well- I do have my own goals. My plan, if you must know it, entails first the heist of the device-
As Minister Blizzard drones on, Black Canary uses her chin to press her choker, and a magnifying glass pops out of it, catching the light above her, and shooting a tiny beam of heat into the ice, which quickly begins melting.
Minister Blizzard:
-And soon enough my scientists will convert the heat engine into an infinite...Cold Engine!
He turns his back on Wonder Woman, who looks down at Black Canary- she nods her chin towards Blizzard, Canary nods. Wonder Woman smiles.
Minister Blizzard (cont’d):
-And then I… MINISTER BLIZZARD, shall freeze the whole world, and bring about a new Ice Age-!
Black Canary tears her feet out of the melted ice, and leaps towards a henchman, kicking him out. Blizzard turns back surprised. He raises his ice-ray, as Wonder Woman shatters the ice around her.
Panicked, he attempts to fire a bolt from his ice-ray, but Wonder Woman deflects it off her bracelet. He looks toward the side exit worriedly, then back towards the heroes. Black Canary puts up her fists.
Black Canary:
A new Ice Age? Real shame you’re about to go extinct.
The pair faces Blizzard, who begins backing away. He snaps his fingers. Half a dozen of his henchmen slide in front of him, creating a wall between him and them.
Wonder Woman and Black Canary leap towards the henchmen and begin punching through them.
BAM! POW! KRAK!
One of the Henchmen slams into the wall unconscious, as Wonder Woman looks toward Minister Blizzard, who, backing away, fires an icy bolt at her. She deflects it, as Black Canary kicks a henchman across the face.
Wonder Woman deflects the bolts, as Black Canary fights her way through the henchmen.
Canary throws one over her shoulder, onto the ground. Looking around at the heap of defeated henchmen surrounding her, she smiles, then looks over towards Wonder Woman and Blizzard.
Wonder Woman whirls her lasso and throws it, it catches around Blizzard, and she pulls it tight. His ice gun is thrown from his hand, and skids over to Wonder Woman.
She steps on it and smirks. Minister Blizzard sighs, defeated.
Cut to:
A few minutes later, the unconscious henchman and equally unconscious Minister Blizzard sit tied up in Wonder Woman’s lasso.
Black Canary:
I take it he’s not going to Transformation Island?
Wonder Woman:
No- I could not handle that. For now, he is being taken to the Iceberg-Land Embassy, in Civic City. His fate will be discussed further when I meet with Princess Snowina tomorrow.
Wonder Woman turns to Black Canary.
Wonder Woman (cont’d):
It also seems two of his men fled with the device, but I have confidence that we will hunt it down before it can be used to do any harm. --
She takes Black Canary’s hand.
Wonder Woman (cont’d):
At the moment, we need to make our way to headquarters- we are already late for the party.
Black Canary:
I nearly forgot about that. Time really flies when you’re frozen.
Wonder Woman laughs.
Wonder Woman:
Most certainly. —- By the way, that was a clever trick, keeping a magnifying glass in your choker.
Black Canary shrugs, exchanging her choker for one in her coat pocket.
Black Canary:
I never fight an ice villain without it- still I like the one you gave me better.
Wonder Woman smiles, and then kisses her. Wonder Woman turns to retrieve the villains, but Black Canary gently pulls her back.
Black Canary:
Wait, before we get to the party- Merry Christmas, angel.
Wonder Woman is about to reply, when Black Canary kisses her. Wonder Woman closes her eyes, leaning in.
Pull back on them, revealing the outside of the Ivy University building, all decorated for Christmas. Snow is falling.
[“JUSTICE SOCIETY OF AMERICA: HOLIDAY SPECIAL” TITLE CARD PLAYS]
EXT. JSA HEADQUARTERS- Civic City
The exterior of the building is decorated for Christmas, and the outside is coated with snow. The sound of a jet landing can be heard, as the invisible jet touches down.
INT. JSA HEADQUARTERS.
The JSA common room is found aglow in Christmas spirit, as a gentle yuletide melody flows from the radio. The various guests, the Justice Society superheroes, intermingle with each other - one such small grouping is Dinah Drake and Hippolyta, now in civilian clothing, speaking with WILL EVERETT, otherwise known as AMAZING-MAN.
Hippolyta:
It has been too long, Will, how have you been since the war?
Will:
Well, the All-Star Squadron disbanded, so I’ve just been keeping Detroit safe, helping out where I can- a friendly neighborhood Amazing–Man. …It’s fulfilling.
He smiles.
Dinah Drake:
Any Holiday plans?
Will Everett:
Just spending Christmas Day with my Mom and Dad- Church, soup kitchen, turkey for dinner- you two?
Dinah:
Polly and Me are going out for dinner tonight, having a quiet Christmas morning at my place- then we’re going up to Paradise Island.
Hippolyta:
There are winter festivals, and religious rites, that require the Queen’s presence- we Amazons celebrate the Day of Artemis in place of your Christmas.
Dinah:
Besides, it’s beautiful there this time of year- sure beats the cold.
Will:
I don’t mind the cold… a brisk run always clears my head.
Dinah:
You wouldn’t be saying that if you’d ever been on a 12-hour stakeout in the dead of winter.
Dinah shivers thinking about it, Hippolyta wraps her arms around her.
Hippolyta:
We had intended to leave tomorrow, but the news of Princess Snowina’s presence has delayed our travel.
Will:
You’re meeting with her in a few days, right? ‘Heard on the radio.
Hippolyta:
Tomorrow, actually. With the intention of reviewing our countries’ efforts into slowing Climate alteration- hopefully, we will be able to create firm recommendations for the American government.
Will:
I have to say, Hippolyta, I really respect your commitment to humanitarian causes. Too many people are against progress- so it’s nice to see someone willing to fight for it.
Hippolyta:
Thank you- and of course, your work towards Civil Rights in your community is inspiring.
Will:
Well, I- thanks. I don’t know if I’m doing enough- I keep thinking about signing on with the NAACP, maybe it’s time to take my cause national?
Hippolyta:
You should, I think. You would be an invaluable spokesperson. I confess I have been doing similar consideration into women’s rights organizations, though-
Dinah Drake kisses Hippolyta on the cheek, getting her attention, Hippolyta turns towards her, she smiles.
Hippolyta:
Yes, my love?
Dinah:
I’m just going to get us something to drink -be right back.
She pecks Hippolyta on the lips, then walks off. Hippolyta watches her briefly, then turns back to Will.
Will:
I guess I just worry that it won’t be too well received.
Hippolyta:
It can be difficult to push through this world’s rigid social order- exhausting to struggle against unceasing stubbornness. Yet, the promise of an equal world is too rewarding- even when it seems truly impossible. I have debated giving in- only briefly-
She looks back towards Dinah.
Hippolyta (cont’d):
-but then I remember just how much there is to fight for.
Elsewhere: Dinah Drake makes her way towards the drink table when she’s stopped by a voice.
Carter:
Dinah-
She turns to see CARTER HALL, holding a wrapped gift.
Dinah:
Carter!
She takes the gift from him- excited.
Dinah (cont’d):
… Is this it?
Carter (cont’d):
Only the clasp. I had the sword sent to the Park City Museum, you’ll have to pick it up. Don’t worry, it’s being watched by the curator, Alexandria.
Dinah:
Castellanos?
Carter:
You’ve met?
Dinah:
She got herself mixed up in a case recently. The witch Circe was looking for a lost ancient greek artifact-
Carter:
In the United States?
Dinah:
Long story.
She takes the box from Carter and takes a peek inside of it. As she gazes down she’s stunned by whatever lies inside. She smiles.
Dinah:
It looks just like she said- she’s gonna love this.
INT. JSA HEADQUARTERS- Later.
Dinah Drake places two glasses of eggnog on the table, then reaches for a glass of bourbon. She begins pouring it- when someone bumps into her. The drops from the bourbon hit the table. As she sets it down, she turns to see TED KNIGHT. He raises his hands up, about to apologize. Then, they make eye contact. He seems stunned, haunted by something, and unable to find the right words to express what- Dinah however seems cautious. They stand in silence for a moment. Dinah smiles.
Dinah:
Hey, Ted. I feel like I’m staring at a ghost. Been a while.
Ted:
Yeah. …Dinah-
Ted looks down.
Ted:
…Listen, I’m sorry …for everything that’s happened between us-
She narrows her eyes confused- then sighs.
Dinah:
It’s really ok Ted, I’m not mad… anymore. We went out for what- a month- before I found you were already seeing Doris? It was hardly a defining relationship for me.
Ted:
-I know, I’ve just- I’ve been thinking a lot lately, about everyone I’ve… wronged. Realized I never properly apologized to you- I just wanted to make things right.
Dinah nods.
Dinah:
Yeah. I won’t lie, being used like that hurt- but I got over it. …Besides, it did free me up for Polly- so I suppose I should really thank you. ... Y’know, Polly’s always been big on forgiveness, trying to find compassion even when people do wrong. If she can do that for The Cheetah, then I think I can find it in me to forgive you- and I think you can forgive yourself. Ted, I don’t want you to have to feel guilty every time you see me- that is when you get back to being Starman-
Ted:
No, Dinah, I’m never putting on the Starman suit again. I… I can’t. It was the technology I used to be Starman that created the atom bomb- my technology that killed the citizens of Hiroshima. That skeleton is staying buried- it has to.
Flashes of anger color his reply, he sighs.
Ted:
I’m sorry- I need a smoke.
He leaves- as DORIS LEE-KNIGHT walks up, watching him go. She adjusts her wedding ring- and looks towards Dinah.
Doris:
He hasn’t been himself since… since last year.
Dinah nods, then smiles.
Dinah:
Well, what about you Doris? Have you ever thought about being a Star-Woman?
Doris:
Me- I-
Dinah winks.
Dinah:
You’d look great in the costume.
Doris blushes, looking away.
Doris:
Oh- I’m flattered- but, I- oh, but- I couldn’t. Ted needs me. Though, if you’re ever in Opal, we should …catch up.
Dinah:
You bring Ted, I’ll bring Polly and we can double. Speaking of, I should get these-
She lifts the drinks from the table.
Dinah (cont’d):
-To her. … Take care of yourself, ok?
INT. JSA HEADQUARTERS
On the other side of the room, Hippolyta speaks with Will.
Hippolyta:
I just- I wish we did not have to keep our love so carefully locked away. Too often, I feel like a coward, having to hide in the face of prejudice, instead of taking a stand-
Will:
You gotta look out for yourself though, I get it, the time’ll come to take a stand. For now, we need to do what we can, and that means keeping the people we love safe … Not like I can exactly hide from prejudice- doesn’t mean I’m not expected to.
Hippolyta:
No. They believe our cultures, our lives, must remain unspoken so that their delicate status quo can remain unchallenged.
Will:
Yep. Even allies, people you think you can trust, get a little finicky when you start talking about making real changes.
Hippolyta nods, then sighs.
Hippolyta:
Gods, that reminds me. … Months ago, Alan pulled Dinah aside asking her to be more careful about how she interacted with me in public- so that we are not discovered. His goal was to protect, but the message still hurt, coming from a friend.
Her tone then turns more bitter.
Hippolyta (cont’d):
Dinah said that he was concerned with the team’s public image. Not to mention the fact that he did not respect me enough to include me in that conversation-
She’s interrupted. Dinah Drake leans up and pecks her on the lips.
Dinah Drake:
Brought you a glass of eggnog… spiked.
Dinah hands Hippolyta a glass, as Hippolyta’s expression softens. She takes in Dinah’s eyes for a moment, before leaning down. Dinah and Hippolyta kiss, eventually breaking apart.
Will smiles.
Will:
At least you don’t have to hide here.
Hippolyta looks over towards him, her head slightly nodding.
Hippolyta:
I suppose I am lucky on that front. …It has been lovely discussing with you. If you should ever need my assistance with a protest.
Will:
Likewise, Hippolyta.
They shake hands, then Dinah gently leads Hippolyta away- and they walk together.
Dinah:
Don’t have to hide? I see you were talking about Alan again.
Hippolyta:
…The subject came up.
Dinah looks up at her, then kisses her on the cheek. Hippolyta’s lip turns to a small smile.
INT. ICE-BERG LAND EMBASSY- MINISTER BLIZZARD’S CELL
PRINCESS SNOWINA stands outside Minister Blizzard’s cell.
Princess Snowina:
Blizzard, you were a brilliant scientist, you served my father as his adviser for years-
Minister Blizzard:
And what did that service get me, Princess Snowina? No power, no import. Naught but a meaningless position as the butler to his brat daughter.
Princess Snowina:
I believe the title was “Royal Vizier to the Princess”.
Blizzard sighs.
Minister Blizzard:
You weren’t… untalented as a student. Just infected with your father’s altruism.
Princess Snowina:
Ironic, considering how important your lessons were to me as a girl. What I learned from you about the Earth’s changing climate still affects the work I do with Wonder Woman. Any altruism in me… it came from you.
She sighs.
Princess Snowina (cont’d):
Wonder Woman has, in passing, spoken to me about her pet project- Transformation Island- she is attempting to rehabilitate those that have harmed her. I admit it inspired me. I want to put your brain to good use-
Minister Blizzard:
To subjugate its brilliance.
Princess Snowina:
To focus it. —-Yes, you would be carefully monitored, your past insurrection can’t be ignored, but I also think that given the proper outlet, we could make this world better. You could make this world better. … Despite my better judgment, I can’t bring myself to hate you. … Will you join me?
She smiles, holding out her hand. Blizzard scoffs.
Minister Blizzard:
You would offer your hand to me, so unthinkingly?- You always were naive to reality, gifted, but inevitably unwilling to do what is necessary-
Princess Snowina:
-Yet too stubborn to roll over for you? Tell me, is my will too weak to do what is needed? Or too strong so as to oppress a free thinker like yourself?
Minister Blizzard:
What you are is incompetent! A child given power she cannot properly wield! Power that should be mine. When I am free, I will take it- and then this world will see that I, Minister Blizzard-
Princess Snowina:
The truth is, my old teacher, your schemes have always been …trite. Freezing the world? Really? To what end?- please, Blizzard I am offering you a chance to put your brain to real use, not waste it on-
Minister Blizzard:
I will gut you like a fish! …Then bury you next to your father.
Princess Snowina:
Reacting with anger. Tell me teacher, which one of us is a child?
Snowina begins to leave.
Princess Snowina (cont’d):
– Blizzard, I do not need your help, but if you are willing to put aside your pride. Then maybe we can revisit discussing your rehabilitation.
She turns to the GUARD.
Princess Snowina (cont’d):
Keep a close eye on him.
She exits. The guard she spoke to walks close to the bars of Minister Blizzard’s cell.
Minister Blizzard:
Is everything ready?
The guard grins, handing a ring of keys to Blizzard.
Guard:
She suspects nothing.
Pan down, to a room labeled “Temperature Control”, where the experimental heat engine has been plugged into the wall.
Close-up on a thermometer affixed to the wall. The temperature rises.
INT. JSA HEADQUARTERS
Hippolyta:
A gift?
Hippolyta smiles, holding the tiny gift box in her hands, she looks up toward Carter Hall and Dinah Drake.
Dinah:
I know Christmas is tomorrow, but-
Hippolyta takes her hand, giving her a smile. Hippolyta then unwraps the ribbon, she pulls the lid off, and looks inside. Instantly stunned, she pulls out a bronze clasp, with a lioness depicted on it, from the box- Looking down at it in awe, she turns it over in her hands, as gently as she can.
Hippolyta:
This- it’s my mother’s- my- clasp. Lost in Athens, on the battlefield- How-?
Carter:
It was found in a dig a few decades ago- Then put on display in England, I was able to match it to Dinah’s description.
Hippolyta:
I-I could never have dreamt that I would see it again. Dinah-
She looks up from the brooch, and towards her girlfriend, who holds out a purple cape, a smile playing across her lips.
Dinah:
Try it on.
Hippolyta smiles, nodding, She takes the cape, using the clasp to pin it. She turns, and the cape flows behind her. She then looks down at the clasp, still not sure if it’s really there- she adjusts it.
She looks up towards Dinah- who is about to ask a question- but, before Dinah can get a word out, Hippolyta kisses her. Dinah’s eyes widen, then close as she pulls Hippolyta closer to her. They part, and their heads touch together, as they look into each other’s eyes.
Hippolyta:
I love it- Thank you, my songbird.
Hippolyta kisses Dinah’s nose, then turns and looks toward Carter Hall.
Hippolyta:
And thank you, Carter.
Dinah:
Yeah. I really owe you one.
Carter waves his hand.
Carter:
Getting to take Shiera to all those museums was reward enough for me.
He turns to Hippolyta.
Carter (cont’d):
Dinah came to me with the idea in …44, I want to say? She wanted to relocate, and buy back some of your items that had wound up lost to time. But with the war, it was hard to get access to the right artifacts. Luckily, Shiera and myself’s recent globe-trotting exploits gave me the opportunity. Of course, after confirming their authenticity, Dinah is the one that made the purchases.
Hippolyta squeezes Dinah’s hand, as she turns back towards her. She looks down towards the clasp and shakes her head.
Hippolyta:
You have truly outdone yourself with this, my love.
In the background, ALAN SCOTT- in his GREEN LANTERN costume is seen saying hello to Carter. In the foreground, Dinah shrugs.
Dinah:
Angel, you got me a motorcycle for my birthday- if I got you anything less, I’d feel bad.
Hippolyta rolls her eyes, smiling- about to say something back, when-
Alan:
Dinah, Hippolyta, it’s good to see you both-
They turn to see him, Dinah smiles.
Dinah:
Yeah.
She gently strokes Hippolyta’s elbow, but Hippolyta doesn’t respond. Alan looks down.
Alan:
Hippolyta, I know that you’re still upset with me. I really can’t stop you from feeling that, I can’t even blame you- but I need to speak with you-
Hippolyta crosses her arms.
Hippolyta:
Are you not speaking now?
He gives her a look, she sighs.
Hippolyta (cont’d):
Alan, you betrayed the friendship we shared- made a mockery of the trust placed in you as a leader. Overstepping your bounds, meddling in my affairs. If my friendship did not mean enough to prevent you from doing that- then your own sense of morality should have.
Alan:
That’s not- I was trying to keep you both safe. – Hippolyta, I was worried- scared - for my friend’s safety. Acting without proper diligence, I hurt you, and I’m sorry. But, I really do need to talk with you, it’s-
Hippolyta:
I do not begrudge you that fear- no. I could forgive breaking my trust. What enrages me is the fact that you are so craven that you would prefer to reprimand my lover rather than take issue with the prejudice that endangers us. So, if you have something so vital to say, why don’t you tell Dinah, and she can tell me.
She storms off. Leaving Alan speechless. He looks down.
Dinah:
I’ll go talk to her.
Dinah turns to follow Hippolyta. Alan and Carter stand in silence.
INT. JSA HEADQUARTERS. LATER.
Alan- no longer in costume- pours himself a drink at the counter. When suddenly, Jay zips into the barstool next to him. Jay leans against the counter. He gives Alan a kind look.
Jay:
I heard what happened with Polly. Gave you the cold shoulder. ..On Christmas.
Alan takes a drink.
Alan:
Yep.
Jay:
She’s still upset over-?
Alan nods- clearly stung.
Jay stands up, placing a hand on his shoulder.
Jay:
Hey, she’ll come around. She’s a loyal friend- but you hurt her trust and pride. You just need to give her a little time to bounce back. … I know that if I was in her shoes, I’d be pretty mad at you too. Might be a little quicker to forgive, but-
Alan smiles.
Alan:
You’re quicker at everything.
Jay:
Pretty much. …You have any Holiday plans?
Alan:
I’m going to feed my dog, Streak, later.
Jay smiles.
Jay:
You got a dog?-
He shakes his head.
Jay (cont’d):
-Pal, I don’t like the thought of you being alone on Christmas. Why don’t you come to me and Joan’s for dinner tomorrow? The extra meal won’t be trouble, and we’d love to meet your pooch.
Alan:
I don’t know, Jay, Gotham-
Jay:
The GCPD can take a day without you- I swear, you didn’t even take your costume off before you got here.
Alan:
There was a runaway train-
Jay gives him a look. Alan chuckles.
Alan (cont’d):
Alright, I’ll think about it.
INT. JSA HEADQUARTERS
In another, more vacant corner of the room, Hippolyta leans against a wall, her arms crossed. She looks up towards the ceiling.
Dinah walks up to her.
Dinah:
What’s a beautiful girl like you doing, moping at a party?
Hippolyta turns, and smiles softly. She pulls Dinah closer to her.
Hippolyta:
Hello, my darling.
Dinah:
Hey. God, you’re adorable. …Can we talk about Alan?
Hippolyta’s expression drops.
Hippolyta:
I would prefer not to.
Dinah:
Polly, Alan’s one of your best friends- I don’t want you to lose that just because of me.
Hippolyta softens. She strokes Dinah’s cheek.
Hippolyta:
My love, you take no blame, Alan’s actions are his own. Besides, you mean more than anything to me- I would fight wars for you-
Dinah:
Well, I don’t want you to fight a war, all I want is for you to have a conversation with a friend.
Hippolyta:
Dinah, I… cannot.
She again crosses her arms.
Dinah:
Angel, you’re being stubborn.
Hippolyta:
I am not being stubborn. After what he — He went behind my back, and-
Dinah:
I’m not saying that your feelings are wrong, it’s just- I think you’re holding onto them a little too much. I know why you’re angry, but Alan’s intentions really were in the right place- you just need to talk to him.
Hippolyta:
I find often that men’s intentions are in the right place, yet their actions betray them-
She attempts to turn away, but Dinah takes her hand and twirls Hippolyta back into her arms.
Dinah:
Yeah? Well, this isn’t about men- it isn’t even about Alan. It’s about you. Polly, the only reason I want you to try to forgive Alan- is because you’ll feel better.
Hippolyta:
… Even if that were true- I fear that too much anger has passed between us.
Dinah:
You were a little harsh on him- but he’ll understand. Just go talk to him- for me?
She looks into Hippolyta's eyes, and smiles softly. Hippolyta smiles- sighing.
Hippolyta:
For you? Dinah, do you have to make yourself so … irresistible.
Dinah wraps one of Hippolyta's curls around her finger- giving her a wink. Hippolyta sighs- a giggle escaping her throat.
Hippolyta (cont’d):
Alright, my love, I will talk to him.
Hippolyta places her forehead on Dinah’s- momentarily.
Dinah:
Do you need any help? I can walk you over.
Hippolyta shakes her head, she begins to turn from Dinah- their hands still clasped.
Hippolyta:
This, I think I must face alone.
Dinah smiles.
Dinah:
Kay- tell me all about it though.
Hippolyta turns back to her.
Hippolyta:
Of course, my love, thank you.
They kiss.
EXT. CIVIC CITY ROOFTOP
One of Minister Blizzard’s HENCHMEN flips a large switch. He holds up a walkie-talkie.
Henchman:
Ice-Machine Alpha… Online.
A large machine unfolds from the rooftop, a pillar that emanates blue energy. Its beam shoots into the sky, and a vortex emanates from it. Snow begins to fall harder.
INT. JSA HEADQUARTERS.
Alan Scott stands alone, holding a drink in his hand.
Hippolyta walks toward him- she stops.
Hippolyta:
Alan- may we speak?
He turns and smiles. He prepares to respond, when-
The ALARM blares. The room’s lights flash red. They both look around.
Alan:
The JSA Alert.
EXT. BUILDINGS OF CIVIC CITY
Machines, like the one seen before, only smaller, activate across the city skyline. The buildings' rooftops begin to freeze.
The image transitions into black and white.
INT. JSA HEADQUARTERS
The JSA members watch, as the footage of the city freezing plays in black and white on the tv.
Radio Announcer (V.O.):
Sorry citizens of Civic City- or Civic-cicle, I should say. We’re getting reports of mysterious machines freezing the city- and on Christmas Eve too?
The announcer continues, his words running in the background-
Radio Announcer (V.O.) [in the background]:
The question remains: who’s causing this blizzard? And will Santa Claus be able to make it through the snowstorm? For now, let’s just hope that our hometown heroes, the Justice Society of America, will be able to thaw out this absolutely chilling dilemma.
as Alan turns to Jay.
Alan Scott:
This footage is coming from the camera on the roof?
Jay nods.
EXT. ROOF OF HEADQUARTERS.
The camera freezes and breaks- as the JSA building begins to freeze over.
INT. JSA HEADQUARTERS
The footage on the tv goes static.
Jay shrugs.
Jay:
Well… it was.
Radio Announcer (V.O.)(cont’d):
- We could all use a Christmas miracle right about now.
Jay looks at Alan, a little expectantly. Alan nods, and steps in front of the assembled heroes. Looking out at them, he notices Hippolyta crossing her arms, she gives him a smile.
Green Lantern:
Justice Society-
He sets his drink down and then holds up his ring. The green flame envelops him- then flashes off of him. Standing in his place is… The Green Lantern!
He smiles.
Green Lantern (cont’d):
-Let’s save Christmas.
SMASH CUT TO:
THE JUSTICE SOCIETY HEROES DESTROYING THE DEVICES ACROSS THE CITY
Wonder Woman grabs the machine and tears it from its base. Holding it over her head, she looks over her shoulder and smiles at Black Canary.
Canary smiles back, as she kicks one of the henchmen.
Green Lantern creates a construct sword that slices a device in half.
As it falls, the henchmen look up in terror- but then a blur grabs each of them, pulling them out of the path of the device, and wrapping them up in a Christmas light. The Flash tips his fingers- then zips away.
We see Canary speeding along the streets on her motorcycle, Flash zips by her. Above her fly Wonder Woman and Green Lantern.
Radio Announcer (V.O.):
We are just getting word that the Justice Society of America are taking out the Ice Machines!
Amazing-Man touches a water tank, his skin becoming metal, he charges towards two henchmen- clotheslining them. He tosses them away- then punches the large machine, denting it.
HAWKGIRL backhands one of blizzard’s henchmen into an air conditioner box- leaving a dent. She turns, and grabs another by the shirt, lifting him into the air.
Over her head, soars Hawkman- he swings at the weather device with his mace.
Radio Announcer (V.O.):
This holiday nightmare just turned into a veritable winter wonderland! With our brave heroes on the scene, there’s no doubt in my mind that we’ll all be sipping eggnog by morning! More coverage as the facts unfold!
A henchman falls backward, from a punch from WILDCAT. He and THE ATOM fight through the henchman- standing back to back as their foes encircle them.
Pan over to DOCTOR MID-NITE, attempting to shut down the device from the control console. A henchman notices him and attempts to attack from behind, but Doctor Mid-Nite brings his fist up, knocking the henchman out. Mid-Nite smiles.
JOHNNY THUNDER points at a device, and THE THUNDERBOLT circles the device- it glows with pink energy - and the device is turned into a large, decorated, Christmas tree.
THE RED TORNADO (MA HUNKEL) headbutts one of the henchmen, he goes down. Meanwhile, STAR SPANGLED-KID and STRIPESY argue about how to destroy one of the machines.
DOCTOR FATE creates an ankh that plows through henchmen.
The radio announcer pokes his head out the window, as THE SPECTRE grows to giant-size and easily smashes off a device.
Radio Announcer (V.O.):
Oh my God in heaven folks, The Spectre himself is here!
Wonder Woman hurls her lasso around a device and tears it from the rooftop. She swings it around her- then hurls it into the atmosphere. She puts her hand over her eyes, watching it go.
Radio Announcer (V.O.):
… As the heroes of the Justice Society devastate these ice-making atrocities to our good city-
On the rooftop, Black Canary punches a henchman out, as Flash zips around her, in an instant taking out the remainder. Flash comes to a stop- as the villains fall around him unconscious. Black Canary gives him a look, Flash shrugs innocently. He then turns to Wonder Woman, crossing his arms.
Radio Announcer (V.O.) (cont’d):
-The question on all our minds is-
Flash:
Polly, who do you think is causing all this?
She regards his words, then looks into the distance.
Wonder Woman:
I have one guess.
INT. ICEBERG LAND EMBASSY.
Minister Blizzard walks down the hallway, his cape billowing behind him, he is flanked by two guards.
Guard:
We have guards stationed at the back door, but the rest of the exits are frozen shut, Minister.
Blizzard comes to two double doors, that his henchmen are attempting to break down.
Minister Blizzard:
Then she’s in there?
One of the henchmen turns to him.
Henchman:
Her and the few guards that are still loyal.
Minister Blizzard:
Step aside.
He shoos the guards with the battering ram away from the door and walks up to it. He places his hand against it, then steps back- he whistles. Pulling his ice gun from his belt, he fires. Ice creeps across the doors.
Blizzard smiles- as the henchmen with the battering ram advance.
Inside the room, the doors begin to freeze. Princess Snowina nervously squeezes her hands together. Her guards advance on the door- sweating. Suddenly, the door smashes open- pieces of ice flying from the hole.
The shadow of Minister Blizzard is seen in the mist. He steps into the room. The guards prepare to attack, but he raises his ice-ray and blasts them both. They are frozen solid. Minister Blizzard raises his smoking gun to his lips and blows the smoke out.
Princess Snowina stands behind the desk, trembling, though attempting to look collected as Blizzard approaches her. Behind him, his henchmen take the frozen guards from the room.
Minister Blizzard takes in the air, pulling a rolled-up piece of paper from behind his back.
Minister Blizzard:
Lovely weather for a coup, isn’t it?
He places the piece of paper on Snowina’s desk- unrolling it to reveal a contract. He gestures to it.
Princess Snowina:
I’m not signing that-
Minister Blizzard:
Oh, it’s just a little document granting me- Minister Blizzard- supreme control of Ice-Berg Land.
Princess Snowina:
Over my dead body.
Minister Blizzard smiles.
Minister Blizzard:
You always were perceptive.
Princess Snowina:
Your threats don’t scare me.
Minister Blizzard:
How do you feel about promises? Right now, a device called the “heat-engine” has been hooked up to what previously was responsible for maintaining the cold winter’s air natural to Ice-Berg Land. Now, the embassy’s temperature steadily rises.
Her eyes widen. He gives her a mock look of concern.
Minister Blizzard (cont’d):
And, I know how difficult warm temperatures are for you. You, and your fickle royal biology.
She wipes sweat from her brow. He takes a step toward her.
Minister Blizzard (cont’d):
Can you feel it, Princess? The heat- crawling through your veins. How much longer do you have?
She collapses into the seat at the desk, clutching at her head- she coughs. He smiles, pulling a pen from the pen-holder.
Minister Blizzard (sing-song):
Suddenly that paper is looking an awful lot more tempting.
She grits her teeth, and looks up at Minister Blizzard.
Princess:
The Justice Society- they’ll st-stop you. ..Wonder Woman– will stop you.
She gasps for breath, again clutching her head in her hands.
Minister Blizzard:
A shame the Justice Society is far too busy with my ice machines to even notice you’re in danger.
Discreetly, Snowina’s finger presses a button under the desk- one labeled with the Justice Society’s logo.
EXT. CIVIC CITY ROOFTOP
Wonder Woman and Black Canary stand back to back, taking on the henchmen.
Wonder Woman punches a henchman in the face, knocking him away.
Another attempts to use a polearm to attack her, she blocks the blow on her bracelet, snapping it in half. The henchman’s eyes widen.
Black Canary blocks blows from a henchman on her wrist, then jabs him in the throat. He falls back, clutching at his neck. As another charges her, she uses Wonder Woman as support to vault up, kicking the guard in the face. She flips over Wonder Woman, twisting midair in order to kick a guard advancing on Wonder Woman- the guard is knocked to the floor. She turns to face Wonder Woman- they kiss. Wonder Woman smiles then turns, flying up towards the machine. Black Canary watches her, as a henchman rushes at her from behind. Canary grabs his arm and judo-flips him over her shoulder.
Meanwhile, Wonder Woman grabs the stem of the machine, the metal denting under her fingers, and she ties the top of it into a knot.
She comes to a landing on the rooftop- Black Canary taking her hand.
Black Canary:
Angel, why do you think Blizzard’s doing all this?
Wonder Woman:
I am afraid that I do not know. I have been unable to reach the Iceberg Land Embassy, no doubt due to the poor weather.
Black Canary narrows her eyes, suspicious, when suddenly both of their JSA communicators begin beeping. They both pull them out. The screens are glowing red.
Wonder Woman:
It’s from the embassy- Princess Snowina may be in danger.
Black Canary:
I’ll get down there- you just finish snapping Blizzard’s popsicle sticks-
She gently caresses Wonder Woman’s bicep.
Black Canary (cont’d):
-Then meet up with me.
Wonder Woman nods, as Black Canary begins walking away- when Canary turns back, she kisses Wonder Woman on the cheek.
Black Canary:
See you soon.
She winks.
EXT. CIVIC CITY STREET.
Black Canary races down the street on her motorbike.
EXT. ROOFTOP
From the roof, Wonder Woman watches her shoot down the road. Wonder Woman smiles softly to herself. She then turns and sees in the distance the flaming green form of Green Lantern. She flies up to join him.
EXT. OUTSIDE THE EMBASSY.
Two guards stand outside the only entrance to the building not frozen solid. Two heat lamps are directed at the door to keep it warmed up.
One guard breathes- his breath creating a puff of mist. He smiles.
Entrance Guard 1:
Beautiful weather- reminds me of home.
The other Entrance Guard smiles, nodding. He turns, facing away from the first guard.
Entrance Guard 2:
Glad we got outdoor duty, instead of ending up like one of the poor saps stuck in there with that heat engine. Sweating their-
He turns back- the first guard is gone.
Entrance Guard 2 (cont’d):
-hearts… out? Uhh-
Suddenly, a gloved hand knocks him out. His unconscious body falls to the floor, standing above it is the Black Canary. She smirks.
INT. ICEBERG LAND EMBASSY.
Princess Snowina clutches at the desk- coughing. Minister Blizzard smiles, lifting a thermometer from the desk.
Minister Blizzard:
Seventy-Nine Degrees? I could have sworn it was just at Seventy- guess that heat engine’s really worth all the hubbub.
He places the thermometer back on the desk.
Minister Blizzard (cont’d):
You know, if you just sign over the country-
Suddenly the sound of footsteps can be heard as someone rushes into the room.
Female voice:
Your eminence-
Minister Blizzard doesn’t turn to face the voice.
Minister Blizzard:
Not now.
Female Voice:
It’s just that… Black Canary’s broken in.
He turns, shocked.
Minister Blizzard:
WHAT?!?!?
He then sees the source of the voice- Black Canary. She smiles.
Black Canary:
Afraid so.
She punches Blizzard across the face, sending him reeling. He stumbles to a stop- then draws his ice-ray. He fires on Canary, who wheels out of the way, kicking him across the face- knocking him behind the desk. He fires a beam of ice towards her, and she backflips out of the way. He looks around panicked- then his eyes narrow. He grabs the Princess, then puts the gun to her head.
Black Canary freezes. Minister Blizzard smiles.
EXT. CIVIC CITY SKIES
Wonder Woman and Green Lantern float next to each other, they look out at a massive ice machine- larger than the other ones, Machine Alpha. It shoots a massive blue laser into the sky, the top of it creates a vortex around it. Wonder Woman looks over to Green Lantern.
Wonder Woman:
This one is… different than the others.
He nods, reluctantly.
Green Lantern:
Definitely bigger.
Wonder Woman:
More powerful, as well. -It seems to be controlling the others.
He turns to her and smiles, holding out his hand.
Green Lantern:
After you.
She smiles, and rockets towards the device. He follows.
They shoot towards the device, Hippolyta pulls back her fist, Green Lantern creates a large hand with his ring. They punch the device in unison, however, it creates a force field, rocketing them both away. They crash into the building. Looking up, they see the blue force field seemingly absorb their hits, then redirect them into the beam, making it more powerful.
Wonder Woman speeds over to the console and attempts to shut it off.
Wonder Woman:
It refuses to deactivate- but I have an idea.
She hurls her lasso around the machine and begins to pull it tight. The force field buckles- bunching around the lasso and shooting more energy up towards the sky. Green Lantern looks over at her confused, then he realizes her plan.
Green Lantern takes to the sky and creates a giant bottle cork that he presses on top of the beam. He holds onto it tightly. As the blocked energy hits on the energy coming from the force field- the machine explodes in a flash of blue light.
Wonder Woman and Green Lantern are both thrown to the ground-they lie on the roof for a moment, as snow begins to fall from the dissipating cloud. Wonder Woman rises to her feet- Green Lantern looks up at her.
Green Lantern:
Polly, you ok?
She readjusts her shoulder.
Wonder Woman:
I am… well. You?
He chuckles.
Green Lantern:
That was certainly… brisk.
She laughs and helps him to his feet. The snow, falling around them.
INT. ICE-BERG LAND EMBASSY.
Minister Blizzard, his gun still to Snowina’s temple, recounts his story to Black Canary.
Minister Blizzard:
-Chemico’s Climate Ray failed, Wonder Woman defeated me, I was left rotting in a prison cell. Luckily, a Minister is not without his allies. I was freed by supporters- and I attempted time and again to see my dream of a new Ice Age realized- but always, I was thwarted by Wonder Woman. However, she was snow-blind to my true work- sewing a strain of betrayal amongst the queen’s most trusted guards.
Black Canary (acting):
With them working for you, stealing the monarchy would be like taking candy from a baby.
Minister Blizzard:
Ah, but not quite- a simple military coup would never suffice, the queen had powerful allies- I needed your Justice Society off the table.
Behind Canary’s back, she holds her JSA Communicator, it’s turned on, and listening.
Black Canary (acting):
…That’s why you froze the city. It was a distraction.
Minister
Right. I had my minions craft ice devices, that when working together could bring Civic City to its shivering knees- merely a diversion. Once I had you lot distracted, I could enact my true plan. Forcing the princess to sign over the kingdom to me. The heist of the heat engine was necessary- so that I could exploit the princess’s physiological weakness- and so that Wonder Woman would defeat me-
Black Canary’s eyes widen.
Black Canary (acting):
You wanted to be captured.
Minister Blizzard:
-You brought me exactly where I wanted you to, this embassy. Now the moment comes for the coup de grâce-
He looks down at the Princess, his gun still to her head.
Minister Blizzard (cont’d):
Princess, I’m really such a fan, I’d love your autograph.
His lip purses, as his finger twitches the trigger of his ice gun.
Black Canary:
Wait! …Can you go over the whole “Second Ice Age” thing again, I was a little lost there-
He pauses, looking up at her, he then smiles.
Minister Blizzard:
Ah, you see, the governments of the world have flagrantly dismissed the very environment on which-
He narrows his eyes. Realizing. He grimaces, in annoyance.
Minister Blizzard (cont’d):
This game ends here. Instruct the Princess to sign over the Kingdom to me- or I’ll freeze her brain.
The princess wheezes as she attempts to say something.
Minister Blizzard:
Well, maybe the heat will get to her first.
Black Canary:
Blizzard, if you kill her, you’re never getting control of the kingdom.
Minister Blizzard:
At least I’ll have the satisfaction-
He grits his teeth, steeling his nerve, when suddenly the roof above is torn away, by a giant green hand. Blizzard looks up, to see Wonder Woman and Green Lantern hovering above him. Wonder Woman crosses her arms.
Wonder Woman:
Thank you for keeping him droning on, my siren.
He steps back, startled, accidentally raising the gun from the Princess’ head. Suddenly, a red streak whizzes through the room- shooting past Blizzard. It comes to a stop as… The Flash. He holds up the ice-ray- Blizzard looks down at his now empty hand.
The Flash:
Took me a minute to find the heat engine- but things should be cooling off in here.
Minister Blizzard looks at the assorted heroes- He draws another ice-ray from behind his back- placing it to the Princess’ temple.
He grits his teeth… then sighs, and throws the princess to the floor. He aims his ray and fires it up at Wonder Woman and Green Lantern.
Green Lantern returns with a jet of green flame- the twin beams meet. As Lantern’s gains, Blizzard twirls away, vaulting over the desk.
As Flash speeds towards him, he uses his ray to cut a swath of ice across the floor- which Flash trips and slides along.
Suddenly, Wonder Woman’s lasso grabs his armed hand, pulling him forward. Black Canary kicks him in the face- he falls back catching himself on the desk. His gun goes spinning to the floor, where it is crushed by a green hammer. He pushes himself to his feet- glowering. When suddenly, he is whacked from behind. He falls unconscious as Snowina stands over him, holding a large book.
LATER:
Green Lantern uses his ring to seal back the roof to the part of it he tore off.
Hippolyta:
Alan, I never got the chance to ask- what did you wish to speak with me about?
He finishes sealing the roof, then turns to her.
Green Lantern:
I was just going to ask you if there was any way I could join you when you spoke with Princess Snowina- really, I wanted to see if I get the JSA’s resources behind your goals.
Hippolyta is struck by this.
Hippolyta:
Oh. – And I called you- I am sorry. I suppose that is pride.
She puts her hand on his shoulder. He shakes his head and smiles.
Green Lantern:
No. Pride is thinking you can intrude on a friend’s relationship, without telling her. - Hippolyta, I wasn’t just scared for your safety. What I was scared of was that I wouldn't be a good enough leader to protect the members of my team- I’m sorry about that. I’m still pretty …green at this leader business- I’m used to being the JSA’s big gun, and the transition’s been harder than I thought it would be… but you’ve been leading since before any of us were kicking. Any advice you had to offer, I’d be honored to listen.
Hippolyta:
Alan, are you asking for my help?
Green Lantern:
I...I suppose so.
Hippolyta:
Then, I would be glad to advise you. Though I hope you do not mind if I am sometimes critical-
Green Lantern:
Polly, I wouldn’t want it any other way.
You’ve always been very outspoken on your political views, and I just want you to know that I’ve never looked down on you for it. Actually, I’ve always admired that about you- when I was made chairman, I told you that I thought it should have been you-
Hippolyta:
-And I still hold that you were the right choice. Neither of us can truly be perfect, as much as we struggle to be- there will always be mistakes. I believe our conflict tonight illustrated that. Even still, I would be honored to stand beside you, as a colleague, and as a friend.
They hug.
Green Lantern:
So… Can I meet Princess Snowina?
Hippolyta:
Of course, I will introduce you- just give me a moment.
She walks over to Dinah, a few feet away- she leans down closer to her.
Hippolyta:
You were right, I do feel better.
Dinah smiles.
Dinah:
I know. – The hug was adorable.
Hippolyta pulls Dinah into her arms.
Hippolyta:
I am sorry, my love- for being so truly stubborn with you.
Dinah:
Hey, you’ll make it up to me… by letting me pay for dinner.
Hippolyta:
But-
She sighs.
Hippolyta (cont’d):
...Alright, I accept. However, you-
Her hand gently slides along Dinah’s thigh.
Hippolyta (cont’d):
-you will also provide dessert.
Dinah smiles, raising her eyebrows.
Dinah:
Really?
Hippolyta smiles and pulls her into a kiss.
MONTAGE OF JSA HEROES ON CHRISTMAS MORNING
-A charming Christmas melody plays.
-Exterior shot of the JSA Headquarters, lights off, text reads “CHRISTMAS DAY- 1946”
-Alan’s Apartment: Alan gives STREAK THE WONDER DOG a bone. He pets him lovingly.
-We see the Salem Tower decorated for Christmas
-Inside, INZA NELSON enters the room, with a cat in her arms. Kent looks happily surprised, as the cat leaps from her arms.
-Ted Grant, inside a decorated boxing gym, picks up a wrapped gift. On the tag is written “From Charles (Doctor Mid-Nite)” He smiles.
-Charles McNider, in his own home, picks up a gift. On its tag is written “From Ted (Wildcat)” He smiles.
-REX TYLER unwraps a decorative hourglass, he puts it on his mantle, smiles, then his wife, WENDI TYLER, hugs him. He looks into her eyes.
-Carter and Shiera Hall use their wings to create snow angels- they look over at each other and smile.
-Johnny Thunder pulls a JSA communicator from a gift box, smiling.
-Dinah gives Hippolyta a wrapped gift. Cut to it open- an ancient sword. Hippolyta is stunned- she feels the weight of the sword. Then turns to Dinah, beaming. They kiss.
-The Green Lantern stops a bank robbery perpetrated by ICICLE
-SPORTSMASTER sits in a jail cell he lifts up a wooden baseball bat with a bow wrapped around it- he grins.
-SOLOMON GRUNDY sits in a jail cell, much nicer than the one at Arkham. A guard taps on the bars, Grundy turns and is handed a Christmas Present. The tag simply reads “-GL”.
-Jim Corrigan’s apartment. Jim Corrigan opens a framed photo of him as The Spectre standing with the JSA, he smiles and places it on a shelf.
-We see Grundy in his jail cell, fast asleep and cuddling a stuffed animal of a crocodile. The open gift box lies on the floor.
-Will Everett eats dinner with his family.
-Kent and Inza lie fast asleep on a couch, their new cat cuddled in their arms.
-Doris Lee sneakily slides a gift from under the tree, one hidden in the back, it has a tag that reads “-DINAH”, she opens it to see red cloth, with a yellow star emblazoned in the middle.
-Jay Garrick speeds around a dinner table setting it. He comes to a stop, and kisses JOAN GARRICK on the cheek. Suddenly the doorbell rings, Joan turns as Jay rushes to open it. In the doorway is Alan Scott with Streak (the dog) on a leash. Jay gives him a hug, and welcomes him inside.
-A newspaper twirls into frame, with Green Lantern shaking Snowina’s hand, Wonder Woman stands behind them proudly. The paper reads “JSA FOR THE CLIMATE”
-Then after it follows a postcard, in black and white, of Hippolyta and Dinah on the beach of Themyscira. Dinah leaps into Hippolyta’s arms kissing her on the cheek. In the background, PHILIPPUS sits under a large umbrella with another AMAZON. Written on it in quick cursive is “Happy Holidays from sunny Themyscira -Dinah”
END MONTAGE with a screen that reads “HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM THE JSA”
The message fades away, revealing…
INT. CIRCE’S LAIR
CIRCE lounges on a divan, with a glass of wine in her hand. The Christmas music from before plays, but in the background and subdued.
She uses a finger to levitate a Christmas present from under her tree over to her. Catching it in her hand, she realizes it’s in Cheetah print. Circe smiles.
Circe:
How thoughtful of her…
The Christmas music transitions into a deadly music sting.
[THE END?]
