ABOVE THE DEAD .com
Season 3, Episode 8 (52 pages)
"Only Human"
INTRO
BLACK...
Absolute silence, other than the sound of steps in the snow…
FADE IN:
EXT. WOODS – EARLY MORNING
A huff slowly walking through the melting snow, as rain falls. It steps out of the woods/trees, and into a field, facing the walls of the compound…
POV coming from someone on the catwalk, of the huff, across the field, slowly taking steps into the field…
POV Divit and Stix, looking out toward the huff, and then along the catwalk, where a handful of others are holding guns, keeping their eyes on the surrounding area, in case Grover was to return. The field is full of footprints in the snow, from the activity of the night before…
Lester is next to Divit, sharing a look with him, and then out and about.
POV comes to Marshall, inside the tree house, looking out across the field, as a tear rolls down his cheek. Bonnie stands near him…
Doc is outside the door, on the catwalk, keeping an eye on the field, but with a skeptical look inside, at Marshall, right as background music begins.
Rag'n'Bone Man – "Human", begins instrumentally.
( watch?v=RpimiNvcRC4 )
Other cousins and random soldiers are behind Doc, along the catwalk, as POV moves past them, coming to Vance. He stands there staring out into the field and woods, as POV goes by him, coming to the remains of the tree house that was blown-up, and panning down toward the bottom. POV
moves to the corridor, shooting forward, into the field and across it, over the Baker complex, and to an area with a large walkway. Random people are here and there, with more people seen as POV comes to the Safe House. It's still Christmas morning, but there is no joy, or kids throwing snowballs…
Lyrics to song begin (from beginning), as POV travels through the doors of the Safe House.
MUSIC
"I'm only, I'm only… I'm only Human…Human"
POV finds a very somber and morbid group of people. Most of the compound people are there, in groups of family and friends, crying/hugging…
MUSIC
"Maybe I'm foolish, Maybe I'm blind
Thinking I can see through this"
POV infirmary, where doctors and nurses are hard at work, on dozens of people…
MUSIC
"And see what's behind
Got no way to prove it so maybe I'm blind"
POV pans to the window of the infirmary, where tons of worried compounders are watching the doctors…
MUSIC
"But I'm only human after all,
I'm only human after all
Don't put you blame on me
Don't put your blame on me"
POV the children all watching, moving to Blaze (4), with tears and holding the hand of his grandfather, Hunter, next to his wife who holds a weeping Rachel (Gunner's wife). Wyatt and his wife, Sarah (holding baby) are watching with concern, as is Jennifer (holding baby), with her kids, August (7), Jax (5) and Maddox (4). POV Chasin, holding his daughter Kat (with tears, 6), and Bo (7) next to Catherine, in the infirmary, sitting on the bed with his wife, Catherine Their POV of Gunner unconscious in bed, as the doctors work hard to save him.
MUSIC
"Take a look in the mirror
And what do you see
Do you see it clearer
Or are you deceived
In what you believe"
Mason staring into the infirmary…then looking back at his sister Scout, with tears, and in Solis's arms. Solis takes notice of the skeptic look Mason is throwing him…
MUSIC
"Cos I'm only human after all
You're only human after all
Don't put the blame on me
Don't put your blame on me"
POV begins circling the room, looking over all the mourning/exhausted people. POV is coming from someone, looking over all the pain of these people. Very quick shots of many of the main characters, like Cleo/Dakota, Jaelyn holding Ricky (who's become feverish), GW (blank expression), Rich holding an injured DJ, Kemp/Lester speaking to frustrated convicts, Doug comforting one of his weeping women, Cody holding a weeping Jo, Queen Nike hugging a sobbing Blake, her sister Nikki holding her dad, Griffey all alone, random women/children in complete hysterics, and coming to Grandpa Sam looking right at POV, Samantha also looking right at POV, right as the background song hits a high point.
MUSIC
"Some people got the real problems
Some people out of luck"
POV spinning around Zane, full of dread as he takes in the entire scene before him…
MUSIC
"Some people think I can solve them
Lord heavens above"
Zane's POV as it spins all around him, at all the sadness…
MUSIC
"I'm only human after all,
I'm only human after all"
POV spinning around Zane, as he continues to take it all in…
MUSIC
"Don't put the blame on me,
Don't put the blame on me"
Zane begins walking away, sharing a look with Mason, then Hunter, Scout, Grandpa, and finally Samantha. He looks away, and then a look at Griffey, before turning to walk right toward the door.
MUSIC
"Don't ask my opinion,
Don't ask me to lie
Then beg for forgiveness for making you cry,"
Pepsi quickly leaves the woman whose child was eaten by Eva, and reaching for Zane just before he leaves through the doors, with a look from GW, as Zane ignores Pepsi's request to stay, and continues to walk away, before suddenly grabbed by someone stronger, and pulled back inside, as Zane turns to face him.
MUSIC
"Making you crrryyyyy"
Zane's POV of Blake, with a face full of tears…
MUSIC
"Cos I'm only human after all"
POV Zane's face, full of pain, at the sight of Blake's face…
MUSIC
"I'm only human after all
Don't put your blame on me"
Quick POV's of the tears on the faces of Samantha, Scout, Harris, Hope, Pepsi, Coke, Chance, and Grandpa Sam…
Zane's face, no tears, just pain, regret, guilt…
MUSIC
"Don't put the blame on me"
Blake trying to speak, but can't form the words…
Song hits high point, right as Zane turns back around to leave.
MUSIC
"Some people got the real problems
Some people out of luck
Some people think I can solve them
Lord heavens above"
Zane walking away, as Blake drops his head, as does Pepsi, Scout, Mason, Samantha, and Grandpa Sam. Others just watching him walk away…
MUSIC
"I'm only human after all,
I'm only human after all"
POV in front of Zane, walking away, through the snow, with worried looks from those in the background, at the door…
MUSIC
"Don't put the blame on me"
POV Zane closing his eyes…
MUSIC
"Don't put the blame on me"
Cut to the infirmary, where the Guardian is laying motionlessly in bed, but staring right at the team of doctors/nurses, operating on Gunner.
MUSIC
"I'm only human I make mistakes
I'm only human that's
all it takes to put the blame on me
Don't put your blame on me"
POV travels around others in beds, either watching or being worked on, and tons of bloody beds/sheets. POV travels around the doctors and nurses, desperately working on Gunner, with his wife (arm bandaged) seen in background, with Hunter and family, weeping/watching…
MUSIC
"I'm no prophet or Messiah
Should go looking somewhere hiiiiigheeeeerrrr"
Grandpa Sam coming up behind Hunter and family, with an expression of pure sadness…
Samantha comes behind Grandpa, standing right next to him, both with expressions of pure sadness…
MUSIC
"I'm only human after all,
I'm only human after all"
Cut to Zane, with complex and Baker cabin in the background, and the lake to his side…
MUSIC
"Don't put the blame on me,
Don't put the blame on me"
Zane closes his eyes, again, flashing to images of Blake in complete hysterics/agony, as huff Eva comes at him, while he prevents her from biting him, while in such agony…
MUSIC
"I'm only human I do what I can I'm just a man,
I do what I can"
Zane opening his eyes, and walking the steps of his cabin porch…
MUSIC
"Don't put the blame on me
Don't put your blame on me"
Zane walks straight to the door, opens, enters, and closes door on POV, as song ends…
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:
INT. ZANE'S DARK CABIN – DAY
POV travels through the cabin, trying to find Zane. There are no lights on, and not much sound. POV travels through the kitchen, then a hallway, with pictures on the wall, of much happier times. There's a picture of Zane smiling, with Fish and Samantha, both Fish and Zane holding basketballs, and another framed photo next to it, with them all holding fish that they had caught. There is another picture of him with all his cousins, including Gunner. Another picture of him with Blake, Abino, and other ball players in uniform…
POV leaves hallway, into living room, with no sight of Zane, until POV comes to a pair of legs, lying on the floor, with a couch blocking the rest of him. POV continues forward, finding Zane on side of the couch, sitting on the floor, with his back up against the wall. He's staring forward, at nothing, but his own thoughts…
He briefly closes his eyes, with a flash of Joshua, smiling and catching a baseball with his glove. Zane opening his eyes, just staring forward, without tears. He closes them again, flashing to Abino striking out a hitter and celebrating. Blake (the catcher) coming toward the mound, high-fiving Abino. Joshua jumping up and down from the outfield, and running inward. Felix next to Zane, disappointed but optimistic.
FELIX
(looking up at Zane)
Next year, (motioning toward Blake/others celebrating)
that will be us. (smiling with a nod)
GUNNER
(OS)
I agree…
Zane and Felix turning to look into the stands, at Gunner (holding his son, Blaze), with his smiling wife, Rachel.
GUNNER
You got these guys, next year.
Zane and Felix sharing a look and nod…
Zane opening his eyes, from the floor of his cabin, with a tear now developing, as he stares forward, at nothing…
DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK
INT. HOSPITAL ROOM – DAY
POV Grandpa Sam, standing there smiling, with looks around the room. His POV of the smiling/excited faces of his family members, Chasin (holding Bo's hand (3, instead of 7) and wife Catherine (holding Kat (only 2), Mason and girlfriend Missy, Rich and sister Jaelyn, Troy (with Angela), Kate, Dakota, Jagger, Vincent, his boys Greg and Mark, Scout, Hope, Ryder, Bryant, Fish, Samantha, Hunter and April, Miles (holding Jax (1) and Jennifer (very pregnant), and Wyatt.
POV comes back to Grandpa Sam, just as Zane excitedly comes into the room through a pair of doors, with his arm around Gunner, who is with him, and tiredly smiling.
ZANE
Gunner's a father! (everyone cheering) Everyone
get ready to meet, little Blaze Baker!
Everyone cheering and coming to Gunner for hugs…
DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME
INT. INFIRMARY - DAY
POV Gunner's unconscious body, lying in bed as the surgeon works on him…
POV Hunter and family watching (including Gunner's mom, Barbara), as a surgeon comes out to them, speaking to Grandpa, with Hunter coming from behind him, listening...
SURGEON
You once told me it was my blunt honesty that you
respected, so I won't bullshit you. I don't like his
chances, Samuel, but a chance he does have, and
we will do everything we can, to make me wrong.
The surgeon turns and goes back inside. Grandpa turns to face his son, Hunter, with a look of complete dread on his face, with Barbara behind him, reacting to the look on Grandpa's face, as does Wyatt, also behind his father (Hunter)…
Hunter steps forward, as Grandpa opens his arms. They embrace, as Hunter weeps inside of his father's arms…
The rest of the family watches, from behind, with looks of concern, and tears of their own…
POV travels around the Safe House, where families continue to mourn and embrace. Some compounders are shaking hands with convicts, and Nike World people, thanking them for their protection, during the battle. Kemp receives a handshake, as Lester arrives at his side.
LESTER
Pete and Amad can be added to the list. They haven't
been seen, since halfway through the battle.
Kemp taking a deep breath, looking around at all the sadness…
KEMP
I guess it could have been worse…
POV travels around some more, coming to Jo, who is being embraced by her cousin Chloe, as Cody is looking around.
CODY
Chloe, have you seen Vance?
POV leaves them, passing more somber people, until coming to DJ (leg bandaged) and Renee, as Rich arrives with a hand over Renee's shoulder.
RICH
That's some big brother you have there, kiddo.
Now I owe my life to him, just as you, Samantha,
and Eli do.
DJ
He's lying. He was the real hero, out there.
Renee is quiet, Rich taking notice.
RICH
You okay, sweetheart?
DJ
She's worried about Griffey.
Rich a dreadful expression, and looking around the room, then following DJ and Renee's gaze.
RICH
Oh my God, Griffey…
Their POV of Griffey, sitting alone with Trisha and Ashley.
DJ
(OS)
He's not really speaking, right now…
Trisha has dry tears, but Griffey looks more like Zane, just staring into nothingness…
Suddenly he flinches, at the sound of a single gunshot.
POV cuts outside the Safe House doors, where Porter quickly looks up after the sound of that gunshot. His eyes have tears. Another gunshot is then fired.
Cut back inside, where everyone is quick to react. Mason, Chasin, Kemp, Lester, Harris, her sister and father, Doug and a pair of his people, and many others are instantly racing for the doors and reaching for their weapons. GW watches, but decides against reacting. Solis shares a look with Scout, who remains with Hunter's family, while Solis runs off with the others. Dakota is also racing for the door, with Cleo leaving her brother's bedside, to race after her.
POV facing them as they all rush out the doors, and race off in the same direction that Porter is already running. Mason is holding a radio and speaks into it.
MASON
(into radio)
Gunshots inside the compound!
Cut to Divit and Doc, on the catwalk, with radios. Doc was already racing down the ladder, followed by others.
MASON
(over radio)
We have gunshots fired inside!
DOC
(into radio)
I'm on my way!
HUNTER
(over radio)
No, Doc! Keep the walls and gates guarded!
Divit is already using binoculars to look over the entire area, as is Marshall, from inside the tree house…
Cut to a part of the Baker complex, where a handful of women are outside the doors of a room, crying and/or with hands to their faces, as Mason and all the others begin arriving. They come to a slow, with looks at the women. Mason and some of the others begin glancing toward the door to the room, and eventually, Mason inches toward it, taking a step or two inside, and coming back out.
MASON
Jesus Christ…
A look of dread comes over Dakota's face…
DAKOTA
(dreadfully)
Who was it?
MASON
Felix and Eva's parents…both with shots to the head…
Everyone just looking away, or toward the ground, with silence…
Harris decides to go inside the room. Her POV of the bodies…
POV her face, with tears, as her father and sister come from behind…
SHAWN
They were our family, too… Our responsibility…
NIKKI
He's right, Harris. This is not on you.
HARRIS
These were awesome parents… Parents with an
amazing (losing her emotion) pair of kids.
Nikki and Shawn both reach for her, as she turns and takes them into her arms, letting out her emotion…
Cut to Doc on his radio, entering the Safe House.
DOC
(into radio)
Alright, I'm sorry to hear that. I'll return to the wall
in a minute. We already know we had one spy in
here. I'm not about to keep my eyes off of anyone
who came from that Portland camp.
Silence for a moment, as Doc walks past the somber crowd, looking for someone in particular, before Scout comes over the radio.
SCOUT
(over radio)
What the hell do you mean by that, Doc?
POV Scout holding radio, next to Hunter…
DOC
(over radio)
I'm sorry. Bad timing, but we need to question every
single man who was once an associate of "Grover"…
Scout looking up at her big brother, who grabs radio…
HUNTER
(into radio)
You make a good point…bad timing…
POV Doc, placing radio to his mouth. His POV, as he glances across the room, through the crowd of people, and spotting Hunter, Scout, and family, near the windows of the infirmary. He lowers radio, deciding not to respond. He continues looking around, until he spots Sage (his sis) and several other cousins, with Mayday (arm bandaged) and his girlfriend. Doc begins approaching them, with a few handshakes or pats on the back, from random others as he passes them by…
He arrives as Sage and Mayday share a hug. Mayday then extends his hand to Doc, and shakes hands with him. Doc then shares a hug with Sage, who's face is full of tears…
SAGE
This new world never scared me. Not for a second.
(coming out of hug, looking right at him) But going
on without her, (shaking head) I just don't know
how that's possible.
DOC
Each other…that's how we do it.
She hugs him again…
POV leaves them, through the random crowd, and coming to GW. He's still just staring off at nothing, until he turns his head, at someone who approached. His POV of Eli…
ELI
I'm sorry if you lost someone you loved. It's
happened to me, again.
Eli stares back at him for just a moment, before hanging his head, and walking away, taking POV with him…
He glances over toward Samantha, with her mom, Scout, and the others, and then over toward Rich, DJ, and Renee. He keeps walking, and arriving toward some of the Rough Riders, like Trav, Nate, Wong, Pav, and a few others. Blake is nowhere to be seen…
ELI
You guys think Blake will be okay?
WONG
Are any of us going to be okay?
TRAV
I think Zane might be in a worse place than he
was after he got back from Mt. Hood.
Eli looking toward the ground, at that thought…
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. ZANE'S CABIN – DAY
Zane still staring at nothing…not even moving, or crying…He just sits there, eyes open, but looking at nothing…
It's dead silent…and remains that way as he just sits there, in all that silence, until eventually someone comes over the radio.
PORTER
(over radio)
Huff check, at the wall?
DIVIT
(over radio)
Just a random few. Nothing to worry about, and
quiet otherwise.
MASON
(over radio)
Take five, Porter. Everything's good…
CHASIN
(over radio)
It's far from good. We need to all sit-down, after
Porter takes five…and not a minute later.
GRANDPA SAM
(over radio)
We still don't know if Marlana or my grandson will
ever open their eyes, again. Let's heal, and then talk.
HUNTER
(over radio)
My son will open his eyes, and so will Marlana.
We all meet in one hour…
Zane is probably listening, but you couldn't tell for sure, as he just sits there, staring at nothing, again in complete silence…
His eyes finally close.
DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK
INT. BAKER COMPLEX – DAY
Zane enters the complex, holding hands with Pepsi, who is holding hands with her son, who is holding Chance's hand. Marlana is in there, with tons of other young kids, in what looks like a children's daycare facility. Marlana comes to greet them, with a warm smile. Zane smiles himself, sharing a hug with Marlana…
MARLANA
Zane.
ZANE
Hi, Marlana.
Zane comes out of hug, as Marlana then moves to hug Pepsi.
MARLANA
Pepsi, it's so good to see you back at the compound.
PEPSI
Well, it's just for a week, but yes, it's so great to
be here, and to see you again.
Marlana smiling at her, then looking to the boys, with her warm beautiful smile.
MARLANA
And who would these two young men happen to be?
(hugging them) Growing into men, at least. That
is for sure!
COKE
Hi, Marlana. Things are getting better.
Marlana looking at him, with a laugh.
MARLANA
They sure are, buddy. They sure are…
Coke grabs Chance's hand and leads him off toward the other kids, playing with toys, as the adults take a seat…
ZANE
So, how are things working out here, for you?
MARLANA
Zane, what your grandfather has done here, the
thought behind it all, and the time he took to put
such a thing in the works, so far in advance, is just
something that movies or television is made of.
Zane and Pepsi smiling.
PEPSI
I know. That's the part that blows my mind, too.
That everything he's doing here, was created in that
mind of his, back while we were all taking advantage
of a very lazy world.
ZANE
That's Grandpa. Sometimes I think the old world
scared him more than this one, and that he was
meant to play a huge role in making it a better one.
MARLANA
Creating something good, from something so bad.
ZANE
Exactly! One of the keys to life, he always says...
DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME
INT. ZANE'S CABIN – DAY
Zane's eyes open, shaking his head, then speaking to himself.
ZANE
Nothing good can come from this one, Grandpa…
Nothing…
Dissolve to the infirmary, and Marlana on the table (unconscious), as a surgeon is working on her…
Dissolve to Gunner, on a table of his own, also being operated on…
POV moves through the infirmary, finding a back room with a curtain. POV goes around it, finding Grandpa Sam, sitting in a chair next to a bed, with the Guardian…
GRANDPA SAM
I feel like I'm being punished. I'm not sure what for,
but I've worked so hard, to do something that makes
me happy, but also affects others in such a positive
way. I truly don't ask much in return, other than the
love and respect of my family and friends. I overcame
the death of so many loved ones, to do what I'd always
promised I'd do, and start something special… (just
looking at her, shaking head) How can it ever be that
way, again? It's Christmas day, and they've all been
living a total nightmare, since the peak of Christmas Eve…
Grandpa just staring at nothing for a moment, then looking up, a bit.
GRANDPA
Maybe that's my karma… I try so hard to worry about
the traditions, rather than just life…(shaking head)
But what good is life, without traditions?
He just stares at her, without a response…
GRANDPA
Is it wrong to worry about the spirit of mankind?
To worry about baseball games and Sand Series
Championships? People died here, last night, and
early this morning. Some of them just took their
lives, on Christmas day, after their children were so
terribly taken from them…and I'm worried about
the spirit of mankind? (shaking head) My grandson
may not make it…and I'm worried about what this
day will always be to us, now…
The Guardian just looks back at him, with a single tear running down her face…
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. COMPOUND GRAVEYARD – DAY
Someone walking through the slushy leftover snow, panning back to Porter, as he arrives in the graveyard, where many men are hard at work, digging holes…
They begin to slow down, and stop, and give their attention to Porter…
PORTER
We'll be needing a couple more…
They all look at him, and then amongst each other, as he turns and walks the way he came from…
They eventually continue digging… One of them, who had been resting, but is filthy, rises and goes over to a certain spot, and begins digging a new hole…
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. SAFE HOUSE – DAY
A random compounder man (Larry) is approaching Scout, who is close to Hunter and family. He looks like he wants to speak to Hunter, or Grandpa Sam, but chooses to speak with Scout…
LARRY
Look, Scout, I understand these kind of situations
and the rules you guys put in motion, but…(just
staring at her) Can I please take my family to the
home I purchased, long before this world went to
shit? You know we are not spies, and we won't go
anywhere other than our home, with the doors
locked.
Scout looks sympathetic, but begins shaking her head…
SCOUT
I'm sorry, Larry. Until the council has met and put
together a course of action, everyone is stuck here,
or with special permission can be placed over at
the complex.
Larry trying to remain calm, but shaking head…
LARRY
That's bullshit, Scout. We paid good money to be
here, and deserve to be treated as such, rather than
the people who you never knew before all this
happened. The people who might have helped make
this happen.
SCOUT
And if there are any more of those people in here,
your family is not going to be very safe, on their
own, will they?
Larry beginning to lose his patience.
LARRY
Which is exactly why these strangers and convicts
should NOT have been allowed in here, in the first
damn place.
Solis steps in front of Scout, as Grandpa Sam takes notice, and walks past Hunter, toward Scout and Larry…
SCOUT
You knew these rules before you purchased your –
GRANDPA SAM
Larry, what is it I can do for you? My grandchild is
fighting for his life, but I'm more than happy to
resolve the little things, right now.
LARRY
I'm sorry, Sam. I'd just like to take care of my own
family, and see my own grandchildren seek comfort
in the safety of their own beds. Beds I paid you a lot
of money to own.
GRANDPA SAM
If I felt my rules were unclear when you signed those
papers, or there was legal representation to aid you,
now, I'd listen to what you have to say. But that world
is gone, and new rules are now in place, in which you
were made aware of, in the case of an apocalyptic
event. (motioning around the room of somber people)
We are at war, and life just changed, again, for us all.
So, please Larry, take your family to the complex, if
you like, but do not bother my family or me, over this
again, until we have further details for you.
Grandpa Sam gives him a stern look, before turning and walking back to the window of the infirmary. Larry just watches him, then looks at both Solis and Scout, before turning back and leaving, without a word…
POV moves through the somber crowd, eventually coming to Kemp, Lester, Damon, Deon, and other convicts, all huddled together in the corner.
DEON
Are we invited to this meeting they're having?
DAMON
We helped save they asses. We damn well better
be!
KEMP
I need to go speak with Zane. He's still our leader.
We follow him.
DAMON
Does everyone feel that way? (motioning toward
GW) Does GW?
KEMP
It will take time.
LESTER
We need their help right now, regardless of how
the others feel. The real Grover is sick. That's just
not debatable. We leave here, and return to
Glenwood, which is where he might be, right now,
and who knows what he'd do to us.
DAMON
Like, shoot us? Is that the kind of sick, you talkin'
bout?
DEON
Exactly. I mean, I love Zane, but…
DAMON
But he shares the same damn blood as his brother,
and his crazy ass dad.
KEMP
Zane has never acted like Grover or his dad.
DAMON
Excuse my black ass? He hasn't done what, now?
KEMP
Besides what he did last night, to people who wanted
to follow a man who wanted to do exactly what he
said he was going to do. Come for this place, and
Zane's own family. What would you have done?
Damon without a response…
LESTER
You have to go talk to him, Kemp.
Kemp leaving.
KEMP
I do…
Kemp walks right by Moon, who looks devasted, over the loss of Shine…
Dissolve to Kemp now outside and walking past Porter, with a nod. He keeps walking, as Porter does the same, while reaching for his hipflask, and taking a big drink…
Mason now approaches him, and reaches his hand out…
Porter just looks at him a moment, before handing him the flask. Mason takes a big drink, and hands it back, continuing on his way, as does Porter…
Mason walks over the pathway (slushy snow), and into the Baker complex area. He enters inside a room, and continues through, opening a door into a hallway, where he then enters a room (Strategic Room) with a large table (several others), maps, and weapons. He goes to the table, looking down over it. It's a fancy topping, with a map of the entire area, as the table surface. The coast, coast range, and even Glenwood area are a part of the map…
He sits, and just begins thinking, in the silence of the room…
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. ZANE'S CABIN - DAY
Zane still sitting in same place, staring at nothing, in total silence…
Eventually, a knock comes at his door, followed by more silence, then another knock.
KEMP
(OS)
Zane, it's Kemp. I know you're a mess, right now,
but you're still our leader. Tell Stix and I, to take
it over, and we will, but until you do, it's you,
who we follow… And right now, the men need
someone to follow.
POV Kemp, at the front door.
KEMP
There's going to be a meeting soon. I think we
should be there.
Suddenly, Zane comes over Kemp's radio, which is attached to his side.
ZANE
(over radio)
Stix and Kemp have full control of the Glenwood
people. They'll attend the council meeting and
speak on behalf of the convict army. An army
that just proved its allegiance to this compound.
Kemp just staring at his radio, then the door, before slowly turning and walking away…
Eventually, more radio chatter develops…
DOC
(over Kemp's radio)
Indeed, they did…but, what exactly does this mean
for you?
Kemp keeps walking, with radio silence, as everyone awaits an answer from Zane.
Cut to Grandpa and Hunter, along with Scout, all awaiting Zane's radio response.
Cut to Mason, then Porter, Divit and Stix, Harris, Chasin, Blake (still devastated), Mayday, and then Doc, all awaiting Zane's response…
POV close-up of a random radio.
ZANE
(over radio)
It means my soul mission, right now…is to kill
my brother.
POV falls back from radio, to Samantha's expression from what she just heard, and panning back to Grandpa Sam, holding the radio, with Hunter holding his own, and the expressions of April, Scout, and all the others…
POV travels over to Mason, who is standing with Rich, DJ, Renee, Griffey, Trisha, and Ashley, and Mason's grandchildren, Bo and Kat. Mason is about to respond over the radio, but lingers, before Grandpa is heard responding.
GRANDPA SAM
(over radio)
We have much to talk about, Zane, but so do I
and the grandson, I never even knew I had.
Cut to Zane, sitting in the same spot, just staring forward.
GRANDPA SAM
(over radio)
Your mission is to make sure I have that opportunity,
son…
Zane closing his eyes…
Cut to Samantha, with a tear developing, as a hand dries it. She looks up at her grandfather (who dried the tear).
SAMANTHA
Is he really my cousin? The person who did this? The
person who ruined our Christmas, and killed people
we love?
Grandpa developing his own tear…
GRANDPA
That's why I need to speak with him. I believe he is ill,
just like your uncle Leo.
SAMANTHA
(looking downward)
Uncle Leo would never have done all this.
GRANDPA
No, sweetheart, he wouldn't…
SAMANTHA
I wish he was here.
GRANDPA
So do I…so do I…
Grandpa zones for a second, then looks down at his granddaughter…
GRANDPA
Come chat with me, Samantha. I want to pass an
idea down to you.
Grandpa leads Samantha away. They pass Eli, as Grandpa places his hand over him, leading him along with them…
Cut to all 3 of them, entering a private room, as Grandpa closes the door behind them. The room is fairly empty. Just a small table, sofa, some boxes of food, and a lamp.
Grandpa sits at the table, placing his radio down on it. Eli and Samantha sit on the sofa, as Grandpa simply stares at them a moment…
GRANDPA
I'm sorry for your loss, Eli. I know you and Joshua
became close. I didn't know his father well, but he
was an amazing man, because it showed in how he
raised Joshua. His heart and imagination was
something I'll never forget, and was exactly what I
built this place for… Abino was another great one,
and a true fighter, much like yourself.
ELI
I'm not a fighter, not compared to Abino, anyhow.
GRANDPA
You are, and so much more, and like Joshua, you're
exactly the kind of inspiration I had in mind, when
building this place. (pausing a moment) Right now, I
want to tell you both about something else, that
recently inspired me, and got me thinking…
Eli and Samantha sharing a look…
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. FRONT END OF BAKER COMPLEX – DAY
The snow is becoming more and more slushy, and melting altogether. Kemp walks through it, nodding at Pepsi, who passes him on the path, while speaking.
PEPSI
Did he actually speak to you?
KEMP
Nope, but it did spark his response over the radio.
PEPSI
Yeah, I heard about it.
KEMP
Good luck.
Kemp disappearing, as POV follows Pepsi, while walking past the Baker cabin.
POV of her coming from window of the Baker cabin. It follows her until she walks out of range, with POV moving through the cabin, which is still lit with Christmas lights, and a huge tree, with unopened gifts all over the place. The stockings are not yet stuffed, but hanging. POV moves over the large room, coming to another window, where Pepsi is again seen, approaching the steps to Zane's cabin…
Cut to Zane still sitting in his spot, in the dark, staring forward. He can hear someone at the door, which eventually opens. He closes his eyes, remaining there, with the sound of someone walking through the cabin, looking for him. Eventually, the sound of those steps come right to him, and stop. He remains sitting there, with eyes closed. The person moves and eventually comes into POV, sitting down against the wall, right next to him. She leans against his shoulder, closing her own eyes…
They sit there together, in silence…before she finally breaks it.
PEPSI
I love you… And in your own words, that love is
something that would heal everything else, that
comes your way.
Silence…until he finally breaks it.
ZANE
Anything…except guilt.
More silence…
ZANE
There was guilt after the deaths of most of my siblings,
and again with Fish, and Samantha missing…but I could
shake it…(shaking head) Not this time…
PEPSI
It just happened…give it time.
Zane again shaking head…
ZANE
It's different this time…deep down I knew I wasn't
all that guilty, those times, but…(shaking head) not
this time. I got them killed…all of them…(weeping
out next word) Gunner.
Pepsi grabbing his face, trying to kiss him.
PEPSI
No, you didn't!
She kisses him, just a moment, before he quickly pulls away, just staring at her, with sudden anger…
PEPSI
What?
ZANE
Where were you?
PEPSI
(confused)
What?
ZANE
During the fighting. Where the hell were you?
PEPSI
Zane, I –
ZANE
All that time training. You always promised you'd
be at my side. Where the hell were you?!
PEPSI
I wanted to be at your side. It's all I could think
about, besides my son, and –
ZANE
Your son would have been safer if his mom had
been out there defending this place!
PEPSI
(trying to stay calm)
His mom wanted to be out there, Zane.
ZANE
His mom was too chicken shit to live up to her word!
PEPSI
HIS MOM WAS TOO WORRIED ABOUT HER
UNBORN CHILD!
Zane silenced, just staring at her in complete shock…
She stares at his face as she rises, and walks out of the room.
PEPSI
It's not the way I wanted to tell you.
He begins to weep, but is fighting through it, and instead finds rage with his voice, but his body remains limp, on the ground, as he screams out his frustrations, at the top of his lungs…
He runs out of breath, even coughing…before dropping his head, and weeping…
Pepsi's legs come back into the POV, watching him, before squatting down and holding him…
He allows himself to be held, like a baby in her arms, as he continues to weep…
DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK
EXT. GLENWOOD CAMP – DAY
Zane and Pepsi on the ground, in a grassy area. He has her pinned down, but she breaks free, and knocks him to the ground, pinning him. He groans for a moment, before laughing, quickly rising and hugging her with excitement! She is also thrilled! Jumping up and down…
ZANE
OH MY GOD! You did it, baby!
PEPSI
I am total BABASS, BABY!
He kisses her, and then wipes some blood from her nose, and she wipes some from his, and they kiss again.
PEPSI
Bring on the others! Dakota, Cleo, Sage, Skyler,
I could take any of them, and all of them!
They're still excitedly jumping around, hugging, and kissing.
ZANE
I wouldn't want anyone else at my side!
Pepsi uses another move, to drop him to the ground, and immediately dropping down right on top of him, with a quick kiss, and then remaining right in front of his face, while speaking.
PEPSI
If you ever do anything like you did in Beaverton,
again, I will be the one at your side.
Zane just staring back at her, with a smile…
ZANE
That's the single sexiest thing anyone has ever
said to me.
They begin kissing…
DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME
INT. SAFE HOUSE PRIVATE ROOM – DAY
A female is alone, crying on the sofa, of a room just like the one Grandpa Sam had taken Eli and Samantha into. Her face is covered by her hands, which she removes, revealing herself as Jaelyn. She begins drying her face, and taking a deep breath, before rising and walking to the door. She is about to open, but takes another breath, before opening and walking back into the crowded Safe House area.
She walks through the crowd, eventually stopping, watching Grandpa Sam, Eli, and Samantha, coming out of their own private room, and back into the crowded main room. Samantha appears to be processing whatever her grandpa just told her…
Jaelyn now turns toward Ricky, speaking to some of his soldier buddies, who appear to be saying their goodbyes to him. She steps back to them, her expression showing her appreciation, as the soldiers walk away. She looks down at Ricky, doing her best to smile. He's a bit feverish, but still strong enough to sit up, and even developing a smile for her…
RICKY
You are so beautiful. (she kind of laughs, and kind
of weeps) I want your beauty to be the last thing I
see, (mostly weeping now) before my lights go out.
Now she loses it. Sobbing and allowing the tears, with concerned looks from friends and family, including a shot of her father, Mason, across the room, and Rich, standing near him, watching his sister…
Ricky holds her close…
RICKY
It's okay. It's okay… You're even beautiful when
you cry like a baby.
She kind of laughs, again, but mostly still sobbing…
RICKY
And over a guy like me? Some random so-called
soldier, who decided to stay here and survive,
rather than go look for my family. I don't deserve
those tears.
JAELYN
You're dying, after giving your life defending my
family. You deserve so much more than a few tears.
He looks at her, and they share a kiss…
Mason and Rich, across the room, looking at each other…
MASON
I didn't even know they were involved…
RICH
I know…I was the only one she told. He was
nervous about you being her father.
MASON
I have always been very fond of that kid. Why
would she keep that from me?
RICH
Trust me, Dad. It was all him. He idolized you. He
didn't think he was worthy of the daughter of a
man like you.
Mason just looking at Rich, and then practically speaking under his breath…
MASON
God damn it… (shaking head) God damn it…
He places his arm around Rich…
POV leaves them, finding Todd and Sandy, being pet by a couple of children. POV keeps going, finding DJ, just staring at something. Ryder comes from behind him, sitting next to him, and following his gaze…
She begins staring, too, with a surprised look on her face…
RYDER
Of all the people, I'd think to see Renee talking
with…he is the last…
Their POV of Renee, looking up at GW, as he speaks to her. She says a few things, and then begins walking back toward DJ.
GW begins staring forward, in deep thought…
Dissolve to GW's memory, of him on the basketball court at Nike World. He falls to the ground with an ankle injury…
Dissolve to him in a medical office, being wrapped by Taylor. He can't help but to be in awe, over her beauty, and the smile she keeps giving him…
Dissolve to her finishing, while in conversation, with him.
GW
Did you just call me retarded?
TAYLOR
(with laugh)
I'm talking about autism, and just a slight amount
of it. It's referred to as the spectrum. I had a friend
who spent his entire life feeling as if he was just a
little different than everyone. Like they didn't think
the same way he did, about some things. At age 35,
he was finally diagnosed with slight autism. From
the things you told me, it might be why you feel so
different, from others.
He remains silent, as she looks him over with a smile.
TAYLOR
It's not a bad thing. It's helpful to understand it,
and maybe study up on it. We need to find you a
book. I think reading about it would do you well.
Dissolve back to GW in the Safe House, just staring ahead, at nothing, while in deep thought…
Porter walks through POV, which now follows him, over to Blair, and her grandparents Owen and Wendy. Blair has some kids nearby, who she appears to be keeping an eye on. She watches Porter approach, with a look of sympathy…
BLAIR
I'm sorry about your friend, Porter. I know you
two were close.
PORTER
Thank you, but it's me who's sorry. I know you two
weren't exactly close, yet, but I know he wanted
to be. I came to tell you that. He was very fond of
you, and I'm sorry he didn't get to tell you, himself.
Today was supposed to be a special day for him…for
you… And I know this probably only makes it harder
for you, especially with what you've already been
through, but I thought you deserved to know, and
that he deserved to be missed by you.
Blair developing a tear.
BLAIR
Thank you, Porter. I'm happy you told me. (nodding)
I already do miss him.
Porter a respectful nod, and turning to leave. Blair looks at her grandparents, with looks of love/respect, from them. Then she turns to look over toward Griffey, who is just staring at nothing…
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. ZANE'S CABIN – DAY
Pepsi is now in Zane's spot, with her arms around him, leaning against her, in pure silence…
Silence goes on for quite a while, until Pepsi finally speaks.
PEPSI
You really should go to that meeting…
Zane taking a moment to respond…
ZANE
I've been trying to move…pretty much since I
first sat down here… There is still so much to do,
to protect, but…I just can't react, yet…
Pepsi just holds him tighter…
DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK
EXT. COMPOUND BASEBALL FIELD – DAY
Hunter is BBQing on the baseball field, where Joshua and the other Rough Rider ball players were still in uniform and celebrating. The World Series logo is painted on the field, where many more members of the communities are at the victory party. Moon and Shine are even handing out drinks to the players, even the young ones. Zane is standing with Joshua, Abino, Blake, Eli, and others…
JOSHUA
(smiling at Zane)
It feels weird winning the PA 1 World Series, against
you, coach, but that's the amazing part of this new
world of yours. Your sacrifice to start another
community, and provide us with the competition, is
something that like your grandfather always talks
about, is what will make the new world an even
better world. All that tragic sadness we went through,
and the people we lost, are not in vain, due to the
magic of what we're celebrating right now, even if it
was your squad who had won, it doesn't matter. (just
smiling at his own thoughts) It's going to be okay, it
really is…a better world, this time…
Joshua smiling big, at the thought of the new world, and all the magic he can now see in it…
DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME
INT. ZANE'S CABIN – DAY
Zane and Pepsi in same spot, in total silence…
Zane has a single tear, running down his cheek…
ZANE
It'll never be the same…
Silence…
PEPSI
We've been in that predicament before…
Silence…
ZANE
And we responded to it…yet look at Christmas. It's
freaking Christmas day. Everything he dreamed of
and worked for, was to keep this kind of magic
alive, and this is how he's rewarded? Everyone is
supposed to be sick to their stomachs due to eating
too much treats, not from the tragedy of something
that will never be forgotten, on this day. (shaking
head) It's not even Christmas, anymore… It's
something else…
Silence…
Pepsi is about to respond, but can't find the words…
More silence, as she just lays there holding him…
Scene dissolves to a later time, with them still in same place, and in total silence…
Zane begins shaking his head, as if he just realized something…
ZANE
It was my brother…
Silence, as he just shakes his head…
ZANE
With everything going through my head, right now,
that's the one thing I keep forgetting, or don't
believe… (shaking head) Everything else is so real…
so nightmarish…but, it's like I keep shrugging the idea
of him being Leo's son, out of my mind, like it's only a
dream… Everything else happened…but not that part…
Zane just shaking his head, as Pepsi holds him, in silence…
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. SAFE HOUSE – DAY
Stix entering Safe House, looking around for Kemp, Lester, and the others. He spots them and walks over to them, through the crowd of others, who are still completely somber, some of them even exhausted, and sleeping…
KEMP
Stix, it's good to see you. The meeting's been delayed,
due to important news on Gunner, coming in the next
thirty minutes.
STIX
Any idea on what that word will be?
LESTER
Whatever it is they're working on right now, will
be done in thirty, and I guess they'll know more.
KEMP
I get it, but every minute we wait, is another that
Grover has, to do whatever he's going to do next.
LESTER
What do you think, Stix?
STIX
He's our problem, just as he is theirs, but he's also
their family…we're going to have to wait for them
to share their thoughts…
KEMP
What about the camp?
STIX
Without backup, it's really risky, going back there…
LESTER
Not if the Queen is with us.
DEON
With her people, and their diminished army, we
could take them.
Stix glancing around the room, taking notice of the Queen, with her father and sister, and other Nike World members…
STIX
You guys know something, I don't?
KEMP
Just that she has every intention to take back
what is hers…
Stix looking amongst his men, and then GW, sitting and staring, at nothing…
STIX
Any word from GW, yet?
The men shaking their heads, as Stix then approaches him, with the convicts watching…
He just looks him over, at first…
STIX
I know you're not thrilled with Zane, right now.
I'm not thrilled myself, with his rash decision, but
I do understand it, whether warranted or not. I'd
still follow the man, to hell and back.
GW
Hell…is exactly where he's brought us to…
Blake within ear range, looking up after GW's response.
STIX
He's surrendered his leadership, to Kemp and I.
GW
Now that I can get on board with.
BLAKE
(OS)
What the hell is your problem, GW?!
Stix and GW quickly turning toward Blake, who steps right to GW, more aggressively than most would. Blake is bigger than most, but not next to GW. Everyone else is watching
BLAKE
You need to show some respect, for the man who
brought you this far.
Stix trying to step in front of Blake.
GW
My problem is not with you, Blake.
BLAKE
(still angry)
I can hear that. It's with Zane, and I have a problem
with that. Besides his grandfather, and Eva and Joshua,
Zane is the greatest human I've ever met! So, I repeat
my question. What the hell is your problem with him?!
(GW just looking at him) Did you even lose anyone? Do
you even know what real pain is?!
GW instantly reaching around Stix, grabbing Blake, and ramming him up against the wall, with everyone else instantly reacting, watching, getting out of the way, grabbing their children…
GW
Who the hell are you to tell me what pain is?! Am
I just a machine to you?! I watched the most
beautiful soul I've ever known, BLOWN UP BEFORE
MY VERY EYES! I watched, as Zane's own flesh and
blood, retaliated for the monstrous act committed
by yours truly…
GW lets go of Blake, and looks around at everyone else, before speaking to the entire crowd…
GW
Your Zane killed about fifty unarmed men, because
they were loyal to the man who kept them safe, and
provided them with the means to stay that way.
MASON
(OS)
Fifty men who were about to join the man who just
gave them a speech about taking over this compound!
Killing anyone who stood in their way!
Everyone looking at Mason…
MASON
Yeah, Zane filled me in, and I support him one
hundred percent.
GW
Then you're just as much to blame for all this
death, as he is!
Blake instantly punches GW in the face! He gets in a second quick punch, before GW overpowers him, this time slamming him against the wall, then picking him up and launching down against a table, which shatters all over the place, as complete pandemonium takes over the huge crowd. Mason is first to arrive, providing Blake with aid, against GW, but is attacked from behind, by a random convict. Stix, Kemp, Lester, and Deon work to prevent others from joining in on the fighting. Mason takes a punch from Damon, who is then punched by Chasin. Blake gets another punch in on GW, and tries taking him to the ground. GW uses rage to overpower Blake, and begins trading punches with him. Cleo and Dakota each punch a pair of convicts. The chaos is quickly spreading, as is the panic…
CUT TO:
INT. ZANE'S CABIN – DAY
Zane and Pepsi in same place, in silence…
Silence continues, until Zane finally speaks…
ZANE
How long have you known?
Pepsi silent a moment, before responding…
PEPSI
Three days… I was going to surprise you, this
morning… I had a shirt wrapped, that read
"World's Greatest Dad"…
Silence…until someone comes over the radio…
HUNTER
(over radio)
Jesus Christ, we've got pandemonium in the
Safe House!
Cut to quick POV of Doc, on the wall, reacting to Hunter on the radio.
HUNTER
(over radio)
It started with Blake and GW, but now it's complete
chaos!
Cut back to Zane and Pepsi, already on their feet, rushing for the door.
ZANE
You have to be kidding me!
Cut to Doc, rushing down the ladder, with a truck parked at bottom. Other cousins stand up top, remaining on the wall.
DOC
I told you we can't trust a herd of convicts in here!
Divit seen glancing down toward Doc, who hops off the ladder, rushing for the truck…
Cut to Zane/Pepsi hustling toward the Baker complex, with Doc in background, speeding his truck out of the Baker corridor. Zane flags him down, waiting for him to speed over to him, as he and Pepsi hop in the back, with Doc again speeding off…
Cut to the truck arriving at the Safe House, where many parents/children are gathered, or exiting. Zane and Doc rush for the doors, with Pepsi following, until she stops and checks on some of the kids…
POV Zane and Doc entering inside, looking around at all the chaos. Doc doesn't take long to jump in.
Zane's POV of Doc grabbing Damon, and punching him to the floor. Zane turns and watches Chasin breaking up fights, before swung on, but missed, and then landing a brutal shot at the random convict who swung at him, knocking him to the ground, before puched by someone else, who Catherine now punches, and knocks down. Scout and Conner are working to break up fighting. Scout stops the compounders who are fighting, while Conner stops the convicts. A random convict knocks out a random compounder, but then is knocked out by Sage.
GW and Blake are in the center of it all, going at each other, before Harris and her sister arrive. They double-team GW, using some fancy moves, and pinning him to the floor.
BLAKE
(bloody)
LET HIM UP!
Suddenly, a single gunshot is fired! Everyone stops, and look toward the door. Zane comes back inside, with Pepsi in background, holding back all the kids/parents, leaving Zane with room to fire his shot.
ZANE
I'd just like to thank everyone for making me feel
just a little less guilty over my own mistakes, as I
look around the room at a ton of people making
their own. A ton of people who just went to war
together, NOT TWO GOD DAMN HOURS AGO!
Harris and Nikki letting GW up. Zane just staring at everyone, who are now silent, some of them breathing heavily…
He looks at Blake and GW, as Pepsi comes inside, behind him…
ZANE
And I guess I'm to blame, for it? So, let me be the
one to stand here in front of you all, and tell you
to your faces, how sorry I am.
Silence a moment…
CHASIN
You don't have to be sorry!
RANDOM VOICE
You saved us!
ZANE
No, I didn't. (points to GW) GW did. (points to Blake)
Blake did. (pointing at several others) Stix, Kemp,
Lester, Deon, and Divit did. Mason, Porter, Cleo,
Dakota, Chasin, the cousins, and Doug's group, did.
CLEO
(nodding toward Damon)
Damon saved my ass, out there…
Silence, as people look from Cleo to Damon, and around at everyone else…
PORTER
Jason, did…
More silence, with people looking at Porter, and then Griffey, and all around…
JO
(with tears)
My husband, Peyton, did…
Silence…
SAMANTHA
Marlana and the Guardian, did…
CLEO
My dad, did, and my brother…
RANDOM WOMAN
My husband, Thomas, did…
OLDER MAN
My son, James, did.
Sage grabbing Doc's hand.
SAGE
Our sister, Skyler, did…
DOC
Mike and Bunk, did… (Virgil and Leon nodding)
Silence…
Zane looks around, teary-eyed, and coming eye to eye with Harris, with teary eyes of her own, next to her father and sister…
ZANE
The Queen of Nike, did, along with her sister, and
father, and her people… And her loving boyfriend,
Ike, who was a dear friend of mine… He was
murdered last night, defending Nike World, by my
brother Anthony, (some gasps among the crowd)
while providing the rest of us there, with enough
time to retreat, or we would have never made it
back here… Yes, my brother… The same Anthony
who helped my father build the Beach Camp, and the
same man who organized the Portland and Glenwood
camps, under the alias of Grover… He's also the same
man who suffers from the same disease as my father,
(some gasps) the same man who has apparently run
out of medication, for that disease, and the same man
who arrived at Glenwood, yesterday, offering (points
at convicts) his army of convicts the opportunity to
leave my side, for his, and to come take away our
home, and our lives…
Zane just staring at everyone, digesting the information he just gave them…
ZANE
I did what I thought I had to do, to protect all of you…
and all of this…from people who planned to come
take it. I'm not sure why I expect you all to understand,
when I don't quite understand it myself, or just how
wrong it may have been…but I'm only human.
Zane staring around at them all, who are very silent… He looks at Stix…
ZANE
Stix now has command of the Glenwood community…
and the compound community will certainly repay
their services, by helping them get their home back…
HARRIS
As will the Nike World community…
Harris sharing a look with GW.
Silence, some nodding, some hope, and some life, from the somber group of people…
Zane looking around the crowded room, about to speak, before suddenly taking notice of the surgeon, coming up to Grandpa, as Hunter turns around and quickly goes to the doctor. As Zane watches them, many of the others find themselves following his gaze, and watching them speak to the surgeon. The room is mostly silent, other than some of the children, some of whom are coming back inside…
Suddenly, Grandpa expresses relief, with a hand over the surgeon's shoulder, followed by a quick handshake by Hunter, who then quickly turns to face his family, hugging his wife, April, then Blaze, and then others. Grandpa turns to face the crowd.
GRANDPA
My grandson's chances just went from bad, to good!
The somber crowd expresses relief, and a little joy. Bakers share some hugs, as do some of the compounders. Wyatt hugs his mother, Barbara. Even most convicts begin shaking hands with those whom they were just throwing punches at…
Samantha smiles, and shares some hugs, before making her way over to the infirmary window. Her smile fades, as she looks at Kristen, who watches the other surgeons, who are working on Marlana…
POV Jenna, leaving the side of her uncle, Solis, as Scout is smiling and hugging Hunter. Solis watches her walk over next to Samantha, looking in at the doctors…
Russel eventually arrives, also watching…
DJ limps over, with Renee, followed by Eli. They all just watch…
DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK
INT. SMALL GUEST HOUSE – DAY
Someone appears to be crying, as POV finds a woman sitting on her bed, alone, drying her face. She rises and faces POV, revealing herself as Marlana. She leaves the room, entering a small kitchen, and just stares out the window…
A knock comes from her door. She walks over to open it up, with Samantha on the other side, smiling back at her.
SAMANTHA
Hi, Marlana.
MARLANA
Hello, Sam. How are you?
SAMANTHA
Shouldn't I be the one asking you, that?
Marlana an appreciative smile/expression…
MARLANA
I probably shouldn't be surprised you would remember.
Samantha extending her hand to Marlana.
SAMANTHA
We all do.
Marlana just looking at her, before taking her hand, and being led away…
Dissolve to them arriving at the Baker complex, walking into the same huge room (mess hall) where they all had their Thanksgiving meal. All of the Bakers are there, including Zane, and many others, with Grandpa Sam up in front of everyone else. They all begin clapping, as she is led inside, by Samantha. She is embarrassed, smiling, almost crying, and even turns and walks out of the room, jokingly, as she comes right back inside, to the laughter of all the others…
Many of the Baker children and other compound children are running over to her, with gifts, cards, and hugs…
Moon and Shine are there, handing out drinks to the adults, as Shine brings one to Marlana. She takes it, and raises it to the others, who all raise theirs
MARLANA
To all of you.
EVERYONE ELSE
To Marlana!
Everyone drinks!
Grandpa goes to her, placing his hand over her shoulder, and taking her up in front of all the others…
GRANDPA SAM
We all know how difficult today must be (Marlana
takes another drink) for you. Yes, you go right ahead
and liquor yourself up good.
Everyone laughing. Marlana smiles and takes one more drink.
GRANDPA SAM
That a girl. (few laughs) We have plenty… So, as I
was saying, we left you alone the first half of the day,
to do your own thing, which is very understandable.
But your time is up, and now you're all ours, and the
rest of this day is (raising his glass to the crowd) a
party in your honor!
Everyone cheering as they raise their glasses again, then drinking. Marlana takes another drink, with Grandpa then teasing her.
GRANDPA SAM
Oh, slow down. Let me get through this speech,
first.
MARLANA
Oh, there's more?
Few laughs as she takes yet another drink.
ZANE
With him, there's always more!
Samantha instantly throws Zane a playfully dirty look, as the crowd laughs.
MASON
Keep drinking, Marlana, it makes his speeches better!
More laughs.
SAMANTHA
(with a laugh)
Uncle, Mason!
GUNNER
That's too much pressure on Moon and Shine.
(holding up cup) Their drinks are good, but not
that good! Unless you, (motioning cup at
Marlana) chug, chug, chug.
EVERYONE
Chug! Chug! Chug! Chug! (she begins chugging)
CHUG! CHUG! CHUG!
They finish their chant as she finishes off her cup, as they begin cheering, while Gunner grabs her cup and has Shine begin refilling it, before handing it back to her…
GUNNER
You'll probably need another one, before he finishes!
More laughs…
MARLANA
Oh, you don't have to tell me! I've heard enough of
them myself, to know just how long he can go on.
More laughs, with Samantha's jaw dropping, yet with a smile as she looks at Marlana…
Marlana steps toward Grandpa.
MARLANA
But an absolute pleasure they are, to listen to.
Marlana smiling with a look into his eyes.
GRANDPA
Well, thank you, Marlana. It's nice to know that
someone here appreciates my never-ending speeches.
SAMANTHA
I appreciate them!
GUNNER
(holding up drink)
I certainly appreciate you providing us with alcohol,
for them!
Everyone laughing, including Zane, with a hand to Gunner's shoulder…
ZANE
(with laugh)
Alright, let the old man speak. I can see him up
there going over the speech in his head, which
means it's probably getting even longer!
More laughs…
GRANDPA
Actually, it's getting shorter. All the nice things I had
planned on saying about my family, are being cut.
Some laughs, including from Samantha…
GUNNER
So, what you're saying then, is there's at least a
chance of you wrapping this up by Christmas?
More laughs…
GRANDPA
Certainly won't be wrapping you anything for Christmas!
More laughs…
GUNNER
I'm okay with that. Your gifts come with cards, that
come with handwritten messages even longer than
your speeches!
Everyone straight cracking up! Zane dying! Even Samantha trying hard to contain her laughter…
GRANDPA
They're only long to you because of all the time
you spent googling all the "big" words. (laughs)
Let me know how that works for you, now. (more
laughs) I have a dictionary in my office, you can use.
Everyone cracking up, poking fun at Gunner, and waiting for a response, which he comes up empty with…
GUNNER
Damn…Grandpa made a funny.
More laughs…
GRANDPA
Okay, alright, in all seriousness, now. We come here
to honor someone who might not share our blood,
but has very much become a cherished member of
not only our community, but of our family. She's so
valuable here, and has done so much to contribute,
that we almost forget the importance of what she
did, before we ever even met her. What she had to
endure and survive herself, in order to ensure the
survival of our Samantha, and the others who have
also become a part of our family. (motioning hand
at them) Eli, DJ, and Renee. Even Sheriff Dave and his
people, would not be here, if not for Marlana's major
contributions.
Grandpa just stares at her a moment. She's staring back at him, with teary eyes, and a smile…
GRANDPA
She fought her own pain, and used the pride of her
new mission, as a way of medicating that pain, so
she could find new meaning…and so much meaning
this woman has. A woman whose meaning and place
in the world, helps our own pain, as we have lost too,
but also gained. We've gained her, and her us. It
doesn't change how much we miss those we've lost,
but it certainly helps, and proves that even tragedy
can have a good side to it. A side we all have to roll
with. And how lucky we are to roll with it together,
using each other to ease through the pain. Pain that
will never fully go away, but pain that continues to
ease, with each passing day. (looking right at Marlana)
Marlana, you are our pain reliever, (raising his glass to
her) I only hope we can be the same, for you, on this
very difficult day…
Grandpa drinks, as do all the others, many of whom have tears falling down their faces, as does Marlana, who watches Grandpa drink, and the others, before smiling with love and appreciation, before again drinking from her own cup, with followed applause…
Samantha is clapping, and also bawling like a baby…
GRANDPA
That's right, keep drinking, woman. I've heard all
about those drunken dance moves of yours, (Marlana
laughing) that come in honor of your husband, Noah.
We all expect to see you honor him again today, with
those same moves!
SAMANTHA
Hell yeah, we do!
Renee close to Samantha, cracking up. Marlana taking another drink, then handing her cup to Gunner.
MARLANA
Then keep them coming!
More applause/cheering, as everyone drinks, some of them even begin dancing, as do most others, once the music begins blasting…
Dissolve to a big party scene, as Marlana is obviously drunk and doing that same dance, with Gunner and Samantha joining in, as does Pepsi and Coke. Chance is more nervous, and hanging back with Renee, who laughs at Griffey, who is now joining in, along with Jason, who is also pretty drunk, and dancing like an idiot…
DJ, Rich, Trisha, and Ashley, are now joining in, as are others. All of them doing their best to copy Marlana, and help to honor her husband…
Grandpa Sam is close by, watching with a big smile, as Marlana dances her way over to him, with growing applause, as she challenges him to join her, which he gives in, and does…
Marlana's moves have her now looking to the sky.
MARLANA
This is for you, Noah…
DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME
INT. INFIRMARY – DAY
POV Marlana, unconscious, while the doctors are hard at work. POV moves enough to see the window in the background, where the concerned faces of Samantha, Eli, DJ, Renee, and others can be seen…
POV Zane and Pepsi, behind Samantha and the others. Pepsi remains, while Zane places a hand over Samantha's shoulder, as he begins walking through the crowd, and over toward Stix, Kemp, Lester, and the other convicts. Most of them begin staring at him as he arrives. They all listen, once he begins speaking, as do others, and as he continues to go on, more and more people begin doing what they can, to listen to him speaking…
ZANE
My place is now here. Stix was always the one who
should be leading you. I came into this group with
one main intention, and that was to give all of you,
including those who I killed, the opportunity to prove
what kind of an impact you would be, to the new
world, and this part of it, which will be civilized…at
least while I have any say to it… (looking around at
them all) This coast range and the surrounding areas,
all have laws. Those who couldn't live by those laws
are no longer with us, and those who are, have
proved that there is more to them, than just being an
ex-convict… You're all heroes, to those you defend,
the people of Glenwood…and last night, the people
of here, and of Nike World… Perhaps my actions
yesterday are to blame for the loss of life, but
perhaps it's also the reason we were able to defend
this place, and kill off at least half of Grover's army,
who most certainly want to take what we have, for
themselves, and to destroy the kind of new world
we're trying to build. I will give my life to defend that
dream, and I will certainly take the life of anyone who
seeks to destroy that dream. I don't know if my actions
were right, or if another way was possible…but I do
stand by them, and I will continue to dedicate my life
to fighting alongside anyone and everyone who is
willing to fight with me, to protect the people of this
compound, the people of Nike World, and the people
of Glenwood…
Zane just staring at everyone, still looking back at him. He looks over and can see that many other bystanders had given him their full attention…
ZANE
That's pretty much all I can say…other than I'm sorry…
Some of them begin nodding, or even shaking his hand, and pats to the back…
Blake is close by, and approaches with a hug for Zane, followed with a look over at GW. Blake approaches him, sharing a stare, before offering his hand. GW hesitates, before accepting it, shaking hands…
Grandpa, Hunter, and April are seen in background, heading for the doors, followed by Mason, Chasin, Scout, and Solis…
Wyatt kisses his wife, and heads after the others, joined by Cleo and Dakota…
Rich kisses DJ, and follows after the others, while DJ remains with the girls, and Griffey…
The Queen of Nike, Nikki, and their father all begin following, heading for the doors…
Zane gathers Blake, Stix, Kemp, Lester, and GW, as they all begin heading for the doors…
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. BAKER STRATEGIC ROOM – DAY
All those same people (including Samantha) are now gathering inside of a fairly large room, with erase boards, and maps of the area, coast range, coastline, city, Mt. Hood, and even the compound. There is a large table, where most of them begin sitting. Hunter stands at the head of the table, and awaits the rest of the members. Doc and Porter arrive, followed by Sheriff Dave. Also coming inside, is Mayday and Gia, as well as Doug. Catherine (with her son, Bo) arrives, with an embrace from Chasin, who also hugs his son. Jennifer also arrives, with Pepsi and Marshall…
Everyone is now seated, or standing and awaiting the meeting to begin, as Hunter takes a moment, just staring them all over…
Samantha and Bo, are both standing off to the side, just listening, and observing…
HUNTER
I'm not even sure where to begin, so I'm going to skip
the part about how much we've all lost, how much we
still have to lose, and get right to the point. First, we
have to worry about our internal issues, before
discussing our external situation. If Grover, or Anthony,
whoever he is, has more people in here, how do we find
them? How do we prevent more death from the inside of
these walls? The first solution, is we're done taking in
more people. We still have plenty of room at the SSH,
and Nike World. Glenwood now has some room, too.
We'll increase the demand of supplies for these locations,
as more people are brought in.
KEMP
I get it, I do, but we have to be able to explain to the
others, why our camps are okay for new people, but
not here.
HUNTER
Taking them in, is the right thing to do. We're not just
surviving here. We're making a better world. Also, more
people means more fighters. We help others, and they
help us. As far as not taking them in here. I believe last
night, and right now, is the answer to that. This is where
everyone retreated to, and where we all made a stand,
together. This is the safest place for us all, and we must
keep it that way.
KEMP
Understood…
DOC
What about the prisoner we took, last night?
Any progress with him?
HUNTER
He claims to be part of the Seattle bunch, without
any knowledge of people on the inside, but has
been fairly cooperative.
Hunter looks around the room, with no more questions…
HUNTER
So, now we must figure out how to go about
screening all those who will need to be screened.
SHERIFF DAVE
Wasn't Billy a lone pickup? Any chance he's the
only one?
SOLIS
Does seem like things would have been worse,
if there were more of them.
HARRIS
I agree, but after the events of last night, we have
to be one hundred percent sure.
HUNTER
(nodding)
Exactly. Rich?
RICH
Yes, sir?
HUNTER
You and Doc will lead my new screening team, with
Mayday, Gia, and Sheriff Dave. You have the kind
of views and expertise, that will bounce off one
another, until you can be sure, about each and every
individual you screen. If you have others you believe
will be of help, feel free to discuss them with me, and
I'll probably add them to your team.
RICH
Yes, sir.
Doc nodding, along with Mayday and Sheriff Dave…
HUNTER
Anyone you guys rule out, I will be fine with. Those
you don't, will get a second screening, in which Dad
and I will attend. (looking those guys over) Billy got
by us, without a second thought…
DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK
INT. BAKER COMPLEX – DAY
Porter, Mayday, Sherriff Dave, and Jason, all sitting down with Billy, looking him over, and then asking questions…
BILLY
What is this place?
PORTER
Bro, we'll be asking the questions.
JASON
Where'd you get the boat?
BILLY
I'll tell you what I told the hotel guys. I got it on the
Washington side. I used it to scope out the Oregon
coastline. I did not like what I saw. The dead were
everywhere, until they were nowhere. That's when I
decided to come ashore, and survive fishing and
camping along the coast.
SHERIFF DAVE
Tell us more about your wife and son.
Billy looks sad, and downward, before finally looking back up at them…
BILLY
You don't seem like the type of people who are going
to harm me, even if you show me the door. I wasn't
so sure, at the hotel. When those guys found me,
all I could think, was make it fast…but I wasn't scared…
and that's because I'd love to see my wife and son,
again. (looking them over) I'm not suicidal, but I'm also
very much lacking when it comes to fear of dying.
(hesitating a moment) I only survived this long, due to
the group that took me in. They had a boy the age of my
son, who had lost his dad. (looking downward) It felt like
a sign. Until we were hit, it was a decent living…
MAYDAY
How were you the only survivor, of that?
BILLY
I wasn't. The woman I grew fondly of, along with two
others, Tom and Stacie, were out looking for supplies.
Once we realized our camp had been hit, we hung
back and tried to determine if there were survivors,
in the camp or nearby. We found no one, and that's
when they found us. They shot without warning, and
killed them all…except for me… I found shelter for
several days, laid low, and tried the best I could to
not think of all the different ways that William must
have died.
MAYDAY
What brought you to the boat?
BILLY
William had a dream of living at the beach. The place
he said would make him feel as if the world was still
normal. So…I kept thinking maybe it would feel that
way for me, and only had about twenty miles between
me and the coast. (shrugging)
They all look him over, trying to determine how believable his story was, and just how trustworthy he appeared…
DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME
INT. BAKER STRATEGIC ROOM – DAY
POV Porter, Mayday, Sheriff Dave.
HUNTER
That kind of mistake cannot happen again, but at
the same time, do not let paranoia lead the way.
Be smart, and be wise…
MASON
Okay, now the external problem.
HUNTER
(nodding)
Now the external problem.
Hunter looking over Stix, Kemp, Lester, and GW…
HUNTER
Like Zane said, we have to take back what we've
built…and both Nike World and Glenwood are a
part of our community. Go to war with them, you
go to war with us. So, our first move is to send a
scouting team east, and send them fifteen minutes
ago. Conditions are still not ideal, so once on the
road, there's no rush, but let's get them on the
road. The rest of our fighters are heading for the
beach, and their camp. Either they made their way
back there, taking the long way, or they're at Nike
World. As depleted as they now are, I don't see
them making a stand at Glenwood, and more than
likely, depending on Grover's madness, are heading
back to the coast.
MASON
So, we're taking the fight to them, before they can
bring it back to us?
HUNTER
(nodding)
We have to show some power, after what they've
forced upon us. They have to know that threatening
our home and way of life, will bring the same threat
to them.
GRANDPA SAM
But Mason will speak to their man Dylan, first, unless
Anthony is there to speak for himself. I want an
explanation, and an opportunity to open a dialogue. If
Anthony is not there, his men may be prepared to step
down, if they're coming to understand his illness, as
they should.
MASON
If he is there?
GRANDPA
Try your best to give him the chance to speak…I
trust your judgement, son…
ZANE
And the strategic plan?
HUNTER
Take two of the RPGs. They open fire…blow their
fucking doors open.
Silence a moment…
GRANDPA
One…
Silence a moment, with most eyes on Grandpa…
GRANDPA
One RPG…we need a defense, here.
BLAKE
Speaking of a defense, here… I'm totally not leading
it. I'm going to the beach camp.
HUNTER
Your number two is dead. The Rough Riders need
you here, Blake. We all need you here.
BLAKE
That's horseshit! I've played it your way from the
get-go. It's been over a year, and what just
happened last night feels worse than the day this
all began. The Rough Riders are proud and more
than ready to defend those walls. I'm –
HUNTER
Blake, this could be what they want, for all we know.
To get our army at the coast, while theirs comes
back and hits us twice as hard as they did, the first
time. We have to be prepared for anything.
BLAKE
I –
Blake makes eye contact with Zane, who shakes his head at him… Blakes looks down, then back up and over at Hunter.
BLAKE
Yes, sir.
HUNTER
Thank you, Blake…and I'm so thankful for your
ability to even function, right now.
Hunter looks around at the others, before pointing at a map of the coast.
HUNTER
The bulk of our army will make its way there. I want
Doug to take his crew with Chasin, through the brush,
as a team to keep eyes on possible ambush parties.
Mayday will keep his team at the highway, within
radio range, and remain there, unless called for aid.
Just like they might want us there, so they can hit us
here, they might also want us there, in attempt to
take us by surprise. We can't walk ourselves into a
trap…not without backup.
MASON
Yeah.
ZANE
Agreed…and before we get any deeper, I just want
to say, I will be the one to lead the team going east…
Everyone kind of surprised, and looking at Zane…
ZANE
I agree with Grandpa. His men have to be having
second thoughts. I don't think Grover is there. He'll
be with the woman, and probably at Nike World,
holding up with what men he has left.
HUNTER
Woman?
MASON
Yeah, there was a woman.
ZANE
She was a fighter, and apparently his righthand "man".
MASON
She never left his side.
HUNTER
Who is she? I never heard of some woman fighter,
as his righthand man. Just Dylan and Jeb.
GRANDPA
Wasn't there mention of a woman, during the
helicopter story?
PORTER
Yes! One of their men mentioned it to me. It's why
we didn't expect anything being kept from us. They
seemed as curious as we were.
HUNTER
So, this might explain why they seemed to have more
men than we ever expected. It wasn't all their men.
Silence as they are share some looks…
MASON
They could have even more men than we know
of. We have to be careful about this.
GRANDPA
Mason's right. We have to take more time to think
this out. I know we want to act promptly, but wisely
is of even more importance…
Silence as they think…
ZANE
I will leave it up to you. I would like to select a
team of volunteers, and head east, asap.
GRANDPA
Your part of the plan is just as important to ponder,
at least for a while.
Hunter staring at his father…
HUNTER
I actually agree with Zane, on this one. He knows
the terrain, better than those clowns, (looking right
at Zane) and will only spy, not attack.
Zane and Hunter sharing a stare-down…
ZANE
I know I said I wanted to kill him, above all else,
but he's sick…I get it…he'll be taken alive, when
the time is right…
HUNTER
Fair deal. Put your team together, and meet back
with me once you're ready to roll. The rest of us
will remain here and nail this thing down.
Rachel suddenly comes over radio, sounding emotional, scared.
RACHEL
(over radio)
Hunter? You need to get here, now.
HUNTER
(quickly into radio)
What's happening? Is my son okay?
RACHEL
(over radio)
I don't know what's happening, but they're all
working hard to save him! Something went wrong!
Hunter rushes right out the door, with others about to follow, when suddenly the bell begins ringing!
ZANE
FUC –
Zane screams out the F word with extreme frustration, but scene cuts, before he completes the word.
Cut to the bell, rocking back and forth…
Cut to Divit, pulling the rope of the bell, as urgently as he can…
Cut to the tree line, where a single horse steps forward, out of the brush, onto the slushy snow of the field, that lies in front of the compound…
Another horse steps out, followed by another, and then several more, followed by maybe a hundred more, all stepping into the field, facing the compound…
BLACK
CREDITS
THE END