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TRANSCRIPT:
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ACT ONE
FADE IN:
EXT. VALLEY OF THE WASHITA - DAY NINE
The massacre site along the river is utter desolation; smoke pours from remnants of smoldering lodges burned to the ground, bodies of Cheyenne women, children and elders are scattered among a few braves, all lying where they fell. Dead horses line the outskirts of the decimated village ...

A SERIES OF SHOTS AND DISSOLVES
CLOUD DANCING -- helplessly stricken -- walks through the ruins looking for Snow Bird. MIKE and SULLY -- in complete shock and grief -- numbly wander apart through the devastating nightmare; turning bodies, checking futilely for survivors, reacting in silent anguish...
ANOTHER ANGLE - BANKS OF WASHITA
Mike squats at the body of a girl Colleen's age. Struggling with her sorrow, she looks off -- and something catches her eye. Mike rushes down the bank to the river where a man's body lies face down near the water. Mike touches the wound in his back, then turns over the chief who wanted peace; BLACK KETTLE. As Mike agonizes, she notices MEDICINE WOMAN LATER floating nearby, tangled in brush. Mike wades into the frigid water and struggles to pull the dead woman up onto the bank. Her private agony is interrupted by Sully's frantic CRY:
SULLY (O.S.)
Cloud Dancing! Michaela!

ANOTHER ANGLE
Near a smoldering lodge, Sully leans over a woman lying on her back. Cloud Dancing and Mike run over. Sully looks up as they approach, and from his face, Cloud Dancing knows ... He drops to his knees next to SNOW BIRD, unmoving, and barely alive. Sully moves aside to let Mike in next to her with her medical bag.

MIKE
(heartsick) Snow Bird ...

With a strange mixture of relief and dread, Cloud Dancing gently cradles Snow Bird's head.

CLOUD DANCING
I am here now ... I am here.

SNOW BIRD
They fell into our camp before the sun ... We could not escape ...
Mike checks her wounds, takes a pulse. Cloud Dancing looks to Mike in frantic hope. OFF her grief-stricken expression, he realizes his wife is in the final moments of her life. Cloud Dancing leans close to Snow Bird's face. They SPEAK SOFTLY in Cheyenne, the words only meant for each other. Devastated, Mike exchanges looks with Sully -- until she feels Snow Bird's touch on her arm. Mike leans in close to her friend. Snow Bird gives her a weak, conspiratorial smile.

SNOW BIRD
What will Cloud Dancing do without me?

As Mike stares back, Snow Bird closes her eyes ... and is gone. Mike is shattered. She reaches out to Cloud Dancing, but he ignores her. Slowly, he rises to his feet and pulls out his knife. Mike lunges to stop him but Sully holds her back -- and Cloud Dancing slashes at his own calves, then at both forearms, drawing blood. He cuts off a handful of hair and flings it to the ground, then looks blindly to the sky and CHANTS, his voice rising in agonized song. Sully numbly pulls Mike away.

SULLY
Cheyenne death song ...

At a loss, Mike watches Cloud Dancing, her expression beyond grief. Finally, she looks to Sully, her voice flat ... distant.

MIKE
I found Black Kettle and his wife by the river ... Shot in the back.
Sully contains his reaction, then walks off. Mike watches him go for a tortured moment, then backs away from Cloud Dancing, leaving him alone with his grief. The DEATH SONG CONTINUES as Mike resumes her tormented search for survivors. As she nears a cluster of brush
TROOPER (O.S.)
Lady ... Lady, please ...

MIKE
(looks, reacts) Sully -- over here!

She drops to the side of a dying TROOPER, no older than twenty.
TROOPER
Water ...

MIKE
We'll get some ... Sully!

Mike stuffs a glove in the Trooper's shirt to stop the bleeding from his chest. The Trooper squirms in pain, gritting:
TROOPER
Got hit right off 'n hid in here. Musta blanked out ... (a glance around) Where's ever'body?

MIKE
(contained) They're gone.

TROOPER
(disbelief) Can't be. Custer'd never leave without me.

MIKE
Sully?!

Mike turns to look for him, and discovers Sully standing a few feet behind them, staring at the Trooper in a controlled rage.

MIKE
Sully, please -- I need water.

But Sully's eyes never leave the Trooper. He steps forward as he snatches a rifle off the ground, and in one fluid motion has it pointed inches from the Trooper's bewildered face. Mike reacts, grabbing the barrel --

MIKE
NO!

Sully knocks her hand off, keeping the barrel pointed at the Trooper frozen with terror. Mike latches on again, pleading:
MIKE
Sully, no! You can't! ...

Sully shakes with rage, glaring into the Trooper's fearful eyes. He cocks the rifle preparing to fire -- and Mike holds on in desperation, trying to force the barrel away.

MIKE
No, Sully! Please! ... No...

Sully's battling his own demons as the tension mounts ... suddenly, hear THUNDERING HOOVES. Startled, they look up --

A SPOOKED HORSE charges wildly through the ruins behind them.

They watch the riderless horse stumble over a body and gallop past them racing into nothingness ... Sully looks back at Mike.

She shakes her head at him with pleading eyes, then Sully yanks the rifle away from her grasp. Backing up, he turns and flings the gun with an anguished YELL as far as he can throw it. Mike painfully watches him walk off without looking back. As Mike sags next to the Trooper --

STAY WITH SULLY
moving on, struggling to recover from his rage, what he came so close to doing ... And then Sully sees something and stops. The slight body of NO HARM is easily recognizable, lying in a ditch face down. Sully drops next to the boy, finds clasped in a tiny hand; Brian's jackknife. Sully gently pulls him up onto his lap ... And underneath, he sees a blanket-wrapped bundle. Laying No Harm on the ground, Sully reaches for the bundle.

ANOTHER ANGLE - MIKE
sits numbly at the side of the Trooper, now dead. The DEATH SONG of Cloud Dancing still pierces the silence fallen over the ruins ... And then, another SOUND; faint at first, and then growing louder. Mike reacts to the distant CRIES of a baby.

RESUME--- ANGLE
where Sully, on his knees now clasps the bundle tightly to his chest, as if clinging to life itself. Mike rushes over and stops, looking down at Sully holding the CRYING bundle in disbelief. Sully looks up at Mike heartbreakingly, tears streaming down his face. He chokes out the words:
SULLY
No Harm hid 'im ...

And gently rocking the CRYING BABY, Sully CRIES with it. Mike watches through silent tears, and slowly sinks to the ground by No Harm. Sully stares back, no longer able to speak. From the deepest of places, Sully WEEPS for all the dead ...

As the lone surviving baby CRIES louder ...

And in the distance, Cloud Dancing's death SONG continues ...

DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. BANKS OF WASHITA - DAY NINE
Cloud Dancing carries the body of Snow Bird along the river.

DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. WASHITA HILLSIDE - DAY NINE
Mike places the blanket-wrapped baby inside Sully's jacket. Sully, somewhat recovered, approaches from the ruins. He watches Mike take the baby into her arms. A difficult beat.

SULLY
There's nothin' else alive. Even slaughtered all their horses ... Custer must've taken prisoners. 'Bout forty, maybe fifty women and children are missin'...

Still in shock, Mike looks off blankly at Cloud Dancing down by the river carefully placing Snow Bird on the ground.

MIKE
How could they do this?

There are no words to answer. A moment of shattering sorrow and disbelief. A SHOT rings out. They both duck and look up --

THEIR POV - HILLTOP
At the crest, a half-dozen ARAPAHO BRAVES on horseback charge towards them, YELLING and FIRING rifles.

RESUME ANGLE
Sully pulls Mike with the baby to her feet and they take off running toward the river. The charging Braves swoop down upon them. As Sully realizes there's no escape, he pushes Mike on.

SULLY
Keep goin'! RUN!

But Mike stands her ground as Sully turns to face the onslaught. With hands up, he YELLS to the Braves:
SULLY
(in Cheyenne) We are friends!

The Braves quickly overtake and surround them, taunting, SHOOTING at their feet. Mike and Sully face their enraged attackers in helpless horror ...

SULLY
(in Cheyenne) We are friends! We have come to help! Friends!

Mike tries to shield the baby. Sully prepares to defend them, but catches a bullet in the arm and falls to the ground --

MIKE
Sully!

She drops to his side, then looks up in terror as one Brave takes close aim at her with his rifle --

ANOTHER ANGLE - CLOUD DANCING
charges frantically toward them.

CLOUD DANCING
(in Cheyenne) Stop! They are friends!

Cloud Dancing runs through the Braves to shield Mike and Sully.
CLOUD DANCING
(in Cheyenne) Do not shoot! They are friends to our people!

As the Braves hear Cloud Dancing's words, they lower their guns with great hesitation ... ON Mike and Sully's reaction:
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. WASHITA BASIN - DAY NINE
Two of the Braves quickly raid the body of the dead Trooper. Now holding the baby, Cloud Dancing speaks with the other Braves, who are wary and still on horseback.

Off to the side, Sully sits on the ground as Mike -- utterly drained and raw -- finishes bandaging his arm.

MIKE
The bullet passed right through, missed the bone ... You're lucky.
She catches his look, realizes the horrible irony of her words. Then, she helps Sully to his feet. Cloud Dancing approaches as the other Braves watch. His sorrow is tightly contained.

CLOUD DANCING
The Long Hair has moved the soldiers down the river toward other villages ... It is not safe for you here -- you must go.

Mike can't imagine leaving him. At a loss, she surveys the multitude of bodies surrounding them.

MIKE
There must be something we can do ... At least let us help you bury them.

CLOUD DANCING
We will leave my people where they fall. The birds and wolves will spread their flesh over the earth. There they will feed our mother again.

Mike looks helplessly to Sully, who nods in understanding. Cloud Dancing hands the bundled baby over to Mike.

CLOUD DANCING
Will you watch after this one for now?

MIKE
(devastated) We'll make certain he's safe.

Cloud Dancing nods. The three share a gut wrenching moment. Then, Cloud Dancing turns to go --

SULLY
Cloud Dancing, wait!

Sully jumps to stop him. The waiting Braves react with their rifles, ready to protect Cloud Dancing.

SULLY
What're you gonna do?

CLOUD DANCING
I will ride with my Arapaho brothers.

SULLY
To look for Custer? (as Cloud Dancing starts off) When's the killin' gonna stop?!

Cloud Dancing turns to look back at them. He struggles to control his rage mixed with despair.

CLOUD DANCING
Can you not see what is before you? It is already finished! (OFF Sully's pained look) Go now. Before it is too late.

He moves swiftly to the others. Grabbing the lead rope from a Brave, Cloud Dancing swings up onto his horse. The group charges quickly back up the hill.

Mike and Sully watch their friend disappear over the rise. Suddenly alone, they silently survey the destruction around them. As Mike pulls the baby tightly to her chest ...

DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. CAMPSITE ALONG CREEK - NIGHT NINE
The Cheyenne Baby lies bundled in a blanket, sound asleep. Next to it is a small campfire, where Sully mashes corn in a plate. He pours water from a pot into the mash and stirs ... From the dark nearby, we can hear Mike RETCHING and COUGHING. Sully reacts, takes a pot from the fire and pours tea into a cup. He carries it over to the creek.

ANGLE - ALONG CREEK
Mike kneels by the water, where she's clearly been sick. She turns away from Sully's approach, wiping her face with a bandana. Sully squats and offers the cup, gently coaxing:
SULLY
It's tea. It'll help settle your stomach.

Mike accepts it, avoiding his look. Her voice is hollow.

MIKE
Thank you.

She forces herself to take some sips. Sully pulls the bandana from her hand and leans over the creek to soak it in water.

SULLY
Got the corn ground up 'n soakin' like you want. But the baby's still sleepin'.

Mike nods, silent and numb. He wrings out the bandana, lays it on the back of her neck. She flinches at his touch. Moving away just slightly, Mike takes the bandana and wipes her face, fighting another wave of nausea. A somber, troubled silence as Sully waits, wishing he knew what to say. Finally:
SULLY
We oughta try'n get some sleep too. Start fresh in the mornin'.
MIKE
No ... The baby's going to need milk soon. We have to keep pushing on.

Sully knows she's right. He studies Mike's broken expression. Sully aches to comfort her, and tries reaching out again.

SULLY
Michaela ...

MIKE
(pulls away, rising) I'll want to check your arm before we go.

Mike quickly returns to the fire. OFF Sully's helplessness:
EXT. TRAIL - DAY TEN
Exhausted, Mike and Sully force themselves to keep riding, in silence, the baby bundled in a sling around Sully's chest ...

EXT. CAMPSITE - NIGHT TEN
At a rest stop, Mike numbly dips a twisted corner of a bandana into a watery mash, then attempts to get the baby to suck it ...

EXT. PLAINS - DAY ELEVEN
Mike and Sully continue their long ride home. Mike battles against falling asleep in the saddle. As Sully regards her:
EXT. HOMESTEAD - DAY (DUSK) TWELVE
MATTHEW chops wood. He sees something and yells out:
MATTHEW
Hey ever'body -- they're back!

ROBERT E emerges from the barn as GRACE, BRIAN and COLLEEN excitedly exit the cabin. They all rush to greet Sully and Mike wearily riding up.

ALL
Ma! Sully! Dr. Mike!

GRACE
We've been so worried ...

Sully hops down, favoring his hurt arm. The rush of relief turns solemn at the sight of their shattered expressions.

SULLY
Ever'body alright?

GRACE
We're fine -- but look at you!

Mike's silence is unsettling. Growing looks of concern circle the group. Mike hands the baby down to Sully.

COLLEEN
Who's that?

SULLY
Cheyenne baby ... His parents got killed.

Sully hands the baby to Grace, then helps Mike down.

MATTHEW
How? ... What happened?

Mike stiffly accepts worried embraces from Colleen and Brian, then quickly lets go.

SULLY
Custer attacked Black Kettle's village 'fore we got there.

GRACE
Oh my Lord ...

COLLEEN
(afraid to ask) Are they alright?

MIKE
(numbly) Everyone's gone, Colleen.

Stunned reactions. Matthew puts an arm around Colleen.

MATTHEW
Dead? You mean Snow Bird, Black Kettle ... ?

He stops at their silence, realizing the worst.

BRIAN
No Harm -- where's he?

Mike stares back, unable to answer. Brian looks to Sully.

BRIAN
Where is he?

Sully squats down next to Brian, searching for the right words.
SULLY
Brian, No Harm was killed with the others ... He's dead.

BRIAN
He can't be. He's just a kid.

Confused, he looks back at Mike -- and sees from her hollow expression that it's true. It slowly sinks in.

BRIAN
Why didn't you stop 'em?

He pushes against Mike in anger and tears. As Mike numbly absorbs the blows --

BRIAN
You shoulda stopped 'em!

Mike is thinking the same. Brian runs off to the barn.

MATTHEW
Brian!

SULLY
Let 'im go, Matthew.

Matthew turns away to hide his grief. Mike numbly pulls her things from the horse as the others look on, feeling the horrible impact. Robert E grabs the horses, reins.

ROBERT E
I'll take care 'a these ...

GRACE
We'll take this one home, get im fed. You both gotta get some rest.
SULLY
Thanks.

Robert E leads the horses away. A devastating beat.

GRACE
If there's anything we can do ...

Mike shakes her head, a million miles away.

MIKE
There's nothing anyone can do. (empty) Thank you for watching the children.

With her spirit clearly broken, Mike walks to the cabin alone. Sully meets Matthew and Colleen's shattered looks, as we:
FADE OUT.

END ACT ONE
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
INT. GENERAL STORE - DAY THIRTEEN
At the counter, HANK rummages through cigars while JAKE hovers nearby. Grace cradles the baby as DOROTHY dotes over it.

DOROTHY
He is cute. Poor little thing ...

GRACE
Hardly cried a whip last night. And I know he's gotta be hungry.
DOROTHY
Michaela and Sully must feel just awful.

GRACE
They're mighty shook up.

LOREN comes over with some baby bottles.

LOREN
I'm not so sure you should be takin' care of that 'round here.

DOROTHY
Loren!

GRACE
And what do you suggest I do?

LOREN
(annoyed, gives Grace bottles) Ah, don't you start in, too.

DOROTHY
He's a innocent, little baby.

JAKE
Just gonna grow up to hate us. Like the rest of 'em.

HANK
You mean what's left of 'em.

Hank and Jake trade satisfied grins. Mike enters unnoticed.

JAKE
Yeah, Custer sure done what he come here to do.

Mike approaches the counter boldly, her feelings buried deep.

MIKE
Loren, I'd like some flour and coffee please?

The silence is riddled with awkward looks. As Loren moves off, Dorothy studies Mike with compassion.

DOROTHY
Michaela, are you alright?

MIKE
I'm fine. Have you received any more of that special chocolate?
DOROTHY
(a little thrown) We have, but ... Michaela, I feel terrible bout what happened. All your friends --

MIKE
I'll take two blocks ... Please.

Conflicted, Dorothy glances at Grace, then moves on to a shelf. Mike dutifully regards Grace and the baby.

MIKE
Grace, how is he?

GRACE
He'll be doin' just fine, soon's I can get some milk in 'im.

A beat. Hank leans curiously toward Mike.

HANK
Hear Custer took care of our little Injun problem down at the Washita.
He searches for a reaction, but Mike remains impassive. Behind them, the REVEREND enters and stops, surprised to see Mike.

JAKE
Got a real hero's welcome back at Camp Supply. The whole command turned out for review.

DOROTHY
(bristles) What do you think you're doin'?

HANK
Just chattin' with Michaela 'bout the General's big victory.

Dorothy looks at Mike, unsettled by her unusual silence.

DOROTHY
I think you're just tryin' to be cruel.

MIKE
(eerily composed) I'll pick these things up later, when you're not so busy.

And before Dorothy can respond, Mike is on her way out rushing past the Reverend. He quickly follows her outside --

EXT. GENERAL STORE - CONTINUOUS
REVEREND
Dr. Mike --

Mike stops. The Reverend steps around to face her, uncertain.

REVEREND
Dr. Mike, you do know ... not everybody is happy about what happened to the Cheyenne.

Mike stares back without any hint of emotion.

MIKE
I believe the sentiment is a little late, don't you?

OFF his reaction, Mike steps around him and walks on. Helpless, the Reverend turns to watch her.

REVEREND
I'll see you in church tomorrow?

As Mike keeps walking ...

EXT. WOODS - DAY THIRTEEN
The same place where Brian and No Harm hunted. Brian sits alone on a log, his face stained with tears. Sully comes un behind him and stops. Without turning, Brian knows he's there. He stoically wipes his tears as Sully moves to sit by him.

BRIAN
I heard you comin'. (beat looking away) No Harm could walk 'round here without makin' a sound.

SULLY
That's 'cause No Harm was Cheyenne.

BRIAN
You make it sound like bein' Cheyenne's a good thing.

SULLY
I think it is. Don't you?

Brian thinks hard. He picks up a rock and throws it.

BRIAN
Bein' Cheyenne's what got 'im killed.

SULLY
Maybe ...

BRIAN
You don't think so?

SULLY
Sometimes bad things happen, Brian. 'N they don't make any sense.
BRIAN
I think they hated 'im just cause he's Indian.

Sully stares; out of the mouths of babes ...

SULLY
What's important now, is how you felt about him ... You saw No Harm for what he was ... A person. A friend.

BRIAN
He was my kola.

SULLY
I know ...

Sully pulls out the flute and holds it to Brian, who fights back a sudden surge of tears, struggling to be brave.

SULLY
Thought you might wanna have this with you.

BRIAN
(dismayed) He can't ever hear me play it no more.

SULLY
I dunno. Maybe he can ...

Surprised, Brian looks up. Sully's face clouds with emotion.

SULLY
Cheyenne would say No Harm's joined his ancestors with the Great Spirit. But his spirit is still here with us, too ... I think he's with you, every time you think 'bout him. Every time you play that.
Brian thinks about this a moment, then takes the flute. He tries to blow some notes. And slowly, his choked breaths turn to sobs. And Brian can't hold it back any longer. He begins to cry ... Sully puts an arm around the boy and pulls him close. As the two hold onto each other:
INT. CLINIC - DAY THIRTEEN
Mike is in control; all doctor as she feels the forehead of WILLIAM HAYLEY under Colleen's concerned, watchful eye.

WILLIAM
My shoulder's comin' 'long fine, but my arm's feelin' awful sore.
MIKE
You have a fever ... Have a seat, Mr. Hayley. Colleen, would you remove the bandage on his arm?

As he sits on a table, Colleen helps him remove his shirt. Mike moves off to gather supplies. Grace enters with the baby CRYING. Mike acknowledges her with a quick glance.

MIKE
Grace.

GRACE
Dr. Mike, I can't get him to feed on the bottle... He hasn't taken a thing since he come.

MIKE
(detached) You just need to be patient.

Grace comes closer, holding out the baby towards Mike.

GRACE
But if you could look at him, maybe somethin's wrong --

Mike steps back reflexively, avoiding contact with the baby.

MIKE
You'll have to wait, Grace. I have a patient.

She returns to William as Colleen removes his bandage. Colleen glances at Grace who jiggles the baby to calm his CRIES. Mike forces concentration as she checks William's wound, reacts:
MIKE
This hasn't healed properly. Colleen, did you clean this like I asked?

COLLEEN
(thrown) ... Of course I did.

MIKE
Apparently not well enough. This arm is infected.

WILLIAM
(alarmed) 'Fected? But I gotta get back to the railroad ...

Crushed, Colleen watches Mike clean the oozing wound. The baby's CRIES start to rattle Mike's protective amour.

MIKE
(sharp) Grace, can't you keep that baby quiet?

Stunned, Grace exchanges troubled looks with Colleen. Unaware, Mike keeps probing the wound as William squirms.

MIKE
I'm afraid I'm going to have to lance this to let it drain.

Mike moves away to collect her instruments. She glances over and sees Grace is gone. Mike contains her reaction, her feelings tightly in check. As she quickly returns to work ...

INT. HOMESTEAD - NIGHT THIRTEEN
A strained silence as Mike, Sully, Matthew, Colleen and Brian finish a solemn supper. Mike picks at her food. Matthew and Sully trade grim looks. Matthew's small talk is forced.

MATTHEW
Stew's real good, Colleen.

MIKE
(flat) Yes, it certainly is.

COLLEEN
Thanks ... (tentative to Mike) I made a cobbler for dessert. Your favorite -- apple.

Mike forces a smile back. Matthew looks to Sully.

MATTHEW
What'll happen to all the Cheyenne prisoners they took?

Sully senses Mike tensing.

SULLY
Keep 'em locked up for a while. Probably move 'em to another reservation down south.

MATTHEW
Think Custer's ever gonna find Cloud Dancin'?

Mike pushes sharply away from the table, taking her plate off. Sully answers reluctantly, distracted by watching Mike.

SULLY
I dunno, Matthew ... Figure the army'll keep attackin' villages hopin' to draw in the Dog Soldiers. Army knows they'll wanna protect their people.

Mike collects her medical bag and coat. Sully rises.

SULLY
Where ya goin'?

MIKE
I have work to catch up on at the clinic.

Sully helps her into the coat. Mike avoids his eyes.

SULLY
Kinda late, don't you think?

MIKE
There's a lot to do.

SULLY
I'll wait here then, 'til you get back.

MIKE
You don't have to do that.

SULLY
I want to.

With difficulty, Mike finally meets his look, then quickly turns to the children.

MIKE
I'll see you in the morning.

Mike leaves. Silence. Colleen is visibly shaken.

COLLEEN
She hardly touched a bite.

SULLY
Just gonna take your ma some time, is all.

The children look worried. CLOSE on Sully hoping he's right.

EXT. TELEGRAPH OFFICE - NIGHT THIRTEEN
Grace waits at the door holding the bundled baby. HORACE answers, surprised to discover Grace.

HORACE
Grace ... ?

GRACE
Horace, I'm sorry to be botherin' you so late.

MYRA appears behind Horace. Uncomfortable, Grace looks at her.

GRACE
I was hopin' maybe you could help me?

MYRA
What is it?

GRACE
It's the baby. I've been tryin' to give him a bottle, but he just won't feed on it.

HORACE
(confused) Can't figure how we can help, you should go see Dr. Mike.
But Myra understands. She holds Grace's desperate look.

GRACE
He's gettin' so weak. I was hopin' ...

Horace looks at Myra, taking a moment to register. The realization is disturbing.

HORACE
You want Myra to nurse a Indian baby?

Grace pulls the blanket aside to show the baby's face to Myra.

GRACE
(pointedly) I'm askin' if you'll feed a hungry baby.

OFF Horace's troubled look, Myra comes to a decision.

MYRA
'Course I will.

She gently takes the baby from a grateful Grace and carries him towards the back. As Grace follows, passing a stunned Horace:
EXT. GENERAL STORE - SAME MOMENT
From the porch, Dorothy watches the scene at the Telegraph Office. As Horace returns inside, her gaze shifts.

DOROTHY'S POV - THE CLINIC
Mike's horse is tied outside. Light filters from the windows.

RESUME ANGLE
Dorothy thinks a moment, then starts into the street.

INT. CLINIC - NIGHT THIRTEEN
The lamplit room is in complete disarray; all medicines, books and instruments are piled on tables and desks. With sleeves rolled up, Mike rigorously scrubs down the cabinets and shelves with a brush she dips into a pail of water. Mike ignores the KNOCK on the door. Dorothy enters and surveys the mess. Mike glances up as she keeps working. An awkward beat.

DOROTHY
You never came back for your supplies.

MIKE
I've been wanting to get to this for some time now. You can't imagine how much dust blows in.

Dorothy walks over, concerned.

DOROTHY
Michaela, you can't just go on like this.

MIKE
Like what?

DOROTHY
Pretendin' like nothin' happened. You gotta --

MIKE
I'm sorry, but I really don't have time to visit right now.

Mike quickly turns away to scrub another shelf. Dorothy considers her friend for a long beat. She reflects out loud:
DOROTHY
There've been two times in my life, when I figure I'd gotten 'bout as low in the barrel as I could ever be ... And both them times, it was you who helped me climb back out. (beat, softly) You're the dearest friend I've ever known. You ain't gettin' rid of me so easy. (OFF Mike's silence, worried) I never seen you like that today, all the fight gone out of you ... Michaela, I know you saw somethin' horrible. But you're gonna have to talk about it sooner or later.
Mike quickly returns medicines to the shelves. Dorothy moves to help, holding out bottles, catching Mike off-guard. She stiffly takes them and puts away. Dorothy tests the waters.

DOROTHY
A lot's gettin' written about that battle. Folks're believin' Custer's done a good thing. That he was mostly killin' warriors In braves ... That he's a real hero. (searches Mike's face, gently) Was he a hero, Michaela?

Disarmed, Mike looks over, her own battle raging inside.

MIKE
How should I know?

DOROTHY
I think you know better than anybody. You seen with your own --
MIKE
(tightens) I don't mean to be rude, Dorothy, but I really want to finish this tonight.

They stare at each other for an intense moment. Finally resigned, Dorothy crosses to the door and leaves. Mike takes the pail to another shelf. As she resumes her scrubbing:
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. HOMESTEAD BARN - NIGHT THIRTEEN
Mike brushes down her horse. Sully enters, tentative.

MIKE
I see the children are still up.

SULLY
Wanted to wait up for you ... They're worried bout you. (touching her arm) So am I.

His touch is unsettling. Mike moves away to brush the other side of the horse. Sully hides his hurt. An awkward beat.

MIKE
I've been thinking. Perhaps you were right about the railroad coming here, about the changes it's bringing ... (OFF his look) I think we should consider living some place else.

She could be talking about the weather. Sully is stunned.

SULLY
You don't mean that.

MIKE
There's nothing to really keep us here --

SULLY
And where're we gonna go?

MIKE
I don't know. California. Oregon. I'm sure they need doctors out there.

Sully rounds the horse to study her, his look makes her uneasy.
SULLY
Runnin' away ain't gonna change what happened.

Sully gently grabs her arm, trying to break through her armor.

SULLY
Michaela ... Bad things can happen anywhere --

MIKE
(facade cracking) I can't ... Sully...

Mike struggles for composure, almost pleading:
MIKE
I can't do this ...

Shaken by her reaction, Sully lets go. An uncomfortable beat as he allows her a chance to regain some control.

MIKE
We don't have to say anything to the children just yet, but will you think about it?

Disturbed, Sully considers her a moment, then nods.

MIKE
Thank you.

She hangs up the brush, then painfully glances back at Sully.

MIKE
Goodnight.

And Mike leaves. OFF Sully's reaction--

EXT. HOMESTEAD BARN - CONTINUOUS
Closing the door, Mike leans back against it, safely alone again. She musters every ounce of strength left to pull herself together, staring hopelessly into the dark, as we:
FADE OUT.

END ACT TWO
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
EXT. LIVERY - DAY FOURTEEN
It's early. Robert E finishes trimming a horse's hoof as Sully approaches with the carving tools. WOLF is at his side.

ROBERT E
Mornin', Sully...

SULLY
Brought these back. 'Preciate you lettin' me use 'em.

Robert E accepts the tools, regards Sully's distracted expression. As Sully turns to leave --

ROBERT E
How're you folks comin' 'long?

SULLY
(cool) How do you expect us to be?

Robert E's taken aback by Sully's tone. OFF the strained silence, Sully moves on. Robert E calls after him.

ROBERT E
Maybe you oughta remember just who you're talkin' to?! (as Sully stops) 'Case you forgot, I got a Cheyenne baby sleepin' in my bed right this minute.

This truth blindsides Sully. Guilty, he turns back. Robert E steps closer, tries again with genuine concern.

ROBERT E
So, how you folks comin' 'long?

Sully stares at his friend, letting his guard relax.

SULLY
It's been rough ... (OFF Robert E's sympathetic nod) How's the baby?
ROBERT E
He's doin' better ...

SULLY
Hope he ain't much trouble?

Robert E returns to work, grins like a proud papa.

ROBERT E
Hardly cries at all. And he sleeps most the night, long as Grace can keep her hands off 'im. She's frettin' n fussin' ... Now that Myra's helpin' with feedin', I reckon he's gonna be alright.

SULLY
What's Dr. Mike think?

ROBERT E
Can't say. She ain't been by to see 'im.

OFF Sully's reaction:
INT. HOMESTEAD - DAY FOURTEEN
Mike helps Colleen clean up after breakfast. Matthew repairs a saddle. The silence is deafening. Sully enters.

SULLY
'Mornin'.

MIKE
(forced cheer) Good morning, Sully... There're some eggs left on the stove.

SULLY
No thanks. (pours some coffee) Thought we might go by and see the baby after church.

MATTHEW
We ain't goin' to church.

SULLY
Why not?

Matthew and Colleen trade looks. Mike catches it.

MIKE
I told them they could go. I have work at the clinic.

SULLY
Thought you done all that last night.

Brian tearfully bursts through the door holding his hand.

BRIAN
Ma!

MIKE
(alarmed) Brian, what is it?

BRIAN
I was raking the barn -- it went in deep.

He holds his hand out. Mike quickly looks at it.

MIKE
A splinter?

BRIAN
It hurts -- get it out!

MIKE
(goes for bag) Have a seat ... Colleen, please?

Colleen comes over as Brian sits at the table. Mike sits by him, handing Colleen a magnifying glass and guiding her hand.

MIKE
Hold it right there.

She takes Brian's hand and searches the injured finger, then starts to probe with a needle. Brian squirms in pain.

BRIAN
Ow! That hurts!

MIKE
I have to get it ... Hold still.

BRIAN
You're hurtin' me --

SULLY
Give her a chance, Brian.

MIKE
I can't find anything.

BRIAN
It's in there, I feel it -- OW!

He tries jerking his hand away. Mike holds on in frustration.

MIKE
Honestly, Brian! It's just a splinter!

Stunned silence. Sully and Colleen trade looks. Brian turns away with hurt, angry tears. Unsettled by her outburst, Mike releases his hand, awkwardly trying to repair the damage.

MIKE
Why don't you try soaking it in some warm water?

But Brian only turns away further. After a beat, Mike rises.

MIKE
Excuse me.

And Mike goes outside. Another troubled beat. Sympathetic, Colleen reaches for Brian's hand.

COLLEEN
Here, let me try --

BRIAN
It ain't nothin'!

Brian pulls away and rushes out the back door.

INT. HOMESTEAD BARN - SAME MOMENT
Mike enters, shaken. She grabs a rake and sweeps the straw in a tearful fury, trying to regain some control. The movement helps, until she backs into a post banging her elbow. Mike reacts to the sharp pain, grabbing her arm, then swinging the rake to smash against the post. The action fuels Mike's rage, and she finally explodes; throwing the rake, bucket, tools ... smashing anything she can get her hands on against anything in the way ... until Mike's anger spends itself out leaving her exhausted and raw. And feeling again ... And she can no longer hold back the pain. As Mike crumbles onto the hay SOBBING --

RACK FOCUS TO DOOR: open just enough for Sully to painfully watch through the crack. As he pulls the door closed --

EXT. HOMESTEAD BARN - CONTINUOUS
Sully steels himself, listening to Mike WEEP.

MATTHEW (O.S.)
What're you doin'?

Sully swings around to find Matthew. Matthew hears Mike's SOBS, adding to his own sadness and confusion.

MATTHEW
Why don't you go to her?

SULLY
It ain't the right time.

MATTHEW
(upset) Right time? Listen to her!

SULLY
(calm and low) She knows I'm here. But she's gotta do this alone.
But Matthew can't handle listening to Mike WEEPING. Miserable, he moves for the door -- and Sully blocks him.

MATTHEW
We can't just leave her ... I know what she's goin' through!

SULLY
It ain't the same, Matthew! This ain't just about losin' folks you care for. It's more'n that.

Conflicted, Matthew allows Sully to pull him away from door. Sully searches for a way to explain, filling with emotion.

SULLY
I've never known anybody like your ma ... She's always tryin' so hard to see the good in folks, and ... 'n she believes she can do anything ... 'Cept she couldn't stop this. (beat, painfully) What she saw out there -- things can't ever be the same ... Your ma's lost somethin' inside herself, Matthew. She's gotta find a way to get her hope back.

Matthew struggles starting to understand. Mike's CRYING is softer now, filtering out from the barn. They both listen for a difficult moment.

MATTHEW
What if she can't? I mean, maybe she's gonna need help.

The possibility never occurred to Sully. He chews on an idea.

SULLY
Go ahead, take Colleen and Brian in to church.

MATTHEW
What're you gonna do?

SULLY
(beat, decided) I'm gonna find some help.

EXT. SKY - AN EAGLE (STOCK) - DAY FOURTEEN
The majestic bird glides lazily... A CHANT carries us into:
EXT. SACRED GROUNDS - DAY FOURTEEN
Where Cloud Dancing finishes CHANTING his prayer. His face shows the pain from the recent tragedy. He adds sage to a small fire before him, then freezes. Without turning:
CLOUD DANCING
How did you know I would be here?

WIDEN as Sully crosses over to his friend.

SULLY
This is where I found you after One-Eye killed your son.

They clasp each other's arm in a silent, emotional greeting; much unspoken passes between the two men.

CLOUD DANCING
How is the young one?

SULLY
Robert E and Grace are takin' good care of 'im.

CLOUD DANCING
(with regret) We had many babies in our village -- I do not know who gave this one life ... I do not know his name.

Cloud Dancing sits. Sully sits with him. A long silence.

SULLY
It's dangerous for you to come back here.

CLOUD DANCING
There is nothing more they can do to me ... I have seen my shadow.
SULLY
(stricken) Does the shadow always ...

He stops. Cloud Dancing offers what Sully's afraid to ask.

CLOUD DANCING
It does not always mean death ... I cannot know what is ahead, but the Spirits told me I must first return here. To finish what I began with Medicine Woman.

SULLY
(a troubled beat) She's in a dark place.

CLOUD DANCING
I know. I have been there also.

EXT. ROBERT E AND GRACE'S PORCH - NIGHT FOURTEEN
Grace rocks the baby while SINGING a soft lullaby. Robert E steps outside and takes in the sight: Grace in her glory.

ROBERT E
Gonna make that baby deaf with all your singin' ...

GRACE
(undaunted, glows) As a matter a fact, he just told me he liked it.

ROBERT E
He did now ... ?

GRACE
Said I got the prettiest voice he ever did hear.

She holds the baby out to Robert E. He eagerly takes it and cradles the baby gently, unaware how Grace is studying him.

ROBERT E
He is smilin' ...

GRACE
That's cause he's takin' to you.

ROBERT E
Yeah ... I think he is.

Grace rises, calm and resolved. She's thought this through.

GRACE
I want us to look after him, Robert E. Always.

It takes a moment. Then Robert E looks at her in disbelief. Grace jumps in, before he can respond.

GRACE
I been thinkin', maybe God didn't give us a child of our own 'cause he was savin' us for this one --

ROBERT E
You're talkin' crazy!

He hands back the baby like a hot potato. Grace is steady.

GRACE
I seen you with him. We can give him a good --

ROBERT E
He ain't our kind, he's a Indian!

Robert E immediately wishes he could take it back. Grace cradles the baby protectively.

GRACE
I'd expect that from just about anybody 'cept you.

Robert E forces calm, trying to reason:
ROBERT E
Grace, we're gonna get ourselves a family. I promise you. But doin' this, in this town? This is trouble.

GRACE
We never run from trouble before.

ROBERT E
That baby's gonna know nothin' but hate! He's gonna have nobody wantin' to be with 'im --

GRACE
He'll have us. And he'll grow up inside a lovin' home. (as he turns away) You tell me, Robert E, who better to help this child? ... Who better to understand than us?

ROBERT E
This time you're askin' too much, Grace. It's too much.

He goes inside. As Grace sinks back into her rocker:
INT. HOMESTEAD - NIGHT FOURTEEN
Mike, drained, sits in her rocker with an open book. She doesn't read, but stares off blankly at nothing.

At the table, Matthew's stopped reading to watch her. Colleen glances up from her book and follows his gaze. Matthew meets her worried look, then closes his book and rises.

MATTHEW
Think Brian's got the right idea. I'm gonna get some sleep.

COLLEEN
'Night.

MIKE
Goodnight, Matthew.

Matthew pauses behind Mike and gently squeezes her shoulder. Mike freezes at his comforting touch, unable to look at him. They both cloud with emotions, with things they need to say.

MATTHEW
'Night, Ma.

Matthew lets go and moves on. As he stops to pull on his coat, Sully comes in the door. Relieved to see him, Matthew holds his look and they share a silent understanding.

MATTHEW
Colleen, help me in the barn?

COLLEEN
I want to finish
MATTHEW
Now?

Annoyed, Colleen looks over, sees Sully, and then understands. She accepts her coat from Matthew. As they exit, Mike absently looks up. She sees Sully and startles.

MIKE
Sully ... Where've you been?

SULLY
Busy.

MIKE
(uneasy, rises) I'm glad you're here. I want to see how your arm is healing.

Mike moves away quickly to retrieve her medical bag.

SULLY
My arm's fine.

MIKE
Still, I'd like to examine --

SULLY
I said it's fine.

A strained silence. Sully patiently steps closer, adding to Mike's discomfort. She goes for the stove.

MIKE
Would you like some coffee?

SULLY
Nope. Don't want nothin' to drink, don't want you tryin' to fix nothin' -- I just want you to stop ... And look at me.

MIKE
(stops, unnerved) Sully ...

SULLY
(gently urging) Just look at me.

Mike finally does. Sully sees how fragile her guard is now.

MIKE
Why are you doing this?

SULLY
I'm not tryin' to hurt you --

MIKE
(totally disarmed) You'll make me remember. And I can't bear it. (a long beat, tortured) Sully, I know how your heart's broken ... Don't you think I hate myself for not being there for you? ... For the children?

SULLY
(quietly) We're okay.

MIKE
(composure slipping) But when you're around, all I see ... (can't finish) All I think about is how we let this happen.

SULLY
We didn't let this happen!

MIKE
We should've stopped it --

SULLY
Some things you can't stop!

MIKE
We should've tried harder! (heartbreakingly) Sully, they were our friends. And we let them down. (catching herself) No, I'm the one who sided with the town. I wanted the railroad ... I let them down.
SULLY
(after a beat) Cloud Dancin' don't think that. (OFF her reaction) He's back, wants to see you.

MIKE
(thrown) ... How could he?

SULLY
'Cause he doesn't blame you.

Mike has to sit. It takes a moment to collect herself.

MIKE
Why does he want to see me?

SULLY
To finish teachin' you the medicine. His father came to him in a dream, told him he should do this.

MIKE
... But I'm not Cheyenne.

SULLY
He can't give you his powers, those come from the spirits. But he can finish showin' you all he knows. (OFF her silence) He needs to do this, Michaela ... Maybe you can help each other.

Mike sees how important this is to Sully as well. She's both overwhelmed and terrified by the idea.

MIKE
What do I do?

SULLY
Trust 'im. Like he trusts you.

His words have a great effect on Mike. Sully studies her.

SULLY
When a medicine man teaches, he loses some of his own power. Cheyenne custom says you gotta offer some kind of gift.

MIKE
What kind of gift?

SULLY
Should be somethin' that speaks from your heart -- to his.

MIKE
(at a loss) But I don't have anything ...

Then Mike thinks of it. She goes to a dresser, and pulls out the buckskin shirt. She tentatively brings it back to Sully.

MIKE
It's your wedding present.

Sully is moved deeply by Mike's efforts in making the shirt. And he understands what she's now asking of him.

SULLY
Cloud Dancin'll be honored.

They share an emotional moment, a first step in their healing.

SULLY
I'd like to put it on -- just this once?

OFF Mike's tearful nod, Sully quickly pulls off his shirt. As he pulls on the buckskin, Mike moves around him, tugging here and there to make it fit right. She stops behind Sully, out of his view, and with great effort reaches out to squeeze his arm gently. It's the most contact she can allow for now. Sully reacts, covering her hand with his own. And this time, Mike doesn't pull away, as we:
FADE OUT.

END ACT THREE
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
EXT. SACRED GROUNDS - DAY FIFTEEN
Early morning. Sully, carrying a blanket-bundle, leads Mike through trees and into a clearing. They find Cloud Dancing re-constructing a sweat lodge. Mike is not prepared for the moment of facing him again. She stops abruptly some distance away, as Cloud Dancing turns and sees them. Sully drops the bundle, trades looks with them both, then slips away. Mike stares at Cloud Dancing through a long, emotional struggle.

MIKE
I wish I knew what to say to you.

CLOUD DANCING
(also struggling) I know what is in your heart. It is also in mine. (with regret) I should never have let Snow Bird go on without me.
Mike reacts strongly, coming closer.

MIKE
But you didn't cause this! Cloud Dancing, it was my people who did this to yours! (stops, broken) I feel so sick ... And ashamed ...
A long, agonizing beat. Cloud Dancing steps toward Mike.

CLOUD DANCING
One cannot live in anger and blame ... It is time for us both to heal.

MIKE
(lost) But I don't know how.

CLOUD DANCING
The Spirits will help. Then we will talk of the medicine.

MIKE
(weary, uncertain) I can't say if your spirits exist or not. I'm not even sure how I feel about my own God anymore.

CLOUD DANCING
Just because we are angry with them, does not mean they go away.
OFF Mike's reaction:
INT. NEW HOMESTEAD - DAY FIFTEEN
Brian helps Sully fit the last poster to the new bedboard..

BRIAN
How long she gonna be gone?

SULLY
Long's it takes. Few days maybe.

Sully hammers a peg into both pieces.

BRIAN
I thought Cloud Dancin' already taught her stuff.

SULLY
He wants her to know ever'thing now. Figures it'll help make your ma a better doctor. It's kinda his way of makin things right outta somethin' bad.

Off Brian's puzzled look, Sully stops working.

SULLY
When awful things happen, if folks can find somethin' good comin' out of it, it helps ... Keeps 'em goin'.

BRIAN
Is that what you do? (as Sully nods, thinks a moment) Kinda like Ma dyin', and us comin' to live with Dr. Mike?

SULLY
That's right. (an emotional beat) When No Harm died, he covered up that baby so it could live ... Maybe he'll grow up to be a great leader like Black Kettle, work for peace. Maybe save somebody else.
Sully watches this impact Brian. He holds out a peg.

SULLY
Wanna put in the last one?

Brian fits the peg into a hole and takes the hammer.

BRIAN
Sully? Can we visit the baby?

SULLY
Sure. Soon's we finish.

Pleased, Brian starts pounding the peg:
EXT. SWEAT LODGE - ESTABLISHING - DAY FIFTEEN
DRUMMING and the CHANTING of Cloud Dancing comes from inside.

INT. SWEAT LODGE - DAY FIFTEEN
Mike is wrapped in a blanket sitting across from Cloud Dancing. She watches him intensely through the steam as he drums and prays in an ancient language. They're both drenched in sweat, and the DRUMMING and CHANTING has a powerful, almost hypnotic effect. Moved by his undying faith, Mike closes her eyes and finally lets go, allowing herself to feel all around her ...

EXT. GRACE'S CAFE - DAY FIFTEEN
Usual business in the b.g. Grace hands the baby to Brian as Robert E and Sully look on.

GRACE
Put your hand under his head ...

Brian does, cradling the baby carefully, studying his face.

BRIAN
Hey little guy... He looks happy. (sobering beat) Guess he don't know what happened to 'im.

Silence. All eyes fix on Brian as he talks to the baby.

BRIAN
It's real awful when ya lose your ma and pa ... Don't worry, you're gonna find people to love you. Just like me when my ma died.

He glances at Sully, who smiles back. Grace looks at Robert E, who can't take his eyes off Brian or the baby. Brian catches Robert E's stare, and decides to explain to him:
BRIAN
My Kola saved his life. He hid 'im from the soldiers with his body. And his ma saved his life the same way ... So it's real important this baby grow up good.

Overwhelmed, Robert E nods back to the boy.

BRIAN
Sully says he could be a chief some day. Maybe get folks to stop bein' so mad and fightin' all the time ... (then, to baby) You can maybe even help save somebody's life, too.

ROBERT E
Maybe he already has ...

Robert E looks at Grace, holding out his hand. Grace knows what he's offering. As she clasps his hand lovingly ...

EXT. SACRED GROUNDS - NIGHT FIFTEEN
Mike is clothed again, seated with Cloud Dancing at a fire. She watches him offer more sage to the flames, then settle.

CLOUD DANCING
To understand the medicine, you must know how it began ... One day long ago, the animals were angry at man for killing and eating them. So they came together in council, where each animal decided on a sickness he would give to man ... Now, when the plants heard about this, they were angry at the animals, who, after all, ate them in large quantities. So the plants decided they would provide man with the remedies for each sickness ...

As Cloud Dancing continues, Mike listens intensely, a spark of life returning to her pain-dulled face.

DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. WOODS - DAY SIXTEEN
Cloud Dancing and Mike walk side-by-side through some trees, passionately locked in conversation.

MIKE
How much do you give them?

CLOUD DANCING
As much as they will drink ... You can find this cedar in the high hills. It grows short there, hugging the ground.

MIKE
I've seen it. It has a small berry.

CLOUD DANCING
(impressed) That is right. If a tea cannot be made, the berry may be chewed and the juice swallowed ...

DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. SACRED GROUNDS - DAY (DAWN) SEVENTEEN
Mike lies on the ground, wrapped in a blanket near a small campfire. She's wide awake, and has been all night. She turns over and looks off. Something catches her eye and Mike watches.

ANGLE - CLOUD DANCING
stands at the edge of a clearing nearby, looking very alone. Waiting for the sunrise, he stares off expectantly at the distant horizon. Mike steps up to his side. She looks off at the view, then studies him with compassion.

MIKE
You must miss them all terribly.

CLOUD DANCING
(stoic) I carry them with me always.

MIKE
... So will I.

They share a moment of connection and sorrow. Mike looks out, appreciating the beauty for the first time in a long while.

MIKE
A friend once told me we should listen more to nature's song ... I'd forgotten how beautiful it could be. (beat) Thank you for helping me find it again.

CLOUD DANCING
When we close our hearts to our pain -- they stay closed to all that is around us. To the joy as well as the sadness. Even to those we love.

His words hit home. He starts them walking through the trees.

MIKE
All I wanted to do was forget.

CLOUD DANCING
My people need you to remember. If the truth is not lost, perhaps something will be learned.

Mike nods, understanding.

CLOUD DANCING
I must leave soon. Will you bring to me the baby tonight?

MIKE
(stops, stunned) You're going away?

CLOUD DANCING
You have learned all I can teach --

MIKE
(panic rising) No ... I mean -- I still feel ... (can't find words) Cloud Dancing, I don't know where I belong anymore.

CLOUD DANCING
(a wistful smile) Sully once said the same words ... This answer is already within you. Or you would not have had the courage to come here.

MIKE
(still unsettled) Where will you take him?

CLOUD DANCING
Time for my people is short, few who are left know the old ways ... There is a band of Cheyenne in the north who refuse to live on a reservation. They hunt the land you call the Yellowstone. I know these people, they will raise this baby in the ways of my grandfathers ...

MIKE
And what about you? ... Where will you go?

And from his look, Mike knows he can't give her an answer ...

EXT. GRACE'S CAFE - DAY SEVENTEEN
GRACE
He wants him back?

Grace stops cooking. Mike senses the glances coming from some customers. She keeps her voice down:
MIKE
Could you bring him to the new homestead after dark?

GRACE
No! He can't have him! Robert E and me decided, we're gonna raise him.

Grace lifts the baby from a basket on her counter.

MIKE
Grace --

But Grace is heading for the Livery. Mike hurries after her.

MIKE
Grace, I'm sorry. I didn't know.

GRACE
You said his parents were dead!

MIKE
But he's still part of a tribe. There're other bands. They share the same way of life, the same traditions. He'll be raised the way --

Grace cuts Mike off, defiant and hurt.

GRACE
We can raise him right!

MIKE
I know you can --

GRACE
He'd be safe with us.

Her point stops Mike momentarily. She sees Robert E watching from the Livery. He meets Mike's pained look and he knows.

MIKE
Grace, if there were no Cheyenne who could take this baby, I don't believe he could find two more loving people to care for him ...
Grace sees Robert E approaching with concern. She stares at the baby, trying to maintain dignity in the face of her pain.

GRACE
What kind of life can they give him, that we can't?

MIKE
A Cheyenne life.

GRACE
Bein' hunted by soldiers? Or starvin' on some horrible reservation?
Mike achingly knows this is probable. After a difficult beat:
MIKE
I suppose some of that will depend on us.

EXT. NEW HOMESTEAD - NIGHT SEVENTEEN
In the glow of a lamp, Mike -- with Sully at her side -- hands the buckskin shirt to Cloud Dancing. He stares at it, confused.

MIKE
To thank you for all you've taught me ... And for your friendship.
Emotions rising, Cloud Dancing looks at Sully questioningly.

SULLY
We both want you to have it.

Overwhelmed, Cloud Dancing opens the Cheyenne shirt and admires it. The air is charged with the things none of them can say.

SULLY
She put stones over the heart to help protect you ...

MIKE
And the claws of a hawk will give you courage, to face the unknown.
Cloud Dancing meets her look, moved that she remembers, understanding her meaning. Mike then adds sheepishly:
MIKE
It fits a little crooked. My sewing's not quite as good as my cooking.
They all manage slight smiles, then Cloud Dancing sobers.

CLOUD DANCING
I will wear it proudly.

SOUNDS of an approaching wagon grabs their attention. Cloud Dancing immediately slips into a shadow, Mike turns to Sully with an "I'll go" look. Sully stays back protectively as she heads down to the wagon. Recognizing it, Mike calls back:
MIKE
It's Robert E!

Cloud Dancing steps back into view, but stays by the house.

ANOTHER ANGLE - THE WAGON
Robert E stops it with Grace clutching the baby, at his side. The Reverend drives up a second wagon with Brian, Matthew and Colleen, who all quickly climb down. Mike is surprised.

MIKE
What're you doing here?

The children stay back, uncertain about Mike's state.

MATTHEW
Wanted to say goodbye, too.

COLLEEN
And we wanna be with you.

Mike is caught blindsided. She catches the Reverend's look.

REVEREND
I wanted Cloud Dancing to know that my prayers go with him. And all his people.

They share a moment of repair, then Mike looks at them all.

MIKE
I'm glad you're here ...

She turns her attention on Grace and Robert E; waiting, stoic.

ROBERT E
You take 'im, Dr. Mike. We said our goodbyes.

He puts his arm around Grace as she kisses the baby one last time, then hands him down. Caught off-guard, Mike is forced to accept it... And she finds herself really looking at the baby for the first time since that horrible day an eternity ago. Overcome with feelings, she meets Grace's tearful look.

MIKE
Cloud Dancing knows what you've done. When he's older, this baby will be told about you.

OFF Grace's stoic nod, Mike starts back toward the house --

Where Sully leads a horse to Cloud Dancing. The two men face each other, brimming with feelings. Mike stops to watch.

SULLY
I ain't sayin' goodbye ...

CLOUD DANCING
There is no such word in Cheyenne.

They embrace tightly. Then Cloud Dancing mounts and edges his horse to Mike. She turns her attention back to the baby, talking to him so that Cloud Dancing can also hear.

MIKE
You must always remember -- how a negro couple took care of you when there was no one. And that a white woman nursed you at her breast ... And now you'll grow up part of a brave, proud people. (looks up at Cloud Dancing) Sully and I thought of a name ... (back to baby) We'll call you "Live In Hopes." (hands baby to Cloud Dancing) This way he can carry the words of his chief.

Overwhelmed, Cloud Dancing looks at the group watching him from the wagons in silence. Then he regards the baby in his arms, clearly struggling with deep feelings.

CLOUD DANCING
Live in Hopes. It is a good name.

He looks at Mike, then Sully. They share a powerful, emotional moment. Then he quickly reins his horse around and trots off.

As she watches him go, Mike finally gives in to a rush of feelings, and begins to cry. Colleen comes up behind her and stops, the boys not far behind. Mike turns to see her, and opens her arms. Relieved, Colleen rushes to Mike's embrace. And Mike cries harder -- quickly including the boys in her arms. As they cling tightly to each other, Mike reassures:
MIKE
I missed you ...

She sees Sully watching her -- and makes room for him. Sully steps into her embrace, and they hold on tight, neither wanting to ever let go. As the family begins to heal ...

EXT. GENERAL STORE - NIGHT SEVENTEEN
CLOSE ON DOOR as it opens. In a sleeping gown, Dorothy peers out holding a lantern. She reacts with surprise:
DOROTHY
Michaela ... It must be three o'clock in the mornin'!

REVERSE TO Mike, full of feelings she's no longer fighting, a spark of fire back in her eyes. Mike's come with a purpose; her voice is quiet, but determined, and rich with emotion:
MIKE
The first time I met the Cheyenne people hey helped me search for Brian when he ran away ... Later, Cloud Dancing and Sully brought Black Kettle to the homestead. He'd been wounded by the army and they needed my help. That's when Black Kettle gave me my Cheyenne name: (says in Cheyenne) "Medicine Woman." (then) It means Medicine Woman ... (an emotional beat) I've never known a man who wanted peace more.

Tearing, Dorothy waits, relieved to see her friend talking and feeling again. She understands now why Mike has come.

MIKE
I want to tell you about Chief Black Kettle. About the Cheyenne Nation. I want people to know who they are ... And what's happened to them.

DOROTHY
You tell me the truth, Michaela, and I'll print it.

The two women share an emotional moment bonded by their mission ... and more. Dorothy steps back and lets Mike come inside. As the door closes, MOVE DOWN BUILDING TO WINDOW:
CLOSE THROUGH WINDOW TO SEE Mike sitting at a table with renewed strength and hope. Dorothy appears, setting down the lamp and sitting next to Mike with her pad and pencil ready.

As Mike begins to talk about her friends the Cheyenne ...

FADE OUT.

THE END

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