ABOVE THE DEAD .com

Season 2, Episode 7 (53 pages)

"Rough Riders"

INTRO

BLACK...

FADE IN: FEW DAYS AGO FLASHBACK

EXT. WOODS – DAY

POV traveling through the quiet woods, eventually coming to, and passing over a trail of dead huffs. Their heads have been bashed in. The sound of living huffs can be heard, and then a man (Blake, 21) instructing someone…

BLAKE

(OS)

Move in on them. Bash his head in, Trav. Nate,

stick your blade in that one's head.

POV continues over the dead huffs, toward the sound of Trav and Nate, doing as instructed…

BLAKE

(OS)

Nice! Now move in and merge on that last one.

NATE

(OS)

Whoa!

BLAKE

(OS)

Watch it! There's two more!

TRAV

(OS)

Four more!

NATE

(OS)

They're everywhere!

BLAKE

(OS)

Step back!

POV finally finds Blake (looks older, long thick beard, wearing catchers gear), just as he uses his baseball bat to bash in the head of 2 huffs, with one mighty swing! But 2 more are right on him, as he pushes them away, followed with a bat to both their heads. He quickly steps toward the remaining 3, with another guy (Abino, 18, also wearing baseball gear), right behind him.

Blake is a complete savage, taking down the first 2 with ease, and watching as Abino uses his speed to take out the last one, just before Blake could. They remove their head gear, and share a high-five…

BLAKE

YEAH! (with a look back toward Trav/Nate) Now

that's some real hall of fame shit, right there, is

what that was!

ABINO

(with a smile)

Game time, baby!

BLAKE

Game time, indeed! (staring at Trav/Nate) That's how

you guys have to look at this. Like a game. You're still

kids, so be kids! Have fun with it. I mean no disrespect,

to the ugliness that's going on out here, and the people

who are dying, but…I'm looking at survivors, right now.

Survivors who want to live. What good is living without

fun, without laughter, without baseball! Life is one big

game, and it just threw the curveball of all curveballs.

But you guys didn't let it beat you! You fouled that shit

off, and stayed alive to see another pitch!

Blake motioning toward the dead huffs…

BLAKE

These guys right here, they're just fastballs. We hit

that shit all day! And we'll keep hitting em', day

after day, staying alive until we see that next

curveball, and we know it's coming. We were

coached to know it's coming. By he, who knows

more about the curve, than any of us. And I know

you're all worried about him, but I also know he's

coming home. So, let's keep doing what we're

doing, and make coach proud.

Trav and Nate (Zane's ball players from opening scene of Season 1 finale) standing in front of over 20 other teen boys (14-18), all on horses. They all have baseball gear, and are covered in huff blood/guts…

BLAKE

Now, you ladies wanna' call it a day, or (excited)

do you wanna' go hit some more fastballs?!

All the kids pumped and expressing their excitement to keep huff hunting.

KIDS

Fastballs!

BLAKE

That's what I like to hear, Rough Riders!

Blake and Abino hopping on their horses, as do Trav and Nate. Blake leads the way, as they all follow, trampling over the dead huffs…

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, before reaching 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, chasing 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, 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 lands, before coming to the Columbia River, traveling west, under the Megler bridge, and into the ocean. It continues along the shoreline, past Astoria, the Haystack Rock of Cannon Beach, coming to a pair of jetties, and following through the channel between them. POV continues up into the nearby hills, finding a large camp, 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…

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. WOODS – DAY

Blake and Abino, riding in front of all the others, as one of the younger teens (Joshua, 14) rides up next to Blake…

BLAKE

Joshua, you certainly were paying attention during

horseback training, weren't ya'? Any prior experience?

JOSHUA

Once…my mom dated a scoutmaster who ran a camp…

Joshua looking downward, at thought of his mom…

BLAKE

Sorry, I know you have no idea what happened to

her, after all this. But at least your dad is here, right?

(Blake cracking a smile) Just glad he no longer feels

the need to tag along with us.

JOSHUA

Sorry, that was embarrassing. Just don't let

anything happen to me, or he'll definitely kill you.

Blake cracking another smile...

BLAKE

I'm fine with that, 'cause nothing's happening

to my number one future star, here.

Joshua a small smile, and into thought, before speaking…

JOSHUA

You think…we'll ever hit real fastballs, again?

BLAKE

What do you think that speech was for? You guys

will get to be kids again, we all will. We're getting

back on that field, someday. Hell man, we have a

freaking stadium!. We have multiple softball fields.

That place was built for normal life, not just a place

to hide and live in fear. It's just gonna' take a little

time. Most of us here came out pretty lucky. But,

Zane…he's hurting, man… Like I said, I know he's

coming home… I just hope to God he doesn't

come down off that mountain, without the

family he went up there to find.

JOSHUA

God, I hope his little cousin is -

Suddenly, a huff comes out of nowhere, right toward Blake and his horse, as Blake yelps with fear. She is ugly as sin, with mouth wide open, as she goes right for the horse, who halts and stands on hind legs, coming back down on top of the huff, and trampling over her, while Blake bounces around, working hard to remain on the horse. All the other horses follow, also trampling the huff, until she takes a kill shot to the head.

Blake controls his horse, coming to a stop, as do all the others. Everyone in shock, looking back at the dead huff, then at Blake, staring back at them, with an expression of his own shock, and holding his heart, scared shitless but trying to be funny.

BLAKE

OH, MY GOOD MOTHER OF GOD! Please tell me

I'm not the only one here with a pie in his pants?!

(looking back toward dead huff) That fastball was a

little too high and tight! Jesus Chirst! I need a bath!

Some laughs from the others, as they all regain composure, and begin riding forward…

BLAKE

Seriously guys, I ain't lying. Somebody needs to

change this grown man's diaper. Not that he's

wearing one, so it's gonna' be messy, back there..

(few laughs) I have sensitive skin, too, so no leaves!

(more laughs, Joshua cracking up) I think I'm scared

of the ball now. I can't get back in the box. No more

fastballs for poopy pants!

Everyone laughing. Mostly Joshua, who looks to Abino….

JOSHUA

I love Blake. He's keeping humor in the world.

The world needs that.

Suddenly, a voice comes over Blake's radio.

RADIO

Rough Riders, come in…

Blake reaching for radio.

BLAKE

(into radio)

Riders, here…

RADIO

Come on home. Cavalry is a few miles out.

BLAKE

(anxiously into radio)

Zane? Is he…

RADIO

I don't know… Hunter didn't look good…

Blake frowning, and riding on quickly as the others follow…

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. COMPOUND – DAY

Blake and the Rough Riders quickly galloping through the long gate corridor, down Baker Lane, and into the open area and front of the compound. They watch as the cavalry of hummers come to a stop, and the family begins exiting the vehicles, over near the Baker complex…

POV Hunter there to greet them. Everyone is solemn, and dead silent. Wives/family/friends are there or arriving, to hug and greet their husbands and/or children. Scout is there (shoulder bandaged), with Bryant, and already bawling as she pulls in her daughters for a hug.

Hunter shares a look with Leo, then watches as Zane climbs out of hummer, walking past everyone, without a word. Mayday is next to his jeep, with Gia, who watches Zane go by. Hunter wants to go after him, but takes notice of Mason, helping Grandpa Sam out of the hummer. Hunter goes toward them.

Scout watches as Zane walks by. She continues to weep while trying to share a look with him, but he goes by without a look/word…

More and more of the family and friends begin weeping, once fully hearing the devastating news, of the family who will not be coming home…

Hunter comes to his dad, placing a hand to his shoulder. Grandpa Sam just stands there, before turning to watch, as Brianna and Kayla come running to the scene. Everyone just looks at them. Scout begins to approach them. Brianna looks at her, shaking her head.

BRIANNA

Where is Samantha? Where is she? WHERE IS

MY DAUGHTER?!

Scout shaking her head, coming in trying to hold/hug Brianna, who drops to the ground, weeping out of control. Kayla is just as upset, but doing her best to console her wife…

KAYLA

Are you telling us our daughter is gone? (shaking

head) Is that what you're telling us? Please, no…

Kayla just staring at Scout, and Dakota who arrives, desperately hoping for some kind of relief, as they are unable to say anything, simply weeping, as is everyone else. Kayla embraces Brianna, who is losing it…

POV Blake and the Rough Riders, now walking their horses, as they come closer to the others, and can hear the emotion, as they slow their pace…

BRIANNA

(OS)

What do you mean you didn't find her?! Why are

you here, if she's still out there?

LEO

(OS)

BECAUSE EVERYONE ELSE IS DEAD!

Blake and the Rough Riders come to a complete stop, and stare ahead. POV Leo.

LEO

BECAUSE EVERYONE WHO DIDN'T GET HERE LIKE

THEY SHOULD HAVE, IS DEAD! GONE! GONE

FOREVER! NO MORE SEARCH PARTIES! NO MORE

DEATH!

Hunter and Mason closing in on Leo, as all the others simply weep.

LEO

IF I WAS IN CHARGE OF THIS DAMN PLACE, THEY'D

STILL BE ALIVE!

Hunter immediately meets Leo with a punch to his face, knocking him down. They begin fighting. Everyone just keeps weeping, while others help to break them up. Grandpa walks away from the scene, without a word, or a look back…

DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK

EXT. WOODS (near Fish's cabin) – DAY

Zane out front, leading the entire family and friends, who are all lined up and walking through the woods, scoping out every bush or area that Sam's body might be placed. Zane is on a blowhorn.

ZANE

SAMANTHA?! It's Zane. We're here to take you

home… It's safe to come out. SAM?! SAMANTHA?!

Grandpa Sam walks along, carrying his shotgun, with both Scout's daughters on each side of him. Everyone is silent, grim, and carrying guns…

Wyatt moves over near April…

WYATT

So, Scout is okay?

APRIL

(nodding)

She is, arm and all…

WYATT

Thank God… Rich too?

APRIL

He'll be in bed for a while, but yeah, he's going

to make it.

ZANE

(over blowhorn)

Come on, Sam! I need you to answer me. You don't

have to worry about the men at the cabin. If

someone is holding you hostage, they too can be

safe at the compound. All they have to do is come

out… They send me home with you, and they have

clean slates with me! We need every man we can

get! You won't survive, out here. Let her go and

you can survive with us.

A huff comes out of the woods, as Porter steps toward it, with a spear, and takes it down with ease…

Everyone continues walking along, searching, without a word…

Dissolve to Leo in the parking lot, just staring at the huffs that hang from the tree. He scans the damaged vehicles, and the entire area, as the rest of the family eventually begin coming out of the woods/brush, and onto the property…

They're still dead quiet, completely grim. Leo looks over toward them. They don't even know where to go, as they all slowly stop, or find a place to sit. Some go to the vehicles, others to the cabin porch. Scout's daughters, Hope and Ryder, are climbing into the tree house. Zane and others are going back to the graves. Leo begins walking that direction…

Hope and Ryder hold back tears, as they look over the girls room, in the tree house, and quickly move on...

Over at one of the vehicles, Cleo holds Dakota, who sobs on her shoulder…

Missy (Mason's gf) comforts Mason, over on the porch…

Wyatt joins Dakota and Cleo at the vehicle, who are both sobbing…

Grandpa Sam sits alone at one side of the porch, with Porter and Jason close by, keeping an eye on him…

Zane stares at the graves, as Leo arrives, taking a deep breath…

LEO

She's not here. We can drive around some, but,

we have to get back…all of us.

ZANE

Where is she?

Leo shaking his head…

LEO

I wouldn't put it past her to be on her way home.

ZANE

(closing his eyes)

She would have left me a note.

LEO

Not if they left in a hurry…

ZANE

I should have kept coming up here that day…

Leo rolling his eyes.

LEO

That's bullshit. People are dead from the mistakes

everyone in this family has been making since day

God damn one! (raising his voice) Now everyone

pack it up, and let's get home before this family gets

even smaller.

Everyone slowly reacting to Leo's command. Grandpa Sam walks toward the graves, right past them, and down to the lake. He stares out at it, shuts his eyes, opens, and turns back toward the graves, walking over to them, and staring…

The entire family/friends all watch him, as they head toward the parking lot, many of them with tears…

Tears begin running down Sam's face. Zane arrives at his side, helping him walk away…

DISSOLVE TO: FEW DAYS AGO FLASHBACK

INT. COMPOUND – DAY

POV travels around the quiet compound. Guards are doing their thing at the "camouflaged" gates. A few people are here and there, throughout the compound. The playgrounds are quiet. A few people work in the fields/gardens. The Rough Rider group (Zane's ball players) are in a field, watching as Porter demonstrates how to make different kill shots, using a blade. POV travels past them…

POV finds Leo, at the compound graveyard, with a half-empty bottle of booze, and an unshaven face. He doesn't look as if he's showered in days…

POV spins around him, and over more of the compound…

It's a gorgeous chunk of land, with a neighborhood, back behind the Baker complex, that almost looks like a movie set. The huge lake next to the complex, is completely still, without many people around…

POV goes down in back yard area of the Baker complex (front of complex is barely above ground, back of complex has a large lower level), with a big swimming pool and recreational area. Many of the Bakers and a few others, are sitting around. Some of the younger kids are swimming and acting normal, while Hope and Ryder watch over them, and have Griffey, Trisha, and Ashley (3-year-old who Zane saved in Season 1 finale), close by. The grown-ups are somber, quiet…

Hunter is inside, with his wife April, and Scout. Scout is teary-eyed.

It's a large pool/recreational room, with several different doors, and a wall of windows that overlook the outside pool area…

HUNTER

I know we're grieving, but it's been over a week, at

some point (shaking head)… There's just so much

work to be done, and if we don't get Zane

functioning, and Dad to leave his room, this family

is in trouble.

SCOUT

You know it's going to take one of them, to snap

the other one out of it.

Hunter nodding…

HUNTER

It's got to be Dad…

POV leaving room, through the wall of windows and over the family, outside. It goes over them, passing over the different levels of the outside area, coming to the top level, with a beautiful grassy area and deck, that looks over the entire area, and lower level pool area below. POV travels toward a large window, with a closed curtain, and entering through it, finding Grandpa Sam, daring himself to open the curtain, before turning and walking away…

It's fairly dark, with some light from ceiling window. He walks by a beautiful framed picture of himself and wife Laura, before sitting down on his bed, next to pictures of Fish, Samantha, Greg, and the others, scattered along the mattress. Sam is scruffy, in shorts and a tee-shirt. His face has dry tears. He takes a deep breath, and simply stares ahead, at nothing…

A knock comes from the door, and in walks Hunter. He slowly arrives at the bed, reaching for some of the pictures. He looks at one of Fish on the wiffleball field, jumping for joy and hugging Greg, with Samantha in background, joyously running toward them…

Hunter closes his eyes, and imagines the moment, as he snaps the picture of them…

He opens his eyes, and looks over at his father…

HUNTER

We weren't prepared for the losses we'd suffer…

But, Dad…we have to find a way to move forward.

Sam turns and looks at Hunter…

GRANDPA SAM

I chose the right person to make sure that happens…

HUNTER

No, you didn't. You chose the right provisional man,

for the job, but the real future of this family…of this

compound, is lost…just like you.

Hunter pauses as Sam looks up, in silence…

HUNTER

I know that Fish was always the one you really wanted,

and that's fine. He had my vote all the way, as did

Samantha. Zane is no different, and he's the only one

left. It's more important than ever, that he begins taking

over as leader… He can't do that without your help…

Grandpa Sam closing his eyes… Hunter places a hand on his dad's shoulder…

HUNTER

You, and you only, can pass along the torch. It was

never really mine, to pass along.

Hunter pats his dad's shoulder, before leaving the room…

Grandpa Sam sits there a few more moments, before taking a deep breath, opening his eyes, staring ahead a moment, then finally rising up off the bed. He walks into the bathroom, stopping to stare at himself in the mirror, for several moments. His eyes begin to tear up, before he stops himself, with another deep breath. He turns on faucet, splashing water over his face.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. BAKER COMPLEX SWIMMING AREA – DAY

Water splashing as young boy (Bo, 6, Chasin's boy, Mason's grandson) lands in pool, and rises back above water. He shakes off his head and clears his eyes, which light up with excitement, at the sight of someone.

BO

GRANDPA!

Everyone (most of the family) turning to look at Grandpa. He's clean shaven, dressed, and doing his best to form a smile, as family members begin greeting/hugging/kissing him. He drops to a knee as the children approach. His smile becomes more genuine while hugging August (6), Jax (4), Maddox (3, all Mile's kids, Hunter's grandchildren), Blaze (3, Hunter's grandchild, Gunner's son), and Kat (5, Chasin's daughter). He hands Bo a towel, and covers him before sharing a big hug.

GRANDPA SAM

It's not even seventy degrees out here, how are

you kids actually swimming?

BO

It's not cold!

Bo races back over, jumping into the pool, as Grandpa rises upward, watching with a smile. He places a hand on Bryant's (Scout's son) shoulder, then nods, smiles, and embraces a few more adults, while making his way toward a spot in the shade, with some grass, trees, and small caves/holes, where tons of cats roamed/played. Trisha was over there, holding a young kitten. Griffey was close by, holding Ashley's hand. Also close by are Hope and Ryder, who both share hugs with Grandpa. He then walks over to Griffey, looking him over, and how closely he's watches over Ashley.

GRANDPA SAM

Quite the young man we have here, don't we? The

way you've taken over as a big brother, to these two

sweethearts, is something pretty special. The kind of

special that reminds me (gesturing back behind him)

of my own family. Family that has gotten a lot smaller

the last few weeks. (taking breath) You've lost family,

too. Your brother and sister, and your grandfather?

Griffey slowly nodding…

GRANDPA SAM

It's hard, isn't it?

Griffey again nodding, as the family behind Grandpa, becomes emotional…

GRANDPA SAM

Well, I have grandchildren I've lost, and wasn't sure

how I'd be able to be as strong as I see you being…

but, maybe if you'd be willing to let me be your

grandpa, I might be strong enough to make it.

POV Scout next to Hunter, tearing up and burying her head against his chest. Dakota is crying, and held by Cleo. Sarah, standing next to her husband, Wyatt, holds hand over her mouth, trying not to cry, but failing.

GRANDPA SAM

(OS)

Do you think that would be okay?

POV Griffey nodding…

GRANDPA SAM

Can we hug on it?

Grandpa opens his arms, as Griffey comes in for a big hug. He pulls out of it, with a tear running down his cheek. Grandpa smiles, and looks to Trisha, with smile fading…

GRANDPA SAM

I know your story, too. It's heartbreaking. I'm so sorry

about your mom, and your sister. You are such a strong

young lady, who reminds me of my granddaughter. I

imagine she went through some experiences much like

your own…

He pauses a moment and steps away, fighting back emotion. His family watches, with emotion of their own…

He takes a deep breath…and turns back toward her…

GRANDPA SAM

I don't know if it would help, but you would sure make

this old man happy, by joining our family, and allowing

me to be your new grandfather?

Without an answer, she moves right in for a hug.

POV the family members losing their emotions, embracing each other…

Grandpa Sam has a tear now running down his face, as the girl won't let go of him…

He continues to hold her, with a look over toward Ashley…

Trisha finally lets go, as Grandpa rises (too old to stay crouched down), and stares down at Ashley, who looks up at him…

More emotion from the family, who watch, with POV behind them, and Grandpa in front of them.

GRANDPA SAM

You are a young one, aren't you? (looking toward

Hope) Do we even know exactly how young?

Hope, next to Ryder, shaking her head.

HOPE

She hasn't spoken, yet.

Grandpa shocked/sad.

GRANDPA SAM

Not a word?

HOPE

Just a little to Zane, when he first found her…

Grandpa looking back down at her, and the kitten that rubs against her leg. He bends down to pet it, with a smile at the girl, who just stares back at him.

GRANDPA SAM

Do you like kittens?

She looks down toward kitten, doesn't speak, but does bend down to pet it. Grandpa Sam pets it too, while smiling at Ashley.

GRANDPA SAM

You saw your Grandma, hurt your Mom. I remember

Zane telling me. (looking over at Ryder) Go grab me a

photo of Zane, off the wall, would you please?

Bryant heard his request, and heads inside. Grandpa still petting kitten with her.

GRANDPA SAM

Do you remember Zane? He helped you, after your

grandma got sick. Nobody here is sick, like that. You

do not have to be scared. You are safe here.

Bryant arriving with framed photo of Zane, giving Samantha a piggyback ride. Grandpa shows it to Ashley.

GRANDPA SAM

Do you remember, Zane? (pointing) I am his grandpa.

(pointing at himself) I could be (pointing at her) your

Grandpa, if you want? Could I? Be your grandpa?

Grandpa giving Griffey another hug.

GRANDPA SAM

See, I'm his Grandpa, now. (hugging Trisha, who smiles

big) Can you call me Grandpa?

TRISHA

Grandpa!

He hugs Trisha again, while looking at Ashley.

GRANDPA SAM

See, I'm Grandpa. (crouching down in front of Ashely)

Can I be (pointing at her) your grandpa? (throwing

open arms) Can we hug on it?

Ashley being a little shy… Grandpa puts out his hand, to shake.

GRANDPA SAM

Shake on it? (moves to shake Griffey's hand)

Shaking hands.

She remains shy… He moves his hand flat.

GRANDPA SAM

High-five?

She remains hesitant… He shares a high-five with Griffey.

GRANDPA SAM

High-five. (gets one from Trisha) Yeah! High-five.

He moves his hand back in front of Ashley, she is tempted…then goes for it! A little applause comes from the family. They remain emotional, but most are now smiling…

Grandpa Sam also smiles, and begins guiding Griffey and Trisha to take Ashley's hand, and to follow him. They begin walking toward a long, beautiful staircase, that leads up out of the lower level area. But before they reach it, and to their left, is a beautiful woodsy area, with trails that lead into the natural forest, that remains on the inside of the compound…

The family watches them, as they begin walking the steps. POV pans back, showing the steps leading up toward the lake, and several cabins…

Dissolve to Grandpa Sam and the kids arriving at the top of the steps, with a path and another set of steps, in front of them. The complex is to their right, and a huge cabin to their left. Grandpa Sam points to the cabin.

GRANDPA SAM

That there, is what we call the Baker Christmas cabin.

Rumor has it, that secret tunnels under this complex,

go into that cabin, kind of like Indian caves. (looking at

the kids) You know who designed this place? (pointing

to his own chest) This guy. So, I can tell you that those

rumors are true, but nobody has ever found the real

secret tunnels. Like the one that goes up to that cabin.

Griffey and Trisha look a bit excited at the concept…

GRANDPA SAM

I used it to catch Santa Claus, in the act, one year…

Trisha makes a cute expression of shock/excitement at that news…

TRISHA

Is…is Santa still alive?

Grandpa Sam's smile fades…

GRANDPA SAM

Yeah…he has a compound even better than this one…

POV pans away from them, and begins doing a 360, with bird's eye view of the area. It circles by them, and to their right, around the Baker complex. The front area is level and grassy. The complex is mostly underground from the front, looking much smaller than it does from the back…

As POV goes by it, it comes to a baseball stadium, with stands on one side, the Baker complex on the other, and trees in the outfield, along with a large deck to a cabin, that looks over the field. On the other side of those trees is where a complex of multiple softball fields is located…

POV keeps going around, coming to a huge structure (apartment complex), and tons of small homes with yards, next to a hill that connects to the backyard swimming area. There is a tunnel under the hill, and a walkway for people to get from the structure/homes to the backyard area…

As POV keeps going, it comes to a large park/brushy area, with tons of trees. There are trails inside, and play equipment. POV keeps going, over tons of woods, until finding the lake. It has tons of trees on one side, and an open area with a few cabins on the other. There are camp areas, a large rope swing, and trails, including one that goes around the entire lake…

POV goes over the lake, with nothing but water, until it comes to a large deck, finding Zane sitting there, staring blankly toward the lake…

He's just sitting there, not moving a bit. It's quiet… He remains still, emotionless, lost…

Suddenly, he brings a marijuana pipe to his mouth, sparks it, and takes in a huge rip, blowing it out, and back to complete silence, and zoning out, toward the lake…

He remains in silence, and dead still…until he suddenly moves his head toward the sliding door, watching someone come out, and toward him. It's Grandpa Sam…

Zane just turns and continues zoning, out toward the lake…

Grandpa Sam walks to the end of the deck, looking out at it, with a deep breath…

GRANDPA SAM

(still looking out at lake)

The more one looks out at this, the more one comes

to believe the world is still as it was, before all this

pain we now share…

He turns and faces Zane…

GRANDPA SAM

I know how much you miss your brothers and sister.

I know you miss your uncle and cousins, just as much.

I know you'll never get over the loss of Fish…and I

know it's Samantha, who makes you believe you'll

never leave this cabin, again. I know, because I feel it,

too… But, what truly makes you great, is the bond you

have with your little cousin, and how you have that

same bond with all your other little cousins. They need

you right now. Your family needs you right now…to

lead them through a mess…even we never saw coming.

Zane just keeps staring out at the lake…

GRANDPA SAM

Hunter is ready to hand it over to you… It has to

be you, son.

Zane tries to remain in his zone, but tears up, and finally blurts out a response.

ZANE

(pretty much sobbing his words)

I can't get her out. She's always there. Eyes closed or

open…she's always there. She's still out there, Grandpa.

Grandpa pulls Zane in for a hug…

GRANDPA SAM

I know she is…I know she is…

ZANE

We have to find her!

Grandpa instantly shaking his head…

GRANDPA SAM

It's up to her, now… If she's still out there, she's trying

to get here. All we can do is keep the patrols on the

highway, and hope to God she's got some help…

(Grandpa looking at him) You know she didn't make

those markers and put her family and friends to rest,

without help. Help that wants to get that child to this

compound.

ZANE

I don't even know if I want to get my hopes up.

(shaking head) I can't go through this again.

GRANDPA SAM

Well, I'm not ready to give up on that little girl, and the

obvious things she's already proven to survive…and on

that note…we need to do something about these

convicts, we know are making a home for themselves in

our forest, and this "Grover" we keep seeing on the

signs. We don't want Samantha running into that trouble.

Zane finally with a spark, a look of life…

ZANE

You're right! We need to set up a camp close to theirs,

and keep constant surveillance on them, and the road.

(Zane a look right at him) It has to be me. I can't take

over for Hunter, not now. I need to lead this mission.

Grandpa Sam nodding with a growing smile…

GRANDPA SAM

That's my boy... You can scout them out tomorrow.

Besides your sister and Cleo, I want you to take the

Rough Riders with you. They can hang back, and ride

straight home if you guys run into trouble. Hunter has

a large team at the coast. They'll be back in a couple

days, you can begin the mission after that, and set up

your camp.

ZANE

(staring at Sam)

Thank you, Grandpa.

GRANDPA SAM

You're going to be alright, son, and because you are…

so will I… Now grab yourself a shave and shower, and

let's strategize this thing out. But first…I want to

introduce you to your new cousins.

Grandpa Sam opens the sliding door and signals them out, as they all come out onto the deck, in awe of the scenery.

GRANDPA SAM

I just adopted them. Kids, this is your cousin, Zane.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. GRANDPA SAM'S OFFICE – DAY

POV through window, where the family is still around the pool area. POV pans back into the office, as a knock comes from the door.

GRANDPA SAM

Come in.

Blake opens door, entering office.

BLAKE

Mr. Baker, hi. I heard you wanted to see me?

GRANDPA SAM

Yes. Sit down, please…and it's Sam.

BLAKE

(as he's sitting)

Yes, sir…

GRANDPA SAM

Blake, you're doing excellent work here, and what

you're doing with the Rough Riders, is very impressive.

BLAKE

Thank you, sir, I mean Sam. The Rough Riders

are a special group.

GRANDPA SAM

Only because they have a special leader. The kind of

special that this family specializes in. And one thing

I've realized today, is that there are no friends here,

just family. That's why you call me Sam, from now on.

BLAKE

Wow, sir. Sam! That is quite an honor!

GRANDPA SAM

The honor is all mine, and all ours. This family is lucky

to have people like you, here fighting the fight we all

have in front of us. Zane obviously picks his friends

well, and like I said, from here on out, we are all family.

BLAKE

Wow, um, I could almost swear you're trying to

make me cry, or something.

Grandpa Sam a smile.

GRANDPA SAM

Well, don't get sappy on me, just yet. I do have a

mission for your Rough Riders, to speak to you about.

BLAKE

(becoming serious)

The Rough Riders are ready, sir. Sam!

GRANDPA SAM

Well, no, they're not. (Blake confused) Not all of them,

anyhow. How many of your varsity boys made it, here?

BLAKE

Nine.

GRANDPA SAM

Enough to field a team, eh… Any of them eighteen, yet?

BLAKE

Just Abino. Only five of the others are seventeen,

and three are sixteen. The rest are mostly Zane's

Freshmen boys, only fourteen.

GRANDPA SAM

No Freshmen. I don't even feel comfortable with the

seventeen-year-olds. (thinking a moment) Most of

them have family here, right?

BLAKE

Ironically, Abino is the only one without family.

Everyone else has at least one parent, here.

GRANDPA SAM

Okay, here's your first job. Parental consent, for anyone

sixteen and over, can join this mission. (looking right at

Blake) I'm trusting you to let these parents know this

request comes directly from me, that it is just that, a

request, and that I will understand any parent who does

not feel comfortable with their child, going on this

mission. They should also know exactly what it is you'll

be doing, out there.

Grandpa taking a deep breath, before continuing…

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. COMPOUND BASEBALL STADIUM – DAY

POV travels over the beautiful field. Suddenly, there is the sound of a baseball being hit. But no one is in sight, and no ball flying over the field. Eventually, the sound of a boy, announcing a baseball game, can be heard.

BOY

(OS)

So, with two now down, and the winning run ninety

feet away, it'll be Buster Posey, with a chance to put

the Giants into the postseason.

Sound of another ball hit.

BOY

(OS, with excitement)

Crushed to deep left, but foul! Oh, my Posey! That

was your pitch to hit! I don't know if he's going to

get another one like that. Angel Pagan, leads away

from 3rd, the Dodgers are already eliminated from

postseason play, but they don't want to allow their

hated rivals to clinch, so their ace closer is on the hill.

POV finds Zane coming to a stop, watching from behind the corner, as Joshua stands inside the batting cage, announcing, and about to take a swing…

JOSHUA

(announcing)

And here comes his 0-1 pitch to the plate.

Joshua tosses ball into air, swings the bat, and lining the ball against the net.

JOSHUA

(announcing)

Lined toward the gap in left-center, but Matt Kemp

had him played right there. So, if the Giants want to

clinch it today, it's going to take extra innings.

ZANE

(OS)

What the hell (Joshua jumping) was I thinking,

inviting a damn Giants fan to my compound?!

Joshua scared at first, but now smiling as Zane approaches him at the net.

JOSHUA

Hey, coach. Sorry, I was just…

ZANE

It's fine. Just leave my Dodgers out of it, next time!

JOSHUA

It just makes me feel normal, to think about

baseball, to be hitting baseballs…

ZANE

I understand. But, hey, I wanted to talk to you

about something. (Joshua giving full attention)

I'm going back out, and Grandpa wants the

Rough Riders to back me up.

JOSHUA

Hell yeah!

ZANE

Hold on, that's what I came to talk to you about.

I wanted to be the one to let you know, that

Grandpa doesn't want anyone under sixteen, on

this potentially dangerous mission.

Joshua looking disappointed…

JOSHUA

It's really my dad, isn't it?

ZANE

No, not at all. Actually, Grandpa isn't allowing anyone

under eighteen, without consent. I one hundred

percent agree. But we do need all the younger half of

the Rough Riders on alert, here at home while we're

gone. Hunter has most of our firepower at the beach,

right now. So, I'm counting on you and the other

Freshmen, to step it up, here at home. There are a lot

of people here, depending on your protection.

JOSHUA

Whatever you need, coach.

Zane just staring at him a moment, and the ball in his hand…

ZANE

You know what I need? Grab your glove, I need

to toss the rock.

Joshua smiling, grabbing his glove with excitement, and exiting the cage, meeting Zane on the field, where they begin tossing the baseball back and forth…

DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK

EXT. HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL FIELD – DAY

Zane tossing a ball with Joshua, next to Blake and Nate, also tossing a ball. On the other side of Joshua, is Eric (Zane's ball player killed on docks, in season 1 finale), tossing a ball with Trav. There are about a dozen other Freshmen players, all tossing baseballs, back and forth…

JOSHUA

They had another walk-off last night! This is it,

this is their year!

ERIC

Face it, your Giants are just as cursed as my Cubs.

We'll all be surviving the end of the world, at coach

Zane's fancy clubhouse, long before our teams win

any Championships.

Players laughing…

ZANE

You call it a clubhouse again, and your end of the world

invite is out the door. Now that Grandpa has actual Major

Leaguers, paying for spots at the compound, you guys

might lose your invites, anyhow.

JOSHUA

(excited)

You have MLB players buying homes there?!

Everyone laughs at Joshua's gullible excitement…

JOSHUA

What? It's believable. You saw all the homes

they have there.

ERIC

I just want to know when coach Zane, is going

to hook us all up, with a game at the compound

stadium?

Everyone reacting to that, with excitement.

JOSHUA

I know!

NATE

Right?!

ZANE

Hey, you got to scrimmage there, when I took

you out there, last spring.

ERIC

Yeah, and then you let us watch the Varsity play

a real game, packed with fans.

BLAKE

Hey, give the guy a break. That was the first time

you met him, and he took you to a place where

you can live when the world stops functioning,

someday. A place where not only do we all

survive, but so does the game we all love…I'll

never forget my game there, last season. Best

moment of Senior year. Be patient…you guys

will get to make those same memories.

ERIC

We better…

TRAV

I honestly thought coach was nuts, when he first

called, saying we were taking a field trip to some

place his grandfather built.

NATE

I know, me too, and then while showing us around

he begins talking about Armageddon, and his game

plan for us to all meet there. Talk about cray-cray.

ERIC

Like it was an earthquake drill or something.

Kids laughing.

NATE

Yeah!

BLAKE

I'm with ya' guys, there. I thought he was straight

wacko, when he spilled all that on us, my Freshmen

year. His speech was really shaky, back then. He's

come a long way.

ZANE

Hey, a second ago you were on my side.

BLAKE

The kids started making sense. Until one gets to

know ya' all, your family is straight Charles

Manson, type of sketchy.

Kids laughing…

ZANE

Yet not nearly as sketchy as that end-of-the-world

type of beard, you're sporting these days.

Kids laughing more…

BLAKE

Is coach's feelings and testosterone levels, hurt,

because he can't yet grow a real man's beard?

ZANE

That's funny, coming from someone who graduated

last spring, but looks old enough for his twentieth

reunion.

More laughs…

BLAKE

Don't worry, coach, I'm sure you'll experience

puberty before the apocalypse.

Kids cracking up…

ZANE

Yeah, yeah, the apocalypse jokes never get old.

Us Manson's have been hearing it our entire lives…

Scene dissolves as kids laugh while tossing baseballs…

DISSOLVE TO: FEW DAYS AGO FLASHBACK

INT. HUNTER'S OFFICE – DAY

POV window, with view of complex lower level swimming area, as Zane approaches Hunter's office…

HUNTER

(OS)

I agree, horseback is the best way. They can make

it there in a day, and back the next.

Zane enters office door. Hunter sits at his desk, while Grandpa Sam sits across it. Hunter rises and approaches Zane, with a hug…

HUNTER

So good to see you, nephew. (looking at him)

And I hear you're going to keep making me call

the shots around here, for a while?

ZANE

It's not my time. I'm not ready to be what it

takes, to do the job you two have done with it.

HUNTER

I appreciate that, Zane, and I also like what I'm hearing

about this mission, of yours. Your Grandpa and I have

been playing with some ideas, top secret type of ideas…

ZANE

I'm intrigued…but before I forget, (looking at Grandpa)

you mentioned something about a mission going on at

the coast? (looking at Hunter) What's that all about?

You guys securing the Hotel?

HUNTER

You could say that, along with the rest of the area…

ZANE

(curious)

What do you mean?

HUNTER

Let me show you, first…

Zane curiously watching him, as both Hunter and Grandpa begin going for the door…

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. COMPOUND JAIL – DAY

Hunter and Grandpa, leading Zane past a guard, into a building that has several jail cells. The sound of huffs can be heard. Zane looks over at the largest of the cells, seeing over a dozen of them. Zane walks right over to them, standing just out of their reach, as he looks over them all…

HUNTER

We've been studying them, as much as we can.

We've already learned a lot, but no answers to why

they're coming back, or why our flesh is on their menu.

ZANE

What does this have to do with whatever you have

going on at the beach?

HUNTER

Well, after learning how unintelligent they are, and

how attracted to noise they are, we figured a bonfire

in a hole, may be a way to rid most of these things off

of the beaches, and away from the coastline.

GRANDPA SAM

When you think about it, with the coast range and

limited roads in, it wouldn't be too hard to keep the

dead away from…at least a part of the coast…our part.

Zane slowly nodding…

ZANE

You guys are making a lot of sense. We could have

people living and fishing from the Hotel. Safely

hunting in the hills.

HUNTER

In a relatively dead-free zone.

GRANDPA SAM

Our forest can be that way, too.

Zane still nodding.

ZANE

I like it. (looking back at the huffs) Anything else

you've learned about these things?

HUNTER

You can survive among them, without being bitten.

(Zane looking at Hunter) If you smell like them. We

sent someone inside, well-protected, and covered

in dead flesh. (Zane staring right at him) They didn't

touch him.

ZANE

That is certainly good to know. (begins zoning off)

Zane suddenly quiet, thinking…

GRANDPA SAM

I'm sure she does…

Zane snapping out of it, with a questionable look at Grandpa Sam…

ZANE

What?

GRANDPA SAM

I'm sure Samantha knows. Maybe she's even done

it. She's a survivor.

Zane nodding…

ZANE

Yeah…she is… (looking at Hunter) So, what's

this top secret plan?

EXT. COMPOUND BARNS – MORNING

Zane, Dakota, and Cleo all climbing up on their horses, with Blake, Abino, and all the older Rough Riders, already on theirs. All of them have bulletproof vests on. The younger Rough Riders are there, but without horses. They watch, as Zane shares a nod with both Hunter and Grandpa Sam, before riding away…

ABINO

(winking at young rough riders)

Later, baby Rough Riders.

Joshua rolling his eyes at Abino's comment, as Hunter comes to them…

HUNTER

You may be babies, but you're also the future of

this place. Come on, let's go start that future.

Cut to someone's view of Zane and the Rough Riders, riding through the compound. That someone stumbles forward, and begins shouting.

LEO

Where the God damn hell are you all going?!

Zane coming to a stop, and looking over at his dad, who drunkenly approaches the group. He's filthy, wearing same clothes as day before, and still holding a bottle…

ZANE

(under his breath)

Jesus…I thought I was bad. (now speaking normal)

This should be good…

Blake a nervous look from Leo to Zane, and back to Leo…

LEO

Don't make me repeat myself! I'm too angry to

stand here being IGNORED! Now what the hell

are you all doing on those horses?!

ZANE

We're scouting the area surrounding that group

of convicts. Jesus Christ, Dad. Take your meds and

go to bed!

Zane begins riding, again. Blake and others, nervously follow.

LEO

Don't you ride away from me, boy! (Leo eyeing

Dakota) Dakota! You guys leave those people alone!

They will kill each other and die off, all on their own.

There are more important things to be doing! (Leo

looking all around) Where the hell is Mason?! Why

are you taking baseball players with you?!

Leo freezes and stops talking, staring at something. His POV toward the brush, where his dead wife, Mary, stands staring back at him…

He's shocked, and begins stumbling toward her…

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. OFF-ROAD – DAY

Zane and others, all riding their horses along the grassy/dirt road. Zane next to Blake.

ZANE

We'll be at the highway in a few minutes, and you

guys will hold back there, for about fifteen minutes.

Use the radio when needed, but if you hear the

signal, do nothing but listen. If we give the signal to

come bail us out, you advance. If given the signal to

retreat, you…(looking at Blake, for answer)

BLAKE

We retreat. I got it, man.

ZANE

Good, 'cause no hero shit. You get back to the

compound and warn the others.

The group arriving at the highway. They all ride out onto it. Zane shakes hands with Blake, and he, Dakota, and Cleo all ride down the highway. One of the Rough Riders (Scoop, 17) is eyeing Dakota and Cleo, as they ride off…

SCOOP

I'm pretty sure I have a chance with those two.

BLAKE

I'm pretty sure you have a better chance with a

pair of pretty meat eaters, long before ya' do

with those two.

Few laughs…

SCOOP

Nah, you watch. If we ever get back on that field,

and she sees me striking your ass out, and hitting

bombs off her brother, I'll get my chance.

Blake laughing.

BLAKE

Damn, the fantasy land you live in, is even worse

than Joshua's!

SCOOP

Think about it, man. We'll be gods, here. The only

real entertainment will be at that stadium. Not like

we don't have baseball players. And when we're not

playing baseball and entertaining, we're out here,

protecting. We'll be even more popular here, than

we were in high school.

ABINO

He makes a pretty good point, coach.

BLAKE

I'm already a God, always have been, and took my

shot with her back during my Freshmen year. I struck

out, and so shall you, regardless of how much

"entertainment" you provide.

ABINO

Wait, timeout. You took a shot, way back when

you were both Freshmen?

SCOOP

Damn it, Blake, it's your fault she's into chicks!

Everyone laughing…

BLAKE

Nope, she was already there. Mighta' been a

rebellious thing. Her dad, Leo, is one intense dude.

ABINO

Yeah, the dead out here, are scarier than that guy!

BLAKE

Joshua says he has nightmares about him taking

over the compound.

Some silence…

SCOOP

Taking my chances out here, if he does!

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. COMPOUND BATHROOM – DAY

Leo staring at his completely bearded face, in the mirror…before turning on the faucet…

Dissolve to the same POV as Leo finishes shaving off not only his beard, but his entire head. He uses a rag to wash off his face, and stares back at himself…

LEO

(with a growing smile)

You were right, Mary… This is a face to fear…

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. HIGHWAY – DAY

Zane, Dakota, and Cleo, riding along the highway…

ZANE

I take it Gia and Mayday, are on the mission at

the coast?

DAKOTA

They are. They wanted to contribute. They worry

people are going to blame them for what happened

on the mountain.

ZANE

No one actually does, do they?

DAKOTA

Not that I know of.

CLEO

You need to hit on her, Zane.

Both Zane and Dakota throwing a "wtf" look at Cleo…

CLEO

What? I want to know if she's into guys. Not a lot

of fish in the sea, these days. I want to know where

to cast my line, in case I ever lose the one I got.

ZANE

(sarcastically)

Morbid much?

DAKOTA

Which is going to happen much sooner than you

think, if things like that keep coming out of your

cute little mouth.

ZANE

Can I throw up, now?

Zane suddenly stops, and climbs off his horse, quickly going over to a tree, and bracing a hand against it, preparing to actually throw up.

DAKOTA

Zane, what the hell? Zane?!

Both Dakota and Cleo hopping off their horses, running to his aid. He quickly throws up his hand.

ZANE

I'm fine! Just keep your eyes open.

Dakota turns back toward the road, then at Zane, watching him take deep breaths. She and Cleo share a look at one another, then the road, while Zane gathers his composure, without vomiting…

ZANE

I just keep having dizzy spills…

Zane slowly walks back to his horse, reaching and drinking from his water, and splashing some over his face…

ZANE

I still haven't really slept…

Dakota watching him carefully climb back onto his horse…

DAKOTA

We can wait to do this, until the others get back?

ZANE

Absolutely not. Sam is trying to get home, and we

can't have her running into these guys. I'm fine.

They ride in silence for a few moments…

ZANE

When are the others supposed to return, anyhow?

DAKOTA

Could be another day or two.

ZANE

How far north are they clearing?

DAKOTA

Just the north end of Rockaway, maybe a little bit into

Wheeler. They figure the meat eaters won't get past

the jetties, there. With the mountains on one side of

the highway, and the ocean on the other, they just

plan to block the highway, and keep even the living

from entering.

ZANE

That's going to piss some people off, but it's brilliant.

CLEO

You guys will own the beaches.

ZANE

Lot of good land and resources in Tillamook, too.

We'll be able to do things that no one else out there,

can… God…I wish Fish was here to be a part of this…

They all ride in silence…

Suddenly, Dakota spots something ahead…

DAKOTA

That wasn't there, last time we went by.

Zane and Cleo staring ahead. Their POV of a sign, propped up with heavy rocks below it (was somewhere else but moved to this location). It was a "Forest Grove" sign, with a red "R" spray-painted at the end…

They ride right up and over to it. It stood right next to the road, for all to see. Once closer, you could see a message that had been written and posted at bottom of the sign…

MESSAGE

Enter at your own risk!

Zane begins nodding his head…

ZANE

I've been looking for someone to take some

frustration out on, looks like I've found it.

He begins riding on, as Dakota/Cleo share a look, and follow…

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. HIGHWAY – DAY

Blake and the Rough Riders, riding along. Blake is on radio.

BLAKE

(into radio)

Well, that sounds inviting.

ZANE

(over radio)

Just be extra careful. If anything does happen,

make sure you send us a signal while you can.

BLAKE

(into radio)

Rodger that…

ZANE

(over radio)

There's one more thing… Just past the sign…

there's something else…

BLAKE

(into radio)

Yeah?

ZANE

(over radio)

There's a car, off to the side of the road. There's

something…hard to see, inside…

BLAKE

(into radio)

Well, it's the new world we live in, right?

Zane pauses…

ZANE

(over radio)

Right…

Scene dissolves to the Rough Riders, riding past the Forest "Grover" sign, and again dissolving, to them now approaching a vehicle, off to the side of the road. The driver-side door is open, and a dead person appears to be in the passenger seat.

As they get closer, the sound of a huff can be heard, inside. It sounds faint, and is coming from the back. Blake climbs down off his horse, and looks at the others to do the same…

They approach the vehicle, and can see it's completely stuffed with bags, food, and people. There is a dead mother in the passenger seat, with a bullet to the head. There is what looks like a nine-year-old boy, and a five-year-old girl, both with shots to their heads. The girl's eyes are open, and looking right at the Rough Riders.

They can still hear the huff, and move in closer, opening the side door. Inside is a baby huff, attached to its car seat, and with one arm completely blown off.

SCOOP

Jesus Christ!

ABINO

How the hell does Mom not finish the job?!

Blake closes his eyes a moment, opens, grabs his spear, and jabs the baby's head, for everyone to see…

BLAKE

It's the new world we live in, fellas…

Suddenly, what sounds like a vicious dog, begins growling from back in the brush. They all jump, and prepare for an attack. The dog slowly comes out. It's a yellow lab, filthy and showing it's teeth. The boys back up slowly, and just as slowly climbing onto their horses.

The dog calms down, and jumps inside the car, whimpering…

The Rough Riders begin riding away, without a word, but some of them fighting off tears, with looks back at the sad dog, remaining with its dead owners…

DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK

EXT. HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL FIELD – NIGHT

Scoop is on the pitcher's mound, delivering a nasty curveball, for strike 3, as he hops of the mound, pumped and heading for the dugout, with his teammates. He meets his catcher, now removing his mask (revealing himself as Blake), and sharing an excited high-five with Scoop, and the others…

Dissolve to Scoop, now at the plate, swinging and lining a base-hit.

Dissolve to Abino, swinging and ripping a ball down the line, sending Scoop racing around the bases, as his teammates cheer and wave him on. He scores, and they share excited high-fives, and point excitedly toward Abino, at 3rd base, after the triple…

Dissolve to Blake now at the plate, swinging and mashing a ball, to deep left. His teammates can be heard yelling and reacting!

PLAYER

That thing is WAAAYY outta' here!

The ball sails over the fence, without much effort from the leftfielder. Blake rounds the bases, with a big high-five to Zane, in the 3rd base coaching box. Blake touches home plate, and comes back to the dugout, sharing massive high-fives with Scoop, Abino, and others…

Dissolve to Scoop on the mound, his teammates cheering. He delivers a pitch, and the ball is ripped to the outfield. Multiple runners are on base, and now heading to the plate, and scoring. Now it is the other team, who jump with joy, celebrating. It appears to be a walk-off win, as Scoop and his teammates, hang their heads, while slowly walking off the field, in defeat…

Dissolve to most people gone from the field. Scoop still sits near the field, depressed…

Blake takes a seat next to him…

BLAKE

We used up all our other pitchers, just making it

as far as we did. You pitched the game of your life,

Scoop. We just didn't have anyone to come in and

close it down, for you.

SCOOP

This one hurts, man…

BLAKE

Oh, that's for sure, but just no blaming yourself, kid.

You get to come back next year, and do this all again.

I'll be stuck coaching, as you guys finish what we

couldn't. Now that's gonna' hurt. (Blake rising) Come

on, no more pouting. There are bigger problems in

the world…

DISSOLVE TO: FEW DAYS AGO FLASHBACK

EXT. HIGHWAY - DAY

POV Scoop, quietly/grimly riding along, with the others. None of them talking…

Dissolve to Zane, Dakota, and Cleo. All of them just as quiet and grim, as they quietly ride along…

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. COMPOUND BASEBALL LOCKER ROOMS - DAY

All the baby Rough Riders sit on the locker room benches, as Hunter stands in front of them.

HUNTER

It's still not quite time to play, to really play, but

it's time for hope, hope that the day will come,

when it is time to play, to really play…

The kids looking from him, to each other…

HUNTER

With that said, I want you guys to just relax today,

and be kids. I opened the gates, and messages have

been posted, notifying the community that the field

is open for those who need some exercise, and those

who would like to watch. We're even running a grill,

and feeding everyone. So, put on your cleats, grab

your gloves, and let's keep from getting too rusty, eh?

The kids cheering excitedly…

Dissolve to them now on the field, tossing the ball around. Other younger kids are there, too. Hunter is with Hope, Ryder, Bryant, Griffey, Trisha, and Ashley, working the grill, off to the side. Many compound people, family/friends/survivors are inside the stadium. Majority of the people are older people, women, teens and children, and some older people, with most others, busy at the coast, or with Zane…

Scout sits in the dugout, watching with a smile, and at the same time, a tear, running down her cheek…

Hunter works on showing Bryant how to flip the meat, and lets him take over, as Hunter walks over to Hope…

HUNTER

Your mom couldn't get Brianna or Kayla, interested?

Hope frowning with a shake of the head…

HOPE

Brianna is more of a mess than Zane and Grandpa,

from what Mom says.

HUNTER

I did my part with those two…but wish I knew what

to say to Brianna… (shrugging)

HOPE

I know, I don't know what to say to anyone around

here, anymore. Everyone is hurting, so much. And

here you are, holding it together, better than

everyone, almost as if you hadn't lost someone of

your own.

Hunter just looking right at Hope, both of them teary-eyed…

HUNTER

You really are quite a grown up, young lady, aren't

you? I swear I almost thought I was talking to your

mother, there for a second. (hugging her)

HOPE

No one I'd rather be compared to…

They both quickly move, as a ball comes flying their direction…

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. HIGHWAY – DAY

POV of the woods, trees, and bluffs/tree covered canyons that lay to one side of the highway, while steep (unclimbable) hills are on the other side. Blake rides in front, as the Rough Riders make their way into POV, riding along the highway…

They remain silent…

BLAKE

You know what I'm gonna' miss the most, besides

loved ones? (Everyone just silently looking at him)

The Sand Series.

ABINO

Yes!

BLAKE

Just having a chance to win that thing, like Zane

and those guys did, last summer.

SCOOP

God, that shit was epic!

BLAKE

I had a team for next season, (shaking head) even

Zane was nervous to run into.

Suddenly, they all begin to stop, and listen. The sound of a vehicle can be heard, approaching in a hurry.

Blake quickly scans the area, then breaks out his radio.

BLAKE

(into radio)

Zane, we have company! And we're at the canyon

stretch of highway, nowhere to hide. They're

coming quick! Don't respond! I'll send a signal.

Rough Riders, out.

Cut to Zane (along same highway) on his horse, with radio in hand, just as Blake finishes saying "Rough Riders, out". Zane looks at Dakota and Cleo, then back at his radio, nervously waiting for a signal…

DAKOTA

We should just go now. You know we're going

back no matter what the signal is!

ZANE

Yeah, we are.

Zane immediately turning his horse and galloping away, while carefully listening to the radio. Dakota and Cleo, follow. They begin riding faster, but Zane makes sure to listen for the signal…

BLAKE

(over radio)

Zane…it's…it's your dad.

Zane stopping.

DAKOTA

Son of a bitch. Did he say, Dad?

ZANE

(into radio)

We're already coming your way. (shaking his head,

now mumbling to himself) God damn it.

They ride forward…

Dissolve to Leo's hummer parked in the road, as he stands next to Blake (holding his horse).

LEO

You don't take orders from Zane, you take them

(pointing to his own chest) from me.

BLAKE

We're out here on the orders of both your father,

and the one who I've been told is the compound

leader, your brother, Hunter.

Leo looking at him, with disgust…

LEO

You're another one of those, wannabe funny,

sarcastic piece of shit, types, just like your buddy,

Zane, aren't you?

Leo drunkenly zoning off, at the thought of Zane…then looking back at Blake, and shaking his head…

LEO

I swear it's you and your damn generation, that is

the reason the world took a big dump, on us like

this. The reason people like me, need medications

is just to deal with all that piss-poor sarcasm, and

imaginary intelligence. You guys are like cartoons.

I'm talking to Bugs freaking Bunny, is what I'm doing.

Jesus Christ!

Leo turning to look around the corner of the highway.

LEO

Where's Mighty Mouse?

Players sharing looks, amongst one another.

LEO

He better be coming! I swear to God, if you're

stalling for him!

BLAKE

(Trying to keep him calm)

Sir, I swear to you, he's on his way. This is between

you and him.

LEO

As condescending as you are sarcastic… (shaking

head) I see why you and my son are in love.

Abino chuckles… Leo turns toward him. He slowly begins stepping toward him. Abino grows nervous…

Suddenly, Zane rides around the corner, followed by Dakota and Cleo. They ride right over to the others. Zane stops, climbs down, and steps toward his dad, with a shake of the head, as he looks over Leo's newly shaved face/head…

ZANE

Well, if your new haircut doesn't express your mood,

demeanor, drunkenness, and lack of meds, well…I

don't know what does.

LEO

I honor my dead wife, with my new look. You

will respect that!

ZANE

I respect the pain, you're in, Dad, but the way

you're going about it, is…

LEO

Is what?! What sarcastic, condescending crap do

you have? Already heard what your boyfriend,

over there, has. What you got?

ZANE

No need to make you look bad, right now, Dad.

LEO

See! More of that sarcastic shit. Now shut your

mouth, pack this mission up, and get these boys

back to base, and doing something productive.

ZANE

Dad… We're both grieving the same thing. I couldn't

leave my cabin, for over a week. This mission…is

what got me up, what gave me hope. Samantha may

or may not come heading this way, trying to get home,

but if she does…we're not making her get past these

guys, on her own. (Zane looking right at him) Now get

in your truck, and feel free to drive your drunk, off his

meds, ass, right off a damn cliff.

Leo just staring back at him, looking ready to snap. Rough Riders watch, and share concerned looks, back and forth. Zane simply waits for a response…

LEO

What if she is alive? What if she does make it back?

Leo just staring at him… Zane shaking his head…

ZANE

What the hell do you mean?

Leo yelling back before Zane can even finish that last sentence.

LEO

Does that ease all your pain, Zane?! Does it bring

back everyone else?! DOES IT BRING BACK MY

WIFE?! MY SONS?! YOUR BROTHERS?! YOUR BABY

SISTER?! NOOO, IT DOES NOT! DOES IT?! It's like you

think that little girl makes everything else, okay. Like

nothing else happened. She's just one, Zane! We've

lost HALF OUR DAMN FAMILY!

Dakota sits on her horse, weeping, as Cleo rides over. The Riders stare at Zane, who is speechless…

LEO

See, you know I'm right! Where's the sarcasm, now?!

Leo walking over to other side of road, breathing and staring off, at the bushy canyon…

ZANE

(OS)

I'm not just trying to save the little girl, I've loved

like a sister, since even before she was born. Not

even the little girl who everyone in this family,

knows is meant to run it, someday. (Leo shaking his

head) I'm doing it for her mothers. I'm doing it for

the rest of our broken family, which needs a lift, like

this. I'm doing it for the little girl I haven't even MET,

yet… (Leo stops shaking head) The girl who must

have seen her own father, perish, and God only knows,

how… The girl who must have sweat and wept for

hours, as she put her family in the ground…our family.

Leo now turning to face Zane. His view of him…

ZANE

I want to meet that girl… I want to bring her home…

and help our family begin to heal…

Now, Leo is the speechless one, as the Riders again share looks, and wait for a response from him…

He begins crossing the road, as everyone watches him closely…

He is staring right at Zane, but stops, and faces the hummer. He can see his dead wife, Mary, sitting in the passenger seat. She tilts her head, signaling him toward the driver's seat. He looks back at Zane, then to the hummer…

ZANE

This is getting embarrassing…what the hell is the

matter with you?

Leo looks right at him…

LEO

Do whatever you're going to do. Just don't waste

these kids' lives, going to war with enemies we

don't need to make.

Leo walks right over to the hummer, climbing in, starting engine, turning it around, and driving away...

Most Rough Riders sit on their horses, shaking their heads…

ZANE

I apologize, for my birth father. I want you all

to know, it's the man I loved like a father, who

was buried by his own ten-year-old daughter,

who's the one we go on this mission for.

SCOOP

We're with you, coach.

BLAKE

No explanation needed. We all know Samantha,

and would risk our lives to bring her home.

Zane nodding…

ZANE

Let's stick together, until we come to the end

of this stretch.

Zane rides off, as the others follow. They all ride down the ghostly highway, disappearing around the corner…

POV stays right there, on the empty highway, with just the sound of them, galloping away. The sound becomes more and more faint, until it disappears, and becomes total silence…

Silence gives way to the sound of a vehicle, it approaches quickly, and speeds right into POV, disappearing around that corner. It was Leo, in the hummer, heading back in the direction of Zane and the others…

Cut to Zane and them all turning, as the hummer arrives, and they quickly clear out of the way, as it speeds past them.

ZANE

(pissed)

Oh, what the hell, Dad?!

He speeds down the highway, disappearing around another corner. They ride ahead, to the sound of him speeding away, but then suddenly they can hear the sound of the hummer skidding out, and possibly crashing…

Zane picks up the pace, followed by the others…

Dissolve to them all riding past a pair of huffs, then arriving at the scene of the hummer, run off the road, with Leo inside, passed out. Blake hops down off his horse, followed by Abino. They both take out the huffs. Zane watches over them, with an approving nod, and then looking back inside the hummer, at his dad. Then to Dakota, who walks over to him, followed by Cleo. All of them just staring inside, at Leo passed out…

CLEO

(looking from Leo to Dakota)

Please tell me this doesn't run in the family?!

Dissolve to Blake slowly driving the hummer, as the Rough Riders follow, on their horses, Abino guiding Blake's vacant horse. Leo is still passed out, inside the back of the hummer. Zane rides over to Blake's window.

BLAKE

You sure I shouldn't haul ass, in case he wakes up

and takes charge? I just can't swing at your dad,

man, and honestly, it scares the crap out of me to

think what he'd do, if I did! I can handle all this dead

people crap, but your dad is scary shit, bro.

ZANE

I don't disagree, but don't worry, he hasn't crashed

in days. He'll be my uncle's problem, by the time he

wakes.

BLAKE

I still don't like leaving you guys on your own,

out here.

ZANE

We're just scouting, not engaging, we'll be fine.

BLAKE

(giving him a fist bump)

Alright, man. See you tomorrow.

ZANE

Tell Hunter, I said good luck.

Blake smiles as he drives away, with the Riders following. Zane turns back toward Dakota and Cleo, and rides past them, as they follow, back down the highway…

POV goes into bird's eye, of Blake and them going one direction, and Zane, Dakota, and Cleo going the other. As POV goes higher, all you see is the highway, surrounded by trees/woods…

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. COMPOUND STADIUM – DAY

Bird's eye POV over the compound, dropping down over the stadium. The crack of a bat can be heard, as POV finds the ball, traveling to deep left, dropping a few feet in front of the wall, and bouncing off of it.

Hunter, at the grill, reacting to the ball just missing at leaving the park. POV Joshua in the batter's box, reacting with excited disappointment, of the near homerun.

JOSHUA

Are you kidding me?! I got all of that one!

HUNTER

You're fourteen! Just wait and see what you do,

by next spring, or the year after that.

Joshua smiles and prepares for another pitch. He rips another one, to center. Bryant is out there, with both his sisters, and he steps in front of Ryder, to make the catch, and share a laugh with her, over it…

Hunter smiles as he watches the action. Joshua rips another one, into the gap. Hunter watches it, then smiles at Jaelyn (Mason's daughter, Rich's sister) who arrives at his side…

HUNTER

Hey Jaelyn. How's your brother doing?

JAELYN

He's starving and heard you were grilling. (a smile)

She places out a plate, as Hunter fills it with some meat, and laughs.

HUNTER

He's lucky to have such a great sister at his every

beck and call.

Hunter smiling at her and then at Scout, who now approaches, with a smile of her own…

SCOUT

Thank you, for this. It's exactly what this family

needed, what this community needed.

Hunter putting his arm around her.

HUNTER

Thanks, little sis. I totally agree. Now grab yourself

a plate and let those beautiful kids of yours, see

you smiling and filling your tummy.

Scout smiles at her big brother, and goes to the table for a plate…

Nate is now stepping into the batter's box. He rips the first pitch, deep.

Hunter turns to watch the ball fly over the fence.

HUNTER

OH, park's not going to hold that one! This kid

only a Freshmen?

Hunter watches him rip another one, again sailing over the fence. Hunter watches it, then takes notice of Grandpa Sam approaching. Hunter smiles at him, as he arrives…

HUNTER

Wonderful to see you finally make it, Dad.

Grandpa Sam doesn't look too happy…

HUNTER

What's wrong?

GRANDPA SAM

Need more than one guess?

HUNTER

What's Leo doing, now? More importantly, where's

he doing it? I really want to keep things peaceful,

in here.

Hunter signaling Bryant (who was running their direction, anyhow) over, and hands over the grilling duties to him, while leaving with Grandpa…

Cut to Hunter and Grandpa Sam, exiting the stadium, heading into an open fielded area, with the Baker complex next door to the stadium. Blake is at the door of the parked hummer, near the Baker garage, with the Rough Riders all on horses. Leo is nowhere in sight…

HUNTER

So, everyone is fine, though? Zane and the girls, too?

Grandpa nodding.

GRANDPA SAM

Zane went on with the mission, telling Blake they'd

be back as planned.

HUNTER

How did Leo get himself out of here, in the damn

first place?

GRANDPA SAM

There's no one in this compound who's going to

say no, to him, intoxicated or not.

HUNTER

I'm guessing he's off his meds, too?

GRANDPA SAM

I'm guessing your guess is correct.

HUNTER

Christ…going to have to begin mouth-feeding

the big baby…

Blake somewhat nervous, as Grandpa and Hunter arrive, and tries too hard to break the tension.

BLAKE

Sam, Sammy, Sammers…(Grandpa just staring

at him) Grandpa Sam?... (still staring) Sir?

GRANDPA SAM

Yeah, I think we'll go back to Sir.

HUNTER

So, start at the beginning…

Blake starts to talk, but interrupted by Hunter.

HUNTER

Wait… I can excuse (motioning toward Rough Riders)

these guys, right? (Hunter now looking at all them)

No one's hurt? Everyone's okay?

BLAKE

(everyone nodding)

Yeah, no, they're good to go, and nobody got hurt,

not on my watch, sir.

HUNTER

(nodding)

Good, good job. Okay, yeah, you guys all get out

of here. After you return those horses, head on

over to the stadium. Food is on the grill, and the

baby riders are playing some ball.

SCOOP

Oh, hell yeah.

Others all excited, as they turn and gallop toward the barns…

Hunter watches, then he and Grandpa turn toward Blake, who looks back at them…

BLAKE

I like baseball…and food. (now laughing) Sorry, just

kidding guys, kinda'. I just don't want to be around

(motioning toward the hummer) when that guy wakes

up. He might seriously blame me, for being back here,

or Zane going on with the mission. (Blake looking right

at them) I love Zane, and I love his family and this

amazing place they've invited me to survive at. I am

yours to do with as you please, but that guy, and who I

do, or don't, take orders from, needs to be made clear.

Being caught in the middle like this, is really awkward,

for lack of a better word…

HUNTER

(nodding)

You have my deepest apologies, and greatest

appreciation.

GRANDPA SAM

(also nodding)

Very fair, son… You may call me, Sam, again.

Blake laughing out loud.

BLAKE

Haha! You got it, sir!

HUNTER

Actually, you know what. Go catch up with your

riders, and just go play some ball. The younger kids

will be thrilled to have one of their coaches in there,

with them. (looking at Grandpa) We'll take it from

here, and get this guy in bed…

BLAKE

Nah…I appreciate it, and will absolutely get myself

in there, as soon as I can, but you guys need some

help. And not really much to tell. He showed up,

demanding we come back. He and Zane shared

some powerful words, and for some reason, he just

gave up, at least we thought. A few minutes later he

sped back by, and ran off the road, while avoiding a

couple meat eaters. Been passed out ever since…

HUNTER

Well, thank you. And you're right, we could use

your help, dragging him to bed, and locking the

door behind him.

They walk over to the Hummer, Blake pulls open the door, but no one is there! They all quickly turn, and Leo is RIGHT IN THEIR FACE, toward back of hummer.

LEO

BOO!

Blake actually jumps! Hunter rolls his eyes, and Grandpa just stares into the head/face of his freshly shaved, son…

GRANDPA SAM

Son…what did you do to yourself?

Leo mystified at first, before laughing and gliding his hand over his shaved head…

LEO

Mary likes it, this way…

Hunter sharing a look with Grandpa…

GRANDPA SAM

You know what else she likes? She likes a well-rested

husband. (trying to grab his arm) Let's get him some

sleep.

Leo aggressively pulls away from his father, with looks from him, and Hunter. Blake moves in closer…

LEO

Don't patronize me, like my punk-ass, son, kept

doing. (pointing at Blake) And his punk-ass,

bearded friend.

HUNTER

Alright, that's enough.

LEO

It's not even close to enough! What the hell is

wrong with you people?! Look at all our dead

family! When are you going to stop running this

amazing place into the ground?! Most of us are

already too dead to even enjoy it! How dead do

the rest of us have to become, before you finally

fix it?!

Hunter shaking his head. Grandpa just stares at his son, with a tear running down his face…

HUNTER

Blame is all you can do, to grieve. I don't know if

it's how you cope with your own guilt, or just some

chemical imbalance, but this shit ends, right now.

I have (pointing toward stadium) people in there

laughing and having fun, right now. What's

happening outside these walls, what's happened to

the people we love, is FINALLY escaping their minds,

if EVEN FOR FIVE GOD DAMN MINUTES! You go in

there like this, and the only thing you do is bring it

ALL BACK! You're chaos, Leo. You scare people.

What kind of leader does that?! Your son is hurting

just as much, maybe more, yet he's out there doing

something about it! What are you doing? Besides

sabotaging what he's doing?

Leo looks pissed, he turns around, then back toward Hunter, and LIGHTS OUT! The moment he turns back toward him, Hunter punches him directly in the face, knocking him completely out.

Hunter reacts to the pain in his wrist. Grandpa Sam shakes his head, staring at Leo, on the ground…

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. HIGHWAY (foggy) – DAY

Zane, Dakota, and Cleo all riding the highway, which is becoming somewhat foggy. They can hear a vehicle approaching, and all ride off the road, hiding behind trees/brush. It's just one car, at least 2 people inside (hard to tell, too packed). Zane watches them go by, waiting for them to disappear…

They come back out, meeting near the road…

DAKOTA

Either people are getting through, or those were

a part of them.

Zane thinking…

ZANE

They're marking their territory, and warning people

of entering. (looking right at Dakota) Those didn't

look like they were a part of a group. If they got

through, then this group can't be too organized. At

least, not like us.

DAKOTA

Or they just haven't secured the road yet.

CLEO

Or they're complete idiots, who the three of us

could take out, before dinner.

ZANE

With the fog rolling in, we can stay on the highway

a little longer, but soon will need to begin pushing

off from it, until we find a good spot to roll up on

their camp.

Zane begins riding forward, with Dakota and Cleo following…

Dissolve to Zane now riding his horse off the highway, into the woods…

ZANE

Once we get far enough in, we'll need to tie up

the horses, and advance on foot.

CLEO

Not to sound like a woman, or a blonde, but um,

are there snakes in these parts?

DAKOTA

On the mountain, maybe, but no, not the coast

range. At least not the kind that hurt.

CLEO

So, you're saying there are indeed, snakes?

ZANE

Yeah, but the only thing out here that bites, are

the dead. Now suck it up, or start dating men, ya

damn woman.

Cleo smiling at Dakota…

CLEO

I made your brother, make a funny.

Dakota smiling…

Dissolve to Zane, Dakota, and Cleo, tying up the horses, and walking away…

ZANE

We can't be more than a mile from where we

helped the military, chase them off. They have to

be camped out at Glenwood. God knows what

they might have done to the people who live there…

DAKOTA

That's an old outdoor school, there. Dad used to

tell stories about how they wanted Grandpa to

buy that land.

ZANE

(zoning off)

Samantha used to call it the corndog store. That

market right there. She loved stopping there on

the way to the beach, or the compound… She

would definitely be coming this way…

Dakota sharing a look with Cleo…

They walk on in silence…

Cleo takes a deep breath, and decides to break the silence…

CLEO

So…a meat eater and Leo, walk into a bar…

Zane keeps staring ahead…

Dakota throws a weird look at Cleo…

CLEO

That's all I got…but I bet if we work on it, we can

come up with something good. I was thinking they

relate to each other's apocalyptic family issues, or

something.

Zane keeps walking, without a look or response. Dakota cracks a smile at Cleo…

CLEO

I wanted Zane to make another funny…

They walk on, in more silence…followed by even more silence…

Suddenly Zane freezes, as do the others. They watch him, as he turns and stares into the brush…

There are random sounds, animals, wind, trees, branches, birds, but that is it…

Zane takes a few steps, but freezes again, and looking all around…

Suddenly, a yelp comes from the woods, followed by a cry, and then a scream.

Zane, Dakota, and Cleo, all completely freeze, and turn toward the noise.

PERSON IN WOODS

SAM! (Zane's eyes go wide!) What is it?!

They watch as a young girl comes bolting out of the brush. It's Samantha! Zane, Dakota, and Cleo are in complete shock, with thrill taking over their expressions. Zane gasps, and simply drops to his knees…

Dakota screams, with joy/shock...

Sam arrives, running directly into Zane's arms. He welcomes her with a form of relief that ravishes his body, the moment he wraps his arms around her...

Dakota throws her arms around them both...

They are all crying, words not even coming out, yet...

DJ and the others slowly arrive…

DISSOLVE TO:

A hatchet sailing through the air...

It sticks into Aiden's throat, taking away his smile, as he drops dead...

Bailey scratches Sam, and runs off, as they all watch Stix come out of the brush, followed by Swish, and one convict (some in prisoner outfits) after another...

They keep coming, and coming, completely surrounding Zane and the others...

Zane looks from the convicts, to Sam, and back to the convicts.

ZANE

(hushed)

Don't worry, this was kinda' the plan.

Sam a worried look at him…

SAM

Kinda'?

Zane puts his radio to his mouth.

ZANE

(into radio)

Rough Riders, stand down.

Convicts react by aiming their guns back behind them and toward the woods, in fear of whoever Zane is reporting to, as he goes on.

ZANE

(into radio)

Silence all radio chatter, and get back to the compound.

Let them know we've become captive, that we have

Samantha, and to go to absolute war, to get her back.

Swish rushing to Zane, looking him directly in the eye…

SWISH

Well…this one's got some balls, doesn't he?

BLACK

CREDITS

THE END