Lacuna Coil Down Fall
Life goes on and I bury another day
(I feel so empty now)
As grief and rage and fear rise up at once
(Alone in the maze where I'm lost)
Keep holding my hand
I promise I won't shed a tear
(Look at me)
But please never let me go
I don't know what else to do
(It's hurting so much inside)
Labs
1315
Dr Wu leaned against his desk considering what he needed to complete first, there were many variables to consider such as making sure no video evidence was left behind, he secured the codes and then get everything in order for his departure. He also had to get the research notes backed up and sent to his employer, then collect the lab samples, not the regular DNA samples, but all of the hybrid DNA samples they had been working on, then he needed to get off this island, but first, first there were a few loose ends to tie up.
Gyrosphere Valley
1330
Zara found Zach and Gray with ease, she sighed in relief and drove the Mercedes SUV over to the Gyroshpere where Zach and Gray were standing, slamming on the breaks she jumped out of the truck and hurried over to them, trying to contain her anxiety, worry and concern. The Indominus was loose and she needed to get them out of there and back to the Command Center.
Zach (noticing the worried look on Zara's face): What's going on? We got some type of alert and it said something about a Code 19. What does that mean?
Gray (hearing a heavy booming sound coming from behind him): Yeah what's a Code 19, Zara?
Zara (they were both understandably nervous, thankfully unharmed and she had to get them out of there): A Code 19 is a park wide alert and because of the alert your Aunt wants us to return to the Command Center (hearing a very loud and deafening roar) and we need to move now (another roar sounded closer as heavy footsteps boomed across the valley.)
Zach (that roar sounded awfully close): Right (something was wrong he could tell and Zara wasn't telling him something; turning at the sound of booming footsteps coming closer and another roar, all around him animals started running down the hill, what was going on and what was a Code 19. He could hear booming footsteps, trees snapping and all around animals were fleeing in all directions. He had a bad feeling all of a sudden and wanted to get out of there.)
Gray (nervously): What is it? What's going on? (Adults never really told him anything, he wanted to know what was a Code 19, turning he looked at his brother who looked worried.)
Zara (firmly): Both of you backseat now, please (swallowing) and put your belts on, don't turn around (pushing them in the truck) we have to leave now (jumping in the driver seat she placed her hand on the gear shift) you're both buckled in (a collective nod) hang on (those words barely left her mouth as the roaring and booming got closer, shaking the truck, glancing in the rear view mirror she saw the Indominus tear out of the jungle vegetation, blood dripping from its massive jaws) bloody fucking shit (slamming on the gas, and pulling away. In the rear view mirror the Gyrosphere ball that Zach and Gray had been in moments ago, was crushed as the Indominus moved forward at a face pace, its steps crushing the Gyrosphere into bits and pieces; she pressed the gas harder trying to get away from the Indominus as it noticed the vehicle and let out another deafening roar.)
Gray (wide eyed): What is that? That's no dinosaur…
Zach (watching Zara for a moment): That wasn't on the website or in the brochure….
Zara (biting her lip): No, it's a (trying to keep as much distance between the Indominus and the truck) it's not a dinosaur but a genetic hybrid its base DNA is that of T Rex (glancing in the rear view mirror) and that's what caused the Code 19 alert. (Glancing in the rear view mirror in shock) shit (the Indominus Rex was gaining ground, she had to think of something to get them away from the Indominus, going over the park map in her head, then it dawned on her) hold onto something (aiming for the wooden fence that would lead to the old park, but first they had to get down the hill of course) good thing this is four wheel drive, reinforced and here goes nothing….
Zach (turning around): Drive faster it's getting closer…
Zara (biting her lip): Hang on (pressing the gas harder and slamming through the wooden slats as if they were paper; the Indominus not foregoing its chase, aiming the vehicle to the left, she crested the hill and pushed down on the gas harder, getting over the small hill with a bang from the undercarriage, the Indominus Rex gaining on them, trees, vegetation whipping by, Zara doing whatever she can to avoid hitting those trees, if they could just get away from the Indominus, get them down the dam hill, clutching the steering wheel tighter as she clipped the right side of the truck, hearing the groans of protest from the undercarriage.)
The expanse of trees and vegetation spanned for miles, sunlight filtered through and if it was any other day it would have been picturesque; right now Zara had more important things on her mind like trying to get away from the Indominus Rex as she felt the heavy booming foot steps even though the truck, she could hear the snapping of trees like match sticks and the deafening roar echoing loudly behind her. Zara winced as she zoomed past trees and brush, trying to avoid slamming into said trees. Biting her lip she barely missed a tree and side swiped a patch of brush the scraping sound echoing loudly. Zara barely missing another tree and then the truck was airborne for a minute before landing heavily in brush and scrub, a bang as the truck slammed into the tree, Zara making sure only the left front of the vehicle hit the tree, the truck groaning and coming to a rest at the bottom of the hill. She felt dizzy and a little nauseous and tried to get her bearings. For now the Indominus had given up but for how long.
Command Center
1345
Claire stood there, her hand covering her mouth, shock, anger, fear rose up inside her and slammed into her stomach. The entire situation fell on her shoulders like a freight train slamming into her. The gravity of the situation nearly dragging her down until someone touched her arm. Looking up Alex stood beside her, hand on her arm, watery blue eyes peering at her, concern, fear closing her eyes for a moment, she was fully in charge of the situation and she couldn't, wouldn't let people down.
Alex (swallowing hard): Claire take a breath, in through your mouth out through your nose (she had said those exact words not too long ago) breath Claire. What are your orders Claire (trying to convey to Claire that she was in charge of everything now?)
Claire glanced at the monitors, first the eerie silence then it things focused in and the sounds of monitors and alerts, radio static echoed loudly in the room, they had lost seven ACU team members to the Indominus Rex, Mr Masrani was dead and Pterosaurs were headed straight for Central Plaza. There was no word from Zara, no word from Zach or Gray, the room swam in and out of view for a moment, Claire gripped the chair harder to keep from dropping as her knees buckled under all the pressure thrust upon here. They needed to evacuate the park, they needed to get people out of harm's way or have people shelter in place. Medical needed to be notified, Masrani Global needed to be notified.
Vivian (slamming her hand down in frustration): Claire, I got the video feed on the Gyrosphere ball, the one Zach and Gray were in…
Claire (trying to focus on her words): What happened?
Vivian (showing her the feed): This is before the Indominus crushed the dammed thing (the feed showed Zach and Gray jumping out the ball, the Indominus' roaring could be heard in the background; her heart sped up until she noticed a white SUV to the side and then nothing.) I think Zara was able to pick them up and get them out of there. I can't get an angle no matter what I tried. But from the last feed I was able to discern a partial ID and it looks like it was Zara.
Claire (rubbing her face): Anything on her badge or the vehicle?
Vivian shaking her head): Nothing on her badge and nothing from the chip in the truck just the partial ID and with comms being iffy at best, (noticing the worry etched in Claire's face) I'll keep trying to get a hold of her or locate.
Claire (taking a moment): All right listen up we have to place an Evac order Phase One real world (squaring her shoulders) call the ferries and let them know, medical priority one on all channels, security secondary. We still have people out in the valley, keep your lines open if possible, if something does come through get help quickly, keep the chatter down.
Sasha (leaning back): Med is on standby, they're setting triage up in the lobby of Hilton One and Hilton Two (listening.) Ferries are coming back around, sending out distress signal two to any nearby vessel.
Renee (tapping her ear piece): Parks, Security and remaining ACU are standing by for orders, I can't get in touch with Captain Blane to call them back from training.
Franklin (nervously): No, no, no (wincing) can't get any choppers in to land with the Pterosaurs and the Indominus on the loose to risky. Its water evac or nothing.
Claire (looking around, making a quick decision): Alex (glancing at the IT Manager) call any resource you can to get help in evacuating this island. Call up the US and Royal Navy, I know they have a ship or two nearby. (Pausing) Vivian pull up the emergency channels see if anyone's listening (grabbing her headset) this is a Phase 1 Real World evacuation, anyone who can not evacuate please shelter in place, I repeat Phase 1 Real World Evacuation, if you can not evacuate shelter in place (watching the monitors as the Pterosaurs flew closer and closer to Central Plaza, they were running out of time. There were 28000 visitors alone in the park today, they needed to be evacuated. Thankfully the north end of the park and the valley were evacuated prior to. But with everyone converging into Central Plaza they needed to do something and fast.
East End of the Park
1410
Zara (shaking her head, everything hurt she realized, getting her bearings she took in her surroundings, smoke was coming from the engine which was crumpled in as if it were a paper ball, the dashboard had been pushed back, wincing; her voice hoarse from the smoke from the engine): Zach, Gray (trying to turn and feeling a burning stabbing pain in her ribs, that wasn't good and add that to the headache and nausea she felt, she had managed to escape the Indominus that was good) Zach, Gray we need to...
Zach (leaning forward): We're okay, we got away from the Indominus. That was pretty cool what you did, driving down that embankment like that. (Watching Zara he noticed the strain on her face) what's wrong?
Zara (knowing what she had done, it was either go over the side of the road and head downhill through trees and vegetation or worst): Not my best idea (biting her lip) Gray is he…
Gray (stiffly): I'm alright, hit my head and you need to work on your landing. But we're safe we can get out of here.
Zara (tensing trying to get herself loose): I'm stuck, the dashboard and steering wheel are pushed in. (Firmly) listen the old welcome center is just beyond that gate (removing her badge from her jacket) here so you won't have to climb that fence. Get in there, find a room and barricade yourselves in, because I don't know where that thing is and see if you can get help. The emergency code number is 4731 that should get you a direct line to the Command Center.
Zach (shaking his head): No, no we're not leaving you…
Zara (knowing he was scared): You have to, that thing could come back any minute and you need to get out of here.
Gray (looking at her): No, there's got to be something we can do…
Zach (turning around in the seat; he remembered reading something about all the vehicles in the park having emergency supplies): Hey there's a whole mess of stuff here, Gray give me a hand with this (pulling out an emergency kit) if we can find something to pull you out (freezing as he heard a terrible roar. The Indominus was returning) that doesn't good.
Zara (wincing): No (trying to make him understand) Zach, you and Gray get out of here, get to the welcome center and call for help (they couldn't stay here. If it came down them or herself it would be her. She had to make them understand that they had to leave and forget about her.)
Gray (helping his brother dig through the boxes in the back; he found a flare gun, a first aid kit and a coil of rope): Yes, jackpot.
Zach (triumphantly): I remember seeing someone do this in a movie once (shoving the door open) we tie this around the tree and we can pull you out (hearing another roar.)
Zara (closing her eyes; they were being so brave): No, honey no, you and Gray get out of here, get to shelter and try to contact your aunt, please. Listen to me that thing out there it's too dangerous, leave me (firmly.)
Gray (finding a tree): If we loop this around the tree and use it as leverage…
Zara (biting her lip): Listen to me please...
Zach (firmly): We're not leaving you here, (helping Gray then bringing the rope to Zara) grab the end of the rope (she hesitated) I'm not going to be the one to tell my Aunt Claire we left you here. No way (smiling when she took the rope.)
Zara (Claire would be so proud of them): You two are really brave wait until I tell her what you did.
Zach (firmly): Hang on (tugging on the rope with every ounce of strength he had, Gray tugging alongside of him, he heard a yelp and a muffled scream and looked to see Zara leaning heavily against the door.) It worked (he noticed Zara's eyes were closed and she was leaning forward, breathing heavily, her hand to her forehead. Pulling open the door) come on I think we need to leave (she gave him a look) come on.
Zara (clutching her left side, sharp stabbing pain radiated through her ribs; she pulled her hand away and noticed blood): I've been trying to tell you that for the past ten minutes (limping towards the gate) thank you for not listening (hearing the Indominus roar other animals around her scampering through the brush) and now let's get out of here.
Zach (moving to her right side): Here lean on me (seeing her eyes widen) it's okay, we have to move.
Zara (wrapping her arm around his shoulder): Gray come on (feeling him take her hand and squeeze) it's going to be okay, we're going to get out of here (thinking) and off this island.
Zach (helping her, she wasn't that heavy): Once we get a hold of Aunt Claire, right (Zara nodded.)
Gray (listening): I don't hear that (pausing) what did you call it? I don't hear it now (was it waiting for them somewhere, was it watching them, he didn't like being out here and couldn't wait to get inside even if the old welcome center was run down it was better than being out here.)
Zara (looking around): Indominus Rex and let's hope it stays that way, away from us. (Using her badge to open the gate, noticing fresh tire tracks; something was seriously wrong if the Indominus had gotten out of its paddock. And what were all these tire tracks from, she also noticed boot tracks, what was going in the park at this very moment. Pushing those thoughts aside she had to keep her focus on keeping Zach and Gray safe and keep herself together for them. She couldn't help but consider everything going on around and what it meant for the park. And what about Claire? Where was she? Was she okay? They really needed to get back to the Command Center and fast.)
Little did she know that the park was collapsing, people's lives were in danger, and it was about to get worst, a whole lot worse.
Command Center
1430
Claire (listening): Evacuation order is in place, I need to get people off this island (frustrated) then I suggest you do your dam job and figure out something (grumbling) I understand that but this is an emergency (pausing) then you do that or find someone who can and help me evacuate this island (slamming the phone down as her own phone rang, grabbing it, sighing in relief) Zara…
Welcome Center
1445
Zara (Claire was very faint due to the signal quality as it was): I have Zach and Gray with me, we're up at the old welcome center (listening static) Claire (the line went dead.) Shit (she tried sending a text with no luck) well that's not good (sighing) we're on our own great just bloody great.
Gray (excitedly): You have to come and see this…
Zara (wincing as she stood up): What did you find (hoping that it wasn't more trouble and maybe oh a working comm line where she could get in touch with Claire, anybody and get help.)
Gray (motioning): Here in here (walking to the large metal door. Inside the doors was a small maintenance garage and there were two jeeps side by side they didn't look to be in bad shape but would they start, if one of them did then they could get out of here.)
Zach (looking up): 1992 Jeep Sahara, can't get it started, won't turn over at all.
Zara (thinking): Okay pop the bonnet (correcting herself) the hood, I mean. (Pushing herself and ignoring the pain and nausea) probably the battery (looking over the engine with her phone light) well a vehicle needs fuel and power so (there had to be something still laying around that would help.) Let's see what we have to work with.
Gray (hauling over a fuel can): It's half full…
Zach (looking outside): Found our battery (pointing to an ATV outside.)
Zara (stiffening): Stay here, let me go and take a look (walking cautiously, listening to her surroundings, the vehicle had been over turned, she could see the claw marks and a trail of blood, closing her eyes for a moment she approached the vehicle which rested on its side, thankfully no one was in it, now to get the battery out of it.)
Labs
1500
Dr Wu (pointing): Be very careful with those tubes, they contain valuable research material.
Hoskins (opening the reinforced case): I've held IED's before this is nothing compared to that.
Dr Wu (angrily): That is not nothing, what you're holding in your hand are the makings of something that is going to make you and I both very rich. So if I tell you to hold it steady then you hold it steady (loudly.)
Hoskins (grumbling): Yeah, yeah I hear you (wanting to hurry up and finish so he could get out of there.)
Command Center
1515
Alex (switching screens and typing in commands): West end of the park is evacuated as well, Indominus is making its way south, Pterosaurs (worry) Claire (yelling) shit, shit, Claire (a large black that at first looked like a storm cloud but upon closer inspection were actually Pterosaurs and they were headed due south right into the densely packed Central Plaza.)
Claire (pulling up the cameras): Dammit (pausing) have all businesses on Main St locked down and if they can get people inside safely, do so. Otherwise have them evacuate to the Innovation center or one the hotel's lobbies (pressing her hand to her mouth as the scene unfolded.)
Lowery (swallowing): They're headed right this way, we can't get them all inside or out of the way in time (watching the monitors.)
Claire (motioning): The shock tag in their implants should...
Vivian (pulling up another screen): Claire, none of the shock tags are working, they went right past the last fence (saying a silent prayer.)
Claire (setting down her headset): Shit, (no word from Zara, the park was coming down around them, Pterosaurs were heading straight for Central Plaza and she couldn't just sit here) dammit (she thought of protocols, emergency gear and then remembered the small room just off the elevators.) Keep me informed and if anyone wishes to leave then go, there's nothing more any of us can do (turning on her heel, not looking behind her.)
Owen (skidding to a stop): Wait, what are you doing?
Claire (moving past him): I'm going out there (frustrated) I have to (his hand grabbed her arm and she tensed.)
Owen (grabbing her hand; seeing her flinch, tense up): Sorry, Claire wait up, please. Hold on for a moment...
Claire (squaring her shoulders): My nephews are out in the park with my assistant (firmly) my partner. Pointing) people are in danger and I'm going to do what I can to ensure people get to safety. If you want to help then help if not get out of my dam way (shoving him aside, she was in no mood for his macho hero crap.)
Owen (considering all the options): We need weapons, (looking into steel blue eyes) those Pterosaurs are heading right this way. We don't stand a chance (following her) wait where are you going (watching as she swiped her badge and opened a door that he never noticed before; looking around the small room; noticing what was inside) well it's better than nothing (not by much but it could buy people some time to get inside.)
Claire (grabbing an Lstradt Rifle): There is no way we can get to the ACU offices, that's where the live ammo and more powerful firearms are. We can use the tranquilizer rifles to buy us some time.
Owen (watching as Claire loaded a few darts into the rifle, he was surprised at her knowledge of the weapon): You're full of surprises Ms Dearing (stepping back as she shouldered the rifle and grabbed a box of darts.)
Claire (pointing): You said you wanted to help (motioning) then grab a rifle and the darts and let's go.
Welcome Center
1530
Zara (stepping back): Try it now (hoping the jeep would start this time, she had installed the battery, filled the tank with fuel, tightened a few wires and it still wouldn't start) come on (smiling as the engine roared to life.)
Gray (fist bumping Zach): Yes.
Zach (leaning back in the driver seat): Let's go, come on (reaching for his seat belt.)
Zara (thinking): Have you passed your driving test?
Zach (lowly): Um no well just not the driving part.
Zara (motioning): Move over then, I'm driving and (pulling the belt gingerly over her shoulder) why haven't you passed?
Zach (mumbling): No one can teach me, everyone's too busy.
Gray (smirking): He backed into a tree actually…
Zara (biting back a laugh): A tree I'm sure the tree was just in the way (smirking.) Well we'll have to remedy that once we get off this island, now won't we? (Putting the jeep in gear) let's get back to the Command Center and find your aunt (stepping on the gas the tires ripped up dirt and leaves and they were back on the road headed towards the east gate.)
Zach (teasing her): You're actually using the road this time, that's improvement (she shoved him lightly.) What I'm just stating the obvious? I only backed into a tree, you took out let me see (he watched her smirk) well several trees to start, then there was that I don't know and you wrecked a Mercedes SUV.
Gray (laughing): Well it was either us or the truck, I think Zara did great.
Zara (understanding what Zach was trying to do): Well let me just say that desperate times call for desperate measures.
Zach (teasing): I'm sure Aunt Claire will be thrilled when she has to explain why an SUV was used in such a manner and then totaled.
Gray (smiling): She had no choice with the Indominus chasing us, are you going to get in trouble for that.
Zara (glancing in the rear mirror; noticing something was off about the background): Thank you Gray, and I'll probably get reprimanded but in my defense I had a dinosaur chasing me, a very dangerous dinosaur chasing me. (Glancing back in the rear view mirror) you have your seat belts on (she had a bad feeling about what looked like a storm cloud behind her. They couldn't seem to catch a break) I don't like the looks of whatever that is behind us.
Central Plaza
1550
Claire (turning, putting her hand over her hear): What? When? (Ending the call; she tugged on Owen's arm) Zara's heading for the East Gate (looking up hearing strange noises from above.)
Owen (pulling her back): She's not the only one (tugging her arm and pulling her back, people were still outside, acting like things were a normal day in the park; yelling) get inside, get down (then watching in terror as the Pterosaurs flew into Central Plaza; watching in horror as the scene unfolded, they were out of time.)
East Gate
1555
Zara (beeping the horn for the security office to open the gate, if he didn't she was going to crash through it, the second crash of the day she thought): Open the gate (watching in the rear view mirror as what she thought was a storm cloud behind them was actually Pterosaurs) shit we have to (whipping past the gate as the Pterosaurs flew directly into Central Plaza) shit we need to get inside (sliding to a stop with screeching tires; jumping out she turned to reach for Zach and Gray and tugged them along with her, the scene in front of her complete chaotic terror, screams, breaking glass) this way tugging them out of the way; Gray let out a yell as a Pterosaurs tried to grab him, he fell backward, eyes wide as Zara reached for him something heavy landed on her; Gray's eyes wide with fear, burning pain in her shoulders, then Zara was airborne. The earth fell away, she struggled in the things grasp unable to get free and grew dizzy both from the height above ground and the pounding headache she had; reaching up she tried to hit the thing to let her go with no luck; Zara heard a loud crack then she fell for a few meters, the ground rushing up to; then burning searing pain in her leg as another one of the dammed Pterosaurs grabbed her, teeth tearing into flesh and muscle and bone, she screamed, the pain was excruciating.
Zara saw the lagoon come into view, cursing, the Mossasaurus was in the lagoon and she knew deep inside that this was it, she was out of time, she focused her thoughts on Claire, on their love, how short of a time they had, how they never got to go on that vacation or how she would miss seeing Zach and Gray grow up all she felt was pain, then another crack and she was dropped straight down, she didn't know how far she fell, all she felt was air rushing by air then a white hot flash of pain as she slammed into something hard, and fell into the water, as blackness enveloped her, she kept her thoughts on Claire and nothing else, this was it for her.
East Gate
1600
Claire literally skids to a stop, grabbing Gray in a hug and wrapping her arm around Zach, relief that they're alive, Gray has a deep cut on his forehead, Zach has a nasty bruise on his cheek, they seem alright otherwise, glancing around she doesn't see Zara. Doesn't see her off to the side or panic washes over her, where is she, pulling back, keeping her arm around Zach and holding Gray to her she leans down.
Claire (wide eyed nervous): Where's Zara?
Zach (biting his lips; tears in his eyes; his voice low): She…
Claire (grabbing his shoulders): She what…
Gray (blurting it out): I fell she went to grab me and then she got hauled away by one of the flying dinosaurs.
Claire (the words slowly penetrated; her knees buckled, her world spun on its access, everything else ceased to exist; no, not Zara, no; strong arms grabbed her and she tensed): Zara (screaming, tears rolling down her face, her heart shattering.)
Owen (gently): Claire, I know it's hard but we have to move, we have to get some place safe, we have to get back inside get your nephews taken care of.
Claire (regaining her bearings, determined defiance): No, (steeling herself) you get Zach and Gray someplace safe I have to find her (she would not abandon Zara no matter what.) Take Zach and Gray back to the Command Center, wait there for me (pleading with Owen, turning to Zach) which way (unable to finish the sentence.)
Gray (pointing): Towards the Mossasaurus tank, the lagoon. (Tears fell down his face) Zara saved me Aunt Claire, if I hadn't fallen…
Claire (biting her lip): No honey, (hugging him tightly) don't think like, it's not your fault (glancing at Zach, he too was crying and she could only imagine what they both felt.) It's no one's fault but mine (guilt tore at her but first she had to get Zara, no matter what she had to get to Zara and she didn't want to think of that. She swore she wouldn't abandon her and she wasn't she was going to get her back whether it was Zara's body or Zara herself.)
Claire (stiffly): Owen get them inside, I'm going to get Zara (turning and walking slowly away. Her heart hurt, she already felt like her world was gone.)
Owen (his eyes wide; grabbing Claire's arm): You don't know…
Claire (angrily): It doesn't matter, if there's a chance, if there's even the slightest chance I have to try.
Owen (looking around him at the destruction and terror): Let me go, I can get her (this had been part of his job in the Navy) I can do this you get inside with your nephews,
Claire (defiantly; making her way forward): No, she's my responsibility, my partner (fighting the sob tearing at her throat.)
Zach (noticing the truck not to far away from them; clearing his throat): How about we use that armored truck and go get her? It's probably has things we can use and it would be a lot faster than walking, right?
Owen (recognizing the vehicle as ACU's): You're right Zach it's much better than walking and yeah it's got some gear in there we can definitely use. (HE just hoped they weren't retrieving a body, he hoped Zara was still alive but her chances were slim. He knew the reality had faced it many times, hope and faith were very fragile and he didn't know what Claire would do if things turned for the worse. He had to give her a lot of credit she was holding things together pretty well, for how long he wondered.)
Claire (squeezing his shoulder): Thank you (wondering where the ACU officer was and hoping they were safe; motioning she got Zach and Gray in the truck, taking a breath she got in the truck and drove off towards the Mossasaurus tank, no matter what she would get Zara even if Gods forbid it was her body.)
Mossasaurus Tank
1615
Office Dumand had been trying to keep Pterosaurs at bay, keep them away from the crowds, it was all in vain as the more she shot down it seemed more showed up, just how many of them were there? Turning as she heard a blood curdling scream, she watched in horror as someone was in the claws of of one of the Pterosaurs, she aimed the rifle but couldn't get a clean shot then started praying as another shot rang out and the person was dropped, straight down into the dammed tank. She moved to the rail to help but was blocked in her efforts by another scream and this time she had the shot and she took it. Saving at least one life, she couldn't see the person in the water and only hoped that death had been instantaneous and that they did not suffer.
A Park Ranger came along side, silently agreeing on shooting down as many Pterosaurs as they could and keep them off the crowd around them. They both jumped out of the way as a large truck came barreling towards them and slammed through the first barricade and also hitting one of the Pterosaurs head on. For a moment all was quiet and Dumand watched as someone opened the door to the truck and she recognized Claire Dearing immediately, followed by Owen Grady and two young men who she presumed where her nephews as she had been given the information on their visit from Zara Young.
She made the connection then and her heart broke for Claire, shit, shit, this day couldn't get any worse.
Dumand (loudly): I couldn't go in after her, there were too many of the dam things flying around.
Claire (understanding yanking off her jacket, kicking off her shoes): Keep them off me I'm going in after her (turning, feeling Owen's hand brush her arm as she moved forward and jumped over the rail, keeping her legs straight and pointed down she landed in the tank, the water was cool but not terribly uncomfortable and it reeked something awful. Opening her eyes, wincing as the water stung, she slowly glanced around and spotted something to her left. A Pterosaur fell in and she dodged it, swimming closer towards the form recognizing Zara right away. Zara was floating in the water, still as a statue, her long black hair surrounding her like a halo, Claire could also see blood trailing from wounds, floating upward. Swimming behind Zara she wrapped her arm around Zara's chest and swam upward, holding onto Zara tightly. Claire broke the surface, gasping for breath, keeping a tight hold on the precious cargo in her arms. A rope and buoy were thrown in front of her and she reached for it, holding on with rapidly declining strength. Claire and Zara were both pulled toward one of the lower platforms, she saw Owen and Dumand reaching down to help her, get Zara out of the water, then she was being hauled up to.
Owen and Dumand pulled Zara up quickly and as carefully as the could, they laid her flat on her back, and winced as they noticed her injuries, the torn clothes, Zach placed a blanket over her carefully, he too noticed how still and stiff she was. Claire was there in a flash, obviously weak and tired but pushing her way through and dropping to her knees beside Zara's still form. Dumand looked at Own and shook her head, Owen fought back tears and stepped back. He motioned for Zach to step back a bit as well. Gray joined his brother crying quietly as the two brothers held onto each other.
Claire (kneeling down beside Zara; aligning her head and neck gently she pressed her ear to Zara's chest she couldn't hear her heartbeat; placing her fingers against Zara's neck she tried feeling for a pulse, it was weak, very weak unsteady and she wasn't breathing): She's not breathing, her pulse is weak (sliding her leg over Zara's hips she placed her hands in position to begin CPR. She had to be strong she had to push through, there was a chance and Claire was going to do everything she could for Zara, she would not give up.) I'm here now, you're safe, come on, fight dammit.
Owen (amazed that Zara was still alive, the stubborn Irish lass that she was continued to surprise him; thinking): Gray in the truck grab that med kit for me please.
Dumand (stepping back): She's been under too long…
Claire (glaring): There's still a chance (repeating the compression's, nothing) Zara come on baby, come on. Don't you give up on me (pleading) don't you leave me.
Owen (looking at Claire how distraught she was, then at Zara): Claire let me help, you breath for her I'll continue the compression. (Moving into position pressing down her chest, counting slowly, as he pressed down again he winced as he heard a crack, Owen continued, she wasn't responding, he could already see the blue to her lips, feel the stiffness in her body, her skin cool to the touch; there wasn't much more he could do but he had to try. Claire wasn't giving up and he didn't know what to do to make her realize that sadly Zara was gone.)
Claire (pressing her lips to Zara's which were usually warm and teasing, now they were cold): Zara please, please come on don't leave me please (yelling) fight dam you, fight.
Zach (turning his head; his heart hurt at the sight of seeing his Aunt hurting, in the short time he had known Zara he grew to like her and he knew how much Zara meant to his aunt): Aunt Claire…
Claire (blowing in another breath): She's in there, I'm not (breathing again for her) Zara come on, please baby (breathing for as Owen pressed down on her chest at first she thought she heard a muffled groan then louder, moving back a bit she took a breath as Zara groaned then began coughing violently.)
Owen (moving quickly): Get her on her side, keep her body as straight as possible (helping Claire and pressing his hands against her back) Zach hold her legs (resting one hand on her hip) there you go, that's it (wincing as Zara coughed up more water and blood) good girl just slow breaths (glancing at Claire as she rubbed Zara's face gently whispering words to her that he couldn't make out) keep her on her side (he knew she wasn't out of the woods yet, he was also worried that she could go into shock and her body couldn't take that. But she was alive, somehow she fought to come back and she was alive, in all his training, time in the military he had never seen anything like it.)
Zara whimpered, coughing up water and blood and moaned in pain. She could feel Claire's hands on her face, hear the words she was whispering to her softly. Zara ached, her body felt as though it was one white hot stabs of pain and hurt, on top of that Zara felt as though a dinosaur had sat on her chest, her shoulders burned and ached and she couldn't move her arms without pain shooting up them, the left side of her face felt as though it had been rubbed in glass, she felt pain and pressure near her left eye and everything was blurry and dark and she was confused. She tried to talk and felt like she had swallowed glass, Claire's face swam into view and she turned her head into Claire's hand.
Zach (gently taking her hand): She's…
Owen (softly): She's not out of the woods yet (he had seen a lot of injuries in his time and knew she needed medical treatment and fast) we need to get her to medical or somewhere she can be treated.
Claire (gently wrapping her arm around Zara's body, feeling her shiver): It's okay baby I've got you, I'm right here (brushing back dark locks.) The medical center is probably overrun, the triage areas are probably over run as well (shaking her head) we've got a first aid kit (realizing and not much else; looking over as Owen touched her hand gently.)
Owen (Claire's eyes were filled with tears): Claire she needs serious medical attention, I'm worried about shock, exposure and those puncture wounds need to be cleaned out. (Rubbing his thumb over her knuckles in a soothing manner) let's get her to the Raptor Paddock, we have a small med bay there.
Claire (trying to grasp his words): Owen that's for injured animals….
Zach (interjecting): Well an injured dinosaur would need bandages right (seeing her realize what he was saying) and it's safe and there's probably someone we can call to help treat her.
Claire (realizing): You're right I'm (she had to focus) right we get her there and I know a doctor I can call that can help Zara (trying to get up without letting go of Zara. Claire never wanted to let go of Zara ever again.)
Owen (holding his hands out): You can do a lot of things Claire but picking up a person that's soaking wet and weaker than a newly hatched Triceratops might be a little much (smirking) even for you.
Claire (he was right): Owen (he regarded her for a moment) please be gentle with her (teasing) and keep your hands off her arse.
Owen (smiling warmly): I wouldn't be anything but (winking.) Zach open the back of the truck and clear off that bench for me, Gray why don't you get up there and help your Aunt in (cradling Zara gently) we need to keep her as still as possible.
Zach (rushing over to the truck opening the door and hopping in the back making room so his Aunt could sit next to Zara): Here…
Gray (smiling): You saved her Aunt Claire.
Owen (setting Zara down gently on the padded bench): Yes she did, so now I need you two to help your Aunt to keep her still while we get out of here (looking at both of them.)
Gray (excitedly): Will we get to see the Velociraptors?
Claire (smiling): I'm sure that can be arranged (taking Zara's hands in her own.) I'm going to call a friend of mine and see if she can meet us there.
Zach (remembering Owen's words about keeping Zara still, he placed his arm around her lower legs): That would be cool then after, after we can leave right?
Claire (hoping so): Yes, we're going to leave I promise you (leaning down and holding onto Zara as Owen started driving.)
Raptor Paddock
Small Kitchen Area
1830
Claire (setting the bowls of instant noodles and chips in front of Zach and Gray): Okay chicken for you Gray and Zach you wanted the beef right (happy to see them dig into the food. She herself didn't want anything to eat as she felt it would come right back up.)
Zach (nodding he was starving): Thanks Aunt Claire (noticing that she wasn't eating and she was pacing back and forth) what about you, aren't you going to eat?
Claire (opening a bottle of water): I can't right now (taking a sip and hoping the water stayed down.)
Gray (motioning): You have to eat too Aunt Claire (figuring that his Aunt was worried about Zara and that was maybe why she didn't want to eat.) Mom said that even if you don't feel like eating that you have to try.
Claire (chuckling; her sister would say that): Your mom is right, you need to eat but sometimes (swallowing) sometimes you can't because there's so much going on around you and (licking her dry lips) I'll grab something later.
Zach (holding up the bag of chips, his favorite Cool Ranch Doritos): Here have some of these at least. Doritos are the best (smiling.)
Claire (waving her hand and swallowing the water): It's all right you two go on and I'll grab those sandwiches from the fridge, be right back (walking back towards the makeshift kitchen. She had so much pent up energy, she was worried for Zara, worried for her nephews, fuck anyone else involved in this nightmare.)
Gray (concern): Is she going to be all right? Zara I mean, Aunt Claire is really sad (thinking.) It's not her fault Zara got hurt, (seeing his brother watching him) I'm not to young to understand I know Aunt Claire loves Zara and that's what's bothering her, isn't it.
Zach (pausing mid chew): You're too smart for your own good (smiling.) Yeah Aunt Claire loves Zara and I don't know (shrugging) because Aunt Claire loves her that it's really bothering her, it's what adults do. (Trying to take his brother's mind off things) that was cool when you threw that chair at the Pterosaur, you were really brave, me Gray.
Gray (beaming at his older brother): Thanks, love is weird isn't it? (Zach looked at him wide eyed) I mean two people love each other then they don't then (shrugging) it's just weird. Aunt Claire and Zara love each other and I am not ever falling in love if it makes me not want to eat.
Zach (chuckling): Yeah love is weird (shaking his head; thinking of his own girlfriend back at home, then his parents, then his Aunt Claire and Zara, yeah definitely weird.) You say that now wait until you get older, someone is going to come along and when you least expect you're in love.
Gray (finishing off his noodles): No way, I'm going to be a scientist, I'm not going to fall in love.
Zach (smiling): You say that now but you're going to change your mind.
Claire (returning with a plate of sandwiches): Here, it's a mixture of sandwiches that is, (pausing) not a mixture together, there's a couple of different ones here (setting the plate down.)
Zach (eyeing the plate): Thanks Aunt Claire (grabbing one of the turkey ones and chewing slowly, honey turkey that was cool.) You remembered my favorite (smiling, his aunt was pretty cool, he hoped he would see her more often after all of this. It wasn't her fault this happened, he didn't know all of what had happened but he had heard Owen talking to his friend Barry and then he had heard his aunt talking to Dr Rodriguez. All he knew is someone had done something to one of the systems and let that thing loose.)
Claire (relieved that Zach and Gray were fed; turning as the door banged open and Zia walked out): How (unable to finish as Zara motioned her to the side out of earshot of Zach and Gray.)
Zia (motioning her over to the corner): Zara's in pretty rough shape, (taking a moment) she's got some pretty bad gashes and lacerations, puncture wounds and that's not the worst of it. (Claire's eyebrow arched) I'm worried about infection, internal bleeding and I know a few of her ribs are broken (Claire closed her eyes) and that leg of hers, I packed it open but the wound is right to the bone, no damage to the knee but her thigh (shaking her head.) Then there's the damage to left side of her face, it's pretty extensive (wrapping an arm around Claire's shoulder) I don't have the equipment, the training or the staff to (not finishing) she needs professional help, I'm sorry Claire (tears in her eyes.)
Claire (understanding): Thank you (shaking her head, fighting tears) it's not your fault (motioning) all of this (looking around) all of this is my fault (the weight settling on her shoulders and the sick feeling in her stomach felt like a punch to her gut.)
Zia (scoffing; Claire did not let the Indominus loose, nor did she crash a helicopter into the Aviary and she certainly didn't cause the injuries to Zara or anyone else): No it isn't, don't put that blame on yourself Claire. If anything Masrani Global is at fault for lying, misleading, and deceiving people.
Claire (coldly): I should have been in that Park today, I should have been with her at the maintenance shed. I should have…
Zia (shaking her head): No Claire and Zara wouldn't want you talking like this either. You need to keep it together or we're in trouble.
Claire (stiffly): I am, (firmly) because the bottom line is it's my fault Zara is on that gurney, my fault my nephews are terrified, (swallowing) my fault people got hurt and died. And after all of this (motioning) she's probably going to leave (tilting her head back) I'll be lucky if I'm even allowed to ever talk to my nephews ever again, (bitterly) I'm probably going to jail after this and (the forceful shove backwards startled her and stopped the rambling.)
Zia (poking Claire in the shoulder): Get that shit out of your head or your done for. Zara that woman in there, she loves you, she's not going to blame you (staring into blue eyes) your nephews they're a little shaken up, but you didn't see the wide eyed wonder they had when they looked at the Raptors. Or how they watch you, they look up to you, you're holding them together Claire. (Firmly) and you're not going to jail (rolling her eyes) they would have to prove gross negligence on your part and I know your not negligent, I know how you work, so (squeezing her shoulders) get it together Claire (nodding) go on Zara should be waking soon, she's going to be asking for you and I for one, even injured don't want her coming after me (teasing.)
Claire (taking a moment then entering the med bay, Zara's head was wrapped in a bandage as well as the left side of the face, she couldn't see the rest of her body as it was covered with a blanket; Zara's breathing was slow but steady and even; she watched her for a moment): I'm sorry, so sorry (guilt ate at her seeing her girlfriend, her partner laying there looking pale and fragile, moving to the side of the gurney she took Zara's hand in her own rubbing her knuckles) this is my fault, baby and I (choking up) I'm sorry (kissing Zara's knuckles) I'm so sorry baby.
Zara (raspy): S'not (a breath) no it's not. (Squeezing Claire's) not your fault.
Claire (tears filled her eyes): How do you feel? Do you need anything? Do you want me to get Zia back in here?
Zara (the room came into view blurry and distorted she blinked and there, there was Claire): Zach, Gray (shifting) are they?
Claire (brushing back a lock of Zara's hair): They're fine, a little shaken up, they're okay.
Zara (squeezing Claire's hand): They're good boys, very brave wouldn't leave me alone, wouldn't leave either (closing her eyes for a moment.) I love you (closing her eyes) really tired.
Claire (wondering): Zara what happened? What happened when you went to get them? (Zara was out again) you rest baby, I'm going to get you out of here, I'm going to get you off this island (leaning down and placing a kiss on Zara's lips which were warm and inviting, she shivered as she remembered how cold they had been only a few hours ago.)
Barry (barreling in): Claire we have a problem and it's well (motioning) you need to hear this.
Claire (another kiss on Zara's lips): I'll be back in a few minutes (Zara was already sleeping again. She needed to focus, keep her shit together, she needed to get Zara, Zach and Gray off this island and get Zara to a hospital, get a hold of Karen, first thing first, squaring her shoulders.) Let's go.
Outside the jungle was quiet, an eerie stillness as if mother nature herself was holding its breath. The lights around the paddock illuminated vehicles and equipment. Arguments could be heard as well as the growls of the Velociraptors. No other sound could be heard and that alone was cause for concern.
Footsteps sounded loudly on the packed dirt as Claire and Barry joined the small team beside the cages for Velociraptors. The quiet wouldn't last, the eerie stillness would end with explosions and gunfire.
The moon light shone down a silent witness to the storm brewing inside Jurassic World.