ABOVE THE DEAD . com
Season 2, Episode 8 (extended episode)
"Show of Power"
INTRO
BLACK...
FADE IN:
EXT. WOODS – DAY
Prisoners aiming guns as they watch their backs, and nervously looking all around…
POV moving toward the sound of Zane…
ZANE
(off-screen)
Don't worry, they're a few miles up the road, already
packed in the Humvee, and heading home.
POV finds Zane, as Swish takes his radio, still smiling at him…
SWISH
(while Zane puts arm around Sam)
Rough Riders, compound, Humvee, (looking at Sam) a
child worth going to war, over…(staring at Zane) These
people come with a story!
Swish looking over them all, then back to Zane…
SWISH
Well…let's hear that shit…
Zane looking at him, then around, and back to Swish…
ZANE
This girl (motioning to Sam), right here, has been lost to
us, since this all happened, until not five minutes ago. (Zane
looking at her) How she got herself all the way here,
from down off Mt. Hood, I don't even know, yet! (looking
back as Swish) She means everything to our family. Sending
her home with (motioning toward Dakota) my sister,
would go a long way in keeping the five hundred people
of our compound, from that war, I mentioned…
Swish continues to smile at him…as one of the prisoners speaks out.
MAN
(off-screen)
He's not lying bout the compound; I know there's a big one
out here somewhere.
ANOTHER MAN
(off-screen)
That was just a rumor around the prison yard.
SWISH
I never heard that rumor…(still keeping eye contact with Zane)
But he's telling the truth, alright.
ANOTHER MAN
(off-screen)
What if he's one of Grover's men?
Zane staring at Swish…
ZANE
I thought you were Grover's men, possibly Grover, himself.
SWISH
What do you know about Grover?
ZANE
Just what the signs tell us. We came here to scout you out,
before setting up camp nearby, to make sure (motioning to
Sam) she had safe passage passed you guys, (looking right at
Sam) because that's how confident we were, that she'd be
coming…
Swish rolling his eyes…
SWISH
Your story's becoming a hallmark movie of the week. Get
to the interesting part, before I change the damn channel.
ZANE
That's just it, I don't know the story, (looking at Sam) yet.
I don't know how her father and my uncle died, or how long
she was alone, up there. I don't know who buried her
father, (Sam begins shedding tears) her uncle, cousins,
neighbors, even her dog. I have no idea how she got herself
all the way here, (looking at other people) or who these
other people with her, are.
SWISH
I get it, I get it! You're trying to make me feel empathetic
for your situation, and intimidated by your "five hundred" people,
but this story now has more tears than sixty straight days of
sappy Christmas movies. Get to the point where you tell
me WHO you people are?
ZANE
We're the people with a compound, thirty miles from here,
with enough room for a thousand people. Our goal is not only
to survive, but to bring people in, to help them survive…
(looking right at Swish) Who are you people?
Swish just looking back at him, with a smile…
DISSOLVE TO:
THEME TUNE/CREDITS
Shots of all the chaos in the city, on day 1 of the "zombie" apocalypse, followed by bumper to bumper traffic on the highways, and tons of angry/nervous people honking or trying to pull off the road. Shot of Mt. Hood, followed by shots of a huge tree house overlooking a lake, which dissolves into the Columbia River and traveling down it, through a huge forest fire, and then to the Bonneville Dam. POV continues down the river, past the Glen Jackson bridge, flowing by tons of houseboats where the dead are falling into the river, after whoever is drifting by. POV of the Willamette River as it goes under the St. Johns bridge, and up into the hills of Portland. It travels over them, and into the Beaverton area, crossing over the top of the Nike World Headquarters, and keeps traveling over farmlands, and into the coast range, finding the Glenwood Market, and a large camp with log walls, across the creek and behind the store. POV speeds over the Tillamook Forest, highway 26, and a bunch of other land, before coming to the Columbia River, traveling west, and under the Megler bridge, into the ocean. It continues along the shoreline, past Astoria, the Haystack Rock of Cannon Beach, coming to a pair of Jetties, and through them, up into the nearby hills, and over a large camp in the hills, protected by a large log wall. POV travels back down to the shoreline, and over a huge hotel, with a shot of the Twin Rocks in the ocean. POV travels by the bay of Tillamook, and along highway 6, back into the coast range, until leaving the road, back into the Tillamook Forest, until coming to a very large compound, hidden away by all the brush and mountain-side, as opening credits roll…
CUT TO:
EXT. WOODS – DAY
A tear running down Samantha's face, as she and her group are all lined up, and led away, by the prisoners. She is making eye contact with Bailey, then staring at GW, and taking in just how enormous he is, before looking back to Bailey, who watches from up in a tree. Sam develops more tears, as they walk away, leaving Bailey behind…
Some of the prisoners are guiding along the horses…
Swish falls back a bit, waiting for both Stix and Zane to catch up to him, then he hands a bloody hatchet toward Stix.
SWISH
Almost forgot your baby…
Stix grabbing it from him, with a look at Zane, who is looking back at him…
Renee is close to DJ, and crying, as she looks back at the tree that Bailey is in. DJ has an arm around her, as they walk…
Sam looks back toward Bailey one last time, then takes notice of Renee, looking and crying…
SAM
(talking to Renee)
I think he'll follow…
A couple of the prisoners hear her, and look back…
They keep walking in silence…
SAM
(talking to Zane)
My moms…I know they made it to the compound, that
day…are they still okay?
ZANE
No; they're a mess, and worried sick about you. I can't
wait for them to see you, alive and well.
Sam somewhat smiling…before it fades…
SAM
And everyone else?... Besides Miles?
Zane closing his eyes, a moment…
ZANE
We lost my brothers, Kate, Angela, and Mary, at the hotel,
the day it all started. Everyone else in the family, is okay.
Rich too, after surviving a serious gunshot wound, which
slowed us down while trying to get to you.
Sam beginning to cry again, at the news of her cousins, and for Zane's loss, as she looks at him, fighting back his own emotions…
SAM
I'm so sorry, Zane. I had no idea…
Swish rolling his eyes.
SWISH
Oh my god, I'm about to cut you all loose, just to make it
stop. You people are too sappy for the apocalypse…no
wonder you're all dying!
A bunch of the prisoners laugh…
Zane looks at Stix, who looks back at him, without any laughing…
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. GLENWOOD CAMP – DAY
The prisoners leading Zane and them, onto Glenwood Lane (road leading across the bridge/creek), toward the entrance of the camp, which is now completely gated and surrounded by a log wall, on both sides. Zane can't believe what he's looking at, all of them fairly shocked to see the enclosed camp.
Both Sam and Renee keep looking back behind them, with no sight of Bailey…
Renee's face is full of tears…
Eli has been brave, since the death of his brother, but for the first time, he looks like a child, again…
Cleo is sharing flirtatious looks with at least one of the prisoners…
Eric and some others, are now at the gates, anxiously waiting for Swish to arrive…
Swish greets him with a smile…
SWISH
Hi, sweetheart. How was your day?
ERIC
More concerned with your day, at the present moment…
SWISH
Any chance those walls will be complete, soon?
Eric throwing a concerned look at Swish…
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. GLENWOOD DETENTION CAMP (DC) – DAY
Eric, standing next to Swish and Stix, at the gate of the detention camp (with "Detention Camp" sign above it). They look in at Zane and his group, taking seats on the benches…
There are covered areas for sleeping. It's a much more "comfortable" detention camp than the one Zane was in on Mt. Hood.
Other members of the camp, are curiously nearby, or approaching the scene, to have a look. Pepsi is there, with both Coke and Chance, and many more of the women.
SWISH
Look at the bright side… We finally get to test the DC.
Eric an unpleased look at Swish, and back at Zane/group, as they get comfortable…
Sam is pulling something out of her pocket. It's a Ziploc bag. She opens it up, pulling out a folded-up paper. She opens it up, and looks at Zane. He's staring at her, still in happy shock to even be looking at her. It's almost as if the current situation, is on hold. He can't help but to smile at her…
She reaches over toward him, handing him the paper. He grabs it, and opens it up. It's the letter she had written him, that never got left behind at the tree house. He looks at it, then to her, and back to the letter…
Eli takes notice, as do most of the others. Zane is now reading it, with continued looks at Sam, from time to time…
Dakota takes notice of emotion in Zane's face, and moves over closer, trying to peek at the letter.
Eli gets up, and walks away… DJ takes notice of him, walking to the other end of the DC.
Zane can't help but to begin weeping, like a baby, as he reads on. Dakota develops tears, just watching him. Tears drop from Sam's face. Zane makes eye contact with her. He stares at her a moment, before back at the paper, with more tears running down his face…
Dissolve to Zane taking a break from the letter, and just dropping his head into his hand…
ZANE
Oh my god…Greg… (looking at Sam) And we were
right there...
She looks into his eyes…
ZANE
You wouldn't be here, if not for him.
Sam dropping more tears, at the mention of Greg. Zane shaking his head, with tears, as he continues to read…
Dissolve to Dakota, now holding the letter, close enough for both her and Cleo to read. They both have faces full of tears, with looks at Sam, who stands, hugging Zane…
Zane shares looks of appreciation, with DJ and Marlana. DJ takes another look over at Eli, staying away from the scene…
Pepsi takes notice of all the emotion, going on inside the DC. She looks around at them all, before stopping and staring at Zane…
Zane looks over at Swish, who is off talking with Eric. Stix is close by, watching all the emotion. He looks right at Zane, with empathy…
Stix's POV of Zane, looking back at him. In the background, he can barely hear Swish and Eric, talking…
POV Eric shaking his head/lifting up arms, while talking to Swish.
ERIC
Is this where you somehow make sense of this?
Swish shrugging his shoulders.
SWISH
What confuses you?
Eric a wide eyed, unbelievable look at Swish, before dragging him around the corner, out of sight from the DC, and all the others…
SWISH
We're not gonna make out, are we?
Swish stops, and turns back toward Stix.
SWISH
Stix, get in there and break up sappy family reunion time,
and begin interrogating that guy. Gary will join you, once
he's done squatting under a tree, or wherever he is.
Swish continues going around corner, with Eric…
SWISH
(speaking to Eric)
I think I'm busy being interrogated, myself.
ERIC
(sarcastically)
You think?
SWISH
I was only reacting to the instructions left by Grover.
ERIC
That's bullshit! He specifically said, "if trouble comes to us".
Now explain to me what they have done to define
themselves as trouble?
SWISH
They're organized, they had guns, horses, a radio in which
they used to warn the rest of their people, who they claim
to have even more than us.
ERIC
All good reasons to call for backup, and to take them the
way you did, but why in god's name did you have to kill
one of them?!
SWISH
It was a show of power…
Eric just staring at him, in disbelief…
ERIC
A show of power? (Eric shaking his head) Did you see
those people? How much they seem to care about each
other? There's no chance of making peace with them,
now. They're in there sobbing over family they found,
how will they ever overlook the family they just lost, at
the hands of us?! You're going to risk going to WAR with
these people, over a GOD DAMN SHOW OF POWER?!
Swish closes his eyes, and wipes some of Eric's spit, off of his face, and then just opens eyes and stares back at him…
SWISH
Are you done?
Eric simply begins shaking his head, in disbelief…
ERIC
Who is this show of power really for? Them, or is this
about you and I?
Eric steps up into Swish's face…
ERIC
Because I'm not impressed, and I'm certainly not
intimidated. Maybe you think you don't need me anymore,
now that the wall is almost complete. Maybe you think Grover will just
be okay with you taking over, or maybe you think my men
will be more loyal to you? Yet what you should be
concerned with, is just how many of your men are now loyal
to me. Messing with me, is no different than messing with
Grover. You want to mess with him, be my guest…
SWISH
Seriously…are you done, yet?
ERIC
With you, yes, I am. Because now I have to go fix the
problem you created.
Eric turns and heads back to the DC, with Swish eventually following…
ERIC
(speaking to DC guards)
Alright, open up those gates. Those people are free to go.
Prisoners/loggers all sharing some confused looks. All the woman/kids and others, who are standing around watching, stare on, as Eric approaches the DC gates. The DC guards are hesitant to open the gates, waiting for Eric to arrive. Stix stands inside, with Zane, just watching…
ERIC
This is not a request, it's an order.
DC guards begin opening gates, as Eric continues toward them. Stix looks at Zane, then gestures him to follow. Zane turns and flashes a smile at Sam, who smiles back, following him and Stix. DJ puts his arm around Renee, who shares a smile with Marlana. Cleo speaks to Dakota, as they follow the others.
CLEO
At least someone around here knows what they're doing.
Eric arrives at the gate, with a nod to Stix, and then reaching his hand out to Zane. Zane stares at his hand, then him…
ERIC
You have my deepest apologies, and I can only ask
that you and your people don't try to destroy what
we have going here, over one man's mistakes.
Zane finally takes, and shakes his hand. Suddenly, a knife comes sticking out of Eric's chest, stabbed in the back, by Swish, who turns Eric toward his face, as everyone else reacts with shock…
SWISH
How you like that for a show of power? And this show
will go on, which is why I put the knife in your back, rather
than your head. Cause when you turn, and you (patting his
head) will turn, your hungry rotting corpse will be hanging
above the camp gates, like a puppet, for everyone to see,
and to set an example for all those who believe they can
get away with speaking to me, the way you just did.
Swish looks over at Zane, who looks horrified, but stares Swish directly in the eye…
SWISH
Leaving so soon?
Swish finishes off Eric, gutting his insides. Then quickly uses his hands to gesture Zane and the others, back into the DC. He watches them go in, and his men locking it back up, as everyone else around, continues to stare, in shock…
Swish looks all around, at his people, who look back at him…
SWISH
So…Eric here, told me I should be concerned with some
of my own men, and how they were becoming more
loyal to him. I'm not going to lie, that made me angry.
Probably even half the reason I did what I just did. I can't
have someone turning my own people against me. That
would be chaos. I can't…we…can't have people questioning
who their leader is. (gesturing toward Eric) That's obviously
no longer a problem. When, or even if, Grover returns, I'll
gladly explain to him why I came to this "hasty"
decision. It's my belief that he'll understand the danger
(gesturing to Eric) this guy was about to put us in, not to
mention the opportunity, he was about to blow.
(motioning to Zane) Those people have a compound!
They have weapons, horses, and god knows what else…
(looking around at everyone) That could be all ours! This is
what Grover would want. He warned us about these kinds
of people, and how we have to show dominance. They
brought the fight to us. It's our job to show them who
Grover is. (gesturing to Eric) He was just going to let them
go, without even asking who the hell they are, or what the
hell they came here for?! I did what I had to do,
for the greater good.
Swish looking around at everyone. Most prisoners are nodding or content, but the loggers, woman and others, all appear nervous/skeptical…
Cleo shakes her head, while Dakota shares a concerned look with Zane (holding Sam close), who then shares a look with Stix…
SWISH
I'm not taking over, this isn't a dictatorship. Stix still shares
command, with me, and (motioning toward surroundings)
none of this even exists without Grover. This is his show…I'm
just here to make sure it's still here, when he returns.
Silence while the prisoners continue to nod, and more of the woman seem at ease…
Silence continues, until Zane breaks it…
ZANE
Who's Grover?
Everyone stares at Zane, then Swish, who laughs with a shake of his head…
SWISH
See?... He even wants to ask the questions. (laughing)
Unbelievable… (looking at nearby men, and gesturing at Eric)
Get this guy hung up, before he comes back.
Dakota a look to Zane, who looks back.
ZANE
It's like talking to Dad…
Men carefully picking Eric up…
DISSOLVE TO:
Close-up of Eric's body coming back to life, while now hung up above the gate, as everyone wildly reacts to it…
SWISH
OH, MY SHIT! WHOA! I don't think seeing that will ever
get old! God damn, this my kinda new world!
Swish and others just admiring the gate's new decoration, many of them laughing. Any women close by, are not amused, shaking heads and walking away. Although a few women, next to the men, were enjoying the scene. A few teenagers looked on, some of them with intrigue, while others were dragged off by their mothers. Some of the prisoners made fun of that…
Inside, over under a tree, Pepsi sat on a blanket while watching over the boys, who played with some toys. What she truly watched, was Zane, over in the DC…
Stix in conversation with Zane. He takes notice of Swish, heading back inside, toward them. Stix walks over to the gate, exiting and waiting for Swish to arrive…
Sam (shock still in her face) walks to Zane, with all of the others (shock still in their faces) approaching, except Eli, who still remained off on his own…
SAM
What did he say?
ZANE
I'm not sure, but I think he might help us. I told him how
the radio call I made to the Rough Riders, was fake.
SAM
Why was it fake, and why did you tell him?
ZANE
You know why it was fake; they were out of range, and
I did it to make these guys nervous. I shared that info
with him, to see what he does with it.
SAM
What if he tells?
ZANE
I'll admit why I gave him the intel in the first place,
and deny just how genuine it was.
Cleo looking at Zane with admiration…
CLEO
I would be so in love with you, if I was into dudes…
just saying.
Dakota giving her a weird look…
CLEO
What?... I love this family…
Zane eyeing Stix, who is now in conversation with Swish, who looks back over at Zane, and begins entering, inside…
They all nervously watch him approach, with a few armed guards…
SWISH
So, is it true? Your little radio call was a hoax?
Swish takes notice of Stix, who is shaking his head…
SWISH
What?
STIX
I had his trust. Why ruin it, so quickly? (motioning toward
his head) Think!
SWISH
(smiling)
I appreciate your approach, but the goal here is to gain
his trust, myself.
ZANE
Then you better do a better job than him, cause I didn't
tell him that because it was true, but because I wanted
to see what he'd do with it, and now I know…
SWISH
(again smiling)
Well, how's this for starters? The kids, (motioning over
toward Eli) even that one, if he is a kid, are free to join the
rest of our camp. The rest of you will just have to wait until
you prove just how trustworthy you can be.
Renee scoots in closer to DJ. Sam somewhat does the same, with Zane and Dakota…
ZANE
What do you mean, by join the rest of the camp?
SWISH
Warm beds, warm food, friends and family (shaking head)
What else would you like?
ZANE
Their friends and family are in here. Why not let us all out?
Or at least everyone but me?
Swish looking around at them all. He makes eye contact with DJ, holding onto Renee…
DJ
She has autism and really needs to go wherever I
go…please…
Zane looking at DJ and Renee, taking in that information…
Swish continues looking over them all, then to Zane, Dakota and Cleo…
SWISH
Was it you three who came on the horses, and magically
crossed paths with the rest of these guys?
Zane nodding…
SWISH
Well alright then, you three remain in here, and the Mt.
Hood crew is free to meet the rest of the camp, and
find a warm place to bunk. But first…lets chat…
DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK
INT. BAR – NIGHT
The crowded bar is very festive, with Christmas décor and everyone in "ugly Christmas sweatshirts".
POV travels around all the random people. You can hear bits and pieces of their conversations, until one particular conversation comes into focus, and from a familiar voice…
FAMILIAR VOICE
(off-screen)
At first, I thought he was just some kind of crazy conspiracy
theory, nutjob. Then he put this thousand dollars in my
hand, and promised another thousand, each and every
Christmas, until his plan goes into effect. (laughing) Not
that it ever will.
WOMAN
What's the plan?
POV finds Swish (about 10 years younger), at the bar, with two beautiful women, as the bartender refills their glasses. He's in the ugliest of ugly Christmas sweatshirts.
SWISH
That part, I was told to (finger to nose) keep hushed.
WOMAN #2
What's he work for, the CIA, or something? (laughing)
SWISH
More like the mob.
WOMAN #2
We have mobsters in Portland?
Swish shrugging as he takes a drink…
WOMAN #1
Well, he's got to be someone important if he's got a
thousand bucks to throw away every Christmas.
SWISH
Either that, or he's freaking Santa Claus! (girls laughing)
WOMAN #2
I guess that makes you pretty important…
Swish a smiling stare at her…
SWISH
I guess it does…
DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME
EXT. GLENWOOD DC – DAY
Swish sitting there shaking his head, while looking at Zane…
SWISH
That compound sounds amazing. The only thing I'm
having trouble believing, is that Grover would have
certainly known of its existence…yet he's never
mentioned it to me.
ZANE
My grandfather did as much as he could to keep it on the
down-low, but yeah, sounds to me like this Grover guy
should have known.
Swish just staring at Zane with a smile, while Zane's poker face remains serious…
SWISH
I don't like that I can't figure you out, or trust that you
don't say things like that, just to mess with my head.
ZANE
I think you're messing with it just fine, yourself…
SWISH
(smiling again)
There you go, again…
Swish picks up Sam's letter, which sat in front of him. It's a handful of pages, as he glances through them all.
SWISH
I don't plan to survive long enough to read through this
emotional mess, but Stix tells me these Mt. Hood people
went through quite an ordeal, and these people appear
pretty important to you. That's why as a show of good faith,
I've decided to trust their presence, outside the DC. He also
tells me, that the guy we killed was of no relation to you, or
your compound. I hope this means we can all learn to be
friends?
Zane staring at him…
ZANE
Who's messing with who, now?
Swish smiling, then laughing…
SWISH
I was actually being sincere, but I like the way you think!
We'll talk more later, and maybe some sort of trust can
be built. (looking right at him) But for now, I still think
you'd put one in my head, if given the opportunity.
(looks at Dakota and Cleo) Same thing with the lesbians,
over there.
Swish heading away, then looking back at the Mt Hood group.
SWISH
You guys coming?
Sam staring at Zane…
ZANE
You're staying right here.
Sam nodding…
DJ sits down, as does Renee. None of them leave or follow after Swish, who laughs and leaves through the gate, while pulling Stix to his side…
SWISH
So, what do you think? Was that call real, or not?
STIX
(shrugging)
Hard to tell, but we need to assume it was. Which is why
I hate to say it, but Eric gave you no choice.
Swish excitedly smiling…
SWISH
I appreciate that, Stix.
STIX
Of course, that's only because you foolishly made me
kill one of their men, simply to test my loyalty, which has
never strayed. (looking Swish in the eyes) But no more
kids…we don't hurt kids, here.
Swish smiling with a nod…
SWISH
You got it, Stix. You saw me in there, I tried to free them.
You're proving to be as loyal as I need you to be, to keep
this place safe… (taking in a deep breath) Let's gather the
men, so we can decide our next move. Whatever it is,
(looking around) we can't be so "public" about it.
Some of the men heading their direction, as Stix begins signaling over all the others…
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. DC – EVENING
Zane laying back with Sam leaning in against him, wrapped in his arms…
Dakota (in Cleo's arms) watches them, with a growing smile…
DAKOTA
I still can't believe we got her back. (shaking her head)
ZANE
I can't let her go.
DAKOTA
Even being stuck in here, and after seeing what we just
saw…it just seems like everything's going to be okay.
Cleo gives Dakota a squeeze.
SAM
(smiling)
Because it is…
Zane gives Sam a squeeze…
SAM
I can't wait to see mom and mom, and Grandpa! And
Scout! God everyone. I just thought I'd never…
Zane giving her another squeeze. Cleo and Dakota fighting back tears…
Zane takes notice of Eli, still off on his own…
ZANE
Eli is quiet. He okay; other than the obvious?
Sam looking over at Eli…
SAM
Oh my god…
ZANE
What?
SAM
I just realized he must be feeling guilty about the letter.
DAKOTA
Guilty?
ZANE
What would he have to feel guilty about?
SAM
You were right about us having to rush away from the
tree house, but I had already put the letter in our secret
compartment, and even left believing it was there, for
you to find. Until the next day, when Eli shared that he
had seen me put it there, and took it, to read. He never
had the chance to put it back. Don't be mad at him. I
was at first, but…
ZANE
Are you kidding me? Be mad at the kid who helped
return you to us?
CLEO
Yeah, and unless you did some exaggerating in there,
that kid is practically superhuman.
Zane rising.
DAKOTA
That's what I'm saying. It's like he was born for this
family.
ZANE
I'm all over it.
With Sam now free, Dakota moves in to wrap her up into her arms, with Sam smiling…
DAKOTA
Oh my god, I'm never letting you go.
Renee watches Sam/Dakota, with a smile…
CLEO
Oh yes you will! I have her next!
Sam's smile grows even bigger…
Zane arriving over next to Eli, sitting down next to him, simply staring at him a moment…
ELI
I'm so sorry I took that letter.
ZANE
Are you kidding me? You do realize what kind of a freaking
legend you are, in that letter, don't you? Not to mention
how lucky my little cousin was to have you out there,
with her. You're the main reason I'm okay, now. Because
before I got her back (shaking head), I don't know that I
was ever going to be okay, again. Because of you, I won't be
spending the rest of my life imagining the unthinkable kinds
of things, that had been stuck in my head, ever since…
(shaking head, then a look right at Eli) You've saved me…not
just me, but our entire family, from a lifetime of pain… A
family you are now very much a big part of…
Eli turning away from Zane, to shield developing tears…
ZANE
I'm sorry about your brother, Rhett.
Eli closing his eyes…
POV Zane, with Eli's back to him…
ZANE
It's obvious where you get your heroics from… I
really wish I could have met him.
ELI
(back still to Zane)
You would've liked him…
ZANE
I know I would have, and I do… He saved you guys. I
wouldn't have Samantha back, without him, and I
wouldn't have gotten to meet you.
Eli silently beginning to sob…
ELI
(can hear sobs in voice)
He should've been a part of this, your compound. You
would've loved him; you guys would've dominated, together.
Eli sobbing out loud, with everyone else now watching, and as Zane places a hand over his shoulder…
ELI
(sobbing)
I'm sorry. I'm sorry!
ZANE
You have no reason to be, not a single bit.
DJ, Renee and Marlana (with a tear) all watching…
Sam, Dakota and Cleo all watching…
SAM
(tear in eye)
I think that's the first time he's really cried, since…
Dakota sharing a look with Cleo…
Zane comforting Eli, then taking notice of someone, looking back at them, with a tear in her face. It's Pepsi, holding on to her own boy. Zane looks from her, to other women and children, who look toward them, with compassion…
CUT TO:
INT. GLENWOOD MESS HALL – DAY
Many of the prisoners/loggers are piled into the old outdoor school mess hall. There is a lot of commotion between them, even some hostility between prisoners and loggers. Stix moves in to keep the peace, between them. Swish simply watches over them all, before taking charge…
SWISH
(speaking over everyone)
I know what you're thinking, and can hear you have
concerns.
Everyone becomes silent, staring back at Swish…
SWISH
Please feel free to voice those concerns, now…
Swish waits, and looks on, as they all remain silent, looking back and forth amongst themselves…
Stix looking around, then moving toward Swish, before breaking the silence…
STIX
I have this man's back (arriving next to Swish), and
support the quick decision he was forced to make.
(now looking at all the others) I also have all of your
backs…and can personally guarantee…(looking directly
at Swish) you won't end up with a knife in them…or
else I'll be sticking one somewhere, myself…
Swish smiling at Stix…
SWISH
Damn, Stix. If I wasn't so impressed, I might actually be
scared of you, right now. (looking at everyone else) That
right there, is what Grover had in mind, when selecting a
democratic course of leadership. (looking at the loggers)
Like I said out there, your man was a dictator…and like
Stix just said, I had to react…
RANDOM LOGGER
Why a damn knife in his back? Why not just overpower
him? (looking at prisoners) with all your support…
DIFFERENT LOGGER
Yeah! You could've put him in the DC. Gave him a chance.
Swish nodding head…
SWISH
Maybe, maybe… But I was scared…that the knife might
end up in my back…and had to react… I had to put an end
to the Civil War, before it began. He already had (looking
toward prisoners) some of my own men questioning me,
and was obviously trying to stir something up. So, now
we stand here clearing the air, working toward being one
group, working together to survive this new world.
Most prisoners content, Loggers silent, looking around at one another…
Stix looking around, and taking lead.
STIX
Moving on… We need to figure out what to do with
those, we did put into the DC…
Silence for a moment…
PRISONER
They have a compound…I say we take it!
Some of the prisoners cheer, some nod, some are silent along with most loggers…
Swish smiling…
STIX
Grover does not want us moving on Beaverton.
Would he want anything differently, when it comes
to this compound?
Swish's smile fades away…
SWISH
Stix makes a valid point, but again, Grover's word was
that if the fight comes to us, we have a responsibility.
If Beaverton had shown up, it would have been on.
These people are no different than Beaverton.
RANDOM LOGGER
We know Beaverton to be an enemy. Do we know the
same, about these people?
SWISH
We know they came here to spy on us. We know that
they helped the army fire on us that first day. You guys
are outlaws, criminals! They want you back behind bars,
and since bars don't really exist anymore, I imagine they
prefer you dead, all together.
Prisoners all nodding heads with looks at one another…
DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK
EXT. PRISON PARKING LOT – EARLY EVENING
Swish is in his guard uniform, carrying a shoulder bag and heading into the parking lot. He spots a truck, with engine running. He walks over and opens passenger door, grabs an envelope off the seat, and climbs inside. POV remains on the truck, without a clear view of the driver…
GROVER
(driver)
Your Christmas bonus is in the envelope. Now, pay
attention to where we're going, and the instructions I
give you. Next year, and every year after, you will show
me how to get where we're going and repeat the instructions
I give you today, before you get your envelope full of cash.
POV Swish inside, looking over the cash in the envelope, while nodding…
SWISH
Fair deal…what's the key for? (pulling key out)
POV of the truck pulling out of the parking lot…
DISSOLVE TO:
The truck turning off of highway 6, into a side parking lot from across the market, and with a small bridge that goes over a creek (Glenwood Lane), and leads into the Glenwood outdoor school area.
POV remains of the truck, and area, as they can be heard talking inside…
SWISH
This is it? This is where I lead them?
GROVER
Not just lead them, but lead them. I can't promise that
I'll be here in the beginning. It's important they know
they have someone else, they can look to for answers.
POV Swish.
SWISH
And the few people who currently reside here,
are all a part of this plan, of yours?
GROVER
(unseen)
They are indeed, and the vacation rentals are all mine.
That's what the key's for. Cabin #1 is yours, pre
and post apocalypse.
Swish developing a huge smile.
SWISH
I'm a home owner?
GROVER
Only if you continue to take all this very seriously. You
tell me everything next year, or you'll be replaced, just
like that.
POV outside of the truck.
SWISH
Easy enough, but where's this spot in the woods
you're planning on leaving the supplies?
GROVER
Put on your hiking boots, and follow me.
Grover opening truck door, with scene dissolving as he begins to climb out, without being clearly seen.
DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME
EXT. DC – DAY
Eli is now over with everyone else, smiling and sharing stories of their "adventures"…
DAKOTA
(moving in closely to Eli)
I'm staying close to this guy!
Sam and others smiling, as Eli begins blushing…
CLEO
(waving letter and laughing)
Hahaha… He calls them huffs! Hahaha! (looking at
Dakota) You didn't tell me about that part!
Sam and others laughing…
POV Zane over by the fence, as both he and Pepsi part ways, with Zane heading over toward Eli and the others…
DAKOTA
Yeah, Samantha really knows how to make you cry,
and then laugh, in that thing.
Some laughs…
MARLANA
She's quite the storyteller.
Dakota a smiling nod at Marlana, followed with a look at Renee…
DAKOTA
I hear you like to do some writing, as well? Samantha
mentioned it in her letter.
RENEE
(quietly and looking downward)
It's just a journal. Not funny, like Sam's. Samantha's.
DAKOTA
(smiling)
It's okay, you can call her Sam. I can never decide, myself.
Renee smiles and tries to become more comfortable, as Zane arrives.
DAKOTA
(speaking to Zane)
Making new friends?
ZANE
Allies, for now, but yeah, I think so.
CLEO
Hopefully a little better than the last friend you made?
DAKOTA
She's sure cuter than the last one.
A laugh from Cleo, and a mildly annoyed look from Zane.
ZANE
She was friendly enough to tell me her son made a new
friend of his own, with a black and white cat, just a little
bit ago, on the outside.
Sam and Renee, instantly excited.
SAM
What?! Bailey?!
ZANE
(smiling)
Sure sounds like it. She said she can show you where.
The adults suddenly looking concerned…
DAKOTA
Umm, what?
ZANE
She explained everything she could about this place,
and where the people came from.
Zane staring at them all…
ZANE
I think…there's a lot of good people here, and other
than the fact Dad's long-lost brother, is running it, I
think this place can really fit into Grandpa's ultimate
plan.
Sam, Dakota and Cleo all sharing a look. DJ and Marlana look very curious…
DJ
Sorry to interrupt, but…ultimate plan?
ZANE
I'll explain later…
SAM
How do we get to Bailey?
DAKOTA
(talking to Zane)
You're not forgetting that half these people are felons,
are you?
CLEO
Yeah, cause dead people walking the planet eating live
people aren't scary enough to share this forest with, lets
add murderers and rapist to the mix.
DAKOTA
And let's get back to this thing about the kids going out,
after the cat?
ZANE
The girl I was talking with, Pepsi, has a cabin. She said
those who were offered out of the detention center,
could stay there, with her.
Everyone silent a moment, while Cleo gives everyone a questionable look…
CLEO
(sarcastically)
Sure, cause who's more trustworthy than someone
named after a soda pop?
ZANE
Yeah well, just don't ask me her son's name…
Zane taking notice of Pepsi heading toward the DC fence…
ZANE
Listen, here's the thing. I have a contact here. I'm not
going to reveal who or how I know him, but he's a true
friend…and with the "Mt. Hood crew" on the outside of
this cage, I believe I can get them a one-way ticket
straight to the compound.
DJ sharing an intrigued look with Sam and the others, as Pepsi arrives, and Zane nods/leads everyone closer to the fence…
ZANE
Everyone…this is Pepsi…
Everyone quiet as they look amongst each other…
CLEO
Hi Pepsi, I'm Root Beer, and this is my girlfriend, Dr.
Pepper. (Renee can't help but to laugh) She's not really
a Doctor, but (shrugging with a smile at Dakota)…she's
certainly full of pep.
Pepsi just kind of looking at everyone, before becoming sarcastic…
PEPSI
Ohhh', I get it… You're doing what everyone else has
always done, my entire life.
CLEO
(wide eyed)
You've been going by that your entire life?
PEPSI
You've been this "funny" your entire life?
Zane a quiet smile, with a glance from Cleo…
CLEO
Why you laughing? I'm the one that made a funny.
DAKOTA
I think he liked hers better.
CLEO
Yeah, well, he's biased…and that part about you not
being a real doctor was hilarious.
Pepsi actually a small laugh…
PEPSI
Yeah, that part was pretty good.
Cleo smiling…
CLEO
See… Now who else do you know, who could make
a soft drink, laugh?
Renee laughing as Cleo shares a smile with her, with scene dissolving, as everyone smiles…
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. GLENWOOD CAMP (creek) – EVENING
Pepsi leading DJ and Marlana down to the creek.
PEPSI
We were at the gates supplying water for some of
the loggers, and there the cat was.
She begins filling up water containers. DJ and Marlana are helping her. They are keeping a close eye on the kids, as Coke (holding Chance's hand) leads Sam, Eli and Renee to an area where he points up to a tree, as they all look. Conner and another man, are close by, with guns and keeping a look out.
COKE
He was there just a little while ago. I saw him by the
gate, and got in trouble for following him down here.
Sam, Eli and Renee looking all around, as POV goes over to the adults…
DJ
(looking at Sam)
That cat takes after his new mom. (shaking head)
PEPSI
You guys have been through a lot, Zane told me.
Marlana gives her a look, then a smile…
MARLANA
I think by now, we all have our stories…
DJ
Those loggers you were supplying water for, what
were they working on?
PEPSI
Still sealing the camp. Looks finished from the front,
but still not complete, in the back.
Suddenly, the kids become excited.
RENEE
(pointing)
There he is!
SAM
Bailey!
Bailey's POV as he looks down at them, with a meow…
CUT TO:
EXT. DC – EVENING
Gary and many other prisoners are inside the DC, standing around Dakota and Cleo, who stand in front of a picnic table, where Zane and Swish are seated across from one another, with Stix at the end, watching Zane, closely.
SWISH
So, you guys came into our yard, armed (cutoff)
ZANE
Armed to defend ourselves from god knows what.
SWISH
You were spying on us.
ZANE
Yet not attacking…
Swish staring him down…
SWISH
Not yet…
ZANE
I think you know the real reason we were here,
(motioning toward gates) she's right outside those
gates there. Which, by the way, are you certain
they're safe out there?
SWISH
I can put them all back in here, if you prefer? I've done
my part. I read you the letter, Grover left us, and I
followed his commands to the tee. Your little sister, or
cousin, will be safe here, as will her friends. They will be
fed and housed…but until Grover arrives, we have no
choice, but to leave you (gesturing to the DC) in a safe
place.
CLEO
And, when will that be?
Suddenly, there is growing commotion coming from over at the gate, and outside of it. They all look toward it, Zane instantly becoming nervous.
SWISH
What the…
ZANE
What's happening?! What the hell's happening?!
Swish and his men rushing toward the DC gate. Zane, Dakota and Cleo, are following, while watching the main gates. Zane, Dakota and Cleo stop (with instant relief), as they watch Sam and all her friends, come rushing through the gates (without Bailey)…
SWISH
(now on outside of DC)
What the hell is this?! (looking at Zane) Are your
damn people attacking us, son?!
ZANE
They wouldn't attack, with our own people in here!
Swish looking at Stix.
SWISH
Is it Beaverton? Are they making their move?
Zane looking from Swish, to Sam, who rushes their direction.
Swish, Stix and the others rush to the gate, where men are closing it and trying to calm/quiet everyone down…
Sam arrives at the DC, followed by DJ, Pepsi and all the others…
ZANE
What's happening?
Swish's POV outside the gate, just as every last man comes rushing inside, with a few others still outside, but now hiding behind the store and in the bushes, and remaining silent…
Swish and Stix watch on, very curiously…
Their POV, as mild grunting can begin to be heard. Eventually a crowd of huffs begin filling the highway, eventually taking it over, as there appears to be hundreds of them…
Stix begins signaling everyone inside, to be totally quiet…
He and Swish watch on, as the endless crowd of huffs, slowly drag themselves up the highway. Some of them are pushed off the road, linger around, even come somewhat close to some of the men who are hiding, but eventually make their way back onto the road, with the others…
Sam at the fence, right next to Zane, as they all stand silently, looking over at the gates…
Pepsi is holding her heart, with a look at Zane, who gives her an expression of appreciation…
POV going around all the other people, the prisoners, loggers, mothers, children, all of them nervously keeping still, and watching the gates…
A baby is heard crying, as one of the loggers rushes to the woman holding it, and guides her in doors…
One person with a dog is seen rushing it indoors…
Zane begins watching everyone, and then the gates again…
Swish continues to watch, next to Stix. They share a look with each other, and back at the huff crowd…
SWISH
Well, thinking this might be the motivation our logger
friends need, to get the rest of that wall up…
Stix another look at Swish, then back at the huffs…
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. GLENWOOD CAMP – MORNING
Early morning as Swish supervises the loggers/prisoners, who work hard to put up logs, in the back of the camp. There are a ton of prisoners, with guns, guarding the sides of the uncompleted wall…
Dissolve to front of camp, where the semi-flatbeds (full of workers) are leaving through the gates.
Sam, Eli and Renee, watch the semi's, from next to the DC, while talking/hanging out with Dakota and Cleo…
Zane is close to the fence, talking with Pepsi…
Conner is approaching the group, with Zane taking notice, and motions all the others to come huddle up. They all come next to the fence, near Zane, while skeptically eyeing Conner, who arrives…
ZANE
Everyone…this is Conner. He's the one I told you about.
DAKOTA
How (interrupted)
ZANE
How I know him, or any other questions you have, is not
important, right now. Figuring out our next move, without
a knife ending up in his back, is…
CONNER
We should be alright; he's on the other side of the camp,
with his mind more on that army of the dead, than it is you.
CLEO
Well, it's good to see the guy's not as stupid, as he is crazy.
Zane a look at Conner.
CONNER
Everything's ready on my end, but…
ZANE
But we're screwed now.
Everyone looking at Zane…
SAM
What do you mean?
ZANE
Conner has a truck, ready to transport all of you right
to the compound, but…(shaking head) After
what we just saw…
CLEO
It's huff freaking rush hour, out there.
Cleo and Eli share a small smile, as Dakota stares at Zane, while he's thinking…
DAKOTA
I'm thinking it, too. (Zane looking at her) God knows
how long they'll block that road.
Everyone staring at Zane, who simply shakes his head…
ZANE
I mean…if they keep walking…(looks at Dakota) What,
maybe a day or two, until they reach the coast? But who
knows if they turn back around, or get caught up chasing
animals, and keep that road clogged? (shaking head)
DAKOTA
We can't send Samantha, out into that.
CONNER
If the road's blocked, it won't do us any good turning
around and coming back here. Not once I've shown my
true colors.
ZANE
Which is why we have to delay the plan.
SAM
For how long?
Everyone stares at Zane, who stares at Sam…
ZANE
I don't know… I wanted you out of here, and away from
that psychopath, asap, but… You guys run into that herd,
(shaking head) and something happens…(staring at her) I
still can't believe I'm even looking and talking to you, right
now. (shaking head again) After all that…we just can't risk
losing you now.
DAKOTA
I agree. We need to get her behind those walls and into
both her mothers arms.
ZANE
That's what I mean, right there. I won't be telling them
we found you, only to lose you. Not happening! None of
our faces would ever be allowed back in there!
Everyone silent a moment…
PEPSI
I can't speak for the psychopath in charge, but there
are good people here. If you play "nice" with the guy, for
a few days, I think you all can be safe, here.
Now everybody silent and staring from Pepsi to Zane, for his response…
DAKOTA
He did let everyone else out (gesturing around them)
of here.
MARLANA
(nodding)
I agree. We all play (motioning toward Pepsi) nice, and
contribute, as if we're happy here, and I think we can
make it, at least a few days…
Others nodding…
DJ
We can all do that.
Zane hesitant to agree or respond…
ZANE
Yeah…maybe… But, is a few days really enough?
Everyone silent, looking amongst each other…
PEPSI
Let's just take it one day at a time. If the…what do
you call them?
SAM
Huffs.
PEPSI
If the huffs don't come back…maybe the road will
be clear, eventually.
Everyone nodding…
MARLANA
We can do this.
DJ
We've done so much more.
Zane a look at DJ, and begins nodding his head…
PEPSI
So, um…what does huffs stand for?
Sam, Renee and Eli all smiling…
Scene dissolving as Eli answers, with audio/scene over before his final word is fully heard.
ELI
Hungry, ugly, freaky, fu.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. GLENWOOD CAMP (creek) – DAY
Sam is sitting very quietly, under a tree. She almost looks sad. She continues to sit there, quietly, when suddenly the sound of something jumping onto the ground, is heard. She is startled just a moment, before turning with excitement, as Bailey comes over, climbing onto her lap.
SAM
(looking ahead)
It worked! I got him!
Eli, Coke, Chance and Renee all begin approaching her, with DJ, Pepsi and Marlana in the background, along with Conner, who stands guard.
Renee reaches Sam, first, and begins petting Bailey, who actually leaves Sam's lap, rolling over for Renee, to rub his belly, with a smile from Sam…
SAM
He really likes you… He could be yours if you want him.
I actually have a whole family of cats, at the compound.
Renee looks excited.
RENEE
You do?! I can't wait to see your compound!
She keeps playing with Bailey, as Coke and Chance begin petting him.
ELI
I can't believe he followed us, here.
Eli bends down to pet him, but jumps back up as they all look and react to Conner, who is approaching a huff over by the bridge. DJ and them are also watching. Pepsi immediately goes over toward the kids, while Conner takes down the huff. He looks around, then back toward the others…
CONNER
I don't see anymore, but it might be a good idea to
grab that cat and get on back inside.
Dissolve to them all walking through the camp gates, with a couple of the guards smiling at the cat.
GUARD
You got your cat, nice!
Sam smiling as she carries Bailey inside the camp, as POV shoots ahead, to the DC, where Zane is again at the tables, talking with Swish. Stix and Gary are also there, along with Cleo and Dakota…
ZANE
So, you got pretty worried about this so-called
Beaverton group, when you thought they might be
attacking you, yesterday. Your Grover may have
ordered you not to go after them, but what about
spying on them?
Swish shaking his head with a laugh…
SWISH
So, you want me to do them, like you were trying to do me?
Zane shrugging his shoulders.
ZANE
It beats just going in hot, and asking for a fight. Let's go
catch a glimpse, and figure out what kind of people we're
dealing with.
SWISH
"Let's"? "We're"?
ZANE
I'm just as curious about these people, as I was/am you
people. Spying on them, with you…(shrugging) two birds,
one stone…
Swish staring back at him, with a laugh…
SWISH
You really want me to believe you're just one curious sob,
don't you? And even if I did buy into it all, why would I
feel confident, teaming up with someone who didn't
succeed all too well at "spying", on us?
ZANE
I was distracted by the miracle of my little cousin, or
would have never ended up (gesturing around him) in
here.
Swish just smiling at him…
SWISH
How do I know you're not a part of Beaverton?
Zane looking at Stix.
ZANE
Your man there, read my cousin's letter. Did it say
anything in there about Beaverton? And why would she
come this way, if Beaverton was where her family was?
Swish just smiling at him…
ZANE
And while you're open to my ideas, I'd send a team
after that herd. I'd say it's fifty/fifty those things get
turned around, and come right back this way. Be nice
to have a warning…
SWISH
So, with you leading my Beaverton team, who leads the
babysitting herd, team? Your sister and her lover?
Zane a dead serious look at him…
ZANE
They're more than capable…
Swish again just starting at him, with a smile and shake of the head…
DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK
EXT. PRISON CELL – EVENING
POV travels past several cells, with restless prisoners, who you recognize as the same ones from Swish's group…
PRISONER
This is bullshit!
POV travels to next cell.
DIFFERENT PRISONER
We're hungry!
ANOTHER PRISONER
(off-screen)
We were supposed to be fed HOURS ago!
POV comes to Gary's cell.
GARY
Yo SWISH?! What the hell's going on?!
POV comes to Conner's cell. He's sitting on ground, against wall to next cell. He speaks, over the sound of all the hostile prisoners.
CONNER
What do you think, Stix? Terrorist attack? What else
would make them neglect us, like this?
POV comes to Stix, standing in his cell, staring at the exit doors…
STIX
Seems like a fair guess…
CONNER
(off-screen)
Are you worried?
STIX
The only thing that worries me, right now…is that end of
the world story, I told you about with Swish.
CONNER
(off-screen)
I didn't even think about that. But yeah, shouldn't at
least he be coming for us, if no one else?
STIX
That's kind of what worries me…
DISSOLVE TO:
A police car crashes into another car, as POV falls back from the television, where Swish and others are watching the news. Others around them are leaving, and outside, people can be seen packing up their cars, and leaving...
Swish looks from the TV, to the people leaving, and back to the TV. He then pulls out his phone, and dials a number. He looks at the TV, with a strange look.
SWISH
What the?
POV of officers firing their guns at a huff (freshly dead), that keeps coming at them.
POV Swish as his call is answered.
GROVER
(over phone)
What's the word, Swish?
SWISH
(into phone)
It's falling apart, here. This is it, this is really it. I never
thought this would ever play out, but now that it is, I am
going to make you proud, Mr. Grover.
GROVER
(over phone)
It's Grover…and I'm on my way…
DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME
EXT. GLENWOOD CAMP (cabin porch) – DAY
Swish on cabin porch, with Stix, Gary, GW and a few others. Swish is eyeing Zane, over at the DC, where he's chatting with a random guy…
GARY
So, what are you gonna do?
SWISH
I don't know, probably let him go risk his life for us,
I guess.
Swish watching the random guy over at the DC, as he nods at Zane, and walks away…
SWISH
That's at least the third guy I've seen him talking with.
Not to mention his new girlfriend… He's becoming
popular, here… Not sure how I feel about that.
STIX
Maybe it's a good thing.
SWISH
And why is that, Stix?
STIX
He just doesn't seem like a threat, to me…and like
Grover said, adding people like this guy, is important.
GARY
He doesn't want to join us; he wants to leave. To go
back and report to his people.
STIX
So, let him.
Both Swish and Gary looking at Stix…
STIX
I didn't kill his family. All he cares about right now, is
the family he found, and the family at home, who he
wants to return her to. We help aid with that…and we
have ourselves a powerful ally.
Swish just staring toward Zane, a moment, with some of the other men nodding...
SWISH
You make a lot of sense, Stix…but I just can't trust
letting Grover, down.
STIX
And how would you be doing that?
SWISH
(motioning toward Zane)
His people will never attack us, as long as that child is
here. That's the safest route, until Grover is here, to
make this call himself. We'll take good care of them,
and perhaps even work with him, on this Beaverton
issue, but they reside here, until things settle down,
and we get our leader back…
DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK
EXT. PRISON – NIGHT
POV coming from the headlights of a truck, as it comes around a corner, with lights shining right on Swish, who is standing in front of them, waiting. The truck stops, as several more trucks pull into parking area, and stopping. All of them keep their headlights on, as Swish stands there waiting, shielding his eyes from the bright lights…
Grover climbs out of his truck. His face unseen, due to the darkness. He remains at the side of his door, as a few of his other men, exit their trucks, and approach Swish…
SWISH
This is it…this is really it. I never thought this would
ever play out.
GROVER
I'll be honest, I'm kind of with you, on that.
Swish becoming curious/nervous, as Grover remains at his truck, while three other men arrive, just staring at him…
GROVER
But now that it has, we all have a job to do. Yours, is to
lead, and to answer to me. With this, comes a lot of
respect, and trust. Those things have to be earned, and
you have to be shown, just how serious all this is. Not just
what's happening, but how we plan to survive it…and how
I can't have you letting me down.
The moment he finishes that last word, Swish is sucker punched right in the face, and knocked down. One of the other men quickly pick him up, while the third guy punches Swish in the gut, and they all back off, allowing him to get his breath back.
GROVER
You're alright… Just stay calm… They're not going to kill ya.
Not if you do your job.
Swish getting his breath back, and rising upward.
SWISH
What the fu (interrupted)
Swish immediately punched in face again, and going down.
GROVER
Alright, that's enough…
Grover closes his truck door, and begins heading toward Swish…
DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME
EXT. DC – DAY
Zane stares outside the DC fence, with a smile on his face.
His POV of Sam playing/laughing, while chasing Bailey around with a string. Renee is there too, having a good time, along with Eli, Coke and Chance. Other children are also there, mostly watching. Pepsi and Marlana are close by, watching and smiling.
Dakota comes to Zane, from behind and with a smile on her face…
DAKOTA
We've lost so much, but seeing her like that…just gives
you so much hope, ya know?
ZANE
I'm still in shock…seeing her, and reading that letter.
Zane just shaking his head…
DAKOTA
So, now that we have a moment, I do want to know, just
how it is that you trust a guy from prison, as much as you
clearly do, and how you know him?
ZANE
That's fair… It's like Mr. Miyagi always said. There's no bad
students, just bad teachers. (shrugging) In Conner's case, it's
no bad kids, just bad parents. He was only eighteen when the
family "business" was exposed, and they were all sentenced.
I knew him because he was a ball player, and I'd read his story.
So, I ended up visiting him, not once, but several times… He's
a good kid…
DAKOTA
And you really trust him with Samantha? Getting her home?
ZANE
Before the road got clogged, yeah. I liked those options
better than her staying here, with Mr. Trigger happy.
Zane looking right at her, as Cleo arrives…
ZANE
It's like you said, she gives hope. We need her and that
hope, back home with the rest of the family…with her
mothers…with Grandpa…
Cleo just looking at them both…
CLEO
What are we talking about?
DAKOTA
We were talking about Sam, but now I want to know more
about this idea of yours, to help them with their Beaverton
problem?
ZANE
It's really like I told him, two birds, one stone. And what I
didn't tell him, is that the more trust I earn with his men,
the less they'll be his men.
CLEO
I like it.
Dakota somewhat of a skeptical look at him, as he takes notice of it…
ZANE
There are good people here, and some not so good.
We're stuck here, at least a few more days. Maybe
Conner can get us all out, maybe not, but in the
meantime, we need to learn what we can…about them
and Beaverton.
DAKOTA
Just be careful. I don't want to see his knife in your back.
Samantha is not the only one the family needs, back home.
They all turn as they hear Sam scream, and then smile when they realize she's just reacting to some of the other kids, playing with her. Zane puts his arm around Dakota, as they stand there and watch…
POV jumps over to the kids playing, where all the new kids are now more involved, as Renee sits alone watching…
Marlana arrives, sitting next to Renee…
MARLANA
What happened? You get tired of playing?
RENEE
(quietly)
I get nervous around new people.
MARLANA
You know, most people do. Some are just lucky, and
know how to hide it.
RENEE
I'm not that lucky.
MARLANA
Well, just remember, you've done things, and survived
things, that most kids couldn't. Maybe these kids have,
too. If they haven't yet, they will eventually. My point is,
it's a different world, now. Kids will be different, too.
There's too much going on in the world, to care about
someone who is a little different, or a little quiet, a little shy.
RENEE
I thought maybe I'd never feel my anxiety again, but then
those kids came over and started playing…it just felt like it
always did.
MARLANA
Give it time. You just might find yourself getting over it,
more quickly.
RENEE
Maybe.
MARLANA
I wanted to ask you something about your journal. I was
hoping you'd allow me to read it. If it's too personal, I
understand, but I'd really like to get to know you better, and
maybe be there for you, when you need to talk about things,
like your anxiety, or anything else.
RENEE
(standing)
It's at Pepsi's house. I can go get it.
MARLANA
I'll go with you. I promised your brother I'd keep an eye on you.
Marlana and Renee begin walking off, as the kids all run around, playing and laughing…
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. MOONSHINE STATION – DAY
DJ stopping in front of the moonshine station, and simply looking around, before entering…
There are just two different guys (Moon, 55, and Shine, 46) inside, working on the moonshine.
DJ
How's it going?
MOON
Hello, young fellow.
DJ
I'm DJ, one of the new people.
MOON
Well, hello DJ. I'm Moon, and this guy over here is Shine.
DJ staring at them both, with a silly smile…
DJ
You're messing with me, right?
Both men smiling, as they continue working, with DJ checking out their setup…
MOON
I almost wish we were. It was Grover's idea. He's been
calling us this for years, now. The people here seem to like
it. Gives them a feeling of simplicity…as they go forward,
and come to realize this is their new way of life…
DJ
(nodding)
Makes sense…
MOON
So, what can we do for you, today?
DJ
I'm just curious about what you guys have going on, here.
It's interesting how one day I'm heading for some kind of
miraculous compound, that can't possibly be as amazing
as I keep hearing, and the next day I find myself at a place
like this…pretty amazing in its own self.
SHINE
So, you haven't actually been to that compound, yet?
DJ
Not yet, but I know enough about the family who built
the place, to know they're not a threat, to this place.
MOON
We don't believe them to be. We're more concerned with
our own leadership, than we are theirs. At least until Grover
returns.
DJ
So, this Grover guy isn't half bad?
SHINE
Don't judge Grover, by what you witnessed out there. Don't
get me wrong, I fully agree with you and your people being
taken in, and questioned, but what happened out there, was
sick…
MOON
Grover is the true leader, here. Everything will be fine when
he returns.
Everyone silent a moment, as DJ continues to snoop around…
DJ
So, um, any of this stuff ready to be washed down?
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. DC – EVENING
DJ now sitting against the DC fence, next to Renee, who has Bailey in her lap. Cleo and Dakota are right there, on other side of fence. Marlana is close by, watching over all the children. Some of those children are kicking a ball around, while others are playing hide and go seek.
Pepsi is over at another part of the DC fence, sitting there talking with Zane…
ZANE
Sounds like fate to me…
PEPSI
What do you mean?
ZANE
You'd been waiting two years to enlist, and get yourself to
the most dangerous part of the world, but fate stepped
in, and not only prevented you from going, (with a smile)
but gave you a coke.
Pepsi making eye contact with him, and sharing a smile, before hers begins to fade…
PEPSI
Well, fate was not so kind to his father…
Zane's smile fades, as he stares back at her, while she forces a smile…
PEPSI
He did enlist, and you're right…it's pretty dangerous
over there…
She continues to force her smile, while nodding, as Zane shares an empathetic look with her…
ZANE
Oh my god. I'm so sorry…
Zane looking from her, over toward her son, as he locates Sam, hiding behind a tree…
PEPSI
No, I'm sorry. You've been crying since I met you.
You don't need to hear my sad story.
Zane a small smile…
ZANE
The world is full of them, now. But, yours began
before all of this.
They both share a smile, and then look toward the children…
PEPSI
Tell me more about you. Your family, that crazy father
of yours. He sounds very intriguing. Are you guys close?
ZANE
He's one of the greatest men, I know. If not for his
stubbornness, to take his damn meds every day, he'd
be even better. He's intriguing…and very complicated.
We're close, and I can't stand him…if that answers
your questions?
PEPSI
It answers them very well…and not at all.
Zane laughs as Pepsi throws him a mischievous smile…
Zane stares at her for a moment, with a smile, before finding something else to say…
ZANE
So, how'd you end up with your own cabin, here?
PEPSI
Well, most people without families are staying in the
old outdoor school facilities, while families share the
houses and cabins. I got my own because I use it as a
daycare. That's why Kaiden stays there, with me. She
helps with the kids.
ZANE
What about all the prisoners? There can't possibly be
enough homes here for all of them?
PEPSI
Most of them sleep in the old mess hall, and the
building next to it.
Zane staring over toward the mess hall, in deep thought…
ZANE
Hmm…
PEPSI
What?
ZANE
Seems fairly strategic. Do they do that on Swish's
command, or this Grover, guy?
PEPSI
That I couldn't tell you, but I do know it was Grover
who put me up in the cabin, and in charge of the kids.
ZANE
So, you know him?
PEPSI
Not before all this began, no, but at the other camp, yeah.
He was aware of how I took Chance, in, and approached
me on my way of contributing, here.
ZANE
Anything else about the guy, that you can tell me?
PEPSI
He's far from stupid; knows what he's doing…but if it's
the kind of guy, he is…(with a shake of head) I couldn't
tell you. At least not with any surety. And I'm a great
judge of character. Trust me, I tried.
ZANE
You seemed to figure me out, pretty quickly.
Pepsi smiling…
PEPSI
You were easy, easy to trust. (looking right at him) I'm
sure you can fib with the best of them, when ya need
to, but deep down, it's pretty clear what kind of person
you are.
ZANE
Yet you couldn't get that from him, huh?
PEPSI
Not deep down, no. Obviously his choice in leadership,
is lacking, but do feel confident telling you he's a much
better choice than what we're putting up with, here.
Zane staring off in thought…
ZANE
Unless he's just better at hiding it…
Pepsi staring at him, then developing a mischievous smile…
PEPSI
He did seem to enjoy looking at me.
Zane forming a smile…
ZANE
He did, did he?
PEPSI
So, you might want to stop looking at me that same
way. You don't want to make him jealous now, do ya?
Zane smiling…
ZANE
Just when I thought you knew how to read people.
Pepsi a sarcastic shocked face, and playful slap of his shoulder…
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. CABIN – NIGHT
Not much can be seen, until Eli tosses/turns, and eventually turns on a flashlight, aiming around the room at Renee, Sam, and then DJ's empty bed. Sam and Renee are also awake, and now looking at Eli.
SAM
I was so sleepy, a few minutes ago, but wide awake,
now.
ELI
You think DJ is in the living room? I bet he went for a
drink.
RENEE
They have alcohol, here?
ELI
(sarcastically)
These guys? I'm sure they do. I know Marlana is crashed.
We should sneak out, and go see what he's up to.
Sam already popping out of bed, as Eli does the same…
RENEE
Will we get in trouble?
ELI
I'm practically an adult, now. They won't mind.
SAM
Then what does it matter if Marlana is sleeping, or not?
Sam smiling at him.
RENEE
I meant the other people, here. Some of them are
scary. Even more scary than my dad.
Sam and Eli sharing a look…
SAM
We can stay, if you want, but I bet Zane is still awake.
We could go straight over there.
Renee pops straight up.
RENEE
I'm okay with that.
Eli and Sam share a small smile, as they all begin putting on shoes/more clothing…
DISSOLVE to them, creeping out of their room, through the dark living room. They could see some light from one of the other bedrooms, as they creep toward the door…
DISSOLVE to them, now closing the front door behind them, and creeping down off the porch. They begin walking forward, without using their flashlights…
They can hear a few drunken men and women. Some laughing in the distance. They can see guards over at the main gates, and a few random fire pits are burning, some of them with couples, others with a few different people, drinking and laughing…
Suddenly, a light shines on the kids, scaring them half to death! A man comes right at them.
MAN (Cody, 30ish)
Who goes there?!
Eli looks at Sam, who looks back at him. Renee stares downward. Eli finally becomes brave enough to speak.
ELI
We were just going to visit her brother.
CODY
I'm afraid I'll need to see your permission slip.
Cody just stares at them, very seriously, before cracking up and taking a swig of his booze.
CODY
I'm just giving you guys a hard time. (he shakes hands
with Eli) Hi, I'm Cody. Not everyone else here is as
friendly as I, so you guys get yourselves over to her
brother, before ya run into someone without a sense
of humor.
A woman now arrives, with a drunken smile at the kids, and walking off with Cody, toward a firepit.
They all look at each other…
SAM
I say we run.
They all begin walking with urgency, toward the DC…
Once they become closer, Sam shines her light, inside the DC, locating Zane, who becomes nervous once he realizes it's her…
DAKOTA
Samantha?
ZANE
You okay?! What's wrong?!
SAM
Nothing. We're fine. Just can't sleep, and wanted to
come visit.
Zane with a relieved look, as he, Dakota and Cleo all come to the fence, with smiles…
ZANE
You guys came over here alone? Where's (interrupted)
WOMAN
Pepsi?
The kids spooked, as they turn to look, as a light is shined on them. Eli shines his light back at it, where they can now all see Pepsi and Marlana, arriving.
SAM
Holy crap! Were you there the entire time?
PEPSI
Yeah, because you guys forgot your permission slip.
ELI
What the?!
SAM
You saw that guy?! And didn't save us?!
DAKOTA
Wait, what?!
ZANE
What guy?!
PEPSI
Geez, guys…don't get me in trouble!
SAM
He was fine, even nice. I think drunk. But Pepsi
just sat back and let him freak us the hell out!
Dakota a funny expression at Sam's language, as the others laugh a little…
PEPSI
I saw him long before you guys did, just like I saw you
sneaking out of the cabin. You guys can't pull the old
sneak out trick, on me. But, since you tried, yes, I let
Cody give ya a scare.
SAM
That's messed up!
ELI
Nice!
RENEE
That guy made my heart stop!
Sam laughing, as is Marlana, who arrives with a touch to both Sam and Renee, over the shoulder, as she comes over and turns on a lantern, while taking a seat on the ground, by the fence. Everyone else begins sitting, getting comfortable…
Zane throws an impressed smile at Pepsi, as she sits next to the fence, close to him…
ZANE
I obviously left my little cousin in very good care.
Pepsi giving him a big smile…
DISSOLVE to same area, as they're all laughing over something that had been just said, and as DJ is arriving, with a look of relief, as they all turn to see who it is…
DJ
Oh, thank god! I figured you guys must be over here,
but scared the chiz out of me to see your beds empty
and everyone gone.
SAM
Did you just say chiz?
RENEE
Yeah, he got it from ICarley. He watches it with me.
SAM
You watch ICarley? I love ICarley! Sam was my favorite
character!
Renee laughs, along with others.
ELI
Of course, she was.
Sam looking at Eli, surprised.
SAM
You watch it, too?!
ELI
(quick to answer)
No!
Cleo, Dakota, Pepsi and Marlana all laughing.
CLEO
(teasingly)
Eli watches a girly show. (laughing)
ELI
I've just seen it; I didn't watch it!
Everyone laughing. Zane takes notice of DJ holding a bottle…
ZANE
Whatcha got there, DJ? Wouldn't be some of that
moonshine, I've heard they're making here, is it?
DJ takes a swig from it.
DJ
(just a little buzzed)
And a pretty good job of it, they're doing.
Cleo and Dakota laughing, and becoming excited.
DAKOTA
Well, pass along a taste for us, eh?
CLEO
Yeah, I mean we know you saved our little Samantha
and all, but you better run back to where you got that
from, and get us a bottle.
Some laughs.
DJ
You serious? Because those guys Moon and Shine,
were cool as chiz. They'll hook you up.
All the adults looking strangely at each other…
PEPSI
Did you just say Moon, and Shine? (laughing)
CLEO
Yeah, cause I haven't even had a drink yet, but that's
what I just think I heard.
PEPSI
I knew about those guys but not that they go by Moon
and Shine. (laughing)
DJ
They said Grover came up with it.
ZANE
Really? (pondering that)
Eli eyeing DJ, who helps give a drink, through the fence, to both Cleo and Dakota, with some laughs…
ELI
I want to try.
Sam a quick look at Eli.
SAM
Whhhaat?
ELI
I had some at UPS.
ZANE
You know what, give him one. I think he deserves it.
DJ
I actually concur with that.
DJ hands the bottle to him.
DJ
Take one sip, maybe a few, (some laughs) and then
give it to Pepsi. I'm gonna go see if I can score us
some more.
DJ heading away.
ZANE
They even still there?
DJ
Yeah, they pretty much live right there, where
they make it.
DISSOLVE to same area, as everyone is in extreme laughter, as both Cleo (holding a bottle) and Dakota are hilariously dancing, with Sam who is on the other side of the fence, happily trying to follow their moves. Moon and Shine are also there (with bottles), and all the adults are drinking.
Marlana is laughing with Renee, and edging her way toward the dancers, but first speaking to Renee.
MARLANA
This is going to be hard for me, but I owe it to my
husband.
Renee watches Marlana approach the others, dancing. She gets next to Sam, and sure enough, begins shaking her stuff, to the delight of Sam, as well as both Cleo and Dakota, who cheer and dance.
CLEO
Woohoo! That a girl!
Sam is cracking up, and doing her best to keep up with Marlana, who looks to the sky, with joy in her face.
MARLANA
This is for you, Noah. I miss you baby.
Sympathetic looks from the other dancers, but mostly smiles and laughter as they continue to dance with her…
MARLANA
(now looking at the others)
He loved to watch me do this…
Everyone else watching, laughing, and drinking…
DISSOLVE to same area, a little while later as they're settled down, all huddled up close (some of them with blankets), deep in conversation. Moon and Shine are still present.
DAKOTA
There isn't a more amazing person on the planet.
Marlana yawns, then smiles as Renee does the same.
SAM
There really isn't.
Eli stretches his arms.
ZANE
He's just a little bit of everything. I mean people know
him for his creative chain of hotels, the SSH, his money,
and even his love and devotion to his family, but his
spiritual side, and the way he believes in god…
sometimes feels to me, like the most amazing thing
about him.
Everyone dead silent, paying attention to Zane…
SAM
Tell them about where he believes god came from.
ZANE
Yeah…I used to love falling asleep to his thoughts on God,
and where life came from. At first only because I didn't
understand it, and it put me right to sleep…but as the
years went by, it began having the opposite effect. Even
once I did get sleepy, I'd be (motioning his head as if
drifting/waking) doing what I could, not to drift, and keep
learning from his imagination.
PEPSI
I like how you say learning.
ZANE
It was his own thoughts and opinions, but it felt like
knowledge, and to this day I fully believe in everything,
I'd lay there listening to him, go on and on about.
MARLANA
And he just loved it, didn't he? Even though he must
have realized it was taking longer and longer to get you
to sleep, this way.
Both Zane and Dakota nodding.
DAKOTA
He did! He could never get tired and never run out of
thoughts and/or theories, of not only life, but what it
all means, and what we're supposed to do with it.
Moon looking at Shine.
MOON
And I thought Grover was interesting.
Zane a look at Moon.
PEPSI
So, tell us what it is, he believes…what it is, you
believe. Got us all curious, now.
ZANE
Well, first off, he always says to just know one thing,
with certainty, and have an open mind about
everything else. That one thing, was the love of your
children and family, and compassion for your fellow
man. He said to have that, to feel it…that was all the
proof you needed, of a higher power, regardless of
what that higher power was. Science could have its
hands on everything else, but those two things have
nothing to do with science.
Moon nodding his head.
MARLANA
That makes a lot of sense.
MOON
I like it.
ELI
It's making me think Indians, again.
Sam is the only one laughing, as everyone else questionably looks at Eli…
SAM
You had to be there. (looking at Zane) Tell them about
when there was nothing but blackness, and how crazy
it made, God.
A chuckle, or two…
ZANE
He believes that's all there was, in the very beginning.
And by believes, I mean it's his best guess. Like I said
before, he is open minded to every other possible
theory, out there. This is just his go-to theory.
Few more chuckles…
SAM
It made God, insane.
Everyone looking at Sam.
PEPSI
I take it, Grandpa put you to bed once or twice, to
these "theories", did he not?
Few laughs, as Sam simply nods head, excited herself, to hear more, as she looks to Zane…
ZANE
(shrugging)
It makes sense to me. With nothing but dark blackness,
and no stars or planets, not even a god, yet…
ELI
Is it just me, or does he sound like he's reading Twas
the night before Christmas?
Few laughs.
ZANE
Okay, no more moon shine for the kid.
More laughs…
CLEO
I disagree. He's pretty funny; give him more!
Laughs.
ELI
Yeah, what she said!
More laughs, especially from Sam and Renee…
PEPSI
Okay, okay, either give him some, or not, and let
Zane go on. I want to hear this.
Zane an appreciative/flirtatious look at Pepsi.
ZANE
Thank you. As I was saying… Even God, himself, is yet
to be born. No color, no sound, nothing…even worse
than the deepest, darkest room of solitary, where
they send the worst of the worst… And what happens
when they do that?
Everyone just looking at him, until someone answers…
ELI
You go insane…
Zane nodding.
ZANE
Exactly… And that's the drive, that gave birth to God.
Insanity, boredom…from all the nothingness…
Everyone's attention on Zane, waiting for more…
ZANE
Something, just happened… A mind, was created. Kind
of like they say Darth Vader was so powerful, that his
power alone, conceived him.
ELI
Is this where you tell us the force is real?
Cleo, Dakota and everyone else laughing…
ZANE
I was waiting for that.
CLEO
Seriously, someone give the kid another drink.
ELI
That's okay, I'll use the force to get myself one.
Few more laughs, before everyone quickly looks to Zane, to go on…
ZANE
So…out of this insanity, came the ability to think,
and from there, the ability to create. Now, whether
this "mind" went on to create more minds, before
the stars, moons, suns, planets, and people like
ourselves, well even Grandpa left certain things to
ponder, for a later day.
PEPSI
That it?
ZANE
For the short version, yeah. I mean, he could go on
and on about any questions or theories of your own,
but that is how he believes it all began.
SAM
And that this life we live, is a test. A test to prove
what kind of souls we have.
ZANE
That's why God himself, can't console us the way
we wish, at times, that he could, and by he, I mean
he, she, or it.
DAKOTA
Or both, he and a she. Grandpa always said he was
very open to the idea of a couple. Maybe the male
version, being the "devil", we like to also believe in.
Who are kids more afraid of, when they get in
trouble? Mom? Or Dad?
POV traveling past everyone, taking in what's being said…
ZANE
He was also open to the idea of God, being very lonely,
hence the creation of us. Perhaps those of us who
"pass" this test, of life, go onto something bigger,
something where we can be consoled, by his, her, or it's
love… If we've earned it…
Zane quiet a moment, just looking back at everyone…
ZANE
And God, needs our love, too. God feels pain, loneliness,
disappointment, lust, excitement, all of it. We couldn't
have been given all these emotions/feelings, from
something that didn't know a thing or two about them,
him/her/itself…
Zane again quiet, as is everyone else, just pondering his words…
ZANE
Perhaps God is simply down here, walking around with us all,
trying to survive, before all of this happened, of course!
CLEO
Yeah, I think he would have checked out long before
this all happened!
Few laughs…
ELI
Which probably caused it to happen.
ZANE
Grandpa would say no, to that. He'd tell you that if
God was one of us, he's always been one of us, living,
paying his or her bills, dying, and then rediscovering
his or her own identity, as the creator of it all.
MARLANA
Interesting.
ELI
So, you're saying…I could be God? And not even
know it?
ZANE
I'm saying…he'd be saying…even God would have to
live with the same kind of faith, that we all do…
DAKOTA
Faith of better things to come…
Pepsi looks impressed, nodding her head.
PEPSI
Wow… I really can't wait to meet him…
ELI
Who? God?
PEPSI
(a little laugh)
No, grandpa! But yeah, God, too!
Bunch of laughs…
MARLANA
Maybe Grandpa, is God! Now I really can't wait to
meet him.
ZANE
When I was a kid, I used to believe that maybe he was…
SAM
Me too.
Eli looking at Sam, with a funny expression…
ELI
When you were a kid?
Everyone laughing, as scene dissolves…
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. GLENWOOD CAMP – MORNING
A thunderous sound begins echoing throughout the camp. Prisoners, loggers and others, all rushing out to see what it is. Eli, Samantha, Renee come rushing out of the cabin, watching in horror, as something begins banging against the wall, almost like a wrecking ball, or a monster!
It's a giant Axe, and on the other side of it, and now climbing through the hole he axed, is Colonel Ballard!
Cut to Eli, waking in bed, and then closing his eyes with annoyance.
ELI
God, I hate that guy…
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. DC YURT – MORNING
Zane, Cleo and Dakota are in sleeping bags, crashed out asleep, inside the yurt. The sound of someone approaching is heard…
SWISH
(off-screen)
Rise and shine, my late-night moon shiners.
No time for hangovers.
DISSOLVE to Zane, Cleo and Dakota all in coats, taking a seat with Swish, at the table in the DC…
SWISH
Good time, last night? How was the shine?
CLEO
Not bad, but not so good that it made me ever
think for a moment, that you might actually know
what you're doing, with all this power of yours.
SWISH
You know…you people keep acting like it's me,
who has something to prove, here.
ZANE
I offered you, yesterday, a way of proving myself.
It's your move.
SWISH
And I'm here to make it… You've got your chance, the
girls, too. But, your niece, cousin, or whatever she is,
will be here. I not only expect you all to return, but
bring me the kind of news that makes me feel like I'm
making a good decision, right now…
ZANE
How many men do we get?
SWISH
A half dozen of my best, and most trusted, will go with
you. Another half dozen, will go with the ladies.
Zane looks at Cleo and Dakota.
ZANE
It's been a day and a half. Drive for about twenty minutes,
and then find a big hill to climb and scout the highway for
that herd. Don't let them hear you coming.
DAKOTA
Got it.
SWISH
(smiling)
I'm feeling confident, already…
Zane turning back to Swish…
ZANE
I have a request… I want to lead this mission. I can't
be at my best, while taking orders from an amateur.
Swish just staring at him, with that smile of his…
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. PEPSI'S CABIN – MORNING
Close-up of Sam, in bed asleep. She wakes her eyes, instantly they go wide!
SAM
ZANE! You're out!
DJ, Eli and Renee, all waking with wide eyes, then relief, while watching Sam hug Zane. Renee flinches again, as the door opens, with Dakota and Cleo entering. They also receive hugs, from Sam…
SAM
What happened? How'd you all get out?
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. FRONT ROOM – MORNING
Everyone now dressed and sitting around, with Pepsi, Marlana, Coke and Chance, also there.
ZANE
(looking/speaking to Sam)
You have to be ready to go, as soon as Dakota gives
you the word, (looking at all the kids) all of you do. I
might not be back.
SAM
(worried)
Why? We should all go together!
Eli nodding his head…
ZANE
He's not going to let us go. You guys have to sneak out
of here, the very first chance you get. I'm not taking any
chances with that guy. I want you as far from him as
possible. I want you in your mothers arms.
SAM
What happens to you, after we leave?!
Dakota a look at Zane, along with all the other adults…
ZANE
Sam, I will be fine. Once you're safe, and telling my crazy
ass dad where I am, this crazy guy here is going to have
his hands full. We'll have an army at these walls, and I'll
be coming home with them.
Sam nervous, almost teary eyed…
Cleo providing Sam with a reassuring shake…
ZANE
(speaking to Pepsi)
Can I speak to you, outside, for a minute?
PEPSI
Yes, because I actually wanted to talk to you, for a minute.
Pepsi rising and following Zane for the door. Marlana begins to rise.
MARLANA
So, how about some breakfast?
ELI
I'm starving.
Coke and Chance expressing excitement, over breakfast, as Pepsi follows Zane outside, and closing the door. She smiles at him…
PEPSI
Should I be worried?
ZANE
No, I know what I'm doing. What's on your mind,
that you wanted to tell me?
Pepsi taking a breath…
PEPSI
I know you want me and the kids to go with them,
but Zane, there are not only good people here,
there are good kids. Those kids depend on me.
Zane staring at her, with admiration…
ZANE
That's what I want to talk to you, about… I've trusted
you from the start, and you've been great with Samantha,
and the other kids. I have something else, something
important, that I want to trust you with…
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. GLENWOOD CAMP MAIN GATE – DAY
Zane is gathered with his group, containing of Stix (with a radio), Gary, and four other prisoners (Kemp, Lester, Rod, and Shade, all 30-45). Cleo and Dakota are gathered with their group, containing of Damon, Divit, Conner (with a radio), and three others. Swish is also there, handing guns to Cleo and Dakota, with a look at Zane.
SWISH
Don't make me regret this…
Swish goes on to hand a gun to Zane, and then just stares at him a moment…
SWISH
Oh (reaching for something), you'll probably need these.
Swish handing him a box of ammo, with a look from Zane…
ZANE
You'll trust me more, once we return.
SWISH
We'll see… I thought long and hard, over your request…
ZANE
And?
SWISH
Denied. Stix has command, but will follow your lead.
He'll only take over, if he feels he needs to. But, make
no mistake, you take orders from him, not the other
way around.
ZANE
Hope he knows what he's doing…
SWISH
I hope you know what you're doing. You screw me,
and you're screwing Grover. (shaking head) Not a wise
thing to do…
DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK
EXT. PRISON – NIGHT
POV behind Grover and Swish, who walk toward the prison. Grover's arm is around Swish, who is obviously beaten up…
GROVER
It was simply a show of power, and a small price to ask,
for what I'm providing. What's happening out there, is
not just the beginning of a new world, but something
that you have to see, to even begin to believe…
Two of Grover's men come around the corner, up in front of them. They are holding/securing a prison guard, as they bring him toward Grover. Other men are in parking lot, loading up their trucks, with supplies…
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. PRISON AREA (same area where Grover gave motivational speech) – NIGHT
POV slowly goes over the curious expressions of tons of prisoners, all watching, and waiting…
Suddenly, their eyes begin to go wide, as the sound of a huff (coming to life) can be heard. Their expressions are wild, with shocked disbelief.
GW
What the hell am I seeing?!
RANDOM PRISONER
But…is he dead, or…
POV Gary…
GARY
This can't be real.
POV comes to Stix, just staring, in disbelief…
Swish is standing back behind most of the others. He's perking up, a bit, as he watches in awe, before looking back toward the trucks, where Grover and his men continue to load them up…
SWISH
(speaking over to Grover)
I think we're seeing, what you wanted us to see.
The dark image of Grover, approaching the prisoners…
As he arrives, just before his face can be seen, the POV begins traveling over all the prisoners, who curiously look from Grover, to the huff (handcuffed to bar), and back to Grover, as he begins speaking…
GROVER
(off-screen)
Swish has filled you guys in on what you need to know.
What I need to know, is how much you respect, what
I'm doing for all of you? You see why things are going
down, the way they are. Because of me, you all have a
shot at being a part of the new world. Because of that,
I'm asking for your absolute allegiance. (men begin
nodding) We survive this, TOGETHER! (some mild
cheering) WE BUILD THE NEW WORLD, TOGETHER!
(louder cheering) IF ANYONE TRIES TO STOP US, WE
DEFEND OURSELVES, TOGETHER! (cheering getting
even louder) BECAUSE WE'VE GOT MAN POWER!
(more cheering as scene begins to dissolve) WE HAVE
LEADERS! (cheering)
DISSOLVE TO: REAL TIME
EXT. HIGHWAY – DAY
A truck goes slowly driving up the highway, with Divit and Conner in the back. A second truck, follows behind them. Inside, is a guy (GENO, 35ish) driving, with Damon on passenger side. Both Cleo and Dakota stand in the back, keeping an eye, out.
DAKOTA
That guy Damon, is creepy.
CLEO
Nah, he's harmless…and if you're right, he'll take one
in the head, if he lays a hand on you.
DAKOTA
Just remember, Sam is back there, on her own.
CLEO
Remind me of that, if his hand goes anywhere near you…
POV from above both trucks, as they begin to pull off to the side of the road, next to a large hillside…
Cleo and Dakota hop down off the truck, as do the men in the other truck, with the others climbing out. Divit grabs a pair of binoculars. They all look over and up the hillside…
DIVIT
Should be a good view of the road, from up top. If we're
anywhere close to them, we'll see them on the other side.
Cleo and Dakota a look at one another, back upward, and then begin climbing. Damon watches Cleo, with a smile, and follows, as do all the others…
Dissolve to all of them, over halfway up the hill…
DAMON
So, tell me more about this compound.
CLEO
You'd love it. We actually have jail cells there.
Dakota fights back a laugh, as does Divit.
DAMON
What the hell you mean by that?
Dakota giving Cleo a look, with one from Conner, as well…
DAKOTA
She can't help it. It's her witty mouth that I fell in
love with, and want to slap the shit out of, at times.
DAMON
Let me know next time, and I'll slap it for you.
CONNER
Relax, bro. It's all good…
Dakota looking from the dirty expression on Damon's face, to Cleo…
They all walk in silence…
A noise scares and makes them all freeze, as a deer skips through the woods, and down the hill. They all put down their guns, and continue on, in silence…
They begin reaching the top, with a clearing below. They all move forward, and stare downward.
Their POV of the highway, mostly clear. There is a random huff, here and there, but no more…
They all look to one another, and in silence, they turn and go back the way they came…
Dissolve to all of them reaching the bottom, and climbing back in/on the trucks…
Dissolve to all of them driving the highway. Cleo and Dakota again in the back, keeping their eyes open…
Dissolve to Divit knocking on top of the truck, as it pulls off the road, next to another hilltop, and they all begin climbing out. They stretch, and begin climbing…
Dissolve to them all hiking the hill, in silence. Damon stares at Cleo, in silence… Conner takes notice of it, in silence…
Dissolve to Divit reaching the top, as the others follow behind him. They come to a clearing, and stare down below, in silence, as some of them turn to stare at one another…
Dakota turns to look at Cleo, who is still staring downward…
CLEO
Shhhiit…
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. HIGHWAY – DAY
A truck drives down the highway. Gary is driving, with Rod and Shade, standing in the back, keeping an eye out…
A second truck is behind them, Stix and Zane stand in the back, also keeping an eye out. They watch as the truck passes a couple of huffs, who had been on the ground eating an animal…
They continue driving down the road. Eventually the first truck slows, and begins swerving over the road, to dodge a small group of huffs. Zane and Stix aim their guns, but decide not to fire, as the truck works its way around them, and over the top of one of them, as Zane and Stix brace for the bump…
They continue going down the road. There is a swampy area, where several huffs are stuck…
A dog comes out of the brush, running toward the trucks, until giving up…
Zane and Stix share a look, and then back to the road.
Dissolve to the trucks now on a different stretch of road. Zane's truck is now in front, as he bangs on the roof. The drivers turn off the road, onto a dirt road. They begin passing some farms, and fields. They begin climbing in elevation, until they come to a dead end, and stop.
They all jump/climb out…
GARY
Boy, you better not be walking us into a trap.
Zane rolling his eyes, as he pulls out a pair of binoculars, from the truck.
ZANE
You are just as paranoid as your boyfriend.
STIX
How far from here, do we go on foot?
ZANE
It's not far. Anyone at least halfway in shape,
shouldn't even break a sweat.
GARY
Is that a crack, at me?
Gary looking downward, at his pot belly.
ZANE
If you break a sweat, you'll have your answer.
Zane not sure, but thinks he noticed a small smile from Stix…
DISSOLVE to them all walking, through the brushy area, and somewhat of a trail…
STIX
How do you even know about this place?
ZANE
I had a friend who lived on one of those farms. This
was their childhood "hangout" spot. Forts, ghost
stories and all that fun stuff.
GARY
And you're sure we can get a good look at Beaverton,
from there? (wiping some sweat)
ZANE
As sure as I am, you've broken that sweat.
GARY
Keep talking, wise guy.
ZANE
So, tell me more about Grover. Why all the hype?
GARY
He showed up when everyone else was leaving. Leaving
us to rot in those cells. He gave us hope, resources, and
promises. Unlike the people who had done that to us,
our entire lives…he made good on them. You've seen
that place. Compound or not, it's a place of bliss,
compared to how we were living, in the old world…
ZANE
(nodding)
That's fair… What about his other camp? What do
you know about that?
GARY
Why all the questions?
ZANE
I need to know everything I can, so that when I make
it back to my people, we can destroy you all.
Zane a sarcastic roll of the eyes, toward Gary…
GARY
My son is only a little younger that you, and just as
sarcastic. It's what got him killed.
ZANE
And you're telling me this, because?
GARY
If I'd do my own son like that, how would I do you? I put
up with his shit, for years, until I didn't.
ZANE
Well, guess I got some time to play with, then…
They all freeze, as off in the far distance, what sounds like an explosion is heard…
Zane begins running ahead, as they all follow…
He comes to a clearing, but nothing can be seen. They all look, and listen…it sounds like possible gunfire…
Zane again begins running, further along the semi trail, with everyone following. He finally comes to another clearing. They all come to a slow, and stare outward, with the sound of a ton of gunfire, in the far distance…
ZANE
(pulling binoculars up to his face)
What the fu…
BLACK
CREDITS
THE END