Utopia Falls (2020–…): Season 1, Episode 8 - The Light - full transcript
Good morning, candidates.
All of your hard work,
all of your training,
it comes down to this.
A performance for the people
and a shot at advancing
to the finals.
Today's the day.
The semifinals are upon us,
with the first round of singles
competition.
Fourteen of you
will take the stage,
but only three will move on
to the finals.
Good luck to you all.
Areas throughout Reform Sector
are being defaced
with these images.
You have to admit,
the artist is talented.
For a subversive.
While you make light
of the situation,
radical elements are actively
undermining our authority.
These names and faces,
they're missing citizens.
They're not missing.
I know exactly where they are.
My point is, this isn't
a rebellious display.
It's an act of desperation.
Don't kid yourself, Reia.
We're talking about a dozen
of the worst agitators
from the riots.
Their families have been
holding daily demonstrations.
The wrist
scarves are an inspired touch,
although a little overwrought.
We can't allow this to go on.
You can't expect us
to capitulate
to their demands.
So, what do you propose?
We just ignore them
and hope they forget
their missing partners
and children?
Ryden's right. We need to be
firm or risk losing control.
Enough! With the discovery
of this ancient repository
just outside the city limits,
we now face increased scrutiny
from our overseers
in New Carthage.
This...
is the last thing
we want them to see.
How many times
are you going to do this?
Till I get it right.
So how'd last night go?
I don't want to talk about it.
You didn't do it.
Hey, I'm not judging you.
It's up to you when
or even if you decide.
I went.
I met with Authority Phydra
and told her the truth,
that I set the fire
and that Bohdi's innocent.
And? And nothing.
She told me to leave.
What? She didn't believe you?
No, I'm sure she did.
But instead of arresting me,
she threatened me,
and Aliyah, and all my friends
if I ever repeated
what I told her.
And what about Bohdi?
He's still locked up.
They're going to make him pay
for what I did.
He loses everything and I‐‐.
And I get to walk away
free and clear.
You know, maybe this
is your punishment,
knowing this isn't right
and having to live with it.
Apollo, I don't know what
to do, but I need to fix this.
Good morning, Bohdi.
How are you today?
Have you had breakfast?
Yeah. Good.
And Dr. Metri took a look
at that burn,
gave you something for the pain?
Yeah.
Great.
So this is what's
going to happen.
I just need you to confirm
a few things for me,
and once that's done, you can
head back to the Academy.
You're letting me go?
With a warning
that will go on your record,
but that shouldn't be cause
for concern
if you behave moving forward.
The Exemplar semifinals
are today.
Miss out, and you'll be
eliminated from competition.
And nobody wants that.
All right.
When did you discover
this hidden repository?
About a week ago.
Go on.
That night, I snuck out
of the city,
to the restricted area.
I go there sometimes to think.
It's quiet.
Anyway, I came across
this opening in this rock face.
It was this entrance
to this Archive.
And who was with you
at the time?
It was just me.
I spent the night
checking the place out.
And what did you find?
Much of what was inside
was lost in the fire,
so it would be helpful to know.
It was music, mostly.
I mean, there were books,
but I never got around
to reading them.
Technology?
Maybe. Yeah.
But I didn't know
how to work any of it.
Hm. And how often did you and
your friends revisit this place?
I never took anyone with me.
No, no, not on the night
you discovered it.
You've made that clear.
On subsequent visits.
No one.
I was always alone.
Come on, Bohdi.
You discover this exciting
new world of music
and you keep it all to yourself?
I was going to use it
to help me in the Exemplar,
and I didn't want anyone else
getting the advantage.
I don't believe that
for a second.
Besides, we have proof
that you weren't alone.
That others had access
to the repository as well.
You're not getting anyone
in trouble.
No one needs to know
you named them.
Just tell me who was with you,
and I can let you go.
I was alone.
An opportunity
like the Exemplar
only comes around
once in a lifetime.
And you're about
to throw it all away.
Attention, citizens.
Secured allotments
of fresh produce
have been curtailed to ensure
a fair and proper distribution
for all of New Babyl.
Hi, I'm looking for Vega.
I need to get
some alterations made.
Vega's not here anymore.
What do you mean?
The Authority
took her away yesterday.
What? Why?
Because she got
herself involved
with the wrong people.
So, please,
if you're not going
to buy something,
move along.
Brooklyn?
It's Gran Riel.
Of course.
We met at the hospital.
How are you?
Well. I'm just doing
a little shopping.
That looks like
more than a little.
Well, we've got a lot
of big appetites back home.
What brings you to the market?
Oh, I was looking to get
some alterations made,
but the merchant
I usually go to,
she's not here anymore.
Well, I can do it for you.
No, that's kind of you
to offer.
In exchange,
you can help me carry
all this back to Nature Sector.
I'd call that a fair trade.
Sounds good.
So, Brooklyn,
tell me your story.
Aliyah?
This is a nice surprise.
I actually have something
I want to talk to you about.
You okay?
I'm here for answers.
And I want the truth this time.
So you going to start
being honest with me?
About what exactly?
The world outside the Shield.
There is no world
outside the Shield.
That's a lie.
One the Tribunal has been
keeping for hundreds of years.
We were told that we were
the only survivors,
that the Shield protected us
from the toxins and radiations
that left the rest of the world
a wasteland.
But I know that's not true,
because I saw beyond it.
What did you see?
Life.
Grass, plants, trees.
And a city.
All this time,
we were told that we're alone.
But it's all a lie.
Why?
To protect you.
Okay, don't even try to‐‐
The world beyond is dangerous,
and the Shield does protect us.
But not in the way
you were led to assume.
Aliyah, I need you to tell me
exactly where you went
and what you saw.
In the wise words of Gaia...
We need to take this
beyond the Exemplar.
I know my sister and her friends
would love to learn.
Whoa, whoa, whoa. Slow down.
I'm not teaching classes.
I'm not an expert.
Well, you're the only one
that knows this dance style,
so that kind of makes you one.
Ready for the‐‐?
That was amazing.
Sage, wait.
A little help, please.
Who were those soldiers?
They're from another city.
A place called New Carthage.
And why can't we know
about them?
Because that's the deal that
was made hundreds of years ago,
after the war.
New Babyl lost and became
a tributary state.
What does that mean?
It means New Carthage
rules over us.
We're allowed
to govern ourselves,
but we have to pay them tributes
in the forms
of monthly shipments:
Metals, minerals, textiles.
Grains and other food?
Is that why
there's been shortages?
Yes.
What else?
Tell me what else.
Sometimes people,
when they become a danger
to the state,
they get exiled to New Carthage.
Ghosted.
What?
It's what people in Reform
call it when they disappear.
I know this seems unfair‐
Unfair?
All this time, we thought
the Shield was protecting us
from what's outside,
but really, it's been
keeping us inside.
New Babyl's just a prison.
No, no, no. That's not true.
The arrangement isn't ideal,
but like I said,
outside of the tributes,
they allow us to operate
independently of them.
And you do that by lying
to your own people?
We don't have a choice.
We've achieved all this
by creating a sense of unity.
And our citizens are united
because as far as they know,
we have no one else to rely on
except each other.
That's what makes us strong.
Destroy that illusion,
and it all falls apart.
It's not right.
You want to go back
to the way things were?
When people fought each other
over how they looked,
or what they believed,
or who had more?
This may not be perfect,
but we built something
amazing here.
A community of equals
that looks after each other.
That's not true.
Look what happened to Bohdi.
What are you talking about?
You don't know, do you?
Know what?
I guess what it feels like
to be lied to.
So how's Sage doing?
She won't talk to me anymore.
Ever since the riots.
She feels that...
No, she's right.
I wasn't there for her.
I was selfish, and I didn't
consider her feelings,
and she got hurt because of it.
Sage getting hurt
had nothing to do with you,
unless you're telling me
that you could stop a riot.
Well, no, but...
As for being wrong,
that's life.
People make mistakes.
They learn from them
and move on.
Are you sorry?
Yeah. Have you told her?
Not exactly.
I can't speak to what's
going on in Sage's head,
but I do know that girl well
enough to tell you
that she's got a big heart,
and she really does
care for you.
Just find a way to talk to her.
In the meantime,
put on those gloves.
And give me a hand...
with those mealworms.
Oh.
Sierra, have
you seen Brooklyn?
No, not since this morning.
What's going on? Nothing.
Candidates...
may I have your attention,
please?
Chancellor Diara is here
to deliver a very important
message regarding the Exemplar.
Thank you,
Mentors Chapter and Watts.
This year, our community
has been deeply moved
by your wonderful performances.
It is clear your youthful spirit
has captured the hearts,
of all our citizens.
And so this year,
victory will bring the ability
to affect real change
for your community,
and for New Babyl as a whole.
The winner of this year's
competition
will be named the first ever
Cultural Liaison,
and will be granted a seat
on the Tribunal.
Where, for the one year of their
reign as Exemplar Champion,
they will have a voice
on how our city is run.
I have nothing to say.
Really? Not even a hello?
Come on, sib.
I thought you'd been ghosted.
Yeah. Me too.
If ghosted is being locked up
in a cell for a couple of days,
then yeah.
What happened?
Wait, why are you here?
I did something
I can't tell you about.
Why not?
I don't
want to get you involved.
Sounds serious.
Serious enough.
Look, I found something.
Something I should have
reported to the Authority,
but instead, I kept it a secret.
What is it?
I can't tell you.
And no one else
knows about it but me...
and now the Authority.
What have I missed
since I've been locked away?
Is Sage okay? She's fine.
But things are hot
in Reform Sector.
People are upset
after the riots, the arrests.
There have been demonstrations
in support of the missing.
How long do you think
they'll keep it up?
Until the Authority does
the right thing
and releases the citizens
they're holding.
Look, today's the semifinals.
If Reform Sector finds out
that both their candidates
have been kicked out,
it's going to get
a whole lot worse.
Time's up.
I want to help you.
You can't. Just stay quiet.
Hey!
Hey! Hey!
Hey.
Did you always know
you wanted such a big family?
Gran Riel and I spent our
lives as crèche guardians,
raising other people's children.
When it was time for us to start
our family, it just natural.
How did you know you wanted
to be a crèche guardian?
I didn't.
It was a profession
chosen for me,
but one I grew to love.
You were dissonant.
I still am, technically.
How have you dealt with it
your whole life?
I don't let it define me.
But what about other people?
I don't let them
define me either.
But why so many questions
about my genetics?
Ah, I see.
You know, Gran Riel dreamt
of being a scientist
in Progress Sector before
she became a crèche guardian.
And you two bonded over the
fact you were both dissonant?
Oh, Gran Riel isn't dissonant.
But you just said‐‐
She didn't become a scientist
because she wasn't
a good enough student.
My father didn't become
an engineer,
because he chose to take care
of his sick mother instead.
Life is full of complications
and unrealized dreams.
But fulfillment comes
in how you adjust.
You're still young, child.
You have your whole life
to look forward to.
Find happiness in who you are
instead of who you think
you should be.
In the wise words of Gaia,
follow your heart
in service to New Babyl.
Hey.
I don't want to talk to you.
Okay, that's fair,
but just give me a second.
A second?
Is that how long it took you
to burn down the Archive?
Look I want
to make things right.
Do you? And how are you
going to do that?
What are you going to risk
to help Bohdi?
I can't take back
what I've done,
but we may have an opportunity
to change things,
at least for Bohdi.
What are you talking about?
Chancellor Diara said that
the winner of the Exemplar
will have a seat
on the Tribunal,
and a voice in how things
are run here in New Babyl.
If either of us win,
we could get Bohdi pardoned.
We could make sure he goes free.
Are you serious?
This new position
is just another way
for them to control us.
You actually think they'll
give us that kind of power?
They've lied before, what's
to stop them from lying again?
The voice of an Exemplar
winner, speaking to the people,
letting them know
exactly what's happening.
Goodbye, Tempo.
I'm sure you were going
to eventually inform
the rest Tribunal
about your arrest of Bohdi 2.
Of course.
I simply wanted to complete
my inquiry into the matter.
You mean you wanted to wait
until he named names.
This isn't a witch hunt.
I'm only interested
in pursuing the truth.
No, Phydra.
You're only interested
in information,
because information is power.
That's how you operate.
If Bohdi implicates
his fellow candidates,
then you have power
over their respective families.
Sounds like
you're making excuses
for potentially
subversive activities.
I'm warning you.
Keep Aliyah's name
out of this, or else.
And now it sounds like
you're threatening me.
Oh, you'd be surprised
what parents would do
for their children.
Am I right?
Well, I wouldn't know.
Oh, but you do, Phydra.
You do.
Like I said,
information is power.
Six, seven, eight.
One, two, three, four,
five, six, seven, eight.
Yeah, that felt really good.
Just make sure
that your left it up, so‐‐
That's a beautiful dance.
What do you want?
I want to talk to Sage. Alone.
I don't think
that's a good idea.
We're rehearsing, and we don't
need any distractions.
What kind of distractions
are you talking about?
Like a black eye or split lip?
Oh, try me.
Sierra's right.
Okay, I‐I don't‐‐
I don't need any distractions
right now.
But we're done with the studio,
so it's yours if you want it.
You're not alone.
Excuse me?
I know you feel like
you're alone here.
Like there's no one
you can depend on.
No, the only one she can't
depend on is you.
Okay, that's it.
I am alone.
Okay, the only person
I can depend on is me,
so I'm taking a page from your
book and focusing on myself.
You called for me, Chancellor?
Yes, Phydra.
Just to let you know,
I visited the Academy today
to inform the Mentors
and candidates about the change.
The Cultural Liaison position.
It went over very well.
Everyone seems
genuinely excited.
I had advised against it.
I know, Phydra,
and I took your arguments
into consideration,
but I need to stop this.
And the surest way of doing that
is through the Exemplar.
Understood.
Now if there's nothing else,
Chancellor...
As a matter of fact, there is.
If you're going
to win this thing,
you're going to need
the right inspiration.
You mean this flimsy thing?
This is a turntable.
And that in your hand
is a record.
Together, they play music.
Look, all of these
little grooves
hold the individual sounds
for the entire song.
You should be thanking
this thing for hip‐hop.
There were these people
called DJs
that could memorize where
a certain sound was in a song,
and then manipulate the record
to take an existing song
and make something new.
Hip‐hop wouldn't sound
the same without it.
I thought you said
this wasn't about hip‐hop.
It can be about
a lot of things.
Folk, country, jazz, EDM.
I don't understand
a word you're saying.
Okay, well the whole point is,
you don't have
to limit yourself.
Okay. Play me something.
I know this song.
I thought you would.
This is the original.
All right, Bohdi. Last chance.
Citizens of New Babyl,
the time has come.
Twentyfour were chosen
across all four sectors
of our glorious city:
Progress, Industry,
Nature and Reform.
But after the group phase,
a little more than half
remain to advance
to tonight's round
of singles competition,
where they will battle for the
right to move on to the finals.
And you, citizens of New Babyl,
will decide
here at the 73rd Exemplar.
Let's welcome our host,
former Exemplar champion
and music legend,
Petra 9.
Thank you.
And welcome back to the most
exciting Exemplar competition
in decades.
This year's innovative
performers
have sparked a celebration
of individuality
that has swept through our city.
In recognition of this spirit
of independence,
the Tribunal has decided
to reward
this year's Exemplar winner
with the title
of Cultural Liaison,
and a seat on
the ruling council.
For the first time
since the Great Gaia
founded this perfect union,
we will have direct influence
on how this city is run.
I have never been prouder
of my vote,
for today we not only choose
a champion,
we choose a leader.
And we do so for state.
For state.
For community.
For community.
For all.
For all.
Hi.
I have something really
important to tell you.
Mags!
Guys, he's back.
Mags, you're back.
Yeah, I'm back.
And you guys
are in so much trouble.
Thank Gaia you're okay.
Ow! Ow!
Careful. I bruise easily.
what happened to you?
Where were you?
I was locked up.
And they just let you go?
Yeah.
Well, perfect timing.
Where's Bohdi?
I thought he'd be here too.
When you last saw him,
what did he say?
Did he seem okay?
Yeah, he was fine.
Maybe a little tired.
He couldn't say much because
he thought they were listening.
I thought they were letting us
both go.
When Bohdi didn't come out,
I assumed he had already left.
Hey, he could still show up,
okay? There's still time.
Mags. You're up.
Right.
Time to perform
without any rehearsal
on the biggest stage of my life.
Hey, don't think
about it, okay? Just‐‐.
Just keep doing
hip‐hop and freestyle.
Magnus.
We now move on
to Reform Sector's Magnus 2.
Judging by the crowd's reaction,
we have an early favorite.
Let's see if Brooklyn 2
changes your minds.
Brooklyn!
You're next.
You can do it.
Hey, you got this.
Good job, Brooks. ‐
Sage, you're next.
Come on.
Hey, I...
Apollo.
Prepare yourself.
You got this.
Hey...
Tempo, get ready. You're next.
Tempo 3!
Aliyah.
This is it.
Bohdi's not coming.
He's not going
to get to perform.
They stole his dream.
Aliyah.
I think you'll agree
that this year's candidates
are perhaps the best
this competition has ever seen.
But there's one final candidate
who no doubt hopes you'll feel
we saved the best for last.
I give you Aliyah 5.
Wow.
Aliyah!
Aliyah! Aliyah!
Aliyah! Aliyah!
Aliyah!
Aliyah! Aliyah!
Aliyah! Aliyah! Aliyah!
Aliyah! Aliyah!
Aliyah!
Okay, Bohdi. Time to go.
The votes are in.
The time has come for you
to name your three finalists.
Our first finalist is...
Brooklyn 2.
Our second finalist is...
Magnus 2.
And our last finalist is...
Aliyah 5.
Yes!
Go.
New Babyl, I give you
your Exemplar finalists.
Whoo!
Everything is in order.
You are to take him
directly there.
Goodbye, Bohdi.
All of your hard work,
all of your training,
it comes down to this.
A performance for the people
and a shot at advancing
to the finals.
Today's the day.
The semifinals are upon us,
with the first round of singles
competition.
Fourteen of you
will take the stage,
but only three will move on
to the finals.
Good luck to you all.
Areas throughout Reform Sector
are being defaced
with these images.
You have to admit,
the artist is talented.
For a subversive.
While you make light
of the situation,
radical elements are actively
undermining our authority.
These names and faces,
they're missing citizens.
They're not missing.
I know exactly where they are.
My point is, this isn't
a rebellious display.
It's an act of desperation.
Don't kid yourself, Reia.
We're talking about a dozen
of the worst agitators
from the riots.
Their families have been
holding daily demonstrations.
The wrist
scarves are an inspired touch,
although a little overwrought.
We can't allow this to go on.
You can't expect us
to capitulate
to their demands.
So, what do you propose?
We just ignore them
and hope they forget
their missing partners
and children?
Ryden's right. We need to be
firm or risk losing control.
Enough! With the discovery
of this ancient repository
just outside the city limits,
we now face increased scrutiny
from our overseers
in New Carthage.
This...
is the last thing
we want them to see.
How many times
are you going to do this?
Till I get it right.
So how'd last night go?
I don't want to talk about it.
You didn't do it.
Hey, I'm not judging you.
It's up to you when
or even if you decide.
I went.
I met with Authority Phydra
and told her the truth,
that I set the fire
and that Bohdi's innocent.
And? And nothing.
She told me to leave.
What? She didn't believe you?
No, I'm sure she did.
But instead of arresting me,
she threatened me,
and Aliyah, and all my friends
if I ever repeated
what I told her.
And what about Bohdi?
He's still locked up.
They're going to make him pay
for what I did.
He loses everything and I‐‐.
And I get to walk away
free and clear.
You know, maybe this
is your punishment,
knowing this isn't right
and having to live with it.
Apollo, I don't know what
to do, but I need to fix this.
Good morning, Bohdi.
How are you today?
Have you had breakfast?
Yeah. Good.
And Dr. Metri took a look
at that burn,
gave you something for the pain?
Yeah.
Great.
So this is what's
going to happen.
I just need you to confirm
a few things for me,
and once that's done, you can
head back to the Academy.
You're letting me go?
With a warning
that will go on your record,
but that shouldn't be cause
for concern
if you behave moving forward.
The Exemplar semifinals
are today.
Miss out, and you'll be
eliminated from competition.
And nobody wants that.
All right.
When did you discover
this hidden repository?
About a week ago.
Go on.
That night, I snuck out
of the city,
to the restricted area.
I go there sometimes to think.
It's quiet.
Anyway, I came across
this opening in this rock face.
It was this entrance
to this Archive.
And who was with you
at the time?
It was just me.
I spent the night
checking the place out.
And what did you find?
Much of what was inside
was lost in the fire,
so it would be helpful to know.
It was music, mostly.
I mean, there were books,
but I never got around
to reading them.
Technology?
Maybe. Yeah.
But I didn't know
how to work any of it.
Hm. And how often did you and
your friends revisit this place?
I never took anyone with me.
No, no, not on the night
you discovered it.
You've made that clear.
On subsequent visits.
No one.
I was always alone.
Come on, Bohdi.
You discover this exciting
new world of music
and you keep it all to yourself?
I was going to use it
to help me in the Exemplar,
and I didn't want anyone else
getting the advantage.
I don't believe that
for a second.
Besides, we have proof
that you weren't alone.
That others had access
to the repository as well.
You're not getting anyone
in trouble.
No one needs to know
you named them.
Just tell me who was with you,
and I can let you go.
I was alone.
An opportunity
like the Exemplar
only comes around
once in a lifetime.
And you're about
to throw it all away.
Attention, citizens.
Secured allotments
of fresh produce
have been curtailed to ensure
a fair and proper distribution
for all of New Babyl.
Hi, I'm looking for Vega.
I need to get
some alterations made.
Vega's not here anymore.
What do you mean?
The Authority
took her away yesterday.
What? Why?
Because she got
herself involved
with the wrong people.
So, please,
if you're not going
to buy something,
move along.
Brooklyn?
It's Gran Riel.
Of course.
We met at the hospital.
How are you?
Well. I'm just doing
a little shopping.
That looks like
more than a little.
Well, we've got a lot
of big appetites back home.
What brings you to the market?
Oh, I was looking to get
some alterations made,
but the merchant
I usually go to,
she's not here anymore.
Well, I can do it for you.
No, that's kind of you
to offer.
In exchange,
you can help me carry
all this back to Nature Sector.
I'd call that a fair trade.
Sounds good.
So, Brooklyn,
tell me your story.
Aliyah?
This is a nice surprise.
I actually have something
I want to talk to you about.
You okay?
I'm here for answers.
And I want the truth this time.
So you going to start
being honest with me?
About what exactly?
The world outside the Shield.
There is no world
outside the Shield.
That's a lie.
One the Tribunal has been
keeping for hundreds of years.
We were told that we were
the only survivors,
that the Shield protected us
from the toxins and radiations
that left the rest of the world
a wasteland.
But I know that's not true,
because I saw beyond it.
What did you see?
Life.
Grass, plants, trees.
And a city.
All this time,
we were told that we're alone.
But it's all a lie.
Why?
To protect you.
Okay, don't even try to‐‐
The world beyond is dangerous,
and the Shield does protect us.
But not in the way
you were led to assume.
Aliyah, I need you to tell me
exactly where you went
and what you saw.
In the wise words of Gaia...
We need to take this
beyond the Exemplar.
I know my sister and her friends
would love to learn.
Whoa, whoa, whoa. Slow down.
I'm not teaching classes.
I'm not an expert.
Well, you're the only one
that knows this dance style,
so that kind of makes you one.
Ready for the‐‐?
That was amazing.
Sage, wait.
A little help, please.
Who were those soldiers?
They're from another city.
A place called New Carthage.
And why can't we know
about them?
Because that's the deal that
was made hundreds of years ago,
after the war.
New Babyl lost and became
a tributary state.
What does that mean?
It means New Carthage
rules over us.
We're allowed
to govern ourselves,
but we have to pay them tributes
in the forms
of monthly shipments:
Metals, minerals, textiles.
Grains and other food?
Is that why
there's been shortages?
Yes.
What else?
Tell me what else.
Sometimes people,
when they become a danger
to the state,
they get exiled to New Carthage.
Ghosted.
What?
It's what people in Reform
call it when they disappear.
I know this seems unfair‐
Unfair?
All this time, we thought
the Shield was protecting us
from what's outside,
but really, it's been
keeping us inside.
New Babyl's just a prison.
No, no, no. That's not true.
The arrangement isn't ideal,
but like I said,
outside of the tributes,
they allow us to operate
independently of them.
And you do that by lying
to your own people?
We don't have a choice.
We've achieved all this
by creating a sense of unity.
And our citizens are united
because as far as they know,
we have no one else to rely on
except each other.
That's what makes us strong.
Destroy that illusion,
and it all falls apart.
It's not right.
You want to go back
to the way things were?
When people fought each other
over how they looked,
or what they believed,
or who had more?
This may not be perfect,
but we built something
amazing here.
A community of equals
that looks after each other.
That's not true.
Look what happened to Bohdi.
What are you talking about?
You don't know, do you?
Know what?
I guess what it feels like
to be lied to.
So how's Sage doing?
She won't talk to me anymore.
Ever since the riots.
She feels that...
No, she's right.
I wasn't there for her.
I was selfish, and I didn't
consider her feelings,
and she got hurt because of it.
Sage getting hurt
had nothing to do with you,
unless you're telling me
that you could stop a riot.
Well, no, but...
As for being wrong,
that's life.
People make mistakes.
They learn from them
and move on.
Are you sorry?
Yeah. Have you told her?
Not exactly.
I can't speak to what's
going on in Sage's head,
but I do know that girl well
enough to tell you
that she's got a big heart,
and she really does
care for you.
Just find a way to talk to her.
In the meantime,
put on those gloves.
And give me a hand...
with those mealworms.
Oh.
Sierra, have
you seen Brooklyn?
No, not since this morning.
What's going on? Nothing.
Candidates...
may I have your attention,
please?
Chancellor Diara is here
to deliver a very important
message regarding the Exemplar.
Thank you,
Mentors Chapter and Watts.
This year, our community
has been deeply moved
by your wonderful performances.
It is clear your youthful spirit
has captured the hearts,
of all our citizens.
And so this year,
victory will bring the ability
to affect real change
for your community,
and for New Babyl as a whole.
The winner of this year's
competition
will be named the first ever
Cultural Liaison,
and will be granted a seat
on the Tribunal.
Where, for the one year of their
reign as Exemplar Champion,
they will have a voice
on how our city is run.
I have nothing to say.
Really? Not even a hello?
Come on, sib.
I thought you'd been ghosted.
Yeah. Me too.
If ghosted is being locked up
in a cell for a couple of days,
then yeah.
What happened?
Wait, why are you here?
I did something
I can't tell you about.
Why not?
I don't
want to get you involved.
Sounds serious.
Serious enough.
Look, I found something.
Something I should have
reported to the Authority,
but instead, I kept it a secret.
What is it?
I can't tell you.
And no one else
knows about it but me...
and now the Authority.
What have I missed
since I've been locked away?
Is Sage okay? She's fine.
But things are hot
in Reform Sector.
People are upset
after the riots, the arrests.
There have been demonstrations
in support of the missing.
How long do you think
they'll keep it up?
Until the Authority does
the right thing
and releases the citizens
they're holding.
Look, today's the semifinals.
If Reform Sector finds out
that both their candidates
have been kicked out,
it's going to get
a whole lot worse.
Time's up.
I want to help you.
You can't. Just stay quiet.
Hey!
Hey! Hey!
Hey.
Did you always know
you wanted such a big family?
Gran Riel and I spent our
lives as crèche guardians,
raising other people's children.
When it was time for us to start
our family, it just natural.
How did you know you wanted
to be a crèche guardian?
I didn't.
It was a profession
chosen for me,
but one I grew to love.
You were dissonant.
I still am, technically.
How have you dealt with it
your whole life?
I don't let it define me.
But what about other people?
I don't let them
define me either.
But why so many questions
about my genetics?
Ah, I see.
You know, Gran Riel dreamt
of being a scientist
in Progress Sector before
she became a crèche guardian.
And you two bonded over the
fact you were both dissonant?
Oh, Gran Riel isn't dissonant.
But you just said‐‐
She didn't become a scientist
because she wasn't
a good enough student.
My father didn't become
an engineer,
because he chose to take care
of his sick mother instead.
Life is full of complications
and unrealized dreams.
But fulfillment comes
in how you adjust.
You're still young, child.
You have your whole life
to look forward to.
Find happiness in who you are
instead of who you think
you should be.
In the wise words of Gaia,
follow your heart
in service to New Babyl.
Hey.
I don't want to talk to you.
Okay, that's fair,
but just give me a second.
A second?
Is that how long it took you
to burn down the Archive?
Look I want
to make things right.
Do you? And how are you
going to do that?
What are you going to risk
to help Bohdi?
I can't take back
what I've done,
but we may have an opportunity
to change things,
at least for Bohdi.
What are you talking about?
Chancellor Diara said that
the winner of the Exemplar
will have a seat
on the Tribunal,
and a voice in how things
are run here in New Babyl.
If either of us win,
we could get Bohdi pardoned.
We could make sure he goes free.
Are you serious?
This new position
is just another way
for them to control us.
You actually think they'll
give us that kind of power?
They've lied before, what's
to stop them from lying again?
The voice of an Exemplar
winner, speaking to the people,
letting them know
exactly what's happening.
Goodbye, Tempo.
I'm sure you were going
to eventually inform
the rest Tribunal
about your arrest of Bohdi 2.
Of course.
I simply wanted to complete
my inquiry into the matter.
You mean you wanted to wait
until he named names.
This isn't a witch hunt.
I'm only interested
in pursuing the truth.
No, Phydra.
You're only interested
in information,
because information is power.
That's how you operate.
If Bohdi implicates
his fellow candidates,
then you have power
over their respective families.
Sounds like
you're making excuses
for potentially
subversive activities.
I'm warning you.
Keep Aliyah's name
out of this, or else.
And now it sounds like
you're threatening me.
Oh, you'd be surprised
what parents would do
for their children.
Am I right?
Well, I wouldn't know.
Oh, but you do, Phydra.
You do.
Like I said,
information is power.
Six, seven, eight.
One, two, three, four,
five, six, seven, eight.
Yeah, that felt really good.
Just make sure
that your left it up, so‐‐
That's a beautiful dance.
What do you want?
I want to talk to Sage. Alone.
I don't think
that's a good idea.
We're rehearsing, and we don't
need any distractions.
What kind of distractions
are you talking about?
Like a black eye or split lip?
Oh, try me.
Sierra's right.
Okay, I‐I don't‐‐
I don't need any distractions
right now.
But we're done with the studio,
so it's yours if you want it.
You're not alone.
Excuse me?
I know you feel like
you're alone here.
Like there's no one
you can depend on.
No, the only one she can't
depend on is you.
Okay, that's it.
I am alone.
Okay, the only person
I can depend on is me,
so I'm taking a page from your
book and focusing on myself.
You called for me, Chancellor?
Yes, Phydra.
Just to let you know,
I visited the Academy today
to inform the Mentors
and candidates about the change.
The Cultural Liaison position.
It went over very well.
Everyone seems
genuinely excited.
I had advised against it.
I know, Phydra,
and I took your arguments
into consideration,
but I need to stop this.
And the surest way of doing that
is through the Exemplar.
Understood.
Now if there's nothing else,
Chancellor...
As a matter of fact, there is.
If you're going
to win this thing,
you're going to need
the right inspiration.
You mean this flimsy thing?
This is a turntable.
And that in your hand
is a record.
Together, they play music.
Look, all of these
little grooves
hold the individual sounds
for the entire song.
You should be thanking
this thing for hip‐hop.
There were these people
called DJs
that could memorize where
a certain sound was in a song,
and then manipulate the record
to take an existing song
and make something new.
Hip‐hop wouldn't sound
the same without it.
I thought you said
this wasn't about hip‐hop.
It can be about
a lot of things.
Folk, country, jazz, EDM.
I don't understand
a word you're saying.
Okay, well the whole point is,
you don't have
to limit yourself.
Okay. Play me something.
I know this song.
I thought you would.
This is the original.
All right, Bohdi. Last chance.
Citizens of New Babyl,
the time has come.
Twentyfour were chosen
across all four sectors
of our glorious city:
Progress, Industry,
Nature and Reform.
But after the group phase,
a little more than half
remain to advance
to tonight's round
of singles competition,
where they will battle for the
right to move on to the finals.
And you, citizens of New Babyl,
will decide
here at the 73rd Exemplar.
Let's welcome our host,
former Exemplar champion
and music legend,
Petra 9.
Thank you.
And welcome back to the most
exciting Exemplar competition
in decades.
This year's innovative
performers
have sparked a celebration
of individuality
that has swept through our city.
In recognition of this spirit
of independence,
the Tribunal has decided
to reward
this year's Exemplar winner
with the title
of Cultural Liaison,
and a seat on
the ruling council.
For the first time
since the Great Gaia
founded this perfect union,
we will have direct influence
on how this city is run.
I have never been prouder
of my vote,
for today we not only choose
a champion,
we choose a leader.
And we do so for state.
For state.
For community.
For community.
For all.
For all.
Hi.
I have something really
important to tell you.
Mags!
Guys, he's back.
Mags, you're back.
Yeah, I'm back.
And you guys
are in so much trouble.
Thank Gaia you're okay.
Ow! Ow!
Careful. I bruise easily.
what happened to you?
Where were you?
I was locked up.
And they just let you go?
Yeah.
Well, perfect timing.
Where's Bohdi?
I thought he'd be here too.
When you last saw him,
what did he say?
Did he seem okay?
Yeah, he was fine.
Maybe a little tired.
He couldn't say much because
he thought they were listening.
I thought they were letting us
both go.
When Bohdi didn't come out,
I assumed he had already left.
Hey, he could still show up,
okay? There's still time.
Mags. You're up.
Right.
Time to perform
without any rehearsal
on the biggest stage of my life.
Hey, don't think
about it, okay? Just‐‐.
Just keep doing
hip‐hop and freestyle.
Magnus.
We now move on
to Reform Sector's Magnus 2.
Judging by the crowd's reaction,
we have an early favorite.
Let's see if Brooklyn 2
changes your minds.
Brooklyn!
You're next.
You can do it.
Hey, you got this.
Good job, Brooks. ‐
Sage, you're next.
Come on.
Hey, I...
Apollo.
Prepare yourself.
You got this.
Hey...
Tempo, get ready. You're next.
Tempo 3!
Aliyah.
This is it.
Bohdi's not coming.
He's not going
to get to perform.
They stole his dream.
Aliyah.
I think you'll agree
that this year's candidates
are perhaps the best
this competition has ever seen.
But there's one final candidate
who no doubt hopes you'll feel
we saved the best for last.
I give you Aliyah 5.
Wow.
Aliyah!
Aliyah! Aliyah!
Aliyah! Aliyah!
Aliyah!
Aliyah! Aliyah!
Aliyah! Aliyah! Aliyah!
Aliyah! Aliyah!
Aliyah!
Okay, Bohdi. Time to go.
The votes are in.
The time has come for you
to name your three finalists.
Our first finalist is...
Brooklyn 2.
Our second finalist is...
Magnus 2.
And our last finalist is...
Aliyah 5.
Yes!
Go.
New Babyl, I give you
your Exemplar finalists.
Whoo!
Everything is in order.
You are to take him
directly there.
Goodbye, Bohdi.