Above the Walking Dead Chapter 8: Season 2, Episode 2 (Piece of Shit), a walking dead fanfic

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Season 2, Episode 2

"Piece of Shit"

INTRO

BLACK...

FADE IN: FLASHBACK (day 1)

EXT. SIDE OF ROAD - NIGHT

Eli shaking DJ's hand...

Hang in there, All-star. Something tells me you'll get

back on that ball field, someday.

DISSOLVE TO:

Eli, Scott, Rhett and Amy, from side passenger mirror, as Eli looks back at them, while his mom (Jane) drives away. She smiles at DJ, and places hand on his shoulder, so happy to have him safe...

DISSOLVE TO:

An elderly couple sitting on front porch (with lantern), with young girl (Renee, 11), as headlights shine over them. Jane parking car, as her and DJ then climb out.

JANE

What's wrong? Why are you outside?

GRANDFATHER

Their father is inside.

Jane looks across the street, where an old van with plenty of small dents, is parked. She turns just in time to see her ex husband (Don), coming out the door, onto porch, obviously drunk...

DON

It's dark in there! Heeeyy, There's my beautiful ex-wife,

and baby boy, DJ. It's like a happy freaking family reunion

up here!

DJ quick to reach his sister, and lead her past his dad, into the house. Don is going for an embrace with his ex-wife, who dodges her way out of it. He stumbles a bit, as Jane helps her parents back inside, and closes/locks door. It doesn't take long for him to begin pounding on it. It also doesn't take DJ long, to open door, and without hesitation, knock his dad directly in the face, as he falls back, and down the steps.

Been wanting to do that ever since I can possibly

remember.

DJ looks over at several army soldiers (with flashlights) walking by, who witnessed the entire thing. An army jeep is driving a half block up, and heading down the street. DJ looks back at the soldiers, who now stop at the gate. You can't really see their faces, but the one who speaks sounds familiar.

FAMILIAR VOICE

What's the problem here, son?

(nervous)

No problem, sir. He's just...

DJ's grandfather and mother coming out.

GRANDFATHER

This is my home, sir, and this man is my ex son in law.

He is not welcome here, but trying to force his way inside.

FAMILIAR VOICE

Is that true, Ma'am?

JANE

It is. He's a drunk and always has been. He's hurt us enough.

Familiar voice guy, gives his men a look, who then grab Don, and bring him to familiar voice guy...

FAMILIAR VOICE

Life in the city goes to hell, and you just figure you'll take

advantage of your ex in laws, eh? There are drunks with

stories, and then there are drunks who are just pathetic.

(staring in his face) My unit and I will be here throughout

this ordeal. I see or hear of you bothering these

respectable people, and I won't be so nice the second

time around.

Giving his men a look, as they push Don away, and let him go. He stumbles toward his van.

GRANDFATHER

Thank you, sir.

FAMILIAR VOICE

No problem, friend.

GRANDFATHER

So you guys are here to help? How worried should we be?

Familiar voice guy steps into the yard, getting in a little closer to them.

FAMILIAR VOICE

Well, I won't sugarcoat it for you. This virus seems like the

worse one we've ever seen, at least the side effects of it.

Lot of paranoia out there, too. But I'm confident we're all

in the right place to be, far from the city and those who

are sick...

He takes another step closer and into the light, revealing his face.

FAMILIAR VOICE

Well, you folks have a nice night. I'm Colonel Ballard.

Anything I can do for you, just ask.

Colonel Ballard smiles, and turns around...

DISSOLVE TO:

THEME TUNE/CREDITS

Shots of all the chaos in the city, on day 1 of the "zombie" apocalypse, followed by bumper to bumper traffic on the highways, and tons of angry/nervous people honking or trying to pull off the road. Shot of Mt. Hood, followed by shots of a huge tree house overlooking a lake, which dissolves into the Columbia River and traveling down it, through a huge forest fire, and then to the Bonneville Dam. POV continues down the river, past the Glen Jackson bridge, flowing by tons of houseboats where the dead are falling into the river, after whoever is drifting by. POV of the Willamette River as it goes under the St. Johns bridge, and up into the hills of Portland. It travels over them, and into the Beaverton area, crossing over the top of the Nike World Headquarters, and keeps traveling over farmlands, and into the coast range, finding the Glenwood Market, and a large camp with log walls, across the creek and behind the store. POV speeds over the Tillamook Forest, highway 26, and a bunch of other land, before coming to the Columbia River, traveling west, and under the Megler bridge, into the ocean. It continues along the shoreline, past Astoria, the Haystack Rock of Cannon Beach, coming to a pair of Jetties, and through them, up into the nearby hills, and over a large camp in the hills, protected by a large log wall. POV travels back down to the shoreline, and over a huge hotel, with a shot of the Twin Rocks in the ocean. POV travels by the bay of Tillamook, and along highway 6, back into the coast range, until leaving the road, back into the Tillamook Forest, until coming to a very large compound, hidden away by all the brush and mountain-side, as opening credits roll…

CUT TO: (present time)

EXT. FISH'S GRAVESITE - DAY

DJ and Eli grunting, as Scott's body falls into hole. POV from hole, as DJ and Eli begin shoveling dirt into hole...

DJ, Eli and Sam, all standing in front of Scott's grave, looking down at it. DJ looks to Eli...

They must be so proud of you. Proud, Eli. Not at all

disappointed... Proud...

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. TREE HOUSE (boys room) - DAY

DJ and Eli drying their hands and faces, after having washed up. Eli then goes to table, finding some food to munch on. Sam sits on her bed, munching with Renee...

Well, I still can't believe everything you guys have been

through, and in just two weeks. (looking at Eli) Feels like

months since I last saw you, and that half day we spent

together, felt like at least a week.

SAM

Feels like I've known Eli my entire life. Life before, feels

like a dream.

Your family and that compound you keep mentioning,

sound like a dream. The supplies to survive here awhile

longer, to wait for your family, is not an issue. But, with

all the troubles you've already had, and all that I've

been through, I just don't think it's safe to stay here

much longer...

ELI

Tell her about your idea...

We've got enough gas, to use your dad's car to get there,

we just don't know how clear the roads are going to be.

If your family had trouble getting here, and now getting

back here, it's possible they gave up on the quickest routes, and

came around the mountain, or some other long way, and probably

ran into major problems those ways, too. So, we take the quickest

route to the Columbia. From there we drive as far as we

can, and then kayak our way to the city, if we have too.

You've got one here, and between here and wherever

we get, we're sure to find one more.

SAM

What do we do once we get to the city?

We can hit the mouth of the Willamette River, and

soon after that we can practically kayak right into

UPS's back yard. I've been working there since I

graduated. They have trucks there, gassed up and

ready to go. We can use back roads to reach Forest

Grove. No idea what to expect from there, but we'll

freaking hike the rest of the way, if we have to.

Sam not looking thrilled...

ELI

We can't stay here forever, Sam...

SAM

What if we leave and they show up?

That's why I agree that staying for at least a couple

more days is the right play. But we have to be ready

to split, on a moment's notice, if anyone dangerous

shows up... It's the new way of the world...

DISSOLVE TO:

DJ and Eli destroying the cabin door, more than it already was, and leaving it wide open and half way off the hinges. Eli begins breaking whatever windows are still intact...

Anything we can do to make it not look like the safe

place, people might come here looking for it to be...

DISSOLVE TO:

DJ, Eli, Sam and Renee, all dragging dead huffs and soldiers, and dumping in the parking lot area, where a ton of them already are...

DJ and Renee arriving at another body, DJ in shock as he takes notice of who it is.

Oh my god.

ELI

What?

Sam and Eli rushing over to him.

I know this man...

POV Colonel Ballard's lifeless body, with a shot to the head...

ELI

How?

He was a Colonel, and in charge of the outfit that took

over my grandparent's neighborhood. (looking at Sam

and Eli) This is the guy who threatened you?

Sam walks over to the Colonel, looking down at his body, then simply spitting on it, flipping it off, and turning, walking away...

ELI

Let me guess...that's what Zane would have done? (Eli

helping DJ pick up the Colonel) I can't wait to meet that

guy.

DISSOLVE TO:

Eli helping DJ pull a flat tire off of Fish's car, and placing on the spare...

DISSOLVE TO:

DJ filling up Fish's car with gas/then driving it into the woods (kayak tied down, on top), and parking in a safe hidden location...

DISSOLVE TO:

DJ, Eli, Sam and Renee, all carving sticks into spears...

DISSOLVE TO:

DJ, Eli, Sam and Renee, all working on filling backpacks with everything they need, in case they have to leave in a hurry...

DISSOLVE TO:

Eli wide eyed and focused with his bat, as he moves in on a huff. He breaks it's arm with the bat, then begins walking backwards, leading it out of the woods, and toward the cabin/parking area...

DISSOLVE TO:

Eli now in parking area, as DJ comes up behind the huff, placing rope around its neck, and leading it toward a tree...

DISSOLVE TO:

DJ and Eli giving it their all, as they use the rope to raise the huff, half way up the tree, and tie it down.

POV falls back, revealing the tree and hanging huff, right where cars would roll in and park. DJ and all the others, stand back and look at it...

Yeah, who's gonna mess with us, now?

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. TREE HOUSE (boys room) - NIGHT

Everyone asleep...headlights come through the trees. Sam rises and runs to window. DJ and Eli wake, rise and come to window. They all watch as the car stops, when their headlights shine on the huff in the tree...they then peel away, and quickly disappear...

Sam disappointedly goes back to her bed. DJ looks at Eli...

I still can't believe the huff in the tree was her idea...

ELI

I can't believe you're already calling them huffs.

They walk back to their beds. Renee continues to sleep like a log...

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. CABIN KITCHEN - NIGHT

DJ entering kitchen and going straight for a certain cabinet. He reaches down low and far back inside, behind some random items, and pulls out a bottle of liquor.

He takes a nice size swig. He then pours some into a glass, places bottle back, closes cabinet and leaves kitchen, while taking another swig...

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. PIT - MORNING

Two huffs walking around in the pit, as DJ and Eli stand above, looking at them, and then at each other...

DISSOLVE TO:

DJ, Eli, Sam and Renee, all standing back and looking, as now three different huffs hang from trees, in the parking lot area...

SAM

Zane would be proud...

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. TREE HOUSE (boys room) - DAY

Sam and Renee sitting together in a bed, looking at a photo album. Bailey is in Renee's lap.

SAM

I know, I take a lot of pictures of my dad and Zane, together.

My Uncle Leo is jealous of how close they are. He's the only

one in my family who kind of scares me.

RENEE

My dad used to scare me...

Sam just looking at Renee...

SAM

Why?

RENEE

He drank beer, a lot...

Sam just looking at her, waiting for more...

But Renee didn't say anymore...

DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK - (day 2)

INT. DJ's PLACE - DAY

Sound of some kind of motor coming on, from outside, as DJ, his mom and grandparents all go to look out window...

You have to be kidding me...

Their POV of a neighbor in his yard, mowing the grass...

(off-screen)

Guess he wants to have the nicest lawn for the apocalypse?

Colonel Ballard and some of his men laughing, at the guy mowing his lawn...

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. DJ'S PORCH/YARD - NIGHT

DJ in the yard near his sister and mom. His grandparents on the porch with the lantern. Most other neighbors are on their porches or in their yards, and some even in the street. They all seem to be watching/waiting for something.

Suddenly, the electricity comes back on, as the neighborhood lights up. Everyone begins to cheer or applaud. Some are even dancing in the street. Some soldiers walk into the street, and quickly begin receiving handshakes and high fives. As more soldiers fill the streets, the people begin to chant...

PEOPLE

USA! USA! USA! USA! USA!

DISSOLVE TO: (day 3)

EXT. RANDOM DRIVEWAY (with basketball rim) - DAY

Two nice looking young ladies, smiling/flirting as several soldiers go by. One of the girls (Emily, 20ish) and a certain soldier (Lamar, 20ish), share eye contact, followed with a smile. The other girl (Heather, 20ish) is watching DJ, across the street in his yard, carrying fire wood.

HEATHER

I know you prefer a man in uniform, but that guy across

the street is more intriguing than any of these soldiers.

EMILY

Who the hell needs intriguing, when the world is the way

it is, right now? I myself feel safer with a guy who's

packing...

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. SAME DRIVEWAY - EVENING

Same two girls, now shooting baskets, with DJ. Emily looks over, as Lamar and a couple other soldiers walk by.

EMILY

(talking to the soldiers)

You can see we don't have enough for a real game here,

don't you?

LAMAR

What, restoring your power wasn't enough? Now you

want to distract us from our job of keeping you safe,

with basketball?

EMILY

(flirtatious smile)

Even heroes get breaks from saving the world.

DISSOLVE TO:

Lamar playing, as he drives the ball to the hoop, and goes up for the shot, which is blocked by DJ! Bystanders react/cheer.

COLONEL BALLARD

(off-screen)

What the hell is going on here?

Lamar stops and instantly stands at attention, while saluting the Colonel.

LAMAR

Sir! Just killing time by shooting some hoops, until I go

back on duty, Sir!

COLONEL BALLARD

(looking at the girls)

Showing off for these beautiful young ladies, is more like it.

LAMAR

Yes, Sir!

COLONEL BALLARD

Oh, and a smartass too, I see.

LAMAR

Yes, Sir! Only when I think you'll let me get away with

it, Sir!

COLONEL BALLARD

Only problem though, Private, is that you can't impress

the girl, when you let a civilian block your shit, like that.

DJ smiling and bystanders laughing. The Colonel removing his army jacket, and placing out hands for DJ to toss him the ball, which he does. Colonel Ballard checks it back to DJ, who again tosses it back to the Colonel.

COLONEL BALLARD

(talking to Lamar)

You can stand at ease after I score this basket.

Everyone else eagerly watching, as Ballard dribbles the ball in play, and doesn't take long making his move to the basket. DJ does his best to play defense, but was overpowered, as Ballard makes the shot, with some applause. Ballard looking from the smiling girls to Lamar.

COLONEL BALLARD

And that, Private, is how it's done! (walking away) If Colonels

got breaks, I'd stay here all day, and do you both like that!

A woman bystander quietly speaks to her husband, as Ballard is leaving the scene.

WOMAN

Looks more like he's the one showing off...

DISSOLVE TO:

Lamar (sweaty) on porch with Emily. DJ (sweaty) with Heather, in driveway.

I should get going. Need a shower.

HEATHER

You want to come back over, after?

You have anything to drink?

HEATHER

(smiling)

You bet your ass, we do.

Give me an hour or so. After my kid sister crashes, I'll

be over.

HEATHER

So that's your little sister I've seen you with over there,

taking such good care of?

Renee, yeah. This has all been hard on her...or easy...

I can't really tell.

HEATHER

(with laugh)

What do you mean?

She has high functioning autism, and major anxiety.

So, I'm not sure how much she realizes is going on, so

far. The anxiety is no problem around family, but

unless they find a cure for whatever's happening,

it's giving me anxiety thinking about how things

might become for her.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. HEATHER'S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT

Lamar and Emily making out on other side of room, on couch. DJ at other end, on his own couch. He's finishing his drink, with a look over at Lamar and Emily. Heather comes in from kitchen, handing DJ another drink.

HEATHER

Playing basketball really made you thirsty, I guess.

DJ happily grabs the drink, with a smile. Heather sits down next to him, taking notice as he stares toward Lamar and Emily. Heather suddenly disappointed...

HEATHER

You didn't get the girl of your choice, did ya?

Huh? No, it's not that, it's...

DJ another quick look directly at Lamar. Heather looks from DJ, to Lamar, and back to DJ, while putting it together...

HEATHER

Oh my god...it's not that you didn't get the girl of your

choice, but that you didn't get the gender of your choice!?

DJ nodding, as Heather smiles with disbelief...

HEATHER

How did you sneak past my gaydar? I would have never

guessed! I usually see that kind of thing a mile away.

It's rare that people ever see it. Even other guys, which

sucks.

HEATHER

I take it you must be the man in your relationships,

because you were all man out there on the basketball

court. I bet you could have even scored on that Colonel

guy, if given the opportunity.

Now when you say "scored on him", you mean a

basket, right?

Heather staring at him with a dirty smile.

HEATHER

Okay, now you definitely appear a bit on the gay side.

Both of them laughing...

HEATHER

So...what's it like...out there playing basketball with

Lamar's body all up against yours?

DJ just stares at her, forming his own dirty smile, as she begins cracking up...

DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME

EXT. GRAVESITE - DAY

Sam sitting near her dad's grave, looking out at the lake, with the occasional tear rolling down her cheek...

DJ eventually sits next to her...in silence...

SAM

I know what you're going to say. I think I even agree

with it.

Sam goes silent a moment, before bawling and sobbing out her next words...

SAM

I just don't understand why they didn't come back.

They were so close, they were right here, all they

had to do...

Sam weeping as DJ puts an arm around her...

SAM

I'm sorry. I'm sorry for crying again.

Don't be ridiculous.

SAM

I just keep thinking Eli was right. They must be dead.

Sam trying not to cry again.

When did Eli say that?

SAM

The day before you got here.

Well, I'm guessing that was just frustration. (motioning

toward the damaged hummer) They didn't even have room

for you, after losing one of their hummers. Someone could

have even gotten hurt. (Sam closing her, eyes at the thought)

Getting back home was probably as difficult as getting here,

and look how long that took.

SAM

But then we should wait.

Supplies are running low. We have to save some for the

journey, and you know winter weather up here, could

strike at any time.

Sam crying...

SAM

One more week, please...

Three more days, Sam... That's the best I can do.

DJ rises and pats her shoulder, as he walks away. Sam continues to stare at lake, as more tears fall.

DJ rounds corner of brush, a tear of his own, falling from his face...

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. TREE HOUSE DECK - EVENING

Close-up of Uno cards, panning back to DJ, Eli and Renee, all playing. DJ keeps taking peeks down toward gravesite area. POV Sam in a chair, with a blanket, and Bailey in her lap. With her dad's grave to her back, she sits there, staring toward the driveway...

ELI

Is she mad?

I don't think so... Just hoping they show up, to prevent

her the pain of leaving before they do. I actually think it

makes her feel more guilty than anything. Like she's

letting them down...(staring at Eli) The two of you have

a lot in common...

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. TREE HOUSE DECK - NIGHT

Close-up journal, as someone writes "Dear Zane", panning back to Sam, on deck with lantern. She writes, yawns and takes a look up and outward, toward driveway.

"Voice over" of her reading the letter.

VOICE OVER

It kills me to imagine you making it back here, seeing my

dad's grave, and finding this letter, instead of me...

DISSOLVE TO: MORNING

Sam in her bed, writing as Voice Over continues.

VOICE OVER

It breaks my heart to think about the reasons preventing

you from already being here. I can't lose you, Zane. Just

thinking about seeing you, prevents the pain from taking

over me...

DISSOLVE TO: DAY

Sam at gravesite, writing and looking up and over toward driveway.

VOICE OVER

My friend Eli, had his pain take over, him. His friend DJ,

showed up, and Eli has found his way. Just like the

thought of you, my moms, and our family, did for me. I

don't ever want to see him like that again, and even

more so, never want to feel that way again. Yet leaving

this place, before you return, is doing exactly that...

DISSOLVE TO: DAY

Sam on dock, writing. POV pans back to Renee, next to her, and DJ/Eli fishing.

VOICE OVER

I guess writing this letter helps. I plan to write about

everything that has happened, since day 1. I hate the

idea of reliving it, but want to do it now, so that I

never have to again...

DISSOLVE TO: EVENING

Close-up of fish frying in a pan over a fire, panning back to DJ, Eli and Renee, close to fire. Sam is there, writing.

VOICE OVER

And now you know everything...other than my shame.

Shame for the thoughts I had, that night... The longest

night of my life. It was you, who saved me that night, and

ended those thoughts. So I need you (getting choked up)

not to be dead, Zane! I need you to find this letter, and to

know, and tell everyone else, especially my moms, that I'll

never quit.

Sam looks up, developing a tear.

VOICE OVER

I will see you again, someday. I will see you all ...

DISSOLVE TO: EVENING

Sam slowly creeping into "girls room". She briefly looks at all the blood stains, before going straight to her old bed (all her bedding gone), and opens/slides a "secret" compartment that was built into her bed.

She places her journal inside, and closes...

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. TREE HOUSE (boys room) - NIGHT

DJ and Eli playing cards (with single lantern). Renee is sleeping. DJ peeks out onto deck, where Sam is wrapped in a blanket, with Bailey in her lap (no lantern, plenty of moonlight). She stares toward driveway...

Cut to brush, where a man with a gun comes out, walking quietly toward cabin. A second man comes out doing the same. Now both a third and fourth man (also with guns) come out, quietly toward cabin. One more man also comes from brush, with a gun and a giant hunting spear. Five men now quietly walking toward cabin.

Sam is petting Bailey, as she comes to notice the men below. She quickly/quietly rises, while keeping a hold of Bailey. She carries him with her into boys room, and quickly places him in the carrier, and just as quickly hushes both DJ and Eli. She grabs the lantern, and places in corner behind some boxes (shielding light from men below). Without word, DJ rushes to the window, followed by Eli...

Cut to the men, arriving near cabin, as they all begin to lower their weapons...

LEADER

It's vacant.

Guy with spear quietly whistles from near driveway, as they all turn and head over. Man with spear, shines light on huff, tied up in tree. All the guys quickly raise their guns, and look all around. Spear guy shines light over the other two huffs, the pile of bodies, the camper and car with gunshot holes, and the broken down hummer...

LEADER

What the hell kind of fun was had here?!

Leader and other men begin spreading out, and looking all around...

MAN

Over there.

They all look where he points, and now shines his light, on the tree house. They begin walking toward it, but the leader nods them to follow him. Then he smiles, and speaks loud enough for people in tree to hear him.

LEADER

I don't mind bunking with the kind of people responsible

for whatever the hell has gone on, down here.

Shining his light on the tree house, as they arrive near some brush, and enter inside. They carefully make their way toward tree house, by using the brush as cover.

As they get closer, they can hear the grunting of a huff. They shine lights until they find the pit. They come out of brush, looking down inside pit, where a single huff looks back at them. The leader looks from the huff to the tree house, all around the area, and back at the tree house. Then he looks at his people, but before he can speak, the sound of a car engine starting, can be heard, a ways from where they are. The leader again looks at the tree house.

Cut to DJ, in Fish's car, driving through the woodsy grassy area, with Eli in front seat,and both Sam and Renee in the back. Sam has tears running down her face. DJ drives car onto a road, and begins speeding away...

DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK

EXT. FRONT DOOR - NIGHT

Close-up hand knocking on door, panning back as Heather opens door to DJ, standing on front porch. Heather looks stressed.

Hey...

HEATHER

Hey, DJ.

I was just wondering if you wanted to have a drink,

and chat.

HEATHER

Sure...come on in.

(entering inside)

Are you okay?

HEATHER

I don't know...worried, I guess. Emily fell pretty hard for Lamar,

but can't even reach him now. Saw him for a second yesterday,

but all he had time for, was to say he can't talk and doesn't have

off time, anymore.

Heather stops and looks right at DJ.

HEATHER

I think this is it. This is the end. I don't think things are going

to get better.

Worried about the same thing. Reason I thought a drink

sounded good.

Heather begins making him a drink...

HEATHER

The last thing Lamar said before he left yesterday morning,

was that the city is a death zone, and that more and more

people are making their way up the mountain. Some of

them sick or bitten. (handing him the drink) Bitten (shaking

head)...like I said, this is the end.

Heather toasting her drink toward him, as they both drink...

Suddenly, they both jump, as Emily comes tearing through the room, and toward front door. They follow, as she goes out and watches Colonel Ballard walking by, with many other soldiers, including Lamar, who looks at Emily, shaking his head...

She looks worried...

HEATHER

(speaking to DJ)

The Colonel likes you, ask him what's happening.

DJ takes a few steps outward.

COLONEL BALLARD

(speaking into radio)

Private Baxter, come in...

DJ freezes, as the Colonel slams his radio down, shattering into pieces.

COLONEL BALLARD

Christ! Men are dropping like flies, and I don't have a clue

in hell who I'm even taking orders from, anymore!

DJ turns and walks back toward the girls, who watch as the soldiers go on, before edging their way back inside, and closing door...

DISSOLVE TO: NIGHT

DJ opening door and somewhat stumbling out onto Heather's porch. He closes door and begins walking across street. He can hear Colonel Ballard, yelling. It's too far away to make out, but sounds like he's chewing out one of his soldiers. DJ looks back, and continues toward his place...

DISSOLVE TO: EVENING

Same street DJ was just walking on, now empty with the growing sound of panic, a few blocks away. Then the sound of a truck crashing through the fenced guard wall. DJ comes out his door, and watches as several soldiers go running down the street, as well as a couple jeeps, speeding toward the crash scene. DJ watches Heather come out her door, followed by Emily, who has been crying, and quickly goes back inside...

DISSOLVE TO: NIGHT

DJ sitting alone on his porch. Colonel Ballard is walking by with a few soldiers. DJ rises and walks to the gate, where they are walking by.

Colonel?

The Colonel stops and signals the men to go on without him. He walks over to DJ...

COLONEL BALLARD

I know what you want to know and the answer is no, we're

not winning, and we can't win. As bad as you may think it is,

out there...it's a hundred times worse. I've seen children suffering

in ways I've never seen, and I've been overseas...I've seen

a lot. What's happening out there...is a world where the

weak are doomed...and the strong remain to fight, for its

survival...

The colonel shakes his head and walks way, as DJ stands there watching...

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. HOUSE - DAY

Soldiers breaking down door, cautiously/aggressively entering house...

DISSOLVE TO: SAME HOUSE

Colonel Ballard walking inside while listening to radio.

RADIO

Second level secure (laughing in background), men are

having some fun.

CUT TO:

Colonel Ballard, entering upstairs bedroom (baby room), where soldiers are laughing and surrounding a crib. Inside a 1-year-old huff is walking/crawling around, trying to catch a hamster...

The Colonel watches, as one of his men grab a second hamster from a cage, and place into the crib. The baby keeps missing, but gets plenty of cheers after finally smothering and biting into one of the two hamsters.

The Colonel shakes his head, and leaves the room...

He walks down the steps, while flashing to other tragic events he's witnessed, over the last several days.

He flashes to a fully eaten body of a baby, in its crib...

He flashes to opening a bedroom door, where a 2-year-old is all alone, in only a shirt, with feces all over his lower half.

He flashes to a mother with no shoes and a baby in her arms, begging for help, she has a bite mark on her arm.

He flashes to a crowd of people, many of them with children or babies. They are all begging for help, as the soldiers drive through/around them.

MOTHER

You're the US army, you have to help us!

DIFFERENT MOTHER

We have children!

OLDER MAN

I've already lost one child, please help us!

ANOTHER MOTHER

He's been bitten, please help!

The Colonel stops flashing, as he reaches bottom of stairs and walks out of the house...

DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME

INT. FISH'S CAR - NIGHT

DJ driving down highway road. Sam (tear streaked face) is zoning out window. She turns toward DJ.

SAM

Thank you, DJ...

For?

SAM

Taking the time to raise the ladder back up. I didn't want

those creeps or anyone else getting up there.

And they won't. Impressive how well your family put that

thing together.

DJ slowing down, as more and more cars are abandoned on the road. Everyone is looking out and around. DJ eventually has to slow down much more, and begin driving off road at times, to get around cars. It's dark and creepy...

Renee suddenly screams, as she spots a huff in a car. But it's not a huff, it's a creepy looking older guy, with a big stick, watching them as they go by.

ELI

This is not good...

Yeah, I know. I don't want to get stuck in here, or

swamped by huffs, or...people...

DJ continues to carefully navigate around all the traffic, even crossing over to the other side of the road, taking advantage of some clearing. He speeds up, until quickly coming into more traffic. It quickly gets bad...

I may have to take that exit...or at least circle back to

it, if we can't get through it all.

ELI

How far are we from the river?

Not nearly close enough.

ELI

Can you still make it there, if you take that exit?

I'm sure there's a way, I just don't know it, as well as I do

on this road.

ELI

Maybe we find a place to sleep, and try this road during

the day?

Yeah...just hope we can find some place safe...

DJ turning car onto exit...

DISSOLVE TO:

DJ now driving along pitch-dark back road, with nothing but trees on each side...

Shit.

He begins slowing down.

ELI

What?

SAM

What's wrong?

One of the tires must be losing air... We already used the

spare...

He turns into a long driveway, leading to a house. He drives toward it, leaving his headlights directly on it, once he stops, and just watches...

SAM

What are you doing?

ELI

He's trying to see if anyone's inside...

DJ keeps watching, then looks around...

I'm going to try knocking.

SAM

It's too dangerous!

ELI

I think she's right. I mean huffs, don't really scare me

anymore, but people...

DJ already climbing out of car, leaving it running, with headlights on house. He stands with car door open.

We don't really have a choice, and I don't see a single

vehicle here, so...

DJ closes door, pats the gun planted in his pants, on his backside, and approaches the front porch. He climbs porch steps, and knocks on door. Instantly a dog begins barking.

Shit! (speaking to anyone who might be inside) Please

don't shoot or anything! I'm here with kids. We just

need to reach the Columbia River, but got a flat tire...

The door suddenly swings open, scaring DJ, as an older man (BENNY, 55ish) instantly has a shotgun and his dog (German Sheppard), in DJ's face.

BENNY

There're almost a dozen other guns aimed at both you

and your "children"...so turning around, getting back in

your car and the hell off of our property, would do you well.

DJ begins slowly backing up, toward car...

Do you know if any of your neighbors are gone?

Because we won't make it far on this tire.

The guy says nothing, just watches him. DJ makes it to the car, and gives the man one last look.

I'm sorry to bother you, sir.

He climbs in, begins turning the car around, as Benny gets a look at the kids, inside. He lowers his guns and comes off the porch, raising his arm for them to stop. He approaches DJ's window, who begins rowing it down. The man comes to window, looking inside at the kids and their backpacks/duffle bags...

BENNY

You have any weapons?

We do, sir. (motioning to Sam) Her father died (motioning

to Eli), as did his folks, but they left us with quite a few

weapons, to be honest with you. We'd only use them to

protect ourselves. We have some food, too.

Benny staring right at him...

BENNY

You seem like an honest young man. What about the

other girl?

She's my sister... We lost our mom and grandparents.

We found these guys, after having met Eli, the day this

all began. His family helped me get to mine.

Benny taking a look at the tire, low on air...

BENNY

Well, go ahead and park right there. You're welcome to

stay the night, for now.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. LIVING ROOM - NIGHT

Everyone sitting at a table, with a lantern and candles burning, and their bags piled against the wall. Sam is sticking her fingers through the cat carrier, trying to comfort Bailey, who is nervous of the dog, who keeps sniffing the carrier.

BENNY

You don't have to worry, Sandy is a cat lover, like me. You

can also open the carrier, so he can come out when he's

ready. I take care of the outdoor cats around here, so

have food and already put a litter pan out for him.

Sandy tries to make friends with Sam, but Sam shows no interest. Sandy moves on to Renee...

BENNY

Not a dog person?

DJ and Eli share a look. Renee bonding just fine with Sandy...

BENNY

Another sad story, eh? I wish I could tell you I could relate,

but I've been single most my life, no kids, moved up here

when I retired last summer. I know it's bad out there, I

just haven't seen it with my own eyes, yet. Other than my

car being stolen, and a few random cars stopping in, now

and then.

ELI

You will...

So, I take it, the other dozen people you mentioned,

don't exist?

BENNY

I did have others who planned on coming up here, but

they called, stuck in traffic, and once the phones

stopped working (shrugging)...

Eli and I were stuck in some of that. It was chaos...

BENNY

The last the TV said, was that the virus was making the

dead come back, and with aggression. (looking at them

all) Is that true?

ELI

Yes, but they're weak. They can't think or run. As long

as you don't let them bite you, you'll be fine. The

brain is how you kill them.

Benny staring at Eli...

BENNY

How old are you, son?

ELI

Thirteen...

BENNY

And dare I ask, how you have come to know all that?

ELI

I've already killed at least twenty of those things. We call

them huffs.

BENNY

Huffs?

That's the one you should dare not ask.

SAM

If I had my letter, I'd let you read it. It explains everything.

Huffs, my dad, my dog, my cousin, Greg, Eli's parents, his

brother, sister-in-law, her father. The army attacking us. Eli

going insane with the huffs...everything...

Eli suddenly looks uncomfortable...

BENNY

And you left that for the family you mentioned?

SAM

Yeah. In a hidden compartment, only my cousin Zane

knows about. He built it...

Both Sam and Renee yawning...

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. LIVING ROOM - MORNING

Sam waking up, looking over at Renee, who is awake and bonding with Sandy. She quickly looks over where Bailey is laying inside his carrier (door open).

RENEE

Bailey sniffed Sandy. He didn't seem too nervous of her.

SAM

The Pederson's use to have a dog.

RENEE

Who are the Pederson's?

CUT TO:

EXT. FISH'S CAR - MORNING

DJ and Eli at the car, going through some things.

ELI

DJ...we have a problem...

(looking right at him)

What?

Eli slowly pulling a journal out of his bag. It's Sam's journal!

Oh god...is that Sam's letter, to her family?! (Eli nodding)

Eli, what the hell, man?!

ELI

I didn't mean to, I just wanted to read it, but then they

came, and...

We have to tell her. She deserves to know.

ELI

She's going to hate me.

And me!

ELI

Why you?

She'll demand we take it back, and I'll be the one to have

to say no!

ELI

Maybe...we don't tell her. Maybe we give it to her once

we get to the compound, to give to her family.

DJ thinking, shaking his head...

No...we have to tell her... You have to tell her...

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. CREEK BED - DAY

Sam (face full of tears) sitting on creek bed, Bailey next to her, in carrier (door closed). Her journal laying in her lap...

Sandy can be heard mildly barking. POV Benny and Renee playing with Sandy...

BENNY

She really likes you.

RENEE

She's lucky. She doesn't know about huffs or bad people.

Doesn't have to worry about kayaking and drowning in the

river, or surviving everything that's happening... Seeing her

happy reminds me of being happy...being safe...

Benny just looking at her...

BENNY

Kayaking?

DJ and Eli coming outside. They look over toward Sam, and just kind of stand around...

Sam is evil eyeing Eli, from the creek bank...

Sandy is barking and playfully jumping around, after a stick that Renee is holding for her...

Eli begins walking toward Sam...

Benny approaches DJ...

Renee continues playing with Sandy...

Benny reaches DJ.

BENNY

What's this I hear about Kayaking?

Eli is reaching Sam...

SAM

(facing away from him)

How did you know where to find it?

ELI

I walked by and saw you open it. At first, I only went to

look out of curiosity. Once I saw your journal there, I...

figured I'd read it and return it before we left. I never

had time to read it, just like I never had time to return it.

Sam rising and handing journal his way. Benny and DJ watching.

SAM

Then read it! Is that why you're out here, because I took it

back from you, before you could read what was meant for

my cousin to read, for my family to read!

ELI

No, I want to explain why.

SAM

(crying)

I don't care why! All I care about is how important it was

to me, that my family reads that letter! I can't stand the

fact we had to leave, and that they might be there right

now, wondering where the hell I am, or what the hell

happened to me. They deserve to know, (crying even

more) and now they will think all kinds of things...

ELI

(yelling)

I WANTED TO KNOW HOW YOU GOT OVER YOUR PAIN!

HOW YOU STARTED TO FEEL AGAIN!

Sam just staring at him. Benny and DJ both taking a step toward Eli, but stopping...

ELI

DJ showed up, and for maybe four or five seconds,...that felt

like a lifetime,...I completely forgot about the pain. Rhett,

Amy, my parents, Scott...the baby...not one of them

was racing through my mind, causing that constant

pain, that made me want to die...four or five seconds of

freedom... (looking right at her) How did you make that

last longer, than four to five seconds? How did you smile

again? How...

Everyone including Sam, just staring at Eli. Even Renee, who had stopped playing with Sandy, is staring, while Sandy waits for the stick...

DISSOLVE TO:

Multiples shots of Eli, sitting and reading the journal. Once done, he hands it to Renee. Multiple shots of her reading it, and passing to DJ, who takes his turn reading, wiping away a tear or two. Multiple shots of Benny reading it, and weeping, sometimes looking up in total shock, more weeping...

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. KITCHEN - NIGHT

Single candle burning with DJ at sink, bottle in hand. He drinks from it and stares out window. He's startled, as kitchen doors opens, with the image of someone entering.

VOICE

You're a piece of shit...

Benny steps into the light, looking directly at the bottle in DJ's hand...

I'm sorry. It's the end of the world...thought I'd have

a drink.

BENNY

You had a few of those last night, too. (staring at him)

You think you're such a hero. These kids depend on you,

and here you are, giving in to your demons of the past

world, and remaining a drunk.

DJ just laughing...

BENNY

You laugh now, but what happens when something from

that letter comes about, and you're too drunk to do

anything worth a damn to help those kids, your own sister!?

I'm laughing because you're as clueless to who I am,

as you are to what's been going on out there. A piece

of shit?

DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK

INT. DJ'S PLACE - DAY

DJ approaching and looking out window...

You have to be freaking kidding me.

DJ heading for door as his mom/grandparents look out window.

Their POV of van parking at curb, as DJ comes down off porch. His dad begins climbing out of van, as Jane comes out onto porch, with grandparents at door...

How the hell did you get back inside the perimeter? Or

did you ever even leave?

DON

I'm sober, son.

Let me guess, you found a dark alley or some cave to park

inside of, with what...about ten days worth of booze? And

don't call me son. I'd say you lost that right along time ago,

but you never even had it, Don.

DON

Like you're so much better than me. I got this disease from

my father, same as you got it from yours. It's not my fault,

any more than it is yours.

JANE

(pissed)

That's a load of shit! (coming down off porch, toward Don)

Are we supposed to feel sorry for you, now? And how dare you

compare my son to yourself! The two of you are like

(throwing arms in air, as far apart as she can get them).

Colonel Ballard and several soldiers are walking down street, as Jane takes notice and lowers her arms. Don begins edging his way back toward his van...

JANE

Excuse me, Colonel? My ex husband has returned and is

trying to force his way back inside. Could you

please (cutoff)

Colonel Ballard instantly pulls out handgun and puts a bullet in Don's head. Jane screams, Don drops dead, and the Colonel simply continues on his way. DJ in shock, looks from his dad, to the Colonel, and then to his mom. He turns toward his grandparents, eyes going wide, as he takes notice of Renee, standing behind them, staring toward her dead father...

POV Heather and Emily opening their door, looking over toward DJ's yard, as the Colonel walks down road, past their place. Lamar is with him, he looks at Emily, simply shaking his head...

DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME

INT. BENNY'S KITCHEN - NIGHT

A piece of shit brother? Or a piece of shit father? Because

I've been more like a dad to her, than a brother.

BENNY

And that makes what you're doing, right now, okay?

(beginning to lose temper)

What am I doing? Having a drink, to help get sleepy before

waking to another day that could be HER LAST?!

BENNY

(talking over him)

I want you gone, first thing.

Having a drink so that (cutoff)

BENNY

I WANT YOU OUT OF MY HOUSE!

I don't have to IMAGINE WHAT MIGHT

HAPPEN TO HER?!

BENNY

If not for those kids I'd throw you out on your ass right

now!

AND IF I DIDN'T CARE WHAT HAPPENS TO THOSE KIDS,

YOU WOULDN'T HAVE TO! I'D JUST LEAVE! But I do care,

so I'm forced to stay under this roof with a judgmental

piece of shit like you, rather than to put their lives in

danger! (DJ looking right at him) Everything you read in

that journal, everything that's going on out there, and

you're judging me, over THIS?!

DJ instantly slamming bottle in sink, shattering all over...

He zones away, shaking his head...

I didn't have to come up here, that day... I even fibbed

and told Eli I was pressured into it, due to my sister. But I

didn't tell him or anyone, about the guy who had a safe

place, for me to go... We only just went out for the first

time, that weekend before... I've never been in love, yet...

Thinking about him, like I had been that entire week,

made me think, maybe...it was happening. He must have

felt the same way. He made it very clear he wanted me

there with him...in case...it all ended. And I wanted to be

there with him...but couldn't stop thinking...what if this is

it? (begins crying through his next words) And all I could

think about was her, in her final moments, scared to death

and not understanding why I wasn't with her... A kind of

pain I want nothing to do with. There was no choice to be

made...

DJ stops zoning away, turns and looks directly at Benny...

And now here I am, having my character questioned

by a complete stranger...like I said, if not for their safety,

I'd leave now and take my chances out there in the dark,

rather than to sit here and be judged by the ignorance

of you.

DJ walks to door and opens, with Eli, Sam and Renee all standing on other side, listening...

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. BENNY'S YARD - MORNING

Close-up flat tire, panning back to Sam in driver's seat, going through glove compartment. She finds something, and looks at it.

POV picture of Fish, holding Sam (as a baby), with both her moms...

Sam with a sad smile...

Benny arrives at car door, as Sam puts picture in her bag/pocket...

BENNY

I know you guys are going to try and reach the river, on

foot. Bailey is welcome to stay here if you want. I'd take

very good care of him, and he'd have company, with

Sandy...(Sam not answering) You can't carry him the

entire way, and he'll just run off once you put him

down... He'd have a good home here.

Sam simply begins shedding tears... Benny walks away, as DJ comes out of house with some of their things, placing down next to the rest of their things. Eli comes over next to him, while Renee plays with Sandy, next to Benny...

ELI

What do we take? What do we leave?

Weapons, food, water and whatever else we can carry.

Water won't be a problem. Should make it to the river

before food is a problem. Not worried about the kayak,

we already needed to find one, so now we just need

two. Maybe some new fishing poles. I think we'll be

alright.

ELI

I just realized what I like so much about you. Going back

to that first day, you have always been so positive. Your

attitude actually makes me believe things might be okay...

Even though they probably won't...

DISSOLVE TO:

DJ, Eli, Sam and Renee all in backpacks, as they begin walking away from Benny's place. The cat carrier is on the ground, open. Bailey is in Sam's arms. Benny watches from the window. Sandy wags her tail from the yard, following them only through end of yard, as they go down the long driveway...

Eyes and ears on high alert. We see or hear a car, and

we hide. Get off the road and get low.

Sam on verge of crying...

SAM

Where are we sleeping tonight? You said we wouldn't

reach the river till tomorrow.

That's if we don't find a car with a key, which is kind of

hard to believe we won't. At least once we get back to

the highway...

ELI

So, what happened with you and Benny? Never heard you

angry before.

The truth is, guys... I like to drink sometimes. At night,

before bed. I had a drink of his last night, and he

misunderstood it for something else.

Silence awhile...

SAM

Misunderstood it for what?

More silence...

He thought I was my dad...

RENEE

That's stupid...

DISSOLVE TO:

All of them still walking (DJ holding Bailey), with highway onramp up ahead of them. But they stop, as a car can be heard. DJ quickly hands Bailey to Sam, and leads them off road, into brush. Sam works hard to keep Bailey from freaking out. Eli pulls out a gun, as does DJ. They stay low, as the car sounds close. DJ is peeking out to see...

What the...

DJ jumps up, and rushes to road, with hands in air. It's Fish's car, Benny driving. He stops, and gets out. They all come out from brush. Benny opens door, showing all their stuff. Some of his stuff (including food) and Sandy is there as well...

BENNY

I had some supplies in the garage, and was a mechanic in

my younger days.

DJ takes notice of a second kayak (along with a half kayak for pulling supplies) tied down on car roof...

BENNY

Oh, and I love to kayak...

Eli, Sam and Renee, happily loading their things into van. Renee hugging Sandy. Sam happy to see the carrier, placing Bailey inside. They all climb in (Eli front passenger seat). DJ shares a look with Benny, who hands him the keys. Benny begins climbing in back, with the girls.

BENNY

I know a good back road to use, away from all the traffic.

DJ climbing inside, starting engine and driving off...

DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK

EXT. PERIMETER GATE - NIGHT

Ten men (in orange hunters clothing, including the spear guy, and leader guy, from group that chased off Sam and others) hiding and watching, as Colonel Ballard drives away from the gates of the perimeter. Several others army vehicles follow. The last one stops, as the guard closes up the gate, hops in the vehicle and they take off.

SPEAR GUY

They don't look like they're coming back.

LEADER

I'd have to agree...

INT. HEATHER'S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT

DJ walking through front door, greeting Heather with a hug. He places a hand on Emily's shoulder (sitting at table).

Still no word from Lamar?

Emily shaking her head, and takes a drink of booze. Heather hands a drink to DJ, and gives him a toast.

HEATHER

To the end of the world. (drinks)

Suddenly, someone begins pounding on the door. Heather screams and is too scared to open door, until she can hear Lamar yelling on other side.

LAMAR

(off-screen)

EMILY! HEATHER! IT'S LAMAR!

Emily jumps out of her chair, and opens the door. Lamar instantly closes and locks it. Emily is hugging him tight.

EMILY

Baby, what's happening?!

LAMAR

We have to get out of here! Colonel Ballard and half the

men, already left. Most of the others are heading back to

the city, but I heard some say they were paying both of

you a visit, as well as the some of the other women. They

know there's no more law.

HEATHER

To what?! Rape us?! They're the damn US military; they're

suppose to help us!

LAMAR

There's no one giving orders anymore; it's every man

for himself!

They instantly begin gathering their stuff, but more so panicking and moving around in circles.

LAMAR

The clothes on your back, that's it! Maybe some food, if

you have some, but we gotta go, now!

Where are you going to go?

LAMAR

I'd stay here, but we can't hold them off. There's at least

five or six of them. I don't trust what they're capable of.

Heather grabs a few things and hugs DJ, in a rush to go, but right before they can head out, they see headlights, as a jeep rolls into the driveway.

LAMAR

Shit!

DJ looking to the back door, and heads that way.

Come on!

The others follow (Lamar with his gun out), through the living room and kitchen, coming to back door. Quickly unlocked by DJ, and opened, to the faces of three soldiers. Lamar is about to aim his gun at them, but is beaten to it, and has no choice other than to hand his over. They lead them back inside.

SOLDIER

(over radio)

We have ourselves some rabbits. Secure and heading your

way.

VOICE OVER RADIO

(with laugh)

Rodger that.

One of the soldiers runs through house, to front door and unlocking. Three more soldiers enter inside. They all look over the place and the others, as they arrive. Emily crying...

LAMAR

How can you guys go from protecting these people, to

whatever the hell it is you plan on doing?!

Soldier walks right at him, and blows his head off.

SOLDIER

That's how!

EMILY

LAMAR!

Emily screams and weeps. Heather drops to her knees, crying. DJ stands there in shock, watching in slow motion, as the same soldier walks right to him, places gun to his head, and stops, as tons of gunfire begins taking place outside.

SOLDIER

What the...

All the soldiers rushing to window. Their POV of a group of guys (one of them with a spear on his back, and no longer in their bright orange hunting gear), going in houses, firing machine guns at everyone. They fire at everyone they see on the streets. The soldiers rush outside, and open fire at them...

They kill one of them, and then another, but now the other group begins to open serious fire on the soldiers, and overtake them. The spear guy uses his spear, to take out a soldier, then his gun, to hit another.

DJ is inside trying to force Emily away, but she is still crying and holding Lamar. Heather is simply in shock. DJ hesitates a moment, before rushing for back door. He peeks out and around, then runs toward garage, and using whatever he can to keep out of site, while trying to get to his house...

People are screaming everywhere. Most soldiers appear dead or gone. Seven of the other group members, continue raiding houses and/or killing people on the streets, or their yards. DJ glances at his house. The door is wide open. His heart is pounding...

DISSOLVE TO:

DJ'S dead grandparents, bloody (with spear wounds) and laying on the living room floor. Jane's body is just as bloody, and on the upper staircase. Renee is nowhere in sight...

DJ runs through front door. Freezing at the sight of his grandparents. He looks to the stairs and forms tears, at the sight of his mother. He looks dizzy, almost faint, he almost vomits. He faintly begins calling for Renee, barely able to speak.

Ren...Renee. (little louder) Renee?! (normal yelling)

RENEE?!

DISSOLVE TO: MINI FLASHBACK

INT. UPSTAIRS BATHROOM - NIGHT

Sound of people in the house as Jane is pushing Renee under sink crawlspace, and quickly closing it up, and just as quickly closing sink cabinet, just before bathroom door is kicked in. Before Jane can even turn around, she is stuck with a spear, and dragged out of bathroom, and onto the staircase. A man comes in bathroom, looking around, he opens sink and sees nothing. He walks out...

DISSOLVE TO:

Renee laying in crawlspace with her eyes closed, as DJ can be heard yelling for her, as he runs up the staircase. He runs in and out of all the rooms...

(crying)

Renee?!

He drops to his knees, weeping...

Suddenly he stops, and listens...

RENEE

(off-screen)

DJ?

DJ rises and bolts toward bathroom.

RENEE

(off-screen)

DJ?

DJ opens sink cabinet, and slides crawlspace door open. Renee begins climbing out. He wraps her up in his arms, tightly hugging her, and crying with relief. He quickly comes out of hug, and guides her toward staircase.

Listen to me, Renee. Close your eyes. Just hold my hand,

close your eyes and walk down the steps. You can open

your eyes, once we get outside.

She closes her eyes. DJ takes her hand and carefully guides her down the steps. They walk over and around their mom's body. Renee's leg makes contact with it. She opens her eyes, looking over her mom's dead body. She develops tears. DJ reaches the living room, and now takes her past their grandparents. Renee's eyes are open, as she looks at their bodies. She closes her eyes...

DJ looks out window and can see at least one of the hunter guys, close by, out front.

Up the street, a few civilians can be seen firing guns, and even killing a couple of the hunters, but are soon killed themselves, by other hunters.

DJ cautiously gets closer and looks toward Heather's place, where he can see men bombarding inside. Heather can even be heard screaming. Up the street, more civilians can be seen being violently killed, by the hunters...DJ instantly turns and goes for backdoor.

Cut to DJ and Renee, exiting backdoor, into the yard and over toward a brushy area, disappearing inside, to the sound of their neighbors being slaughtered...

DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME

INT. FISH'S CAR - DAY

Driving along...

It was a Lewis and Clark class, that kayaked from the gorge

to the coast, every year. My friends and I did it once, too. I

even taught Renee how to do it, she'll be just fine out there.

RENEE

Will Sandy be okay?

BENNY

Oh yeah, I've taken her many times, she's a pro.

Sam's experienced too, so her and Eli should be okay

together. Renee and I, in one, and then all we need to

do is find one more.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. YARD - DAY

DJ and Eli grabbing a kayak from up against a random garage. Benny is looking over another supply carrier, and grabs some paddles and a tarp. Renee runs around with Sandy. Sam stands close by, watching, her back to a brushy area, where a huff comes out of, and right for her.

BENNY

Oh my god!

Sam turns just in time, and immediately runs for her life, screaming like a little girl.

DJ and Eli drop the kayak. Eli goes right for the huff, pushing it down and mashing its head with his boot. Benny stands by in shock. Even DJ is both shocked and impressed. Sam is still shaken and in shock. Renee stands there, just staring at the dead huff...

DISSOLVE TO:

DJ and Benny finishing up on tying the third kayak onto the vehicle. Sam sits in the passenger seat, frustrated/annoyed with herself.

SAM

I just ran and screamed like a ten-year-old girl...

Eli kind of giving her a funny smirk.

RENEE

You are ten.

SAM

Doesn't mean I have to act like it. I'll never survive this

or get back to the compound, being a ten-year-old crybaby.

I have to be tough, smart.

Renee looks down at the ground...

RENEE

Do you think I can survive?

Everyone just looks at Renee, who continues looking at the ground...

SAM

What do you mean?

RENEE

I'm not tough, or smart...

Everyone just looking at her again, as she continues staring at ground...

SAM

You sure don't seem stupid.

Renee finally looking up, but not directly at Sam...

RENEE

What do you mean?

SAM

I don't know...you're quiet, shy, but I don't think stupid...

Renee looking at Sam.

RENEE

Get to know me better.

Sam kind of smiles...

SAM

See...not stupid at all...

DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK

EXT. WOODS - NIGHT

DJ and Renee out of breath, as they stop running, catching their breath. Renee is bent over, trying to catch her breath...

RENEE

(barely able to speak)

I can't...I can't run anymore.

Renee holding her stomach, begins to sit down with her back to a tree.

We have to keep going. We can walk though.

RENEE

I feel like I'm going to throw up.

Suddenly, she begins dry heaving, followed by hyperventilating. DJ rushes to her.

Renee! Just breathe!

She fights to control her breathing, eventually improving, and she simply begins weeping, instead. DJ holds/comforts her while looking all around. He spots a house with a driveway. He continues to help her calm down, before working to get her on her feet, and toward the driveway...

RENEE

What's happening? Where are we going?

There's a house over there. Maybe we can find a place to rest, to sleep.

He holds her hand, as they reach the driveway. He can now see a boat, with a tarp over it.

Come on. I see a safe place.

He leads her toward the boat. The house looks dark...

We don't want to bother anyone who might be in the

house, so we'll just camp out here in the boat.

He begins opening the tarp, and helping her up and under. He uses a lighter, to check the surroundings. He climbs in and disappears under the tarp...

DISSOLVE TO:

Darkness takes over a few moments... Nervous breathing can be heard...

A loud terrifying scream is heard. Darkness gives way to flashes, of what Renee saw as she walked over her dead mother, and grandparents. They begin to rise, as huffs. They come at Renee. She turns to run, but falls to her knees, gasping for air. She can't breathe or get up. Her family of huffs begin smothering her...

DISSOLVE TO:

Darkness... Sound of people sleeping, perhaps tossing/turning...

Suddenly, Renee screams.

(unseen, too dark)

What?! Renee! Are you okay?!

RENEE

(loud)

They're dead! Mom is dead! Grandma! They're going to

come back! Like you said.

No, they're not! It's okay! We're safe here, but Renee,

you have to calm down. You have to be quiet. If people

hear us, it won't be safe for us here. Shhh, shh, it's okay.

Go back to sleep...

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. BOAT - MORNING

With daylight on his face, DJ begins waking up, immediately looking over at Renee. She's still asleep, using a life-jacket for a pillow, and a dirty tarp as a blanket... He quietly moves over to peek outside.

Everything looks clear, the house looks quiet. He ducks back under and looks back to Renee. She's now awake, and looking right back at him...

Are you okay? (Renee simply shaking head) I know,

stupid question.

RENEE

Are we going to die?

What? No! I told you we're going to find those cool

people, I told you all about. They're not far from here.

They have a lake, neighbors with a tree house, and

maybe even a compound, where we can be safe.

Finding them might be kind of tough, but find

them, we will!

DJ just looks at her for a moment...

Before we go, is there anything, anything at all, that

you need to talk about?

Renee thinking...

RENEE

Do dead people laugh? (DJ a quizzical look at her) I

heard Mom scream, then the dead guy laughing.

DJ closing his eyes a moment...

He wasn't dead, Renee...

RENEE

But, I thought...it was dead people we had to worry

about?

It is, but...

RENEE

So, there are bad people, too?

(nodding)

Unfortunately, yes. ..

RENEE

But...(becoming teary eyed) why didn't the army

people save us?

I think most of them went home to save their

families... The rest, well, they're kinda bad, too.

RENEE

(getting nervous)

The army's bad?

Renee, everyone is scared, now, which means everyone

is bad, until they prove that they aren't. Even good people,

will think we're bad, and try to protect themselves. That's

why we're going to find these people I know, cause they're

good people.

Renee begins shaking her head, tears running down her cheeks...

What?

RENEE

I can't do this. The world was already scary to me...

before all this. Mom told me last summer about my

autism, and how much harder life would be, for me.

That gave me so much anxiety. Now it's even harder...

people like me won't survive...people like me...will

get people like you, killed.

DJ's face full of tears...searching for the right words...

RENEE

I will get you killed. Like Mom.

Renee! That was NOT your fault!

Renee begins bawling, as DJ goes to hug/comfort her...

RENEE

(weeping her words)

Mom...mom

DJ weeps as he holds her...

DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME

INT. FISH'S CAR - DAY

Renee, Sam and Eli all anxiously looking out car windows, as DJ drives along. Suddenly, they all burst into excitement and cheering...

Their POV out window, of the Columbia River. Sam is smiling like she did before her dad's death, Eli laughing and Renee caught up in their excitement, with her own happy face...

SAM

That's it! That's the Columbia River!

It sure is!

SAM

We're going to make it! We're going to make it to the

compound!

Sam instantly grabs Renee for a big hug. Renee is happy to receive, hugging back with a smile...

SAM

You're gonna LOVE my family!

DJ takes notice of more and more abandoned cars, ahead.

We might have found it just in time.

Benny (now in front seat) looking ahead, as do the kids from the back.

BENNY

Still pretty far, to hike all our equipment, from here.

DJ a look at Benny, then back to the road...

CUT TO:

DJ outside the car, along the highway, looking over the area, as there appears no further route, for the car. Others all climbing out...

I say we hike it today, and make camp at the river.

Maybe have time for some trial runs, before we take

off in the morning.

BENNY

(opening up the back of car)

I have rope; we can pull the kayaks. I've already

divided the stuff we can take, and what we can't...

DISSOLVE TO:

Benny, DJ and Eli all dragging kayaks (loaded with gear/supplies, and Bailey in carrier) downhill. Sam drags a rope, lugging a supply carrier. Renee is carrying a pack, and holding a leash for Sandy...

SAM

So, we'll kayak most of the day, but where will we sleep at night?

Including tonight, we'll have to camp three times before

reaching the city. We need to be very selective in finding

safe places for that.

BENNY

Sandy will keep guard. No one will be sneaking up on us.

SAM

(smiling)

We're gonna do this...we're going to make it there, I

just know it!

Eli a small confident nod of the head. Renee is smiling. Both Benny and DJ trying to hide any skepticism...

Suddenly, Sandy begins to stop, look ahead and growl. They all stop, look and listen...

Huffs can be heard, then seen. Two of them, but they look as if they'll just pass on by. Suddenly, Sandy barks. They all try to stop her, but it's too late. The huffs are now coming right for them, then a third and a fourth one, appear...

DJ, Benny and Eli drop the ropes and packs. Eli is already grabbing his bat from the kayak. DJ reaches for his spear, and follows after Eli. Benny is behind them with his own spear. Sam holds a gun, looking all around, while standing next to Renee, who holds Sandy (barking) from going after the huffs...

Eli is super quick to reach the first two, and with little effort, puts them down. He goes for the third, swinging his bat with all his might. Only one remains and DJ is going for him, but Eli beats him to it. He takes it down and looks all around, with the desire for more...

I get it Eli! You're a badass now. Not even an All-star,

but a freaking Rockstar! But you have to calm down,

man! You're gonna kill yourself. You're not even

thinking, you're just reacting.

DJ just staring at him, blood on Eli's face. Eli staring back, with no words...

Maybe you want to die, is that it? Well that shit isn't

happening, not on my watch, it is.

DJ walking back toward his kayak, Eli just standing there, looking down at the dead huff...

DISSOLVE TO:

DJ and them, all reaching the river, and setting down their gear, as they go to the edge to look, and wet their hands/faces...

DJ looks around, spotting an area in some brush, worthy of making camp...

DISSOLVE TO:

Same area DJ was checking out, now covered with tarps, and sleeping bags inside, kind of like a fort. The cat carrier is next to the camp, door wide open. Bailey is inside, coming out, then going back in.

DJ, Eli and Sam are all nearby, at the shoreline, fishing. Sam is pulling in a fish. Benny is starting a fire, Renee plays with Sandy. Bailey runs out of carrier, right at Sandy, as Renee laughs, then he turns and zips right back over, and into carrier...

DISSOLVE TO:

Close-up of leftover fish, panning back to the shoreline, where Eli (everyone in life-jackets) climbs into rear of one Kayak, where Sam already sits in front, placing carrier (Bailey inside) down in kayak.

SAM

(talking to Bailey)

You have to practice getting used to this, too...

DJ is climbing into rear of another, where Renee already sits in the front. Benny watches from in front of them, where he holds a gun and watches everyone's back, with Sandy...

They begin paddling into the river...

Not too far, now. Just want to get a little practice for

the big day, tomorrow.

The kids having fun as they go at it like pros. Laughing and being silly...

I know you're having fun, but keep it down, guys.

Sam uses her paddle to splash a little water at Renee, who laughs...

DISSOLVE TO:

Darkness...with the sound of people sleeping... Now the sound of huffs, grunting...

Sandy begins growling. DJ can be heard trying to quiet the dog, but she begins barking...

In the moonlight, you can somewhat see Eli and DJ, now using the bat and a spear, to kill the huffs...

DISSOLVE TO: MORNING

Daylight now shines over the camp area, as they begin waking and rising inside. They begin coming outside, where three dead huffs lay on the ground, nearby... Bailey quickly zips by, running back inside his open carrier...

DISSOLVE TO:

Close-up of leftover boxes/cans of food, panning back to everyone at the shoreline, inside their kayaks. Sam and Eli (Eli in back) are paired in a kayak. Sam is reaching down, placing a finger in cat carrier, to calm Bailey.

DJ (in back) is paired with Renee. Benny (in back) is paired with Sandy. They are pushing off, out into the river, and away they go. Sam smiling at Renee, who smiles back...

DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK

EXT. BOAT - MORNING

Renee's face full of tears and shock, as DJ helps her out of the boat. They begin walking way. DJ looks over toward the house, where someone watches them from the window. He nods at them, and continues on...

Multiple flashes of them walking endlessly through the woods, past random house's (sometimes people looking out at them), hiding in the brush as a couple huffs walk by, peeking in abandoned cars as they pass by, grabbing extra clothing, water bottles, a flashlight and a little bit of food, from abandoned cars.

They find a creek and fill up water bottles. More endless walking. They are tiring. They are quiet. Renee suddenly stops and is simply staring ahead... DJ stops and looks at her.

What?

RENEE

We've already been here.

DJ looking around...

What do you mean?

Renee points toward a tree.

RENEE

We've already passed that tree.

DJ turns toward the tree, staring at it a moment...

That tree? Which (turning to face/point toward other

trees) looks pretty much exactly like that tree right over

there, and that one there, and the one over there, and

the one next to it?

DJ turning to look at Renee...

RENEE

Yeah...I noticed it the first time, when (looking around)...

we came from (motioning ahead) that direction.

DJ looks where she points...and everywhere else, then back at the tree...

So...which way have we not gone?

Renee looks around, a bit, then answers him by pointing. He looks the directions she points, back at her, and then begins walking that direction, as she follows...

DISSOLVE TO: EVENING

DJ and Renee walking along... DJ kind of smirks, and bumps her with his shoulder.

And you said you couldn't survive...

Renee just looking at him...

RENEE

What?

You've already contributed to us covering more ground.

Without your advice back there, we'd be covering the

same ground, cause I couldn't figure that out myself...

(looking at her) You're not as useless as you think you are...

She just looks away and keeps walking...before suddenly stopping...

What?

She's listening...

RENEE

I hear something.

DJ begins listening...eventually the sound of huffs can be heard, and it keeps getting louder. It sounds like a ton of huffs. They quickly move to find a safe place. He finds a good patch of brush, and leads her inside, where they quickly crawl to the ground and watch...

Huffs begin walking by. Many of them are children, and some are soldiers. If you look carefully you might recognize some of them as the same group that was at the bottom of the tree house, while Sam and Eli were trapped up there, by themselves, after everyone else had died...

DJ looks at Renee...

(very quietly)

See...you just contributed again...

Renee looks from DJ, to the crowd of huffs who continue on their way, by...

DISSOLVE TO: NIGHT

DJ using a flashlight, as he and Renee cautiously approach an area, with parked army vehicles. They continue creeping by them, and toward cabin. It looks like the same cabin Colonel Ballard and his men, parked their vehicles, before walking/sneaking back to the tree house. It is also the same cabin that belonged to the people who became huffs and walked the bottom of the lake, to attack Sam and the others...

DJ shuts off his light, as he and Renee hide by a tree. He smiles and looks toward the lake, moonlight over it...

I bet that's the lake we're looking for.

He looks at Renee. He uses flashlight (halfway covering it with is hand) to see her face. She is completely exhausted and barely awake.

We can wait till morning to find them. (looks toward

cabin) We'll take our chances and crash here tonight.

He leads her toward cabin, shining light on it, and back on the ground for her. They creep toward it, and up inside. He shines his light inside. It's completely thrashed, but looks vacant.

Cut to DJ, checking a bedroom, as he walks in shining light, seeing blood and remains, everywhere, and just as quickly turns and walks out...

We'll sleep on the couches...

DISSOLVE TO: MORNING

DJ and Renee are walking along the lake trail. Suddenly, Renee stops...

DJ stops and looks at her. She points, over and upward. He turns to look...

His POV (as he moves to see more clearly) of what looks to be part of a tree house. He smiles and looks at Renee, before guiding her with him, toward it.

Cut to both DJ and Renee, creeping through the brush. They can see dead huffs/bodies everywhere. They are very careful to be quiet and not heard by whoever might be in the tree house.

Multiples flashes of them creeping to different angles, trying to see who might be up there. They continue to use extreme caution. DJ keeps looking to Renee, they see nothing...

DJ moves quietly (from directly underneath tree house) while Renee follows, but suddenly stops. DJ looks at her...and mouths "What?"...

RENEE

(whispering)

I saw a girl...

A girl? (just looking at her) How old?

RENEE

(shrugging)

Maybe my age...

DJ just stands there, thinking for a second...

(quietly)

I'm gonna say something. Be ready to run!

DJ guides her over a little ways, then stops her. He moves over and looks upward...

All-star?

DJ stands there curiously/cautiously waiting...

ELI

(off-screen)

DJ?

Renee points upward and simply walks outside of the brush, DJ steps out after her, looking up at the tree house, with a smile. He and Renee watch, as Eli begins zipping down ladder, and running to DJ.

ELI

(just looking at him)

I can't believe it!

Now simply lunging forward and embracing him. Sam at bottom of ladder watching. She forms a small smile, and approaches. Eli comes out of hug and excitedly looks at Sam.

ELI

Sam, it's DJ! (looking at DJ) DJ, this is Sam, the one with

the compound!

Sam approaches with a smile, and a tear. She simply walks right to DJ, throwing out her arms and hugging him.

SAM

I'm so happy to meet you.

DJ comes out of hug, just looking at her and her face full of tears. He looks to Eli, who also is shedding tears. He looks all around, at the bodies...and up toward tree house. There is no sight of Rhett, Scott or Amy. He quickly puts 2 and 2 together...

Oh my god, Eli... (he steps toward him, with another hug)

I am so sorry! (DJ looks to Sam, then Renee) That is my

sister, Renee...

Sam looks from Eli and his tears (hugging DJ), to Renee who has tears of her own, now developing. Sam moves in on her, with a big hug.

SAM

Hi, Renee. I'm Sam.

Renee stands there, mostly limp, but slightly joins in on the hug...

BLACK

CREDITS

THE END